Hello, Gaston! It’s Thursday, you know what that means.

I couldn’t be happier for my friend, Mount Holly’s own David Childers! He’s just been announced as an inductee into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame later this year, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving.

I first discovered David’s music back in 2001 when I was volunteering at Gaston College’s radio station (WSGE 91.7 FM). One of the most requested songs during my time there was “Johnny Got A Mohawk,” and it quickly became a favorite of mine too.

But my appreciation for DC’s music only grew from there. He’s been making and recording songs for years—many of them inspired by the places we call home. Whether it’s the gritty nostalgia of “Edge of Town” or the heartfelt beauty of “The Prettiest Thing,” David’s songs are woven with a sense of place that hits close to the heart.

Now the rest of North Carolina is about to find out what we’ve known all along: David Childers is a national treasure. And even better—he’s our national treasure.

Congrats, DC! You’ve earned this honor!

Thanks for reading!

Ben

P.S. If you enjoyed this week’s newsletter, please pass it along to someone who you’d think would enjoy it!

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE GASTON COLLEGE FOUNDATION

✨ Beach Vibes & College Pride: Don't Miss This Night! ✨

Join the Gaston College Foundation for A Night for Momentum Makers at Gaston Country Club on Friday, June 13, 2025:

• Experience legendary live performance from The Band of Oz

• Savor drinks and delicious hors d'oeuvres

• Bid in the silent auction featuring NASCAR memorabilia, private chef meal for 6, sports tickets, and more!

Celebrating 60 years of excellence! Wear beach-inspired cocktail attire and make a difference for Gaston College students. Buy tickets here.

GASTON NTK (NEED TO KNOW)

🔥 BROWNIE BATTER UP PACKS THE HEAT

Downstairs Ice Cream in Downtown Gastonia just launched its May flavors—and Brownie Batter Up is the standout. This rich brownie batter ice cream honors the Gastonia Ghost Peppers, complete with an optional ghost pepper drizzle. Who’ll be the first to try it?

🎶 DAVID CHILDERS TO BE INDUCTED INTO NC MUSIC HALL OF FAME

One of my absolute favorites is finally getting this well-deserved honor! Mount Holly’s own David Childers—revered singer-songwriter, poet, and painter—is being honored with induction into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame this fall! Known for his gritty voice, vivid storytelling, and blending of folk, rockabilly, and country, Childers has released dozens of albums and performed alongside members of The Avett Brothers. Congrats DC!

💔 FAREWELL, ESTIA'S KOUZINA!

After 7 years of serving Greek cuisine in Belmont, Estia’s Kouzina has closed its doors. In a heartfelt message left on Facebook, they thanked the community for the support and wonderful memories since opening in May 2018. 

📰 REMEMBERING JOE DEPRIEST

Joe DePriest, beloved local historian and longtime journalist, passed away on April 30 at age 81. Known for his storytelling at The Shelby Star and The Charlotte Observer, Joe's work captured the heart of the Gaston County community. His passion for history and human connection left a lasting impact.

🏆 CELEBRATE GASTON BUSINESS LEADERS!

The Gaston Business Association’s 22nd Annual Salute to Business Gala is set for Thursday, May 22 at the Gaston Country Club. Honorees this year include Tim Efird of Standard Distributors (Spirit of the Carolinas award), BEAM Construction (Spirit of the Economy award), and the Helix/R & Centennial Park Streetscape Project (Spirit of Main Street award).

🥎 RHINO SOFTBALL MAKES HISTORY — AND NEEDS YOUR HELP!

The Rhinos are an incredible 58-3 with 20 shutouts and a 25-game win streak! Catch Game 2 tonight at CaroMont Health Park—Game 3 if needed. If they win, they're off to the World Series in Arizona! Let’s rally behind them by covering meals, travel, and more. Every gift makes a difference!

📸 CAPTURING LOVE IN THEIR FINAL DAYS

John Le from Queen City News spotlights Belmont photographer Lauren Bakis, who offers free end-of-life photo sessions for terminally ill dogs. As part of The Tilly Project, Lauren’s heartfelt work captures the deep bond between pets and their families, preserving memories to cherish long after they’re gone.

🌊 STOWE FAMILY YMCA’S BIG SPLASH

The Stowe Family YMCA’s new outdoor waterpark opens Wednesday, May 21 with a ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. The free, public event runs from 5:15 to 7:30 p.m. Bring your bathing suits for the Big Splash and be the first to dive in! 

📰  QUICK BITES

🟡 The PGA Championship returns to Quail Hollow in Charlotte next week. Tournament play begins Thursday, May 15.

🟡 Catch food trucks at Charlotte Airport Overlook every Friday through Sunday in May—weather permitting!

🟡 Signage is up! Cherryville’s Five Spur Steakhouse is coming soon—stay tuned! 

THE FOUR-DAY FORECAST

GO-SEE-DO GASTON (this week)

THURSDAY, MAY 8

 Gastonia Farmers Market
📍 410 E Long Ave, Gastonia
⏰ 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and flowers from local vendors. More Details.

Downtown Gastonia Caffeine and Conversation
📍 United Way of Gaston County, Gastonia
⏰ 9:30 – 11 a.m.
A morning meetup for networking, coffee, and community updates. More Details.

Belmont Farmers Market
📍 Stowe Park, Belmont
⏰ 4 - 7 p.m.
Shop fresh produce, flowers, homemade goods, crafts, and more from local growers every Thursday evening. More Details.

37th Annual Down Home Festival
📍 Downtown Bessemer City
📅 Thursday, May 8 - Saturday, May 10
⏰ Times vary
Three days of carnival rides, food, live music, and small-town fun. More Details.

FRIDAY, MAY 9

Over-the-Counter Medicine Giveaway
📍 First United Methodist Church, Gastonia
⏰ 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
NC MedAssist offers free over-the-counter medicines to the community. More Details.

Gastonia Ghost Peppers vs. High Point Rockers (3 game-series)
📍Caromont Health Park, Gastonia
📆 Friday, May 9 - Sunday, May 11
⏰times vary - - More Details.

Mount Holly Nights featuring 80z Nation
📍 Downtown Mount Holly
⏰ 6 – 10 p.m.
Kick off the season with live music from 80z Nation and opener Aubrey Hedgepeth! Food trucks and family fun await downtown. More Details.

The Little Theater of Gastonia presents PUFFS
📍 The Little Theater, Gastonia
📆 Friday, May 9 - Sunday, May 11
⏰ Times vary
A hilarious play for anyone who’s never been destined to save the world. More Details.

Belmont Drive-In Movie Night featuring Mufasa: The Lion King and Thunderbolts 
📍 Belmont Drive-In, Belmont
📆 Friday, May 9 - Saturday, May 10
⏰ Dusk
Catch a classic or family flick under the stars. More Details.

SATURDAY, MAY 10

Gastonia Farmers Market
📍 410 E Long Ave, Gastonia
⏰ 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and flowers from local vendors. More Details.

Mount Holly Farmers Market
📍 226 S Main St, Mount Holly
⏰ 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
One of the largest in the county, with seasonal produce and handmade items. More Details.

Gaston County Ducks Unlimited - PAWS Youth Day
📍 Wood Duck Farm, Gastonia
⏰ 11:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Enjoy BBQ, games, and outdoor fun at this family-friendly event. More Details.

Monthly Pinball Tournament
📍 CityCade, Gastonia
⏰ 7 – 10 p.m.
Test your skills in this high-score tournament. All ages welcome. More Details.

Dallas Summer Nights Concert Series: On The Border
📍 Downtown Dallas
⏰ 7 – 10 p.m.
Cruise-in, food trucks, and a free concert by On The Border (Eagles tribute). More Details.

Not Your Average Art Show
📍 Confluence, Cramerton
⏰ 5 – 10 p.m.
Enjoy an unforgettable night of art and music! See works by local artists and enjoy live performances by The Menders and Whiskey Richards. More Details.

Main Street Social Spring-a-palooza Market
📍 118 South Main Street
⏰ 1 - 6 p.m.
We know Spring has already sprung, but it's never too late to celebrate! More Details.

SUNDAY, MAY 11

Belmont Sunday Farmers Market
📍 Stowe Park, Belmont
⏰ 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Second Sunday pop-up market with produce, goods, and live music. More Details.

Chicken Hill Buckin' Bulls - Bull Riding
📍716 Old Stubbs Road, Cherryville
⏰6 p.m.
Enjoy sheep riding, calf riding, steer riding, amateur and open bulls! Every Sunday. Don’t forget to bring your chair! More Details.

MONDAY, MAY 12

The Flower Moon
📍 Night sky (look up!)
⏰ dusk
Step outside and enjoy May’s full moon!

TUESDAY, MAY 13

Free Tuesday at The Schiele Museum
📍 1500 E Garrison Blvd, Gastonia
⏰ 4 – 8 p.m.
Enjoy free admission and special programs at The Schiele. More Details.

Gastonia Farmers Market
📍 410 E Long Ave, Gastonia
⏰ 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and flowers from local vendors. More Details.

Disclaimer: Event details are subject to change or cancellation. Please check with the event organizers for the most up-to-date information. We are not responsible for any changes after publication.

#GASTONGRAM

SEE YA LATER, GASTON!

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