Daily Archives: 10/27/2015
Grand opening
Gallery 8077, located at 409 Johnson St. in Pickens, held its formal grand opening on Wednesday, Oct. 14. The new store offers 
antiques, specialty gifts, scarves, soaps, Southern Darling shirts and much more. Pictured are Shannon Head, Ginger Lewis, Geraldine Chapman, Kerry Jo Brock, Pickens mayor David Owens, Brysie Jo Brock, the Rev. Rick Hayes and Vicky Farmer. For more information about Gallery 8077, call (864) 508-6595.
SDPC 11th graders outshine state on ACT
COUNTY — South Carolina has released the results of mandatory ACT testing for 11th grade students, showing School District of Pickens County students outperforming state averages in each tested area.
SDPC students earned an average composite score of 18.7, higher than the state average of 17.9. They earned composite scores of 17.4 in English, 18.7 in math, 19.2 in reading and 18.9 in science. By comparison, students across the state averaged 16.5 in English, 18.1 in math, 18.3 in reading and 18.1 in science.
Last year, South Carolina became one of a small number of states to require ACT testing for all high school juniors. The vast majority of students who take the ACT are traditionally students planning to apply for college admission. In 2015, South Carolina began testing all 11th grade students, regardless of whether they were planning to go to college or not.
“The opportunity to take the ACT for free is a huge advantage for students in our state,” SDPC superintendent Dr. Danny Merck said. “Not only does this save families money, it also gives students who may not have been planning to attend college a chance to see that they do have what it takes to be successful. The class of 2016 will graduate with a diploma, a WorkKeys score, and an ACT score. For the first time in public education in South Carolina, we have assessments that are relevant for college and career readiness.”
Scores on the ACT WorkKeys, a career-readiness test, showed SDPC ranking eighth in the state for students scoring Silver and above.
The composite score for the 2015 SDPC graduating class, for whom the test was optional, was 22.4 — higher than the national average of 21.
“Universal ACT testing is uncharted territory, so we weren’t sure what we would see on this first set of scores,” said Sharon Huff, SDPC’s assistant superintendent of instructional services. “The fact that our students are above state averages in every area is encouraging, and that is what we expect to see from our students. Now our goal is to go from here and improve. It’s also important for students to know that if they aren’t pleased with their individual results, they can retake the test and use their highest score for college admissions. However, the district does not cover the cost of retaking the test.”
“Among 81 South Carolina districts, our students have ranked fourth on the traditional ACT for seniors, fifth on the SAT, eighth on the WorkKeys assessment and 10th on the ACT for juniors, Merck said. “We are very proud of our students, teachers and leaders for their commitment to our district’s vision of ‘building success beyond the classroom.’”
ASPIRE scores show Pickens Co. students above national averages
COUNTY — ACT ASPIRE test scores for the 2014-2015 school year show SDPC students performing above national averages in most areas, especially math and Science.
ASPIRE is a test for students in grades 3-8, which is aligned the ACT, a college readiness exam taken by many high school students. As opposed to other assessments such as SCPASS, which determines whether students have reached a base level of proficiency for each grade level, ASPIRE seeks to predict whether students are on track to be ready for college.
“ASPIRE defines ‘college ready’ as a student being on track toward having a 50 percent chance of getting a ‘B’ in a college course, or a 75 percent chance of getting a ‘C’,” assistant superintendent Sharon Huff said. “This is a very different way of assessing students from what South Carolina has done in the past.”
Students in third through eighth grade were tested in five subjects: English, math, reading, science and writing. The national averages for college readiness vary widely, from as high as 73 percent in eighth-grade English to 16 percent in third-grade writing. SDPC’s scores showed similar variation, with a high of 77.4 percent readiness in eighth grade English, and a low of 11.9 percent in third and fifth grade writing. However, SDPC students showed consistent strength in Math and Science, performing above national averages in every grade level in in those subjects. Overall, SDPC students were more college-ready than national averages in 20 out of 30 grade levels and subject areas.
“We can learn an enormous amount from the data ASPIRE has given us,” Huff said. “It’s encouraging to see good results in Math and Science, especially because other assessments in the past have not shown Math to be our strongest subject. On the other hand, it’s clear that some of the ways we are teaching writing at the elementary level doesn’t match up with how ASPIRE assesses our students. We’re continuing to comb through the results of this test to find ways to help our teacher and students grow.”
“Our students are entering a competitive world for college admissions, and we are going to continue make sure our graduates have an advantage over their peers around the country,” superintendent Dr. Danny Merck said. “I think these scores show a positive trend that our students are more likely to be above national averages in higher grades, which means that our students are gaining that competitive advantage as they move through our school system. We’re going to work hard to make sure that advantage increases.”
Bagwell hits 1,000
Mickey Bagwell of Pickens has recorded his 1,000th mile on the Doodle Trail. Bagwell rides the trail every day that he is off work and keeps a calendar to track his mileage. Bagwell, who used to be a avid biker, had slowed in recent years until the completion of the Doodle Trail this summer. Bagwell sees no end in sight and hopes to continue to add to his totals in years to come.
Steppin’ It Up Coalition to meet Nov. 9
PICKENS — The Steppin’ It Up Coalition will hold its monthly meeting on Nov. 9.
The meeting will take place from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the City of Pickens Recreation Department, located at 545 Sangamo Road in Pickens.
Meetings are open to anyone interested in educating youth on the dangers and health implications of alcohol, tobacco and drug exposure and use.
For more information about the Steppin’ It Up Coalition, contact Cathy Breazeale at (864) 898-5800 or visit steppinituppickens.org.
Lawrence Chapel UMC plans annual harvest fest
CENTRAL — Lawrence Chapel United Methodist Church will hold its annual harvest festival on Oct. 31, from 4-7 p.m. The festival is a free community event.
There will be a trunk or treat, inflatables, games, soup and sandwiches.
Lawrence Chapel UMC is located at 2101 Six Mile Highway in Central. For more information, visit lawrencechapel.church.
Courier Obituaries 10-28-2015
ANITA S. SANDERS
LIBERTY — Mrs. Anita Stone Sanders, 65, wife of the late William Melvin Sanders, passed away Monday, Oct. 19, 2015, at Regency Hospital, Greenville.
Born in Greenville County, a daughter of the late Carl Montgomery and Margarete Baum Stone, Mrs. Sanders was a graduate of Greenville Technical College and received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina, Spartanburg. She was formerly a dental hygienist and retired from the Pickens County Health Department. Anita attended Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, had a passion for square dancing and dearly loved her family and friends.
Surviving are a son, Ryan Sanders and his wife Shelley of Easley; and a grandson, Drew Sanders of Easley.
Memorial services were held Oct. 22 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
PETER F. SAIS
CENTRAL — Peter Frank Sais, 83, husband of Gisela Friesch Sais, of 420 Brock Street, died Monday, Oct. 19, 2015, at his home. Peter is in Eternal Peace with the Lord.
Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., he was a son of the late Alexander and Antoinette Mucherino Sais. He was a retired maintenance supervisor with Cardion Electronics, Long Island. He was a woodcraftsman and a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean Conflict.
Surviving in addition to his wife are three sons, Gene Sais and wife, Julianne Sais of Wellington, Fla., Peter Sais and wife, Lucy of Anderson, and Eric J. Sais of Central; two daughters, Deny’c Sais and Michele Johnsen both of Central; grandchildren, Tabatha Sais-Harber and fiance, Ryan Esler, Kris Johnsen and Kaitlin Sais; and a great-grandchild, Philip Esler.
A graveside service was held Oct. 22 in M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans Cemetery in Anderson.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to an Alzheimer’s Group of your choice.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home, Central
JUDY ANN RAMPEY
EASLEY — Judy Ann Rampey, 70, formerly of Liberty, passed away peacefully, Monday, Oct. 19, 2015, at Northway Group Home in Easley, where she had resided for the past 10 years.
She was a daughter of the late William Oscar and Geneva Crowe Rampey. She previously attended Jones Avenue Baptist Church.
Surviving are two sisters, Janice Dickard of Easley and Joan Dixon of Boynton Beach, Fla.; two brothers, Joe and Jim Rampey, both of Liberty; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a sister, Helen Grace Rampey; and two brothers, Jack and John Rampey.
Graveside services to honor Ms. Rampey’s life were held Oct. 22 at Westview Cemetery in Liberty.
Memorials in her honor may be made to Hospice Care of S.C.: 900 E. Main Street Suite E Easley, SC 29640. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements. www.libertymortuary.com
BOB AULTMAN
PICKENS — Robert H. “Bob” Aultman, 72, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and husband of Dottie Hannah Aultman, passed from this life on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2015.
Bob was born in Greenville County, a son of the late LaRue Teague Aultman. He was owner and operator of Aultman Pump and Electrical. Bob was always willing to help others by using his many talents and skills. He was a “Jack of all trades” and shared his gifts with all. Bob was an active member of Grace United Methodist Church in Pickens.
Survivors include his wife, Dottie, of the home, children, Karen Floyd (Joey Patterson), Patti Turner (Jimmy), and Samuel Brandon Aultman (Tyler), grandchildren include, Stephanie Childs, Kasey Childs (Jeff Abercrombie), Ben Cannon, Max Cannon, and Robert Henry Aultman and great-grandchildren, Stephen Spearman, Mikey Swaykowski, Alexis Catlin, and Charlee Grace Childs. Also surviving is his twin brother, Bill Aultman (Linda) and other brother, Stanley Aultman (Linda Gail) and his sister, Vicky Anthony (Jim).
In addition to his mother, Bob was predeceased by a brother, Richard “Sanky” Aultman.
Graveside services were held Oct. 23 at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens Mausoleum IV, with The Reverend James McCoy Bruce and The Reverend Jimmy Dillard officiating.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to Grace United Methodist Church UMW, 309 E Cedar Rock St, Pickens, SC 29671.
STEPHANIE LEARD
LIBERTY — Stephanie Regina Leard, 43, of 104 Starlight Lane passed away peacefully Sunday, Oct. 25, 2015, at her residence following a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Pickens, she was a daughter of the late Frank and Patricia Ramey Leard. She was a Liberty High School graduate and had previously been employed with Reliable Automated Sprinkler Co. in Liberty. She loved fishing and spending time with her best friend and pet “Sophie.” She had been attending church at Flat Rock Baptist Church.
Surviving are four sisters, Mary Ann Fowler and her husband Mark of Liberty, Margaret Collier and her husband Jerry of Liberty, Deborah Suddeth and her husband Larry of Burlington, N.C., and Judy Wescott and her husband Chip of Mountain Rest; and a brother, Joe Leard from Liberty.
Funeral services to honor the life of Ms. Leard were held Oct. 28 in the Liberty Mortuary Chapel, with burial following at Hillcrest Memorial Park.
Floral arrangements are appreciated but memorials may also be made in her honor to Hospice Care of S.C., 900 E. Main St. Suite E Easley, SC 29640.
The family will be at their respective homes.
Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements. www.libertymortuary.com
R. B. GILSTRAP JR.
PICKENS — Richard Benson Gilstrap Jr., 90, husband of Margaret Duncan Gilstrap, passed from this life Friday morning, Oct. 23, 2015.
R. B. was born in Pickens County, a son of the late R. B. and Willie Ann (Annie) Nelson Gilstrap. He was retired from the U. S. Postal Service as a rural mail carrier and he was a faithful member of Grace United Methodist Church in Pickens. He was a member of the Hawley Lynn Sunday School Class and served as a roadie with the hand bell choir “The Bells of Grace.” A U. S. Army veteran, R. B. served during World War II in the Army infantry then later in the Medical Corps in Europe and the Pacific. He received a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star. He was a member of the Pickens-Liberty Lions Club, where he served as “Tail Twister.”
Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Margaret D. Gilstrap of the home, daughter, Vicki Gilstrap Porter of Pickens, and son, Richard B. “Benny” Gilstrap III (Ann) of Stuarts Draft, Va. Daddy B, as he was known by his grandchildren, Ben Porter (Alison), R. B. “Rick” Gilstrap, IV, Drew Porter and Maggie Shelley (Matt), and great-grandson, Holden Porter, was the light of their lives and their cherished role model. Also surviving are sisters, Sadie Nix (Ray) of Pickens, Edna Ellenburg of Pickens and Ann Knox (Johnny) of Seneca. R. B. is also survived by brothers-in-law, Ronnie Duncan (Martha) and Johnny Duncan (Mary) and by his faithful companion, his Boston terrier “Pug.”
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Huey Breeman Gilstrap.
Funeral services were held Oct. 26 in the Dillard Funeral chapel, with The Reverend James McCoy-Bruce officiating. Entombment followed at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Gardens Mausoleum I.
A message of condolence may be expressed to the family by visiting www.DillardFunerals.com.
Memorials may be made to the Pickens Chapter of Lions International or Grace United Methodist Church, 309 East Cedar Rock St., Pickens, SC 29671.
MARY LOUISE S. MORGAN
CENTRAL — Mary Louise Smith Morgan, 83, widow of Leslie Ross Morgan, formerly of Central, died Friday, Oct. 23, 2015, at Oconee Memorial Hospital.
A native of Laurens County, she was a daughter of the late Rev. A.E. and Iris Cooper Smith. She was a 1954 graduate of Columbia College and was a retired public school teacher, having taught in Charleston and Oconee County school districts. She was very active in the music programs of many United Methodist churches and most recently was a member, organist and music director for Ann Hope United Methodist Church in Seneca. She was a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Liberty Chapter 80 and served as Worthy Matron a number of times. She served on both the local and state levels of O.E.R. She was a member of the Monaghan’s Poinsettia Court 17 Order of the Amaranth.
Surviving are sons, Timothy Ross Morgan and fiancée, Kimberly Adams of Central and John Wesley Morgan and wife, Cynthia of Walhalla; and grandchildren, Christian, Caroline and Catie Morgan.
Funeral services were held Oct. 26 in the chapel of Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home with burial following at Lawrence Chapel United Methodist Church.
Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Amaranth Diabetes Research, c/o H. L. Pam Mosier, 172 Old Sandy Run Road, Gaston, SC 29053.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at the funeral home.
BETTIE MAE HOXIT STEWART
EASLEY — Bettie Mae H. Stewart, 59, wife of James Robert Stewart of the home, passed from this life Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015, at Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Born in Brevard, N.C., she was a daughter of Reverend Wayne and Kathleen Galloway Hoxit of Pickens.
Mrs. Stewart attended 5 Point Fellowship and was a custodian at East End Elementary School in Easley.
Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of the home, James, her parents, a daughter, Tonya Franklin and her husband Eddie of Liberty; a son, Michael Stewart and his wife Bobbi of Liberty; six grandchildren, James Stewart of Easley, Amanda Stewart, Kaylee Gillespie, Justin Franklin, Tristin Franklin and Meagan White, all of Liberty; four great-grandchildren, Cassidy Holland, Emma Stewart, Karsyn White and Kyler White; two sisters, Belva Fleming and her husband Chris of Ocala, Fla., and Angie Bowen and her husband Mike of Pickens; two brothers, Chester Hoxit and his wife Cecilia of Easley and Wayne Hoxit of Greenville.
Mrs. Stewart was predeceased by an infant sister.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 29, at McKinney Chapel Cemetery in Sunset, conducted by Reverend Bill Bruner.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Stewart family.
KATHY S. GALLOWAY
EASLEY — Kathy Sue Dalton Galloway, 59, of 178 Poinsett Circle, wife of Ricky Galloway, passed away Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015, at her home.
Born in Raleigh County, W.Va., she was the daughter of the late Frank James Dalton and Mable Louise Crookshanks Dalton.
Kathy was formerly employed with Ryobi in Pickens and Reliable Automatic Sprinkler in Liberty. She loved her family and the outdoors.
Surviving are her husband of the home; her children, Opal Green, Ricky Galloway Jr., Randy Joe Galloway, Jason Galloway and Sara Ann Galloway; 17 grandchildren; and a sister, Brenda Riddle of Easley.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by four sisters, Wilda Stout, Barbara Shirley, Linda Glasscock and Lena Maggard; and two brothers, Jesse Dalton and Edward Dalton Jr.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 28, at 2 p.m., in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with burial to follow in Westview Cemetery in Easley.
Flowers will be accepted.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
WILLIAM GREGORY WALSH
EASLEY — William “Bill” Gregory Walsh, 73, was born in Teaneck, N.J., on Feb. 2, 1942, to Arthur Allen Walsh and Gladys Gregory Walsh. He passed away on Oct. 24, 2015, in Greenville.
Bill followed in the footsteps of his father and older brother and graduated from Clemson University. He went on to earn advanced degrees from both the University of Georgia and the University of South Carolina, but forever maintained an allegiance to his beloved Tigers. He was a Captain in the U.S. Army, during which time he served as commander of a combat engineer company in Vietnam. He began his law career in private practice in 1982, and later presided as municipal judge for the cities of Simpsonville and Fountain Inn until his retirement in 2003.
An Eagle Scout and voracious reader, Bill loved to learn everything he could about a purchase or project before diving in. He was meticulous in his research and tireless in his efforts to share the knowledge and skills he accumulated, whether it be imparting the particulars of the law during the more than 15 years he spent as adjunct professor at Greenville Technical College, or teaching the tying of nautical knots. He was a certified U.S. Coast Guard Captain and loved few things more than entertaining family, friends, colleagues and strangers aboard his houseboat, The Hartwell Office.
Bill was an active member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Easley, where he served as Eucharistic minister, on the vestry, and with the men’s group. He was active with Simpsonville Rotary, where he served as past president, past assistant governor for District 7750, and was twice honored as a Paul Harris Fellow. He also had a deep and abiding affection for barbecue done well, and spent several happy post-retirement years as a master judge and marshal for the SC Barbecue Association.
Bill is survived by his wife, Carol Henderson (Richards) Walsh; by his daughter, Kathryn Walsh Gooch of Simpsonville; by his son, William Gregory “Spiff” Walsh Jr., and Spiff’s wife, Allison, of Simpsonville; by his son, John Allen Walsh, and John’s wife, Kathy, of Greenville; by his stepdaughters, Angie Richards Dickmeyer and her husband, Tommy, of Easley, and Carmen Richards Melton and her husband, Mark, of Denver, Colo.; and by 12 grandchildren. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Martha Jacks Batten, and her husband, Wilson Batten. He was preceded in death by many beloved pets, and survived by his dog, Muffin, who will miss their daily walks around the neighborhood and up and down the dock of Portman Marina.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2015, at 3 p.m. at Christ Church Episcopal in Greenville, with interment to follow at Robinson Memorial Gardens-Powdersville Road in Easley. Barbecue friends will host a celebration of Bill’s life, and details will follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to AHERO Foundation, Simpsonville Rotary Foundation or St. Michael’s Episcopal Church.
PEARL M. JENNINGS
EASLEY — Pearl Masters Jennings, 99, formerly of Dacusville Highway and wife of the late James Fant Jennings, went to her heavenly home on Thursday Oct. 22, 2015, at the home of her granddaughter, Emily, in Easley.
Born Oct. 13, 1916, at Table Rock in Pickens County, she was the daughter of the late John Demus Masters and Loujeana Henson Masters.
Mrs. Jennings was a homemaker and member of Cedar Rock Baptist Church. She loved her Lord, her family, farm life, sewing and growing all types of flowers.
Surviving are a daughter, Elvira Lavonia James of Greenville; grandchildren, Douglas Randall James, Gregory Scott James, Emily Jennings Gilstrap; great-grandchildren, Ashley James McLay, Taylor Marie James, Evan Gregory James, Sara Lauren James, Ethan Wade Mathis and Jared Blake Mathis; and step-great-grandchildren Adrian Gilstrap and Serenitie Gilstrap.
Mrs. Jennings was the last surviving member of her immediate family. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by a son, James Leland Jennings; brothers, Clyde, R.J., Leonard and Woodrow Masters; and sisters, Lola Nalley, Nancy Wade and Leota Smith.
Funeral services were held Oct. 26 in the chapel of Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, with burial following in Cedar Rock Baptist Church Cemetery.
Flowers will be accepted in honor of Mrs. Jennings.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
THE REV. JOSEPH R. NICHOLSON SR.
EASLEY — Rev. Joseph Robert Nicholson Sr., son of William Pack and Ollie Belue Nicholson, went to his heavenly home on Friday, Oct. 23, 2015.
In addition to his wife, Ann, of almost 66 years, he is survived by two brothers: Rev. Harold Nicholson and Jack Nicholson of Easley; four children: Chris, Bobby (Edie), Danny (Tracy), and Robin Turner; eight grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a sister, Evelyn N. Watson, and brother, Marvin E. Nicholson.
Rev. Nicholson was a retired United Methodist Minister and a member of Bethesda United Methodist Church in Powdersville. He was a minister for 50 years, serving appointments to North Pickens Charge, Toxaway, Green Street (Union), Calhoun Falls, Epworth (Charleston), Langley-Capers Chapel, Assoc. Pastor Buncombe Street, Bethel Park, Owings-Bramlett, Lowell Street, St. Mark (Charleston), Arial-McKissick, and Port Royal UMC.
Funeral services were held Oct. 27 at Bethesda United Methodist Church in Powdersville.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethesda United Methodist Church Building Fund, 516 Piedmont Road, Easley, SC 29642.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or in person at Robinson Funeral Home-Downtown, which is assisting the family.
GARY LEE STEWART
SUNSET — Gary Lee Stewart, 70, husband of Peggy Barrett Stewart, went to be with Lord on Monday Oct. 26, 2015, at his home.
Mr. Stewart was born in Pickens County, a son of Evelyn Irene Street of Sunset and the late John Clarence Stewart.
Mr. Stewart loved his family and also being outside working in his garden.
Survivors include his wife of 45 years, Peggy Barrett Stewart; one sister, Norma Owens and husband Dale of Pickens; and one brother, Dale Stewart and wife Pat of Sunset.
Mr. Stewart was predeceased by his father and one brother, Johnny Stewart.
Visitation will be Thursday Oct. 29, 2015, from 1-2 p.m. at Dillard Funeral Home, with graveside service to follow at 3 p.m. in Whitmire Family Cemetery near Rosman, N.C.
A Special thanks to Heather, Juanita, Catherine and Christie with Lutheran Hospice and also the staff. The family is at the home.
Dillard Funeral Home is assisting the Stewart family.
Daniel takes care of business at Walhalla
By Rocky Nimmons
Publisher
rnimmons@thepccourier.com
WAHALLA — After a season of many ups and downs, Friday night’s 49-0 victory over the Walhalla Razorbacks came at the perfect time[cointent_lockedcontent]
John Bolton/BoltonPhoto.com
Daniel’s Jacob Maloney stiff-arms a Walhalla player during the Lions’ 49-0 win on Friday night.
for the Daniel Lions.
The victory came at a time where the Lions needed a morale boost. The lopsided contest gave every player dressed out a chance to get on the field and mix it up.
“It has been a while since we had a game like this. To get up quick and get on top and get everybody we had dressed out into the game was good for team morale and team building for the future,” Daniel head coach Randy Robinson said after the game.
The Lions put forth a dominating effort against a much lesser opponent in Walhalla, but it was not so much about the win as it was a game that brought team unity and a win to inject a bit of confidence into the team as it prepares to face its toughest rival when the unbeaten Seneca Bobcats come to Singleton Field on Friday fresh off clinching their first Western 3A crown since 1996.
The victory also assured the Lions of a return to the AAA playoffs with at least a fourth-place region finish.
“It was good to get a big win, and we assured ourselves getting into the playoffs. Every team sets a goal of getting into the playoffs, so we accomplished a goal right there,” Robinson said.
The Lions scored early and often against the Razorbacks, and if there was any reason for concern, it was that the Lions mounted more penalty yards (122) on the night than Walhalla had in total offense (95).
The Daniel defense played as well as it had all season, completely shutting down Walhalla from the get-go. At the halftime intermission, the Lions’ defense had allowed only three yards of Razorback offense.
“The defense getting that zero was a big deal,” Robinson said. “We really had two goal-line stands and held them twice. The defense is trying to pull it together, and those kids are working hard, and it is good to see them have some success.”
The Lions started the game on the move, taking the opening kickoff at the 35. Quarterback Ben Batson went right to work, hitting wideout Carter Groomes for eight yards. Two plays later, Batson used his legs to pick up 50 yards on a pair of scrambles, but on the second run he lost his handle on the ball and fumbled the pigskin away with Walhalla recovering at its own 7-yard line.
The Daniel defense gave up nothing to the Razorbacks and forced a punt after three snaps. A great return by C.J. Scott flipped the field, and the Lions were sitting pretty at the Walhalla 15.
Batson quickly made up for the early fumble when he spotted a wide-open Will Swinney in the end zone on the drive’s first play. Following the catch, Rivers Sherrill trotted on and tacked on the extra point with 7:54 to play in the first quarter, giving the Lions a 7-0 lead.
The Lions continued to pound the Razorbacks defensively, and Batson and company were rolling all night. Following a three and out, Daniel put together a four-play drive that went 60 yards for a score. The Lions were so dominating on the drive that despite two holding calls that called back huge runs, the Columbia blue and gold machine never stopped churning and scored on a 12-yard pass from Batson to Groomes with 3:59 to play in the first quarter. Sherrill missed the PAT, but the rout was on and Daniel led 13-0.
A Miles Turmon sack ended any hopes of a Walhalla first down and again forced the Razorbacks to punt the next time Walhalla had the ball.
Like lightning, Daniel struck again — this time on a single snap, as Batson again found an open receiver. It was Scott who got behind the Walhalla secondary, and the speedster hauled in the pass and raced 42 yards for a touchdown with 1:07 to play in the first quarter. Robinson elected to go for a two-point conversion to make up for the previous PAT miss. Again it was Batson to Scott, making the score 21-0 in favor of the visitors.
It didn’t get any better for the Walhalla offense, and the Daniel defense, led by Jacob Maloney and Bru Nimmons, stymied the Razorbacks and forced yet another three plays and punt.
The Daniel offense just kept driving. Taking over at the Walhalla 45, Batson picked up nine on first down. Two plays later, it was Stephon Kirksey’s turn, and the back answered with a 25-yard pickup. Another holding penalty backed the Lions up a bit, but Batson was in control. The signal caller just took a breath, caught the snap and gunned a pass to Swinney from 20 yards out for a touchdown with 9:49 to play in the half. Cortland Young came on and nailed the PAT for his team, pushing the Daniel lead to 28-0.
The Lions managed one last score before intermission on a five-play series that covered 66 yards. Big plays on the series included three passes to Groomes for a combined 57 yards. The touchdown came on an eight-yard run by Kirksey. Young added the PAT, and the half ended with the Lions in control 35-0.
As the second half began, Robinson took the opportunity to start substituting freely, allowing every player a chance at live game action.
Walhalla did show some life after intermission and moved the ball on Daniel defensive coordinator Jeff Fruster’s unit. Starting at their own 46, the Razorbacks strung together a few positive plays, picking up three first downs on a 12-play drive. Walhalla managed to push the ball down to the Lions’ 14, but Fruster’s boys bowed their backs and held tight, making Walhalla try a 32-yard field goal. The kick was not even close, with the Lion defense holding.
The Daniel offense then drove 80 yards in nine plays. Kirksey picked up 21 yards on three carries. Robinson pulled the starter and called on sophomore Marnielius Cobb, and the youngster took the chance to shine with three runs that netted 18 yards. Batson sealed the deal with a 16-yard pass to Jacob Wichelns for a touchdown with 2:44 to play in the third quarter.
The Lions’ final points of the game were all defense as Fruster’s unit was substituting freely. Walhalla had the ball at its own 25 late in the game and slung a pass upfield. Daniel defensive back Lamar “Booboo” Woods picked the ball off and raced 40 yards for a score. Young added the PAT with 3:44 to play to seal the Lion’s 49-0 victory.
This Friday, the Lions will have to forget about the win against Walhalla and focus on taking on one of the top teams in the state when the Bobcats come to Central to renew their annual rivalry.
“If our guys can dig down deep next week — we are playing a team that is undefeated and already conference champs — we will see if we can show some Daniel pride and get after it next week in practice,” Robinson said.
“I am hoping our seniors will lead next week in practice. These Seneca seniors have beaten these kids all the way through, and this is our kids’ last chance to get them. I hope they will want to work hard in practice and execute the gameplan and give themselves a chance to play well and win.”
Friday will be the final game of the season at Singleton Field, with the 2015 seniors getting one last shot to shine at home.
“Normally on senior night our kids rise to the occasion and play their best,” Robinson said. “I hope our seniors put their best foot forward in this game and down the road we will see where we end up in the playoffs.
“I pulled out the history book of the Daniel football program and talked about previous teams. I told them they are part of a legacy. They are part of something great. They are going to be remembered for something. I told them you have two games to get this thing to .500 and get to the playoffs. I challenged them on what they will be remembered for, and hopefully they will carry that over to next week against Seneca.”
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Easley picks up win against Greenwood
By Ben Robinson
Staff Reporter
brobinson@thepccourier.com
EASLEY — Easley kept its hopes alive for earning a spot in the AAAA playoffs by knocking off the Greenwood Eagles Friday night.[cointent_lockedcontent]
Kerry Gilstrap/Courier
Easley’s Caleb Hill sacks Greenwood quarterback Roshun Jackson during the Green Wave’s 29-21 win over the Eagles Friday.
With the win, the Green Wave moved to 5-4 and 2-3 in Region I-AAAA. Easley must travel to Simpsonville to face Hillcrest on Friday night. Hillcrest is 7-2 for the season and 3-2 in region play.
In an uncharacteristic down year, Greenwood dropped to 3-6 for the season with the loss at Easley and will host unbeaten Westside on Friday.
Easley opened the game hot on offense, driving the ball inside the Greenwood red zone before Greenwood’s Jeremiah Black intercepted a Dalton Black pass intended for Bralan Fuller at the 1-yard line.
Although the setback led to points after Greenwood took control of the ball and drove it 99 yards for the game’s first touchdown, with Zane Dimiati scoring on a 10-yard run, Black and Fuller still had plenty of success for the Green Wave on the night.
The two connected for a 40-yard touchdown on Easley’s next possession, one of eight catches for an eye-popping 256 yards for Fuller, who scored on three of his eight grabs. After a missed extra point, Easley trailed 7-6 heading into the second quarter.
The Green Wave took a lead they would never relinquish in the second quarter as Josh Hansen drilled a 38-yard field goal to give his team a 9-7 advantage.
Greenwood’s Jack Pierce missed a 50-yard field goal attempt wide right just before halftime, and Easley took its 9-7 lead into the break.
The Green Wave struck first in the second half as Will Drawdy scored on a 38-yard pass from Black on their first possession after forcing a Greenwood punt, increasing the lead to 16-7.
The Eagles responded quickly, as Rayshawn Moss capped a three-play, 57-yard drive with a six-yard touchdown less than a minute after Drawdy’s score. Pierce’s extra point made the score 16-14 in favor of Easley.
Not to be outdone, Easley returned the favor even faster, as Fuller grabbed a pass from Black on the first play of the ensuing possession and sprinted 80 yards to paydirt, stretching the Green Wave’s lead back to nine points at 23-14.
Greenwood got on the board once more before the end of the third quarter when quarterback Roshun Jackson found Deontray Drennon for a 29-yard touchdown. Pierce’s extra point pulled the Eagles to within two at 23-21, but that was as close as Greenwood got.
Easley gave itself some breathing room midway through the fourth quarter on the third touchdown connection between Black and Fuller — this time from 31 yards out — but a blocked extra point kept Greenwood within striking distance at 29-21.
Driving to try to tie the game on their next possession, the Eagles reached as far as the Easley 18-yard line following a stop by Austin Morgan and Craig Barksdale on a third-down quarterback keeper. The Green Wave defense came up with a big fourth-down stop when Sean-Thomas Faulkner broke up a pass from Jackson.
After an Easley three-and-out and punt, Greenwood had one final chance, but Morgan fell on a loose ball at the Green Wave 40-yard line as time expired.
Although he tossed two interceptions, Black shined in the game, going 16-of-22 for 346 yards. Drawdy and Derrick Phillips combined to lead the Green Wave on the ground, with Drawdy carrying 14 times for 55 yards and Phillips adding six touches for 53.
Kickoff for Friday night’s game at Hillcrest is set for 7:30 p.m.
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Pendleton scratches out win over Liberty
By Jimmy Kirby
Courier Sports
jkirby@thepccourier.com
LIBERTY — In order to win, a team must score. [cointent_lockedcontent]For a while on Friday, it looked like the Liberty Red Devils would make it through a second scoreless regulation game on the season and face
Brandy Karr/Photo
Liberty quarterback Austin Hughey breaks away for a long run against Pendleton on Friday night.
another overtime battle.
That was not the case, however, as Colin Bunch came off the bench to throw two second-half touchdown passes and lead the Pendleton Bulldogs to a stingy 14-7 victory over the Red Devils in the last home game of the season for Liberty.
Bunch actually started on defense and was forced into duty at quarterback when Gibson Black left the game late in the first quarter with an injury.
Both teams failed to score in the first half in thies defensive battle. The Bulldogs turned the ball over four times deep in Liberty territory — including once at the Red Devil 1-yard line — without getting on the board. The other three times were by punt, a fumble and a missed field goal.
The Red Devils only crossed midfield once in the first half, with a drive ending on downs at the Pendleton 45-yard line.
Miscues hurt both teams as well. The Bulldogs were penalized 19 times for 161 yards and turned the ball over on a fumble and an interception, while turnovers hurt the Red Devils. Liberty quarterbacks threw five interceptions on the night — three by Nick Reeves and two by Austin Hughey.
Bunch connected with Nicquan Ramsey good for a 45-yard scoring strike to open the second half and put the Bulldogs up 7-0 with 10:04 remaining in the third quarter. The three-play drive covered 56 yards.
Bunch was also the defensive star of the game, as he then picked off a Hughey pass at the Liberty 31-yard line and returned it 13 yards to the Liberty 18-yard line. It was the third interception of the game for Bunch, who also picked off two other Red Devil passes in the first half.
Bunch found Malik Grate in the back of the end zone from 13 yards out to put the Bulldogs up 14-0 with 8:46 remaining in the third quarter.
The Red Devils finally found their rhythm late in the fourth quarter and put together a drive of 90 yards in only four plays to cut the Pendleton lead in half at 14-7. Tyler Renaud scored from four yards out to cap the drive. Hughey had two huge runs for 18 yards and 53 yards to set up the score. It appeared Hughey scored on the long run, but it was ruled he stepped out of bounds at the Bulldog 4-yard line.
The Red Devils got the ball back one more time, but the turnover bug reared its ugly head once more with Liberty deep in Pendleton territory. This time, Hank Martin grabbed his second interception of the game to seal the victory for the Bulldogs.
The combo of Reeves and Hughey were 0-for-10 passing on the night with the five total interceptions. The Red Devils had only 170 yards rushing in the game, and that number was inflated by Hughey’s big run late in the fourth quarter.
Aaron Bates led the Red Devil defense with 11 tackles, including three tackles for loss. It was not a bad night defensively for the Red Devils, as they only surrendered 215 total yards to Pendleton. The winning defensive effort was damaged by the lack of balance offensively for the Red Devils.
Liberty is averaging just 10.8 points per game with only the Carolina Trojans remaining on the schedule. The Devils have scored only 97 points this season and have been held to single-digit point totals in five contests. The Red Devils have outgained their opponents by about 600 yards on the ground this season, but have managed only 205 yards through the air compared to 1,542 by their opponents.
With the loss, the Red Devils fell to 2-7 overall and 1-5 in region play. Pendleton is now 7-2 overall and 5-1 in region play.
The Red Devils will make the short trip to Greenville to take on Carolina on Friday the last game of the season. It will be the Devils’ final chance to find balance in a season that has definitely had its ups and downs.
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