Upstate Lake Living

Lakes for all Seasons Upstate lakes attract paddlers year-round

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SPRING 2015

SPRING 2015 › 1

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Upstate Lake Living magazine

Volume 10, Issue 1 SPRING 2015

12 Paddlers know no season 19 Hagood Mill brings history to life 27 Cliffs takes wellness to heights 33 Lexington rolls out Swine, Wine and Dine 45 Spring beauty abounds in Athens

PUBLISHER Jerry Edwards jerry@edwgroupinc.com Ph: 864-882-3272 EDITOR Brett McLaughlin bmclaughlin@upstatetoday.com GENERAL MANAGER Hal Welch hal@upstatetoday.com

50 Simplicity adorned with elegance

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Sandy Peirce sandy@upstatetoday.com

56 Rick Erwin’s brings tasty to Clemson

ART DIRECTOR/GRAPHICS Melissa Bradley

62 Hometown girl does Upstate proud 70 ULL Photo Contest Winners

74 Fishing: Destination: Hartwell 75 Your Waterfront: Window of opportunity 76 Theatre: Stage season in full bloom 79 Social Scene: Seneca Women’s Club Wine Tasting 80 Calendar: Events spring to life after winter Dear Readers: For many Upstaters, it is time to come out of hibernation.

Spring blooms are pushing their way to daylight, the days are getting longer and the water is getting warmer. It’s time to rise and shine.

But, as this edition of Upstate Lake Living makes perfectly clear, not everyone who lives on the lakes hunkers down in front of a fireplace or runs off to southern climes for two or three months. Increasingly, people are finding fun and fulfilling ways to stay active and enjoy the beauty of our area, even when the air is brisk and the water is cold.

We lead off with a feature on kayaking, a sport that is not only gaining momentum, but one that many avid enthusiasts cling to even in the throes of winter. We touch on the rapids, but we zero in on flat water kayaking, a near Zen-like pastime whose followers claim keeps them fit and feeling young.

Also inside, we share the “wellness” way of 10 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

life in The Cliffs communities. From healthy meals available in Cliffs’ restaurants and clubhouses, to fitness centers, walking trails, golf, tennis and paddling, a team of fitness experts is working to make their members happy, healthy and hopeful.

This issue also offers a couple of day-tripping suggestions, one being a hidden gem in our own backyard and another being just 90 minutes down the road where spring bursts forth in the State Botanical Garden of Georgia.

Bill Bauer features a young lady from our area who is not only making her mark on the professional golf circuit, but is also giving back to her community.

As always, this issue takes you inside another beautiful lake home and suggests a great new local restaurant for your dining pleasure.

We hope you enjoy spring in Upstate Lake Living.

Brett McLaughlin, Editor

UPSTATE LAKE LIVING™ is published quarterly

by Eagle Media 210 W. N. 1st Street Seneca, SC 29678, USA Ph: 864-882-2375 Fax: 864-882-2381 Subscription: $15 includes 4 issues Single issue: $3.95 U.S. Postal Permit #18 UPSTATE LAKE LIVING™ is a trademark of Edwards Group.

Contents copyrighted.

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UPSTATE LAKE LIVING will, upon receipt of a new or renewal subscription, strive to provide first-copy delivery of UPSTATE LAKE LIVING to the Postal Service for the next issue (March, June, September and December). Renewals must be received at least two weeks prior to expiration to assure continued service. To ensure quick service, enclose a copy of your mailing label when writing or renewing your subscription.

Address subscription inquiries to: UPSTATE LAKE LIVING magazine, P.O. Box 547, Seneca, SC 29679; phone 864-882-2375; fax 864-882-2381.

Two weeks advance notice is required for address changes; please send old and new address.

contributors to this edition Bill Bauer • Rex Brown Phillip Gentry • Dave Kroeger Brett McLaughlin • Jessica Nelms Cover photo by Rex Brown

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GLIDING

THROUGH

NIRVANA

Kayaking provides fun, solitude & breathtaking views Story by Brett McLaughlin Photos by Rex Brown

“We shall not cease from exploration and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.” .S. Elliot may never have paddled a kayak, but he clearly understood some of the benefits of spending quiet mornings or early evenings silently gliding through the still waters of an Upstate lake.

Hundreds upon hundreds of Upstate residents kayak … some several times a week, others less often. Few, however, ever do it just once.

Many are drawn to the challenge of white water kayaking, testing their skills against the forces of nature. They take on daring rivers like the Wild and Scenic Chattooga or Chauga, or grapple with lesser, yet still challenging, rivers such as the French Broad, Enoree or Reedy.

Neil Lovering and his wife, Judy, are devotees of recreational, flat water kayaking. The sheltered lakes of the Upstate offer long shorelines, panoramic views and peaceful waters.

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Kayaking is a sport for all ages, but it particularly lends itself to a large segment of the Upstate demographic — active retirees — like this couple enjoying a sunset paddle on Lake Keowee. Photo by Susan Dooley

However, for as many who explore fast water, there are more who turn to flat water, gliding along in solitude or paddling in groups, stopping to swim or to enjoy a picnic lunch on an island or in a quiet cove.

Kayaking is a sport for all ages, for individuals and for families, but it particularly lends itself to a large segment of the Upstate demographic … active retirees.

Neil Lovering and his wife, Judy, are prototypical devotees of what they refer to as “recreational, flat water kayaking.”

“This area is really Nirvana as far as casual kayaking,” Lovering said. “The lakes are sheltered, there are some great backwater places and the rivers and streams are wonderful.”

Before moving south from Michigan 10 years ago, the Loverings had only rented kayaks a few times. Since settling in Keowee Key, they have become avid kayakers. Neil even maintains an email list of

about 50 kayakers, many of whom get together every few months for outings.

“Our kayaks are the most enjoyable toys we have ever owned,” he said. “For a couple of 70-year-olds it’s a neat way to stay active.”

“We kayak on the lower end of the excitement level,” he quipped, “but it’s great for old fuds, who refuse to sit and rest. You can pack a lunch, stop for a swim or just sit in the sun and stay warm.”

Carlo Trois and his wife, Gwen, who relocated to the Upstate from New England a few years ago, echo Lovering’s sentiments.

“When you glide along quietly in a kayak you get to see a lot without disturbing the surroundings, and it’s great exercise,” Trois said.

Having kayaked in the coastal waters and inland lakes of Maine and New Hampshire, the Susquehanna River and in several Adirondack Mountain lakes, Trois is taken by the diversity Upstate kayakers can find right out their back doors.

SPRING 2015 › 13

“There is a very nice variety of kayaking in the Upstate,” he said. “Lakes Hartwell and Keowee both have hundreds of miles of shoreline with many coves and backwaters. All the islands can be used for day-use stopovers and many have wonderful sand beaches.

There are wonderful waterfront homes that are marvelous to view (from the lake) because of their architecture and location.”

Trois and Lovering also agree that ease of participation is adding to the popularity of kayaking.

“We have kayaked every month of the year,” Lovering said. “After all, 60 degrees here is like 75 degrees anywhere else in the world … right?

“It’s like biking,” he added. “You put it on top of the car, and you can do it just about anywhere.

“Lack of maintenance is a big plus as well. There are no oil changes, batteries or new tires to buy,” he chuckled. “You wipe out the bottom of the boat, and you’re ready to go the next time.”

“Any place there is a boat ramp for public use is a great jumping off spot,” said Trois, adding, “We were dumping money into gas and maintenance of a cabin cruiser and decided to sell it and kayak because of the expense.”

Lovering encourages everyone to investigate kayaking, but to act cautiously, not necessarily buying equipment until one has tried the sport.

“If you have never done it, find a rental place and give it a try,” he said.

Historic Oconee State Park near Mountain Rest doesn’t allow private boats on its 60 acres, but canoes and kayaks are available for rent. Park officials suggest the lake is great for beginning kayakers.

Lovering said Sunrift Adventures in Travelers Rest is also a good place for kayaking newcomers to get started, adding that he would advise against investing in a small kayak or a tandem kayak.

“Don’t buy a short kayak (8-9 feet),” he said. “It’s like paddling a leaf. You have to work very hard, and they don’t track well. Our kayaks are about 13 feet. I would suggest a minimum of 11 feet.”

As for tandem kayaks, Lovering said he has heard them referred to as “divorce producers.” » CONTINUED ON PG. 16

14 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

Putting the cares, concerns and breakneck pace of everyday living out of one’s mind is something a kayaker is able to do during a sunset paddle while the Blue Ridge Mountains fold up into the nighttime sky.

UPSTATE HAS LINK TO OLDEST PADDLING GROUP Upstate South Carolina has an up close and personal connection to the American Canoe Association, considered by many to be the preeminent, and, in fact, the oldest paddling organization in the country (formed in 1880).

Bill Banholzer, who resides on Lake Keowee, is a lifetime paddler of both canoes and kayaks. He also happens to be serving his third year on the ACA Board of Directors.

“I’ve paddled pretty much my entire life,” Banholzer said. “I still get out some (on Lake Keowee), but not as much as I probably should.”

As an ACA director, Banholzer helps direct a number of programs and assists in overseeing a 35acre island the organization owns on the Canadian side of the St. Lawrence River. He and his wife are annual visitors to the island, where ACA members can enjoy rugged camping with obvious access to the river for kayaking and canoeing.

ACA has approximately 26,000 members, 4,000 of whom are certified paddling instructors.

Certification is a big program within the organization as is the Stream-to-Sea program that has, since 1976, focused on clearing rivers and streams of plastic materials before the pollutants reach the sea.

Banholzer said a newer program is ACA’s Adaptive Paddling Program, which seeks to provide specialized paddling equipment to amputees and others with physical handicaps.

Anyone can become a member, and Banholzer is urging his fellow board members to work on increasing the ACA’s name recognition by providing easier ways for individuals to support its various programs.

Persons wishing to get more information about ACA or considering membership can visit the organization’s website at: www.americancanoe.org.

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{clockwise} The ease of handling and low maintenance of a kayak are big plusses of the sport in the opinion of Neil and Judy Lovering. Here, the couple slips Judy’s kayak off their car at the Keowee Key boat launch. Anywhere there is a public access affords kayakers a place to get in the water. • Neil and Judy Lovering have kayaked every month of the year, “After all, 60 degrees here is like 75 degrees anywhere else in the world … right?” Lovering quips as he prepares for this January paddle on Lake Keowee. • Neil Lovering assembles his paddle prior to a recent outing on Lake Keowee. The avid kayaker encourages everyone to investigate the sport, but to act cautiously, not necessarily buying equipment until they have tried it using rental gear.

» CONTINUED FROM PG. 14

“It’s just too easy to miscommunicate and wind up in trouble,” he noted.

Speaking of trouble, both couples expressed caution about kayaking on 7,500-acre Lake Jocassee in northern Oconee County. Bordered by state and national parks and forests, its only access point is Devils Fork State Park. The lake offers virtually no signs of civilization aside from a dam and spillway. Its water is crystal clear, mountain views abound and paddlers can reach several waterfalls.

“It is a wonderful lake to kayak, but respect for the wind and weather should play into your choice of when to go,” Trois said of Jocassee.

“Jocassee is great,” Lovering added. “With the backwaters and streams, you can go 11 or 12 miles, but on the open part of the lake it can be dangerous. You definitely need to consult weather information before planning a trip, and always err on the side of caution.”

Other paddlers have suggested that to explore the nether regions of any Upstate lake a GPS might be in order.

“All the coves and mountain peaks look alike. You can get remote and alone real quick,” one kayaker said on the website of the Foothills Paddling Club (www.foothillspaddlingclub.org/). n Persons interested in learning more about the kayaking outings that Neil Lovering helps organize can email him at neillovering@bellsouth.net.

16 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

LOCAL

The 2015 Jeep Wrangler, available at McKinney Dodge in Easley.

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

TIM MCKINNEY Cars, community & Charity. We Talk with The Owner of McKinney dodge in Easley.

ake Keowee resident, Tim McKinney, knows Chrysler. From being raised in a Chrysler home since birth to helping the Upstate community create their own Chrysler experience, Tim gladly helps facilitate the connection of the Chrysler community to the Upstate. As an avid and continued supporter of various Upstate charities, Tim feels that it is important to give back as well as encourage others to contribute. “I think it’s really important that we all give back to our communities.

Whether volunteering or going to the humane society to spend a couple of hours walking dogs.” Tim and the McKinney family know the importance of investing in community. That’s why they strive to offer the highest level of service to all who enter the Easley dealership. When asked why buy a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or Ram from McKinney Dodge Tim simply explains, “All we have is our name and our integrity. The difference is my family. You can buy a car in many different places across the country. But what you can’t buy is my family and the integrity of my family. We’re here everyday to stand behind every purchase to ensure you’re a hundred percent happy.” Invest in yourself, invest in your community, invest in America and buy your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram at McKinney Dodge in Easley.

Features of an Unstoppable off-road vehicle.

1. Ground Clearance - If you want to traverse harsh terrain or back your boat into the water, you’ll need a vehicle with plenty of space between the underside of your vehicle and the terrain.

2. Tow Points - When it comes to off-roading, getting stuck is almost inevitable. When you do get stuck, it’s important that there is a safe and easy place from which to tow your vehicle.

3. Wheel Articulation - Keeping a tire on the surface means not only maximizing traction, but also maintaining vehicle stability.

4. Visibility - This can be the difference between driving over something that damages your vehicle and successfully navigating a tough off road course.

5. Skid Plates - The purpose of skid plates is to protect the drivetrain and undercarriage from impact by objects during off-road use.

The 2015 Jeep Wrangler has all this and more, find your ultimate off-road vehicle at McKinney Dodge in Easley, or online at www.McKinneyDodge.com.

APPALACHIAN HERITAGE LIVES ON AT

HAGOOD MILL A gem glistens in our own backyard Story by Brett McLaughlin | Photos by Jessica Nelms

illy Crawford has “local eyes.” {above} Musicians who play at Hagood Mill come in all shapes and sizes.

The mill recently added Second Saturday musical events to its traditional array of Third Saturday festivals. On Wednesdays, from 2 – 4 p.m., local talents are invited to stop by for “Am Jam,” two hours of freelance musical fun.

But, every day when the Pickens County native goes to work as director of the historic Hagood Mill site, he vows to view his job with a much larger perspective.

“It’s good to remember we need to see things through the eyes of our visitors,” he said, referring to folks who come each year from every state and several foreign countries.

“We need to realize how important the site is historically and use it to promote our mountain heritage.”

SPRING 2015 › 19

A WORK IN PROGRESS

It’s not that local residents take Hagood Mill for granted. They don’t. Dozens of them volunteer as demonstrators and docents every month. Hundreds more are regular visitors, some coming to the site three miles north of Pickens every month.

However, for thousands of locals, Hagood Mill is simply another hidden gem, much like that waterfall never visited or that trail never hiked.

If you count yourself among the latter, 2015 might be the year to pencil in a visit.

While the mill site is open to self-guided tours Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the best times to visit are third Saturdays when the site bustles with demonstrations of Appalachian folklife.

On each of those days — rain or shine — the Mill operates, grinding and selling corn and wheat, cotton is ginned, fabrics are quilted, the blacksmith pounds his anvil and visitors clog and clap to refrains produced by fiddles, banjos, dulcimers and other vintage instruments. All this goes on amid special events, ranging from storytelling, to gospel jamborees, to Native American gatherings.

AN ANCIENT HISTORY Onsite discoveries indicate that Hagood Mill has been a gathering place for people for thousands of years or more. Archaeological excavations have revealed rock outcroppings on the site covered with numerous pre-historic carvings.

While some evidence of this civilization can be seen on the grounds, the opening of the South Carolina Rock Art Interpretive Center this spring will provide gallery viewing of the petroglyphs and interactive programming about these artifacts.

From this pre-history to the native Cherokee, to early European settlers, the Hagood site has attracted men to gather, converse and conduct business.

Today, Crawford sees it as his job to bring all that human interaction back to life.

{top to bottom} Crafts of all kinds are produced by demonstrators and sold to visitors during special events at the Hagood Mill site north of Pickens. In years past, the mill has grown cotton, ginned, carded, spun and woven the material into finished products for sale. • A mother offers her daughters a lesson in how grain is processed at the historic Hagood gristmill. The mill is on the National Register of Historic Places as one of the oldest known surviving gristmills still producing grain products in South Carolina. • The biggest event at Hagood Mill each year is the annual State Fiddling Championship. Held on the third Saturday of September, the event routinely attracts over 2,000 people for music, food and a celebration of Southern Appalachian culture.

When the old mill site reopened in 1997 (See related history.), there was only the mill with its 20-foot waterwheel and a small wooden barn.

Today, visitors can enjoy a visitor’s center with gift shop, a 1791 cabin in which open-hearth cooking classes are taught, and an 1805 cabin. There is a blacksmith shop, a complete 19th century cotton gin operation, a moonshine display and Pickens County’s last WPAera steel bridge, the 64-foot Prater’s Creek Bridge, which was relocated to provide access for further development of the 18-acre site. Plans in that area include a shingle mill, cane press and sorghum processing area.

This spring Crawford plans to reignite development of a family farm exhibit in the original wood barn. Already, vintage tools line the walls, but the director looks forward to clearing more space and offering a variety of additional demonstrations such as making soap using a period lye ash hopper.

Across Hagood Mill Road the organization owns an additional 37 acres. While currently used primarily for events parking, the plot also contains a well-used, one-mile nature trail.

The enthusiasm and excitement Crawford brought to the site with his hiring by the Pickens County Tourism and Marketing Department last June is still evident as he walks the property and especially as he talks about the potential for the adjacent property. He looks forward to re-establishing river cane plots along a creek that flows through the property, building a long-planned folk life center and developing an interpretive Native American village with a Cherokee summer house.

“We already use that area for several demonstrations, including a primitive weapons range,” Crawford said, noting that a demonstrator comes in periodically to explain how tomahawks, spears and the atlatl were used to hunt wildlife as long ago as when mastodons roamed the area. » CONTINUED ON PG. 22

20 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

Spring INTO OCONEE COUNTY Get Outside!

Feel Alive!

WANDER Antiques & Mountain Crafts Bicycling Hiking Horseback Riding Boating Culture & Museums

RELAX Renowned Accommodations Camping Waterfalls Heritage & Arts Entertainment

EXPLORE Fishing Rafting/Paddling Canoeing/Kayaking Historical Sites 100,000+ acres of wilderness SCUBA Diving Agriculture Tours

SOAR Whitewater Rafting Lake Sports Golf Ziplines

Oconee County Home of the National Wild & Scenic Chattooga River, SC National Heritage Corridor Scenic Highways and so much more...

Oconee County, South Carolina www.oconeesc.com | www.experienceoconee.com www.scmountainlakes.com | www.InvestOconeeSC.com

Like us on Facebook: Oconee County, SC

» CONTINUED FROM PG. 20

GROWING POPULARITY On any given weekday, from 2 – 5 p.m. a dozen visitors may stop by. In the summer it is not unusual to find no South Carolina license plates in the parking lot. Likewise, on non-event weekends, visitor counts may reach 250. On third Saturdays, crowds can be 10 times larger.

School groups abound and Hagood Mill is also a destination for countless organizations, ranging from historical societies to garden clubs. Four major bike tours have begun including Hagood as a stop, including the Oconee 300 Bike Tour and the Cycle To Farm Bike Tour.

“The Cycle to Farm event is very cool,” Crawford said. “They ride to all of these mini and organic farms.

They stop here, and we sell them grits, cornmeal and honey. They each fill a box and then a van driver collects their boxes and carries them along after them as they tour on.”

In his quest to constantly grow interest in the site, Crawford has instituted “Second Saturdays.” The mill is open but not running, but a local group, Heartstrings, plays on the outdoor stage to a growing number of visitors. He has also started “Am Jam Wednesdays” with local amateur artists invited to stop by and play between 2 – 4 p.m.

“You can be a beginner who knows a few chords or an accomplished musician,” he explained. “Just come out, jump in and play for as long as you like.

“This place is all about celebrating our Appalachian heritage,” he said. “We’re doing a lot, and there’s a lot more we can do.” n » CONTINUED ON PG. 24

When it comes to music at Hagood Mill even young folks get into the act.

These young people are members of a Pickens County organization called Young Amateur Musicians, which is dedicated to preserving Southern Appalachian music by offering classes in banjo, mandolin, fiddle and guitar.

They played during last year’s state Fiddling Championship held at the mill.

THE MILL HISTORY Benjamin Hagood purchased the property in 1823, and the gristmill, as it stands today, was built by his son, James, around 1845.

During most of its life, the Hagood Mill was a busy center of commerce. Records indicate that 2,500 bushels of meal (140,000 pounds) and 200 bushels of flour were produced in 1870, with 120,000 pounds of meal and 20,000 pounds of feed produced in 1880.

Following a list of Hagood family heirs, the gristmill operated commercially until 1966. To preserve the site, J. Hagood Bruce donated the mill and property to the Pickens County Museum Commission in 1973, after it was added to the National Register of Historic Places as one of the oldest known surviving gristmills still producing grain products in South Carolina.

The original Hagood gristmill was built in 1845 and has been in nearly constant use since that time. Today, the mill grinds corn, wheat and other products. Today, milling takes place on the third Saturday of each month and is done in conjunction with a series of well-attended special events. Photo courtesy of Hagood Mill

22 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

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SPRING 2015 › 23

» CONTINUED FROM PG. 22

Third Saturday Events at Hagood Mill MARCH 21 þ KIDSFEST Features a workshop for children during which they build their own “oldtime” musical instrument and then have a chance to play it with the skiffle band during “Buffalo’s Jug Band Jam.” APRIL 11 þ CLEMSON BLUES FESTIVAL Hagood Mill opens the Blues Festival by showcasing a true blues man of historical note, Andy Cohen, who celebrates and represents the Piedmont Blues heritage of SC greats such as Rev. Gary Davis, Pink Anderson and Josh White.

APRIL 18 þ CELEBRATION OF HAGOOD VOLUNTEERS With music and folk dance we honor the many wonderful volunteers that make Hagood Mill happen.

MAY 16 þ ARMED FORCES CELEBRATION The Mill honors men and women in uniform past and present. Educational displays will be featured from Upstate Revolutionary War and Civil War soldiers.

There will be rifles and artillery discharges, as well as more modern military arms and vehicles.

NATIVE AMERICAN FESTIVAL

þ NOVEMBER 21 A number of groups from Catawba to Cherokee will be represented during a day that features all manner of Native American culture, including dress, music, food and dance. ($5 parking)

The Native American Festival is one of the best-attended special events at Hagood Mill. This year’s festival will be held November 21 and will feature all Native American customs and traditions, including food, dress, music and dance.

Photo courtesy of Hagood Mill

with old camp meeting songs, shaped note hymns and traditional gospel from both black and white traditions. Bookings include Roosevelt Baker & The Gospel Truetones, Lib Porter and Heartstrings.

the Southeast’s best storytellers sharing bits about all sorts of folks, funnies, cultures and places. Returning to host the event is 2013 state Heritage Award recipient Johnny Fowler.

JULY 18 þ BANJO EXTRAVAGANZA National Champion banjoist Charles Wood will highlight the day. He has performed on The Late Show with David Letterman, A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor and made two tours in Austria and Germany with Lonesome Road Band.

SEPTEMBER 19 þ ANNUAL SOUTH CAROLINA OLDE TIME FIDDLING CHAMPIONSHIP Vintage fiddle music will fill the hills and hollers around the Mill as it hosts the state’s annual championship. Some of the best fiddlers in the Southeast will gather to compete for a title that dates back to 1920 when Clemson University opened the doors of Tillman Hall for a statewide competition. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy great music and good food. ($5 parking)

AUGUST 15 þ ROLLING WATERWHEEL GOSPEL JUBILEE The Mill salutes our religious heritage

OCTOBER 17 þ ANNUAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL The hills around the mill will echo with the whispers, howls ’n’ hollers of some of

DECEMBER 19 þ ED HARRISON MEMORIAL CELTIC CHRISTMAS Deep in the Appalachian soul reverb the lilting melodies of the Celts, the Irish, the Scots and the Scotch-Irish ancestors of Blue Ridge Mountain folks. We celebrate the music heritage that evolved when Celtic strains merged with African American rhythms to create the bluegrass and old time mountain music made famous in the Upstate by Ed Harrison, an Irish Uilleann pipes and banjo player.

JUNE 20 þ SINGER/SONGWRITER DAY Talented songwriters who are creating the folk music of tomorrow will be featured.

Bring a chair and enjoy food and music.

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Wellness is part of Cliffs’ lifestyle

Fitness also extends to the clubhouses and restaurants on the properties such as the Lakehouse Restaurant at The Cliffs at the Vineyards. Some of the properties promote organic gardening and all of the communities offer health conscious menus, including gluten-free options and entrees devoid of sugar and processed foods.

Story by Brett McLaughlin | Photos courtesy of The Cliffs Communities

lue-water lakes and majestic mountain views will always be part of the lifestyle formula that attracts people to Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina, but that formula is increasingly intended to attain more than just what the eye can see.

Whether it is finding a place to retire or settling in a place that enables young families to nurture respect for more than streaming video, people are increasingly relocating to settings that foster maintenance or development of a healthier lifestyle.

For more and more people, beautiful lakes and crystalline waterfalls cascading down the foothills simply enhance the opportunities to take their health into their own hands.

That, and folks like Dr. Matt Ort. Ort is director of health and fitness for The Cliffs, seven Blue Ridge Mountain communities that have always taken fitness seriously but are now selling it as the tip of a lifestyle that is not only better, but often lasts longer than many people expect.

“We see ourselves as the drivers of a happier, healthier and more hopeful lifestyle,” Ort said, referring to the group of experts who oversee wellness within The Cliffs communities.

“People who are healthier can live the lifestyle they choose, even as they lose certain physical abilities.”

While original Cliffs’ developer Jim Anthony was always wellness driven, the organization has taken on a vastly different character when it comes to providing healthier options. In the past, golf was the centerpiece of nearly all Cliffs properties with the exception of Keowee Springs, which Anthony envisioned as being a wellness centered community with a fitness center, hik-

ing trails and organic gardening and dining at its core. More recently, those amenities have been extended to nearly all of the communities, a new Wellness Center at The Cliffs at Keowee Falls in Oconee County being the most recent addition this month.

The new center is a microcosm of The Cliffs’ lifestyle formula, blending an exercise room with an array of cardio equipment and an aerobics room with hardwood floors and mirrored walls with a plush community room with large-screen televisions and a kitchenette. Men’s and women’s locker rooms with tiled showers and saunas are a short walk from an outdoor sitting area with a fireplace. Part of the Keowee Falls trail system emerges from the forest nearby and weaves through an outdoor fitness area that includes a lap pool, croquet pitch, four clay tennis courts and a small pavilion that overlooks a playing field suitable for football or Frisbee games.

“Golf used to be the primary reason people settled in The Cliffs Communities,” Ort said. “Now it is lifestyle, wellness and then golf. People come looking for wellness, and the biggest influence on our marketing is the lifestyle of our members.”

Recently, Ort said residents flocked to 2015 preview parties held in each of the communities. At those meetings, each segment of the wellness program — from golf, to fitness, to the recently developed Exploration Series, to the food and beverage program — outlined its calendar of events for the year.

SPRING 2015 › 27

The Cliffs health and fitness team is impressive, which may explain why 88 homes are currently under construction in The Cliffs Communities. The team includes Ort (who is a doctor of chiropractic), an exercise physiologist, a certified strength and conditioning specialist, a team of fitness directors and specialists, USA cycling and weightlifting coaches and registered yoga teachers.

The only four Nike Golf Performance Specialists in South Carolina work for The Cliffs. Their programs are designed to reduce golf handicaps and the potential for injury and pain, while increasing strength, endurance and flexibility.

Champion cyclist George Hincapie serves as the cycling director for The Cliffs, organizing private rides and special programs. An instructor with international credentials oversees tennis, and outdoor specialists coordinate guided hikes that include trips to class 5 waterfalls, whitewater rapids and heights of 6,600 feet.

Ort is particularly proud of the new Exploration Series that offers members opportunities to engage in whitewater rafting, zip-lining, kayaking and standup paddling, scuba diving, fly fishing, bicycle rides on the Swamp Rabbit Trail, shooting competitions, hiking and boating tours and even line dancing.

Fitness also extends to the clubhouses and, in some cases, the private kitchens of Cliffs members. Ort said some of the properties promote organic gardening and all of the communities offer health conscious menus, including gluten-free options and entrees devoid of sugar and processed foods. Vegetarian options are always available, especially vegetables in season and locally grown. For those who prefer meat, menus include only pastured beef and free-range chicken. » CONTINUED ON PG. 30

{top} The Cliffs’ health and fitness team is impressive, including a doctor of chiropractic; an exercise physiologist; a certified strength and conditioning specialist; and tennis, cycling and weightlifting coaches. Here, a tennis specialist talks with two generations of a Cliffs’ family. {above} Certified instructors operate out of each of the Wellness Centers that are at the heart of The Cliffs communities. From personal fitness training to advice on how to improve your golf swing, avoid recreational sports injuries and simply feel better, The Cliffs’ staff focuses on individual needs. {left} The Beach Club at The Cliffs at Keowee Springs is popular with residents of all ages and is seeing added use thanks to the organization’s new “Legacy Program.” The Beach Club is also the focal point for a number of activities on Lake Keowee, including paddle boarding, kayaking and wake boarding. Last year, there were more than 1,000 paddleboard and kayak uses at the club.

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Within those parameters, chefs in each community are free to develop their own creative menus.

Ort said that each Cliffs community is distinctive but, depending on a resident’s membership, it is possible to enjoy amenities at any of the other Cliffs properties. That sharing, as well as the addition of a Legacy Program that encourages more visits by children and grandchildren, has led to greater participation in fitness program of all kinds.

For instance, the addition of 14 custom paddleboards and six kayaks at The Cliffs at Ke-

owee Springs, led to more than 1,000 uses last year.

Also at Keowee Springs, a distinctive golf course that turns back to the clubhouse after every six holes, has led to considerable play.

Ort said a group of ladies called the Sassy Sixers had grown from six members to over 40.

Likewise, a men’s group is just beginning to build membership.

“We don’t force anything on our members,” Ort said. “We work hard to keep our members informed, and they seem to be loving it.

“We set ourselves up to be in front of them,”

he continued. “Like our golf pros. They set up programs that look, feel and smell like golf, but they are also aimed at wellness and making sure our members can play golf for as long as possible.

“It’s all about them getting to be themselves ... to live their lifestyle.” n Six of the seven Cliffs communities feature Wellness Centers, the newest having just opened at The Cliffs at Keowee Falls. The new center is a microcosm of The Cliffs’ lifestyle formula, blending exercise and aerobics rooms with a plush community room, outdoor lap pool, hiking trails, tennis courts and a host of lively lake activities.

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He is a a Lot 18 McClain Pt. Anderson Lot 18 McClain Pt. Anderson LISTING SPECIALIST with LISTING with a Lot 18 SPECIALIST McClain Anderson MLS# 20159847Pt. $275,000 $275,000 LISTING SPECIALIST with a MLS# 20159847 proven track record for for MLS# 20159847 $275,000 proven track record proven track record for Hartwell Deep Water Waterfront Hartwell Deep Water Waterfront getting your property SOLD. getting property SOLD. Hartwell Deep Water Waterfront Lot in inyour desirable McClain Pointe getting your property SOLD. Lot desirable McClain Pointe Tri-County Properties Lot in desirable McClain Pointe Tri-County Properties Featuring: Covered Dock w/ Lift Lift Featuring: Covered Dock w/ Tri-County Properties Featuring: Covered Dock w/ Lift Lakefront Team of BUYER & Septic Permit. .57 acres Lakefront Team of & Permit. .57 Lakefront Team of BUYER BUYER & Septic Septic Permit. .57 acres acres cleared with gentle slope to lake SPECIALISTS are consistent cleared with gentle slope to SPECIALISTS are consistent cleared with gentle slope to lake lake SPECIALISTS arebeach. consistent and natural beach.

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Hartwell Waterfront Waterfront Home Home on on .83 .83 Hartwell Hartwell Waterfront Home on .83 acres in The Gates.

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Lot 1 1 Coneross Coneross Pt. Pt. Anderson Anderson Lot Lot 1 Coneross Anderson MLS# 20155078Pt. $220,000 $220,000 MLS# 20155078 MLS# 20155078 $220,000

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217 E. E. Wynward Wynward Pointe Pointe Dr. Dr. Salem Salem 217 217 E. Wynward Pointe Dr. Salem MLS# 20161667 $1,575,000 MLS# 20161667 $1,575,000 MLS# 20161667 $1,575,000 Stunning Keowee Keowee Waterfront Waterfront Home Home in in Stunning Stunning Keowee Home in Wynward Point III IIIWaterfront with spectacular spectacular Wynward Point with Wynward Point IIIViews with spectacular Lake & Mountain Mountain from almost almost Lake & Views from Lake Mountain Views3.5 from almost every&room. room.

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4+Paved Beds, path 3.5 Baths 5490 Sq. Ft. to thein 5490 Sq. Ft. Paved path to the 5490 Sq. Ft.Dock Paved path the Covered Slip w/Lift & to Natural Covered Slip Dock w/Lift & Natural Coveredwhite Slip Dock & Natural sand w/Lift beach. white sand beach. white sand beach.

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Swine + Wine =

A REALLY GOOD TIME Lexington revels in its barbecue fame Story by Bill Bauer | Photos courtesy of Lexington Tourism Authority

exington, NC is home to some famous folks.

NASCAR’s Richard Childress, owner of the racing team that sponsored the late, great Dale Earnhardt manages both his racing operations and an award-winning winery in Lexington. Bob Timberlake, one of America’s premier artists and designers, also resides, paints and operates a gallery in Lexington.

But, this little city in the North Carolina Piedmont has another claim to fame — delicious pork barbecue. In fact, it is so well known it is called the Barbecue Capital, boasting 17 restaurants solely devoted to barbecue.

It is simply a swine-and-dine city where pork reigns supreme!

Native North Carolinians have known for decades that when it comes to pork barbecue, Lexington is “hog heaven.” Today, however, seekers of swine dining are flocking to this city where there is almost one restaurant for every 1,000 people.

In October, the population swells to 200,000 when the town holds its annual Barbecue Festival. But during the year folks from throughout the South make Lexington a destination as well.

{above} No barbecue meal is complete without a side of hush puppies and tasty coleslaw, as well as crisp French fries.

Some Lexington barbecue restaurants can serve as many as 10,000 plates on a busy Saturday.

SPRING 2015 › 33

Lexington barbecue masters will say that the first two steps toward creating tasty barbecue are using only pork shoulders, which provide moist and juicy meat, and then smoking the pork over wood fires for 8 to 10 hours to provide added flavor.

“Some call it a pilgrimage,” said Cecil Conrad, second-generation owner of The Bar-B-Q Center on North Main Street. “We get people about once a month who come here and try all the restaurants in town!”

What is it about Lexington-style barbecue that makes it so special?

Local pitmasters say there are four crucial steps to making ’cue in the capital. Step one is using only pork shoulders, which provide moist and juicy meat. The second step is smoking the pork over wood fires to provide added flavor. Step three is slow-roasting the shoulders for 8 to 10 hours at a time. And, finally, adding a light amount of medium-textured sauce just before serving is essential.

Most Lexington restaurants follow these four principles, while adding their own secret trick or ingredient along the way.

Conrad is from the camp that believes in the importance of cooking with real wood, usually hickory or oak. He says that’s the “original way” and “the flavor just soaks in and 34 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

you can taste the difference.” The wood-fired nature of barbecue in Lexington is so important that Conrad recently spent $250,000 on a new kitchen featuring three traditional wood pits.

“I could have done gas, but it’s not the same,” he said. “It’s all hand-fired and handchopped. It’s labor intensive.”

Over at Lexington Barbecue on U.S. Highway 64, three generations of the Monk family have made barbecue the original way for more than 60 years.

“It has to be cooked with wood,” said Rick Monk. “That’s my definition of barbecue.

When you saturate any piece of meat with smoke, it goes all the way through the meat and the flavor is just unreal.”

The sauce is also crucial. Unlike other regions that use thick, sweeter sauces, folks in Lexington favor a lighter sauce comprised of vinegar and ketchup. They refer to it as “dip.”

It’s more tangy than sweet and soaks into the meat.

“The sauce is more of an enhancement. A lot of the flavor comes from the actual smoking of the wood,” explained Bub Wright of Lexington Barbecue, where it is not uncommon to serve 800 to 1,200 plates a day and go through 6,000 to 7,500 pounds of pork in a week.

“We don’t use rubs, marinades or anything like that. It’s the true barbecue taste. On a good Saturday, we’ll serve 1,600,” Bub boasted.

Another thing that sets Lexington-style barbecue apart is the variety of ways in which it is served. Customers can get their orders chopped, pulled or sliced, and even get the brown ends in chunks. The coleslaw can also be an eye-opener. It’s traditional in Lexington to serve “red” slaw or “barbecue” slaw, which includes ketchup and a dash of vinegar.

And, no Lexington barbecue meal is complete without hushpuppies, small pieces of sweet round cornmeal, mixed with a tasty ingredient » CONTINUED ON PG. 37 or two, then deep-fried.

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IT IS LISTING SEASON! In 2014 Wayne had 21 of his Lake Keowee area listings sold Wayne’s listing inventory is low. He wants to help YOU with your real estate needs.

Wayne has all these internet portals and more bringing in potential buyers • LakeHomes.com is now a MAJOR access point for buyers • His own WayneHobin.com • Many leads from Trulia.com • REALTOR.com.

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Starting January 1st of this year I started my blog about real estate around Lake Keowee.

Every few days I shall evaluate the market for you. I also include ALL NEW RESIDENTIAL LISTINGS AND SOLDS SINCE THE PREVIOUS BLOG. Click on the link in the upper right of the 1st page of www.WayneHobin.com. Enjoy!

Call Wayne Hobin today for expert advice on buying or selling your lake home!

Corporate Headquarters: 105 Hayesbury Dr, Ste 202, Pelham, AL 35124 | Local Office: East Main St, Salem, SC 29676 SPRING 2015 › 35

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» CONTINUED FROM PG. 34

“It’s a Southern thing,” explained Monk. “On a steady day, we serve about 5,000 to 6,000 hushpuppies. On a good day, it can be 10,000.”

Two things Lexington-area barbecue restaurants don’t do are serve swine before its time (it takes 8-10 hours to properly smoke a pork shoulder), and they never view their fellow restaurant owners as competition.

“We have several different family-owned businesses that all work together. We want each family to do well,” said Monk.

It’s part of an overall philosophy that’s a point of civic pride in Lexington, where the employment base of textiles, furniture and manufacturing has eroded over the past two decades.

They come for the swine. They come for the wine. And, in October, the population in Lexington, NC swells to 200,000 when the town holds its annual Barbecue Festival and music fills the air.

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NASCAR team owner Richard Childress opened his winery outside of Lexington, NC in 2004. The winery not only produces a variety of award-winning wines, but it is open daily for tours and tastings as well as lunch. Once a month dinner is also served either overlooking the vineyards or in the barrel room.

“People call us the Barbecue Capital, and it’s been very good for our area,” Monk explained.

“Bub Wright says it best, ‘Good barbecue is good barbecue, and we don’t pit one restaurant against the other’.”

A LITTLE WINE WITH YOUR SWINE Lexington is also the gateway to the Yadkin Valley American Viticultural Area, North Carolina’s first federally designated region for grape growing. It is here where Richard Childress followed his dream and built a world-class winery just five miles from his NASCAR racing operation. Childress’ passion for wine began when he first raced in California and visited wineries with friends. In 2004 he opened the doors to Childress Vineyards and has been producing championship wines ever since.

Mark Friszolowski, winner of over 350 awards for his wines, oversees the winemaking.

With over 77 acres growing 12 varieties of European vinifera, Childress Vineyards produces a broad range of reds and whites that appeal to

the introductory palate and the seasoned connoisseur.

The vineyard has been named among the Top 25 Tasting Rooms in America by Wine Enthusiast and is a four-time recipient of the NC Governor’s Cup award for its Best in Show wines. The winery is open daily for tours and tastings as well as lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and, once a month, dinner is served overlooking the vineyards.

In addition to Childress Vineyards, the Weathervane Winery adds to the unique Swine, Dine and Wine experience in Lexington.

At Weathervane, owner and winemaker Sid Proctor, who describes his venture into winemaking as a “hobby gone wild,” blends his selection of wines in a more laid-back, informal atmosphere. “Wine-Down” Friday nights bring crowds upwards of 400 to hear live bands and savor the fruit of the vine.

“We have everything from elaborate picnics to Bojangles biscuits to go along with great

music,” said Proctor.

Weathervane offers an array of wines for all tastes. There are eight dry reds, four dry whites and six sweet blends.

“We do standard dry wines from a Traminette to a Chardonnay to a Pinot Grigio to a Merlot,” Proctor said. “We also offer a host of fruit-style wines that feature a grape style, for instance a peach chardonnay or a blueberry Syrah. We have a unique setup to where if an individual is experienced, non-experienced, sophisticated in his tastes, or just wants to enjoy some fun wines without the attitude, we cover all spectrums.”

DOWNTOWN DELIGHTS In between the wining and dining, downtown Lexington’s historic Main Street makes for an additional experience. Step back in time at The Candy Factory, which features hundreds of nostalgic candies, antiques and collectibles, and has been concocting over a thousand varieties of homemade fudge for 35 years. » CONTINUED ON PG. 40

38 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

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» CONTINUED FROM PG. 38

Spend some time with Tommy Davis, in his Mission Pottery gallery and studio. Stroll along and find the “Pigs in the City,” life-size pigs painted and decorated in unusual ways, or discover three of North Carolina’s Civil War Trail markers, identifying and interpreting locations of both great campaigns and lesser known sites.

The Lexington Travel Authority’s logo is an “L” encircled by a pink pig, checkered flag, artist palette and a grape cluster. That pretty well says it all.

From the BBQ Capital Cook-Off in April to the Barbecue Festival in October, the pits will be smoking non-stop. Wine-Down Fridays at Weathervane are in full swing, and a host of events downtown are scheduled throughout the spring and summer. Anytime is a good time to visit Lexington, but there is no better time than now to scratch it off your barbecue bucket list. n

HOG HEAVEN Lexington area BBQ restaurants Backcountry BBQ Bar-B-Q Center Cook’s Barbecue Henry James Family Dining Hendrix Barbecue Jimmy’s Barbecue Kerley’s Barbecue Lexington Barbecue Lexington Style Trimmings Smokey Joe’s Smiley’s Barbecue Speedy’s Barbecue Speedy Lohr’s BBQ Tar Heel Q Troutman’s Bar-B-Que

For more information contact the Lexington Travel Authority at 866-604-2389 or visit: www.VisitLexingtonNC.com.

LEXINGTON’S OWN RENAISSANCE MAN

Story by Bill Bauer | Photo courtesy of Bob Timberlake Gallery and Museum

Mention the term “Renaissance Man” and Leonardo da Vinci or Michelangelo come to mind. Not only did they work their wonders during the actual Renaissance period, but they also defined the phrase as “a man of any period who has a broad range of intellectual interests and has acquired profound knowledge or proficiency in more than one field.”

North Carolina is fortunate to have its own Renaissance man in the person of Lexington’s Bob Timberlake, an accomplished artist, author, designer, collector and outdoorsman.

THE MAN Timberlake is an internationally acclaimed realist painter and designer who makes his home in Lexington.

After graduating with a degree in industrial relations, he worked in five family businesses in a hands-on, executive capacity until finding his niche. At 78, he shows no signs of slowing down.

THE ARTIST “The most fun thing to do is paint. When I’m painting, I get to do something all day that I want to do,” said Timberlake. While he dabbled at painting for several years, it wasn’t until the age of 33 that he was encouraged by Andrew Wyeth to devote himself to painting full-time.

His first exhibit in Winston-Salem, NC, and his first three solo exhibitions at New York’s Hammer Galleries were sold out days before their openings. He has held numerous solo museum exhibitions, including at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh, the Corcoran Gallery in Washington, DC, the Frye Museum in Seattle and the Isetan Gallery in Tokyo. Timberlake designed the 1980 Christmas Stamp for the U.S. Postal Service and both the North Carolina and South Carolina statehood stamps.

THE AUTHOR Timberlake’s furniture, home plans, paintings and sketches have appeared in countless books, journals, newspapers and magazines.

He has also released eight books, including his most recent, “Life’s Lessons: Lines of Wisdom from a Faithful Stream.” He and Ambassador Mark Erwin, both collectors of 40 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

aphorisms, tales and inspirational quotations for many years, collaborated on this book to share their favorite lines of wisdom from sources as diverse as Grandma Moses, Billy Graham, George Carlin and a Bermudian taxi driver. Over 60 Timberlake paintings accompany the quotations.

THE DESIGNER In 1990, he launched a comprehensive furniture line based on his designs, which revolutionized and brought excitement back into the industry by introducing the concept of branding a furniture collection according to a famous personality or lifestyle concept. The collection was recently named the most significant introduction of a line of furniture in the last 40 years and is the most successful in the history of furniture.

THE COLLECTOR An avid collector, Timberlake surrounds himself with things that evoke images of a simpler time: decoys; enamelware; canoes; birdhouses; quilts; antiques and other icons of the rural South.

THE OUTDOORSMAN He has had a lifelong love affair with the outdoors. As a boy, he sketched all the tools he would need for an outdoor adventure — a knife, a sleeping bag, a fishing pole and much more. He has passed on his enjoyment of fishing and hunting to his children and grandchildren and is often found in a duck blind or trout stream with family or old friends.

The beauty of nature that gives the sporting life its appeal is at the heart of both Bob Timberlake the man and the brand.

No trip to Lexington, NC is complete without entering Timberlake’s world at The Bob Timberlake Gallery and Museum at 1714 East Center St. Extension. The 15,000-square foot retail gallery features his art, apparel, furniture and home furnishing accessories as well as a broad selection of gifts and collectible items. It is open Mon. - Sat., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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FALCON’S LAIR GOLF COURSE, 1 P.M. SHOTGUN START

$300 team fee includes lunch, mulligans, red tees, door and flight prizes.

Women’s and co-ed teams welcome.

• Hole-in-one contest for new vehicle • Prizes for longest drive & closest to pin Play a great golf course, have fun and make a difference by raising funds for construction of the finest 9/11 Memorial in the Southeast United States.

Put together a team and enjoy a great day … for a great cause.

Make checks to Oconee 9/11 Memorial and mail to: Phil Shirley, 9/11 Golf Committee, 671 High Falls Road, Seneca, SC 29672 or email to: pshirley@oconeesc.com Contact Name:__________________________________________ Address:_________________________________________________________ Phone: (Work)_______________________(Mobile)_______________________ Email:____________________________________________________________ No. of participants:___________ Amount enclosed:____________ Hole sponsorships and other levels of support are available. 9/11 Memorial Oconee SC, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit.

For more information on sponsorships, email pshirley@oconeesc.com or call 864.985.2446.

All proceeds will go toward the 9/11 Memorial to be built on SC Highway 11, across from Falcon’s Lair Golf Course.

The memorial will honor those first responders who died on Sept. 11, 2001, those who have perished in the War on Terror and those who continue to risk their lives in service to our communities and country.

174 Radisson Road, Seneca, SC CONVENIENT EXECUTIVE EQUESTIRIAN ESTATE $989,000 Located in beautiful upstate South Carolina, with pristine views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll find 174 Radisson Road.

Sitting atop a rolling knoll is this vast estate with its large living lifestyle. Everything about this home is immense. From the estate itself, the barn, the home, even the bathrooms are extensive. You’ll fall in love from first sight as well as its location.

Conveniently situated minutes from town with Greenville only an hour away and Atlanta just an hour and half, everything the upstate has to offer is right at your fingertips. Radisson Road is a must see. Contact Shannon Massey to schedule a viewing.

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With everything from the red barn to the full finished basement, this home offers comfort levels that will make you never want to leave. To fully appreciate the beauty this home offers, contact Shannon Massey to schedule a tour.

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NEW SPRING HOURS STARTING MARCH 15TH 8:30 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. 44 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

GARDEN IS BLOOMIN’ BEAUTIFUL Georgia center is just a short drive away

Story by Brett McLaughlin | Photos courtesy of State Botanical Garden of Georgia

T

he venerable University of Georgia football team has played between “the hedges” since 1924.

Having plants around its football field is no coincidence. While the city has long been known for its restaurants, art galleries, and much-touted music scene, the area’s reputation as a horticultural mecca dates back even further.

And, while “the hedges” have attracted many Upstate residents to Athens in the fall, it’s really spring that brings out the best of both the city and, particularly, the university.

Few places in Georgia can rival the arrival of spring as witnessed at The State Botanical Garden of Georgia, a 313-acre slice of horticulture

heaven at 2450 South Milledge Avenue.

Visited by over 200,000 people each year, the Garden is headquarters of the Georgia Plant Conservation Alliance, the Georgia Gold Medal Plant Program and the Garden Club of Georgia.

Billed as a “living laboratory,” the Garden hosts not only countless school groups, but also attracts a diverse audience through a series of festivals and special events ranging from Zumba and Yoga to full moon hikes to violin concerts. Classes are offered over a series of weeks or on single days. Birds, bees, reptiles and wildflowers all have events devoted to them.

The Garden itself is divided into five themes/collections. While is it possible for visi-

tors to spend an entire day in one garden, taking in all five displays is not out of the question and not all that tiring, especially if one brings a bottle of wine or picnic lunch and stays for one of the Garden’s evening concerts, which range from jazz to bluegrass.

The newest garden is the Heritage Garden.

It contains plants of historic and economic interest to Georgia such as heirloom annuals and perennials, antique roses, fruit crops, row crops and plants native to Georgia.

Located adjacent to the Visitor Center is the International Garden, which is further divided into an herb garden, physic garden and bog garden. Special collections of flowers and plants represent the Mediterranean and Mid-

The State Botanical Garden of Georgia is actually five gardens in one. Among those that come to life in the spring is the Heritage Garden shown here with its focal point, the Bittern Fountain. Photo by Hugh & Carol Nourse

SPRING 2015 › 45

dle East, Spanish America, South America and China.

The Shade Garden is one of the most popular areas, particularly in the heat of summer. Seven plazas grace this area. A wisteria-covered arbor on the main plaza provides a commanding view of the garden, which has major collections of azaleas, redbuds, magnolias, dogwoods and viburnums.

The Native Flora Garden adjoins the Shade Garden and features many rare and endangered plants, while the Flower Garden is located just north of the Heritage Garden. There, visitors will find roses, dahlias, fragrance flowers and a butterfly garden. The Flower Garden also includes a woodland walk, wildlife pavilion and a small stage for outdoor performances.

All of the main pathways in the Garden are paved, making for easy access.

Hikers love the five miles of color-coded trails that wind throughout The State Botanical Garden of Georgia. Likewise, the Visitor Center is popular due to its unique gift shop, its 10,000-square foot tropical conservatory that plays host to many indoor events, and Donderos’ Kitchen, which has a good selection of soups, sandwiches and desserts.

The Day Chapel on the grounds is the setting for many weddings whose receptions then flow over into the gardens or the conservatory.

Those considering a day trip to the Garden may want to mark Saturday, April 11 on their calendars as there will be three plants sales going on in the city, including one at the Garden.

Plant enthusiasts and gardeners from across the Southeast will converge on Athens to attend the annual Plantapalooza plant sales that take place at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, the UGA Horticulture Club and the Trial Gardens at UGA. From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Plantapalooza will feature a wide range of garden plants that thrive in the Southeastern United States. Native plants, shrubs, trees, the latest perennials and more will be available at each of the three locations. Horticulturists, volunteers and Master Gardeners will all be on hand to offer help with your plant selections.

The event takes place rain or shine and admission is free.

According to the Garden’s special events coordinator Connie Cottingham, “nothing is bigger than Plantapalooza.”

If visitors want to visit the Garden as a group of eight or more, Cottingham said tours could be arranged through her office (706-542-6014). Those tours can range from 30 to 90 minutes and can accommodate wheelchairs if necessary. n The Garden is located about 90 minutes from the Upstate.

The grounds are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., April through September. There is currently no admission or parking fees.

Donations are accepted.

Directions and more information about the State Botanical Garden of Georgia are available at: botgarden.uga.edu. » CONTINUED ON PG. 48

{top to bottom} The Plantapalooza plant sales event will take place April 11, involving the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, the UGA Horticulture Club and the Trial Gardens at UGA. Gardeners from across the Southeast converge on Athens each year to hone their gardening skills and expand their own plantings. • The Flower Garden is where visitors will find roses, dahlias, fragrance flowers and a butterfly garden. It is the focal point of many activities as it also includes a woodland walk, wildlife pavilion and small stage for outdoor performances. Photo by Hugh & Carol Nourse • The International Garden is divided into an herb garden, pictured here, as well as a physic garden and bog garden. It is also home to special collections of flowers and plants from the Mediterranean and Middle East, Spanish America, South America and China. Photo by Hugh & Carol Nourse

46 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

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SPRING 2015 › 47

» CONTINUED FROM PG. 46

This is a partial list of the classes, symposia and events offered March through May at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. All classes require pre-registration unless noted. Call 706-542-6156 or register online at botgarden. uga.edu where additional event information is available.

Sunflower Concerts at the State Botanical Garden are held one Tuesday evening each month, June through September. Check the Garden website at: botgarden.uga.edu for exact dates and times.

NATURE RAMBLERS Any Thursday through November 19 join the Nature Ramblers at 8:30 a.m. (except for June – August, 8 a.m.) and learn more about the natural areas, flora and fauna of the Garden while making new friends and enjoying the cool, fresh air. Sessions start with an inspirational reading by a nature writer. This is a ramble not a hike, and it stops to view interesting plants, insects, butterflies, mushrooms, etc. along the way. Ramblers are encouraged to bring their own nature writings or favorite poems and essays to share with the group. Join one or all sessions.

RECEPTION, TALK AND SIGNING WITH KIMBERLY CROSS TETER Did you know that the most famous orchestra in Europe at the beginning of the 18th Century was composed of all females, most of whom had been orphaned or abandoned as babies? These remarkable musicians lived together in the Ospedale della Pietà, a unique orphanage in Venice. On March 4, at 6:30 p.m., listen to Teter talk about her novel and this fascinating piece of history and hear a cellist perform.

FOOD AND FIRE! This March 14 class ($50) will be covering knowledge on acquiring two of our basic human needs — food and fire. Join Russell Cutts on a daylong adventure of learning about wild edibles and friction fire. The morning will be spent exploring and identifying the garden grounds to learn about plants that are often overlooked as a food source. He will teach some ways to prepare simple, yet delicious, dishes with these foods. During the afternoon the class will learn how 48 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

to create fire by using two different methods using a bow-drill and hand-drill. Class begins at 9 a.m.

JENKS FARMER: AN EVENING OF DEEP-ROOTED WISDOM On March 20, at 6:15 p.m. Jenks Farmer — young, Southern, and engaging — will tell stories of the eclectic mix of gardeners across the Eastern United States who shared their gardens and their knowledge in his book, “Deep-Rooted Wisdom: Skills and Stories from Generations of Gardeners.” The evening starts with a reception where you can meet Jenks and chat with members of Friends of the Garden. Admission is free, but registation is required by March 13 at www. botgarden.uga.edu or 706-542-9353.

TREASURES FROM THE HIVE We all know honeybees are great pollinators and nectar collectors, but have you ever considered what else they make in the hive besides honey? During this March 24, 6-8 p.m. class ($40), we will be making three different useful items with the wax and propolis from a local beehive: beeswax food covers, beeswax luminary tea light globes and a propolis tincture.

SPRING WILDFLOWERS OF THE GRANITE OUTCROPS OF GEORGIA Georgia is home to 90 percent of the Southeastern Piedmont’s granite outcrops, one of the most endangered and botanically interesting natural communities in the U.S. During this April 11, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. class ($50) students will be introduced to the ecology and plants of granite outcrops during classroom time. We will then visit Rock and Shoals

Natural Area to learn to identify the species in the field and observe the ecological processes that create and maintain granite outcrops.

GEORGIA REVIEW’S 7TH ANNUAL EARTH DAY PROGRAM Award-winning writer and environmental activist Gary Ferguson will be the speaker for The Georgia Review’s seventh annual Earth Day program, April 22, 7 p.m., in the Day Chapel at the State Botanical Garden, with a reception to follow. Ferguson’s talk is open to the public free, but seating in the chapel is limited. Plan to arrive early.

BOTANICAL WATERCOLOR ILLUSTRATION Learn the gentle art of botanical watercolor illustration. Using a flower of your choice selected from the Garden, learn how to compose, sketch and paint a botanical watercolor illustration. The class, April 25, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., will focus on techniques and materials for execution of a lasting rendition. The workshop is appropriate for beginners as well as experienced artists. A materials list will be provided. Some supplies are included in the $75 fee.

MYSTERY NIGHT: LOWCOUNTRY BONEYARD On May 19 meet new people, gather at 6 p.m. with your book club or friends, or explore the tropical Conservatory with a glass of wine in hand at a reception hosted by the Athens Area Garden Club Council in the beautiful Visitor Center. Discover the latest must-have beach read by Susan Boyer of Greenville, SC, whose “Lowcountry Boneyard,” set in Charleston and the third in the Liz Talbot Mystery Series, is scheduled to debut in mid-April. ($5)

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Home’s features raise the style bar but comfort reigns Story by Brett McLaughlin | Photos by Rex Brown

The detailed craftsmanship of this large masonry fireplace makes it a highlight in the home’s great room. It is one of three stone fireplaces in the home and is capable of burning real wood or operating on natural gas.

SPRING 2015 › 51

52 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

Y

OU CAN’T BUILD A HOME ON LAKE KEOWEE AND NOT EXPECT IT TO LOOK LIKE A LAKE HOME. JEFF ANDERSON KNEW AND CONCEDED THAT FACT WHEN HE BUILT HIS VACATION HOME IN 2009. HE ALSO KNEW, HOWEVER, THAT THERE WERE CERTAIN LANDSCAPE AND DESIGN CHARACTERISTICS THAT HE WOULD INSIST ON HAVING.

The result of that combination of acceptance and insistence is a comfortable and practical, yet truly elegant, home with stunning views of Lake Keowee.

“The house has a lake look and feel, but it’s not over the top,” Anderson said. “It’s not a cabin in the woods.”

One look at Keowee’s blue water and assured of adequate lake levels year-round, the decision Anderson and his wife made to build on Lake Keowee was easy.

Add to those attributes the availability of a lot on a practically private cove just yards from the main channel of the lake, and the die was cast.

“If you look at the home from the lake side it is really more u-shaped,” Anderson said. “That was done to increase the panoramic view of the lake and mountains. It’s the same with the fire pit area near the boathouse.”

Having four daughters with countless friends to invite to the lake, the Andersons have also enjoyed the “semi-private” nature and safety of the “no wake” cove.

An architect by trade, Anderson added several modifications to the floor plan, most of which were designed to take advantage of the home’s lake vista. Among the most prominent was the addition of bowed cupola walls in the master suite and in one of the three lower level suites.

“Simplicity adorned with elegance,” is how a friend described the home.

“We think the home has an open and warm environment,” Anderson said, noting the absence of a formal dining room in favor of a “keeping area” adjacent to an informal dining area and near the home’s gourmet kitchen. An eating bar draws the entire area together and adds to both the utilitarian nature of the home and its entertainment capability.

Upon entering the foyer, one’s attention is quickly drawn to the openness of the floor plan and the clear lake views from multiple windows and a pair of doors, one leading to a covered patio, with one of three stone fireplaces, and the other providing entry to a 200-square foot, all seasons porch.

The great room also features a stone masonry fireplace capable of burning both wood or natural gas, as well as a coffered ceiling that features framed iron accents. The importance the Andersons placed on quality craftsmanship is not only apparent in this unique ceiling design but in the exquisite Brazilian cherry floors and stained moldings that accent the living and entertaining areas of the home.

The kitchen is state of the art with a utility island for cooking, custom cabinetry, marble countertops and top tier appliances, including a Viking stove.

Anderson credits his wife with exceptional custom tile work above the stove and a frosted glass, engraved door on the kitchen’s large walk-in pantry.

Nearby, narrow, vertical paneling and specialty trim grace an office reached through French doors off the foyer. These doors, like most in the adjacent hallway, » CONTINUED ON PG. 55 feature transoms to bring additional light inside.

The detailed craftsmanship of this large masonry fireplace makes it a highlight in the home’s great room. It is one of three stone fireplaces in the home and is capable of burning real wood or operating on natural gas.

{opposite page, clockwise} Vertical paneling and specialty trim grace an office that can be reached through French doors off the foyer or through a smaller door in the nearby hallway. These and most of the doors on the main level feature transoms, adding to both the height and lighting of the rooms. • Paul Anderson credits his wife with this detailed and exquisite tile work above the kitchen range. It is just one of many special touches throughout the home. • A cupola wall that adds to the panoramic view and the coffered ceiling are highlights of a 430-square foot master bedroom. • In building the home the Andersons opted for a very open floor plan, foregoing a formal dining room for a keeping area (at right in photo) that adjoins the great room, kitchen and informal dining area. An eating bar also helps pull the entire area together when entertaining. Note the coffered ceiling with wrought iron features and the rich Brazilian cherry floors.

SPRING 2015 › 53

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PEOPLE ALWAYS ASK ME Why am I in the real estate business?

{at top} The master bath is very roomy and features rich cabinetry and trim, marble countertops, a large, tiled shower and a deep jet tub. A large linen closet is nearby, as are two sizeable walk-in closets. {above} The lake level features this massive living area, large enough for three daughters to entertain guests at the lake. There is also a billiards area that adjoins a full bar. Three private suites, each with a bath and walk-in closet are also on this level. » CONTINUED FROM PG. 53

The hall on the main level leads to a half-bath, laundry room with abundant storage and the three-car garage. However, turning toward the lake from that same hall leads to the 450-square foot, carpeted master suite, which features a trey ceiling and sitting area. The suite also features an exceptional bath with exquisitely tiled shower, sunken jet tub, double sinks and linen storage. Two large, walk-in closets complete the master.

Descending to the lake level one finds an open recreation area and second living space that features another fireplace, an adjoining billiard area and a bar with seating, beverage cooler and icemaker.

This level also features three bedroom suites, each with a full bath and walk-in closet. One suite has access to a private sitting area on the covered verandah that runs the length of the house. A nearby exterior stairway leads to the upper deck and the turret-shaped, screened porch on the main level.

Two inches was added to the home’s exterior walls, assuring low utility bills and cutting down on dust, thus requiring only limited use of the home’s vacuum system. Likewise, the landscaping was designed to be low maintenance with rock, stone, plantings and mulch being the primary components.

“No one goes to their vacation home to work,” Anderson’s friend said, smiling and gesturing toward the dock with its lit walkway, boatlift and personal watercraft lift. “This isn’t about work.” n

My answer is always the same. I get to share everything that is great about where we live. From the beautiful, emerald waters of Lake Keowee to the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains… the warm summer days on the lake to the incredible colors we see in the fall… the breathtaking waterfalls to the awesome hiking trails… the Clemson Tiger games and tailgating to the high school Friday nights… the awesome southern foods to the best sweet tea… the cities that treat old and new like the small town you grew up in…But most of all, I get to tell people thinking of moving here about all the wonderful people that already live here and their stories.

Let Me Tell Your Story Too.

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10700 Clemson Boulevard | Seneca, SC 29678

SPRING 2015 › 55

CLEMSON RELISHES

Rick Erwin’s WITH A TWIST

Good food, competitively priced comes to Patrick Square Story by Brett McLaughlin | Photos by Rex Brown

R Executive Chef Shawn Creef flash fires a pan of mussels and clams.

Creef oversees a busy kitchen offering a variety of standard Rick Erwin’s entrees and several unique dishes of the chef’s making.

56 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

ick Erwin has found a simple formula for building successful eateries: Provide people with a superior product at a competitive price.

He honed that formula at his West End Grille in Greenville, applied it when he opened Rick Erwin’s Nantucket Seafood, also in Greenville, and has now brought it to Clemson, but with a twist.

“The emphasis is still on quality and that is reflected in some of our prices,” said Jeremy Bohler, general manager of Rick Erwin’s Clemson, “but here in Clemson we have been particularly conscious of pricing.

“I don’t think people know that we have a lot of values,” he continued. “There are only six entrees on the menu — mostly steaks — that are served a la carte. Most of our dishes are composed of an entrée, a vegetable and a side, and we have 12 entrees for under $20.

“We don’t want folks to think they have to spend $200 or $300 to go out for a special occasion.”

To that end, Rick Erwin’s Clemson has taken 3-for-$30 and 3-for-$42 features — menus with various options for soup/salad, entrée and dessert — popularized at the West End during Restaurant Week, and applied them year-round.

“We think that instead of going out just for Valentine’s Day and your wife’s birthday, you can afford to go out 10 or 12 times a year,” Bohler said.

And while Erwin, Bohler and Executive Chef Shawn Creef spent considerable time discussing value, they wasted little time deciding to recreate the ambience of the popular West End eatery in Clemson.

“We have the same feel. We are upscale, intimate and romantic,” Bohler said as Frank Sinatra’s “Don’t Take Your Love From Me” settles over the dining room and servers in white jackets hustle to set tables for dinner.

A few diners wait in the bar area, which features tables for dining as well as a pair of televisions overlooking a granite-topped bar.

Like all areas of the restaurant, historic Clemson University pictures have been reproduced in black and white, had a touch of orange added and are neatly framed.

Executive Chef Shawn Creef has the latitude to create specials for evening dining. In this case he has steamed succulent mussels and clams with an open flame and served them with light greens and cherry tomatoes, topped by parmesan-garlic toast.

The pasta orecchiette is a rich bowl of skillet-roasted chicken, mixed with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach and served in pistachio pesto sauce. It is one of the entrees available on the “3-for” menu.

SPRING 2015 › 57

Located in Patrick Square off Issaqueena Highway, Bohler said the restaurant has found early success with a mix of business and family clientele. He said people are coming from Easley and Seneca and many have made it down from Lake Keowee.

“We have our own community and we have a niche,” Bohler said, noting that many folks have commented on being able to enjoy Erwin’s food and atmosphere without the hassle of finding parking in downtown Greenville.

As for the food, the standards are like Erwin’s other restaurants … high.

The beef is all pre-cut, Midwest, grain fed. The 4-ounce filet, which is served with a lobster tail on the 3-for-$42 menu, is the most popular. We opted for the 7-ounce filet and found that we didn’t need the steak knife to enjoy a well-seared steak, with excellent marbling and served rich in its own juices.

Another popular favorite is the plank salmon. Brought in fresh, the Coldwater Atlantic salmon is served on a bed of Clemson blue cheese grits with sweet chili spice, green bean ragout and Scotch whiskey gastrique.

58 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

{at top} After an overwhelming call for the pork Marsala during January’s restaurant week, Executive Chef Shawn Creef has added the entrée to the “3-for” menu at Rick Erwin’s Clemson at Patrick Square. {above} Key lime pie is one of the most popular and certainly one of the tastiest desserts on the Rick Erwin’s Clemson menu.

Delane Graham Lake Keowee Specialist

864.324.1217

A popular favorite is the plank salmon.

Brought in fresh, the Coldwater Atlantic salmon is served on a bed of Clemson blue cheese grits with sweet chili spice, green bean ragout and Scotch whiskey gastrique.

The parmesan-encrusted grouper is brought in fresh daily from Charleston and served with whipped potatoes, sautéed spinach and beurre blanc.

Creef said the menu changes seasonally, which allows him to continue growing relationships with local producers.

“We are starting to buy locally as much as we can,” Creef said.

“I’m working with the Clemson Area Food Exchange, and we are trying to buy from producers who routinely sell products at the Clemson Farmers Market (held at Patrick Square).

“The product is often better and fresher, and we believe it is the responsible thing to do,” Creef said.

Erwin’s has a feature card that allows the chef to add new dishes periodically, and table specials are offered most evenings.

Just recently, after filling 215 orders for pork Marsala during restaurant week, Creef added the tasty dish to the 3-for-$30 menu. Tender pork tenderloin is pounded, very lightly breaded and seared before being served in a rich Marsala sauce with fresh mushrooms.

A variety of steaks highlight the main menu, but Erwin’s also offers a number of seafood, pasta and poultry dishes. One can also choose from ribs, veal, lamb chops or pork chops.

Another entrée we tried from the “3-for” menu was the pasta orecchiette, a rich bowl of skillet-roasted chicken, mixed with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach and smothered in a rich pistachio pesto sauce.

On the lighter side, one can make a meal from a wide variety of starters, as well as soups and salads. The restaurant also offers a popular West End burger and a BBQ burger. n Starters range in price from $10-$17; soups and salads from $5$10; and entrees from $17 to upwards of $40 for a 36-ounce, center cut porterhouse. Semi-private (12/14 seats) and private dining (22 seats) are available. Call to inquire about monthly wine dinners.

Rick Erwin’s Clemson is open Monday through Saturday. The bar opens at 4 p.m. with dining beginning at 5 p.m. Reservations are recommended by calling 864.654.9466.

WHEN EXPERIENCE COUNTS, COUNT ON A FULL SERVICE REALTOR! Welcome to the Upstate of South Carolina.

I am a native of Oconee County and have been selling real estate for 18 years. As a Top Producer, my knowledge of the area is second to none. The Upstate is one of the best areas in the country and South Carolina has been voted a top retirement, relocation area.

Our four seasons weather includes long springs, long falls, short summers and short winters. Lakes Keowee is often referred to as “The Lake Tahoe of the South”.

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and over 23 waterfalls within 20 minutes of each other, you will not have a shortage of outdoor activities. Weather you want a waterfront home, home site, mountain view or home close to Clemson University, home of the mighty Clemson Tigers! I am your realtor!

I love my native home and know you will too!!

Delane Graham 864.324.1217

896 Walnut St. • Seneca, SC 29678 Delaneonkeowee@gmail.com

SPRING 2015 › 59

DINING ADVENTURES

NORTHAMPTON WINES & WINE CAFÉ RICK ERWIN’S NANTUCKET SEAFOOD

211-A E. Broad St., Greenville, SC | 864.271.3919 www.northamptonwines.com

40 W. Broad Street Greenville, SC | 864.546.3535 | www.rickerwins.com

Picture rich walnut-stained wood, elegant yet warm lighting, natural earth-tone colors, and the delicate mingling of fine wine, laughter and conversation.

Rick Erwin’s Nantucket Seafood offers that plus spectacular seafood specialty dishes including

Rick’s Signature Shellfish Tower and Surf & Turf.

Located across from the Peace Center in downtown Greenville.

THE BASICS HOURS: Bar hours, MondaySunday 4 PM— until; Restaurant hours Monday-Sunday 5 PM— until; Brunch hours Sunday 10:30 AM—2PM

specialS: Three courses for $30 and $42 menu options; weekend

& Wine Casual Wine Bar and Fine Dining Café Open Monday - Saturday 5:00 - 9:00 Casual Lunch Saturday 11:30 - 3:00

features vary and are usually for a limited time. Reservations are normally encouraged.

60 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

Two blocks from the Peace Center.

Plenty of free on-site parking.

Café

DINING ADVENTURES

SOLÉ GRILL & SUSHI BAR

700 By Pass 123, Seneca, SC | 864.882.9463 | solesushi.com

VILLA TOSCANA ON MAIN

217 West Main Street, Central | 864.952.5027 | villatoscanacentral.com

THE BASICS

With numerous menu options featuring steaks, pasta and seafood and more than 30 sushi and specialty rolls, a customer can easily find a balance of appetizing tapas and entrees. Solé offers an extensive drink menu that is filled with more than 100 wines and Solé’s own signature cocktails.

THE BASICS HOURS: Monday - Saturday 4-10 p.m.; Reservations strongly encouraged. specialS: Mondays are all-you-can-eat sushi; Wednesdays are buy one, get one sushi; Thursdays are $7 burgers.

Located in a villa style atmosphere in Central, South Carolina, Villa Toscana on Main offers an extensive selection of unique Italian entrees, sure to tantalize anyone’s taste buds. Besides one-of-a-kind pasta dishes, we also offer the freshest seafood, as well as daily specials prepared to perfection.

Villa Toscana on Main is the ideal destination for revealing the rich virtues of a Tuscan village, even down to the very best wines Italy has to offer.

Villa Toscana on Main, where the food is impeccable and the wine flows like water.

Enjoy live diner music Thursday through Saturday.

HOURS: Lunch: Tuesday – Saturday 11 am til 2 pm. Dinner: Tuesday – Thursday 5 pm til 9 pm; Friday – Saturday 5 pm til 10 pm.

SPRING 2015 › 61

‘A

ShiningSTAR’

Young LPGA pro brings caring values back home Story by Bill Bauer

ou can take the girl out of Seneca, but you can’t take Seneca out of the girl.

There is no better way to describe Austin Ernst, a Seneca High School graduate and professional golfer on the LPGA Tour.

Ernst’s success on the links, both during college and since joining the pro tour, would have made it easy for her to forget about the small town she grew up in and to abandon the values that she had learned. That has not been the case, however.

62 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

Then an amateur, Austin Ernst hits her tee shot on the 12th hole during the second round of the Kraft Nabisco Championship at Mission Hills Country Club on March 30, 2012. Her play in this tourney convinced her she was capable of being a force on the LPGA circuit.

Photo by Stephen Dunn/ Getty Images North America

Despite the demands of playing on a worldwide LPGA Tour and enduring the pressure brought on by the prestige and notoriety that accompany success, Ernst has not forgotten her family, her community or her roots.

With the glare of the spotlight still bright from her first LPGA tournament victory at the 2014 Portland Classic, Ernst organized a pro-am golf tournament to benefit Safe Harbor, and hosted the event at her home course in the Cross Creek development in Seneca.

Safe Harbor is a nonprofit organization that provides safe shelter, counseling and advocacy for victims of domestic violence. In the words of Safe Harbor Executive Director Becky Callaham, “Austin is one of the Upstate’s shining stars.”

Born in Greenville, Ernst moved to Seneca at an early age and took up the game of golf under the tutelage of her father Mark, PGA golf professional at Cross Creek Plantation. » CONTINUED ON PG. 65

Austin Ernst, with her brother Drew as her caddie, prepares to play a shot on the 6th hole during the second round of the Pure Silk-Bahamas LPGA Classic on May 25, 2013, in Paradise Island, Bahamas. Having her brother on her bag has made a big difference according to Ernst.

Photo by Sam Greenwood/ Getty Images North America

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“Austin and her brother Drew were athletic and involved in a lot of sports, but she gravitated to golf, “ said Mark. “She started swinging golf clubs at about six years old and made the commitment to golf when she was 12.”

Her father was, and continues to be, her instructor; he knew from the beginning she had the ability to become a professional.

“She is very talented and has a great work ethic and together they equal success,” he said.

Austin Ernst poses with roses and the championship trophy of the Portland Classic after winning the event last year. It marked the Seneca native’s first win on the pro circuit of which she has been a participant for only two years.

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Her hard work paid off. While playing on the girl’s golf team at Seneca High, Austin received letters of interest from 93 colleges. She chose Louisiana State University, and for two years was a dominant player in the NCAA, winning the 2012 North and South Women’s Amateur and the 2011 NCAA Division 1 Individual National Championship.

Perhaps the turning point in her young career was her remarkable finish as an invited amateur in the 2012 Kraft Nabisco Championship. With her dad as her caddie in an LPGA major event, Ernst, then just 20 years old, made the cut, shot a 68 in the 3rd round and went on to finish 49th out of 117 entrants.

“At that point Austin had no doubt she could become a top 50 player. Her goal was and still is to be the best player in the world,” says her dad.

The decision to leave LSU was easy, and after placing 14th at LPGA Qualifying School in 2013, it was off to her first LPGA tour event … in Australia!

A long way from home, with a local caddie, Austin promptly birdied her first hole as a professional.

She was having her ups and downs on the tour when she went to an event in the Bahamas and asked her brother to carry her bag. Drew, also instructed by his father, had a great golf career at Carolina Coastal and had played on several mini-tours, so he was no stranger to the game.

More than a goLf course. it’s a LifestyLe. Cross Creek Plantation is a private, gated community offering an 18 hole Dye designed golf experience. Cross Creek offers both equity and non equity memberships that include championship golf, exquisite dining, and swim facility in a relaxed atmosphere that is conveniently located close to town, Lake Keowee and Clemson University.

Please contact Mark Ernst for membership information at (864) 882-8337.

www.crosscreekplantation.com

Live on the

goLf course.

You have zero lawn maintenance with fabulous views of the golf course. Cottages are within walking distance of the Clubhouse. Starting at $229,900. Call Tina Maloney at (864) 423-7732 to see model home. Directions: From Hwy 123, take Wells Hwy to the Cross Creek Plantation main entrance.

www.crosscreekcottages.com

“Drew took over Austin’s bag in June 2013, and has been on it ever since,” their father said.

It was a pivotal moment for Austin as she went on to make 13 cuts, record two top 10 finishes, and card a career low 62 in the 3rd round of the Safeway Classic.

Austin says she is close to and loves having her dad as an instructor.

“He knows my game better than anyone else, and it is nice having him just a phone call away whenever I am traveling,” she said.

One such phone call just might have made the difference when Ernst captured her first LPGA in Portland. She remembers it vividly.

“I got off to a great start in the final round and held the lead, or part of the lead, for most of the day. I played a very solid round of golf — seven birdies, two bogeys for a 67. I finished with two bogeys and called my dad following play. He told me to keep my head up, be proud of how well I had played, and get ready for a playoff.”

She took his advice, drove it down the middle and won the tournament on the first playoff hole.

“When IK (her opponent) missed her par putt and I had won, I was overcome with emotion. I hugged my brother … and could not hold back the tears. I’d had the dream of winning on the LPGA Tour since I was 8, and that dream had came to fruition.”

66 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

Ernst says the most difficult part of playing on the LPGA Tour is traveling 25 weeks of the year.

“Seeing different cultures and parts of the world is an unbelievable opportunity and experience, but spending so much time on planes gets tiring,” she said.

While she now lives in South Florida, she said Seneca would always be home. That is why, just a month after her first tour win and coming off a tournament in Alabama, she and eight fellow golfers — Lexi Thompson, Lisa McCloskey, Marina Alex, Amy Anderson, Kim Kaufman, Brittany Lang, Dori Carter and Hannah Collier — weren’t too weary to come to Seneca and help raise money for Safe Harbor.

“They completed the tournament in Alabama on Sunday, and we drove the girls here right after it ended,” Mark said. “They were housed in homes on Lake Keowee, had a day of R & R on Monday and played golf on Tuesday.”

“All of the girls that came to support the Safe Harbor Invitational are my friends on tour. On tour, we all help each other when one of us hosts an event,” she explained.

It was a whirlwind event that proved to be a success.

“Our event raised $55,000 for Safe Harbor and the YMCA. This will help them to continue to reach people in need,” said Ernst.

With the opening of Safe Harbor’s Oconee Shelter in Seneca on August 14, the proceeds from Ernst’s charity event arrived at just the right time.

“We provided shelter to 30 women and 23 children from August to December,” Callaham said, adding that Safe Harbor also provides, counseling for women who don’t want or need shelter, a dating violence prevention program in middle and high schools, and community training for domestic violence.

“During a time when professional athletes are gaining reputations for bad behavior, this powerhouse group of young women quietly gave of their time to invest in a cause that affects one in four women,” she says. “The highlight of the Pro-Am Event was, by far, the combination of the generosity of the players and the enthusiasm of the community.”

While plans are in the works for another Safe Harbor Pro-Am next year, no date has been set. “It’s all a matter of timing and schedules,” said Mark. n

Safe Harbor Executive Director Becky Callaham addresses the crowd gathered to thank Austin Ernst (3rd golfer from right) and her fellow LPGA pros after last year’s Safe Harbor Pro-Am at Cross Creek Plantation. At far right is Ernst’s father, Mark, PGA pro at Cross Creek and proud father of the young Seneca woman who brought her caring attitude back home for this event. Photo by Bill Bauer

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The New South Architecture & Exhibit “Speaking in One Historic Voice”

A 1909 American Queen Anne style bungalow, carriage house and “two-seater outhouse” Open to the Public Thursday - Sunday 1 – 5 or by appointment Admission by Donation 864.882.4811 211 W. South 1st Street, Seneca

For events & a pictorial journey - visit www.LunneyHouseMuseum.org

City of Seneca Sponsored by HAT

Open to the Public Thursday through Sunday 1:00 - 5:00PM Other Hours by Appointment Admission by Donation For events & a pictorial journey - visit www.LunneyHouseMuseum.org 211 W. South 1st Street, Seneca|864.882.4811 SPRING 2015 › 69

UPSTATE LAKE LIVING’S INAUGURAL

READER PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS

Choosing the best from the many magnificent photos we received as part of our inaugural photo contest was very difficult. Your pictures featured the beauty of our lakes region, the change of seasons we enjoy and the fun that is part of our lake lifestyle. We marveled at your sunsets and were awed by the habitat you captured. Some of your pictures made us laugh and others evoked our curiosity. In the end, we selected winners from three categories — places, people and nature — and then ranked them as our prizewinners.

We are accepting pictures now for the next contest, so keep snapping those lake photos and hit us with your best shots.

1st Place » Places Category

Sunrise on Keowee by Bob Buurman, Salem Photographed on Lake Keowee 70 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

2nd Place » Nature Category Blue Heron in Flight

by Bill Sheskey, Seneca Photographed in Waterford Pointe on Lake Keowee

3rd Place » People Category

Unnamed

by Christi Hartsock, Salem Photographed in Keowee Key

SPRING 2015 › 71

Honorable Mention » Places Category

{left} Winter in the Cove by Connie Caldwell, Seneca {above} Paris Mountain by Bob Buurman, Salem

Honorable Mention » People Category {right} Kayaking on Keowee

by Katie Williams, Pickens {far right} Ready for a Special Day

by Connie Caldwell, Seneca

Honorable Mention » Nature Category {left} Frogs Taking a Rest by Jane Flattery, Salem • {right} Wild Azalea on Sucheng Xie, Seneca

72 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

BY PHILLIP GENTRY

Hartwell back in the big time

W

ith the prestigious Bassmaster Classic wrapping up just a few days ago, there definitely was one noticeable difference between when the Super Bowl of Fishing visited the Upstate in 2008 and the return visit of the Classic this year: Lake Hartwell has become a much nicer place to visit.

In 2008, in the midst of a seemingly endless drought, Hartwell was suffering one of its lowest levels in history. Fortunately, during this visit of the Classic, lake levels were more in line with normal winter pool. While most anglers reported that fishing in February in low water conditions didn’t make too much of a difference in 2008, several commented that launching and docking their boats during this year’s event were worlds apart this time around.

When the Bassmaster Classic was held in 2008, not only were low water conditions an issue, but the spot chosen for launch was a private facility that, while providing deep water access, was in need of repair and, according to some promoters and tourism officials, was not the face they wanted to show the world.

When the opportunity to relocate became available, local officials jumped at the chance by launching an ambitious, 3-year, $4.5 million project to replace the “loss of outdoor enjoyment” argued in a decades-old lawsuit

against Houston-based Schlumberger Technology that was settled in December of 2010.

The project involved the design and construction of a boat launch facility and event area large enough to host a major league fishing tournament.

Brand-new for 2015, the Green Pond Landing and Event Center drew nothing but rave reviews from fans, promoters and competitors who spent the better part of the third week of February there.

Though admittedly a steep hill to climb, the project team tasked with creating Green Pond viewed it as an investment in the future, noting its potential as a factor in bringing substantial tourism into the area.

“This facility will provide a site with the capability to host larger boating and fishing tournament events,” said Ross Self, SCDNR Fisheries Chief, at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Green Pond last December. “This is something that has been lacking at Lake Hartwell. This event center will have the capability of supporting several smaller events at one time.

“Another thing I like about their concept is that (it) retains the existing single-lane launch ramp opposite the big event area. This will afford recreational anglers and boaters an area they can use even when larger events are being held at the site.”

Representatives from both FLW and BASS have heralded Green Pond as one of the premier fishing related facilities in the country, one that will establish Lake Hartwell and the Anderson area as a frequent destination on national bass fishing circuits.

This year’s Bassmaster Classic was the first major event to be held at Green Pond.

Along with the new facility, Upstate tourism organizations in Anderson, Greenville, Oconee and surrounding counties have embraced the appeal of fishing tournaments as major tourist attractions and have done an outstanding job in cultivating and promoting relationships with major league fishing tournaments. The agencies have shown a willingness to work together for the common good of the area to bring both major and minor tournament organizers into the area.

Phillip Gentry is the host of “Upstate Outdoors,” an outdoors radio program heard Saturdays noon – 2 p.m. on WORD 106.3 FM or online at www.word1063.com. He can be reached at pgentry6@bellsouth.net. n The Green Pond Landing and Event Center, which opened in December just prior to last month’s Bassmaster Classic, has changed the face of Lake Hartwell and will be a draw for big name fishing tournaments to the area. Photo by Phillip Gentry

SPRING 2015 › 73

277 Jocassee Ridge Salem, SC 29676 Was: $590,000

NOW: $575,000

MLS #20159744 From this spacious Mountain Retreat the only two events that will break your train of thought will be the sunset from the back patio and the sunrise as you sit on the swing chair in the front of the home.

Beyond the back yard where turkeys and deer roam one can see the mountains of both South and North Carolina. As you enter the front door you will see a majestic mountain view. Turn left and you’re in a comfortable den/library; Turn right and there stands a dining room capable of seating 12 or more. The kitchen boasts of Jenn-Aire appliances, granite counter tops, center isle, stone splash pan and a large breakfast nook. The main floor has 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and a half bath all meticulously decorated. The lower level stands as a home by itself featuring a “Cabin” feel with 2 bedrooms each with a full bath, separated by a large living room and kitchen. Needless to say, panoramic views of the Blue Ridge escarpment are ever present throughout the home. This home was built to accommodate a large family or many guests as is noted by 2 hot water heaters, 2 heat pumps, and 2 septic tanks. This is a great home for entertaining or family gatherings.

BY DAVE KROEGER President/CEO Kroeger Marine Construction

Window of opportunity

T

here is a possibility that Duke Energy will open the window of opportunity to make modifications of existing docks to reach deeper water sometime this year, depending on when they are able to receive regulatory approval from certain agencies.

If this does indeed happen, you can expect Duke to provide broad public notification at least 30 days prior to the opening of the window.

Once open, Lake Services will accept eligible lake-use permit applications for surface area and build-out exceptions for 365 days. There will be no permit application fee or HEP (Habitat Enhancement Program) fee for permitting approved dock modifications needed to reach deeper water.

If a permit is issued for this exception, it will be valid for two years.

In review, the intent of this revision is to provide a potential opportunity for property owners with existing approved boat docks that meet the cut-off date and criteria to improve their dock’s usability during extended drought periods. In other words, to try to extend their dock into deeper water if it is available.

This allowance may provide up to an additional 200 square feet of surface area that might be necessary to reach deeper water.

4’

Space does not allow me to discuss the many possibilities and different scenarios that Duke might consider for this allowance.

The possible issuance of this permit will be determined on a case-bycase basis by Duke Energy Lake Ser 110’ max vices. For a detailed explanation of dates and criteria, you can refer to Section 7, Shoreline Management of the Duke relicensing agreement at: www.duke-energy.com/relicensing/ relicensing-agreement.

Docks must comply with all other existing guidelines such as cove

distance, projected property lines and total allowable length. This to- tal length cannot exceed either 110 or 120 feet from full pond level, depending on dock finger width. As shown in the inset, if the widest fin- ger on your dock is 6 feet or less, your

total distance out from the 800-foot full pond level would be 120 feet. If 120’ max it is more than 6 feet, the allowable distance would be 110 feet. Lake Services will consider other determining factors, such as water depth at the head of the slip at full pond.

This will be a good opportunity that some property owners may be able to take advantage of. Please feel free to email questions or connect with the links below for information on lakes Keowee and Hartwell. n

12’

26’ 30’

10’

80’

4' 6’

6’

20’ 30’

10’

90’

LAKE RESOURCES CONTACT INFORMATION Lake Keowee: http://www.duke-energy.com/lakes/keowee-toxaway-relicensing.asp Lake Hartwell: http://balancingthebasin.armylive.dodlive.mil/2013/10/11/water-management-website-available-for-public-view/ http://balancingthebasin.armylive.dodlive.mil/2013/10/17/how-do-i-find-the-weekly-declaration-and-projection/#comment-428

SPRING 2015 › 75

upstate theatre BROOKS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 141 JERSEY LANE, CLEMSON, SC 864.656.7787 HTTP://WWW.CLEMSON.EDU/BROOKS/EVENTS/

MARCH 5 PETER AND THE STARCATCHER Sail on the H.M.S. Neverland with “Peter and the Starcatcher,” hailed by The New York Times as “the most exhilarating storytelling on Broadway in decades.” The winner of five Tony Awards, this swashbuckling prequel to “Peter Pan” will have you hooked from the moment you let your imagination take flight; 8 p.m.

APRIL 13 – 19 TWELFTH NIGHT “If music be the food of love, play on …”

Shakespeare’s comic masterpiece is set against a background of romance and mystery. This hilarious story of identical twins and mistaken identity, set in the mystical world of Illyria, explores the universal themes of love and all its ambiguous effects on human behavior; evening performances 7:30 p.m., Sunday matinee 3 p.m.

FLAT ROCK PLAYHOUSE P.O. BOX 310, FLAT ROCK, NC 828.693.0731; TOLL FREE: 866.732.8008 WWW.FLATROCKPLAYHOUSE.ORG

MARCH 12 – 29 THE WIZARD OF OZ – YOUNG PERFORMERS EDITION (DOWNTOWN) Experience the magic and adventure of this classic tale as brought to life by the talented young actors from Flat Rock Playhouse YouTheatre. Skip along the yellow brick road with Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion … and Toto too! You’ll cheer them on their journey as they jitterbug through the haunted forest, tangle with winged monkeys and confront the Wicked Witch. Share in the timeless message that “there’s no place like home.”

MAY 7 – 31 ALWAYS … PATSY CLINE (MAIN STAGE) One of America’s favorite musicals, “Always … Patsy Cline” is more than a tribute to the legendary country singer. The musical play featuring 27 of Patsy’s unforgettable hits is based on the true story of her friendship with a Houston fan, Louise Seger, with whom she 76 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

corresponded until her untimely death in a plane crash at the age of 30. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime evening filled with down home country humor, true emotion and unforgettable songs.

CENTRE STAGE 501 RIVER STREET, GREENVILLE, SC INSIDE THE SMITH-BARNEY BUILDING 864.233.6733 OR TOLL FREE 877.377.1339

APRIL 2 – 26 SPAMALOT Monty Python stalwart Eric Idle and composer John Du Prez adapt the classic film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” into a musical featuring the Knights Who Say Ni, killer rabbits, accused witches and other Python touches. Spamalot adds swipes at Vegas glitz and Broadway conventions to the film’s anarchic spirit.

APRIL 7 – 22 BLACKBIRD

Snow White unless her handsome prince can rescue her in time.

APRIL 14 – 19, 24 – 26 THE DAYS OF WINE AND ROSES Successful Madison Avenue executive, Joe, pursues love with the beautiful, naïve Kirsten. They begin a whirlwind romance of parties, social scenes and alcohol, finding them spiraling into addiction. The poignant ending of the play brings signs of hope, but also, a galvanizing awareness of how their compulsive self-destruction impacts others.

OCONEE COMMUNITY THEATRE 8001 UTICA STREET, SENECA, SC RESERVATIONS: 864.882.7700, 10 A.M. – NOON AND 2 P.M. – 4 P.M. EVENINGS 8 P.M., SUNDAY MATINEES 2:30 P.M.

APRIL 10 – 12, 17 – 19 OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS

Based on the John Grisham novel, this play is a suspense-filled drama about a man fighting a legal battle in a racist system. After his little girl was attacked, the man killed her assailants and is now being tried for the death penalty.

This is a hilarious family comedy revolving around Nick, a 29-year-old Italian-American guy from New Jersey. His parents have moved to Florida. So, of course, he sees both sets of grandparents every Sunday for dinner. The Sunday that Nick introduces them to Trivial Pursuit is a memorable scene. The Sunday he broke the news that he has been offered his dream job, the job he has been waiting for, which is in Seattle, does not sit well with the grandparents.

How could he betray his family’s love! The four grandparents do their level best to talk him into staying in Hoboken. Thus, enters the lovely and single Caitlin O’Hare as bait for the “perfect romance” and a reason to stay. This is a funny, funny show about the true meaning of family.

CLEMSON LITTLE THEATRE 214 S. MECHANIC STREET, PENDLETON, SC RESERVATIONS 864.646.8100 EVENING PERFORMANCES 8 P.M.; MATINEES 3 P.M.

GREENVILLE LITTLE THEATRE 444 COLLEGE STREET, GREENVILLE, SC 864.233.6238 OR WWW. GREENVILLELITTLETHEATRE.ORG ALL SHOWS 8 P.M., EXCEPT SUNDAYS AT 3 P.M.

Two people who once had a passionate affair meet again 15 years later. Ray is confronted with his past when Una arrives unannounced at his office. Guilt, rage and raw emotions run high as they recollect their relationship when she was twelve and he was forty.

MAY 28 – JUNE 13 A TIME TO KILL

MARCH 5 – 8 SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS (CAYT PERFORMANCE) Jealous of her beauty, a wicked queen attempts to kill the fair Snow White. While our heroine escapes, she finds a home among the most unlikely of creatures – seven dwarfs. But the wicked queen is not finished; she plots to poison

THROUGH MARCH 14 JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR “Jesus Christ Superstar,” the greatest story ever told, comes to life in the incredible score by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Centering on Jesus’ final days and his betrayal by Judas, this Passion play featuring contemporary music illuminates Jesus’ transcendent power.

Andy Cooney’s Irish Cabaret

Friday, March 6 @ 8 pm

Tickets $30.00, children under 12 $15.00, group rate $25.00

February 27 thru March 15

DON’T CRY FOR ME,

Dubbed “Irish-America’s Favorite Son.” Andy returns to the WCA stage just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. His outstanding voice and dynamic stage presence makes him a favorite with all audiences and he renders such classics as “Galway Bay,” “Danny Boy” and “The Irish Wedding Song.”

SteelDrivers (Bluegrass)

Saturday, March 14 @ 8 pm

Tickets $30.00, children under 12 $15.00, group rate $25.00

The SteelDrivers: a group of seasoned bluegrass veterans – each distinguished in his or her own right bring their high energy show back to the WCA! They have braided their bluegrass roots with new threads of their own design, bringing together country, soul, and other contemporary influences to create an unapologetic hybrid that is old as the hills but fresh as the morning dew. This is new music with the old feeling. www.steeldrivers.com.

Mutts Gone Nuts a live dog comedy show!!!

MARGARET MITHCELL

Saturday, March 28 @ 8 pm

Tickets $25.00, students $10.00, group rate $20.00

Disorderly duo, Scott and Joan Houghton and their hilarious pack of pooches have created a comedy dog thrill show like no other. Expect the unexpected in this top-notch presentation that includes: incredible high flying frisbee dogs, tight wire dogs, dancing dogs, magic dogs and of course, the one and only . . . Sammie the Talking Dog! Their nine amazing canine partners are all adopted from animal shelters and rescues.

Mutts Gone Nuts is sure to unleash havoc and hilarity as the Houghtons attempt to match wits with their mischievous mutts in a family-friendly performance that is leaving audiences howling for more!

APRIL 10 - 25

Clemson Blues Festival – Kick-off Concert | The Calvin Edwards Trio and the Wobblers

Saturday, April 18 @ 8 pm

call for tickets

233-6238 www.greenvillelittletheatre.org

Tickets $25.00, students $10.00, group rate $20.00 The 2015 Clemson Blues Festival kicks off at the WCA with the Wobblers followed by the Calvin Edwards Trio. If you are a true blues fan you do not want to miss this show!!! www.clemsonbluesfestival.org

World Premier!!!! Busted Wedding Belles (play-comedy)

April 24, 25, 26, May 1, 2 & 3 • Evenings 8 pm , Sundays 2:30 pm Tickets $12.00, children under 12 $6.00, group rate $10.00

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Glenn Miller Orchestra

Friday, May 8 @ 8 pm

Tickets $30.00, children under 12 $15.00, group rate $25.00 The Glenn Miller Orchestra is the most popular and sought after big band in the world today. With its unique jazz sound, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time. The present Orchestra was formed in 1956 and has been touring ever since, playing an average of 300 dates a year. Nick Hilscher is the orchestra’s present musical director. www. glennmillerorchestra.com

Banks & Shane (60’s, 70’s & 80’s Hits)

Saturday, May 16 @ 8 pm

Tickets $25.00, children under 12 $12.50, group rate $20.00

Banks & Shane is a high-energy, hard-kicking, blow-the-roof off band that has had capacity crowds around the world dancing in the aisles to party favorites and reminiscing with memorable ballads. No matter what age, Banks and Shane transports fans back to Spring Break. This world-renowned band has played with and opened for some of the biggest acts in history. So legendary is the band, that their fans from around the world are self-proclaimed Banks & Shaners’. Whether it’s skiing the slopes of Colorado, sailing the tropical waters of the Caribbean or rocking Symphony Hall, Banks & Shaners’ follow the band with enduring enthusiasm and support!

Larry Sparks & The Lonesome Ramblers (bluegrass/gospel)

Saturday, May 30 @ 8 pm

Tickets $25.00, children under 12 $12.50, group rate $20.00

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Carol Ann is a happy widow with a new lease on life. Her niece, Faylene, is woman with a secret, perhaps more than one. Ruthie, a twice divorced perpetual dater, commands her friends, “To please take a 357 and shoot me between the eyes, if I ever say yes to another marriage proposal.” And Elysa is a self proclaimed modern spinster with a house full of cats and a handful of failed relationships under her belt. Hardly the foursome to extol the virtues of matrimony, the women gather at Carol Ann’s home to host r a “Boudoir Expressions” shower in honor of Carol Ann’s granddaughter, Ashlyn. Alas, one of the party planners has a secret agenda……to stop the wedding. Will disaster ensue, or can these four busted wedding belles pull it together for the sake of the bride. Whatever the answer, there will be plenty of laughs along the way. Please join us for the WORLD PREMIER of Busted Wedding Belles, written by Clemson native, Ginny Martin McKinney and directed by Jimmy O. Burdette.

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Larry Sparks is a dedicated leader for bluegrass music. Larry is among the most widely known and respected touring musicians in bluegrass and gospel music today. Larry began his career in the mid-1960s as a guitarist with the Stanley Brothers and later became lead vocalist for Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys. Larry went on to form his own band in 1969. (The Lonesome Ramblers) He has recorded and toured with his band for over four decades, releasing over 60 albums and delighting countless fans with his soulful vocals and unparalleled musicianship. www.larrysparks.com.

To order tickets call 864 638-5277 or online www.walhallacivic.com

You can also purchase tickets at the following local merchants.The Wine Emporium in Keowee/Salem, H&R BLock-Dogwood Plaza in Seneca, Dad’s & Lad’s in Westminster, Community 1st Bank in Walhalla and the Walhalla Chamber of Commerce.

SPRING 2015 › 77

upstate theatre APRIL 10 – 25 DON’T CRY FOR ME, MARGARET MITCHELL

his existence. Will he choose a happy but simple life? Or will he risk everything for a singular flash of glory?

The hilarious, outrageous, and mostly true comedy is about the process of adapting “Gone With the Wind” from novel to movie. You will laugh until you are out of breath at the antics, which produced one of the most beloved films of all time.

WALHALLA PLAYERS WALHALLA CIVIC AUDITORIUM, WALHALLA, SC EVENINGS 8 P.M. AND SUNDAYS 2:30 P.M. 864.638.5277 OR 877.368.5318 WWW.WALHALLACIVIC.COM

PEACE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 300 SOUTH MAIN STREET, GREENVILLE, SC 864.476.3000 OR 800.888.7768

APRIL 24 – 26, MAY 1– 3 BUSTED WEDDING BELLES

MARCH 17 – 22 PIPPIN Join us for this magical, unforgettable production The New York Times declared “Astonishing! A Pippin for the 21st Century.” The 2013 Tony Award winner for Best Musical Revival is back for the first time since it thrilled audiences 40 years ago. With a beloved score by Tony nominee Stephen Schwartz (“Godspell,” “Wicked”), “Pippin” tells the story of a young prince on a death-defying journey to find meaning in

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Carol Ann is a happy widow with a new lease on life. Her niece, Faylene, is woman with a secret, perhaps more than one. Ruthie, a twice-divorced perpetual dater, commands her friends, “To please take a 357 and shoot me between the eyes, if I ever say yes to another marriage proposal.” And, Elysa is a self-proclaimed modern spinster with a house full of cats and a handful of failed relationships under her belt. Hardly the foursome to extol the virtues of matrimony, the women gather at Carol Ann’s home to host a “Boudoir Expressions” shower in honor of

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APRIL 10 ­– 19 ELVIS HAS LEFT THE BUILDING It’s December 20, 1970, and Elvis Presley has disappeared. No one, not even his wily manager, “The Colonel,” knows his whereabouts. But the Colonel is all shook up because he has racked up a secret debt — and with the King himself missing, the only way to pay it off is to find an Elvis impersonator within 24 hours. Hijinks ensue as the Colonel takes desperate measures to replace a man who is irreplaceable, all while keeping the prying eyes of a nosy reporter at bay and figuring out what happened to the real Elvis.

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Carol Ann’s granddaughter, Ashlyn. Alas, one of the party planners has a secret agenda … to stop the wedding. Will disaster ensue, or can these four busted wedding belles pull it together for the sake of the bride?

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SOCI AL SCENE

Ben Wingert and Arland McMullen

Photos by Rex Brown

Helen Maish, Mark and Tina Akridge

Barbara Roberts

The annual Valentine wine tasting is one of two fund raisers the Seneca Women’s Club does each year to support the Historic Ballenger House and to provide college scholarships to young women in the area. A Fall “Harvest the Grape” wine tasting will be held October.

Jan Crismore, Joan Scovil and Ruth Salmon

The Seneca Woman’s Clubs’ Mission is “To foster and encourage the educational, literary, cultural, historic and civic growth of the Seneca area.”

Perry Howard, Jackie Chapman, Cindy GordanNeeley

There are several clubs under the Umbrella of the SWC, including the venerable Once A Week Club, the mother of the Federation of Women’s Clubs in South Carolina, dating to 1896.

Charles and Mary Ann Fox

Many free, public events are sponsored by the SWC are held at The Ballenger House, which is also available for rent for private or business functions, including weddings.

If you would like to inquire about event coverage e-mail sandy@upstatetoday.com.

Jim and Donna Burati

Ben and Lauren Kroeger

Arvilla and Roy Stoddard

Stephen and Mary Ann Smith

Pam Headapohl and Dee Smith

Stephanie and Julian Davis

Allison Mautz and Robert Warman

Suzette and Hayes Cross

SPRING 2015 › 79

calendar of events MARCH THROUGH MARCH 26 The Pickens County Museum of Art & History and the schools of Pickens County celebrate with an entertaining Visual Arts Exhibition; corner of SC 178 at 307 Johnson St. in Pickens; 864.898.5963

MARCH 6 THROUGH AUGUST 1 Oconee Heritage Center will feature “The Shaping of South Carolina: A Story of Adventure, Politics and Boundary Making,” a traveling exhibit from the South Carolina Historical Society. The exhibit details the disputes, politics and science surrounding the state’s boundary lines from colonial times to the present, featuring original maps from the collection of the South Carolina Historical Society, and quotations concerning the science of surveying from noted surveyor and Revolutionary war hero General William Moultrie. In addition, the exhibit highlights the borders that are still in contention today; for more information visit, www.oconeeheritagecenter.org

MARCH 9 Moscow City Ballet performs Swan Lake at the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, Clemson University; 8 p.m.; 864.656.7787

MARCH 12 Garrison Keillor appears at the Peace Center in Greenville, 7:30 p.m.; 866.820.4553

MARCH 13 – MAY 1 The Seneca Woman’s Club will host Salon de Refuse, an art exhibit at the Historical Ballenger House. Local artists’ work is showcased in conjunction with a juried art show sponsored by Blue Ridge Arts Council. Opening is March 13, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. with refreshments.

The Ballenger House will be open to the pubic Tuesdays and Fridays, 1 – 5 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through the show.

MARCH 14 The SteelDrivers: a group of seasoned bluegrass veterans — each distinguished in his or her own right — brings their high-energy show back to the Walhalla Civic Auditorium. They have braided their bluegrass roots with new threads of their own design, bringing together country, soul and other contemporary influ80 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

ences to create an unapologetic hybrid that is old as the hills but fresh as the morning dew; 8 p.m.; 864.638.5277

MARCH 15 Seneca Woman’s Club Spring Planting Festival. Free event at the Historic Ballenger House in Seneca. Extension agents from Clemson University; Food Cooperative representatives; native plants; FOLKS to demonstrate samples of rain barrels and discuss better gardening practices; and programs for children wanting to plant their own vegetable gardens.

MARCH 21 5th Annual City of Seneca Half-Marathon and 5K. Walk up registration available that morning at Shaver Recreation Complex, 698 W. S. 4th St. Seneca, starting at 6:30 a.m.; 5K begins at 8 a.m., followed by the Half Marathon shortly thereafter; live Music by Groove Planet after the race and a St. Patrick’s Day Party with beer and light food.

APRIL 7 Clemson University Symphony Orchestra performs at Brooks Center for the Performing Arts; 8 p.m.; 864.656.7787

APRIL 9 Clemson University Jazz Ensemble performs at Brooks Center for the Performing Arts; 8 p.m.; 864.656.7787

APRIL 12 A variety of ensembles performs at the 16th annual “POPS” concert by the Clemson University Dept. of Performing Arts. Proceeds benefit the department’s scholarship fund.

Bring a picnic to Patrick Square and enjoy great music. Seating is not provided for lawn tickets; 5 p.m.; 864.656.7787

APRIL 14 Clemson University Symphonic Band and Concert Band perform at Brooks Center for the Performing Arts; 8 p.m.; 864.656.7787

APRIL 15 – 25

MARCH 24 Described as the “extravagantly talented smasher of cultural and classical music taboos,” the imaginative and unconventional “classical organ rebel,” Cameron Carpenter, performs on a five-keyboard touring organ made exclusively for him; 7:30 p.m.; Brooks Center for the Performing Arts; 864.656.7787 MARCH 28 Mutts Gone Nuts — Disorderly duo, Scott and Joan Houghton and their hilarious pack of pooches have created a comedy dog thrill show like no other coming to the Walhalla Civic Auditorium. Expect the unexpected in this top-notch presentation that includes: incredible high flying Frisbee dogs, tight wire dogs, dancing dogs, magic dogs and, of course, the one and only . . . Sammie the Talking Dog; 8 p.m.; 864.638.5277

The annual Clemson Blues Festival is a weeklong event … rain or shine. Bands perform under a large tent at Patrick Square in the event of rain. Some events are ticketed and some free of charge. In addition to concerts at Patrick Square, festival events will be held at Hagood Mill (April 11), Clemson Little Theatre (April 15), The Pickens Amphitheater (April 16), Six Mile Farmers’ Market and Esso Club (April 17), Walhalla Civic Auditorium (April 18), Southern Wesleyan University (April 19), Jazz on the Alley in Seneca and Osher Lifelong Learning Center (April 23), Clemson AfricanAmerican Museum (April 24) and downtown Central (April 25). In addition, CAT bus will offer tour of African-American historical locations in the Central/Clemson area April 2022. For information visit http://www.clemsonbluesfest.org/

APRIL

Clemson University Women’s and Men’s Glee Clubs perform at Brooks Center for the Performing Arts; 8 p.m.; 864.656.7787

APRIL 16

APRIL – MAY In conjunction with the Clemson Blues Festival, The Pickens County Museum will host “A Look Back at the Carolina Blues;” corner of SC 178 at 307 Johnson St. in Pickens; 864.898.5963

APRIL 25 The 3rd Annual Collins Home Mud Run at the Shaver Complex, Seneca. Visit Collins Children’s Home at collinschildrenshome.org for more information.

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SPRING 2015 › 81

calendar of events APRIL 16 – 26 Flat Rock Playhouse presents The Music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons; Downtown Playhouse; 866.732.8008

APRIL 18 The 2015 Clemson Blues Festival event at the Walhalla Civic Auditorium with the Wobblers followed by the Mac Arnold Band; 8 p.m.; www.clemsonbluesfestival.org

state will begin lining up at noon with gates opening at 2 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit blueridgefest.com The Glenn Miller Orchestra, the most popular and sought after big band in the world today, appears at Walhalla Civic Auditorium. With its unique jazz sound, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time; 8 p.m.; 864.638.5277

APRIL 23 – JUNE 11

MAY 15 – 16

36th Annual Juried SC Artists Exhibition at the Pickens County Museum. No matter where your individual taste in art may lead, you will find satisfaction in this exhibition. The variety of work represented is a generous reflection of the community of artists presently at work in South Carolina; corner of SC 178 at 307 Johnson St. in Pickens; 864.898.5963

Mayfest Art of Living. Celebrating the arrival of spring, join the city of Walhalla and Walhalla Chamber of Commerce for arts and crafts, a parade, antique car show and shagging on Main; http://www.walhallachamber. com

APRIL 21 Clemson University Singers perform at Brooks Center for the Performing Arts; 8 p.m.; 864.656.7787 APRIL 24 Clemson University Percussion Ensemble and Steel Band perform at Brooks Center for the Performing Arts; 8 pm.; 864.656.7787

MAY MAY 1 – 2 Fifth Annual Mayberry Comes to Westminster festival. Returning will be several Mayberry Tribute Artists plus Dobro playing LeRoy McNees, a TAGS star appearing in “Mayberry on Record.” In addition there will be many other Mayberry related music venues, parades, arts and crafts, food booths, a car & tractor show, trivia and whistling contests, a Bible study, a silent auction and more. Mayberry favorite The VW Boys, along with The Mayberry Deputy, David Browning, will be presenting “Memories of Mayberry” on Saturday afternoon.

MAY 8 Blue Ridge Fest takes place at Blue Ridge Electric grounds in Pickens, 6 – 10 p.m. Entertainment is Jimmy Tillotson, The Shirelles Tribute with Shirley Alston Reeves and the Swingin’ Medallions. The largest Cruise–In in the Up82 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING

MAY 16 Banks & Shane, a high-energy, hard-kicking, blow-the-roof-off band that has had capacity crowds around the world dancing in the aisles to party favorites and reminiscing with memorable ballads, appears at the Walhalla Civic Auditorium. No matter what age, Banks and Shane transports fans back to Spring Break; 8 p.m.; 864.638.5277 The Clemson Festival of ARTS returns for its 5th year in Catherine Smith Plaza and Jaycee and Abernathy Parks in Downtown Clemson, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Arts Center of Clemson puts on this free event that provides fun, entertainment and artistic enrichment for all ages. Dozens of local and regional artists will have booths lining the blocked off street that runs between the plaza and the parks — demonstrating their different crafts and selling their works; explorearts.org/events/clemsonfestival-of-arts-2/

MAY 21 – 23 Seneca Fest is three days of fun and events, including carnival rides, vintage car cruise-in and barbecue cook-off competition. Event concludes with a free headline show at NortonThompson Park on Saturday night. Watch for more details in The Journal.

MAY 30 Larry Sparks, a dedicated leader for bluegrass music, appears at the Walhalla Civic Auditorium. Sparks is among the most widely known and respected touring musicians in bluegrass and gospel music today; 8 p.m.; 864.638.5277

ONGOING Historic Ballenger House tours and rentals: The Seneca Woman’s Club preserves and manages the Historic Ballenger House. Tours and rentals by reservation. 864.654.4043

Jazz On The Alley returns to Ram Cat Alley in Seneca beginning April 4 and continuing every Thursday thru October; 6:30 to 9 p.m.; featuring America’s touring jazz musicians.

Oconee County Library used book sale is the second Thursday of every month in the basement of the Walhalla Library from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hardback and paperback books (adult’s and children’s), magazines, books on tape, books on CD, records, CDs, games, puzzles and DVDs. Hagood Mill, 138 Hagood Mill Road, Pickens, hosts “corn grinding” days, rain or shine, third Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. These mini-festivals offer traditional arts, folklife and music. Presently more than 25 regular demonstrators share their skills in milling, blacksmithing, cotton ginning, moonshining, spinning, weaving, bee-keeping, metal-smithing, quilting, woodcarving, flintknapping, chair caning, open hearth cooking and more.

City of Seneca, SC hosts Cruzin’ on Main, 1st Saturday of every month; 3 p.m.

Hagood Mill, 138 Hagood Mill Road, has monthly “First Saturday” house concerts in the Visitors Building from noon to 2 p.m. and is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to tour the grounds and pick up “mill products.” Guided tours available by appointment. The site is available every day during daylight hours to picnic or walk the nature trail. For information contact Hagood Mill at 864.898.2936 or Pickens County Museum at 864.898.5963.

Silver Dollar Music Hall in Westminster, SC features open mic each Friday at 7 p.m. with regular pickers performing at 8 p.m.

Clemson Area Storytellers monthly meeting is the 4th Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at The ARTS Center, Clemson, SC.

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