Gaston Elite Magazine May-June 2016 Volume 1 Issue 3

gaston

Volume 1 / Issue 3

magazine

Take Me Out To The Ball Game

exclusive

Alex Reynolds # 19 & Jackson Mims #9

Inside look at 1st & 3rd Base p. 6

Planning to Buy or Sell this Summer? p. 12 Whats Happening p. 16

More Than Just A Magazine

May / June 2016

gastonelite.com

THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS

NOW HIRING JOB OPENINGS LISTED ON OUR WEBSITE Resume Required Must have a clean criminal background and be able to pass a drug test

915 N. New Hope Rd. Suite G • Gastonia

302 E. Dixon Blvd.

Suite 1 • Shelby

518 N. Generals Blvd.

Suite B • Lincolnton

Fax: 704-671-2334

Fax: 704-406-9598

Fax: 704-735-5669

gaston

Volume 1 / Issue 3

magazine

From Rivals to Teamates...

See the exclusive interviews by ARA Marketing Solutions, LLC

Take Me Out To The Ball Game

exclusive

Alex Reynolds # 19 & Jackson Mims #9

Inside look at 1st & 3rd Base p. 6

Planning to Buy or Sell this Summer? p. 12 Whats Happening

p. 16

More Than Just A Magazine

May / June 2016

gastonelite.com

Gastonia Grizzlies

4

Publisher’s Page

12

Planning to Buy or Sell a Home This Summer?

16

Y.K.D. Kings : Empowering the Future

18

CAM’s Corner

20

Healthy Living

22 Weekend Explorer: Explore Arts on Main.

May is upon us! It’s that time for BBQ’s, college exams, and remembering those who died for our Country. Welcome to the May/June edition of Gaston Elite Magazine.

What an honor it is to bring to you another edition featuring our hometown Gastonia Grizzlies. We are so fortunate they call Gastonia home. Having always been a soccer mom, I envied the, “baseball, hotdog, apple pie moms” that cheered their kids on through thunderstorms and never-ending innings. I feel like if you look up the word American in the dictionary the word Baseball would appear as a synonym.

Producing issue number three and always trying to outdo the issue prior, we have big shoes to fill. Having Chazz Surratt as our cover story generated nearly 50,000 views of our magazine online on the FIRST day we published it. We could barely keep up with the demand of everyone wanting a copy. We appreciate all of the likes and shares as this edition went viral quickly. Chazz has spent countless hours autographing magazines for family, friends and fans.

He is a fantastic kid all around! We wish Chazz the best of luck at UNC Chapel Hill, and note, there is another superstar in his family… other than his mom!

Most of all I want to thank those of you who have called, texted, commented or emailed us to say how much you enjoy the magazine. We love our readers. Thank you to those who have joined us in advertising and those who continue with your commitment to us issue after issue. We are very unique in getting your ad out in the most effective and creative ways. Please let our advertisers know you saw them in Gaston Elite Magazine.

When you support our advertisers it allows us to continue to produce quality articles and information that promotes the best of our area. Last but not least, I’d like to thank my staff that works tirelessly on each edition to make sure we bring the brightest and the best information to you. I could not do this without them.

We hope you enjoy this edition! Remember to like us on FB, share our digital link to all of your friends, and when you shop a particular store ask them to request copies for their clients. Look for us at Sims Park as we will attend Grizzlies home games where you can pick up a copy! We are total multi-media marketing in that we bring to you digital copies, social media, direct mail door to door AND distribution at over 100 locations in the area, many of those being exclusive to Gaston Elite Magazine. If you have something you need advertised, we are your source.

See you in July!

Respectfully,

Pam L. Goode

Pam L. Goode, Owner ARA Marketing Solutions, LLC 704.490.3804 Pam@aramarketingsolutions.com

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had the opportunity to experience this quote above by Cal Ripken Jr. on a gorgeous sunny day a few weeks ago at Sims Park. While there, I had the pleasure of meeting Alex Reynolds and Jackson Mims. It was more than just being at a Ballpark that made me feel like a kid again, but meeting these two kiddos solidified the fact that having fun when you’re young is something that needs to be taken advantage of.

Gaston Elite Magazine had a scheduled photo shoot with the Grizzlies and immediately when they arrived I knew these two were our cover models. Sports cars, fresh cuts, and long strides as they walked to the office to get suited up for the interview are what defined my first impression of them.

Alex and Jackson grew up just outside of Gastonia, Alex in Kings Mountain and Jackson in Shelby. They were high school rivals. “I didn’t like him,” said Alex with his sneaky grin. Jackson just smiled and shook his head. Two young kids playing the game they love.

As a result, they both became top recruits and earned scholarships that wound up with them becoming

Jackson Mims No.9 & Alex Reynolds No.19

teammates at UNCC. They both had their own personalities; Alex more bold and outgoing, Jackson shy and reserved. I loved the kid in them, yet the big dreams of making it to the next level weighs heavily on their mind. They love this game. The commitment they make to complete schoolwork, play and travel for their college, and manage the semi-pro schedule is a lot to ask of of a 19 and 20-year-old. Fortunately, the passion they show for the sport far outweighs any burn out of commitment. This is their dream and they work hard as 1st and 3rd basemen.

Alex and Jackson are just two of the great stories on a full roster from all over the United States that have become such great assets to Gastonia. I am not sure that many of us, including myself, appreciate what the Gastonia Grizzlies bring to Gastonia. A semi-pro team right in our back door. Owner Jesse Cole provides fun, jobs and memories to all of us during the season. It is an inviting atmosphere that he and wife, Emily, have taken to a new level. Games provide entertainment for families, fundraising opportunities and a general sense of community interaction and bonding. Many local businesses join in on sponsorship opportunities to showcase their business in front on the hometown crowd.

Just who are The

Grizzlies?

The Gastonia Grizzlies joined the Coastal Plain League in 2002. The team was the CPL leader in attendance with over 60,000 fans! In 2013, the team finished #1 in the CPL and #4 in the country in attendance – averaging 2,353 fans per game. In 2011, the team won the first ever Coastal Plain League Petitt Cup Championship! The team also won best promotion in all of college summer baseball at the Summer Ball Conference for the “Great Community Give Back Game” at the end of the season. The Grizzlies teamed up with sponsors to provide free tickets to the entire community, dinner for the first thousand fans and a “Dig for the Diamond” after the game. This marked the second straight year the Grizzlies won best promotion after the “Midnight Madness” game in 2010.

This was the first midnight game in Coastal Plain League history and drew over 3,000 fans. The “Great Community Give Bank Game” is a yearly tradition and is still one of the fan favorites!

More than 50 Grizzlies players have been drafted by the Major Leagues. The most well known Grizzlies player was Russell Wilson, who starred for the Grizzlies in 2009. Wilson, who led the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl Championship in 2014, has set numerous NFL records in his first two seasons. Wilson was also drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the 4th round in 2010.

Gaston Elite Magazine reached out to Wilson and he eagerly responded to us by saying:

“Playing in Gastonia was an amazing experience for me because it allowed me to continue my baseball career and follow my dreams of what I wanted to do. The area of Gastonia, North Carolina, has always meant the world to me. Going to NC State and having so many family and friends from there made it a special place for me.

Russell Wilson with

Conner Romero (Right) Dawson Armstrong (Left)

When I think about the new team and new season He still has many local fans and stories of him I would offer this advice. I think a big part of being being one of the nicest successful is the work. Whatever you put in is what guys they have ever you’re going to get out. I always try and encourage met. people to do their best and put as much into it and have fun while doing it. Work hard in your preparation “The fans were crazy. We actually had a good team and the results will be fun.” when I was there with a lot of players that were really talented. Dr. and Mrs. Gale were always there for me in terms of hosting me. They were just crazy and seemed like they came from all over the state of North Carolina.” - Russell Wilson

We asked about his fan experience…

No. 19 Name: Alex Reynolds # 19 Hometown: Kings Mountain High School: Kings Mountain High School College: UNCC Position: 1st base and Outfield Favorite Things about Gastonia: Sake and Tony’s Ice Cream.

Favorite Things about being one of the Grizzlies: The Fellowship and friendships.

Advice to give someone wanting to get to this level:

Enjoy every minute. You never know when it could all end.

If you not playing baseball what would you be doing?

Fishing on the beach, and playing pick up basketball.

What is it about playing for the Grizzlies attracted you?

I grew up watching the Grizzlies. I love the fan base and that my family can come and watch me.

Something about you that would surprise people?

That I don’t have a girlfriend.

Favorite time as one of the Grizzlies: When we won the first half championship, being the # 1 seed in the playoffs and winning the Dog Pile. SO, winning!

Thanks to Alex Reynolds #19!

Its not all baseball for the Grizzlies, they give back as well. The Grizzlies Field of Dreams Foundation gives the opportunity for underprivileged kids in the community to take part in a training camp put on by players and coaches. For every $100 donated, one child will receive a week filled with instructional techniques and a whole lot of fun. It’s more than just a baseball camp in the summer. It allows kids the opportunity to be around positive role models, kids their age, and get exercise.

Make sure you check out a game this season. You can always find the schedule and events online at www.gastoniagrizzlies.com. I must admit, it is actionpacked fun for everyone of all ages. The schedule is highlighted by specialty jersey nights, where the Grizzlies will wear unique jerseys to be auctioned off after the game. The schedule also includes a total of five fireworks shows and two Super Splash Days, as well as the 7th Annual Midnight Madness.

Back to Alex and Jackson, the two who competed for for stats in high school, grabbed a newspaper and

searched each others stats online and now embrace each other as UNCC teammates… they are all American guys. They love this game and the spotlight. Alex more than Jackson, in regards to the spotlight. However, Jackson will tell you about his favorite shoes he was wearing, a pair of Chucks. They are inspired by his favorite movie growing up, The Sandlot. He referred to himself as Benny “The Jet” Rodriguez. This was the real truth… that they were kids. I reminisced on watching that movie over and over with my own kids. As for Alex, he was not so much into the kid movies, but wanted us to make sure everyone knew, and would be surprised at the fact that “he’s single.”

It was a great afternoon at the Ballpark and enjoying the company of two local young players dreaming of the big time. How wonderful it is that our hometown can be a part of the lives of so many inspiring to make it to the big league. They work together as a team from all over the world and entertain the local people of Gastonia. They bring together businesses and families while entertaining people of all ages. It’s a great place to hang out and support your local team. We have something to be proud of in our Gastonia Grizzlies.

It’s time to stop dreaming and start planning. Let’s get started.

Adam Queler, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM, Jim Love, Financial Advisor, Chris Pridnia, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM, Andy Osborne, Financial Advisor, 3270A Robinwood Road, Gastonia, NC 28054, 704-869-8828, fax 704-869-8886—Chris.Pridnia@bluestonefinancialnc.com, www.bluestonefinancialadvisorsNC.com ©2015 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC Raymond James® is a registered trademark of Raymond James Financ ial, Inc. 11 -BDMKT -0687 10/11 Bluestone Financial Advisors is an independent firm. Securities are offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.”

Thank you to Jesse and Emily Cole and the entire Grizzlies staff for bringing life back into our local team through a much loved popular sport in our hometown!

You can learn more about the Gastonia Grizzlies and the wonderful events planned for this season at: www. gastoniagrizzlies.com

No. 9 Name: Jackson Mims # 9 Hometown: Shelby High School: Shelby High School College: UNCC Position: 3rd Base Favorite Things about Gastonia: Sake and Tony’s Ice Cream.

Favorite Things about being one of the Grizzlies: The Fanbase, winning and again.. Sake Advice to give someone wanting to get to this level: Work hard, stay focused and listen to those who look out for you.

If you not playing baseball what would you be doing?

Golf.

What is it about playing for the Grizzlies attracted you?

Its 20 minutes from home, so my family can come and watch. I grew up watching them and wanted to be successful at this level.

Something about you that would surprise people?

Besides being on the field in front of fans, I do not like big crowds and a lot of attention.

Favorite time as one of the Grizzlies: The bus rides. They are annoying but enjoyable.

Thanks to Jackson Mims #9 !

Planning to Buy or Sell a Home This Summer?

It’s a Sellers’ Market; Here’s What You Need to Know:

Article By:

Sarah Drummond

Carolina Living Real Estate

t does not seem so long ago that the real estate market revolved around buyers; excess inventory from the foreclosure crisis and generally low prices provided a veritable smorgasbord of affordable housing options for the buyer who was qualified for financing or flush with cash. Now, the pendulum has swung in the opposite direction, and many buyers (especially first-timers) just entering the arena are shocked to find that market conditions have nearly shut them out. If you have been shopping for a home in Gaston County recently or know someone who has, you have probably heard the stories of homes going under contract within just a few days on the market, sometimes even in 24 hours or less. It can

be endlessly frustrating when a new listing hits the market that looks perfect, and before your agent can even schedule a showing, it’s gone; or, perhaps you are on top of your game and able to quickly view and expedite an offer on your dream home, only to be notified the next day that you were not the only one to see this gem come across the radar—it’s already a multiple offer situation.

This seems to be an almost nationwide phenomenon, and many theories abound as to why inventory is as low as it currently is. Several possibilities are cited in a blog post about the shortage on Inman.com, entitled “Why is housing inventory so low?” These include long-term stunted growth of new construction, an overall feeling that home values will continue to rise and that holding out will be even more advantageous for sellers later on, or unbeatable low-interest terms

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already secured on mortgages through purchase or refinancing within the past several years (some homespun wisdom from Realtors who have been in the business through at least a few cycles may also indicate that the fact that this is an election year contributes to stagnation of major life decisions for many people). Also, obviously, but perhaps not so obvious: “Lower inventory begets lower inventory... if sellers cannot find properties to move up to, they will not list or sell their current homes.”

School is nearly out and the summer real estate season is just around the corner; if you plan to enter the market in 2016 as either a buyer or a seller (or both), it is important to know what to expect.

BUYERS: Prepare yourself financially, mentally, and emotionally. Get pre-approved as soon as possible and have all your figures and dates in hand. When writing up an offer, you will need to know certain details such as how quickly your lender can have the appraisal back, which will help determine the length of your due diligence period, and how soon you will be able to close. You never know when the length of the due diligence period and how soon you plan to close may be the deciding factor between your offer and another. If you are flexible, try tailoring your offer to the sellers’ situation. If the sellers have a particularly cumbersome move ahead or perhaps do not have a clue yet where they are going, they may appreciate a prolonged closing. Prepare yourself mentally in that looking for a home will become a part-time job. You have to be available odd hours and days, as you will find yourself rushing to new listings almost at the drop of a hat, and so does your Realtor; that is why it is imperative to choose the right one. If your Realtor is difficult to get in touch with or available only on certain days of the week, it will be nearly impossible for you to buy a home in this market before someone else snatches it up. Prepare yourself emotionally in that you will not likely have as much time for in-depth consideration before making a decision as you may like (in most cases, the formerly requisite buyer prerogative of being able to come back another day for a second showing or even “sleep on it” will not be afforded to you), and do not be afraid to offer above asking price if warranted — again, this is where having a good Realtor comes in, helping to determine if there might a problem with the appraisal.

SELLERS: It may be a sellers’ market, but don’t let that go to your head. Pricing your home to sell is still important, and a Zillow blog post entitled “Winning Tips for Buyers and Sellers in Sellers’ Markets” advises: “Sellers still must put their best foot forward in order to get top dollar and complete a timely sale... What makes a sellers’ market so strong is attracting multiple buyers at once.” Presenting your home in the best light possible is still a must to capitalize on the excitement and heightened interest of buyers in a low-inventory market. If you are fortunate enough to receive multiple offers, having an experienced Realtor is also essential to help you discern which is the best one to choose for your particular circumstances. You have a wonderful opportunity here — by carefully planning to debut your home on the market, professionally staged and photographed (and priced well), its worth in today’s market may be the catalyst for making your real estate dreams come true.

Gastonia at a Glance From March 1st through April 27th, homes under contract in: 28056: 100 under contract listings. Median list price: $227,450.

Median days on market: 18.

28054: 81 under contract listings. Median list price: $135,500.

Median days on market: 24.

28052: 67 under contract listings. Median list price: $119,900.

Median days on market: 37.

Article By:

Pam L. Goode

ARA Marketing Solutions, LLC.

t’s “ The Brow girl” Meet Starr Bradley Stewart!

Just in time for the summer she can beautify your brows and get your skin looking younger and smoother.

Starr is dynamic at what she does and her bubbly personality makes her “ A Starr.”

GEM: What is your license/certification? How long have you been in the business?

Starr: I am a Licensed Esthetician & Nationally Certified Make-up Artist; specializing in brow perfecting & advanced chemical peels! I started in the beauty industry nearly 19 years ago. I fell in love with the fact I could put a little foundation, blush & lipstick on a woman & completely change the way she felt about herself. Within 4 years I was a national Make-up artist for Estee’ Lauder! I have been a licensed esthetician for the past 14 years.

GEM: Tell me about the immediate results a client can expect from skin care treatment.

Starr: I am all about instant gratification! You will leave here with radiantly healthy skin after your very first treatment! I only use PCA Professional Chemical Peels. The advanced scientific technology used to create these products far surpass any other brands currently being used in the industry! Using patent pending multi-action anti-aging ingredients these peels penetrate the epidermis and work form the inside out to plump, firm, hydrate, and dramatically speed the process towards younger looking skin with NO DOWN TIME! You can wear makeup and go right back to your normal activities the very next day.

GEM: I am sure you see a lot of women that have damaged their skin due to sun exposure. Tell us how you can help.

Starr: Sun exposure is a universal threat to healthy youthful skin. UV rays actually enter the skin releasing free radicals that damage & destroy

the DNA that make up our skin cells causing visible premature aging & skin cancer. The coveted Skin Cancer Center Foundation Seal of Recommendation has been awarded to the entire line of PCA Skin broad spectrum SPF products.

GEM: Tell me about Lashing Out on main and The Browtique.

Starr: Specialists don’t do everything, THEY ARE THE BEST AT A FEW THINGS. Not only was it just a smart business move for both businesses because Kris offered services that I didn’t and I offered services that she didn’t have. Most importantly we could provide our clients with a “one stop shop full of pampering, education, relaxation and fun!”

GEM: What is micro blading and the benefits of it?

Starr: Micro blading is a concept that has been around for centuries but the modern day term means a semi-permanent method of enhancing the eyebrow to create a thicker fuller but natural looking brow.

Unlike traditional tattooing, the tiny hair like strokes, are created by the certified technician using hand held tool and not a tattoo gun. This method creates perfect hair like strokes that blend with your natural brow hair to give you beautiful thicker fuller eyebrows.

GEM: How important is a correct routine skin care regimen?

Starr: Your at home regimen is the most important thing that you can do for your skin. Getting monthly skincare treatments are super important, but you are responsible for the other 59 times that skincare goes on your face in that same month. You have got to use the right products to make it happen!

GEM: I love your new place! What services are offered at this new location?

Star: We are located at 117 S. Main St. in Belmont. Check out lashingoutonmain.com for a full list of our offered services, pricing, to book, change, or cancel your appointment or us a call at 704.421.0789. I can always be reached on my personal cell at 704.349.2678.

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Youth Kingdom Development: EMPOWERING THE FUTURE Changing Lives & Building Character One Basket at a Time!

Article By: Carlos A. Martinez, M.S.M.

Coach Eric explained that, “there are a lot of young underprivileged, yet highly talented children in our community that need this program. I do everything in my power to let them participate even when the families cannot afford it.” We learned that he works tirelessly to raise the funds to ensure that every child that wants to play - will play. Y.K.D. Kings teaches more than just basketball; they are committed to teaching the core values of leadership skills, personal responsibility, integrity, team work, humbleness, and community service.

V.P., Elite Magazine

ne step at a time. One hoop at a time. One child at a time. This is the philosophy of Coach Eric Wilson, the president of the Y.K.D. organization. Youth Kingdom Development (Y.K.D. Kings) is rapidly becoming one of the top travel basketball programs in the area. They are dedicated to building character through sports and helping young people change their lives. We recently had the privilege of meeting with Coach Eric to learn more about his organization and the impact he has made not just for these kids but for our community as a whole. Coach Eric has dedicated his time and efforts to ensure that these youths are given every opportunity to participate in the program while obtaining the opportunity at something even greater; the embracement of personal responsibility and accountability for your own lives.

Photo by: Tarheel Photography

Photo by: Tarheel Photography

Photo by: Tarheel Photography

Photo by: Tarheel Photography

Their High Academic and Community Outreach Programs set them apart from other travel basketball programs. By instilling values and principles in our student-athletes that embrace the importance of academic excellence and giving back to our community. While monitoring student-athletes’ academic performance is not the norm for some travel basketball programs, Y.K.D. Kings’ make it a requirement for its participates to maintain a certain

Y.K.D. KINGS is a non-profit, volunteer, sports organization through participation in AAU and NTBA Basketball Tournaments. Y.K.D. Kings has 8 travel basketball teams from 9U/3rd grade to 16U/10th grade, and a Cheerleading team. They are planning to introduce other sports in their program also and are committed to changing the lives of young men & women through their programs.

In 2015, the 7th Grade-13U Team placed 3rd at the NTBA National Championship, and is currently ranked #3 in the nation in the NTBA National Rankings.

They are looking for sponsors who are willing to donate any dollar amount to assist them in covering their major expenses such as gym rentals, tournament fees, team basketball gear, insurance, basketball equipment supplies, travel expenses and uniforms.

Your sponsorship will also them offer deeper discounts, and even free participation to some under privileged youth in desperate need of these life valued opportunities.

“I believe that together we can do more for the youth in our community than we can apart.” – Eric Wilson Contact: Eric Wilson Founder/Head Coach PO 6082 Box Gastonia, NC 28056 M: 704-813-4777 P: 704-974-2993 ykdkings@gmail.com www.ykdkings.org Facebook: Youth Kigngdom Development Instagram: YKDKingsBasketball

Photo by: Tarheel Photography

grade average in school in order to be eligible to play in tournaments. Parents are accustomed to being asked for their sons’ progress reports and report cards to ensure this requirement is being met. The staff promotes an awareness of the importance of doing well in the classroom as a means to a greater future and better opportunities for the student-athletes. Targeting academic success early is the best way to prepare student-athletes for higher levels of education. Because in high school grades can determine the college trajectory as early as the ninth grade, and Y.K.D’s main responsibility is teaching its players there education is the most important thing and the foundation of their future.

The BENEFITS of Having a Pet

uteness isn’t my only gift. Did you know that pets also come with some pretty powerful mental and physical health benefits? Dogs in particular can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, help ease loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness and even improve your cardiovascular health! Caring for us can help children grow up more secure and active, or provide valuable companionship for older adults. Perhaps most importantly, though, we can add real joy and unconditional love to your life. I know that I provide that to my mom, and she sure has some stressful days. I anxiously await her arrival home each day and shower her with love and kisses.

More than any other animal, dogs have evolved to become acutely attuned to humans, their behavior, and emotions. While we are able to understand many of the words you use, we’re even better at interpreting

your tone of voice, body language, and gestures. And like any good human friend, a loyal dog will look into your eyes to gauge your emotional state and try to understand what you’re thinking and feeling and to be extra nice when the next walk or treat might be coming, of course! My mom rarely gets mad at me, but I can absolutely tell when her tone changes.

While most dog owners are clear about the immediate joys that come with sharing their lives with canine companions, many remain unaware of the physical and mental health benefits that can also accompany the pleasure of playing with or snuggling up to their furry friend.

I did a little research and here is what I found. Studies have recently shown that: 1. Dog owners are less likely to suffer from depression than those without pets. (Much better than a prescription!)

2. People with dogs have lower blood pressure in stressful situations than those without pets. (Allow us to help with stress!)

3. Playing with a dog or cat can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which calm and relax. (We love play time!)

4. Pet owners have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels (indicators of heart disease) than those without pets. (Live a longer healthier life with a sweet companion like me!)

5. Heart attack patients with dogs survive longer than those without. (My mom would fight for her life for me!)

6. Pet owners over age 65 make 30 percent fewer visits to their doctors than those without pets. (Reduce time at the Doctor! Pets are more fun!)

I am not a Doctor, but I do know something about the smile on my mom’s face when I see her after a long day at the office. It makes me happy to know that I make her life complete. I am her world; and she is mine. If you have not experienced the benefit and unconditional love of pet ownership, I urge you to adopt a pet today. So many of us need good homes and we can give back so much more than we take.

Happy Summer!

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Contact us for full agency service of your marketing needs.

Ashleigh Easterling is 2014 graduate of Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, NC. She received her Bachelor of Science in Food and Beverage Restaurant Management with a Concentration in nutrition. Ashleigh completed an 11week, full rotation internship with a premier steakhouse, Sullivan’s Steakhouse. At Sullivan’s she learned back of the house and front of the house business operations. Ashleigh owns her own business called, The Green Bunny. The Green Bunny is a meal prep service that caters to those with fitness and weight loss goals. All meals are prepared to meet the nutrition needs for the client and they simply pop the meals in the microwave and enjoy! Currently, Ashleigh is striving to grow her business by educating the public about the importance of not just eating healthy but supporting local businesses (farms) in the process. The Green Bunny also supports the community by donating proceeds to local charities.

Chef Easterling hosts a live cooking demo on WBTV, a local news station in Charlotte once a month.

https://www.facebook.com/chefeasterling/ Chef_Easterling (@chef_easterling) https://twitter.com/chefeasterling Info.thegreenbunny@gmail.com

#chefeasterling #thegreenbunny

Greek Cucumber Shooters INGREDIENTS: Shrimp, 12 Medium Lemon, 1 juiced Cucumbers, 2 Large English Cucumbers (Try to get as straight as possible) Olives, 3 Tablespoons Minced Banana Peppers, 3 Tablespoons Minced Roma Tomato, 1 Chopped Red onion, 1/4 Cup Minced Garlic, 4 Tablespoons Minced, Divided Feta Cheese, 1/4 cup Olive Oil, 1/2 Cup Oregano, 3 Tablespoons Chopped Salt & Pepper to taste *Mint & Cherry Tomato slice for garnish, if desired.

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Peel and de-vain shrimp. SautĂŠ shrimp with 1 tablespoon olive oil and salt and pepper for approximately 3-4 minutes. Once cooked, roughly chop and chill in the refrigerator.

2. In a bowl, combine all ingredients (except cucumbers) and place into the refrigerator.

3. To make the cucumber shooters cut the seedless English cucumbers into 1 inch thick slices. Using a 1-inch round cookie cutter cut each cucumber making a cylinder and removing the skin. Each cucumber will be about 1 inch tall and 1 inch round. Take a small measuring spoon and remove the seeds making sure there is about 1/4 inch thickness on the sides and 1/4 inch thickness on the bottom. These can be made up to this point one day ahead.

4. Stuff the shooters with the mixture and garnish with a mint leaf and cherry tomato slice if desired. *This recipe makes approximately 20 cucumber shooters if the cucumbers are cut 1-2 inches long. This of course depends on the size of the cucumber.

Explore Arts on Main Article By: Cantey Land Arts on Main

here can art lovers enjoy the arts in Gaston County? One collective is Arts on Main (AOM), the home of the Gaston County Art Guild. Launched in 2011, AOM is a collection of studios, galleries, and a gift shop run by local artists. It showcases local talent and provides a continually changing calendar of shows, classes, visiting artists, and more. It is also the home and exhibition space of the Piedmont Fiber Guild.

When imagining art, most of us think of oil or watercolor creations, but AOM has many other forms of art represented as well. It showcases artists creating jewelry, fabric art, pottery, sculpture, glass, wood art, silk scarves and photography. Visitors will find exciting examples of these works for sale in the reasonably priced gift shop and throughout Arts on Main. The antique bank vaults serve as showcases for the members of the Guild.

Arts on Main is housed in the former Citizens National Bank Building located at 212 West Main Avenue.

In 2010 a small group of Gaston County Art Guild members were dislocated when their facility was sold.

The Guild approached the city and requested to use one of the abandoned, lifeless buildings in downtown Gastonia. The city granted temporary permission to use the bank building. Guild members and volunteers hosted fund raisers and with the help of the city cleaned, finished drywall, painted and laid carpet to bring Arts on Main to life. The city has continued its partnership with the Guild to improve and expand the facility.

These improvements are helping with the revitalization of downtown Gastonia. Proceeds from the rent go to the city to defray the costs of the building. A few studios remain available for those looking for a vibrant home to create and mingle and learn from other artists.

Besides providing studio rentals, AOM offers other activities and exhibits for the local community. Gaston County public school students showcase their art in an exhibit space reserved specifically for them. Oil painting classes for all ages are available, as well as classes for figure drawing, silk painting, paste paper painting and crochet creation classes. Plein air sessions, where artists create outside, are also offered to the public.

This year the Guild plans on hosting free Saturdays as an opportunity for children and adults to create art. Last year during summer concert nights, Arts on Main extended their hours and offered free tie dye opportunities for children and adults. The adults had as much fun as the children in the creation process. The facility is available for birthday parties and more by appointment and for a nominal fee. The Guild welcomes various organizations to visit and tour the building. It recently hosted the All Saints Episcopal Church group and Support Incorporated.

Guild members often gather for impromptu art sessions, work together and learn from one another.

The monthly Guild meeting is held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month from September to June. The meeting might include a presentation, demonstration or an art related topic. The public is welcome to attend.

Donations to the Gaston County Art Guild by generous community members, as well as grant funds from the Gaston Arts Council provide for outreach programs. One such program is the Gaston County Senior Student Art show which will be held this year from May 11th through June 10th.

Donations to the Guild are a crucial foundation for growing a vibrant arts scene in Gaston County.

Arts on Main is open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm, and have additional hours during the summer. The address is 212 West Main Avenue in downtown Gastonia. For more information about becoming a member of the Guild, classes, exhibits, scheduling a guided tour of the building and more, visitors should stop by or call 704-865-4224.

Additionally the public can visit the website at www.gastoncountyartguild.com which has information about classes, current and upcoming shows and news in the community related to art.

The Gaston County Art Guild and the artists at Arts on Main welcome readers to stop by and visit this remarkable space in downtown Gastonia. “ A Natural View” the current exhibit showcases various interpretations and representations of nature and can be seen through May 6th.

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