Good morning Gaston County!  Today is March 7, 2023. David here...Thirty eight years ago today, We Are the World was released. A brainchild of Harry Belafonte, the album was put together to raise money and awareness for Africa famine relief. Belafonte contacted Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie who wrote the song. The single was produced by Quincy Jones and featured a veritable who's who of musical talent.

Today's weather:Today will be mostly  warm and sunny, with a high of 75.Tonight will be clear to partly cloudy and colder, with a low of 37.

Comparing the size and cost of Gaston Counties largest private schools

Private schools have a reputation for maintaining high standards for discipline and respect. They often have lower staff to student rations that allow for more effective observation and control of school grounds.The strong sense of community found in private schools can discourage dangerous behavior.The three largest private schools in Gaston County are Gaston Christian, Cramerton Christian Academy, and Gaston Day school.Gaston Christian has 1,070 students, offers PK-12, tuition ranges from $3,324 to $9,360. They are private, Christian, nondenominational, college prep oriented. They discount 2nd and 3rd children by 10%, with some exclusions.Cramerton Christian Academy has 447 students, offers PK-12, tuition ranges from $6,300-$6,950. They are Christian oriented. They have substantial price breaks for 2nd and 3rd children.Gaston Day School has 401 students, offers PK-12, tuition ranges from $7,325-$19,075. They are non-sectarian, college preparatory, coeducational.

Coats American to layoff 41 in LowellCoats American, formerly part of Pharr Yarns, will lay off 41 workers by April 24. The company, part of British  company Coats Group, did not give a reason for the layoff and respond to a request for information by press time.Coats American is based in Ballantyne.

Nooooo! Kate's Skating Rink in Lowell has closed!If you are just now learning about Kate's Skating Rink on Franklin Boulevard closing, you missed it. They closed Sunday. They were in that location for 40 years.They were actually established in 1961 in a building on Westover Street  in Gastonia. They eventually grew to nine locations, but are now down to the one on Hudson  Blvd. in Gastonia. and a rink in Indian Trail.

Snoop Dogg files to sell Snoop Dogg hot dogsYou need to know thisCalvin Broadus aka Snoop Dog has applied for the trademark "Snoop Doggs"  with the U.S Patent & Trademark office. Snoop apparently wants to use the brand to sell hot dogs and sausages. Maybe Snoop and his pal Martha can come up with some new hot dog recipes.

Ford's Seed & Plants closing

Ford's Seed & Plants in downtown Gastonia is closing.This from Ford's Facebook page"

This is a hard one. After much praying, soul searching, crying and a host of other emotions I am closing Fords. This thing called life has come to pass for us. Due to employee shortages, rising cost of plant and other items it is not in my best interest to continue. No one regrets this more than myself and our ladies!

A big Thank You to our most loyal of customers who have supported us for years. You are more than a customer. You have become our friends and family. It is because of you that we have lasted.

Our last day open will be March 31 2023. Please be respectful of us and understand how hard this is. We appreciate all of you. Thanks for my 35 years at Fords. Love to all!

Peggy LongFord's seed and plants has been around since 1920, started by W.T. Ford.

Mangiamo's Pizza closed?

We are hearing that Magiamo's pizza in downtown Gastonia has closed. They were located in the old Life of Pi location on the corner of Marietta and Main. Evidently the same owner (Tony) also owns Mangiamo Italian Cafe at 207 West Main, in the Former Spindle City location. You can get pizza by the slice in the new location as well.

My Cuban Corner to open in North BelmontYay- finally a Cuban restaurant in Gaston county! (Now if we could just get an Indian restaurant...). My Cuban Corner will be located at 417 Catawba Street in Belmont, in the former White's Restaurant space.Owners Nicole and Jesus Montero are creating dishes found in restaurants in their native Miami.Black beans and rice-yay!

At Oak Ridge Dental Arts, we are dedicated to caring for your family as we care for our own families. With years of experience and state-of-the-art dental technology we help you achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve. We ensure the best possible dental experience with friendly, personalized care in a comfortable environment. If you haven’t been to the dentist in the past six months or you are interested in enhancing your smile, give us a call. With one visit you’ll see why so many families in your neighborhood trust Oak Ridge Dental Arts with all their dental needs.

Movie star home in Belmont  $2,350,000

A truly stunning architectural masterpiece, 9000 Mystic Point Ct is located in the amazing town of Belmont. As you drive through the gated entrance of Woodland Bay, you'll instantly feel at home in this exclusive community nestled in a wide bay on Lake Wylie. This magnificent home boasts 4 BR, 5 full BTHs, and 2 half Bths, with 7,120 square feet of finished living space and a partially finished lower level with a bathroom offering an incredible value-add opportunity! Built like a fortress, this home was custom designed boasting huge rooms, modern furnishings, and 4 fireplaces throughout the home. The upper level offers two large ensuite bedrooms, a theater, and a bonus room with a bar. The main level boasts cherry floors, granite countertops, and beautiful finishes throughout, while the covered porch facing the lake and your boat slip is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Perched on Lake Wylie, you’ll enjoy endless serenity while having easy access to nearby necessities.

Summer Camp at the Y!

"Down deep, I'm pretty superficial"North Carolina's Ava Gardner1922-1990

The Hustle 

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 Gaston County JobsPublic Affairs coordinator CaroMont Health  $58k-$74k, Jewelry Sales Facet Foundry $15-$20 hr, Service Tech @ MarineMax $53-$68k, Mgmt Trainee Copart $50k yr , and more.

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