Focus on Fort Mill 2010 by The Herald

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FOCUS Fort MillTownship 2010-2011 Newcomers’ Guide to Fort Mill,Tega Cay & Indian Land

FREE!

WHAT’S NEW:

SCHOOLS

FINDING THE

RIGHT HOME Settling into your new hometown

GETTING

THINGS

TO DO

INVOLVED Local groups and churches

DINING

PAYING

YOUR TAXES What you need to know

HOT SPOTS

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With well over 1,000 homeowners, an established Town Center filled with shops and restaurants, and a Developer and Builders who have been dedicated to our success for more than a decade, Baxter represents a home buy you can truly believe in. Baxter Village has all the assets that create community and build

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long term stability – a Village Green, YMCA, parks, festivals, plenty of places to play, shop and eat, plus an elementary school and public library right in the neighborhood. Now more than ever, you can believe in Baxter.

For complete information about home sites, builders and our classic All-American hometown, come see us, or find out more at

BaxterVillage.com

NEW HOMES TOWNHOMES IN FORT MILL: from the low $200’s

COTTAGE HOMES from the $180’s

CLASSIC HOMES from the $290’s

CUSTOM HOMES from the $400’s

SASSY BURBANK HOMES / EVENS COGHILL HOMES / DAVID WEEKLEY HOMES MILLER CLASSIC HOMES / PULTE HOMES

B Y O B BRING YOUR OWN BUILDER Wooded homesites from the $120’s with exceptional incentives for a limited time. Take I-77 to Exit 85. Go West on Highway 160. Baxter is on your left. For more information, call Toll-Free at 877-570-HOME or 803-802-TOWN.

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Wide Selection of Hearing Aids Licensed Professionals State-of-the-Art Technology

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Hearing Education Classes Attractive Financing Options Accredited by URAC

Warranty on All Hearing Aids

Call today to schedule a complimentary hearing screening INDIAN LAND

803.547.9588

Southend Plaza â&#x20AC;˘ 7580 Charlotte Hwy., Suite 400 Additional NC locations:

CHARLOTTE-COTSWOLD

HICKORY

MONROE

704.208.5131

828.270.3058

704.218.3000

CHARLOTTE-PRESB. HOSP.AREA

MATTHEWS

MOORESVILLE

704.814.6838

704.360.3023

704.208.5111

Your insurance plan may provide full or partial payment for hearing aids. Call today to inquire about coverage.

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2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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Welcome to Fort Mill Township:

We’re glad you’re here! Hello! How are you? If you’re new to Fort Mill Township like I was six years ago, that greeting may catch you a bit off guard. It’s OK. We understand. Some things just take a little getting used to. It’s no secret that many of the new residents fueling our area’s growth were not born and raised in the South. If the Northeast or Midwest regions are where you were born and raised, chances are you’ll cross paths with folks who know your cousin or someone you went to school with or worked with “back home.” Mike As you settle into your new home, you’ll realize that despite all the Harrison transplants, this area remains rooted in Southern traditions and mores. editor I’m referring in general to an inherent friendliness, spirituality, civility, civic pride and a sense of humor that won’t quit. My first introduction to this way of life came the day after moving to Fort Mill, when I opened up my front door that morning and found a basket of homegrown veggies. To this day I don’t know who left them, but the gesture told me all I needed to know. For you folks who may be adjusting to a new culture, please realize that making eye contact with strangers is not only OK, it’s encouraged. And they won’t be strangers for long. So relax, live life at a pace that’s a step or two slower than a bustle and take the time to get to know your new neighbors. After all, isn’t that part of the reason you’re here? Perhaps you’ve only heard about our township, and this magazine you’re reading is the first step in the exploration for a new home. Whether you’ve just settled here or are still considering it, we hope “Focus on Fort Mill Township” relieves some of the burden that’s an inevitable part of relocating. And if there’s information you need but can’t find in our magazine, please let me know so we can include it in next year’s edition.

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FOCUS Fort MillTownsh ip 2010-2011 Ne wcomers’ Guide to For

WHAT’S NEW:

SCHOOLS

t Mill,Tega Cay &

Indian Land

FREE!

FINDING

RIGHT HOMTHE E Settling into you r new hometo wn

THINGS

TO DO

GETTING

INVOLVED Local groups and churches

PAYING

YOUR TAXES

What you nee d to know

DINING

HOT SPOTS

“Focus on Fort Mill Township: The 2010-’11 Guide for Newcomers” is an annual publication of the Fort Mill Times, 124 Main St., Fort Mill, SC 29715, 547-2353. Published every July, it is distributed for free all year long at real estate agencies and 100 other local businesses. Content was compiled from the latest information available at press time. General manager..............Jennifer Becknell Editor..............................Michael Harrison Advertising................Sherry Avant and Tracy Greene Layout...............................Jennifer Becknell Graphic design...............Gerry Shugart, Leigh Baker and Stephanie Garrett Editorial content...................Toya Graham and Jenny Overman Photography..........................Jeff Sochko, Andy Burriss, Jan Baucom, Melissa Cherry, Jenny Overman, Toya Graham, Michael Harrison and David Losee

On the cover Local peach trees and the sweet, luscious summer fruit they produce are an iconic part of the culture in Fort Mill Township. The single peach bloom pictured on the cover, the image above and the photograph of trees being pruned on page 8 were shot during early spring 2010 at Springs Farm in Fort Mill. Photos were taken by Andy Burriss. [6]

FOCUS ON FORT MILL TOWNSHIP

Special thanks ............................................ Ken Dixon, Jeff Sochko, Hunter Lewis, Debbie Barrett, Lancaster County School District, Butch Brindel, Piedmont Regional Association of REALTORS, Fort Mill High School Principal Dee Christopher; Pat Pettus of the Fort Mill School District; Bryan Zachary of the Fort Mill Police Department; Mike Baker of the York County Sheriff's Office; David Belk of the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office, Robyn Dudley of Tega Cay Police Department, Beth Covington and York County Elections, Andy Stahr, Joey Blethen, York Electric Cooperative, Duke Energy, Julie Warner.

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2010-’11 FOCUS ON FORT MILL TOWNSHIP MAGAZINE JULY 2010

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CONTENTS 22 WELCOME 14 17 17 20 19

Fort Mill Township map Finding a place to live Moving and storage Hooking up utilities Drivers licenses

LOOKING FOR WORK?

STAND UP, BE COUNTED Did you fill out your Census form? Here’s what it means to our community.

Attendance zones School performance ratings Calendars and school hours Special needs services Day care centers and preschools

THOSE DARN TAXES How much will you pay? It depends.

GOVERNMENT & SERVICES 41 44 45 49 50

Registering to vote Your elected representatives Crime rates Emergency numbers Fire districts and their ISO ratings

RECREATION 66 65 70 71

Area attractions Festivals and celebrations Parks Recreational sports

OTHER BIG STUFF 22 52 52 83 84 74 74 78

Local libraries Health care providers Health assitance programs Churches Civic and support groups Major employers Chambers of commerce Local media

2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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KEEPING YOU SAFE Neighbors and police unite in basic community policing efforts.

Here’s where to find help in your search.

SCHOOLS 30 31 33 32 36

FEEDING HUNGRY MINDS Libraries in Fort Mill, Indian Land and Lancaster County are there to serve you.

RELAX ON THE GREENWAY The Anne Springs Close Greenway offers some welcome respite from life.

HITTING THE TRAILS Environmental project aims to link thousands of miles of open space.

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Welcome to your new

HOME

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A worker prunes peach trees in full bloom during the spring at Springs Farms in Fort Mill. Local peaches are a favorite treat for area residents and visitors alike. The fruits are available in season at Springs Farms, the Old Peach Stand and the New Peach Stand in Fort Mill. Andy Burriss/The Herald

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FOCUS ON FORT MILL TOWNSHIP

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Fort Mill The Town of Fort Mill combines an historic sense of home with a growing sophistication. Born shortly after the creation of the railroad that runs through it, Fort Mill has grown into a thriving About municipality filled with small-town charm, but only 20 the name minutes south of Charlotte. It’s also eight miles north Named after a of Rock Hill, one of South Carolina’s larger cities. The town is the heart of a larger area known as nearby grist Fort Mill Township. The township is a section of York mill and a County that runs north to the state line, east to colonial-era Sugar Creek and southwest to the Catawba River fort built by and Rock Hill. Fort Mill Township is the fastest the British. growing part of York County. The area is accessible by I-77 and Hwy. 21 from the north and south, and Hwy. 160 from the east and west. With a rich heritage, excellent schools, an 1,800-acre greenway, comprehensive recreation complex, historic downtown district, and the headquarters of Springs Global, it’s no wonder the population is expected to double in the next 20 years.

Tega Cay Tega Cay residents describe their beloved city as a closeknit, recreational community fueled by volunteers. The peninsula city celebrated its 25th About anniversary last year. Its beginnings go back 1970, when the first developer bought the name to and began construction on the land. The 27Tega Cay hole golf course, eight lighted tennis courts means and 16 miles of shoreline along Lake Wylie attracted outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. “beautiful peninsula” in Then on July 4, 1982, Tega Cay went from gated resort community to official city. Polynesian. The city contains a marina, three beach parks, three interior parks, two swimming pools, miles of walking trails, a golf clubhouse, a beach and swim center, community center and athletic fields.

Indian Land Indian Land is located in the “Panhandle” of Lancaster County along Hwy. 521, east of Sugar Creek. Though not a municipality, the area is selfsupportive and is served by its own high school, About middle school, elementary school and library. Indian has its own fire departments and rescue units, the name Land with other services provided by Lancaster County. Named for the Indian Land’s location just south of Charlotte and east of Fort Mill makes it a rapidly growing area. large number Many housing developments and several business of Catawba parks are under construction, with more planned. Indians who However, residents have been keeping an eye on the once lived in growth, making sure Indian Land doesn’t lose its the area. unique flavor. In an unusual cross-county situation, most Indian Land residents have Fort Mill phone numbers and receive mail via the Fort Mill Post Office. Indian Land got its own ZIP code – 29707 – in July 2007. But government decisions for the area, including zoning and development laws, are made by the Lancaster County Council.

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Jeff Sochko

Julian Bhardwaj rides Copper during the annual Earth Day event at the Anne Springs Close Greenway while Cindy Ott leads.

Who we are Households

Education levels

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Total households ...........................23,028* People per household..........................2.58 Town of Fort Mill population........10,701* City of Tega Cay population............5,184* Average home price Fort Mill Township.........................$245,185* Tega Cay..........................................$256,043* As of July 2010

Sources: Piedmont Association of Realtors, Fort Mill Post Office, 2000 Census

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FOCUS ON FORT MILL TOWNSHIP

Population in school now..............................12,243 Finished less than 9th grade ..........................1,065 9th-12th grade, but no diploma ....................2,166 High school diploma........................................5,144 Some college, but no degree..........................4,388 Associate’s degree............................................1,599 Bachelor’s degree ............................................4,038 Graduate or professional degree....................1,643 Based on 2000 Cernsus

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The history of the area is told in Fort Mill Community Playhouse’s production of “Bandstand Tales.”

Jeff Sochko

Fort Mill’s history

From Catawbas, settlers to today It started with the Catawba Indians, the only surviving Native American tribe in South Carolina. Some 30,000 Catawbas once roamed this area. But few records exist about the tribe before 1760, when smallpox and other diseases diminished it to 1,000 people. The first white settler was Thomas Spratt, who traveled from the North using the Nation Ford Road looking for land. Spratt befriended the Catawbas, earning the Indian name “Kanawha.” Family members still live in Fort Mill. Both settlers and Catawbas used the ancient Nation Ford Road, which dates to at least 1650, to travel and trade from Pennsylvania to Charles Towne (now Charleston).The trail passed through the Catawba Nation’s five villages and crossed the Catawba River where the railroad trestle now exists. Parts of the trail can still be seen, especially on the Anne Springs Close Greenway. In 1763, the English “gave” the Catawbas 144,000 acres – land originally theirs – as a reward for helping them defeat the French in the French and Indian War. That original reservation sprawled over both the township, originally called Fort Hill, and Indian Land.The Catawbas began leasing that land to settlers soon afterward. Settlers opened a post office in 1820. By 1826, the Catawbas had rented out all their land, forcing them off their own reservation. In 1840 the Catawbas signed the Treaty of Nation Ford to sell their land to the state. Because there was another Fort Hill in South Carolina, settlers changed the name to Fort Mill around 1830, naming it after a grist mill on Steele Creek and a small fort built by the British in the 1750s, south of the town limits. In 1852, the Charlotte, Columbia and Augusta Railroad first traveled through the area, with a station in Fort Mill. The [ 12 ]

FOCUS ON FORT MILL TOWNSHIP

trestle over the Catawba River, built in 1851, burned down during an 1865 Civil War skirmish and was rebuilt a year later. Jefferson Davis and the Confederate Cabinet passed through the area in their flight from Richmond in 1865, and the last meeting of the full Confederate Cabinet was held at the White Homestead in Fort Mill. In 1873, Fort Mill was chartered as a town. In 1887 Samuel Elliot White founded Fort Mill Manufacturing Co. – paving the way for Springs Global, the area’s main employer for years. White’s great-greatgranddaughter, Crandall Close Bowles, was the fifth generation to run the company. In 2006, she led Springs’ merger with a large Brazilian textile firm to become Springs Global, and in 2008, she stepped down.

Living in Paradise On the east side of the township is a small, predominantly AfricanAmerican community known as Paradise. It is one of the town’s oldest communities with a history dating to Reconstruction. Many residents are descendants of slaves from the Springfield Plantation. In the early days, women gathered to wash their clothes and to sing what was referred to as “Negro spirituals.” Whites would stop and listen to this heavenly music and that’s how the name “Paradise” was born. George Fish High School (1925-1968) was a major institution. When Fort Mill’s schools were segregated, George Fish School served as the academic foundation for successful leaders. A monument to the school was erected in August 2007. Today, the “togetherness of community” spirit is demonstrated through the Paradise Community Choir, Youth Basketball League, churches and other activities. For more on Paradise, go to www.paradiseweb.org. ■

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Indian Land’s history

Catawbas’ land becomes part of S.C. Indian Land history can be divided into three major periods. First, it was occupied by Catawba Indians, whose villages were all on the east side of the Catawba River. Presentday Fort Mill Township in York County and Indian Land in Louise Lancaster Pettus County, as far historian south as Twelve Mile Creek, contained five to seven Catawba Indian villages. In 1743 there were 22 tribes in the Catawba Nation, most of them of Sioux descent. John Lawson in 1701 estimated that the Catawba Nation had a population of around 11,000. The white man brought diseases, mainly smallpox, that decimated the tribes. Infected trade goods were the culprit in a major epidemic in 1738 and in 1758-’59 half of the remaining population succumbed to smallpox. Europeans generally did not die of smallpox, and though they would be very ill and scarred, would survive. At the end of the French and Indian Wars in 1763, the victorious English awarded their Catawba allies with an area of land 15 miles square in the Catawba Valley split by the Catawba River with the larger part in present-day York County. The Treaty of Augusta would provide complete autonomy to the Catawba; it was thought of as

Andy Burriss

Catawba Indian dancer Zachery Campbell, right, performs with other dancers during a Pow Wow at the Winthrop Coliseum. a nation-state with power to do whatever it wished with its prized 144,000 acres. The Catawbas were asked which colony they preferred to be located in, and they chose South Carolina. Lancaster County in 1785 did not include what is now known as Indian Land. The British had given complete sovereignty to the Catawbas in an area that covered 15 square miles as a reward for the Indians’ service in the French and Indian Wars. South Carolina in 1840 purchased the Catawba Indian Land by the terms of the

Nation Ford Treaty. The new name dropped “Catawba” and became just plain Indian Land. As early as 1808, there was a settlement called Bel Air (later Belair) which had an academy, a store and an inn. By 1813 there was a post office with Fowler Williams appointed as the first postmaster. Williams had a son, George Washington Williams, born in 1808, who has been described in state histories as “the greatest lawyer of his time.” In 1819, B. Harper and other church officers of Six Mile Presbyterian Church paid the

Catawba Indians rent for “five and one half acres at the rate of twenty five cents per year.” In 1846 the state gave a charter to “Charlotte & South Carolina Railroad.” The intention was that it would parallel the Camden to Salisbury Road (present-day Hwy. 521), but when the surveyors and engineers began laying out the line they found the area on the N.C.-S.C. border had a hill too high for locomotives to negotiate, so they shifted to a route running through Rock Hill and Fort Mill. ■ 2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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Neighborhoods and Subdivisions 2

Bailes Ridge

Bailiwyck

Baxter

Legacy Park

Four Seasons

Foxwood

Knightsbridge

Black Horse Run

Springfield

Massey

Stirling

Old Orchard

Sun City

Old Williamsburg

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FRESH INSPIRATION From fresh and vibrant to rich and sweet. Pick your new colors. Find new beads. Choose your inspiration. Our Kera products are compatible with all competing bracelets and there’s no minimum to buy- so just have fun! TM

K.W. Gems 122 Main Street • Fort Mill 803.802.7020 • www.kwgems.com

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Temporary Housing & Apartments

LOCAL REALTORS ■

Allen Tate Realtors, 547-1185

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Carolina Properties, 548-2261

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Century 21 First Choice, 548-3551

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First Properties of the Carolinas, 548-0131

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Joyce Presley Realty, LLC, 547-4004

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Keller Williams Realty, 835-2300

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Century 21 Hawkins Realty Inc., 547-7583

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Kuester Real Estate Services, 8020004

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Clarity Realty, 417-2626

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RE/MAX Metro, 802-0640

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Coldwell Banker United Realtors, 548-1204, 1-800-537-3638 or 704-541-6100

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Melton Realty, 548-0978

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Rinehart Realty, 548-9797

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Triplett Realty, 547-6074

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EDI Real Estate, 396-1423

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Bromley Village, 104 Bromley Park Drive, Fort Mill, 1-866-933-9903 The Commons at Fort Mill, 221 Embassy Drive, Fort Mill, 1-877-879-5880 Forest Ridge Apartments, 2300 Forest Ridge Drive, Fort Mill, 802-7368 Fort Mill Townhouses, Bollin Circle, 5481810. Glenwood Falls, 917 Archie St., Fort Mill, 548-9507. Knollwood Apartments, 822 Archie St., Fort Mill, 547-7561 Millcrest Park, 208 Sedgwick Drive, Fort Mill 1-866-454-2594 Palmetto Place Apartments, 6000 Palmetto Place, Fort Mill, 802-3003 Peachtree Apartments, Peachtree Lane, Fort Mill, 548-7600 Walnut Lane Apartments, 12 Walnut Lane, Fort Mill, 547-6851

Retirement Communities Four Seasons at Gold Hill, Gold Hill Road, 548-2807 Sun City Carolina Lakes, Hwy. 521, 396-9800

Moving ■ ■ ■

Budget Truck Rental, 547-7618 The Moving Man, 547-8813 U-Haul (4 locations): 802-3511, 547-2254, 547-2233 and 547-6770

Storage ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

A Lock-it Self Storage, Hwy. 160 East at Springfield Parkway, 802-2272 Carowinds State Line Store and Lock, 3203 Hwy. 21 Business, 548-4600 Eastshore Commerce Park, 2094 Gold Hill Road, 548-2201 Fort Mill Business Center Self-Storage, 2444 Hwy. 160 West, 548-0201 Gold Hill Self-Storage, Gold Hill Road, 8022555 Shurgard, 9896 Old Charlotte Highway (Hwy. 521), 802-7000 Storage and Business Center of Tega Cay, 2012 Hwy. 160 West, 547-8989 Storett of Tega Cay, 144 B.W. Thomas Drive, 548-4900 Tega Cay Self Storage, 2026 Gold Hill Road, 547-2212 521 Storage, 7624 Charlotte Hwy., 802-7911

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How to get AROUND Airports

Buses

Two airports are just a short drive away: ■ Charlotte-Douglas International Airport is easily accessible to the north, either by I-77 or Hwy. 160 West. It is among the 15 largest airports in the nation in passenger departure, and is a major hub for US Airways flights. ■ The Rock Hill-York County Airport can accommodate small planes and corporate jets.

Heading to Charlotte or Rock Hill? The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) offers regular, affordable transportation. Fares run from $1.75 for local service to $3.50 for routes connecting to neighboring counties. There are reduced fares for senior citizens and children. For details, call 704-366-RIDE or visit www.charmeck.org/departments/cats/ home.htm.

Photo courtesy of Charlotte Area Transit System

The LYNX Blue Line, the Charlotte region’s first light-rail service, stretches 9.6 miles to key destinations in the Queen City.

Light rail The 9.6-mile LYNX Blue Line, the Charlotte region’s first light-rail service, offers fast, quiet, convenient service to 15 stations between I-485 at South Boulevard near the state line and uptown Charlotte. Dozens of bus routes are timed to connect with trains at the Blue Line stations.

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FOCUS ON FORT MILL TOWNSHIP

Park-and-ride stations are equipped with electronic ticket vending machines. Trains operate seven days a week from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m., and service is available every 7.5 minutes during weekday rush hour and every 15 minutes during non-peak hours. During weekday evenings, the Blue Line operates every 30 minutes. Weekend service is every 20 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes

during late night hours. One-way fares are 75 cents for students and seniors and $1.50 for adults. Roundtrip fares cost $1.50 for students and seniors and $3 for adults. All-day unlimited tickets cost $4.50, and unlimited tickets, good for seven days, cost $15. Editor’s note: Bus and rail fares are subject to change. For details, call 704-366-RIDE or visit www.charmeck.org/departments.

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New to South Carolina? ■ If you move to South Carolina from another state, you have 45

days to register your vehicle and 90 days to convert to a South Carolina driver’s license. If your driver’s license from your home state has expired, you must also pass the knowledge and road tests. New state residents will also pay property taxes on your vehicles.

IMPORTANT! Failure to register your vehicle in York County could mean you’ll pay more on your county property taxes. See page 42-43 for details.

In person

Online

What to bring

The Fort Mill location and the nearest Rock Hill location are: ■ 3071 Hwy. 21 (across the road from Bloom), Fort Mill, 547-8350 ■ 305 Hands Mill Road, Rock Hill, 329-6332 Offices are open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. The Hands Mill Road office is also open from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. the Fort Mill office is not open on Saturdays. To qualify for a South Carolina driver’s license, you must pass the DMV eye exam. A South Carolina license is valid for five years. The fee is $12.50.

Don’t always wait in long lines. Go online at www.scdmvonline.com and click on “Public Services” for: ■ Address changes ■ Driver’s license renewals, duplicates ■ ID card renewals ■ View your driver’s license status, and pay reinstatement fees ■ Duplicate registration certificates ■ Get your driving record Note: Some services require a fee that can be paid online with a debit or credit card.

If you are a U.S. citizen, you must show proof of identity and citizenship, your Social Security number, proof of residency and auto insurance. For details, go to www.scdmvonline.com. Here are the most common pieces of paper you’ll want to bring: ■ Original birth certificate (duplicates are OK, but no photocopies!) ■ Social Security card ■ Employer pay stub or employment records ■ Current utility bill ■ Proof of auto insurance from a company licensed to do business in South Carolina

FACT: The “Pennies For Progress” 1-cent sales tax imposed on York County residents was created to pay for the cost of building new roads. Two major road projects were developed to help alleviate congestion:

Northern Bypass

Southern Bypass

This $15 million, 4.2-mile, two-lane road runs from Gold Hill Road to Old Nation Road and connects with Springfield Parkway. It was completed in 2008.

This planned $15.1-million project will stretch 3.9 miles eastward from the Banks Street/Brickyard Road intersection (Fort Mill Parkway) to connect with Springfield Parkway at Tom Hall Street. Construction is underway.

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GUIDE TO HOOKING UP YOUR Electricity Duke Energy serves approximately 30,000 customers in York County. New customers must request service at least 24 hours in advance. Duke Energy is open 24 hours, seven days a week. A deposit may be required based on credit history. The main customer service number is 1-800-777-9898. For special needs such as medical notification and referrals to social service agencies, call 1-800-943-6914. Visit www.duke-energy.com. York Electric Cooperative Inc. is a member-owned, nonprofit utility that serves about 15,000 members in Fort Mill Township. York Electricâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fort Mill branch office location is 2089 Hwy. 21 Bypass. The hours are 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. A $5 membership fee is required along with a deposit. Residential deposits are $230. Several payment options are offered including cash, check, credit card, bank draft and E-check. E-bill notification available. Visit www.yorkelectric.net or call 548-4244 for more information. To report an outage, call 1-866-374-1234.

Natural Gas York County Natural Gas Authority serves all of York County. A deposit may be required based on credit worthiness. Deposits can cost up to $200 for residents. For more information or to pay your bill, go to www.ycnga.com. Customers can also pay by credit card or automatic bank draft. Call 329-5255. Lancaster County Natural Gas Authority serves some Indian Land residents. Deposits cost $100-$300 for renters and $25 for homeowners. Call 803-285-2045 or 548-4777.

Telephone Comporium Communications serves the township, including most of Indian Land, down to Twelve Mile Creek Road and Hancock Road off Hwy. 521. A $100-$200 deposit may be required. Call 5489011 (Tom Hall Street office) or 548-9040 (2386 Hwy. 160 West). For details, go to www.comporium.com. Lancaster Telephone Co. serves the rest of the Indian Land/Van Wyck area. A $100 deposit may be required. Call 803-283-9011.

Internet & E-mail Comporium Communications offers dial-up, ISDN, cable modem and DSL. Costs range from $9.95 (for 20 hours of dial-up) to $109.95 (for unlimited DSL) per month. Offices are open Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings. Call 548-9011 (Peachtree Plaza office). For details, go to www.comporium.com.

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UTILITIES Cable TV Comporium Communications offers more than 100 channels including pay-perview options. Rates range in price from basic service ($9 a month in town limits) to a full digital cable package ($91.60 a month), including premium channels. Installation costs $45. Sign up at 404 Springcrest Drive (Peachtree Plaza off Hwy. 160) or 400 Tom Hall St. Call 548-9011. Go to www.comporium.com for details.

Mail The Fort Mill Post Office delivers mail all over the township and in most of Indian Land, down to Six Mile Creek Road off Hwy. 521. It’s located on Tom Hall Street (5474101). The Fort Mill Post Office also has a contract station in the South Lake Shopping Park on Gold Hill Road (548-1957). The Lancaster Post Office serves the extreme southern end of Indian Land. Call 803-286-6202 for details.

Water & Sewer / Trash The Town of Fort Mill provides water, sewer and trash collection to more than 4,800 households in the town limits and nearly 700 outside the town limits. Homeowners must pay a $20 deposit. Renters must pay $40. Recyclables and trash are collected weekly for $11.25 per month. Call 547-2034. For details, go to www.fortmillsc.org. Weekly trash pickups are free in Tega Cay. Recyclables are collected twice a month on the first and third Fridays of each month. Call Tega Cay City Hall at 548-3512. Tega Cay Water Service Inc., a private company, provides water and sewer service to the older parts of Tega Cay. The onetime, nonrefundable hookup fee is $30, plus a $100 refundable deposit. Call 548-0821. Tega Cay Utilities Department serves residents of Lake Shore on Lake Wylie. There is a $50 activation fee and a $50

refundable deposit required. Call 548-3512. For details, go to www.tegacaysc.org. Riverview Community Water System serves the Riverview and Greyrock areas. The deposit is $90. Call 547-2458. York County Water and Sewer and Public Works serves township residents along Carowinds Boulevard, Gold Hill Road, Pleasant Road and part of Hwy. 160. The deposit and activation fee is $130. Call 803628-3210. For details, go to www.yorkcountygov.com. Lancaster County Water and Sewer provides water and sewer to some Indian Land residents. Deposits are $75. The tap fee is $950. Call 803-285-6919.

Recycling in York County Two convenience centers operate in Fort Mill from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Bring household trash, large items such as furniture and tires, newspapers and magazines, junk mail, plastic bags, boxes (must be broken down), metal cans and plastic and glass bottles and containers. One center is located on Hwy. 160 West near Baxter Village, and the other is on Hwy. 160 East across from the Leroy Springs Recreation Complex.

Trash & Recycling in Indian Land Indian Land residents are responsible for their own trash and recycling services. Homeowners associations in some neighborhoods provide the services via private companies but many residents use the county’s convenience site, located at 401 Jim Wilson Rd. The convenience site offers trash and recycling receptacles and is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Friday and Saturday. The site is open on Thursday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and is closed on Sunday and Wednesday. ■

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Banks ■ American Community Bank 1738 Gold Hill Rd. Fort Mill, 802-6770 ■ Bank of America 115 Tom Hall Street, Fort Mill, 981-5498 ■ BB&T 1782 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 802-3031 3700 Avenue of the Carolinas, Suite 108, Fort Mill, 802-8444 ■ Carolina First 100 Stone Village Drive, Fort Mill, 548-9700 8179 Charlotte Hwy., Fort Mill, 547-8020 ■ First Citizens Bank 1401 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 548-7831 2880 Hwy. 160 West, Tega Cay, 802-7120, 7580 Charlotte Hwy., Suite 500, Fort Mill, 802-8901 ■ First National Bank 1115 Stonecrest Blvd., Tega Cay, 548-6666 ■ S.C. Bank & Trust of the Piedmont 808 Tom Hall Street, Fort Mill, 548-6292 817 Dave Gibson Blvd., Fort Mill, 802-2040 9789 Charlotte Hwy. (Hwy. 521), Indian Land, 802-2750 ■ State Farm Bank 8351 Charlotte Hwy. Fort Mill 548-7141 ■ Wachovia Bank NA 403 Tom Hall Street, Fort Mill, 547-5551 2890 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 548-0562

Credit Unions ■ First Patriots Federal Credit Union 3064 Hwy. 21, Fort Mill, 548-9270 ■ Founders Federal Credit Union 134 North White Street, Fort Mill, 547-5587 100 Springcrest Drive, Fort Mill, 802-7600 957 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill, 396-5424 9881 Charlotte Hwy. (Hwy. 521), Indian Land, 5483636

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LOCAL

LIBRARIES

FEED HUNGRY MINDS

Fort Mill The original Fort Mill Public Library opened in 1972 on Confederate Street. It moved to its current location at 1818 Second Baxter Crossing in 1999. The library is 11,900 square feet. It has 18 public computer workstations with Internet access and two children's non-internet computers. It has a meeting room with capacity for 75 people, a small conference room and a study room. Its holdings total more than 57,000 books and other materials. The Fort Mill Public Library hosts special programs for children, in addition to story times for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Events for teens include teen friendly crafts, gaming and more. Adults can choose from book clubs and other programs on special topics. York County Library's annual storytelling festival, Patchwork Tales, is held every March, with free events for the entire family. Vacation reading programs for all ages are available during the summer, with programs and prizes. ■ Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday-Saturday ■ The York County Library Web site has a complete list of programs for all ages at www.yclibrary.org. The phone number is 547-4114. — continued on page 23 [ 22 ]

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File/Fort Mill Times

Shirley Adams was the first person to receive a library card from the Del Webb Library at Indian Land when it opened in 2009.

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from page 22

Indian Land In January, the Del Webb Library at Indian Land, nicknamed “Indian Land’s living room” by Indian Land’s representative on the Library Board, Karen Paulson, celebrated its first birthday. It is located at 7641 Charlotte Highway (Hwy. 521). Nearly every day since it opened, the library has continued to cater to the flood of residents who enter the library doors. Library staff signs up dozens of new patrons daily for library cards. And since the opening, nearly 365 days ago, more than 100,000 books and other materials have been checked out from the community library. The library is a first for Indian Land, whose residents have previously had to rely on the Bookmobile or traveled as much as 20 miles to check out the latest bestsellers. The library was built on two acres in Carolina Commons, next to Sun City Carolina Lakes. Looking back over the library's first year, Berry noted the success of the children's programs. Originally, they were offered once a week; before long, demand exceeded expectations and twice-weekly programs were established. The Summer Reading Program was one of the library's most successful ventures, Berry said, with more than 800 children registering and about half completing the program. In 2010, Berry hopes to expand the summer program to include young adults and adults. Preschool story times will be expanded. ■ Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Tuesday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Wednesday-Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. ■ There are programs for adults and kids. Visit www.lanclib.org/Del Webb Library.htm or call 548-9260.

Lancaster County South of the Indian Land Panhandle is the main branch of the Lancaster County Library, at 313 South White St. ■ Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. ■ The Lancaster County Library Web site has a complete list of programs for all ages at www.lanclib.org. The phone number is 803285-1502.

Friends of the Library Both local libraries have Friends of the Library programs that encourage residents to get involved. For more information, call the branch or go online: ■ Fort Mill: www.yclibrary.org/friendsofthelibrary.php ■ Indian Land: www.lanclib.org ■ For more information about becoming a member at Del Webb, e-mail indianlandlibrary@gmail.com, go to indianlandlibrary.blogspot.com or become a fan at www.facebook.com/ilfo.

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Looking for work? Employment center can help job-hunters sharpen their skills By Toya Graham New to Fort Mill Township and unemployed? Don't despair. Pop into Rock Hill Workforce Center of the S.C. Dept. of Employment and Workforce. Located at 1228 Fincher Road just off Main Street, it's your one-stop job shop. Those seeking employment should have their photo identification, Social Security card and a brief work history when registering, about a 30-minute process. "Once you register, we'll put you in our JobLINK page, and you can do your own search," director Annie Reid said. "If you see a job you like, you'll need to give us a job order number. Then you'll see an interviewer,” she said. “The interviewer

will check your qualifications and make sure you're a match." That could lead to a face-to-face interview with a potential employer, she said. Although the country is emerging from the “Great Recession,” the employment forecast is not all gloom and doom, Reid said. "It's a little bit better," Reid said of recent job orders. "We're getting a few more jobs. We have a little bit of construction, some manufacturing, service jobs, health care and truck driving." The Rock Hill Workforce Center also offers limited employment grooming, she said. "Some people need an upgrade in skills," Reid said. "It's possible through the Workforce Investment Act that they can get an

upgrade on their skills and have a better chance in finding employment, Reid said. They make themselves more marketable." The Rock Hill Workforce also offers a re-employment component where individuals can sharpen up their skills. Been out of the work force for a while? If you are a medical assistant, personal care assistant, certified nursing assistant or have clerical skills, you can learn new technology and other changes that may have occurred in your field while you were out of the workforce. An individual also could gain interview tips and receive help with resume writing. The Workforce Center hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, or register online at www.sces.org and click on the job seekers banner. "It's green for go," Reid said. For more details, call 803-328-3881.

No Enrollm ent Fees

4 10

prescriptions prescriptions for a 30-day supply. for a 90-day supply.

Julie

OVER 400

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See your pharmacist for details and to enroll with your BONUSCARD.® For a detailed list of participating generics, visit bi-lo.com.

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FOCUS on

education

Chances are, you’re moving here or thinking of moving here because of the area’s schools. Indeed, Fort Mill and Indian Land schools are among the best in the nation, not just in South Carolina. Intimate class sizes, qualified teachers and state-of-the-art classrooms and curricula mean your child can get a good education. But don’t take our word for it. Just turn the page and find out for yourself.

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Andy Burriss/The Herald

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW THIS YEAR [ 26 ]

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IN OUR SCHOOLS

Above, teacher Jessica Catledge works with Tyler Smith in her fourth-grade class at Riverview Elementary School in Fort Mill.

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Fort Mill: Facing a tough economy, schools find ways to work with less By Toya Graham Weathering the economic storm is the plan for Fort Mill public schools and most others in the state of South Carolina. School officials spent much of the year trying to patch holes in the 2009-10 operating budget while preparing to do more with less when the new school year begins in the fall of 2010. It¹s a challenge that has been particularly vexing in Fort Mill, where the quality of the schools has long fueled the township¹s growth. Smaller class sizes and special programs, such as the high school career clusters that give students a glimpse of the working world, are among the differences that have helped the Fort Mill district achieve the status as best in the state. Now, officials have to find a way to maintain excellence while spending less. That¹s why some wrenching budget decisions had to be made. To help balance the budget, the district in 2010 eliminated 47 positions, including 27 teaching jobs. Remaining staffers will face furloughs. Also, the Measure of Academic Progress or MAP testing is out and middle school sports are now privately funded, to offset a reccession-related loss of more than $2 million in state funding. “We do understand that we have to live within our means,” said Leanne Lordo, assistant superintendent of finance and operations.

The cuts helped the district realize a cost savings of $5.4 million. Earlier in 2010, the Fort Mill district decided to delay the opening of a new middle school - Banks Trail - until 2011. The school construction is complete, but a new county road that will lead to the school is still in progress. The district, following its long-range plan, did acquire some property near Tega Cay that will be the site of a new elementary school. For now, though, the emphasis is on paying the yearly operating costs for the facilities already in use. Amending administrative contract days for athletic directors and high school assistant principals from 240 to 230 days was one cost-saving measure, Lordo said. Athletic fees per activity will be $100. Instructional fees were increased from $20 to $25. “A fee would apply to band students as well as athletes,” Lordo said of the athletic fee. The district office will make do with three fewer employees. An elementary school assistant principal position was cut and the elementary gifted/talented program will be restructured, Lordo said. Shuffling staff at the district¹s alternative high school for at-risk students is also underway. “Fort Mill Academy would be restructured and reduced by two teaching positions next year,” Lordo said. Teachers face five furlough days; administrators will have 10 furlough days.

Impact fees ■ Fort Mill is the only school district in the state that can collect impact fees. State lawmakers passed legislation to forbid any other districts from following Fort Mill’s lead of requiring developers to pay the fees to help offset the cost of building projects necessitated by rapid growth. Total collected through May 2010: $25,904,510 July 2008 ................................................$230,000 August 2008 ..........................................$57,500 September 2008................................$227,500 October 2008 ....................................$262,500 November 2008 ..................................$65,000 December 2008 ..................................$47,500 January 2009 ..........................................$67,500 February 2009 ......................................$87,500 March 2009 ..........................................$107,500 April 2009 ............................................$115,000 May 2009 ..............................................$237,500 June 2009 ..............................................$242,500 July 2009................................................$230,000 September 2009...............................$260,000 October 2009....................................$587,500 December 2009..................................$92,500 January 2010........................................$112,500 February 2010......................................$52,500 March 2010.........................................$107,500 April 2010............................................$190,000 May 2010.............................................$102,500 Total..............................$25,904,510

Fort Mill: Student population projections

11,161

10,322

9,997

2009

2010

2011 2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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How to enroll ■ Fort Mill Township Schools When: July Where: Family Resource Center at 513 Banks Street. What is needed: Proof of residency (such as a deed, certificate of occupancy, tax receipt or lease; power bills, driver’s license, and auto tax receipts won’t be accepted), your child’s Social Security card, complete state immunization form, and your child’s legal birth certificate. A $20 registration fee is required. To register at any other time of year, call the school district office at 5482527. ■ Indian Land Schools Where: Indian Land High School When: July Where: Indian Land Elementary and Middle schools When: July Who: Registration at Indian Land Elementary, Middle or High School is needed only for a new or transfer student and students who have had a change of address and have not yet provided the office with the necessary proof. To register at any other time of year, call the high school at 547-7571, the middle school at 548-3770, or the elementary school at 548-2916. [ 28 ]

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Fort Mill parents pull together to save middle school sports By Toya Graham Budget cuts within the Fort Mill School District almost doomed middle schools sports. But parents with the district’s middle school booster clubs have stepped up to the plate to keep the programs alive. “The community and parents are pulling together to make this a reality for our athlete students,” said Lisa McCarley, former president of the Fort Mill Middle School Booster Club. Fort Mill school officials gave booster parents the green light to move forward with a pay-to-play proposal that calls for combining student athlete participation fees, booster club fundraising efforts and gate receipts. District leaders have contended that the student athlete participation fee, $100 per student per sport, is projected to generate an David Losee Bailey Rich, one of several Lady Bulldogs who knows how estimated $75,000. That to get the ball in the goal, concentrates during a drill. means the booster club parents need to raise $32,000. the initial $15,000 payment. “The next one is In June of 2001, booster parents turned over scary. We still have to raise at least $17,000 for their first $15,000 payment to district officials. our Jan. 31 payment in order to keep spring “Each middle school booster club has remitted their $5,000 payment due August first,” sports for the 2010-2011 school year.” Leanne Lordo, assistant superintendent for finance and operations, wrote in an e-mail to the school board. “We’re halfway there,” McCarley said. However, there will be no time-outs for Want to help keep middle school sports alive in celebration as members work to step up Fort Mill? Visit the booster club parents on booster club memberships and plan a benefit Facebook at Fort Mill Athletic Board or call Lisa golf tourney that is slated for September to McCarley at 704-622-4932. If you are considering make up the rest of the money due the school joining one of the three booster clubs, see your middle school’s website. district. Fees are $25 per person. “This payment was easy,” McCarley said of

Want to help?

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FACT: In 1921, voters in Indian Land’s Belair community approved a bond issue for $2,000 to build a public school. The school cost about $6,000. File/Fort Mill Times

Maddison Byerley, Ashley Davis and Emma Gladu examine evidence during an experiment at Indian Land Middle School.

Indian Land: Schools keeping up with growth By Jenny Overman Indian Land schools, much like the surrounding community, have been rapidly changing to keep up with the pace of growth. The Indian Land elementary, middle and high schools sit on 126 acres between Doby’s Bridge Road and River Road. In 2007, Indian Land High School opened its new building, leaving the former high school for the renovations that transformed it into the new Indian Land Middle School. Both the middle and high school were built for growth, with renovations to the middle school including several new classroom wings. The high school was built to hold 700 students initially but will be able to expand to a capacity of 1,200. While the middle and high school students will have room to move as more enroll, the elementary school is rapidly outgrowing its space. The school district has already purchased land for a future school

in the southern end of the Panhandle. But, officials have not yet decided when that school will be built or if it will be a middle or elementary school. Indian Land Middle School was lauded in the 2009-2010 school year with several awards. The school was named winner of the 2010 School of Character Award, presented by the S.C. Department of Education for its efforts in developing students’ character through multiple character education programs. One of the school’s programs that caught judges’ eyes is Warrior Time, a twice-monthly, hour-long program that focuses on developing students’ character. The school’s School Improvement Council was one of 11 schools in the state named to the South Carolina School Improvement Council’s 2010 Honor Roll. The program brought 60 parents and community members to the school to attend up to three of four seminars presented during the evening. The seminars focused on issues that parents said they felt they needed to learn more about.

Indian land: Student population projections

2,993

2,603 1.403

2009

2010

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OUR SCHOOLS’

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STANDARDS

FORT MILL

INDIAN LAND

SUPERINTENDENT ...................... Dr. Chuck Epps SUPERINTENDENT .................... Dr. Gene Moore 548-2527 803-286-6972 ENROLLMENT .......................................... 9,907 ENROLLMENT .......................................... 2,336 WHITE .......................................................... 79% BLACK .......................................................... 10% OTHER .......................................................... 11%

WHITE .......................................................... 75% BLACK .......................................................... 13% OTHER .......................................................... 12%

NUMBER OF SCHOOLS .................................. 13 NUMBER OF SCHOOLS .................................... 3 ELEMENTARY .................................................... MIDDLE .............................................................. HIGH .................................................................. ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL ......................................

7 3 2 1

ELEMENTARY .................................................... 1 MIDDLE .............................................................. 1 HIGH .................................................................. 1

STUDENT-TEACHER RATIOS

STUDENT-TEACHER RATIOS K-2 ................................................................ 3-5 ................................................................ 6-8 ................................................................ 9-12 ..............................................................

20:1 22:1 22:1 24:1

AVERAGE SAT SCORES

K .................................................................... 1-3 ................................................................ 4-5 ................................................................ 6-8 ................................................................ 9-12 ..............................................................

23:1 23:1 23:1 23:1 23:1

AVERAGE SAT SCORES

READING ........................................................ 532 MATH ............................................................ 543 WRITING ........................................................ 511

PER STUDENT SPENDING INSTRUCTION ............................................ $5,309 PLANT OPERATIONS .................................. $1,682 SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION .......................... $500 DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION ............................ $66 FOOD ............................................................ $374

AVERAGE TEACHER SALARIES DISTRICT .................................................. $48,208 STATE ......................................................$ 4 8 , 5 6 1

AFTER GRADUATION COLLEGE ...................................................... 89% EMPLOYMENT/OTHER .................................. 11%

STATE REPORT CARDS*

READING ........................................................ 492 MATH ............................................................ 494 WRITING ........................................................ 483

PER STUDENT SPENDING INSTRUCTION ............................................ $4,246 PLANT OPERATIONS .................................... $639 SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION .......................... $445 DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION .......................... $201 FOOD ............................................................ $350

AVERAGE TEACHER SALARIES DISTRICT .............................................. $46,774 STATE .................................................. $48,561

AFTER GRADUATION COLLEGE ...................................................... 85% EMPLOYMENT/OTHER .................................. 15%

STATE REPORT CARDS*

DISTRICT DISTRICT ABSOLUTE RATING ................................ Excellent ABSOLUTE RATING ...................... Below Average GROWTH RATING ........................................ Good GROWTH RATING ...................................... At Risk OTHERS OTHERS Fort Mill High School: Absolute: Excellent Growth: Good Gold Hill and Orchard Park elementary schools: Absolute: Excellent Growth: Excellent

Springfield Middle School: Absolute: Excellent Growth: Good Gold Hill Middle, Fort Mill, Riverview and Springfield elementary schools: Absolute: Excellent Growth: Good

Fort Mill Middle: Absolute: Excellent Growth: Average Nation Ford High School, and Pleasant Knoll and Sugar Creek elementary schools: N/A

Indian Land High School Absolute: Average Growth: At Risk Indian Land Middle School Absolute: Good Growth: Good

Indian Land Elementary Absolute: Average Growth: Average

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SPECIAL SERVICES:

Students rise to the challenge Special needs services Local schools offer an array of services for students with special needs. If your student attends Fort Mill schools, contact: Carolyn Logue, Director of Special Education 548-2527, loguec@fmsd4.fort-mill.k12.sc.us Amy Maziarz, Coordinator 548-2527, maziarza@fmsd4.fortmill.k12.sc.us

If your student attends school in Indian Land, contact: Dr. Kathy Durbin, Student Services Director 803-285-8439, kdurbin@lancasterscschools.org

“Success always comes when preparation meets opportunity.” – Henry Hartman The leaves are just beginning to change as you drive down Horse Run toward the Springs barn. As you park, you hear the school bus bumping along the dirt road. Before you know it, you see the students who are about to experience an opportunity that will help to transform their lives. Although they are mentally or physically challenged, these students become cowboys and cowgirls for the next hour as they learn horseback riding. You gaze at a young man with cerebral palsy as he intently holds the reins and calls out “Walk on, Fred!” and you feel his sense of pride and self-assurance. That afternoon, you head over to the Leroy Springs Recreation Complex for a swim. You notice several teenagers with Julie disabilities who are swimming laps, including a young man with Warner Down syndrome. teacher Shortly after the holidays, you decide to go bowling at Strikers Bowling Lanes in Rock Hill. Upon entering the building, you hear screams of sheer joy. One student with autism fearlessly hurls his ball down the lane and you hear the pins spin out of control. “Ster-ike!” he yells and throws his arms in the air. A few weeks later, the azaleas are in full bloom, the temperature is about 75 degrees, and school buses are driving to Cherry Park in Rock Hill. After you arrive, you hear a child’s bold voice on an intercom: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” As you look around, you notice children and adults who are wide-eyed with anticipation — for THIS day is a special day. Many folks come from miles around just to be a part of the York County Special Olympics, where students and adults compete in running, throwing softballs, the long jump or wheelchair racing. For many people with disabilities, the Special Olympics is a day of opportunity — and a day of success. Students with disabilities in the Fort Mill area participate in numerous other community activities such as shopping, operating a clothing closet, attending campus events at Winthrop University, and taking the Lynx to uptown Charlotte. Field trips and community based training supported by the district, parents, and local volunteers, provide unique experiences. Following high school, students participate in the High Five Club and Friends Forever in addition to the York County First Thursdays Club. No matter what time of year, as you travel around Fort Mill, you are sure to see students with disabilities who will teach you what it means to be successful…because they have be given the opportunity! — Julie Warner was the district’s 2008 Teacher of the Year who now has a districtwide position in special education. You can e-mail her at warnerj@fortmill.k12.sc.us.

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■

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PTOs and PTAs Parents can volunteer in their children’s classrooms from elementary school all the way through high school thanks to local parent-teacher organizations and parent-teacher-student associations. With schools practically bursting at the seams because of new students, Nation Ford High teachers need every bit of help they can ■ Cost to join: $35. Volunteer get. Parents who by working concession stands take part in local at games, helping with Parent Teacher merchandise sales as well as Organizations / membership sign-ups. Associations already ■ For details: Call Nation know that. That’s Ford Athletics Director Brian why they spend so Turner at 835-0003. much time preparing fundraisers and Fort Mill High organizing teacher and student ■ Cost to join: $30. Support functions. They’re a all the teams at the school vital part the Fort financially and through Mill and Indian Land volunteer work and annually school systems. And offers college scholarships to the systems know it. four of the school’s athletes. Without parent ■ Mail memberships to: P.O. volunteers, schools Box 2061, Fort Mill, SC 29716. ■ For details, e-mail Jeanne couldn’t get Gregory at everything done that gregory8@comporium.net. needs to be done, school officials said. There’s an active Indian Land High PTO/PTA at every ■ The Indian Land High school. They provide athletic booster club supports a variety of a dozen sports at the school. volunteer help, but For details, e-mail David Helms most hold yearly at helms3@comporium.net or fund-raisers to call Indian Land High School purchase school Athletics Director Michael supplies or Mayer at 547-7571. equipment that the district can’t find room in the budget for. Not only does the PTO/PTA help raise money for the schools, they are also there to support the teachers and students. PTO/PTAs typically meet once a month, although the meeting date is not always regularly set. PTO/PTA directors urge anyone interested in joining or attending a meeting to call their school for the next meeting date. ■

Booster clubs

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For reference ... Fort Mill School District First day of School: Aug. 18 Student Holidays: Sept. 6 Oct. 11 Oct. 25 and 29 Nov. 2 Nov. 24-26 Dec. 20-31 Jan. 14

Jan. 17 Feb. 21 March 18 March 30 April 18-22 May 30

Oct. 11 and 29 Jan. 14 Jan. 17 Feb. 21 March 18 May 30

Possible weather make-up days: Sept. 6

Last Day of School: June 2

Updates to this calendar are available at www.fort-mill.k12.sc.us.

Indian Land Schools (Lancaster County School District) First Day of School: Aug. 13 Sixth- and ninth-graders Aug. 16 All other grades Student Holidays: Sept. 6 Nov. 2 Nov. 24-26

Dec. 20-Jan. 3 Jan. 7 early dismissal Jan. 10 Jan. 17 March 14 April 18-22 May 26-27 early dismissal

Student make-up days: Oct. 11 Nov. 24 Jan. 10 Feb. 21 March 14 April 18-20 May 27, last day

Updates to this calendar are available at www.lcsd.k12.sc.us.

School hours ■ Fort Mill Elementary, Gold Hill Elementary, Orchard Park Elementary, Riverview Elementary and Springfield Elementary: 7:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. ■ Fort Mill Middle, Gold Hill Middle and Springfield Middle: 8:20 to 3:30 p.m. ■ Fort Mill High and Nation Ford High: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. ■ Indian Land Elementary: 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. ■ Indian Land Middle: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. ■ Indian Land High: 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Phone numbers ■ Fort Mill High, ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

548-1900 Nation Ford High, 835-0000 Fort Mill Middle, 547-5553 Gold Hill Middle, 548-8300 Springfield Middle, 548-8199 Fort Mill Academy, 802-8521 Gold Hill Elementary, 548-8250

■ Fort Mill ■ ■ ■ ■

Elementary, 547-7546 Orchard Park Elementary, 548-8170 Pleasant Knoll Elementary, 835-0095 Riverview Elementary, 548-4677 Springfield Elementary, 548-8150

■ Sugar Creek

Elementary, 835-0150 ■ Indian Land High, 547-7571 ■ Indian Land Middle, 548-2500 ■ Indian Land Elementary, 548-2916

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Performing arts take center stage in schools

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“Grease” was the word at Fort Mill High School, above. Grant Zavitkovsky played Danny and Rachel Tripp was Sandy. Below, Tyler Veazey hams it up in the Mr. Nation Ford contest at Nation Ford High School.

Jan Baucom

Fort Mill High’s theater department has a well-earned reputation for producing professional-quality shows. This past year, “Grease” was the word as Fort Mill revved up the popular musical. In its third year, Nation Ford High is steadily building its own program and staged “Annie” last spring for several packed houses. Toward the end of the school year, the Mr. Nation Ford contest, a pageant parody, was held as a fundraiser for the Future Business Leaders of America club and hilarity ensued as the guys hammed it up on stage in a spirited spoof of the 1980s. Other recent shows at the schools include “Peter Pan,” featuring professional equipment that allowed the title character – as well as the Darling kids – to actually soar over the stage, and the colorful, larger-than-life "Seussical." It’s not only high school students getting in on the act. This past year, 80 Springfield Middle School students made up the cast of “Oklahoma!” presented on the Nation High stage. This is the first musical production attempted by the middle school. The production was a “junior version” of the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, running approximately 80 minutes. To further encourage young people to explore the performing arts, Fort Mill High School teachers Michael Dove (chorus) and Liz Dukes (dance) held two camps at the school this summer for kids in first grade and up. Not to be outdone, students at Indian Land High can emote with the best of them. With no stage, no storage and little space for productions, the Indian Land High School Drama Club faces several big challenges, but that hasn’t stopped students and staff from putting on at least one performance each school year. The school’s theater department also relies heavily on the help of community members such as Janie Straight, of Straight Sewing and Costumes, who donated many of the costumes used in the productions, and the high school’s Building and Construction class, which helped out by building sets. Indian Land High School’s theater offerings include drama club, which meets weekly, and drama class offered once per school year, usually in the spring. Club and class members learn about the elements of small theater productions, including improvisation, script writing and set design.

Jeff Sochko

Long before “High School Musical” and “Glee” took performing arts from the back of the yearbook to center stage, local students have had stars in their eyes.

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Career clusters offer hands-on learning By Toya Graham Fort Mill School District students have a chance to explore the ins and outs of different occupations, thanks to several career-oriented classes at both high schools. During the 2010-11 school year, students can perfect their skills in one of 11 areas. The hands-on classes at Fort Mill High School include culinary arts, graphics, sports medicine, accounting and TV production. Here¹s a peek into the TV production world: Becca Tooley watches for her cue. Then she reads “breaking” news from a TelePrompTer. Holly Williams knows her way around the TelePrompTer, too. Neither are TV anchorwomen. Not yet. But they are on their way. “This is going to be my career,” said Tooley, a Fort Mill High School senior. “I would love to work in a local TV newsroom and maybe one day produce.” Tooley and Williams owe their interest to a series of TV production classes offered at Fort Mill High. The anchorwomen-intraining are among 140 students who last year registered for the series led by teacher Karin McKemey. “It's not just running out there with a camera and shooting,” said McKemey, who formerly worked in the news industry. “They have to learn the equipment. They have to learn about lighting. They have to learn about sound and cameras.” Taking the class changed Steve Blanchard's career plans. “At first, it was pharmacy all the way,” said Blanchard, a junior. “Then I took this class, and it opened my eyes to how much fun this could be.” Creating career interest at a time when the economy is rebounding from a recession and jobs are limited is vital as students learn to become productive citizens. Completing the classes affords students the opportunity to further their TV production education at college or seek employment, McKemey said. Other Fort Mill High career clusters include agriculture; engineering and biomedical sciences, as well as health sciences, where students can learn about nursing and nursing assistant careers. A business section includes Business Application I and II; multimedia, web design and marketing. Students also can get some oil on their hands via an auto tech class or tighten up their skills in this year¹s debuting Cisco class, a networking class. Both are offered at Nation Ford High School. If students love animals, they can learn all about them and take care of them through Fort Mill High¹s agricultural classes, including the small animal care class. “Many of the students are eager to become veterinarians,” said teacher Kristen Reinhardt, who grew up around a family farm that boasted cattle, goats and horses. “Vet school is very competitive to get into and requires at least eight years of school, sometimes more if a vet decides to specialize.” In addition to the small animal care class, agricultural classes include pre-veterinary science and agri-science, according to Charity Young, Fort Mill High¹s assistant principal for curriculum and career tech.

Toya Graham/ Fort Mill Times

Fort Mill High School student Sanne Rodriguez edits a script for "The Buzz" as Jesse Reirez and DeMariez Ruffin look on.

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DAY CARE AND PRESCHOOLS

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DAY CARE

PRESCHOOLS

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

■ All Nations Christian Academy and Child Development Center, 5485060. ■ Burbee Place, 548-7420 ■ Carolina Kids, 802-4400 ■ Field of Dreams Nurture and Education Center, 3960900 or 547-0900. ■ Fort Mill Preparatory School, 548-8123 ■ Good Shepherd School, 548-8805 ■ Indian Land Day Care and Development Center, 5483330 ■ Kids R Kids, 802-8977 ■ Little Fox Nursery, 5475410 ■ Pleasant Road Child Development Center, 548-3131

■ Carolina Community Head Start, 802-7587 ■ Grace Presbyterian Preschool, 548-0800 ■ Higher Ground Preschool, 802-3189 ■ Lakeshore Christian Preschool, 548-2755 ■ Lake Wylie Lutheran, 548-5489 ■ Leroy Springs Recreation Complex, 5474575 ■ Philadelphia United Methodist Mother’s Morning Out, 548-0102 ■ Pleasant Hill United Methodist Preschool, 548-4922 ■ St. John’s United Methodist Preschool, 547-7538 ■ St. Philip Neri Catholic Preschool, 5487282 ■ The Goddard School for Early Childhood Development, 802-2112 ■ Ultimate Life Christian, 802-2641 ■ Ultimate Life Preschool Academy, 8022641 ■ Unity Presbyterian, 547-5543

■ The Carpenter’s Workshop, 619-5091 ■ Comenius School for Creative Leadership, 547-3223, ext. 291 ■ Learning Link of the Carolinas, 802-5737 ■ Palisades Episcopal School, 704-583-1825. ■ Ultimate Life Christian Academy, 802-2641

FOCUS ON FORT MILL TOWNSHIP

Licensed providers You can search South Carolina’s database of all licensed child care providers – day care centers, in-home care providers and more. Go to www.state.sc.us/dss/cdclrs/search/index.html and search by county, ZIP code or type of care. Search results will bring up all the state-licensed providers, contact information, capacity, hours and any record of complaints.

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COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES Fort Mill Township is so close to Charlotte and Rock Hill that we have a variety of quality colleges and universities from which to choose:

■ Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte offers more than 60 degrees and diploma programs to nearly 60,000 students. The college has four campuses and the City View Center. ■ Clinton Junior College in Rock Hill, supported by the AME Zion Church, offers two-year college programs in business, divinity and general academics. ■ The University of North Carolina-Charlotte, 40 minutes away, is one of 16 UNC campuses. ■ The University of South Carolina-Lancaster is a liberal arts twoyear college about 30 minutes away that offers programs in arts, sciences, business, nursing, criminal justice, leadership and management, and the first two years of most USC degree programs. ■ Winthrop University is a state-supported, fully accredited university in Rock Hill. It offers four-year undergraduate degrees in the areas of business, education, arts and sciences, and visual and performing arts. ■ York Technical College is a two-year state-supported college with more than 80 degree, diploma and certificate programs.

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YearSARY

ANNIVER

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FOCUS on

public services

Local government and its services are at the heart and soul of our communities. Fort Mill and Tega Cay, our two incorporated towns, have active public leaders who aim to manage growth and welcome insight from residents who want to get involved. Thanks to local law enforcement and other emergency services, you can feel safe here. Law enforcement initiatives include community policing, neighborhood patrols, trained officers and first responders and a strong commitment to protecting you and your family. 2010-â&#x20AC;&#x2122;11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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STAND UP AND BE COUNTED

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CENSUS

An accurate head count will help our area receive its fair share of resources. By Toya Graham The year 2010 was one in which new federal Census data was collected. The Palmetto state, which has had a large number of new residents since the last Census, has much at stake. Annually, more than $400 billion that could be used to help fund programs and services is divided among states based on population. An accurate head count will help ensure South Carolina gets its fair share, according to Jan Smiley, Rock Hill Census office manager. Locally, the rate of participation showed many residents completed the questionnaire. York County holds a 79 percent mail participation rate in the Census, while the Fort Mill Township was at 81 percent and 87 percent of Tega Cay residents participated, Smiley said. It’s a civic duty that cannot be taken for granted, Smiley said. Households whose members did not complete the form received visits from Census takers. “They have a questionnaire with a label on it specific to an address,” Smiley said. “They will go to that address and hopefully interview someone 15 years or older to complete the 2010 Census questionnaire for people living at that address as of April 1.” A second home visit may be in order.

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Fort Mill Times/ File

Jan Smiley, Rock Hill Census office manager, fills out her Census form.

In some cases, Census takers can call homes instead of visiting. “We hope to be done by the middle of July,” Smiley said. “We ask and hope that our communities understand the importance of cooperation.”

If you have not yet participated in the Census this year, or if you wish to let officials know that you would like to be counted as a resident of Fort Mill Township, call 803-207-8490 or 866-8726868.

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TAXES

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Tax rates in York and Lancaster counties are lower than they have been in past years because of a change in the way South Carolina pays for education. The change removed school districts’ authority to levy taxes for operational costs, which, in practice, removed 163.4 mills from homeowners’ property tax burdens in 2008. To make up for the loss of property tax revenue for school districts, the state enacted a 1-cent sales tax that is distributed back to each district.

HOW MUCH WILL YOU PAY? Fort Mill (223.6 mills)

Based on this $200,000 home in Fort Mill (without Homestead Exemption): Assessed value $8,000 Total taxes due $1,784.00

Based on this $200,000 home in Fort Mill (with Homestead Exemption): Assessed value $8,000 Taxes before exemption $1,784.00 Homestead Exemption –$446.00 Total taxes due $1,338.00

Fort Mill Township (150.6 mills – Flint Hill Fire District)

Based on this $200,000 home in Fort Mill Township (without Homestead Exemption): Assessed value $8,000 Total taxes due $1,204.80

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Based on this $200,000 home in Fort Mill Township (with Homestead Exemption): Assessed value $8,000 Taxes before exemption $1,204.80 Homestead Exemption –$302.20 Total taxes due $903.60

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Owner-occupied residential property is assessed at 4 percent of its appraised value, multiplied by an area’s millage rate.This is how it works:

Step 1. Your home’s appraised value x 0.04 = the assessed value Step 2. The assessed value x (county mills + city mills + school mills + fire district mills) x 0.001

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IMPORTANT! You’ll pay 6% in taxes instead of 4% unless you register your vehicles when you move here.

See page 19 for details on registering your vehicle.

Your property tax amount*

Tega Cay (223 mills)

Based on this $200,000 home in Tega Cay (without Homestead Exemption): Assessed value $8,000 Total taxes due $1,784.00

$200,000 home in Tega Cay (with Homestead Exemption): Assessed value $8,000 Taxes before exemption $1,784.00 Homestead Exemption –$446.00 Total taxes due $1,338.00

Based on this

Indian Land** (122.7 mills)

Based on this $200,000 home in Indian Land (without Homestead Exemption):

Based on this $200,000 home in Indian Land (with Homestead Exemption):

Assessed value $8,000 Total taxes due $981.60

Assessed value $8,000 Taxes before exemption $981.60 Homestead Exemption –$245.40 Total taxes due $736.20

Taxes and more information online York and Lancaster counties’ Web sites are treasure troves of information for new residents. York County residents can even pay their taxes online. Aside from contact numbers and and information about county offices, the sites also include meeting dates and times for the county councils and various other county boards and commissions in both counties. The York County Web site also offers visitors the opportunity to use an interactive mapping program called York County GIS. Currently, the program works only with Windows PCs, but it allows users to see all kinds of information about property in the county, including tax map numbers, zoning, existing structures, land use, roads, subdivisions, traffic counts, topography and even where every fire hydrant is located. The GIS system includes search features making the system even easier to use. Users can perform searches based on the tax map number, subdivision, address or a property owner’s name. The Web site addresses are: York County: ■ www.yorkcountygov.com Lancaster County: ■ www.lancastercountysc.net

Notes: Tax rates shown for York County and Indian Land are based on 2009 rates. The county sets new rates in June because the York and Lancaster counties’ financial year begins July 1. * There is a Homestead Exemption for homeowners aged 65 and older or disabled who have lived in South Carolina for at least one year prior to the previous Dec. 31. This exemption eliminates taxes levied on another $50,000 of assessed value. It is determined using the home’s total millage rate (2,000 x millage rate x .001 = the exemption amount). *** Some Indian Land residents will pay additional taxes, depending on where they live. Sun City Carolina Lakes is covered by a special tax district, so taxes will be slightly higher. All residents in the Pleasant Valley Fire District will pay an extra $75 each year. (To see which fire district covers your home, turn to page 50.)

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GUIDE TO YOUR ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES: FORT MILL TOWN COUNCIL Mayor

Danny Funderburk 122 Academy St. 547-5944

At-large 1

Guynn Savage 109 Spring Branch Rd. 548-3309

At-large 2

Ward 1

Ken Starnes 217 Main St. 548-7511

Ward 2

Kerry Mosher 102 River Wood Dr. 547-5314

Ward 3

Ronald Helms 310 Ardrey St. 547-6208

Larry Huntley 117 E. Lockman St. 548-1171

Ward 4

Tom Adams 214 Pebble Creek Crossing 548-3898

Town Manager

David Hudspeth 547-2116

They meet at 7 p.m. the second Monday of the month at Town Hall on Confederate Street.

TEGA CAY CITY COUNCIL Mayor

Mayor pro tem

Dottie Hersey 2028 Lake Forest Dr. 803-8021666

George Sheppard 1047 Windsong Bay Ln 396-7706

Council members

John Dervay 1114 Palmyra Dr. 242-5267

Larry Harper 25030 Riley Lane 548-3050

City Manager

Stephen Perkins 17064 Harbor Court 803-5471292

Grant Duffield 548-3512

They meet at 7 p.m. the third Monday of the month at City Hall, 7000 Tega Cay Drive. Check out the council meetings broadcast live on Cable Channel 19 (for Tega Cay residents only).

FORT MILL SCHOOL BOARD Chairwoman

Patrick White 205 Old Springs Road 802-0033

Board members

Michael Johnson 8028 Windjammer Dr. 547-9853

Diane Dasher 528 Beacon Knoll Lane 547-6633

Chantay Bouler 114 Pelham Lane 548-1774

Wyndie Havnaer 2071 Driftwood Circle 548-3072

Superintendent

Scott Patterson 2330 Len Patterson Road 547-4820

Wayne Bouldin 3537 Dobys Bridge Road 548-3411

They meet at 7 p.m. the first Monday of each month at the district office, 120 E. Elliott St. The board also holds a work session the third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. [ 44 ]

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Chuck Epps 548-2527

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PEOPLE IN CHARGE INDIAN LAND School Board

County Council

Superintendent Gene Moore 803-286-6972

County Administrator Steve Willis 803-285-1565

The Lancaster County School Board meets the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 300 S. Catawba St., Lancaster.

The Lancaster County Council meets the first and last Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at 101 N. Main St., Lancaster.

Don McCorkle* Board member 224 Murphy Dr. 548-1288

Larry McCullough Councilman 9251 Whistling Straits Dr. 802-5888

YORK COUNTY COUNCIL Fort Mill and Tega Cay

Paul Lindemann* 1312 Hensley Rd. Fort Mill 493-2353

Fort Mill and Tega Cay

Fort Mill and Rock Hill

David Bowman** 572 Sweet Peach Lane Fort Mill 396-8169

Curwood Chappell** E. Chappell Road Rock Hill 324-1062

SOUTH CAROLINA LEGISLATURE County Manager

State House

Jim Baker 803-684-8511

The York County Council meets the first and third Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at 6 S. Congress St. in York.

Ralph Norman (R)* 907 Maple Hill Lane Rock Hill 803-3668141 (o) 803-3662819 (h)

State Senate

Deborah Long (R)* 1115 John Short Road, Indian Land, 547-5215 (h) 803417-7353 (c)

Mick Mulvaney (R) 550 Ralph Hood Rd Indian Land 803246-1001 (o) 547-0525 (h)

Wes Hayes (R) 1486 Cureton Dr. Rock Hill 324-2800 (o) 328-8532 (h)

U.S. CONGRESS U.S. House of Representatives John Spratt (D)* 201 East Main Street Rock Hill 327-1114

U.S. Senate Lindsey Graham (R) 140 East Main Street Rock Hill 366-2828

Jim DeMint (R)* 1901 Main Street, Suite 1415 Columbia 803-771-6112

* Current term expires in 2010. **Running unopposed in Nov. 3, 2010, election

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Fort Mill Times file

The Tega Cay Police Department’s bloodhound Niki walks around the office grounds with handler Shane D. Bell.

Tega Cay police embark on new outreach By Toya Graham Are you about to start a new business in Tega Cay? Do you have an established business? Are you a Tree City merchant? The Tega Cay Police Department wants you to join its Tega Cay Business Watch group, a new effort that encourages open communication. “We can work together to build better relationships between our businesses and the police,” said Lt. Buddy Spence of the Tega Cay Police Department. “That’s important to help with the prevention of crime.” A tentative meeting is slated for Sept. 21, 2010, Spence said. Other meetings will be announced. “We encourage as many businesses as possible to participate,” Spence said. “The [ 46 ]

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more involvement we have from them, the better we can serve our business community.” Participation is key to keeping merchants safe, officials said. “The police department’s ultimate goal is to make it the safest atmosphere for our businesses to work and thrive in,” Capt. David Nelson said. “Our concept is to keep them safe and deter the crime that we can.” Achieving that goal is based on communication and overall awareness, Spence said. The concept is as simple as paying attention to the very thing that could set the stage for a robbery. Or worse. “If you see someone walking back and forth looking in the business or if you see the strange vehicle just sitting there for a period of time, call us,” Spence said.

Authorities want local merchants to be proactive instead of reactive to crime. “It¹s a twofold awareness concept,” Nelson said. “You¹ve got an awareness from individual businesses on what they can look for to help deter crime against their businesses.” Then there’s that communication piece, he said. “If we hear that there’s a certain crime that focuses on businesses, we can quickly get that information out to them so they can better protect themselves,” he said. So, established and new businesses owners and newcomers alike link up with the Tega Cay Business Watch group. For more details on the program and how to get involved, call Lt. Buddy Spence at the Tega Cay Police Department at 5480340.

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crime rates CRIME TOTALS 2009 TYPE

Tega Cay Fort Mill York County Lancaster County

Murder Rape Robbery Aggravated Assault Burglary Larceny Motor Vehicle Theft Arson

0 1 N/A 9 26 117 2 0

0 3 6 76 41 224 16 2

0 5 5 50 149 459 45 5

4 17 69 297 838 1,128 271 12

TOTAL

155

368

718

2,636

Fort Mill Times file

Fort Mill police Lt. Ray Dixon speaks about safety during a community meeting.

Sources: Tega Cay Police Department, 2009; Fort Mill Police Department, 2009; York County Sheriff’s Office for unincorporated portions of Fort Mill Township, 2009; Lancaster County Sheriff’s Department, 2009.

Law enforcement agencies ■ Fort Mill Police Department Chief Jeff Helms P.O. Box 274, 111 Academy St., Fort Mill 547-2022; fax 547-0259 ■ Tega Cay Police Department Chief Rick Evelsizer 7705 Tega Cay Drive, Tega Cay 548-0340; fax 548-7256

■ York County Sheriff ’s Office Sheriff Bruce Bryant 1675-2A York Hwy., Moss Justice Center 803-628-3059; fax 803-628-3075 www.yorkcountysheriff.com ■ Lancaster County Sheriff ’s Department Sheriff Barry Faile 1941 Pageland Hwy., Law Enforcement Center, 803-283-4136; fax 803-2869823

■ State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) P.O. Box 21398, 4400 Broad River Road, Columbia 803-737-9000; www.sled.state.sc.us ■ York County Multijurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit Commander Marvin Brown 803-628-3069 or 803-329-7276

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AREA FIRE DEPARTMENTS

Local insurance ratings

Flint Hill

Pleasant Valley

Station I 1950 Hwy. 21 Bypass, Fort Mill 548-4805 Chief David Jennings

315 Fort Mill Hwy. Indian Land 548-5600 Chief Greg Nicholson

Station II 2953 Pleasant Road, Fort Mill 802-2661

Riverview

As local fire departments continue to expand to meet the needs of the growing township, homeowners’ insurance rates have been decreasing. Here’s what your fire district’s Insurance Services Office rating is (the lower the number, the better your homeowners insurance rate will be):

1899 Harris Road, Fort Mill 547-5921 Chief Sam Lesslie

Fort Mill

Tega Cay

121 Tom Hall St., Fort Mill 547-5511 Chief Ken Kerber

7200 Tega Cay Drive, Tega Cay 548-4321 Chief Scott Szymanski

Indian Land 185 Six Mile Creek Road, Lancaster 547-2747 Chief Raymond Griffin

ESTHER BUCHANAN owner & stylist

—

548-1940—

“Latest Cuts & Styles for the Entire Family”

Esther Buchanan, Martin Biller (Barber), Freda Hood, Wanda Merck

Serving Fort Mill area for 38 years

Keeping prices down & quality up! 158 Flint Hill Road, Fort Mill SC One Mile South of Carowinds Mon.-Friday 10am-6pm Saturday by appointment FOCUS ON FORT MILL TOWNSHIP

Martin Miller Hours (Barber) Tues. - Fri. 10am-6pm

FLINT HILL..........................................................4 FORT MILL..........................................................4 INDIAN LAND................................................6 PLEASANT VALLEY ......................................6 RIVERVIEW ........................................................5 TEGA CAY..................................................3, 9* *Note: Tega Cay has a split rating – meaning all structures located within 1,000 feet of a fire hydrant rate the lower ISO rating of 3, while everything else rates a 9.

Esther’s Hairstyling

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• Perms • Advanced Cut & Color Technologies • Color • Facial Waxing • Highlighting & Low Lights • Foils

Wella Redkin ISO

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Emergency phone numbers Emergency agencies

Always dial 911 in an emergency. Non-emergency numbers are:

Rescue squads ■ Fort Mill Rescue Squad P.O. Box 1011, 216 S. White St., Fort Mill, Director Paul King, 548-1456 ■ Indian Land Rescue Squad P.O. Box 601, Fort Mill; 8290 Charlotte Hwy., Lancaster, President Marie Broome, 547-4084 ■ Lancaster County Rescue Squad non-emergency, 803-285-4234 ■ Piedmont EMS ambulance service non-emergency transport Director Steven Cotter, 329-1115 In Tega Cay, Piedmont EMS abulance service non-emergency transport, 329-1110.

■ York County Department of Fire Safety 2151 Ogden Road, Rock Hill 909-7620; fax 909-7617 ■ York County Office of Emergency Management P.O. Box 12430, 149 W. Black St., Rock Hill, Director Cotton Howell, 326-2300; fax 324-7429; e-mail cotton.howell@yorkcountygov.com.

Emergency sirens York County’s emergency sirens warn residents quickly in case of natural emergencies, such as tornadoes or severe thunderstorms, technological problems at the Catawba Nuclear Power Plant, or other area crises. Duke Energy owns and maintains the sirens throughout the county, but York County Office of Emergency Management controls and operates them. If the sirens sound, tune in to the following radio stations for more information and instructions: ■ WRHI 1340 AM (York County) ■ WRHM 107.1 FM (Rock Hill/Lancaster) York County tests the sirens once every quarter to ensure they are working properly. A diagnostic test is performed weekly. ■

Competition Pool | 7,500 sq. ft. clubhouse

Low Taxes | Fitness Center | Walking Trails

Tega Cay Lake Ridge is a master planned community located next to Lake Wylie and Baxter Village in Tega Cay, SC. The community features a wide variety of amenities to meet the individual lifestyles of each homeowner.

Grey Rock Village Active Adult homes from the $180s - $250s 803.802.0677 | TributeHomesUSA.com

Lake Ridge Commons Single Family homes from the $200s - $300s 800.758.0638 x 4901 | TrueHomesUSA.com

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FOCUS on

healthcare

Living in a small town doesn’t mean you don’t have access to good health care. Fort Mill, Tega Cay and Indian Land are situated between Rock Hill, home of Piedmont Medical Center, and Charlotte, the location of several world-class hospitals. And there’s a wide range of local practices and specialists. And as always, you’ll get small-town friendliness and service – just what the doctor ordered.

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Plans for new hospital in flux About five years ago, Tenet, which operates Piedmont Medical Center in Rock Hill, filed a request with the state to build Fort Mill’s first hospital on land fronted by Hwy. 160 West. It¹s safe to say a hospital will someday be located in Fort Mill, but who builds and operates it is not certain. In 2006, the state granted Tenet’s Piedmont Medical Center a permit to build a hospital in Fort Mill, but Charlotte-based Presbyterian Hospital and Carolinas HealthCare System appealed after their applications to build the hospital were denied. The project has been tied up in court ever since. The latest ruling early in 2010, was that all interested parties should re-submit their applications for review. Updates will be reported in the Fort Mill Times and at Fortmillltimes.com.

Health services ■ York County Board of Disabilities and Special Needs, services for the disabled; 547-0987. ■ The Fort Mill office of the York County Health Department; call the Family Resource Center at 548-8028 or health department at 909-7300. ■ Carenet Inc., services for uninsured Lancaster County residents. Open 8:30 to 11 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays; 803-285-CARE (2273). ■ Lancaster County Council on Aging; 803-285-6956. ■ Keystone substance abuse and detox programs; Fort Mill office at the Family Resource Center, Banks Street; 3241800. ■ The Fort Mill/Tega Cay Adult Day Care Center; 396-5336. ■ Hospice Community Care; 329-4663. ■ Ascension Hospice, 105 Stone Village Drive, Fort Mill; 547-8367. [ 52 ]

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MEDICAL DIRECTORY Cardiologists ■ Carolina Cardiolgoy 1658 Hwy 160 West, Fort Mill 802-0090 ■ Sanger Clinic 704 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill, 835-0400

Chiropractors ■ Ace Clinic of Chiropractic 111 Clebourne Street, Fort Mill, 803-7467313 ■ Advanced Chiropractic Clinics 1808 2nd Baxter Crossing, Suite 108, Fort Mill, 802-2225 ■ Bentley Chiropractic 1171 Market St., (Baxter), Suite 104, Fort Mill, 802-2412 ■ Complete Wellness Chiropractic 1520 Onxy Ridge Suite 101 Fort Mill 866-400-8480 ■ Crown Plaza Chiropractic 3160 Hwy. 21, Fort Mill, 548-0991 ■ Fort Mill Chiropractic Health Center 306 Tom Hall St., Fort Mill, 548-1722 ■ Gonstead Chiropractic Center 1162 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 547-9977 ■ Randy Conger, Chiropractic 105 Stone Village Drive, Tega Cay, 8025322 ■ Infinite Wellness 1698 Hwy. 160 West, Suite 200, Fort Mill, 547-4343 ■ Kane Chiropractic 2116-B Gold Hill Road, Tega Cay, 8026637 ■ The McCartney Chiropractic Center 2752 Pleasant Road, Suite 104, Fort Mill, 802-3737 ■ Regent Park Chiropractor 1046 Regent Parkway, Suite 106, Fort Mill, 396-1501 ■ Tega Cay Chiropractic 101 Stone Village Drive, Fort Mill, 8025322

■ Vitality Family Chiropractic, Fort Mill Vic Dees, 1-770-367-1116; Chad Frisch, 1386-871-4451

Clinics ■ The Bariatric Clinic 377 Carowinds Blvd., Suite 110, Fort Mill, 548-4500 ■ Biogenesis Medical Center 344 Carowinds Blvd., Fort Mill, 548-3424

Dentists & Orthodontists ■ Arnold Batchelor Jr., DMD 117 Spratt St., Fort Mill, 548-2191 ■ Brian Biehl, DMD 139 Ben Casey Drive, Tega Cay, 547-5002 ■ Jeff Blank, DMD 929 Market St. (Baxter), Fort Mill, 5486480 ■ Carolina Professional Dentistry 200 Doby’s Bridge Road, Suite 108, Fort Mill, 396-5888 ■ Carolina Smile Center 1701 First Baxter, Suite 102, Fort Mill, 548-6480 ■ D&K Family Dentistry 304 Springcrest Drive, Fort MIll, 547-1888 ■ William “Dutch” Burns, DMD 264 Rockmont Drive, Tega Cay, 802-3090 ■ Charles H. Crawford Jr., DMD, Pediatric Dentistry 1686 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 548-2333 ■ Michael Davis, DMD 133 Clebourne St., Fort Mill, 547-7508 ■ Thomas Epps, DMD Fort Mill office 929 Market St. (Baxter), Suite 210, Fort Mill, 548-2428 – Wednesdays only ■ Christine Henson, DMD 765 Crossroads Plaza, Fort Mill, 396-7833 ■ Michele Jasper, DDS 2752 Pleasant Road, Suite 106, Fort Mill, 548-4351

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— continued from page 52 ■ Gary Kimsey, DMD South Lake Family Dentistry 1741 Gold Hill Road, Suite 2010, Tega Cay, 548-3342 ■ Dr. Robert Penny 929 Market St. (Baxter), Fort Mill, 802-0285 ■ Michael Riordan, DMD, Orthodontist 1741 Gold Hill Road, Suite 200, Fort Mill, 802-2580 ■ Smiles By Design 1096 Assembly Dr., Suite 216, Fort Mill, 548-4899 ■ Michael Sloan, DMD South Lake Family Dentistry 1741 Gold Hill Road, Suite 2010, Tega Cay, 548-3342 ■ Goodwin Thomas Jr., Orthodontist 105 Ben Casey Drive, Fort Mill, 548-8110

Eye care specialists ■ Carolina Family Eye Care 103 Stone Village Drive, Fort Mill, 396-3937 ■ Fort Mill Vision Center 1090 Spratt St., Fort Mill, 547-5547 ■ In Focus Eyecare 1701 First Baxter Crossing, Suite 203, Fort Mill, 802-6522 ■ Dr. Larry Jerge 1151 Stonecrest Blvd., Tega Cay, 802-4733 ■ Jewell Vision Care 9789 Charlotte Hwy., Suite 900, Indian Land, 802-7757 ■ Lancaster Eye Clinic 1240 Colonial Commons, Lancaster, 803-285-4333 ■ Rock Hill Eye Center 1698 Hwy. 160 West, Suite 110, Fort Mill, 547-9510

Hospitals ■ Carolinas Center for Behavioral Health 2900 E. Phillips Road, West Columbia, 1-800-866-4673 ■ Carolinas Medical Center (handles major trauma cases) 1000 Blythe Blvd., Charlotte, 704-355-2000 ■ Carolinas Medical Center-Pineville 10628 Park Road, Charlotte, 704-543-2000 ■ Charlotte Institute of Rehabilitation 1100 Blythe Blvd., Charlotte, 704-355-4300 ■ Piedmont Medical Center (York, Chester, Lancaster and Union county residents only; Piedmont is the only hospital in York County) 222 S. Herlong Ave., Rock Hill, 329-1234, or 1-800-578-4555 ■ Presbyterian Hospital 200 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, 704-384-4000 ■ Springs Memorial Hospital (the only hospital in Lancaster County) 800 W. Meeting St., Lancaster, 803-286-1214 or 1-800-488-2567

Obstetrics & Gynecology ■ Fort Mill Gynecological & Obstetrical Associates 1666 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 548-2247 — continued on page 54

Family practices ■ Edgewater Medical Center 1162A Fort Mill Hwy. (Hwy. 160), Indian Land, 396-7900 ■ Fort Mill Family Practice 1690 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 547-7541 ■ Indian Land Primary Care 7580 Charlotte Hwy., Suite 1000, Indian Land, 548-9393 ■ Mackey Family Practice 8351 Charlotte Hwy., Indian Land, 396-5333 ■ Metrolina Medical Associates Fort Mill office 122 Clebourne St., Fort Mill, 547-2522 Tega Cay office 115 Stone Village Drive, 802-8686 ■ Palmetto Tri-County Internal Medicine 9789 Charlotte Hwy., Suite 1400, Indian Land, 548-7007 ■ Piedmont Family Practice at Tega Cay 773 Stockbridge Drive, Fort Mill 547-5447 ■ Shiland Family Medicine 704 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill, 835-0420

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— continued from page 53 ■ Piedmont GYN/OB 704 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill, 835-0434

Oral Surgeons ■

The Center for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, PA 1698 Hwy. 160 West, Suite 100, Fort Mill, 802-7700

Pediatricians ■

Rock Hill Pediatrics, Fort Mill office 704 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill, 802-5900

Pharmacies ■ Bi-Lo Pharmacy 1329 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 548-6877 ■ Carolina Pharmacy 8437 Charlotte Hwy., Fort Mill, 578-8800 ■ Fort Mill Pharmacy 601 Springcrest Drive, Fort Mill, 548-2851 ■ CVS Pharmacy Tom Hall Street, 547-5586, 1740 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 802-4425 ■ Rite Aid 2907 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill 548-6495 ■ Tega Cay Family Pharmacy Tega Cay Village Shopping Center, Tega Cay, 547-6100 ■ Walgreens 1716 Pleasant Road (at Hwy. 160 West), Fort Mill, 802-7644 ■ Wal-Mart Supercenter Pharmacy 1151 Stonecrest Blvd., Tega Cay, 578-4120

Physicians & surgeons ■ Mark T. Billman 1698 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 802-7700 ■ Carolina Orthopedic Clinic Fort Mill office 1690 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 548-2424

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■ Carolina Urology 580 Kingsley Park Drive, Fort Mill, 578-7600 ■ Metrolina Neurological Associates Lancaster office 838 W. Meeting St., 803-2856192 ■ Rock Hill Surgical Associates Fort Mill office 502 Sixth Baxter Crossing, 8023844 ■ The Surgery Center at Edgewater 2536 Lengers Way, Indian Land, 802-9500 ■ Walker Medical Center 112 Hwy. 9 Bypass West, Lancaster, 803-286-4446

Physical therapists ■

Catawba Rehabilitation Services 8351 Charlotte Hwy., Indian Land, 366-4415 ■ Palmetto Rehabilitation Specialists 105 Ben Casey Drive, Suite 127, Fort Mill, 396-2715 ■ SCAPTA 3650 Centre Circle, Fort Mill, 802-5450 ■ Smith Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine 2000 Hwy. 160 West, Suite 113, Fort Mill, 802-0266

Radiologists ■

Carolinas Diagnostic Imaging 377 Carowinds Blvd., Fort Mill, 547-1100

Urgent care ■

Carolinas Healthcare Urgent Care, Fort Mill 704 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill, 835-0430 ■ Edgewater Medical Center 1162A Fort Mill Hwy. (Hwy. 160), Fort Mill, 396-7900 ■ Piedmont Urgent Care Center at Baxter Village 502 Sixth Baxter Crossing, Fort Mill, 396-8100

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During a heart attack, 20 to 30 minutes could save your life. Getting to the hospital quickly improves your chances of surviving a heart attack by up to 40%. Reducing the time to treatment by 20 to 30 minutes – the amount of time it can take to travel to Charlotte – can save your life. Piedmont Medical Center’s Heart and Vascular Center offers quality heart care services. As a designated full Cycle II with PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) center, we offer advanced emergency care, angioplasty and heart surgery – treatments you may need if you’re having a heart attack. Other Chest Pain Centers, without such interventional heart treatment capabilities, often will transfer you to a PCI center like Piedmont Medical Center. Coming here first may help save your life. For a physician referral, call 803-329-1234 and select option two.

Powerful Medicine, Made Personal. www.piedmontmedicalcenter.com

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Surgical Recovery that offers all the comforts of home. Because you are home. The professionally trained and highly skilled staff of The Surgery Center at Edgewater is ready to handle your same-day surgery needs. Our cutting-edge facility, conveniently located in the fastest-growing area of Lancaster County, offers a friendly, professional environment with a focus on quality. By providing outpatient surgery and procedures by day, you enjoy the comfort of your home by night.

2536 Lengers Way â&#x20AC;˘ Indian Land, SC 29707 803-802-9500 2010-â&#x20AC;&#x2122;11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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m is i takin aking king her How do I know if Mom taking ctly? ? medications correctly? Should Dad still till be e driv d driving? My husband’s s condition condi dition tion seem seems eems to t be getting worse. rse. What do o I do? d Grandma has been to th the ER three times in the last month. nth What What’s going on?

...ask Agapé. (803) 207-8000 1785 Lexington Commons Drive Rock Hill, SC 29731 www.AgapeSenior.com 2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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We’re taking healthcare in new directions. Patient-centered care delivered with respect and compassion. Advanced medical technology and comprehensive services ranging from emergency care and rehabilitation to diagnostic imaging, women and children’s services and more. At Springs Memorial Hospital, we’re more than a hospital, we are your family, friends and neighbors. We’re proud to offer our unique combination of thoughtful attention and exceptional medicine to the people of our community.

Just one more reason to choose Springs Memorial Hospital.

800 West Meeting Street 803-286-1214 www.springsmemorial.com

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FOCUS on

recreation

Whether it’s taking on some of the most challenging bike trails in the region, or simply relaxing in front of the pool, Fort Mill Township and Indian Land have plenty of recreation options. Environmentally friendly activities include Earth Day on the Anne Springs Close Greenway and the extensive trail and park system in Tega Cay. The Greenway and Andrew Jackson State Park near Indian Land are more than scenic. You’ll find plenty of room to breathe, shake off the worries of the day and motivate yourself to exercise your body – and your brain. 2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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File/Fort Mill Times

Families enjoy fishing and other outdoor activities at the Anne Springs Close Greenway.

How to become a greenway member ■ Greenway memberships are available to residents of Chester, Lancaster and York counties. Benefits include an annual user’s pass, a year’s subscription to the “Greenway Guide,” and fishing privileges. For details, call 548-7252 or visit www.leroysprings.com/Greenway.

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■ Annual memberships $30 - Seniors (65+) $70 - Adults (single) $135 - Families

■ Daily fees for non-members $2 - Hiking and picnicking $3 - Cycling $12 - Camping (pp/night)

■ Horseback rides: 1 horse: $10, 2 horses: $20, $5 each additional horse

■ Kayak rental: 30 min.: $7 single/$10 tandem 8 hrs.: $27 single/$30 tandem

■ Canoe rental: 30 min.: $10 tandem 8 hrs.: $30 tandem

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GREEN SPACES In the heart of Fort Mill Township, the Anne Springs Close Greenway offers an escape to the great outdoors. The 1,800-acre nature preserve offers vast swaths of land that have remained unchanged since before European settlers began moving into the area. With more than 190 species of wildflowers and several species of birds and other animals, the greenway’s ponds, forests and prairies are rich in natural resources. But the greenway is not just for nature lovers. History buffs will find much to get excited about, too. Sections of the historic Nation Ford Road run across the land. The pathway dates back to the 1600s. Historical buildings on the greenway include a circa-1800 log cabin, a 1780 hall and parlor log house and a dairy barn built in 1946. And the site of the original grist mill, for which Fort Mill was named, is located on the greenway. The greenway is also home to a Nature Center that features an interactive learning station, a small boardroom for educational seminars, and a horse ring for equestrian shows during the year. Roughly 32 miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails snake across the nature preserve. Maps of the trails are color coded for each type of use and posted at all of the entrances. Every morning at 7, staff open the greenway’s gates to the public. The greenway remains open until sunset. While dogs, as long as they are leashed, are allowed on the trails, motorized vehicles are prohibited. ■

Sammy Johnson and his dad, Sam Johnson, enjoy a day of canoeing at the Greenway. File/Fort Mill Times

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HIT THE TRAILS Project connects greenways, trails for hiking and biking

The Carolina Thread Trail, a regional network of greenways, trails and conserved land, will eventually wind through York, Chester, Lancaster and Cherokee counties in South Carolina, as well as 11 counties in North Carolina, and will intersect Fort Mill.

File/Fort Mill Times

Hikers take a stroll on the Nation Ford Greenway – one of the trail heads on the Carolina Thread Trail.

Where are the trails? The massive trail system will connect more than 40 destinations between the 15 counties, including Lake Wylie, Lake Norman, Bank of America Stadium in downtown Charlotte, and South Mountains State Park. In York County, the trails will connect Fort Mill to Lake Wylie, Kings Mountain, Crowder’s Mountain, Historic Brattonsville, and myriad parks and recreation centers. The trail system in Fort Mill would consist primarily of the Nation Ford

Greenway. It would also connect to the Anne Springs Close Greenway and a proposed museum on the Catawba that has been in the works for several years. Located off Sutton Road in an area annexed into the town a few years ago, the museum and a related subdivision called Kanawha have been stalled because of the economic downturn, according to developers. Despite those setbacks, Browning said the system seems to be popular with residents she’s heard from.

About the land trust Nation Ford Land Trust is a private, non-profit, organization dedicated to preserving open space in York County. Want to learn more, or get involved? The Nation Ford Land Trust office is located at 210 Tom Hall Street in downtown Fort Mill. E-mail Preservation@NationFordLandTrust.org or 5478140. Visit them online at www.nationfordlandtrust.org

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The system, in the works since 2004 and implemented in phases, aims to connect about 2.3 million people to cities, attractions and natural areas across a 7,300-square-mile area. The trail system, which could take up to 20 years to complete, will vary from paved trails to sidewalks to natural dirt and sand paths. York County has been selected to be a pilot program for the project, meaning it could see a proposed 120 miles of new trails soon. One of several local arteries, the Nation Ford thread that snakes along Sugar Creek, opened three years ago. The entrance is on A.O. Jones Boulevard, across the road from Nation Ford High School. Eventually, it will connect with a section of the Anne Springs Close Greenway that begins in Fort Mill’s Foxwood neighborhood. A massive illegal dump located on the site in Foxwood was recently cleared away. The Carolina Thread Trail project, based in Charlotte, is working closely with the Catawba Lands Conservancy, which works to protect natural areas, and the Nation Ford Land Trust and the Trust for Public Land, nonprofit organizations that work in reclaiming and preserving major river corridors and creating greenway systems. Ann Browning, the Carolina Thread Trail Project director, said about six years ago, members of the thread trail group and the CLC began searching for ideas. The group studied other large-scale trail systems, then began spreading the idea of the trail and gathering support. Fort Mill was the first local government to adopt the plan, Browning said. It will be financed through both private donations and public funding. Donations to the thread trail will be dispersed as grants to local communities as an incentive for planning, design, land acquisition and construction of greenways that will eventually connect the system. The thread trail organization has been raising money and looking for funding opportunities from federal and state levels.

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FESTIVALS Fall Festivals ■ The Tega Cay Block Party in October is designed to foster togetherness. Anyone who wants to rent a booth to sell food, clothes, crafts and other business items is welcome. The loosely organized event offers games for children, music and food. ■ And in Fort Mill, downtown merchants hand out candy at Halloween to local children in costumes during Halloween on Main Street.

File/Fort Mill Times

Bho Sikka has her face painted.

Art on Main Move Fort Mill Forward presents Art on Main in Confederate Park on Main Street every fall. A variety of art is displayed and sold.

Bluegrass and barbecue Come to the Anne Springs Close Greenway Dairy Barn each fall for a day of music, food and fun. Some of the area’s premier pickers play while cook teams set out their best ‘cue.

Christmas parade The Fort Mill Christmas parade draws crowds to downtown Fort Mill the first Saturday in December. The town and the Chamber of Commerce organize the holiday event.

Earth Day Every April, the Anne Springs Close Greenway holds Earth Day, with hay rides, cane pole fishing, Catawba dancers and more

■ Fall Into Fun is an annual festival held in Indian Land to support the Del Webb Library. The event is held in September in Sun City Carolina Lakes and features games, music, crafts, food and art.

Fort Mill Thunder

Italian Fest The annual Benvenuti! Italian Festival is in the spring at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church on Munn Road. In addition to homemade Italian specialties, including handmade sausages, the festival features a children's costume parade, games and live music and entertainment featuring Italian Idol finalists.

S.C. Strawberry Festival The revamped, four-day Town of Fort Mill spring festival debuted in May 2010. It offers food and craft vendors, a pageant, several eating contests, a firework showcase, live music bands and the Dylan Mitchell Criterium. Visit www.fortmillsc.org.

Spring Festival Another Move Fort Mill Forward downtown event, this one is held in May and features a car show, live music, activities for kids, food and more. Visit www.movefortmillforward.com.

Fourth of July Tega Cay has more to celebrate July 4 than the country’s independence. The historic date is the anniversary of the day Tega Cay changed from resort community to an incorporated city. So Tega Cay’s annual Fourth of July Celebration is a huge deal, with events and activities for the family at the city’s Windjammer Park. All-day entertainment, food vendors, a parade, fireworks, and a lake full of boats are some of the attractions. ■ Over in Fort Mill, town leaders and veterans fire one of the historic cannons downtown in celebration of Independence Day.

Indian Land throws its own Spring Festival at Indian Land Elementary School. Music, food, games, a petting zoo and an auction are all part of the fun.

Music events ■ Carolina Legends is an all-day oldtime country, bluegrass and gospel music festival in early May at Andrew Jackson State Park. The festival features colonial crafts and living history demonstrations as well. ■ The City of Tega Cay’s outdoor summer family concert series offers a variety of performers. See the Fort Mill Times events calendar for details each summer. ■ For bluegrass fans, the Hensley family of Fort Mill holds an annual day-long, familyfriendly fest on their farm. Players and spectators are welcome to enjoy traditional music and fellowship. 2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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Melissa Cherry

The constant

Catawba [ 66 ]

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Kayakers launch from the Fort Mill access area on the Catawba River.

Access points are free, and canoe and kayak rentals are available at several locations.

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The river binds our communities With Lake Wylie and the Catawba River a short distance from all neighborhoods in Fort Mill and Tega Cay, a day on the water can be a welcome relief in the summer. Whether you’re searching for the perfect fishing spot, taking a lazy canoe trip down the river or catching air on a wake board, there’s plenty to do on the water. However, if you don’t happen to live on the water or have your own dock, you’ll have to seek out one of three lake access points or the river access below the Lake Wylie Dam. Duke Energy, which manages several lakes on the Catawba River system, has installed one public access point for the Catawba River with parking and a boat ramp near the base of the Lake Wylie Dam off New Greyrock Road in Fort Mill. The company also built the Nivens Creek Boat Landing on Lake Wylie off Dam Road which includes a handicapped-accessible boat ramp and parking. Both Duke Energy access points are free and open to the public. There are also two other Lake Wylie access points in the City of Tega Cay. The Tega Cay Marina rents boat slips on a yearly basis, and slip owners are free to park in the lot and use the boat ramp. However, the ramp itself is open to the public and a city parking sticker can be obtained from City Hall (free for residents and $75 each calendar year for nonresidents; call 548-3512 for more information). The parking lot is behind the old City Hall at the end of Tega Cay Drive. Pitcairn Park, at the corner of Triton Street and Executive Point, also features a public boat landing. A city parking permit is required to use that ramp as well. In Lancaster County, Landsford Canal State Park offers canoe and kayak access to the Catawba River all year long. Kayaks and canoes are allowed access to the river at the park’s drop-off area and can follow a 7.4-mile river trail down the Catawba River. In late May and early June, when the spider lilies are at their peak, boaters crowd the river trail for a trip through the blankets of white flowers that hang on the river’s rocks. The 448-acre park also has an easy-to-walk trail along the river that leads to a viewing deck. Picnic areas and shelters are also part of Landsford Canal State Park’s offerings. Admission to Landsford Canal State Park costs $2 for adults and $1.25 for South Carolina senior citizens. The park is located 16 miles off I-77 Exit 77 and is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. ■

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Check out these other area attractions There are a variety of destinations right here in Fort Mill Township and elsewhere in York and neighboring counties that are great for day trips. Here¹s a list that might interest you. ■ His Barn A Christian-oriented environment where people of all walks of life can enjoy nature, including trail rides and other activities. 8737 Whippoorwill Lane Indian Land 547-7791 E-mail: contactus@hisbarn.com www.hisbarn.org ■ Catawba Indian reservation The Catawba Indian Nation is the only federally recognized Indian tribe in South Carolina. The reservation is located near the Catawba River and, among features, is where the tribe¹s pottery tradition is kept alive. 996 Avenue of the Nations Rock Hill 366-4792 E-mail: cincommunitynews@yahoo.com www.catawbaindiannation.com ■ Carowinds One of the nation¹s premier theme parks is right here in Fort Mill Township. Guests can take advantage of great attractions, shows and special events all summer at the 112-acre theme and water park. 548-5300 www.carowinds.com ■ Historic Brattonsville Living history village and Revolutionary War battlefield site; includes events, photos.

1444 Brattonsville Road Mc Connells (803) 684-2327 chmuseums.org ■ Museum of York County The Culture & Heritage Museums is a linked system of cultural institutions in York County. A variety of exhibits and programs for the family. information@chmuseums.org 4621 Mount Gallant Blvd. Rock Hill 329-2121 chmuseums.org ■ Kings Mountain State Park Less than an hour from Fort Mill, it is the site of a pivotal Revolutionary War battle. Kings Mountain park was a Civilian Conservation Corps project in the 1930s. It features miles of trails, fishing lakes with boat rentals, a replica of a typical Piedmont farm from the early to mid 1800s and more. 1277 Park RD Blacksburg 803-222-3209 ■ Crowders Mountain Camping, hiking, climbing and more. Gastonia, N.C. 704-853-5375 www.crowdersmountain.com ■ Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden A “Garden for all seasons” not far from S.C.-N.C. border. Home of the Orchid Conservatory. 6500 S New Hope Rd Belmont, N.C. 704-825-4490 www.dsbg.org 2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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Two state parks are worth the trip ■ Landsford Canal State Park Landsford Canal is the uppermost of four canals constructed on the Catawba-Wateree river system from 1820 to 1835. This 460-acre park in Lancaster County includes historic ruins of canalculverts, stone bridges, locks, an historic mill site and a lockkeeper’s house that contains exhibits about the canal system in South Carolina. It is home to the rare Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies each May. For more details, see page 67. ■ Andrew Jackson State Park Andrew Jackson State Park is a 360acre park on Hwy. 521 headed toward The Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies Lancaster. Established in 1953, the park was created to honor the seventh president of the United States, Andrew Jackson, on the land near where he was born. The park is centered on a museum honoring Jackson’s childhood during the Revolutionary War. Besides the museum, a model of an 18th Century schoolhouse and a meeting house are also available. Admission costs $2 for adults, $1.25 for seniors, and free to kids 15 and younger.

Arts are alive in your new hometown There¹s a burgeoning arts scene in Fort Mill. Although the economy has been a drag on efforts to boost the arts profile, dedicated residents and officials have not given up. One endeavor that did not pan out was the Art Mill. The Fort Mill Art Guild, with assistance from the Town of Fort Mill, maintained a gallery on Main Street that also served as a studio and a meeting place. However, it opened just as the recession was taking hold here and was not able to generate enough revenue to stay open. Another project involved the town¹s investment in a former theater on Main Street. Officials envisioned a multi-use performing arts facility and movie house. A study revealed the cost would be prohibitive. The town is hoping to attract private investors. In the meantime, there are still plenty of venues for enrichment in the arts: ■ Fort Mill Community Playhouse 615 Banks St., Fort Mill 548-8102 www.fortmillplayhouse.org

■ Fort Mill Art Guild President Marcia Kort Buike, 548-3159 E-mail: info@fortmillartguild.com www.fortmillartguild.com

■ Storm Dancer Studio 118 Main St, Fort Mill 547-6500

■ Bob Doster¹s Backstreet Studios 217 East Gay St., Lancaster, 285-9190 E-mail: rcdoster@comporium.net www.bobdoster.com

■ BacinTyme 124 Confederate St., Fort Mill 802-7155 www.bacintyme.com [ 68 ]

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Leroy Springs Recreation Complex A Fitness Center and So Much More! Offering: • Youth Sports Registrations: baseball, t-ball, softball, football, basketball, soccer, wrestling, aquatics • Dance & Cheer Programs • FLYERS After-School Programs • Morning and Afternoon Preschool • Senior Activities • Summer Camps • Fitness and Enrichment Classes Featuring: • 60,000 sq. ft. facility • State of the Art Cardio and Weight Equipment • 25 Yard 6 Lane Indoor Pool • Full Court Basketball Court • Six Lighted Tennis Courts • Aerobics/Fitness/Activity Studios • Ceramics Studio with Kilns Discounts off programming for members!

(803) 547-4575 www.leroysprings.com

971 Tom Hall Street, Fort Mill, SC

LEROY SPRINGS & COMPANY, INC.

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Located right on the banks of the North Toe River, this 400 acre retreat is what the Blue Ridge Mountains are all about.

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Just Get Out There and Play!

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leroy springs

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803-547-1000 leroysprings.com 2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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REC SPORTS Parks & fields

■ Carowinds, I-77 at Carowinds Boulevard: Offers roller coasters, a water park and acres of rides and games. ■ Central Bark, Tega Cay: A quarter acre on New Gray Rock Road with with a fenced in area for dogs to play in. ■ Confederate Park, Main Street, Fort Mill: A unique grouping of four historic Civil War monuments for Confederate soldiers, women, loyal slaves and Catawba Indian supporters. ■ Doby’s Bridge “Field of Dreams” Park, Fort Mill: A 4.5-acre ballpark. ■ Harris Street Park, Fort Mill: A ballfield, sliding board, picnic shelter, shuffleboard, horseshoes, volleyball, basketball courts, swings and merry-go-round. ■ Steele Street Park, Fort Mill: A picnic shelter, swings, a merry-go-round, horseshoes, water park and playground. ■ Walter Y. Elisha Park, Fort Mill: Running/walking trail with fitness equipment and a playground. ■ Tega Cay Beach and Swim Center: A community room, fitness room, restrooms and a kitchen, a toddler pool with a waterfall umbrella, and a junior Olympic-sized pool. ■ Runde Field,Tega Cay:Two ballfields, a 1/3mile paved walking trail and playground. ■ Turner Field, Tega Cay: Baseball diamond and three soccer fields. ■ Linerieux Park, Tega Cay: A 2.5-mile nature trail and nature center on 4.8 lakefront acres. ■ Pitcairn Park, Tega Cay: Picnic shelter, pier boat launch, restrooms, playground, two observation decks, grills, a nature walk and a horseshoe pit. ■ Windjammer Park, Tega Cay: Three sandy beaches, swimming area, a picnic shelter, restrooms, and a playground and picnic area. Boats allowed. ■ Trailhead Park, Tega Cay: Swings, playground and paved walking trails. ■ Diamond Head Park, Tega Cay: Swings

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and a playground. ■ Koala Park, Tega Cay: Swings, walking trails and playgrounds. ■ Park on Palmyra Drive, Tega Cay: A park and play area. ■ Park on Heron Run, Tega Cay: Playground. ■ Lookout Park, off Newberry Lane,Tega Cay: A playground, picnic area and day field. ■ Indian Land Park, Hwy. 521 behind the old

Indian Land school: Baseball field, two tennis courts and a baseball/soccer field. ■ Deputy Roy Hardin Memorial Park, Hwy. 521 behind the old Indian Land school: Picnic shelter, playground, walking trails and a nature area. Formerly known as Collins Road Park. ■ Van Wyck Park, Van Wyck Road: Picnic shelter, playground, and ballfield.

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Baseball ■ Charlotte Knights, the minor league baseball team for the Chicago White Sox, play home games at Knights Stadium off I-77, Exit 88, from April to Labor Day. ■ Tega Cay Parks and Recreation offers T-ball for ages 3-6 and baseball for ages 7 to12. Call 5483516. ■ The Fort Mill Parks and Recreation Department offers T-ball for ages 4-6 and baseball for ages 7 to12. Call 547-2273. ■ Baxter Village offers T-ball for children of Baxter residents aged 3 to 7. Call Charlotte Kost, 5485387. ■ Post 43 is Fort Mill’s locally-sponsored American Legion club and plays a highly competitive brand of baseball. For details, call Erik Baddeley at 336580-1581 or e-mail erikbaddeley@yahoo.com. Basketball ■ The Fort Mill Parks and Recreation Department offers youth basketball leagues for ages 4 to 16. The season runs November through March. For details, call 547-2273. ■ The Fort Mill Parks and Recreation Deparment also sponsors adult league basketball open to men 21 and older. For details, call 547-2273. ■ The Fort Mill YMCA branch offers a men’s spring basketball league for adults 25 and older. Call 548-8020. Cheerleading ■ LSRC offers youth cheerleading for children aged 5 to 12 in the fall. Participants will cheer at youth football games. Call 547-1032 or 5471062. ■ Cheer Jewels Cheerleading develops fitness, confidence and team unity through year-round competitive cheerleading for children starting at 4 years old. Coaches are Kendall Hardwick and Jennifer Wilson. Call 417-7116 or 547-4575. Dance ■ LSRC offers dance classes for ages 4 and up. Contact Eddie Mabry at eddiemabrydance@aol.com. ■ The Ballroom Dance Club meets at the LSRC. Learn a variety of steps, from waltz to swing. Cost is $5 per person for non-members. Attire is dressy casual; no jeans or T-shirts. Visit www.billandapril.com. ■ The Gold Hill YMCA offers a dance program for children aged 3-9. Call 548-9622. Football ■ The Fort Mill Parks and Recreation Department offers youth league football for kids aged 5-6, 810, and 11-12 in the fall. Call 547-2273. ■ The Fort Mill Parks and Recreation Department offers flag football for ages 6 and 7. Call 5472273. ■ Tega Cay Parks and Recreation has youth football in the fall for ages 6 to12. Call 5483516. Golf ■ The Tega Cay Golf Club offers child and adult lessons, refresher courses, junior golf clinics and adult clinics. Call 548-2918 or go to www.tegacaygolfclub.com. ■ Regent Park Golf Club offers junior clinics and camps as well as adult clinics. Call 547-1300 or click on www.regentparkgolfclub.com.

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■ The Fort Mill Golf Club offers lessons for adults and children. Call 547-2044. ■ Springfield Golf Club offers private instruction. Call 548-3318. ■ Carolina Lakes Golf Course is located within Sun City in Indian Land. For details or tee times, call 547-9688. ■ Baxter Village supports a men’s golf team for Baxter residents. Call Charlotte Kost, 548-5387. Karate ■ LSRC has karate classes for kids aged 4 and older. Call 547-1032 or 547-1045. Kickball ■ Tega Cay Parks and Recreation offers co-ed kickball for adults aged 21 and older. Call 5483516. Lacrosse ■ The Fort Mill Lacrosse Club offers teams for boys and girls for middle and high school ages. For details, go to www.fmlacrosse.com. ■ Tega Cay Parks and Recreation offers lacrosse camps and leagues in the summer for ages 8 to17. Call 548-3516 or Trent Tursi at 704-2802776. Soccer ■ Tega Cay Parks and Recreation offers youth soccer programs for kids aged 3 to17. For details, call 548-3516. ■ The Fort Mill Parks and Recreation Department offers soccer leagues for boys and girls aged 4 to17. Call 547-2273. ■ The Gold Hill /Fort Mill YMCA offers soccer clinics for ages 3 and 4 and leagues for children aged 5 to10. Call 548-9622 or 548-8020. Softball ■ Tega Cay Parks and Recreation offers both adult men’s and women’s softball leagues. Call 5483516. ■ Tega Cay Parks and Recreation has spring softball for girls ages 7 to12. Call 548-3516. ■ The Fort Mill Parks and Recreation Department offers girls softball for ages 7 to 12. Call 5472273. ■ The Fort Mill parks and Recreation Department also sponsors church and open league adult softball for men and women 18 and older. Call 547-2273.

Fort Mill Parks & Rec/LSRC ■ For decades, most youth and recreation sports programs in Fort Mill township were operated by Leroy Springs & Co. through the Leroy Springs Recreation Complex. In 2010, Fort Mill acquired most sports programs, now run by its Parks and Recreation Department. The Leroy Springs Recreation Complex, on Tom Hall Street (Hwy. 160 East, near Springfield Parkway) attracts residents from across the township. Besides youth and adult sports leagues, the complex offers weight and cardio training, fitness and art-related classes, and more. The complex fields competitive swimming as well as two cheerleading programs. Facilities include free weights and machines, treadmills and elliptical equipment, an indoor Olympicsized pool, basketball and tennis courts, and outdoor ball fields. The complex is the entrance to part of the Anne Springs Close Greenway, where hiking and biking trails are available. For details, call 5472235.

TC Parks & Rec ■ Tega Cay Parks and Recreation Department offers something for everyone who wants to participate in recreational sports. New sports added In the past two years: youth football, cheerleading, softball, lacrosse, croquet and travel soccer. City-sponsored teams have won recreation league championships in baseball and soccer. The last piece of the puzzle will be the completion of Catawba Park, which will be a state-of-the-art facility that provides recreational opportunities for participants of all ages. For details, call Joey Blethen at 548-3516 or e-mail rec@tegacaysc.org.

YMCA

Swimming ■ LSRC sponsors a swim team during the winter and the summer, open to all ages. The complex also offers swim lessons for kids aged 3 to 18. Call 547-4575. ■ Tega Cay Parks and Recreation sponsors a swim team open to kids aged 6 to18. For details, call 548-3516. ■ Baxter Village sponsors a swim team open to ages 4 to18. See www.baxterbarracudas.com. Tennis ■ LSRC has tennis courts for members and paying guests. Daily guest fee is $7. Lessons available. Call 547-4575. ■ Tega Cay Tennis Club offers four outdoor lighted hard surface courts, water, restrooms and a pro shop. Members have unlimited access to the courts and online reservations. Non-members pay a $5 court fee per match. For details, call 835-0530 or go to www.tegacaytennis.com.

■ The Upper Palmetto YMCA has two branches here. Both offer fitness, sports and recreation programs and facilities. The Upper Palmetto YMCA also runs Camp Cherokee. This enriching camp at Kings Mountain provides an opportunity for children and adolescents to learn about the outdoors and activities such as archery and boating while they form friendships. One branch is on Gold Hill Road, near the entrance to Tega Cay. Call 548-9622. The other branch is in Baxter Village off Hwy. 160 West and features an outdoor pool. Call 548-8020. For details, visit www.upymca.org.

■ 2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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Relax. Discover Founders.

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FOCUS ON FORT MILL TOWNSHIP

Equal Opportunity Lender

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FOCUS on

business

Yep, Fort Mill is still growing, and there are lots of choices for consumers. From little shops where you’ll find something unique to national and even international headquarters, many businesses call Fort Mill Township and Indian Land home. From the yellow dye used in Mountain Dew to Muzak, Springmaid sheets and McClancy seasonings, Fort Mill has its share of companies we bet you’ll recognize.

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Major employers in our area ■ Baldor Electric, industrial electric motors, Deerfield Drive, 148 employees ■ Black & Decker, distribution, Pleasant Road, 500 employees ■ Boral Brick Inc., brick manufacturer, Van Wyck Road, 100 employees ■ Cardinal Health, surgical equipment packaging, Fort Mill Hwy., 700 employees ■ Citifinancial, financial services,

Munn Road, 1,850 employees

■ Internet Services Corp./ICCA, inspirational cassette tapes and videos, Fort Mill, 269 employees ■ Domtar, paper company regional headquarters, 100 Kingsley Park Drive, 120 employees ■ Employee Benefit Service, insurance, 534 Rivercrossing Drive, 225 employees ■ Inspiration Network, religious

Jenny Overman/Fort Mill Times

Gov. Mark Sanford, left, pitches in during a groundbreaking ceremony hosted by Red Ventures in Indian Land.

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cable network headquarters, Charlotte Hwy, 275 employees ■ Mergent Inc. Financial Services, Kingsley Park Drive, 315 employees ■ Muzak, audio architecture, Lakemont Boulevard, 517 employees ■ Nation Ford Chemical Company, specialty chemicals, 2300 Banks St., 105 employees. ■ Northern Tool and Equipment Inc., distribution of tools, Banks Road, 315 employees ■ Novant Health, health care, Fort Mill, 210 employees ■ P. Kaufmann Inc., converter of home furnishing textiles, York Southern Road, 100 employees ■ ProLogix, Magazine distribution, W. Hwy. 160, 120 employees ■ Red Ventures, marketing firm, 1091A 521 Corporate Center Drive, Indian Land, 540 employees. ■ Ross Distribution, Ross clothing distribution, Retail Drive, 1,800 employees ■ Schaeffler Group USA, needle and roller bearings, Springhill Farm Road, 800 employees ■ Sharonview Credit Union, banking, 521 Corporate Center Drive, 135 employees ■ Springs Global US Inc. Executive Office and Close Development Center, corporate headquarters, North White Street, Fort Mill, 225 employees ■ Sunbelt Rentals, Deerfield Drive, Industrial and construction equipment rentals, 250 employees ■ URS Washington Division, nuclear energy center, EdgeWater Corporate Center, 400 employees ■ US Foodservice Inc., food distribution, Fort Mill Parkway, 781 employees ■ Virtual Image Technology, information and image management, Harrisburg Road, 125 employees ■ Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, home mortgages, Stateview Blvd., 1,500 employees ■ Wikoff Color Corp., printing inks and coatings, Merritt Road, 170 employees

Chambers of commerce can boost business Chambers of commerce provide information for newcomers and help business people get to know their surroundings and to network. The York County Regional Chamber of Commerce represents each town in issues that affect all of York County, while each town retains its own chamber council responsible for local programs: ■ Fort Mill Area Council, 210 Tom Hall St., Fort Mill. Trudie Bolin Heemsoth, director, 547-5900; Frank Marshall, chairman, Rob Youngblood, president, 3247500. Chamber hours: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. ■ Tega Cay Area Council, 1741 Gold Hill Road, Suite 104, Tega Cay. Becky Adams, director, 548-2444, Lu Aiken, chairwoman; Rob Youngblood, president, 324-7500. Chamber hours: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday and Friday. The Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses on issues that affect all of Lancaster County: ■ Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce (serving Indian Land), 453 Colonial Drive, Lancaster. L. Dean Faile, president and director, 803-283-4105; James M. Morton, chairman; Van Myers, chairman, Indian Land Council. Chamber hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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LOCALLY GROWN Fort Mill businesses cater to savvy shoppers looking to buy their produce and other products close to home. By Jenny Overman Fort Mill residents have embraced the trend of buying local foods. One shop, The New Peach Stand in Fort Mill, is at the forefront of the “buy local” movement. The New Peach Stand, on Hwy. 160 West at Hwy. 21 (opposite the Old Peach Stand), offers peaches and strawberries, grown seasonally at Springs Farm. The shop also offers locally-produced “The Mustard Lady” mustard, in various flavors, made by a Fort Mill resident and “Second-to-None” salsa made in York. You can also find local honey, chow-chow and an array of jams and preserves. Much of the produce at both Peach Stand locations is grown in South Carolina and purchased from the South Carolina Farmer’s Market in Columbia. A new addition to The New Peach Stand’s offerings are local products intended to be healthy. Eggs from free-roaming chickens that live on a farm in Gaffney have been a best-selling item, as has locally raised, antibiotic and hormone-free beef. Raw milk, from Milky Way Farm in Starr, is another new product. The milk is not pasteurized or homogenized, which makes it illegal to sell in some states, including North Carolina. But North

File/ Fort Mill Times

Carolinians are crossing the border to purchase it from The New Peach Stand, manager Sherri McMurray said. The draw, according to McMurray, is the health benefits and taste. The raw milk is creamier and sweeter than pasteurized milk, she added. McMurray expects the trend to continue. “In today’s time, more people are looking to buy local,” McMurray said. “It’s healthier and more environmentally friendly.”

A Relationship You Can Trust

Call: 803-367-4100 Click: familytrust.org T h i s C re d i t U n i o n i s fe d e r a l l y i n s u re d b y t h e N a t i o n a l C re d i t U n i o n Ad m i n i s t r a t i o n .

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YOUR GUIDE TO LOCAL

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DINING

You sigh and prop your feet up with a packing crate. Your stomach tells you it is dinner time, but you have no kitchen appliances yet. You need to find a place to eat. So, we’ve put together this guide of restaurants so you’ll know where to go in your new town.

American Longitude 81 971 Gold Hill Road 802-9981 What type of food do you serve? Caribbean, fresh seafood, world of flavors Do you take reservations? Not necessary Are you child friendly? Yes What is the dress code? Casual What credit cards do you accept? All Do you serve alcohol? Yes What are your top three menu items? Charleston Crabcakes, Shrimp St. Thomas, Filet Mignon Other Options: Di-Dees Diner, 8637 Charlotte Hwy., 547-3143 Doby Bridge Mart, 1448 Doby's Bridge Rd. 547-5077 521 BBQ & Grill 7580 Charlotte Hwy. (Hwy. 521), 548-7675 Flamingo Food and Spirits, 377 Carowinds Blvd., 547-1038 Fort Mill BBQ Company, 737 Stockbridge Drive, 548-7400 Johnny K’s Restaurant, 1385 Hwy. 160 E., 802-3210 GameTime Grill, 217 Main St., 5472201 OL’ Tyme Grill, 1285 Spratt St. 548-6530 Passion8 Bistro, 3415 Hwy., 51802-7455 www.passion8bistro.com Roasting Oven & Grill, 3700 Avenue of the Carolinas, 548-4122 Steve’s Grille, 2150 Gold Hill Rd., 5481799 Sweet Peppers Deli, 936 Market St., 396-8888 The Peach Stand Café, 1325 Hwy. 160 W., 547-7563

Asian Best China (V),1046 Regent Parkway suite 107, 802-9862, 802-9863 Big Wok, 1750 Hwy. 160 W., 547-5565 China II, 757 Crossroads Plaza, 547[ 76 ]

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1935 China East, 1350 Hwy. 160 E., 802-7737 Great Wall of China, 3700 Avenue of the Carolinas, 548-7003 Jin-Jin Restaurant, 1800 Gold Hill Road, 548-7533 Lui Lui’s, 940 Market St., 547-1838 www.luiluis.com Ocean Palace, 414 Tom Hall St., 5474200 Peking Tokyo, 2435 Hwy. 160 W. Suite 111, 547-4555. Red Bowl Asian Bistro, 845 Stockbridge Drive, 802-5666 Saiki Japanese & Vietnamese Restaurant 709 Crossroads Plaza, 548-7437

Sandwiches/more BacInTyme Coffee Cafe, 124 Confederate St., 802-7155 What type of food do you serve? Sandwiches, wraps, salads, pastries, and desserts What is your price range? $1.50 - $8 Do you take reservations? Yes Are you child friendly? Yes What is the dress code? Casual What credit cards do you accept? Visa, Master Card, Discover Do you serve alcohol? No What are your top three menu items? Chicken salad, roast beef clubs, vegetable wraps Krystal’s Eats & Sweets, 122-A Main St. 802-0844 What type of food do you serve? Sandwiches (on Breadsmith breads and rolls), wraps, salads, breakfast sandwiches, ice cream, baked goods and sweets What is your price range? 50 cents and up Do you take reservations? No Are you child friendly? Yes What is the dress code? Casual What credit cards do you accept? Visa, Master Card Do you serve alcohol? No

File photo

BacInTyme Coffee Cafe is one of many local dining options. What are your top three menu items? Club sandwich, ice cream and cakes Other Options Bull Feathers, 1711 Pleasanr road, 5478000 Ida Roselle’s, 235 Main St., 802-5360 Jump N Java Cafe/Bistro, 1646 160 W., 547-1122 Logan Farms Honeyglazed Hams, 855 Gold Hill Rd., 548-9777 Nerd Net Café, 855 Gold Hill Rd., Suite 101, 547-NERD, www.nerdnetcafe.com OL’ Tyme Grill, 1285 Spratt St. 548-6530 Quiznos Subs, 1754 Hwy. 160 W, STE 109, 548-3670 www.quiznos.com

21, 547-0000 Checkers, 1685 Katy Lane, (off Hwy. 160 West) 548-7433 GameTime Grill, 217 Main St., 547-2201 grapevine Wine Shop/Wine Bar, 1012 Market St., 802-9989 Madison’s, 900 Crossroads Plaza, 8023990 Six Pence Restaurant and Pub, 993 Market St., 802-5885 McHale’s Irish Pub, 1820 Gold Hill Rd., 548-2151 Towne Tavern, 2000 Hwy. 160 W., 8022340

Pubs Bert’s Backyard Bar & Bistro, 3071 Hwy.

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Italian Carmella’s Pizza Grill. 3150 Hwy. 21, 802-4404 DeMarco’s, 1741 Gold Hill Road, 802-3223 Donato’s Pizza, 1143 Stonecrest Blvd., off Hwy. 160 W. 547-9001. Figaro’s Pizza, 8167 Charlotte Hwy. (Hwy. 521), 802-3800 Fratelli Ristorante and Pizzeria, 975 Market St., 802-4449 Si’s Pizzeria, 9931 Charlotte Hwy., 547-1104 Village Pizza & Italian Restaurant, 773 Crossroads Plaza, 547-7770

Mexican El Cancun, 197 Carowinds Blvd., 548-6222 El Maguey Mexican Restaurant, 741 Crossroads Plaza, 802-7555 Los Aztecas, 100 Fort Mill Square, 396-5515 The Plaza Fiesta mall off Carowinds Boulevard has an international food court where you can find authentic dishes from Mexico, Columbia, Ecuador and other countries.

Seafood Captain Steve’s Seafood, 1975 Hwy. 21, 547-2340 Fish Market, 990 Market St. (Baxter), 547-4024

Ice Cream MaggieMoo’s Ice Cream & Treatery 753 Crossroads Plaza 548-6244 www.maggiemoos.com What type of food do you serve?: Super premium custom made ice cream creations, shakes, sundaes, ice cream cakes and cupcakes What is your price range?: $2.50 and up Do you take reservations?: No Are you child-friendly?: Yes What is the dress code?: Casual Which credit cards do you accept?: Visa, Master Card Do you serve alcohol?: No What are your top menu items? Fresh escapes, milkshakes, fresh fruit smoothies

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Local spirits For those who enjoy a cocktail, there are stores in many areas. Beer and wine are sold in grocery stores. ■ Carolina Wines & Spirits 6277 Carolina Commons Drive, Suite 1000 Indian Land 412-1553 ■ Discount ABC 1800 Gold Hill Road Fort Mill 548-7533 ■ Fort Mill ABC Liquors and Spirits 2000 Hwy. 160 West, Suite 107, Fort Mill, 396-2966 ■ Friendly Spirits 8475 Charlotte Hwy. (Hwy. 521), Suite 104D, Fort Mill, 396-2952 ■ Frugal MacDoogal’s 3630 Festival Dr. (off Carowinds Boulevard), Fort Mill, 548-6634 ■ grapevine Wine Shop/Wine Bar 1012 Market Street, Baxter Village, Fort Mill, 802-9989 ■ Hammond’s Liquor Store 111 Railroad Ave, Fort Mill, 547-2152 ■ Southern Spirits 9989 Charlotte Hwy. (Hwy. 521), Fort Mill, 548-8888 ■ Village ABC 925 Crossroads Plaza (Hwy. 160 West, near Gold Hill Road), Fort Mill, 548-0472 ■ Xpress Beverage 1294 Tom Hall Street (Corner of Hwy. 160 East and Springfield Parkway), Fort Mill, 548-7373 *Note: The sale of alcohol on Sunday is prohibited by law in certain areas.

Other Options: Bruster’s Real Ice Cream 2603 Hwy. 160 West, 548-4070 Krystal’s Eats and Sweets, 122-A Main St., 802-0844 Sayago’s Hometown Cafe & Ice Creamery, 940 Market St., 548-8686 Strickland’s Frozen Custard, 2000 Hwy. 160 W., Suite 104, 802-9911

Coffee and Tea BacInTyme Coffee Cafe 124 Confederate St. 802-7155 What type of food do you serve? Sandwiches, wraps, salads, pastries, and desserts What is your price range? $1.50 - $8 Do you take reservations? Yes Are you child friendly? Yes What is the dress code? Casual What credit cards do you accept? Visa, Master Card, Discover Do you serve alcohol? No What are your top three menu items? Chicken salad, roast beef clubs, vegetable wraps Other Options: Aroma Coffee House, 3150 Hwy. 21, Suite 112, 802-1711 Savannah’s Room, 108 Springs St., 835-0580 Jump ‘N Java Cafe, 1646 Hwy. 160 W., 547-1122 Starbucks 926 Market Street (Baxter), 548-2806

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LOCAL MEDIA Newspapers ■

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Fort Mill Times: A weekly community newspaper at 124 Main Street, Fort Mill, published every Wednesday, that covers Fort Mill, Tega Cay and Indian Land. Distributed free in Fort Mill Township and Indian Land. 547-2353. For delivery, call 9094235. Out-of-town delivery, by mail, is $40 a year. www.fortmilltimes.com. The Herald: A daily newspaper that covers York, Chester and Lancaster counties. 329-4000 or www.heraldonline.com. Lake Wylie Pilot: A free weekly newspaper that covers Lake Wylie, River Hills, Clover and other lakefront areas. 803-8318166 or www.lakewyliepilot.com. The Lancaster News: A thrice-weekly newspaper in Lancaster County. It publishes Carolina Gateway, a weekly newspaper in Indian Land. 803-283-1133. The Charlotte Observer: A daily Charlotte newspaper. Creative Loafing: A weekly entertainment tabloid based in Charlotte and distributed free in the area.

Cable ■

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Comporium Communications serves up 62 basic cable channels and more than 100 digital channels. Included are city

FOCUS ON FORT MILL TOWNSHIP

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information channels for Fort Mill and Tega Cay residents. Cable News 2 (CN2) is a cable news station based in Rock Hill and owned by Comporium Communications.

Radio ■

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Listeners can tune into local stations WRHI AM 1340, WRHM FM 107 and FM 94.3, WAVO Christian Radio 1150 AM and WNSC FM, each based in Rock Hill; WRBK 90.3 FM out of Richburg plays oldies; and WFAE-FM 90.7 in Charlotte, which carries NPR and Charlotte area programming. Other stations include WRFX 99.7 FM and WXRC 95.7 FM, both classic rock stations, WSOC 103.7 FM, the home of new and classic country, and WFNZ 660 AM, which provides 24hour sports talk and live Panthers games. For a complete listing, check out www.ontheradio.net/metro/charlotte_nc.aspx.

Honors for WFAE ■

This past year the station received seven Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards for its news coverage, including one for overall excellence. The station offers several HD streams via its website. To learn more, go to www.wfae.org.

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FOCUS on

community

So you’ve chosen to live in Fort Mill, Tega Cay or Indian Land. Yes, we’re a small community. And part of that small-town atmosphere comes from our enthusiasm for helping each other. Neighborliness isn’t just an idea – people practice it every day. Values are important. There are a range of both religious faiths practiced here and community service groups. So say hi to your new neighbors. And find a way to get involved in this new community you call home. Here are some ideas. 2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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POINTING TOSteeple-raising GOD an historic event

Melissa Cherry

By Jenny Overman With the sun shining along Tom Hall Street on a Friday in March, more than 300 members of Unity Presbyterian gathered on the lawn in front of the church. Some lounged on beach blankets while others sprawled on a patch of grass. An 1,800-pound steeple covered in shining copper was set atop the new Unity Presbyterian Church sanctuary, marking completion of the highest point on the new building which had been under construction since May 2009. It was an historic event for the congregation, the oldest church in Fort Mill, and for Rev. Dr. Dan Holloway who said that seeing a steeple raised to the top of a sanctuary is likely a once-in-a-lifetime event. The last time a steeple was raised at Unity Presbyterian Church was in 1881, when the existing sanctuary was built. The new sanctuary is the third to be built on the church¹s current site. The first burned in 1880, according to William Bradford¹s book on Fort Mill history, “Out of the Past.” Two men from Conner Construction of Charlotte waited at the top of the new sanctuary for a crane to swing the steeple into place. When the steeple was in place, cheers erupted from the crowd and hundreds of white balloons were released from the lawn at Unity Church. The steeple is important for reasons beyond aesthetics, Holloway said. Most modern church steeples descend from those designed by Christopher Wren of Great Britain in the 17th century, Holloway added. “Wren believed churches should point people towards God,” Holloway explained. “So, steeples have traditionally pointed people towards God in their times of hardship.” The new sanctuary holds 550 people; the old one had a capacity for 250. The building features classrooms for Sunday school and youth groups. The former sanctuary will continue to be used for small weddings, funerals and other events, Holloway said.

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What our Children

Believe

Is Just as Important as What They Know

SA faith-filled, successful, established, proven...

St. Anne Catholic School K4-8

A S We Believe.

St. Anne Catholic School Rock Hill, SC 29730·(803)324-4814 Info@stanneschool.com

www.stanneschool.com Educating children of ALL faiths since 1951.

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Sunday Worship ~ 10:30 AM & 6:00 PM Wednesday Bible Study ~ 7:00 PM Fort Mill’s Assembly of God Church Children’s Church & Nursery ~ Available during morning worship Men’s Ministries ~ Monthly Women’s Ministries ~ Monthly Ladies Luncheon ~ Monthly Pastor, Gil Kinney

(803) 802-7010 1930 Pleasant Road • Fort Mill, SC www.reallifeassembly.org Real People, with Real Struggles, Presenting Jesus with Real Answers.

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DIRECTORY OF

Church of God

■ El Bethel AME Zion Church, 8631 Henry Harris Road, Fort Mill, 547-6688 ■ Gold Hill AME Zion Church, 9239 Van Wyck Road, Fort Mill, 547-2107 ■ Indian Hill AME Zion Church, 10728 Barberville Road, Fort Mill, 547-4506 ■ Mount Zion AME Zion Church, 2733 Hwy. 21 Business, Fort Mill, 548-4078 ■ United AME Zion Church, 804 Steele St., Fort Mill, 547-6646 ■ Volunteer Faith Center Inc., 102 Smith St., Fort Mill, 548-8083

■ Fort Mill Church of God, 221 Academy St., 547-2629 ■ Mount Zion Church of God, 1001 Steele St., Fort Mill, 547-6581

ARP

■ Faith Bible Church, 3585 Centre Circle, Fort Mill, 547-3845

Assemblies of God ■ Real Life Assembly of God, 1930 Pleasant Road, Fort Mill, 802-7010

Baptist ■ Bethlehem Baptist Church, 601 Joe Louis St., Fort Mill, 547-7059 ■ Carolinas Cornerstone Church, 1705 Hwy. 21 Bypass, Fort Mill, 547-7781 ■ First Baptist Church of Fort Mill, 121 Monroe White St., Fort Mill, 547-2051 ■ Flint Hill Baptist Church, 269 Flint Hill Road, Fort Mill, 548-0672 ■ Fort Mill Community Church, Main Street, Downtown Fort Mill, 327-2610 ■ Glenrock Baptist Church, 1815 Doby’s Bridge Road, Fort Mill, 547-6420 ■ Indian Land Baptist Church, 7583 Charlotte Hwy., Indian Land, 547-5881 ■ James Chapel Baptist Church, 3330 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 548-4367 ■ Jerusalem Baptist Church, 300 Steele St., Fort Mill, 547-6277 ■ Sisk Memorial Baptist Church, 115 Massey St., Fort Mill, 547-2537 ■ Tega Cay Baptist Church, 1875 Gold Hill Road, Tega Cay, 548-2600

Baptist – Free Will ■ Bethel Freewill Baptist Church, 9809 Blackwelder Road, Fort Mill, 548-3913

Baptist – Independent ■ Bible Baptist Church, 255 S. Hwy. 21 Bypass, Fort Mill, 547-2761 ■ Blessed Hope Baptist Church, 1270 Williams Road, Fort Mill, 803-320-8725

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CHURCHES

AME Zion

■ Carolina Covenant Church-ARP, 1190 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill, 548-6804

7/12/10

Episcopal ■ St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 501 Pine St., Fort Mill, 547-5968

Evangelical

Foursquare Gospel ■ Lakeshore Christian Fellowship, Shoreline Pkwy., Tega Cay, 548-2755

Interdenominational ■ Freedom Christian Center, 1205 Gardendale Road, Fort Mill, 548-5464

Lutheran

431-6263 ■ The Crossing, 1466 Doby’s Bridge Road, Fort Mill, 396-0800 ■ The Lord’s Armory, 1734 Harris Road, Fort Mill, 548-0783 ■ Ultimate Life Church, 377 Carowinds Blvd., Suite 125, Fort Mill, 802-2641 ■ Community Life Church of the Carolinas, Indian Land, 704-277-9772

Pentecostal Holiness ■ Lighthouse Pentecostal Church, 333 Hwy. 21, Fort Mill, 547-6466 ■ Third Millennium Ministries, 2950 Hwy. 21 Business, Fort Mill

Presbyterian ■ Christ Cornerstone-PCA, 100 Springs St., Fort Mill, 548-2020 ■ Community Presbyterian Church, 600 N. White St., Fort Mill, 547-6501 ■ Doby’s Bridge Presbyterian Church, 2500 Doby’s Bridge Rd., Fort Mill, 547-5240 ■ Grace Presbyterian Church, 2615 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 548-0800 ■ Riverview Presbyterian USA, 124 N. Sutton Road, Fort Mill, 547-2581 ■ Unity Presbyterian Church, 303 Tom Hall St., Fort Mill, 547-5543

FACT: The top five congregations in the Fort Mill Township are: 1. First Baptist Church: 2,225 members 2. St. Philip Neri Catholic Church: 1,800 families / members 3. Fort Mill Church of God: 1,280 members 4. Unity Presbyterian Church: 1,100 members 5. Sisk Memorial Baptist Church: 1,000 members

■ Crossroads Lutheran Church, 8511 Shelley Mullis Road, Indian Land, 804-7968 ■ Lake Wylie Lutheran Church, 2906 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 548-5489

Messianic ■ Shabbat Shalom Messianic Ministries, 1691 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 324-1343

Methodist ■ Belair United Methodist Church, 8095 Shelley Mullis Road, Indian Land, 547-6631 ■ Osceola United Methodist Church, 6575 Charlotte Hwy., 803-285-7959 ■ Philadelphia United Methodist Church, 1691 Hwy. 160 West, Fort Mill, 548-0102 ■ Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, 238 Fort Mill Hwy., 548-4922 ■ St. John’s United Methodist Church, 130 Tom Hall St., Fort Mill, 547-7538 ■ Grace Community United Methodist Church, 971 Tom Hall St., Fort Mill (inside Leroy Springs Recreation Complex) 371-0636

Nazarene ■ Fort Mill Church of the Nazarene, 109 Harris St., 548-4633

GRACE Community CHURCH United Methodist

New church,

New home! Come casual

Baptist – Southern ■ Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, 211 Marvin Road, Indian Land, 548-7208 ■ Westerly Hills Baptist Church, 232 South Sutton Road, Fort Mill, 547-6150

Catholic ■ St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, 292 Munn Road, Fort Mill, 548-728

Church of Christ ■ Church of Christ at Gold Hill Road, 1055 Gold Hill Road, Fort Mill, 548-7762

Non-denominational ■ All Nations Church, 360 Hammond Road, Fort Mill, 396-8909 ■ Celebration Center of the Carolinas, Tega Cay City Hall, 547-2858 ■ Eternal, Fort Mill YMCA in Baxter Village, 8023070 ■ The Gathering, 866-562-9406 ■ Higher Ground Church, 8365 Possum Hollow Road, Fort Mill, 802-3189 ■ Lifepointe Christian Church, 2266 Deerfield Drive, Fort Mill, 802-8500 ■ SouthPoint Church, Gold Hill YMCA, Fort Mill,

1190 Gold Hill Road • Fort Mill I-77 Exit 88 • ½ mile west

Kids Konnection

Sunday Praise 10:30 a.m.

www.come 2 grace.org

803-548-4078

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United Way The United Way brings together people to find answers to problems in the local community. Through contributions during its annual campaign, the United Way is able to give assistance to local agencies and provide vital benefits to residents and employees: ■ HELP NOW – The United Way of York County’s referral and information hotline, 211, is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Callers are connected to a trained specialist or to agencies seeking volunteers. It’s easy, confidential and free. ■ PRESCRIPTION DRUG HELP – The United Way of York County has partnered with FamilyWize to offer prescription drug cards to York County residents and employees who don’t have prescription drug coverage. Cards can be obtained at one of 28 participating pharmacies in York County, online at www.familywize.com or by calling the United Way. ■ For details, visit www.unitedwayofyc. org or call 803-324-2735. ■ LIVE UNITED – Live United is an invitation by the United Way of Lancaster County to advance the common good by focusing on education, income and health. Give at the “LIVE UNITED” level of $260 or more to the Community Impact Fund and receive a “LIVE UNITED” card with discounts at local businesses in York and Lancaster counties.

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Reaching out to...

Our community People in Fort Mill Township have found many ways to help their neighbors in need. Volunteers at local aid organizations are always welcome. Other groups provide recreation and cultural opportunities, civic service and more. Aid Organizations ■

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The Fort Mill Care Center helps with food, prescriptions, and power and fuel assistance for Fort Mill Township residents. Open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9 a.m. to noon, at the Family Resource Center, Banks Street, Fort Mill. 5477620. United Way of York County provides financial help for local charities, free prescription discount drug cards, homeless housing initiatives and a 211 referral hotline. 324-2735 or www.unitedwayofyc.org. American Red Cross helps victims of house fires and other disasters, holds blood drives, and provides military families with emergency communications and financial assistance. 200 Piedmont Blvd., Rock Hill. 329-657, or 212 Williams St., Lancaster. 803-283-4072. Humane Society of York County is a no-kill animal shelter supported by donations from the community. Shelter hours are 1 to 4 p.m. TuesdaySunday at 2036 Carolina Place, off Hwy. 160 West (near Burger King). 8020902. Children’s Attention Home

■

is an emergency shelter for neglected and abused children, newborns through age 17. For a referral or to report abuse, call the state Department of Social Services at 803-684-2315, 328-6958 or (evenings) 803684-2310. To volunteer or donate, call 328-8871. Safe Passage offers counseling, a shelter for battered women and their children, and a 24-hour crisis hotline for York County residents. 329-2800, administrative offices, 3293336. Lancaster County residents: 803-285-6533. Sexual assault and Children’s Advocacy center, 803-3277558. Sexual Assault Resource Center offers hospital accompaniment and counseling for victims of sexual assault. 327-7558. Palmetto Citizens Against Sexual Assault provides 24hour support for victims of sexual assault and abuse at 803-286-1214. For help from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., call 803-286-5232. York County Christian Women’s Job Corps helps women in need gain independence, an education and jobs. 327-6077. Fort Mill/Tega Cay Adult Day Care Center provides

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therapeutic care for local elderly residents. 396-5336. Carenet Inc. offers health care and assistance, prescriptions, limited laboratory and X-ray services for uninsured Lancaster County residents. 803-285-CARE (2273). Office hours are weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Arts & Recreation ■

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Fort Mill Art Guild is dedicated to promoting the arts locally. For more information, e-mail info@fortmillartguild.com or visit www.fortmillart guild.com. Fort Mill Community Playhouse puts on several plays each year in the Banks Street Theater. 548-8102 or www.fortmillplayhouse.org. Community Playhouse of Lancaster County, www.lancasterplayhouse. com or e-mail info@lancasterplayhouse. com. The drama departments at Fort Mill, Nation Ford and Indian Land high schools invite the public to professional-level stage productions. Read the Fort Mill Times for details.

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By Jeff Sochko

Troop 849 Junior Girl Scouts Brianna Crumley, Christine Dieso, Allisin Brann, Cathryn Payne, Lydia Hughes and "Brownie" Abbie Poropatich watch as Troop Co-leader Ellen Hughs prepares for another heat. ■ ■ ■

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Fort Mill Tennis Association, contact Jim Hendrix, president, 548-0523. Tega Cay Tennis Association, contact Jim Bowen, 5470235. Vintage Club of Tega Cay, contact Shirley Hunt, 5480810 or shirley9044@gmail.com. Tega Cay Writer’s Group meets at 1 p.m. on the second Friday of the month at the Fort Mill Public Library. Contact Debbie Holford, 396-8646. Young at Heart, an activity group for people aged 50 and older, meets every Thursday at the Leroy Springs Recreation Complex in Fort Mill. 547-4575. Arts Council of Rock Hill and York County supports local arts and artists involved in all

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media types. Center for the Arts, Main Street, Rock Hill. 328-2787. Ballroom Dance Club meets the fourth Friday of every month from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Leroy Springs Recreation Complex, 971 Tom Hall Street, Fort Mill. Learn a variety of steps, from waltz to swing. Cost is $5 per person for non-members. Attire is dressy casual; no jeans or T-shirts. Visitors, beginners and singles welcome. Contact 366-9805 or log on to www.theballroomdanceclub.c om.

Civic Groups ■

Boys and Girls Club of York County (Banks Street Unit) offers a fun, safe, educational

and affordable after school and summer camp program for children aged 6-18. 513 Banks Street, Fort Mill, director Cristina d’Erizans, 547-1978. ■ Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts: Several churches in Fort Mill have an organized Boy Scout troops, and Girl Scouts are also very popular in the area: Boy Scouts, Troop 250, Grace Presbyterian Church, contact Luther Dasher, 547-6633. Boy Scouts, Troop 327, Riverview Presbyterian Church, 547-2851. Boy Scouts, Troop 108, Unity Presbyterian Church, contact Doug Chambers, 548-1991 Cub Scouts, Troop 219, St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, contact Don Younglove, 5470176.

Cub Scouts, Pack 61, St. John’s United Methodist Church, contact 547-7538. BSA Venture Crew, Troop 1082, Unity Presbyterian Church, contact Wayne Bouldin, 548-3411. Girl Scouts, contact Diana Smith, 803-283-8110 Girl Scouts of Lancaster County, contact Charlie Ellis, 803288-3130. ■ Foundation for Fort Mill Schools. Promotes excellence in education with grants to teachers and college scholarships to high school seniors. Go to www.foundationforfortmillsch ools.org, e-mail foundation@fortmill.k12.sc.us. or call 5485559. — continued on page 126 2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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AARP tax assistance Hundreds of residents had their taxes done for free at the Fort Mill AARP Tax Aide site at the Fort Mill Library this year. The program is open to everybody – not just senior citizens. The program’s volunteers e-filed hundreds of federal returns and paper returns, including amendments and prior year returns. In addition, S.C. returns and outof-state returns were e-filed. Volunteers are always welcome. Training is provided. Anyone who would like to donate a used desktop or laptop computer in good working condition can also help the program. For more information, call Bill Weaver at 547-5442.

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Environmental Groups ■ ■

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Fort Mill Garden Club, call Betty Earl, 8020529. Gardening on the Cay, contact Christine McCallion, 548-0707. Iris, contact Janet Gaither, 548-7412. Lancaster County Community Garden, free gardening plots through an application to the United Way of Lancaster office, 109 S. Wylie Street. The garden is located at the Lancaster County Parks and Recreation Department, 260 S. Plantation Road, Lancaster. Call 803-2838923 or go to liveunited@uwaylcsc.org.

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Patriotic Organizations ■

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American Legion Post 43, Fort Mill, contact John Passanisi, 547-2414. American Legion Auxiliary, Fort Mill, contact Minnie Stegall, 547-2414. Daughters of the American Revolution, Nation Ford Chapter, contact Leigh VanBlarcom, 5485362, or Jacci Wagner, 396-0634 or jacciwagner@yahoo.com. Daughters of the American Revolution, Indian Land Chapter, call Pat Donatelli at 547-1315 or Ann Sligar at 547-0713 or visit www.DAR.org. The Florence Thornwell Chapter 246, United Daughters of the Confederacy in Fort Mill

welcomes new members as well as descendants of former chapter members. Call Gail Robinson at 548-9395. Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 9138, contact Gen. Bill Trask 803-493-2014.

Social Clubs

Garden Clubs

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FOCUS ON FORT MILL TOWNSHIP

Beautification Committee of Tega Cay meets the second Thursday of the month, 2 p.m. at City Hall. Contact Sheila Baugh, 547-4113. Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation, a nonprofit organization, serves as an advocate and watchdog of the Catawba River. Visit catawbariverkeeper.org. Henry’s Knob group of the Sierra Club meets at 7 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at Wesley Foundation, Stewart Street and Park Avenue. Call Joe Zdenek, 803-366-9763 Tega Cay City Pride, contact Leigh Van Blarcom, 548-5362, or Betty Worrell, 548-4063. Friends of Andrew Jackson State Park, contact 803-285-3344.

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Junior Chamber of Commerce, Fort Mill/Tega Cay/ Rock Hill, 327-1003. Lions Club of Fort Mill, 548-8124. Lions Club of Tega Cay, call Sue Gulasky, 5483539 Lioness Club of Fort Mill, call Terry Cameron, 327-5997. Optimist Club, contact Daniel Watts, 547-7448.

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Newcomers Club, call Cassandra Hartke, 5477282. New Southern Women’s Club invites newcomers to meet people and participate in a wide range of activities. The club offers a crafts group, book club, garden club, supper club, vagabond trips to places of interest, luncheons, euchre, bridge, bunco and golf. Contact Carol, 396-5372 or Mary, 547-9982. The Fort Mill Elks Lodge meets at the American Legion on the first and third Mondays of the month. Anyone interested in joining the Elks can contact Exalted Ruler Patrick Coyle at pcoyle@comporium.net or 704-968-7219 Professional Business Women’s Association, 396-8815. Fort Mill Friends in Business, contact Linda Hall, sales@lindahall.com. Toastmasters meets at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, 292 Munn Road, Fort Mill. Contact Call Tim Gunnels at 493-9048 or Andy Hanschu at 704-287-0687. Woman’s Club of Fort Mill, call Trudie Heemsoth, 547-5900. Tega Cay Women’s Club, which meets at Tega Cay City Hall, offers arts and crafts, a book club, bunco, day trips, euchre, mahjongg, knitting and more. Call Dellree Whitehead, 548-4113, or Leslie Kell, 802-6691. Powerful Parents, contact Maria Burnett, 5475843. Mothers of Preschoolers, call Linda Bunge, 5479898. Fort Mill area chapter of the MOMS Club is designed for stay-at-home mothers. E-mail steudel@flashlink.net for details. York County Stay at Home Dads meets every Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at various locations. Outings to parks, libraries and kidfriendly attractions are planned. Contact Chris Bush, 328-0949, e-mail yorkcountydads@yahoo.com, or visit www.geocities.com/yorkcountydads. Young at Heart, an activity group for people aged 50 and older, meets every Thursday at the Leroy Springs Recreation Complex in Fort Mill. Contact Colleen Littlejohn, senior director at the complex, 547-4575. Fort Mill Women’s Aglow – A Community Lighthouse, contact Lisa Bahrenburg, 548-1194.

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Municipal service agencies ■ S.C. Department of Social Services offers aid to families with dependent children, Medicaid, food stamps, medical assistance and foster care, and investigates neglect and abuse reports about children and adults. York County office complex, 1070 Heckle Blvd., Rock Hill, 909-7446. Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; main office, 17 W. Liberty St., York. 803-684-2315. ■ The Fort Mill office of the York County Health Department provides immunization shots. Call the Family Resource Center for more information at 548-8028; or the health department’s main number at 909-7300. ■ The Fort Mill/Tega Cay Adult Day Care Center provides therapeutic care for local senior citizens and other adults. 3965336. ■ Lancaster County Council on Aging provides senior citizens with meals, information and referrals, transportation, in-home care, education and recreational programs. 803-285-6956. ■ York County Board of Disabilities and Special Needs includes developmental programs for children and adults, a work activity center, case management, residential services and a summer camp. 547-0987.

File/Fort Mill Times

Teens with the Salkahatchie outreach mission program work on a local home.

Support Groups ■ ■

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Alcoholics Anonymous: Meeting dates, times and locations for the York County Chapter of AA vary. Contact 328-8410. Al-Anon is open to anyone who has been affected by someone else’s drinking. Fort Mill meetings are held at the little brick house beside First Baptist Church on Monroe White Street on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. Tega Cay meetings are held every Monday at 8 p.m. at Grace Presbyterian Church on Hwy. 160 at Gold Hill Road. Alateen is for teenagers who have problems because of someone else’s drinking. Meetings are held from 8 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays upstairs in the brick house next to First Baptist Church in Fort Mill. Keystone provides substance-abuse and detox programs to help more than 3,000 local drug and alcohol addicts every year. Most services are based in Rock Hill, though Keystone has a Fort Mill office at the Family Resource Center, Banks Street, Fort Mill. 3241800. Alzheimer’s and related dementia support group meetings are at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month and at 6 p.m. on the last Tuesday of each month at Spring Arbor on India Hook Road. These groups offer educational and emotional coping support to those involved in caring for an individual with dementia. Informative programs with films and speakers are featured, as well as confidential discussions of care situations. If a no-cost in-home sitter is needed to attend, call the Upstate S.C. Chapter in advance, 800-273-2555, or the Rock Hill office, 3296565. Moms of Multiples is a nonprofit group for mothers of twins, triplets or more. For

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details, contact Monica, 803-831-5343, or Ruth, 329-1813. Adoption birthmother support: A support group for women who have given up children for adoption is there to help heal from the pain of losing children. Confidentiality is stressed. Contact Carolyn, 548-7698, or e-mail at cress@comporium.net. Hospice Community Care aids families and loved ones who are terminally ill. 329-4663. Hospice of Lancaster, 803-286-1472. Caregiver support: The Fort Mill/Tega Cay Adult Day Care Center has a family caregiver support group at 10 a.m. on the second Thursday of each month at 105 Lestina Court in Fort Mill. Anyone caring for a family member is welcome to attend. Support, training and educational information is offered. Facilitators are Vickey Dodge, director of the Fort Mill/Tega Cay Adult Day Care Center, and Deb Lewis, caregiver advocate for the Catawba Area Agency on Aging. Respite is available onsite with notice. Contact 396-5336 or 329-9670. Piedmont Area Scleroderma Support Group, counseling and aid to sufferers of scleroderma. Call Elaine Sealy, 803-366-5009, randesealy@comporium.net, and Sherron Coleman, 803-684-3100, sherroncoleman@bellsouth.net. Piedmont Tri-County chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Call Betsey O’Brien, 802-4484. The Western York County Parkinson Support Group meets the second Thursday of each month. This group is for individuals with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, their families and friends, caregivers, the medical community, and the community at large. Call Martha Fowler, 704-286-3714. 2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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ADVERTISERS

Automotive

Funeral Homes

Jewelers

Collins Auto Repair.................................................23

Hartley Funeral Home..........................................38 Palmetto Funeral Home.......................................48

KW Gems...................................,.................................16

Carpet cleaning

Optometrists

Remedic Restoration...............................................90

Gardening

Fort Mill Vision Center...........................................59

Churches

Chirp ’n Chatter........................................................23 Organic Plant Health..............................................38

Pharmacy

All Nations Church..................................................82 First Baptist Church of Fort Mill...............................81 Grace Community United Methodist Church..................................................................................83 Pleasant Valley Baptist Church...............................82 Real Life Assembly....................................................82 Tega Cay Baptist Church......................................81

Bilo....................................................................................24

Health / Beauty / Fitness Carolina Pilates.........................................................59 Palmetto Skin & Laser...........................................53

Health Care

Décor

Real estate Baxter Village - Clear Springs...............................2 First Properties - Elaine Siegel....................................75 Century 21- Hawkins Realty.................................3 Coldwell Banker - Kathryn Miller........................4 Allen Tate - Martha Kinard ..................................36 Allen Tate - Mary Beth Shealy..............................16 Allen Tate - Pam Orsburn.....................................16 Allen Tate - Suzanne Nguyen..............................38 True Homes.................................................................49 Allen Tate - Vicki Waier..........................................90

The Cleaners...............................................................90

Carolina Medical Consultants ..........................57 Central Carolina ENT.............................................56 Carolinas Medical Center.....................................58 Hear USA........................................................................4 Palmetto Rehabilitation.........................................57 Piedmont Medical Center.............55, back page Riverview Medical Center....................................56 Rock Hill Eye Center................................................78 Smith Physical Therapy...........................................59 Springs Memorial Hospital...................................60 The Surgery Center at Edgewater..................57

Education

Home improvement

The Peach Stand.......................................................77

Kids R Kids....................................................................37 Palisades Episcopal...................................................35 St. Anne’s Catholic....................................................81 USC-Lancaster............................................................37

Avanti Tile and Stone...............................................20 Champion Floor.........................................................72

Salon

Parawoods Furniture..............................................38

Dentists / Orthodontists Michele Jasper, DDS................................................54

Dry Cleaning

Recreation Leroy Springs Recreation Complex.........68-69

Restaurants

Esther’s Hair Styling..................................................48

Hotels/Motels

Senior Services

Financial Services

Microtel Inns & Suites..............................................20

Blackwell's Tax Service...........................................72 Family Trust Credit Union....................................75 Founders Federal Credit Union.......................72

Insurance

Agape Senior................................................................59 Carehaven Assited Living......................................57 Westminster Towers................................................91

Allstate - Corey Hinson............................................5 State Farm - Phil Nase..........................................90

Special My Carolina Town.....................................................16

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INDEX of contents A AARP tax assistance ................................86 Aid organizations........................................84 Airports ..........................................................18 Andrew Jackson State Park..................68 Anne Springs Close Greenway ................................................................62-63 Apartments ..................................................17 Area attractions ..........................................67 Arts ............................................................68, 84 Athletics, school...........................................28

B Banks..................................................................21 Booster clubs................................................33 Buses..................................................................18 Business ........................................73-78 Chambers of Commerce ................74 Major employers ..................................74 Media outlets................................................78

C Cable TV..........................................................21 Carowinds ......................................................67 Carolina Thread Trail ........................94-95 Catawba River ......................................92-93 Census..............................................................40 Chambers of Commerce......................74 Churches ............................................83 Civic groups ..........................................85-86 Colleges & universities ............................37 Community policing..................................46 Credit unions................................................21 Crime rates....................................................47

D Day care centers........................................36 Demographics ......................................10-11 Average home prices ........................10 Education levels ..........................................10 Gender make-up ..................................11 Households..............................................10 Occupations..................................................11 Racial make-up ............................................11 Dining guide ..........................................76-77 Doctors ........................................52-54 Driversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; licenses ..........................................19

E Elected officials ....................................44-45 Emergency phone numbers ................49 Emergency sirens........................................49 Employment office.....................................24 Environmnetl groups.................................86

F Festivals ............................................................65

Fire departments........................................48 Fort Mill About the town ......................................9 Crime rates..............................................47 Demographics ................................10-11 Elected officials................................44-45 Festivals ......................................................65 Fire department ....................................48 History........................................................10 Hospital, planned ..................................52 Library ................................................22-23 Impact fees ..............................................27 Parks ............................................................70 Property taxes................................42-43 Fort Mill Times...................................................78

G Garden clubs ................................................86 Government ................................50-59

H Health agencies ..........................................52 Health care ..................................51-60 History.......................................................12-13 Home prices, average..............................10 Hospital, Fort Mill ......................................53

I Impact fees ....................................................35 Indian Land About the area ........................................9 Crime rates..............................................47 Demographics ................................10-11 Elected officials................................44-45 Festivals ......................................................65 Fire departments ..................................48 History........................................................11 Library ................................................22-23 Parks ............................................................70 Property taxes................................54-55 Schools........................................29, 31, 33 Insurance ratings ..................................48

L Landsford Canal State Park ..........67-68 Law enforcement agencies ..................47 Leroy Springs Rec. Complex......................71 Libraries ..........................................................22 Liquor stores ................................................77 LYNX rail line ..............................................18

M Mail ....................................................................21 Maps Fire districts..............................................50 Neighborhoods ..............................14-15 Polling precincts ....................................41 Schools........................................................30 Major employers ........................................74

Media outlets................................................78 Medical providers ........................52-54 Moving & storage companies..............17 Municipal service agencies....................86 Museum ..........................................................67

N Nation Ford Greenway................................

P Parks, local ......................................................70 Parks, state ..............................................67-68 Patriotic organizations ............................86 Pharmacies ....................................................54 Population student, current..............................27, 29 student, growth..............................27, 29 Preschools & private schools ..............36 PTOs and PTAs ..........................................33 Public Safety..................................46-50

R Realtors............................................................17 Recycling..........................................................21 Roadwork ......................................................19 Recreation ..................................88-105 Anne Springs Close Greenway ..............................................................62-63 Area attractions ....................................67 Arts ..............................................................68 Carowinds ................................................67 Festivals ......................................................65 Leroy Springs Rec. Complex ..............71 Parks, local ................................................70 Recreation sports ........................70-71 Tega Cay Parks & Rec........................71 YMCA ........................................................71 Recycling ....................................................21 Restaurants ..................................76-77 Retirement communities ......................17

S Schools ..........................................32-49 After graduation....................................31 Athletics booster clubs ..........................33 Attendance zones ................................30 Calendars ..................................................33 Career clusters ......................................35 Colleges & universities ......................37 Day care centers, preschools & private schools..................................36 Education levels, average..................10 Enroll, how to ........................................28 Enrollment, current............................27, 29 Hours ..........................................................33 Impact fees ..............................................35 Locations ..........................................30. 33 Pay to play.................................................28 Performing arts ......................................34

Phone numbers ....................................33 PTOs and PTAs ....................................33 SAT scores, average ............................31 School board members....................44 Special needs services ......................32 Spending, per student ........................31 Student population, current ..27, 29 Student population, growth....27, 29 Student-teacher ratios ......................31 Superintendents ....................31, 44-45 State report cards................................31 Teacher salaries, average ..................31 Social clubs ....................................................86 Social services ..............................................57 Sports, recreation ..............................70-71 State parks..............................................67-68 Support groups ..........................................87

T Taxes ..........................................................54-55 Tega Cay About the city ..........................................9 Crime rates....................................................47 Demographics ......................................10-11 Elected officials ....................................44-45 Festivals ......................................................65 Fire department ....................................48 Parks ............................................................70 Tega Cay Parks & Rec ............................71 Property taxes................................54-55 Temporary housing ............................17 Transportation ............................................18

U Unemployment assistance.....................24 United Way of York County ................84 Unity Presbyterian Church ..................80 Utilities ......................................................20-21

V Volunteer opportunities ............84-87 Aid organizations........................................84 Arts and recreation ............................68 Civic groups......................................85-86 Environmental groups........................86 Garden clubs ..........................................86 Patriotic organizations........................86 Social clubs ....................................................86 Support groups ..........................................87 Voting, registration & precincts ..........41

W Water and sewer.........................................21

Y YMCA ..............................................................71 2010-â&#x20AC;&#x2122;11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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Car Insurance with PERSONAL SERVICE.

NO EXTRA CHARGE. Are you there? You deserve a competitive rate on car insurance—and free personal service from me, your State Farm® agent. Let me help you find the coverage that’s right for you. Call me today for more information.

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State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Indemnity Company • Bloomington, IL

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2010-’11 NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE

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Quality Care Close to Home

We welcome new patients and the opportunity to provide you with personal,

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PIEDMONT FAMILY PRACTICE AT TEGA CAY 773 Stockbridge Drive Fort Mill, SC 29708 (803) 547-5447 www.PiedmontFPatTegaCay.com

PIEDMONT INTERNAL MEDICINE AT BAXTER VILLAGE 502 Sixth Baxter Crossing, Suite A Fort Mill, SC 29708 (803) 802-2424 www.PiedmontIMatBaxter.com

convenient and comprehensive care. Our offices accept most insurances and Medicare; same- or next-day appointments are available.

PIEDMONT URGENT CARE CENTER AT BAXTER VILLAGE 502 Sixth Baxter Crossing Fort Mill, SC 29708 (803) 396-8100 www.PiedmontUrgentCareBaxter.com Open every day, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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