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Thursday, August 24, 2017

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Thursday, August 24, 2017

• Belmont • Cramerton • Lowell • McAdenville • Mount Holly • Stanley

Belmont Trolley group gets a great gift

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

When it comes time to build a station for the Belmont Trolley, the project got a headstart recently from the NCDOT Rail Division in the form of hundreds and hundreds of vintage terra cotta roof tiles.

Belmont Trolley, Inc. leader Nate Wells explained how the tiles were acquired for free.

“When the NCDOT moved the old P&N Thrift depot from one side of Old Mt. Holly Rd. to the other they removed the old roofing tiles and replaced them with new ones,” Wells said. “They offered them to us.”

The old tiles had been placed in crates at the Thrift worksite. Wells and some associates took a small front end loader and a large trailer and started moving them to his office in Belmont.

“We could move four to six crates at a time,” Wells said. “It took a dozen trips to get them all.”

There are about 40 crates of tiles. The orange/red colored tiles are stamped “Ludowici-Celadon, Chicago”, on the back.

The Belmont Trolley car itself is still being restored and currently housed in the City of Belmont Public Works facility on Catawba St. Meanwhile, plans are moving along to get a permanent home and base of operations for it built.

“We have had an architectural rendering done of how the trolley barn and station might look,” Wells said. “The station would resemble the Thrift depot as well as P&N depots still standing in Belmont, Mt. Holly, and Gastonia.”

Another idea Wells said is being considered would be to use some of the red Belmont Trolley, Inc. member Nate Wells is seen with some of the 100-year-old roofing tiles that were donated Photo by Alan Hodge See TROLLEY page 8 by the NCDOT Rail Division for the trolley's barn roof.

Mt. Holly PD swears in new Captain

By Alan Hodge alan.bannernews@gmail.com

designated as a team leader on the SWAT Team. He has amassed over 2,800 hours of formal training in law enforcement including the Leadership and Management for Law Enforcement Program and First Line Supervision. He has been recognized as an intermediate and advance law enforcement officer

by N.C. Training and Standards. In addition, several honors have been bestowed on him throughout his career including Officer of the Year, Gastonia Police Meritorious Award,

Veteran Mt. Holly Police Department officer David Sisk was promoted to the rank of Captain on August 1 and officially sworn in to that posistion by Mayor Bryan Hough at last Monday's meeting of the city council.

“Captain Sisk is an experienced member of our department, and has displayed the type of leadership that made him an obvious choice for promotion to his new position,” said Chief See CAPTAIN page 4 Don Roper. “I believe our citizens will soon see that he is a great addition to the command staff at the Mount Holly Police department.”

As Captain, Sisk will be in charge of between ten and fifteen officers.

A native of Gastonia, Sisk, 42, moved to Mt. Holly as a child and has called it home ever since. He is a 1993 graduate of East Gaston High.

Sisk continued his education with an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from Gaston College in 2012.

Sisk began his career as a Mount Holly police officer in March of 2003, and rose through the ranks. He served as a corporal from July 2005 to March 2006 and sergeant from March 2006 to July 2017.

MHPD Captain David Sisk has called Mt. Holly home for He has served as member of the 30 years. He believes in the community and the police Gastonia Regional SWAT Team working together.

Photo by Alan Hodge since June 2007, and is currently

Monday's total eclipse of the sun had folks all over our region stepping outside for a look at the once in a lifetime event. The staff at the Lyerly Agency in Belmont were awestruck. From left, Melinda Skutnick, Lois Kube, Melia Lyerly, Susan Jones, Elaine Lyerly, Jeff Strickland.

Photo by Alan Hodge

O'Connor's Grove A.M.E. Zion Church turns 150 years old O'Connor's Grove A.M.E. Zion Church is an unassuming brick building nestled between a fast food place and a car dealer on N. Main St. in Belmont, but the congregation there has a rich and fascinating history dating back to August, 1867.

O'Connor's Grove Church was built on

land that was once part of a 500-acre tract originally owned by the Caldwell family purchased in 1867 Father Jeremiah O'Connell.

When he sold the property that would eventually become home to Belmont Abbey College he also deeded the church plot to the former

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Yours, Ours, Others

Thursday, August 24, 2017

When you can’t make them see the light, make them feel the heat.

-Ronald Reagan

How To Avoid Another My Opinion: Eat your Wheaties Charlottesville

By Dr. Glenn Mollette Does anybody in America truly want to repeat another horrific Charlottesville?

I hope the answer is no but it seems there are different groups lusting for more of Charlottesville.

Three people were killed and many others injured in a display of civil warfare reminiscent of what I used to watch on the evening news back in the sixties.

Are there hate groups in America? The answer is yes. Is there racism in America? The answer is yes. Is the solution to hate and racism violence?

No. Hurting one another, cursing each other, violating each other and trying to kill each other comes from the basest and most depraved human beings.

Where is the commonsense of what happened in Charlottesville, Virginia? There was no commonsense.

How do we avoid another Charlottesville?

Freedom of speech does not mean freedom of violence. Every group that protests in any community in the United States should first gain a permit from the local county or city government for a day and length of time with an exact location to hold the march or protest. The protest must be civil.

There is no need for guns at a march or at rally to speak. Freedom of speech does not mean freedom to start shooting off guns.

Next, the group should be required to put up a deposit of cash. It takes money to clean up a town after hundreds or thousands of people have dropped their cigarette butts and pop cans everywhere. Part of the cash deposit should be refundable if the group marches orderly and leaves the community orderly.

Tell all the local people that the protestors are coming and to leave town or find something else to do. In other words ignore them. The best way to kill anything is indifference. Indifference has been killing churches and marriages for many years now.

Forbid another group to protest at the same time. Civil freedom of speech should mean I get a turn and then you get a turn. However national cable television news and Presidential debates have proven that there is little civility and man-

ners in our nation anymore. People start talking and then opponents begin yelling trying to drown them out. Any group that has a permit to march and speak about their cause should have a chance to say what they want to say. When they are finished the opposing group should pay their fee to march and have their say about the issue.

Yelling at each other and throwing things and driving cars into crowds gains nothing but death, more hatred and more violence.

A date and time set by the city and county gives local and state police the opportunity to organize in such a way to save lives. An event such as Charlottesville requires hundreds of state police people and maybe even the National Guard. Yes, this is tragic.

When a group marched in Pikeville, Kentucky last April 29 no one was killed. Lots of words were hurled by the opposing groups but the community and the police kept the order. The groups came, the police made convincing barricades and lives were sparred. The Pikeville commissioners notably disallowed either of the groups to wear hoods or masks in their protesting. This is another good move that all city and county governments need to enforce in the future.

When groups interrupt and act violently toward those speaking they should be hauled off to jail until somebody pays their fine to get them out.

I was in the St. Louis airport the other day and there is a Freedom of Speech stand in the airport. People can stand at that location and give a speech. Nobody was giving one while I was there. Every community should protect freedom of speech. No one speaking and conducting him or herself in a civil manner should have to fear being assaulted or run over by a car. Those speaking should never be threatening to anyone physically nor should listeners be allowed to threaten the speaker. Where or how does violence resolve any issue? Unless of course people want another Civil War where hundreds of thousands of people were killed in order to get the point across. Is this what we want in America? Surely we do not want to go backwards to such a brutal and archaic time in our history?

Violence will only provoke more violence and more hatred. We are a multicultural society.

All colors and backgrounds live in America. The solution to our success is to quit biting and fighting each other and work together. Or, have we become just too barbaric?

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Riverside Fest set

Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation is presenting Riverside Fest, a free event to celebrate the Catawba River, on Saturday, August 26th, 2017, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Riverside Marina, 1500 River Drive, Belmont. Several breweries and a cidery will be selling beer and cider on site. Drink tickets are $6/ticket. Booths will include D9 Brewing Company, Birdsong Brewing Co., Blue Blaze Brewing, The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, Fonta Flora Brewery, York Chester Brewing Co., Primal Brewery, Legion Brewing, Red Clay Ciderworks.

Muddy River Distillery will be offering tours at 3 p.m., 4 p.m., and 5 p.m. Tours are $8 a person. For a donation to the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation (CRF), you can take a ride on a pedal-powered paddle-wheel boat by Charlotte Cycleboats.

General admission is free.

No one is going to live forever but we can all try and some of us have very different means of achieving and maintaining good health. Some folks look to vitamins and mineral supplements to hit the good health jackpot. Some folks twist themselves into various positions and hum at the same time to strike it rich health-wise. Some folks live on nuts and berries. Some folks jog. Some folks bike.

Some folks watch Dr. Oz. etc. & etc.

Then there was Grandma Smith.

My great-grandmother Ella Eugenia Loftin Smith lived to be nearly 100 years old. She lived with my great grandfather Walter V. Smith on the farm that had been in our family since 1830 that was on the site of the presentday Catawba Heights Baptist Church. She was 80-something when I was a little kid and when we went to visit her and my grandfather SinclairSmith I have to say she was somewhat intimidating because she could still carry an armload of wood and I could barely tote one stick.

Grandma Smith grew up in Lucia and according to my aunt Emily Smith Helton met Grandpa Smith at a spelling bee. The love bug must have been buzzing at that affair since they got married and had about eight kids.

Grandma Smith was way over six-feet tall and even when stooped by age was still lanky.

She was an expert seamstress and made her own clothes. She cooked on a wood stove that she stoked herself.

She made butter. I know this because I ate some once. For those of you who have never tasted butter fresh from a churn you have missed out on something swell. Of course that butter was full of fat, but Grandma Smith didn’t know about cholesterol and even if she had won the spelling bee she probably couldn’t

have spelled it either.

Other dietary habits that allowed Grandma Smith to edge the century mark was a daily breakfast Alan Hodge of Banner-News Editor eggs and bacon or sausage fried in lard.

These delicacies were sizzled in a big iron pan.

Pies, stew beef, and chicken fried in the same iron pan also rounded out Grandma Smith’s diet. For supper she ate Wheaties cereal by the ton. I think the grease from the iron pan foods squared off against the Wheaties in her system and maintained a type of balance.

Grandma Smith had a habit. Lots of us do.

Her habit came in a can. So does mine but hers was Tube Rose snuff dipped with a little gnawed-on stick. To rid herself of the extract, she kept a lovely ceramic jar handy. I wonder how many decades Grandma Smith dipped snuff? I tried it once when I was in my 20s and got a buzz so I know she must have as well. I bet life on the farm was hard but Tube Rose probably helped make the days more tolerable.

Lastly, Grandma Smith had another health habit that helped her span a century. Aunt Emily said it was called “cascara”. I looked it up. Cascara is also known as Rhamus purshiana or bearberry. Botanical jargon aside, it’s a laxative that the Indians used. Grandma Smith said if a person wasn’t ‘regular’they would become ‘bilious’.

So, the point of my tale about Grandma Smith is simply this- whatever works for you to hang in there age-wise might not be another person’s cup of tea, but cascara, Tube Rose and Wheaties seemed to work for her and it might work for you too.

If you come to my house at night, wear sunglasses

By Tony Marciano One morning I was leaving early, turned on the foyer light and a bulb blew. Since I am afraid of heights, I recruited my son Ed to replace the bulbs.

We decided to replace all the bulbs with extra-long life bulbs. Then he offered to clean the glass of the chandelier.

It was difficult to reach since the ladder was not as tall as I would have liked. He straddled the ladder and cleaned all the glass in the chandelier. It looked almost brand new.

The next morning I was leaving early (I always leave before 6am) and turned on the hall chandelier. My neighbors across the street woke up when the light shone through the big window. Charlotte Douglas airport started calling me because airplanes were wondering if the light was directing them to a new runway. It was so bright you could land a 747 airplane in my driveway. I stared at the light. It wasn’t bright; it was awesome bright. You could say it was too bright.

Over twenty years, I had gotten used to bulb after bulb burning out and I could still see to safely get down the steps. Although it would be more noticeable after each bulb burned out, I would quickly adjust to the foyer being slightly dimmer. Not a significant amount, just a little bit, but enough that you can notice it.

I think the same could be said of our lives. No one wakes up and says, “Today is the day I am going to mess up my life.” It begins with small steps (or individual light bulbs going dead). An addict doesn’t wake up today with a goal of this being the day he will relapse. Instead, over the course of weeks, he stops going to his AA meetings, stops talking to his AA sponsor, hangs out with people

who are in active addiction, and then wonders how he could relapse with five years’ clean time.

The same is true when someone has an affair. It starts with sharing something personal about your marriage with someone who is not your spouse.

It’s having dinner with that person and complaining about your spouse. It progresses to having dinner with that person and talking about hopes and dreams. It may start with a brief hug but ends up in a full-blown affair.

It is a series of small decisions that leads to a personal crisis. When one lightbulb blew, we were fine. We were up to five out of 12 light bulbs blown. We could still safely navigate the steps.

We just got used to it. It became the “new normal.”

It’s amazing how we rationalize those small decisions. We think, “I’m mad at my AA sponsor for telling me the truth so I am not going to call him.”

It sounds like the youth who says under his breath towards his parents, “I’ll show you. I’ll mess up my life and surely, you’ll be upset.” Guess whose life you just messed up?

We don’t want to know the truth. We think we can rationalize an affair because our spouse has not been intimate with us for some time.

I’ve learned that darkness cannot survive in the light. When I am honest with what I am doing or not doing, when I allow God’s shining light to show the motivation for why I am doing it, that’s when I get healthy.

Remember, if you come to my house at night, wear sunglasses. The bulbs were replaced and the glass is clean. The light in the foyer is as bright as it was 20 years ago when we built the house.

Thursday, August 24, 2017

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YOU DESERVE

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We know that seniors have specific challenges and needs as they age. That’s why at Partners in Primary Care we take the extra time to make sure you understand your diagnosis and all your treatment options.

It’s part of our new approach, we call Senior-focused Primary Care—helping keep our patients healthy and setting them up for everything life may hold.

SENIOR-FOCUSED PRIMARY CARE COMING SEPTEMBER 2017 2910 East Franklin Blvd., Suite #1 • Located in Franklin Square, next to Michaels

To become a new patient, visit YouDeservePartners.com/Gastonia or call (704) 946-7937 Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Partners in Primary Care does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex.

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Thursday, August 24, 2017

B ELMONT -M ONTCROSS A REA W EATHER

Thurs., Aug. 24

Sat., Aug. 26

Fri., Aug. 25

High 81 Low 61

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Sun., Aug. 27

Mon., Aug. 28

Tues., Aug. 29

Wed., Aug. 30

High 80 Low 61

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CAPTAIN from page 1 and the Commander’s Coin recognition. Since 2013, Captain Sisk has given back to the community by being involved with Toys for Tots in various capacities.

Sisk is a strong advocate of the police working alongside the folks who dwell and work in town.

“We all live together here in Mt. Holly,” he said. “I want the police department and the citizens to form a partnership. Trust is vital. In today’s society we have to be an integral part

of the community.”

Sisk says he plans to continue the policy of MHPD outreach programs such as Public Oriented Policing.

“We want to try to solve problems such as drugs and property crimes before they happen,” he said. “The law and order of this town is important to me.”

In the future, Sisk says he wants to go back to school for his four-year degree. He plans to serve with MHPD until retirement.

The entire staff at Kiser-Harriss Chemical Distribution in North Belmont made their way outside and experienced Monday’s total eclipse.

Photo by Alan Hodge

WE WELCOME YOUR COMMENTS Send your Letter to the Editor to: THE BANNER NEWS PO BOX 589 • Belmont NC 28012 email: alan@cfmedia.info

Hood Memorial AME Zion revival Zion, Charlotte. The theme will be Reconstruction: Focus on Commitment and Courage.

The Revival will be Tuesday, Sept. 5 Rev. Dr. Tressala Hicklin Pastor Big Pineville AME Zion Church, Pinev-

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7, Youth Night, Rev. Russell Harrington, Assoc. Minister, Center Baptist Church, Gastonia; Choirs from various churches will minister with songs of praise. Call church at 704-4612-8336 for more information.

Captain David Sisk is seen being sworn in by Mt. Holly Mayor Bryan Hough.

Photo by Alan Hodge

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Hood Memorial AME Zion Church 215 Sacco St., Belmont, is planning its 68th anniversary and revival. The Homecoming will be Sunday, Sept. 3 at 3pm with guest speaker Rev. Dr. David McLean, Pastor Grace AME

Thursday, August 24, 2017

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Page 5

O’CONNOR’S from page 1 slaves who had helped him clear his farmland. Interestingly, the church was initially named “O'Connell's Grove, but over the course of years took its current spelling.

The first building for O'Connor's Grove Church wasn't a building at all, but a brush arbor. Later structures were made of wood. The current brick sanctuary dates to 1952.

This coming weekend, the church will celebrate its August 20, 1867 official founding. Rev. Marshall Long, Pastor, had this to say about the importance of remembering that time.

“We realize that through our mothers and fathers hard work and dedication they have established a place for others to worship,” he said.

“Through our trials and tribulations we have learned that we must stay focused and committed to the cause. To come together in love as Jesus Christ, conquering hate and bringing about a diverse atmosphere for all people exemplifying love, peace and happiness. Our theme for our 150th homecoming is a 'A Legacy Still Unfolding'.We have a responsibility to our young people, to prepare them for what they will face in life. We have a responsibility to our elderly people, to help meet their needs in a changing world. We have a responsibility to the community around us, to proclaim the good news of salvation and to be examples of Christ’s love.”

O'Connor's Grove has a storied past, but as Rev. Long explained, it looks to the future as well.

“Our faith is born and nurtured in a historical experience, in what God has done for us in the past, but it always leads us into the future,” The current sanctuary at O’Connor’s Grove AME Zion Church dates to 1952. The congregation was founded 150 years he said. “We must let that history be part of our movement into the ago.

Photo by Alan Hodge future. Jesus has commissioned us (Matt 28:19-20) and sent us into the world with a mission: how will we fulfill it? Our faith, commitment, and service and the question 'Where are we going?' have a still greater significance, because as Christians we know that our history has an eternal direction, an ultimate goal.”

Meditations

What God Can Do Through You One of my favorite board games is chess. My brother and I used to play chess all of the time growing up. Chess is a game of strategy, where each piece is moved in order to ultimately put your opponent in checkmate. In many ways, our life is like a game of chess. God is moving each part of our life in place, strategically placing the pieces, guiding each step in order to fulfill His will in our lives.

Ruth 1-4 recalls the story of Naomi and Elimelech. They were a family who lived in Bethlehem, with their two sons Mahlon and Chilion. Because Rev. Trent Rankin of a great famine, they left their hometown to go Salvation Church to the neighboring country of Moab. While there, Gastonia, NC both sons married, Chilion to a young girl named salvationchurchnc.org Orpah, and Mahlon to a girl named Ruth. Unfor- salvationchurchnc@gmail.com tunately, over time Elimelech died, along with his two sons. Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth were left as widows. Naomi decided to return home, yet Ruth remained with her mother in law. Naomi and Ruth returned to Israel, where Ruth went to gather corn in a neighbor’s field to support them. The neighbor, a man named Boaz, was actually a relative to Elimelech. Boaz had great respect for Ruth because of her love for Naomi.

Over time Boaz took Ruth as his wife, which was in keeping with the Law of Moses as he was the closest relative to the family. Ruth and Boaz went on to have a son named Obed, who had a son named Jesse. Jesse had a son we all know, King David himself. Ultimately through this godly line, Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem as well.

Clearly through this story we see the hand of God guiding Ruth’s life in order to accomplish His will. This great story reminds us that God is working in our lives, even when we are not noticing. God uses average everyday people like you and me to do great things. Ruth was a young girl from a foreign nation, yet God led her to Israel where she served Him the rest of her life. God did great things through her. God uses everything we go through, the good times and the bad, just like with Ruth, to lead us to be what He desires for us. God is working on a masterpiece through us. If we will live by faith, be obedient to His word, He can work in our lives just as He did for Ruth.

We are where we are for a purpose. God has brought us to this point for a reason. Will we trust in Him, and let Him unfold His will for us? Like chess, God is moving the pieces of our lives in place. Are you ready for what God has prepared for you?

Time to repent

We live in a society where a multiplicity of words abounds. I like to ruminate over my thoughts before speaking. But, in our culture, I feel pushed to talk fast before the next person interrupts with their ideas. We struggle with silence. I challenge you to try this test. Enter a waiting room and turn off the television. Wait for someone to enter and time how long it takes them to turn on the television. Or, open prayer with a moment of silence and see how long it takes before you hear shuffling in the seat.

I will engage in confession. Usually, when a person speaks continuously with no commas or periods, I find myself zoning out. But, when someone sits silently I observe this person. I can tell they are taking it in, digesting and ruminating. After a period of silence, they begin to speak. At this point, I am attentive to their words. Out of their silence, I often hear the most profound thoughts. “He who restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.” Proverbs 17:27 NASB. Between the Old and New Testament, four hundred years have passed. In these four hundred years, God was silent. No prophets were speaking God’s word. Although God was silent, he was still working. God was preparing the way for the Messiah. God was also preparing the heart of the Herald. Out of the silence comes John the Baptist.

As I am attentive to someone speaking out of their silence,

“A Cockatiel’s Perspective”

Have you ever planned a garden, set it in motion, and not had it turn out right? 2016 was like that. I bought three types of heirloom tomato seeds, planted them in my cold frame; waited for the last frost and transplanted them strategically in my garden. I grew tomatoes alright; small cherry tomatoes; 12 plants of them! All the large tomatoes that I dreamed of making sandwiches with did nothing. I don’t blame the seeds. Actually I don’t know where The Storehouse at First Baptist ber we are closed, but we will be to point my finger because I thought Church Belmont 23 N. Central Ave. opened the first and second Satur- I had been diligent selecting my seed Belmont, NC 28012 has free gently days in December for our Christmas source. I enjoyed eating and giving used clothing items for all ages, Toy Give Away for those in need. away the cherry tomatoes but there toys, books, household items and Both days 10AM-12PM. Want to was a constant lingering disappointgroceries. Please spread the word help? Send us a message. We'd ment because the larger varieties did to those you know or meet that may love you to join us as we serve nothing. Come on bees, where are have a need. We are also in need of and show the love of Jesus to our you? gently used coats and jackets for all neighbors. For more informaWhen planning a garden don’t we ages, and blankets. We are opened tion or to volunteer please call start with a vision? I do; and when the 4th Saturday of every month (704)825-3758. results don’t match up with vision, from 10AM-12PM except NovemI experience creeping, lingering disappointment. I guess I’m not made from the same fiber that Thomas Mt. Holly 1st United Methodist Church will have a back to school Edison had; where he was satisfied water splash community event for the whole family on Saturday, Aug. finding hundreds of ways something 26 , 4-6PM. Lots of water fun, and hot dogs. Bring your lawn chair and wouldn’t work. I wanted to eat those big tomatoes AND also give them a towel. Event is located behind the Fellowship Hall.

First Baptist needs coats

FUMC Mt. Holly event

the people were attentive to the words of John. What would he say? What would be the most important word God will tell his people?

God did not say build big Rev. Angela Pleasants cathedrals. God did not give District instructions on how to form a Superintendent committee. What was the word of Catawba Valley from God through John the Methodist Churches Baptist? “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

We are focused on making disciples for the transformation of the world. First change begins in the heart; then we can transform the world. If our hearts have not been transformed by the Spirit of God, we will be going through the motions of good works. I often hear testimonies on how we provided meals, served on mission teams or gave out water bottles. But, do we talk about the importance of repentance. After four hundred years of silence, God speaks through his vessel, repent! That message has not changed. We too are called to preach REPENT! Repent is a change of heart and mind, accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. When the Spirit of God change our hearts, the behavior and actions will follow. A changed heart is the beginning of true discipleship.

track. Maybe my eyes were mostly on me and I wanted an “Atta boy” more than being a blessing.

To be a help, I’m writing a venison cookbook because I routinely run into hunters and wives dumfounded about cooking with venison; who either completely ruin it or, like my tomatoes, end up with sad, diminished results. This book will be as complete a practical deer venison cookbook as possible so hunting adventures can be followed with refreshing kitchen triumphs. Still, even with a few decades experience, personal interest and background in the kitchen, I make mistakes.

This morning I dreamed up a recipe for deer venison hash. Sounds simple; what could go wrong? Well it was terrible! Grumbling my way to the trash container I passed my pet cockatiels and they greeted me with their daily happy greetings; I thought “why can’t I always be hopeful, happy and content like them Lord?”

In scripture, Matthew 6:26, God’s Word says “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth

rience, disappointments can immobilize us; reduce our willingness to risk and experiment. Why? Possibly, because we rely Dennis Siracusa on the product instead of what we can generously do with it.

By sharing our gardens, or helping others any way we can, our successes will foster contentment and failed experiments will fade in importance.

Let’s use all our experiments to push forward past the few immobilizing disappointments and turn our focus on daily, effectively helping others.

Oh, and don’t you know that deciding to help others and actually helping others are not the same thing? When action undergirds helpful intentions, our hearts will overflow with the same joy and contentment cockatiels have.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 6

Banner News Fellowship & Faith

Church Directory Belmont Foursquare Gospel Church

Morningside Missionary Church 711 Morningside Dr. 704-822-9142 208 Rankin Ave. 704-827-8596

Mt. Holly Pentecostal Holiness 406 Scott St. 704-827-8201

Mt. Sinai Baptist Church 339 S. Hawthorne St. 704-827-4320

North Main Baptist Church 1304 N. Main St. 704-827-6141

Restoration & Deliverance 804 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-820-0954 Revival Tabernacle of Mt. Holly

BELMONT

Henry’s Chapel Ame Zion Church

St. Marks United Methodist Church

826 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-2999

Alexander Memorial Baptist Church

151 Henry Chapel Rd 704-825-0711

701 Secrest Ave. 704-825-8175

Ridgeview Baptist Church

Holy Comforter Lutheran Church

Stowe Memorial Baptist Church

105 Pine Rd. 704-827-3856

216 N. Main St. 704-825-2483

26 Kee Rd. 704-825-5987

Second Baptist Church

Hood Memorial Ame Zion Church

The Pointe

455 Sacco St. 704-825-6007

6700 Wilkinson Blvd 704-825-1709

Loves Chapel Presbyterian Church

Unity Baptist Church

204 Lincoln St. 704-825-8342

1005 Catawba St. 704-825-8730

Upper Room United Pentecostal

Crossroads Wesleyan Church

Lutheran Church of the Holy Comforter

101 Beaty Rd. 704-827-8381

216 N. Main St. 704-825-2483

Centerview Baptist Church

Message of Love Church

2300 Acme Road 704-827-2061

306 Pearl Beaty Dr. 704-827-6500

East Belmont Baptist Church

Mount Moriah Baptist Church

Bethel Baptist Church

501 Catawba Street 704-825-5780

110 Lincoln St. 704-825-2046

NC Highway 273 704-827-9846

East Belmont Church Of God

Mount Pleasant Missionary Baptist

320 E. Catawba Street 704- 825-8845

212 South Street 704-825-7269

East Belmont Free Will Baptist

New Hope Presbyterian Church

909 Edgemont Ave 704-825-5346

4357 S. New Hope Rd. 704-824-1697

Ebenezer United Methodist Church

New Life Baptist Church

120 Belmont-Mt. Holly Road 704-827-3366

201 Oak Trail 704-822-6195

First Baptist Church

New Mills Chapel Fire Baptized

23 N. Central Avenue 704-825-3758

104 Morning Glory Ave. 704-825-5457

First Foursquare Gospel Church

North Belmont Church of God

8 Elizabeth Street 704-825-5811

2316 Acme Rd. 704-827-4092

First Presbyterian Church

O’Conner Grove Church Ame Zion

102 S. Central Ave 704-825-3357

613 N. Main Street 704-825-5576

First Presbyterian-Belmont

Park Street United Methodist

112 S. Central Ave 704-829-0668

120 Park Street 704-825-8480

First United Methodist Church of Belmont

Power of the Spirit Church

Christ Church Presbyterian Church 901 Catawba Street 704-461-8614

807 South Point Road 704-825-2106

118 School Street 704-827-7071

1405 Armstrong Ford Rd. 704-825-0604

Will of God Church 513 Woodlawn Ave. 704-827-5185

MT. HOLLY

Burge Memorial Methodist Church 312 W. Glendale Ave. 704-827-2726

Catawba Heights Church of God 122 Tomberlin Rd. 704-827-4225

CBC-Memorial Apostolic 230 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-0968

Chapel Baptist Church 324 N. Lee St. 704-827-5526

Community Christian Fellowship 2560 Stanley Lucia Rd. 704-827-5881

Core Church 707 Westland Farm Rd. 704-822-8033

Covenant United Methodist 110 Underwood Dr. 704-820-0603

740 Rankin Ave. 704-827-5181

Shiloh AME Zion Methodist 1117 Old NC Hwy 27 704-827-8826

St. Anthony of Padua Traditional Catholic Church 108 Horseshoe Bend Beach Rd. 704-827-8676

St. Paul FHB Church 1529 Old Hwy 27 Rd. 704-827-5851

Tuckaseegee Baptist Church 511 Tuckaseegee Rd. 704-827-4301

Way of the Cross Baptist Church

West Cramerton United Methodist Church 207 Lowell Ave. 704-824-4213

STANLEY Amazing Grace Baptist Church 7280 Sifford Rd. 704-827-6277

Christ’s Evangelical Lutheran 203 S. Main St. 704-263-2621

Community Pentecostal Center 320 Ralph Handsel Blvd.

704-263-8731

First United Methodist Church 217 N. Main St. 704-263-2691

First Presbyterian Church

LOWELL

527 N. Buckoak St. 704-263-4647

Bethlehem Church

Stanley Church of God

3100 Bethlehem Church St. 704-823-5050

324 N. Main St. 704-263-4041

Carolina Community Baptist

Stanley Pentecostal Holiness Church

604 Martha Ave 704-824-2872

113 E. Parkwood St. 704-263-2131

Center Baptist Church

Trinity Full Gospel Church

S. New Hope Rd. 704-824-4121

Epic Church 100 Indian Walk 704-671-4652

3010 Lowell Rd. 704-824-9389

Friendship Baptist Church

Sanctuary of Praise Ministries

First Free Will Baptist Church

5008 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-3276

124 Georgia Belle Ave. 704-579-7823

841 Noles Dr. 704-827-7461

Lowell Smyre United Methodist Church

Gaston Christian Church

South Point Baptist Church

First Presbyterian Church

5339 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-8252

124 Horsley Ave. 704-825-9516

133 S. Main St. 704-827-0521

Goshen Presbyterian Church

South Point Freewill Baptist

First United Methodist Church

Roper Street 704-827-6280

297 Gaither Rd. 704-825-8045

140 N. Main St. 704-827-4855

Grace Korean Ch Assembly-God

South Point United Methodist

Goshen Free Will Baptist Church

124 Georgia Belle Ave 704-965-1004

510 South Point Church Rd. 704-825-4019

1300 W. Catawba Ave. 704-827-3076

Grace Wesleyan Church

Springwood Freewill Baptist

Grace Baptist Church

6014 S. New Hope Rd 704-825-7959

220 Park Terrace Dr. 704-827-7801

300 Westland Farm Rd. 704-827-8600

Community First Media

171 S. Main St. 704-824-7785

New Life Baptist Church

300 S. Main St. 704-827-2481

©

Riverside Baptist Church

1224 Mayberry Rd. 704-263-0249

503 N. Main Street 704-825-9600

Phone 704-827-5020 Fax 704-827-5577 jspfuneral@gmail.com www.jeffreyspainterfdl.com

501 Cramer Mountain Rd. 704-824-4286

New Faith Baptist Church

71 McAdenville Road 704-825-7283

Jeffrey S. Painter Funeral Director Licensee LLC

Life Church

1020 W. Catawba Ave. 704-827-2026

Lowell Free Will Baptist Church

Living Witness Ministries

235 8th Ave. 704-824-1991

Westview Presbyterian Church

First Baptist Church-Mt. Holly

530 N. Hawthorne St. 704-827-1442

First Baptist Church

7447 Old Plank Rd. 704-827-7966

Fresh Anointing Church of God

Lighthouse Full Gospel Church

East Wilkinson Blvd.

704-824-5319

Gold Hill Missionary Baptist Church

804 W. First Street 704-824-3383

1736 Kelly Rd. 704-263-0199

Cramerton Temple of God Church

324 N. Lee St. 704-827-1993

Lowell Church of God

Jehovah’s Witnesses

154 N. Main St. 704-824-3831

Wesley Chapel Holiness Church

Queen Of The Apostles Catholic Church

Affordable, Compassionate and Professional Funeral and Cremation Services

Cramerton Free Will Baptist

512 Old Mount Holly Rd. 704-263-4275

1013 W. Charlotte Ave. 704-827-7656

3717 Hickory Grove Rd. 704-827-3939

151 8th Ave. 704-824-3889

238 Lanier Ave. 704-827-8111

Family Worship Center

Hickory Grove Baptist Church

Cramerton Independent Presbyterian Church

Cramer Memorial United Methodist Church

1529 Old Hwy. 27 Rd. 704-827-5851

311 Belmont Road 704-827-8474

CRAMERTON

14514 Lucian Riverbend Hwy. 704-827-4468

New Saint Paul Holiness Church

Catawba Heights Baptist Church

300 E. Wesleyan Dr. 704-824-1073

416 Woodlawn Ave. 704-824-1745

1104 Old NC 27 Hwy. 704-827-0822

120 Park Street 704-825-1333

McAdenville Wesleyan Church

New Covenant United Methodist New Providence Baptist Church

Brotherhood/Sisterhood WNCC UMC

For information on getting your business listed here call 704-825-0580

Mt. Holly Church of God

Elizabeth St., Belmont, NC

208 South Main Street 704-825-3216

Thursday, August 24, 2017

303 Sunset Dr. 704-263-9765

United In Action of Stanley 5481 Hickory Grove Rd. 704-524-0555

Don’t see your church listed?

Email us today at alan@cfmedia.info

Employees of

201 N. Main St. 704-824-8814

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church 120 Branch St. 704-824-4535

First Baptist Church of Lowell 400 W. 1st St. 704-824-1215

First Baptist Church 317 W. 1st St. 704-824-1213

New Life Church 128 Robbins St. 704-824-1356

Presbyterian Church of Lowell 207 E. 1st St. 704-824-3807

Restoration Church 1800 Spencer Mountain Rd. 704-824-5250

Woodlawn Baptist Church 1101 N. Main St. 704-824-4261

541 Costner St. 704-827-0004

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd

McADENVILLE

110 S. Main St. 704-827-4751

143 Church St. 704-824-5380

Macedonia Baptist Church

McAdenville Baptist Church

1951 Stanley Lucia Rd. 704-827-9224

192 Main St. 704-824-2740

Lakeview Baptist Church

Containers/Trailers Sales & Storage Rental

704-867-2317

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Page 7

Renovated Cherubs Café celebrates re-opening with Chamber Cherubs Cafe’s famous chicken salad is back after a major renovation of the Holy Angels restaurant and downtown Belmont institution. A grand re-opening celebration and Chamber “Network After Work” reception drew a large crowd despite off and on rain that forced postponement of the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

A renovated dining room and kitchen greeted returning customers and newcomers. Expanded evening hours will keep the café open until 8 o’clock, and new menu items have been added, including a “Maria Melt” in tribute to the late Maria Morrow, who was the first resident at Holy Angels in the mid-1950s and lived and worked there until her death on Aug. 24, 2010.

The event also signaled the official opening of Cherubs on the Green, a grassy lawn next to the cafe that has been leased and decorative fencing added so it can host birthday parties and other activities for children. The lot was owned by the late Harley B. Gaston, Jr. and Kitty Gaston of Belmont and is dedicated to their memory and that of their late son, Harley “Bo” Gaston, who was a Holy Angels resident.

Cherubs Cafe and next-door neigh-

Holy Angels staff members, wearing their new “Believe There Is Good In The World” shirts, pose in the Cherubs on the Green park, which is dedicated to the memories of the late Harley and Kitty Gaston and their son Beau, who was a resident at Holy Angels.

Montcross Chamber photo bors Cherubs Cotton Candy Factory and Cherubs Candy Bouquets are vocational outreach programs of Holy Angels, providing job opportunities and community interaction for residents.

Cherubs Café, at 23 N. Main Street

Silent Auction/Pork in Belmont, offers a wide range of ca- Loin Dinner fundraiser tering services and is open for breakfast and lunch and with a limited menu until 8 o’clock most evenings. For more information, call 704.825.0414, or visit www. holyangelsnc.org/cherubs.

Saltwater Markets opens second location in Gastonia Saltwater Markets celebrated its formal opening in Gaston County last week with a dozens of Chamber members, family and friends and a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Owners Clint and Elizabeth Boyd opened their first Saltwater Markets location in Clover, SC, two years ago.

They developed so many Gaston County customers they decided to locate a second site at 3418 S. New Hope Road. Chef Rodney Roden is general manager of the Gaston County location along with Stacey Parker. Jeanie Drummond is catering coordinator and Justin Bishop also is a chef.

Saltwater Markets specializes in overnight delivery of top quality seafood and meats. Catering for oyster roasts, low country boils and other types of events also is a big part of their business.

Hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 - 6; Saturday, 10 - 5. More information at 803.222.6057, or www.saltwatermarkets.com.

Taylor, Amber, and Trevor Bush stopped by the BannerNews office to catch the solar eclipse.

Photo by Alan Hodge

Belmont Historical Society will be hosting its 6th annual Silent Auction with an Pork Loin Dinner fundraiser on Saturday, August 26th. The event will be held at the American Legion building at 202 Park Drive, Belmont. Time is 6:00 pm. Tickets are $15.00 each, and need to be purchased in advance of event. Tickets are available at Jean's Flowers, 123 Park Street, or Contact BHS at 704-825-4848.

Come and enjoy good food, good fellowship and many interesting items to purchase at the auction.

The Belmont Historical Society (BHS) was formed in 2005 and we are proud of what has been accomplished at the museum. On site is the 1899 Robert L. Stowe, Sr. home, a restored 1930's textile mill house, a 1899 free standing kitchen/cooks quarters. In storage is the restored 1960's Stowe Park "Special" train engine. We encourage you to visit us. The museum is located at 40 Catawba Street, Belmont and is open Saturday and Sunday, 1:00-5:00 pm, admission is free. For more information concerning the silent auction, please contact: Debbie at 704-825-9781 or Elizabeth at 704-813-2648.

Nick Breaux, Holy Angels staff member, receives national recognition

Pictured are Clint and Elizabeth Boyd (center), their children Caleb, Grace and Maddie, Clint’s parents Kim and Brett Boyd, catering coordinator Jeanie Drummond and Belmont Mayor Charlie Martin. Holding the ribbon are Chamber Board members Brad Thomas (left) of Creative Solutions Special Events and Chris Kennedy of Kennedy Business Solutions.

Montcross Chamber photo

The Gaston College Center for Advanced Manufacturing, an educational and training facility located adjacent to the College’s Dallas campus, will be formally dedicated during a day-long open house event on Friday, September 15, 2017.

The CAM dedication ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. in the Center for Advanced Manufacturing building. The public is invited to tour the facility during the open house event that runs from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. that day.

The Gaston College Center for Advanced Manufacturing is within the Gastonia Technology Park, off Highway 321 South in Dallas, North Carolina. For more information about the CAM Dedication Ceremony and Open House, contact Emily Dalton at Dalton.Emily@gaston.edu or 704.922.6513.

Gaston College photo

Holy Angels staff member, Nick Breaux, has been selected for Pi Kappa Phi’s Thirty Under 30 honor – recognizing the national fraternity’s most promising young alumni for their achievements following their undergraduate careers. Breaux received his award from Pi Kappa Phi at the recent Journey of Hope visit.

Breaux has been employed at Holy Angels since May, 2016, starting as a Program Instructor at Belhaven, an ICF-IIDD group home. Earlier this year, he was promoted and now serves as one of the four campus managers, providing the leadership and supervision for the direct support professional staff. They ensure that each home and area have adequate staff to work with the residents.

According to Regina Moody, Holy Angels President/ CEO, “Nick brings a lot of heart and pas- Left to Right – Basil Lyberg, Ability sion for the mission Experience CEO and Nick Breaux.

Holy Angels Photo of Holy Angels and the residents who live here.”

Prior to his employment at Holy Angels, Breaux worked with the Ability Experience for five years, working with the Pi Kappa Phi chapters to improve philanthropy programming. The Ability Experience is the national philanthropy for Pi Kappa Phi (both national headquarters are located in Charlotte, NC). Their purpose is not only instilling lifelong service, but also, enhancing the lives of people with intellectual developmental disabilities. Their primary fundraising effort is through the annual Journey of Hope cross country bike ride.

He graduated from Northwestern State University and would later receive a Master of Arts degree in Christian Leadership, Organization Leadership from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary in Charlotte.

Holy Angels was founded in 1955 by the Sisters of Mercy. The private, nonprofit corporation located in Belmont, NC, provides residential services and innovative programs for children and adults with intellectual developmental disabilities with delicate medical conditions.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 8 County section as well as short section of right-of-way TROLLEY tonastarting in uptown Charlotte.

from page 1

tiles as roof material for smaller “stops” along the trolley route from downtown Belmont to Belmont Abbey. The main station will possibly be located behind the Chronicle Mill project.

The old Piedmont and Northern Railway depot was built in 1912 in northwest Charlotte, on Old Mount Holly Road beside what are now CSX-owned tracks used for freight service. It is Mecklenburg County’s last surviving depot along the old P&N line, an electrified interurban railway launched by James B. Duke’s Southern Power and Utilities Co., forerunner of today’s Duke Energy. The depot was designated a landmark in 2010 and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Its owner, CSX railroad, had no use for the building, and preservationists feared it eventually would be demolished.

In 2010 the City of Charlotte inspected the depot and ordered the owner to repair it or demolish it. CSX applied for a demolition permit. Because it was a landmark, the CharlotteMecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission was able to force a year’s delay to see if a way could be found to save the building. As discussions continued among CSX, the N.C. Department of Transportation and the landmarks commission, CSX withdrew its demolition application.

CSX donated the depot to the NCDOT Rail Division, which owns the P&N’s 13-mile Gas-

The NCDOT bought land across the CSX tracks and moved the depot.

Known originally as the Paw Creek depot and later the Thrift depot, for the nearby textile mill village of Thrift, the station was designed by noted Charlotte architect C.C. Hook, who also designed the James B. Duke Mansion in Myers Park and Old City Hall. Hook used the same red-tiled, Spanish Colonial-style roof and distinctive brown wood and yellow and red brick for all the P&N stations.

The Electric Train Connection The history of electric powered passenger trains in eastern Gaston County goes back to the early part of the 20th century. The story begins with the Piedmont Traction Company that established a route between Charlotte and Gastonia in 1912. The track electrified to 1,500 volts DC with power supplied from mainly hydroelectric sources. Additionally both segments were built to steam road standards.

In 1914 the name was changed to Piedmont and Northern Railway, also known as P&N. The P&N tracks between Gastonia and Charlotte stretched for 24 miles. There was a three mile spur line to Belmont that operated from 1916 to the early 1930s.

Other stops on the P&N between Gastonia and Charlotte included Mount Holly, North Belmont, McAdenville, Lowell, and Ranlo.

Thursday, August 24, 2017

The Piedmont and Northern Railroad was the brainchild of William States Lee, vice-president of Southern Power and Utilities Company. In 1909 he proposed to James B. Duke, president of Southern Power, that the company construct an "electrically powered interurban railway system linking the major cities of the Piedmont Carolinas." Duke supported the project because he believed it would stimulate the industrialization of the Piedmont. The railroad would create "a mill a mile," proclaimed its supporters. Here’s the Thrift depot being moved.

Dan Fisher NCDOT Rail Division Photo The rail line was an important means of transportation to work for mill employees, most of whom did not own a car or have access to a bus.

Unlike similar interurban systems the P&N survived the Great Depression and was later absorbed into the Seaboard Coastline Railroad (CXS) in 1969. Once part of CXS, the Gaston County tracks are now owned by the NC Dept. of Transportation.

The Belmont Trolley will operate on part of the original 1916 spur line.

When more and more people began to drive cars, the trolley service ended. Some of the electric locomotives were shipped to South America, the rest were The roof tiles crated and ready for moving to Belmont.

Nate Wells photo junked.

Only four of the stations built for the P&N, designed by Charles Christian Hook, are still in existence today in North Carolina.

Letter to the Editor...

Like the great Phoenix of myth or a firebird that rises from the rubble of destruction the Aberfoyle Village is going to rise again.

Several years ago Gerald Brown and I looked over the original Aberfoyle Mill as it was being demolished. We were sad to see its passing and for years the property was dormant.

Gerald and I worked there during summers.

I was there during the summer and fall of 1954 when I was inducted into the US Army.

The Aberfoyle was surrounded by a village of houses where the work force lived. They were good, hard working folks who cared about country and community. In many respects it was a unique culture. There was a men's baseball team, a clubhouse where women met, a young man's group called The Hammerheads, and two outdoor

furnaces for fish fries. There was a playground with miniature golf, a tennis court, a boxing ring, sliding boards, swings, and a horseshoe pit. During summer square dances were held and on Saturday nights outdoor movies were shown.

My mother and dad worked at Aberfoyle Mill and added together totaled about 100 years. I was born in an Aberfoyle Village mill house. I remember the whistle blowing calling the employees to work. I am proud of my roots.

Now I rejoice and give thanks that a new Aberfoyle Village composed of townhomes and The Thrift depot in its new location on Old Mt. Holly Rd. Dan Fisher NCDOT Rail Division photo apartments is going to rise on the location of the old mill overlooking the Catawba River. I am amazed and thankful for the wonder of it all. I can tell you for a fact, I believe in resurrections.

Boogie with Books in the Park

Richard Bass, retired pastor 83 years old

New German exhibit at Schiele Museum The Schiele Museum of Natural History and Planetarium will unveil their brand new exhibit, Gotha and the Thuringian Forest on Saturday, September 9. This is an exhibit made possible by the City of Gotha, Germany, the Museum of Nature-Schloss Friendentsein Castle Foundation, and the Museumslowensupporting friends of the Museum of Nature.

Almost 24 years ago the communities of Gotha, Germany and Gastonia, NC conceived a relationship that has yet to be broken, a tie later named, “Sister Cities.” This affiliation has led to many students from both Gastonia and Gotha to experience each other’s culture in an exchange program. A bond only strengthened with time, this relationship has now produced a tangible, creative piece of Germany for our NC region to enjoy.

On September 9, the exhibition will open at 9 a.m. with German partners present to celebrate. The exhibit explores the Thuringian forest through the four seasons of the year, and is illustrated with pictures, mounted birds and models. Guests will learn about the city of Gotha with beautiful imagery of the region alongside videos and hands-on activities to

bring the city to life. The Thuringian Forest surrounding Gotha is a protected woodlands and home to wildlife similar to those that reside in NC, a wonderful opportunity to connect two distant places that seem so dissimilar.

This two-part creative exchange also entails an exhibit from The Schiele traveling to in Germany in May 2018. Entitled: Gastonia and the NC Piedmont, the exhibit will be about North Carolina’s early inhabitants, especially incorporating German ties in the Piedmont area.

The Schiele invites the community to join on Saturday, September 9 to celebrate the opening of a unique exhibit and a display of intercultural relations between cities. Friends from Gotha will be present on September 9 and The Schiele would be elated to have community members there to witness this long awaited for opening.

For more information on the exhibit opening, please visit The Schiele Museum’s website or Facebook page: www.schielemuseum. org, www.facebook.com/schielemuseum.

Join the Partnership for Children for a Boogie with Books in the Park Event on Saturday, August 26, 2017—10:00am-2:00pm at Stowe Park—24 S. Main St., Belmont.

This event features fun activities, storytellers, and a DJ to get kids up and moving between story times. You may even see some awesome super heroes and your favorite Dis-

ney princesses—guess you will have to come and see for yourself!

Want to learn more about the Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties?

The Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties is your local Smart Start agency. You can reach us at 704-922-0900 or visit us online at www.pfclg.org.

Page 1

MONTCROSS AREA The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Football all

2017

PREVIEW

East Gaston WARRIORS

Mountain Island RAPTORS

South Point RED RAIDERS

Stuart Cramer STORM

LOOK INSIDE:

Rosters Schedules Coaches News

Visit our sponsors: • 128 South Main ChopHouse • Allen Drug • Amber Jack Seafood • Avery Insurance Group, Inc. • Benson Funeral & Cremation • Bright Star Grill • CatoHomes

• C&B Distributors, Inc. • Charlie’s Drug & Sundries, Inc. • Clippard’s Furniture • Demetrio’s Pizzeria Restaurant • Edward Jones - Alex Price, AAMS • Gaston Floor Co. • Greg Black Mouthpieces • Jean’s Flowers

• Mount Holly Heating & Air • Peace-N-Hominy Q Shack • Rollins Insurance Agency • State Farm Insurance - Phil Champion • Taylor Law, PLLC • The UPS Store - Belmont • Wild Birds Unlimited • Woodlawn Funeral Home

The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Page 2

Thursday, August 24, 2017

East Gaston WARRIORS

East Gaston Warriors 2017 Varsity and coaching staff.

Photo by Alan Hodge

A new start for East Gaston East Gaston lost nine seniors to graduation. Eight of which were starters.

This year the Warriors will regroup.

To say that East Gaston had a tough 2016 football season would be an understatement. At the beginning of last year’s season the Warriors had high hopes. EG was coming off of a 2015 season that marked only the 10th time in school history that the football team had a winning record.

Last year should have been a good year. Unfortunately things didn’t go East Gaston way. A host of injuries crashed whatever hopes the Warriors had.

“I thought we had laid the groundwork,” head coach Sean Joyce said. “I thought we understood what it takes to be successful on the field. It didn’t work out.”

Despite the setbacks, East Gaston kept fighting. The Warriors ended the season at 3- 8. The injuries were so bad that the Warriors finished the year with only 14 players on their varsity roster. Despite being dealt a tough hand East Gaston never gave up the fight, they put 100% into every game.

Offense The Spread Sean Joyce will be calling the offense for the Warriors. East Gaston will go with a standard spread. Most of their work will be out of the shotgun.

The Warriors will combine power plays, zone schemes and counter plays in an offense designed to spread opponents out.

East Gaston hopes their version of the spread will create mismatches and play to their strengths.

East Gaston will be going with sophomore quarterback Kobe Creamer this year. “He’s athletic, smart and fast,” Joyce said. “He still developing. He’s efficient.” Behind Creamer will be a trio of backs that combine speed, power, and versatility.

Manning the “Ace” back spots will be Nick Gwinn and Donavyn Mobley. Gwinn will take the field at 5’10” and 165 lb.

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He’s a fast player with great hands and good vision. Mobley is a power runner. He has decent speed and runs hard.

Junior Brodie Hilton will line in the “H-back” slot. “He’s a big strong kid,” Joyce said of Hilton. “He’s got good hands, He’s versatile.” East Gaston’s wide receiving corps will feature players that may be inexperienced, but they have speed and good hands.

Warriors top receiver may just be Jalen Creamer. Creamer is a converted track athlete who has raw speed. That speed could come in handy. “He’s the third fastest kid in the county,” Joyce said. Jake Thomas will also be lining up at wide receiver for East Gaston. “He has decent speed,” Joyce said. “He’s got good hands. He’s just inexperienced.” Lining up in the slot will be sophomore KJ Dagout. Dagout started last year as a freshman. He is a player that possesses decent size, good speed, and good hands.

The East Gaston offensive line will be a blend of experienced veterans and newcomers. Senior right guard Kellen Wilbanks leads the Warriors offensive lineman. “He’s an allconference Division 1 player,” coach Joyce said of the 6’2’ 275 pounder.

See EAST GASTON Page 3

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Page 3

East Gaston Warriors 2017 Junior Varsity and coaching staff.

Photo by J. Scott Studio

Thursday, August 24, 2017

EAST GASTON From Page 2 Cody Johnson will hold down the left guard spot. Johnson has started for East Gaston the last 3 years. Calvin Donaldson will line up at right tackle. “He’s a first-year starter,� coach Joyce said.�He played JV last year.� At 6’1, 236 pound left tackle Chase Harper rounds out the Warriors starters.

Harper started five games last year and gained valuable experience Defense An adaptable 4-2-5 Defensive coordinator Rob Hill will call the shots for the East Gaston defense.

This year the Warriors will be running out of a base 4-25. The EG defense will stress versatility. East Gaston plans on sporting a defense that can stop the run. Look for the Warriors to shift things around. East Gaston believes they can turn their base defense quickly into a 4-4 and a 4-3 as needed. The shifts should throw people off.

Coach Joyce believes that the Warriors line is the heart and soul of their defense.

This years “D� line will be big, and strong. This group has the potential to clog up the offensive line. Jamaree Caldwell will be one of the Warriors defensive tackles.

Caldwell is a flat out mountain. At 6’3� and 345 pounds Caldwell will be tough to move out of the middle. “He is huge,� coach Joyce said of Caldwell. “He moves very good for a big guy.� Chris Moore will line up at nose tackle. Moore started last year until he was hit with injuries. The EG defensive ends will be Landon Van Dyke and Chase Blackburn.

Van Dyke and Blackburn are all-conference players who

give the Warriors experience and production. That type of talent should make the East Gaston defensive line formidable. “Both of these guys are getting Division 1 looks,� coach Joyce said of his defensive ends.

The Warrior linebackers are another group of players that will meld experienced players with new players trying to make their mark. As a whole this group should be effective. Senior Jackson Rutledge is a returning starter who will line up at the “Mike� linebacker spot.

Junior Hunter Robinson will start at the “Will� or weakside linebacker. “He played JV last year,� Joyce said of Robinson. The “Sam� linebacker spot will be taken

by Caid Hill. Last year, Hill played on the other side of the ball at center. This year he will be the strong side backer for the Warriors. “He’s very athletic,� Joyce stated. “ A solid kid.�

For the most part East Gaston will be going with a group of seasoned players in the defensive backfield. The free safety spot will feature Jay Gwinn, an experienced and smart player. Look for Senior Preston Osborne to line up at corner. “He has been here every day in the offseason,� Joyce said of Osborne. “He’s worked very hard. He can be a leader in the secondary.� Caleb Hager will be the Warriors second cornerback. “He played as a freshman and then took two years off,� coach Joyce said. “He’s solid. He’s got decent

speed. The kid has a lot of potential.� The final spot in the defensive backfield is manned by a player that could be a much needed playmaker.

Freshman Donnell Maultsby will lineup at the strong safety or Rover.

Maultsby is a player with a bright future. This is also a kid that doesn’t look like a freshman. Maultsby is 6-ft tall and weighs 180lb. He has good speed and good instincts. Traits most freshman just don’t have. Joyce believes Maultsby has tons of untapped talent. “I’ve never started a freshman in the secondary,� Joyce said. So why go with one now? “I’m starting him because he’s pretty good,� Joyce laughed.

The East Gaston special teams squad is shaping up and will be ready to open the season.

See EAST GASTON page 4

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Left to right: Dock Ragland, Samuel Taylor, Jeffery Beall, Ryan Resendez, Sean Joyce, Greg Williams, Rob Hill.

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Page 4

EAST GASTON From Page 3 Caleb Hager will be handling the kicking duties. Preston Osborne will be handling the punts. Maultsby and Jake Thomas will handle return duties. Nick Gwinn may get some shots at doing returns as well.

Predictions The football landscape has changed for East Gaston. The Warriors have moved down from 3A to 2A football. This year EG will join South

Point in the newly created Southwestern 2A. The move should benefit East Gaston.

In addition to South Point, the Warriors will be playing R-S Central, East Rutherford, Chase and Shelby in the new conference lineup. The Warriors should match up fairly well with most of the teams in the Southwestern.

If a new conference looks like a good thing coach Joyce isn’t letting on. “I

haven’t thought about the new conference,” Joyce said. “We are preparing for North Gaston.” Even with the potential good match ups on the horizon there are stone cold facts the Warriors have to face in the Southwestern 2A. Those facts are Shelby and South Point.

“It’s going to be a tough conference,” Joyce said. “We have two defending state champions.” Let’s be real. Last year was tough for the Warriors, but this team still has talent. The Warrior players and fans have a lot to look forward to.

The Warriors were able

to recover from last year and have developed a team that has depth. This year East Gaston won’t have anyone playing on offense and defense. Not hav-

Thursday, August 24, 2017 ing players going “both ways” will pay off. Having enough depth to have defined starters on each side of the ball will cut down on injuries and

keep players fresh. Look for the Warriors to take advantage of the new surroundings and increased team depth. A .500 season is possible.

East Gaston Varsity Football Roster 2017 No. 1 2 4 5 6 7 9 11 12 14 18 19 20 22 34 35 40 44 45 54 60 62 63 71 72 73 75 79 81 84 90

Name Jake Thomas Jalen Williams Caleb Hager Kobe Creamer Donavyn Mobley Ornando South Jalen Creamer Ramon Lopez Hunter Robinson Kj Dagout Preston Osborne Caid Hill Jaquez Gwinn Jackson Rutledge Nick Gwinn Chase Blackburn Chris Moore Brodie Hilton Deondre Williams Kristian Hill Cody Johnson Kellen Wilbanks Josh Hicks Hunter Klienhart Chase Harper Calvin Lewis-Donaldson Landon Van Dyke Je’rea Bethune Austin Shockey Josh Armstrong Jamaree Caldwell

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Meet the Warrior Cheerleaders...

East Gaston Varsity Cheerleaders - Row 3: Alexa Holcombe, Sierra Sanderson, Nicolette McDowell, Victoria Halstead, Kaleigh Bridges, Casey Callahan, Hailee Williams, Charlotte Gleber.

Row 2: Alexis Diaz, Kennedy Devine, Brianna Abernathy. Row 1: Sharell Simmons, Camryn Johnson, Breanna Silver, and Morgan Johnson. Not pictured Kamdyn Young, Kathryn Helms, and Jayda Killian.

East Gaston JV Cheerleaders - Row 3: Hailey Cable, Anna King, CC Schneck, Olivia Chapman, Maddie Allran, Kala Lockridge, and Lauren Barr. Row 2: Meredith Lewis, Rylee Green, and Hannah Leming. Row 1: Ashlin Hodges and Bailey Roberts.

Photos courtesy J Scott Studio

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Page 5

East Gaston Fall Sports Schedule 2017 9/1/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: East Gaston at Stuart W. Cramer 9/4/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: Piedmont Charter at East Gaston 9/5/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: Forestview at East Gaston 9/5/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: East Gaston at Hunter Huss 9/6/2017 4:30 PM CROSS COUNTRY: at Forestview 9/6/2017 4:30 PM TENNIS: East Gaston at South Point 9/6/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Kings Mountain at East Gaston 9/6/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: East Gaston at East Lincoln 9/7/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: East Gaston at East Lincoln 9/7/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: Lincolnton at East Gaston 9/8/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: East Gaston at Lincolnton 9/11/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: South Point at East Gaston 9/11/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: East Gaston at Piedmont Charter 9/12/2017 5:00 PM CROSS COUNTRY: at Shelby Invitational 9/12/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: East Gaston at Highland 9/13/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: East Gaston at Lincolnton 9/13/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: East Gaston at Chase 9/14/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: East Gaston at Cherryville 9/15/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: East Lincoln at East Gaston 9/18/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: East Gaston at Shelby 9/20/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: Shelby at East Gaston 9/20/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: RS Central at East Gaston 9/25/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: East Rutherford at East Gaston 9/25/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: East Rutherford at East Gaston 9/26/2017 4:30 PM CROSS COUNTRY: at Forestview 9/27/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: RS Central at East Gaston 9/27/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: East Gaston at South Point (Pink Game)

9/27/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: East Gaston at South Point 9/28/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: East Gaston at Blacksburg 9/29/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: Blacksburg at East Gaston 10/2/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Chase at East Gaston 10/2/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: Chase at East Gaston 10/4/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: East Gaston at East Rutherford 10/4/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Shelby at East Gaston 10/4/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: Shelby at East Gaston 10/5/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: South Point at East Gaston 10/6/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: East Gaston at South Point 10/9/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: East Gaston at RS Central 10/9/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: East Gaston at RS Central East Gaston Dance Team Front row left to right: Alexis Shaney, Madysen Baldwin, Maddie 10/11/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: East Allen, and Morgan Ellison. Middle: Naidelyn Cruz, Ally Lawing, and Hannah Smith. Back row: Gaston at East Rutherford Sydni Humphrey, Alyse Ballard, Kaitlyn Mesimer, and Erin Jarrell Photo courtesy J. Scott Studio 10/11/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: East Gaston at East Rutherford 10/12/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: East Gaston at Chase 10/13/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: Chase at East Gaston (Homecoming) 10/16/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: South Point at East Gaston 10/18/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: East Gaston at Chase No. Name No. Name 10/19/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: East Gaston at Shelby 2 Mason Price 32 Collin Robb 10/19/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: East 3 Jamario Spring 34 Zach Lavergn Gaston at Shelby 4 Tim Meeks 35 Hunter Osborne 10/20/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: Shelby 5 Jesse Baldwin 41 William Williams at East Gaston 6 Cedarian Grier 50 Alex Murrow 10/23/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: East Gaston at Shelby 7 Tucker Martin 52 Carson Clemmer 10/25/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: RS Central 11 Aleric Drum 60 Jad Stetson at East Gaston 11 Austin Galyan 64 Graham Kennard 10/26/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: RS 12 Joseph Bostic 66 Jeremiah Harris Central at East Gaston 14 Caleb Mace 68 Nate Medici 10/27/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: East 18 Damion Hallman 72 Jesse Shannon Gaston at RS Central 11/2/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: East 20 Tyson Ensley 77 Tobias Newsome Rutherford at East Gaston 24 Preston Davidson 82 Camden Silvers 11/3/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: East 30 Ryan Del Castillo 83 Cole Cagle Gaston at East Rutherford

East Gaston Jr Varsity Football Roster 2017

* Schedules provided at time of publication and are subject to change. Please check with your school before traveling.

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Mountain Island RAPTORS

Mountain Island Charter School Raptors 2017 Varsity and Coach.

Photos by Michael Strauss

Can Mountain Island Charter do it again?

By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

Last year the Mountain Island Charter School Raptors football team made some serious noise. In only their second year playing 1A football the Raptors went 10-4. MICS went as far as the third round of the state playoffs before they fell to the eventual state champion, Murphy Bulldogs.

Last year the Raptors employed a freewheeling style of football that caught many opponents flat-footed. “I feel that last year we surprised a lot of people,” head coach Robert Washington said. “We took people off guard. We put another brick in the foundation of building a program.” Washington is proud of how his team lined up against Murphy. “When you go toe-to-toe with the eventual state champs you’re heading in the right direction,” Washington noted.

Offense The Wild, Wild West Once again the Raptors will employ their unorthodox style of play. Mountain Island doesn’t have a set system. They play with what works for their players.

“I’m not a system guy,” Washington said. “ I go with what works best with our players strengths.” That means Mountain Island can be lining up in any formation and running any number of different systems.

At times the Raptors will pound the ball, other times they will let it rip with high volume passing. Raptors QB’s will line up under center, in the shotgun, or even run out of the Wildcat. Anything goes.

This year he Raptors will be featuring a pair of quarterbacks that both have starting QB skills. Senior Kyle Holcomb and Junior Marcus Graham will both be taking snaps.

Holcomb, a senior started for the Raptors last year. “He’s a returning starter,” Washington said. “He’s 1,800 yards off from the Gaston County passing record.” Holcomb didn’t start playing football until the 10th grade.

Since then he’s lit things on fire. There is know doubt he can throw. “He has skills,” Washington said “They are now backed up by some playing experience.”

Mountain Island’s second quarterback is an East Lincoln transfer. Last year Marcus Graham threw for 2,231 yards and 26 touchdowns and had 11 pick for the Mustangs. He also rushed for over 1,000 yards and 17 TDS. “He led East Lincoln in rushing,” Washington added. “He is a dual threat.” The combination of Holcomb and Graham will be a challenge for defenses. If the Raptors can figure out how to put them on the field at the same time that will add another dimension.

Mountain Island’s running backs are a

solid group that combine power and speed.

Mountain Island’s top runner is likely to be 5’10” 190 pound Elijah Burris. Burris had 902 yards last year as a freshman. He got those yards by splitting carries with other runners.

“We didn’t feature him last year,” Washington said. “I believe Burris can be a 2,000 yard back. He’s balanced, he has power and speed.”

Mountain Island’s other back is Levonte Kennedy. Kennedy is sort of a change-of-pace runner. He brings a lot of speed and elusiveness to the table.

The Mountain Island wide receivers are a tall group of players who are fast. The group is capable but there isn’t a ton of experience there. The Raptors lost a lot of starters to graduation but the new group is ready to step in.“I have a lot of confidence in them,” Washington said. “As much as the group last year.” Senior CJ Stephens will be one of Mount Island’s top receivers. “He’s just a Division 1 athlete,” Washington said. “He has height, size and skill set. He also runs a sub 4.5 40-yard dash.” Ryan Rudd will man the slot. Rudd is a great route runner who is more of a possession receiver. “He has great hands,” Washington said of the 5’9” 140 pound junior. The other wide receiver slots will be filled by players pushing for playing time.

The Mountain Island offensive line maybe one of the team’s strengths. They only lost one starter to graduation. Maurice “Moe” Evans is the leader of the group. Evans is a senior guard who is big and physical. “He’s smart,” Washington said of Evans. “He has a high football IQ.” Who will man the other spots is still up in the air. Nothing is a given on the “O” line.

The Raptors have decided to go with an open competition for the other lineman spot.

The lack of identified starters does not seem to bother coach Washington. The MI staff thinks they have a lot of talented players to choose from. “We are deep,” Washington said.

Defense Mixing it up The year’s defense will be run by defensive coordinator Jerry Baker. Mountain Island will line up in a base 4-2-5 defense.

However, like the offense the Raptors will show different looks and packages.

Look for Mountain Island to be creative with their linebackers. New linebacker coach

Antico Dalton brings some professional experience to Mountain Island Charter. Dalton was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1999.

He played for the Vikings, New England Patriots, Berlin Thunder of NFL Europe and in Canada for the Edmonton Eskimos. He was on championship teams in Berlin and Edmonton.

“He played with the Patriots as a linebacker,” Washington said. “He learned from Bill Belichick. We’re going to do a lot of different things.”

The Mountain Island defensive line will be a fast group of players with a lot of depth.

Like the offensive line most of the starters have not been determined. All the line positions are open to competition.

The Mountain Island linebackers will be the strength of the defense. The linebacking corps has experience and leadership. Michael Spivey will be manning the middle linebacker spot. Spivey is the Raptors defensive captain.

“In the last two years he’s had over 120 tack-

les each year,” Washington said. Spivey has good in instincts and plays smart. “He’s a real intelligent kid,” Washington stated. Senior Mason King is a versatile player who is capable of playing all three linebacker spots for Mountain Island. King will be all over the place in different spots. “He’s long,” Washington said. “He’s 6’ 2” 210 pounds. He’s physical.” Jordan Steele will also be lining up at linebacker. “He’s another long kid who is fast,” Washington said. “Another kid with a high football IQ.” The defensive backs for Mountain Island will feature a group of tall players that will need to learn on the fly. The backfield will feature a pair of brothers in CJ and Gabe Stephens. CJ will line up at free safety his brother Gabe will line up at strong safety.

The Stephens brothers may be listed at a certain spot, but they both will move around as needed.

Junior cornerback Tyrone Bookert looks like he will land a corner spot after getting some varsity playing time last year. “He’s fast and can cover,” Washington said.

The Mountain Island special teams are working progress. The Raptors took a blow when they lost kicker and punter Carson Pledger.

See RAPTORS page 8

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Page 7

Mountain Island Charter School Raptors 2017 Junior Varsity and Coach.

Photo by Michael Strauss

Mountain Island Charter Football 2017 Schedule 2017 MICS Varsity Week 1 Aug 18th (Home) Franklin Christian (Endowment) 7:30 PM Week 2 Aug 25th (Away) Stuart Cramer- 3A 7:30 PM Week 3 Sept 1st (Away) Graham HS- 2A 7:30 PM Week 4 Sept 8th BYE Week 5 Sept 15th (Home) Commonwealth Charter 7:30 PM Week 6 Sept 22nd (Away) @ Bessemer City 7:30 PM Week 7 Sept 29th

(Home) vs. Union Academy 7:30 PM Week 8 Oct 6th (Away) @ Cherryville 7:30 PM Week 9 Oct 13th (Away) @ Community School of Davidson 7:30 PM Week 10 Oct 20th (Home) vs. Pine Lake Prep 7:30 PM Week 11 Oct 27th (Away) @ Thomas Jefferson 7:30 PM Week 12 Nov 3rd (Home) vs Highland Tech 7:30 PM

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2017 MICS Junior Varsity Week 1 (Aug 17) (Away) Chase 7:00 PM Week 2 (Aug 24) (Home) Stuart Cramer 6:30 PM Week 3 (Aug 31) (Home) St Stephens 6:30 PM Week 4 (Sept 7) (Home) Charlotte Christian 6:30 PM Week 5 (Sept 14)

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Page 8

RAPTORS From page 6 “The good news is we got his brother, Todd,” Washington said. “He’s just as good as his brother minus the experience.”

The Mountain Island return game is still being developed. Looking at the roster it would appear the team has a lot of solid players to choose from.

Prediction Last year Mountain Island surprised a lot of people. They won’t be able to do that again this year.

Mountain Island lost a few key starters that may be hard to replace. The Raptors graduated 10 seniors. Five of which were starters. Some of those players left very big shoes to fill. As highlighted before, the Raptors are opening up quite a few starting slots to open competition. The mind set is simple. If you’re hungry enough you will pull down a starter’s role. The Rap-

tors hope that philosophy works. If the best players truly rise to the top the Raptors will only be reloading. If the new starters stumble Mountain Island will need to regroup. With that said, Mountain Island is still loaded.

Offensively the Raptors are capable of racking up some serious points. The quarterback Duo of Holcomb and Graham will give defensive coordinators nightmares. Elijah Burris has the tools to be a productive go to runner.

If the Mountain Island defense can gel early that will be a big help. The Raptor linebackers have the skills to steer this group. The retooled defensive line and DB’S will need to step up.

This year Mountain Island will be challenged. The Raptors will get a chance to prove that what they did last year was no mere flash in the pan. If the pieces come together and these guys get on track look for the Raptors to take the Southern Piedmont 1A.

Mountain Island Charter Junior Varsity Football Roster 2017 No. 1 5 10 12 15 22 24 28 33 35 42 48 50 52 53 55 60 62 64 65 75 75 78

Name Christian Hunter Jaden Robinson Nyzir Stewart Najee Stewart Eja Bryce Dylan McKay Jaishaun Boyd Ante Zrnich George Cooper Jaquaez Anthony Joshua Stoney Jake Hawkins Cody Ciulla Bunmi Abudu Jon Kilumbu Jason Rudd Alex Mangrum Michael Weatherby Mason Charles Cameron Lee Ethan Nowlin Rodney Cunningham Emmanuel Dawson

Postion CB, RB ATH ATH ATH QB LB RB, OLB, SS ATH CB, WR ATH LB DL, TE OL, DL OL, DL OL, DL, LB OT K, OL, DL OL, DL DT, NG, OL OG OL, DL DL, OL OL, DL

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Mountain Island Charter Varsity Football Roster 2017 No. 1 2 3 5 6 7 9 10 11 16 20 21 22 24 30 35 37 42 45 48 50 52 53 55 56 57 58 60 64 65 66 67 73 75 77 78 79 80 81 84

Name Marcus Graham Tyrone Bookert Jr. Mason King Elijah Burris CJ Stephens Gabriel Stephens Bryson Howell Kyle Holcomb Levonte Kennedy Will Owens Demetrius Washington Corlan Caughman Antonio Mckenzie Jordan Steele Cameron Alexander Kalen Stafford Zach Green Michael Spivey Jake Hawkins James Carter Noah Aranda Jalen Wylie Maurice Evans Jaydon Ford Adam Bui Ethan Nowlin Cooper Tennant Tyrique Joyner Mason Charles Edward Watkins Josh Mcgrew Landon Reel William Byrd Austin Moss Cameron Lee James Gardner Jon Kilumbu Jonah Tincher Ryan Rudd Todd Pledger Jadon Robinson

Postion QB, ATH CB, WR LB, ATH RB, LB DB, WR S, WR, ATH S, ATH QB CB, RB CB, WR, ATH DB, WR, ATH ATH S, ATH LB, TE ATH RB, LB LB, WR DT, MLB, FB DE P, K C, G, DT C, DL, OL DT, NG, DE OL, DL G, T LB, DL, OL DT, T T, G, DE OL, DL G, T, DT OL, DL OL, DL DE OL, DL G C, OL, DL OL, DL WR, LB WR, CB K, P CB, WR

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Page 9

South Point RED RAIDERS

South Point Red Raiders 2017 Varsity and coaching staff.

Photo by Bill Ward

South Point has the tools to do it again...

By John Wilson john.bannernews.com

Last year South Point’s season can be summed up in two words, STATE CHAMPS! After stumbling in their first few games the Red Raiders rallied. South Point went on a winning streak in October. That streak came to its conclusion when the Red Raiders beat Rocky Mount to become 3A state champions.

A few months later head coach Mickey Lineberger decided to call it a career.

Lineberger had coached for four decades. Hoisting the state championship trophy was a great way to end a brilliant career. South Point decided to stay in house in selecting their next head coach. Defensive coordinator Adam Hodge was elevated to head coach. Hodge, a South Point alumni himself will take over a team loaded with talent.

Coach Hodge plans on following the South Point tradition.

The Red Raiders have a system, and it works. Hodge goes by the old school philosophy, “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it”.

“We are going to keep everything going like it’s been going,” Hodge said. “South Point has been here since 1969, lots of tradition and history. It’s not about any one person it’s about the community.”

South Point does have some holes they need to fill. The Red Raiders lost some high-profile players to graduation.

Nick Farmer, Nick Muse, Thomas Lempereur and Max Mead have moved on.

Offense The Redbone For as long as many can remember South Point’s go to offense has been the triple option. South Point’s version has been nicknamed The Redbone.

South Point’s offensive coordinator will be coach Scott Lee. It will come as no secret to anybody that South Point is going to run the football. They’ve done it for years. They do it with efficiency. What makes this year’s Redbone a more dangerous is that fact that South Point has developed a legitimate passing game. Senior quarterback Scottie Lee will be under center for the Red Raiders. Lee is a very capable quarterback who can run and throw. “He’s a tough kid who has grown up so much in four years,” Hodge said. “He’s got a good arm.”

Lee’s arm gives South Point options. The Red Raiders will not have to rely on a run alone. Lee gives them the ability to throw at will or at need. Look for the run, pass ratio for South Point to be somewhere in the 80/20 range. Of course heavy on the run.

The South Point running backs are a tough lot. The Red Raider backs are hard-working players. They may not be described as lightning in a bottle, but they run hard. Senior fullback Jake Alexander is South Point primary runner. Alexander earned MVP honors in last year’s state championship

game. “He gets good grades and runs hard,” Hodge said of Alexander. “Full-back is your number one option in the triple option.” Coach Hodge thinks that Alexander came into his own last year. He hopes to see “He got a lot better as the year went on looking for great things out of Jake,” Hodge went on to say.

South Point’s other backs are Ty Tinker and Caleb “Gibby” Gibson. Tinker and Gibson will be manning the wing-back slots. In South Point offense the wing-backs come off the edge of the line . They do most of their damage off pitch plays. Coach Hodge says that Gibson and Tinker work together to help each other and their team. “Wing-backs have to be able to run and block,” Hodge said. “When Gibby is running Tinker is blocking. When Tinker is running Gibby is blocking. They have to look out for each other.” Hodge credits Gibson with being a player who plays his tail off. Tinker is a back that runs hard.

South Point’s wide receivers are talented and big. This year the Red Raiders will have a pair of receivers that can get after the ball. Split End Ray Grier measures out at 6’3” and 190 pounds. “Pure athlete,” Hodge said. “No other way to put it.

He’s a great threat, hard to cover.” South Point’s other receiver is a converted basketball player. Charles Cason hopes to translate his basketball ball handling skills to the gridiron.

“He’s a basketball guy who wanted to play, and I let him Hodge said. “He runs high hurdles in track.” Cason has played football, but just not the last few years. Like Grier, Cason is 6’3”, if this pair can use their height and athletic ability there could be problems.

See SOUTH POINT Page 10

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Page 10

South Point Red Raiders 2017 Junior Varsity and coaching staff.

SOUTH POINT From page 9 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ray and Charles are athletes you put the ball up and they go get it,â&#x20AC;? Hodge stated.

The South Point offensive line has been described as the heart and soul of the Red Raiders. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a group that works hard. Coach Hodge thinks a lot of his offensive line.

Hodge believes that for the offense to run things need to be done up front. Larry Dowdy is one of South Pointâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s starters. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our big left tackle,â&#x20AC;? Hodge said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good football player.â&#x20AC;? Manning the right tackle spot will be Riley Nichols. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good tackle,â&#x20AC;? Hodge said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He plays hard, he sticks on people and doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t quit.â&#x20AC;?

South Point Center will be senior Ethan Jackson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You have to be able to block the nose guard,â&#x20AC;? Hodge added. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ethan is a good kid with a bright future.â&#x20AC;? Wesley Barker will line up at left guard for South Point this year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really transformed over the last few years into a good football player.â&#x20AC;? Hodge said. South Pointâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other guard will be Vic-

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Photo courtesy J. Scott Studio

tor Hernandez. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He works hard,â&#x20AC;? Hodge said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a gym rat, loves the weight room.â&#x20AC;?

Defense Different Looks The Red Raiders will be running a multiple set defense that runs a little bit of everything.

South Point will run their defense off a base 4-2-5 The 4-2-5 configuration is just a base.

The Red Raiders will shift and give opposing offenses different looks. Coach Hodge will call the defense. The South Point defensive line is an experienced group of players with a significant talent level. The line will be anchored by senior nose tackle Phillip Davis.

Davis is a beast. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a four-year starter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strong,â&#x20AC;? Hodge said of Davis. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He plays hard.â&#x20AC;?

Lawrence Haley has pinned down one of South Pointâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defensive end slots. Haley is a big guy who can move. He weighs in at 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;2, 240 pounds. He is strong and athletic. Coach Hodge describes Haley has a player who has believes in to the South Point system. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He has Red Raiders Coaches Front row: Scott Lee, Head Coach - Adam Hodge, Mitch Painter, Joe bought into what defensive line coach Phil Sheperd. Back row: Mick Hicks, Phil Tate, Kent Hyde, James Justice, Josh Justice, and Hunter Armstrong.

Tate has taught.â&#x20AC;? Hodge added.

Photo courtesy J. Scott Studio See SOUTH POINT page 13

Meet the Red Raider Coaches...

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Page 11

Meet the Red Raider Cheerleaders...

Red Raiders Varsity Cheerleaders Front row left to right: Grace Blevins, Jessica Helton, Sadie Hannifin, Courtney Karagias, and Sofy Saiz. Middle Row left to right: Christina Jones, Macy Rowland, Kaylee Thagard, Emily Ratchford, Allie Temple, Erin Owens, and Ariana Perry. Back row left to right: Lexy Sides, Rachel Baker, Kendrick Boehlke, Mary Smallwood, Makayla Mayhew, and Jordan Foultz.

Photo courtesy J. Scott Studio

Red Raiders Junior Varsity Cheerleaders Back row from left to right: Makenna Mullis, Haily Odell, Sophia Gotte, Savannah Rogers, Chloe Hawkins, Camry Haynie, Cameryn Stansell, Madison Willis, and Susie Butler. Middle row left to right: Morgan Lynn, Lilly Keel, Ashton Wise, Andrea Euler, and Sofia Vargas. Front row left to right: Julia Ho, Faith Gouch, Jessica Airhart, and Karson Rankin.

Photo courtesy J. Scott Studio

South Point 2017 Fall Sports Schedule 8/25/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: South Point at Lincolnton 8/28/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: South Point at Highland 8/28/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: Hunter Huss at South Point 8/30/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: South Point at Stuart W. Cramer 8/30/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: South Point at Stuart W. Cramer 8/31/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Cherryville at South Point 8/31/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: Forestview at South Point 9/1/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: South Point at Forestview 9/5/2017 4:30 PM TENNIS: East Lincoln at South Point 9/6/2017 4:30 PM TENNIS: East Gaston at South Point 9/6/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: South Point at Forestview 9/6/2017 5:00 PM SOCCER: Ashbrook at South Point 9/7/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: Hunter Huss at South Point 9/7/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Highland at South Point 9/7/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: South Point at Clover 9/8/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: Clover at South Point 9/11/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: South Point at East Gaston

9/12/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: South Point at Ashbrook 9/12/2017 5:00 PM CROSS COUNTRY: at Shelby Invitational 9/13/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: South Point at East Rutherford 9/13/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: South Point at East Rutherford 9/14/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: South Point at Forestview 9/14/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: South Point at Stuart W. Cramer 9/15/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: Stuart W. Cramer at South Point 9/18/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: R-S Central at South Point 9/18/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: Mountain Island Charter at South Point 9/20/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: South Point at RS Central 9/20/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Chase at South Point 9/21/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: PIedmont Community Charter at South Point 9/25/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: South Point at Shelby 9/25/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: South Point at Shelby 9/27/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: East Gaston at South Point (Pink Game) 9/27/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER:

GO GET’m RED RAIDERS

Wishing Ya’Ll Great success & Peace-N-Hominy THIS YEAR

East Gaston at South Point 9/28/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: South Point at Ashbrook 9/29/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: Ashbrook at South Point (Endowment) 10/2/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: East Rutherford at South Point 10/2/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: East Rutherford at South Point 10/4/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: Shelby at South Point 10/4/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: South Point at R-S Central 10/4/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: South Point at R-S Central 10/5/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: South Point at East Gaston 10/6/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: East Gaston at South Point 10/9/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: South Point at Chase 10/9/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: South Point at Chase 10/10/2017 4:00 PM CROSS COUNTRY: at Ashbrook 10/10/2017 6:00 PM SOCCER: South Point at Highland 10/11/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Shelby at South Point (Senior Night) 10/11/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: Shelby at South Point See SCHEDULE Page 13

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Page 12

South Point Varsity Football Roster 2017

South Point Jr Varsity Football Roster 2017 No. 5 7 8 10 12 22 24 25 27 30 31 33 34 35 38 40 44 45 47 50 51 52 56 60 62 64 65 66 67 68 70 71 73 75 79 80 81 85

Name Treyvon Jones Jamani Leeper Patrick Pang Alex Campbell Javis Davis Will Rhinehart Zion Holley Jesse Rhyne CJ Jennings Tyler Crawford Garrett Voorhees Omari Hunt Dillon Neagle Jeremiah Agyemang Aiden Withers Josh Kelly Naseem Jones Justin Morgan Dylan Mason Collin Owensby Hunter Bradshaw Jacob Blackert Jacob Worley Haydn Riggle Josh Woolbright Hunter Mason Robert Raffone Laine Wright Josh Filchuck Peyton Chaney Egan Olier Colten Knight Jacob Humphrey Timothy Guzman Matthew Burgess Elijah Daniels Quevon Jackson Ayden Austin

No. 5 7 8 10 11 12 14 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 27 30 31 33 34 35 40 41 42 43 44

Position RB/DB RB/LB RB/DB DB QB RB/DB DB RB/DB DB RB/DB DB LB LB LB DL DL RB SE LB OL LB DL DB DL RB/DB OL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL SE RB/DB DB

No. 45 46 50 51 52 55 61 62 66 68 70 72 75 76 77 79 80 81 84 85 86 87

Name Position Nolan Cochran DL Simon Preslopsky TE Collin Owensby OL Riley Nichols OL Aryn Moore OL Ethan Jackson OL Sean Burns LB Wesley Barker OL Victor Hernandez OL Peyton Chaney OL Dalton Rhodes OL Larry Dowdy OL Tyler Kotula DL Khimek Stukes DL Phillip Davis DL Jesse Singleton DL Elijah Daniels SE David O’Hanlon K Charles Cason SE Hunter Cornielson DL Cade Ratliff K James Cady SE WORDS GOOSEBERRY GRAPE GUAVA HUCKLEBERRY JACKFRUIT JAMBUL JUJUBE KIWI LEMON LIME LYCHEE MANGO MELON MULBERRY OLIVE ORANGE PEACH PEAR RAMBUTAN

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Name Position Ray Grier SE Tre Glen DB Keaton Hale RB Alex Campbell DB Zane Andrews SE Scottie Lee QB Chancellor Mayfield DB Matthew Robinson DL Caleb Gibson RB Tanner Canterberry LB Nick Gange DB Devon King DB Jake Alexander RB Mario Brandon LB CJ Jennings DB Ty Tinker RB Josh Hicks LB Omari Hunt LB Dillon Neagle LB Jacob Alexander LB Nate Hamilton LB Lawrence Haley DL Josh Bogen TE Ethan Shell DE Naseem Jones RB

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Thursday, August 24, 2017

SOUTH POINT From page 10 South Point’s other defensive tackle will be senior Tyler Katula. “He’s a lot like Victor Hernandez,” Hodge said. “He lives in the weight room a lot. He plays hard. He’s a hard-nosed kid.”

The South Point linebackers are a smart group of players that watch a lot of film. They are aware of what is going on around them. South Point weakside linebacker will be Nathan Hamilton. Hamilton is a three-year starter. Coach Hodge likes this kid. “He plays with a passion,” Hodge said. “A beautiful thing to watch.” Matthew Robinson will be taking the field as the “Kat” linebacker. In the South Point defensive scheme the Kat linebacker is a hybrid defensive end/linebacker.

There will be times that Robinson will play outside. Other times he will lineup on the line. Tanner Canterberry will be South Point’s “Bandit” linebacker. The Bandit has a role similar to that of the Kat, except Canterberry will be on the line a lot less. “He’s a gritty kid,” Hodge said of Canterberry. “We love to watch him play.”

South Point defensive backs are young and learning. The defensive backfield has some experience but there are definitely holes that need to be filled.

The “Rover” position will be filled by Mario Brandon. The Rover is some what of a free safety. Brandon is a three year starter.

Sophomore Tre Glen will see time at cornerback. The other slots will feature a lot of players vying for playing time.

The Red Raiders special teams are pretty much set. The kicking game should be solid.

Cade Ratliff is moving up from JV. The coaching staff believes he has a pretty good leg.

Another player trying to get on the field is David O’Hanlon. O’Hanlon is from Scotland.

The coaches have confidence in both kickers.

Punting duties will be handled by Jake Alexander. Josh Bogen will handle the extra point and field goal long-snapping. Returns will be handled by Ray Grier and Mario Brandon.

Devon King may also get some touches as well.

Predictions Part I Let just say as the defending state champs

South Point has earned a lengthy prediction.

First off, South Point has the tools to make a deep playoff run. The Red Raider offense is solid. The passing dimension that was added last year will help. The SP defensive is also solid. Many of the players from last years squad have returned. The only area of concern could be the defensive backfield. That group will need to grow and learn fast.

There is no doubt South Point is very strong. With that said, there are other factors that must be considered before South Point is written in as repeat champs.

First, new head coach Adam Hodge will need to adjust to being the man in charge. Any time a team installs a new head coach there are growing pains. South Point is hopeful that things will continue as they have before. If everyone rallies around Hodge the transition should be seamless.

Another area that could play into South Point’s season is conference realignment.

This year South Point has moved down from 3A to 2A. They are now playing in the newly created Southwestern 2A Conference.

The new conference features a host of new schools, Chase, East Rutherford, R-S Central and Shelby. The only familiar conference foe will be East Gaston. On paper the new conference is not as strong as the old Big South.

That doesn’t help the Red Raiders.

In the past South Point thrived on a survival of the fittest mentality. Having a strong non-conference schedule and then lining up against the Big South has always helped Big Red. The Red Raiders will play tough nonconference matchups with some of their old time rivals. South Point has Crest, Cramer, Forestview and Ashbrook on their schedule.

Those games should help toughen South Point up. South Point just needs to stay focused when they line up against their new conference competition. However things in the new conference will be no cake walk. East Gaston and the other members of the Southwestern 2A will be gunning for the Red Raiders.

South Point has another obstacle to negotiate.

SHELBY......

As stated before, the Shelby Golden Lions are in the Southwestern 2A. Shelby will be the biggest obstacle South Point will face. Years ago Shelby and South Point shared a scrappy conference rivalry. As the years rolled by the rivalry faded. Two years ago South Point and Shelby started to play each other again. This time in early season

Good Luck

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non-conference matchups. Shelby beat South Point both times. Shelby is good. The Golden Lions are the 2015 and 2016 2A champs. It’s official now, the rivalry has been reborn.

Shelby and South Point are scheduled to play each other in the last game of the regular season. The winner of that game may just be the conference champions. Since both schools hail from the western part of the state there is no way they can meet each other in the championship game. One way or the other they have to face off. Heck, it’s very possible that

Shelby and South Point will have to play each other twice this year. Once in the regular season and once again in the playoffs.

Yes, Shelby is a big deal for the Red Raiders. How big? Well, coach Hodge was being both practical and pragmatic when he said, “We have to beat Shelby.”

Prediction Part II The winner of the Shelby - South Point showdown will make it to the state championship game.

Meet the Red Raider Dance Team...

Red Raider Dance Team Front row left to right: Emma Beaty, Makensie McDaniel, Madison Davis, and India Sadler. Middle row left to right: Grace Auten, Olivia Hyde, Mikayla Secrest, Ashley Gutkowski, and Mikayla Payseur. Back row left to right: Lilly Myers, Megan Atkins, Halle Yackeren, Hope Brumbaugh, Kennedy McCorkle, Blaine Featherston, and Catherine Armstrong.

Photo courtesy J. Scott Studio

SCHEDULE From page 11 10/12/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: South Point at East Rutherford 10/13/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: East Rutherford at South Point (Homecoming) 10/16/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: South Point at East Gaston 10/18/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: South Point at East Rutherford 10/19/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: RS Central at South Point 10/20/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: South Point at RS Central 10/23/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: R-S Central at South Point 10/26/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: Chase at South Point 10/26/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: Chase at South Point 10/27/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: South Point at Chase 11/2/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: South Point at Shelby 11/3/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: Shelby at South Point (Band Senior Night)

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Page 14

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Stuart Cramer STORM

Stuart Cramer Storm 2017 Varsity along with coaching staff.

Photo By Alan Hodge

Cramer hopes to improve last year’s success

By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

Last year the Stuart Cramer Storm had one of its most successful seasons. The Storm ended the year 7-5. Cramer lost in the first round of the playoffs to Franklin. While the loss may have ended their playoff run the Storm had a lot to be proud of.

This year head coach Ben McMillan plans on building on what was accomplished last year.

Cramer has the personnel to get the job done, but there is a lot of work that needs to be done.

Cramer lost 14 players to graduation, 12 of which were starters. McMillan and his staff will need to fill those holes, but the returning roster shows promise.

“Last year was a good year,” McMillan said. “We finally had a winning season. We improved on the year before. I’m proud of our progress.”

McMillan knows what he needs to do if he hopes to build on the success of last year.

“We want to keep improving if we can,” McMillan said. “If we do that we can have a pretty good season. We’re moving up to 3A and into the new conference. Things are going to be tough.”

McMillan is being very candid when he says that things are going to be tough in the new conference. In fact things in the new Big South 3A will not just be tough, they will be very tough for every team in the conference.

In the new conference, Cramer will still play Huss, Ash-

brook, Forestview and North Gaston.

However, Cramer will no longer play against South Point, East Gaston and Lake Norman Charter as conference opponents.

In their place, Cramer now has to play Crest, Kings Mountain and Burns. All three of the newcomers have programs that range from good to outstanding.

The Storm will open up this year against the Lincolnton Wolves. They will also play the South Point Red Raiders, East Gaston Warriors and Mountain Island Charter Raptors in nonconference match ups.

While going over Cramer’s preseason preview coach McMillan was joined by defensive coordinator Jon Putnam and linebacker coach Andrew Bradley. Putnam and Bradley helped coach McMillan highlight the team’s personnel Offense The Power Option Spread Cramer will build on what they did last year offensively. Cramer will again be running a spread offense. Cramer calls their system the power option spread or POS. The Cramer offense focuses on power. The Storm predominantly runs their offense out of the shotgun formation.

In the past Cramer may have had a 50-50 run-pass ratio. But with the current personnel, Cramer is likely to run the ball, a lot.

“Last year we were 70-30 run,” McMillan said. “Our focus is to be able to run the ball.”

Last year Cramer was hampered by turnovers that came at the worst possible time. Coach McMillan believes that has been addressed. “We always focus on that,” McMillan said of turnovers.

“A little more this year.”

Lining up at quarterback this year for Cramer will be senior Jaylen Rocquemore who is a four-year varsity player. “He’s got some experience,” McMillan said. “He’s improved a lot in the offseason.” Roquemore can throw the ball, but his biggest contribution maybe as a runner. He is definitely a run threat. With that said, McMillan believes his QB’s passing has definitely

improved. “He’s got a strong arm,” McMillan stated. “He’s improved his ability to read defenses and his accuracy.”

Cramer’s running backs are a combination of power and speed. Cramer’s primary runner will be Kaiser Kayton. Kayton is a 5 foot 11 inch 190 pound powerhouse. “He’s our leading rusher from last season,” McMillan said. “He’s a hard-nosed runner who runs downhill.” “He’s a missile,” coach Putnam said of Kayton.

Cramer’s other running back is Tyreese Morris. Morris is more of a change of pace back. He relies on speed and finesse.

Morris suits up at 5’6” and 155 lbs. “He’s a shifty back, “ McMillan said of Morris. “He’s the joystick.” Putnam added.

Cramer’s wide receivers are a young group. They don’t have a lot of experience but they have tons of potential. They should develop as the season goes on. Cramer’s top receiver maybe tight end Kendall Karr. Karr is a big target sitting at 6’4” and 210 lbs. “We can put him at tight end or in as a blocker,” McMillan said. Also lining up at receiver is Denorrian Lindsay.

Lindsay started last year and is the only returning starter of the receiving corps. “He was a dual-threat,” McMillan said. “We also ran with him. His combined yards were solid.”

Cramer’s offensive line is a physical group. They should be able to move the ball.

“We have a couple of starters returning,” McMillan said.

“We feel pretty good about our offense of line.” Cramer’s left tackle will be Jackson Concannon. Concannon is a 6’ 3” 240 lb physical athlete.“He’s very physical,” McMillan added. “He finishes the play.”

Holding down the left guard position is Devon Bain. Bain, a senior is a three-year starter who brings experience and an aggressive playing style.

Cramer’s center is a big guy. Junior Jack Hough is 6’3” and weighs 330. “He’s a great snapper,” McMillan said of his center. “He’s the key in the shotgun offense. He can hold down the middle.”

See STUART CRAMER Page 16

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The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Page 15

Stuart Cramer Storm 2017 Junior Varsity and coaching staff.

Photos By Alan Hodge

Stuart Cramer Fall Sports Schedule 2017 8/30/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: South Point at Stuart W. Cramer 8/30/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: South Point at Stuart W. Cramer 8/31/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: Stuart W. Cramer at East Gaston 9/1/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: East Gaston at Stuart W. Cramer 9/6/2017 4:30 PM CROSS COUNTRY: at Forestview 9/7/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: North Gaston at Stuart W. Cramer 9/12/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: Forestview at Stuart W. Cramer 9/14/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Stuart W. Cramer at Hunter Huss 9/14/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: South Point at Stuart W. Cramer 9/15/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: Stuart W. Cramer at South Point 9/19/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Stuart W. Cramer at Forestview 9/20/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: North Gaston at Stuart W. Cramer 9/25/2017 5:00 PM SOCCER: Ashbrook at Stuart W. Cramer 9/27/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: Stuart W. Cramer at Hunter Huss 10/2/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY

SOCCER: Stuart W. Cramer at Forestview 10/3/2017 4:30 PM CROSS COUNTRY: at Stuart W. Cramer 10/3/2017 4:30 PM TENNIS: Stuart W. Cramer at Hunter Huss 10/3/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Stuart W. Cramer at North Gaston 10/5/2017 4:00 PM TENNIS: Stuart W. Cramer at Forestview 10/10/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Hunter Huss at Stuart W. Cramer 10/12/2017 4:30 PM VOLLEYBALL: Forestview at Stuart W. Cramer 10/12/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: Stuart W. Cramer at North Gaston 10/13/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: North Gaston at Stuart W. Cramer 10/16/2017 6:30 PM SOCCER: Stuart W. Cramer at North Gaston 10/17/2017 4:00 PM CROSS COUNTRY: at Ashbrook 10/18/2017 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM SOCCER: Stuart W. Cramer at Ashbrook 10/19/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: Stuart W. Cramer at Ashbrook 10/23/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY SOCCER: Hunter Huss at Stuart W. Cramer 10/25/2017 5:00 PM JV/VARSITY

SOCCER: Forestview at Stuart W. Cramer 10/26/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL: Hunter Huss at Stuart W. Cramer 10/27/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: Stuart W. Cramer at Hunter Huss 11/2/2017 7:00 PM JV FOOTBALL:

Forestview at Stuart W. Cramer 11/3/2017 7:30 PM FOOTBALL: Stuart W. Cramer at Forestview * Schedules provided at time of publication and are subject to change. Please check with your school before traveling.

Meet the Storm Coaches...

Storm Coaches Front L to R: Ben Bolin, Tommy Bolin, Ryan Ward, Jon Putnam, AJ McKinney, and James Taylor. Back L to R: Shawn Watson, Alex Adams, Andrew Bradley, Ben McMillan, John Rice, Terry Radford.

Photo by Alan Hodge

Mountain Island RAPTORS

South Point RED RAIDERS

Stuart Cramer STORM

GREG BLACK MOUTHPIECES 117 West Central Avenue Mount Holly, NC 28120

980-277-8195 gregblackmouthpieces.com

©CommunityFirstMedia

East Gaston WARRIORS

Good Luck to All Our Area Athletes!

Meet the Storm Dance Club...

Storm Dance Club 1st row- Co-Captain Paige Valego, Captain, Marissa Garrison, and Co-Captain Caitlyn Rushing. 2nd row- Lacee Calvert, Ashlyn McAbee, Caroline Jessen, and Claire Brown. 3rd row- Campbell Foulk, Anna King, Lexi Foy, Destiny Faggart, and Sophie Pepin. 4th row- Hailey Newman, Tori Arnold, Lauren Whitley, and Kendall Moore.

Kelly Setzer photo

Page 16

The Banner News 2017 Fall Football Preview

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Stuart Cramer Varsity Football Roster 2017

Varsity Cheerleaders first row, left to right: Maleah Crocker, Desera Rhames, Jessica Smith, and Maddy Wilson. Middle row, left to right: Kaitlyn Setzer, Kathryn Cupp, Tori Parker, and Karmen Bass. Back Row, left to right: Kylie Little, Alayla Sweat, Masie Lee, and Eternity Moore.

Photo by Alan Hodge

Junior Varsity Cheerleaders front row left to right: Hailey Harwell and Mackenzie Long. Middle row left to right: Ragan Heavener, Riley Jennings, Samantha Black, and Alleigh Hicks. Back row left to right: Haylee Wooten, Kaitlyn Leazer, Marie Bain, Kelbi Peterson, and Alyssa Grindstaff.

Not Pictured: Taylor Toney.

Photo by Alan Hodge

STUART CRAMER From page 14 Defense 4-4 to stop the run The Cramer defensive plays will be called by defensive coordinator Jon Putnam.

Cramer will run a base 4-4 defense designed to stop the run. The Cramer “D” is setup to adapt according to who the Storm are lining up against.

Last year Cramer’s defense was solid. There were times the defense had a tough way to go.

However, for the most part the Storm defense showed an ability to make things happen.

Cramer’s defensive line is anchored by a quick group of athletes. The Storm’s defensive line is able to get after the quarterback.

Senior defensive tackle Adam Hannibal anchors the line. Last year Hannibal had 16 1/2 sacks leading all Cramer defenders. Hannibal is a stout defender. At 5-8, 225 lb Hannibal is powerful player who lines up low to the ground.

“He’s explosive and quick,” McMillan said.

“He is our strongest player. He is on the top of all of our weight lifting boards.”

Hannibal is getting more involved in keeping the defense focused and motivated.

“He is also taking on a leadership role,” McMillan said. “He’s ready to step it up.”

Senior defensive end Dylan Collins is another player that can get after the quarterback.

Collins is a returning starter that registered 12 1/2 sacks last year. The coaching staff believes Collins has gotten a lot stronger in the off season.

Cramer’s linebackers are an intelligent group of players. They’re able to flow to the ball and make plays. The linebackers are coached by Andrew Bradley.

Robert Truesdale and Gabe Washington are

the linebackers to watch.

Robert Truesdale is Cramer’s top linebacker. Truesdale is an all- conference player and the Storm’s leading tackler for the last 3 years. “He’s got great instincts,” coach Bradley said. Truesdale has an uncanny ability to be where the play is. He has a nose for the ball.

“He has that it factor you just can’t coach,” McMillan went on to say. “He watches more film than anyone.”

Gabe Washington is Cramer’s other top linebacker. Washington is a 5’6” 155 pound player who maybe Cramer’s most athletic linebacker. He is a player who has good ball skills.

“He can cover and strike,” Bradley said.

Cramer’s defensive backs are a blend of experienced players and up-and-comers.

Senior cornerback Landon Helton is the leader of the defensive backfield. Helton started last year and is another all-conference player.

He’s one of the best cover guys Cramer has.

Cramer’s other corner is Denorrian Lindsay.

Lindsay will be playing offense and defense.

Cramer’s primary free safety will be Jaylin Truesdale. Truesdale is a sophomore who will be stepping up into a starter role. Cramer’s special teams package has not yet been installed.

Coach Alex Adams will be calling the special team plays.

Devon Baldwin will be handling the punting and kicking duties for Cramer.

Even though the final package has yet to be installed Cramer will put a lot of emphasis on special teams. “It’s too early to figure that all out,” McMillan stated. “We’ve got most of our starters playing special teams.” “It’s just as important as the other faces of the game.” coach Putnam added.

Noah Hansil Robert Truesdale Gabe Washington Tyreese Morris JyKise Booker Devan Polk Denorrian Lindsay Jaylen Rocquemore Landon Helton Demarrick Floyd Luke Carpenter Devin Baldwin Trevor Davis Ethan Lurry Durrell Johnson Joseph Dickerson Kaiser Kayton Caleb Clemmer Jaylin Truesdale Elijah Mitchell Matthew Broome DeAngelo Bruton John Griffin LJ Straing Adam Hannibal Will Waddell Quentin Hooker Karson Setzer Chase Bradley Austin Moore Sam Julen Patrick Zander Tyler Vlasich Devon Bain Lyndon Alejo Carson O’Brien Alex Singleton Carter Merrill Hayden Kish Jack Hough Jackson Concannon Dylan Collins Kendall Karr Jerray Webb Josh Beck

WR MLB, RB OLB RB, SB DB MLB WR, CB QB WR, CB WR QB K, P WR WR WR DB RB, FS OLB FS, RB DB MLB RB DE DB DT TE, DE WR MLB, RB DE, T G OLB DT, T OL G, LS OL G G G, LS T, DT C T, DE DE, TE TE, DE TE, DE TE

Predictions This one is hard. There are so many variables.

The toughness of the new conference just can’t be overstated. Cramer will be moving up from 2A to 3A play. The competition in the Big South is going to be brutal. “It’s one of the better conferences in the state,” McMillan said.

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 20 21 22 23 24 27 30 31 34 40 41 50 51 52 54 55 56 60 61 62 65 67 68 70 72 73 77 80 81 87 88

Blake Moore Josh Green Kwalee Fair Jackson Harrington Elijah Lurry Jonathon Mayne Bryson Simmons Jordan Green DeAngelo Bruton Bryce Lee Jackson Mammano Josh Robinson Chris Koffij Charles Holbrooks Jeremiah Matthews Harrison Shropshire Jarius Wilson Mark Tharp Dru Patterson Adam Hamam Tayshon Burch James Little Aaron Bentley Naven Pimentel TJ Leake Peyton Martin Nathan Linkous Gavin Galloway Caleb Hammond Zach Stewart Patrick Abernathy Drake Trull Ethan Lee Jake Thurston Johnny Stafford Amarr Jefferson Carter Merrill Omar Cerna Tyrin Ross K-Lend Rose Dayton Richardson Jonathon Brooks Wesley King Jevante Burton

DB LB DB, WR QB RB QB, LB DB QB RB, LB DB K, P DB RB DB WR RB DB RB WR, DB K, P DB DL LB LB DL, OL LB OL OL LB DL OL, LB OL OL DL DL DL OL, DL OL, DL DL DL DE, TE WR WR WR

It’s hard to predict what is likely to happen with Cramer this year. One thing is sure, Cramer has got a lot of work ahead of them.

If the Storm hopes to be competitive they will need to play focused ball all year.

If Cramer keeps the turnovers down, plays solid defense and is able to replicate their power running game they should be very competitive.

A play off spot is very possible.

107 MADORA ST. • MT. HOLLY ©CommunityFirstMedia

Meet the Storm Cheerleaders...

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 20 21 22 23 24 27 30 31 32 33 34 40 4 44 50 52 54 55 60 61 62 64 67 70 73 74 78 80 82 85 88

Stuart Cramer Jr Varsity Football Roster 2017

704-827-3421 www.mounthollyheatingandair.com

GO STORM! SERVICE •INSTALLATION •REPAIR Maintenance Agreements Available NC LIC 3207

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Page 9

MONTCROSS AREA’S

DINING Guide Belmont Beijing To Go 1420 Perfection Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704-827-5838 Supply 101 Kenwood St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-829-7788 Brenda’s Cake Gallery 11 S. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-2253 Buddy’s BBQ Inc. 5945 W. Wilkinson Blvd.

Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-8777 Captain’s Cap 670 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 (704-825-4103 Caravan Coffee & Dessert Bar 11 S. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-829-7711

H&M Deli and Market 1019 Wilkinson Blvd.

Belmont, NC 28012 704-820-8611 Joe’s Touch of Italy 503 S. Central Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-2805 Johnny B’s Pizza 106 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-8900 New China 6517 W. Wilkinson Blvd.

Belmont, NC 28012 704-829-1010 Old Stone Steak House 23 S. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-9995 Peace-N-Hominy Q Shack 403 E. Catawba St. • Ste 200 Belmont, NC 28012 704-464-7647

Catfish Cove 1401 Armstrong Ford Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-3332

Reach Out of The Box 360 Glen Arbor St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-3446

Cherubs Cafe 23 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-0414

Rita’s Family Restaurant 108 Beaty Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 704-820-0110

Chicken King 501 Woodlawn St. Belmont NC 28012 704-827-5700

Sake Express 675 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-461-0400

Demetrios Restaurant 6928 W. Wilkinson Blvd.

Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-0057

Sammy’s Neighborhood Pub 25 S. Main St. Belmont NC 28012 704-825-4266

Friends Sports Bar & Grill 16 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-1401

Simonetti’s Pizza 6432 W. Wilkinson Blvd.

Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-5555

Glenway Premium Pub 55 Glenway St., Belmont, NC 29012 704-829-7717

Southpoint Grill 1901 S. Point Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 704-829-1043

String Bean The Fresh Market & Deli 106 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-3636 Sub Corral Sandwich Shop 6831 W. Wilkinson Blvd.

Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-5466 Taxco Mexican Grill 6418 W. Wilkinson Blvd.

Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-2108 The Grill 682 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-5179 White’s Restaurant 417 Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-3886 Wingstreet 685 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-7335

Cramerton Asian Garden 202 Market St. Cramerton, NC 28032 704-824-8318 Doffer’s Canteen Restaurant 119-B Center St. Cramerton NC 28032 704-879-7270 Georgios Restaurant 202 Market St. Cramerton, NC 28032 704-824-2220 Mayworth’s Public House 115 Center St. Cramerton, NC 28032

Dallas Clemmer’s Country Kitchen 1313 Old Dallas Rd. Dallas, NC 28034 704-922-8384

Dallas Fresh Seafood Market 3110 Dallas/High Shoals Hwy Dallas, NC 28034 704-923-8223

Grits N Greens 125 N. Main St. Lowell NC 28098 704-879-4073

Dallas Fish Box 1031 Lower Dallas Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 704-922-8930

Hillbilly’s Barbeque & Steaks 720 McAdenville Rd. Lowell, NC 28098 704-824-8838

Double Dragon Chinese Restaurant 3130 Dallas High Shoals Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 704-923-8030 Jack In The Box 102 College View Dr. Dallas, NC 28034 704-922-9178 Just Cookin 1108 E. Main St. Dallas, NC 28034 704-922-7031 Long Creek Fish Fry 1425 Lower Dallas Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 704-922-3998 North Star Seafood 2150 Dallas High Shoals Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 704-922-7715 Peet’s Coffee & Tea 715 W. Trade St. Dallas, NC 28034 704-922-6791 Tavern On The Square 602 Queens Dr. Dallas, NC 28034 704-922-5425 Tommy’s Drive In 2708 Gastonia Dallas Hwy. Dallas, NC 28034 704-922-9099 The Country Kitchen 116 E. Main St. Dallas, NC 28034 704-922-9597

Promote Your Restaurant in the Banner News Call Mayra today at 704.472.7892

Lowell

Papa Sammy’s Pizza 140 East Central Ave. Mount Holly, NC 704-601-5272 Vasileious Italian Kitchen 200 S. Main St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-820-8539

Stanley Mount Holly 128 South Main Chophouse 128 South Main Street Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-812-8973 Billys Barbeque Family Restaurant 1127 W. Charlotte Ave. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-8747 Bright Star Drive-In Grill 205 Madora St. Mt Holly NC 28120 704-827-0212 Chicken King 130 W. Charlotte Ave. Mt Holly NC 28120 704-812-8266 China Two Mt Holly 595 Highland St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-8090 Sake Express Inc. of Mount Holly 349 W. Charlotte Ave. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-4819 Side Trax Sports Bar & Food 121 W. Central Ave. Mt Holly NC 28012 704-827-3603

Bojangles 541 N. 27 W. Stanley, NC 28164 704-263-4532 China Garden 190 E. Dallas Rd. Stanley, NC 28164 704-263-8788 Friendly’s Of Stanley 119 N. Main St. Stanley NC 28164 704-263-7088 Kim’s Kitchen 106 Mariposa Rd. Stanley NC 28164 704-263-3988 Hunan To Go 509 S. Hwy 27 Stanley NC 28164 704-263-3988 Pete’s Grill 124 N. Main St. Stanley, NC 28164 704-263-1311 Woodshed Restaurant 212 S. Main St. Stanley, NC 28164 704-263-1030

Page 10

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, August 24, 2017

NCHSAA announces eight inductees to join the Hall of Fame Class of 2017 The North Carolina High School Athletic Association is pleased to announce the new eight-member Hall of Fame Class of 2017.

The group of eight was publically presented and introduced at a live-streaming press conference at the NCHSAA Headquarters in Chapel Hill a few minutes ago.

This year’s class is comprised of: Coach James “Jim” Biggerstaff from Belmont, Coach Allen Brown from Thomasville, Coach Dave Elder from Hickory, Robert “Bob” McRae of Kings Mountain, Coach Donnie Simpson from Elizabeth City, Coach Dave Biggerstaff is pictured with NCHSAA Commissioner Que Tucker durThomas from Golds- ing the plaque presentation. boro, Earl Vaughan, Jr. from Fayetteville Championships, one in 1971 in the WNCHand Coach Herb Sampsel from Statesville SAA (Western North Carolina High School (posthumously).

Jim Biggerstaff served as the Head Foot- Activities Association) when they tied Salisball Coach at South Point High School from bury 14-14, and the other in 1979 in the NCH1969 to 1995. During his time with the Red SAA when they defeated Ahoskie 34-13. His Raiders, Biggerstaff’s teams won two State teams compiled a record of 143-74-7 during

Mountain Island opens with 48-6 win over Franklin Christian

by John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

The Mountain Island Raptors football team started the 2017 season in high fashion.

The Raptors came out strong and did short work of Franklin Christian to secure a 48 - 6 opening day win.

Head coach Robert Washington is happy with the win, but he thinks that this is just the beginning.

He thinks his squad is capable of more.

“I think we’ve got a lot more work to do,” Washington said. “We are by no stretch of the imagination a finished product.

We’re trying to find our identity.”

Some may be surprised with comments like that coming off of a big win.

However, the coaches tough stance shouldn’t really surprise anyone. Coach Washington just wants his team to live up to their potential.

Of course, credit is given where credit is due. Coach Washington was very happy with the score. He was also happy that his team came out of the game with no major injuries.

The Raptors came out strong scoring 14 points in both the 1st and 2nd quarters.

They went into the locker room up 28-0 at the half.

In the second half it was more of the same with the Raptors dominating.

Kyle Holcomb and Marcus Graham spilt time taking snaps at quarterback.

Holcomb went 7 for 10 for 56 yards and a TD. Graham was 3 for 5 for 26 yards and a score as well. Graham also had 110 yards off of 11 carries and 2 TD’s.

Elijah Burris had a great day as the Raptors top runner. Burris had 148 yards off 11 carries. Burris also had 2 TD’s.

Levonte Kennedy had a good game as well. Kennedy had 132 yards and a score.

Graham and Holcomb spread the ball around a lot. Nine Raptor receivers pulled in catches.

Mountain Island had 478 yards of total offense.

On the other side of the ball the Mountain Island defense all but shut out the Cavaliers.

The Raptor defense played tough. Franklin Christian could only manage 152 yards of offense.

MI’s top tacklers were Mason King and Michael Spivey. Both recorded 11 tackles each.

The Raptor defense harassed the Franklin Christian QB all night. Mountain Island had 10 sacks. Moe Evans had 5 of the sacks.

Based on the scoreboard and the stat sheet it looked like MI had a darn good game.

However, those stats didn’t faze MI’s coach.

Coach Washington has plans for the Raptor to produce more.

“We had a couple of miscues on drives,” Washington said. “The scoreboard doesn’t tell the whole story. We missed opportunities in the red zone.”

As noted before, the Raptors had a good game. But, in coach Washington’s mind good wasn’t good enough. He wants great. That mindset will toughened the team up. It may even pull the Raptors out of a tough bind as the year rolls on.

Next, the Raptors are going to face a very tough test when they face off against the 3A Stuart Cramer Storm.

Back row (left to right): Bob McRae from Kings Mountain, Donnie Simpson from Elizabeth City, Herb Sampsel, Jr. son of posthumous inductee Herb Sampsel from Statesville, and Dave Elder from Hickory. Front Row (left to right): Earl Vaughan, Jr. from Fayetteville, Dave Thomas from Goldsboro, Allen Brown from Thomasville, and Jim Biggerstaff from Belmont.

NCHSAA photos his tenure and he was named Coach of the Year by the NC Association of Sports Broadcasters in 1971. He was a Head Coach in the 1973 East/West All-Star game and the Head Coach for North Carolina’s team in the 1975 Shrine Bowl.

“We are so excited to recognize these eight individuals who have made a tremendous impact, not only on their students and communities, but on the landscape of education-based athletics in North Carolina,” said NCHSAA Commissioner Que Tucker. “This class represents many different areas of service over a vast number of years and the members are to

be commended for their outstanding careers and involvement in the NCHSAA.” The NCHSAA Hall of Fame was officially launched in 1987 when the Association inducted the original three-person class of Bob Jamieson, Leon Brogden and Dave Harris. This year’s eight-member class will bring the total number of inductees to 188 when the group is officially inducted at the annual NCHSAA Hall of Fame Banquet scheduled for Saturday, April 14th at the Embassy Suites in Cary. Ticket information will be available at a later date.

South Point Spring Sports Varsity Scholar Athlete Teams and Scholar Athletes

By Charlotte Sautner South Point High School’s athletes are not only excellent on the field they are excellent off the field in the classroom. They are true scholar athletes. The North Carolina High School Athletic Association Scholar-Athlete program recognizes varsity teams and individual athletes for their excellence in the classroom. To be a scholar-athlete team, the team must maintain a 3.1 unweighted grade point average for the designated semester.

To be an individual scholar-athlete, the athlete must have a 3.5 weighted GPA for the designated semester.

For the spring semester all 5 spring sports varsity teams were named as scholar-athlete teams and 68 individual athletes named as scholar-athletes. For the fall/winter semester South Point had 12 teams named scholarathlete teams which means that 17 out of 20 varsity sports teams received scholar-athlete team recognition for the 2016-17 year.

The spring sports scholar-athlete teams and their GPA’s are Ladies Outdoor Track and Field – 3.461; Men’s Tennis – 3.205; Men’s Varsity Baseball – 3.321; Women’s Varsity Soccer – 3.760; and Women’s Varsity Softball – 3.512.

Listed below are the Scholar-Athlete teams and their members and then the individual Scholar–Athletes.

Women’s Varsity Softball – Hannah Brewer, Maddie Deal, Brittany Franks, Kailey Galloway, Courtney Gazda, Sierra Ghorley, Jaelin Griffin, Skylar Griffin, Abby Henry, Lexi Henson, Skylar King, Cheyenne MacKinnon, Hana McKee, Katelyn Shipman, Mallory Thomas, Lauren Tyson.

Women’s Varsity Soccer –Ally Adams, Alexis Altizer, Brooke Arnold, Peyton Arnold, Elizabeth Bogen, Natalie Bond, Madison Davis, Sophia DeMark, Reagon Kasper, Emma King, Abigail Long, Mollie Lund, Abigail Morgan, Haley Nixon, Anna Petty, Riley Racz, Natalie Robinson, Mikayla Rose,

Haley Stockton, Hannah Stockton, Elizabeth Targonski, Mary Walker, Madelyn Waugh.

Men’s Varsity Baseball – Benjamin Bowman, Preston Conner, Timothy Davila, Nicholas Farmer, Dawson Gause, Nathan Hamilton, William Hilton, Jordan Lathe, Scottie Lee, Evan Mauldin, Mason Secrest, Ethan Shell, Christopher Spence, Grant Tilley.

Men’s Tennis – Hashim Ahmad, Jonathan Clark, Noah James, Sam Killen, Tue Le, Neeral Patel, Joel Scipio, Cutter Stowe, Chase Sturgis, Cody Thrasher, Jason Webb.

Ladies Track and Field – Alexandria Airhart, Jada Alston, Caitlyn Dorfmeister, Jessica Helton, Kortni Hunt, Allison Hyde, Catherine Johnson, Dy’Air McCormick, Ava Rose, Portia Shouse, Mary Smallwood, D’Azah Smith, Alyssa Smith, Abigael Soltis, Kaylee Thagard, Madison Wilcox.

Individual Scholar Athletes – Ally Adams, Gregory Adams, Alexandria Airhart, Jake Alexander, Jordan Alston, Alexis Altizer, Zane Andrews, Peyton Arnold, Audrey Beaty, Erin Bess, Edward Bogen, Natalie Bond, Benjamin Bowman, Hannah Brewer, Anthony Canterberry, Charles Cason, Alexander Coffey, Preston Conner, Alicia Cowart, Madison Davis, John Deason, Sophia DeMark, Tiffany Falls, Nicholas Farmer, Brittany Franks, Kailey Galloway, Sierra Ghorley, James Granson, Jaelin Griffin, Skylar Griffin, Nathan Hamilton, Jacob Harvell, Jessica Helton, Abby Henry, Emma Jenkins-Matthews, Catherine Johnson, Chloe Johnson, Jacob Johnson, Samuel Killen, Emma King, Skylar King, Jacob Landis, Jordan Lathe, James Lawrence, Scottie Lee, Colby Persgard-Howe, Matthew Robinson, Natalie Robinson, Mikayla Rose, Colton Russell, Emma Schultz, Mason Secrest, Ethan Shell, Katelyn Shipman, Alyssa Smith, D’Azah Smith, Gracie Smith, Christopher Spence, Harrison Stinnett, Jacob Stinnett, Haley Stockton, Hannah Stockton, Chase Sturgis, Elizabeth Targonski, Kaylee Thagard, Mallory Thomas, Brandon Tudor, Madelyn Waugh, Aurora Ziemer.

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Page 11

East Gaston holds off North Gaston for 34-31 win

By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

If you were looking for high school football excitement on opening day East Gaston’s Arrowhead Stadium was the place to be. In a showdown that was only decided in the final two minutes the East Gaston Warriors topped the visiting North Gaston Wildcats 34 to 31.

The game was exciting and pressure-packed.

East Gaston put the first points of the game on the board when Kobe Creamer hit Jalen Creamer on a 18 yard pass.

The Wildcats pushed back, scoring twice and taking a 14-7 lead into the 2nd quarter.

East Gaston struck back when Warrior H-back Brodie Hilton scored on an 8 yard run. After a successful PAT the Warriors were back on top.

So it began, a non-stop slug fest.

For the remainder of the game both teams punched and counter punched. If you were in the stands and started to hear music from the movie Rocky you weren’t crazy.

The game truly did go down to the wire.

With only a few minutes to go the Warrior’s were up 34-31, but North Gaston was driving.

North Gaston ended up facing a 4th and goal on the East Gaston 5-yard line with

about two minutes on the clock.

Everybody at Arrowhead Stadium was wondering if North Gaston was going to go for the field goal to tie the game, or make a bold call and go for the win.

North Gaston went for the win. That 4th and goal play decided the game.

“We held them in a goal line stand,” head coach Sean Joyce said. “They went for it and we held them.”

East Gaston had a lot to be proud of.

“I felt that his team we played pretty well,” Joyce said. “I saw some kids maturing. North Gaston is not a bad football team they have some speed.”

The Warriors really

did play good football on both sides of the field. The maturity of the Warriors was on display all game.

When tested, the team held together.

One of the kids that matured was sophomore quarterback Kobe Creamer.

Creamer threw for 156 and 2 TD’s. Creamer also had 103 yards on the ground.

Creamer had the type of game that makes one think that he has a bright future.

“I saw some good things out of him,” Coach Joyce said.

In all the Warriors had 282 yards of total offense.

In addition to Creamer, Nick Gwinn had a fine outing as well.

“He had a good game,”

Joyce said of Gwinn. “He had 136 yards running and 71 receiving.”

Gwinn was East Gaston’s top runner and receiver. He also accounted for 2 of EG’s touchdowns.

On defense the Warriors bent, but never broke.

North Gaston ran hard.

East Gaston gave up some yardage, 323 yards in total, but stiffened when needed.

The Warrior defense waged

a battle of attrition. They got plays when they needed them. EG forced the Wildcats to cough the ball up three times. The goal line stance at the end of the game showed just how tough the defense was.

Coach Joyce summed it all up best.

“It was a gutsy performance on offense and defense.” Joyce added.

Gaston Christian soccer Gaston Christian School’s varsity soccer team kicked off the start of their 2017-18 season with a 3-1 victory over Charlotte Latin. Scoring for Gaston Christian was Davis McBee with 2 goals and Jacob Neely with a goal and an assist.

South Point and Kings Mtn. high schools clashed on the soccer field last Wednesday. A hard fought contest ended in a 1-1 tie.

Photo by Gary Stewart

East Gaston Warriors

THE BANNER NEWS LOTTERY Numbers will be drawn each Monday Morning.

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 12

South Point defenders stop a Crest player.

Thursday, August 24, 2017

South Point QB Scottie Lee fires a pass to #5 Ray Grier.

Red Raider Ray Grier moves out against Crest.

South Point fends off Mother Nature in 22-14 win over Crest

By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

As the defending state football champions the South Point Red Raiders rolled into the 2017 season with a target on their back. Every team South Point goes against will want to prove that they have what it takes to knock off the state champs.

When South Point traveled to Cleveland County to take on Crest they had to battle not only the Chargers but Mother Nature. Due to

lightning sightings the game was delayed several times.

No matter, in a game that didn’t end until around 11:30 pm the Red Raiders outlasted not only the forces of nature but a tough Crest team. South Point walked away with a big 22-14 win.

South Point head coach Adam Hodge got his first win as the man in charge.

“I’m glad we won,” Hodge said. “I thought the effort was there. We ran the ball well, we threw the ball well.”

The only thing that frus-

The Red Raiders huddle during the Crest contest.

Scottie Lee breaks a tackle on a quarterback keeper.

Photos by Tommy Bain

South Point Coach Adam Hodge gives instructions to the team after his first victory as head coach. South Point defeated Crest 22 to 14.

trated coach Hodge more than the weather were the penalties.

“I didn’t like the penalties,” Hodge said. “We had too many penalties.”

When asked how many flags South Point drew, Hodge was candid and to the point.

“Too many,” he said.

In actuality, the Red Raiders had 13 penalties in all.

Those penalties cost them 115 yards. Crest on the other hand had 5 penalties that cost them 38 yards.

The flag problem was addressed by the staff, but luckily for South Point the flags didn’t really hurt the Red Raiders momentum.

Red Raiders dominated for most of the game. South Point scored first when they got a safety in the first quarter.

Shortly after that Ray Grier scored on an 11-yard run to put South Point up 10-0.

Cade Ratliff kicked a pair of field goals in the second quarter. One kick was from 41 yards, the other from 40 yards out to give the Red Raiders a 16-0 lead at the half.

In the 3rd, Red Raider fullback Jake Alexander smashed into the end zone to put the Red Raiders up 22-0.

Crest tried to mount a comeback in the 4th quarter

Photos by Calvin Craig Superraiders

by scoring 14 points.

The Red Raiders played it safe and kept Crest from pushing back too hard.

The South Point defense and special teams played exceptionally well.

Tanner Canterbury had a very good game.

“He had a big interception early in the game,” Hodge said of Canterberry’s performance. “It was big for us. It helped us get the momentum early.”

Another player that had a good night was “Kat” linebacker Matthew Robinson.

“He played well,” Hodge said. “He had ten tackles. He was all over the field.”

Canterbury and Robinson were part of a Red Raider defense that held the normally productive Chargers to 157 yards of total offense.

With the defense minding the store the Red Raiders offense did their thing.

The Red Raiders had 321 yards of total offense.

Quarterback Scottie Lee was 2-4 for 40 yards. Lee also had 69 yards on the ground.

The South Point running attack was led by fullback Jake Alexander who had 180 yards off of 36 carries and a touchdown.

Ray Grier was South Point’s top receiver. Grier pulled down two catches for 40 yards.

Next for the Red Raiders will be the Lincolnton Wolves.

The Wolves left Cramerton last week licking their wounds after being whipped by the Storm 42-7. Coach Hodge knows that Lincolnton wants to get back in the fight.

“They will be fired up, rip roaring, ready to go,” Hodge said.

Gaston Day School students also returned to class this week. These members of the Blue Key Student Ambassadors were there to welcome new and returning enrollees.

GDS photo

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Stuart Cramer’s #4 Tyreese Morris and #8 Jaylen Rocquemore team up for a gain against Lincolnton.

Cramer rolls over Lincolnton 40-7

By John Wilson john.bannernews@gmail.com

Final score, Cramer 40, Lincolnton 7. Yup, you can’t ask for much better than that.

Stuart Cramer started the 2017 season with a big opening day win over the Lincolnton Wolves.

Right from the beginning things went Cramer’s way.

When Denorrian Lindsay took the opening kickoff 84 yards for a TD it was looking like Cramer was about to have a good night.

As it turned out, a good night wasn’t the half of it. Cramer played well on both sides of the ball. The Storm dominated the Wolves offensively and defensively.

By the end of the 3rd quarter Cramer was up 40-0. Lincolnton’s only score came as the game was winding down.

Offensively the Storm generated 262 yards of total offense. That number proved to be more than enough to get the job done.

At quarterback Cramer went with Luke Carpenter who was 1 for 3. He threw for 44 yards.

Kendal Karr snared Carpenter’s lone completion. As it turned out that one was a doozy.

Karr raced 44 yards for a score in 1st quarter action.

On the ground Kaiser Kayton and Tyreese Morris got things done. Kayton had 88 yards and a score. Morris had 82 yards off of 8 carries. He had a 10.3 yards per carry average and 2 touchdowns.

Just like on offense, the Cramer defense set the tone.

The Lincolnton offense was harassed relentlessly. The Wolves never had a chance to get in a groove. Lincolnton was only able to get 78 yards of total offense.

The Storm defense generates 9 turnovers.

6 came from interceptions, 3 from fumbles.

Linebacker Robert Truesdale roamed the field at will. If the ball was in play Truesdale was near the action The senior backer ended the night with 17 tackles.

Caleb Clemmer had a solid night as well.

He had 10 stops.

Dylan Collins had 2 sacks for Cramer. In all, Storm defenders put Lincolnton QB’s on their backs 4 times.

This was the kind of start coach Ben McMillan and his staff was hoping for.

“Starting your season with a win is always a positive thing,” McMillan said. “I was pretty satisfied with the effort his team put in. I felt like it was good way to start the season.”

McMillan thinks that his players put in a solid performance. The effort put in by the offense, defense and special teams was top rate.

“Being the first game we we executed pretty well,” McMillan said.” It was a total team effort. Everyone did their job.”

Even though Cramer pulled down a win the coaching staff is going to be pushing the players to do a little more.

No one wants to sit on their laurels after one game. The Cramer staff knows there is

Page 13

Stuart Cramer’s #22 Kaiser Kayton stops a Lincolnton player in the Storm’s 40-7 win.

Photos by Lydia Julen still a lot more football to play.

“We still have some things we need to work on,” McMillan added.

Up next the Storm will be hosting the Mountain Island Charter Raptors.

The Raptors are coming off of a big 48 - 6 win over Franklin Christian.

This could be one of the more interesting matchups this week.

The question here is simple. Can the unorthodox 1A Raptors hold their own against a Cramer program that may have one of the best defenses in the county.

Game time is 7:30 at Cramer.

Storm defender #54 Sam Julen hauls down a Lincolnton runner.

Storm runner #4 Tyreese Morris sweeps around the Lincolnton end.

Mountain Island South Point Charter School Red Raiders Player of the Week

ELIJAH BURRIS #5 Sophomore Running Back

Player of the Week

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CADE RATLIFF

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The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 14

Thursday, August 24, 2017

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GOLF CLUBS, full set King Cobra Irons and metal driver and others plus golf bag. $350.00.

Call704-827-2966. (8/03, 10 & 17) ITEMS For SALE: A Serger never been used.- $500.00. 100 Novels – ½ Westerns, ½ Misc. $1 each and 1 Piano made by Kawai, Used very little - $500.

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Mill Spring Outdoor Furnaces 828-245-0174.

REFRIGERATORS, STOVES, WASHERS, DRYERS, Discount Prices. 1205 Earl Road, Shelby NC. 704-487-4443.

REFRIGERATORS, STOVES, washers, dryers & odd furniture.

Call 704-481-0954. After 5pm, call 704-482-0540.

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INVERSION THERAPY TEETER HANG UP, like new, assembled, all accessories included, $300. Exercise Bicycle, $75.

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FOR SALE: FOR PARTS OR WHOLE: 1987-91 Ford 4WD. 1989-94 Toyota truck parts.

1968-72 Ford parts. 1995 Nissan truck parts. Manual & auto trans for Chevy & Ford. Gray factory Ford wheels, 7”x7x15. Set of factory Ford gray center cap & beauty rim, 7x15 & 8x15. Antique barber chair. WANT TO BUY: Pickup trucks, any model, make, condition. Nissan or Toyota Pickups. 1999-2004 Ford Ranger for parts or whole. 704-538-9742.

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Clip & Mail Choose from the following Classifications: •Announcements Address: _________________________ City______________________ Zip____________ •Antiques Email ___________________________________ Phone: __________________________ •Auctions •Autos/Trucks Ad Copy: _________________________________________________________________ •Benefits •Boats _________________________________________________________________________ •Business Services _________________________________________________________________________ •Business Opportunities •Campers _________________________________________________________________________ •Child Care •Employment _________________________________________________________________________ •Heavy/Farm Equipment _________________________________________________________________________ •Farm & Garden •For Rent _________________________________________________________________________ •For Sale •Legal Notices _________________________________________________________________________ •Lessons _________________________________________________________________________ •Lost/Found •Mobile/Modular homes _________________________________________________________________________ •Motorcycles/ATV •Musical Instruments _________________________________________________________________________ •Pets/Livestock •Real Estate •Reunions • Be sure to include phone number in ad copy • •Vacations Total Words________ Number of Issues _______ Classification _____________________ •Want to Buy •Want to Rent Amount Enclosed $_____________ •Yard Sales

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Mail this form to: PO Box 769 • Kings Mountain • NC 28086 OR Call Kathy at 704-739-7496

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Page 15

North Carolina

SCHOOL BUS

STOP LAW STOP

STOP

Two-lane roadway: When school bus stops for passengers, all traffic from both directions must stop.

A group from Stanley Middle made the Stuff That Bus scene. Gaston County Schools held its annual “Stuff That Bus “ event last week at Office Depot in Gastonia. Folks donated hundreds of supply items and filled the GCS classic bus with them. Students from a variety of schools turned out to cheer on the donations.

Gaston Schools photos

Two-lane roadway with a center turning lane: When school bus stops for passengers, all traffic from both directions must stop.

STOP

STOP

Four-lane roadway without a median separation: When school bus stops for passengers, all traffic from both directions must stop.

Gaston County Sheriff Alan Cloninger was joined by the East Gaston High cheerleaders at Stuff That Bus.

These Stuart Cramer High cheerleaders took part in the Stuff That Bus event.

More information on reverse.

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Divided highway of four lanes or more with a median separation: When school bus stops for passengers, only traffic following the bus must stop.

Belmont Middle School students and their Wildcat mascot had a blast at Stuff That Bus.

STOP

Roadway of four lanes or more with a center turning lane: When school bus stops for passengers, only traffic following the bus must stop.

N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles School Bus & Traffic Safety

Corey & Steven Stone

Justin LeMaster & Shannon Faulkner

Mike Bushue & Robin Cairco

Mike McDuffie & Travis Robinson

Thursday Night Tournament Trail results Thirty nine boats turned out to go fishing on a hot August night on Lake Wylie last Thursday. Fishing, like all sports, can have it’s highs and lows. This was the case with Mike McDuffie and Travis Robinson. Their high was catching three really good fish

and placing them in their live well. The low was having two other good fish on the hook and they broke off. The low of what could have been as they brought their three fish to the scale to be weighed and the high of finding out that the three fish they have would be

enough to take the win. Congratulations to Mike and Travis with the win. Second place went to Shannon Faulkner and Justin LeMaster from Union, SC with five fish that weighed in at 12.79 pounds. Third place went to Mike Bushue and Robin Carico with 12.57

pounds followed by the brothers team of Corey and Steven Stone with 12.37 pounds.

For more information please visit www.lwtt.org.

Follow on Facebook at Lake Wylie Thursday Night Tournament Trail.

Erwin Gaston photos

The Banner News / banner-news.com

Page 16

Thursday, August 24, 2017

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