Andrews — If you were at Andrews High School last week and thought you saw Bigfoot, you weren’t seeing things. Besides him.
Bigfoot, otherwise known as Mike LaLone, made an appearance at Andrews High School around 1:30 p.m. July 19 as part of an art class project for grades K-7 under the STEAM program, which emphasizes science, technology, engineering, arts and math to students. The program receives grant money under the larger 21st Century program umbrella.
LaLone, who is an artist himself, was the idea man behind the art project. He created a large cutout of Bigfoot’s likeness, then had students cut different-size feet using many colors and sizes to fill the body space, creating a colorful collage. LaLone called the finished project, “Bigfoot of many colors.”
Several staff members assisted in different areas to bring the project together, including Andrews Mayor James Reid.
Seemingly out of nowhere, Bigfoot appeared in the classroom to the amazement of the students, who began laughing and touching his hairy coat. The creature and student interaction lasted about 30 minutes before the hairy ape-like, man-like beast once again became elusive and disappeared from the property.
Bigfoot is a longstanding legend, with a museum dedicated to it just across the state line in Fannin County, Ga. He is secretive and walks solo, as opposed to being part of a pack. Those who believe in his fabled existence hold parties, festivals, conventions and partake in photo opportunities.
He has been spotted in Canada, Florida, California, Ohio, Michigan and numerous other states. One
thing is certain – the creature gets around.
Bigfoot enthusiasts, experts and skeptics have all made a fuss over the mythical man. There’s attire and even grooming products celebrating his existence. Whether you believe in the beast or not, students at Andrews High can at least say they have spotted him – as LaLone smiles with a wink.