2014 June Franklin Living by Franklin County

June 2014 Vol. 4 Issue No. 5

Enjoying the great outdoors Cypress Cove Farm offers unique nature experience County has many options for fishing, camping

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390 Underwood Rd. • Russellville, AL

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Hook, line & sinker

L Lakes a great asset for local fishermen fi

Just like home

County offers several camp grounds for overnight stays

Finding nature

Cypress Cove Farm features birding and nature trails

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play ball

Little league sports big in Franklin County

8 What To Do 16 Wellness 18 Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hot 30 Cooking with Sam 33 Classifieds 40 Looking Back 42 Parting Shot 4

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Find us on

P.O. Box 1088 • Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1881 • fax: 256-332-1883 www.franklincountytimes.com FRANKLIN LIVING

General Manager Nicole Pell Managing Editor Kellie Singleton Sales Peggy Hyde Circulation Alton Zills Photography Kellie Singleton Bart Moss

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FROM THE EDITOR or some people, there’s nothing better than being right smack in the middle of the great outdoors, and if you are one of those people, Franklin County is the place for you to be. Most people are probably aware of the fact that Franklin County has lakes that are a favorite spot for many residents during the warmer months, but what many people – residents included – may not realize is how vast our options for outdoor recreation are in this area. This issue of Franklin Living highlights some of those recreational activities that will give families and individuals several options for getting outdoors this spring and summer. One relatively newer option for outdoor enthusiasts are the birding and nature trails at Cypress Cove Farm in Red Bay, which is owned and operated by Rep. Johnny Mack Morrow and his wife, Martha. Cypress Cove Farm was added to the North Alabama Birding Trail this past summer because of the many varieties of birds found in this one area. But birds aren’t the only wildlife to be found here – the trails are home to other varieties of animals and plants that make this free activity one that is educational as well as fun. Some of the more obvious options for outdoor recreation in Franklin County are activities offered by the Bear Creek Development Authority (BCDA). Fishing, swimming, boating, camping, hiking and hunting are all offered through BCDA, but for this particular issue, we chose to highlight both fishing and camping in the area. My father loves to fish, which is a hobby passed down to him from his father that he has continued to pass down to my brother as well. I never was a big fan of fishing, but spending some time on a boat with local fishermen Doug Clement and Eric Hill made me see what the draw is, especially fishing here locally. The lakes we have in Franklin County have been described as some of the prettiest in the North Alabama area, and I can attest that is certainly the case. Even if you don’t enjoy the sport of fishing, just being out in nature can be relaxing and refreshing. And with four different lakes to choose from, there’s plenty of water to go around for all those who are looking for that perfect spot to fish. Located on the different lakes are five different campgrounds operated by BCDA that offer anything from a truly rustic experience to RV camping to a weekend getaway in a cabin. And if you camp the way the Clarks from Red Bay do, you are guaranteed a time of food, fun and fellowship under the stars. But beyond the obvious outdoor recreational activities is something that is a way of life for many people in the area – little league ball. The season is already underway and we chose to showcase why little league sports is such a big deal in Franklin County. These aren’t all the options for having fun outside in this area, but we hope you will find inspiration in these pages to spend some quality time in the great outdoors.

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FCNI managing editor Kellie Singleton with her husband, David, and their dog, Phoebe.

WHAT TO DO Food Share Bank Independent will be sponsoring their Food Share program through May 30. Local branches will be collecting non-perishable food items to be donated to local organizations. Also, for every new like on Facebook or follower on Twitter in May, Bank Independent will donate $1 to the Food Share drive.

Armed Forces Day May 17 The Russellville Airport’s 2nd Annual Armed Forces Day event will be Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Russellville Municipal Airport located at 13365 Hwy. 243 in Russellville. The event will feature a fly-in of several different planes as well as an open house and plane rides. Guest speaker

Warren Trest, author of “Wings of Denial: The Alabama Air National Guard’s Covert Role at the Bay of Pigs”, will give a presentation at 1 p.m. followed by a book signing. A barbecue lunch will also be served for $10 a plate with all proceeds going to support a weather station for the airport.

place – $250; third place – $150; fourth place – $100; fifth place – $50; lunker – $200. For complete tournament rules or to obtain an entry form, contact Ronnie Wray at 256-627-8898. Entry forms will be taken by mail or at the ramp the morning of the tournament.

FCCDC meeting Casey Stockton Memorial Scholarship Bass Tournament May 17 The 1st Annual Casey Stockton Memorial Scholarship Bass Tournament will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2014, from 6 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Cedar Creek Lake’s Slick Rock Boat Ramp. Entry fee is $50 per boat. Prize money will be awarded as follows: First place – $500; second

May 30 The next meeting of the Franklin County Community Development Commission will be on Friday, May 30, at 8:30 a.m. at the Red Bay City Hall to consider grants for the month of May 2014. All grants must be turned in to Brad Bolton via mail at P.O. Box 449, Red Bay, AL 35582, via fax at 256-356-5655, or via e-mail at bbolton@communityspiritbank for disbursement to other members by Monday, May 26.

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OUT & ABOUT The annual Franklin County Relay For Life was held on May 2 at the RHS Stadium. Community members came out in support of the fight against cancer and to support those who have battled or are currently battling cancer as well as those who have lost loved ones to this fight. One of the highlights of the event is the Survivorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lap where each cancer survivor takes a special lap around the track while being cheered on by the community. Many thanks to all those who came out and supported this special event.

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OUT & ABOUT

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Hook, line & sinker ocal fishermen Doug Clement and Eric Hill are visibly excited as they get Doug’s boat unloaded into the slightly muddy, shallow water at Cedar Creek. A good rain has come through in recent days and they are anxious to see if the fish will be biting in some of their favorite spots. They joke and laugh as they speed across the water, which has cleared farther away from shore to become a beautiful mixture of dark blue and teal – a nice compliment to the dark green of the tree line and the soft gold and browns of the sandy shore. Clement said almost every fishing trip starts STORY BY out this way for him – anxious and excited to KELLIE SINGLETON see if today might be the day that he gets that PHOTOS BY “big catch” – the one he’ll get to tell stories KELLIE SINGLETON about years and years to come. But he said he’s also just happy to be on the

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water, to be in a place where the troubles of work and life in general just have to wait for awhile and he can relax and enjoy his time on the water. “That’s really the draw for me,” Clement said. “Fishing is something that is extremely relaxing and something I’ve come to truly enjoy. “There’s nothing quite like being out on the water, with hardly anything else around, and just waiting for the fish to bite. “And we are very lucky here in Franklin County to have the kind of access to prime lakes like we do. Our lakes are great for our local economy because they bring in tourism dollars with all the people who come here because of them, but they’re also great for people like me who enjoy fishing as a way to unwind. “In 15 minutes I can be on the water, and that’s a pretty great thing, especially considering a lot of people have to drive miles and miles to get to a nice place to fish.” Clement, like many other people in the area, describes himself as a purely recreational fisherman, partaking in the sport for the enjoyment and the camaraderie he has with many of his fishing pals. But there are others who are more into the competitive side of fishing, which is what Eric Hill said he enjoys doing. “I grew up on Upper Bear and I’ve been fishing in tournaments since I was 15,” Hill said. “Of course you develop a love for fishing, but I really enjoy the competition aspect of it, too. It’s a great feeling to have a good

day out on the water – to feel like you’ve got the fish figured out. “It’s always different – some days they’re biting and some days they aren’t, but having one of those good days when you seem to pick the right baits and do all the right things, it just doesn’t get much better than that.” Both Hill and Clement agree that whether you are fishing for recreation or fishing for competition, there is a definite science to the sport of fishing. “You can’t just go out with any kind of bait at any spot in the water and expect to start catching fish,” Clement said. “The longer I do this the more I realize just how much goes in to being a really good fisherman. It’s a science to figure out the right kind of baits to use, where the fish might be biting, what they might be eating, what the water temperature is, how clear the water is – you have to take a lot of things into consideration. “But knowing how much goes into it makes it that much sweeter when you do catch a really good fish.” The lakes in Franklin are open year round and are rated among some of the cleanest recreational waters in the South. According to the BCDA, the lakes are producing smallmouth bass over 5 lbs. and largemouth bass over 15 lbs. The lakes also have crappie, brim, stripe bass, carp, drum, blue gill and several types of catfish, among others. And with four lakes occupying more than 8,000 acres, fishermen never have to worry about overcrowding in Franklin County’s waters.

About the Lakes Bear Creek Reservoir is the smallest of the lakes, with 670 acres of surface area. Little Bear is next, featuring 1,560 acres of surface area, with 100 acres of high stumps. The lake is stocked with smallmouth bass, channel cat and threadfin shad. Upper Bear has 1,850 acres, with 205 acres of standing timber for cover. Fish stocked in the lake are spotted bass, channel cat, crappie, large and smallmouth bass. Cedar Creek is the largest of the lakes and contains the widest variety of fish. With over 4,200 acres of water, 225 of those in standing timber, the lake thrives with Florida Bass, salt water stripe, crappie, smallmouth bass, channel cat and threadfin shad. For more information about fishing in Franklin County, visit www.bearcreeklakes.com

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WELLNESS

Avoid damage to hair and feet this summer

any people find their appearances benefit from warm weather and time spent outdoors, provided they are wearing sunscreen and taking precautions against skin damage. But a few parts of the body may pay the price for time spent enjoying the sand, surf and other elements of summer.

after exposure to chlorinated water. * Brushing: Avoid brushing wet hair, which can rip out hair from the roots and lead to breakage. Comb through wet locks and go over gently with a brush. Feet

Hair Saltwater, chlorine, ultraviolet rays, and hot, humid weather can certainly wreak havoc on hair. After a day spent soaking up summer sun, men and women may experience breakage, loss of color, frizziness, and tangles. Healthy, beautiful hair requires protection and a few changes to your normal grooming procedure. * Sunscreen: Sunscreen is not just for the body. Certain formulations are designed to be sprayed on the hair and scalp. Additionally, certain shampoos and conditioners may protect hair from UVrays, providing further defense against the sun. * Conditioner: Dryness and breakage is common when hair is damaged. Deep conditioning can restore some vitality to hair that has been dried out by the sun and surf. In addition to weekly conditioning treatments in the shower, apply a leave-in conditioner to the hair prior to going to the beach or in the pool. This conditioner will offer another layer of protection and help shield the hair follicles from damage while preventing chlorine from penetrating. * Baking soda treatment: Some of the chemicals in pool water, namely copper algaecides, can tint blonde hair green. To combat this, rinse hair with a mixture of spring water and a teaspoon of baking soda to thoroughly clean away chemical residues. * Overprocessing: It may be better to wait until the summer season is over before utilizing chemical processes at the salon. Coloring, getting a perm or straightening hair may compromise already taxed tresses. Plus, color tends to fade more quickly in the sun and

Open-toed shoes or even walking barefoot is popular come summertime. But strolls in the sand or around town can cause dangerous or uncomfortable conditions to the feet if cautions is not taken. * Microorganisms: Warm, damp conditions can create a veritable breeding ground for the microorganisms that lead to plantar warts, athleteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foot, ringworm, and other infections. Closed-in shoes will provide protection against these organisms. If your feet do get wet, change out of your shoes and dry your feet. * Sunburn: People often overlook their feet when applying sunscreen. Spending long hours in the sun can expose the feet to the same harmful rays that are baking other areas of your body. People often do not apply sunscreen to their feet when they apply sunscreen to the rest of their bodies. But skin cancer can occur on the feet as well. * Burns: Hot pavement, sand and other surfaces can easily burn the bottoms of your feet. Test the temperature before walking barefoot. Better yet, wear a water shoe or a sandal to protect your feet from hot temperatures and any broken shells or debris that may cut the soles of your feet. * Pedicures: Visiting a salon for a pedicure is a great way to keep feet healthy. Pedicures typically involve soaking, massage, moisturization, and toenail care. Always visit a salon that uses sterilized tools to prevent infection, or bring your own set of tools to ensure cleanliness.

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Home away from home ranklin County has many recreational activities for residents or visitors to participate in, but if folks are planning on an extended stay, Franklin County also has many options for camping that will fit any lifestyle, budget or mood. The Bear Creek Development Authority (BCDA) operates 160 campsites in five different campgrounds within the county that offer everything from peace and tranquility to a rustic getaway to a well-maintained site with hook-ups for RVs and campers and even comfortable cabins that offer all the amenities of home. The Clark family from Red Bay has spent a lot of time on Franklin County’s lakes, so when David and Patsy Clark retired

recently, they knew exactly where they wanted to go. The Clarks are a couple weeks in to a month-long stay at Slick Rock Campground and they couldn’t be happier about it. They have brought along their RV, which is parked at one of the many sites that STORY BY offers electrical hookups and water outKELLIE SINGLETON lets, and they have everything they need PHOTOS BY to enjoy some quality time communing KELLIE SINGLETON with nature and other family members and friends. “There’s nothing like being out here where it’s so peaceful and quiet,” David Clark said. “If I want to fish, I can go down and fish. If I’m ready to come

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back and relax, I can walk right back up here and relax inside or sit in a chair and enjoy the nice weather outside. I love it.” Patsy Clark said camping at Slick Rock has already been a great experience that she hopes to repeat as often as possible. “I love grilling out and just being outside,” Patsy said. “And I’ve also enjoyed meeting people. It’s like its own little community out here.” And camping at one of Franklin County’s campgrounds can definitely be a communal experience. Campers get to know one another and make their campsites their own “home away from home,” according to Patsy Clark. At the Clarks’ site, strands of twinkle lights hang from the trees, creating a fun and simple way to provide outdoor lighting once the sun goes down. They have an Alabama tablecloth on the concrete picnic table where they have their meals, and they also have their Alabama Crimson Tide flag flying near a wooden “Welcome” sign featuring Big Al and the Clarks’ name, so others in the campground community will know who’s staying there and

can stop by to say hello. Even though this is their first season to camp, the looks of their set-up would have most people thinking the Clarks were seasoned campers, which many people are who camp in Franklin County are. There are many repeat campers who look forward to midMarch every year when the campgrounds open back up and they can once again take up residence in the great outdoors. David and Patsy’s son, Jeff Clark, and his fiancé, Tracie Bolding, have been frequent visitors at the Clarks’ campsite, and Jeff said he could see his family becoming repeat campers every year. “I wanted my parents to be able to enjoy something nice and relaxing after all their years of working, and I figured this would be perfect for them,” Jeff Clark said. “After spending time down here, I can already tell this is going to become a tradition. We loved grilling out and just getting to spend time together as a family.” Bolding said she feels fortunate to live in a place where

campgrounds like the ones in Franklin County are offered. “There is so much to do right here in Franklin County,” she said. “It has been wonderful to come out here, especially when you’ve had a long day at work, and just relax in this beautiful setting. “Some people have to drive miles and miles to find something like this, and those of us who live in Franklin County have it right in our own backyard – camping, fishing, swimming… you name it and it’s here. “I would recommend the camping experience to anyone who even remotely enjoys the outdoors. It’s peaceful and relaxing, but it’s also a great way to spend time with friends and family away from all the hustle and bustle of everyday life.” And for those people who would prefer a little less of a “roughing it” experience when they want to spend time admiring Franklin County’s natural beauty, the BCDA also offers sev-

eral one- and two-bedroom cabins at Elliott Branch that have a kitchen, a bathroom, a TV, and central heat and air, so there truly is an option for every type of camper. The five campgrounds (Elliott Branch, Slick Rock, Horseshoe Bend, William’s Hollow and Piney Point) are open mid-March through midOctober. Persons between the ages of 16 and 65 must have a user’s permit to take advantage of the lakes and related facilities. The annual permit is $22 and offers unlimited use of all camping, fishing, swimming and boating areas. A daily permit is available for $3.25. Campsite fees range from $10 to $17 per night. Cabins sleep up to 8 persons for the larger units and 6 persons for the smaller units, with one unit being handicap accessible. Pricing starts at $85. For more information, visit www.bearcreeklakes.com.

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Finding nature on the trail f you ask state Rep. Johnny Mack Morrow why he works countless hours to maintain the birding and nature trails at his own Cypress Cove Farm, his answer is simple. “I don’t see how we can expect our children and grandchildren to know about God and His creation without them actually getting out in it and experiencing it,” Morrow said. “I’m a firm believer that children, and even adults, need to get away from the TV, the video STORY BY KELLIE SINGLETON games, and the computer and learn more about the beauty that surrounds them. PHOTOS BY KELLIE SINGLETON “I think it’s great for kids and young people to get interested in these kinds of things and that was always my hope for this property – that I could inspire a whole new generation to appreciate the world around them.” And there is much to appreciate at Cypress Cove Farm, which is more than 50 acres of birding and nature trails that Morrow and his wife Martha own and have restored in order to provide a free

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outdoor recreational area for the county’s residents and visitors. For several years now, Cypress Cove Farm has been utilized by school groups and others because of its outdoor classroom and pavilion that provides a great way for students to get out of the classroom and for others to have a unique place to gather. But this past July, after many years of work, Cypress Cove Farm was added to the North Alabama Birding Trail’s Northwest Loop as Site #51. There are 12 marked trails that offer the chance to see purple martins, blue herons, cardinals, blue birds, kingfishers, wild turkeys, wood ducks, and several other birds native to this area or that pass through on migration. There are also habitats, three wildlife ponds and viewing areas that make the property ideal for bird watchers. But Morrow said the trails at Cypress Cove Farm aren’t just for people who like to bird watch. “Even if you’re not a bird watcher, this site is still for you because there is so much to do and see,” Morrow said. “The trails are more like nature trails, and they are all, for the most part, very flat, so it makes it easy for outdoor enthusiasts of any age to come out and enjoy them.” Morrow said he received the initial 46 acres of what became known as Cypress Cove Farm from his parents and he then began buying properties surrounding it in 2001 to create the spread it is today. “This is some of the most beautiful land you could imagine,” he said. “In addition to the abundance of wildlife, there are also three creeks – Bear Creek, Brush Creek and Mud Creek – that run through the property. “Brush Creek is one of the most pristine streams in the county, and all of this combines to make a wonderful place to not only observe the bird population but other parts of the environment as well.” Morrow said the Alabama Forestry Commission has identified 15 species of trees on the property, which have been marked to give visitors information about each species. “The city of Red Bay was actually named for the bay tree, and we actually have a bay tree here that is original to the property,” Morrow said. “We also have a bald cypress that foresters think is around 180 years old.” Morrow said the property has a rich history as well as an archeological dig at the property in 2006 and 2007 showed artifacts that led officials to believe that Cypress Cove Farm was actually a village as far back as 10,000 years ago.

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“The researchers who came here to do the archaeological dig told us that this would have been like the ‘Wal-Mart’ of this area,” Morrow said. “Because of the streams, creeks, wildlife, and other resources, these primitive people could find everything they needed right here.” Another use for Cypress Cove Farm is to play host for high

school Envirothon students who hold classes and special outings there each year. “I hope the people who visit Cypress Cove Farm – whether it’s for school or to enjoy nature along the trails or to watch the many species of birds – are able to take away the same love and appreciation for God’s creation that I have because that’s been the main point all along,” Morrow said.

To get to Cypress Cove Farm, located at 1895 Highway 28 in Red Bay, take Alabama 24 from the junction of Alabama 247 and Alabama 24 toward Red Bay for 1.7 miles. Turn right on Mudd Creek Road/Highway 28 and go approximately one mile. Cypress Cove Farm is open year-round and self-guided tours may be taken. The property will close to visitors 30 minutes prior to sunset each day.

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FOOD

Cooking with Sam Recipes by Sam Warf

Fruit Cocktail Cake 1 ½ cup sugar Add two eggs 2 cups plain flour 1 ½ tsp. baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt 1 large can fruit cocktail with juice (this is all you need for liquid in the cake) Taco Dip 2 oz. cream cheese 16 oz. sour cream 1 pkg. taco seasoning 1 cup black olives, drained & chopped 1 cup cheddar cheese 1 cup tomatoes, chopped 1 cup finely chopped lettuce 1 cup chopped peppers (your choice) 1 16 oz. jar chunky salsa

In a 13 x 9 buttered pan, bake at 325 degrees for 45 minutes. Icing: ½ cup brown sugar 1 cup sugar 5 oz. evaporated milk 1 tsp. vanilla ½ cup coconut ½ cup pecans 1 stick butter

Mix cream cheese, sour cream and taco seasoning. Spread on 12” round platter. Start layering ending with cheese on top. 30

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FOOD Artichoke Dip 14 oz. can or jar of artichokes 1 cup Mayo 8 oz. sour cream 1 cup Parmesan cheese 2 tsp. hot sauce (or to taste) 2 tsp. lemon juice Spray Pan, use 7” round pie pan Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes Sprinkle with cheese for serving.

Fresh Apple Cake 3 eggs 1 ¼ cup oil 2 cups sugar 2 ½ cups self-rising flour 2 med. Apples peeled & chopped 1 cup shredded coconut 1 cup walnut or pecans 1 tsp. cinnamon Black Bean Salad 16 oz frozen corn or 1 ¾ cup 2 can (14.5 oz) fire roasted diced tomatoes, drained 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained ¼ cup red onion ¾ tbsp.. chopped cilantro 2 tbsp. lime juice 1 tbsp. vegetable oil ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp. ground cumin 1 tsp. lime 1 tsp. black pepper 1 clove garlic, chopped 1 avocado, chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix ingredients together, pour into a tube pan that has been greased and floured. Bake 1 hour. Frosting: Mix ½ stick butter, ½ cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup milk Boil for 3 minutes, pour over warm cake, punch a few holes into cake.

Mix all ingredients together, serve cold.

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Fruit Salad 1 small can pineapple 1 small can mandarin oranges 1 small jar cherries Drain each jar Mix in: 8 oz. poppy seed dressing ½ cup coconut ½ cup pecans, chopped 10 oz. marshmallows You can add: 2 fresh bananas – the day of 1 fresh apple – the day of 1 cup blackberries 1 cup seedless grapes 1 cup oranges 1 cup strawberries Coat apples & bananas with 2 tbsp. of lemon juice

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OUT & ABOUT

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Take me out to the ballgame outh league baseball and softball is almost a rite of passage for parents and their children. This year almost 800 boys and girls across Franklin County will participate in Dixie Youth programs in Belgreen, Phil Campbell, Red Bay, Russellville, Tharptown and Vina. Each community has a league and each of the leagues is run by hard working volunteers wanting to see their children learn “America’s Favorite Past Time.” But they do it for other reasons, too. At Phil Campbell, Matt Smith said it’s just the love of watching children grow and learn. “I do it for the love of the game and the love of kids,” said Smith, who serves as the league’s president. “When they learn how do something and you see that light come on, it’s special.” Smith also said great lessons are learned by the children. “They learn teamwork, how to work, and how to put forth STORY BY effort to get what they want. They learn that things aren’t just BART MOSS handed to them.” PHOTOS BY And as rewarding as it can be to volunteer with Dixie Youth BART MOSS programs, Smith’s years of involvement haven’t come without heartbreak and tragedy, though. “Probably the worst thing I’ve experienced is having two kids (Ethan Knox and Edgar Mojica) in our program get killed in the tornado in 2011,” Smith said. “That happened right in the middle of our season and it was tough. They were special kids and it deeply affected everyone involved in the program.” Colby Cox serves as Belgreen’s youth sports president and believes it’s important for each community to give their children a program of their own to participate in. “I do this so our kids can have a league of their own to play in,” Cox said. “Hopefully our kids will learn to love the game, learn the fundamentals and be ready to play when they get to the junior high and varsity level.” It’s also widely known that many of the parents get just as involved in Dixie Youth sporting events as their children do whether it’s spending entire weekends at the ball field, buying their child all the latest gear, or just being there game after game to cheer their child on. Cox said the Belgreen parents are always willing to chip in and help wherever they are needed. “We have great parent participation,” Cox said. “We all work together in all youth sports, not just baseball and softball. Everyone is willing to work. “It is very rewarding as an adult to be able to see kids improve over time.” Kristie Kennedy, president of the Vina youth sports program, said youth sports is like an extended family in their community. “I’ve got three children playing and this allows me to be a big part of their lives and their friends’ lives,” Kennedy said. “We are a small community, so all these kids become like a part of your

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extended family. I just love seeing them have fun and enjoying the games. “It’s a great benefit for our kids to have something to do. It’s something to keep them active and involved.” Jody Farris, president of the Red Bay Dixie Youth, has been involved in Red Bay’s program for over a decade and just enjoys seeing the children learn. “I love being around kids and coaching them,” he said. “I love seeing them learn. It’s special when you get to that moment where you realize they are getting it.” Youth sports are about learning, growing and having fun. Franklin County is blessed to have so many great volunteers that work tireless hours in the cold, the rain, and the summer heat to give children a chance to enjoy life.

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Cell: 256-412-8086 Fax: 256-332-9663 39

LOOKING BACK

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LOOKING BACK

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PARTING SHOT

“It is good to realize that if love and peace can prevail on earth, and if we can teach our children to honor nature’s gifts, the joys and beauties of the outdoors will be here forever.” – Jimmy Carter

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TifÀn Motor Homes

105 Second Street NW • Red Bay, AL 256-356-8661 Norris Lewey’s job duties have changed quite a bit in the past 40 years, but one thing about it hasn’t – he still loves being around people. Like many employees joining the ranks at TifÀn Motorhomes in the early 1970s, Lewey didn’t really know what the future would hold and he certainly didn’t expect to look back on a 40-year career with the company. But, on June 24, that is exactly what he will be doing. “I never dreamed I would be here this long,” said Lewey, as he reÁected back on the longevity he has had with TMH. “When I Àrst came to work here I was insulating sidewalls and undercoating the motorhomes. But, after about six weeks, they made me a utility person and I jumped around helping wherever they needed me when someone was out.” In 1999, he moved to the service department and has now been working with the Allegro campground for several years. Lewey is one of the Àrst points of contact that customers have when they arrive to have work completed on their motorhomes. “I work the list with the customers of what they need done and order items so they will be in stock when a coach gets to the bay. I get all of the complaints Àrst,” he said with a laugh. “No, most customers are very nice and are real happy when they get here. We just try to make sure they leave feeling the same way.” He describes his current role as including a great deal of “PR” work. “I just try to make sure the customers have what they need and help make sure we take care of them while they are here.” At any given time, there are as many as 150 coaches at the service center and a great number of those customers

spend extended periods at the Allegro campground. “I really enjoy meeting the customers because 99 percent of them are as nice as they can be,” Lewey said. “They are here from all over the United States and Canada so it’s interesting to meet them and learn about them while they are here.” When he’s not working, Lewey operates an 80-head cattle farm and row crops corn. “And I try to spend time with my Àve grandsons any chance I can,” he said. Lewey’s ability to roam the campground and “mingle” with customers could be related to the same traits that

allowed him to be elected to the Franklin County Commission for three terms. During one of those terms on the commission, Lewey’s wife, Brenda, served in his seat for more than a year while he was deployed to Iraq with the Alabama National Guard. Lewey retired from the National Guard in 2007 after serving for 37 years. “You know, when I started working here things were a lot different,” he said. “The motorhomes and what people want in them have changed, but I have always enjoyed working with people and that’s one of the things I still like the most.”

Norris Lewey

TifÀn Motorhomes 40-year employee Norris Lewey speaks with a customer outside of her coach at the Allegro campground in Red Bay.

Norris Lewey will celebrate his 40th anniversary at TifÀn Motorhomes on June 24.