AROUND THE AREA

Dadeville dance troup is Disney-bound

Mahogany Masterpiece Dance Studio students recently learned they will perform at Disney World next summer.

Parents and family members helped share the news June 2 with a surprise party during the students’ daily practice session, adorning Mickey Mouse ears and holding balloons and signs announcing the trip.

Dance director Raven Tolbert planned the party after learning that her application to Disney was accepted.

“I thought this is a perfect opportunity for us as a dance studio that is new in our community and something our town has never had. I want to help catapult the children because it’s about way more than dance. It’s about them,” Tolbert said.

Students will dance in two performances at the Orlandobased park and will take part in a parade. ~ William Marlow

On the World's Stage

Mahogany Masterpiece Dance Studio parents and children will hold fundraisers and accept donations for their upcoming trip to Disney World.

Grider tapped for BRHS coach job

Smitty Grider will bring 17 years of experience to the Benjamin Russell High School Wildcat program as head football coach. Former head coach Aubrey Blackwell tendered his resignation in May.

“I’ve always been a fan of this program here,” Grider said. “It goes all the way back to 1995 when I came to Alexander City with Spence McCracken. We played Benjamin Russell that first year. There is a great tradition here of hall of fame coaches. The opportunity to come here is very special.”

Grider said he wants to help rebuild the Wildcat football program to what many consider the glory days.

Grider has built and started programs and brings a career record of 125-65 to Alexander City. He retired last year but found that he didn’t want to give up coaching. Back on the Field Smitty Grider has come out of retirement to coach “I thought I was ready to step away six months ago – I thought I was ready to go into something else,” Grider said. “After a couple months, I realized I was a football coach. It’s what I have always been. That’s what I want to do.” the BRHS Wildcats. ~ Cliff Williams