Hello, Gaston! (my old friend),

Everyone is keeping a close eye on the weather—kids, teachers, and event organizers alike. It’s all anyone seems to be talking about, and for good reason. Hurricane Helene is expected to bring some nasty weather between now and Friday night. Get prepared now.

While I’ve listed events for both today and Friday, please make sure they're still happening before you go.

In unrelated weather news, this past Saturday marked the 35th anniversary of Hurricane Hugo. Now, it seems like we’re "celebrating" by welcoming Hurricane Helene into the mix.

Another milestone worth mentioning is the 100th anniversary of the Cleveland County Fair, which is set to open today. However, the weather may cause slight delays. Regardless, the excitement of the county fair remains strong! And don’t get me started on the food!

Which brings me to this week’s burning question: What is your must-have fair food? Click HERE to answer.

Thanks for reading!

Ben

P.S. If you enjoy this week’s newsletter, please share this with someone you think would enjoy it!

THE GAS-TEN
(The ten things you need to know about Gaston County this week.)

1. DID YOU KNOW that Gaston County has its own rugby club with men’s and women’s teams! Established in 2003, the Gaston County Rugby Club consists of rugby enthusiasts that play hard while prioritizing fun and friendship both on and off the field. New players are always welcome—no experience needed. Join the fun and give rugby a try! (P.S. - the men play this Saturday at 1:00 p.m. at Martha Rivers Park!)

2. SHOUT OUT OF THE WEEK goes to the staff, faculty and students of Belmont Middle School for collecting nearly 3,000 items for the "One Can Make a Difference" Food Pantry at Webb Street School. Operated by Webb Street students aged 18-22, this program teaches essential skills while supporting the community. Huge thanks to Belmont Middle for making a difference!

3. GO PUMPKIN PICKING! Now is the time to head out to Lineberger's Maple Springs Farm to enjoy some fall fun with pumpkin picking, hayrides, chick feeding, and 100+ pumpkin varieties. Kids can explore tire mountains, slides, and swings. Hayrides run on weekends in September and daily in October.

4. GASTONIA’S NEW PEACE POLE: A 7-foot peace pole will be installed in Downtown Gastonia by the Rotary Club of Gastonia, featuring the phrase “May Peace Prevail on Earth” written in eight languages, including Catawba Indian. The pole, honoring peace and the Catawba Nation, is set to be dedicated during Rotary International President Stephanie Urchick's visit on Nov. 7.

5. KEEP THE MUSIC PLAYING! Gaston County’s only FM station, WSGE 91.7, has been sharing the power of music with the community for 44 years—rock, rhythm, beach, blues, and more. Support them during their Fall Membership Drive to ensure they can continue bringing comfort, joy, and connection for years to come!

6. SOUTHERN CHARMS ARRIVES IN DALLAS! Front Porch and Provisions has opened at 140 North Gaston Street in Downtown Dallas. This family-owned gem offers a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and Riverbend Creamery ice cream. Open Tuesday through Saturday, it’s the perfect spot for Southern charm and great food.

7. GASTONIA HAULS AWAY 300 TONS OF TRASH DURING CLEANUP WEEK. The City of Gastonia offered free pickup of large, unwanted items last week. Crews collected over 300 tons of excess trash, including unusual finds like pianos. This biannual service helps keep the city clean and prevents illegal dumping. [Queen City News]

8. PURR-FECT TIME TO NEUTER! Dr. Rubow at Applewood Animal Hospital is hosting a Cat Neuter Clinic on Tuesday, October 1st. Limited spots are still available, and the appointment cut-off is tomorrow (9/27).

9. HELP BO BECOME HERO DOG OF THE YEAR! Gastonia Police Department's K9 Officer, Bo, is a national semifinalist for Hero Dog of the Year! At just 17 months old, this courageous Bloodhound has already achieved remarkable rescues. Let’s Help Bo win the title by voting daily until October 9!

10. GASTONIA BASEBALL CLUB REVEALS NEW NAME NEXT MONTH. After an 83-43 season and a playoff loss, Gastonia Baseball Club owner Andy Kaufmann thanked the community, staff, and players for a memorable first year under Zawyer Sports. Fans voted on potential new team names, with the final name to be revealed next month during a special celebration at the stadium.

THE FOUR-DAY FORECAST

GO-SEE-DO GASTON (this week)

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

Thursday Night Football (Week 6)
📍North Gaston High School in Dallas
⏰6:00 p.m.
  - Kings Mountain (3-1) at North Gaston (2-2)

Belmont Farmers Market
📍 Stowe Park in Belmont
⏰4 - 7:00 p.m.
Stop by to purchase local fruits, veggies, sustainably-raised meat, fresh baked goods, and unique crafts. More Details.

Cleveland County Fair
📍Cleveland County Fairgrounds in Shelby
📆 9/26/24 - 10/6/24
⏰times vary
Celebrate 100 years of tradition at the Cleveland County Fair! Enjoy classic rides, live entertainment, delicious fair food, and much more at this special anniversary event. More Details.

Gastonia Farmers Market
📍410 E. Long Avenue in Gastonia
⏰7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Locally sourced fresh produce. Meats from nearby farms. Homemade baked goods. Fresh flowers grown locally. More Details.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

Friday Night Football (Week 6)
📍Locations vary
⏰7:30 p.m.
  - Cherryville (1-4)  at East Gaston (1-3)
  - Community School of Davidson (2-2) at Mountain Island Charter (1-3)
  - Crest (4-0) at Stuart Cramer (1-3)
  - Forestview (1-3) at Ashbrook (3-1)
  - Highland Tech at Bessemer City (3-2)
  - Hunter Huss (1-2) at South Point (3-0) -- More Details

The Little Theater of Gastonia presents "Annie"
📍The Little Theater of Gastonia in Gastonia 9/29/2024
📆 Today thru 9/29/24
⏰times vary
The sun will come out tomorrow! Enjoy the beloved musical ANNIE now through Sunday (9/29) Experience this classic performance with talented local actors. More Details.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

The Hartsville (S.C) Rugby Club at The Gaston County Rugby Club
📍Martha Rivers Park in Gastonia
⏰1:00 p.m.
Get ready for an electrifying afternoon of men’s rugby! The event promises a thrilling day filled with fierce tackles, strategic plays, and the unbreakable spirit of the game. More Details.

Arbor Day Dino Adventures
📍Goat Island Park in Cramerton
⏰10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Meet baby dinosaurs, watch a giant T-Rex, and dig for fossils. Enjoy a youth fishing derby, tree planting ceremony, nature crafts, and free document shredding. More Details. 

Enchanting Fairy Festival
📍Dallas Lavender Lane in Dallas
⏰10:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m.
Join the farm for a magical adventure with fairies, mermaids, vendors, and fun activities! Enjoy live music, bounce houses, train rides, and more. Wear your whimsical costume and relax in nature! More Details.

Gastonia Farmers Market
📍410 E. Long Avenue in Gastonia
⏰7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Locally sourced fresh produce. Meats from nearby farms. Homemade baked goods. Fresh flowers grown locally. More Details.

Gastonia FC vs. Pro-Finish Management
📍Martha Rivers Park, Field 4 in Gastonia
⏰7:00 p.m.
Catch the action as Gastonia’s own semi-professional, non-profit soccer team hits the field! Come support local talent and enjoy an exciting match! More Details.

Jeepers Creepers 5k and 10k
📍Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont
⏰8:00 a.m.
Race in costume (optional) and enjoy free garden admission to see "Scarecrow Hollow." Afterward, enjoy live music, firepits, s'mores, and prizes. Custom awards for top finishers. More Details.

Mount Holly Farmers Market
📍226 S. Main St. in Mount Holly
⏰8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This market supports local farms, promotes fresh local food, and educates the community on growing their own food. More Details.

National Alpaca Farm Days
📍Good Karma Ranch in Iron Station
📆 Today thru 9/29/24
⏰10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Celebrate with alpaca viewings and photos.Register to meet, interact with, and feed the alpacas. More Details.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

CIncinnati Bengals (0-3) at Carolina Panthers (1-2)
📍Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte
⏰1:00 p.m. (FOX)
The Panthers host the 0-3 Bengals, who surprisingly lost to the Patriots and Commanders. Can the Panthers continue their winning streak, or will the Bengals secure their first victory of 2024?

Chicken Hill Buckin' Bulls - Bull Riding
📍Chicken Hill in Cherryville
⏰6:00 p.m.
Enjoy Sheep Riding, Calf Riding, Steer Riding, Amateur and Open Bulls! Every Sunday. Don’t forget to bring your chair! More Details.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1

Gastonia Farmers Market
📍410 E. Long Avenue in Gastonia
⏰7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Locally sourced fresh produce. Meats from nearby farms. Homemade baked goods. Fresh flowers grown locally. More Details.

National Night Out
📍Tuckaseegee Park in Mount Holly
⏰6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Enjoy free food, music, family-friendly activities, prizes, and more. Build community and strengthen police partnerships in this fun, positive event. Hosted by the Mount Holly Police Department. More Details.

PLAN AHEAD

3rd Annual Cramerton Legacy of Golf Tournament
📆 Thursday, October 18
📍Cramer Mountain Club
⏰8:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. (two flights)
Don’t miss Gaston County’s premier golf event! Limited team slots and prestigious sponsorships are still available. Secure your spot today and support the Cramerton Historical Society and Montcross Area Chamber. Morning and afternoon flights—don’t delay! 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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Was there something I missed this week? Let me know at [email protected]. Want to get your business in Hello, Gaston!? Let’s talk!