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The Gaston Symphonic Band Will Perform
"Reflections of Autumn."

Featuring more than 70 musicians, the Gaston Symphonic Band will celebrate fall with its annual concert, "Reflections of Autumn," on Friday, Oct. 24, at 7 p.m. at Second Baptist Church in Mount Holly.

Western North Carolina is once again preparing for its most colorful season. From the Blue Ridge Parkway to the foothills of the Appalachians, the annual transformation of green forests into fiery reds, oranges, and golds draws thousands of visitors. But this year's leaf season comes with a caveat: the lingering impact of Hurricane Helene (2024), which stripped trees, closed roads, and left scars across some of the state's most beloved overlooks.
Still, experts say the show will go on. "Western Carolina is back open for business, and that includes the famous Blue Ridge Parkway," said Dr. Howard Neufeld, Appalachian State University's "Fall Color Guy" in an interview with Queen City News. "You may see patches of gray where Helene took down trees, but you'll also see brilliant color in areas that were spared."

The Shelby High School Class of 1965 celebrated its 60th class reunion on September 27, 2025 at the Banker's House in Shelby. Photo provided by Waynette Goodson

Mike Greene took the helm to chop the barbecue shoulders at the Sulphur Springs Methodist Church's Annual Barbecue on October 11th.

Libby Harrill is pictured with her daughter, Paula Bonino and granddaughters, Caroline Yount, and Breanna Thompson. The team of ladies worked the take-out line at the Annual Sulphur Springs Methodist Church Barbecue held on October 11th.

Anne Wilson Tria, 101, of Gastonia, NC, formerly of Kings Mountain, claimed her heavenly reward on September 27, 2025 at Caromont Regional Medical Center, departing this plane after a beautifully lived life.

Sara Nell Moss Hope January 28, 1948 - September 16, 2025 Cary, North Carolina

Lisa Eaker Lemons, 60, of Taylorsville, passed away on Friday, September 26, 2025 at her home.

Gilbert Dale Patterson, 85, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on September 27, 2025 at Testa Family Hospice House. B

Clayton, NC - Shirley Runyans passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Judy Carolyn Johnson Bertaux, age 77, of Cherryville, passed away September 28, 2025, at Atrium Health Lincoln.

SHELBY: Selma Huntsinger Ware, a beloved mother, sister, and friend, completed her earthly journey on September 28, 2025, in her cherished hometown of Cleveland County, NC.

Linda Sue Greene, 75, of Grover, North Carolina, peacefully departed this life into the arms of Jesus on Monday, October 6, 2025.

Jean Elizabeth "Beth" Adair, age 69, of Henrietta, passed away Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at Rutherford Regional Medical Center.

Mr. John Thomas Edwards Jr., age 81 of Shelby, NC, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, September 15, 2025.

Joshua Dean Justice, 28, passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Atrium Health Cleveland Hospital.

Elizabeth "Madge" Jane Swink Walker, 83, of Conover, passed away on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.

Elizabeth "Madge" Jane Swink Walker, 83, of Conover, passed away on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.

Steven Ray Baker, 77, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on September 23, 2025 at Atrium Health Cleveland in Shelby, NC.

Kermit Quentin Perkins, 84, of Lincolnton, NC, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on September 23, 2025.

Melissa Sue Beatty passed away on Monday, September 15, 2025 while at her home surrounded by her loving and devoted family.

Ronald "Dale" Grant passed away in his home on September 17, 2025 at the age of 79.

With heavy hearts we are sad to announce that our beautiful, smart, funny Hailey Ann Parker was taken from us too soon on Friday, September 19, 2025.

Johnie William Russell, known to his family as Billy, passed away at his home in Cleveland County, North Carolina on September 18, 2025, at the age of 79.

Avera Harris appears to be wanting to become a junior fire fighter. The helmet that she's wearing was given to her by Boiling Springs Fire and Rescue during the Music on Main and Fall Craft Fair on Saturday, October 4th. Jeff Melton photo