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Gracie’s Big Splash is resounding success
By CHARY SOUTHMAYD
Article published on Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007
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![[Image]](/content_images/081507_bee-01.jpg) |
| Photo by WAYNE CATHEL |
| Clowning around with a couple of colorful characters are Caite Tarr, front, and Katherine Murray, both of Belleair. They were all enjoying the fun for a good cause during Gracie's Big Splash on Aug. 12 at Dimmitt Community Center. |
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BELLEAIR – The community delivered a collective hug Aug. 12 to a little girl in the midst of the fight of her life.
Gracie’s Big Splash at the Dimmitt Community Center was deemed a huge success. An estimated 500 people turned out to honor Gracie Purdy and raise medical expense money for her family. The 5-year-old girl is undergoing treatment at All Children’s Hospital for Diffuse Pontine Glioma, cancer of the brain stem.
The mood was decidedly upbeat Sunday evening as families played on water slides, ate special “Gracie Meals” and delicious baked goods, and raised a considerable amount of financial assistance.
Gracie, herself, made a brief appearance at the party in her honor.
“The family was overwhelmed by the generosity and compassion of all those who came out to the event,” said Commissioner Karla Rettstatt, one of the organizers of Gracie’s Big Splash. “The bake sale was phenomenal. Everything was beyond our expectations.”
The Belleair Bluffs fire department delivered a splash of its own, spraying the fire hose over delighted kids and even some adults.
“G-R-A-C-I-E, we love Gracie,” cheered the Belleair Recreation cheerleading squad.
One of the most special moments of Gracie’s Big Splash came as Mayor Gary Katica drew the winning ticket for a new bicycle from Outspokin. Gracie’s older brother, Nolan, was the winner, prompting enthusiastic cheers from all in attendance.
Another fundraiser
Roly Poly Sandwiches and Soups will donate 10 percent of all food and catering sales on Aug. 20, 21 and 22 to the Gracie Purdy Assistance Account. A full menu is available online at www.rolypoly.com. Roly Poly Sandwiches and Soups is at 541 S. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater. Call 442-2750.
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Article published on Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007
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