complimentary
Jun/Jul 2012
Covering the Southern Lifestyle of Gaston County
can the
Catawba River Survive?
In this Issue: Natural Running | Summer of Shag | 4th of July Celebrations
Choose the best for your skin
Offering complete skin care and Mohs Micrographic Surgery to our patients!
Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology is proud to have Dr. William Fangman as one of our board certified dermatologists with specialized training in Mohs skin cancer surgery. Dr. Fangman is a board certified dermatologist with particular interest and expertise in skin cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Dr. Fangman is also board certified in dermatopathology, the field dedicated to the study of cutaneous disease at a microscopic level. He has also completed fellowship training in Mohs Micrographic Surgery, the most advanced technique for removal of skin cancers and the reconstruction of the resulting surgical wound. Prior to joining Piedmont Plastic Surgery and Dermatology, Dr. Fangman was an associate professor of dermatology and pathology at Duke University Medical Center.
William L. Fangman, M.D. DERMATOLOGIST & MOHS SURGEON
704.866.7576 • www.ppsd.com 959 Cox Rd. • Gastonia, NC 28054
MAGAZINE
publisher’s letter IT’S SUMMER-TIME! The kid’s are out of school,
Volume 2 • Issue 3 _____________________________________ Co-Publisher/Editor Darryl Warren info@gastontoday.com
vacations are in full swing, and Gaston County is full of sun, fun, and festivities. There’s so much to do around Gaston County. From renting bikes at Rankin Lake, hiking at Crowders Mountain, or spending the day at the U. S.Whitewater Center, we are blessed with so many fun things to see and do. For me, my most special memories include spending time on the Catawba River. My parents had a small place beside near Henry’s Chapel Road in Belmont. Wonderful neighbors like Emmitt and Nettie Neagle, Dr. Suggs, and the Ellington’s made my summers a special time. We spent our summer, fishing, swimming, and skiing from dam to dam on Lake Wylie. In the evenings, we would clean and cook a mess of catfish, eat watermelon, and take an evening boat-ride down to Seven-Oaks Bridge for some more night fishing. I can still
Co-Publisher/Creative Director idesign2inc Kerrie & Jason Boys idesign2inc@gmail.com Sales Executives Darryl Warren 704.685.7011 darryl@gastontoday.com Photographer Shannon Irish Contributing Writers Darryl Warren Amy Wadsworth Jacob Hoyle Mike Burns
taste those sweet little channel cats…. Sadly, the Catawba River is now too polluted to safely eat fish from it. Mercury levels have reached dangerous proportions, and our community leaders are struggling with how to fix the problem. We have devoted a great deal of this issue to outlining the many issues facing the Catawba River Basin. Our hope is that we can ALL take a part in making this river clean and safe again. Special thanks to our friends at Catawba River Keepers for their work in bringing these issues to light. We also are proud to announce the kick-off of SUMMER OF SHAG 2012 in Belmont. It is one of the largest beach music festivals in the U. S.! From the Tams to the Chairmen of the Board, Belmont is now THE place for Carolina Beach
_____________________________________ All content is copyrighted by the respective owners and DJK Media. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. Information subject to change without notice. DJK Media • 8309 Heathcrest Ct. Charlotte. NC 28269 704-685-7011 www.gastontoday.com
_____________________________________
music. Thanks to all the volunteers who make this event possible. This summer, take the time to enjoy our local greenways, parks, and local trails. It’s free, fun, and healthy. Enjoy time with your family and friends and have a safe and memorable
Facebook.com/GastonToday
summer. Thanks for picking up this issue of Gaston Today Magazine.
! Be Good!!ryl Dar
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jun/jul 2012 | good things in gaston county
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MAGAZINE
contents
features local flavor
Barefoot Running ..............................11 Guidelines for minimalist running and shoes
Tony’s Ice Cream ..................................5
Catawba River ..................................15
A Gaston County tradition
The historic river is one of the most endangered places in the Southeast
Gaston Scene ....................................24 Photos from local events
Beach Soul and Dance Music ..............25 Belmont’s Friday Night Live kicks off
Theatre, Art, Music, Festivals ............27
spotlight
Featuring local talent
Fitness: Bare Feet................................9 Summer workout
Clean Water ......................................19 Catawba River’s water quality faces challenges from local coal ash ponds
History: The Catawba-Wateree River....20 Home of the Catawba Indian Tribe
Catch the Facts ................................21 Guidelines to eating local fish
Safety: Beat the Heat ........................23 Summer recommendations
Good Things Business Listings ............27
GT Mag Facebook® poll results! “What is your favorite Vet Clinic in Gaston County?” WINNER!!! Total Bond Veterinarian Hospital 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0
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Lineberger Veterinarian Hospital South Point Pet Hospital Gaston Low Cost Spay/neuter Clinic Gaston Veterinary Hospital PA
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1212 Spruce St. Suite 203 | Belmont NC 28012 | 704.825.7060 jun/jul 2012 | good things in gaston county
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Spotlight | Business
Tony’s Ice Cream A Gaston County Tradition
W
604 East Franklin Boulevard Gastonia, NC 28054 www.tonysicecream.com
hat began in the 1920’s as a push cart business, owned and operated by Carmine Coletta, has stood the test of time and remains one of the landmarks of Gaston County. In search of a better life for his family, Carmine came to America in 1911 from Glasgow, Scotland. He made and sold ice cream from carts and horsedrawn wagons. One of the wagon’s has been restored and is located in the Gaston County Museum of Art and History in Dallas.
Coletta. He managed the two locations until the death of Antonia Janetta and his wife Maria in 1971. Tony passed away in 1976, and ownership passed to his two sons, Robert and Louis.
Ice cream was produced at two locations,Tony’s Ice Cream on Willow Street and City Ice Cream on Morehead.Tony’s was run by Antonia Janetta, the husband of Maria Coletta.They would take horse-drawn wagons to mill villages, ball games, carnivals and camp meetings.Their presence became a part of everyday life in Gaston.
So the desire has passed from generation to generation and always with the same dedication to service and quality. Louis Coletta can still hear his father,Tony say, “Your customers will understand that you will have to change your price.They will never understand if you compromise your quality for the sake of price.”
In the early 1930’s, trucks replaced wagons and in 1947 Antonia Janetta built the present location on East Franklin Boulevard and another one on West Franklin.Anthony Coletta, or Tony as he is known, was the youngest son of Carmine
Tony’s Ice Cream is located at 604 E. Franklin Blvd. in Gastonia and is presently run by Louis and Robert Coletta, third generation owners.Tony’s Ice Cream offers a wide variety of traditional and new flavors.
US National Whitewater Center Events
Micro Brews Cruise What: Sunset paddle along the Catawba River followed by a fireside dinner with craft beer tastings. 2012 Schedule: June 13 – Four Friends Brewing (Charlotte, NC) June 27 – Highland Brewing Company (Asheville, NC) July 11 – Heist Brewery (Charlotte, NC) July 25 – LoneRider Brewing Company (Raleigh, NC)
5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy Charlotte, NC 704-391-3900 www.usnwc.org
Brew Stash Bash What: A Carolina craft beer tasting with performances by Farewell Drifters, Brown Bird and Cory Chisel & the Wandering Sons When: Saturday, June 16
Participant Schedule: Check-in at Kayak Center: 6 p.m. Flatwater paddle on the Catawba River: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Campfire lit dinner and beer tasting on Hawk Island: 8 – 10 p.m.
Schedule: Beer Sampling: Begins at 1 p.m. Live Music: Begins at 2 p.m.
Cost: $55 per person
Cost: Event: free and open to the public Beer Tasting: $5 for 4 tickets
Zip-Line & Dine What: Zip-line excursion from the south ridge of our facility to the Catawba River followed by a fireside dinner with craft beer and wine. Cost: $75 per person. Schedule: Wednesday, June 6 • Wednesday, July 18 5
good things in gaston county | jun/jul 2012
Spotlight | Education
GCS counselor wins coveted state leadership award
T
he North Carolina Counseling Association (NCCA) named Ami Parker, Highland School of Technology guidance counselor, recipient of the coveted 2012 Ella Stephens Barrett Leadership Award.
The Barrett Leadership Award is the highest honor a school counselor can receive in North Carolina. Parker was awarded the honor at the NCCA conference held on Feb. 16-17. Superintendent L. Reeves McGlohon said,“Ami Parker is an outstanding school counselor and we are very pleased and proud of her for receiving the revered state recognition – it is one of the most esteemed honors a school counselor can receive in North Carolina.” The Ella Stephens Barrett Award recognizes individuals who display outstanding leadership in the improvement and enhancement of the counseling profession over a long period of time. As recipient of the Leadership Award, Parker received a beautiful inscribed plaque at the NCCA annual conference. In addition, to commemorate this honor, a plaque inscribed
Yes, We ! Cater
Compliments of Gaston County Schools
with her name will be placed in the State Department of Public Instruction building. A veteran school counselor, Parker has 17 years of tenure with the district. She Highland counselor Ami Parker joined the 2012 Ella Stephens Barrett Highland staff Leadership Award recipient when the school opened in 2000. Parker received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill and her doctorate from UNC-Charlotte. Highland Principal Lee Dedmon said,“Ami Parker is a dedicated school counselor who goes the extra mile to ensure our students are successful, whether it’s through writing a college recommendation or assisting with a scholarship application.”
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Enjoy the thrill of the ride once again! jun/jul 2012 | good things in gaston county
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Athletics
Should Gaston County Build a World Class Sports Complex? By: Darryl Warren
G
aston County’s sports complex would provide a new world class home to “13-over” baseball, soccer, and softball tournament play.
The Greater Gaston County area is home to many regional attractions and destinations yet lacks a competitive tournament host site for 13-over baseball, soccer, and softball. In fact, there is a major need for a facility of this kind in the South. East Cobb, Georgia 13-under youth sports center offers a ten field complex featuring sub-surface drainage, electronic scoreboards, Musco lighting,VIP seating, and an on-site gift shop. For over ten years, this sports complex has earned Cobb County millions of dollars in tax revenue by hosting baseball tournaments for young athletes from as far away as Maine,Arkansas, and Texas. In addition, East Cobb’s sports complex generates more revenue thru corporate sponsorships, fees, concession leases, and other fundraising events. This complex has been largely self-sufficient since its development by Cobb County. The only comparable 13-over park in the Southeast is Snowden Grove Park in South Haven, Mississippi. Snowden Grove Park, built in the late ‘90’s, is a 17-field baseball-only facility, only 7 of which are geared for adult play, and possesses many features only previously found at professional stadiums. Because of this, tournaments held at this field routinely bring in families from Ohio to Texas. Gaston County would offer a much more desirable destination point because of its proximity to major area attractions, only minutes from the Charlotte airport, and offers ample local hotel accommodations. For years, Snowden Park offered the only comparable facility in the south other than those found in the sweltering heat of Florida. Gaston County could become the Mecca for these highly profitable tournaments and events.
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SPORTS CLINICS AND CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP Another potential economic windfall a 13-over sports complex could provide Gaston County is hosting baseball camps and clinics. Sports related companies such as Reebok, Nike, Easton, and Rawlings currently sponsor camps throughout the country, drawing professional players, scouts, and college players and coaches to teach proper baseball skills. These corporate sponsors, along with local players and coaches from Belmont Abbey College and the Gastonia Grizzlies, would provide a wealth of expertise to the baseball stars of tomorrow.
Because of the huge potential economic returns, Gaston County will be looking to our local hotels and restaurants to share in the economic windfall by supporting these thousands of tournament travelers.
A POSITIVE ECONOMIC IMPACT Gaston County’s ongoing feasibility study provides strong early data to support the theory that a sports complex in the Piedmont area will provide a huge positive return on its initial investment. The land purchase and development of the proposed complex during our current economic downturn will be at the lower end of true value, and can potentially be a boom to Gaston’s small but growing tourism trade. In addition, the proposed sports complex will offer technological upgrades to older fields such as E. Cobb, Georgia and Snowden Grove, MS. In addition, by offering lower hotel rates, the lower out-of pocket cost for families will be a great advantage in securing tournaments. At an average stay of 4 days, tournament attendees would also visit our many other area attractions, dine out, and purchase goods and services, thus providing a potential windfall thru local tax revenue. Gaston County’s business model relies on hotel and restaurants to help entice these tournaments thru specials and promotions.
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“We could make Gaston County a destination site for 13-over baseball, soccer, and softball tournament play.” Walter Israel. Director Visit Gaston
INVESTING IN AMATEUR SPORTS IS AN INVESTMENT IN OUR COMMUNITY Quick facts about the Proposed Gaston Sports Complex... • Multi-million dollar sports complex designed to host regional and national baseball, softball, soccer, and lacrosse tournaments and sports clinics. • State of the art design offering upgrades from any other sports complex in the south. • Could generate as many as 50-60,000 additional hotel rooms per year. • Geographically, gaston county is positioned to attract play from mid-northern states who prefer driving due to the cost savings over flying. So, is the proposed sports complex a “Good Thing?” There are lots of valid arguments both for and against public funding for projects such as the Gaston Sports Complex. Many feel that it should be privately funded and leased to the county. Others feel that Gaston County has bigger problems to fix before we start an undertaking this big. However, if we are ever to move forward, to break out of the shadow of Mecklenburg County, we believe Gaston County must make creative and tough economic decisions in order to compete and grow. The facts are simple. We can build a state-of-the art facility in Gaston County and compete for millions of dollars in the athletic tourism industry, or we can continue our current policy of debate, debate, and more debate. The time is now to move on the Gaston County Sports Complex. Land prices are attractive and we have ample hotel rooms and restaurants that are ready to offer deals to help us market a complex like this. For that, GT Mag says the proposed Gaston Sports Complex is “Good Thing.”
Baseball, soccer, and softball play pack the area’s parks nearly year-round, but when it comes time for tournaments, the large-scale events are often held out of town. If Gaston County had facilities to accommodate these events, new money could be funneled into the local economy. With the 60-90 fields, larger and deeper out-fields, Gaston could also host 10-12 weeks of soccer and lacrosse field sports, effectively keeping the park in use nearly year round.
jun/jul 2012 | good things in gaston county
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Spotlight | Fitness
Get Fit With Your Bare Feet...
S
ummertime is finally here.The local swim clubs have opened. Families and friends gather at the lake and plan trips to their favorite destinations…. Here is a thought, how convenient would it be to be able to stay in shape without the hassle of loading fitness equipment with your luggage or looking for a fitness center that allows a day pass for guests while on vacation? All you need is a little motivation and your bare feet! How often have you been on your annual beach trip and looked out of your hotel balcony to see that one guy who was up way to early and running on the beach.. Chances are he isn’t crazy and he has figured out the benefits of running barefoot on an uneven surface and a new way to completely makeover his workout routine. Studies show that running on an uneven surface such as sand or grass increases the number of calories you burn during exercise.This is because your core muscles are working harder to adapt and keep you balanced.
Here are a few benefits you will reap from running barefoot in sand: Running on sand burns more calories. This is awesome news for those of you who are wanting to shed off some unwanted pounds this season. Running on sand is much easier on your joints This will give them a rest from the hard ground or asphalt in which you probably usually perform your cardiovascular activity because sand is so much more absorbent than the hard surfaces it will produce less strain on the body. You’ll become more coordinated and develop better core strength. Not only does running on sand challenge your lower body but subconsciously you are struggling to keep your balance and this will engage your abdominals, back, arms and shoulders as well. Scenery Wether you are running up and down the beach to catch a magnificent sunrise or an awesome orange sunset cascading over the Atlantic, you just can’t get this view from the track or a treadmill. You’ll develop more strength in your legs. When sand shifts beneath you as you run, your ankles, calves, quads and hamstrings are all engaged and through repetition will become stronger. Again with any workout regiment please seek proper guidance from a healthcare professional or physician . I highly suggest that anyone who has diabetes or has a compromised immune system (rheumatoid arthritis. ECT) not run barefoot due to increased risk of infection.There are other ways to enjoy the outdoors and get a great workout in such as cycling or swimming! There you have it! Next time you are at the beach or lake HIT THE SAND and enjoy getting healthy!
Jacob R. Hoyle- Owner/Fitness Trainer of Fitview Personal Training & Wellness Services located at Ultimate Fitness 1609 Westover St. Gastonia NC
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good things in gaston county | jun/jul 2012
As a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), it is my mission and my passion to connect financially stressed homeowners in the Carolinas with solutions.
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(704) 825-5555 www.simonettis.com
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I can help! Chip Wilson, REALTOR®/Broker Garibaldi Realty 100 S. Main Street | Belmont, NC 28012 (866) 810-6047 or (704) 488-5822 chip@garibaldirealty.net | www.gastoncountyshortsales.com
Main Street Crossings Shopping Center 6430 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont Hours M-Thu 11:30 am - 9:00pm Fri - Sat 11:30am - 10:00pm Sun 12 noon - 9pm
OPEN 24 HOURS! Largest free weight facility in Gaston County, tons of equipment, spacious workout environment. A family friendly atmosphere with Childcare available. We have been transforming minds and bodies for nearly a decade. Don’t miss out on our complete experience! Saunas for Men and Women • Clean Locker Rooms • Personal Workout Plans • Massage Therapy (available by appt) • Juice Bar Diet and Health Plans Full Cardio Room • Free Weights • Body Machines Group Fitness Classes: Bootcamp • Zumba • Self-Defense Body Sculpt • Kickboxing • Yoga
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Official gym of the Gastonia Grizzlies
1609 Westover St. • Gastonia, NC 28056 • 704.823.0031 • www.ultimatefitnesstoday.com jun/jul 2012 | good things in gaston county
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Feature | by Darryl Warren
Barefoot Shoes: The cave-men had it all figured out.
Going barefoot has, of course, been around since the beginning of time. Running and hiking shoes, on the other hand, are a much more recent phenomenon. More specifically, when shoe companies decided people needed different shoes for every type of exercise. Today, the shoe industry makes billions from people looking for the perfect pair of shoes to walk, hike, and run. I make a living selling shoes, so I’m all for them.
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Photography by Shannon Irish
EXPERT TIP: However, I sometimes wonder, did Mother Nature mess up when it came to our feet? Are the shoe companies here to protect us from ourselves or are they just out to make a buck? Cavemen seemed to have pretty healthy feet from what I can tell. I’ve never heard of cavemen complaining about falling arches, hammer toes, or sore knees. Goggle it and see for yourself. Being one who usually only runs when I’m being chased, much like a caveman, I decided to try out a pair of the new “barefoot” shoes on the market. They claim to help you walk more naturally. So, I bought a pair of Merrell “Trail Gloves” from REI and began my trek through the jungles of Crowders Mountain. I usually walk, but I am prepared to run if a bear ever popped out from behind a tree. Never one to shy away from complaining, the first few day hikes in my “barefoot shoes,” were pretty rough. I thought I was gonna pass out from the pain. No support? Feeling every pebble and root with every step? What kind of crazy talk is a pair of barefoot shoes? No wonder cavemen are extinct. But let’s examine the evidence behind the barefoot shoe craze.
Start gradually. Do it in small doses, just as if you were beginning to run or walk. Muscles in your feet, calves and hamstrings–as well as your plantar fascia and Achilles tendons–are not used to this method.You can injure yourself if you do too much too soon. GO SLOW!!
Why Go Minimalist? Running-specific shoes didn't really appear in the U.S. until the mid-1960s.That’s when a company called Blue Ribbon Sports began importing “Tiger Shoes” from Japan. Blue Ribbon Sports—which in 1978 became Nike—eventually created a new running-shoe industry by beefing up cushioning, giving more stability and adding pronation control. But after decades of wearing increasingly high-tech shoes, some runners began questioning their purpose and effectiveness.Their answer: Go back to basics and run barefoot, or use a minimalist shoe to imitate barefoot running but with a bit of protection.
jun/jul 2012 | good things in gaston county
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Feature | by Darryl Warren
So what led to this conclusion? The Harvard Study and Nature Magazine In January 2010, Nature magazine published an article about a Harvard University study that focused on foot-strike patterns and the impact of running barefoot versus running with shoes.The Wall Street Journal,The New York Times, Runner's World and many others followed with articles on the study, and the "barefoot phenomenon" took off. Some misinterpreted the Harvard study to mean barefoot runners were less likely to have injuries and could run faster. But the study merely showed that people "were able to land comfortably and safely when barefoot or in minimal footwear by landing with a flat foot (midfoot strike) or by landing on the ball of the foot before bringing down the heel (forefoot strike)." Running shoes, on the other hand, feature cushioning, elevated heels and extra weight.These factors cause most runners to “heel strike” heel hitting first. Dr. Daniel Lieberman, one of the leaders of the Harvard study, states that “midfoot and forefoot striking does not cause the sudden, large impacts that occur when you heel strike.” The study deduced that barefoot runners can run on hard surfaces without discomfort from the landing. When runner Christopher McDougall started asking, "Why does my foot hurt?" he ended up answering the question in the bestseller Born to Run:A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen.Available at: http://www.chrismcdougall.com The book examines running mechanics by focusing on the littleknown Tarahumara Indians of Mexico. Tarahumaras young and old can run 100 or more miles a day through rugged Copper Canyon in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico wearing only thinsoled sandals made out of old tires and leather. Yes, old tires. Now, all that sounds great, except for one thing, those Tarahumara Indians are a lot tougher than me. But gradually, my tender-baby feet began to toughen up and walking through the woods became fun again. I suddenly remembered a great piece of advice a wise old Cherokee Chief once told me. He said,“If
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it starts to hurt, you’re doing it too much.” So I cut back a bit on my distance and SHAZAM, my feet, knees, and back stopped hurting! That Cherokee Chief also told me to pay attention to where I step, and try not to fall down so much. That seems to help a lot too. So, barefoot shoes may not be for everyone, but everyone should go barefoot every now and then. Like the Cavemen. Just make sure you can outrun a bear.
Source data: Born to Run:A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen. Christopher McDougal www.rei.com, www.vibrams.com, www.merrell.com
Minimalist Shoes
TOP “BAREFOOT”
TRAILS IN GASTON COUNTY:
Brooks PureConnect Road-Running Shoes available at www.rei.com
CATAWBA CREEK GREENWAY GASTONIA, NC The 1.8 mile long Catawba Creek Greenway section of the Carolina Thread Trail begins east at Robinwood Road just north of the Catawba Creek Bridge and runs west along Catawba Creek with lovely views of the creek and a large grassy area for picnicking. CATAWBA RIVER GREENWAY AT TUCKASEEGE PARK MOUNT HOLLY, NC The 1.0 mile long, Catawba River Greenway trail is located along the Catawba River and is made up of a 10-foot wide paved asphalt surface. It connects to a concrete trail loop that runs along Fites Creek, and past a newly constructed dog park and skate boarding park.
Merrell Trail Glove available at www.rei.com
HIGHLAND RAIL TRAIL GASTONIA, NC The 1.5 mile long Highland Rail Trail is constructed along the historic Carolina and Northwestern Railway. Running north, the Highland Rail Trail begins downtown at Long Avenue near Broad Street and currently ends at Rankin Lake Road, north of I-85. It’s an urban trail meandering through residential neighborhoods and industrial areas, with access to Marietta Street, Davidson Street and Rankin Lake Road.The rail-trail is part of a planned system that will connect Downtown Gastonia to Rankin Lake Park. RIVERSIDE GREENWAY CRAMERTON NC This 1.2 mile loop of the Riverside Greenway winds along the bank of the South Fork River, land that was donated by Burlington Industries in 1993. Running north, the Riverside Greenway begins at the intersection of Riverside Drive and Cramer Mountain Road in one of the oldest sections of Cramerton Locals refer to this area as “Old Town.”
The latest Vibram “Five-Finger” shoes Komodo Sport available at: www.rei.com
SPENCER MOUNTAIN –R.Y. MCADEN BLUEWAY Situated along the South Fork River, the 52-acre Spencer Mountain River Access hosts Catawba Lands Conservancy's first canoe/kayak launch on the South Fork Catawba River. This project initiates a plan of connecting, by river, conserved lands that will provide scenic views along the river for the enjoyment of all. For more information on trails visit:
www.carolinathreadtrail.org jun/jul 2012 | good things in gaston county
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Feature | by Darryl Warren
Is the Catawba River Safe?
The Catawba Riverkeepers are watching out for you Editors note: The following information was provided by the Catawba Riverkeeper Advocacy Group. www.catawbariverkeeper.org
The Catawba-Wateree River is a beautiful river, but is threatened by the effects of growth, including stormwater, sewage, coal ash ponds, and other side effects of increasing population and population density, as well as more traditional sources of pollution such as industrial sources, timber harvesting and agriculture. In 2008, the Catawba-Wateree River was designated as the “most endangered river� in the United States by American Rivers, a river advocacy group. More recently, the EPA issued a report indicating that four of the top 44 high hazard ash ponds in the United States are located on the Catawba River. In 2010 and 2012, the Southern Environmental Law Center identified the Catawba River as one of the ten most endangered places in the Southeast. The following issues highlight the issues facing our community today.
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Energy-Water Collision The Catawba River is one of the most intensely utilized rivers in the United States for energy production. This use has a number of different impacts on the River including use of a large amount of water, discharges from coal ash ponds, and other wastewater discharges. In addition, the flow of the Catawba River is, for the most part, controlled by releases from dams operated by Duke Power, which is the current subject of a relicensing process.
Hill and Matthews. If any of the coal ash ponds were to fail, as happened in Tennessee in December 2008, it would have a potentially catastrophic impact on the drinking water supplies for communities that depend upon water from the Catawba River for their drinking water. Mercury in the emissions from coal-fired powerplants also impacts the Catawba River. The North Carolina Dept of Health and Human Services recently estimated that“at least 13,677 children per year”are born in North Carolina with blood mercury levels that place them at risk for lifelong learning disabilities, fine motor and attention deficits, and lowered IQ. Mercury levels in fish have already resulted in statewide fish advisories in North Carolina and South Carolina. Coal-fired power plants are the largest source of mercury emissions in the Carolinas. In addition, mining for coal has buried or polluted 1,200 miles of pristine headwater streams in the Appalachians.
The Catawba River Places 3rd in the Top 10 Endangered Places in the Southeastern U.S. 1. Alabama’s Coast 2. Dawson Forest, Georgia 3. Catawba—Wateree River Basin, North Carolina and South Carolina 4. North Carolina Piedmont 5. Savannah River, South Carolina & Georgia 6. Chilhowee Mountain, Tennessee 7. Virginia and Tennessee Mountains 8. Charlottesville, Virginia 9. Chesapeake Bay, Virginia 10. Southside, Virginia by Southern Environmental Law Center Power-plants are the largest single user of water on the Catawba River, accounting for approximately 48% of water use in the basin. These large withdrawals of water, combined with the discharge of warm water, place heavy stresses on the River and it is projected that by 2040 there will not be enough water in the River to meet all of the water demands. Coal-fired powerplants present a threat to the waters of Catawba-Wateree basin through multiple routes including coal ash, mercury contamination from air emissions that precipitate into the water, and evaporation as a result of use as cooling water. Burning fossil fuels also threatens the basin by contributing to global warming. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 4 of the top 44 highest hazard coal ash ponds in the United States are located on the Catawba River. Two of EPA’s High Hazard Coal Ash Impoundments are located on Mountain Island Lake upstream from the primary water intakes for the Charlotte, Gastonia, Mt. Holly and Belmont, which supplies water to approximately 860,000 people in Charlotte, Gastonia, Mt. Holly, Pineville, Mint
Nuclear Power There are two nuclear stations (with two units per station) on the banks of the Catawba River - Catawba Nuclear Station on Lake Wylie and McGuire Nuclear Station on Lake Norman. Both of these facilities are located on drinking water reservoirs within 20 miles of downtown Charlotte. These units are the largest water users on the River and if there was a serious accident, they have the potential to have a tremendous impact on both the River and surrounding population. Interbasin Transfer Issues (IBT) A proposed dam project in Van Wyck, SC proposed by the Catawba River Water Supply Project will drown land, bury streams and inundate wetlands. The proposed dam would create a 92 acre reservoir with a capacity of over 1 billion gallons.Water pumped from the Catawba River would be used to fill this reservoir, and then it would be sent to water customers in Lancaster and Union Counties in and out of the jun/jul 2012 | good things in gaston county
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Catawba River basin. Yes, that’s right - IN and OUT of the Catawba River Basin. If permitted, this project undoubtedly would allow more water to be lost permanently from the Catawba River through an interbasin transfer to the Yadkin-Pee Dee River.
Teach your children that the earth is our mother. Whatever befalls the earth befalls the children of the earth. We are part of the earth, and the earth is a part of us. The rivers are our brothers; they quench our thirst. The perfumed flowers are our sisters. The air is precious, for all of us share the same breath. —From an oration of Chief Seattle, Native American, U.S.A., 19th Century
That’s why Catawba Riverkeeper and American Rivers submitted joint comments in opposition to this project and in support of increased water efficiency (see below for more on water efficiency). U.S. EPA also raised concerns in its comments regarding this project, and the NC-SC Catawba Wateree Bi-State Advisory Commission decided to hold a special meeting on Oct. 7, 2011 in Rock Hill, SC to learn more about this proposed dam when Catawba Riverkeeper alerted them to this project at their meeting on August 12, 2011. Garden Parkway The North Carolina Turnpike Authority is planning to build a new highway that will go from I-485 near the Charlotte Airport, across Lake Wylie and the South Fork of the Catawba River, into southern Gaston County.This project will have a major impact on the Catawba River in the form of construction runoff, ongoing stormwater and the increased development. Sewage Issues and Sewage Treatment Raw sewage doesn’t just stink, it has many detrimental effects on water quality and health. Human health is affected by the bacteria that enter the water and reproduce there.The increase in nutrients can cause algal blooms which decrease the oxygen in the river. Many fish and other creatures cannot survive in these conditions. The Catawba-Wateree River basin has some of the highest density of septic tanks of any basin in the Carolinas and many of these septic tanks do not function
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properly, resulting in the discharge of untreated waste in our water. Moreover, many new developments in areas not served by municipal treatment plants install package treatment plants which are supposed to work automatically, but often fail to work properly resulting in the discharge of untreated waste into our rivers and streams. Large municipal wastewater treatment plants work well when kept up to date and operated properly, but in some cases municipal treatment plants in the basin are using outdated technologies or are not being operated properly. Furthermore, there are hundreds of overflows of raw sewage into rivers and streams each year as a result of pump failures and pipe blockages. In many cases, the problems are caused because the systems are underfunded. All of these sources of waste contribute to the nutrient and fecal coliform problems in the basin. Sedimentation and Muddy Water Watch Loose sediment on new developments will easily run off into the waterways. During big rains, massive amounts of sediment will wash into the river.This sediment can directly suffocate fish and bury their habitats.The sediment can also block light from reaching aquatic plants. Muddy Water Watch training is a statewide effort to reduce the amount of runoff from construction sites. Catawba Riverkeeper has trained more citizens than any other group in any other basin.
© Nataliya | www.stockfreeimages.com
Feature
Stormwater Issues Stormwater is probably the number one source of pollution of the Catawba River. Stormwater runoff includes runoff from industrial sites (which may carry hazardous pollutants), runoff from parking lots and roads (which typically carries oil, grease and other pollutants), lawns, agricultural properties and golf courses (which often has nutrients from fertilizers, pesticides and urbicides), logging activities (which often has large amounts of sediment) and construction projects (discussed above under "Sedimentation"), Both the quantity and quality of stormwater runoff is a problem.
www.catawbariverkeeper.org Upper Catawba Basin Issues The upper Catawba basin is spectacular and contains many seemingly pristine waters. However, there are serious threats to the beauty of the upper basin, many of which are unique to the upper basin. Lake Rhodhiss and many of its tributaries are listed as impaired waters by the United States EPA and the State of North Carolina because of excessive nutrients. Some nearly pristine headwaters are impaired because of low pH (acidity). Some trout waters are threatened by poor development practices including a state policy that allows trout streams to be buried in pipes as part of the construction of a golf course fairway. Some issues, such as sedimentation are more acute and more difficult to control on the steep slopes of the upper basin. Water Use & Efficiency Issues Water efficiency and good water management are the best source of affordable water and must be the backbone of water supply planning. Unfortunately, millions of gallons of water are wasted every day in the basin. The Catawba Riverkeeper is working with state and local governments, as well as businesses and private citizens to improve water efficiency and the management of our precious water resources.
The Future The water quality in the Catawba-Wateree basin and the ecosystems that depend on the water in the basin are likely to continue to decline without improved development policies and better stewardship of the Catawba River. This will require more efficient use of water, smarter growth practices and better management of the water resources in the basin. The silver lining in this dark cloud is that it should be relatively easy to make significant improvements. Pending litigation between North Carolina and South Carolina over the water in the Catawba-River, the Bi-State CatawbaWateree Commission and proposed legislation in the legislatures of both states has the potential to result in substantial improvements in the management of water in the basin and the health of the River. Recent water shortages and increased public awareness of threats to the Catawba are also beginning to change public behavior.
421 Minuet Ln Ste 205 Charlotte, NC 28217-2784 Phone: 704.679.9494
What You Can Do To Help? Protecting the water in the Catawba-Wateree basin will not happen without citizen participation.The following is a partial list of ways in which ordinary people can help protect the water in the basin. • Understand the issues. Get educated about issues affecting the Catawba and Wateree Rivers. • Understand that individual actions matter. • Fertilize less. • Use less water. • Use less electricity (each kilowatt hour of electricity requires 25 gallons of water to generate) • Reduce impervious area (for example, instead of a concrete walkway, use gravel or pavers in sand). • Landscape with native plants that need less water. • Install rain barrels and use water from rain barrels for outdoor watering. • Create rain gardens to catch storm water. For more information about rain gardens, click here. • Maintain natural areas as buffer zones around all creeks, lakes and other water bodies. • Report violations of environmental laws to the appropriate officials and/or the Riverkeeper. • Insist that public officials protect the River. • Support the Clean Water Restoration Act. Join CRF or support CRF financially. • Donate an old boat, office equipment to the Catawba River Keepers. • Volunteer to help the Catawba Riverkeeper protect, educate and advocate • Become a Covekeeper, Covewatcher, Islandkeeper, Creekkeeper, or Waterwatcher • Participate in the Muddy Water Watch program. • Join the Catawba Riverkeeper speaker bureau. • Participate in stream, river and lake cleanup days. • Volunteer other skills.
It is not too late to fix address and fix these issues. The future, though muddy as the Catawba River, will reveal if we have the wisdom to take action.
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Clean Water for our Children: The opportunity of a lifetime. by Mike Burns
W
ater is the foundation of life and is an undeniable resource of necessity that supports and sustains all living things as we know it. Everyday water is taken for granted, whether it is for bathing, washing dishes, making tea, or watering the lawn. With every passing day, water is becoming scarcer, especially clean, usable fresh water. Gaston County is no exception. Over the last 6 years, most of the Piedmont region has been under drought conditions and the presence of poor water quality has been looming over the Catawba River and the various lakes that the river passes through. In 2008, the American River Association named the Catawba River the most endangered river in America and concerns continue to rise over the influence of polluted water being released into the river from various industries along the banks, especially from energy production facilities. One of the greatest concerns regarding the current and future health of the Catawba River is the presence of coal ash ponds along the banks of the river and what impact they might be having on the water system. Coal ash ponds are surface impoundments that house all the remaining waste left over after coal is burned to produce energy at energy production facilities. The coal waste contains highly hazardous chemicals such as mercury, lead, arsenic, and many other dangerous pollutants that can cause numerous health problems. The idea is to prevent this coal waste from becoming airborne by putting it in ponds and allowing the waste to settle to the bottom. The problem is that most ponds built before the 1990s do not have any lining to prevent seepage into groundwater or filtration systems to prevent the chemicals from entering surface water systems like the Catawba River.
Duke Power’s Riverbend Steam Station 19
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The Catawba River is home to 4 of the top 44 highest hazard coal ash ponds in the United States. Two of these coal ash ponds are located in Gaston County at the Riverbend Steam Station adjacent to Mountain Island Lake. That makes Gaston County home to more than 200,000 tons of coal waste! Both of the ponds are unlined and are located upstream from the primary drinking water intakes for Charlotte, Gastonia, Mt. Holly and Belmont. About 1 million people receive their drinking water from Mountain Island Lake. Not to be alarmed, water released for public consumption goes through a rigorous process of filtration and treatment. In fact, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities won the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Excellence Award last year and drinking water is regularly tested. The concern lies with the unknowns. Public officials assure that the coal ash ponds at the Riverbend facility have passed regular dam safety inspections, yet the potential for catastrophic failure looms heavily on the densely populated area. History has provided a back drop for the disastrous consequences associated with past coal ash impoundment failures. This is the main reason the two ponds have been given a high hazard rating by the U.S. EPA, for the potential loss of human life if the impoundments were to fail. The other unknowns are the extent to which these coal ash ponds are contaminating the local environment and the other potential pollutants that might be entering the Mountain Island Lake and the Catawba River.
Spotlight | History
“To have some parts flowing free again... with deer grazing on its banks... ducks and geese raising their young in the backwaters... eddies and twists and turns for canoeists... and fishing opportunities such as Lewis and Clark enjoyed... would be the finest possible tribute to the men of the Expedition, and a priceless gift for our children.” — Stephen Ambrose, Undaunted Courage
The best solution to Gaston County’s coal ash problems is to remove the ponds completely and move the coal waste to an area that does not pose such a high risk to the population. The Riverbend facility is already planned to be decommissioned by the owner, Duke Energy, by 2015, according to their press release last year. What is not clear is the future of the coal ash ponds at this location. There are no evident plans to remove the estimated 200,000 tons of coal waste. To ensure the safety and health of Gaston County and the surrounding area for generations to come, the coal ash ponds must be removed. The best way to ensure this will happen is to pressure public officials and Duke Energy by sending e-mails, letters, making phone calls, and increasing awareness of the dangers in Gaston County’s backyard. This is a potential disaster that can easy be remedied by simply making your voice heard and coming together as a community to address a serious concern.
Mike Burns is a recent graduate of Queens University of Charlotte with an Environmental Studies degree with a minor in Political Science. He's been involved with local environmental organizations including the Stop Cliffside Coalition, Greenpeace, Sierra Club, Catawba Riverkeepers, and various other environmental advocacy groups.
The CatawbaWateree River The Catawba River and the Wateree Rivers are essentially one river that begins in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina and flows through the Charlotte metropolitan area into Lake Wateree in South Carolina.The name of the river changes to the Wateree River in Lake Wateree and eventually joins with the Congaree River in Lake Marion. The Catawba-Wateree River was originally home to the Catawba Indian Tribe, self-identified “people of the river” and the Wateree Tribe, whose name comes from a Catawban word meaning “to float on the water.” Today the CatawbaWateree basin is the home of approximately 2 million people. The Catawba-Wateree River flows for 300 miles from its headwaters in the North Carolina mountains to the confluence with the Congaree River in Lake Marion.The headwaters of the Catawba River extend from the slopes of Grandfather Mountain, near Blowing Rock, to the mountains near Ridgecrest, North Carolina.The basin includes approximately 5000 miles of waterways and it includes portions of 24 counties in two states (North Carolina and South Carolina). Most of the Catawba River is dammed. There are eleven major lakes in the basin and numerous smaller lakes. The dams that form these lakes have a major impact on the flow of the river. The largest “free flowing” section of the Catawba River is a 30-mile section of the river below Lake Wylie, which was recently designated as a South Carolina Scenic River. This section of the river includes the largest grove of Spider Lilies in the world (approximately 160 acres), as well as an historical canal. It ends above Great Falls, South Carolina, shortly before the Wateree River joins the Catawba River in Lake Wateree. The Wateree River feeds Lake Wateree and then meanders for approximately 80 miles to Lake Marion.
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Catch The Facts Before Consuming Any Locally Caught Fish Many folks enjoy fishing from the creeks, ponds and lakes in Mecklenburg County. Some also enjoy eating their catch, but State health officials from North and South Carolina advise not eating certain types of fish due to potential exposure to contaminants. Location
Fish Type
Directions
Catfish
All people should NOT EAT these fish.
Mountain Island Lake Largemouth Bass
Women of childbearing age (15 to 44 years), pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under age 15 should NOT EAT these fish. All other people should NOT EAT MORE THAN TWO MEALS* PER MONTH.
Largemouth Bass
All surface waters in Mecklenburg & Gaston Counties, including all streams, lakes and ponds
All surface waters in Mecklenburg County south and east of I-85, including all streams, lakes and ponds
except Mountain Island Lake and Lake Wylie
Bluegill Sunfish Farm Raised Catfish Farm Raised & Wild Trout Farm Raised Crayfish
Blackfish (Bowfin) Catfish Warmouth Yellow Perch
Women of childbearing age (15 to 44 years), pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under age 15 should NOT EAT these fish. All other people should NOT EAT MORE THAN ONE MEAL* PER WEEK. Women of childbearing age (15 to 44 years), pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under age 15 should NOT EAT MORE THAN TWO MEALS* PER WEEK OF THESE FISH. All other people SHOULD NOT EAT MORE THAN FOUR MEALS* PER WEEK. Women of childbearing age (15 to 44 years), pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under age 15 should NOT EAT these fish. All other people should NOT EAT MORE ONE MEAL* PER WEEK.
*A meal is defined as 6 ounces of uncooked fish for adults or 2 ounces of uncooked for children under 15.
For more information visit: stormwater.charmeck.org and click on Creeks, Lakes & Ponds, then Fish consumption advisories. 21
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Mercury Contamination in the Catawba North Carolina and South Carolina have advised against consuming certain types of fish in the Catawba due to mercury contamination. Most of the mercury is coming from coal-fired powerplants. Here’s what happens. Largemouth bass eat smaller fish; mercury builds up in the fish’s tissue. Mercury is a neurotoxin, especially harmful to pregnant women and infants, attacking the developing brains and contributing to learning disabilities. One source of that mercury is coal-fired power plants. Three of them line the lakes on the Catawba River around Charlotte: • The massive Marshall Steam Station on N.C. Highway 150, west of Lake Norman. • The Allen Station in Belmont, along Lake Wylie. • The Riverbend Station on Mountain Island Lake, the oldest, smallest and dirtiest of the three.
“About 12,667 children have lifelong learning disabilities as the result of mercury exposure in North Carolina,” said Rick Gaskins, of the Catawba Riverkeepers, quoting the state’s epidemiologist. Duke Energy has set a tentative date to close the Riverbend plant in by 2015. Until then,“catch and release” is the best thing to do when fishing from the Catawba River. Let’s hope future generations will figure out a way to clean up our mess.
FISH ADVISORIES Fish advisories have been issued throughout the CatawbaWateree River basin for various types of fish. Many of these fish advisories are the result of testing initiated by Catawba Riverkeeper and confirmed by state and local officials. For more information about the fish advisories, go to www.catawbariverkeeper.org
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Spotlight | Safety
Beat the Heat, Check the Backseat
T
his is an important saying for caregivers/parents who have children in the back seat of a vehicle. Did you know in 2011 there were 33 children nationwide that died in cars as a result of hyperthermia?
Angela Ross,Trauma Program Coordinator with CaroMont Health Trauma Services in Gastonia knows first-hand the effects of leaving children unattended in vehicles. “It’s a tragic fact that 8 out of 10 deaths are because parents forgot their child was in the vehicle,” Ross said.“I don’t want to see anyone live with that kind of guilt.” On an 80 degree day, temperatures can exceed 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes, which can be fatal.“Cracking”a window has little to no effect on soaring temperatures. Children’s temperature regulation systems are less efficient, which means their body temperatures warm 3 to 5 times faster than adults. Ross said vehicles in the heat are like a convection oven.The windows amplify the heat and trap it inside, she said. Never leave your child alone in the vehicle! Here are some safety tips to remember (According to Safe Kids USA): • Leave your purse, wallet, or briefcase on the floor board of the back seat to remind yourself that your child is in the car. Most deaths are unintentional resulting from forgetting there is a child in the car. • Put a sticker with a baby picture on the rearview mirror. • Keep a stuffed animal in the car seat.When placing the child in the car seat, put the stuffed animal up front with the driver. • Set your cell phone reminder to be sure you dropped your child off at their childcare center. • Dial 911 immediately if you see a child unattended in a car. • Lock all vehicle doors and the trunk after everyone is out of the car. Keep keys out of children’s reach. • Check the car and trunks first if a child goes missing.
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Want to learn more about the Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties? The Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties is your local Smart Start agency.You can reach us at 704-922-0900 or visit us online at www.pfclg.com. Our vision is a community where young children will reach their health and educational potential. Connect with us: www.pfclg.com www.facebook.com/pfclg Flickr, www.flickr.com/pfclg Twitter: Ready4School
Amy Wadsworth, Public Information Coordinator Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties publicinfo@pfclg.com
Gaston Scene Spartan Race
Photo by Randy Klatt
Photo by Kristie Hewlett
Mother’s Day at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Photos by Shannon Irish
Garibaldi Festival in Belmont
Kerrie and Jason Boys competing in the Spartan Race at the US Whitewater Center.
The Art Station Gallery reception
Heather is a staff member at the Art Gallery.
Photos by Kristie Hewlett
Artist,Ty Hobson
Photo by Kristie Hewlett
Carolina Thread 5k
Band Members for the COLD RIVER BAND are left to right Lorelei Ross,Timmy Helms,Thad Collis and Ty Hobson. Contact band visit Facebook.com/coldriver. Artwork in band picture background is by Artist Valerie Kramer.
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Spotlight | Music
By: Darryl Warren Photos by Shannon Irish
Shaggin goin on!!! Whole lotta
Belmont’s Friday Night Live Get ready for the biggest party in the South as Belmont host kicks off the summer with
Beach, Soul, and Dance Music. 25
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the areas hottest bands for Friday Night Live! We recently sat down with Vince Hill, President of the Belmont’s Merchant Association to ask him what makes Friday Nights so popular in Belmont.
How did the
SHAG
phenomenon originate? Vince, how did FNL begin? In 2007, the position of President of The Merchants Association became available.As the question was asked, who will be the New President, a deafening silence hovered over the room.You would have thought the question was, who will be next for the guillotine? A voice broke the silence asking, How about you Vince? The rest is history. It was a perfect opportunity to act on some ideas rolling around in my head. How about a concert in the street, Downtown Belmont? With the help of some very fine people, FNL became a reality. Belmont’s Friday Night Live is now the largest summer beach music festival series in the United States. How did it become so successful? When I started looking for bands to perform, I was blessed with the opportunity to meet Ken Knox with General Johnson and The Chairmen of The Board. He was very instrumental in helping us come up with a list of groups to do four events the first year.And with the blessings of The General, he offered to kick off the series and brought on three more big name acts. I have always been a believer that if you can’t go first class doesn’t go at all. Bringing in top entertainers has given FNL the boost needed to draw people here from Spartanburg to Raleigh and all points in between and beyond...
Ground zero for the shag phenomenon has always been Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where “jitterbugs” swing-danced at open-air beach parties during the Thirties and Forties.This was one of the first examples of African-American culture bleeding over into the mainstream: white college kids would routinely visit racially segregated dances, pick up the moves, and bring them back to the beach. In addition, these kids pushed hard for local radio stations to play rhythm and blues as soundtrack for their party, creating a movement so sturdy that there are still radio stations in the Carolinas with “beach music” playlists. Billy Jeffers and “Chicken” Hicks are two of the main shaggers credited with developing the dances we know now, helping to slow down the tempo of the original jitterbug and incorporate sexier, looser movements into it.The phenomenon faded in the Seventies, enjoyed an early-Eighties renaissance, faltered again slightly when clubs began restricting those under 21, and flourished again in the Nineties. Today, shag is an established segment of Southern culture. Indeed, the basic dance is now the official dance of the state of South Carolina. Source: www.About.com
Continues Hill,“For all of us, who work to make this thing successful, FNL is a pure labor of love. Love for the wonderful people of Belmont and the surrounding areas. It is a Win/Win situation for all of us as well as the City because of the Caliber of people this event draws.We love this town and it is because of that Love we will continue to make Belmont a destination point.” “All of the proceeds from the FNL go toward Scholarships for Business students at South Point HS as well as helping merchants and others in need because of some hardship or another.We are also trying to place several Smart Boards in our local elementary schools to help with their education.We are a non-profit organization and any donations will go toward those causes as well.” So put your dancing shoes on, grab a friend and come to downtown Belmont and SHAKE YOUR TAIL FEATHERS! Friday Night Live is BACK!!!
Photo courtesy of Darin Page Henley Host of: Darin & Anita on Grand Strand (Syndicated Radio Show)
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ht g i l ot p s 1450 Glass Stained and Fused Glass by Mindy Easler www.1450glass.com mindy@1450glass.com Work displayed and for sale at Catawba River Artisans.
July 3 & 4 Coca-Cola 4th of July Festival
US National Whitewater Center Tues & Wed: Music begins at 4PM each day Fireworks each night at dark. FREE and open to the public
JUNE 30 Grand Opening of Goat Island Fourth of July Celebration
JUNE 29 -31 Red White & Belmont Fireworks
Town Center • Cramerton, NC 8am-12pm: Farmers Market 9-1pm: Disc Golf Expo on Goat Island 10am-until: Kayak, canoe, stand up paddleboarding and pontoon rides to the island 1-4pm: Live music, corn-hole tournament, dunking booth, Firehouse Challenge, arts & crafts vendors 6-9pm: Live music by Bam Jazz, a 7 piece brass band 9:15pm: Fireworks
Downtown Belmont Come and enjoy carnival rides, games, vendors & food and so much more! On Friday night the Friday Night Live Concert & Fireworks is part of the Red, White & Belmont celebration. There will be a concert on Saturday night and DJ & Karaoke with Buddy Love on Sunday afternoon‌then Sunday night a live concert and fireworks! Fireworks begin at 9:30PM. For more details visit www.cityofbelmont.org or call 704-8255586. Bring all the family and friends for a weekend of fun, music, and food. See you there!
All events will take place in the Town Center with the exception of the Disc Golf Expo, which will be taking place on Goat Island. 27
good things in gaston county | jun/jul 2012
KerrieCan! Embellished hats, wall art, accessories www.etsy.com/shop/kerriecan
Thomas Joseph Portrait Design Classical and Contemporary Portraits www.tompachecophoto1.blogspot.com tompac1@carolina.rr.com Mt. Holly, NC (704) 214-3724
Tom Pacheco, Photographic Artist www.tompachecophoto1.blogspot.com
Stacey Pilkington-Smith Fine Art & Illustration Offering private art classes (704) 349-3972 www.staceysmithart.com
Renee Loftin Clemmer Local Potter Gallery@City 128 South Main St. in Mt. Holly, NC www.clayhousepottery.com
Catawba River Artisans Art Gallery 128 South Main Street Mount Holly, NC (704) 822-1450
Chasing Parked Cars Charlotte area's newest improv comedy group. Available for parties, corporate events, fundraisers and local venues (704) 349-3972 www.chasingparkedcars.com
2012 SUMMER WORKSHOP JULY 5-26 Performances: JULY 26-29 Aladdin Jr Little Theater of Gastonia Designed for third through twelfth graders, 238 South Clay Street • Gastonia, NC 28052 For tickets contact (704) 865-0160 www.LittleTheaterofGastonia.com
Whitewater River Jam Series
JULY 12 Truckstop Preachers
U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. (704) 391-3900
JULY 19 River Whyless
JUNE 7 Red Rocking Chair Thursday, 7:00PM
JUNE 14 Red June Thursday, 7:00PM
JUNE 21 Mike Strauss Band Thursday, 7:00PM
JUNE 28 Yarn
Thursday, 7:00PM
Thursday, 7:00PM
JULY 26 Actual Proof Thursday, 7:00PM
Chairmen of the Board With one of Soul Music’s all-time great group names, the Chairmen of the Board have been pleasing “beach music” lovers for over 30 years.
Friends Sports Bar & Grill 16 North Main Street • Belmont Karaoke: Thursdays at 10:00PM Live Music every Friday and Saturday from 9:00PM - 1:00AM (704) 825-1401
Thursday, 7:00PM
The Original Flip Flops Karaoke Showcase
JULY 3 Tab Benoit
7:30PM - 11:00PM 3801 E. Franklin Blvd, Gastonia (704) 824-8757
Tuesday, 4:00PM
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7
JULY 4 Moreland & Arbuckle Wednesday, 4:00PM
Contact Entertainment@gastontoday.com for info and special rates to have your art, music or event listed in the entertainment spotlight. jun/jul 2012 | good things in gaston county
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Top Attractions provide excitement and goo races, eating contest Flip cup tournament Live Performance by Lyric Free Haircut Friday presented by Paul Mitchell School (6:30 8:00PM)
WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO IN GASTON COUNTY UPCOMING RACES JUNE 21
River Bound Race Series 15k/5k US National Whitewater Center
JULY 15
XTERRA Whitewater Triathlon Swim: 850 meters total, 2 legs Mountain bike: 23 k.m. Trail run: 6.5 k.m. US National Whitewater Center
UPCOMING EVENTS & FESTIVALS JUNE 6
Zipline & Dine Zip-line excursion from the south ridge of our facility to the Catawba River followed by a fireside dinner with craft beer and wine. US National Whitewater Center
JUNE 16
JUNETEENTH Stowe Park ~ Main Street in downtown Belmont The celebration will feature local entertainers, homemade BBQ, and a fish fry. Vendors from around the area will be on hand as well. This event is free and open to the public. Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States.
JUNE 29 -31
Red White & Belmont Fireworks Downtown Belmont Come and enjoy carnival rides, games, vendors & food and so much more! On Friday night the Friday Night Live Concert & Fireworks is part of the Red, White & Belmont celebration. There will be a concert on Saturday night and
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DJ & Karaoke with Buddy Love on Sunday afternoon…then Sunday night a live concert and fireworks! Fireworks begin at 9:30PM. For more details visit www.cityofbelmont.org or call 704825-5586. Bring all the family and friends for a weekend of fun, music, and food. See you there!
JUNE 30
Grand Opening of Goat Island Fourth of July Celebration Town Center Cramerton, NC 8am-12pm: Farmers Market 9-1pm: Disc Golf Expo on Goat Island 10am-until: Kayak, canoe, stand up paddleboarding and pontoon rides to the island 1-4pm: Live music, corn-hole tournament, dunking booth, Firehouse Challenge, arts & crafts vendors 6-9pm: Live music by Bam Jazz, a 7 piece brass band 9:15pm: Fireworks All events will take place in the Town Center with the exception of the Disc Golf Expo, which will be taking place on Goat Island.
JULY 3
Fireworks Night Gastonia Grizzlies Sims Legion Park Gastonia , NC Fireworks display after the game Coors Light All You Can Eat & Drink Tuesday for $12 includes hot dogs, chips, soda and beer
JULY 18
Zipline & Dine Zip-line excursion from the south ridge of our facility to the Catawba River followed by a fireside dinner with craft beer and wine. US National Whitewater Center
JULY 27
3rd Annual Midnight Madness Gastonia Grizzlies Sims Legion Park Gastonia , NC 3rd Annual Midnight Madness Midnight Madness: 8:00pm Home run derby Players in dunk tank Bed races, pillow fights, pajama
The Schiele Museum Events 1500 East Garrison Blvd Gastonia, NC Phone: (704) 866-6908 www. schielemuseum.org
MAY 19 TO DEC 28
Cowboys-Dust of the Trail Take a ride into a world of… dogies, drifters and drovers… roundups, reatas and rodeos… bunk houses, bronc busters and buckaroos! Visit www.schielemuseum.org for program updates. $3 with Museum Admission
SUMMER CAMP Soccer Camp Exodus Church June 27-29, Davis Park, 6-8 nightly, for 4-12 year olds Exodus Kids Extreme Exodus Church July 23-25, 6:00-8:30 nightly, at the Iris Room, for 5 yrs. old through completed 5th grade.
BUSINESSES Church Services Exodus Church Meeting Sundays at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. at the Iris Room 27 South Main Street Belmont, NC info@theexoduschurch.org (704) 913-6533 www.theexoduschurch.org Client & Family Appreciation Service SendOutCards PO Box 472329 Charlotte, NC 28247 (704) 458-5683 sendoutcards.com/heygaston Dog Cafe/Groomer Happy Dog Café Boutique & Spa, Inc. 26 N. Main St, Suite 1 Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-5987 www.happydogcafe.net www.facebook.com/happydogcafe
good things in gaston county | jun/jul 2012
Health & Wellness Compleat Rehab & Compleat Kidz 2675 Court Drive Gastonia, NC 28054 (704) 824-7800 www.CompleatRehab.com
Comprehensive Digestive Health Dr. Khaled Elraie 1212 Spruce St, Suite 203 Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 461-0161
TIPS ON SHOPPING AT A FARMERS MARKET Shop early for best selections. Bring lots of small change. Ask lots of questions. Ask vendors to produce your favorite varieties. Farmers markets are NOW OPEN! Shop LOCAL! Gastonia Farmers Market 410 E. Long Avenue • Gastonia, NC OPEN: Tu, Th, Sat: 8:00AM-12:00PM 704-853-0049
Lowell Farmers Market 204 E. Second St. Lowell, NC 28098 OPEN: Thursdays 4:00-7:00PM www.lowellnc.com
Belmont Farmers Market Main Street (Across from the General Store) OPEN: Friday afternoons 3:30-6:30PM April 20th-Sept 28th. Berries, peaches, pies, cakes, steak, sausage, soap, and on and on! We’ve also been asked to partner with Carolina Healthcare Systems this year. Meal plans, recipes, kid friendly. It’s going to be great! CONTACT kevin@belmontfarmersmarket.com
Mount Holly Farmers Market 130 South Main Street Mount Holly, NC OPEN: Saturdays 8:00AM-12:00PM Call 704-609-0666 or leigh@brinkleydesign.com
The Cramerton Farmers Market 119 Center St., Cramerton, NC 28032 OPEN: Saturdays 8:00AM-12:00PM There will be live music on the first Saturday of every month at the Farmers Market. Jazz Pianist, Dennis Boyce, is scheduled to play at the June 2nd Farmers Market. Solo guitarist, Caleb Davis, is scheduled to play at the July 7th Farmers Market. Children's Corner will be on the 3rd Saturday of every month. The June theme will be Beeks, Treats and Horizon Organics. Make a bird mask and feeding station while learning about what foods attract different birds. The clue is in the beek! www.cramerton.org or 704-824-4337
od family fun! »»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» The Medical Spa @ Gaston Medical Group 660 Summit Crossing Place Suite, 301 Gastonia, NC 28054 (704) 884-2179 www.medicalspagaston.com Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology 959 Cox Road Gastonia, NC 28054 Gastonia (704) 866-7576 Hickory (828) 325-9849 Charlotte (704) 542-2220 Ultimate Fitness 1609 Westover St Gastonia, NC 28056 (704) 823-0031 www.ultimatefitnesstoday.com Green Way Cycle Rentals www.greenwaycyclerentals.com Home Improvement Love Home Improvements Betty Love 119 W. Central Ave Mt Holly, NC 28210 (704) 827-3265 Rock Worx P.O. Box 861 Mt. Holly, NC 28120 (828) 926-1000 Insurance Agents Art Shoemaker Insurance 305 Belmont-Mt Holly Road PO Box 853 Belmont, NC 28012 Phone: (704) 827-8433 Fax: (704) 827-8438
Photography Megan Britt Meganelizabethbritt@gmail.com (704) 560-4464 meganbrittphotography.com Shannon Irish Photography (704) 641-0467 shannonirishphotography.com Real Estate Chip Wilson, REALTOR®/Broker Garibaldi Realty 100 S. Main Street Belmont, NC 28012 (866) 810-6047 or (704) 488-5822 chip@garibaldirealty.net www.gastoncountyshortsales.com Restaurants Friends Sports Bar & Grill 16 North Main St Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-1401 www.friendssportsbarandgrill.net Simonetti’s Pizza Main Street Crossings Shopping Center 6430 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC (704) 825-5555 www.simonettis.com
Seafood Black’s Bluewater Seafood & Grill 1118 S. Main Street Mount Holly, NC 28120 (704) 827-1230 Services Gaston Tax & Payroll Service 107 E Charlotte Ave, Mount Holly, NC 28120 (704) 824-0729 Mommy Maids (704) 825-6938 mommymaidcleaning@gmail.com William Henry Signature Salon & Spa 15 South Main Street Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-9040
Shopping Catawba River Artisans Art Gallery 128 South Main Street Mount Holly, NC (704) 822-1450 Stafford Jewelers 621 Park Street Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-6982 www.stafford-jewelers.com
Coffee Shop Caravan Coffee Bar 7 South Main St. Belmont, NC (704) 829-7711
Veterinary Hospital TotalBond Veterinary Hospitals 11226 Mount Holly Rd, Charlotte NC 28214 Phone: (704) 827-7422 3200 Union Rd., Gastonia, NC 28056 Phone: (704) 867-8318
y Healthy Healthy economic economic g growth rowth y Quality job Quality jo b creation cr eation
104 North Main Street Mt Holly, NC 28120 (704) 827-1234 www.williamhenrysalon.com
BBQ Ranucci’s BBQ & Grill 403 E. Catawba St Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 825-4472 www.ranuccis.com
Outdoor Adventures/ 117 N Main St, Christian Retreat Mount Holly, NC 28120 Capstone Climbing & Adventure (704) 820-6072 375 Pitts School Rd Concord, NC 28027 (704) 652-2548 info@capstoneclimbing.com
Gaston County’s Gaston County ’s cchampion hampion ffor: or:
y A vibrant vibrant business b ness busi ccommunity ommunity 601 W W.. Franklin Frankliin Blvd. Blvd. Gastonia, Gastonia, NC NC 28052 704.864.2621 704.864.26 621 w w w. w . gasto g a s t o n cham c h a m b e r.co r. c o m
For info and advertising rates to have your business or event listed, contact info@gastontoday.com
Showcase what you have to offer Gaston County! Become a part of our high quality publication! • 7500 copies distributed locally in high traffic locations and businesses throughout Gaston County 6 times a year. • Approved by the NC Department of Tourism and placed in all Welcome Centers entering into NC • Placed in the Charlotte and Gaston Visitors Centers Contact us today! 704-685-7011 • info@gastontoday.com
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WE’RE REALLY SCRUBBING!!! Shannon Warren and her children “I would recommend Mommy Maid because I trust them, they are dependable and do a great job-even on the special tasks we ask for. We both work, we have a 2 year old and one on the way, plus we own our own business, so Mommy Maid is a life saver. Their prices are very reasonable based on other services we have tried.”
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--- Chad Huggins, Gastonia, Customer since 2006
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEANING SERVICES Daily • Weekly • Biweekly • Seasonal • One-Time No Contracts - We Want To Earn Your Routine Business
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If it’s CLEAN you want, it’s us you NEED!!! CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE! Bonded • Insured • Uniformed • Background-Checked • Owned & Operated in Gaston County
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