I love deer. I always have. My adoration for the four-legged animals probably commenced with my initial viewing of the Disney movie “Bambi” when I was younger. My interest in them has only intensified since.
Seeing a deer makes my day. I get so excited when I can see one. My friends even send me pictures of them if they spy them out and about because they know how much I love them.
So, imagine my surprise when last week, as we were leaving work and got to the door, one of my colleagues said “Look over there. There is a deer walking up the sidewalk!”
Sure enough, what I would call a teenage deer was sauntering up the sidewalk near TAD and walking behind Phoenix High School and Central Office, on the sidewalk, just like a human would.
It was the cutest thing you have ever seen. I think all four of us were just mesmerized by it.
There was something so funny about seeing it near work. I am used to seeing deer on my way from work or on our Blink camera from the middle of the night. But here in town it was a little more exciting.
Ironically, deer seem to be everywhere nowadays, as do some of the other furry, four-legged creatures, such as bears.
Last week we were told a bear was over on Myrtle Avenue, which is not too far from our center. A few months ago, another one was seen over by Weigel’s (maybe wanted a sandwich). In the past few months, bears have been spotted near Romo’s; in the lake at Holiday Hills; near the 18th hole at Dorchester in Fairfield Glade; rambling around Brookhaven subdivision here in the city limits; and I am sure in other portions of the county.
Another animal I have seen lately that I have never seen until the past year or so: armadillos. I have seen at least two on the roads lately. I do not recall seeing deer, bears and armadillos growing up here. Now they are rampant.
As my sister said, “Are we in Alaska?”
I still have not seen a bear myself in Cumberland County. I want to see one, but I also want to be in a safe spot when I do. I am not interested in walking into one somewhere, I am in favor of viewing it from a distance!
Mark your calendars for the fireworks extravaganza sponsored by the city of Crossville next Friday, July 4. Activities begin at Centennial Park at 4:30 p.m. with live music, food trucks, etc., and fireworks at 9 p.m.
This event always attracts thousands of people, so make sure to use caution while in that area!
Experts say travel over the Fourth this year is expected to shatter records both on the roadways and in the skies. If you are traveling, please remember to allow extra time, to observe speed limits, wear safety belts, do not text or drink while driving, and allow extra time if you are going to the airport.
If you plan on being on the waterways, remember to follow all safety procedures and stay safe with fireworks!
Activities coming up around town include:
Summer Sounds with Cochren & Co., is scheduled for Saturday, June 28, at the Cumberland County Community Complex in Crossville! This family-friendly fundraising concert is presented by Victory Athletics of Crossville and features GMA Dove Award-winning band Cochren & Co., with special guest, Crossville’s own Brad Lee.
Doors open at 5 p.m. with the concert beginning at 6 pm, with a night full of music and stories. Proceeds support youth groups, schools, clubs, churches, and athletic ministries throughout the Upper Cumberland and beyond.
The Stone Memorial High School Panthers Basketball Camp will be held Monday, July 7-Wednesday, July 9. Plan now and don’t miss it … the camp will be held each morning from 8-11. Entry fee is $50 per camper in grades 2-8.