It took Alexia Strong only eight weeks to figure out the clues that led her to this year’s The Hunt treasure as she won $1,000 in doubloons to be spent at Participating Businesses, ending the 10-week promotion sponsored by The Grenada Star.
The junior at Grenada High School was happy to finally win.
“I’m excited,” the 16-year-old said. “It felt like it took a long time.”
Strong discovered the treasure following Clue No. 8: “Hunting for treasure can be a numbers game; If you are in between, fifteen can help you fulfill your dream.”
She said it was all the reassurance that she needed after narrowing her search area in Week 7 with the Clue: “Shopping centers, fast food and fun is near the spot; A process of elimination will assist you and give you a shot.”
“It limited my search because of the border and because a crow flies straight,” she said alluding to Week 3’s Clue: “History is no mystery where the treasure lies; But be sure you remember the boundaries as a crow flies.”
When her search was complete, Strong discovered the treasure chest containing the winning certificate behind the retaining wall off Springhill Road near the Grenada Fort historical marker located behind the Sports Center. Her search was thorough.
“I drove around to the spots and then got out and walked around searching,” she explained.
Strong said that she began participating in The Hunt last year after her mother brought home some clues.
“I then saw it in the newspaper and thought, I’ll try to find it,” she said.
She almost succeeded in her first attempt as a treasure seeker.
“I tried and was close, but did not succeed,” she concluded.
In fact, Strong was in the area of the treasure last season, but looked over it.
The Hunt promotion, which encourages shopping locally in Grenada County, was sponsored by The Grenada Star with the Grenada Area Chamber of Commerce, Guaranty Bank and the Grenada Tourism Commission joining the hometown newspaper as Official Sponsors.
Participating Businesses included, Magnolia Scrubs & Co., PTG Outdoors, 2020 Eyecare, Jolly Jumpers, AM Boutique, Okeefe’s, Merle Norman, No Way Jose, JuJu’s Market and Pap’s Buffet & Steakhouse.
“I appreciate the Official Sponsors and Participating Businesses for making this year’s The Hunt promotion another success,” Star Publisher Adam Prestridge said. “Not only is The Hunt intended to encourage shopping locally, but we also want young and old alike to get outdoors and enjoy the outdoors in a fun, creative way.”
Strong is the daughter of Matt and Christy Strong. She is a sister captain for the Grenada High School Marching Band color guard and plays the oboe in concert band. A dual credit student, she also works for Smart Search in Grenada.
