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Western Watch Western York County Newcomers’ Guide | 2009-2010
Our towns The arts
Farming Schools Churches
Recreation & civic life
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The Power of a Heartbeat.
Robin Clinton Cardiac Patient, Rock Hill (pictured with daughter, Allison)
An active wife and mother of three. A shocking discovery. A second chance. Robin was making a quick trip to the grocery store when searing chest pain forced her to park the cart and rush to the doctor. Her physician immediately sent her to the cardiologists at Piedmont Medical Center where within minutes, a cardiac catheterization revealed total blockage of one artery. The team repaired the blockage, and today Robin is enjoying every heartbeat of her hectic, yet rewarding life. That’s powerful. That’s Piedmont.
Powerful Medicine, Made Personal.
For physician referral, call 803-329-1234
www.piedmontmedicalcenter.com
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Introduction
From the editor Hello, and welcome to western York County! Whether it’s the wellregarded schools, the rolling peachtree-covered hillsides, or simply the laid-back atmosphere that brought you here, we’re glad to have you as a new neighbor. No matter where you’ve chosen to settle down — York, Clover, one of the many smaller communities, or even all by yourself on a back country road without a neighbor for miles — you’ll find we’re all a big family in western York County. This area has a deep and rich history including some major Revolutionary War battles fought here on York County soil. The locals are proud of this history, and you’ll find many groups and organizations devoted to preserving it for future generations. Western York County has also become something of a hub of cultural activity over the years, with many a potter, painter, writer and performing artist calling the area home. By choosing this area you’ve become a part of small-town life with all the quirks and idiosyncrasies that make the cast of characters you’ll now call neighbors so interesting to get to know. Our communities encompass all the charms of the quintessential Southern town – beautiful Victorian era homes with wide front porches perfect for sipping sweet tea in the afternoon sun, quiet neighborhood streets lined with enormous old-growth trees, and a vibrant downtown business district. And if you want a little more excitement, the big city is only a short drive away, and you’ve got choices – Charlotte, Gastonia and Rock Hill are all just minutes away. Want to go fishing, or spend a day tooling around on a Jet Ski, or party with new friends on a pontoon boat? Lake Wylie is even closer. And there are plenty of things to occupy your time. Sign up for a committee with your local government or join a local civic organization. Volunteer at a local library branch or with a local charity. Take some time to drop in on a local sporting event — the rivalry between York and Clover high schools rivals any college or professional beef in the nation. If nothing else, get to know your neighbors, discover some of our local customs and, above all, enjoy your new home. We hope you find this “Western Watch” helpful as you settle into your new surroundings. If you find you have questions this guide doesn’t answer, please give me a call (684-9903), or shoot me an e-mail (news@enquirerherald.com) so we can make it even better next year. You’re part of the family now, so make yourself at home. — Jonathan Allen, editor
Table of contents COVER STORY: Farming – the foundation of our communities ..............7 Our towns Clover ..............................................................9 Government contacts ....................................12 Public safety ..................................................13 Taxes ............................................................13 Voter registration ............................................13 Western York County ................................10-11 York ................................................................8 Getting started Animal shelters ..............................................17 Driver’s licenses..............................................15 Post offices ....................................................15 Recycling & garbage service ..........................16 Utilities ..........................................................14 Community Annual events ................................................19 “Best of the West” ....................................24-25 Chambers of commerce............................24-25 4 Western Watch Magazine
History ......................................................26-27 Libraries ....................................................26-27 Local clubs and civic groups ..........................18 Restaurants....................................................23 Schools Clover School District ....................................28 Immunizations ................................................30 School calendars & registration ......................31 York School District ........................................29 Recreation and the Arts Escape to the great outdoors ....................32-33 Local parks ....................................................33 Music ............................................................34 Nearby attractions ..........................................32 Performing and fine arts groups ................34-35
Churches Directory of churches ................................36-37
Western Watch 2009-2010 Western York County’s newcomers’ guide Editor Jonathan Allen Advertising staff Mary Pettus Kristin Alley
Contributors Paul Boger Andy Burriss Melissa Cherry Beth Covington Shannon Greene Tracy Greene Brad Harvey Mike Laughlin Adam MacInnis Adam O’Daniel Daniel Plassmann Jim Stratakos
“Western Watch” is an annual publication of the Enquirer-Herald, a McClatchy Co.-owned community newspaper serving York, Clover, Hickory Grove, Sharon, McConnells and Smyrna. Phone: (803) 684-9903 Fax: (803) 628-0300 www.enquirerherald.com “Western Watch” is distributed in June to the York and Clover Chambers of Commerce, real estate agencies and other areas throughout western York County. To include items for publication in next year’s “Western Watch,” contact us at the number above or e-mail news@enquirerherald.com.
Advertiser index Badcock Furniture ..........................................................39 Boney Insurance ..............................................................2 Cauthen Family Dental......................................................6 Clover Auto Parts ..........................................................31 Clover Chamber ............................................................24 Historic Downtown York ............................................20-22 The Enquirer-Herald........................................................17 Faith Realty ....................................................................16 Fascinating Rhythm ........................................................34 Mattress Factory Outlet ..................................................30 Medicap Pharmacy ........................................................30 The Peach Tree..............................................................16 Piedmont Internal Medicine ............................................................26 Piedmont Medical Center ..................................................3 Sloan Financial ..................................................Back cover Stacy’s ..........................................................................35 Summerfest ..................................................................23 T.E. Jones & Sons..........................................................31 Town of Clover ..............................................................14 York Chamber ................................................................25 YorkCountyMoms.com ..................................................27 York Electric Cooperative..................................................15 Yorkville Pharmacy............................................................5
Don’t miss it! If you missed advertising in the 2009-2010 edition of “Western Watch,” start planning now for next year. More than 5,000 copies of “Western Watch” are distributed to over 70 locations across western York County. Don’t wait! Call the Enquirer-Herald today at (803) 684-9903 to reserve your space in the 20102011 guide.
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TEXT CoverHERE story
Farming The foundation of our communities By Mike Laughlin
Filbert’s peach orchards, McConnell’s dairy farms, Blackjack’s cotton fields. No matter where you go in York County, you will not be able to travel more than 10 miles in any direction before stumbling upon what has been an important, and in many cases, an essential part of life for South Carolinians. Farms. Since the 1700s when York County was founded, certain areas, such as the rural western half of the county, have become good indicators of why agriculture, behind tourism, is the second leading industry in South Carolina. The warm Peidmont air, the wet springs and the forgiving winters have created a million dollar industry for those willing to work under the sun. However, the line, once clearly drawn, that separates the farmer from the rest of society is beginning to blur. As more and more people turn to home gardens and as the prices of fuel and fertilizer continue to soar, many ordinary citizens are becoming part-time farmers, and many big-business farmers are struggling to keep their heads above water. But many in the area still do it, not for the money, but for the love of the work and the love of the land. “Watching something grow to harvest, to start from the beginning and see it come full circle — that’s my favorite part,” said peach farmer Dori Sanders. Born on her family’s Filbert peach farm, Sanders has been harvesting the fruit her entire life, on the land her grandfather bought in 1916. Although her farm is certified by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, she sells her produce each summer from only a small open-air stand along Highway 321, with no electricity or amenities of any kind, other than a display table and rocking chairs for her and her family. And it’s exactly the way she likes it. That way her peaches are as fresh as possible. “We go out each morning, only pick enough for the peach stand,” she said. “Sometimes we’ll go out again just before noon, but never later than that.” The peaches begin coming in May and Sanders said she never knows exactly how many she produces. Her
BY SHANNON GREENE
The York Downtown Association sponsors a farmers market on Saturdays from April to November on North Congress Street.
part-time staff of less than 10 people only pick what is needed. “I don’t ever give it a thought,” she said. She has enough to get the enjoyment of meeting her customers and spending a day at the stand. Sanders is an author as well, a way to support herself alongside the peach farming. She has written books in eight languages including “Dori Sanders Country Cooking” and “Clover,” a fictional work about a little girl growing up on a peach farm that has become
required reading for elementary school students, Sanders said. “It’s an overwhelming joy,” she said about her ability to teach children about farming life. For Sanders money, even in the poor economy, has not been as much of a nemesis as her single most common struggle — the weather. “Farmers develop a strong commonality. We all are affected by the weather in the same way,” she said. Please turn to page 38 Western Watch Magazine 7
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Our towns When incorporated: Village of Yorkville in 1841, Town of Yorkville in 1896, Town of York in 1915
Daniel Barrett, owner of Whippoorwill Ranch, takes his horse and carriage out on Congress Street. He offers rides Tuesdays and Thursdays from about 5 to 10 p.m.
Area: more than 6.15 square miles Form of government: Council-manager Origin of name: Settled by emigrants from Pennsylvania and Virginia, the town of Yorkville was established as the county seat in 1785.
BY ADAM MACINNIS
York A seat of law. A central site for county government. Now, a thriving, growing arts and business center. York has a vibrant history and an even more appealing future, as its downtown becomes a haven for eclectic shoppers and the surrounding areas are filled with large businesses. But the town has always been the center of an ever-growing county. York began unofficially when a courthouse was built at Furgus’ Crossroads in 1786. Although “Yorkville” would not become officially incorporated until 1841, it is referred to in documents dating back as far as 1790. The suffix “-ville” was no longer used after 1915. Since the building of that courthouse, York has always served as the county seat and a center of merchant life. Another courthouse was built in 1823 and remodeled in 1894 after a fire. The county’s current courthouse was built in 1914. Yorkville became the home of South Carolina’s first newspaper north of Columbia. The weekly publication was called “The Pioneer” and was a precursor to “The Yorkville Enquirer,” now the
“Enquirer-Herald.” York was home to the Kings Mountain Military Academy, which closed before the Civil War. Before the war, York was known as “the Charleston of the Upcountry” and held the highest per-capita income in the state. Like many other Southern towns, York suffered after the Civil War. But times began looking up again in the 1890s with the creation of textile mills and the expansion of lumber work. Since then, York’s industries have become diversified. Now, the town includes a growing commercial community. Large businesses have changed the town’s image and a push in the late 1990s to revitalize downtown has created a new artistic center for the county. York has one of the largest historic districts in the state. It includes more than 180 historic structures and landmarks.
2006 population: 7,465 (estimate) 2000 population: 6,985 1990 population: 6,709 Median age: 34.2 years Under 18: 27.9% 65 and older: 14.5% White Non-Hispanic: 53.4% Black: 40.3% Hispanic: 5% Male: 46.2% Female: 53.8% 2005 median household income: $32,000
Sources: City of York Web site and “Yorkville to York,” a history compiled by J. Edward Lee and presented by the Yorkville Historical Society.
Check it out! York is home to Windy Hill Orchard, the only working apple orchard and cider mill in South Carolina. In keeping with the traditional heritage of the Olde English District, Windy Hill produces an English-style draft cider as well as classic American sweet cider. Its Holiday wassail, apple and other fruit butters are produced seasonally. The orchard is at 1860 Black Hwy., York. For more details, call 684-0690 or visit www.windyhillorchard.com. 8 Western Watch Magazine
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Our towns When incorporated: 1887 Area: more than 2.5 square miles Form of government: Council-manager Origin of the name: A train that used to pass through the town in the late 1800s would stop at the four-leaf clover patch.
2006 population: 4,427 2000 population: 4,014 1990 population: 3,502 Median age: 34.2 years Under 18: 28.9% 65 and older: 12.8% White Non-Hispanic: 75.6% Black: 21% Hispanic: 1.9% Male: 47.5% Female: 52.5% 2005 median household income: $39,100
Feis Chlobhair, Clover’s annual Gaelic festival. FILE PHOTO
Clover When David Jackson and his wife, Mary Morrison, left Ireland, they never thought of the impact they would have on the area that would become Clover. All they knew was the promise of the New World and a hope that life could be better. Jackson earned a 903-acre land grant from the King of England in the mid-1700s. He and his wife settled in the Bethel area east of Clover. After earning enough money in the Revolutionary War, Jackson bought 1,700 more acres. Through the years, many families have sought that same happiness the Jacksons knew could be found here. Not more than 100 families lived in the area before train lines connected Gastonia, N.C., to Chester and points beyond in 1874. The first passenger trains started rolling through the area in 1876. A stop on the way, the Clover area became the place where trains filled their boilers with water.
The water would often slosh over the top, spilling on the ground. Lush clover patches began to grow in the area. The area soon became known as the “Clover Patch.” Later, it became known simply as Clover. But Clover had yet to become a town. The first town surveys were conducted in 1876. A post office was constructed in 1884 and, despite an earthquake in 1886, Clover was chartered in 1887. Industry began moving into the town when the Clover Spinning Mill opened in 1890. The mill’s creator, Beaty Smith, would become known as a “Founder of Clover.” Today, businesses continue to open in the area and the town has been affected by the growth boom striking all of the county. Clover maintains a rustic charm and small-town environment that can be seen while walking down Main Street. Source: “...And Clover Began to Grow.” Author unknown.
Did you know? In 2007, Clover celebrated its Irish heritage by becoming sister cities with Larne, Northern Ireland. To honor the heritage and relationship, each June the town holds an annual Scotch-Irish Festival, Feis Chlobhair. It’s a chance for people to hear bagpipes, watch Scottish games and taste a bit of haggis, or sheep innards, according to the town’s Web site. Western Watch Magazine 9
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Our towns
Eating in at the Sharon Grill.
FILE PHOTO
Sharon
Hickory Grove
In the late 1800s, railroad tracks acted as fertilizer for the growth of small towns across the country. When the first crews laid the track to Blacksburg in 1888, it was only one year later when Sharon would be incorporated officially as a town. Before it became a town, Sharon was still a busy area. Two roads came together in the area that would become a town: the Chesterville-Shelbyville Road and another that came in from Yorkville and Sutton Springs. Sharon Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church stood in the extreme southern limit of the town. Before the lines were officially drawn for Sharon, the church had more than 150 members. A later deal with the railroad companies allowed the train to stop in Sharon, but only if the town built a railroad depot. A large number of stores opened because of the train stop, and it was predicted that Sharon would grow to be as large as York. It wasn’t meant to be, however. Stores that opened began closing, not to be replaced. Despite that, the town’s one square mile is home to more than 400 people today. Sharon is also home to the Museum of Western York County. The museum features approximately 1,000 items in the Sharon Community Center.
In 1904, an unnamed journalist called Hickory Grove “...a lovely place and healthy.” He described a small town lined with shops and big leafy trees “over which four churches and a two story school are guards and sentinel.” The town’s history stretches back to 1831, when Hickory Grove’s post office opened in James McKinney’s store. The town came into existence when he built his store at the corner of Quinn’s Road and Smith’s Ford Road, and was incorporated in 1888. McKinney dubbed the town “Hickory Grove” when he applied for postmaster. The name stuck even after Thomas G. Wylie became postmaster. The small town continued to grow, and a number of businesses appeared. A hotel was opened, notorious for the parties held there. In the early 1900s there were six mail routes and two doctors in the town. Families such as the Whitesides became prominent in politics. Hickory Grove High School fielded a baseball team. Hickory Grove native W.S. Wilkerson invented a new processor for sorghum milling. Today, Hickory Grove residents still enjoy the small town life. An elementary school and a park serves the community.
Source: “History of Sharon,” an article by Walter A. Kennedy found in the book “Remembering Sharon” by Doris M. Thomas and Martha Helen Kennedy.
When incorporated: 1889 Area: 1 square mile Form of government: Mayor-council Origin of the name: Sharon ARP Church was established in 1800. An early post office was called Sharon Valley. In the Bible, “Rose of Sharon” refers to Jesus Christ. 10 Western Watch Magazine
2006 population: 471 (estimate) 2000 population: 421 1990 population: 270 Median age: 33.6 years Under 18: 28.5% 65 and older: 12.4% White Non-Hispanic: 94.5% Black: 3.8% Male: 49.2% Female: 50.8% 2005 median household income: $36,900 (estimate)
Source: “York and Western York County: The History of a Southern Eden” by J. Edward Lee and Jerry L. West.
When incorporated: 1888 Area: 1.3 square miles Form of government: Mayor-council Origin of name: Named for a grove of hickory trees, first mentioned on survey maps in the 1850s.
2006 population: 392 (estimate) 2000 population: 337 1990 population: 287 Median age: 36.2 years Under 18: 27.3% 65 and older: 11.3% White Non-Hispanic: 67.7% Black: 28.8% Male: 51% Female: 49% 2005 median household income: $46,100
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Our towns
Mikayla Simon, 5, of Clover, checks out one of the tractors on display at the McConnells Tractor Show in McConnells.
BY MELISSA CHERRY
McConnells When incorporated: 1906 as McConnellsville. The “ville” was dropped in 1951. Land area: 2 square miles Form of government: Mayorcouncil. Origin of name: Named after an early prominent family. 2006 population: 324 2000 population: 287 1990 population: 157 Median age: 36 years Under 18: 28% 65 and older: 9% White Non-Hispanic: 71% Black: 28% Hispanic: 1% Male: 51% Female: 49% 2005 median household income: $43,900
When basketball season rolls around, McConnells lights up. The small western York County town that has more cows than its 300 or so residents has reason to be proud. It’s the birthplace of Ivory Latta, a 2003 York Comprehensive High graduate who became the all-time leading scorer in South Carolina basketball history. She joined the WNBA team Atlanta Dream in 2008. Now, the words “Home of Ivory Latta” adorn the welcome sign as visitors drive into McConnells. McConnells exemplifies the ever-changing face of the county around it. The town was incorporated as “McConnellsville” in 1906, but its surrounding area boasts of a history that extends as far back as before the Revolutionary War. Historic Brattonsville, a nearby homestead that holds a McConnells address, was the site of the Battle of Huck’s Defeat in 1780. British Capt. Christian Huck was sent with a troop of light calvary to apprehend Col. William Bratton and Capt. John McClure before they had a chance to enlist help to fight the British. Bratton and his forces beat Huck near his plantation. The battle revived South Carolinians during a time when defeat by Britain seemed inevitable. Social life in McConnells has largely centered around churches or in general stores. Sources: “York and Western York County: The History of a Southern Eden” by J. Edward Lee and Jerry L. West, the Historic Brattonsville Web site found at www.chmuseums.org, and the Ivory Latta biography page, found online at tarheelblue.collegesports.com.
Smyrna Life in Western York County is often focused on the quiet comforts of rural existence. If you like small towns, Smyrna is the place to be. Smyrna holds the title of smallest municipality in South Carolina. The town’s borders hold one mile of territory. A railroad and depot was established in 1888, and F.D. Horn built a mercantile business nearby soon after. Then came a grocery store, a drug store and a dry goods business. Fifty years before the town came into being, Smyrna Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church provided a place of worship for area residents. When the town incorporated in 1895, it would take the church’s name as its own. In 1924, the completion of the “West Road” between York and Smyrna, through Hickory Grove and Sharon, shrank the town’s population. People found it easier to move to larger areas thanks to the road. As the population began to dwindle, Smyrna’s high school was closed. Southern Railway decided to shut down the train depot. By the eve of the Great Depression, the telegraph office had also closed and only three stores were still open for business. Today the town still has a post office and, with only 59 residents in the 2000 Census, is still the smallest municipality in South Carolina. Source: “York and Western York County: The History of a Southern Eden” by. J. Edward Lee and Jerry L. West.
When incorporated: 1895 Area: 1 mile Form of government: Mayor-council
2006 population: 72 2000 population: 59 1990 population: 57 Median age: 35 years Under 18: 29% 65 and older: 17% White NonHispanic: 92% Black: 8% Male: 46% Female: 54% 2005 median household income: $34,100
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Our towns
Government
contacts
Clover Town Council
Smyrna Town Council
Clover School Board
Town Administrator: Allison Harvey, 222-9495. Mayor: Donnie Grice 112 Ridge Ave., 222-4374, 704-913-3296 (cell). Council: Ann Harvey, 612 South Main St., 222-9414. Wes Spurrier, 106 Cherokee Drive, 222- 9033. Jay Dover, 102 Long St., 222-3367. Granita Boyd, 406 Carver St., 222-6238. Robert Jackson, 110 Carver St., 222-4301. Bruce Henderson, 423-B Knox St., 704-747-0964. The council meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at the Clover School District Administration Office, 604 Bethel St.
Mayor: Chris Faulkner, P.O. Box 65, 925-2304. Council: Alan Faulkner, P.O. Box 65, 925-2304. Bernadette Faulkner, 1011 Main St., 925-2695. Bob Faulkner, 1011 Main St., 925-2695. Phillip Jackson, 980 E. Main St., Smyrna, 925-1596. The council meets at 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at Town Hall. Members are elected atlarge to two-year terms in November of even-numbered years.
Chairman: G. Franklin Pendleton II, Clover seat, 110 Jamestowne Circle, Clover, 222-3026. Vice chairman: Joe Gordon, Clover seat, 119 Hillcrest Ave., 222-7982, home. Bethany seat: Jack Grier, P.O. Box 1011, Clover, 627-0778. At-large seat: Melanie Wilson, 19 Shipmaster Court, Lake Wylie, 704-906-1973 At-large seat: Mack McCarter, 1461 Paul Boyd Road, Clover, 222-1251. Bethel seat: Kathy Cantrell, 11 Shipmaster Court, Lake Wylie, 831-7642, home; 222-3312, work. Bowling Green seat: Bob Magee, 5099 Willow Pond Road, Lake Wylie, 831-2955, home. Superintendent: Dr. Marc Sosne, 810-8000. The Clover school board, representing York County District 2, meets the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the administration building at 604 Bethel St.
Hickory Grove Town Council Town Hall: 925-2625. Mayor: Larry Earl, 5967 Wylie Ave., 925-2011. Council: David Rhodes, 2010 Smith Ford Road, 925-2591. Harry James Good, 6277 Wylie Ave., 925-2361. John Blackwood, 5035 Peachtree St., 925-1441. Kyle Wyatt, 5749 Wylie Ave., 925-2585. The council meets at 7 p.m. the second Monday of each month at Town Hall, 6001 Wylie Ave.
McConnells Town Council Town Hall: 684-5534 Mayor: John Harshaw Jr., 320 Simpson Road, 6846944. Council: William “Bill” Covington, 3955 Chester Hwy., 6843864. William “Bill” Nance, 399 Lowrys Road, 684-4759. Kenneth Patrick, 4148 Chester Hwy., 684-0820. Larry Plyler, 920 Davis Lever St., 684-7234. The council meets at 7 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at Town Hall, 131 York Hwy.
Sharon Town Council Town Hall: 927-1927. Mayor: Beverly Blair, P.O. Box 122, 3810 York St., 927-7503. Council: Bob Barnette, P.O. Box 21, 927-7513. Kathy Montgomery, 3937 Woodlawn St., 927-1709. John Stewart, 1753 Dr. Seye Lane, 927-0787. Richard Westridge, 3807 York St., 658-5055 The council meets the third Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Sharon Town Hall, 4025 Woodlawn St. 12 Western Watch Magazine
York City Council Interim-City Manager: Charles Helms, 684-2341. Mayor: Eddie Lee, 202 W. Madison St., 628-6615. Council: District 1: Charles Johnson, 107 Washington St., 684-0313. District 2: Edward Brown, 30 Maiden Lane, 6840791. District 3: Josephine Castle, 8 Center St., 684-9399. District 4: Tony Moore, 201 Springdale Drive, 6847130. District 5: John Smith, 214 Barron Park, 684-6649. District 6: Mark Boley, P.O. Box 224, 684-7187. The council meets at 6 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at York City Hall, 10 N. Roosevelt St. Both mayor and council members serve four-year terms.
York School Board Chair: Chris Revels, seat 3, 2121 Legion Road, Smyrna, 925-2840, home; (864) 936-7921, work. Vice-chair: Chris Stephenson, at-large seat, 2329 One Iron Drive,York, 684-2611, home; 372-7774, work. Seat 1: Dr. Al Johnson, 457 Riding Trail Road, York, 628-1698. Seat 2: Mike Smith, 715 Sweet Meadow Lane, York, 684-6912. Seat 4: Betty Johnson, 212 W. Madison St., 6845281. Seat 5: Melissa Ramsey, 3777 Wilson Chapel, Sharon, 927-3211. At-large: Shirley Harris, 2068 Apple Blossom Road, York, 684-3733. Superintendent: Dr. Vernon Prosser, 684-9916. The York school board, representing York County District 1, meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the York One School District office, 1475 E. Liberty St.
York County Council District 2 (Clover, Lake Wylie): Tom Smith, 938 Timber Creek Drive, York, 631-4116. District 3 (western York County): Joe Cox, 3009 E. Pratt St., Sharon, 927-0728. District 5 (McConnells, parts of Rock Hill): Curwood Chappell, 925 East Chappell Road, Rock Hill, 3241062, home; 366-3262, fax. The council meets at 6 p.m. the first and third Monday each month in the county Agricultural Building, 6 S. Congress St. in York.
S.C. House of Representatives District 29 (York, western York County): Dennis Moss, 306 Silver Circle, Gaffney, or 422A Blatt Bldg., Columbia, (864) 487-2121, home; (864) 761-6353, work; (803) 734-3073, Columbia. District 47 (Clover): Herb Kirsh, P.O. Box 31, Clover, or 532A Blatt Bldg., Columbia, 222-9430 (Clover); (803) 734-3071 (Columbia). District 49 (part of York, Rock Hill): John Richard King, P.O. Box 11555, Rock Hill, or 309A Blatt Bldg., Columbia, 980-5454, home; 377-1144, work; 803212-6873, Columbia.
S.C. Senate District 14: Harvey Peeler, P.O. Box 742, Gaffney or 213 Gressette Bldg., Columbia, (864) 489-3766, home; (864) 489-9994, work; (803) 212-6430, Columbia. District 15: Robert W. Hayes, 1486 Cureton Drive, Rock Hill or 205 Gressette Bldg., Columbia, 328-8532, home; 324-2400, work; (803) 212-6410, Columbia.
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TEXT Our towns HERE
your
taxes at work
In addition to the statewide sales and use tax of 6 percent, York County has capital projects and hospitality sales taxes. ◆ Pennies for Progress: The sales and use tax program in York County adds 1 percent to goods purchased in the county for road improvements. Voters approved the 1-cent on the dollar tax in 1997 and renewed it in 2003 for an additional seven years. The county may ask voters to approve this a third time as early as 2010, though money troubles have plagued the first program, leaving several projects uncompleted 10 years later. ◆ Hospitality tax: In incorporated areas of York County, there’s an additional 2 percent tax applied to the proceeds of sales of prepared food and beverages sold in eating/drinking establishments. Restaurants in Hickory Grove, McConnells, Sharon and Smyrna add 1 percent for the county. Clover and York also have this tax for each municipality. State law requires the money be spent on tourism-related marketing and attractions. In the county, the money is used for Convention and Visitors Bureau funding, Culture and Heritage Commission funding and at council’s discretion. Groups wanting to form an agricultural equestrian center will use some of this money for a feasibility study.
York County property taxes The county collects both county and city taxes. Citizens living within all municipalities are billed on their personal property as well as real estate. The tax rates vary by municipality because of fire districts and other varying bond amounts. Personal property taxes in York County help pay for a variety of public services, including schools, law enforcement, libraries and roads. Personal properties that are taxed include automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, motor homes, campers, trailers, watercraft, airplanes, furniture, fixtures and equipment owned by businesses. Taxes on real property are computed at either 4 or 6 percent of the market value depending on ownership. The tax rate of the district you live in is then applied. All property classified as a primary residence is taxed at 4 percent. These properties are not subject to school operating taxes. If the owner is 65 years of age, 100 percent disabled through a state or federal agency, or blind, they may be eligible for a reduction in taxes through the Homestead Exemption Program. This is a state funded program that exempts the first $50,000 fair market value of the home from taxes. The owner must have been a resident of South Carolina for a year prior to Dec. 31 of the previous year to be eligible for the current year. All other real properties are taxed at 6 percent unless they are classified as manufacturing. Also, each municipalities and school districts have various millage rates on property tax. For property tax questions, call York County Auditor’s Office at 684-8501 or 9097505 or your local town hall.
Keeping you
safe York County has many agencies that provide police, fire, rescue and other services to the county’s residents. For any emergency, immediately dial 911. The York County Sheriff’s Office patrols the entire 685-mile county, while the municipalities of York and Clover operate police departments. The S.C. Highway Patrol handles traffic patrols and investigates accidents in the unincorporated areas of the county. Under direction of Cotton Howell, the Emergency Management office for the entire county is at 155 Johnston St. in Rock Hill. 329-7270 The EMS ambulance service in the county is run by Piedmont Medical Center, while volunteer squads based geographically also assist county residents. The following is a list of volunteer rescue squads, fire departments and police agencies serving the area:
Fire departments York County Fire Prevention Bureau, P.O. Box 11705, 909-7620; Fire Marshal Randy Thompson. Bethany-Santiago, 13167 S.C. 55 West, Clover, 222-3010; Chief David Gordon. Bethel, 5598 S.C. 557, Lake Wylie, 831-7988; Chief Don Love. Bullock Creek, Route 1, Sharon, 927-7246; Chief Leon Maloney. Clover, 115 Bethel St., Clover, 222-9495; Chief Charlie Love. Hickory Grove, 6009 Wylie Ave., 925-2706; Chief Kenny Gilfillan. McConnells, 131 York Hwy., 684-5534; Chief Eddie Workman. Newport, 5198 Hampton Ridge Road, 366-3638; Chief Carl Faulk. Sharon, 3336 York St., Sharon, 927-7261; Chief Oliver Dowdle. Smyrna, 1052 Main St., 925-2230; Chief Rickey Wilson. York, 14 N. Roosevelt St., 684-1700; Chief Domenico Manera.
Rescue squads Clover Rescue Squad, 114 Bethel St., Clover, 222-1219; Capt. Steve Shillinglaw. Hickory Grove Rescue Squad, 6004 Wylie Ave., Hickory Grove, 925-2706; Capt. Kenny Gilfillan. River Hills Emergency Squad, 4 Heritage Drive, Lake Wylie, 831-9888; Ken Wilson, president. York Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 644, York, 684-4141; Capt. Billy Allen. York County Emergency Response and Dive Team, P.O. Box 36667, Rock Hill, 329-1116; Larry Crooks, coordinator.
Law enforcement Voter registration Newcomers to western York County who want to register to vote can pick up the required forms at the Clover Public Library, 107 Knox St., the York Public Library, 21 E. Liberty St., or at the Voter Registration Office, 13 S. Congress Street in York. Also, voter registration can be completed while applying for a license or license renewal at the S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles at 305 Hands Mill Road in Newport and 1070 Heckle Blvd. at the York County Complex in Rock Hill. Voters also can register at www.yorkcountygov.com. Call the registration office in York at 684-1242.
York County Sheriff’s Office, 1675 S.C. 5, Moss Justice Center, York, 628-3059; Sheriff Bruce Bryant. Clover Police Department, 112 Bethel St., 222-9494; Chief Chip Guerry. York Police Department, 10 N. Roosevelt St., 684-4141; Chief Bill Mobley. Western Watch Magazine 13
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Getting started
your
utilities
Soon after you turn the key in your front door, you’ll want to get your utilities turned on. Here’s how:
Water & sewer Clover: Water ates for residents inside town limits are $12.95 for the first 1,999 gallons of water and $5.18 for the next 2,000 to 10,000 gallons of water used. For sewer, residents who live within the town pay a $14.34 base charge, plus $3.56 for each 1,000 gallons of water used. Outside town limits, water rates are $25.91 for the first 1,999 gallons of water; $10.38, 2,000 to 10,000. People who live outside town limits pay a $28.69 base charge for sewer and $7.13 per 1,000 gallons of water used. Customers may pay their bills over the phone by calling Town Hall at 222-9495 with their customer number or service address and a credit card number. Customers can pay in person, by mail or through the drop box at 114 Bethel St. Automatic Bank Draft is also available. All water/sewer bills are due by the 15th of each month. York: The administrative fee for the original connection is $60 for York homeowners. Renters must pay $210, which includes the fee plus a $150 refundable deposit. The base charge is $10.50 for both water and sewer inside city limits; $21 for both outside city limits. The cost is $3.14 per 1,000 gallons for water and sewer each inside city limits; $6.28 per 1,000 gallons for each outside city limits. Other: Carolina Water Services, a private utility company, serves residents on the outskirts of Clover. (704) 525-7990.
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Phone, Cable & Internet Comporium Communications, 950 E. Liberty St., York, provides telephone, cable TV and Internet services to residents in York and surrounding areas. Prices vary. 684-1012. AT&T serves the Clover and Lake Wylie area. (800) 780-2355. Time Warner, at 2125 Union Road in Gastonia and 3140 W. Arrowood Road, Charlotte, provides Clover’s cable and Internet. (704) 864-8327 or (704) 377-9600.
Electricity Duke Energy electric deposits range from $100 to $250, depending on a home’s power efficiency and appliances. Visit www.dukepower.com and click on “customer services.” 684-9939. York Electric Cooperative Inc. is a member-owned, non-profit utility. York Electric’s main office is at 1385 E. Alexander Love Hwy., York. A $5 membership fee is required, along with the applicable deposit. Residential deposits of $145 may be waived if the member has qualifying credit or co-signer. 684-4248 or 1-800-582-8810.
Gas York County Natural Gas Authority deposits range up to $200 for residences and from $200 to $400 for businesses. A tap fee of $125 is charged for all new lines. Businesses and residential customers must pay a monthly base charge of $4.25. There also is a $25 service origination fee. (803) 329-5255 8 a.m.-5 p.m., or visit www.ycnga.com.
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Getting started
Driver’s licenses In person
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Looking out for our community
No way to avoid it – new South Carolina residents must go to the Division of Motor Vehicles to register their vehicles and get licenses. There are two locations, both in Rock Hill: ◆ 1070 Heckle Blvd., Suite 100, in the York County Complex, 909-7161 ◆ 305 Hands Mill Road, 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. 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.
Online 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 driver record
Operation Round Up® (ORU) - ORU participants
.
What to bring 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 information. For details, go to www.scdmvonline.com. Here are the most common pieces of paper you’ll want to bring with you: ◆ 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 an insurance company licensed to do business in South Carolina
New to S.C.? 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 vehicles. Failure to register your vehicle in York County could mean you’ll pay more on county property taxes.
Post offices Need to change your address? Pick up a package? Here are United States Postal Service offices near you: Bowling Green (29703): 1771 N. Hwy. 321 Clover: (29710) 913 Bethel St. York (29745): 909 E. Liberty St. Sharon (29742): 3311 N. York St. Hickory Grove: (29717) 6015 Wylie Ave. McConnells (29726): 4182 Chester Hwy. Smyrna (29743): 1021 Main St. Lake Wylie (29710): 4082 Charlotte Hwy.
.
. .
have their monthly electric bill rounded up to the next whole dollar. Their voluntary contributions, about $6 a year per member, are used to address individual and community needs.
Youth Tour - Once a year, YEC makes it possible for two high school juniors to join other S.C. students on a six-day, allexpenses paid educational trip to Washington, D.C. Participants are also qualified for the R.D. Bennett Scholarship.
- YEC offers several scholarships, including the Touchstone Energy® Senior Scholarship, the Jenny Ballard Opportunity Scholarship for Women Returning to College, and the YEC School-to-Work Scholarship. Scholarships
Safety Demonstrations YEC regularly offers safety demonstrations to students and other groups throughout our service area in an effort to teach important safety lessons to the participants.
More ways York Electric Cooperative is
looking out for you.
For more information, or to sign up for one or more of YEC’s programs call or visit www.yorkelectric.net 803.684.4248 or 1.800.582.8810 Western Watch Magazine 15
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Recycling & Garbage York County Convenience Centers will accept household trash, items that can be recycled, some household appliances, tires and vehicle parts. Centers are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. five days a week (closed Wednesday and Sunday). Allison Creek, 5725 Campbell Road, at the intersection of Campbell Road (County Road 80) and SC 274 Bethel, 3150 S. Paraham Road, south of S.C. 55, in Clover Bethany, 2690 S. S.C. 161, south of S.C. 55 in Clover Bullocks Creek, 6800 Lockhart Road, on S.C. 49 near the Bullock Creek area, south of the intersection of S.C. 97 and S.C. 49 Cotton Belt, 2365 Black Hwy. (S.C. 5), west of York between Matlock Drive and Howell Road. Lake Wylie, 102 Bethel School Road, near Hwy 557 Lesslie, 3211 Pantry Drive, off S.C. 21 McConnells, 100 Cemetery St. across from Mt. Olivette Presbyterian Church Sharon/Hickory Grove, 5011 Hickory Grove Road, on S.C. 211 past Hickory Grove/Sharon Elementary Tirzah, 6190 Old York Road (S.C. 161) across from Pursley Dairy Farm Road There is also a recycling box and a garbage display box at the York County Landfill, 289 Public Works Road, York. Landfill hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. MondayFriday and 7 a.m. to noon Saturday. For details, call York County Public Works at 628-3200 or e-mail public.works@yorkcountygov.com.
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Nate Morrison, Austin Highfill, and Chucky Mason, all seventh-graders at Clover Junior High School, crush their empty beverage cans after lunch. Their school won the York County Environmental student group of the year award for 2008. BY JIM STRATAKOS
Garbage pick-ups for each town are: Clover: Residents pay $7.70 per month for pickup, a $6.30 fee for the landfill and a 79-cent charge levied by the state health department. For information, call 222-9495. York: Residences pay $9.01 per month for one weekly pickup, plus a $5.01 landfill fee. Another 75-cent fee goes to the state health department. For information, call 684-2341. Other: D & D Sanitation, a private company based in Clover, serves residents outside of York and Clover town limits. Rates vary. For more information, call 222-3862.
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Want to expand your family with a new pet? Pets are not required to be licensed in York County. Annual rabies vaccinations are required. The town of Clover requires an annual dog registration. The fee is $4, with a $10 penalty added for renewal registrations after April 30. Owners must display certification on their pet’s collar. Costs vary, but inexpensive rabies clinics are held regularly throughout the county. Pets are required to be constrained at all times. In York, dogs must be on leashes 6 foot long or shorter.
BY JONATHAN ALLEN
Jeffrey is a lab/boarder collie mix that Richardson Animal Rescue took in after his former owner moved and could not take Jeffrey with him. To inquire about adopting any of the pets at Richardson Rescue, visit www.richardsonrescue, petfinders.com, or www.richardsonrescue.org and fill out an online application, Adoptions are by appointment only.
York County Animal Shelter is on S.C. 5 in York near the Moss Justice Center. The $2.3 million shelter includes high-tech waste removal and odor-control systems that change the air about every four-and-a-half minutes. The shelter has room for 250 animals, an adoption program and an animal control center. Pet adoption costs $56 per animal, and that includes spaying or neutering and a rabies shot. For details, call 628-3190. While there is no Humane Society in western York County, it may be worth a trip north where you’ll find a broad selection at the Humane Society of York County, located at 2036 Carolina Place in Fort Mill. For more information about the no-kill shelter, call 802-0902. There are several other animal rescue groups in York County including Richardson Rescue in York and Pug Lovers Rescue and Recycled Pets in Rock Hill. All have animals available for adoption. Richardson Rescue is on the Web at Richardsonrescue.org or call 684-6865. Contact Pug Lovers at 980-7729 or e-mail rescue@hushpug.com. For details, call 981-5087 or visit www.recycledpetsonline.com.
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TEXT Community HERE
Get involved in an area club or organization Civic clubs Clover Jaycees Heath Eubanks, 242-1232 River Hills Lions Richard (R.J.) Phillips, 831-7808 York Lions Andy Propst, 684-6166 Lake Wylie Lioness Lions Club Shirley MacMillan, 831-8262 Clover Optimist Josie and Ashby Skinnell, 684-2008 York Area Optimist Mamie Wells, 628-1660 Clover Rotary Ollie Robertson, 222-7660 York Rotary Heidi Blanks, 222-2104 Good Folks of York County Charlotte Hogue, 324-4910
Women’s groups Clover Woman’s Club Wendy Bartee, 222-7533 Clover/Lake Wylie Republican Women Blanche Bryant, 831-7497 Clover/ Lake Wylie Moms Group Jackie Quinn, 487-0223 River Hills Women’s Club Sabina Kowalski, 631-0848 Lake Wylie Ladies’ Bowling League Joan Barnes, 831-7272
Social clubs Asbury Coward Literary Club, Katherine Gardener, 684-4392 White Rose Book Club, Jan Sweigart, 628-7828
Patriotic organizations American Legion Post 66, York, TJ Martin, 684-4367 American Legion, Frank Roach Post 34, Rock Hill Cecil Phillips, 327-2959 DAV, York County, Chapter 46 Ruskin Belk, 329-6677 18 Western Watch Magazine
Kings Mountain Chapter of the DAR, York Dorothy Martin, 831-8086 VFW, Old Hickory Post 2889 327-2975
Fraternal organizations United Daughters of the Confederacy, White Rose Chapter Lillian Wilson, 684-1409 The Sons of Confederate Veterans The Brigadier General Micah Jenkins Camp Davis Timmerman, 547-5797 The Sons of Confederate Veterans Pvt. Thomas Caldwell Camp Kirk Carter, 704-739-2964, or Jimmy Cagle, 222-4372
Miscellaneous AARP Roger Jermyn, 817-9800. American Cancer Society 1-800-227-2345 Arts Council of York County 328-2787 Broad River Basin Historical Society Dorothy Berry, 628-1457 Boys & Girls Clubs of York County 324-7920 Citizens Awareness Group of Western York County Inc. Gussie Butler, 684-9506 Clover Community Theatre, Elaine Davis, 831-7659 Crisis Pregnancy Center, 329-2524. Ducks Unlimited, Western York County chapter Joe Johnson, 684-4271 Friends of Historic Brattonsville Betty Caughman, 684-2327 Friends of York County Library Debbie Turner, 981-5837 Girl Scouts, Hornets Nest Council 1-800-868-0528 or 704-731-6500 Henry’s Knob Group, Sierra Club Joe Zdenek, 366-9763
Mid-Upstate Mothers of Multiples Support Club of South Carolina Monica Roveri, 831-5343, or Ruth Walkup, 329-1813 NAACP, Western York County Steve Love, 684-7124 National Association of Retired Federal Employees Richard E. Sarver, 831-2504 Newcomers Club of York County Kathy Buskirk, 366-6643, or Diane Barber, 325-4648 Piedmont Regional Association of Realtors 329-2030 River Hills Marina Club 831-1802 Thrift Store Ministries of Western York County 628-0808 The Writers of York County, Charlotte Hallberg, 328-8293 Taking Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) Asa Myers, 222-1767, or Sonya Davis, 684-9651 York County 4-H Clubs 684-9919 York County Ballet Company 328-8328 York County Beekeepers Association 684-9919 York County Cancer Association 327-2556 York County Choral Society Jane Hudson, 547-0962 York County Council on Aging 324-5084 York County Education Associa tion-Retired Zora Hones, 327-6378, or Ruth Culp, 327-1445 York County Family and Community Leaders 684-9919 York County Quilter’s Guild Barbara Moseley, 324-0778 Yorkville Historical Society Ed Wood, 628-1076 Yorkville Players 980-7412 To be included in next year’s Western Watch, e-mail news@enquirerherald.com.
There are several outreach agencies serving western York County, all ready to help when needed. Here’s a closer look: Clover Area Assistance Center provides food, financial assistance, health services, including educational programming and special need items for Clover school district residents. Hours are 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays and 9 a.m. to noon Thursdays. Address: 1130 S.C. 55 E., Clover. Phone: 222-4837. God’s Kitchen feeds shut-ins in their homes five days a week and those who walk in. Mail donations to God’s Kitchen, 708 Old N. Main St., Clover, SC 29710 or call 222-0711. Lighthouse Shelter and Thrift Store houses people who are homeless and helps them turn their lives around. Donations can be sent to: Lighthouse Shelter and Thrift Store, 1000 Old N. Main St., Clover, SC 29710, 222-0636. PATH provides help for people in the York school district with food, clothing, limited medical, rent and utility assistance. Hours are 9 to 11:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Address: 204 Raille St., York. Phone: 684-3992. Tender Hearts Community Outreach and Thrift Store provides qualified customers with two outfits, a pair of shoes and a bag of canned goods monthly for up to six months. Tender Hearts House of Hope provides temporary shelter for women. Address: 511 Kings Mountain St. in York. Phone: 684-3132. Email: ainslee@tenderheartsinyork.org.
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Community
Annual events York County plays host to several festivals, parades and events of regional interest each year. Here are some highlights:
January The Western York County branch of the NAACP holds an annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade on Congress Street in York to honor the slain civil rights leader. The parade is usually scheduled for the weekend before or after Martin Luther King Jr. Day in January.
March The town of Clover holds a one-day St. Patrick’s Day festival on Main Street the weekend closest to March 17.
April York’s Downtown Farmer’s Market, a project of the Downtown Business Association featuring local produce and handmade crafts, opens. Hours: 8 a.m. to noon every Saturday until November, North Congress Street. (Vendors, contact Signa Curry, 704-299-2322, or Jim Dickerson, 684-4225.)
May York’s annual Downtown Live, a summer concert series sponsored by the Greater York Chamber of Commerce, runs monthly May through August.
June Clover celebrates its Scotch-Irish heritage with Feis Chlobhair, held each year around the first weekend of June. Activities include Highland games, Irish dancers, bagpipers, sheepdogs, Scottish athletic games, cultural foods and crafts.
July ◆ Lake Wylie’s annual fireworks display over the lake begins at dark July 4 by the Buster Boyd Bridge on S.C. 49.
BY SHANNON GREENE
The Summerfest 5K in August.
November ◆ The City of York and the York School District began collaborating on a fireworks show and musical festival held at the YCHS Stadium, 1010 E. Devinney Road.
August ◆ Lake Wylie Jam, a free concert at Long Cove Marina and Yacht Club on Lake Wylie, is held annually to raise money for Paramedics for Children and the Lake Wylie Fireworks Fund. ◆ Held on the fourth Saturday of August in York, Summerfest is a daylong festival that attracts people from across the region. The festival includes a craft fair, classic car show, a 5K run, fireworks, a golf and softball tournament, food and live entertainment.
September The annual Clover Jaycees auto show and fall festival is held each September in downtown Clover.
October ◆ The Apple Harvest Festival is the third Saturday in October at Windy Hill Orchard. Activities at the allday festival include hay rides, cider making, pumpkin and apple picking, scarecrow making, apple cider donuts, live music and Johnny Appleseed. ◆ The Downtown Business Association hosts Fall in Downtown York from noon to 6 p.m. the last Saturday in October. The event includes live entertainment, children’s activities, contests, a Halloween costume contest and street vendors.
◆ Yorkville Music Weekend in historic downtown York is held in early November, offering concerts, jam sessions and instructional workshops. ◆ York hosts an annual Veterans Day Parade the closest weekend to Nov. 11. Past participants include the York Comprehensive High Band, the American Legion, different branches of the military and Revolutionary and Civil War re-enactors.
December ◆ The first full weekend in December finds Historic Brattonsville brimming with the spirit of Christmas during its annual Christmas Candlelight Tour. Festivities include drama, music and traditional holiday decorations bring the past alive. ◆ Christmas in Olde York, sponsored by the Yorkville Historical Society, includes a walking tour of York’s oldest homes decorated with natural greenery and alive with the smells and sounds of Christmas. ◆ Christmas in Olde Sharon has been a tradition for more than 20 years. Usually in early December, several of the town’s businesses and historic buildings dress up for the holidays and open their doors to a host of visitors. Choirs gather by the Fire Department to spread some Christmas cheer and church ladies provide refreshment. ◆ York and Clover Christmas parades are held in early December. Floats, bands and music as well as an after party featuring Christmas carols, music Santa Claus and vendors. The parades are sponsored by each town’s chamber of commerce. ◆ Lake Wylie lights up each year for the Lights on the Lake Holiday Boat Parade, held around midDecember near the Buster Boyd Bridge. It’s sponsored by the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce. Western Watch Magazine 19
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TEXT Community HERE
Service comes with a smile around here, and even Sharon Grill owner Jay Gourley doesn't mind playing waiter at times.
PHOTOS BY ADAM O’DANIEL
local
flavor to savor By Adam O’Daniel
Whether it’s a big plate of home-style meat and potatoes, a steaming pepperoni pizza, the perfect chicken salad or a rack of succulent ribs, there isn’t a craving that can’t be satisfied at one of Western York County’s diners or restaurants. The rural communities in York County boast some of the finest fare this side of Charlotte. Diners can find an honest meal and good conversation at dozens of locally-owned restaurants from Sharon and historic downtown York to the quaint streets of Clover.
One of the first bites any newcomer should enjoy is served at the Sharon Grill. There might not be a stoplight at the corner of York and Woodlawn streets in downtown Sharon, but there aren’t many drivers who won’t stop for a bite at the Sharon Grill. Dennis and Brenda Settlemeyer founded the “The Grill” (as it’s called by locals) in 1982 in the building that once housed a corner store. They replaced beer coolers and snacks with a home-style menu and it quickly became the most popular spot to eat and meet for miles. Five years ago, Sharon native Jay Please turn to page 38
9 , 20r0olina 2 2 t uguks, South Ca A , y a d or
SaturHistoric Y
For more info call 803.684.2590 www.greateryorkchamber.com
The Greater York Chamber of Commerce
Western Watch Magazine 23
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Community
Clover Chamber fuels both business and community I welcome you to Clover, South Carolina, a place I am honored to call home. Clover’s small-town environment allows visitors to enjoy the friendly smiles and waves, while our growing community enjoys the benefits of an excellent school district and family-oriented parks and recreation. As the organization representing Clover’s business community, we encourage participation in the Greater Clover Chamber of Commerce’s various community and networking events, including our Business After Hours, Business Before Hours and Annual Meeting. At our Annual Meeting, we honor our Business of the Year and Citizen of the Year, as these award winners join a list of outstanding individuals and companies from years past.
Greater Clover Chamber of Commerce Address: 118 Bethel St. Hours: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Phone: 222-3312 Web: www.cloverchamber.org
To convey our support of our local Clover High School honor students, encourage them as they prepare to enter college and express our hopes they will return to our community after graduation, the Greater Clover Chamber hosts the Honors Student Luncheon in April. These students experience their first networking opportunity with local business representatives and are recognized for their dedication to learning. Membership luncheons are held throughout the year, providing attendees with information affecting the local schools, economy, and other vital issues. Through partnerships with our surrounding chambers, the Greater Clover Chamber of Commerce offers a
Greater Clover Chamber of Commerce 118 Bethel Street, Clover, SC 29710 (803) 222-3312 www.CloverChamber.org
Join the Greater Clover Chamber of Commerce and enjoy networking with local businesses and supporting our local community.
Business After Hours Business Before Hours Membership Luncheons Education Honors Student Luncheon - April Annual Meeting - May Business of the Year Citizen of the Year Website Directory 24 Western Watch Magazine
Senior Expo - May St. Patrick’s Day Festival - March Feis Chlobhair - June (Scottish Games & Festival) Auto Show & Festival September Christmas Parade December
Senior Expo event, allowing seniors and their caregivers the opportunity to learn about local services to benefit themselves and their loved ones. These partnerships also brought guest speakers such as State Superintendent of Education Dr. Jim Rex to update chamber members on state-wide issues impacting local education and students. By participating in local festivals – including the St. Patrick’s Day Festival in March; Feis Chlobhair, our Scottish Games and Scotch-Irish Festival, in June; and the Auto Show and Fall Festival in September, our community enjoys celebrating together in the streets of Clover. December brings the annual Clover Christmas Parade, with a distinguished Grand Marshal leading the way down Main Street and Santa closing the end of the parade each year. On behalf of the Greater Clover Chamber of Commerce, welcome to Clover. We know you’ll enjoy “the town with love in the middle.” — Beth Covington serves as president of the Greater Clover Chamber of Commerce.
Best of the West
You’re new to the area and you want to know who serves the best burger, slice of pizza or ice cream sundae. Who better to ask than the locals? Each year the EnquirerHerald polls its readers looking for the best western York County has to offer. The top vote getters win our “Westies Awards.” Here are the highlights from the 2008 Westies Awards:
Best Chicken: Bojangles Best Chinese Restaurant: China King Best Family Restaurant: Coal Yard Best Buffet/Salad Bar: Coal Yard Best Meal for the Money: Coal Yard Best Barbecue: Courtney’s BBQ Best Breakfast: Down Home Diner Best Dessert: Garden Cafe Best Caterer: Garden Cafe Best Country Cooking: J&J Cafe
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Quality of life enhanced by the Greater York Chamber Visit Western York County, the experience will be well worth your time. We take every opportunity to encourage everyone to explore western York County and the rich culture it has to offer. From the early years of York County through the Revolutionary War, the War Between the States, to today, the visitor will be treated to a great variety of experiences. Our rural flavor can soothe the soul and reinvigorate the tired and rundown. As a member of the western York County community, the Greater York Chamber of Commerce serves the communities of Hickory Grove, McConnells, Sharon, Smyrna and York. The Chamber’s purpose is to help establish and maintain a progressive economic environment in which existing businesses can thrive, new businesses can succeed and our quality of life can continue to improve. The Chamber performs this vital role by working with many different groups in the communities, the county, the state and the national level to ensure the collective voice of western York County is heard and their issues are addressed. Interaction with these various groups occurs through the
Best Coffee: Jasmine Cafe & Gifts Best French Fries: McDonalds Best Fast Food: McDonalds Best Pizza: Pizza Hut Best Hamburger: Sharon Grill Best Hot Dog: Sonic Best Sandwich/Sub: Subway Best Ice Cream: The Peachtree Best Mexican Restaurant: Tres Amigos Best Wings: Wing King Best Seafood Restaurant: York Seafood Best Bakery: Bi-Lo Best Grocery Store: Bi-Lo Best Produce: Black’s Peaches Best Peaches: The Peachtree Best Pet Store: Animal Supply House Best Consignment Shop: Good Things Consignment Best Florist: Hummingbird Forest Best Gift Shop: Hummingbird Forest Best TV/Appliance store: Boyd Tire & Appliance Best Tire Store: Boyd Tire &
Greater York Chamber of Commerce Address: 23 E. Liberty St. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 684-2590 Web: greateryorkchamber.com
Chamber’s Committee structure. The Committees will receive, evaluate and recommend action on issues to the Board that is in keeping with the Chamber’s purpose. The Chamber’s standing committees include Membership, whose primary focus is on member services; Government Liaison, which maintains contact with our elected officials at all levels of government to communicate the Chamber’s position on issues; Economic Development, with an eye to encourage businesses to move to the area and help existing businesses grow; Education, working with the school district to promote excellence in education and maintain a positive working relationship between business and education; and Community Involvement, which coordinates the various events and festivals hosted by the Chamber. Service to the Chamber’s membership and the communities is of primary importance. To provide the best service possible, the Chamber undertakes several events.
Appliance Best Computer Store: Computers for All Ages Best Jewelry Store: Frank’s Jewelers Best Convenience Store: Kim’s Grocery Best Gardening Center: Stacy’s Garden Center Best Furniture Store: T.E. Jones & Sons Best Law Firm: Brice Law Firm Best Heating/AC: Brown’s Heating & Plumbing Best Medical Office: Piedmont West Urgent Care Best Dentist: Dr. Cauthen Best Chiropractor: Dr. King Best Vision Wear: Dr. Oliver Best Financial Institution: Family Trust Best Mechanic: Jackie Queen Best Auto Repair: Queen’s Garage Best Pet Groomer: Sassy Paws Best Hair Salon: Solutions Best Plumbing Co.: Taylor’s Plumbing Co. Best Dry Cleaner: Whitesides
Each January, the Chamber holds its annual meeting to honor selected members for their service to the chamber and the community. Awards include Citizen of the Year, Business Person of the Year, Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year. A popular event is the Downtown Live concert series. It is held in downtown York the third Thursday night in May, June and July, and on the fourth Friday night in August to kick off Summerfest — the premiere event hosted by the Chamber. This event attracts 45,000 visitors to York each year and has been recognized by the Governor’s Conference on Tourism and Travel as the Most Outstanding Festival of 2002 in a community of 5,000 to 15,000 and by the Olde English District as the 1996 Attraction of the Year. Each year the Chamber coordinates York’s Christmas Parade. Held on the first Wednesday of December, the Parade welcomes in the Holiday season. The small fee charged for each entry is donated to P.A.T.H., our local assistance organization. Serving as the Welcome Center for western York County, the Chamber has an abundance of information on the many attractions to be found here. For details call us at 803-684-2590 or visit www.greateryorkchamber.com. — Paul Boger is executive director of the Greater York Chamber of Commerce.
Greater York Chamber of Commerce Hickory Grove ~ McConnells ~ Sharon Smyrna ~ York 23 East Liberty Street York, South Carolina info@greateryorkchamber.com 684-2590
We Are Your Business Contact Market Products, Services Make Business Contacts Increase Visibility We Serve Our Community Gain Voice in Government Support Local Schools Get Involved
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Community
Piedmont Internal Medicine and Family Practice at York A C C E P T I N G N E W PAT I E N T S
Aydrian Thomas, MD Board Certified in Family Medicine 1795 Devinney Road York, SC 29745 (at the corner of East Liberty Street)
Western York County Check out these sites from western York County that are on the National Register of Historic Places: Allison Plantation, added 1980, off SC 40 and SC 60, York Bethel Presbyterian Church, added 1980, on S.C. 557, Clover Bethesda Presbyterian Church, added 1977, 3.5 mi. North east of McConnells on S.C. 322 Brattonsville Historic District, added 1971, east of McConnells Clover Downtown Historic District, added 1999, at the junction of Main and Kings Mountain streets, Clover Hart House, added 1977, 220 E. Liberty St., York Hightower Hall, added 1982, at Historic Brattonsville, McConnells Hill Complex Historic District, added 2003, York and Shannon streets, Sharon (W.L.) Hill Store, added 1995, 3034 York St., Sharon Jackson’s Furnace Site, added 1987, Also known as Jackson’s Furnace; Stroup’s Furnace, address re-
Experience the difference: • • • • • • •
Personal and comprehensive care for the whole family Office hours—Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Same-day or next-day appointments available New, state-of-the-art facility Lab and X-ray services on site Professional, helpful office staff Most insurances accepted
To schedule an appointment, call
803-818-5995.
1795 Devinney Road • York • 803-818-5995 26 Western Watch Magazine
Clover Public Library, at 107 Knox St., Clover, features six computer workstations (four with Internet access), black and white copier, printers and a meeting room with capacity for 50 people. Phone: 2223474. York Public Library, at 21 E. Liberty St., York, features 16 computer workstations with Internet access, black and white copier, color printers, a large meeting room, conference room and study room for up to 6 people. Phone: 684-3751.
stricted, Smyrna Kings Mountain National Military Park, added 1966, northwest of Bethany on S.C. 161, Bethany Nanny’s Mountain Iron Mines, added 1987, also known as Iron Mines of Hill’s Ironworks; address restricted, Clover Sharon Downtown Historic District, added 2001, York Street and Woodlawn Avenue, Sharon Wilson House, added 1974, also known as Old Jail; Yorkville Jail; 3 S. Congress St., York Witherspoon-Hunter House, added 1978, 15 W. Liberty St., York York County Courthouse, added 1981, corner of West Liberty and South Congress streets, York York Historic District, added 1979, S.C. 5 and U.S. 321, York — Source: http://www.nationalregisterofhistoricplaces.com/SC/York/stat e.html
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has a rich history History buffs will want
to check out these establishments: The Museum of Western York County: The museum at 1716 B. Woodlawn St. in Sharon celebrates the long history of the area’s settlers and leaders. It contains thousands of items — 800 photos alone. Items in the Museum of Western York County include crosscut saws, a 1930s voting box, white oak baskets made by the late Charlie Cole and a covered wagon donated by a Hickory Grove resident that dates back to the Spanish-American War and World War 1. Hours are 3 to 5 p.m. Sundays and other times by appointment, especially groups. Admission is $2 for ages 6 and older. For more information, call Jerry West at 9277558. Historic Brattonsville: This 775-acre living history village and Revolutionary War battlefield site near McConnells features 29 historic structures and
programs chronicling Carolina Piedmont development from the 1750s through the 1840s. It includes the Walt Schrader Trails, and eight miles of trails for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. Guided group tour programs are available. Special events, including a Revolutionary War battle re-enactment, Christmas candlelight tours, an African-American experience on the plantation and living history days, are held throughout the year. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 seniors and $3 for students; free for members and those younger than 5. For more information, call 684-2327 or visit www.chmuseums.org.
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WELCOME TO
PARENTHOOD
Historical Center of York County archives: The McCelvey Center, at 212 E. Jefferson St. in York, houses the county archives, available for genealogical and historical research related to the region. Research databases include 18th and 19th century occupations; Confederate veterans; Revolutionary War Battle Inventory; Blacks in the American Revolution and more. For details, visit www.chmuseums.org.
Libraries The York County Public Library system, with branches in York and Clover, is something to be proud of. Along with its extensive collection of books, periodicals, audio books, DVDs, video cassettes and more, the York County Library offers a variety of free programs for adults, teenagers and children. From local author visits to theater performances, there’s something for everyone. The library also provides classes for learning to use computers and has a Bookmobile that visits nursing homes, daycares and other locations throughout our communities. The library’s Web site, www.yclibrary.org, features access to your account, a catalog search, homework help, pages for teens, kids and adults, research sources, bestsellers lists and much more. Library cards are free to York County residents, property owners and workers. They can be used to check out and place holds on items and to use certain online databases provided by the library. Cards are valid at all York County libraries and the Bookmobile. To get a card, pick up an application at any branch or download one from the library’s Web site, and provide proof of your current address (driver’s license, checkbook, paycheck stub) to any library location. A child may receive a library card regardless of age as long as the card is signed by a parent or legal guardian. And if libraries hold a special place in your heart, you may want to join Friends of the York County Library, a nonprofit organization that supports the York County Library system. Through membership dues, book sales and special fund-raising activities, the Friends of the Library provides funding for non-budgeted library projects and programs. Dues range from $10 to $100 a year.
YorkCountyMoms.com is the place on the Web to go to when looking for parenting information for York County moms and dads. This is the site to talk with other local parents in our forums, find out what's going on in York County for parents and kids in our calendar and just have fun with our featured bloggers. Plus, you could start your very own blog. • Daily news
• Blogs
• Social networking
• Photo galleries
• Event calendar
• Videos
• Contests
• And more
• Money-saving coupon
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Schools
Clover schools at a glance Bethany Elementary Principal: Cathy McCarter 337 Maynard Grayson Road, Clover, SC 29710 Office: (803) 810-8800 Fax: (803) 222-8055 Web: www.clover.k12.sc.us/bethany Bethel Elementary Principal: Tom Guinane 6000 S.C. 55 E., Clover, SC 29710 Office: (803) 831-7816 Fax: (803) 631-2995 Web: www.clover.k12.sc.us/bethel Crowders Creek Elementary Principal: Millicent Dickey 5515 Charlotte Hwy., Clover, SC 29710 Elementary Phone: (803) 831-2434 Elementary Fax: (803) 831-9471 Web: www.clover.k12.sc.us/cce (elementary) Griggs Road Elementary Principal: Pam Cato 100 Griggs Road, Clover, SC 29710 Phone: (803) 222-5777 Fax: (803) 222-8066 Web: www.clover.k12.sc.us/griggs/
Superintendent: Dr. Marc Sosne Administrative office: 604 Bethel St., Clover, SC 29710 Phone: (803) 810-8000 Fax: (803) 222-8010 Web: www.clover2.k12.sc.us Total enrollment: 6,500 Students on free / reduced lunch: 28.1 percent
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Kinard Elementary Principal: Kathy Weathers 201 Pressley St., Clover, SC 29710 Office: (803) 222-3071 Fax: (803) 222-8048 Web: www.clover.k12.sc.us/kinard Larne Elementary Principal: Georgia Westmoreland 3598 Filbert Hwy., Clover, SC 29710 Office: TBD at June press time Fax: TBD at June press time Web: www.clover.k12.sc.us/larne
Clover High School drum line BY TRACY GREENE
Clover Middle School Principal: Mark Hopkins 1555 S.C. 55 East, Clover, SC 29710 Phone: (803) 810-8300 Fax: (803) 222-8034 Web: www.clover.k12.sc.us/cjhs XX?? Oakridge Middle School Principal: Will Largen 5350 Hwy. 557, Clover, SC 29710 Office: TBD at June press time Fax: TBD at June press time Web: www.clover.k12.sc.us/oakridge Clover High School Principal: Tommy Schmolze 1625 S.C. 55 East, Clover, SC 29710 Phone: (803) 222-4591 Fax: (803) 222-8021 Web: www.goblueeagles.com
Griggs Road Elementary art students FILE PHOTO
Average SAT scores: Verbal: 493 Math: 514 Expenditures per pupil: $8,832 Graduation rate: 81.9 percent Average teacher salary: $47,137 Student-teacher ratio: 23 to 1
2008 CHS graduating class BY DANIEL PLASSMANN
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Schools
York schools at a glance Superintendent: Dr. Vernon Prosser Administrative office: 1475 E. Liberty St., York, SC 29745 Phone: (803) 684-9916 Fax: (803) 684-1903 Web site: www.york.k12.sc.us Total enrollment: 5,286 Students on free / reduced lunch: 52.9 percent Average SAT scores: • Verbal: 468 • Math: 502 Expenditures per pupil: $7,771 Graduation rate: 82 percent Average teacher salary: $45,180 Student-teacher ratio: 21 to 1 in K-9, 25 to 1 in Grades 10-12
Cotton Belt Elementary School Principal: Mark Hendry 1176 Black Hwy., York, SC 29745 Phone: (803) 684-1947 Fax: (803) 684-1949 Web: www.york.k12.sc.us/cbe.htm
Jane Gilfillan, government teacher at YCHS
Hickory Grove/Sharon Elementary School Principal: Dietrich Long 4901 Hickory Grove Road, Hickory Grove, SC 29717 Phone: (803) 925-2116 Fax: (803) 925-2218 Web: www.york.k12.sc.us/hgs.htm Hunter Street Elementary School Principal: Kevin Hood 1100 Hunter St. , York, SC 29745 Phone: 803) 684-1926 Fax: (803) 684-1931 Web: www.york.k12.sc.us/hss.htm
BY MIKE LAUGHLIN
Hickory Grove/Sharon Elementary students with Panther Josh Davis
Jefferson Elementary School Principal: Jane Wallace 1543 Chester Hwy. , York, SC 29745 Phone: (803) 684-1942 Fax: (803) 684-1944 Web: www.york.k12.sc.us/jes.htm Harold C. Johnson Middle School Principal: Keith McSwain 400 E. Jefferson St., York, SC 29745 Phone: (803) 684-2311 Fax: (803) 684-1918 Web:www.york.k12.sc.us/hcj.htm York Junior High School Principal: Louvetta Dicks 1280 Johnson Road , York, SC 29745 Phone: (803) 684-5008 Fax: (803) 684-1916 Web: www.york.k12.sc.us/yjhs.htm
FILE PHOTO
York Comprehensive High School Principal: Diane Howell 1010 DeVinney Road, York, SC 29745 Phone: (803) 684-2336 Fax: (803) 684-1932 Web: www.york.k12.sc.us/YCH.htm York One Academy Principal: Ethel Engrum 37 Pinckney St., York, SC 29745 Phone: (803) 684-2381 Fax: (803) 925-1903 Web: www.york.k12.sc.us/yoa.htm
York's Quastin Walker BY MELISSA CHERRY Western Watch Magazine 29
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Schools
Immunizations
FILE PHOTO
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Children who enroll in kindergarten through the 12th grade in South Carolina public schools are required to have the following immunizations: ◆ Four doses of any combination of DTP, DT, DTP-Hib, DTap, Td, or Tdap vaccine, with at least one dose received on or after the fourth birthday. ◆ Three doses of any combination of oral or inactivated polio vaccine, with at least one dose received on or after the fourth birthday. ◆ Two doses of rubeola (measles) vaccine, with both doses received on or after the first birthday and separated by at least one month. ◆ One dose of rubella (German measles) vaccine, received on or after the first birthday. ◆ Three doses of Hepatitis B vaccine. ◆ One dose of varicella vaccine received on or after the first birthday or positive history of disease for all children admitted to kindergarten, first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh grades. For details, call (800) 277-4687.
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Schools
York School District 2009-2010 student calendar Aug. 19 — First day of school Sept. 7 — Labor Day holiday Oct. 12 — Teacher work day Oct. 23 — Parent conferences Nov. 25-27 — Thanksgiving holiday Dec. 18 — Half day for students Dec. 21-Jan. 1 — Winter break Jan. 15 — Teacher work day Jan. 18 — Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday Feb. 15 — President’s Day holiday/Bad weather makeup day
March 19 — Teacher work day/Bad weather makeup day April 2 — Student holiday/Bad weather makeup day April 5-9 — Spring Break May 31 — Memorial Day Holiday June 2 — Half day for students June 3 — Half day for students and last day of school
Clover School District 2009-2010 student calendar Aug. 19 — First day of school Sept. 7 — Labor Day holiday Oct. 12 — Teacher work day Oct. 23 — Parent conferences Nov. 25-27 — Thanksgiving holiday Dec. 21-Jan.3 — Winter break Jan. 15 — Teacher work day Jan. 18 — Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday Feb. 15 — President’s Day holiday/Bad weather makeup day
March 22 — Teacher work day/Bad weather makeup day April 2 — Student holiday/Bad weather makeup day April 5-9 — Spring Break May 31 — Memorial Day Holiday June 3 — Last day of school
Registering for school There are four school districts in York County. Western York County is covered largely by the Clover and York school districts. South Carolina law requires children between the ages of 5 and 17 to enroll in school. Kindergarten is required for children who will be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1. To enroll, parents must present their child’s birth certificate, a S.C. Certificate of Immunization and a Social Security number.
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Recreation
Escape to the Great Outdoors By Brad Harvey
So, you’re new to Western York County and you’re into the outdoors. Wondering where to start? Maybe we can be of some help. Considering our proximity to Charlotte, most newcomers are surprised to find that our area has much to offer regarding outdoor adventure. Whether it’s the adrenaline rush found in hunting and fishing, getting back to nature on an overnight camping excursion or more tranquil activities such as bird watching and nature hikes, it’s all available right here by your new home. Those who are into water sports will find Lake Wylie to be a paradise. This man-made lake boasts more than 13,400 acres of swimming, boating, skiing and fishing fun. There are a number of public access boat ramps, with the most popular being adjacent to the Buster Boyd Bridge along Highway 49. Kings Mountain National Military Park, off of Highway 161 by the N.C. border, has an abundance of opportunity as well.
Nearby attractions:
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Considered to be the site of the turning point of the Revolutionary War, it was here that a group of patriot militia defeated British Major Patrick Ferguson on Oct. 7, 1780. Try a self-guided tour along Battlefield Trail. As you walk the 1.5-mile loop, you’ll not only encounter a plethora of natural beauty and wildlife but also the Centennial Monument, the U.S. Monument and Ferguson’s grave. Join in the local tradition and toss another stone on him! If a more vigorous backcountry nature hike is more to your liking, the Park Loop trail wanders for 16 miles through both the National Park and the adjacent state park. Own a horse? Then 16 miles of trail riding await you, too. The Kings Mountain State Park invites you to turn this into an overnight visit. With 115 RV campsites and 10 more tent locations, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t pack your sleeping bag and plan to stay a while. Don’t forget your fishing rod! Canoe and boat rentals are available on the park’s two sizeable lakes.
Kings Mountain National Military Park 864-936-7921
Many hunters across the nation feel that they just don’t have the chance to enjoy their chosen form of recreation due to a lack of property ownership. Now that you’re here, that excuse doesn’t apply. Western York County has several great public outdoors recreation properties. These spots, known as state Wildlife Management Areas, include such places as the Draper tract or the Herb Kirsh Wildlife Conservation Area. All of these large acreage properties are teeming with deer, turkey, rabbit, dove and more. The avid angler will find that several contain stocked ponds for your enjoyment as well. Also, located off S.C. 211 along the extreme western border of York County, Worth Mountain sits quietly waiting for fishermen, hikers, hunters and bicyclists. The 1,647-acre site includes 350 acres of grass, corn and wheat fields, 2.5 miles of Broad River frontage, several ponds, hardwood forests including chestnut oaks and an assortment of wildlife. You can hunt deer, turkey and other animals in season, fish for bream, bass and catfish, mountain bike on old
Kings Mountain State Park 1277 Park Rd. Blacksburg 803-222-3209
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Recreation
Clover Clover City Park on Knox Street and Memorial Drive: Features a walking track. Clover Centennial Park in downtown Clover: A walkway and benches. Clover Community Park: Softball/baseball fields, concession stand with offices, a horseshoe facility with 18 lighted courts, walking track, playground, picnic facilities and a halfmile paved nature trail. Optimist Field on Tom Joye Road: Baseball fields. Roosevelt Community Park: Adult-size baseball field, a youth baseball field, basketball courts, picnic shelter, concession stand and playground equipment.
York
Trent Sandifer, 12, and Luc Green of York fish at the Western York County chapter of Ducks Unlimited, which had its seventh annual Greenwings Kid's Event at the Flying King Ranch on Hwy. 321 last May. BY DANIEL PLASSMANN
roadways, hike or bird-watch. Note: Hunting and fishing requires licenses. Nanny’s Mountain — or hill, or monadnock — is easily one of western York County’s most recognizable landscapes where it rises near S.C. 274 and 49, just beyond Five Points. The historic site of Nanny’s Mountain was once the location of iron works during the Revolutionary War. Now, it’s a public park with picnic areas, a trail system and more. Still more action lies just minutes across the state line. An incredible view of York, Cherokee, Gaston and Cleveland counties awaits you at the top of King’s Pinnacle in Crowder’s Mountain State Park. A mere 15 minutes from downtown Clover, the hearty 1.7 mile hike (each way) to the top will really get your heart pumping but you’ll find it to be worth the effort upon your arrival. Care to take it a step further? How about rock climbing? Even the most experienced climbers will enjoy challenging the steep rock cliffs of Crowder’s Mountain.
Crowder’s Mountain State Park 522 Park Office Lane Kings Mountain, N.C. 704-853-5375
Perched on the banks of the Catawba River, just outside of Charlotte, the U.S. National Whitewater Center beckons the adventurous to come and hone their skills at the same “world class” location as Olympic athletes. Featuring the world’s largest artificial whitewater river, whitewater rafting and kayaking are the main draw. With mountain biking, hiking, climbing and a ropes course, there’s something for the whole family at this 307-acre public facility. The less adventurous can spend their time relaxing at the River’s Edge Bar and Grill which overlooks the rapids. So what are you waiting for? You can unpack those boxes later! Get out and explore the best action around your new home. For maps of S.C. Wildlife Management Areas, Lake Wylie boat ramps and fishing/hunting regulations, visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources’ Web site at www.dnr.sc.gov. — Brad Harvey writes a weekly column for the Enquirer-Herald.
U.S. National Whitewater Center 820 Hawfield Road, Charlotte 704-391-3900 www.usnwc.org
Lincoln Park on Lincoln Road: A multipurpose court, tennis court, tot lot, picnic shelter and grill. Green Street Park on Green Street: Basketball courts. Magnolia Street Park on Magnolia Street: Basketball courts. Wooded Valley Park on Galilean Road: A non-fenced playground area. City Park near Congress Street: Two lighted tennis courts and playground area. New Street Park: Two basketball courts. Moore Park on Congress Street: A gazebo, picnic tables and sitting areas. Optimist Park on West Jefferson Street: Multipurpose fields. York Recreation Complex: A 2.5-mile lighted walking trail, five softball fields, two picnic shelters, playground and an 18-horseshoe complex.
Hickory Grove Park on S.C. 211: Ballfield and trails
Sharon Children’s playground on S.C. 49: A picnic shelter, tennis courts and play area with a slide, swings and other playground equipment. J.B. Comer field on S.C. 211: Two lighted softball fields, concessions, a picnic shelter and restrooms. Sharon Community Center on Woodlawn Street: Aerobics, line dancing and youth dances.
Smyrna Smyrna’s park has a baseball diamond, tennis courts, playground equipment and a picnic area. Western Watch Magazine 33
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The arts
Looking for fine arts? Arts Council of York County The Arts Council of York County provides leadership in arts education and development, arts marketing and arts advocacy. The vision of the council is to create and support a thriving, diverse and vibrant arts community in York County. The council’s Center for the Arts in Rock Hill houses offices, galleries and artist studios. Visit www.yorkcountyarts.org.
Yorkville Artist’s Guild In a room inside the McCelvey Center, visual art comes to life. It’s the Yorkville Artist’s Guild’s room, where 40 or so talented York County residents meet once a month to plan and create. The room also is used by members to teach art classes in a variety of mediums. The guild was formed in the 1970s, and it sponsors two main events each year. In August, they hold an Open Art Competition and Exhibit in the McCelvey Center. You do not have to be a member to enter work. In November the Guild hosts a fund raising auction and dinner at the American Legion Hall in Rock Hill. For more information, call Guild Vice President Jack Bolan at 328-6747 or Treasurer Sandy Brendle at 684-4580.
Myers Art This Pottery Studio in Hickory Grove has been the home for the past 30 years of John and Jan Myers. On their 100-acre farm, they grow fish and flowers, feed the wildlife and create astonishing pottery. On the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving the Myers help organize a huge Christmas Show at the Mt. Vernon Methodist Church Fellowship Hall in Hickory Grove. The show includes more than 20 local artists. The Myers farm is at 1281 Legion Road in Hickory Grove. Check their Web site, myersart.net, for directions or more information.
Williams Farm York County has a vibrant community of artists, from potters to painters to poets, and they are given an opportunity to showcase their work at William’s Farm. Located north of York at 7552 Charlotte Hwy., the farm has classrooms, sculpture grounds, a covered stage and exhibition space. For information, call 684-6345 or visit www.williamsfarm.org.
Listen to the music Downtown Live One unique venue to enjoy live music is Downtown Live. Held on the third Thursday of May through July and the fourth Friday in August in downtown York, this is a summer classic. The free event is sponsored by the Greater York Chamber of Commerce in the parking lot of Whitesides Cleaners on South Congress Street. Food and drinks are available for purchase. The fun runs from 5:30 until 9:30 p.m. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs. For more information call 684-2590 or check out www.greateryorkchamber.com.
Thursday Night Bluegrass Allison Creek Presbyterian Church hosts a live bluegrass jam the first and third Thursday of each month. Hundreds flock to see performing artists and regular folks onstage. After the jam session, the night’s featured artists perform. For details, visit www.allisoncreekchurch.com. 34 Western Watch Magazine
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The arts
In the arts McCelvey Center
Hometown Promotions
The 150-year old McCelvey Center at 212 E. Jefferson St., York, houses a 560-seat theatre, the Yorkville Artists Guild, the Historical Center of York County and the Jane Bratton Spratt reception room. The McCelvey is the home of the Yorkville Players (see below) and the McCelvey Showcase Series, which includes concerts, plays and other performance arts. The center also offers arts education programs and classes for both children and adults throughout the year. Classes in Water Colors are taught by Sandy Brindle and classes in Acrylics and Oil are taught by Jack Bolan. The grounds of The McCelvey are the location for each year’s Fourth of July Celebration that includes live music, fireworks and other family fun. For more information call (803) 684-3948 or go online at www.chmuseums.org.
This York-based theater company became the new kid on the block when it kicked off with a 2006 production of “Crystal and J.T.’s Wedding Shower and Fish Fry” performed as dinner theater at the Garden Café in York. For upcoming productions check their Web site at www.hometownpromotions.org. If you’re interested in getting involved on stage or behind the scenes Hometown Promotions — or any of these theater groups — they’re always looking for volunteers. No experience required.
Yorkville Players Since 1990, York’s community theater troupe has been entertaining audiences with classics like “You Can’t Take It With You” and contemporary pieces such as “Waiting Rooms” by York playwright Laura Pfizenmayer. The Young Yorkville Players also take to the stage several times a year with immensely popular pieces geared to a younger audience. There are numerous opportunities to volunteer with the theater either on stage or behind the scenes. For more information visit www.yorkvilleplayers.com.
Sylvia Theater 27 N. Congress St. York: In the middle of downtown York is a small jewel of a theater, The Sylvia, which beautifully restored harkens back to the glory days of the movie palaces. Re-opened in 2001 by Paul Finnican, the theater now serves as a venue for both first run films and live entertainment. Folk, blues and rock have all graced the stage at the Sylvia with name artists such as Doc Watson, Edwin McCain and Leon Russell performing. The theater, according to its Web site, hopes “to be a forum and performance showcase for the regional/local and when availabilities and schedules permit, nationally acclaimed artists.” For information on current and upcoming offerings call 6845590 or visit www.sylviatheater.com
Clover Community Theater Since 1996, Clover’s local troupe has been performing at venues throughout Clover. Most recently, it has found a home at the newly renovated Clover Middle School Auditorium. You can count on this group for high quality, entertaining shows that delight their audiences. The season typically runs from September through April and includes four pieces. For information, visit www.geocities.com/clovercommunitytheatre.
Clover School District Auditorium This impressive state-of-the-art performing arts center at 1625 S.C. 55 E., which sits between Clover High and Clover Junior High, can seat 1,500 in absolute comfort. It is the host of an annual performing arts series that pulls in nationally-known headliners such as pianist George Winston and country/ bluegrass sensation Kathy Mattea. Season tickets for the entire season are available. The theater’s also home to Clover’s school performances and is available for other functions. For more information, call 222-8018.
Extra! Extra! Read all about it Keep up with the news from your town by reading your local newspaper: The Enquirer-Herald is rooted deep in local history. The publication is the result of the 2006 merger of “The Yorkville Enquirer” — the state’s oldest weekly paper at the time — and “The Clover Herald.” The Enquirer-Herald features news and community events from across western York County. The paper is on the Web at www.enquirerherald.com. The Herald in Rock Hill is York County’s largest daily newspaper. The Herald is owned by McClatchy Co., which also owns the Enquirer-Herald. The Herald is online at www.heraldonline.com. Western Watch Magazine 35
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Churches
Directory of
Churches
Faith plays a pivotal role in the lives of most residents of western York County. Though the following is not an exhaustive list, it will help you try out some of the varieties of religious experience the area has to offer.
AME Zion
Baptist
Clinton Chapel AME Zion 302 California St., York, 684-7465 Clover AME Zion Church 1050 W. S.C. 55, Clover, 222-7781 Ebenezer AME Zion Church 2475 Ebenezer Road, Smyrna, 925-0001 Greater Unity AME Zion Church S.C. 97, Sharon, 927-1027 Liberty Hill AME Zion 5387 W. Liberty Hill Road, York, 831-1495 Mount Zion No. 2 AME Zion 4307 S.C. 97, Hickory Grove, 925-2908 New Home Church 3290 Charlotte Hwy., York, 684-9311 New Loves Chapel AME Zion 5089 Fewell Road, Clover, 831-9248 St. James AME Zion Church 1156 Church St., Hickory Grove, 925-3530 White Hill AME Zion 2255 Old York Road, York, 684-9173 Wilson Chapel AME Zion 4080 Wilson Chapel Road, Sharon, 927-7474
Blessed Hope Baptist Church 410 Blessed Hope Road, York, 684-9819 Bright Light Free Will Baptist 1103 N. Congress St., York, 684-0511 Bowling Green First Baptist 1683 N. U.S. 321, 222-6906 Broad River Baptist Church 2315 Legion Road, Smyrna, 925-2700 Calvary Baptist Church 490 Griggs Road, Clover, 222-4028
Associate Reformed Presbyterian York Associate Reformed Presbyterian 80 N. Congress St., York, 684-6531 Bethany ARP 1400 N. S.C. 161, 222-9897 Sharon ARP 3915 York St., Sharon, 927-7451 Smyrna ARP 3141 Legion Road, Smyrna, 925-2409 Tirzah ARP Church 6161 Mount Gallant Road, York, 366-5577
Assemblies of God Cornerstone Assembly of God 1090 Black Hwy., York, 684-2273 First Assembly of God 223 Church St., Clover, 222-4475 Lake Wylie Christian Assembly 5766 S.C. 49, Lake Wylie, 831-7036
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Central Baptist Church 110 Ross Cannon St., York, 684-4395 Faith Baptist Church 825 N. Main St., Clover, 222-1713 First Baptist Church, Clover 117 S. Main St., 222-3216 First Baptist Church of York 102 S. Congress St., 684-4297 Fishing Creek Baptist Church 1220 Springlake Road, York, 684-6319 Flat Rock Baptist Church 111 Carver St., Clover, 222-4517 Galilee Baptist Church Galilee Road, York, 684-6580 Gold Hill Baptist Church S.C. 49, York, 684-9626 Great Joy Baptist Church, 3383 Chester Hwy., McConnells, 628-0450 Hillcrest Baptist Church 2020 Hillcrest Road, York, 684-9409 Jerusalem Baptist Church 435 Farris Road, Clover, 222-7476 King James Baptist Church 323 Kings Mountain St., York, 684-3962 Langrum Branch Baptist Church 1500 S.C. 324, York, 684-6332. Midway Baptist Church 12984 S.C. 55, York, 222-2909 Mount Do Well Baptist Church 4717 Chester Hwy., York, 684-3104 Mount Sinai Baptist Church 139 Mount Sinai Church Road, Hickory Grove, 925-1032 Mount Zion Baptist Church 5376 McConnells Hwy. E., 684-9302 New Beginnings Baptist Church 706 Old N. Main St., Clover, 222-5005 Open Bible Baptist Church 1116 Hwy. 55 E., Clover Pine Grove Baptist Church 5415 S.C. 557, Lake Wylie, 831-2015 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 1875 Ridge Road, Clover, 222-9527 Sharon Baptist Church 3850 York Road, Sharon, 927-7450
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Churches
St. John Baptist Church 3726 Woodlawn St., Sharon, 927-7393 St. Luke Baptist Church No. 2 1835 Hwy. 97, Sharon, 927-7180 Shiloh Baptist Church 4455 Hoodtown Road, Sharon, 927-7234 Union Baptist Church 1945 Ratchford Road, York, 684-3881 Unity Baptist Church 2300 Irene Bridge Hwy., 925-2723 Weeping Mary Baptist Church 1799 N. U.S. 321, 222-7672
Mount Vernon United Methodist Church 2160 Smithford Road, Hickory Grove, 925-2316 Philadelphia United Methodist Church, 2260 Chester Hwy., York, 684-9352 St. James United Methodist Church 1930 Quarry Road, 684-4009 St. Paul United Methodist Church 1550 St. Paul Church Road, Clover, 222-7426 Sharon United Methodist Church 3001 Shannon St., Sharon, 927-7577 Trinity United Methodist Church 22 E. Liberty St., York, 684-4100 Wesley United Methodist Church 110 W. Jefferson St., York, 684-3346
Church of God Church of God of York 201 Charlotte St., 684-6405 Clover Church of God, 222-4452 East Clover Church of God Hwy. 55 E., Clover, 222-0850 Hill Street Church of God 30 Hill St., York, 684-1829
Episcopal Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd 108 E. Liberty St., York, 684-4021
Lutheran Abiding Presence Lutheran Church 323 N. Congress St., York, 684-2793
Methodist Canaan United Methodist Church 4810 Canaan Church Road, Smyrna, 925-6805 Clover Chapel United Methodist Church 405 Kings Mountain St., Clover, 222-5100 First United Methodist Church 124 Bethel St., Clover, 222-3496 Good Samaritan United Methodist Church Lake Wylie, 831-0304 Green Pond United Methodist Church 983 Bethel St., Clover, 222-7882 Hopewell United Methodist Church 300 Clark Steele Road, York Kings Mountain Chapel United Methodist Church 2040 S.C. 161, York, 684-2493
Presbyterian Allison Creek Presbyterian Church (USA) 5780 Allison Creek Road, York, 366-1302 Beersheba Presbyterian Church 130 S. Beersheba Road, Clover, 684-2052 Beth Shiloh Presbyterian Church 1184 N. Shiloh Road, York, 684-4046 Bethel Presbyterian Church (PCA) 2445 S.C. 557, Clover, 222-7166 Bethesda Presbyterian Church 4858 McConnells Hwy., McConnells, 328-1360 Bowling Green Presbyterian Church 250 Ridge Road, Clover, 222-4920 Clover Presbyterian Church 202 Kings Mountain St., Clover, 222-9108 Filbert Presbyterian Church (PCA) 2066 Filbert Hwy., York, 684-6881 First Presbyterian Church 10 W. Liberty St., York, 684-2356 Oakdale Presbyterian Church 12585 W. S.C. 55, Clover, 222-7141 Olivet Presbyterian Church (PCA) 159 Church St., McConnells, 684-3719 Temple Presbyterian Church in America 1105 N. Beersheba Road, Clover, 684-0981 Woodlawn Presbyterian Church 3852 Woodlawn St., Sharon, 927-7200
Others Apostle & Prophet Church 1526 Lawrence Road, Clover, 222-2474 Bible Covenant Community Church 1712 Lincoln Road, York, 684-5747 Church of God of Prophecy 26 Wainright Ave., York, 684-0761 Clover Christian Fellowship 1521 N. Jim McCarter Road, 222-9953 Clover Church of the Nazarene 803 Old N. Main St., 222-9800 Clover EPC Church 101 Marion St., Clover Clover Liberty Pentecostal Church 101 Frances St., Clover, 222-5553 Clover Wesleyan Church 102 Parkview Lane, 222-7069 Fellowship Independent Baptist Church 1308 Village Harbor Drive, Lake Wylie, 627-0035 First Wesleyan Church 1830 York Hwy., York, 684-7335 Holy Sanctuary Church 523 York Hwy., McConnells, 684-2058 Jehovah’s Witnesses 250 W. Alexander Love Hwy., York, 628-0645 Jubilee Christian Center 2105 Old York Road, York, 628-5293 Mars Tabernacle Fire Baptized Holiness Church 101 Watson St., Clover, 222-2296 Morning Star Free Will Baptist Church 2192 Meadow Road, Clover, 684-5519 Mount Carmel Holiness Church of God 517 Kings Mountain St., Clover, 222-2090 New Beginning Global Ministries 3080 Charlotte Hwy., York, 628-0060 Restoration Church South 300 Ross Cannon St., York, (704) 864-8616 River Hills Community Church 104 Hamiltons Ferry Road, Lake Wylie, 831-1615 Tabernacle of Praise 229 Wood St., York, 684-0103 Zoe Life Christian Church 110 S. Main St., Clover, 222-0810
Roman Catholic Divine Saviour Catholic Church 232 Herndon Ave., York, 684-3431 All Saints Catholic Church Lake Wylie, 831-9095
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Cover story FARMING, continued from page 7 Droughts, late-season freezes, spring months that bring extraordinary amounts of rain. Weather can devastate a crop, but, as Sanders said, all farmers try to keep a positive attitude despite setbacks. “I think Alexander Pope may have had farmers in mind when he said ‘hope springs eternal.’ There’s always next year,” Sanders said with a smile. “We couldn’t be farmers if we didn’t have that mindset.” While crop farmers may have their struggles, producing beef, or any other meat, is a whole different animal. Cattle farms, in many parts of the country, are an enormous industry as well, but for some small local farmers, it’s much more personal. Five years ago, Kimberly Garrison and her family moved to York County from Georgia. They bought a farm just south of York, spent two years remodeling an abandoned house and nursed a dilapidated barn back to life. Now she and her children are one of the leading families of the only 4H sheep club in the state, and taking care of their animals is just as important to them as the product they end up with. “The kids have to feed the animals. They have to be hands on with the sheep, goats, cows — getting dirty is nothing to them,” Garrison said. The self-described suburbanite family has developed a love for farming, and although they are hoping to expand their garden into a marketable project like their animals, they are happy to have their own home-grown food. “I only eat fresh vegetables and eggs,” said Garrison’s 11-year-old son, Gavin. “From the grocery store, the texture is different. Ours are so much better. Plus, you don’t now where they’ve been or what chemicals they used.” Gavin, in learning how to raise farm animals, has learned how to tell from the hooves, fat or other physical signs, when an animal is ready to be processed. Although “it’s sad at first” when an animal he has put so much time into is turned into food, the family helped avoid the problem in a light-hearted way. “We never give the animals human names,” Gavin said. If you visit the Garrisons’ farm now, you’re likely to meet pigs with names like yummy, dinner or pork chop. “4H is not just a social club for them,” Garrison said. “It’s about giving them experience they couldn’t get in school. It provides them with a responsibility when the animals are dependent on them.” “Without young kids getting into it now, farming will die off. We don’t do this to make a whole lot of money. We do it for the love of the land — for the feeling you get when you produce something and people come to you for it.” Garrison’s oldest daughter Gabrielle wants to use what she has learned to become a veterinarian, specializing in large animal medicine. “I like being able to say ‘I did that — I worked for that,’ Gabrielle said about entering her animals in the 38 Western Watch Magazine
4H club. “I’ve given the sheep shots, learned things like how many stomachs they have, and worked with sheep after a coyote attack.” She said she wants to take her experience to Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Ga., then to the University of Georgia’s veterinary school. Across the county, others are farming for a variety of hobbies. Colleen Hewlett and her children, Asa and Ruth, keep sheep and chickens on a small farm, and although her husband works full-time in Charlotte, she tends to the farm for her own enjoyment, as well as some additional income. “I keep sheep for fiber… I spin wool, make bags. I teach felting classes in Gastonia also,” Hewlett said. “My son keeps the chickens and sells eggs… It’s just a hobby farm — mostly for our family but we sell what’s extra.” Hugh Moore has been raising cows on his farm, south of York, since 1969. It’s just a hobby now, he said — only 21 cows — but he said the cost of running a farm is what keeps him, and many other farmers, from taking up the occupation permanently. “Prices have gone up for farmers, fertilizer prices have shot up,” he said. “Right now, you don’t see a lot of big farmers anymore, just people who like to do it.’ Moore said when he began farming a few decades ago, he paid about $48 for a ton of triple-12 fertilizer. He said today it would cost more than $800. Some area farmers have been able to find success running their business full-time, but just because they are year-round farmers, that doesn’t mean they are any less customer-oriented. Ben and Merwyn Smith have been operating The Peach Tree Orchards in Filbert since 1962, and between the peaches, pumpkins, Christmas trees and delicious peach ice cream, the couple has thrived because of the popularity of their products. “We have a fantastic crop this year. The traffic flow has been good,” Ben said. Merwyn said local supporters have been good to their orchard, even in the slowing economy. “People love peaches. They are not at the top of the list of things people want to give up,” she said. They agree, however, that currently the land and start-up costs are making it more and more difficult for farmers to begin a full-time operation. “At one time there were 27 peach packing houses in York County. Now there are none,” Smith said. It is a glaring indicator of the changes in the farming industry. However, one thing that has not waivered, and likely will not, is the farmers’ love for the job, no matter the profit. It can be tasted in the Smiths’ ice cream parlor, it can be felt in Hewlett’s soft, woven handbags, and it is obvious if you visit Dori Sanders’ peach stand. “Come find me on my porch,” she says. “And if you’re not in a hurry, sit a spell.” — Mike Laughlin is a freelance writer living in Rock Hill.
FLAVOR, continued from page 23 Gourley and his wife Brenda bought The Grill and carry on the traditions and tastes locals have loved for three decades. The menu features everything from cheeseburgers and onion rings to club sandwiches, fries and seasonal salads. But the favorites are the daily lunch specials and the home-cooked meals on Sunday afternoons. “We get the sinners who come in early and the saints a little later,” Brenda Gourley says. But the best reason to visit the Sharon Grill may be the conversation. It’s known as the local Liar’s Table where hunters swap tales over biscuits and coffee before dawn and politicians make promises over beef stew and cold, sweet iced tea on Sunday afternoons. “People buy and sell houses in here,” Gourley says. “And we hear every story you can imagine come hunting season.” Down S.C. 49 in historic downtown York, diners will find a more eclectic group of tables to enjoy. Historic buildings on Congress Street are home to timeless tastes at Tony’s Pizza, York’s favorite local pizza parlor, Jasmine’s Café, a dainty sandwich shop and coffee bar, and several watering holes to raise a glass with friends. “I think downtown offers something for everyone,” says Linda Ellington, the owner of Jasmine’s Café who retired from her career in the catering and food brokerage business to open the small café in 2006. “We all complement each other nicely.” For a more upscale flavor, newcomers and lifelong residents are warming to the new tastes offered by Paris-trained chef Colin Flynn. Flynn and his wife recently opened The Brandon House restaurant where they live upstairs in the historic white building on Congress Street and serve a Lowcountry-inspired menu downstairs. No dining experience is complete without a trip to Clover for a mouth-watering rack of ribs from Courtney’s BBQ. (Of course, you may consider stopping at The Peach Tree on U.S. 321 on your way for a delicious peach milkshake made with locally grown peaches.) Award-winning barbecue champ Gene Courtney — known simply as “The Big Guy” by friends and neighbors — serves his famous ribs, pulled pork and seafood to huge crowds. The restaurant started as a small outpost just beyond the city limits on S.C. 55. But the popularity of Courtney’s signature barbecue sauces (now bottled and sold online) has helped him expand the dining area with a huge red building adjoining the original kitchen. All across western York County’s highways and byways, diners will find unique characters with their own menus. And new restaurants open all the time. Before you order another take-out meal from a national chain, give a local restaurant a chance. They rarely disappoint. — Adam O’Daniel is a former reporter of the Enquirer-Herald.
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