North Rowan succeeds again, with support of community
In May, I spoke at the county commissioners’ meeting concerning lack of funds for rings for North Rowan’s 1A state championships in men’s basketball and men’s track and field. As it turns out, the problem lies in that North Rowan must rely on gate funds from sporting events to fund their athletics. The funds from the gates are only from the loyal fans from North Rowan. Visiting teams come from so far away, their fans don’t come to the games.
Once the problem was realized, a plan of action was put in play. Phone calls were made, doors were knocked on and local churches and fire departments were informed. I’m elated to report that all 53 rings have been sponsored. Sponsorship came from a variety of avenues. One ring was sponsored by tickets won from Howard Platt of WSTP radio and sold on ebay. Some sponsored rings in memory of lost loved ones or classmates. Local church congregations banded together to sponsor a ring. Fire departments in the North district collected money to help sponsor rings. Several local businesses contributed to the cause. Alumni who live in other parts of the state donated to this triumph for their alma mater.
Something more was gained by these state championships. It brought the North Rowan community together to honor and celebrate the achievement of these athletes not only on the field but also in the classroom. Several of these state champions are going to college on scholarships.
I want to personally thank each and every sponsor and reaffirm your outstanding commitment to our community and county. The reward these athletes will receive will give them a lifetime of inspiration, not because they won a state championship but because the real reward was the community showing its gratitude and respect for a job well done. Thank you to the North Rowan community for another job well done.
— Craig Pierce
Salisbury
AFROTC program was great
Junior Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (JAFROTC) was a great idea. The Shadow Cadet program was held at Knox Middle School this summer. I learned many new things, such as drills, marching and respect. The instructors and cadets were really good with us, and I encourage others to try the program. This program will make people better than they were before taking it. It might increase self-esteem. It makes a whole different person out of you. I know it made people think better of me.
— Ryan Lasker
Salisbury