Megan Davis
McDonald County [email protected]
Blankenship Park in Southwest City will soon be sporting a new set of bleachers, thanks to the initiative of an 8-year-old.
Macy Reece has been investing in her community from a young age. She enjoys playing softball and is actively involved in 4-H, where she shows livestock.
While at ball practice one evening, Macy noticed that the bleachers on the northwest field had seen better days. The metal infrastructure is rusted, bent and peeling. Many of the boards sag, with splinters sticking out.
Concerned, she took the matter to her grandmother, Pat Ramsey, for input. Ramsey suggested Macy pursue the issue by contacting the council about raising funds for repairs.
Steve, Macy's father, received a quote of $900 from Main Street Lumber to update the weather-worn bleachers.
On April 12, Macy bravely addressed the council. The council granted permission to begin fundraising.
She quickly took to the streets with Misty, her mother, to scatter collection jars around town.
Ramsey, who works at Simmons, inquired about placing a jar at the facility but was denied. She was directed to a representative who pledged to donate the difference after fundraising was complete.
In just two weeks, Macy had raised upwards of $200. As promised, Simmons supplied the remaining funds.
City employees will complete the work and everyone in the stands will reap the benefits, thanks to a self-motivated 8-year-old, Macy.
General News on 05/26/2016