By PAULA EARLS
Democrat Staff
Pack the gym night was hosted by the Hawthorn Bank Friday, Jan. 10, at the California High School where the California Pintos and Lady Pintos hosted the Eagles of Southern Boone. Both the boys varsity and junior varsity teams defeated Southern Boone, while the Lady Pintos varsity and junior varsity were defeated by Southern Boone.
Hawthorn Bank staff gave out 500 t-shirts to patrons attending the games.
During halftime of the girls and boys varsity games the bank hosted Hoop Shoot. During halftime of the girls varsity game seventh graders Hailey Cain and Austin Bolin participated in Hoop Shoot. Each were given the opportunity to win money for making baskets. The first stop was the block - where they could win $20. From there they moved out to the free throw line. If a free throw was scored they could win $30. If a three-pointer was scored they would receive $50 and if they could score from half-court they would be awarded $100. Both Cain and Bolin won $20, for hitting a shot from the block.
During the boys varsity game half-time the eighth graders participating in the Hoop Shoot were Madison Ratcliff and Chase Marshall. Neither Ratcliff or Marshall were able to connect on a basket but were awarded a $10 conciliation prize from Hawthorn Branch Manager, Becky Lawson.
California High School Principal Mike Hight was very excited about the turn out for Friday night's game and expressed his appreciation for Hawthorn Bank's support of the school. When asked about next week's tournament he stated "We are really looking forward to hosting the tournament next week, good things always happen during the California Tournament. I hope everyone will come out and support the teams."