By Hugh Fisher
hfisher@salisburypost.com
FAITH ó Faith Fourth traditions old and new drew crowds, with winners of the Miss Rowan County Veteran pageant and Faith Fourth Idol honored Saturday at Legion Park.
After a noontime flag raising ceremony, Courtney Cress received the crown from last year’s winner, Jordan Waller.
Cress, 18, represents Landis American Legion Post 146. She is the daughter of Alan Cress and Michelle Wayne.
A recent graduate of Jesse Carson High School, she lives in China Grove and plans to attend UNC-Greensboro.
“It’s a great honor to represent those who serve,” Cress said.
As Miss Rowan County Veteran, she will represent the county at veterans organization functions.
Susan Wilhelm, representing Faith American Legion Post 327, was first runner-up.
In all, 10 women competed in this year’s 63rd annual contest.
Faith Fourth Idol
Thirteen contestants took the stage for the finals of Faith Fourth Idol yesterday evening, with three winners chosen after an energetic competition.
Macey Trexler was the winner in the 12 and under category for her rendition of “A Broken Wing,” originally performed by Martina McBride.
“I’m just very happy,” Trexler said after receiving her award. “I didn’t think I was going to get it.”
The winner in the junior category was Maggie Brewer, who sang “Heads Carolina, Tails California,” made famous by Jo Dee Messina.
Brewer also said she was surprised and glad to be honored. “It’s a great experience,” she said.
Jonathan Rushing was the winner in the adult category. He performed the gospel song “I Am Not Ashamed.”
Rushing is pastor at Real Life Church in Concord.
Asked what he would do with his prize money, Rushing said, “Pay my tithes, take my family out and save the rest.”
The winner in each category received a check for $500.