gaston today magazine

complimentary fall | 2011

zip » bike » hikeVisit the US National Whitewater Center today!

Autumn atCrowders Mountain

State ParkTake a walk on the quiet side

DSBGFacts on this Beautiful Perennial Garden

The Schieleand its Natural Wonders

ChristmasTown USASparkles

Covering the Southern Lifestyle of Gaston County

FeaturingOutdoor ActivitiesEntertainmentShoppingFestivalsLodgingDining

1 good things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011

Welcome! We appreciate you joining us in celebrating thebiggest and best attractions in Gaston County. Gaston TodayMagazine is committed to bringing you a quality publicationthat presents all the“GoodThings”about Gaston County. Ourpurpose is simple, to provide our advertisers a localcomplimentary print magazine designed to promote theirbusiness,while bringing to light ALL of the“GoodThings” tosee and do around the Greater GastonArea.

From the Catawba and South Fork rivers to the majestic mountainsof Kings and Crowders, our part of Carolina is rich in history and beauty. Weproudly honor these great area attractions in our very first edition, thanks to ourfriends at GastonTravel andTourism,our wonderful advertisers, and all those whomade this magazine possible. Each issue will offer you a publication for what isgoing on in Gaston County TODAY,our local people and businesses that make thisa truly special place. This magazine is not just another book of coupons; it is amagazine about the“GoodThings” in our community, it’s about where we havebeen, and most importantly,where we are going.We believe in Gaston County. We believe there are countless people and placesthat will support us by advertising and promoting what they do. We believe in thepower of shopping locally,“grassroots marketing,”and supporting local businesses.We have taken this belief and put it in print. Ultimately, our readers will decide ifGastonToday Magazine is truly a“GoodThing.”

So sit back, take a break, and enjoy the very first editionof Gaston Today Magazine……

Look for “GT Mag”at your local hangouts, salons, restaurants, or various shopsaround Gaston County. You can also find a copy at your local Chamber,visitors’ bureau, or local library. If you are interested in advertising, contact usat 704-685-7011.

Our next edition is our special “Holiday Edition.”

DarrylWarrenCo-publisher

Volume 1 • Issue 1_____________________________________

Co-Publisher/EditorDarryl Warren

[email protected]

Co-Publisher/Creative Directoridesign2inc

Kerrie & Jason [email protected]

Sales ExecutiveDarryl Warren

[email protected]

PhotographersRobin Thompson

Contributing WritersDelta SandersSheri BorgesTariq Cranke

Darryl WarrenSheila 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.

DJK Media • 8309 Heathcrest Ct. • Clt.NC 28269

704-685-7011

www.gastontoday.com

MAGAZINE

publisher’s letter

Be Good!!!Darryl

Become a part of our high quality publication!7500 copies distributed locally in high traffic locations and businesses throughoutGaston County 6 times a year.

Approved by the NC Department of Tourism and placed in allWelcome Centers entering into NC

Placed in the Charlotte and GastonVisitors Centers

Contact us today! 704-685-7011 • [email protected]

Showcase what you haveto offer Gaston County!

oct/nov 2011 | good things in gaston county 2

MAGAZINEcontents

featuresThe Schiele Museum of Natural History ......3Experience natural wonders atThe Schiele Museum

Christmas Town USA ................................7Learn the history of the McAdenvilleChristmas lights

The US National Whitewater Center ........11So much more than just whitewater

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden ................15Brush up on some facts about one of thefinest perennial garden in the Southeast

Crowders Mountain State Park ................19Fun for the whole family

spotlightVolunteer: Habitat for Humanity ................5by: Delta P. SandersPaying it forward

Art: Interest Your Child in Poetry................6by: Sheri BorgesEncourage your child’s creativityat every level

Music: Sweatin’ Bullets............................10by: Tariq Cranke

Education: Gaston Day School..................14

Community: Belmont ..........................17by: Darryl Warren

Fitness: Greenway by Bike ..................28by: Sheila Moran

About the cover. A quiet fall walk at Crowders Mountain on a crispmorning in October. Photo courtesy of Robin Thompson

local infoRiver Jam Fall Finale..................................9

History of Crowders Mountain State Park ..13Learn the history of Crowders

Good Things about Gaston County............21A list of Gaston County’sbusinesses and events

Business Commentary ............................29New businesses are sprouting up!

Carolina Smoke Off..................................30

education

The

1500 East Garrison BlvdGastonia, NC

----------704-866-6908

----------www.schielemuseum.org

----------Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm

Sun 1pm - 5pm

he natural wonders of NorthAmericaand North Carolina, coupled with the richhistory of our region, are all reflected inThe Schiele’s exceptional exhibitions anddiverse programming.Whether you’reindoors or out,with the kids or yourcolleagues, by bringing you a lot closer tonature,The Schiele will bring you a littlecloser to yourself.Gastonia’s Schiele Museum of Natural

History features the largest collection of

land mammal specimens in the Southeast,from common raccoons to huge buffalo.But that’s just the beginning. It has fivepermanent galleries with vivid naturalhistory exhibits, plus outdoor recreationsof an IndianVillage and an 18th-centuryBackcounty Farm. The James H. LynnPlanetarium features a spacious theaterthat surrounds the audience. The Schieleis one of only 70 museums in the U.S.designated as an affiliate of theSmithsonian Institution, enabling it to

“The Schiele is one of only70 museums in the U.S.

designated as an affiliate of theSmithsonian Institution”{ }


work withSmithsonian artifactsand materials. Alsoenjoy a wide varietyof continuouslychanging exhibits.The SchieleMuseum is a publicinstitutionestablished topromote awareness and appreciationfor nature, and to instill a sense ofindividual and social responsibilityfor the diversity of the natural worldand the role of humanity in it.The museum collects, studies, andpreserves natural specimens andcultural artifacts. It uses educationalprograms, exhibits and publicationsto communicate to all possibleaudiences the variety of thoseobjects, their environmental andsocial contexts and the history oftheir connections.

October 2011 EventsCAVESOpens June thru DecemberType: Exhibit- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Deep – Dark – Fun! Can you believeit? Hidden in darkness and inhabitedby creatures seldomseen, cave systems area unique andthreatenedundergroundwilderness.Themysteries provided bycaves have longattracted human visitors – from thefirst Prehistoric peoples using cavesfor shelter to modern day spelunkersseeking a subterranean thrill.Spectacular minerals that form in noother environment await thoseadventurous enough to travel

underground. Shy and uniquecreatures inhabit thedarkness, often alongside thefossil traces of extinct beastsfrom the Ice Age that prowledthe same corridors thousandsof years before. Experience thebreath-taking beauty ofsubterranean environments,complete with live animals,beautiful minerals, fantastic

formations, and running water withindark passages that twist and turn.Free to Museum Members & Freewith General Admission, call704.866.6908 for more information.

Schiele-O-WeenFriday, October 28, 6 - 8 PMType: Special Event- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -If your family is looking for somespooky fun, look no further than theSchiele Museum! Our Schiele-O-Weenevent will be filled with fun andinteractive family activities, includinga spooky cave tour, treats,planetarium shows,hands-onactivities, and a special showing ofour stage program HalloweenTales.Great for the entire family-kids areencouraged to attend in costume! $7for all ages / $5Advance ticketsavailable.Call 704-854-6676 for moreinformation.

Scottish HeritageFestival 2011Sunday, October 23, 1 - 5 PMType: Public Program- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Scottish Heritage of the Carolinaswith the Loch Norman Pipe Band,Scottish Country Dancers, andtraditional and contemporary music.Research your own family clans andtartans at the“DiscoverYour Clan”information booth.Visit the 18th-century Backcountry Farm to learn

aboutlifeways ofearly Scottishimmigrantson the

colonial frontier. Seecooks prepare traditional Scottishdishes at the open hearth. Ladies andchildren, try your luck at theTossin’of the Hagis! Free with Museumadmission and for members.

Autumn at theBackcountry FarmThrough October 23; Saturdays 10 AM- 4 PM, Sundays 1 - 4 PMType: Public Program- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Visit the Backcountry Farm to learnhow animals, plants, and even theearth itself sustained the EuropeanSettlers of the Piedmont. Free withMuseum admission and for members.

A Natural Life: TheBud Schiele StorySept. 24 through Jan. 31Type: Exhibit- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Discover the man behind theMuseum in this exploration of the lifeof Rudolph Melchoir “Bud”Schiele.Aself-styled naturalist and botanist, BudSchiele devoted a lifetime to studying,cataloging andpreserving nature-amassing acollection ofwildlife, rocks andminerals whichare a part ofTheSchiele today. Seehow his legacycontinues!

photography courtesy of: The Schiele Museum of Natural History

Schiele



Spotlight | Volunteer

Habitat forHumanity

By: Delta P. Sanders

abitat for Humanity of Gaston County recentlyopened at 1840 E. Franklin Boulevard.Thespacious, renovated facility includes the Jon B.Closson Housing Center,where administrativeoffices are located, and an expanded Habitat

ReStore. Before the move, the Habitat ReStore was the bestkept secret in the county. The former address on Second

Avenue had limited visibility. Both the organization and thestore have benefited from the prominence of the newlocation and high traffic in the area.Habitat for Humanity works in partnership with God and

people everywhere, from all walks of life, to developcommunities with people in need by building andrenovating houses so that there are decent houses in decent

communities in which every person can experience God’slove 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 9AM – 6 PMTuesday –Friday and 9AM – 4 PM on Saturday.Homeownerinformation classes are offered the second Saturday of eachmonth. Call the office to pre-register for attendance.Sponsorship and volunteer and opportunities are alsoavailable by calling the office at (704) 864-6536.

H

Our firm provides outstanding service to ourclients because of our dedication to the threeunderlying principles of professionalism,responsiveness and quality.

• Bookkeeping• Payroll• Tax Preparation

3302 S. New Hope Road Ste 100BGastonia, NC 28056

Phone: (704) 874-2040 • Fax: (704) [email protected]

www.atlantictaxsolutions.com

TAX SOLUTIONS, LLCatlantic


Spotlight | Art

How to interestyour child inpoetry!

By: Sheri Borges, Co-Owner,Poor Richard’s Book Shoppe

t Poor Richard’s Book Shoppe,we strive to notonly meet our customer’s literary needs throughmerchandise, but to encourage and support allforms of the Creative Arts.Poetry is either the foundation or an extension

of most every form or Art. It is yet another vehicle for theexpression of thoughts, ideas, and feelings. It is a means ofsharing in a brief and concise way.To develop an interest in poetry through your child, youcan begin with age appropriate pieces. Start by reading tothem.Younger children find a great deal of fun in words thatare imitations of the sounds they represent…orOnomatopoeia.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 parentsread poetry. An example for use is the poem“Baa Baa BlackSheep”. This method is found in nursery rhymes and isincredibly useful in not only gaining interest in poetry butteaching children to read.

For the“I can read by myself”group, you can choose suchauthors as Dr. Seuss or P.D. Eastman to engage your futurewriters.Their works are simple and easy to understand aswell as being silly stories built around life lessons. Don’tforget to discuss the meaning with them, this will help yourchild in developing an understanding of the differencebetween words that rhyme and poetic expressions withmeaning – 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 andfriends.As your child grows and advances, challenge them to writetheir own pieces. Whether they are rhythmic or prose. Astime goes they will discover the style that fits them best, theone that will be the voice of who they are.

A

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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$30 Oil Changes on most cars.-----------------------------------------NC State Inspections done right

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704-820-2910809 Belmont Mt Holly Rd • Belmont NC 28012

Holiday

ChristmasTown USA

photography by: Steve Rankin


ach December,

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 backto 1956,when the McAdenville Men’s Club conceived theidea of using lights to decorate a few trees around theMcAdenville Community Center.Nine trees were decoratedthe first year, and reaction to this early effort was so favorablethat the number of trees increased each year until in 1998more than 450,000 red, green and white bulbs onapproximately 400 trees gave off a warm holiday glow to thetown and surrounding area.

CHRISTMASTOWN USA

McAdenville, NC----------

704-823-2260704-823-2261

----------www.mcadenville-

christmastown.com----------

Dec 1 - Dec 26Tree Lighting Ceremony, Dec 1

Yule Log, Dec 16

COMPREHENSIVEDIGESTIVE

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1212 Spruce St. Suite 203 | Belmont NC 28012 | 704.825.7060

www.comprehensivegi.com

Ready to takegood careof you!

10 years of experience in teenageand adult gastroenterology.

Offering a wide variety of endoscopic procedures,including screening colonoscopy.

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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 theheight, diameter and fullness of the trees.The number of lights on an individual

tree range from 500 to 5,000.One of the favorite spots for viewers is the lakewhich is situated near the heart of town.Ranging in size from 12 to 40 feet, 30trees circle the lake.A fountain located in the center of the lake jets water 75feet into the air.At the lake, a 46 foot wide lighted image of Old ManWinterblows snowflakes into the air. Santa and his reindeer, a display that is nine feettall and seventy feet long, are featured as part of the annual tradition.Whilemuch emphasis has been placed on the Christmas lights, this represents only aportion of the efforts that goes into the preparation for Christmas.A life-sizenativity scene is located about midway through the tour of ChristmasTown.Literally millions of people have taken advantage of the opportunity to view thelight fantasy during the 44 years of existence. In 2010 alone,more than 300,000vehicles 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 onNovember 30 to broadcast as ChristmasTown USA comes alive for another year.Lights glow nightly through December 26.

“...hundreds of thousands oftwinkling lights turn this small mill

town into a spectacular holidaydisplay.”{ }



RIVER JAMFALL FINALE

Featuring Sam Bush andJustin Townes Earle

Justin Townes EarleTaking up residence in the LowerEast Side of Manhattan (by way ofNashville), JustinTownes Earle’smusic is Americana through andthrough. Justin won the BestNew and EmergingArtist at the2009Americana Music Awards.His record,Midnight at theMovies,was named one of thebest records of last year byAmazon, received four stars inRolling Stone and found a sweetspot in the blackened hearts offans and critics alike.GQ Magazine

named him one of the 25 best dressed men in the world in2010.He also appeared on HBO’sTreme with his dad,troubadour Steve Earle, on whose GrammyAward-winningTownes record Justin also guests.“Earle sings like a honky-tonk hero and thinks like a 21stcentury man.He’s sharp and young, and has soul to burn—atraditionalist that is not afraid to play ragtime and cover theReplacements punk anthem ‘Can’t HardlyWait.’”—GuitarAficionado

Sam BushGrammyAward winning multi-instrumentalist Sam Bushdoesn’t seem old enough to be a musical legend.And he’s not.But he is.And though Bush is best known for jaw-droppingskills on the mandolin, he is also a three time national juniorfiddle champion and Grammy award winning vocalist.“In the acoustic world, I’ve been pretty lucky to play withalmost every one of my heroes. I’ve gotten to play with BillMonroe,DocWatson, Earl Scruggs, I’ve been to the mountain,”says Bush with a smile.A Bluegrass legend,Bush is known as the King of Newgrass, astyle of bluegrass he developed in the ‘70s.His band NewGrass Revival,which he formed with Bela Fleck,CourtneyJohnson and others, pioneered the new sound.

“Basically you can boil it down tomaking traditional bluegrass-styleinstruments – fiddle,mandolin,banjo, etc. – to makecontemporary music, newmusic,”Bush said in a phoneinterview from his home inNashville.“We respect thetradition of bluegrass. In thewords of Bill Monroe,‘Youmake it your own.’That’s whathe used to say,‘Well, that’sgood,now make it your own.’”

BONUS...HOW ABOUT A FALLMICROBREWS CRUISE?Each cruise begins with a guided flat-water paddle along theCatawba River.As the sun starts to set on the river, you’ll workyour way back to the main facility for a specialty, fireside dinneron Hawk Island.Each cruise will feature a different craftbrewery and tasting; representatives from the breweries willlead the tastings by highlighting new,seasonal and uniquebrews.We love the Microbrews Cruise. An evening of paddling,good food and craft beer.What more could you ask for?

Oct. 19 – Highland Brewing CompanyNov. 2 – The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery

Participant Schedule:Check-in at Kayak Center: 6 p.m.

Flatwater paddle on theCatawba River: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Campfire lit dinner and beer tastingon Hawk Island: 8 – 10 p.m.

Price: $55 per personTickets: Available for purchase online: www.usnwc.org

Date/Time:SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22Doors at 5 p.m., music at 6 p.m.

Band Lineup:SAM BUSHJUSTIN TOWNES EARLE

Tickets:$15 – Adv. Purchase – General Adm.$50 – Adv. Purchase – VIP Ticket$22 – Day of Event – General Adm.

Starting at 5 p.m. on the day ofthe show, facility access will belimited to ticket holders.


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 upand on their feet with crowd pleasing classics byAC/DC,Van Halen, andCreed.Guitarist Chuck Haigler slashes thru screaming solos while drummerRick 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 notheard them,you are missing out!

If you really want to get up and dance to the music, these guys are gonna blow youaway.Be sure to check them out at http://www.sweatinbulletsband.com/ forupcoming dates!

TARIK CRANKE is:GastonToday Entertainment and Music CriticOwner of VKC PRODUCTIONSAND GASTON HOMEGROWN MUSIC FESTIVAL.Creator ofTHEVKC BANDANDVKC EVENTSCBS RADIO/RADIOTALK SHOW PRODUCERMusic production/National movie soundtracks, andTV and radio commercials.Music director for theTV show“City Heat.”

To have your band reviewed byTariq for GT Mag,please send request [email protected]

Spotlight | Music

S

Sweatin’ BulletsROCKS the house!!

106 North Main Street • Belmont, NC 28012

Experience our “whole” approach to food and drinkCheck out our creative menu and daily specials go far

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Visit us on Fireside Fridays to get the full experience!

704- 825-3636 • www.stringbeanmarket.com

dining catering beer&wine market

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Personalized, effectiveand compassionaterehabilitationtreatment

OFFERING:Orthopedic RehabilitationNeurological RehabilitationIncontinence TherapyLymphedema TherapyFibromyalgia ProgramPediatric TherapyAquatic Therapy

by GT Mag music critic Tarik Cranke

he U.S.NationalWhitewater Center is an outdoorrecreation facility set on the banks of the Catawba River.Our400 acres of woodlands is home to the world’s largestrecirculating river, 14 miles of biking, hiking and runningtrails, and one of the world’s largest outdoor climbingfacilities... and now, they’ve made it easier than ever toenjoy... just buy one Pass, and PLAYALL DAY!

AllSport PassAllSport Daily Pass – $49Adult (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 toall of the following:Whitewater Rafting,Canyon Crossing,Climbing,MegaZip,MegaJump,Mountain Biking, Adventure Course,Climb 2 Zip, Flatwater Kayaking,WhitewaterKayaking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding and EcoTrekking.

Here’s just a few of the things that make the U.SWhitewater Center one of the“GoodThings”about the Greater Gaston County area.

Whitewater Rafting:Looking for something completely unique to do in Charlotte,North Carolina?Thethrill of whitewater rafting at the U.S.NationalWhitewater Center is your answer.Home to the world’s largest man-made recirculating river, the USNWC providesexciting rafting adventures on Class II, III and IV whitewater rapids.All raft tripsinclude a professional guide, a short trip talk on the fundamentals of rafting andessential safety information and all the technical equipment needed.

Flatwater KayakingPaddle along the scenic Catawba River and experience a different perspective of theUSNWC.Flatwater kayaking is a relaxing way for families and friends to explore theregion’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.

Adventure

White

5000 WhitewaterCenter Parkway

Charlotte, NC 28214----------

704-391-3900----------

usnwc.org----------

Open 365 days a yearHours vary by season


Canyon CrossingThe Canyon Crossing is one of the newest experiences atthe USNWC.Traverse across the south ridge gorge as youwork your way through the trees on a circuit of sky bridges.With five different aerial challenges that span the canyon,bothkids and adults will be thrilled by the challenge of movingfrom 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.

Mountain BikingThe U.S.NationalWhitewater Center is home to some ofCharlotte’s best trails.The USNWC offers 14 miles of scenicwoodland trails, river views, challenging climbs and excitingdescents for riders of all ages and skill levels.The trailsystem is shared with hikers and runners and it’s difficultyis graded by color:

Green – beginner/easy,mostly flat trailsBlue – intermediate, slight elevation changesBlack – advanced, steep elevation changes

RockClimbingThe climbing center at the USNWC isone of the largest in the world.Theopen-air 46 foot climbing wall featuresmore than 40 roped climbs designed toaccommodate climbers of all skill levels.Made to look and feel just like granite, climbers can ascendour walls and enjoy a birds-eye view of the whitewaterrapids.Beginner to advanced climbing instruction is available to

introduce you to climbing or enhance your skills inbelaying, climbing, rappelling and bouldering.

Hungry? Try theRiver’s Edge Bar & GrillThe perfect relaxation spot after work or play, the River’sEdge Bar & Grill offers a wide selection of food, beer andwine.Our patio overlooks the whitewater river; you canobserve rafters and kayakers paddling (and occasionallyswimming) the Class III and IV rapids from your table.TheRiver’s Edge Bar & Grill is the perfect spot to unwind,watchthe sun set and enjoy any afternoon or evening.Our Chef has carefully designed a unique menu that catersto all types of foodies and features a wide variety ofvegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

photography courtesy of: The U.S. National Whitewater Center

water

“The USNWC is one of the best things to do inGaston County with whitewater rafting,a canopy tour, kayaking, rock climbing,

zip-lines, ropes courses and mountain biking.”{ }


eaking at 800 feetabove the surrounding

countryside, resisting theforces of erosion throughout vastperiods of time,CrowdersMountain andThe Pinnacle areremnants of an ancient mountainrange.Once the core of mightymountains that toweredthousands of feet above sea level,these surviving peaks are part ofthe Appalachian chain thatformed in the region 450 to 500million years ago.Geologically classified as kyanite-quartzite monadnocks, only the strength of quartzitehas 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 sheervertical cliffs ranging from 100 to 150 feet in height.The Pinnacle, by contrast, has a round, gentle profileand reaches an elevation of 1,705 feet.Thesemountains and the saddle that connects them areoriented in a northeast to southwest direction, theirslopes facing east and west. Spectacular views awaitthose 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 byherds of buffalo.The peaks marked the boundarybetween the hunting lands of the Catawba andCherokee Indians, and a major trading route of theCherokees crossed Crowders Mountain.By 1775, approximately 80,000 settlers had migrated

to the area from northern colonies.A treaty in 1777allowed white settlers as far west as the Blue RidgeMountains and the Catawbas retreated peacefullysouthward, but conflicts between the settlers andCherokees persisted until after the RevolutionaryWar.During theAmerican Revolution, the“over-mountain

men”won a major victory for the colonists at nearbyKings Mountain.This small volunteer army wascomposed of hunters, farmers and herdsmen from thefertile valleys west of the Alleghanies.Their conquest

of British loyalists at KingsMountain marked the first step ofdefeat that led to Cornwallis’surrender and the end of a longand bitter war. Learn more aboutthis famous battle at nearbyKings Mountain National MilitaryPark in South Carolina.The discovery of valuableminerals had considerableimpact on the area. In 1799 a 17pound gold nugget wasdiscovered, and another

weighing 28 pounds was discovered in 1803. Soonafter, significant quantities of the treasured mineralwere uncovered near Crowders Mountain.And, untilthe discovery of gold in California in 1849,NorthCarolina was the chief gold-producing state in thenation.Hundreds of mines scarred at least 10 countiesduring this North Carolina gold rush.Kyanite was alsomined, and open-pit mining took place near CrowdersMountain, producing a devastating effect on theenvironment.When exploratory drilling and excavation began in1970, the threat that Crowders Mountain would bemined led local citizens to seek its preservation.TheGaston County Conservation Society was organized toalert people to the danger of the loss of the landmark,to block mining operations and to encourage the stateto acquire the mountain for a park. Based upon thegroup’s 1971 proposal, the state approved CrowdersMountain as a potential state park, and funds weredesignated for land acquisition a year later.The newstate park opened to the public in 1974, but it was notuntil 1977 that the summit of Crowders Mountain wasincluded within the park boundary.The Pinnacle andadditional acreage were acquired in 1987.In 2000, an additional 2,000-acre segment of land was

added to Crowders Mountain State Park. Funded by theNC Natural HeritageTrust Fund and the NC Parks andRecreationTrust Fund, this land connects the statepark to Kings Mountain National Military Park andKings Mountain State Park in South Carolina.

» History of «Crowders Mountain

PThe Pinnacle of Gaston County



or the past 40 years, our hallways have been filled with the voices offuture leaders,musicians, poets, artists, and doctors - each different butall 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, andthe world.Gaston Day offers an experience that rewards students fora 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 gradesPre-Kindergarten through 12 with approximately500 students and 72 full and part-time faculty andstaff.Gaston Day attracts students from a five countyarea including Gaston,Mecklenburg, Lincoln,Cleveland, andYork and is accredited by the SouthernAssociation of Colleges and Schools. It is also amember of the National Association of IndependentSchools, the SouthernAssociation of IndependentSchools, and the North Carolina Association ofIndependent schools and approved by the NorthCarolina Department of Education.

Gaston Day School2001 Gaton Day School Rd

Gastonia, NC 28056----------

704-864-7744----------

www.gastontoday.org

Spotlight | Education

FGaston Day School

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Gardens

6500 South New Hope Rd.Belmont, NC

----------704-825-4490

----------www.dsbg.org

----------Open Daily 9am-5pm

ocated on 400 acresalong the banks of LakeWylie south ofBelmont,Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardenoffers 110 acres of rolling meadows andwoodlands are being developed as one ofthe most beautiful gardens in the world.Already the perennial garden has beencalled one of the finest in the Southeast.Read on for some quick facts about StoweBotanical Garden….

Daniel


• Named one of the Nation’s 20 Great Gardens inHGTVs popular book, Flower Gardening.

• Named Top 10 Garden to visit in the Fallby USA Today.

• Nine major theme gardens.• Striking water fountains and canals, and acollection of plants from around the globe.

• 3,500-square-foot Visitor Pavilion withbreathtaking early-20th-century stained-glass dome.

• Pavilion also houses gift shop and conferencerooms 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 byDaniel and Alene Stowe.

• Designed by noted landscape architectGeoffrey Rausch.

• The Orchid Conservatory-the Carolinas’only glasshouse, dedicated to the display oforchids and tropical plants.

Weddings, Corporateand Social EventsDaniel Stowe Botanical Garden, named

one of the Southeast’s best weddingvenues byThe Knot, is one of theregion’s finest settings for weddingsand other celebrations in any season.With 110 acres of themed gardens, adozen sparkling fountains and ever-changing displays, the Gardens offer theperfect setting for practically any event.Venues include outdoor and indoorsettings for weddings and receptions,rehearsal dinners, showers, bridal /engagement portraiture, anniversary orholiday parties, corporate meetings andevents or any Special Celebration.TheRobert Lee Stowe Pavilion andadjoining outdoor spaces are uniquelydesigned to accommodate socialgatherings large or small.Highlightsinclude:

The Wren RoomTheWren Room is an elegant indoorevent space that can accommodate upto 120 guests for a ceremony.This spaceis most commonly set as an elaborateserving area, but its versatility andcharm make it the ideal location forcocktail receptions, rehearsal dinners,bridal luncheons, and showers.

The Great HallThis magnificent andversatile indoor space forgatherings of up to 300 offersa breathtaking panorama ofthe Four Seasons Garden.Outside lies a sweepingGardenTerrace.

The White GardenTheWhite Garden is the area’smost sought after wedding site,and the beautiful white flowersand rose arbor provide theperfect back drop for thetraditional ceremony.AlthoughtheWhite Garden is most widely usedto exchange vows,with a capacity of upto 200 guests, this garden is perfect foryour reception or cocktail hour.

The Four SeasonsGardenThe Four Seasons Garden is theGarden’s largest outdoor event space,with a capacity of up to 300+ guests.This area is unmatched in its versatilityand serves as the perfect location foreverything from ceremonies andreceptions to engagement parties andanniversary celebrations.

The OrchidConservatoryThe Orchid Conservatory is theperfect venue for the couple looking toadd excitement and sophistication totheir wedding day.This breathtakingglass structure, featuring a 16-footorchid and waterfall wall, serves as abeautiful setting for a spectacularcocktail hour, and the outdoor terrace isjust the right location for receptionsand ceremonies.

Crape Myrtle GroveCrape Myrtle Grove provides a stunningbackdrop for an intimate ceremony or astylish cocktail reception.This outdoorarea features lush foliage, three beautifulfountains and can accommodate up to100 guests for a seated ceremony.

Garland BoardroomThis more formal setting, completewith private patio, features gardenviews in two directions and seats up to18 at a conference-style table.

Portrait GalleriesExtra-wide hallways near the Portrait

Galleries provide space for beverageservice, buffets or displays.

Garden TerracesGardenTerraces 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 Membersand children under age 4

For details call (704) 829-1268 to speakwith an event specialist.

photography courtesy of: Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Named Top 10 Gardento visit in the Fallby USA Today.{ }

Stowe



By: Darryl Warren

There is an old story Iheard from a CatawbaIndian elder a long timeago. He said that the“Southern Point”areaof the Catawba River is

sacred ground because it was thespot his people made peace withthe Cherokee many hundreds ofyears ago. Take a quiet boat ridedown that section of the CatawbaRiver, and it’s easy to for anyone tosee why these two great peoplechose peace over war. It’s simply toobeautiful to fight on. Perhaps thatexplains why“my people,” those thatgrew up on the Catawba and SouthFork rivers, have enjoyed living nearthat part of Gaston County. Be it Karma,Native American spirits, or just plain oldgood people,we“Southern Point” folkshave always shared a common bond thattranscends race or faith. Seeing so manypeople at one of our“Belmont’s Friday

Night Live” is justone shining example of whythis part of Carolina is, for all itsfaults, truly a special place.No one, unless you grew up

here, can truly understand whatit means to see thousands ofsmiling people in downtownBelmont. Pride, joy, andsatisfaction in knowing that wehave done what few have,wehave put together a downtownfestival where ALL people arewelcome. Friday Night hasbecome OUR night to shine, to

show others that it is possible tothrow 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 ourIndependence at “Friday Night Live,” I ran into many old

friends from my childhood. Surethey’re older and a littlegrayer, but they never changein their love for Belmont andwhat it means to be from here.Looking into their eyes, I cansee the pride in knowing thatwe have always been this way.Growing up in the“SouthernPoint,”what you were or believednever really mattered. If you weregood people, you were goodpeople. Sure we have cultural and

political differences, but when it comes torespect and love for each other, Belmont hasalways been a special place in the Carolinas.Most of us grew up mill workers,where wewere bonded by hard work and the dailystruggle to provide for our families. Wedidn’t have much,but what we had wasclean, and it was ours.Somewhere during this particular night of

music, celebrations, and fireworks, I wasovercome with the need to step back and see the

faces of these wonderful people, these sons anddaughters of the Catawba and South Fork waters.Theseare people who struggle day in and day out with thesame fears and turmoil as the rest of America, and Iwonder why we can pull off a safe and magical eveningwhere so many others fail. As I looked into the eyes ofour children and grandchildren, their eyes wide withwonder and amazement at the exploding night sky, I sawthe Great Spirit of the Catawba and Cherokee Indians,those special Native Americans who hundreds of yearsago gave us the miracle of Peace. I suddenly remembersomething else my Native American friend said so manyyears ago.The wise old man looked me in the eyes andproudly said, “In the confrontation between the river’swater and the rock, the river always wins - notthrough strength, but through persistence.”

115 North Main StreetBelmont, NC 28012

----------704-825-5586

----------www.cityofbelmont.org

Community | Belmont

T

The “Southern Point”is truly a special place.

Keep the faith and always

remember to “Be Good.”

Love, your native son Darryl.

Amateur photographers, youthand adult.Daniel StoweBotanical Garden invites anyand all amateur photographersto enter our eighth annual

Shutterbug PhotographyContest. Last year theGarden received morethan 400 entries, and thisyear they expect even

more!The contests FirstPlace winning photos will be

displayed in theVisitor Pavilionat the Garden in early 2012. Per the Garden’s

discretion, Second andThird Place winning photoscould 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 toThe Garden Store.The winners in each youth category willreceive a Garden gift package.Other winners will receivefree passes to the Garden.

Deadline for all entries will be Dec.31,2011.A distinguishedpanel of judges will review the entries and select the winners.Winners will be announced in February 2012.


Best of Show,First Place Plants- - - - - - - - - - -

Walter Stopa,Rock Hill, SC

The GT Mag “Good Thingsabout Gaston” poll numbers

are in, and the WINNER is....

Christmas Town USA!

Be sure to vote each month in theGaston Today Magazine “Good Things”

poll on Facebook athttp://www.facebook.com/GastonToday

-------------------------------Next month’s poll is: “Best Gaston

County Restaurant for a Holiday Meal.”

Calling allShutterbugs!

TODD STAFFORD

621 PARK STREET • BELMONT, NCABBEY PLAZA SHOPPING CENTER

704.825.6982WWW.STAFFORD-JEWELERS.COM

RINGS BRACELETS EARRINGS WATCHESCUSTOM DESIGNS APPRAISALS REPAIRS ON PREMISES

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST!Buy Jewelry with confidence and trust. We’re your local jewelry store and we

strive to offer top quality jewelry and remarkable customer service

Nature

Crowders MountainState Park

522 Park Office LaneKings Mountain, NC 28086

----------GPS coordinates:

35.213316, -81.293555----------

704-853-5375----------

e: [email protected]:

Nov.-Feb., 8 am-6 pmMar.-Apr., Sept.-Oct., 8 am-8 pm

May-August, 8 am-9 pmClosed Christmas Day

aptors soar gracefully in the wind;vegetation reaches to the sky; sheer vertical cliffs drop150 feet. Enjoy the spectacle from a front-row seat.High atop Crowders Mountain, the second highest pointin 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 theNorth Carolina Piedmont offers a variety of terrain. Dipinto the valleys; cross the foothills; climb to the peaks.Quiet woods, trickling streams and melodious birdsawait. These spectacular surroundings, like the uniquehabitats in many other state parks,would not existwere it not for the efforts of concerned citizens dedicated toprotecting our environment.

HikingThe beauty and diversity of Crowders Mountain State Park are best appreciated on itsmiles of hiking trails. Hiking trails lined with wildflowers and mountain laurel lead alongthe ridges and to the summits of Crowders Mountain andThe Pinnacle. Other trails areeasy promenades through pastoral surroundings. Circle the lake on a gravel path or viewaquatic plants and animals along a narrow creek. Bring a pair of binoculars and do somebird watching or tote a camera and capture the beauty of wildflowers in bloom.

Crowdersph

oto

byR

obin

Thom

pson


photo by Robin Thompson

R

CampingWhen you’ve finished exploring forthe day, settle in for a long night’s sleep.Located approximately one mile fromthe park office are secluded areas forcamping — areas so private there’soften not another person in sight. Bothcampgrounds are reached by trail andall supplies must be packed to thecampsites.

Backcountry FamilyCampingA one-mile trail leads to the forestedcamping area where each campsite hasa grill and tent pad and a picnic table.Drinking water and pit toilets areprovided.

Backcountry GroupCampingLarger groups will enjoy fellowship in

the group camping area. Each of thesix group sites will accommodate up to15 people. Camping areas include a firecircle for cooking and campfire tales, aswell as two picnic tables per site. Pittoilets and water are located nearby.

PicnickingThe shade of large trees provides aspot for outdoor dining in a beautifulwooded area. Scattered throughout thepicnic area are 28 tables and eight grills.Drinking water and restrooms arelocated nearby. Two large shelters withtables and grills are available for grouppicnics. Reservations are suggested tobe certain they are available. Use of theshelters is free of charge and on a first-come, first-served basis unlessreservations are requested.

Rock ClimbingExperienced climbers will enjoy the

challenges of Crowders Mountain.Climbing is permitted in designatedareas only. Pitons, bolts or similardevices that may damage cliff faces arenot permitted. Further information maybe obtained at the park office.

BoulderingA form of rockclimbing donewithout anchors andropes, is available onBuzzard’s Roost, nearthe Boulders AccessArea. All climbingregulations, includingthe requirement of apermit, are in effect, andsome sections ofBuzzard’s Roost may beclosed to Bouldering atcertain times of the year.Check with park staff formore information.All climbers mustregister with thepark bycompleting aclimbing andrappellingregistration andactivity permitwhich isavailable at thepark office visitor center or at the self-registration box at the LinwoodAccessArea. There is no fee for this permit.Prior to activity, a copy of the permitmust be deposited in a registration box

or given to a park ranger. An additionalcopy is provided for participants andmust be held in their possession whileengaged in climbing or rappelling.Participants are responsible for theirown personal safety, including securingproper training and equipment, andadhering to safe practices. Basic rockclimbing safety equipment andtechniques must be used at all times.

Water SportsWatch a long, lazyafternoon slip away whileenjoying the park’swooded lake. Locatednear the park office andpicnic ground, the nine-acre,man-made lake hasample parking nearby.For those who like to beafloat, canoes can berented at the park officefrom spring throughlate fall year-round,weather permitting.Paddle to secludedspots along theshoreline where theonly sound is theripples of the water.Fish from choicefishing spots on the

banks or try your luck from the seat ofa canoe. Bass and bream are waiting tobe caught! Anglers must have a NorthCarolina fishing license. Swimming andprivate boats are not permitted

Education and Events:Rangers hold regularly scheduled

educational and interpretive programsabout Crowders Mountain State Park.To arrange a special exploration ofCrowders Mountain State Park for yourgroup or class, contact the park office.Educational materials about CrowdersMountain State Park have beendeveloped for grades 5-7 and arecorrelated to North Carolina’scompetency-based curriculum inscience, social studies,mathematics andEnglish/language arts. The CrowdersMountain program introduces studentsto basic geologic concepts, includingthe rock cycle, rock and mineralidentification,weatheringand erosion, and resource use.Accompanying the program is ateacher’s booklet and workshop,free of charge to educators.

“Dip into the valleys; cross thefoothills; climb to the peaks...”{ }

Mountain


photo by Robin Thompson

21

Where to go andWhat to do inGaston County

Upcoming RacesSaturday, November 19Spencer Mountain TenWarlick Elementary School10-Mile Begins at 9:00AM5K Race Begins at 9:05AMwww.gastonymca.org

Saturday, November 5North Carolina Adventure RaceSeries (NCARS)US Whitewater Center8 a.m. – 4 p.m.Race Options:4-Hour Race • 8-Hour Racewww.ncars.info

Upcoming Events &Festivals

Saturday, October 22Whitewater River Jam FallFinale featuring Sam BushUS Whitewater Center5000 Whitewater Center PkwyCharlotte, NCDoors at 5 p.m., music at 6 p.m.www.usnwc.org

Friday, October 14Pinnacle sunset hikeCrowders Mountain522 Park Office LaneKings Mountain5:30-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, October 25Terrific Toddler TuesdayGaston County Museum of Art &History131 W. Main St.10 AM - 11 AMwww.gastoncountymuseum.org

Thursday, October 27Family Fun Night -Victorian Halloween PartyGaston County Museum of Art &History131 W. Main St.5:30 - 7:30 PMwww.gastoncountymuseum.org

Friday, October 28Harvest Brewed6 - 9 p.m.Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardenwww.dsbg.org

Friday, October 28Schiele-O-Ween6 - 8 p.m.The Schiele Museumwww.schielemuseum.org

Friday, October 28 - Saturday,October 291st Annual Carolina Smoke-Off!Rotary Centennial Pavilion, Gastoniawww.carolinasmokeoff.com

Saturday, October 29 to Sunday,October 30BOOTANICAL9 a.m. - 3 p.m.Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardenwww.dsbg.org

Saturday, October 29Celebrate Gaston!Rotary Centennial PavilionGastoniawww.celebrategaston.com

Saturday November 12Fur, fangs and feathers festivalCrowders Mountain522 Park Office LaneKings Mountain10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

November 25 – December 31Holiday LightsDaniel Stowe Botanical GardenThe Garden has something foreveryone to enjoy this holidayseason – Spectacular light displays,carriage rides, music, baked treats,and even visits from Santa! Now inits seventh season, guests areimmersed in a holiday wonderlandwith an array of 600,000 colorfullights that will fill the Christmasseason with joy and memories thatwill last a lifetime. The experience

begins in the Visitor Pavilion, whereguests are greeted with the sight ofthe majestic 16-foot-tall OrchidTree, made of more than 300 liveorchids. Get into the spirit of theseason at The Garden Stage on theFour Seasons Lawn wheremusicians, carolers and otherentertainers bring us all holidaycheer. From there, explore the icyWhite Garden, the festive CanalGarden or any of the other themeddisplays. Whichever direction youtake, you are surrounded by acaptivating display of lights. It’sChristmas in the tropics in TheOrchid Conservatory where you canwarm up while checking out a one-of-a-kind bromeliad tree,

poinsettias, a train displaly andmore. Finally, the aroma of hotchocolate and baked cookies willdraw you back to the Visitor Pavilionwhere you can see a train displayfrom Metrolina Model Railroadersand delight in a selection of hotbeverages and tasty treats – allwhile you enjoy the sounds of theseason from the player piano andawait visits from Santa. Don’t missHoliday Lights at the Garden thisseason!Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardenwww.dsbg.org

December 1Tree Lighting CeremonyMcAdenville, NCOpen: Dec 1 - Dec 26www.mcadenville-christmastown.com

December 16Yule LogMcAdenville, NCwww.mcadenville-christmastown.com

Top Attractionsin Gaston County

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden6500 South New Hope Rd.Belmont, NCPhone: 704-825-4490www.dsbg.org

Crowders Mountain522 Park Office Ln.Kings Mountain, NCPhone: 704-853-5375www.ncsparks.gov

The Schiele Museum1500 East Garrison BlvdGastonia, NCPhone: 704-866-6908www.schielemuseum.org

Christmas Town USAMcAdenville, NCPhone: 704-823-2260704-823-2261www.mcadenville-christmastown.com

US Whitewater Center5000 Whitewater Center PkwyCharlotte, NCPhone: 704-391-3900www.usnwc.org

Belmont Abbey College100 Belmont-Mt. Holly RdBelmont, NCCampus Tours: 704-825-6890704-825-6665Historic Tours: 704-461-6693Athletics Events: 704-461-6809www.abbeyathletics.comwww.belmontabbeycollege.edu

Carolina Speedway6335 Union RoadGastonia, NCPhone: 704-869-0313www.carolinaspeedway.net

Gaston County Museum of Art &History131 W. Main Street, DallasPhone: 704-922-7682www.gastoncountymuseum.org

C Grier Beam Truck Museum111 North Mountain St.Cherryville, NCPhone: 704-435-3072www.beamtruckmuseum.com

Downtown Historic DallasPhone: 704-922-7682www.dallasnc.net

Cherryville Historic Museum109 Main Street, CherryvillePhone: 704-435-8011

Cherryville Heritage Park104 S. Jacob St.Cherryville, NCPhone: 704-435-6998www.cherryville.com

Brevard Station Museum112 S. Main StreetStanley, NCPhone: 704-263-9801www.brevardstation.com

American Military Museum109 West Second Ave.Gastonia, NCPhone: 704-866-6068

Visit all the “Good Things” in Gaston County(Courtesy of GT Mag and Visit Gaston)

Belmont Fall Festival photos courtesy of: Gaston County Travel & Tourism

Cotton Ginning Days photos courtesy of: Gaston County Travel & Tourismgood things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011

Top Attractions provide excitement and good family fun! »»»»

Good Things


Lineberger Maple Springs Farm906 Dallas-Stanley Hwy.Dallas, NCPhone: 704-922-8688Website: maplespringsfarm.home.mindspring.com

Belmont Historical Society40 Catawba StreetBelmont, NCPhone: 704-825-4848Website: www.belmontnc-hs.org

Arts and Theater inGaston CountyThe United Arts Council of GastonCounty is a private, non-profitorganization that encourages,supports and promotes the arts inGaston County on behalf of all itscitizens. It serves as the umbrellaorganization to 27 member groupswhich provide a variety of culturalprogramming in the community.Community celebrations that featurelocal performers, artists, andcraftsmen not only help unite thecommunity, but they also make it abetter place to live. For a currentcalendar of events call 704-853-2787 or the organizations below:

Belmont Abbey Players704-825-6787 Theater2

Belmont Community Theatre704-825-6787

Cherryville Little Theatre704-435-1742

Community Concerts704-853-2787www.gastonarts.org

Gaston Choral Society704-853-2787www.gastonarts.orgTheater3

Gaston County Museum of Artand History704-922-7681 Opt. 2www.gastoncountymuseum.org

Gaston School of the Arts704-866-8882

Gaston County Arts Guild704-853-2787www.gastonarts.org

Gaston Dance704-865-5943www.gastonarts.org

Little Theatre of Gastonia704-865-0160www.littletheaterofgastonia.com

Schiele Museum of NaturalHistory & Planetarium704-866-6900www.schielemuseum.org

Movie TheatersBessemer City/Kings MountainDrive-In1265 Bessemer City-KingsMountain Hwy.704-739-2150

The Movies at Franklin Square3778 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-824-9556

FishingGaston County, NC located on LakeWylie and the Catawba River ishome to a total of 32 lakes andoffers great fishing opportunities.Information on the rules, regulationsand license requirements for fishingcan be found atwww.co.gaston.nc.us

Crowders Mtn. State Park522 Park Office Ln.Kings Mountain, NC704-853-5375The lake is stocked every season.The following fish are found in thelake:Bluegill - Also called ‘bream,’bluegill bait includes earthworms,crickets, grubs, grasshoppers,spinners, poppers, and flies.Largemouth Bass - One of the mostpopular game fish, the largemouthbass will eat just about anything.Redbreast Sunfish - Also known asa ‘robin,’ this fish has a yellowish toorange colored belly. Althoughsmaller than the bluegill, the sunfishprefers the same bait types.White Crappie - Usually found nearsubmerged brush or logs. The baitthey prefer are live minnows and‘crappie jigs.’Mosquitofish - A small, minnow-likefish, found near the shore. As thename implies, they eat mosquitolarvae. Not much of a game fishthough.

Gaston County Park1303 Dallas-Cherryville Hwy.Dallas, NC704-922-2160

Fishing Tackle Loaner Programat Dallas ParkFirst-time and novice anglers inNorth Carolina are encouraged toborrow rods and reels free ofcharge to join in the fishing fun thisyear. The loaner rods and reels areprovided by Gaston County Parks

and Recreation and by the NCWildlife Resources Commissionthrough the Commission’s FishingTackle Loaner Program (FTLP). TheCommission created the FishingTackle Loaner Program to introduceNorth Carolinians, especiallychildren, to fishing and toencourage novice anglers tocontinue developing their anglingskills. Fishing is open from 9 a.m. to4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Robinson Catfish Lake5129 Dallas High Shoals Hwy.Dallas, NC704-922-1150

Robinwood LakeSwimming & Fishing2221 Robinwood RoadGastonia, NC704-867-9111

Cook’s Fishing LakeUnion Rd. to Beaty Rd.Follow signs704-864-1604

GolfApple Creek Golf Course101 Apple Creek Dr.Dallas, NC704-922-4440Holes: 18This 18 hole championship“executive” golf course willchallenge players of all skill levels.

Briarcreek Golf Club601 Cherry St.High Shoals, NC704-922-4208Holes: 18Greens: Bent GrassFairways: Bermuda GrassThis course was built on rollingterrain and has water hazards thatcome into play on the back nine.

Crowders Mountain Golf Club255 Lincoln Academy Rd.Gastonia, NC704-739-76811-800-633-1729Holes: 18Greens: Bent GrassFairways: Bermuda GrassA heavily-wooded course is locatedin a mountain setting at the base ofCrowder Mountain State Park.

Catawba Creek Golf Club530 Niblick Dr.704-866-6945Holes: 18Greens: Bermuda GrassFairways: Bermuda GrassThis course can prove to be a realchallenge for the intermediateplayer. There is a creek that comesinto play several times throughoutthe course’s design, and out-of-bounds stakes line eight holes.

Green Meadows Golf Course957 Kelly RoadMt. Holly, NC704-827-9264Holes: 18Greens: Bermuda GrassFairways: Bermuda GrassBuilt on hilly terrain. The fairwaysare tree lined, and water hazardscome into play on four holes.

Linwood Springs Golf Club2900 Linwood Rd.Gastonia, NC704-867-1642Holes: 18Greens: Bermuda GrassFairways: Bermuda GrassThis course was built on rolling hillsand has water that comes into playon six holes. There are out-of-bounds stakes lining six holes.

Parks & RecreationPack a lunch and visit a park inGaston County today.Gaston County Parks &Recreation Department1301 Dallas-Cherryville HwyDallas NC704-922-2160www.co.gaston.nc.us

Gaston County Park at BeamElementary School200 Davis Park RoadGastonia, NCSize: 5 Acre ParkBall Fields: Soccer / Football Field -1 (lighted)Other Facilities: 0.25 mile Walking /Jogging Track (lighted)

Explore the many exciting attractions that Gaston County has to offer! The largest attraction in Gaston County by visitors is Daniel Stowe BotanicalGarden, covering 110 acres of spectacular plants, flowers, and more. Crowder’s Mountain State Park, the highest point in Gaston County offeringspectacular views from sheer vertical cliffs. The Schiele Museum is a world-class science museum and planetarium featuring both permanent andtouring exhibits. For the holidays of course it’s Christmas Town USA in McAdenville! Every December, hundreds of thousands of twinkling lightsturn this small mill town into a spectacular holiday display. A world-class recreation and training facility, the U.S. National Whitewater Center setamong 300 acres wooded along the scenic Catawba River. The multi-use facility has a climbing center, mountain-biking trails and running trails.

Belmont Fall Festival photos courtesy of: Gaston County Travel & Tourism

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l23 good things in gaston county | oct/nov 2011

Gaston County Parkat Bessemer City1316 Crowders Mountain Rd.Bessemer City, NCSize: 35 Acre ParkBall Fields: Baseball Field 1 lighted,Softball Fields - 1 lighted, LittleLeague Fields - 2 lighted, Soccer /Football Field - 1 (lighted)Picnic Facilities: Two (2) coveredsheltersOther Facilities: Walking / JoggingTrack (lighted) - Play Equipment,Restrooms

Gaston County Park at BelmontCentral Elementary School310 Eagle RoadBelmont, NCSize: 10 Acre ParkBall Fields: Little League Field - 1lighted, Soccer / Football Field - 1lightedOther Facilities: 0.25 mile Walking /Jogging Track (lighted)

Gaston County Park at BessElementary School4340 Beaty RoadGastonia, NCSize: 10 Acre ParkBall Fields: Softball Field - 1 lighted,Soccer / Football Field - 1 (lighted)Other Facilities: 0.25 mile Walking /Jogging Track (lighted), Restrooms

Gaston County Park at CatawbaHeights Elementary School101 Ivey StreetBelmont, NCSize: 3 Acre ParkBall Fields: Little League Field - 1lighted

Gaston County Park at CampSertoma135 Camp Sertoma RoadDallas, NCSize: 10 AcresOther Facilities: 0.2 Mile TrailPicnic Facilities: (covered andscreened in), Kitchen Facilities

Gaston County Park at ChapelGrove5210 Lewis RoadGastonia, NCSize: 20 AcresBall Fields: Softball Field - 1 lighted,Little League Field – 1, Soccer /Football Field - 1 (lighted)Other Facilities: Small All PurposeBuilding

Gaston County Park atCramerton Middle School601 Cramer Mountain RoadCramerton, NCBall Fields: Baseball Field - 1 lighted,Softball Field - 1 lighted, Soccer /Football Field - 1 lighted

Other Facilities: Walking/JoggingTrack - 1 unlighted, Restrooms

Gaston County Park at Dallas1303 Dallas-Cherryville HighwayDallas, NCSize: 100 AcresBall Fields: Softball Fields - 3 lighted,Little League Field – 1Picnic Facilities: Two (2) largecovered shelters, Two (2) smallcovered shelters, Eight (8) pads withtablesEquestrian Facilities: Show Ring,124 Stalls, Concession / Restroom,Control BuildingOther Facilities: Play Equipment,Restrooms, Amphitheater, Three (3)Lakes (fishing - and the catfish arejumping!), 1 mile Walking Track,Walking / Jogging Trails, Six (6)Lighted Tennis Courts

Gaston County Park at EastGaston High School1744 Lane RoadMount Holly, NCSize: 10 Acre ParkBall Fields: Baseball Field - 1 lighted,Softball Field - 1 lightedOther Facilities: Eight (8) TennisCourts - (lighted), Restrooms

Gaston County Park atForestview High School5545 Union RoadGastonia, NCBall Fields: Baseball Field - 1 lighted,Softball Field - 1 lighted

Gaston County Park at New HopeElementary School137 Stowe RoadGastonia, NCSize:10 Acre ParkBall Fields: Softball Field - 1 lighted,Soccer / Football Field - 1 (lighted)Other Facilities: 0.2 mile Walking -Jogging Track (lighted), 0.3 mileNature Trail, Restrooms

Gaston County Park at NorthBelmont3110 Hickory Grove RoadGastonia, NCSize: 35 Acre ParkBall Fields: Softball Field - 1 lighted,Little League Field - 1 lighted,Soccer / Football Field - 1 (lighted),Soccer / Football Field - 1 (unlighted)Picnic Facilities: Three (3) coveredshelters, Pads with tablesOther Facilities: 0.5 mile Track, PlayEquipment, Restrooms

Gaston County Park at PinewoodElementary School1925 North Main StreetMount Holly, NCSize: 3 Acre ParkBall Fields: Soccer / Football Field -1 (lighted)Other Facilities: 0.25 mile Walking /Jogging Track (lighted)

Gaston County Park at RobinsonElementary School3122 Union RoadGastonia, NCSize: 10 Acre ParkBall Fields: Little League Field - 1lighted, Soccer/Football Field - 1lightedOther Facilities: 0.25 mileWalking/Jogging Track (lighted)

Gaston County Park at Tryon2851 Tryon Courthouse RoadBessemer City, NCSize: 33 Acre ParkBall Fields: Softball Fields - 2 lighted,Little League Field - 3 lighted,Soccer / Football Field (lighted)Picnic Facilities: Two (2) smallcovered shelters, Four (4) pads withtablesOther Facilities: 0.25 mile Walking -Jogging Track (lighted), PlayEquipment, Restrooms

George Poston Park1101 Lowell-Spencer MountainRoadGastonia, NCBall Fields: Softball/Little LeagueFields - 4 lighted, Soccer Fields - 4lightedOther Facilities: Dog Park, MountainBike Trail, Horseshoe Complex,Playground Equipment, Fishing Lake(proposed), Equestrian Trails(proposed), 7 miles of Nature &Hiking Trails, Picnic Facilities(proposed)

Lewis Brooks Airfield555 Biggerstaff Landfill RoadBessemer City, NC

Where To ShopGaston County has for years attractedshopping-minded visitors. Mary Jo’sCloth Store in Gaston Mall is thelargest fabric store in the Southeastand continues to draw customersfrom around the World. Nowhere isthe quality of shopping better reflectedthan in the local malls.WestfieldShopping Center, with its 100 storesranks fourth largest in the Carolinas.Franklin Square, which opened in1989, has grown into four shoppingcenters and offers just abouteverything you need in over 1 millionsquare feet. The all new Gaston MallCenter and Akers Center continuetheir tradition of quality and selection.

AntiquesAntiques on Second211 W. Second Ave.Gastonia, NC704-866-9590

Fine Things Consigned106 E. First St.Lowell, NC704-824-3312

Heirlooms102 Front StreetCramerton, NC704-975-4350

Katty-Did Antiques & Gifts140 E. Main Ave.Gastonia, NC704-864-1090

O’Briens Arts & Frame Shop804 Gastonia HwyBessemer City, NC704-629-3480

Piccolo Antiques andConsignments134 N. Main St.Belmont, NC704-825-5656

Second Fiddle36 N. Main StreetBelmont, NC704-461-8156

Town Crier Antique Mall1685 Upper Armstrong Ford RoadGastonia, NC704-824-4671

Specialty ShopsAll About Sports Cards &Collectibles136 W. VirginiaBessemer City, NC704-629-2551

The Art Station170 South StreetGastonia, NC704-824-1511

Bargain Hunters Thrift Store797 W. Charlotte AvenueMount Holly, NC704-827-9102

The Bath Lab100 N. Main StreetLowell, NC704-824-6188

Belmont Bicycles105 S. Main StreetBelmont, NC704-825-BIKE

Belmont General Store6 North Main StreetBelmont, NC704-825-0114

Blythe Gallery117 N. Main StreetBelmont, NC 28012704-825-8809

Bookin’ it!7 N. Main StreetBelmont, NC704-461-8258www.bookin-it.com

Bluegill Pottery4522 W.Wilkinson Blvd.Lowell, NC704-824-9928

Bunny Patch Children’sConsignment1120-A Union RoadGastonia, NC704-869-9090

Butler Studio171 West Main StreetGastonia, NC704-470-5245

Carolyn’s Frame Shop307 Belwood DriveBelmont, NC704-829-0703

Catawba River Artisans ArtGallery128 South Main StreetMount Holly, NC704-822-1450catawbariverartisans.com

Chic Boutique128 E. Central Ave.Mount Holly, NC704-820-8635

The Christmastown ThomasKinkade Signature Gallery129-1/2 Main StreetMcAdenville, NC704-823-1550

Designing Brides33 North Main StreetBelmont, NC704-825-0444

Elk Creek Candle Co.105 E. 1st StreetLowell, NC704-823-7142

Facet Foundry Jewelry Studio, Inc.530 S. New Hope Rd., Suite 1Gastonia, NC704-867-5332

Finders Keepers Attic130 E. Main AvenueGastonia, NC980-329-2674

The Frame & Art Shop6825 Wilkinson Blvd.Belmont, NC704-825-9601

Frame Gallery211 W. 2nd Avenue,Gastonia, NC704-865-8856

Happy Dog Cafe Boutique &Salon26 N. Main Street, Suite 1Belmont, NC 28012704-825-5987

The Image Gallery320 W. Main Ave.Gastonia, NC704-869-8968

Good Things


Indian Motorcycle Charlotte110 Indian WalkLowell, NC704-879-4560

Interiors By Mimi16 Oak Grove DriveMount Holly, NC704-820-9136www.interiorsbymimi.com

JS Pottery128 S. Main StreetMount Holly, NC704-931-4130

John’s Toy & Hobby Shop3418 S. New Hope RdGastonia, NC704-865-8141

Jolie Boutique4 N. Main StreetBelmont, NC704-825-7997

Love’s Accessories Inc. & DesignConsignment1 Main StreetCramerton, NC704-824-4650

Luxury Fabrics140 E. Main StreetGastonia, NC704-867-5313

The MarketPlace601 Park StreetBelmont, NC704-829-6252

Mattie Mae’s101 E. First StreetLowell, NC704-869-0493

Michaels Arts & Crafts2904 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-854-3191

Million Dollar Dog7206 Wilkinson Blvd.Belmont, NC704-266-4137

Morris & Daughter Fabrics101 East First St.Lowell, NC704-824-7019

Poor Richardson’s Book Shoppe118 S. South St.Gastonia, NC704-271-4644

Organic Marketplace1012 S New Hope RoadGastonia, NC704-864-0605www.organic-marketplace.com

The Peppermint Shoestring33 N. Main StreetBelmont, NC704-825-7600

The Pink Elephant3131 Union Rd.Gastonia, NC704-861-9001

251 Main Home Décor &Christmas Store251 W. Main AvenueGastonia, NC704-868-4355

The Great Outdoors112 A Cherry StreetCherryville, NC704-445-8848

School Resources140 N. Main StreetBelmont, NC704-825-2322

Scooters Gifts for Kids3418 S. New Hope Road, Gastonia704-865-8141

Surprise Me132 N. Main StreetBelmont, NC704-825-1116

Sugar Diva’s Custom Cakes140 E. Central AvenueMount Holly, NC704-780-9897www.sugardivascustom-cakes.com

Susan C. Anthony Gifts &Accesories33 N. Main Street, Suite BBelmont, NC 28012704-825-6900

Sweet Peas Unique Gifts127 S. Main St.Mount Holly, NC 28120704-827-6977

Tally Ho1013 Union RoadGastonia, NC 28054704-861-1990

Tammy Taylor Interiors102 Front StreetCramerton, NC 28032704-908-3740

Things Remembered Framing3805 S. New Hope RoadGastonia, NC704-824-0473

This N That Store182 West Main AvenueGastonia, NC980-297-6715

Three Hip Chicks140A N. Main StreetBelmont, NC704-825-3313704-824-7300

Time Flies Country Store111 N. Main StreetMount Holly, NC704-601-7131

Wardrobe 360(Upscale resale store for teens)1120-C Union RoadGastonia, NC704-864-8295

Wholesale Flooring Company601 Park St.Abbey Plaza Shopping CenterBelmont, NC704-678-2225

Victoria-Cole Gifts & Collectibles112 E. Main StreetCherryville, NC704-435-5225

Trish’s Unique Gift Baskets-N-Candle Boutique119-B North Main StreetLowell, NC704-824-8440

Triple S Trading Post1627 Spencer Mountain RoadRanlo, NC704-824-7300

The Vitamin Shoppe407 Cox RoadGastonia, NC704-864-2315

Where to StayWhether you are visiting for aconference, shopping, a festival orspecial event, touring one of our manylocal area attractions, or whatever thereason, Gaston County offers overnightaccommodations to suit your needs.Many of our hotels are national chainsand are conveniently located just off ofInterstate 85.BelmontAmerican MotelHeritage InnHampton InnHoliday Inn ExpressThe Abbey InnVilla at Waters EdgeGastoniaBest WesternBudget InnComfort SuitesCourtyard by MarriotttDays InnExpress Inn and SuitesFairfield InnHampton InnHoliday Inn ExpressKnights InnMid Town Motor InnMotel 6Red Carpet Inn & SuitesSuper 8Value PlaceBessemer CityAffordable SuitesAmerica’s Best InnDallasHill Top MotelMt. HollyRobin’s Nest

For details about Gaston County’saccommodations visitwww.visitgaston.org/gaston-county-hotels

Where To EatGaston County offers a great varietyof dining and restaurants to suit everytaste. Be sure to try one of our manyfish camps which are a part of thehistory of Gaston County. Or, if you arelooking for a treat, try Tony’s IceCream located in Gastonia and hasbeen operating since the 1920’s.

Asian2000 Café3880 Kings Mtn. Hwy.Gastonia, NC704-868-8839

Asian Garden202-B Market St.Cramerton, NC704-824-8318

D-D Fusion Express908 W. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-869-6004

Golden Palace3206 Union Rd.Gastonia, NC704-867-4101

King Buffet609 N. Main St.Belmont, NC704-825-8883

Koto’s Japanese House of Steak& Seafood1825 S. New Hope Rd.Gastonia, NC704-866-8555

Micky Chow’s Super Buffet902 Union RoadGastonia, NC704-869-9630

Nara Express1808 S. York St.Gastonia, NC704-865-8811

Oishii Japanese SteakhouseGaston Mall, 401 Cox Rd.Gastonia, NC704-867-8651

Peking Garden3078 East Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-867-6600

Shogun Japanese Steak &Seafood306 E. Garrison Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-868-4168

Sake Express JapaneseSteakhouse & Seafood675 Park St.Belmont, NC704-461-0400

Sake Express116 N. New Hope Rd.Gastonia, NC704-864-4466

Sake Express349 W. Charlotte Ave.Mt. Holly, NC704-827-4819

Sakura Japanese Restaurant3758 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-823-3388

Thai House4008 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-823-1797

BarbecueBilly’s Famous BBQ1127 W. Charlotte Ave.Mount Holly, NC704-827-8747

Black’s Barbecue, Inc.2902 S. York Rd.Gastonia, NC704-867-0941

Fatback’s BBQ & Grill5102 York Hwy.Gastonia, NC704-864-3600

Hillbilly’s Barbecue & Steaks720 McAdenville Rd.Lowell, NC704-824-8838

Hillbilly’s Barbecue & Steaks930 E. Garrison Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-861-8787

Kyle Fletcher’s Barbecue4507 Wilkinson Blvd.Lowell, NC704-824-1956

RO’s Barbecue1318 Gaston Ave.Gastonia, NC704-866-8143

CafeteriasJackson’s Cafeteria1453 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-868-4181

Miles Cafeteria110 S. Marietta St.Gastonia, NC704-867-1011

CaribbeanAnntony’s Tropical Grill141 E. Main AvenueGastonia, NC704-215-5401

Caribbean Delight908 W. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-866-7399


CasualBackwoods Restaurant119 N. Main St.Mt. Holly, NC704-820-8098

Belmont Food & Beverage124 Main St.Belmont, NC704-829-7788

Black’s Grill1915 Lincolnton Hwy.Cherryville, NC704-671-2067

Buffalo Wild Wings422 Cox Rd.Gastonia, NC704-349-4060

Center Street Tavern115 Center St.Cramerton, NC704-823-3000

Cherub’s Cafe23 N. Main St.Belmont, NC704-825-0414

The Chicken Box901 Bessemer City RoadGastonia, NC704-917-0015

Chili’s Grill & Bar3086 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-867-0276

City Cafe128 S. Main St.Mt. Holly, NC704-822-1450

Country Kitchen116 E. Main St.Dallas, NC704-922-9597

Cowboy B’s Family Restaurant1420 Perfection AvenueBelmont, NC704-820-8652

Demetrio’s Restaurant6928 W.Wilkinson Blvd.Belmont, NC704-825-0057

Triple E Express & Grill Inc.2353 N. Bessemer City RoadGastonia, NC704-865-9000

Firestone Grill1325 W. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-865-0079

Five Guys FamousBurgers & Fries3044 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-865-2250

Freeman’s Pub173 W. Main Ave.Gastonia, NC704-671-4782

Friendly’s of Stanley119 N. Main StreetStanley, NC704-263-7088

Gashouse Grill3078 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-865-6889

Georgio’s Family Restaurant202 Market St.Cramerton, NC704-824-2220

Grandma Hoyt’s Country Buffet421 E. Virginia Ave.Bessemer City, NC704-629-9440

Greg’s Family Restaurant125 N. Main St.Lowell, NC704-879-4073

H & M Deli119 Center StreetCramerton, NC704-824-2599www.hmdeliandmarket.com

Hillard’s SouthernComfort Cuisine124 South St.Gastonia, NC704-868-9311

Hojo & CC’s Wing Shack130 W. Charlotte Ave.Mount Holly, NC704-827-8867

Home Folks Cafe209 E. Main St.Cherryville, NC704-435-9336

Honey Baked Ham1867-A Remount Rd.Gastonia, NC704-868-3376

Hooters3725 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-823-0025

I HOP504 Cox Rd.Gastonia, NC704-864-1866

Jack Rabbit’s Sports Bar & Grill1225 Union Rd.Gastonia, NC704-864-1966

Johnny B’s Pizza106 N. Main StreetBelmont, NC704-825-8900

Makel’s Restaurant907 Gastonia Hwy.Bessemer City, NC704-729-6238

Market Street Buffet & Bakery2525 S. York Rd.Gastonia, NC704-864-5400

Market Street Pizza & Buffet202 Market St.Cramerton, NC704-823-0010

McAlister’s Deli411 Cox Rd.Gastonia, NC704-884-0084

Moe’s Southwest Grill3908 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-299-1637

Mot’s Diner501 Woodlawn AvenueBelmont, NC704-827-6200

O’Charley’s1601 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-865-6633

Original Flip Flops Grill andSpirits3908 E Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-824-8757

Pancake House1700 N. Chester St.Gastonia, NC704-868-4005

The Pizza Pad106 N. Main St.Belmont, NC704-864-1566

Ray’s Smokehouse Bar & Grill219 South Broad St.Gastonia, NC704-867-4386

The Rock House Tavern2699 Aberdeen Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-852-4445

Ruby Tuesday424 Cox Rd.Gastonia, NC704-852-3985

Sammy’s Neighborhood Pub25 S. Main St.Belmont, NC704-825-4266

Sandee’s Bar & Grill815 Bessemer City Hwy.Bessemer City, NC704-215-5257

Shake Shop505 W. Church St.Cherryville, NC704-435-5778

Spindle City Café207 W. Main AvenueGastonia, NC704-671-4374

Sprouts Café(Inside Organic Marketplace)1012 S. New Hope Rd.Gastonia, NC704-864-5244

Steak ‘N Shake2656 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-854-3440

The String Bean FreshMarket & Deli106 N. Main St.Belmont, NC704-825-3636www.stringbeanmarket.com

Sub Corral Sandwich Shop6831 E. Wilkinson Blvd.Belmont, NC704-825-5466

Tillies Restaurant800 S. Mountain St.Cherryville, NC704-435-6152

Tommy’s Drive-In2708 Gastonia-Dallas Hwy.Dallas, NC704-922-3849

Triple E Express & Grill Inc.2353 N. Bessemer City RoadGastonia, NC704-865-9000

Little Village RestaurantChristmas Town, USA129 Main St.McAdenville, NC704-824-3624

Whiskey Mill Bar & Grill201 W. Pennsylvania Ave.Bessemer City, NC704-629-2325

White’s Restaurant417 Catawba St.Belmont, NC704-825-3886

Will’s Doggin’ It Deli & Dogs1301 Spencer Mountain RoadRanlo, NC704-479-1395

Coffee ShopsCaravan Coffee Bar7 South Main St.Belmont, NC704-829-7711

Cream & Beans140 E. Central Ave.Mount Holly, NC704-827-7500

Gas Pump Coffee167 W. Main Ave.Gastonia, NC704-671-2067

Grinders Coffee & TeaWestfield Shopping Center246 S New Hope Rd.Gastonia, NC704-865-7140

Holy GroundsBelmont Abbey College100 Belmont Mount Holly Rd.Belmont, NC704-461-5060

Java Bean1133 S. Main St.Mount Holly, NC704-812-8145

Wired Coffee ExpressHoffman Village, Suite 61933 Hoffman Rd.Gastonia, NC704-866-9960

ContinentalChantilly’s Tea Room1003 Union Rd.Gastonia, NC704-854-3232

Rodi245 W. Garrison Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-864-7634

ItalianAkropolis Cafe3070 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-868-3636

Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders1709 Neal Hawkins Rd.Gastonia, NC704-866-8829

Benn-Benn’s Italian Kitchen617 E. Garrison Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-867-1446

Brixx Wood Fired Pizza501 Cox RoadGastonia, NCwww.brixxpizza.com704-874-0404

Cantlupe’s Italian Restaurant1101 Union Rd.Gastonia, NC704-349-5035

Good Things


Demetrios Restaurant6923 W.Wilkinson Blvd.Belmont, NC704-825-0057

Gashouse Grill3078 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-865-6889

The Gondola610 Gastonia Hwy.Bessemer City, NC704-629-0822

The Knife & Fork200 S. Main St.Mt. Holly, NC704-827-7779

Milano’s Italian Restaurant904 S. New Hope Rd.Gastonia, NC704-854-3946

Milano’s Italian Restaurant1011 E. Church St.Cherryville, NC704-445-4451

Olive Garden432 Cox Rd.Gastonia, NC704-864-1709

Papa’s Pizza-to-Go1002 E Main St.Cherryville, NC704-435-6335

Pizzagalli1219 Gastonia Hwy.Bessemer City, NC704-629-6966

Portofino’s3736 East Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-824-2144

Roma Italian101 W. Church St.Cherryville, NC704-435-6115

Simonetti’s Pizza Pasta & Subs6432 Wilkinson Blvd.Belmont, NC704-825-5555

Villa-Roma Restaurant5000 Union Rd.Gastonia, NC704-864-8676

Vintage Depot1002 Gastonia Hwy.Bessemer City, NC704-629-1599

MexicanAzteca1863 West Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-866-7574

El Cancun Mexican Restaurant516 E. Garrison Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-853-2855

La Fuente Bar & Grill3070 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-866-7744

Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant1403 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-854-34671525 N. Chester St.Gastonia, NC704-868-4080

On The Border Mexican Grill2409 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-866-9601

Qdoba Mexican Grill401 Cox Rd.Gastonia, NC704-825-9822

Taxco Mexican Grill6418 Wilkinson Blvd.Belmont, NC704-825-2108www.taxcomexicangrill.com

Tequila’s Mexican Grill238 W. Main Ave.Gastonia, NC704-867-8050

SeafoodEver been to a fish camp? GastonCounty offers some of the bestsefaood around.

AmberJack Seafood & Steaks4253 S. New Hope Rd.Gastonia, NC704-824-5502

Black’s BlueWater Seafood & Grill1118 S. Main StreetMount Holly, NC 28120704-827-1230

Captain’s Cap670 Park StreetBelmont, NC704-825-4103

Captain’s Cap3140 Linwood RoadGastonia, NC704-865-7433

Catfish Cove1401 Upper Armstrong-Ford Rd.Belmont, NC704-825-3332

Fat Cats Oyster Bar2331 Ozark Ave.Gastonia, NC704-854-9926

Firehouse Fish-N-Fixins1206 Linwood Rd.Gastonia, NC704-854-3474

The Fish Box108 W. First St.Cherryville, NC704-435-9717

Graham’s Fish Fry4539 S. New Hope Rd.Gastonia, NC704-825-8391

Long Creek Fish Fry1425 Lower Dallas Rd.Dallas, NC704-922-3998

North Star Seafood3150 Old US Hwy. 321Dallas, NC704-922-7715

Red Lobster200 N. New Hope Rd.Gastonia, NC704-868-3884

Riverside Restaurant1341 Dallas Stanley Hwy.Dallas, NC704-922-8360

Shrimp Boat120 N. Broad St.Gastonia, NC704-864-6441

Surf & Turf808 N. 14th StreetBessemer City, NC704-629-0561

Twin Tops Fish Camp4574 S. New Hope Rd.Gastonia, NC704-825-2490

Sports GrillDirty Dogs Bar & Grill2813 Lowell RoadLowell, NC704-824-2200

Friends Sports Bar & Grill16 N. Main St.Belmont, NC704-825-1401www.friendssportsbarandgrill.net

Hickory Tavern1925 Hoffman Rd.Gastonia, NC704-917-0450

Jack Rabbit’s Sports Grill1225 Union Rd.Gastonia, NC704-864-1966www.jackrabbitsgastonia.com

JAX Backstreet Tavern55 Glenway StreetBelmont, NC 28012704-825-1776www.jaxbackstreet.com

SteakhouseLittle Big Horn162 Little Big Horn DriveGastonia, NC704-263-4241

Nick’s Steak & Taphouse182 S. South StreetGastonia, NC704-867-6777

Old Stone Steakhouse23 S. Main St.Belmont, NC704-825-9995

The Woodshed Restaurant210 S. Main St.Stanley, NC704-263-1030

TreatsCream & Beans140 E. Central Ave.Mount Holly, NC704-827-7500

Dairy Queen of Belmont7015 Wilkinson Blvd.Belmont, NC704-825-5106

Dairy Queen of Dallas108 College ViewDallas, NC704-922-5051

Dairy Queen of Gastonia904 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-917-1001

Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins2302 S. New Hope Rd.Gastonia, NC704-869-4522

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts2990 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-853-1060

Old Fashioned Soda Shoppe31 North Main St.Belmont, NC704-461-8580

Sugar Diva’s Custom Cakes124 E. Central Ave.Mount Holly, NC704-780-9897

Tony’s Ice Cream604 E. Franklin Blvd.Gastonia, NC704-867-7085www.tonysicecream.com

Yogurt Beach2609 S. New Hope RoadGastonia, NC704-862-9949

NowHiring

Be a part of the "Good Things" teamat Gaston Today Magazine!

Gaston Today Magazine is hiringadvertising Sales Representatives topromote local businesses in theGreater Gaston County area.

Set your own hours and work at yourown pace. No experience necessary.Unlimited commission structure.

Please send resume to Darryl Warrenat: [email protected]

Outdoor Experience

SAVE40%OVER CHARLOTTE

- HOTELS -

Call or Visit Our Website For A

VISITORS GUIDE

NOR TH CAR OLINA

800-849-9994 | 704-825-4044 | www.visitgaston.orgGaston County is Located Minutes West of Charlotte, NC

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, camping and more. As well as outdoor activities, 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 excitingof all ages. Come explore the many excitingattractions that Gaston County has to offer! attractions that Gaston County has to offer!

Crowders Mountain State Park

US National Whitewater Center

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Catawba River

Scan this with your smartphone for a full list of festivals and events.

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,

The Schiele Museum

Providing quality custom cabinets since 1971

Continental Cabinets, Inc.

2115 Acme Rd. | Belmont, NC 28012 | 704.827.7162

ew bicycle rental business provides low-cost exercise optionfor health conscious and couch potatoes

GASTONIA–What better way to enjoy Gaston’s beautifulLineberger Park than with a leisurely bike ride. But if you’re like mostpeople, you don’t have one tethered to your car. That’s why GreenWay 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 MeridianAdultTricycle, a SunAtlas Cargo tricycle, twoWorksman 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, ridersunder 16 must use a helmet, and usage is limited to theAvon/Catawba Creekgreen way. For more information,please visit www.greenwaycyclerentals.com.

For that reason,we think GreenWay Cycle Rentals is one of the“GoodThings”about Gaston!

N

ENJOY GASTON’SGREATEST GREENWAY BY BIKE

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••“The rental bikes are adulttricycles for folks who don ‘t getout and ride any more - trying toget couch potatoes off thecouches - and we offer regularbicycles as well...we’ve beentargeting the diabetes groups andthe Gaston Family Health Cliniccrowd since obesity is a hugehealth issue here in GastonCounty (and other counties, too,but Gaston is one of the largercounties in NC). We’re nottargeting the athletes;we wantfolks who might be thinkingabout getting active/healthy tohave one additional - possible“fun”option - to use in that stepto exercise.”–Owner Sheila Moran

by: Sheila Moran, OwnerGreey Way Cycle Rentals


Spotlight | Fitness


The seeds of economic recovery arebeing planted in every city and town in theMontcross Area of eastern Gaston Countyas new businesses continue to open here.Read on to learn about them.

Greg Kroustalis planted a seed in Lowellwhen he opened Greg’s FamilyRestaurant.∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞In one block of North Main Street inMount Holly, a small garden of newbusinesses has sprouted with the recentopenings of Creech ComputerConsulting, Premier Med Supply andTime Flies Country Store.More newbusinesses are slated to open soon inthis booming block.∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞Around the corner, Stanton Enterpriseopened its new corporate office onCharlotte Avenue. South Point FamilyPractice opened a Mount Holly locationonWodlawnAvenue.∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞Cramerton celebrated opening of thenew Southfork Room at Center StreetTavern banquet and meeting space.∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞In North Belmont, ribbons were cutrecently for theAbbingtonWoods newhomes community and Cowboy B’sRestaurant.∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞Downtown Belmont saw the arrival ofGaribaldi Realty and Olive 2 Live and theexpansion of Happy Dog Café to includespa services.∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞Nearby, the Eagle Park new homescommunity resumed sales, built a newmodel and a pool complex, and theSouth Point Village development got offto a fast start.A new CarolinasHealthCare Urgent Care announced anearly October ribbon-cutting on ParkStreet.∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞AlongWilkinson Boulevard, theChamber has celebrated grand openingsthis summer at theVerizon Store,Firestone Complete Auto and the newKing Buffet restaurant.

The Chamber’s redribbon and giant redscissors have been ingreat demand in 2011,even though newbusinesses face theworst economic climatein more than 80 years.Main streets dotted

with vacant andboarded up storefrontshas been a symptom ofpast prolongedeconomic recessions.Not this time.Not here.A drive through thebusiness district inBelmont,Mount Hollyand the other MontcrossArea towns of Cramerton,McAdenville, Lowell andStanley quickly revealsthis recession is different.While many businesses have closed,others have sprung up to take theirplaces, and Main Street in all of sixtowns continues to thrive.

Unfortunately, for each new businessstarting, at least one is dying. Because ofthe recession, new businesses startingtoday are fighting harder than ever tosurvive the first year of operation. It’snot uncommon to see businesses failingafter being open just a few months.Competition is fierce for the limited

dollars consumers have to spend in aneconomy plagued by highunemployment and falling home values.The Montcross Area Chamber isworking hard to connect existingbusinesses to the resources they need tosurvive, to encourage a new crop ofentrepreneurs to start businesses and torecruit new businesses to open here.A popular term for what we’re trying toaccomplish is “economic gardening.”Cultivating our existing crop ofbusinesses and fostering the planting ofnew seeds that will grow into futurebusinesses are how we will help createdesperately needed jobs in GastonCounty.

Our partners in thiseffort include the SmallBusiness Center atGaston College, theGaston CountyEconomic DevelopmentCommission, the Centerfor Entrepreneurship atBelmont Abbey College,the Ben Craig Center atUNCC and others.We’re raising money tofund these efforts overthe next five yearsthrough a campaigncalled ForwardTogether: Serving

Businesses … GrowingCommunities.Twenty-two businesses,foundations andindividuals already have

invested in our campaign.To find outhow you can help, call 704.825.5307.We also continue to promote our“BUYLOCAL”campaign, developed by theChamber three years ago when therecession was young. Supporting localbusinesses is something every residentcan do to combat the recession.Keepingdollars in our communities and keepingsmall businesses operating make this abetter place to live.When scholars study this recent periodof economic hardship, they almostsurely will discover that it came to anend not because of giant companieshiring massivenumbers of newworkers butbecause of thesmall businessesstarted in Stanley,Mount Holly,McAdenville,Lowell,Cramerton andBelmont and intens ofthousands ofother smalltowns across thecountry.

By Ted Hall, President, Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce

New businesses sproutingas ‘economic gardening’ takes root

Montcross Area ChamberPresidentTed Hall andVicePresidentTeresa Rankin havecoordinated a record numberof ribbon-cuttings for new

businesses this year.

Buy Local stickersavailable free at theMontcross AreaChamber at 100

N.Main St., Belmont

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