Lake Wylie Today - Fall 2024

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A TIME TO ENJOY TREASURES OF THE SEASON

By Susan Bromfield

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce President

Ahhhh, fall is in the air and the many treasures of the season are just around the corner. As the leaves change colors, the temperatures cool off after summer’s extreme heat, there is a sense of peace at the lake as the sounds and sights of nature become more noticeable. I can’t wait to see the pumpkins on porches and pots with pansies and mums as the days get cooler.

Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons on Lake Wylie. When Labor Day passes, the lake itself becomes calm and the boats move slower and it becomes quieter and more serene with the passing of each day. A walk becomes an experience to soak up the beauty that surrounds us each day.

Suddenly the sounds of the squirrels and birds moving about are more noticeable. The hummingbirds and butterflies are hovering by the many blossoms and flowers that are abundant. Occasionally, the deer appear out of nowhere and then streak by. I feel fortunate to live in a neighborhood that is a bird sanctuary and filled with trees and nature. It is a quiet sanctuary and a beautiful place to live and walk.

As kayaking and paddle boarding have become more popular at the lake, it is a frequent

sight to see groups paddling in the coves and quieter areas of the lake. Seeing the anglers in the coves and at the marina makes me realize how truly fortunate we are to live at Lake Wylie where there is a richness of nature, beauty and recreational opportunities for all.

Visitors frequently ask, “Do you need to have a boat to enjoy living at the lake?” Clearly the answer is no. Nature is all around us and recreational opportunities change with each season.

We are fortunate to have McDowell Park with its beautiful nature trails and fishing piers along with picnic shelters and areas to enjoy nature. The new Allison Creek Park is a welcome addition to lake recreation and access areas. Several marinas offer kayaks and boats for rent for those who do not have their own. You can enjoy a boat rental when you want without the expense of docking and maintaining your own boat.

Fall is a time of year when we can enjoy the countryside and the many farm stands and venues that offer festivities throughout the season. Field Day Park has many activities planned for fall. And of course, walking is one of the most popular recreational activities and there is no end to the opportunities to walk around and

near Lake Wylie. Walking and the slower pace allow everyone to savor the beauty we live with each day at the lake. There is a satisfaction and peace that calms the sole when you walk amid all the natural beauty and sights and sounds of nature.

Many times, we take this for granted as part of our everyday life. We are reminded by some of our visitors that move here from cities and more urban areas of the country that walking surrounded by nature is not the norm and it is part of the appeal for moving to Lake Wylie. The simple pleasures in life can be gratifying and free when we take the time to soak in the beauty that surrounds us.

The fall issue of Lake Wylie Today is the “green issue,” a theme that runs throughout the content and stories. The area flower farms continue to be featured, and Windy Hill Apple Orchard farm stand with its bonfire nights, hard cider and music is always popular in fall; Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens fall festivities are nearby; and an assortment of area events and festivities are highlighted in each seasonal issue. Grab a cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and sit back and enjoy this issue of Lake Wylie Today.

Mailbag

Clover School District news and notes

The Clover School District began the 202425 academic year Aug. 1. Here are some highlights heading into the new year.

Adams Named 2024 CSD Teacher of the Year

Mary Adams, a first grade teacher at Larne Elementary, has been named the Clover School District (CSD) Teacher of the Year for 2024-2025. Adams has been teaching for 10 years and is passionate about improving the lives of others. She partners with the Clover Caring Center, for

example, to provide school supplies, personal care items and food to students in need. After struggling in school herself, Adams became an advocate for students with special needs and personalized learning.

She demonstrates leadership at Larne Elementary through participating in various committees and creating and reviewing curriculum. Adams was previously selected as Larne’s Employee of the Month.

Adams holds bachelor’s degrees in English, His-

Mary Adams (center) was named district Teacher of the Year. (Photos/Clover School District)

tory and Early Childhood Education.

CMS Girls Rugby Team Highlighted on local TV

The Clover Middle School girls' rugby team is a first of its kind club in South Carolina. The program, players and coaches were recently highlighted by WCNC TV in Charlotte to highlight the uniqueness of the program and promote the growth of the sport following USA Women’s Rugby winning the bronze medal in the Olympics.

The Clover Middle School girls' rugby club was featured on a local television station.

The first day of school at Oakridge Middle.

A group of students on the first day of school at Kinard Elementary.

Congratulations Scouts!

On March 4, Cub Scout Pack 333 held an Arrow of Light crossover ceremony at the Community Church at Lake Wylie. The pack had 13 boys

receive their arrows, walk the bridge and cross over to Boy Scouts. Some of these boys have been together since they were Lions in kindergarten and Tigers in first grade. Now

with heading to middle school, 11 of the boys crossed over to Troop 333 together and are on to their next adventures with Boy Scouts. Congratulations on a job well done!

Den Leader Tony Olivas and Den Chief Deacon Olivas with the Pack 333 Arrow of Light Scouts. Thirteen Cub Scouts received the Arrow of Light, symbolizing their move to Boy Scouts. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

Summer activities with local America’s Boating Club group

Activities picked up this summer for members and guests of the Catawba Squadron of America’s Boating Club.

On May 18, America's Boating Clubs of Charlotte and Catawba put on their 63rd Children's Outing on the Lake. Over 300 children and their families attended the day-long event in addition to more than 50 volunteers from multiple local service organizations. Children and adults enjoyed swimming, fishing, food and boat rides.

On July 12, the Catawba and Charlotte Squadrons rafted up on a Friday evening to enjoy the Carolina Ski Show at Windjammer Park. Squad-

ron members Ray Williams and Lee Clementi grilled hot dogs on their boats to an enthusiastic group of fun-loving boaters.

On July 27, members of the Squadron sponsored a Nivens Creek Landing Cleanup. The squadron conducts boat launch cleanups quarterly, in addition to participating in the Catawba RiverSweep event coming up Oct. 5.

The squadron held its June membership meeting at member Bart Kinzel’s home on Allison Creek. Kinzel provided food catered from his Famous Dave's Restaurant at Carowinds. Guests arrived by land and water to enjoy barbeque and fun.

Lakota Williams enjoys a day on the water.

Future Wade gets a chance to "man the helm" on his first ever boat ride under the guidance of Greg Lewandowsk.

Several boats rafted up to enjoy the Carolina Ski Show. (Photos/Catawba Squadron)

HIGH SPEED MAKES

River Hills C.C. news and notes

River Hills Country Club is known for its natural beauty, casual elegance, pristine facilities, community spirit, and consistently excellent service to its members and guests. Friendly people of diverse interests and experiences have come to our club to enjoy an exceptional quality of life and leisure for over 50 years.

The crown jewel of our amenities is our championship golf course which sits along the scenic shores of Lake Wylie and flows through the gated River Hills neighborhood. The course has undergone significant enhancements in recent years. In 2022, we revitalized the greens by re-sprigging and introduced new contours to the putting surfaces. The RHCC agronomy team revamped the bunker complexes, improving drainage, adding more sand, and completing an Australian roll finish. The bunker renovation concluded in March of 2022.

Another major enhancement was the installation of a hydrowick drainage system on several greens, and the replacement of our irrigation system. Dual-line irrigation was installed, allowing fertilization directly through the system, boosting water distribution across fairways and rough

The golf course at River Hills Country Club has undergone extensive renovations in the past two years, including improvements on greens, bunkers and drainage. (Photos/ River Hills C.C.)

areas, enhancing playability throughout the golf season. This project was finalized in May 2023.

Another enhancement to our golf experience at RHCC is the appointment of Ken Simonds as Head Golf Professional. Ken, a PGA Class-A Professional with over 19 years of experience, joined the River Hills CC golf operations team in January 2024. Ken attained PGA Membership in 2004 and earned an associate degree in Golf Complex Operations and Management in 2001 from the Golf Academy of America in San Diego, California. A graduate of San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Arts in English, Ken has refined his skills at prestigious courses nationwide.

Highlighting memorable events, our Annual Veterans Appreciation Golf Tournament is fast approaching on Nov. 8. The 2023 tournament was a resounding success, with River Hills Country Club hosting approximately 100 veterans for a day of complimentary golf, food, enjoyment, and companionship. Proceeds from the event support Veterans Bridge Home, a nonprofit organization aiding veterans and their families in transitioning from military to civilian life and beyond.

We welcome individuals and businesses to participate as sponsors in 2024, contributing through monetary donations, goods and services, products, or items for a silent auction/awards. For those interested, contact Shirley Morgan, RHCC Tournament Co-Chair, at snmorgan3@yahoo. com or 864-346-6362.

The annual Veterans Appreciation Golf Tournament is set for Nov. 8.

Ken Simonds, new head pro at River Hills.

Lake Wylie Photo of the Day

Field

Welcome Tower 1 to Lake Wylie!

Bethel Volunteer Fire Department has added a new fire truck to its station. Tower 1 is here and ready for service in the Lake Wylie community. See a feature on the department's latest addition on page 52.

Lake Wylie Cars and Coffee

Lake Wylie Cars and Coffee meets every third Saturday of the month.

Upcoming 2024 events are Sept. 21, Oct. 19, Nov. 16 and Dec. 21, from 8-10 a.m. at Bethel Baptist Church. Open to the public and families are welcome.

(Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

along Highway 557

Photo by: Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography

(Photo/Jeff Sipper | Sipper Photography)

Congratulations to Tommy Pope for being named to the 2024 Super Lawyers for the 12th consecutive year. Super Lawyers recognizes the top attorneys nationwide using independent research and peer review. Tommy was first named to Super Lawyers in 2013.

This year, the National Trial Lawyers has also selected him as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer. In addition to working as an accident and injury attorney and managing partner of Elrod Pope Law Firm, Tommy Pope serves House District 47 as Speaker Pro Tempore for the South Carolina House of Representatives.

Tommy Pope has been named to the Super Lawyers list for the 12th year in a row.

Rotary Club of Lake Wylie hosts 2nd Annual Paddle for the Cure

The Rotary Club Paddle for the Cure was held April 20 as a fundraiser for Alzheimer's disease research. (Photos/Rotary Club)

On April 20, the 2nd Annual Paddle for the Cure – the Race to Beat Alzheimer’s took place at Camp Thunderbird on the shores of Lake Wylie. The day kicked off with an opening ceremony featuring the U.S. flag being flown from the ladder truck of the Bethel Volunteer Fire Department and the Lake Wylie Children’s Choir singing the national anthem.

Paddlers competed in kayak and standup paddle board races that took them on a journey from Camp Thunderbird to River Hills Marina. Food, drinks, and music was enjoyed by all as they looked over and bid on items at a huge silent auction that was held at the Duke Pavilion. This year’s silent auction like last years had over 100 items provided by our community.

Many thanks go out to our sponsors; Gold Sponsor – Kaia & Cayden, Silver Sponsors – Papa Doc’s Shore Club, AK Media, Express Sunrooms and Bronze Sponsors – Mary Sieck (Rinehart Realty), United Bank, TLC Your Way Home Care Services, Freedom Boat Club, Buckeye Fire Equipment, Express Sunrooms of York County and Sandy & Paul Moran.

A huge thanks to the volunteers from Clover High School Interact Club and Air Force Junior ROTC; without these volunteers and participants Paddle for the Cure would not have been possible.

Because of our community’s generosity a donation of over $25,000 was made to Coins for Alzheimer’s Research Trust, a 501(c)3 organization, recognized by the SC Secretary of State as an “angel charity” whose mission is that 100% of every dollar donated goes directly to Alzheimer’s research.

Volunteers from Clover High School help out during the fundraiser.

A silent auction was part of the Paddle for the Cure activities.

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An example of one of Clawson’s Pile Driving and Construction’s custom docks with upper level observation deck.

(Photos/Clawson’s Pile Driving and Construction)

Clawson’s Pile Driving and Construction

Preserving our lakeshore one project at a time

By Wendy Dimitri

Lake Wylie Today sat down with Randy Clawson, owner of Clawson’s Pile Driving and Construction to talk about dock building, maintenance and the importance of land stabilization and erosion control for the health and preservation of our lake, Lake Wylie.

As we get started, Randy, can you tell me a little about Clawson’s history and how you got started.

I started Clawson’s Pile Driving and Construction 22 years ago after working in the utilities business. I met the then owner of Dock Master’s, Ron Montgomery, while on a utilities project. He was building the docks on the vacant land parcels Duke was planning to sell, back when Duke was starting to sell off its previously leased land. He and I started working together

to clear land and build the docks for the listed land lots. Working together, the business started to grow and we began to do our own pilings as well. After a while, Ron decided to retire and rather than take over Dock Masters, I went off on my own and created Clawson’s Pile Driving and Construction.

Being here 22 years, how have you seen the lake change? Obviously there’s more people on it, but the lake itself, what do you notice?

Boat traffic on the weekends has increased considerably with the influx of people moving into the area and also with all the boat rental companies that have popped up in recent years. Weekend boaters stir up the lake sediment which can make the lake look murky, however I’ve personally noticed that if you go out on, say, a quiet Tuesday, the lake still looks pretty clear.

What measures does Clawson’s Pile Driving and Construction take to ensure proper care for the lake when performing construction jobs that are literally in the lake?

First and foremost, we’re careful with the machines we have. We take proper care of them to ensure there’s no oil or gas leakage and that everything performs properly to minimize any risks of harmful spillage. We also have huge magnets to make sure no metal falls in the lake when we are working.

Further, our construction teams do daily walk-throughs of the construction site to confirm all debris has been collected and disposed of properly. Old materials are sorted and separated before being discarded and we save old pilings that are in decent shape for local farmers to use for fencing and other projects.

While we’re talking, can you briefly walk me through the steps to build a dock?

The first step in building a dock is the permitting process. Obtaining a permit can take upwards of six months or so as different jurisdictions have different rules and regulations. HOA’s often have their own specifications as well which can stretch out the timing.

Once we get the permit, we send our barge crew to the site. This crew does all of the tear out and what we call underwater and lower deck construction. These are the guys who will drive the pilings in and frame out the dock and decking.

After the barge crew completes its part, our framing crew takes over. This crew is in charge of the finish work or the above water work. They will install the new decking and roofing.

Then, if the plans call for one, our lift crew will come in and install the lift.

That’s it! We hand over the ‘keys’. Here’s your new dock.

There’s a little more to it, but ultimately we’ve got a really great group of guys and after being in the business as long as we have, we have the process streamlined.

Let’s shift gears a little a talk about erosion control. On your website you state that along with building docks, you offer erosion control and land stabilization services. Can you talk more on this?

Yes, absolutely. In my opinion, this is one of the most important things we can offer homeowners. As I mentioned before, with all of the boat traffic, silt is being stirred up and moving into the lake. This greatly affects our water levels as erosion from the land silt coming into the lake is filling the lake up. This cuts back on the quantity of water in Lake Wylie.

Riprap, or rocks and aggregate material mixed together, protects this shoreline from erosion and helps stabilize the land as illustrated in the photos above and below.

To maintain higher lake levels, anything we can do to stabilize the land, we should do. With the influx of people moving into the area, we are going to need more water in our Catawba chain, not less.

There are lakes we go to where homeowners can’t do anything construction-wise until they stabilize their land first. I believe this is a huge plus and something that should be considered here.”

Since you mentioned that Lake Wylie is filling up, I feel that it can’t all be boating traffic. I’ve seen some summers where there is literally grass growing in some of the fingers. That can’t just be from silt.

Much of it comes from up the river which is outside of our control. The lake goes up the South Fork River. When we get the heavy rainfalls, as we sometimes do, run-off comes from the new developments. With the new developments come parking lots and concrete areas rather than land. Rainwater hits those solid surfaces and generates velocity. As a result, when this now fast rainwater hits the stream, you can see it pushing out land through the end of the drainage pipe. That land flows down river and fills in areas of the lake. Crowders Creek is a great example of this.

Riprap spans up this high shoreline bluff to help preserve and stabilize the land.

Large amounts of sediment eroding into the lake can contribute to low lake levels as seen in this picture.

Riprap plus retaining walls and vegetation provide manmade and natural elements to protect land from erosion.

How can a homeowner help manage run-off and erosion naturally to aid in shoreline stabilization?

One easy thing we recommend and try to encourage at our construction sites, aside from keeping the trees as required, is regular mulch. At our construction sites, we will mulch the whole 50 foot buffer. The mulch will slow the water that flows down a residential yard and help filter some of the run-off before it hits the lake.

Also, Duke Energy has an extensive list of plants that a homeowner could plant to naturally help with erosion at lakewyliemarinecommission.com.

As we wrap up, what tips can you give homeowners to preserve the health of their docks with fall and winter coming?

The easiest thing you can do is just clean it. Some materials we use don’t even need soap if it’s a synthetic material. If it’s wood, treat it for winter with an environmentally friendly water protectant.

Also, and very important, if you have a lift, don’t let it sit in one place in the off-season. At least once a month, run it up and down to make sure the gears are greased.

To see a full video of a shoreline stabilization project or to contact Clawson’s Pile Driving and Construction, visit lakewyliedockbuilders.com

Mulch surrounds this newly built, multilevel, U-shaped dock to help manage runoff.

Riprap, mulch and trees help protect Lake Wylie from runoff and increased sediment entering the lake (above and below).

Side view of a major shoreline stabilization project showing a 50-foot lake barrier covered in mulch.

A natural setting with a large amount of pine needles help protect the lake from runoff.

Ariel view of a major shoreline stabilization project at Reflection Pointe. (above and below left).

A large land stabilization project for a custom home on Lake Wylie.

The Original York County Agritourism Destination

Windy Hill Orchard and Cider Mill

Windy Hill Orchard and Cider Mill was the first site in York County of what has become

Originally a vision or a dream, Windy Hill Orchard and Cider Mill began in the late 1970s when Fritz and Catherine Gusmer wanted to bring their northern tradition of fall apple picking to South Carolina.

“They grew up with their families taking them apple picking in the fall, thus they had this full apple orchard experience in their minds when they moved here from New Jersey,” Matthew Gusmer, Fritz and Catherine’s son and second generation owner of the orchard said. “I don’t think there was much of a business plan, just a nostalgic feeling they wanted to bring to life and share.”

Beginning with 26 different varieties of apples, mostly to see which would grow in the South Carolina climate and soil, the orchard is now down to seven specific and thriving varieties..

Generational Legacy

If you ask Matthew if his plan all along was to take over the orchard and continue the family legacy, his answer is pretty short: “No."

“I went to college and graduate school with the specific goal to have a career with one of the big banks in town. However, I graduated during the housing and job crises of the 2000s, so I came to work at the orchard until things got better.

That was 15 years ago,” he said. “I guess some things are meant to be.”

Fritz and Catherine live down the street on their small farm and are still involved, but Matthew is at the helm these days.

From Apple Picking to Market to Libations

“I don’t think the term ‘Agritourism’ was around much back then,” Matthew reflects. “But that is exactly what my parents created.”

Windy Hill Orchard is unique as it is one of the last true open roadside markets left in the region. It remains a seasonal operation offering the open air market, direct to consumer experience.

known as agritourism. (Photos/Wendy Dimitri)

While it may have started with apples, it has boomed into a must visit destination for sweets, entertainment and libations.

“I love watching the orchard transform into a fall destination,” Matthew said. “It is so quiet in the winter and spring and then all of a sudden it comes alive. Live music, fire pits, hay rides, group tables, and of course our community, all make their way into the open areas and fields.”

The kitchen comes alive as well. There is no shortage of sweets that await children and adults alike. Of course there are apples and apple cider, but there are als, apple pies, apple butter, apple turnovers, apple cider vinegar, pumpkins and doughnuts.

“We’ve been making our apple cider doughnuts for 40-something years now,” Matthew says. “But if you want our pumpkin doughnuts, they are only available the third weekend in November.”

And there are libations. Delicious hard ciders in multiple varieties await adults at the tasting bar. Choose your favorite or find a new one in a flight.

“We’ve been brewing hard cider since 1996,” Matthew said. “Originally, it did

not take off like we had hoped so we did not market it too heavily. Then, there were ‘rumors’ of this new place called Olde Mecklenburg Brewery that was going to open soon and the craft beer movement started once again. With that, we got right back to work on perfecting our hard cider.”

Now there are five standard Hard Cider brews and one seasonal rotation. Last year the seasonal flavor was pomegranate, however, Matthew was not spilling what this season’s special brew was going to be.

The Future of the Orchard

If you walk the length of the orchard, you will see a new orchard system of young trees on a trellis mixed among the original orchard of yesteryear. Trees that are clothespin-clipped to wire and then trees that have decades of stories within their craggily branches that twist and turn off their trunks.

“Yes, we are reinventing the orchard to a modern trellis system,” Matthew says. “We are on a four year time frame and are replacing 25 percent of the trees each year. This spring alone we plant-

Windy Hill Orchard and Cider Mill

Hard Cider Menu

Rusty Gold

Spiced Cider with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg and orange peel.

Hoppin/Johnny

Dry hopped hard Cider with floral aroma and citrus flavors.

Jersey Blues Blueberry

Off-dry Cider made with New Jersey’s famous “Jersey Blues” blueberries.

Gala Peach

Slightly sweet Cider made of a blend of Hard Cider and local peach juice

Ginger Gold

Similar to an English Draught Cider fermented with ginger for a refreshing finish.

The staff at Windy Hill Orchard. Candied apples with sprinkles at Windy Hill.

Windy Hill has plenty of tasty, apple-flavored treats to choose from.

Windy Hill grows

apples, including gala, pink lady, suncrisp and more.

Apples at the Orchard

Stamen-Wine Sap

Known as a hard cider apple. Grown in South Carolina for 100s of years.

Pink Lady

A later season apple, tastes like Sweetart candy. It makes a great, crisp hard cider.

Gala

An early season apple, it is the first to start picking and has a sweet, but mild flavor.

Russet Golden

Known as the “ugly apple” it is a good eating and juicing apple as it is sweet in flavor. It is also a good Cider apple.

Suncrisp

Known for putting off a large amount of blooms, the tree is a used as a pollinator and is randomly planted throughout the orchard.

Crimson Crisp

A great apple for pick your own season as it stays in the tree for a long time. It is a beautiful ap-ple to the eyes and very sweet.

Honey Crisp

America’s favorite apple. Although it is notorious difficult to grow, it is a very nice apple for pick your own and people love it.

ed 1,200 new trees. The trellis system is considerably more user-friendly for our pick-your-own enthusiasts and further allows us to produce a larger crop of apples in a smaller space.”

BBQ lovers and conservationists alike will appreciate where the old trees find new life: apple smoking cook wood chunks.

“We don’t believe in anything going to waste here,” Matthew explains.

When should we visit?

“When September comes, everyone’s mindset turns to apples,” Matthew said. “Apple picking, apple cider and apple pies are the epitome of fall. But if you ask me, November is the best time to visit the orchard. The crowds have slimmed, the fire pits come out and it’s finally cool enough to wear a sweater and get that cozy feeling fall brings.”

Pick your own apple season begins in early September and lasts until October, crop depending. Live music is every weekend in the fall. Pumpkin doughnut weekend is Nov. 1617 this year, followed by a post-Thanksgiving weekend hayrides, fire pits, music and cider tasting.

It is always a great time to visit the orchard in the fall.

A fire pit at Windy Hill.

Doughnuts are one of the fall favorites at Windy Hill.

Food for Thought

Windy Hill offers a variety of products made from apples grown in their orchards.

Windy Hill Orchard offers a variety of ciders, treats and other apple-themed products at its farm.

The signs of fall are plentiful at Windy Hill Orchard.

Apple cider drinks are popular at Windy Hill.

By Matthew Mugavero Owner, Lake Wylie Liquors

SINGLE BARREL WHISKEY BASICS 101

Have you ever been out driving early in the morning and passed your local liquor store that had a line wrapped around the building? You see people with chairs, umbrellas and set up for the long haul.

Why on earth would hundreds and hundreds of people wait for hours and hours to buy booze? Your mind starts to wonder. They must be selling Talyor Swift tickets with purchase of Tito’s? Could a former President be onsite for a local a photo op? Do they have a sweetheart deal with Chick-fil-A?

Your curiosity takes over and you stop to see what the heck is going on. The customers in line tell you that they are there for a chance to buy a Single Barrel version of Eagle Rare whiskey. Since you are a novice to the world of whiskey, you have no idea what they are talking about. Why would someone wait for hours for a chance to buy this brand and what exactly is a Single Barrel?

Why do people wait in line for something is straightforward. Most consumers would like to get a fantastic deal or get something that is in short supply. In the case of whiskey, consumers are looking for a bottle that is very rare to the general market, almost impossible to get and has incredible value.

What makes a Single Barrel, in this case Eagle Rare, so special? Eagle Rare is made at the famous Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky and occasionally they release a Single Barrel of this brand. Many of these distilleries have been around for hundreds of years crafting various recipes and releasing different tasting whiskey. Some of them are small scale local producers and some are enormous state-ofthe-art complexes that distribute worldwide. In either case, the process to make

Matthew with other enthusiasts inside the rick, where the bourbon is stored and aged. (Photos/Matthew Mugavero)

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whiskey is the same.

All good whiskey starts out like basic moonshine. The manufacturer will store the distillate in wood barrels to add natural flavors and character to the liquid. This is where and when most of the magic happens. The newly filled wood barrels are stacked and stored in buildings called ricks. Many of these ricks are specifically designed between 5 to 7 floors and have no HVAC services. The distillery wants to have the barrels experience the massive temperature changes that a state like Kentucky has to offer. Over time and changing seasons, the distillate interacts with the barrel and eventually turns into amazing American whiskey.

Here is the crazy stuff that is borderline mind blowing. A rick can hold approximately 20,000 barrels of whiskey made with the same exact recipe and produced in the same season. However, if you were to take a random sample of various barrels, you would be hard pressed to find an exact match. In other words, two barrels filled and stored right next to each other may not, and in most cases never have the same characteristics as the neighbor barrel. The differences are not dramatic, but they are substantial enough that connoisseurs and Bourbon Hunters alike wish to have these specific barrels bottled out by themselves.

Note; The chosen barrels that get bottled by themselves are referred to as Single Barrel Whiskey.

Over the past decade or so, the whiskey boom has been in full stride. Most hunters have already found their target, and most connoisseurs have tried just about everything on the market. The next big thing in the whiskey business is the Single Barrel Store Pick. Store owners are now heavily investing in store picks that are handpicked by sampling the individual barrels themselves.

Lake Wylie Liquors, with its band of degenerate whiskey lovers, has picked 14 individual barrels from different distilleries for 2024. The goal for our store is to offer as many different profiles as possible from the top brands. We also want to introduce some new whiskey that will impress even the most discerning consumer.

2024 Lake Wylie Single Barrels: Old Forester (sold out), Russel’s (sold out), Knob Creek (sold out), Elijah Craig (sold out), Angels Envy, Woodford Double Oak, Wilderness Trail, Whistle Pig, Stranahan’s, Jeffersons Ocean (enroute), Jack Daniels (enroute), Jack Daniels Rye (enroute), Sazarac Brand (enroute), Buffalo Trace (enroute).

Dr. Ryan Colosi

INDIGO IRIS FLOWER FARM

Spring happens in the Fall

A bouquet of white knight sunflowers grown on Indigo Iris Flower Farm. (Photos/Indigo Iris Flower Farm)

By Wendy Dimitri

Fall arrives and your cut flower garden is seeing the end of its days. Colder temperatures are on their way and the fresh cut flowers from your flower beds are becoming more and more scarce. Seeing the spring and summer flower season come to an end can bring one down a little, but keep in mind: the preparation for spring flowers happens in the fall.

“Fall flowers, like dahlias, are beautiful,” Stephanie Bull, owner of Indigo Iris Flower Farm says, “but fall is also our transition period into the next spring. It’s when we begin pulling our summer flowers, tilling, composting and planting our cold-hardy seeds.”

Indigo Iris Flower Farm was born during the pandemic when Stephanie had a random packet of zinnia seeds left over after planting her vegetable garden.

“I don’t even know where, when or how

I got those seeds,” Stephanie laughs. “After my husband tilled a plot of land for me, I just tossed the seeds out in a big scatter with no plan in mind.”

As things with the pandemic moved to more shutdowns, isolation and fear, Stephanie took solace in her newly thriving flower patch. Bringing fresh cut flowers into the house had become a regular activity.

“Things out in the world were getting so unpleasant,” Stephanie reflects. “When (the

Traditional yellow sunflowers can be started inside for spring blooms and bloom through fall.

Garden Party

outside world) got to be too much, I would come out and get lost in the flowers and feel so happy. I started sharing pictures of the flowers online and people would tell me how happy the pictures made them. I thought, ‘Rather than view only pictures, how happy would people be if they actually got to experience it?’ ”

Over four years later, Indigo Iris Flower Farm is a flourishing operation that focuses on the idea of permaculture, sustainable farming practices and being stewards of the land they were given.

“All of that plays into how we live our lives and run our business,” Stephanie noted.

Lake Wylie Today was lucky enough to tour the farm and receive valuable fall to spring flower tips from the expert herself.

Dahlias

According to Stephanie, dahlias are the “Queen Bee” of the fall. Popular in wedding work, they are also beautiful dried if properly handled. The plant grows from a tuber that, in our zone, can stay in the ground over the winter. The large blooms need to be staked and supported and organza bags can be used to deter pests. Dahlias can come back year after year.

“When (the outside world) got to be too much, I would come out and get lost in the flowers and feel so happy.”

- Stephanie Bull

A

A bouquet of flowers focused on a strawberry sunflower, a unique variety grown on the farm.

Indigo Iris Flower Farm is a flourishing flower farm

that

focuses on the idea of permaculture, sustainable farming practices and being stewards of the land they were given.

bee does its part in helping pollinate the flowers at Indigo Iris Flower Farm.

Coral and orange flower varieties mix and mingle in this beautiful fall arrangement.

Marigolds, sunflowers and apples bring the first feelings of fall.

Sunflowers

Stephanie noted that many assumptions are made about sunflowers being a fall flower. According to her, sunflowers are more cold hardy than one might believe. The flower farm begins sowing sunflowers as early as March and continues to sow them until as late as September. It is important to consider the species of sunflower and its growth period. Sunflowers are also voracious eaters. Stephanie suggests keeping abreast of the nutrients in the soil where sunflowers are planted.

Larkspur (Delphinium)

Larkspur is a cold-hardy seed that can be planted in the fall for spring. Known for its large showy flowers, Larkspur is popular in fresh and especially dried arrangements as it keeps its deep indigo color even after being dried.

Orlaya

Orlaya is another cold hardy seed Stephanie recommends sowing in the fall to enjoy the best spring flowers. An annual in any region, it is known for its clusters of white flowers and fern-like leaves.

Statice

Properly sown in the fall, statice can be a perennial in our region. Its beautiful purple flowers and long life make it perfect for spring flower gardens and cut flower arrangements.

Dahlias are

of fall’s favorite flowers often used in wedding work.

Garden Party

“I am forever inspired by how flowers impact people."

- Stephanie Bull

Ammi

A distant relative of Queen Ann’s Lace, “but better,” according to Stephanie, ammi is another cold-hardy seed worthy of sowing in the fall to ensure robust flowers in the spring. It is a good filler for bouquets and smells wonderful when cut.

Snapdragons

“In my opinion,” Stephanie says, “To have the fullest, most beautiful snapdragons, the seeds really must be sown in the fall.” Snapdragons are considered a hardy annual, although certain varieties may surprise a gardener and come back. They are available in a wide variety of colors and range in height from dwarf varieties to tall ones.

“I am forever inspired by how flowers impact people,” Stephanie said." People come to our farm and may not realize that they are feeling kind of blah. Then they walk amongst the flowers and can’t help but watch nature, with the butterflies and bees floating and buzzing all around. Our guests come back from the fields and their faces and shoulders are relaxed and we can see it just did something for them.”

Indigo Iris Flower Farm is not open to the public, but the farm holds multiple events throughout the year. It is also available to rent for private parties. You can find the Indigo Iris Flower Farm bouquets around town, including local establishments, farmers markets and Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens.

Stephanie Bull, owner of Indigo Iris Flower Farm.

Driveway path at Pugh’s property.

(Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

Scouts on the Lake With Jim Pugh

By Dana Sipper

Jim Pugh has been a local Lake Wylie Resident since 1990. Recently, he was named the 2023 Citizen of the Year by the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce for his extensive involvement in the community. Among his numerous commitments to local service organizations in the area, one stands out in particular: his dedication to the Scouts BSA Program. Having been a Boy Scout himself, Jim has remained actively involved in the scout community for over 50 years, serving as

a leader for both Boy Scout troops and Cub Scout packs. Since 2008, he has been an integral part of the Cub Scout and Boy Scout programs in Lake Wylie. Jim serves as the Chartered Organization Representative between the Community Church at Lake Wylie and Pack 333 and Troop 333 scout groups. He works with the church as they graciously donate space at their location for the Pack and Troop scouts to meet weekly and for special scout events. Jim’s passion for scouting shows through in all

he does for the youth in the community. This man truly has a love for scouts and the BSA program.

In 2019 he was honored with the most prestigious scout award, the Silver Beaver Award, for his service. The Silver Beaver Award, introduced in 1931, is a distinguished service award for council members of the Scouts BSA program. Jim has definitely impacted the lives of many of youth through the service he has given to the council and continues to do.

Deacon Olivas and Jim Pugh making knives in his workshop on property. (Photo/Tony Olivas)

Scout Deacon Olivas and Tony Olivas hammering fire pokers for the scout welding merit badge. (Photo/Tony Olivas)

Scouts putting fire pokers into the forge for welding project. (Photo/Jim Pugh)

Jim Pugh with Susan Bromfield, Lake Wylie Chamber president. Jim received the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce 2023 Citizen of the Year Award on Dec. 7. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

The forge on Jim Pugh’s property is fired up for welding with the scouts. (Photo/Jim Pugh)

Jim owns a beautiful property off Lake Wylie Road that sits on the lake. He has dedicated a portion of this land to be a campground, which hosts many scout activities for the local scout groups he charters. Jim teaches various water sports on this lakefront property, including fishing and canoeing. He also uses his personal workshop area to host metalworking, welding and automotive maintenance workshops to teach scouts these skills and help them earn Merit badges toward their boy scout journey to Eagle Scout. Additionally, he councils merit badges for environmental science and scout heritage.

During the summer months the Boy Scout troop meetings are hosted at Mr. Pugh’s Camping Resort. Each week the boys get to do their scout activities there as well as participate in various water sports and water game activities. In August, the monthly Boy Scout campout becomes a water fun weekend at the camping resort. It is such a great way for the kids to experience life on the lake.

I am a mom of a local scout, Hudson Sipper, and we have been involved in the scout program since we moved to the Lake Wylie area in 2019. Hudson was a rising first

grader when we arrived so he entered Cub Scouts as a Tiger rank. We joined scouts to make friends since we were new to the area and wanted to have our son experience something where he could be a part of the community, build confidence as he got older, and learn some life skills. It was then that we met Jim and have been in awe of his energy and enthusiasm with our kids in scouts. Hudson is now heading to middle school and just crossed over to the Scout Troop to continue his scout journey. We have been very blessed to work with Jim over the years as Hudson has progressed through the ranks. Jim truly loves our kids and his community and wants them to succeed in the scout program.

Some of my favorite moments with him has been watching him near the campfire with the kids, serving ice cream and making popcorn in the dutch oven over the fire. He has reverently taught our boys about the American flag, showing them how to raise, lower and fold the flag properly at the flagpole on his property. The kids have camped at the property and played by the water over the years. It is such an extraordinary spot for their scout adventures.

Deacon Olivas and Jim Pugh make knives in Jim's workshop (Photo/Tony Olivas)

Boy Scout Deacon Olivas and Jim Pugh making knives in his workshop on property. (Photo/ Tony Olivas)

A special thanks to Mr. Pugh for all he does for the youth in the Lake Wylie community. His dedication and passion for scouting have made a lasting impact on countless young lives, fostering a spirit of service, adventure and community. He is mentoring these scouts by helping them with individual projects and guiding them through challenges as they learn new life and scout skills. His commitment to the Scout Oath and Law serves as a powerful example for the youth he mentors. He encourages scouts to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.

For parents considering the scouting program for their children, Jim Pugh’s story is a testament to the positive impact that dedicated leaders can have on young lives. He has created a nurturing environment where scouts can thrive, learn valuable life skills and build lasting friendships.

Troop 333 Canoes. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

Troop sign marker at Jim Pugh’s property. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

HERE’S THE DEAL

Beyond Summer: Boating on Lake Wylie

At Freedom Boat Club of Lake Wylie, WE BUY THE BOATS SO YOU WON’T HAVE TO.

As a member you enjoy lifetime, unlimited use of any of our 25 new (or nearly new) boats as well as additional boats that will be added to our fleet as our club grows. PLUS, reciprocal boating privileges at over 400 other Freedom Boat Club locations - all for less than the cost of buying and owning ONE BOAT!

HOW AND WHY IS THIS POSSIBLE? Founded in 1989, Freedom Boat Club is the nation’s oldest and largest boat club with more than 400 reciprocal locations around the world. Locally, we have our location on Lake Wylie and 4 close by on Lake Norman. This season our fleet includes at least 20 boats on Lake Wylie and an additional 75 on Lake Norman of all types, styles, and sizes.

Freedom Boat Club is NOT a timeshare or boat rental operation. Each FBC location purchases a fleet of boats suitable for that location. The club maintains, cleans, stores, and insures the boats so that all the members have to do is ENJOY THE BOATS!

Our unique training and orientation program will familiarize you with safe boating practices and the operation of our fleet of boats so you can safely and comfortably enjoy your boats. The $2 million boater liability insurance policy gives you peace of mind that you are adequately covered should something go wrong.

Freedom Boat Club is more than just a club for boating. Our members enjoy a full calendar of social events such as cookouts, lake cruises, patio parties, dining at lakeside and area restaurants. It’s a great way to entertain your friends or clients with none of the hassles of traditional boat ownership.

The Boy Scouts of America, now referred to as Scouts BSA, was established Feb. 8, 1910. With over 1 million youth it is one of the largest scouting organizations in the United States. If you are interested in having your child be a part of the Scouts BSA program, check out the website to find out more information in your area at: https://beascout.org

There are several Cub Scout Packs and Scout Troops in the Lake Wylie area to join. For more information on the local Troop 333 to join in Lake Wylie, please visit their website and fill out the contact us form to inquire.

Boy Scout Troop 333 Lake Wylie is online at: www.troopwebhost.org/ Troop333LakeWylie/Index.htm

Jim Pugh by the fire at a scout campout. (Photo/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

Jim Pugh teaches scouts how to start a fire with flint and steel. Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography

Scouts practicing their fire making skills with Jim Pugh. Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography

Scout gathering at a campout at Jim Pugh’s property. (Photos/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

Teepee in the trees at Pugh’s camp.

Jim Pugh show the Scouts how to properly handle the raising, lowering and folding of the American flag.

Dock on Lake Wylie at Pugh’s property for the scouts to enjoy their water activities.

Lakeside scout camp area at the dock.

Jim Pugh at his lakeside property.

Fall Fun at the Field

Field Day Park brings active recreation to fall festivities

By Wendy Dimitri

There is a hidden gem in the heart of Lake Wylie that, if you have not visited it by now, you absolutely must.

Field Day Park is a 50-acre recreational and athletic wonderland for everyone of all ages. Located in the Paddlers Cove neighborhood, it is easy to access, but tucked away enough where families can feel safe to enjoy all the park has to offer.

“I used to call it Lake Wylie’s best kept secret,” Jason Ratterree, Park Superintendent says. “However, the secret must be out as we see more visitors to the park each year. We think it’s wonderful. The whole point of Field Day Park is for the whole community to enjoy it.”

Field Day Park has so many recreational options, the park is appropriately referred to as an active recreation park. Where does one begin to describe what there is to do? We will start with pickleball, of course!

Pickleball Courts

Currently, the park has six pickleball courts. This fall, construction will begin on six more courts for double the current capacity. A target opening date of spring 2025 is anticipated. All courts are free and

open to the public throughout the entire year. Court reservations can be made on the park’s website.

Free pickleball clinics are offered once a month as the park attempts to encourage newbies and pickleball-curious community members to catch onto the craze. Field Day Park supplies all of the equipment needed to play while pickleball ambassadors teach the clinics. Interested persons are encouraged to check the website for upcoming clinics and information on how to sign up.

For more information regarding beginner clinics and pickleball leagues please email them at fdplw@yorkcountygov.com.

November marks the pickleball toy drive tournament. Typically held at least a week prior to Thanksgiving, the entrance fee to the tournament is a donated toy. After the tournament, the toys are given to a children’s toy drive that is decided upon annually.

Playground

“The playground has been open since day one,” Ratterree explains. “Hundreds of kids per week come here to play.”

Families may bring their kids to this beautiful playground that boasts jungle

gyms, slides, hopping platforms as well as swings and small merry-go-rounds, but the summer camp and daycare groups are active users as well. It is open to kids 2-12 years old and is safely fenced for the free-spirited child.

New to the playground this year are permanent overhead shade sails to offer relief from the sun.

Multipurpose Fields

A large section of Field Day Park is the multipurpose field area. Having turf rather than grass on the fields allows them to easily be converted to accommodate different sports. The fields are widely used for soccer, but you can see kid and adult sports leagues also playing football, field hockey, lacrosse and even rugby.

When the fields are not being used for previously scheduled practices and games or matches, they are free and open to the public for anyone to use to practice. No reservations are necessary.

Fall will bring a much anticipated improvement to the fields: new soccer nets.

Baseball Fields

Field Day Park brings us together around three baseball fields each

Field Day Park's pavilion area hosts concerts and other events. (Photos/Field Day Park)

equipped with its own dugout and huge scoreboard. In front of them is the concession stand offering quintessential baseball game snacks. Over the concession stand is the lookout tower for officials who need to see the game from a bird’s eye view.

Every batter knows that all practice does not occur on the field. Field Day Park planners knew that as well. The park offers two batting cages with a third planned for installation in the fall.

Just like the multipurpose fields, the baseball fields are free and open to the public if there is no previously scheduled practice or game.

Walking/Running Trail

Encircling the park is a walking or running trail that is just under one mile. Constructed of asphalt and concrete, it is mostly flat and simple to navigate. It will be easy to enjoy the fall colors from the path as a nice section of it passes by a wooded area.

Pavilion and Community Center

For those want to play and gather, Field Day Park has a community center and two separate covered pavilions that small parties can rent for a block of time or a full day.

The community center is a tastefully decorated and well-lit indoor space equipped with TVs and a wall of windows facing the multipurpose fields. The rental fee include tables and chairs and can be reserved on the park’s website.

The pavilions are outdoor areas with permanent picnic tables and an overhead roof. Both are conveniently located: one is near the playground while the other faces the multipurpose fields. The pavilions can also be reserved on the park’s website.

Fall Fun

While the fall may bring a plethora of athletes and, this year, several improvements to the park, it also brings a couple of unique events.

Movies in the Park is scheduled for Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the outfield of the baseball field. Ratterree expects nearly 200 families will be set to experience the movie Trolls Band Together while seated on picnic blankets brought from home. Food trucks will be at the ready from 6-9 p.m. for hungry movie-goers.

The main fall event is Saturday, Oct. 26, when Field Day Park will host its fifth annual trick or treating extravaganza. From 12:30-3 p.m., approximately 30 members

“I love this park. There’s something for everyone and I think it’s one of the best things in York County.”

of the Lake Wylie business community will set up tables on the multipurpose fields to pass out candy to local kids. The projected 600-800 costumed crusaders will parade through two decorated arches to walk the field, fill their pails with candy, and then return to collect a free icy treat. Food trucks will be nearby for extra refreshments and families are welcome to stay to enjoy the park.

“Field Day Park officially opened on October 31, 2020, and we opened the park with this event,” Ratterree explained. “It has grown exponentially since year one and it really is our signature event. You might call it our grand finale, as it is our last special event until spring.”

There is no question that the community of Lake Wylie is tailor-made for families and Field Day Park lives up to that by enhancing our community’s quality of life for active recreation and social interaction.

“I love this park,” Ratterree said. “There’s something for everyone and I think it’s one of the best things in York County.”

Field Day Park 1101 Field Day Lane Clover, SC 29710

www.yorkcountygov.com/732/Field-Day-Park-atLake-Wylie

Field Day Park has baseball fields, soccer fields, pickleball courts and more for everyone to enjoy in the Lake Wylie area.

Bethel Volunteer Fire Department Welcomes a New Truck in Town!

The Bethel Volunteer Fire Department is excited to introduce Tower 1, the newest addition to its fleet of fire trucks in Lake Wylie. This stateof-the-art vehicle is not just another fire truck; it represents a significant investment in the safety and protection of our growing community.

Fire safety is important in every community to protect its people, the land and the structures around it. With major growth and expansion in the Lake Wylie area, the need for updated, more capable equipment has become essential. Tower 1 is here to meet that need, ready to serve and protect the people, land and structures in the event of an emergency.

The Journey of Tower 1: From Wisconsin to Lake Wylie

Tower 1 was manufactured at the Pierce Manufacturing Plant in Appleton, Wis. Pierce Manufacturing has over 1 million square feet of space where they build these trucks. Tower 1 incorporates the latest technology and design features to create a valuable asset to the community of Lake

Wylie. After its journey from Wisconsin, Tower 1 is now stationed in the Bethel Volunteer Fire Department and ready to respond to any emergency in the area.

A Community Celebration: The Push-In Ceremony

On June 29, the new fire truck was welcomed with a community event to celebrate the “Push-In” of the new truck to the firehouse at the Bethel Volunteer Fire Department Station No. 1. Traditionally, the push-in ceremony includes the firefighters and volunteers pushing the new truck into the station firehouse. About 25 plus members of the Bethel Fire Department helped push the truck and welcome it into the family and our community. These push-in ceremonies date back to the early 19th century when the first fire engines were put into service. In the early 1800s the fire departments relied on horse-drawn pumpers when responding to incidents. These carts were pushed by hand after cleanup back into the station after each call. So with this tradition we have the ceremony to celebrate the new

fire truck as well as the history of the fire apparatus.

This event was hosted at the main Bethel Station at Highway 557 and Oakridge Road. This station is one of three that service the Lake Wylie area. In attendance were over 35 members (paid and volunteer) helping with the event.

Amongst the celebration were tours of the fire trucks, food trucks, a bounce house, petting zoo, demonstrations and raffle tickets. Vendor tables were setup including York County 911 to help educate families and community members on fire safety and emergency contact info. Also in attendance were several neighboring departments from River Hills EMS, Piedmont EMS, a Med Center Air Helicopter and York County Sheriff’s Office. It truly was a great celebration to get the community involved and celebrate the new truck.

The new fire truck is a major asset to our growing Lake Wylie community. Tower 1 will help provide many new fire fighting services. It is going to give the fire department the capability to reach closer to some of the newer apartment

By Dana Sipper

The new Tower 1 fire truck in the station at Bethel Volunteer Fire Department. (Photos/Dana Sipper | Sipper Photography)

Bethel Fire Truck Engine No. 2

complexes which have third and fourth story balconies. With setbacks and vehicle parking situations it doesn’t always allow the trucks to get close enough to certain situations. The new truck is 100 feet in length, which is bigger than the older ladder truck at only 77 feet. Also, this new truck doesn’t require a large footprint to operate in; it only has one outrigger (for stabilization) on each side.

It is state of the art in many categories including safety, drivability and water flow. The delivery of this truck has been three years in the making and will be of great service to this district as well as the surrounding areas.

A Brief History of the Bethel Volunteer Fire Department

The Bethel Volunteer Fire Department was created in 1966 and was operating out of the existing bui lding that faces Highway 557. Later in 2012 they added the second building on the pro perty which currently houses the firemen and the fire trucks.

The original fire station now hosts a training center for maintenance, internal training, and certification of current firefighters and volunteers.

Serving the Lake Wylie Area: A Commitment to Safety and Excellence

Bethel Volunteer Fire Department provides fire protection for 62 square miles of service in the Lake Wylie/Bethel area. This coverage is from the northeast corner of York County to the western shores of Lake Wylie. The services provided through the Bethel Volunteer Fire Department are fire protection and rescue services along with some medical assistance to EMS when needed.

Currently, the Bethel/Lake Wylie area is being serviced by the Bethel Volunteer Fire Department which consists of 12 paid members on staff some of who are full-time positions and others who are part-time positions. They also have many other volunteers throughout the community that help as well. We truly thank all of them for their service here in our

Lake Wylie community and look forward to having this new truck help protect it. The Bethel Volunteer Fire Department is proud to serve the Lake Wylie community, and with the addition of Tower 1, they are better equipped than ever to meet the challenges of the future. Stay tuned for upcoming events, including an open house and fire prevention event in October.

Looking to the Future: Recruitment and Retention

Bethel Volunteer Fire Department continues to expand and reach out to our younger generation. Several of the volunteers are growing with the junior firefighter program that is with the Bethel Volunteer Fire Department. For more information on their programs and recruitment reach out to: recruitment@ bethelvfd.com.

If you would like further info to volunteer with Bethel Fire Volunteer Fire Department and help our community, please email: info@bethelvfd.com

Bethel Volunteer Fire Station.

Bethel Volunteer Fire Department members at the Push-In ceremony of Tower 1.

Bethel Volunteer Fireman demonstration at the Push-In Event on June 29.

Demonstration of Tower 1 at the Push-In.

The body of Tower 1 during the manufacturing process at Pierce Manufacturing in Wisconsin. (Photo/Bethel Volunteer Fire Department)

The new Tower 1 fire truck in the station at Bethel Volunteer Fire Department.

BVFD Recruitment table set up at the Push-In.

York County 911 Public Safety table at the Push-In.

Piedmont EMS members set up at the Push-In.

The Eagle Closet

A thrift store that gives to both students and the community

By Wendy Dimitri

When we think of our favorite thrift store, we often think of great deals, unique treasures, and repurposing items rather than buying new. When Clover high school students in the Occupational Credential and Functional Life Skills classes think of a thrift store, they think of their own.

The Eagle Closet is our community thrift store that not only provides gently used, and sometimes new, merchandise items to the public, it provides essential job skills to the students who work it.

“The idea came from having our students work in other thrift stores in the York County area,” Lisa Jackson, former Career Support Instructor and member of the career support transition team said. “Our career support team met and decided, rather than have the students work at other stores, let’s start one of our own.” So they did.

In 2009, two classrooms in the District Resource Center were cleared out and a call out to the community helped stock the shelves. The Eagle Closet was born with having two main objectives: 1. Provide work skills for students in the Occupational Credential and Functional Life Skills classes; and 2. Be a community resource.

“A key objective is to ensure that our students leave school as independent, actively employed adults contributing to the community,” Patti Myers, a teacher in the Occupational Credential program, said.

“Yes, we are teaching workforce skills to achieve this objective, but we are also teaching them how to give back to the community and be good citizens,” Jackson added.

Two classrooms could not hold this gem for long. As a result, when the school district building on Knox street became vacant and available, the program requested the space and moved.

“Even now in our own building, we are

still a little off the beaten path.” Jackson says. “While we have a steady flow of regulars, we still need help getting the word out that we are here. We don’t feel as if the public realizes that they can walk in off the street and shop.”

The rooms in the Knox building that once held school business offices now house fantastic deals on everything from infant through adult clothing and shoes to housewares, toys, books, movies, electronics and gadgets. With fall here, The Eagle Closet shelves and racks will be filled with fall-themed decor and even Halloween costumes.

“We have a regular customer who is always checking on our stock of records,” Jackson says smiling. “He is a collector and we are always happy to see him.”

While shoppers are getting amazing deals, especially when The Eagle Closet has its “Fill a Bag for a Dollar” sales, students are getting trained in essential job skills. Everything from running a register, help-

ing a customer, stocking shelves, hanging clothes, rotating merchandise, and cleaning are the responsibility of the students who work the store for school credit.

“We even have an on-site washer and dryer so students learn that basic housekeeping and personal care skill,” Jackson says. “We use them often, especially for washing the baby clothes. We feel like the baby clothes need to be particularly clean.”

Proceeds made from sales are recycled back into the program to do nice things throughout the year for the students working in the store.

“One example of how we are able to give back to the students is we use some of the money to take them to the prom,” Jackson explained. “We help them find appropriate

clothes and provide them with an enjoyable pre-prom dinner.”

Students may be running the shop, but it takes a community to make it thrive. The Eagle Closet recently partnered with Clover Caring Center to provide families in need with grant vouchers enabling those with a voucher to shop at The Eagle Closet for free. Grant vouchers are available to families who request one from their school’s guidance counselor.

The Eagle Closet is also the very proud recipient of a grant from Sweet Repeat this year. With the grant, they will be able to upgrade several shop fixtures and create proper signage for the store.

Also on The Eagle Closet’s wish list is to enclose an adjacent back area which would

allow them to accept larger furniture donations.

“We will take almost anything for which we have room, as donations from the community are how we obtain our inventory,” Jackson said. “However, as much as we would like to have large furniture items, we currently do not have the space.”

The Eagle Closet is located at 402 Knox St. in Clover. It is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 10 a.m.-3 p.m. to accommodate the students’ schedules.

The Eagle Closet is in particular need for men’s and infant clothing. Donations can be dropped off any time. Monetary donations are also accepted. Checks can be made out to The Eagle Closet and sent to the above address.

A look into the offerings of children and infant clothing at The Eagle Closet. (Photos/ Wendy Dimitri)

The Eagle Closet is also home to interesting curios and ceramics for collectors.

The Eagle Closet has a large selection of women’s clothing, shoes, hats and accessories.

Development Update

By Drew Choate

As summer winds to a close, the real estate market is strong and stable — a respite from the wild ride we’ve experienced over the past few years. Prices are holding steady — albeit much higher than we experienced prior to the pandemic. Homes are taking a little longer to sell than in recent years, though some are still generating multiple offers at full or above asking price.

With whispers of lower interest rates this fall, we might see an uptick in real estate activity over the next few months. Inventory of homes for sale in our area (on and off the lake) has increased about 26% over last year — though is about half of what it was prior to the pandemic. Still, the increase in supply will help keep prices more stable for potential buyers.

The average non-waterfront home in the area surrounding Lake Wylie sells for just over $500,000, approximately $213 per square foot. Some of the most active neighborhoods in the Clover School District this year include:

• Cypress Point, average price $575,000 ($200/ square foot)

• Edmunds Farm, average price $725,000 ($250/square foot)

• Mill Creek Falls, average price $475,000 ($185/square foot)

• Paddlers Creek, average price $635,000 ($204/square foot)

• River Hills, average (non-waterfront) price $690,000 ($242/square foot)

• Somerset at Autumn Cove, average price $525,000 ($167/square foot)

Lakefront Real Estate

So far in 2024, lakefront home sales have

increased 37% in comparison to the previous year, with an average home price of $1.4 million. While a sale price in excess of $2 million used to be an anomaly on Lake Wylie, about one in five homes sold now exceed that price point.

Waterfront lot prices have risen dramatically in the past couple of years, with the average price tag of $615,000 this year. The area around the lake is becoming more developed, and inventory of available lots is at an all-time low.

Some of the higher priced parcels sold this year include a 2.4 acre waterfront lot on Dam Road in Fort Mill for $1.5 million, several 0.8 acre lots in McLean developments in Belmont for $725,000 - $950,000, and a 1.5 acre lot on Squirrel Lane in Lake Wylie for $785,000. Lots with gentle topography, a good location and a nice view command premium prices.

With more people working from home some or all of the time, lake locations that were once

This 3-bedroom Lake Wylie waterfront home on Evergreen Drive closed for $1,099,000 in early summer. As a pristine home in a high demand price range, it was under contract the day after it was listed. Photo supplied

considered “too far out” are more appealing to buyers eager to live on the water.

We’re still in what would be considered a “sellers’ market” in our area, with high demand for homes with easy access to the lake and outdoor recreation, excellent schools, and the beautiful Lake Wylie community.

For the best outcome, potential buyers should:

• Offer cash or be preapproved for a loan.

• Be flexible with the closing date, according to the seller’s needs.

• Minimize contingencies (e.g. the sale of buyer’s existing home).

• Not expect seller concessions such as help with closing costs or extensive repairs.

• Offer a fair price based on current market conditions — which may be full asking price or above in some cases.

An experienced Realtor who knows the neighborhood and type of home can assist a buyer immensely when the market is tight. The pricing of waterfront real estate includes consideration of factors unique to the lake — such as water depth fluctuations, shoreline restrictions, value of the view, shore stabilization and other features. A Realtor with knowledge of the lake can help ensure the best value for both buyer and seller.

Drew Choate and The Lake Wylie Man team are affiliated with Keller Williams Fort Mill. The Lake Wylie Man team has been the leader in Lake Wylie waterfront sales each year for over a decade. For more information on the market and recent sales, visit TheLakeWylieMan.com.

Quick sales aren’t limited to lower-priced homes on Lake Wylie. This beautiful waterfront property off Concord Road sold for $2.1 million and was under contract the day after it was listed. While the average time on market is increasing both on and off the lake, there are buyers watching and ready to purchase when the right property hits the market. Photo supplied

This 3-bedroom home in Summerhouse at Paddlers Cove in Lake Wylie recently sold for $555,000. A popular neighborhood and a lovely pool out back appealed to the buyers. Photo supplied

Spotlight Spotlight light

On June 26, the state of South Carolina paused… gathering at the State House to pay tribute to a lifelong dairy farmer and businessman and a true public servant and living legend, Senator Harvey Peeler.

On that day in June, the South Carolina Senate Chamber was packed to the ceiling to honor Senator Harvey Peeler with a special “Portrait Unveiling Ceremony.” Sen. Peeler’s portrait is now hanging on the walls of the Senate Chamber as a part of South Carolina history.

Harvey S. Peeler, Jr. was elected to the South Carolina Senate and began his service for the people of Senate District 14 in November 1980. District #14 is comprised of his home county of Cherokee, along with portions of Spartanburg, Union and York Counties. Now, with 44 years of service in the South Carolina Senate, he sits as the second most senior senator.

He currently serves as chairman of the Sen-

News of the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Fall 2024

Senator Harvey Peeler Portrait Unveiling

ate Finance Committee, Joint Bond Review Committee, and Senate House Committee. He also serves on the following Senate committees: Education, Ethics, Interstate Cooperation, Medical Affairs, Operations and Management, and Transportation.

In January 2019, Sen. Peeler became the first elected President of the South Carolina Senate. He presided over the 46-member body, a position formerly held by the Lt. Governor. He served until December 2021. He also served as Chairman of the College and University Trustee Screening Commission from 2013 to 2021.

Following the 2005 legislative session, Sen. Peeler accepted the position of Majority Leader. This historic honor was bestowed upon him by his fellow Republican Senators and in doing so he became only the second South Carolina Republican to be named Senate Majority Leader since the end of the Reconstruction Era. He

served as Majority Leader until he resigned from that position in March 2015.

In January 2001, he was appointed chairman of the Senate Medical Affairs Committee, In June 2018 he assumed chairmanship of the Senate Education Committee, a position he held until being elected president. Prior to serving as the chairman of the Medical Affairs Committee, He was chairman of the Senate Fish, Game and Forestry Committee for five years.

Over the past 44 years, Sen. Peeler has been a driving force in South Carolina History. He has been an invaluable mentor to many in the South Carolina Senate and a leader to help make South Carolina a great state.

The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce congratulates our very own Senator Harvey Peeler, forever immortalized on the walls of the South Carolina Senate.

Sen. Harvey Peeler with Lake Wylie Chamber president Susan Bromfield at the unveiling of Peeler's official portrait.

TLake Wylie Chamber of Commerce Joins Worldwide Kindness Initiative

he Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce has joined a worldwide kindness initiative and is collaborating with community leaders and businesses to encourage our businesses, groups and community be a kind community.

A few years ago, Kids for Peace launched a worldwide initiative to encourage peace and kindness. Through this initiative chambers of commerce, businesses and communities can become a certified kind chamber, business or group. The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce leads by example and has met the criteria to be a certified kind chamber of commerce. The criteria include how employees are treated, how others are treated with kindness and efforts taken to promote kindness in our community, with our members, businesses and others.

The first step to a “kindness initiative” is awareness. The Chamber will be working with others in

the community to bring awareness, provide some tips and encourage our businesses and local groups to join our efforts. In the coming weeks we will provide a link where our businesses can review the criteria and fill out the online form to become a certified kind business or group. This issue of Lake Wylie Today features an article about kindness by our first guest writer, Tea Hoffman, an accomplished attorney, veteran, community leader and caring citizen.

The best workplace culture is formed when all employees show up, work hard and practice kindness. Working each day with kindness and empathy while extending respect to your fellow coworkers is called civility.

Whether you are just entering the workforce, starting a new job or transitioning into people management, kindness can be a valuable attribute that speaks volumes about your character, com-

mitment and long-term value. You can integrate a few gestures of kindness and empathy into your everyday work life that will spread kindness and help create a culture of kindness at your organization. Kindness in the workplace, in businesses and in a community can make a difference and create a culture of kindness for all.

Imagine Being a Kind Community

By Tea Hoffman

Imagine the impact if each of us in our community committed to do one small act of kindness each day. It's not a monumental task; I'm sure many perform multiple acts of kindness daily. But I also see many who are too busy, stressed, overwhelmed, or just plain exhausted to take a moment to share a kind act or deed.

In today's climate, marked by uncertainty and challenges, kindness is more important than ever. I ran across an article recently about a community in Idaho that committed to becoming a “kind community.” The leaders in this town, roughly the same size as Lake Wylie/Clover, recognized that making everyone feel welcome, valued and cared for was crucial in these times.

Let's recognize the potential of our community. Whether it's donating funds to River Hills EMS, contributing to Clover Community Assistance Center, volunteering at our local fire department, or giving your time to our local civic/charitable organizations, we already do much. Our local school system also promotes kindness in our schools. But could we do even more? Could our community become a designated “Kind Community?” The possibilities are endless, and the potential is there.

Some might remember the Glen Campbell song “Try a Little Kindness.” That song was written when our country was at war, college campuses were filled

with students protesting, inflation was rampant, and drug usage was so high that it was declared “public enemy number one” by President Nixon.

Tea Hoffman is a local attorney and community volunteer dedicated to promoting kindness.

Despite the tumultuous times, songwriters Curt Spaugh and Bobby Austin penned the song, and it resonated with people across the globe, becoming a No. 1 hit in the U.S., U.K., Australia, New Zealand and Canada during the early 1970s. The song’s simple message inspired many to “show a little kindness” and “shine your light for everyone to see.”

“Try a Little Kindness” encouraged individuals to be generous to others regardless of the other person’s worth. But just as it was in 1970, kindness, in many cases, is in short supply. But here are a few facts you should know:

1. According to Emory University, simple acts of kindness light up your brain’s pleasure center, and humans produce endorphins, the brain’s natural painkiller, when they show kindness to others.

2. Perpetually kind people have 23% less cortisol (the stress hormone) and age two times slower than the average population.

3. A person observing an act of kindness is likelier to perform an act of kindness within the next eight hours. In other words, kindness is contagious.

4. Case Western Reserve School of Medicine found that people who perform acts of kindness live longer, are less depressed, and have lower blood pressure.

5. According to a University of British Columbia Study, performing six acts of kindness weekly reduces anxiety.

6. According to a U.C. Berkeley study, individuals who display kindness are more confident, calm and energetic than those who are indifferent to others.

7. Scientific American author Gareth Cook reported that babies are born with compassion, empathy and the beginnings of a sense of fairness. What a child observes and learns develops or diminishes these emotions over time.

What you give will impact others, but what you get in return can be life-changing or even extending. I understand some people don’t deserve kindness, but give it anyway. There will be some who don’t appreciate your simple gesture, but do it anyway. Kindness can be a way to show love and care and encourage others to repeat the good deeds they’ve experienced. Let’s harness this power and make our community a beacon of kindness.

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Thank you for contributing to the Lake Wylie Community Fireworks Fund!

Every year, everyone in the area looks forward to the annual Lake Wylie Community Fireworks in celebration of the 4th of July. The 2024 show did not disappoint!

Many people aren’t aware that the fireworks show is hosted by YMCA Camp Thunderbird, but it is 100% community funded. It is thanks to our local businesses, organizations, and individuals that we were able to experience a beautiful fireworks display with the *sparkliest* finale we could imagine! We’d like to recognize and thank everyone who contributed to this year’s incredible show.

Local Businesses & Organizations

York County Council • Skillet LLC

• Red Fez Club, Inc. • E-twinn Properties • River Hills Community Association • River Hills Marina Club, Inc. • The Riverpointe Women’s Club • Carolina Family Dentistry at Lake Wylie • Skinner Entertainment, LLC • Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce, Inc. • BBI Gastonia • Christopher’s Grill & Bar • FSI, Inc. • Papa’s Pizza • Lake Wylie Today

Individuals

Henry LaBrun • Ronald & Wanda Montgomery

• Harriette Reed

• Anthony & Ruth Burton • Kevin & Renee Bower • Judith Coward • Allan Sutherland • David Tuttle • Ken Bozeman • Robert Carroll • Kelly Gilfether • James Lane • Marion Reinken • Robert Wade • Angelica Bischoff • Gloria Bruce • Sue & Deane Brunson • John Doughery • George Elmiger • Jacquelyn Harrington • Paul & Kerry Jamison • Susan Kessell • Jeff & Robin Lang • Jack Leff • Ed Lindsey • William Lucas • Drew Naber • Kevin Naumann • Donald Nowak • James Pugh • Margot Rott • Charlene Schaefer • James Shanley • Mike Swope • Donald Watford • Sandra Welsh • Linda Williams • Hope Wolf • Jen Hessing • Andrew Litten • Connie Young • Joyce Gerald • Scott Ames • Susan Bromfield • David Campbell • Guy Cline • Virginia Hilderbrand • Michael Holmes • John McKenna • Barbara Nesbitt • Henry Prince • Jake & Jeff Derr Taylor • Julie Key • David Hunt • Jessica Bradford • Chris Rettig • John Sowell • Andrew Freiheit • Alice Ewers • Derek Lewis • George Saylor • Theodore Fletcher • Betty Granger • Regina Lindenbeck • Eugene McCarthy • Josephine Nolan • Patricia Pietersen • Mark Polenski • Mark Whittaker • Sharon Amatetti • Carolyn Taylor • Anna McClelland • Nancy Snyder • Helen Freese • Buddy & Sherry Brown • Lester Osborn

And though we can’t name you, we’d like to recognize our anonymous donors as well. Your generosity was experienced and appreciated by thousands who came out to enjoy the Lake Wylie Community Fireworks.

Thank You!

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

A ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC - REGISTRATION FORM

MONDAY, October 28, 2024 1:00 pm Shotgun Start– Captain’s Choice River Hills Country Club

Contact Name:___________________________________________________________

Company:_______________________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________

City:____________________________________State:___________Zip:_____________

Daytime Telephone: ( )_________________________ Fax: ( )___________________

E-mail:__________________________________________________________________

Golf---Includes box lunch, driving range privileges, golf, cart, hospitality and great networking safely! All player spots are reserved upon receipt of payment and registration form.

Individual Golfer(s) @ $140 per person

Total $_______

Golf Team(s) – Four players @ $550 per team Total $_______

Golfer’s Name:_______________________Handicap:___E-mail:___________________

Golfer’s Name:_______________________Handicap:___E-mail:___________________

Golfer’s Name:_______________________Handicap:___E-mail:___________________

Golfers Name:________________________Handicap:___E-mail:__________________

Optional…

_____Mulligan (s) – Limit 2 per player $10 each Total $_______ _____Mulligan (s) – For the team $80 Total $_______

_____Hole Sponsorship - $300 (Includes sign at tee box or green, and recognition in Lake Wylie Today Magazine!

____ Flag Sponsorship - $300

_____I’d like to donate a raffle prize!

Please return this registration form with your check to:

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

P.O. Box 5233, Lake Wylie, SC 29710

Phone: 803-831-2827

Email: lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com Web: www.lakewyliesc.com

Charlotte Ski Boats Business After Hours

May 16, 2024

Sponsored by Charlotte Ski Boats

Held at Joiners Marina – Charlotte, NC

Allan Gregory, Chad Bordeaux and Brian Jones.

Charlotte Ski Boats staff.

Dori of Zoom in Grooming and Jeff Ledford. Caroline Harlick at the check-in table. Robert WIllis, Nancy Snyder, Rachel Sinnott and April Robbe.

Lake Wylie Rotary's Paul Moran, Ed Lindsey, Ritchie Russell and Anne Violanti.

Spencer Hardway and Rick Kiger.

Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Comfort Systems Business After Hours

June 6, 2024

Sponsored by Comfort Systems of York County

Held at River Hills Marina – Lake Wylie

Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Andy Litten, Ed Lindsey and Allan Gregory.

Brian Harmon, David Redding, Sue Houdek and Kelly Harmon.

Comfort Systems staff.

Bobbie Otto and Larry Marraccini.

Charlie Bromfield and Steve Mullooly.

Greg Holmes and Ernie Johnson.

Brian and Kelly Harmon.

Charlie Bromfield, Matthew Sy, Caroline Harlick and Jeff Ledford.

DJ Joe provided music for the event.

Fred Caldwell Tractors

Business After Hours and Ribbon Cutting

May 30, 2024

Sponsored by and held at Fred Caldwell Tractors

Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Congressman Ralph Norman congratulates Fred Caldwell

Susan Bromfield, Councilman Tommy Adkins, Greg Holmes and Senator Mike Fanning

Fred Caldwell, York County Councilman Tommy Adkins and SC Representative Tommy Pope

Councilman Tommy Adkins and Senator Mike Fanning

Community and business leaders at ribbon cutting.

Jane DuBois and Fred Caldwell.

Welcome New Members

May 30, 2024 – August 15, 2024

Renewing Members

April 30, 2024 – August 15, 2024

BBSI

Ashlee McKeon

100 North Main #210

Belmont, NC 28012

516-880-4785

ashlee.mckeon@bbsi.com www.bbsi.com/locations/carolinas Business Service

Big Time Boba

Jeanette Orban

4707 Charlotte Hwy

Lake Wylie, SC 29710

216-269-7412

bigtimebobalakkewylie@gmail.com bigtimebobasc.com

Specialty Teas

Freedom Boat Club of Lake Wylie

Bekka Myers 16310 York Road Charlotte NC 28278

704-277-0802

bekka.myers@freedonboatclub.com info.freedonboatclub.com

Boating membership

Funtown Play Café

Kate Mitchell 4555 Charlotte Hwy #19 Lake Wylie, SC 29710

808-859-8622

info@funtown-playcafe.com funtown-playcafe.com

Indoor Playground

Life IS Sweet

Tracy Gunn 4070 Charlotte Hwy 102 Lake Wylie, SC 29710

603-903-2768

lifeissweetcandystore@gmail.com

lifeissweetcandystore.com

Candy Store

Meat Mafi a

Ellen Bishop 4070 Charlotte Hwy #101

Lake Wylie, SC 29710

803-701-7053

meatmafiasteaks@gmail.com

www.meatmafiasteaks.com

Meat and Seafood sales

The Bundy Team

Kevin Bundy & Melanie Bundy 4381 Charlotte Hwy, #102B

Lake Wylie, SC 29710

803-590-9358

kevin@thebundyteam.com www.thebundyteam.com

Mortgage Broker

DRB Homes at Lakeside Glen ribbon cutting

The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce helped DRB Homes celebrate the ribbon cutting in July for new models at their Lakeside Glen development off Allison Creek Road. Model homes are now open and ready for visitors.

ACE A Caring Environment

Anchor Self Storage

Atrium Health

Azteca Grill

Bethel Commons- Mark Erwin

BNA CPA’s and Advisors

Carolina Family Dentistry at Lake Wylie

CaroMont Health

Catawba River Capital

Clover School District #2

Elrod Pope Law Firm

Fort Mill Ford

Home Companions

Lake Wylie Assisted Living

Lake Wylie Family Dentistry

Lake Wylie Liquors

Lake Wylie Pet Resort

Lake Wylie Pharmacy

Lake Wylie Pizza

Lake Wylie Wellness

Mayday Foundation

May Green Properties

M.L. Ford & Sons, Inc

Mr. Crawl Space

New River Church

Palisades Episcopal School

Parkway Concrete Products

Quick Trip

Redwood Living

Rejuvenate at Lake Wylie

River Hills Marina Club

Rotary Club of Lake Wylie

Saint James Angelican Church

Scholarship Gold Consulting

Sonic Automotive

Steele Creek Animal Hospital

Sunflower Springs Assisted Living

The Bundy Team

The Lake Wylie Man

United Bank

Watson Insurance

York County Natural Gas

York Electric Co-op

York Technical College

Individuals

Dianne Kehler

Nancy Snyder

Tally Roberts

Nominations are now being accepted for 2024 Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Business Person and Citizen of the Year

CANDIDATES SHOULD HAVE THE FOLLOWING:

• A history of long-time involvement in the community.

• A positive impact on the Lake Wylie Community.

• Business person must be a chamber member with a history of being supportive of community and chamber activities.

• Citizen should be a person who makes a positive difference to the community as a whole.

PAST RECIPIENTS INCLUDE:

2018 Special Legacy Award: Don Long

Business Person Citizen

2023 Huseyin Yem James Pugh

2022 Dr. Vanessa Vargas Karen van Viersen

2019 Matthew Mugavero Ed Lindsey

2017 Gwen Thompson Perry Johnston

2016 Tom Smith Melanie Wilson

2015 Kitty Muccigrosso Dick Mann

2014 Haven Presley Norma Wood

2013 Leonard Jackson Lisa McCarthy

2012 Q2U BBQ Chad Bordeaux

2011 Doug McSpadden Rep. Ralph Norman

2010 Fred Caldwell Tom Smith

2009 Rob Watson Elizabeth Hartley and Fred Nason

Nominee for Business Person:

Nominee for Citizen:

Business Person Citizen

2008 Al Powell Vince Mugavero

2007 Ed Stewart Susan Bromfield (Milestone Award)

2006 Diana Grubenhoff Dr. Steve Miszkiewicz

2005 Mark DeChant Stacy Waddell -Blackmon

2004 Andy Kane Fred Wetherell

2003 Rod Hall Roberta Spampinato

2002 Leslie Hall Don Long

2001 Paige McCarter Charles Wood

2000 David Mathein S.C. Rep. Becky Meacham

1999 Myron Boloyan S.C. Rep. Herb Kirsh

1998 Tally Roberts Ruth Sheets

1997 Jong and Po Liu Diane Roberts

1996 Jack Allen Senator Harvey Peeler

1995 MaMa “C” Nick and Joanne Jones

1994 Mark Erwin Peggy Upchurch

1993 John Wilkerson “Duck” Alexander

1992 Fire chief Bill Johnston

Please tell us about your nominee and his/or her contributions to the community

Deadline for nominees - 10/20/24 – 5:00 PM – email: lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com

Spotlight Save The Date!

Lake Wylie Chamber Annual Holiday Gala

Thursday, December 5, 2024

Held at River Hills Country Club – Lake Wylie

Perfect event to host your company party or guests

Thank you

to all who contributed to the Lake Wylie Community Fireworks Fund!

It takes a village to pull off the annual fireworks show at Lake Wylie each year.

Next year's Fireworks show will be on Friday, July 4th 2025!

We all enjoy the fireworks each year. Since Lake Wylie Community Fireworks Display is funded solely through donations, your support of this wonderful event is really needed for the event to continue. In order to insure the 2025 Lake Wylie Fireworks show can be scheduled, Please send your contribution in any amount now to: Camp Thunderbird Fireworks Fund One Thunderbird Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710

Or Venmo@ Camp Thunderbird Fireworks

Thanks very much for your support!

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Upcoming Activities

Business After Hours

Sunflower Springs Assisted Living Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting Sept./Oct. TBD

Chamber Annual Golf Classic

Monday, October 28, 2024

Noon – shotgun start Captains Choice

Held at River Hills Country Club

Annual Holiday Gala

The Annual Meeting

Thursday, December 5, 2024

6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Cocktails, Dinner and Music

Seating Limited, Festive Attire

Held at River Hills C.C. Lake Wylie

Holiday Boat Parade

Saturday, December 14, 2024

6:30 p.m. Boat Parade

Held by Papa Doc’s Shore Club

Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

2023 - 2024 Board of

Directors

Jeff Ledford - Chairman

River Hills Country Club

Charles Wood – Past Chairman

Susan Bromfield - President Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce

Matthew Mugavero – Vice Chairman Lake Wylie Liquors

Jane DuBois - Secretary

Lake Wylie Today/Little Woods Marketing

Michaelyn Sherrill - Treasurer Home Companions

Fred Caldwell

Fred Caldwell Chevrolet

Kim Conroy YMCA Camp underbird

Lori Dickerson

United Bank

Allan Gregory K. A. Gregory Wealth Management

Ed Lindsey

Rotary Club of Lake Wylie

Angel Neelands South State Bank

Stephan Nishimuta Carolina Family Dentistry

Sheila Quinn Clover School District

Quinn Smith May Green Properties

264 Latitude Lane, Suite 101

Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2827

Fax: (803) 831-2460

lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com www.lakewyliesc.com

2024 Chamber Champion Gold Member

SAFE. SOUND. SECURE. SINCE 1839.

Now, more than ever, trust is the foundation of any successful relationship.

As a leader in banking since 1839, our commitment to building personal relationships with our customers and communities is deeply embedded in who we are. With local bankers you know and trust, it’s no wonder businesses and individuals throughout the Carolinas continue to choose United Bank.