Hello, Gaston! (my old friend),

What’s so special about the number 23? It’s not nice and tidy like 20 or 25. It’s not even halfway between those two numbers. It’s a prime number - nicely sandwiched in between those typical and often acknowledged mile markers.

If we were talking 23 cents, we’d have to throw in 3 pennies just to make it work. And who uses pennies anymore?

Maybe if you’re Michael Jordan, it means something. But Michael made the number, not the other way around.

But for some, yesterday’s 23rd anniversary of 9/11 was just as potent and real as it was back in 2001.

Like any major event in history, it tends to fade with time. It gets smaller and smaller in the rear view mirror with each passing year and eventually (and unfortunately) just becomes another day.

For the people who were old enough to remember when that first plane hit the North Tower of the World Trade Center, it will always be a day that should cause us to pause and reflect. It’s one of those pivotal moments in American history where you know where you were when you got the news. And maybe even moreso, you remember how it made you feel.

Twenty-three years later, it’s taken on a different meaning to me. My wife’s uncle was in the North Tower that dreadful day. Thankfully, he made it out. But he knew folks who didn’t. And for people like him, yesterday probably felt just as raw as it did 23 years ago.

While many only seem to mark the anniversaries ending in 0 or 5, others, for various reasons, relive it every year. Maybe the best thing we can do, if nothing else, is to honor those people by letting them know we are thinking of them.

Years from now, they won’t remember what you said, but they’ll surely remember that you didn’t forget it. Or them.

Thank you for reading,

Ben

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

1. We’re so proud of Gastonia Police Department’s K9 Officer “Bo,” one of five semifinalists nationwide for Hero Dog of the Year! This 17-month-old Bloodhound has already proven his bravery with incredible rescues. Please help Bo win by voting daily—now through October 9. 

2. Candy's Cheesecake Shoppe in Gastonia was featured on QC Life last week, showcasing their mouth-watering selection of over 50 flavors of handcrafted, made-from-scratch cheesecakes. Located in Franklin Square near Kohl's, Shane’s Rib Shack, and Old Navy.  

3. Looking for work? Or know someone who is? The Gaston Workforce Development Board is hosting their monthly job fair on Tuesday Sept. 17 from  4 – 7 p.m at the Gaston County Public Library (1555 E. Garrison Blvd, Gastonia). Top employers from industries like healthcare, manufacturing, government, and more will be there. 

4. The library isn’t for just books anymore! Earlier this month, the Gaston County Public Library launched the Library of Things! Borrow yoga mats, crockpots, ghost hunting kits, specialty cake pans, and more. Come explore the new collection and find something fun for your next adventure or project

5. Mount Holly is set to develop Ransom Hunter Park on West Glendale Avenue, honoring the first freed slave to own land in Gaston County. With a $374K grant and $600K in funds, the park will feature a playground, greenspace, and shelter. Construction starts next year.

6. Laresa Thompson explores some entertainment hotspots in Downtown Gastonia featuring CityCade and Pita Wheel in her latest episode of Gastonia City Sights! Whether you're eager to channel your inner rockstar, enjoy live performances, or dive into your favorite video games, your next adventure is just around the corner.

7. Looking for more fall fun? Axios Charlotte has compiled a list of nine corn mazes within driving distance from Gaston County to explore. From apple-picking to pumpkin patches, these farms offer more than just mazes. Enjoy a full day of seasonal activities and celebrate the harvest season at any of these must-visit destinations.

8. Lee and Jenny Bolton, who started Bolton’s Curbside Cookery as a food truck in 2021, officially opened their restaurant in downtown Mount Holly last week. Known for smash burgers and homemade soups, they’ve been drawing large crowds since opening last week. I hope to stop by to experience the excitement very soon!

9. The wait is nearly over! Front Porch and Provisions plans to open in about two weeks at 140 North Gaston Street in Downtown Dallas. Enjoy locally sourced ingredients and Riverbend Creamery ice cream in this cozy, family-owned spot. Training starts Monday—get ready for their grand opening soon!

10. Webb Street School needs our help to restock their "One Can Make a Difference" food pantry! This program, which served over 90 families last year, is operated by students aged 18-22 and teaches valuable skills while giving back to the community. Check out the list of items needed here.

THE FOUR-DAY FORECAST

GO-SEE-DO GASTON (this week)

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

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

Thursday  Night Football (Week 4)
📍Locations vary
⏰7:00 p.m. (unless noted otherwise)
  - Hibriten at South Point (7:30 p.m.)
- Forestview at East Lincoln
- North Gaston at Cherrvyille
- Triangle Math and Science at Highland
- East Gaston at Ashbrook
- Union Academy at Bessemer City - - 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 Baseball Club vs. Charleston Dirty Birds
📆 9/12 - 9/15
📍CaroMont Health Park in Gastonia
⏰Times vary - - More Details.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

Friday the 13^th Double Feature – Part 1 (1980) & Part 2 (1981)
📆 9/13 - 9/14
📍Belmont Drive-In
⏰Sunset (approx. 7:33 p.m.)
Jason Voorhees comes to Belmont! Get a taste of Halloween this weekend by catching a double feature of horror classics! Don’t miss this spine-chilling event! More Details.

Mount Holly Nights feat. 20 Ride (Zac Brown Tribute Band) with Garrett Huffman
📍Downtown Mount Holly
⏰6 - 10 p.m.
Enjoy live music in downtown Mount Holly. Experience food trucks, local dining, and shopping. More Details.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

Town of Dallas Summer Concert Series featuring Chris Taylor & The Rumor
📍Dallas Town Square
⏰7 – 10 p.m.
The Carolina’s most authentic variety band plays all your favorite hits from the 70s to today. Enjoy food trucks, sweet treats, and bring a chair the final concert of the year in Dallas! 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.

Hoyle Homestead House - 31st Annual Open House
📍Hoyle Homestead House in Dallas
⏰10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Enjoy free tours, explore artifacts, architecture, and learn about a significant Carolina backcountry family. This event is free and open to all. More Details.

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

Movies in the Park presenting The Sound of Music
📍Stowe Park in Belmont
⏰7:30 p.m.
Enjoy a big screen experience with immersive sound, free retro arcade games, and snacks for purchase. Don’t forget your chairs and blankets! More Details.

Third Annual "Walk and Roll Together
📍 Rotary Centennial Pavilion in Gastonia
⏰9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Gaston County Public Health and Disability Rights NC invite you to attend this free, inclusive event featuring a 2K accessible walk, cultural celebration, traditional dress contest, music, raffles, and community resources. More Details.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Los Angeles Chargers (1-0) at Carolina Panthers (0-1)
📍Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte
⏰1 p.m (CBS)
The Chargers head east to face the struggling Panthers, offering a potential upset. However, with the Panthers seemingly vying for the No. 1 draft pick, the odds aren't in Carolina's favor for a win. But we can always hope. More Details.

Chicken Hill Buckin' Bulls - Bull Riding
📍Chicken Hill in 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.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 (Supermoon Tonight! 🌕)

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.

PLAN AHEAD

Bit of Hope Ranch's 5K Trail Run / 2K Walk
📆 Saturday, October 12
📍Bit of Hope Ranch (5001 CR Wood Rd, Gastonia)
⏰Registration starts at 7:30 a.m.
Enjoy an exhilarating 5K trail run at Bit of Hope Ranch! Explore beautiful 50-acre trails through hardwoods, along the waterfront, and finish on the sensory trail. Run with friends or family and make it a great day outdoors! 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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