On a trip home from several doctor’s appointments last week, Ouida and I stopped for a sandwich at a restaurant at the interstate. Next to our table were two well-dressed men who struck up a conversation with us.

We learned they were from Key West, Fla., and they were headed to Gees Bend to buy quilts. That’s right, they were on their way to this small Wilcox County town to purchase some prize-winning quilts from some of the residents of that town. We asked the men why they needed quilts in Key West and they let us know right away the quilts would not be used to cover beds, but to be displayed in one of their art galleries.

You see, these Gees Bend ladies became quite famous and quite rich a few years ago when their quilts were declared national and international works of art. Their works were exhibited at treasured museums and art centers across the USA and even in foreign countries.

The men told us this would be their second purchase and they had been waiting two years for this order. They said they were really looking forward for this purchase because the patterns are so unique and are in such demand.

News of this artful work by these ladies became known through a magazine article in the late 1960s. Since then, this quilt enterprise has been exposed throughout the world. Numerous publications and newspapers have carried featured stories on the works of these talented ladies.

You may find it interesting to learn of a new ferry that has been approved to run from Camden across the Alabama River to this unique town of Gees Bend. In fact, this means of transportation is key for residents getting in and out of this community.

The ferry resulted from a $1 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency. A spokesman from the agency said, “It is exciting that the state of Alabama will lead the nation with the use of this clean technology used to power the ferry.”

Atmore and area residents can make the trip to Gees Bend in a couple of hours. You will be able to see first hand these amazing colorful quilts made by talented ladies in this quaint town.

You also have the opportunity to make that ferry trip, too.

Several of my friends already know about this particular locale. They frequently hunt and fish in that area and even take in the camping areas located along the river up there.

Now, let us take a look at some news from the year 1954.

Two ECHS star football players signed scholarships to play with the University of Alabama Crimson Tide that year. They were Jimmy “Red” Emmons and Sam Jack Cassidy. Each excelled in their on-field positions. Red was an outstanding lineman and Sam Jack was a shifty running back. These two pals often road home with me on weekends. Sometimes, I had as many as four riders in my little Chevy.

The state unveiled small radar boxes used by officers to clock speeding drivers. Several county and local officers were trained to use these boxes.

Escambia Florida and Escambia Alabama came under quite a scare when several rabid foxes attacked dogs causing them to die. One-thousand dogs in these two counties were vaccinated during this outbreak.

Several members of Boy Scout Troop 26 were almost trapped in an overnight snowfall as they camped on the banks of big Escambia creek. They included Johnny Johnson, Bobby Kearley, Bobby Mays, Bobby Middleton, Jimmy Mays, Jim Staff, Alfred Davis, Keith Mixon, John Mims and John Gilbert Barnette. Jean Wilson and Cliff Mims, scoutmasters, were with them during the ordeal. Having learned how to cope with dangers in campouts their skills carried them through the cold night.

For many years, Auburn football great Dr. Ed Dyas treated patients at his Mobile office. Sadly the renowned gridironer and physician passed away a few years ago. I remember carrying my mother to his office for treatment. I am sure he treated some of you.

Another doctor easily recognized is Dr. Mike Davis. He specializes in thyroid medicine. A kicker for the Crimson Tide, he was the third member of the Tide’s great kickers. His father, “Pig” Davis, was first in line followed by his older brother Tim. I remember seeing Tim kick four field goals in that 1964 win over Ole Miss. That was the year it snowed heavily in New Orleans. The game was played in Tulane Stadium prior to the building of the Superdome.

Speaking of domes, how many of you can remember when the Bankhead Tunnel in Mobile was completed? It was in 1940. My dad often mentioned the miles saved to his job to Brookley Field via the tunnel.

That tunnel was recently temporarily closed for repairs.

Next week, there will be more news from days gone by.