petals and more ...
Plan your perfect summer outing at local u-pick farms
From refreshing spritzer recipes to stepping out in style Everything you need to celebrate summer
Chinese lanterns take center stage
Daniel Stowe Conservancy lights up the night sky with its signature summer event
CONTRIBUTING
Susan
ADVERTISING
CONTRIBUTING
Susan
Steve
Wendy
by Susan Bromfield
At Lake Wylie, memories are made and a variety of recreational activities are available and many for free. Do you like to fish? Do you like to hike or watch the birds and wildlife? Lake Wylie has it all. Crowders Creek marina, Ebenezer Park make for easy access to the lake and recreational opportunities. Boaters enjoy the summertime in quiet coves or on the main part of the lake. Kayakers, canoers and floaters are seen all around the lake from spring to fall. Lake living affords an abundance of recreational opportunities and summertime is prime time. With all that fun comes a chance to make memories with friends and family that will last a lifetime.
As a kid, my family had cabins in the high Sierras in California and the memories of family times together, hiking, playing cards, having camp fires and simple times together are still with me. My uncle had a boat for fishing on the nearby lake that did not allow motors. The water in the high Sierras was clear and cool all summer long. I was not much for fishing or touching the bait or fish, so I was along for the ride and jumping in the lake. Yet I remember the big fish caught, the trout were huge and plentiful. Everyone was happy at the end of the day. I didn’t realize how fortunate we were to have all those family memories, the times at the cabin, on the lake and just being together for simple times until I was an adult. Lake Wylie affords folks to create their own memories. Many locals have wonderful memories of their childhoods on “the rivah” before it was dammed and made into Lake Wylie. You certainly don’t need a fancy house or expensive boat to have and make memories that last a lifetime. Make some memories of your own this summer that include friends, family, fun times, lake life and enjoying the outdoors. We are blessed to live where we all can enjoy the beauty that surrounds us and fun times of summer.
As we revisit the history of Lake Wylie TODAY, look for future issues to include Southern Twang, a popular feature by Jan Todd. Southern Twang will bring us memories and experiences of living and being in the south, the quirks and experiences as told by and seen through Jan’s eyes. We hope you will enjoy it.
The spectacular Chinese Lanterns return to Daniel Stowe Conservancy this summer. A summer feature by Wendy Dimitri highlights what is in store if we are fortunate enough to visit DSC this summer.
Our Food for Thought feature highlights Lake Wylie’s newest restaurant, Taverna Italian-American Bistro located on Highway 49 where Lily’s used to be. New options for dining out are always welcome at the Lake and Taverna offers a new opportunity to enjoy a date night or gathering with friends.
Summertime offers the perfect chance to sieze the opportunity and enjoy the abundance of local fresh produce grown in our area. Whether to take a country drive to the variety of farm stands or stop by the local Bush N Vine stand at Lake Wylie Plaza, our summer issue features a U-Pick story outlining our many options. As a bonus to all the locally grown summer produce, a local wellness professional and author’s new book is also featured. Rachael Sinnott's new book highlights how food and fresh food can help our health and address an approach to wellness and feeling better.
The mailbag section features a variety of community news, events, happenings and recognitions that have been gathered and contributed from the community. Field Day Park will have a variety of activities and monthly concerts so be sure and check out this section.
Our local, award-winning magazine highlights our area with the many stories, features, photos and community news and information. Lake Wylie is a hidden jewel to many and a treasured community to those who are fortunate enough to live here. For almost two decades, Lake Wylie TODAY has been telling the stories with features and photos, and highlighting the many recreational and interesting things to do in our area. Thank you to the advertisers, contributing writers, photographers and readers for supporting our local lifestyle promotional magazine for all these years.
April 4th Niven’s Creek Landing Clean Up. Volunteers from America’s Boating Club of the Catawba haul in 8 – 40 gallons of trash keeping our Lake Wylie Landing Clean. Our Squadron has been keeping this Landing Clean three times per year for over a decade.
April 18th: Lake Wylie Paddle For The Cure Safety Boat Support. Boat Captains Lee Clementi, Bart Kinzel and Jim Samland provide their own boats to make sure the paddlers and kayakers are safe during the Lake Wylie Rotary Club Annual Fundraiser.
Our new Education Officer, Jim Van Blarcom, delivers a very successful America’s Boating Course Class at Tega Cay Police Department Training Facility March 21st. Seven students graduated with an average grade of 96%! This is a required class to operate a boat or jet ski in NC and SC. Sign up for our next classes online. Contact Jim Van Blarcom (803) 493-2472. Next class is May 16th at the Tega Cay Police Department Learning Center.
April 19th Squadron Commander, Bart Kinzel, receiving award for growing membership in District 27, which includes North Carolina and York County SC at our annual “Shrimp Boil on the Lake.”
and
Wylie Storage
Southern Pine Lake is Clover’s newest luxury community, where serene natural beauty meets refined living. Nestled in the heart of York County, this exclusive enclave o ers 36+ homesites, each over one acre, designed to provide privacy, space, and an exceptional lifestyle.
• Oversized homesites — all over 1 acre (priced between $150,000-$180,000)
• Custom Spec home options available
• Spec homes $1M–$1.4M
• Bring your own builder (approval required)
• Minutes from Clover’s downtown, major thoroughfares, the Charlotte airport and Uptown Charlotte
• Exceptional lifestyle and privacy
The Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (CACCE) proudly recognized its 2026 Service Award recipients during the Staff Leadership Development Conference, held today at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Columbia, South Carolina. These awards honor chamber professionals across North Carolina and South Carolina who have demonstrated a longstanding commitment to the chamber industry through their years of service.
CACCE presents Service Awards in recognition of each fiveyear milestone of service. Eligible service includes a combined total of executive and/or staff experience across all chambers of commerce.
The following individuals were recognized for their years of service to the chamber industry:
35 Years of Service
Susan Bromfield, Lake Wylie Chamber
30 Years of Service
Laurette Leagon, Jacksonville Onslow Chamber
25 Years of Service
Terra Carroll, North Augusta Chamber
Linda Parsons, Moore County Chamber
20 Years of Service
Kim Dahlsten, The Chamber of Catawba County
Carlos Phillips, Greenville Chamber
Jennifer Weber, Lincolnton-Lincoln County Chamber
15 Years of Service
Reagan Gural, Alamance Chamber
10 Years of Service
Brian Francis, Lumin Strategies
Natalie Harkey, Boone Area Chamber
David Jackson, Boone Area Chamber
Marnie Schwartz-Hanley, Fountain Inn Chamber
Jana Walding, Moore County Chamber
5 Years of Service
Rebecca Caveness, Winterville Chamber
Logan Garrison Savits, Alamance Chamber
Brandie Greer, Anderson Area Chamber
Jonathon Lewis, Moore County Chamber
Patrick Setzer, Boone Area Chamber
Congratulations to each of you and thank you for your continued commitment and contributions to our profession!
CACCE is a professional development organization committed to advancing chamber leaders across North Carolina and South Carolina. Through education, resources and connections, CACCE equips chamber of commerce professionals with leadership skills and tools to build innovative chambers.
In early January, Clover Area Assistance Center (CAAC) reopened its doors after completing a comprehensive renovation of its full-choice food pantry. Our mission remains the same, but transforming the space is an important step in how we deliver services to the community.
For many years, CAAC has provided food assistance to individuals and families facing financial hardship within the Clover School District. During the recent holiday closure, the organization undertook significant updates to its pantry, including new flooring, fresh paint and a reconfigured layout designed to improve both efficiency and accessibility.
The result is a brighter, more welcoming environment that closely resembles a traditional grocery store. This design is intentional. CAAC’s full-choice model allows clients to select food items that best meet their household needs, and the updated space enhances this experience by promoting dignity, comfort, and ease of navigation.
These improvements come at a critical time.
CAAC continues to experience a steady increase in demand for services as more families face rising costs and economic uncertainty. The renovated pantry enables the organization to better accommodate this growth, allowing more households to be served in an organized and respectful setting while maintaining the personal care that defines CAAC’s approach.
Though the physical space has been transformed, the heart of CAAC’s work remains the same: neighbors helping neighbors through compassionate and effective support.
Community members are invited to see the renovation firsthand. CAAC welcomes visitors to tour the updated pantry and learn more about the programs and services offered. Those interested in supporting the organization can contribute through donations, volunteering, or by helping spread awareness of CAAC’s mission.
To learn more or to get involved, please visit CAAC or reach out directly. Continued community support ensures that CAAC can remain a reliable resource for those in need.
Clover School District (CSD) faces a very busy summer as they prepare to open three new schools on Monday, August 3, 2026.
Construction remains on time at both Lake Wylie High School and Liberty Hill Elementary School, while the current Ninth Grade Campus continues to undergo a refresh to emerge as Roosevelt Middle School. Construction on the new campuses is in the phase of “doors, floors and finishes” at press time. Furniture will be delivered to the new schools during the month of May, and plans are underway for moving days. At Roosevelt, a special display is in the works to share the history of the community’s former Roosevelt High School. Ribbon-cutting Dedication Ceremonies for all schools will be scheduled for the fall.
In preparation for the big day, all district schools hosted “Meet Your New School” events this spring to begin to introduce families to new staff members and facilities as a result of the student reassignment process conducted last fall. Families should mark their calendars for Friday, July 31, when CSD hosts its annual Back-to-School Bash from 5:30-7:30 p.m. This event will be held in a new location this year–Clover High School. Clover High School will celebrate its 50th anniversary in its current location on Hwy. 55 during the 2026-2027 school year. The Back-to-School Bash will be a kickoff for this celebration, which will continue with monthly events throughout the year.
Community partnerships are so critical to the success of our growing school district. Businesses or civic groups looking to partner with any of our schools can reach out to our Community Engagement team at CommunityEngagement@ clover.k12.sc.us to connect.
Anew boutique Pilates studio is opening soon, brought to life by Josephine, a former corporate executive who discovered Pilates as a transformative wellness practice. Named to honor Joseph Pilates' foundational philosophy, Jo's Pilates will offer a calm, welcoming space for people of all fitness levels.
Despite Lake Wylie's growth, the community has lacked dedicated Pilates offerings — a gap Josephine recognized as a local resident. She's passionate about sharing the stress-relief and strength benefits she's experienced, especially for women managing multiple roles and high-pressure lives.
The studio will offer flexible membership options, class packages, and drop-in rates. Opening June 2026.
By Dana Sipper / Images provided
Our local Scout Troop 333 had three new scouts achieve the Eagle Scout rank in the last several months. This is the highest rank in the Scouting America program. Only four-to-six percent of scouts reach this prestigious goal, making it a true testament to dedication and hard work. It’s an honor that these young men will carry with them for life.
Alex Bohlen passed his Eagle board of review on September 3, 2025.
Deacon Olivas passed his Eagle board of review on November 5, 2025.
Jacob Wilmoth passed his Eagle board of review on January 7, 2026.
All three of these young men demonstrated exceptional perseverance and dedication. Please join us in congratulating their achievement and wishing them all the best in their future endeavors!
If you want your child be a part of the Scouting America program, visit beascout.org to find out more information in your area.
Freedom Boat Club of Lake Norman and Lake Wylie named North American Franchise of the Year
Freedom Boat Club of Lake Norman and Lake Wylie has been named North American Franchise of the Year at the annual Freedom Boat Club conference, Freedom Forum 2026, held in Tampa, Florida. This prestigious honor recognizes exceptional performance, leadership and commitment to delivering an outstanding member experience.
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Wylie, Charlotte,
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This recognition reflects the strength and dedication of the club’s team, whose focus on operational excellence, continuous improvement and innovative use of technology ensures a seamless, secure and accessible boating experience. By prioritizing quality alongside growth, the team remains committed to upholding the highest standards across its fleet and operations.
The award also highlights the club’s active role within the broader Freedom Boat Club network, where team members contribute ideas, advocate for franchise perspectives and help strengthen the organization as a whole.
"This honor represents our team’s passion for building a strong business, developing great people and stewarding the Freedom Boat Club brand with integrity,” said Jeff Weir, Owner. “We are grateful and energized as we look ahead to the 2026 season.”
In addition, the team was proud to participate in the continued tradition of the Golden Wrench Award, a merit-based recognition created by franchises to honor innovation, leadership and dedication across the network. The club’s own Olivia Weir was selected as this past year’s recipient and has now passed the award to Adam Riley of Freedom Boat Club Lake George, continuing a legacy of collaboration and excellence.
Jacob Elder performs a Tribute to Elvis at Lake Wylie Assisted Living
Residents and staff of Lake Wylie Assisted Living enjoy dancing with Elvis during the Tribute to Elvis.
A good time was had by all when “Elvis” visited Lake Wylie and entertained residents and guests at the Valentine’s Day party at Lake Wylie Assisted Living in February.
Susan Bromfield thanking Elvis for visiting Lake Wylie and for a great time had by all.
By Paul Moran / Images by AK Media
Lake Wylie showed its heart on April 18, 2026, as 45 paddlers were joined by multiple volunteers, families and supporters at Camp Thunderbird for the 4th Annual Paddle for the Cure. What began as the sharing of an idea by a Lake Wylie Rotarian to his fellow Rotarians in 2022 has now grown into one of the area’s most inspiring spring traditions — uniting neighbors, local businesses and civic organizations in the fight against Alzheimer’s. This year’s event was nothing short of extraordinary. Under a beautiful Carolina blue sky, the day was kicked off by the Crowder Creek Elementary Honors Choir
singing the national anthem as the crowd kept their eyes on a majestic flag raised by the Bethel Volunteer Fire Department. Participants took to their paddleboards and kayaks to honor loved ones and raise critical funds for Alzheimer’s research. The vibe was incredible. Live music by the Cove Creek Bluegrass band filled the air.
The silent auction lived up to its reputation as one of the largest on Lake Wylie with over a hundred donated gifts. Patrons strolled through the many items and the friendly bidding that occurred was a sight to see.
None of this would have been possible without the generosity and partnership of our sponsors. To every business, or-
ganization and individual who stepped forward — thank you. Your support fuels the mission. A special shout out goes to our title sponsor, QTS Data Centers, who helped elevate this year’s event to new heights. Our Gold Sponsor - Kaia & Cayden, Silver Sponsors – Buckeye Fire Equipment, Paul & Sandy Moran in Memory of Ann Garavente and AK Media and Bronze Sponsors – Capstone Accounting & Advisory Group, Cornerstone Wealth Advisors, Freedom Boat Club, Watson Insurance, United Bank, Express Sunrooms, Shoreline Plumbing, Karrus Homes and Mary Sieck – Rinehart Realty in Memory of Col. Michael Noll, propel us forward.
Paddle boarders and kayakers get ready.
Lake Wylie Rotarian Mike McFeeters gives a safety brief to racers
We extend heartfelt appreciation to the many local businesses that contributed through monetary donations, in kind donations, silent auction donations and promotional support. Particularly critical to Paddle for the Cure’s success was TowBoatUS, who set course buoys and provided paddler safety. From restaurants and retailers to service providers and waterfront partners, your commitment demonstrates what community impact truly looks like. Equally vital were the civic groups and nonprofits who showed up in force. Rotary members, youth volunteers (Clover High School Interact and Air Force Jr ROTC), first responders (Bethel Volunteer Fire Department) and local clubs
(America’s Boat Club of the Catawba) worked side by side to ensure a safe, joyful and meaningful experience for every participant. Their teamwork reflects the very best of Lake Wylie.
And finally — to the community at large: thank you for paddling, cheering, donating, sharing and believing in this cause. Whether you were on the water, on the shore or bidding on items at the silent auction, you helped make this year’s Paddle for the Cure our most successful yet. As we look ahead to year five, one thing is clear: when Lake Wylie comes together, hope moves forward. And together, we will keep paddling toward a future without Alzheimer’s. Thank you.
Dr. David and Chris Redding with Lake Wylie Wellness and Chiropractic are celebrating the 10 year anniversary of Lake Wylie Wellness. Congratulations!
The River Hills/Lake Wylie (RHLW) Lions Club is proud to announce that the 2026 Lions Club Charity Golf Tournament will return to the River Hills Country Club on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026. This hallmark community event invites golfers of all skill levels to enjoy a premier course while raising vital funds for local causes through the River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club Charities.
The tournament continues a long-standing tradition of philanthropy in the York County area. Proceeds from the event benefit the River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Charities, which supports over 30 charitable organizations and programs. 100% of the proceeds go to charity, aiding groups such as the Community Cafe, Foundation Fighting Blindness and the SC Lions Eye Research Center.
“This tournament is more than just a day on the greens, it is the engine that allows us to fulfill our mission: “We Serve,” said Robert Breslin, Tournament Chair. “Every registration and sponsorship helps us provide vision screenings, scholarships and support for those in need right here in our backyard. The energy on the course is always incredible. We welcome individual players who want to be paired with new friends, as well as established foursomes looking for a day of great golf and community impact. Every swing helps us fund local food banks, vision screenings and humanitarian aid.”
Tournament highlights
Format: Captain’s Choice with a Shotgun Start Schedule: Registration begins at 10:00 a.m., followed by a 12:00 p.m. Shotgun Start. The day also includes lunch and concludes with an Awards Dinner, Silent Auction and a 50/50 raffle at the clubhouse.
Entry fees: include greens fees, contests, cart, driving range, lunch, beer, soft drinks, water, contest prizes and awards dinner. All beverages are available at the Registration Area, on the course and via a beverage cart.
Contests (with prizes): include hole-in-one contests, longest drives, fairway target challenges and a putting contest. Prizes are also awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winning teams.
Interested parties may contact Robert Bresling at (704) 236-0685 or by email at bobbreslin0607@gmail.com.
Registration for individual golfers and foursomes will open June 1st, 2026. Local businesses are encouraged to participate through many sponsorship levels, anywhere from Title and Emerald Sponsor to Lions Pride and hole sponsorships.
For more information, registration updates or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please visit the River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club website https://www.rhlwlions.org/ or contact Robert Breslin at (704) 236-0685.
About the River Hills/Lake Wylie Lions Club: The RHLW Lions Club is a member of Lions Clubs International, the world’s largest service organization. With over 1.4 million members, Lions are dedicated to meeting humanitarian needs and encouraging peace through local service projects ranging from vision and health to environmental beautification.
Congratulations to Tommy Pope, a University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law 2026 Compleat Lawyer Award Platinum Recipient, pictured here receiving the award and posing with family.
Fast boats, loud music and the kind of summer you can feel
By Wendy Dimitri / Images provided
If you are looking for quiet, Lake Wylie may surprise you. Not because it cannot be peaceful. It can. But in the summer, it is something else entirely. It is movement. It is noise.
It is energy that builds as the day goes on. No slow starts here
Lake days here do not ease in. They start quickly.
Coolers get packed. Tow ropes get untangled. Someone is always calling out, “Did we grab the tube?” as the boat pulls away from the dock.
Kids are already in life jackets, ready before the engine even turns over. Teenagers settle into the back of the boat, watching the water like they know what is coming next.
Within minutes, the pace is set. The day shifts from routine to motion, from shoreline to open water.
Full throttle summer
“Honestly, the best thing to do on the lake is just cruise around with friends,” says Tom Wirth, commodore of the River Hills Yacht Club.
Once you hit open water, that idea takes shape.
Boats move in steady patterns. Riders drop into the water and come back up again. Tow ropes tighten, release and tighten again. It feels busy, but there is a rhythm to it. Pontoon boats have become part of that rhythm in their own way. They are no longer just for slow cruising. They are gathering spaces, with music playing, coolers open, and, in some cases, small grills set up for an easy lunch on the water. Floating mats stretch out behind anchored boats, turning open water into something like a temporary playground. Kids run across them, fall in, climb back up and start again. No one stays dry for long.
umbrellas and a full
The midday scene
By early afternoon, the lake begins to gather.
Not in any formal way. It simply happens.
Certain areas fill in first. Boats cluster together. Anchors drop. Music overlaps from one direction to the next. Conversations carry easily across the water. You may start the day with one group, but by mid-afternoon, you have seen and spoken to several more.
The sandbar is the clearest example. On the right day, it feels like a floating gathering place. Boats line up. People move through the shallow water between them. It is social, easy and familiar. No one organizes it. Everyone understands it.
Fuel, food and a quick reset
Even the most active lake day calls for a quick stop.
That is where Pier 88 Yacht Club fits in. Boats pull up for fuel, something to eat or a short break before heading back out.
It is part marina, part snack stop and part meeting point. Boaters come and go, exchanging quick updates about the day before moving on.
The stop is short. The pace stays the same.
The only dock that becomes a destination
At some point, most days include a longer stop.
That is when boats begin heading toward Papa Doc's Shore Club.
As the only true boat-up restaurant on the lake, it draws a steady crowd throughout the summer. Boats line the docks. Groups step off the water and onto the patio without missing the rhythm of the day.
It is active, social and consistent with everything happening on the lake around it. Food, drinks and music all carry the same energy forward.
People rarely stay as briefly as they intended.
Off the main track
For all of the movement, there are still places that offer a brief shift in pace.
Copperhead Island is one of them. Tucked away from the busiest channels, it offers space to step off the boat, explore or simply take a break before heading back out.
Nearby, Windjammer Park adds a different kind of draw. Boaters often slow down to watch the amateur ski show, a local tradition that continues to pull attention from the water.
“The ski show is one of our favorite things to see on the lake,” Wirth says. These moments do not replace the energy. They give it shape.
The energy builds
By late afternoon, the pace sharpens.
The light softens slightly, but the activity continues. Boats that started later in the day are now fully in motion. Music carries farther across the water.
One more tubing run becomes two. A final pass across the wake turns into another loop. Riders go again, even after saying they were finished.
The day stretches in a way that feels unplanned but familiar.
The ride back
“As for my favorite spot on the lake,” Wirth says, “it is anywhere I can watch the sunset.”
Eventually, boats begin heading in. Engines settle into a steady hum. The water smooths. Conversations pick up where the activity leaves off.
It is a quieter stretch, but it still feels connected to everything that came before it.
Even the shoreline plays a role in the rhythm of the day
From docks and backyards, people watch the steady flow of boats pass by, music carrying clearly across the water. Friends wave from lifts and decks. Kids jump in from swim platforms and race back to ladders, only to do it again. Kayakers and paddleboarders hug the edges of coves, moving at their own pace just outside the main current. It all happens at once. Fast and slow, loud and quiet, structured and completely unplanned. Somehow, it works together.
Lake days, done right
On Lake Wylie, summer is not something you observe from a distance. It is something you take part in. It is the sound of engines moving across open water, the pull of a tow rope, the mix of music drifting between boats, and the constant motion of people coming together and moving apart again.
It is active. It is social. It rarely follows a plan.
A fishing license is required for anyone age 16 or older when fishing in any public water, including coastal waters, in both Carolinas. Purchase NC licenses by calling (888) 248-6834 or at www.ncwildlife.org. SC licenses are available at www.dnr.sc.gov or by calling (803) 734-3833. A 7 day license can be purchased for out of state visitors. Must have a valid state ID.
River Stop Food Mart 3900 Mt. Gallant Road Rock Hill, SC 29732 (803) 329-0002
Wal-Mart - Lake Wylie 175 SC-274 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2115
Wal-Mart - Newport 4875 Old York Rd
WHERE TO RENT A BOAT April - Labor Day
Pier 88 River Hills Marina Gas Dock (803) 831-0088
www.pier88yachtclub.com
CareFree Boat Club (704) 557-0848 www.carefreeboats.com
Freedom Boat Club (704) 943-4485
www.freedomboatclub.com
Lake Wylie Boat Rental (704) 516-2674 www.lakewylieboatrental.com
Tega Cay Marina (803) 548-3715 www.tegacaymarina.com
HOW TO CHECK LAKE LEVELS
Tow (704) 895-8699 www.seatow.com
Tow Boat U.S.-Lake Wylie (803) 681-0911 www.towboatLKW.com
Rock Hill, SC 29732 (803) 323-2080
Wal-Mart-Tega Cay 1151 Stonecrest Blvd Tega Cay, SC 29708 (803) 578-4140
Grab N Go 13920 S Tryon St Charlotte, NC 28278 (704) 587-0045
Mushroom and arugula flatbread topped with shaved parmesan offers a fresh, shareable option from Taverna’s menu. Photos courtesy of Taverna Italian American Bistro.
By Wendy Dimitri / Images provided
Afamiliar Lake Wylie address has entered a new chapter, as Taverna Italian American Bistro has taken over the former Lily’s Bistro location along Charlotte Highway, bringing a refreshed concept and a noticeable shift in energy to the space.
The concept is led by John Weinbrenner and Madison Forsythe, who have introduced Taverna with a focus on both the food and the overall dining experience, bringing a new energy to a space many local residents already know.
Since opening earlier this year, the restaurant has begun to settle into a steady rhythm, drawing a mix of diners for casual meals, group gatherings and, increasingly, warm weather evenings that stretch a little longer.
A familiar space, reintroduced
The transition from Lily’s Bistro to Taverna marks a new chapter for a well known Lake Wylie location, introducing a refreshed concept while building on a space that has long served as a familiar upscale dining location.
While the footprint remains the same, the experience inside feels noticeably different. The dining room carries a warmer, more elevated feel, and on select nights, the atmosphere shifts from relaxed to lively as live music and a full crowd bring added energy to the space.
As temperatures rise, that energy has started to extend outdoors, with the restaurant’s patio offering an additional option for open air dining. The space gives diners a chance to sit outside, enjoy a drink and take advantage of longer summer evenings.
Serving the Clover School District area, CAAC provides essential support for those in need. Our services include a Full-Choice Food Pantry, financial assistance, financial literacy classes, and connections to local social service agencies. Together, we’re building a stronger, more supportive community.
supportive
A menu that balances classic and modern
Taverna’s menu blends Italian American staples with a handful of more contemporary dishes, offering something recognizable while still giving diners a reason to try something new.
Traditional options such as pasta dishes, chicken parmesan, and seafood remain central to the menu, while appetizers and small plates add variety. Dishes like tuna poke nachos and bacon jam deviled eggs provide a more modern contrast and have already become talking points among early diners.
The result is a menu that feels flexible, with options that work for both a traditional dinner and a more shareable, social meal.
Servers often guide first time guests toward a mix of familiar entrées and smaller plates, creating a table that feels more like a shared experience than a traditional course by course meal.
Building a weekly rhythm
One of the more noticeable aspects of Taverna’s early presence has been its effort to create a steady flow of activity throughout the week rather than relying solely on weekend traffic.
Regular features such as happy hour specials, themed dinner nights and wine promotions have started to draw repeat visits. Midweek offerings, including discounted wine nights and featured dinner specials, bring in a local crowd, while weekends tend to shift toward a more energetic atmosphere.
Live music has also become part of that rotation, with the tone of the restaurant changing depending on the night. Some evenings remain low key and conversational, while others carry a higher energy, especially as summer crowds move between the bar, dining room and patio. That shift is noticeable over the course of a single evening, with earlier dinner service giving way to a more active bar scene later in the night.
Early impressions from the community
In its first stretch of operation, Taverna has already generated conversation among local diners, with early feedback pointing to both the variety of the menu and the livelier atmosphere as defining features.
Several diners have noted the contrast from the previous concept, describing the space as more energetic, particularly in the evenings. Others have pointed to the mix of familiar dishes and newer additions as a strength, especially for groups with different tastes.
Like most new restaurants, Taverna is still refining its flow, but it has begun to find its footing as a place people return to, whether for a weeknight dinner or a more social night out.
A composed entrée featuring grilled protein and antipasto style accompaniments reflects the restaurant’s mix of classic and modern influences. Photos courtesy of Taverna Italian American Bistro.
A smoked cocktail presentation adds a visual element to Taverna’s drink program, bringing a bit of theater to the bar experience.
A seasonal cocktail served on the patio captures the easy, social feel of summer dining at Taverna. Photos courtesy of Taverna Italian American Bistro.
In addition to its main dining area, the restaurant includes a private dining space that can accommodate larger groups, making it a natural option for celebrations, business dinners and community gatherings.
That flexibility, combined with the addition of outdoor seating, gives the restaurant multiple ways to serve the community, from quick dinners to longer, more relaxed summer evenings spent outside.
It is also becoming a place where groups can spread out a bit, with larger tables inside and a more casual, come and go feel on the patio. A summer addition to the local scene
As Lake Wylie moves into its busiest season, Taverna arrives at a time when residents are looking for places to gather, linger and make the most of warm weather.
The combination of a familiar location, a refreshed menu and both indoor and outdoor seating positions the restaurant as an easy addition to the regular rotation.
The restaurant is open daily beginning at 11:30 a.m., offering both lunch and dinner service.
For Lake Wylie diners, Taverna represents something simple but important: a new reason to meet up, sit outside and stay a little longer.
Taverna Lake Wylie 4547 Charlotte Hwy Lake Wylie, SC www.tavernalakewylie.com (803) 701-7788
Patio seating at Taverna provides an open air dining option, with string lights and umbrellas creating a relaxed setting for summer evenings. Photos courtesy of Taverna Italian American Bistro.
A central wine display anchors the dining space, showcasing a curated selection that complements the restaurant’s Italian American menu. Photos courtesy of Taverna Italian American Bistro.
By Wendy Dimitri / Images provided
There is something about a lake day that calls for a drink that feels just as easy as the afternoon itself. Not heavy. Not complicated. Just cold, refreshing and made for slow sipping between boat rides, cannonballs and that familiar hum of summer on the water. Enter the spritzer.
Bright, bubbly and endlessly customizable, spritzers are the unofficial drink of summer for a reason. They are lower in alcohol than most cocktails, easy to batch for a crowd and flexible enough to work with whatever you have on hand. A good spritzer does not demand perfection. It just asks for ice, something sparkling, and a few fresh ingredients that taste like the season.
Whether on the dock, tying up at the sandbar, or hosting friends on the patio, these lakeside spritzers keep things cool without slowing things down.
Refreshing and classic citrus spritzer. Photo courtesy of Unsplash.
This is the one you will come back to all summer. Clean, crisp, and endlessly drinkable.
Ingredients
• 1 bottle chilled dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well)
• 2 cups sparkling water or club soda
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh mint
• Ice
Directions
Fill glasses with ice. Pour wine about twothirds full, then top with sparkling water. Add citrus slices and a few sprigs of mint. Give it a gentle stir and serve immediately.
This one leans a little Southern and feels right at home on a hot Carolina afternoon.
Ingredients
• 1 bottle chilled Prosecco or sparkling wine
• 2 ripe peaches, sliced
• Handful of fresh basil
• 1–2 tablespoons honey
• Splash of sparkling water (optional)
• Ice
Directions
Muddle peach slices, basil and honey lightly in a pitcher to release the flavors. Add ice, then pour in the Prosecco. Top with a splash of sparkling water if you want it lighter. Stir gently and serve with extra peach slices.
Pink, pink, pink and so sweet strawberry and rose spritzer. Photo courtesy of Unsplash.
Strawberry Rosé Spritzer
Bright, pretty and just sweet enough to feel like a treat without going overboard.
Ingredients
• 1 bottle chilled rosé
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 cup sparkling water
• Ice
Directions
Add strawberries and lime juice to a pitcher and lightly mash. Fill with ice, pour in the rosé and top with sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with whole strawberries or lime wheels.
Watermelon Lime Spritzer
If summer had a signature flavor, this might be it.
Ingredients
• 2 cups fresh watermelon, cubed
• 1 bottle chilled white wine or vodka (optional for a stronger version)
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1–2 cups sparkling water
• Ice
Directions
Blend the watermelon until smooth, then strain if you prefer a cleaner texture. In a pitcher, combine watermelon juice, lime juice and wine (or skip the alcohol for a mocktail version). Add ice and top with sparkling water. Stir and serve cold.
Cucumber Mint Spritzer (Low-Alcohol or Mocktail Option)
Cool, clean and incredibly refreshing after a long stretch in the sun.
Ingredients
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• Fresh mint
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Sparkling water
• Optional: a splash of gin or white wine
• Ice
Directions
Add cucumber, mint and lemon juice to a pitcher and gently muddle. Fill with ice and top with sparkling water. Add a splash of gin or wine if desired. Stir and serve.
A few simple tips for the perfect spritz
Keep everything cold. Warm ingredients will flatten the drink quickly, especially in the heat. Do not overmix. A gentle stir keeps the bubbles lively.
Think in ratios, not recipes. About two parts wine to one-part sparkling water is a good starting point but adjust based on taste.
Use what is fresh. Berries, citrus, herbs, even a splash of juice can turn a basic spritzer into something memorable. Spritzers are summer, done right.
Arby's
511 Nautical Drive
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-5555
Azteca Grill
604 Nautical Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-8930
Bagel Boat – Bagels
4090 Charlotte Hwy Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-5995
Best China
5243 Hwy 557
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-5540
Big Papa’s Pizzeria
5800 Charlotte Highway
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 619-4111
Bojangles
4927 Charlotte Hwy Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-9346
Cherry – Asian Cuisine 4034 Charlotte Hwy
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-9594
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (839) 737-2034
Christopher’s Bar and Grille
1500 Village Harbor Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2461
Copper Premium Pub
4516 Charlotte Highway
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 701-7021
Domino’s Pizza
125 E Evergreen Rd
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-7075
Dunkin Donuts
335 Vesla Lane
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 675-6044
Famous Toastery of Lake Wylie
5217 Highway 557
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803)675-6000
Jersey Mike’s
604 Nautical Drive, Suite 101
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0912
Kochi Japanese Steakhouse
5360 Highway 557
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 610-0146
Lake Wylie Pins N’ Wins 4034 Charlotte Hwy Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2553
Lake Wylie Italian and Pizza
4074 Charlotte Hwy
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0855
Lee's Hoagie House
312 Bulkhead Way
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 619-4046
McDonalds 5262 Highway 557
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803)831-0577
Moe's Southwest Grill
312 Bulkhead Way #105 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 398-1663
Panda Hut 144 Highway 274
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 631-1988
Papa Doc’s Shore Club 3990 Charlotte Hwy
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803-831-0043
Papa Johns
221 Latitude Lane Suite 101
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0101
Pier 88 at River Hills Marina 54 Marina Rd
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0088
Pizza Hut 5241 Hwy 557
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-1188
Rey Azteca Mexican 4052 Charlotte Highway
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-9277
River Hills Country Club
1 Country Club Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2126
Starbucks
1201 Village Harbor Drive, #101 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (704) 591-5361
Subway 5245 Hwy 557 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0143
Sweetwater Grille
4582 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-1788
Taco Bell at Lake Wylie 311 Vesla Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 701-7068
Taverna Italian-American Bistro
4547 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 701-7788
Thai Fusion 125 Evergreen Road Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 746-5047
Waffle House
5013 Charlotte Hwy Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-0315
Wendy’s
5188 Charlotte Hwy Lake Wylie, SC 29710-8099 (803) 831-2687
Wylie’s Eats and Drinks
4052 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 701-7295
Zaxby’s
143 SC-274 Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2634
1201 Village Harbor Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 619-4047
By Wendy Dimitri / Images provided
There is a certain rhythm to summer that feels best when it is spent outdoors. It is slower, a little less structured, and often centered around simple experiences that bring people together.
Across our area a handful of local farms are offering just that. From picking ripe berries to cutting fresh flowers, these destinations invite visitors to step into the fields and spend time enjoying the season in a more hands-on way.
For many in the area, summer at Bush-N-Vine is a tradition.
The York-based farm offers a wide range of pick-your-own options that evolve throughout the season. Strawberries arrive first in the spring, followed by blueberries and blackberries as the weather warms. Peaches carry things through the heart of summer, giving visitors a reason to return again and again.
What makes Bush-N-Vine stand out is how easily a visit turns into more than just picking. Guests can move from the fields to the market or café, where prepared foods, baked goods, and fresh produce extend the experience. It is common to see families arrive with one plan and leave having spent several hours on the property.
The setting encourages that kind of pace. Open fields, sunflower patches, picnic tables, and a children’s outdoor play area ensure a steady flow of seasonal activity.
1650 Filbert Hwy, York
803-684-2732
bushnvinefarm.com
• New Patients Welcome
• Complete General and Cosmetic Dentistry
• Emergency Patient Same Day Pain Relief
• Platinum Invisilign Provider
• Restorative/Preventative
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• We Treat Children
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A classic summer stop: Black’s Peaches
Black’s Peaches has been part of the York County landscape for generations, with roots that stretch back to a family farm established in 1923. Today, it operates as more than just a place to buy produce. It is a full agritourism destination where a simple visit can easily turn into an afternoon. While the farm is widely known for its peaches, it offers a broader experience that begins the moment visitors arrive. During
the spring and summer, U-pick opportunities, including strawberries and peaches, bring people into the fields. From there, the visit often shifts naturally toward the market and dining areas.
The roadside market is stocked with fresh produce grown both on-site and through partnerships with regional farms, along with baked goods, jams, and locally sourced items. It is the kind of place where visitors often leave with more than they
planned, drawn in by what is in season and what is being made that day.
Lunch is served throughout the week, with a menu built around the same fresh ingredients sold in the market. Guests can dine on the porch or in the open-air seating areas, extending their time on the farm rather than heading out right away.
1800 Black Hwy, York Blackspeaches.com (803) 684-2333
At Five Blossoms Farm in Clover, the experience is designed around gathering. Set on 15 acres, the farm blends flower power with a calendar of planned events that invite guests to spend time on the property in a more intentional way. Rather than a quick visit, time at the farm is built around shared experiences, often centered on small groups and special occasions.
Private U-pick experiences are offered for groups of ten or more, giving guests exclusive access to much of the farm. Reservations include use of the barn, greenhouse, gardens, picnic and firepit areas, water features and surrounding fields. The setting allows groups to move at their own pace, whether that means cutting flowers, lingering in the gardens or simply spending time together outdoors.
The farm’s seasonal blooms remain at the center of it all. From early spring tulips to summer flowers that fill the fields, the changing landscape provides a backdrop that evolves throughout the year.
1121 Crosslands Rd, Clover fiveblossomsfarm.com (803) 610-5809
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A quiet moment in the
Indigo Iris Flower Farm offers a different kind of visit, one that is smaller in
The farm itself began simply, growing out of a small patch of flowers during the pandemic. Over time, it has developed into a place where people come not just for the blooms, but for the feeling of being there. Time in the fields often brings a noticeable shift. The noise of daily routines fades, replaced by something quieter and more grounded. Visitors move more slowly, paying attention to details that might otherwise be missed.
524 Ridge Rd, Clover Indigoirisfarm.com (803)630-8228
Fresh picked peaches fill the basket during a summer morning in the
Guests create their own
arrangements during a
Each of these farms offers something slightly different, but together they create a range of easy summer outings close to home.
A morning might begin with berry picking, followed by lunch at a farm market. Another day might center around cutting flowers or attending a small event in the fields. Some visits are quick and simple, while others stretch into something more relaxed and unplanned.
Families can build a day around young children, couples can turn a visit into a quiet outing, and groups of friends can gather for something that feels both social and outdoors.
What they all share is the opportunity to step outside of routine, if only for a few hours. In a season that often fills quickly with schedules and plans, these farms provide a way to slow things down and spend time in a way that feels both simple and intentional.
By Wendy Dimitri / Images provided
In a fast-growing community like Lake Wylie, change often arrives in the form of new rooftops, wider roads and new routines. For Dr. Ryan Colosi, growth equates to more space to care for children, more capacity for families, and a long-term investment in a place he chose with intention.
After nearly a decade serving local families, the pediatric dentist behind Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry is expanding. A second building, currently under construction beside his existing office, is expected to open later this year. It is not simply a larger space. It is a reflection of how both his practice and the community around it have evolved. A calling that took shape over time
Dr. Ryan did not always plan to specialize in pediatric dentistry. A second-generation dentist who grew up in western New York, he followed a traditional path through dental school and residency before entering the U.S. Navy. His service took him from Okinawa to Washington, D.C., where he worked at Walter Reed.
It was during his training, however, that something unexpected happened.
“I did a rotation with kids, and people started telling me I was good at it,” he said. “It was fun. It combined elements of medicine and dentistry in a way that just clicked.”
That natural ability did not come out of nowhere. Dr. Ryan grew up in a large extended family, surrounded by younger cousins and constant activity. His mother, a guidance counselor, noticed early on that he had a natural ease with children.
“She always said I would work with kids someday,” he said. That instinct has become the foundation of his practice.
After completing his Navy service, Colosi felt drawn to the South. With family already in the area, he began to explore opportunities near Belmont and surrounding communities. By 2014, one place stood out.
“Every time I drove through Lake Wylie, it felt busier than before,” he said. “Something was changing.”
He began looking for property in 2015 and opened his current office in 2017. At the time, the area was growing, but not yet at the pace residents see today. Now, nearly ten years later, that growth is undeniable.
The decision to build a second facility came down to one simple factor: need. The current office includes six dental chairs and operates at capacity. To bring on another full-time dentist and continue serving new patients, Dr. Ryan needed more space.
The new building will increase capacity by adding additional chairs
A young patient selects a prize after a visit at Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry. Photo courtesy of Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry.
and allowing the practice to serve significantly more families each year.
“It gives us the ability to grow responsibly,” he said. “It also gives me the chance to step back just a little and focus more on the overall operation.”
That shift includes adding another full-time doctor and continuing to build a team-based model. Long term, Dr. Ryan hopes to create a partnership structure within the practice, allowing other doctors to invest in and help lead the business.
The approach mirrors other successful locally owned practices in the area and reflects his commitment to keeping care rooted in the community.
A focus on children and families
While the new building represents growth, the mission remains the same.
Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry focuses exclusively on children, and that focus shapes everything from the clinical approach to the environment itself. Dr. Ryan emphasizes comfort, trust and patience, especially for children who may be anxious or have unique needs.
That reputation has quietly spread through the community.
Families with children on the autism spectrum, in particular, often share recommendations and experiences. Dr. Ryan is a familiar name that comes up when discussing dental care for children on the spectrum. He has become known for his willingness to take extra time, offer practice visits and meet children where they are.
When meeting with Dr. Ryan, this writer felt compelled to share her own experience:
“My son was diagnosed with autism at three,” I began. “I brought him to you when he was six or seven with a painful tooth. We had tried other dentists, but he never made it through an appointment.
You were the only dentist who could get in his mouth,” I told him. “Before the appointment, you let us come in just to practice sitting in the chair. Your calm, positive approach, the respect you showed my son and the familiarity of the chair made all the difference.”
Dr. Ryan does not frame that approach as extraordinary.
“I just try to treat people the way I would want to be treated,” he said. “Every child is different, and you do your best with what you have been given.”
It is not something he set out to specialize in, but it has become a meaningful part of his work—and one that families continue to rely on. Investing in the community
Rendering of the new Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry building, expected to open later this year. Photo courtesy of Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Ryan Colosi and staff celebrating May 4th at Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry. Photo courtesy of Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry.
For Dr. Ryan, the decision to expand in Lake Wylie comes down to more than business growth. It reflects confidence in the area and the families who live here.
“The community is growing. There are more kids, more families,” he said. “That is why we are here.”
The new building will also bring additional pediatric-focused services to the area. Pediatric Hands on Therapy is expanding into the lower part of the space, creating a hub of child-centered care in one location.
It is a practical benefit for families and a sign of how the area continues to develop.
At 45, Colosi is not slowing down, but he is thinking about sustainability. The expansion allows him to reduce his clinical hours slightly while continuing to grow the practice and mentor other providers.
It also ensures that Lake Wylie families will have access to kind and inclusive pediatric dental care for years to come.
“I want to build something that lasts,” he said.
In a community that continues to change, that kind of long-term commitment stands out. The new building may add square footage, but the real impact is measured in something else entirely: access, trust and the steady presence of a provider who chose Lake Wylie and continues to invest in its future.
Chinese lanterns make a brilliant return this summer at Stowe
By Wendy Dimitri / Images provided
After nearly a decade away, one of the region’s most visually striking summer events is set to return. Daniel Stowe Conservancy will once again host its Chinese Lanterns exhibition, bringing illuminated art, culture and nighttime energy back to its garden grounds from June 18 through Aug. 29.
The long-awaited return marks a major moment for the Conservancy, which has continued to evolve its programming in recent years to attract a broader audience while staying rooted in its mission of connecting people with nature. The Chinese Lanterns exhibition, last held nearly 10 years ago, was one of its most popular seasonal events.
This year’s version promises to be larger, brighter and more immersive.
More than 60 handcrafted lantern displays will be installed throughout the gardens, transforming the landscape into a glowing nighttime experience. Guests can expect a mix of towering floral sculptures, illuminated wildlife, cultural displays and winding pathways lit in vivid color. Designed to be experienced after dark, the exhi-
bition turns the familiar daytime garden setting into something entirely new.
“This is not just a return. It is a reimagining,” the Conservancy notes in its event materials, emphasizing the scale and artistry of the updated installation.
Duke Energy has signed on as the presenting sponsor, supporting what is expected to be one of the Conservancy’s marquee events of the summer season.
Unlike traditional daytime visits, Chinese Lanterns invites guests to experience the gardens in a completely different way. As the sun sets, pathways begin to glow and the installations come to life, creating a setting that blends art, nature and light.
The lanterns themselves are handcrafted and often feature intricate detailing, with some structures reaching significant heights and spanning entire sections of the garden. Many displays are designed to be immersive, allowing visitors to walk through or around them rather than simply viewing from a distance.
The result is a moving experience, both literally and visually, as guests explore the grounds.
More than lanterns
While the lantern installations are the centerpiece, the event is designed as a full evening outing. A rotating lineup of food trucks will be on site throughout the summer, offering a range of casual dining options.
Interactive exhibits will also be incorporated into the experience, blending art, culture and nature in ways that appeal to both children and adults. The Conservancy has increasingly emphasized hands-on and educational components in its programming, and this exhibition continues that approach. Special programming is planned for families, garden enthusiasts and visitors interested in cultural experiences. These additions aim to make the event accessible and engaging for a wide audience, from young children to longtime supporters of the Conservancy.
One of the featured events tied to the exhibition is the Summer Nights 5K, scheduled for June 19. The race will take participants through the lantern-lit gardens, offering a unique twist on a traditional evening run.
A traditional pagoda-style structure anchors one of the exhibition’s larger displays, surrounded by detailed lantern sculptures. Photo courtesy of Daniel Stowe Conservancy.
The exhibition will be open Tuesday through Sunday evenings throughout its run. Timed entry is expected, and tickets will be available for purchase online, with discounted rates for Conservancy members.
Organizers recommend planning ahead, particularly for weekends and peak summer dates, as the event is likely to draw strong attendance.
Guests should expect a relaxed but lively atmosphere. The setting encourages strolling, exploring and taking in the visual details at a comfortable pace, rather than rushing through the experience.
Located along the shores of Lake Wylie, about 20 minutes from Charlotte, Daniel Stowe Conservancy has steadily expanded its role as a regional destination. What began as a traditional botanical garden has grown into a multifaceted outdoor space offering events, education and community programming year-round.
The organization’s mission centers on preserving and sharing the beauty of the natural world, while also creating opportunities for people to engage with it in meaningful ways. That in-
Guests walk beneath a canopy of oversized illuminated flowers, one of many immersive installations featured throughout the exhibition. Photo courtesy of Daniel Stowe Conservancy.
cludes everything from horticultural displays and conservation efforts to fitness events, seasonal festivals and family programming.
In recent years, the Conservancy has placed a stronger emphasis on accessibility and relevance, working to attract visitors who may not typically seek out a garden experience. Events like Chinese Lanterns are a key part of that strategy, offering an entry point that blends entertainment with the natural environment.
For many in the region, the return of Chinese Lanterns signals the arrival of summer in a way that goes beyond traditional daytime activities. The combination of warm evenings, outdoor exploration and visual spectacle creates an experience that feels both festive and distinctly local. It is also an opportunity to revisit a familiar place through a different lens.
The gardens, known for their daytime beauty, take on a new identity at night. Pathways that might feel quiet in the afternoon become dynamic and illuminated. Open spaces are redefined by light installations. Even repeat visitors are likely to see the Conservancy in a new way.
An underwater-themed installation showcases brightly lit sea life and coral forms, highlighting the scale and artistry of the lantern displays. Photo courtesy of Daniel Stowe Conservancy.
Chinese Lanterns at Stowe
Location
Daniel Stowe Conservancy
6500 South New Hope Road, Belmont June 18 through August 30
Tuesday through Sunday evenings
Tickets go on sale this spring at danielstoweconservancy.org
Advance online purchase recommended
• Member discounts available (typically around 15%)
Special event pricing applies (separate from regular garden admission)
Timed evening entry expected
Food trucks and concessions available on site
• Outdoor event; dress for warm summer evenings
• Popular nights may sell out — plan ahead
• Special Event
Summer Nights 5K | June 19
Run through the lantern-lit gardens
As Daniel Stowe Conservancy continues to expand its programming, the return of Chinese Lanterns reflects a broader effort to balance tradition with innovation. By bringing back a popular event while enhancing its scale and scope, the organization is reinforcing its role as both a cultural and natural resource in the region.
Tickets for Chinese Lanterns will go on sale this spring through the Conservancy’s website.
For those looking for a summer outing that combines art, nature and an evening atmosphere, the exhibition offers something that is both visually striking and uniquely immersive.
“It is the difference between having clothes and not having clothes.”
“We are not an annual grant organization. We step in when something happens.”
By Wendy Dimitri / Images provided
In a community known for its lake, strong schools and growing neighborhoods, it can be easy to assume that need exists somewhere else. But just beneath the surface of Lake Wylie and the surrounding York County area, there is a quieter reality — one that the Mayday Project has been addressing for years with a model built on urgency, precision and local impact.
The Mayday Project began as a small outreach effort connected to what is now Lake Wylie Community Church. A group of River Hills residents became aware of a truth that often goes unnoticed: poverty exists here, close to home. What started as a golf fundraiser to support a handful of local charities has evolved into a responsive and highly focused nonprofit effort.
Today, the Mayday Project operates with a clear mission: respond to unexpected and emergency needs within the community. Every dollar raised stays within York County. Every request is evaluated individually.
“We are called Mayday because we respond when something happens,” said Roseann Stichnoth, vice president of the board. “Whatever the need, whenever the need.”
A different kind of giving model
That distinction sets MayDay apart from many traditional nonprofit funding models. While other organizations provide annual or recurring grants, Mayday steps in when something falls through the cracks.
“Many people have no idea there is this level of need right here in our own community.”
That could mean covering emergency dental work for a teenager in foster care. It could mean helping a student enroll in a career training program at the last minute. It could mean funding a critical appliance for a community meal program or replacing a van used to transport children in residential care.
In each case, the need is immediate and the response is direct.
The organization supports a carefully selected group of local charities along with four school districts in York County: Clover, Rock Hill, Fort Mill and York. Each board member serves as a liaison to one or more partner organizations, building relationships and maintaining consistent communication.
“We are constantly in touch,” Stichnoth said. “We know what is going on. So, when a request comes in, we understand the context.”
That context often reveals needs that are both urgent and deeply personal.
In one recent case, a single mother in the Rock Hill School District lost her childcare unexpectedly. With the help of a school social worker, an after-school program was identified for her child. Vouchers covered most of the cost, but a one-time fee of $160 remained. The family
could not afford it, and the school had no budget to cover it.
Mayday stepped in. The fee was paid. The child started the program the following week.
“It is very direct, very immediate,” Stichnoth said. “That is what we do.”
A hidden reality in local schools
The needs extend far beyond individual cases. Data from local school districts highlights a sobering reality. The Clover School District has identified at least 100 students experiencing homelessness. In Rock Hill, that number rises to approximately 600.
“The Mayday Project has been an incredible support to our department’s ability to serve students experiencing homelessness under McKinney-Vento,” explains Courtney Jones, LMSW, district attendance officer and McKinney-Vento liaison
Homelessness in this context does not always mean living on the street. More often, it reflects unstable housing — families doubling up with relatives, moving frequently or living in temporary situations that can collapse without warning.
When those situations do collapse, Mayday often becomes part of the response. The organization has provided short-term stays for families
facing sudden displacement, helping ensure children can remain close to their schools during a critical transition.
In addition, Mayday supplies school social workers with $50 gift cards to distribute to students in need. These cards are used for essentials such as clothing, shoes and food.
“Their ability to provide gift cards for immediate family needs allows us to respond quickly and compassionately when students and families need support the most,” Jones also explains. Supporting a network of local partners
Beyond the school systems, Mayday supports a network of local nonprofits addressing foster care, food insecurity and services for children with special needs. Partner organizations rely on MayDay when funding gaps threaten to disrupt essential services.
At Children’s Attention Home, MayDay has funded emergency medical needs, supported educational opportunities and helped replace critical transportation.
At therapeutic riding programs like Rideability in Clover, it has covered unexpected expenses such as feed during harsh winters.
At community meal programs, it has stepped in to replace broken kitchen equipment serving thousands of meals each week.
In each case, the request is not routine, but is urgent.
Just as notable is the discipline with which those requests are made. According to Stichnoth, partner organizations are thoughtful and measured.
“They are very professional,” she said. “They do not come to us unless they truly need us.”
How the community can get involved
Funding for Mayday’s work comes through donations and a limited number of annual fundraisers. The organization has evolved from its early golf tournament roots and now hosts events such as a casino night fundraiser each spring. In recent years, the board has also focused on expanding its reach beyond River Hills to engage the broader Lake Wylie community.
“There is so much growth around here,” Stichnoth said. “We want people to understand what is happening and how they can be part of it.”
Opportunities to get involved extend beyond financial contributions. Volunteers are needed to support fundraising events, and the organization is actively seeking individuals interested in future board service. For those who want a deeper connection, MayDay offers opportunities to visit partner organizations and see their work firsthand.
That experience, Stichnoth said, often leaves a lasting impression.
Golfers line up a putt during a Mayday Project fundraiser tournament, one of several events that help raise funds for local families in need. Photos courtesy of The Mayday Project.
Representatives from RideAbility receive support from the Mayday Project, helping expand access to therapeutic riding services. Photos courtesy of The Mayday Project.
Where Mayday makes an impact MayDay partners with a network of local nonprofits and school systems, responding to urgent needs as they arise. Each organization serves a specific role in supporting children, families and individuals across York County.
School Districts
Community and nonprofit partners
Children’s Attention Home — Rock Hill
Residential care and support services for children in the foster care system.
Fostering the Family — Fort Mill
Connects foster families with community and church support to help stabilize placements.
Defending the Fatherless — Fort Mill
Provides essential items and resources to foster and adoptive families.
“You meet people who have devoted their lives to helping others,” she said. “It changes you.”
In a community that continues to grow and evolve, the Mayday Project serves as a reminder that need does not always announce itself.
Bethel Men’s Shelter — York Offers shelter, meals and support services for men experiencing homelessness.
Tender Hearts Ministries — Rock Hill
Provides food, clothing and assistance to individuals and families in need.
Clover Area Assistance Center — Clover
Supports local residents with food, financial assistance and crisis services.
Community Cafe — Lake Wylie Serves thousands of meals weekly to individuals and families facing food insecurity.
Specialized programs
RideAbility Therapeutic Riding Center — Clover
Uses therapeutic horseback riding to support children and adults with physical and developmental challenges.
What this means
From Lake Wylie to Rock Hill, Fort Mill and Clover, Mayday’s reach spans the county meeting needs where they happen.
Sometimes it appears quietly in the form of a fee that cannot be paid, a child without proper clothing or a family navigating an unexpected crisis.
And when it does, Mayday answers the call.
By Wendy Dimitri / Images provided
There is a very specific moment when you know summer has officially arrived in Lake Wylie. It is not the calendar. It is not even the weather. It is the first “come by the lake” text.
And just like that, the season kicks off. One invite turns into five. A casual dinner becomes a full-blown gathering. Weekends fill up with parties, drop-ins, celebrations and those nights where you did not plan to go out but somehow end up staying out anyway. This is Summer Party Season. And around here, we do it well.
The good news is you do not have to overthink getting ready. Everything you need to feel fresh, pulled together and ready for whatever pops up is right here in Lake Wylie. From glowing skin to great hair, easy outfits, and just the right amount of sparkle, this is your fun-first guide to showing up ready.
Let’s talk skin (because summer happens fast)
Sun, heat, lake days — your skin goes through it in the summer. One weekend outside and suddenly you are thinking, okay, we need to fix this.
That is where Rejuvenate at Lake Wylie comes in. Whether you are starting fresh with a facial or trying to bounce back from a little too much sun, they have treatments that actually make a difference. Hydrating facials, calming treatments and targeted skincare can take you from “a little fried” to glowing again.
And let’s be honest. Sunburns happen. Having a go-to spot that can help soothe, repair and reset your skin is basically part of summer survival.
There is nothing like that post-facial feeling where your skin looks better and suddenly you are saying yes to plans you might have skipped the day before.
Hair that holds up (even at the lake)
Summer hair has a job to do. It has to look good and hold up through humidity, lake days and those long, slightly unpredictable nights that start casual and end up being something more.
At Revel Salon & Color Studio, a seasonal refresh is something you want to plan ahead — and for good reason. Their books fill up quickly this time of year. Locking in an appointment early means you are set when the calendar starts stacking up with the summer celebrations we all look forward to.
A refresh can be as simple as a trim and gloss or as noticeable as brighter highlights or richer color. It does not have to be a major change to feel like a reset—it just needs to work.
And then there are the event moments. A polished blowout before dinner. Easy waves for a party. An updo when the invitation calls for “Cocktail Attire.” Having that appointment already on the books makes getting ready feel seamless instead of rushed. Add in a makeup consultation and getting ready starts to feel like part of the celebra-
tion itself — easy, fun, and something you actually look forward to.
The “oh good, my nails are done” feeling
You know the feeling. You are halfway out the door, glance down and think — thank goodness my nails are done.
Summer basically demands it. Sandals, pool days, grabbing a drink outside — your hands and feet are always part of the picture.
A stop at Gloss Nail Bar (or any of the great nail spots nearby) is one of the easiest ways to feel instantly put together. Go neutral so it works with everything or lean into summer with something brighter.
Either way, it is a small detail that carries you through a lot of events.
Smile like you mean it
Here is the thing about summer: you end up in a lot of photos.
Group shots, selfies, candid moments you did not even know were happening. A brighter smile just makes all of it easier.
Professional whitening at Catawba River Dentistry or Carolina Family Dentistry at Lake Wylie is one of those quick upgrades that pay off all season long. It is not over the top; it is just enough to make you feel confident without thinking about it.
And that is really the goal — less thinking, more enjoying.
The outfit that saves you
Every summer has that event. The one where nothing in your closet feels right. Instead of the last-minute panic, this is your sign to get ahead of it.
At Echo Boutique, you can find those easy, go-to pieces that work for multiple occasions, either new or gently loved. Flowy dresses, effortless sets, something you can throw on and instantly feel like you tried (even if you did not).
The best part is finding something you are excited to wear. Something that makes you want to make plans just so you have somewhere to go in it.
Add the sparkle and go
No summer look is complete without a little something extra.
At J. Alden Fine Jewelry and Precious Metals, that might be a simple gold necklace you never take off, a pair of earrings that catch the light at dinner or a statement piece for a bigger event.
It does not have to be complicated. Just enough to elevate everything else. Because sometimes the difference between
Rejuvenate at Lake Wylie
1616 Village Harbor Dr, Lake Wylie www.rejuvenateatlakewylie.com (803) 619-4061
Revel Salon & Color Studio
248 Latitude Ln #105, Lake Wylie www.revelsalonlw.com (803) 831-9394
Gloss Nail Bar
1201 Village Harbor Dr, Suite 102, Lake Wylie www.glossnailbarlakewylie.com (803) 619-4377
Catawba River Dentistry 200 Dobys Bridge Rd, Suite 108, Fort Mill www.catawbariverdentistry.com (803) 396-5888
Carolina Family Dentistry at Lake Wylie 244 Latitude Ln, #103, Lake Wylie www.lakewyliescdentist.com (803) 831-2171
Echo Boutique 164 SC-274, Lake Wylie www.echo-boutique.com (803) 746-5656
J. Alden Fine Jewelry and Precious Metals
5 Executive Ct, Suite 101, Lake Wylie (803) 818-1100
“I threw this on” and “this works” is one small detail.
The best part about summer in Lake Wylie is that it is not just one big event. It is a steady stream of moments.
A dinner that turns into a late night. A quick stop by the lake that turns into staying for hours. A party where you only planned to stay for a bit. Getting ready becomes part of that rhythm. A facial here, a hair refresh there, nails before the weekend, an outfit that works for more than one thing. It builds naturally, and when the text comes — you're not scrambling. You are ready.
By Wendy Dimitri / Images provided
Summer at Lake Wylie has a way of finding its rhythm without trying too hard. There is no need for big stages or packed schedules. The music shows up anyway — on a park lawn, outside a local shop, at a market, along a dock or marina or drifting across a neighborhood gathering. One minute it is background, the next it becomes the reason to stay.
From planned concerts to spontaneous sets, the soundtrack of summer here is easy, local and always within reach.
The largest outdoor music gathering of the season happens at Field Day Park. Sports fields give way to live music performances and create the kind of setting that feels built for summer evenings.
The August 14 concert featuring the Garrett Huffman Band runs from 6 – 9 p.m. and draws one of the biggest crowds in the area. Families arrive early with chairs and blankets; food trucks line the edge of the fields, and the ball fields and soccer pitch fill in as the sun starts to drop.
It is the closest thing locally to a traditional outdoor concert experience. There is space to spread out, room for kids to move and play, and just enough structure to anchor the evening without overcomplicating it. For many, it marks a highlight of the summer calendar.
When the weekend hits, the energy shifts to the water. Papa Doc's Shore Club brings live music to the lake most summer weekends, creating one of the most distinctly Lake Wylie experiences around.
Set along the shoreline with both patio and dockside seating, it is one of the few places where music and the water come together naturally. Guests arrive by car or by boat, settle in with food and drinks and stay
as live bands take over the evening.
The vibe leans upbeat and social. Some nights feel like a full crowd gathered around the music, while others carry more of a relaxed, sunset feel with tunes drifting across the water. Either way, it has become a steady weekend stop for live music throughout the summer.
Open to members and their guests, River Hills Country Club’s Blue Heron bar features a rotating lineup of bands that keeps the midweek scene anything but predictable. One Wednesday might bring a laidback acoustic set, while the next leans into classic rock with a louder, more energetic crowd. The atmosphere shifts with the music, sometimes relaxed, sometimes lively, but always centered around a good band and a full room.
In addition to the weekly music, River Hills Country Club also hosts Concerts on the Green on select summer dates. These outdoor events expand the experience beyond the bar, bringing live music onto the open green and capturing the feel of a classic summer night.
Just across the state line, the Trailhead Store at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden has quickly become one of the most reliable spots for free live music in the area.
Its signature series, Pickin’ on the Porch, brings a steady rhythm to Saturday afternoons throughout the summer. Performances run from 2 – 4 p.m., with a rotating lineup of musicians playing from the front porch while guests gather across the lawn.
The setup is simple and part of the appeal. Picnic tables and Adirondack chairs fill in early, and many visitors bring their own blankets or chairs to settle in. The music ranges from acoustic sets to more upbeat performances, creating an atmosphere that feels easygoing but never static.
Food, coffee, wine and craft beer are avail-
able on site, making it just as easy to stay for an hour as it is to linger through the entire set. It is a casual, come-as-you-are experience that has quickly become a regular stop for summer afternoons.
For a more structured experience, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden — now known as Daniel Stowe Conservancy — offers summer music events that bring a different tone to the season.
Often centered around jazz or themed music nights, these events take place within the garden setting and are for members and ticketed guests. Guests can enjoy the new Big Leaf Café along with additional refreshment offerings located throughout the gardens.
The setting is intentional and polished, offering a different pace from the area’s more casual gatherings. It is an opportunity to enjoy live music in a setting designed as much for the experience as the performance itself.
In Clover and York, summer music tends to gather around downtown events rather than a fixed concert series. Throughout June, July and August, community events and festival nights bring DJs and live bands into the center of town.
The setup changes from event to event, but the effect is consistent. Streets stay active later; storefronts remain open and music fills the space between them. Some nights feel through the area.
The variety keeps things interesting. Rather than repeating the same format each week, York’s summer music scene evolves with each event.
Music shows up where you least expect it
Not all summer music here comes with a stage or a set time. Across Lake Wylie, live music often appears in everyday places. Farmers markets regularly feature acoustic performers, turning a quick stop for
WHERE TO FIND THE MUSIC THIS SUMMER
Field Day Park (Lake Wylie / Clover)
• August 14 | 6 – 9 p.m.
• Free outdoor concert
Papa Doc's Shore Club
• Live music most summer weekends
• Waterfront dining with dockside seating
River Hills Country Club — Blue Heron Bar
• Live music every Wednesday
• Rotating bands (members and guests)
River Hills Country Club — Concerts on the Green
• Select summer dates
• Outdoor live music
Trailhead Store (Belmont)
• Pickin’ on the Porch
• Saturdays | 2 – 4 p.m.
• Free live music
Daniel Stowe Conservancy
• Select dates
• Jazz and themed music nights
Downtown Clover & York Events
• June – August
• Festivals, DJs and live bands
Farmers Markets, Church Lawns & Local Festivals
• Ongoing throughout summer
• Acoustic, bluegrass and community music
produce into something more. Churches host outdoor gatherings where bluegrass and gospel carry across the lawn. Local festivals bring in small bands that play as families move from booth to booth. These are not always listed as concerts, but
they function as part of the same rhythm. A guitar player under a tent or a band set up near a food stand can easily become the moment people remember most.
It is less about planning the night around music and more about letting music be-
come part of the night. Taken together, these events create a summer music scene that feels less scheduled and more lived-in. There may not be a packed calendar, but there is always something playing somewhere.
By Drew Choate / Images provided
Spring is in full swing, and we can hear the birds sing … along with the sounds of hammers, earth movers and other construction equipment. The Lake Wylie area is growing in all major segments: retail, industrial, single family and multi-family homes.
However, economic uncertainty across the country — contributing to a degree of hesitation among both buyers and sellers in the housing market — has impacted local home sales. A harsh winter across the nation also played a part, stifling travel and home showings. In the Clover School District, first quarter sales were down 22% in comparison to last year.
Excluding waterfront property, the average home sold for $505,000, down a couple thousand dollars from last year. It took longer for homes to sell, with about three months on the market. A longer time on the market usually translates into more negotiating off the asking price.
Waterfront properties making a splash
While the general market posted declines in sales metrics, Lake Wylie waterfront properties had a banner first quarter. Lakefront home sales were up 61% compared to first quarter in 2025, and lot sales were up 80%.
Just over 40% of waterfront home sales could be classified as “cabins” — homes constructed prior to 1980 for use as weekend retreats. Typically, these cabins were small (1400 square feet or less), with two bedrooms, and built with lower-cost materials. Over time, some of these properties have been expanded and updated, and some have been removed to make way for larger, primary homes. Meanwhile, undeveloped lake property has become scarcer and scarcer. Ten years ago, the average number of waterfront lot listings was about 150. Currently, there are just 25 Lake Wylie waterfront lots listed on the MLS. Some buyers turn to lake cabins — particularly those located on premium
This A-frame waterfront home recently sold for $1,250,000. When built in 1973, it was likely used as a “weekend retreat,” with limited space. Over time, updates and additions yielded more bedrooms and baths, along with significant improvements in the kitchen, outdoor spaces and design elements. The simple dock was well maintained, and the main selling points included a spacious 1.2-acre lot, a convenient location near the entrance of The Palisades, and a serene lakeside setting with a beautiful view.
view lots — as potential home sites. Depending on the location, topography of the lot, condition of the structures and docks, water quality and view, the cabins are selling for top dollar, averaging about $1 million this year.
Average prices for other waterfront properties are holding steady compared to last year. Inventory is a bit depleted after the strong first quarter sales, so it could be a good time to list if relocation plans are in the works for sellers.
Pricing can be tricky for waterfront homes and land, with variations in view, location considerations, custom designs, quality of docks and shoreline enhancements, and aesthetics of surrounding properties — in addition to the “normal” factors influencing price, such as size and age of home, construction quality.
In the current marketplace, which is shifting from a “seller’s market” to a more balanced scenario, setting the right
price out of the gate is the best strategy, rather than trying a higher price “just to see.”
Based on recent activity, Lake Wylie waterfront homes that go under contract in less than six weeks on the market sell for an average of 98% of asking price. Homes that remain on the market for more than 100 days sell for just 89% of original asking price, on average.
With market conditions become more challenging, you’ll find that an experienced Realtor’s familiarity with the area and knowledge of lake property will ensure the best outcome in your sale or purchase.
Drew Choate and The Lake Wylie Man team are affiliated with Keller Williams Fort Mill. The Lake Wylie Man team has been the leader in Lake Wylie waterfront sales each year for over a decade. For more information on the market and recent sales, visit TheLakeWylieMan.com.
River Hills/Lake Wylie EMS will now continue as Piedmont Medical Center and keep the RHEMS building as a base for the ambulance service locally. Long time RHEMS volunteers, River Hills neighbors and board, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce leaders and Piedmont Medical Center leadership came together for a ribbon cutting to celebrate the occasion.
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Sponsored by United Bank and Lake Wylie Liquors
Held at United Bank – Lake Wylie
Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce
March 12, 2026
Sponsored by and held at Karrus Homes
by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce
April 22, 2026
Sponsored by and held at Vale - Lake Wylie
Photos by Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce
February 1, 2026 to April 23, 2026
Bethel Commons Associates, LLC
Bridgetower Media / Lake Wylie Today
Clover – Lake Wylie Republican Women
Clover Harvest Restaurant
Comporium
Cornerstone Builders Group, Inc.
DTJT Properties, LLC
Glaza Chiropractic Center
J. Alden Fine Jewelry
Journey Fellowship
Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry LLC
Lake Wylie Pins N’ Wins
Lifestyle Physical Therapy, LLC
Open Road RV Sales
Right at Home in Home Care and Assistance
River Hills Community Association
Sea & Sun Travel Agency
Thrive4Life
Totalbond Veterinary Hospital
United Bank – Lake Wylie
United Way of York County
Upper Palmetto YMCA
VALE at Lake Wylie
Zo.ra Food & Wine
Individuals: Peggy Upchurch
Alcova Mortgage 5960 Fairview Rd., Suite 275 Charlotte, NC 28210
Zack Davis, Loan O icer www.ALCOVA.com/zack-davis zack.davis@alcova.com (704) 421-3687 (c) | (704) 650-8029 (o)
Mortgage loan o icer assisting clients with a new home loan or refinance of current home loan.
eXp Realty, Jenna Davis Clover, SC 29710 carolinas@homeswithjdavis.com (304) 601-5575
Real estate agent
Freedom Barbers & Hair Academy
7 North Congress St. York, SC 29745
Keith Faulkenberry, Owner www.Freedombarbers.net Ncbarbershop2@gmail.com (704) 576-7730
Classic and contemporary haircuts, beard styling
Fusetrix LLC
2123 Eskridge Terrace Clover, SC 29710
Shonda Gordon, CEO www.Fusetrix.com support@fusetrix.com (980) 418-3260
Field Service Management Platform. Everything you need to manage your field service business –From service requests to invoicing.
Ignite U Brands Foods, LLC, DBA Auntie Anne’s 12700 Rusty Blackbird Way Charlotte, NC 28278
Location opening soon in Lake Wylie Walmart Supercenter Christopher Williams, President www.auntieannes.com cwilliams@stemulcc.com (803) 556-1533
Specialty treats, desserts, snack food, co ee.
Jani Genie LLC
2123 Eskridge Terrace Clover, SC 29710
Shonda Gordon, CEO www.janigenie.com support@janigenie.com (704) 300-9664
Commercial Cleaning
Jo’s Pilates
4110 Charlotte Highway Lake Wylie, SC 29710
Josephine Bernson, President www.jospilates.com josephine@jospilates.com (803) 627-8771
Professional Pilates instruction tailored to your unique wellness journey.
Leisure Travel Enterprises Lake Wylie, SC 29710
Kathleen Dooley, Travel Advisor www.ltetravel.com kathleend@ltetravel.com (704) 577-0764
A comprehensive suite of services designed to simplify the planning, booking and management of individual, family and group travel.
Phase One
2910 Rosewood Dr. Columbia, SC 29205
Pam Crane, Co-Founder
Ellianna Shipp, Marketing and Business Development
ellianna@phaseone.design pam@phaseone.design https://phaseone.design/ Architectural design and construction consulting for renovations and custom homes.
The Learning Experience – Lake Wylie
429 Blucher Circle Lake Wylie, SC
Marie Springman, Director lakewylie@tlechildcare.com
https://thelearningexperience.com/centers/lakewylie-sc/ (803) 619-4086
Preschool and day care center.
2026 Chamber Champion Gold Member
The Post and Courier York County 2020 Alumni Drive
Rock Hill, SC 29730
Wesley Walters, Sales and Strategy Leader Wwalters@postandcourier.com www.postandcourier.com/york-county/ (803) 638-0366
News outlet, multimedia advertising company.
Victory Farm Therapeutic & Adaptive Horsemanship
5071 Victory Trail Gastonia, NC 28056
Dory Pell, Program Director info@victoryrides.org www.victoryrides.org (704) 241-2270
Nonprofit therapeutic and adaptive horsemanship, horse rescue.
Zifybot.ai
2123 Eskridge Terrace Clover, SC 29710
Shonda Gordon, CEO Zifybot.ai support@fusetrix.com (704) 300-9664
All-in-One AI-Powered Prospecting & Outreach Platform, sale automation, lead generation.
Zifypay.com
2123 Eskridge Terrace Clover, SC 29710
Shonda Gordon, CEO https://zifypay.com/ Shonda@zifypay.com (980) 256-0131
All-in-one technology platform designed to simplify and streamline business operations for small businesses.
Individuals:
Leslie Ann Walker
Jeff Ledford -Chairman River Hills Country Club
Charles Wood – Past Chairman
Susan Bromfield - President Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce
Matthew Mugavero – Vice Chairman Lake Wylie Liquors
Jane DuBois - Secretary Lake Wylie Today
Michaelyn Sherrill - Treasurer Home Companions
Fred Caldwell Fred Caldwell's Chevrolet
Lori Dickerson United Bank
Kim Conroy
Allan Gregory Altitude Wealth Management
Dr. Robert Latham Rejuvenate at Lake Wylie
Ed Lindsey Rotary Club of Lake Wylie
Angel Neelands South State Bank
Stephan Nishimuta Carolina Family Dentistry
Sheila Quinn Clover School District
Tom Smith May Green Properties
P.O. Box 5233
264 Latitude Lane, Suite 101
Lake Wylie, SC 29710 (803) 831-2827
Fax: (803) 831-2460 lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com www.lakewyliesc.com
The Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce is a private, nonprofit organization made up of nearly 300 member businesses in the Lake Wylie area in South Carolina. Whether you’re a Chamber member, a prospective member, a resident, a prospective resident or whether you’re a one-time visitor to our area you’re important to us.
"Leading the Lake Wylie area to become the premier place to live, work and conduct business in the Carolinas."
"To build a business environment that creates economic prosperity for our members and our community by serving as the voice of the business community and by providing a support network for members."
WE DEMONSTRATE OUR VALUES OF
• Accountability
• Collaboration
• Excellence
• Outreach
• Promotion
• A Sense of Family
By connecting business & community, creating viability & value, and cultivating member engagement.
COMMUNITY
connecting business & community
• Be the premier resource for businesses to connect with the community.
• Develop community Leaders
• Champion for a stronger community
• Convener of Leaders and Influencers.
• Encourage spending in Lake Wylie area.
creating viability & value
• Promote Lake Wylie as a destination to businesses, individuals, and families.
• Serve as a conduit between businesses, citizens, and community leaders.
• Catalyst for Business Growth and sustainable practices.
MEMBER SERVICES cultivating member engagement
• Keep Chamber members positively engaged.
• Provide a variety of networking opportunities.
• Offer valuable marketing options.
ORGANIZATIONAL FOUNDATION charting the course
• Recruit and retain members and advocates for the Chamber.
• Maintain fiscal responsibility.
• Ensure the future vitality of the organization.
Upcoming activities
Looking forward
Business After Hours
Thursday, June 11, 2026
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Sponsored by Sunflower Springs
Held at Sunflower Springs – Latitude Lane
Lake Wylie Fourth of July Community Fireworks
Saturday, July 4, 2026
Approximately 9:30 p.m.
Best Viewing
Lake Wylie Plaza, Lake Wylie Italian and Pizza, Rey Azteca- Patio, Bagel Boat, Papa Doc's and Long Cove Resort and Marina
Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce
Annual Golf Classic
Monday, October 12, 2026
1 p.m. Shotgun Start, Captain’s Choice Held at River Hills Country Club
Lake Wylie, SC
Business After Hours
Thursday, October 15, 2026
Sponsored by and held at Lake Wylie Assisted Living 5:30- 7:30 p.m. Lake Wylie, SC
Annual Holiday Gala
Thursday, December 3, 2026
6:30 p.m. to Cocktails
Dinner and Music
Seating Limited, Festive Attire Held at River Hills Country Club
Lake Wylie, SC
Holiday Boat Parade
Saturday, December 12, 2026
6:30 p.m. Boat Parade Held by Papa Doc’s Shore Club
Contact Name:_
Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce
A ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC - REGISTRATION FORM
Monday, October 12, 2026 12:00 pm Shotgun Start– Captain’s Choice River Hills Country Club
Company:_______________________________________________________________
Address:________________________________________________________________
City:____________________________________State:___________Zip:_____________
Daytime Telephone: ( )_________________________ Fax: ( )___________________
Golf Includes box lunch, driving range privileges, golf, cart, hospitality and great networking! All player spots are reserved upon receipt of payment and registration form.
Individual Golfer(s) @ $170 per person Total $_______
Golf Team(s) – Four players @ $650 per team Total $_______
Golfer’s Name:_______________________Handicap:___E-mail:___________________
Golfer’s Name:_______________________Handicap:___E-mail:___________________
Golfer’s Name:_______________________Handicap:___E-mail:___________________
Golfers Name:________________________Handicap:___E-mail:__________________ Optional…
_____Mulligan (s) – Limit 2 per player $10 each Total $_______ _____Mulligan (s) – For the team $80 Total $_______
_____Hole Sponsorship - $300 (Includes sign at tee box or green, and recognition in Lake Wylie Today Magazine!)
_____ Flag Sponsor - $300
_____I’d like to donate a raffle prize!
Please return this registration form with your check to: Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 5233, Lake Wylie, SC 29710
Phone: 803-831-2827
Email: lakewyliechamber@yahoo.com Web: www.lakewyliesc.com Lake Wylie Chamber Annual Golf Classic MONDAY, October 12, 2026 Held at River Hills Country Club – Lake Wylie
Kindness is more than behavior. The art of kindness involves harboring a spirit of helpfulness, being generous and considerate, and doing so without expecting anything in return.
Rather than viewing it exclusively as an action, think of kindness as a quality of being you can cultivate. Giving kindness often is simple, free and health-enhancing.
Good for the body
Kindness has been shown to increase self-esteem, empathy and compassion, and improve mood. It can decrease blood pressure and cortisol, a hormone directly correlated with stress levels. People who give of themselves in a balanced way also tend to be healthier and live longer.
Kindness can increase your sense of connectivity with others, decrease loneliness, combat low mood and improve relationships. It also can be contagious, encouraging others to join in with their own generous deeds.
Looking for ways to show kindness can give you something to focus on, especially if you are anxious or stressed in certain social situations.
Good for the mind
Physiologically, kindness can positively change your brain by boosting levels of serotonin and dopamine. These neurotransmitters produce feelings of satisfaction and well-being, and cause the pleasure and reward centers in your brain to light up. Endorphins, your body's natural painkiller, also may be released when you show kindness.
Be kind to yourself
When sharing kindness, it's not just how you treat other people — it's also about how you extend those same behaviors and intentions to yourself. I believe you can be kinder in your own self-talk and practice gratitude. Take action – It doesn’t cost a penny!
Start your day with this question: "How am I going to practice kindness today?" For a homework assignment, invite some friends, family or co-workers to join you to pay attention and periodically document their evidence of kindness to others and especially to themselves during
It takes a village to pull off the annual fireworks show at Lake Wylie each year.
This year’s Fireworks show will be on Saturday, the 4th of July 2026!
We all enjoy the fireworks each year. Since Lake Wylie Community Fireworks Display is funded solely through donations, your support of this wonderful event is really needed for the event to continue. In order to ensure the 2026 Lake Wylie Fireworks show can be scheduled, Please send your contribution in any amount now to:
Camp Thunderbird Fireworks Fund
One Thunderbird Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710
Donate using link via Square: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/ML2MPXH0JAV3K/checkout/F4552JUWV 52OXKHY3AYCUATF or via Square QR Code:
Thanks very much for your support!
the day. This positive focus is like planting positive seeds in your mind garden. Where focus goes, energy flows.
"Acts of random kindness." The Mayo Clinic Health System's Kickstart Kindness program is a program that offers ideas on how to extend kindness. The program offers many ideas on how to extend kindness to yourself, your community, environment, home, family, co-workers and others. Join me in starting the kindness journey this spring.
Susan Bromfield, Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce
Join the Chambers Kindness Initiative Certification.
What: Fantastic Fireworks Display
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026
Time: Approximately 9:30 pm
Where: Lake Wylie by the Buster Boyd Bridge, S.C. Hwy. 49 at Lake Wylie
Best Viewing:
Buster Boyd Bridge Boat Landing
Papa Doc’s Shore Club on outside deck
Rey Azteca deck at Lake Wylie Plaza
Lake Wylie Italian and Pizza on patio at Lake Wylie Plaza
Bagel Boat
Long Cove Resort
We all enjoy the fireworks each year. Since Lake Wylie Community Fireworks Display is funded solely through donations, your support of this wonderful event is really needed in order for the event to continue.
Please send your contribution in any amount now to:
Camp Thunderbird Fireworks Fund One Thunderbird Lane Lake Wylie, SC 29710
Thanks very much for your support!
For more than 185 years, we’ve forged personal relationships with our customers and communities, funding economic development and rallying around the causes that are important to our neighbors. With local bankers you know and trust, businesses and individuals throughout the Carolinas continue to choose United Bank.
Where your financial wel l-being is our priority.
“ I started Catawba River Capital 25 years ago to create a firm that prioritizes the client’s interests above all else. Unlike wealth management at many banks and brokerage firms, where too often they aim to serve the institution’s goals, we’re accountable only to the client’s goals. Our primary objective is to ensure our interests are aligned with those of our clients by offering objective, transparent, and expert advice.”
– Paul Boggs Founder, CFP®
Experience the difference of working with dedicated, transparent fiduciaries in Lake Wyl ie, SC & Belmont, NC.
Let’s build your financial future—together. Contact us today.