A long time ago when I was a senior in high school, in the Mount Holly High School “paper” did an issue where they made predictions of the graduating seniors futures. They predicted that I would become the editor of the Mount Holly News …certainly not because I was a crackerjack student. That student writer turned out to be somewhat prescient, although it took awhile to come to pass. For many years I published a community magazine (also called Gaston Alive), the forerunner of this newsletter. Alas, like many small town newspapers, the Mount Holly News stopped publishing in 1990.

So where do we get our news now? Probably from the internet. There are some legacy newspapers holding on, mostly by putting content online. There are experiments with non-profit models, and there are more and more online newsletters of various sorts.

Journalism has been called the Fourth Estate, the first three being the three branches of government: legislative, judicial, and executive. The role of the press has been to be the people’s watchdog, but with the demise of much of traditional press, the “news” has sometimes become the wild west. In some cases, television news has turned into sheer entertainment and bias confirmation.

Actually, the news -pun intended- is not that bad, at least for news on the national level, for various reasons too lengthy to enumerate here. The real loss is grass roots level news…local government, local police, local environmental issues, etc. I don’t know the answer, but shrinking public scrutiny and allowing local governments to operate with impunity and even secrecy, is a dangerous road to travel.

Today's weather: Peeks of sunshine, high of 82.

Tonight: Partly cloudy and a low of 64.

First the Neeses’s factory had a listeria outbreak. Then products started disappearing from store shelves. The company got sued for unpaid bills and taxes. Long time CEO and patriarch Thomas Neese Jr. passed away in April. A perfect storm of bad news.

Then this press release “ As part of an exciting new chapter, stewardship of the Neese’s Country Sausage brand will transition to the White family, owners and operators of the Jesse Jones brand based in Raleigh, North Carolina.”

Jesse Jones has been investing in production capabilities to manufacture Neese’s products, helping alleviate past supply constraints while introducing updated packaging designed to enhance food safety. Importantly, the original recipes that have defined the Neese’s brand for decades will remain unchanged.

Food note: The difference between liver pudding and livermush? They are pretty much the same, but livermush has more corn meal and a coarser texture. Livemush must contain at least 30% pig liver, according to North Carolina state law. Actually, Neese’s produces liver pudding, not livermush, if anyone cares.

We don’t have a dog in the fight, but there is a lot of conversation about this proposed new development in Dallas.

Dallas residents, this is a reminder that the Town of Dallas will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, June 17 at 6:00 PM regarding the proposed annexation and rezoning request for the development planned near Evans Lake Road.

The above image shows the proposed development currently under consideration.
This proposal could have a lasting impact on our community, including traffic, schools, public services, infrastructure, housing growth, and the character of Dallas. Whether you support the project, oppose it, or are still gathering information, this hearing is an opportunity to learn more and make your voice heard.

🗓 Date: Wednesday, June 17
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Dallas Courthouse

The Gaston County Museum of Art & History and the Gaston County Public Library are teaming up this summer to host the Summer Art Film Series on July 6, and August 3 at the Main Branch of the Library, 1555 E. Garrison Blvd. in Gastonia. All films will be shown at 6:00pm and admission is free to the public.

Frida Kahlo is the subject of the second film in this series,to be presented on Monday, July 6. But who was she? Everyone knows her face, but who was the woman behind the bright colors, the big brows and the floral crowns? Take a journey through the life of a true icon, discover her art, and uncover the true story of her rebellious, passionate and turbulent life.

An update on the now vacant Miles Cafeteria parcel in downtown Gastonia. As the sign says, it will be mixed use, coming 2026-2027. The pic is a rendering of what the building will look like.

What’s better than watermelon on a hot summer day? Maybe watermelon sorbet? Looks delish! They are located at 167 West Main in Gastonia. oh yeah- they are now open on Sunday. More…

Congrats to Pat Rudisill for receiving the The Lucy Penegar Preservation Advocacy Award, from Preservation Gaston!

Pat was the founding board chair for the organization and served as chair for six years, guiding the organization through its establishment as a 501c3, raising funds to purchase the Smyre Pasour House, establishing a revolving fund, and facilitating the adoption of a strategic plan.

At Oak Ridge Dental Arts, we are dedicated to helping 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.

The former Billy’s BBQ in Mount Holly is set to become Jimbo’s. The restaurant has been undergoing major renovations, and according to management they hope to be open by first of July. The menu will include hamburgers, hot dogs, meatloaf, BBQ, veggies and more.

We told you last week about Gastonia’s famous $1 bank robber, Richard Verone. Verone robbed a local bank for $1, in hope of getting medical care in prison. Instead, he was charged with larceny of a person, and was sentenced to time served.

One of our loyal readers, Lisa Harper, sent me this:

Did some digging online and found a short obituary…Richard Varone, a beloved resident of Bowling Green, FL, passed away recently. Richard had relocated to Bowling Green in 2018 from Key West, where he had spent many years building a fulfilling life. He dedicated his career to the beverage industry, working as a distributor for various companies. Notably, he retired from Coca-Cola after many years of dedicated service. Richard was also a proud member of the Army National Guard, serving his country with honor and dedication. His commitment to his military duties was a testament to his strong character and love for his country. Outside of work and military service, Richard had a passion for dirt track racing. He found great joy in the exhilaration of the sport and cherished the friendships he made within the racing community. Richard is survived by his loving son, Sean Varone, who resides in New York. He also leaves behind his brothers, Robert Varone of New Jersey, Steven Varone of New Jersey, and Johnny Varone of New Jersey. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Barbara Varone of New Jersey, as well as several nieces and nephews.Richard Varone will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His kind heart, dedication, and zest for life will be remembered and cherished by his family and friends. May he rest in peace.

Restaurants in downtown Gastonia have started posting their menus outside. They do this in larger cities, and I think it’s a great idea. I like to check out what’s available and the prices.

Shelli's She Shed is a home decor boutique full of floral stems & arrangements and unique, vintage, antique, retro, farmhouse styles and the perfect gift items.

New Hours: Fri & Sat 10am-3pm
980-318-3816

106 W. Dallas Rd.. Stanley , NC 28164

All jobs are in Gaston County, or within 15 minutes of Gaston County

Electrical Professional Engineer w/ Recore Electrical Contractors

Dedicated Lanes CDL A Owner Operator: Up to $4500 week

Cardiovascular Technologist Staff EP Lab w/ Caromont Health

Info

Animal ID 61186241
Species Dog
Breed German Shepherd/Mix
Age 5 years 1 day
Gender Male
Size Large
Color Black
Declawed No
Housetrained Unknown
Site GCACE
Location Dog ISO
Intake Date 6/13/2026
Stage New Arrival

Info