Highland Neighborhood Association | | September 2025 Newsletter | |
Join us at the next
Highland Neighborhood Association Meeting
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**Tuesday, September 9, 2025**
5:30 pm dinner, 6:00 pm meeting starts
Highland Health Center - Community Classroom
Located on the lower level in the rear of the building
609 N. Highland St., Gastonia, NC 28052
The Executive Board will meet on Monday, September 8th, at noon.
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Stay informed about what's going on in Highland:
Check out our new website!
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Alliance for Community Enrichment (A.C.E)
Program Newsletters
The Alliance for Community Enrichment (A.C.E.) publishes a monthly newsletter. These newsletters will provide information on upcoming City-sponsored events, opportunities for public engagement and public comment periods, highlights from the City's Recognized Communities, and much more.
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New Gaming Opportunities Coming to the
Erwin Center
Connect. Community. Compete.
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The Erwin Center would like to bring a new level of excitement to the community with the launch of its gaming activities with an Eastport Sports Game Room! The new gaming area provides a safe, fun, and engaging space where youth and teens can play, compete, and connect.
From the latest in e-sports and console play, the Erwin Center now offers a variety of options that encourage teamwork, friendly competition, and creativity. Young people can sharpen problem-solving skills and build friendships, while adults can unwind and enjoy a lively, social atmosphere.
Highlights include:
- Video Game Stations: Featuring popular titles for group and individual play.
- Community Tournaments: Friendly competitions with prizes and bragging rights.
- Youth Gaming Clubs: A safe space for teens to gather, learn, and game responsibly.
Join us at the Erwin Center and discover how gaming can build connections, boost creativity, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just looking for a fun new activity, there’s something for everyone! For details, contact George Fulwood at George.Fulwood@gastonianc.gov.
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Community Helps Create Mosaic for the
Aunt Charlotte McClee Garden
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Community members recently came together to create mosaic tiles that will soon be placed in the Aunt Charlotte McClee Community Garden. The colorful tiles will spell out the word “HIGHLAND”, serving as a lasting tribute to the neighborhood’s history and spirit.
Formerly known as the Highland Community Garden, the space was renamed in honor of Aunt Charlotte McClee and continues to grow as a place of pride and connection. The garden is a partnership between the City of Gastonia, Keep Gastonia Beautiful, and the Highland Neighborhood.
More than a garden, this vibrant corner of Highland represents a shared vision. Keep Gastonia Beautiful hopes the space will:
- Continue the community art initiative already underway in the neighborhood.
- Provide a welcoming gathering place for neighbors and area churches.
- Serve as an outdoor classroom for children from nearby schools.
- Become a source of pride and inspiration for the entire community.
With the addition of the new mosaic, the Aunt Charlotte McClee Community Garden will not only grow fresh food but also celebrate the neighborhood’s creativity, resilience, and unity.
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Meet Angela Dreher
City Council Candidate, Ward 4
Angela Dreher is running for Gastonia’s City Council, representing Ward 4 in a special election set for Tuesday, November 4, 2025. After a January interview with the City Council, she secured her spot on the ballot and is now campaigning with a clear message of community and service.
Who Is Angela Dreher?
A lifelong Gastonia native, Dreher is a devoted mother and grandmother who brings years of local ties and civic passion to her candidacy. She highlights her interest in travel, arts, faith, and community engagement, describing herself as “committed, compassionate, and ready to roll up her sleeves.”
The Campaign Vision
Dreher’s campaign platform is rooted in improving the quality of life for Ward 4 residents—prioritizing safety, enhancing community spirit, and preserving what makes the neighborhood special. Her campaign appeals for involvement from volunteers, donors, and neighbors alike.
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Mark your calendar for Thursday, September 25th, and join us at Habitat Charlotte Region’s annual Gaston Gala! Hosted from 6:00-10:00 pm at The Gaston Country Club, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
This enchanting night will feature a delightful dinner, live entertainment, and an exciting raffle, with all proceeds dedicated to funding Critical Home Repair projects for vulnerable homeowners in Gaston County.
By attending the Gala, you will play a vital role in transforming lives and ensuring that families can live in safe and healthy homes. Together, we will create ripples of hope that extend throughout our community, showcasing the power of compassion and collaboration. Don’t miss this chance to make a lasting impact—join us in building a brighter future for our neighbors in need!
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Rock the Block
Let's get rockin'!
On September 20th, Habitat for Humanity is "Rocking the Block" in Gastonia’s vibrant Highland neighborhood! This incredible community, home to over 2,000 households, is buzzing with an active Neighborhood Association dedicated to boosting residents’ quality of life. And we’re joining forces with them!
In partnership with Lowe’s, volunteers will come together in Highland to complete external home repairs, maintenance, and beautification projects. Imagine the impact: freshly mown lawns, new mailboxes, clean gutters, and bursts of colorful flowers – all bringing renewed pride and comfort to our neighbors.
Join us and be a part of this amazing day of community transformation!
Register to Volunteer
- Visit the individual shift search page through the button below
- Search for shifts; simply press the ‘search’ button (no need to enter dates or location)*
- Rock the Block shifts will be labeled “Rock the Block” under the Project column
- Check desired shift(s) and click select
- Log in to an existing account or create a new one
| | SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAY SHOUT OUTS!! | | | |  | |
Pam Bradley
Sheila Williams
Ra-an Wyley
Do you or a family member have a birthday or special event coming up? Let us celebrate with you! Contact Regina Knox at knoxregina@hotmail.com for details on how to share your good news in future newsletters.
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UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS
| | Help Make Highland Healither! | | September Health Observances | | | | |
