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BY COURTNEY NOVELLINO, CHS SENIOR < Back Engineering for accessibility: CHS and GRES students build a ramp BY COURTNEY NOVELLINO, CHS SENIOR Two engineering students from Clover High School (CHS) have made a lasting impact on their community by designing and constructing a ramp to help a disabled student at Griggs Road Elementary School (GRES). Addison Grant and Ryan McMahon took on the project after discovering that a student who uses a wheelchair had difficulty navigating through the mulch-covered playground. CHS student Addison Grant highlighted the team’s motivation, saying, “We’re just very passionate about the community, and we really wanted to help this boy. It was a great first project for us, knowing we were making a real difference.” The team utilized Autodesk Inventor, a 3D modeling software, to design and lay out the plan for the ramp. They planned out the necessary materials, designed it on the computer, and ensured it met the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements before beginning construction. Safety and accessibility were top priorities for the students. They followed ADA guidelines, ensuring the ramp stayed under six inches in height to eliminate the need for handrails, which helped keep the project cost-effective. The team selected pressure-treated wood and Trex boards for durability and to prevent rotting. Part of the project involved Grant and McMahon engaging with students at Griggs Elementary, teaching them basic construction skills and giving them hands-on experience with the building process. “Most of the kids didn’t know what a pilot hole was or a screw or anything, so it was nice to get to show them all that,” Grant said. Although there were minor mishaps, McMahon and Grant remained unfazed, reminding everyone that “it’s okay because it’s a learning process” (Grant). Students from GRES like Tyler Megorden and Roselee Wilson, who are members of a “What I Need” (WIN) group at their school, were eager to assist. They explained that the idea for the ramp came from their desire to do something meaningful for their friend, whose wheelchair often got stuck in the mulch. Working alongside the high schoolers was an exciting experience for the younger students. “It’s different from what I’m used to,” Wilson shared, while Megorden added, “They’re really nice, but I feel so small next to them!” Beyond the teamwork, both were excited to see the final result and their friend’s reaction. Through this project, CHS and GRES students demonstrated the power of collaboration and community spirit. The hard work of the CHS engineering students and the GRES students has provided their friend with a safe, accessible way to enjoy the playground with his peers, proving that even small projects can make a big impact. Previous Next

BY LILY WALLACE, CHS JUNIOR < Back CHS Spring sports aim high BY LILY WALLACE, CHS JUNIOR CLOVER, SC Clover Golf Aims for Upper State Berth The Clover golf team has its sights set on advancing past the region tournament and into the Upper State tournament—a feat that hasn’t been achieved in many years. With a talented roster, the team believes this is the season to make it happen. This year’s focus is on sharpening the short game, particularly putting. “If you’re good around the green and with the putter, you can beat a lot of high school golf teams,” the coaching staff noted. Success is measured not just by final scores but by efficiency and execution. The team aims to limit three-putts, average two-putts per green, and hit six to seven greens in regulation per nine holes. Even strong scores are evaluated for improvement, showing the program’s commitment to raising the standard. Lady Blue Eagles Emphasize Growth, Grit, and Team-First Mentality in 2025 Season For head coach Kelsey Black and the Clover girls soccer program, the 2025 season is about much more than just wins and losses. The Lady Blue Eagles have set ambitious goals centered around development, both on and off the field. A strong emphasis has been placed on refining skills, learning tactical concepts, and building true teamwork. Black stresses the importance of doing what’s best for the team, even when it means putting decisions over personal feelings—a mindset that builds trust, accountability, and resilience. “We’re working every day to develop not just as athletes, but as people,” Black said. “That means bringing effort, energy, a positive attitude, and toughness—regardless of the scoreboard.” While winning the region remains a key objective, the larger vision is centered around peaking at the right time and making a deep playoff run. The team believes that with the right mindset and chemistry, anything is possible. Ultimately, the Lady Blue Eagles want to finish the season stronger than they began—not just technically, but as a united group. “We want to look back and feel like we became a family,” Black said. “That’s what success looks like for us.” Clover Boys Lacrosse Eyes Deep Playoff Push in Upper Division 1 With a talented and determined roster, the Clover boys lacrosse team has one mission this season: push through the challenging Upper Division 1 playoff bracket. While advancing deep into the postseason is the on-field goal, the program underlines that success runs far deeper than wins and losses. “We define success by growth—in the game, in the classroom, and as individuals,” the coaching staff said. “If our players are representing Clover the right way, we’ve already accomplished something special.” Tactical flexibility is at the core of the team’s identity. The Blue Eagles adapt their game plan daily, constantly evolving strategies to match their personnel and opponents. Injuries are met with a “next man up” mentality, and new wrinkles are regularly introduced to stay ahead of the curve. Team culture remains a foundational piece. Early-season bonding activities, positive reinforcement, and shared time off the field help foster strong chemistry. With grit, adaptability, and a team-first mindset, the Blue Eagles are prepared not just to compete—but to contend. Clover Softball Aims for Success with Focus on Growth, Resilience, and Teamwork The Clover softball team is setting its sights on building a competitive, hard-working squad this season, with a clear goal of making a deep playoff run. “We want to create a team that strives to improve every day,” said the coaching staff. While postseason success is the ultimate aim, developing athletes who are resilient, dedicated, and well-rounded is just as important. The team focuses on cultivating strong work ethics and academic success, ensuring that players excel both on the field and in the classroom. This season, the team is emphasizing a focused approach, taking the game one pitch at a time and aiming for productive at-bats. Strategies are tailored to fit individual needs, with practices and drills adjusted to enhance each player’s skill set while also fostering team cohesion. Team chemistry is another key area of focus. To build strong bonds off the field, players are encouraged to participate in fun team-building activities like dodge ball, laser tag, or outings to Top Golf. “We want to ensure our players develop strong relationships and enjoy the season together,” the staff shared. Leadership on the team is diverse, with both vocal leaders on the field and those who lead by example. These qualities are crucial as the team faces the highs and lows of the game. Managing those ups and downs, both in individual games and over the course of the season, is one of the biggest challenges. When preparing for key match-ups, the team sticks to the fundamentals that have made them successful in the past. By focusing on their strengths, Clover Softball aims to stay consistent and competitive against any opponent. To foster individual improvement, coaches tailor drills to address both team needs and specific player development. Each practice is designed to challenge athletes while ensuring they’re ready for every situation during the season. Previous Next

BY LILY WALLACE, CHS JUNIOR < Back CHS Basketball represents at All-Region games BY LILY WALLACE, CHS JUNIOR With an outstanding basketball season behind them, four Clover High School basketball players represented their teams in All-Region play. Boys All-Region honors Clover standout Senior J’shon Watson was the team’s lone All-Region selection this season after a standout year on both sides of the ball. Known for his work ethic and leadership, Watson made key plays throughout region competition and the playoffs, helping propel the team to its first Elite Eight appearance since 2009. Fellow seniors Owen Galeota and Devin Agard also played pivotal roles in the postseason run. Three Lady Blue Eagles earn All-Region honors The Lady Blue Eagles were well represented on the All-Region 3-AAAAA team, with junior Clara Powell, sophomore Olivia Lewter, and senior Samara Lucas earning postseason honors following a region championship season. Lucas, a senior and four-year varsity letter winner, was named Region 3-AAAAA Player of the Year. She led the Lady Blue Eagles in both scoring and rebounding, recording 16 double-doubles. Her dominant performance also earned her a spot on the 5A All-State Girls’ Basketball Team and selection to the prestigious North-South All-Star Game. Powell, a junior and four-year varsity veteran, knocked down a team-high 51 three-pointers and provided steady leadership throughout the season. She will return next year as a key piece for the defending region champions. Lewter, a sophomore and three-year letter winner, filled the stat sheet across the board. She led the team in steals, blocks, and field goal percentage, while continuing to grow as an on-court leader. With two seasons still ahead of her, she’s expected to be a major contributor moving forward. As Watson and Lucas move on to other ventures, the lessons they have instilled in their younger teammates won’t be forgotten. And Powell and Lewter will certainly continue their excellence next year. Previous Next

BY NATHALIE SCZUBLEWSKI, MEDIA RELATIONS MANAGER FOR THE DANA FARBER CANCER INSTITUTE, GUEST CONTRIBUTOR < Back Clover resident running to raise money for cancer research BY NATHALIE SCZUBLEWSKI, MEDIA RELATIONS MANAGER FOR THE DANA FARBER CANCER INSTITUTE, GUEST CONTRIBUTOR BOSTON, MA – On April 21, Tammy Mays of Clover, South Carolina is running to defy cancer as a member of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team in the 129th Boston Marathon®. Along with more than 500 Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge teammates from across the United States and around the world, they will run Massachusetts’ historic marathon route from Hopkinton to Boston to collectively raise $8.5 million for cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. This year marks the 36th annual running of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge (DFMC). One hundred percent of the money raised by the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team benefits Dana-Farber’s Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative Basic Cancer Research, which supports promising science research in its earliest stages. The Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge has raised more than $132 million for the Barr Program to date. In 1990, Dana-Farber was among the first charity organizations to be recognized by the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A), which organizes the Boston Marathon. The Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team offers its members extensive fundraising support, training guidance from 1976 Boston Marathon Men’s Open Division Champion Jack Fultz, and team training runs. Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge runners who are not time-qualified for the Boston Marathon receive an invitational entry into the race. Runners include cancer survivors and patients, and family and friends of those who have been affected by cancer. Each team member must fulfill a basic fundraising commitment: Invitational runners - runners who receive their entry from Dana-Farber have a minimum fundraising commitment of $10,000. Own entry runners - runners who have joined the DFMC after obtaining their own race entry have a fundraising commitment of $4,000. To contribute to the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge, visit RunDFMC.org or contact the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge office at (617) 632-1970 or dfmc@dfci.harvard.edu . Follow DFMC on Facebook: www.facebook/marathonchallenge. On Twitter: #RunDFMC. Previous Next

BY CLOEY HARRIS, CHS JUNIOR < Back Rose Parade President visits Clover to celebrate CHS Band BY CLOEY HARRIS, CHS JUNIOR CLOVER, SC - Clover High School’s band has been selected to perform in the 2026 Rose Parade, making history as the 7th band from South Carolina to be part of the event in 137 years. Out of 60 bands invited, Clover is one of only 10 chosen to participate. To celebrate this achievement, Mark Leavens, the president of the Roses Association, visited Clover High School. Leavens has been volunteering with the association for 30 years, working on everything from floats and horses to marching bands and even the Rose Bowl football game. He shared with students that high school bands are the “heart and soul of the parade,” and expressed how excited he is for Clover’s band to be part of the upcoming event. The theme for the 2026 Rose Parade is “The Magic in Teamwork,” which emphasizes the importance of collaboration. Leavens explained that the theme reflects the work required to bring such a large event together, with so many different people and organizations involved. Leavens’ involvement with the Rose Parade began simply as a volunteer looking to help out, but over the years, he took on more responsibilities and became deeply committed to the event. Now, as president, he travels across the country to help high schools fundraise and make the process of attending the parade as easy as possible. One of the biggest challenges Leavens and the Roses Association have faced in recent years has been the impact of the California wildfires. Many volunteers lost their homes, businesses, and vehicles in the fires. Leavens and his team have worked hard to support these individuals and help them rebuild after the disaster. As Clover High School’s band prepares for its performance in the 2026 Rose Parade, Mark Leavens’ leadership and dedication continue to make a difference in the success of the event and in the lives of the many people involved. Previous Next

York County Council debates property owners' rights versus need to limit growth in January < Back York County Council debates property owners' rights versus need to limit growth in January By Courtney Novellino YORK, SC – York County Council met twice in January, on the sixth and on the 21. Items for discussion included the need to weigh property owners' rights with the need to limit the growth of residential housing in the area, a proposed application for a grant from the SC Opioid Recovery Fund, and a presentation on the 2024 fiscal year audit. District 2 Rezoning Requests A rezoning request (#24-57) of 1.47 acres on Charlotte Highway from Residential Mixed 20 (RMX-20) to Light Industrial (LI) was considered at both meetings. According to the paperwork filed by Todd Flowers, who is a Marine Contractor with Lake Wylie Dock Construction, this would allow for a marine staging area to be built on Lake Wylie. The purpose of this area, as indicated by Flowers, is to provide dredging services to Lake Wylie. Flowers indicates that Lake Wylie has no dredging services, while Lake Norman has three. At the first reading on January 6, multiple citizens spoke in favor of the change. Reasons mentioned ranged from how dredging would increase property values and how dredging would improve the health of the lake. One citizen spoke against the change because this particular area is not suitable in her eyes. The future land use plans for the area in question is for residential use. There is currently a neighborhood being developed that surrounds the parcel, Meriway Pointe. Additionally, a portion of the land across from the plot in question is to be donated to the county for a park. The staff recommends denial. The Planning Commission (PC) also recommends denial. The PC agrees that dredging is a need for the Lake Wylie area, but that this particular parcel of land is not suitable for an LI designation. The council discussed the request. The discussion centered around need for the business, the actual process of dredging, safety issues, and the potential of unwanted or unforeseen uses of the LI designation once the zoning changes. Additionally, there were multiple unanswered questions that may warrant further research prior to decisions being finalized. The vote went 6-1 to approve this request to move forward to a second reading. At the second reading on January 21, there were several citizens present to speak in favor of the request. District 2 Representative, Andy Litten, moved to approve with deed restrictions. After additional discussion regarding those restrictions and other questions, the request was approved 7-0 with the deed restriction language to be drafted prior to the third reading. Case #24-52 involves rezoning 3.02 acres on North Paraham Road from Agricultural Conservation (AGC) to Rural Development (RUD). Property owner Steven Britt addressed the council, sharing that the change would allow his son to build a home on 1 acre of the land. Britt stated that he was informed that he would have to rezone the property for his son to be allowed to build. The staff recommendation was to deny the rezoning because the request was not consistent with the comprehensive plan and the future land use map. The current AGC designation is consistent plan and adjacent parcels are AGC and 5+ acres. The Planning Commission's (PC) recommendation was to approve because the current lot size is already smaller than the AGC district and therefore is non-conforming with its current designation. After discussion weighing property owner rights, the need to limit the development of residential housing in the area, and the potential for setting a precedent, the Council approved the first reading. During the second reading on January 21, the staff and the PC recommendations did not change, however the council approved this recommendation as well. This will move forward to a third reading. Other Business The Solicitor's Office requested to apply for and to accept if awarded SC Opioid Recovery Fund (SCORF) grant funding in an amount not to exceed $200,000 to initiate a new program within the Drug Court program in York County. The Council unanimously approved the request. In the January sixth meeting, Councilmember Christi Cox was nominated and elected as York County Council Chair, while Councilmember Tom Audette, representing District One, was elected Vice Chair. Newly appointed members of York County boards and commissions were sworn in during the meeting. Dorothy Johnson was sworn into the Culture and Heritage Commission for District Two. Laura Milem was sworn into the York County Library Board for District Three. Terry Plumb was sworn into the York County Library Board for District Four. April Simpkins was sworn into the York County Natural Gas Board. Valerie Lynch was sworn into the Board of Zoning Appeals for District Two and was absent. During the January 21 meeting, Tom Bach was sworn into the Planning Commission for District Seven. The Council, Sheriff Tony Breeden, and Major Fred Moore recognized Deputy Ray Feaster for 33 years of service and retirement from the York County Sheriff’s Department. Sheriff Kevin Tolson was also honored for his service and retirement. During the January sixth meeting, several citizens, including Donna Forester, Kerri Bishop, and Caitlin Boyle, expressed opposition to Silfab Solar's presence in Fort Mill and expressed their concerns about Council members being invited to attend a Silfab event on January ninth. On January 21, Ashley Horne addressed the Council with her opposition to Silfab Solar having their location in Fort Mill. During the January sixth meeting, the Council approved a three-year contractual agreement with TRANE Inc. for routine HVAC preventative maintenance and repairs at the Government Center for a total cost of $144,253, and at the Family Court Building for a total of $127,088. The Council also approved, at the same meeting, a contractual agreement, subject to the approval of the County Attorney, with Sustainable Consulting Solutions LLC of Piedmont SC, for Economic Development Consulting Services, for a total cost not to exceed $100,000 for a maximum one year term. Tom McNeish presented the Fiscal Year 2024 Audited Financial Report presentation by Elliott Davis, LLC. NcNeish reported that the County is in sound financial condition as of June 30, 2024. The York County Council will hold its next County Council meetings for February on the third and the 17 at 6:00PM. For more information on the York County Council meetings, visit https://yorkcountysc.iqm2.com/Citizens/calendar.aspx .

Clover High School AFJROTC cadets receive prestigious flight academy scholarships < Back Title Heading 6 I'm a paragraph. I'm connected to your collection through a dataset. Click Preview to see my content. To update me, go to the Data Manager. < Back Clover High School AFJROTC cadets receive prestigious flight academy scholarships BY KAYA SPENCER, CHS JUNIOR CLOVER, S.C. — Nine cadets from the Clover High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) have earned full scholarships to attend an accredited aviation university and participate in a private pilot license (PPL) training program during the summer of 2024. This achievement places Clover High School among the elite institutions nationwide, continuing its streak as a leader in the Air Force Junior ROTC (AFJROTC) Flight Academy Scholarship Program. Out of the 171 AFJROTC cadets selected for the program globally, Clover High School claims the largest share, with nine of its students receiving this prestigious opportunity. For the eighth consecutive year, Clover High School has topped the nation in the number of cadets chosen for the Flight Academy program, totaling more than 116 selections since the program’s inception. The Flight Academy Scholarship, valued at $22,500 per cadet, covers essential expenses including transportation, room and board, academic instruction, and flight hours required to earn a private pilot license. These scholarships are part of an Air Force initiative aimed at addressing the ongoing shortage of civilian and military pilots by providing young cadets the opportunity to jumpstart their aviation careers. “These scholarships are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our cadets, as well as the commitment of our program to provide them with real-world opportunities in aviation,” said Major Bryan Batson, AFJROTC instructor at Clover High School. “We are incredibly proud to see our cadets succeed on this national stage.” In the event that any of the primary scholarship recipients decline the offer, alternate cadets are also selected to fill these slots, ensuring the program’s continued success. The Flight Academy Scholarship is a key component of the Air Force’s broader efforts to partner with the commercial aviation industry to cultivate a new generation of pilots, while simultaneously addressing the national pilot shortage that has affected both civilian and military sectors. As Clover High School continues to lead the nation in Flight Academy selections, the AFJROTC program at Clover remains a beacon of excellence, providing students with unique opportunities that can launch their careers in aviation and beyond. For more information about Clover High School’s AFJROTC program or the Flight Academy Scholarship, contact Major Bryan Batson at Clover High School or visit the official AFJROTC website. 1/0

Moped to Memphis raises money for St. Jude < Back Moped to Memphis raises money for St. Jude BY LEILA PARKMAN, CHS SENIOR PHOTOS FROM THE M2M FACEBOOK PAGE CLOVER, SC - On February 1, Clover High School held its annual Moped to Memphis womanless beauty pageant at the CSD Auditorium. CHS teacher Frank Falls founded the organization to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Falls rides a moped to the St. Jude hospital in Memphis each year to deliver the funds raised through various community events. The pageant brought the community together to enjoy a fun-filled night. Eleven contestants dressed up and showed off a variety of skills. CHS senior Joshua Hamer won this year’s Miss Moped to Memphis with a “Guess That Tune” harmonica performance. Falls described the pageant, “It’s not intended to make fun of anybody. It’s just ridiculous comedy for a good cause.” Falls started Moped to Memphis in 2008 for a senior class fundraiser. Falls reported, “I figured they needed to do something community service related. We nominated charities, and the next day, everybody voted for St. Jude. And we raised $3,200.” Moped to Memphis has since raised over 1 million dollars and has evolved into a community initiative. Aside from the pageant, funds are raised through other events such as auctions, a pre-k trikea-thon, t-shirt sales, adult casino nights, and a golf tournament. School board member Tracy Stiff inspired the idea for the pageant. Mr. Falls reported, “Her mother used to volunteer on the club rescue squad, and that’s how they would raise money. So Tracy came to me and asked if that would be something that we would like to do. She’s been pretty much over the pageant every year." 1/5

< Back Dog of the Month: Meet Hope! BY EMILY BELK, CHS Senior Hi there! I’m Hope, a gorgeous chocolate-brown terrier mix with an irresistible ear-to-ear smile – especially when I’ve got a ball to chase! I didn’t have the easiest start. I was rescued by the Humane Society of York County (HSYC) after being found in a very poor state by York County Animal Services. I was emaciated and in a very urgent need of help, but thanks to the love and care from the amazing HSYC team, I’m now a healthy and happy girl! Though I was adopted once, I was returned and have since spent much of my adult life at the shelter. It’s time for me to finally spread my wings and leave this place to find my forever family! as I’m long overdue for a place to call home. My estimated birth date is September 2017, and I currently weigh about 70 pounds. I’m a favorite among the HSYC staff and volunteers – they always take me on fun outings! Whether it’s a shopping trip, a hike, or just playing ball, my favorite game by the way, I’m ready to go. I’m a great car rider, and I especially love grabbing a burger while we’re out and about. I dream of a forever home with an active family who loves the outdoors and activities as much as I do. I’m a strong, medium-sized girl, so I’ll need a dog-savvy home where I’m the only pet. Being the only pet to get your attention and love is exactly what I need. If you’re looking for a loyal, loving companion who’s ready for fun adventures, outings and just joining you and loving you in your day-to-day life, I just might be the one for you! 1/1

< Back Clover Will Have Two New Eateries and They are Coming This Spring By Kaya Spencer, CHS Junior A new burger restaurant, The Cattle Car, is under construction on Main Street in Clover. The eatery will serve a variety of items, including smash burgers, chicken sandwiches, chicken wings, turkey burgers, and more. The menu will also feature vegetarian and gluten-free options. The business is the result of a partnership between Ian and Justin, with Ian serving as the owner-operator. He will oversee all aspects of the restaurant's setup, including hiring staff, training, and managing daily operations, such as food, liquor, and beer orders. Justin, who has dreamed of owning a restaurant for years, approached Ian about starting a business in Clover. He saw an opportunity to bring more variety to the area, where he felt dining options were limited. The name The Cattle Car is a nod to Clover’s history. The town was once a stop on a railroad line, and a "cattle car" was used to transport livestock. With burgers as the restaurant's main offering, Ian and Justin felt the name was a fitting tribute to Clover's past. Both owners have learned valuable lessons throughout the process, particularly the importance of patience. Rather than rushing outcomes, they’ve focused on letting things fall into place naturally. KB Cakes Bakery After more than 10 years of selling baked goods, Carlee Lane is about to make her dream come true with the opening of KB Cakes Bakery in Clover. The bakery, located on Main Street, is expected to open in February and will initially be open three to four days a week. Lane, who has always dreamed of owning her own bakery, is excited to bring her passion for baking to the community. The bakery will offer a variety of baked goods, including wedding cakes, cupcakes, brownies, and cake pops. Lane will also take custom orders for birthday cakes, wedding cakes, and other special occasion treats. One of the most exciting aspects of getting the bakery ready, Lane says, is the opportunity to design a space that reflects her personality. “I’m really looking forward to putting all the little touches in place, like pink accents and flowers—just all the girly things I’ve always wanted,” she said. In the long term, Lane envisions KB Cakes Bakery as a family business. While she plans to work at the bakery as long as she can, her ultimate goal is for her daughters to eventually take over the shop. For now, Lane is focused on perfecting her recipes and creating a welcoming environment for customers. She’s looking forward to becoming a fixture in the Clover community, where she can share her love for baking with her neighbors. 1/5

< Back The Clover Station: True southern home cooking BY KYLEE LOWE, CHS JUNIOR CLOVER, SC -The Clover Station, located at 105 N Main St. in Clover, SC, offers a delightful taste of Southern comfort food. This cozy restaurant serves up daily specials, including iconic dishes like meatloaf, fried chicken, pineapple casserole, fried okra, and tomato pie. A staple with every meal is the Southern cornbread and biscuits, adding that authentic touch to each dish. Clover Station’s menu brings the flavors of home-cooked meals, showcasing the best of Southern cuisine. The town of Clover holds a unique historical significance, once serving as a rest stop for the steam engines of the Chester and Lenoir Narrow Gauge Railroad. This history is honored at Clover Station with a mural of the steam engine, a reminder of the town’s past. Since its opening in 2009, Clover Station has continued this legacy, offering a place for travelers to take a break and enjoy a hearty meal, just as the railroad travelers did years ago. The Clover Station was founded by Mrs. Pat Bingham, who raised her three children on Southern dishes, many of which are still served today. Starting the restaurant from scratch, Bingham worked tirelessly to build the station, and her dedication is evident in the meals she serves. Her warm, Southern hospitality is a key part of the experience, as she greets each customer like family. Over the years, the menu has expanded, but the heart and soul of the restaurant remain unchanged, staying true to the traditional Southern meals Bingham once cooked for her own family. For those who have never experienced Southern cuisine, Clover Station offers the perfect introduction. One visitor, for instance, described their experience as the perfect start to exploring Southern food, praising the excellent taste of the fried chicken. With its welcoming atmosphere, home-cooked meals, and deep-rooted history, Clover Station is more than just a restaurant—it’s a place where Southern tradition and hospitality shine. Whether you’re stopping in for a meal or taking in the history of the area, Clover Station is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the heart of Southern cooking. Newcomers Perspective: For someone like myself who has never been to a truly southern restaurant this was the perfect place to start. The chicken I ordered had excellent taste! 1/2

< Back Holidays at the Garden: A newcomer's experience By Kylee Lowe, CHS Junior BELMONT, NC - Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden hosts a wonderful Christmas display and fun activities each year. The garden is 380 acres of beautiful plants and trees that are transformed during the holiday season into a spectacular display of lights. The garden is complete with fountains, s‘mores by the campfire, and food trucks. Open from 5 pm to 10 pm through December 29th. Tickets are available for purchase from their website: https://dsbg.org/visit/holidays-at-the-garden/: On Fridays, children and adults can enjoy a short trackless train ride. During the ride, they can see several wooden Christmas trees, all decorated by different people, schools, and organizations. On the opposite side of the train, they can see the lights of the garden decorations. Walking around the garden everyone can see the display of lights on trees, around fountains, and can even interact with some of the lights. The first display portrayed music and sounds, creating a surreal effect of lights dancing to the music and creating a story. The main light for this display was a huge reindeer. During the ongoing show, the deer would change colors and be the main light of the garden. The interactive lights would change color by the push of a button. Another interactive set of circular lights was placed on the ground where children and adults could step on them and new lights and designs would shine. Several fountains are scattered throughout the Garden. Some are as small as a few feet long, while others are 20 or 30 feet long. Each fountain reflects the lights around the garden, adding to the wonderful display. On one side of the park, there are multiple food trucks. These trucks make sweets to share with family and friends, along with chicken and other savory foods. At the back of the garden, a little shack sells hot chocolate to enjoy on a cold stroll through the park. Also, at the shack, they sell boxes of supplies to make s’mores. This is fun to do with family and friends around one of the many campfires around the park. The main building in the park also provides a bar for adults. Every Saturday and Sunday in December, Santa visits the garden. Children can meet Santa in the beautiful garden before or after wandering around the grounds. Visitors can also walk through small indoor gardens full of thriving tropical plants and trees. According to a newcomer: The botanical garden was a spectacular display of lights that allowed me to have an enjoyable time. I was constantly in awe at the pretty lights. My favorite part was the giant water lilies that were placed on the water. The reflection from the purple and pink lights was amazing. I would definitely recommend visiting the botanical garden to any newcomers! 1/7