complimentary
fall | 2011
Covering the Southern Lifestyle of Gaston County
Autumn at Crowders Mountain State Park Take a walk on the quiet side
DSBG
Facts on this Beautiful Perennial Garden
zip Âť bike Âť hike Visit the US National Whitewater Center today!
The Schiele and its Natural Wonders
Featuring Outdoor Activities Entertainment Shopping Festivals Lodging Dining
Christmas Town USA Sparkles
MAGAZINE
publisher’s letter Welcome! We appreciate you joining us in celebrating the biggest and best attractions in Gaston County. Gaston Today Magazine is committed to bringing you a quality publication that presents all the “Good Things” about Gaston County. Our purpose is simple, to provide our advertisers a local complimentary print magazine designed to promote their business, while bringing to light ALL of the “Good Things” to see and do around the Greater Gaston Area. From the Catawba and South Fork rivers to the majestic mountains of Kings and Crowders, our part of Carolina is rich in history and beauty. We proudly honor these great area attractions in our very first edition, thanks to our friends at Gaston Travel and Tourism, our wonderful advertisers, and all those who made this magazine possible. Each issue will offer you a publication for what is going on in Gaston County TODAY, our local people and businesses that make this a truly special place. This magazine is not just another book of coupons; it is a magazine about the “Good Things” in our community, it’s about where we have been, and most importantly, where we are going. We believe in Gaston County. We believe there are countless people and places that will support us by advertising and promoting what they do. We believe in the power of shopping locally,“grassroots marketing,” and supporting local businesses. We have taken this belief and put it in print. Ultimately, our readers will decide if Gaston Today Magazine is truly a “Good Thing.” So sit back, take a break, and enjoy the very first edition of Gaston Today Magazine…… Look for “GT Mag” at your local hangouts, salons, restaurants, or various shops around Gaston County. You can also find a copy at your local Chamber, visitors’ bureau, or local library. If you are interested in advertising, contact us at 704-685-7011.
Volume 1 • Issue 1 _____________________________________ Co-Publisher/Editor Darryl Warren info@gastontoday.com Co-Publisher/Creative Director idesign2inc Kerrie & Jason Boys idesign2inc@gmail.com Sales Executive Darryl Warren info@gastontoday.com Photographers Robin Thompson Contributing Writers Delta Sanders Sheri Borges Tariq Cranke Darryl Warren Sheila Moran _____________________________________ 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.
Our next edition is our special “Holiday Edition.”
! Be Good!!ryl Dar
Darryl Warren Co-publisher
DJK Media • 8309 Heathcrest Ct. • Clt. NC 28269 704-685-7011 www.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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good things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011
MAGAZINE
contents local info River Jam Fall Finale..................................9
features
Learn the history of Crowders
The Schiele Museum of Natural History ......3
Good Things about Gaston County............21
Experience natural wonders at The Schiele Museum
A list of Gaston County’s businesses and events
Christmas Town USA ................................7
Business Commentary ............................29
Learn the history of the McAdenville Christmas lights
New businesses are sprouting up!
The US National Whitewater Center ........11 So much more than just whitewater
History of Crowders Mountain State Park ..13
spotlight
Carolina Smoke Off..................................30
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden ................15 Volunteer: Habitat for Humanity ................5 Brush up on some facts about one of the finest perennial garden in the Southeast
by: Delta P. Sanders Paying it forward
Crowders Mountain State Park ................19 Art: Interest Your Child in Poetry................6 Fun for the whole family
by: Sheri Borges Encourage your child’s creativity at every level
Music: Sweatin’ Bullets............................10 by: Tariq Cranke
Education: Gaston Day School..................14 Community: Belmont ..........................17 by: Darryl Warren
Fitness: Greenway by Bike ..................28 by: Sheila Moran
About the cover. A quiet fall walk at Crowders Mountain on a crisp morning in October. Photo courtesy of Robin Thompson oct/nov 2011 | good things in gaston county
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education
The he natural wonders of North America and North Carolina, coupled with the rich history of our region, are all reflected in The Schiele’s exceptional exhibitions and diverse programming.Whether you’re indoors or out, with the kids or your colleagues, by bringing you a lot closer to nature,The Schiele will bring you a little closer to yourself. Gastonia’s Schiele Museum of Natural History features the largest collection of
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“The Schiele is one of only 70 museums in the U.S. designated as an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution”
1500 East Garrison Blvd Gastonia, NC ---------704-866-6908 ---------www.schielemuseum.org ---------Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm Sun 1pm - 5pm
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}
land mammal specimens in the Southeast, from common raccoons to huge buffalo. But that’s just the beginning. It has five permanent galleries with vivid natural history exhibits, plus outdoor recreations of an Indian Village and an 18th-century Backcounty Farm. The James H. Lynn Planetarium features a spacious theater that surrounds the audience. The Schiele is one of only 70 museums in the U.S. designated as an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, enabling it to
photography courtesy of: The Schiele Museum of Natural History
Schiele work with Smithsonian artifacts and materials. Also enjoy a wide variety of continuously changing exhibits. The Schiele Museum is a public institution established to promote awareness and appreciation for nature, and to instill a sense of individual and social responsibility for the diversity of the natural world and the role of humanity in it. The museum collects, studies, and preserves natural specimens and cultural artifacts. It uses educational programs, exhibits and publications to communicate to all possible audiences the variety of those objects, their environmental and social contexts and the history of their connections.
October 2011 Events CAVES Opens June thru December Type: Exhibit ------------------------------------Deep – Dark – Fun! Can you believe it? Hidden in darkness and inhabited by creatures seldom seen, cave systems are a unique and threatened underground wilderness.The mysteries provided by caves have long attracted human visitors – from the first Prehistoric peoples using caves for shelter to modern day spelunkers seeking a subterranean thrill. Spectacular minerals that form in no other environment await those adventurous enough to travel
underground. Shy and unique creatures inhabit the darkness, often alongside the fossil traces of extinct beasts from the Ice Age that prowled the same corridors thousands of years before. Experience the breath-taking beauty of subterranean environments, complete with live animals, beautiful minerals, fantastic formations, and running water within dark passages that twist and turn. Free to Museum Members & Free with General Admission, call 704.866.6908 for more information. Schiele-O-Ween Friday, October 28, 6 - 8 PM Type: Special Event ------------------------------------If your family is looking for some spooky fun, look no further than the Schiele Museum! Our Schiele-O-Ween event will be filled with fun and interactive family activities, including a spooky cave tour, treats, planetarium shows, hands-on activities, and a special showing of our stage program Halloween Tales. Great for the entire family-kids are encouraged to attend in costume! $7 for all ages / $5 Advance tickets available. Call 704-854-6676 for more information. Scottish Heritage Festival 2011 Sunday, October 23, 1 - 5 PM Type: Public Program ------------------------------------Scottish Heritage of the Carolinas with the Loch Norman Pipe Band, Scottish Country Dancers, and traditional and contemporary music. Research your own family clans and tartans at the “Discover Your Clan” information booth.Visit the 18thcentury Backcountry Farm to learn
about lifeways of early Scottish immigrants on the colonial frontier. See cooks prepare traditional Scottish dishes at the open hearth. Ladies and children, try your luck at the Tossin’ of the Hagis! Free with Museum admission and for members. Autumn at the Backcountry Farm Through October 23; Saturdays 10 AM - 4 PM, Sundays 1 - 4 PM Type: Public Program ------------------------------------Visit the Backcountry Farm to learn how animals, plants, and even the earth itself sustained the European Settlers of the Piedmont. Free with Museum admission and for members. A Natural Life: The Bud Schiele Story Sept. 24 through Jan. 31 Type: Exhibit ------------------------------------Discover the man behind the Museum in this exploration of the life of Rudolph Melchoir “Bud” Schiele.A self-styled naturalist and botanist, Bud Schiele devoted a lifetime to studying, cataloging and preserving natureamassing a collection of wildlife, rocks and minerals which are a part of The Schiele today. See how his legacy continues!
oct/nov 2011 | good things in gaston county
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Spotlight | Volunteer
Habitat for Humanity By: Delta P. Sanders
H
abitat for Humanity of Gaston County recently opened at 1840 E. Franklin Boulevard.The spacious, renovated facility includes the Jon B. Closson Housing Center, where administrative offices are located, and an expanded Habitat ReStore. Before the move, the Habitat ReStore was the best kept secret in the county. The former address on Second
atlantic TAX SOLUTIONS, LLC
Avenue had limited visibility. Both the organization and the store have benefited from the prominence of the new location and high traffic in the area. Habitat for Humanity works in partnership with God and people everywhere, from all walks of life, to develop communities with people in need by building and renovating houses so that there are decent houses in decent
Our firm provides outstanding service to our clients because of our dedication to the three underlying principles of professionalism, responsiveness and quality.
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good things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011
communities in which every person can experience God’s love and can live and grow into all that God intends. Revenue from the ReStore helps fund homes for families in Gaston County. Store hours are 9 AM – 6 PM Tuesday – Friday and 9 AM – 4 PM on Saturday. Homeowner information classes are offered the second Saturday of each month. Call the office to pre-register for attendance. Sponsorship and volunteer and opportunities are also available by calling the office at (704) 864-6536.
Spotlight | Art
How to interest your child in poetry! By: Sheri Borges, Co-Owner, Poor Richard’s Book Shoppe
A
t Poor Richard’s Book Shoppe, we strive to not only meet our customer’s literary needs through merchandise, but to encourage and support all forms of the Creative Arts. Poetry is either the foundation or an extension of most every form or Art. It is yet another vehicle for the expression of thoughts, ideas, and feelings. It is a means of sharing in a brief and concise way. To develop an interest in poetry through your child, you can begin with age appropriate pieces. Start by reading to them.Younger children find a great deal of fun in words that are imitations of the sounds they represent…or Onomatopoeia. Use this method through fun and silly songs, stories or poems. Onomatopoeic words produce strong images that can both delight and amuse kids when listening to their parents read poetry. An example for use is the poem “Baa Baa Black Sheep”. This method is found in nursery rhymes and is incredibly useful in not only gaining interest in poetry but teaching children to read.
As time goes they will
Tom’s Auto
discover the style that fits them
Inspections & Repair
“
best, the one that will be the
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voice of who they are.
For the “I can read by myself” group, you can choose such authors as Dr. Seuss or P.D. Eastman to engage your future writers.Their works are simple and easy to understand as well as being silly stories built around life lessons. Don’t forget to discuss the meaning with them, this will help your child in developing an understanding of the difference between words that rhyme and poetic expressions with meaning – a thought, an idea, a feeling. Be sure to encourage your child’s creativity at every level – post it on the fridge, frame it and share it with family and friends. As your child grows and advances, challenge them to write their own pieces. Whether they are rhythmic or prose. As time goes they will discover the style that fits them best, the one that will be the voice of who they are.
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Holiday
photography by: Steve Rankin
Christmas Town USA
ach December,
CHRISTMAS TOWN USA McAdenville, NC ---------704-823-2260 704-823-2261 ---------www.mcadenvillechristmastown.com ---------Dec 1 - Dec 26 Tree Lighting Ceremony, Dec 1 Yule Log, Dec 16
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good things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011
hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights turn this small mill town into a spectacular holiday display. Visitors stroll down Main Street surrounded by the sights and sounds of Christmas. The history of the McAdenville Christmas Lights dates back to 1956, when the McAdenville Men’s Club conceived the idea of using lights to decorate a few trees around the McAdenville Community Center. Nine trees were decorated the first year, and reaction to this early effort was so favorable that the number of trees increased each year until in 1998 more than 450,000 red, green and white bulbs on approximately 400 trees gave off a warm holiday glow to the town and surrounding area.
Trees decorated last year ranged in height from six feet to more than 90 feet. Only live trees are used.The number of lights on individual trees varies with the height, diameter and fullness of the trees.The number of lights on an individual
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tree range from 500 to 5,000. One of the favorite spots for viewers is the lake which is situated near the heart of town. Ranging in size from 12 to 40 feet, 30 trees circle the lake.A fountain located in the center of the lake jets water 75 feet into the air.At the lake, a 46 foot wide lighted image of Old Man Winter blows snowflakes into the air. Santa and his reindeer, a display that is nine feet tall and seventy feet long, are featured as part of the annual tradition.While much emphasis has been placed on the Christmas lights, this represents only a portion of the efforts that goes into the preparation for Christmas.A life-size nativity scene is located about midway through the tour of Christmas Town. Literally millions of people have taken advantage of the opportunity to view the light fantasy during the 44 years of existence. In 2010 alone, more than 300,000 vehicles passed through this little town of only 832 residents. With so many people attracted to a certain area, the news media cannot be far behind.Television stations from all over the world converge in McAdenville on November 30 to broadcast as Christmas Town USA comes alive for another year. Lights glow nightly through December 26.
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RIVER JAM FALL FINALE Featuring Sam Bush and Justin Townes Earle Date/Time: SATURDAY, OC TOBER 22 Doors at 5 p. m., music at 6 p.m.
Band Lineup: Justin Townes Earle Taking up residence in the Lower East Side of Manhattan (by way of Nashville), Justin Townes Earle’s music is Americana through and through. Justin won the Best New and Emerging Artist at the 2009 Americana Music Awards. His record, Midnight at the Movies, was named one of the best records of last year by Amazon, received four stars in Rolling Stone and found a sweet spot in the blackened hearts of fans and critics alike. GQ Magazine named him one of the 25 best dressed men in the world in 2010. He also appeared on HBO’s Treme with his dad, troubadour Steve Earle, on whose Grammy Award-winning Townes record Justin also guests. “Earle sings like a honky-tonk hero and thinks like a 21st century man. He’s sharp and young, and has soul to burn—a traditionalist that is not afraid to play ragtime and cover the Replacements punk anthem ‘Can’t Hardly Wait.’” —Guitar Aficionado Sam Bush Grammy Award winning multi-instrumentalist Sam Bush doesn’t seem old enough to be a musical legend.And he’s not. But he is.And though Bush is best known for jaw-dropping skills on the mandolin, he is also a three time national junior fiddle champion and Grammy award winning vocalist. “In the acoustic world, I’ve been pretty lucky to play with almost every one of my heroes. I’ve gotten to play with Bill Monroe, Doc Watson, Earl Scruggs, I’ve been to the mountain,” says Bush with a smile. A Bluegrass legend, Bush is known as the King of Newgrass, a style of bluegrass he developed in the ‘70s. His band New Grass Revival, which he formed with Bela Fleck, Courtney Johnson and others, pioneered the new sound. 9
good things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011
“Basically you can boil it down to making traditional bluegrass-style instruments – fiddle, mandolin, banjo, etc. – to make contemporary music, new music,” Bush said in a phone interview from his home in Nashville.“We respect the tradition of bluegrass. In the words of Bill Monroe,‘You make it your own.’That’s what he used to say,‘Well, that’s good, now make it your own.’”
SAM BUSH JUSTIN TOW NES
EARLE
Tickets: $15 – Adv. Pu rchase – Gene ral Adm. $50 – Adv. Pu rchase – VIP Ticket $22 – Day of Event – Gene ral Adm. Starting at 5 p.m. on th e da the show, fa cility access y of limited to ti w cket holders ill be .
BONUS... HOW ABOUT A FALL MICROBREWS CRUISE? Each cruise begins with a guided flat-water paddle along the Catawba River.As the sun starts to set on the river, you’ll work your way back to the main facility for a specialty, fireside dinner on Hawk Island. Each cruise will feature a different craft brewery and tasting; representatives from the breweries will lead the tastings by highlighting new, seasonal and unique brews. We love the Microbrews Cruise. An evening of paddling, good food and craft beer.What more could you ask for?
Oct. 19 – Highland Brewing Company Nov. 2 – The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery 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.
Price: $55 per person Tickets: Available for purchase online: www.usnwc.org
Spotlight | Music
Sweatin’ Bullets ROCKS the house!!
by GT Mag music critic Tarik Cranke
S
weatin Bullets are a hard rocking band that is taking the local music venues by storm. Frontman Curtis Hammond is a high energy rocker that gets the crowd up and on their feet with crowd pleasing classics by AC/DC,Van Halen, and Creed. Guitarist Chuck Haigler slashes thru screaming solos while drummer Rick Rosetti and Jeff Rainwater keep a thumping beat on drums and bass.
These guys are one of the best cover bands in the Southeast and if you have not heard them,you are missing out! If you really want to get up and dance to the music, these guys are gonna blow you away. Be sure to check them out at http://www.sweatinbulletsband.com/ for upcoming dates! TARIK CRANKE is: Gaston Today Entertainment and Music Critic Owner of VKC PRODUCTIONS AND GASTON HOMEGROWN MUSIC FESTIVAL. Creator of THE VKC BAND AND VKC EVENTS CBS RADIO/RADIO TALK SHOW PRODUCER Music production/National movie soundtracks, and TV and radio commercials. Music director for the TV show “City Heat.” To have your band reviewed by Tariq for GT Mag, please send request to Tarikcranke@yahoo.com
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Adventure
White 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway Charlotte, NC 28214 ---------704-391-3900 ---------usnwc.org ---------Open 365 days a year Hours vary by season
he U.S. National Whitewater Center is an outdoor recreation facility set on the banks of the Catawba River. Our 400 acres of woodlands is home to the world’s largest recirculating river, 14 miles of biking, hiking and running trails, and one of the world’s largest outdoor climbing facilities... and now, they’ve made it easier than ever to enjoy... just buy one Pass, and PLAY ALL DAY! AllSport Pass AllSport Daily Pass – $49 Adult (10 years old and up), $39 Child (9 years old and under) The most popular way to spend the day at the USNWC. Get all day unlimited access to all of the following:Whitewater Rafting, Canyon Crossing, Climbing, MegaZip, Mega Jump, Mountain Biking, Adventure Course, Climb 2 Zip, Flatwater Kayaking,Whitewater Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding and Eco Trekking. Here’s just a few of the things that make the U.S Whitewater Center one of the “Good Things” about the Greater Gaston County area. Whitewater Rafting: Looking for something completely unique to do in Charlotte, North Carolina? The thrill of whitewater rafting at the U.S. National Whitewater Center is your answer. Home to the world’s largest man-made recirculating river, the USNWC provides exciting rafting adventures on Class II, III and IV whitewater rapids.All raft trips include a professional guide, a short trip talk on the fundamentals of rafting and essential safety information and all the technical equipment needed. Flatwater Kayaking Paddle along the scenic Catawba River and experience a different perspective of the USNWC. Flatwater kayaking is a relaxing way for families and friends to explore the region’s natural environment, wildlife and ecology. No experience is required; you can embrace the natural beauty of the river on your own, or staff guided tours are available.
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photography courtesy of: The U.S. National Whitewater Center
water Canyon Crossing The Canyon Crossing is one of the newest experiences at the USNWC.Traverse across the south ridge gorge as you work your way through the trees on a circuit of sky bridges. With five different aerial challenges that span the canyon, both kids and adults will be thrilled by the challenge of moving from tree platform to tree platform at heights of over 50 feet. Working your way across the canyon is only half the fun — return back across the gorge on a 250-ft zip-line.
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“The USNWC is one of the best things to do in Gaston County with whitewater rafting, a canopy tour, kayaking, rock climbing, zip-lines, ropes courses and mountain biking.” Mountain Biking The U.S. National Whitewater Center is home to some of Charlotte’s best trails.The USNWC offers 14 miles of scenic woodland trails, river views, challenging climbs and exciting descents for riders of all ages and skill levels.The trail system is shared with hikers and runners and it’s difficulty is graded by color: Green – beginner/easy, mostly flat trails Blue – intermediate, slight elevation changes Black – advanced, steep elevation changes
Rock Climbing The climbing center at the USNWC is one of the largest in the world.The open-air 46 foot climbing wall features more than 40 roped climbs designed to accommodate climbers of all skill levels. Made to look and feel just like granite, climbers can ascend our walls and enjoy a birds-eye view of the whitewater rapids. Beginner to advanced climbing instruction is available to introduce you to climbing or enhance your skills in belaying, climbing, rappelling and bouldering. Hungry? Try the River’s Edge Bar & Grill The perfect relaxation spot after work or play, the River’s Edge Bar & Grill offers a wide selection of food, beer and wine. Our patio overlooks the whitewater river; you can observe rafters and kayakers paddling (and occasionally swimming) the Class III and IV rapids from your table.The River’s Edge Bar & Grill is the perfect spot to unwind, watch the sun set and enjoy any afternoon or evening. Our Chef has carefully designed a unique menu that caters to all types of foodies and features a wide variety of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
oct/nov 2011 | good things in gaston county
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» History of «
Crowders Mountain The Pinnacle of Gaston County
P
eaking at 800 feet above the surrounding countryside, resisting the forces of erosion throughout vast periods of time, Crowders Mountain and The Pinnacle are remnants of an ancient mountain range. Once the core of mighty mountains that towered thousands of feet above sea level, these surviving peaks are part of the Appalachian chain that formed in the region 450 to 500 million years ago. Geologically classified as kyanitequartzite monadnocks, only the strength of quartzite has allowed these pinnacles to withstand the wind, water and other forces that eroded less resistant peaks. Crowders Mountain, at an elevation of 1,625 feet, is a registered natural heritage area that features sheer vertical cliffs ranging from 100 to 150 feet in height. The Pinnacle, by contrast, has a round, gentle profile and reaches an elevation of 1,705 feet.These mountains and the saddle that connects them are oriented in a northeast to southwest direction, their slopes facing east and west. Spectacular views await those who ascend these mighty pinnacles. Prior to the arrival of European settlers, much of the land in the area was natural prairie that was grazed by herds of buffalo.The peaks marked the boundary between the hunting lands of the Catawba and Cherokee Indians, and a major trading route of the Cherokees crossed Crowders Mountain. By 1775, approximately 80,000 settlers had migrated to the area from northern colonies.A treaty in 1777 allowed white settlers as far west as the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Catawbas retreated peacefully southward, but conflicts between the settlers and Cherokees persisted until after the Revolutionary War. During the American Revolution, the “over-mountain men” won a major victory for the colonists at nearby Kings Mountain.This small volunteer army was composed of hunters, farmers and herdsmen from the fertile valleys west of the Alleghanies.Their conquest
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of British loyalists at Kings Mountain marked the first step of defeat that led to Cornwallis’ surrender and the end of a long and bitter war. Learn more about this famous battle at nearby Kings Mountain National Military Park in South Carolina. The discovery of valuable minerals had considerable impact on the area. In 1799 a 17 pound gold nugget was discovered, and another weighing 28 pounds was discovered in 1803. Soon after, significant quantities of the treasured mineral were uncovered near Crowders Mountain.And, until the discovery of gold in California in 1849, North Carolina was the chief gold-producing state in the nation. Hundreds of mines scarred at least 10 counties during this North Carolina gold rush. Kyanite was also mined, and open-pit mining took place near Crowders Mountain, producing a devastating effect on the environment. When exploratory drilling and excavation began in 1970, the threat that Crowders Mountain would be mined led local citizens to seek its preservation.The Gaston County Conservation Society was organized to alert people to the danger of the loss of the landmark, to block mining operations and to encourage the state to acquire the mountain for a park. Based upon the group’s 1971 proposal, the state approved Crowders Mountain as a potential state park, and funds were designated for land acquisition a year later.The new state park opened to the public in 1974, but it was not until 1977 that the summit of Crowders Mountain was included within the park boundary.The Pinnacle and additional acreage were acquired in 1987. In 2000, an additional 2,000-acre segment of land was added to Crowders Mountain State Park. Funded by the NC Natural Heritage Trust Fund and the NC Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, this land connects the state park to Kings Mountain National Military Park and Kings Mountain State Park in South Carolina.
Spotlight | Education
Gaston Day School or the past 40 years, our hallways have been filled with the voices of future leaders, musicians, poets, artists, and doctors - each different but all connected by tradition and a strong sense of pride in their school. At Gaston Day School, the student is at the center of everything we do. We strive to inspire our students, develop their abilities, and instill a desire to make a positive difference in family, community, and the world. Gaston Day offers an experience that rewards students for a lifetime and gives them an education that goes far beyond basic educational curriculum. Founded in 1967, Gaston Day School is a nonsectarian, college-preparatory school for grades Pre-Kindergarten through 12 with approximately 500 students and 72 full and part-time faculty and Gaston Day School staff. Gaston Day attracts students from a five county 2001 Gaton Day School Rd area including Gaston, Mecklenburg, Lincoln, Gastonia, NC 28056 Cleveland, and York and is accredited by the Southern ---------Association of Colleges and Schools. It is also a 704-864-7744 member of the National Association of Independent ---------Schools, the Southern Association of Independent www.gastontoday.org Schools, and the North Carolina Association of Independent schools and approved by the North Carolina Department of Education.
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oct/nov 2011 | good things in gaston county
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Gardens
Daniel
L
ocated on 400 acres along the banks of Lake Wylie south of Belmont, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden offers 110 acres of rolling meadows and woodlands are being developed as one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. Already the perennial garden has been called one of the finest in the Southeast. Read on for some quick facts about Stowe Botanical Garden‌.
6500 South New Hope Rd. Belmont, NC ---------704-825-4490 ---------www.dsbg.org ---------Open Daily 9am-5pm
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photography courtesy of: Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Stowe • Named one of the Nation’s 20 Great Gardens in HGTVs popular book, Flower Gardening. • Named Top 10 Garden to visit in the Fall by USA Today. • Nine major theme gardens. • Striking water fountains and canals, and a collection of plants from around the globe. • 3,500-square-foot Visitor Pavilion with breathtaking early-20th-century stainedglass dome. • Pavilion also houses gift shop and conference rooms for seminars and workshops. • Perennial, annual, daylily, and herb gardens. • Woodland Trail called Meadowood Walk • Special children’s garden and programs. • Land and endowment donated by Daniel and Alene Stowe. • Designed by noted landscape architect Geoffrey Rausch. • The Orchid Conservatory-the Carolinas’ only glasshouse, dedicated to the display of orchids and tropical plants.
Weddings, Corporate and Social Events Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, named one of the Southeast’s best wedding venues by The Knot, is one of the region’s finest settings for weddings and other celebrations in any season. With 110 acres of themed gardens, a dozen sparkling fountains and everchanging displays, the Gardens offer the perfect setting for practically any event. Venues include outdoor and indoor settings for weddings and receptions, rehearsal dinners, showers, bridal / engagement portraiture, anniversary or holiday parties, corporate meetings and events or any Special Celebration.The Robert Lee Stowe Pavilion and adjoining outdoor spaces are uniquely designed to accommodate social gatherings large or small. Highlights include: The Wren Room The Wren Room is an elegant indoor event space that can accommodate up to 120 guests for a ceremony.This space is most commonly set as an elaborate serving area, but its versatility and charm make it the ideal location for cocktail receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridal luncheons, and showers.
The Great Hall This magnificent and versatile indoor space for gatherings of up to 300 offers a breathtaking panorama of the Four Seasons Garden. Outside lies a sweeping Garden Terrace. The White Garden The White Garden is the area’s most sought after wedding site, and the beautiful white flowers and rose arbor provide the perfect back drop for the traditional ceremony.Although the White Garden is most widely used to exchange vows, with a capacity of up to 200 guests, this garden is perfect for your reception or cocktail hour.
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Named Top 10 Garden to visit in the Fall by USA Today.
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The Four Seasons Garden The Four Seasons Garden is the Garden’s largest outdoor event space, with a capacity of up to 300+ guests. This area is unmatched in its versatility and serves as the perfect location for everything from ceremonies and receptions to engagement parties and anniversary celebrations. The Orchid Conservatory The Orchid Conservatory is the perfect venue for the couple looking to add excitement and sophistication to their wedding day.This breathtaking glass structure, featuring a 16-foot orchid and waterfall wall, serves as a beautiful setting for a spectacular cocktail hour, and the outdoor terrace is just the right location for receptions and ceremonies.
Crape Myrtle Grove Crape Myrtle Grove provides a stunning backdrop for an intimate ceremony or a stylish cocktail reception.This outdoor area features lush foliage, three beautiful fountains and can accommodate up to 100 guests for a seated ceremony. Garland Boardroom This more formal setting, complete with private patio, features garden views in two directions and seats up to 18 at a conference-style table. Portrait Galleries Extra-wide hallways near the Portrait Galleries provide space for beverage service, buffets or displays. Garden Terraces Garden Terraces adjoin all indoor rooms, offering a variety of casual, elegant settings for any celebration. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Admission: • $12 for adults • $6 for children 4-12 • $11 for seniors 60+ • Free to Garden Members and children under age 4 For details call (704) 829-1268 to speak with an event specialist.
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Community | Belmont By: Darryl Warren
The “Southern Point” is truly a special place.
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There is an old story I heard from a Catawba Indian elder a long time ago. He said that the “Southern Point” area of the Catawba River is sacred ground because it was the spot his people made peace with the Cherokee many hundreds of years ago. Take a quiet boat ride down that section of the Catawba River, and it’s easy to for anyone to see why these two great people chose peace over war. It’s simply too beautiful to fight on. Perhaps that explains why “my people,” those that grew up on the Catawba and South Fork rivers, have enjoyed living near that part of Gaston County. Be it Karma, Native American spirits, or just plain old good people, we “Southern Point” folks have always shared a common bond that transcends race or faith. Seeing so many people at one of our “Belmont’s Friday Night Live” is just one shining example of why this part of Carolina is, for all its faults, truly a special place. No one, unless you grew up here, can truly understand what it means to see thousands of smiling people in downtown 115 North Main Street Belmont. Pride, joy, and Belmont, NC 28012 satisfaction in knowing that we ---------have done what few have, we 704-825-5586 have put together a downtown ---------festival where ALL people are www.cityofbelmont.org welcome. Friday Night has become OUR night to shine, to show others that it is possible to throw a street party without fussing and fighting. (Yes, I’m talking about you Charlotte!) On a warm summer July night, as I wondered thru the thousands of people who come to celebrate our Independence at “Friday Night Live,” I ran into many old
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good things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011
friends from my childhood. Sure they’re older and a little grayer, but they never change in their love for Belmont and what it means to be from here. Looking into their eyes, I can see the pride in knowing that we have always been this way. Growing up in the “Southern Point,” what you were or believed never really mattered. If you were good people, you were good people. Sure we have cultural and political differences, but when it comes to respect and love for each other, Belmont has always been a special place in the Carolinas. Most of us grew up mill workers, where we were bonded by hard work and the daily struggle to provide for our families. We didn’t have much, but what we had was clean, and it was ours. Somewhere during this particular night of music, celebrations, and fireworks, I was overcome with the need to step back and see the faces of these wonderful people, these sons and daughters of the Catawba and South Fork waters.These are people who struggle day in and day out with the same fears and turmoil as the rest of America, and I wonder why we can pull off a safe and magical evening where so many others fail. As I looked into the eyes of our children and grandchildren, their eyes wide with wonder and amazement at the exploding night sky, I saw the Great Spirit of the Catawba and Cherokee Indians, those special Native Americans who hundreds of years ago gave us the miracle of Peace. I suddenly remember something else my Native American friend said so many years ago.The wise old man looked me in the eyes and proudly said, “In the confrontation between the river’s water and the rock, the river always wins - not through strength, but through persistence.”
d always n a h it a f Keep the to “Be Good.” l. remember r native son Darry Love, you
The GT Mag “Good Things about Gaston” poll numbers are in, and the WINNER is....
Christmas Town USA!
Be sure to vote each month in the Gaston Today Magazine “Good Things” poll on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/GastonToday ------------------------------Next month’s poll is: “Best Gaston County Restaurant for a Holiday Meal.”
! s g u b r e t t Shu
Calling all
Amateur photographers, youth and adult. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden invites any and all amateur photographers to enter our eighth annual Shutterbug Photography Contest. Last year the Garden received more than 400 entries, and this Fi Best of Show, rst Place Plants year they expect even ----------Walter Stopa, more! The contests First Rock Hill, SC Place winning photos will be displayed in the Visitor Pavilion at the Garden in early 2012. Per the Garden’s discretion, Second and Third Place winning photos could be placed on display at the Garden depending on space availability. The First Place winner in each adult category will receive a one-year membership to the Garden and a gift certificate to The Garden Store.The winners in each youth category will receive a Garden gift package. Other winners will receive free passes to the Garden. Deadline for all entries will be Dec. 31, 2011.A distinguished panel of judges will review the entries and select the winners. Winners will be announced in February 2012.
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621 PARK STREET • BELMONT, NC ABBEY PLAZA SHOPPING CENTER
704.825.6982 TODD STAFFORD
WWW.STAFFORD-JEWELERS.COM oct/nov 2011 | good things in gaston county
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Nature
photo by Robin Thompson
Crowders
Crowders Mountain State Park 522 Park Office Lane Kings Mountain, NC 28086 ---------GPS coordinates: 35.213316, -81.293555 ---------704-853-5375 ---------e: crowders.mountain@ncdenr.gov ---------Hours: Nov.-Feb., 8 am-6 pm Mar.-Apr., Sept.-Oct., 8 am-8 pm May-August, 8 am-9 pm Closed Christmas Day
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aptors soar gracefully in the wind; vegetation reaches to the sky; sheer vertical cliffs drop 150 feet. Enjoy the spectacle from a front-row seat. High atop Crowders Mountain, the second highest point in Gaston County, views stretch for more than 25 miles. For a closer view of nature’s marvels, walk the park’s many miles of trails. The gently rolling landscape of the North Carolina Piedmont offers a variety of terrain. Dip into the valleys; cross the foothills; climb to the peaks. Quiet woods, trickling streams and melodious birds await. These spectacular surroundings, like the unique habitats in many other state parks, would not exist were it not for the efforts of concerned citizens dedicated to protecting our environment.
photo by Robin Thompson
Hiking The beauty and diversity of Crowders Mountain State Park are best appreciated on its miles of hiking trails. Hiking trails lined with wildflowers and mountain laurel lead along the ridges and to the summits of Crowders Mountain and The Pinnacle. Other trails are easy promenades through pastoral surroundings. Circle the lake on a gravel path or view aquatic plants and animals along a narrow creek. Bring a pair of binoculars and do some bird watching or tote a camera and capture the beauty of wildflowers in bloom.
good things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011
Mountain Camping When you’ve finished exploring for the day, settle in for a long night’s sleep. Located approximately one mile from the park office are secluded areas for camping — areas so private there’s often not another person in sight. Both campgrounds are reached by trail and all supplies must be packed to the campsites. Backcountry Family Camping A one-mile trail leads to the forested camping area where each campsite has a grill and tent pad and a picnic table. Drinking water and pit toilets are provided. Backcountry Group Camping Larger groups will enjoy fellowship in the group camping area. Each of the six group sites will accommodate up to 15 people. Camping areas include a fire circle for cooking and campfire tales, as well as two picnic tables per site. Pit toilets and water are located nearby. Picnicking The shade of large trees provides a spot for outdoor dining in a beautiful wooded area. Scattered throughout the picnic area are 28 tables and eight grills. Drinking water and restrooms are located nearby. Two large shelters with tables and grills are available for group picnics. Reservations are suggested to be certain they are available. Use of the shelters is free of charge and on a firstcome, first-served basis unless reservations are requested. Rock Climbing Experienced climbers will enjoy the challenges of Crowders Mountain. Climbing is permitted in designated areas only. Pitons, bolts or similar devices that may damage cliff faces are not permitted. Further information may be obtained at the park office.
Bouldering A form of rock climbing done without anchors and ropes, is available on Buzzard’s Roost, near the Boulders Access Area. All climbing regulations, including the requirement of a permit, are in effect, and some sections of Buzzard’s Roost may be closed to Bouldering at certain times of the year. Check with park staff for more information. All climbers must register with the park by completing a climbing and rappelling registration and activity permit which is available at the park office visitor center or at the selfregistration box at the Linwood Access Area. There is no fee for this permit. Prior to activity, a copy of the permit must be deposited in a registration box
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Water Sports Watch a long, lazy afternoon slip away while enjoying the park’s wooded lake. Located near the park office and picnic ground, the nineacre, man-made lake has ample parking nearby. For those who like to be afloat, canoes can be rented at the park office from spring through late fall year-round, weather permitting. Paddle to secluded spots along the shoreline where the only sound is the ripples of the water. Fish from choice Thompson fishing spots on the photo by Robin banks or try your luck from the seat of a canoe. Bass and bream are waiting to be caught! Anglers must have a North Carolina fishing license. Swimming and private boats are not permitted Education and Events: Rangers hold regularly scheduled educational and interpretive programs about Crowders Mountain State Park. To arrange a special exploration of Crowders Mountain State Park for your group or class, contact the park office. Educational materials about Crowders Mountain State Park have been developed for grades 5-7 and are correlated to North Carolina’s competency-based curriculum in science, social studies, mathematics and English/language arts. The Crowders Mountain program introduces students to basic geologic concepts, including the rock cycle, rock and mineral identification, weathering and erosion, and resource use. Accompanying the program is a teacher’s booklet and workshop, free of charge to educators.
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“Dip into the valleys; cross the foothills; climb to the peaks...”
or given to a park ranger. An additional copy is provided for participants and must be held in their possession while engaged in climbing or rappelling. Participants are responsible for their own personal safety, including securing proper training and equipment, and adhering to safe practices. Basic rock climbing safety equipment and techniques must be used at all times.
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Visit all the “Good Things” in Gaston County (Courtesy of GT Mag and Visit Gaston)
Good Things
Top Attractions provide excitement and good family fun! »»»» Where to go and What to do in Gaston County Upcoming Races Saturday, November 19 Spencer Mountain Ten Warlick Elementary School 10-Mile Begins at 9:00AM 5K Race Begins at 9:05AM www.gastonymca.org Saturday, November 5 North Carolina Adventure Race Series (NCARS) US Whitewater Center 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Race Options: 4-Hour Race • 8-Hour Race www.ncars.info
Friday, October 28 Schiele-O-Ween 6 - 8 p.m. The Schiele Museum www.schielemuseum.org
begins in the Visitor Pavilion, where guests are greeted with the sight of the majestic 16-foot-tall Orchid Tree, made of more than 300 live orchids. Get into the spirit of the season at The Garden Stage on the Four Seasons Lawn where Friday, October 28 - Saturday, musicians, carolers and other October 29 1st Annual Carolina Smoke-Off! entertainers bring us all holiday Rotary Centennial Pavilion, Gastonia cheer. From there, explore the icy White Garden, the festive Canal www.carolinasmokeoff.com Garden or any of the other themed Saturday, October 29 to Sunday, displays. Whichever direction you take, you are surrounded by a October 30 captivating display of lights. It’s BOOTANICAL Christmas in the tropics in The 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Orchid Conservatory where you can Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden warm up while checking out a onewww.dsbg.org of-a-kind bromeliad tree,
Saturday, October 22 Whitewater River Jam Fall Finale featuring Sam Bush US Whitewater Center 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy Charlotte, NC Doors at 5 p.m., music at 6 p.m. www.usnwc.org
Tuesday, October 25 Terrific Toddler Tuesday Gaston County Museum of Art & History 131 W. Main St. 10 AM - 11 AM www.gastoncountymuseum.org Thursday, October 27 Family Fun Night Victorian Halloween Party Gaston County Museum of Art & History 131 W. Main St. 5:30 - 7:30 PM www.gastoncountymuseum.org Friday, October 28 Harvest Brewed 6 - 9 p.m. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden www.dsbg.org
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden 6500 South New Hope Rd. Belmont, NC Phone: 704-825-4490 www.dsbg.org Crowders Mountain 522 Park Office Ln. Kings Mountain, NC Phone: 704-853-5375 www.ncsparks.gov The Schiele Museum 1500 East Garrison Blvd Gastonia, NC Phone: 704-866-6908 www.schielemuseum.org Christmas Town USA McAdenville, NC Phone: 704-823-2260 704-823-2261 www.mcadenvillechristmastown.com
Upcoming Events & Festivals
Friday, October 14 Pinnacle sunset hike Crowders Mountain 522 Park Office Lane Kings Mountain 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Top Attractions in Gaston County
US Whitewater Center 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy Charlotte, NC Phone: 704-391-3900 www.usnwc.org Belmont Abbey College 100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Rd Belmont, NC poinsettias, a train displaly and Campus Tours: 704-825-6890 more. Finally, the aroma of hot 704-825-6665 chocolate and baked cookies will Historic Tours: 704-461-6693 draw you back to the Visitor Pavilion Athletics Events: 704-461-6809 where you can see a train display www.abbeyathletics.com from Metrolina Model Railroaders www.belmontabbeycollege.edu and delight in a selection of hot beverages and tasty treats – all while you enjoy the sounds of the season from the player piano and await visits from Santa. Don’t miss Holiday Lights at the Garden this season! Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden www.dsbg.org
Belmont Fall Festival photos courtesy of: Gaston County Travel & Tourism
Saturday, October 29 Celebrate Gaston! Rotary Centennial Pavilion Gastonia www.celebrategaston.com Saturday November 12 Fur, fangs and feathers festival Crowders Mountain 522 Park Office Lane Kings Mountain 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. November 25 – December 31 Holiday Lights Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden The Garden has something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season – Spectacular light displays, carriage rides, music, baked treats, and even visits from Santa! Now in its seventh season, guests are immersed in a holiday wonderland with an array of 600,000 colorful lights that will fill the Christmas season with joy and memories that will last a lifetime. The experience
Carolina Speedway 6335 Union Road Gastonia, NC Phone: 704-869-0313 www.carolinaspeedway.net Gaston County Museum of Art & History 131 W. Main Street, Dallas Phone: 704-922-7682 www.gastoncountymuseum.org C Grier Beam Truck Museum 111 North Mountain St. Cherryville, NC Phone: 704-435-3072 www.beamtruckmuseum.com Downtown Historic Dallas Phone: 704-922-7682 www.dallasnc.net Cherryville Historic Museum 109 Main Street, Cherryville Phone: 704-435-8011 Cherryville Heritage Park 104 S. Jacob St. Cherryville, NC Phone: 704-435-6998 www.cherryville.com Brevard Station Museum 112 S. Main Street Stanley, NC Phone: 704-263-9801 www.brevardstation.com American Military Museum 109 West Second Ave. Gastonia, NC Phone: 704-866-6068
December 1 Tree Lighting Ceremony McAdenville, NC Open: Dec 1 - Dec 26 www.mcadenvillechristmastown.com December 16 Yule Log McAdenville, NC www.mcadenvillechristmastown.com Cotton Ginning Days photos courtesy of: Gaston County Travel & Tourism
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Explore the many exciting attractions that Gaston County has to offer! The largest attraction in Gaston County by visitors is Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, covering 110 acres of spectacular plants, flowers, and more. Crowder’s Mountain State Park, the highest point in Gaston County offering spectacular views from sheer vertical cliffs. The Schiele Museum is a world-class science museum and planetarium featuring both permanent and touring exhibits. For the holidays of course it’s Christmas Town USA in McAdenville! Every December, hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights turn this small mill town into a spectacular holiday display. A world-class recreation and training facility, the U.S. National Whitewater Center set among 300 acres wooded along the scenic Catawba River. The multi-use facility has a climbing center, mountain-biking trails and running trails.
»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»»» Movie Theaters Bessemer City/Kings Mountain Drive-In 1265 Bessemer City-Kings Mountain Hwy. 704-739-2150 The Movies at Franklin Square 3778 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-824-9556
Belmont Fall Festival photos courtesy of: Gaston County Travel & Tourism
Lineberger Maple Springs Farm 906 Dallas-Stanley Hwy. Dallas, NC Phone: 704-922-8688 Website: maplespringsfarm.home. mindspring.com Belmont Historical Society 40 Catawba Street Belmont, NC Phone: 704-825-4848 Website: www.belmontnc-hs.org Arts and Theater in Gaston County The United Arts Council of Gaston County is a private, non-profit organization that encourages, supports and promotes the arts in Gaston County on behalf of all its citizens. It serves as the umbrella organization to 27 member groups which provide a variety of cultural programming in the community. Community celebrations that feature local performers, artists, and craftsmen not only help unite the community, but they also make it a better place to live. For a current calendar of events call 704-8532787 or the organizations below: Belmont Abbey Players 704-825-6787 Theater2 Belmont Community Theatre 704-825-6787 Cherryville Little Theatre 704-435-1742 Community Concerts 704-853-2787 www.gastonarts.org
Gaston Choral Society 704-853-2787 www.gastonarts.orgTheater3 Gaston County Museum of Art and History 704-922-7681 Opt. 2 www.gastoncountymuseum.org Gaston School of the Arts 704-866-8882 Gaston County Arts Guild 704-853-2787 www.gastonarts.org Gaston Dance 704-865-5943 www.gastonarts.org Little Theatre of Gastonia 704-865-0160 www.littletheaterofgastonia.com Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium 704-866-6900 www.schielemuseum.org
Fishing Gaston County, NC located on Lake Wylie and the Catawba River is home to a total of 32 lakes and offers great fishing opportunities. Information on the rules, regulations and license requirements for fishing can be found at www.co.gaston.nc.us Crowders Mtn. State Park 522 Park Office Ln. Kings Mountain, NC 704-853-5375 The lake is stocked every season. The following fish are found in the lake: Bluegill - Also called ‘bream,’ bluegill bait includes earthworms, crickets, grubs, grasshoppers, spinners, poppers, and flies. Largemouth Bass - One of the most popular game fish, the largemouth bass will eat just about anything. Redbreast Sunfish - Also known as a ‘robin,’ this fish has a yellowish to orange colored belly. Although smaller than the bluegill, the sunfish prefers the same bait types. White Crappie - Usually found near submerged brush or logs. The bait they prefer are live minnows and ‘crappie jigs.’ Mosquitofish - A small, minnow-like fish, found near the shore. As the name implies, they eat mosquito larvae. Not much of a game fish though. Gaston County Park 1303 Dallas-Cherryville Hwy. Dallas, NC 704-922-2160 Fishing Tackle Loaner Program at Dallas Park First-time and novice anglers in North Carolina are encouraged to borrow rods and reels free of charge to join in the fishing fun this year. The loaner rods and reels are provided by Gaston County Parks
and Recreation and by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission through the Commission’s Fishing Tackle Loaner Program (FTLP). The Commission created the Fishing Tackle Loaner Program to introduce North Carolinians, especially children, to fishing and to encourage novice anglers to continue developing their angling skills. Fishing is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Catawba Creek Golf Club 530 Niblick Dr. 704-866-6945 Holes: 18 Greens: Bermuda Grass Fairways: Bermuda Grass This course can prove to be a real challenge for the intermediate player. There is a creek that comes into play several times throughout the course’s design, and out-ofbounds stakes line eight holes.
Robinson Catfish Lake 5129 Dallas High Shoals Hwy. Dallas, NC 704-922-1150
Green Meadows Golf Course 957 Kelly Road Mt. Holly, NC 704-827-9264 Holes: 18 Greens: Bermuda Grass Fairways: Bermuda Grass Built on hilly terrain. The fairways are tree lined, and water hazards come into play on four holes.
Robinwood Lake Swimming & Fishing 2221 Robinwood Road Gastonia, NC 704-867-9111 Cook’s Fishing Lake Union Rd. to Beaty Rd. Follow signs 704-864-1604 Golf Apple Creek Golf Course 101 Apple Creek Dr. Dallas, NC 704-922-4440 Holes: 18 This 18 hole championship “executive” golf course will challenge players of all skill levels. Briarcreek Golf Club 601 Cherry St. High Shoals, NC 704-922-4208 Holes: 18 Greens: Bent Grass Fairways: Bermuda Grass This course was built on rolling terrain and has water hazards that come into play on the back nine. Crowders Mountain Golf Club 255 Lincoln Academy Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-739-7681 1-800-633-1729 Holes: 18 Greens: Bent Grass Fairways: Bermuda Grass A heavily-wooded course is located in a mountain setting at the base of Crowder Mountain State Park.
Linwood Springs Golf Club 2900 Linwood Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-867-1642 Holes: 18 Greens: Bermuda Grass Fairways: Bermuda Grass This course was built on rolling hills and has water that comes into play on six holes. There are out-ofbounds stakes lining six holes. Parks & Recreation Pack a lunch and visit a park in Gaston County today. Gaston County Parks & Recreation Department 1301 Dallas-Cherryville Hwy Dallas NC 704-922-2160 www.co.gaston.nc.us Gaston County Park at Beam Elementary School 200 Davis Park Road Gastonia, NC Size: 5 Acre Park Ball Fields: Soccer / Football Field 1 (lighted) Other Facilities: 0.25 mile Walking / Jogging Track (lighted)
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Good Things Other Facilities: Walking/Jogging Track - 1 unlighted, Restrooms Gaston County Park at Bessemer City 1316 Crowders Mountain Rd. Bessemer City, NC Size: 35 Acre Park Ball Fields: Baseball Field 1 lighted, Softball Fields - 1 lighted, Little League Fields - 2 lighted, Soccer / Football Field - 1 (lighted) Picnic Facilities: Two (2) covered shelters Other Facilities: Walking / Jogging Track (lighted) - Play Equipment, Restrooms Gaston County Park at Belmont Central Elementary School 310 Eagle Road Belmont, NC Size: 10 Acre Park Ball Fields: Little League Field - 1 lighted, Soccer / Football Field - 1 lighted Other Facilities: 0.25 mile Walking / Jogging Track (lighted)
Gaston County Park at Dallas 1303 Dallas-Cherryville Highway Dallas, NC Size: 100 Acres Ball Fields: Softball Fields - 3 lighted, Little League Field – 1 Picnic Facilities: Two (2) large covered shelters, Two (2) small covered shelters, Eight (8) pads with tables Equestrian Facilities: Show Ring, 124 Stalls, Concession / Restroom, Control Building Other Facilities: Play Equipment, Restrooms, Amphitheater, Three (3) Lakes (fishing - and the catfish are jumping!), 1 mile Walking Track, Walking / Jogging Trails, Six (6) Lighted Tennis Courts
Gaston County Park at Robinson Elementary School 3122 Union Road Gastonia, NC Size: 10 Acre Park Ball Fields: Little League Field - 1 lighted, Soccer/Football Field - 1 lighted Other Facilities: 0.25 mile Walking/Jogging Track (lighted) Gaston County Park at Tryon 2851 Tryon Courthouse Road Bessemer City, NC Size: 33 Acre Park Ball Fields: Softball Fields - 2 lighted, Little League Field - 3 lighted, Soccer / Football Field (lighted) Picnic Facilities: Two (2) small covered shelters, Four (4) pads with tables Other Facilities: 0.25 mile Walking Jogging Track (lighted), Play Equipment, Restrooms
George Poston Park 1101 Lowell-Spencer Mountain Road Gaston County Park at East Gastonia, NC Gaston High School Ball Fields: Softball/Little League 1744 Lane Road Fields - 4 lighted, Soccer Fields - 4 Mount Holly, NC lighted Size: 10 Acre Park Other Facilities: Dog Park, Mountain Ball Fields: Baseball Field - 1 lighted, Bike Trail, Horseshoe Complex, Softball Field - 1 lighted Gaston County Park at Bess Playground Equipment, Fishing Lake Other Facilities: Eight (8) Tennis Elementary School (proposed), Equestrian Trails Courts - (lighted), Restrooms 4340 Beaty Road (proposed), 7 miles of Nature & Gastonia, NC Hiking Trails, Picnic Facilities Gaston County Park at Size: 10 Acre Park (proposed) Ball Fields: Softball Field - 1 lighted, Forestview High School Soccer / Football Field - 1 (lighted) 5545 Union Road Lewis Brooks Airfield Other Facilities: 0.25 mile Walking / Gastonia, NC 555 Biggerstaff Landfill Road Jogging Track (lighted), Restrooms Ball Fields: Baseball Field - 1 lighted, Bessemer City, NC Softball Field - 1 lighted Gaston County Park at Catawba Gaston County Park at New Hope Where To Shop Heights Elementary School Elementary School Gaston County has for years attracted 101 Ivey Street 137 Stowe Road shopping-minded visitors. Mary Jo’s Belmont, NC Gastonia, NC Cloth Store in Gaston Mall is the Size: 3 Acre Park Size:10 Acre Park largest fabric store in the Southeast Ball Fields: Little League Field - 1 Ball Fields: Softball Field - 1 lighted, and continues to draw customers lighted Soccer / Football Field - 1 (lighted) from around the World. Nowhere is Other Facilities: 0.2 mile Walking - the quality of shopping better reflected Gaston County Park at Camp Jogging Track (lighted), 0.3 mile than in the local malls. Westfield Sertoma Nature Trail, Restrooms Shopping Center, with its 100 stores 135 Camp Sertoma Road ranks fourth largest in the Carolinas. Dallas, NC Gaston County Park at North Franklin Square, which opened in Size: 10 Acres Belmont 1989, has grown into four shopping Other Facilities: 0.2 Mile Trail 3110 Hickory Grove Road centers and offers just about Picnic Facilities: (covered and Gastonia, NC everything you need in over 1 million screened in), Kitchen Facilities Size: 35 Acre Park square feet. The all new Gaston Mall Ball Fields: Softball Field - 1 lighted, Center and Akers Center continue Gaston County Park at Chapel Little League Field - 1 lighted, their tradition of quality and selection. Grove Soccer / Football Field - 1 (lighted), 5210 Lewis Road Soccer / Football Field - 1 (unlighted) Gastonia, NC Antiques Picnic Facilities: Three (3) covered Size: 20 Acres Antiques on Second Ball Fields: Softball Field - 1 lighted, shelters, Pads with tables 211 W. Second Ave. Other Facilities: 0.5 mile Track, Play Little League Field – 1, Soccer / Gastonia, NC Equipment, Restrooms Football Field - 1 (lighted) 704-866-9590 Other Facilities: Small All Purpose Gaston County Park at Pinewood Building Fine Things Consigned Elementary School 106 E. First St. 1925 North Main Street Gaston County Park at Lowell, NC Mount Holly, NC Cramerton Middle School 704-824-3312 Size: 3 Acre Park 601 Cramer Mountain Road Ball Fields: Soccer / Football Field Cramerton, NC Ball Fields: Baseball Field - 1 lighted, 1 (lighted) Other Facilities: 0.25 mile Walking / Softball Field - 1 lighted, Soccer / Jogging Track (lighted) Football Field - 1 lighted 23
good things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011
Heirlooms 102 Front Street Cramerton, NC 704-975-4350
Bluegill Pottery 4522 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Lowell, NC 704-824-9928
Katty-Did Antiques & Gifts 140 E. Main Ave. Gastonia, NC 704-864-1090
Bunny Patch Children’s Consignment 1120-A Union Road Gastonia, NC 704-869-9090
O’Briens Arts & Frame Shop 804 Gastonia Hwy Bessemer City, NC 704-629-3480 Piccolo Antiques and Consignments 134 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 704-825-5656 Second Fiddle 36 N. Main Street Belmont, NC 704-461-8156 Town Crier Antique Mall 1685 Upper Armstrong Ford Road Gastonia, NC 704-824-4671
Butler Studio 171 West Main Street Gastonia, NC 704-470-5245 Carolyn’s Frame Shop 307 Belwood Drive Belmont, NC 704-829-0703 Catawba River Artisans Art Gallery 128 South Main Street Mount Holly, NC 704-822-1450 catawbariverartisans.com Chic Boutique 128 E. Central Ave. Mount Holly, NC 704-820-8635
Specialty Shops All About Sports Cards & Collectibles 136 W. Virginia Bessemer City, NC 704-629-2551
The Christmastown Thomas Kinkade Signature Gallery 129-1/2 Main Street McAdenville, NC 704-823-1550
The Art Station 170 South Street Gastonia, NC 704-824-1511
Designing Brides 33 North Main Street Belmont, NC 704-825-0444
Bargain Hunters Thrift Store 797 W. Charlotte Avenue Mount Holly, NC 704-827-9102
Elk Creek Candle Co. 105 E. 1st Street Lowell, NC 704-823-7142
The Bath Lab 100 N. Main Street Lowell, NC 704-824-6188
Facet Foundry Jewelry Studio, Inc. 530 S. New Hope Rd., Suite 1 Gastonia, NC 704-867-5332
Belmont Bicycles 105 S. Main Street Belmont, NC 704-825-BIKE
Finders Keepers Attic 130 E. Main Avenue Gastonia, NC 980-329-2674
Belmont General Store 6 North Main Street Belmont, NC 704-825-0114
The Frame & Art Shop 6825 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 704-825-9601
Blythe Gallery 117 N. Main Street Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-8809
Frame Gallery 211 W. 2nd Avenue, Gastonia, NC 704-865-8856
Bookin’ it! 7 N. Main Street Belmont, NC 704-461-8258 www.bookin-it.com
Happy Dog Cafe Boutique & Salon 26 N. Main Street, Suite 1 Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-5987 The Image Gallery 320 W. Main Ave. Gastonia, NC 704-869-8968
Indian Motorcycle Charlotte 110 Indian Walk Lowell, NC 704-879-4560
The Pink Elephant 3131 Union Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-861-9001
Interiors By Mimi 16 Oak Grove Drive Mount Holly, NC 704-820-9136 www.interiorsbymimi.com
251 Main Home Décor & Christmas Store 251 W. Main Avenue Gastonia, NC 704-868-4355
JS Pottery 128 S. Main Street Mount Holly, NC 704-931-4130
The Great Outdoors 112 A Cherry Street Cherryville, NC 704-445-8848
John’s Toy & Hobby Shop 3418 S. New Hope Rd Gastonia, NC 704-865-8141
School Resources 140 N. Main Street Belmont, NC 704-825-2322
Jolie Boutique 4 N. Main Street Belmont, NC 704-825-7997
Scooters Gifts for Kids 3418 S. New Hope Road, Gastonia 704-865-8141
Love’s Accessories Inc. & Design Consignment 1 Main Street Cramerton, NC 704-824-4650 Luxury Fabrics 140 E. Main Street Gastonia, NC 704-867-5313
Surprise Me 132 N. Main Street Belmont, NC 704-825-1116 Sugar Diva’s Custom Cakes 140 E. Central Avenue Mount Holly, NC 704-780-9897 www.sugardivascustom-cakes.com
The MarketPlace 601 Park Street Belmont, NC 704-829-6252
Susan C. Anthony Gifts & Accesories 33 N. Main Street, Suite B Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-6900
Mattie Mae’s 101 E. First Street Lowell, NC 704-869-0493
Sweet Peas Unique Gifts 127 S. Main St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-6977
Michaels Arts & Crafts 2904 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-854-3191
Tally Ho 1013 Union Road Gastonia, NC 28054 704-861-1990
Million Dollar Dog 7206 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 704-266-4137
Tammy Taylor Interiors 102 Front Street Cramerton, NC 28032 704-908-3740
Morris & Daughter Fabrics 101 East First St. Lowell, NC 704-824-7019
Things Remembered Framing 3805 S. New Hope Road Gastonia, NC 704-824-0473
Poor Richardson’s Book Shoppe 118 S. South St. Gastonia, NC 704-271-4644
This N That Store 182 West Main Avenue Gastonia, NC 980-297-6715
Organic Marketplace 1012 S New Hope Road Gastonia, NC 704-864-0605 www.organic-marketplace.com
Three Hip Chicks 140A N. Main Street Belmont, NC 704-825-3313 704-824-7300
The Peppermint Shoestring 33 N. Main Street Belmont, NC 704-825-7600
Time Flies Country Store 111 N. Main Street Mount Holly, NC 704-601-7131
Wardrobe 360 (Upscale resale store for teens) 1120-C Union Road Gastonia, NC 704-864-8295 Wholesale Flooring Company 601 Park St. Abbey Plaza Shopping Center Belmont, NC 704-678-2225
Where To Eat Gaston County offers a great variety of dining and restaurants to suit every taste. Be sure to try one of our many fish camps which are a part of the history of Gaston County. Or, if you are looking for a treat, try Tony’s Ice Cream located in Gastonia and has been operating since the 1920’s.
Asian 2000 Café 3880 Kings Mtn. Hwy. Victoria-Cole Gifts & Collectibles Gastonia, NC 112 E. Main Street 704-868-8839 Cherryville, NC 704-435-5225 Asian Garden Trish’s Unique Gift Baskets-NCandle Boutique 119-B North Main Street Lowell, NC 704-824-8440 Triple S Trading Post 1627 Spencer Mountain Road Ranlo, NC 704-824-7300 The Vitamin Shoppe 407 Cox Road Gastonia, NC 704-864-2315 Where to Stay Whether you are visiting for a conference, shopping, a festival or special event, touring one of our many local area attractions, or whatever the reason, Gaston County offers overnight accommodations to suit your needs. Many of our hotels are national chains and are conveniently located just off of Interstate 85. Belmont American Motel Heritage Inn Hampton Inn Holiday Inn Express The Abbey Inn Villa at Waters Edge Gastonia Best Western Budget Inn Comfort Suites Courtyard by Marriottt Days Inn Express Inn and Suites Fairfield Inn Hampton Inn Holiday Inn Express Knights Inn Mid Town Motor Inn Motel 6 Red Carpet Inn & Suites Super 8 Value Place Bessemer City Affordable Suites America’s Best Inn Dallas Hill Top Motel Mt. Holly Robin’s Nest For details about Gaston County’s accommodations visit www.visitgaston.org/gaston-county-hotels
202-B Market St. Cramerton, NC 704-824-8318 D-D Fusion Express 908 W. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-869-6004 Golden Palace 3206 Union Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-867-4101 King Buffet 609 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 704-825-8883 Koto’s Japanese House of Steak & Seafood 1825 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-866-8555
Sake Express 349 W. Charlotte Ave. Mt. Holly, NC 704-827-4819 Sakura Japanese Restaurant 3758 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-823-3388 Thai House 4008 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-823-1797 Barbecue Billy’s Famous BBQ 1127 W. Charlotte Ave. Mount Holly, NC 704-827-8747 Black’s Barbecue, Inc. 2902 S. York Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-867-0941 Fatback’s BBQ & Grill 5102 York Hwy. Gastonia, NC 704-864-3600 Hillbilly’s Barbecue & Steaks 720 McAdenville Rd. Lowell, NC 704-824-8838 Hillbilly’s Barbecue & Steaks 930 E. Garrison Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-861-8787
Micky Chow’s Super Buffet 902 Union Road Gastonia, NC 704-869-9630
Kyle Fletcher’s Barbecue 4507 Wilkinson Blvd. Lowell, NC 704-824-1956
Nara Express 1808 S. York St. Gastonia, NC 704-865-8811
RO’s Barbecue 1318 Gaston Ave. Gastonia, NC 704-866-8143
Oishii Japanese Steakhouse Gaston Mall, 401 Cox Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-867-8651 Peking Garden 3078 East Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-867-6600 Shogun Japanese Steak & Seafood 306 E. Garrison Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-868-4168 Sake Express Japanese Steakhouse & Seafood 675 Park St. Belmont, NC 704-461-0400 Sake Express 116 N. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-864-4466
Cafeterias Jackson’s Cafeteria 1453 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-868-4181 Miles Cafeteria 110 S. Marietta St. Gastonia, NC 704-867-1011 Caribbean Anntony’s Tropical Grill 141 E. Main Avenue Gastonia, NC 704-215-5401 Caribbean Delight 908 W. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-866-7399
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Good Things Casual Backwoods Restaurant 119 N. Main St. Mt. Holly, NC 704-820-8098 Belmont Food & Beverage 124 Main St. Belmont, NC 704-829-7788 Black’s Grill 1915 Lincolnton Hwy. Cherryville, NC 704-671-2067 Buffalo Wild Wings 422 Cox Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-349-4060 Center Street Tavern 115 Center St. Cramerton, NC 704-823-3000 Cherub’s Cafe 23 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 704-825-0414 The Chicken Box 901 Bessemer City Road Gastonia, NC 704-917-0015 Chili’s Grill & Bar 3086 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-867-0276
Freeman’s Pub 173 W. Main Ave. Gastonia, NC 704-671-4782 Friendly’s of Stanley 119 N. Main Street Stanley, NC 704-263-7088 Gashouse Grill 3078 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-865-6889 Georgio’s Family Restaurant 202 Market St. Cramerton, NC 704-824-2220 Grandma Hoyt’s Country Buffet 421 E. Virginia Ave. Bessemer City, NC 704-629-9440 Greg’s Family Restaurant 125 N. Main St. Lowell, NC 704-879-4073 H & M Deli 119 Center Street Cramerton, NC 704-824-2599 www.hmdeliandmarket.com
City Cafe 128 S. Main St. Mt. Holly, NC 704-822-1450
Hillard’s Southern Comfort Cuisine 124 South St. Gastonia, NC 704-868-9311
Country Kitchen 116 E. Main St. Dallas, NC 704-922-9597
Hojo & CC’s Wing Shack 130 W. Charlotte Ave. Mount Holly, NC 704-827-8867
Cowboy B’s Family Restaurant 1420 Perfection Avenue Belmont, NC 704-820-8652
Home Folks Cafe 209 E. Main St. Cherryville, NC 704-435-9336
Demetrio’s Restaurant 6928 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 704-825-0057
Honey Baked Ham 1867-A Remount Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-868-3376
Triple E Express & Grill Inc. 2353 N. Bessemer City Road Gastonia, NC 704-865-9000
Hooters 3725 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-823-0025
Firestone Grill 1325 W. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-865-0079 25
Five Guys Famous Burgers & Fries 3044 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-865-2250
I HOP 504 Cox Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-864-1866
Jack Rabbit’s Sports Bar & Grill 1225 Union Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-864-1966
Sammy’s Neighborhood Pub 25 S. Main St. Belmont, NC 704-825-4266
Johnny B’s Pizza 106 N. Main Street Belmont, NC 704-825-8900
Sandee’s Bar & Grill 815 Bessemer City Hwy. Bessemer City, NC 704-215-5257
Makel’s Restaurant 907 Gastonia Hwy. Bessemer City, NC 704-729-6238
Shake Shop 505 W. Church St. Cherryville, NC 704-435-5778
Market Street Buffet & Bakery 2525 S. York Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-864-5400
Spindle City Café 207 W. Main Avenue Gastonia, NC 704-671-4374
Market Street Pizza & Buffet 202 Market St. Cramerton, NC 704-823-0010
Sprouts Café (Inside Organic Marketplace) 1012 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-864-5244
McAlister’s Deli 411 Cox Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-884-0084 Moe’s Southwest Grill 3908 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-299-1637 Mot’s Diner 501 Woodlawn Avenue Belmont, NC 704-827-6200 O’Charley’s 1601 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-865-6633 Original Flip Flops Grill and Spirits 3908 E Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-824-8757 Pancake House 1700 N. Chester St. Gastonia, NC 704-868-4005 The Pizza Pad 106 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 704-864-1566 Ray’s Smokehouse Bar & Grill 219 South Broad St. Gastonia, NC 704-867-4386 The Rock House Tavern 2699 Aberdeen Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-852-4445 Ruby Tuesday 424 Cox Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-852-3985
good things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011
Steak ‘N Shake 2656 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-854-3440 The String Bean Fresh Market & Deli 106 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 704-825-3636 www.stringbeanmarket.com Sub Corral Sandwich Shop 6831 E. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 704-825-5466 Tillies Restaurant 800 S. Mountain St. Cherryville, NC 704-435-6152 Tommy’s Drive-In 2708 Gastonia-Dallas Hwy. Dallas, NC 704-922-3849 Triple E Express & Grill Inc. 2353 N. Bessemer City Road Gastonia, NC 704-865-9000 Little Village Restaurant Christmas Town, USA 129 Main St. McAdenville, NC 704-824-3624 Whiskey Mill Bar & Grill 201 W. Pennsylvania Ave. Bessemer City, NC 704-629-2325 White’s Restaurant 417 Catawba St. Belmont, NC 704-825-3886 Will’s Doggin’ It Deli & Dogs 1301 Spencer Mountain Road Ranlo, NC 704-479-1395
Coffee Shops Caravan Coffee Bar 7 South Main St. Belmont, NC 704-829-7711 Cream & Beans 140 E. Central Ave. Mount Holly, NC 704-827-7500 Gas Pump Coffee 167 W. Main Ave. Gastonia, NC 704-671-2067 Grinders Coffee & Tea Westfield Shopping Center 246 S New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-865-7140 Holy Grounds Belmont Abbey College 100 Belmont Mount Holly Rd. Belmont, NC 704-461-5060 Java Bean 1133 S. Main St. Mount Holly, NC 704-812-8145 Wired Coffee Express Hoffman Village, Suite 6 1933 Hoffman Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-866-9960 Continental Chantilly’s Tea Room 1003 Union Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-854-3232 Rodi 245 W. Garrison Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-864-7634 Italian Akropolis Cafe 3070 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-868-3636 Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders 1709 Neal Hawkins Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-866-8829 Benn-Benn’s Italian Kitchen 617 E. Garrison Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-867-1446 Brixx Wood Fired Pizza 501 Cox Road Gastonia, NC www.brixxpizza.com 704-874-0404 Cantlupe’s Italian Restaurant 1101 Union Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-349-5035
Demetrios Restaurant 6923 W. Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 704-825-0057
El Cancun Mexican Restaurant 516 E. Garrison Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-853-2855
The Fish Box 108 W. First St. Cherryville, NC 704-435-9717
Gashouse Grill 3078 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-865-6889
La Fuente Bar & Grill 3070 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-866-7744
Graham’s Fish Fry 4539 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-825-8391
The Gondola 610 Gastonia Hwy. Bessemer City, NC 704-629-0822
Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant 1403 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-854-3467 1525 N. Chester St. Gastonia, NC 704-868-4080
Long Creek Fish Fry 1425 Lower Dallas Rd. Dallas, NC 704-922-3998
The Knife & Fork 200 S. Main St. Mt. Holly, NC 704-827-7779 Milano’s Italian Restaurant 904 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-854-3946 Milano’s Italian Restaurant 1011 E. Church St. Cherryville, NC 704-445-4451 Olive Garden 432 Cox Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-864-1709 Papa’s Pizza-to-Go 1002 E Main St. Cherryville, NC 704-435-6335
On The Border Mexican Grill 2409 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-866-9601 Qdoba Mexican Grill 401 Cox Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-825-9822 Taxco Mexican Grill 6418 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 704-825-2108 www.taxcomexicangrill.com Tequila’s Mexican Grill 238 W. Main Ave. Gastonia, NC 704-867-8050
Pizzagalli 1219 Gastonia Hwy. Bessemer City, NC 704-629-6966
Seafood Ever been to a fish camp? Gaston County offers some of the best sefaood around.
Portofino’s 3736 East Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-824-2144
AmberJack Seafood & Steaks 4253 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-824-5502
Roma Italian 101 W. Church St. Cherryville, NC 704-435-6115 Simonetti’s Pizza Pasta & Subs 6432 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 704-825-5555 Villa-Roma Restaurant 5000 Union Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-864-8676 Vintage Depot 1002 Gastonia Hwy. Bessemer City, NC 704-629-1599 Mexican Azteca 1863 West Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-866-7574
Steakhouse Little Big Horn 162 Little Big Horn Drive Gastonia, NC 704-263-4241 Nick’s Steak & Taphouse 182 S. South Street Gastonia, NC 704-867-6777 Old Stone Steakhouse 23 S. Main St. Belmont, NC 704-825-9995
North Star Seafood 3150 Old US Hwy. 321 Dallas, NC 704-922-7715
The Woodshed Restaurant 210 S. Main St. Stanley, NC 704-263-1030
Red Lobster 200 N. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-868-3884 Riverside Restaurant 1341 Dallas Stanley Hwy. Dallas, NC 704-922-8360 Shrimp Boat 120 N. Broad St. Gastonia, NC 704-864-6441
Dairy Queen of Belmont 7015 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 704-825-5106 Dairy Queen of Dallas 108 College View Dallas, NC 704-922-5051
Surf & Turf 808 N. 14th Street Bessemer City, NC 704-629-0561 Twin Tops Fish Camp 4574 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-825-2490
Sports Grill Dirty Dogs Bar & Grill 2813 Lowell Road Lowell, NC Black’s Blue Water Seafood & Grill 704-824-2200 1118 S. Main Street Mount Holly, NC 28120 Friends Sports Bar & Grill 704-827-1230 16 N. Main St. Belmont, NC Captain’s Cap 704-825-1401 670 Park Street www.friendssportsbarandgrill.net Belmont, NC 704-825-4103 Hickory Tavern 1925 Hoffman Rd. Captain’s Cap Gastonia, NC 3140 Linwood Road 704-917-0450 Gastonia, NC 704-865-7433 Jack Rabbit’s Sports Grill 1225 Union Rd. Catfish Cove Gastonia, NC 1401 Upper Armstrong-Ford Rd. 704-864-1966 Belmont, NC www.jackrabbitsgastonia.com 704-825-3332 JAX Backstreet Tavern Fat Cats Oyster Bar 55 Glenway Street 2331 Ozark Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 Gastonia, NC 704-825-1776 704-854-9926 www.jaxbackstreet.com
Firehouse Fish-N-Fixins 1206 Linwood Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-854-3474
Treats Cream & Beans 140 E. Central Ave. Mount Holly, NC 704-827-7500
Dairy Queen of Gastonia 904 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-917-1001 Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins 2302 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 704-869-4522 Krispy Kreme Doughnuts 2990 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-853-1060 Old Fashioned Soda Shoppe 31 North Main St. Belmont, NC 704-461-8580 Sugar Diva’s Custom Cakes 124 E. Central Ave. Mount Holly, NC 704-780-9897 Tony’s Ice Cream 604 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-867-7085 www.tonysicecream.com Yogurt Beach 2609 S. New Hope Road Gastonia, NC 704-862-9949
Now Hiring Gaston Today Magazine is hiring advertising Sales Representatives to promote local businesses in the Greater Gaston County area. Set your own hours and work at your own pace. No experience necessary. Unlimited commission structure. Please send resume to Darryl Warren at: dlwarren_73@yahoo.com Be a part of the "Good Things" team at Gaston Today Magazine!
oct/nov 2011 | good things in gaston county
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US National Whitewater Center
Outdoor Experience The Schiele Museum
When it comes to outdoor experiences, Gaston’s got it all! Hiking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, fishing, boating, camping and more. As well as outdoor activities, we also host festivals and events with music, food and fun for family and friends of all ages. Come explore the many exciting attractions that Gaston County has to offer!
Call or Visit Our Website For A
VISITORS GUIDE
Catawba River
SAVE
Scan this with your smartphone for a full list of festivals and events.
40%
NOR TH
CAR OLINA
OVER CHARLOTTE - HOTELS -
Gaston County is Located Minutes West of Charlotte, NC
800-849-9994 | 704-825-4044 | www.visitgaston.org
Crowders Mountain State Park
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Spotlight | Fitness
ENJOY GASTON’S GREATEST GREENWAY BY BIKE
N
by: Sheila Moran, Owner Greey Way Cycle Rentals
ew bicycle rental business provides low-cost exercise option for health conscious and couch potatoes
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••
GASTONIA–What better way to enjoy Gaston’s beautiful Lineberger Park than with a leisurely bike ride. But if you’re like most people, you don’t have one tethered to your car. That’s why Green Way Cycle Rentals is the perfect solution for a new health- inspired hobby. Green Way Cycle Rentals has a variety of adult tricycles and bicycles for hourly rentals. The current inventory includes a Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle, a Sun Atlas Cargo tricycle, two Worksman Personal Activity Vehicles (PAV) 3-speed, a tandem, and beach cruisers. The mobile rental facility is open during park hours,Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Rentals are $5.00 per hour, a photo ID is required, riders under 16 must use a helmet, and usage is limited to the Avon/Catawba Creek green way. For more information, please visit www.greenwaycyclerentals.com. For that reason, we think Green Way Cycle Rentals is one of the “Good Things” about Gaston!
“The rental bikes are adult tricycles for folks who don ‘t get out and ride any more - trying to get couch potatoes off the couches - and we offer regular bicycles as well...we’ve been targeting the diabetes groups and the Gaston Family Health Clinic crowd since obesity is a huge health issue here in Gaston County (and other counties, too, but Gaston is one of the larger counties in NC). We’re not targeting the athletes; we want folks who might be thinking about getting active/healthy to have one additional - possible “fun” option - to use in that step to exercise.” –Owner Sheila Moran
Continental Cabinets, Inc. Providing quality custom cabinets since 1971
2115 Acme Rd. | Belmont, NC 28012 | 704.827.7162
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Commentary
By Ted Hall, President, Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce
New businesses sprouting as ‘economic gardening’ takes root The seeds of economic recovery are being planted in every city and town in the Montcross Area of eastern Gaston County as new businesses continue to open here. Read on to learn about them. Greg Kroustalis planted a seed in Lowell when he opened Greg’s Family Restaurant. ∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞ In one block of North Main Street in Mount Holly, a small garden of new businesses has sprouted with the recent openings of Creech Computer Consulting, Premier Med Supply and Time Flies Country Store. More new businesses are slated to open soon in this booming block. ∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞ Around the corner, Stanton Enterprise opened its new corporate office on Charlotte Avenue. South Point Family Practice opened a Mount Holly location on Wodlawn Avenue. ∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞ Cramerton celebrated opening of the new Southfork Room at Center Street Tavern banquet and meeting space. ∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞ In North Belmont, ribbons were cut recently for the Abbington Woods new homes community and Cowboy B’s Restaurant. ∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞ Downtown Belmont saw the arrival of Garibaldi Realty and Olive 2 Live and the expansion of Happy Dog Café to include spa services. ∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞ Nearby, the Eagle Park new homes community resumed sales, built a new model and a pool complex, and the South Point Village development got off to a fast start.A new Carolinas HealthCare Urgent Care announced an early October ribbon-cutting on Park Street. ∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞ Along Wilkinson Boulevard, the Chamber has celebrated grand openings this summer at the Verizon Store, Firestone Complete Auto and the new King Buffet restaurant. 29
The Chamber’s red Our partners in this ribbon and giant red effort include the Small scissors have been in Business Center at great demand in 2011, Gaston College, the even though new Gaston County businesses face the Economic Development worst economic climate Commission, the Center in more than 80 years. for Entrepreneurship at Main streets dotted Belmont Abbey College, with vacant and the Ben Craig Center at boarded up storefronts UNCC and others. has been a symptom of We’re raising money to past prolonged fund these efforts over economic recessions. the next five years Not this time. Not here. through a campaign A drive through the called Forward business district in Together: Serving Montcross Area Chamber President Ted Hall and Vice Belmont, Mount Holly Businesses … Growing President Teresa Rankin have and the other Montcross Communities.Twentycoordinated a record number of ribbon-cuttings for new Area towns of Cramerton, two businesses, businesses this year. McAdenville, Lowell and foundations and Stanley quickly reveals individuals already have this recession is different. invested in our campaign.To find out While many businesses have closed, how you can help, call 704.825.5307. others have sprung up to take their We also continue to promote our “BUY places, and Main Street in all of six LOCAL” campaign, developed by the towns continues to thrive. Chamber three years ago when the recession was young. Supporting local Unfortunately, for each new business businesses is something every resident starting, at least one is dying. Because of can do to combat the recession. Keeping the recession, new businesses starting dollars in our communities and keeping today are fighting harder than ever to small businesses operating make this a survive the first year of operation. It’s better place to live. not uncommon to see businesses failing When scholars study this recent period after being open just a few months. of economic hardship, they almost Competition is fierce for the limited surely will discover that it came to an dollars consumers have to spend in an end not because of giant companies economy plagued by high hiring massive unemployment and falling home values. numbers of new The Montcross Area Chamber is workers but working hard to connect existing because of the businesses to the resources they need to small businesses survive, to encourage a new crop of started in Stanley, entrepreneurs to start businesses and to Mount Holly, recruit new businesses to open here. McAdenville, A popular term for what we’re trying to Lowell, accomplish is “economic gardening.” Cramerton and Cultivating our existing crop of Belmont and in businesses and fostering the planting of tens of new seeds that will grow into future thousands of Buy Local stickers businesses are how we will help create other small available free at the Montcross Area desperately needed jobs in Gaston towns across the Chamber at 100 County. country. N. Main St., Belmont
good things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011