2023 Franklin Living March-April

Boy – have we ever got a magazine chock-full of goodness for you in this one.

Everything is blooming, and those of us who cringe against winter can finally breathe again. Of course, those of who dread spring for the pollen that marks its return can’t breathe so well –but metaphorically speaking, it just seems like you can breathe easier when the gray clouds lift, the temperature begins to warm and flashes of color dot a green landscape, rather than a brown and barren one.

Yes, things are happening in nature this time of year – but I guess that’s true all times of year, in some respects. It’s the same for our community. Things are happening in the communities across Franklin County year-round, and we’ve dialed in on a few you just might want to know more about.

FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR

In this edition of Franklin Living we introduce you to Mark Wells, running extraordinaire. He’s a Phil Campbell man and the head coach for the new cross-country program at Northwest-Shoals Community College. The XC program will be based on the Phil Campbell campus, which is perfect, as Wells will continue his successful running club for the Phil Campbell third- through sixth-graders. Read his story on page 21.

We also shine the spotlight on a very special lady at Vina – who is by no means new to her game. Betty Mahan has been serving in the cafeteria of Vina school for generations, more than six decades, and she is much beloved among the Red Devils. You can read about her starting on page 17.

For many of us, spring brings to mind renewal, and that’s part of the idea of Celebrate

Features

Recovery. The 12-step program is gaining ground at Gateway Church in Russellville and Trinity Assembly in Red Bay, reaching people with any kind of “hurt, habit or hang-up” and helping them choose a better way. Learn more about the people and program starting on page 11.

We hope as you spring into the next season you’ll take some time to enjoy this issue of Franklin Living. Maybe you’ll peruse it as you enjoy something peanutty for National Peanut Month (page 28); maybe you’ll pull it out to find a new dip recipe for that backyard cookout (page 6); maybe you’ll seek the financial or faith advice within its pages (pages 5 and 10, respectively); or maybe you’ll enjoy the reading recommendations from Lori Skinner (page 20). Whatever catches your eye, we hopes you’ll enjoy Franklin Living as part of these longer, lighter days.

Alison James

What’s Happening

Check out all the upcoming community events!

Check out all the upcoming community events!

Submit community events for future issues of Franklin Living to alison.james@franklincountytimes.com. Requests must be received by the first of the month for consideration for the next edition.

Submit community events for future issues of Franklin Living to alison.james@franklincountytimes.com. Requests must be received by the first of the month for consideration for the next edition.

Rockin’ at the Roxy

March 11, April 8

Spring Sports Registration

Jan. 1 through Feb. 1

Jan. 29 through March 7

The second Saturday night of each month at 7 p.m. is the monthly Kerry Gilbert Band concert at the Historic Roxy Theatre in Russellville. The KGB will be joined by a special guest for each show. Doors open at 6 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for children 6-12 and free for children younger than 6.

Franklin County

BTCPA’s “Doublewide, Texas”

April 27-30

basketball teams will face off on the court for the Franklin County Varsity Tournament. Teams will play at Red Bay in this annual competition among county teams.

The Bay Tree Council for the Performing Arts in Red Bay will host its third production of the season, “Doublewide, Texas,” April 27-30 at the Weatherford Center in Red Bay. This show is written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten. For information about group prices and dinner theatre options, contact Beth Hammock at 256-668-0045.

Chucky Mullins Scholarship Fundraisers

March 24-25

The Russellville Parks and Recreation Department will begin spring sports registration with soccer signups Jan. 1 through Feb. 1. Youth soccer is for boys and girls ages 3-12, and cost is $35. Teams will play their games at the soccer fields by the Chucky Mullins Center. Youth softball signup for girls ages 6-12 will begin Jan. 29 and continue through March 7, with a cost of $35. For more information call 256-332-8870, ext. 14.

Rockin’ at the Roxy

Jan. 11 and Feb. 8

The second Saturday night of each month at 7 p.m. is the monthly Kerry Gilbert Band concert at the Historic Roxy Theatre in Russellville. The KGB will be joined by a special guest for

The Chucky Mullins Scholarship Committee presents the return of its traditional golf tournament at Twin Pines County Club, March 24, and its third annual football camp and second annual Special Olympics Pro Bowl March 25. Following the football camp, the committee will host an evening where community members and Ole Miss alumni will share stories of Mullins and what he means to the community. This event will take place at Russellville High School football stadium. It will be free; however, donations are always welcome. This year’s events will also include a silent auction on Facebook. Preregister for any of the events and find out more information at www.cms1988.com or by calling Skye Hamilton, 256-3980186, or Deedra Moore, 256-412-5659.

Almost Elton John

April 22

Jarred Price returns to the Historic Roxy Theatre to reprise his show, “Almost Elton John.” This tribute show features Price and his band, The RocketMen. Price first performed at the Roxy Sept. 25, 2021. He will be bringing his beautiful red baby grand piano for the show.

Back Alabama will be Jan. 20-26, kicking off the two and a half month program. SBA is a free statewide weight-loss campaign designed to encourage Alabamians to get healthy and have fun doing it. Since the first challenge in 2007, Alabamians have lost more than 1 million pounds. For more information, to sign up or to find a local weigh-in site, visit www.scalebackalabama.com.

The Roxy’s Salute to Broadway

May 4-7

LifeSouth Blood Drives

Jan. 22 and Feb. 1

The LifeSouth bloodmobile will be in Russellville

“The Roxy’s Salute to Broadway” will be presented May 4-7 at the Historic Roxy Theatre. This production, written and directed by Hillary Malone Hall, will pay tribute to many Broadway hits from throughout the decades. The Franklin County Arts and Humanities Council received a $7,300 grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts for this production this year.

Jan. 22 at IHP and Feb. 1 at Cricket Wireless. The bloodmobile will be at IHP from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and at Cricket Wireless from noon to 7 p.m. For more

Overcoming bad credit barriers

There are many barriers to buying a home – and overcoming past bad credit is one of them for many individuals. Don’t lose hope; there are steps you can take to help with the challenges of securing a loan and working toward rebuilding your credit.

Can you get a mortgage loan if you have “bad credit”? Many times, the answer is yes – but you will have some tradeoffs.

The thing about bad credit is, no two people are the same; there are many varying factors. Securing a loan might depend on how much you have for a down payment, what your debt load looks like, your income and whether you have any debts that are in collections.

You will likely also pay a higher rate than a conventional mortgage. The lender you use will play a factor because all lenders have different requirements. Be prepared for a higher monthly payment because of the higher interest rate, but continually working to get your credit in shape will allow you to refinance at better terms later on. Do your research on loan options to see what type of loan will work best for you.

You might even choose to hold off buying until you have a chance to repair your credit.

How do you rebuild your credit? Begin by working on your credit score and credit standing. Nobody likes to hear this because it

takes time and patience, but raising your score and improving your financial situation will give you better loan options.

Pay attention to your:

• Payment history – Paying your bills on time is essential because your history can account for 35 percent of your score. Make this a top priority!

• Available credit – The amount of your available credit that you are using matters. Work to start applying extra payments to debts to begin working those balances down sooner. Having fewer or reduced monthly debt payments helps your debt-to-income ratio.

• Income – Getting a second job or asking for that raise might be necessary if you want to speed up what you are able to pay off. Bonus: The extra income also helps your DTI ratio. Further, having at least a two-year job history is important for loan qualification. Waiting it out is definitely the most challenging part. Necessary changes to your credit score will not happen overnight. Setting small, incremental goals will help keep you on track and help you see your progress.

BUILT to SERVE. HERE to STAY.

It’s frustrating when the bank you trusted with your financial relationship no longer exists. That’s what happened in Leighton in 1947, and Bank Independent was born to fill the void.

Over the past 75 years, we have been “Built to Serve, Not to Sell!” And, we are here to stay! Let us welcome you home and show you the award-winning Bank Independent difference.

Emily Mays is vice president/chief administrative officer at Community Spirit Bank in Red Bay, working in finance for 15 years.

Some local banks are closing offices, leaving town, or being acquired by big banks.

Bring flavorful fun with

CHIPS & DIPS

Recipes and photos by AMY

DOLAN MCCOLLUM

Who doesn’t love a delicious chip-and-dip duet? Whether serving up snacks to accompany a March Madness viewing, cracking down on after-school hunger or planning the perfect picnic accompaniment, the perfect dip should be high on the list. With National Chip and Dip Day falling March 23, now might be the perfect time to whip up a traditional favorite or try a new recipe. Amy Dolan McCollum has plenty of choices.

“Dips are easy to prepare, and many do not require cooking. Everyone loves chips, too, and dips just add to the flavor,” McCollum said. “I have been around lots of kids – having three daughters, doing foster care and teaching for 29 years – and kids and adults too love chips and dips.”

One thing to consider – your serving dishes. “After we were hit with COVID, more and more people are conscious of food safety and sanitation. Serving the food in small clear punch cups is a great way to make it safer and eliminate any double dipping,” McCollum noted. “You can also purchase snack size bags of corn chips and place in a basket next to the dips to minimize handling.”

CORN DIP

Serve this corn dip cold with tortilla chips or scoop corn chips.

Ingredients

• 3 11-oz cans of corn, drained (I prefer to use one can of white kernel corn, one can of yellow sweet kernel corn and one can of Mexican kernel corn)

• 8 oz. shredded mild cheddar cheese

• 8 oz. sour cream

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise

• 4-oz. can diced green chilies, drained

• 5 green onions, chopped

• 1 fresh jalapeño pepper or 1 Tb. chopped jalapeño pepper from a jar

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium size bowl and mix well.

2. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours.

TASTE OF FRANKLIN

BUFFALO RANCH DIP

If serving a large crowd, this recipe is easy to double. Serve with tortilla chips or scoop corn chips.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken or two 12.5-oz cans of chicken

• 1 8-oz cream cheese at room temperature

• 1/4 to 1/2 cup hot sauce, to taste

• 1 packet of Hidden Valley Ranch Original Dip Mix

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1/4 cup sour cream

Instructions

APPLE CHIPS

Ingredients

• 3 large sweet crisp apples, such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, Jazz or Pink Lady

• 3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Place racks in the upper and lower thirds of your oven and preheat to 200 degrees.

2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

3. Wash the apples then core with an apple corer. You can also skip this step if you don’t mind a few seeds in the chips.

4. With a mandolin or a very sharp knife, slice the apples horizontally into 1/8-inch-thick rounds. Thin slices are best! If you slice the apples more than 1/8 inch thick, they will still be delicious, but they will not crisp up.

5. Arrange the apples in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Sprinkle with cinnamon.

6. Bake for one hour in the upper and lower thirds of the oven, then switch the pans’ position on the upper and lower racks. Continue baking for one to one and a half additional hours, until a single apple chip removed from the oven is crisp when set out at room tem-

perature for a couple of minutes – re move a single apple slice to test but let the others continue baking.

7. Once you are happy with the crispness, turn off the oven and let the apples sit in the oven for 1 hour as it cools down to crisp further. If you fear you overcooked them, remove the pan immediately and let it sit at room temperature. Different thicknesses and types of apples determine how crisp they become. The total cooking time will also vary based on the moisture content of your apples.

8. Store baked apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

APPLE DIP

Ingredients

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 2 8-oz. packages of cream cheese, room temperature

• 1 package of Heath bits (orange bag)

• 1 tsp. vanilla

Instructions

1. Mix all ingredients.

2. Serve with apple chips, either from the above recipe or pre-made apple chips, or serve with fresh apple slices.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, mix all ingredients until well blended. Next, spoon into a 1-quart baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes. You can also prepare in a slow cooker or crock pot on high for 1 ½ to 2 hours.

EASY OLIVE DIP

Ingredients

• 6-oz. can chopped ripe black olives, drained

• 4.5-oz can green chilies, drained

• 4 or 5 green onions, chopped

• 3 or 4 fresh tomatoes, diced, or 29 oz. canned petite diced tomatoes, drained

• 1 Tb. olive oil

• 3 Tb. wine vinegar

TASTE OF FRANKLIN

Instruc tions

1. Mix all ingredients.

2. Refrigerate overnight.

3. Serve with tortilla chips.

BEST CHEESE DIP EVER

As a teenager growing up in the ’90s, I loved EL Toro Restaurant in the Shoals. Their cheese dip was my favorite! This recipe is not exact but very close. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Thanks to my dear friend Martha Sibley for sharing it with me several years ago! Serve with your favorite tortilla chips.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. American cheese

• 1 tsp. cumin

• 1 tsp. paprika

• 1 tsp. chili powder

• 1 tsp. garlic, minced

• 1/2 small onion, minced

• 1 cup water

• Salt, to taste

Instructions

Mix all ingredients together and heat in a double boiler. If you do not have a double boiler, cook in the microwave, stirring frequently.

CRAB DIP

Ingredients

• 6 oz. can white crab meat

• 8 oz. cream cheese

• 2 Tb. mayonnaise

• Dash of lemon juice

• Dash of Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp. finely-chopped onions (more or less to taste)

• Parmesan cheese (fresh; not the kind in the can)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Mix first six ingredients.

3. Sprinkle parmesan on top.

4. Bake for 30 minutes.

5. Serve with pita chips.

SPINACH DIP

Ingredients

• 1 package Knorr spring vegetable soup mix

• 1 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 10 oz. box of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

• 1 can water chestnuts, chopped

Instructions

Mix all ingredients well and serve with tortilla or corn chip scoops.

CORN DIP

Serve this corn dip heated, with tortilla or corn chips.

Ingredients

• 15-oz. can white corn, drained

• 15-oz. can yellow corn, drained

• 15-oz. can corn and peppers or Mexi-corn

• 10-oz. can diced Rotel tomatoes, drained

• 8 oz. cream cheese, diced and softened

• 1/4 c. sour cream

• 2 Tb. finely-chopped sweet onion

• 1/2 tsp. chili powder

• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder

• chopped fresh cilantro

• 1 Tb. diced jalapeño

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. In a medium baking dish, mix all ingredients.

3. Bake for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

TEXAS CAVIAR

Ingredients

• 3 15-oz. cans black eyed peas, rinsed and drained

• 15-oz. can whole kernel corn, drained

• 15-oz. can shoepeg corn, drained

• 15-oz. can Mexi-corn or corn with peppers, drained

• 10-oz. can Rotel tomatoes, undrained

• 1 cup sweet onion, chopped

• 1 cup chopped bell pepper

• 10 oz. zesty Italian salad dressing

Instructions

1. Mix all together and refrigerate overnight.

2. Serve with corn chips or scoops.

Got joy?

Would those who know you best say you walk in joy?

Joy can be defined as an outward sign of inward faith in God’s promises. This powerful definition comes from author Tom Newberry in his 2007 book, ”The 4:8 Principle: The Secret to a Joy-Filled Life.” Thinking about this definition, would you characterize your predominate way of thinking about life as joyful?

Philippians 4:8 is the central Bible verse to Newberry’s book because it is God telling Christians how to think. It is one of the big concluding thoughts to a brief letter in which one of the overall themes is that true joy comes from Christ alone. You probably already know the verse: ”Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.”

In his book, Newberry shares several key ideas.

First, we must remember God designed us to walk in joy. Philippians 4:4 states, ”Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again – rejoice!” When our joy goes missing, we fall into the painful trap of attempting to function contrary to the way God designed us!

Second, our thinking affects our spiritual walk. Unhealthy thinking results in unhealthy relationships with both God and people. People who are following Jesus must allow their thinking to be directed by Philippians 4:8.

Third, God designed us with the ability to control our thinking. Newberry states in the introduction to his book, “I wrote this book to help you improve the one thing in life over which you have complete control: Your thinking.” Most of us would agree it’s both unhealthy and sinful to be out of control with our actions; why are we not equally alarmed during those times when we are out of control in our thinking? David recorded a worthy goal in Psalm 19:14: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight.”

Thinking about the apostle Paul can help us. Newberry writes, “If anyone was ever justified in being negative and overwhelmed by all that life was dishing out, certainly Paul was. Unfairly accused, confined in prison, and constantly facing peril or potential death, he chose to emphasize possibilities instead of problems.” In other words, Paul displayed a profound ability to control his thinking.

What about us? Are you walking in joy today?

Philip Goad has been serving as the minister at North Highlands Church of Christ in Russellville since March 2020.

Celebrating recovery

Healing ‘hurts, habits, hang-ups’ one step at the time

Story and photos by MARÍA CAMP

“Celebrate Recovery is for any hurt, habit or hangup,” explained Neal Fuller Jr.

In recovery himself for 29 years, Fuller is full-time Celebrate Recovery director for the United Methodist Conference. His group meets Tuesday evenings from 6-8 p.m. at Gateway Church.

He said helping others walk the path he’s already traveled helps him maintain his own sobriety as well. “When we serve others, we help ourselves.”

“We meet people where they are,” he added. “This is a Christ-centered recovery program, but not everybody’s ready for Jesus.” He explained it’s a “step-study” program. “That’s where the healing and transformation really comes from.”

Fuller said for the first 10 years of his own recovery, he used Hank Williams Jr.’s music to help keep him sober. “I didn’t want no part of Jesus. My ‘higher power’ was music in the beginning.”

Originally from Indiana, he moved to Alabama in 1997, first to Florence and later

to Russellville, after which he met his nowwife, Sondra, in Tharptown. They moved to Tuscaloosa, where they lived for 17 years. They returned to Franklin County three years ago when COVID hit.

Fuller said he originally started going through the Celebrate Recovery program to seek help overcoming addiction and alcoholism but has since found he also struggles with depression, childhood issues and more.

“I have to deal with them, and I use Celebrate Recovery to do that. He said the 12-step worldwide ministry is based on Matthew 5 – “the beatitudes, the way Jesus told us to live.”

SEEING BIG CHANGES

Fuller said he’s seen lives change through the process of Celebrate Recovery, going from “total, deep-seated hate to completely loving their neighbor.” He recalls a specific example, a man who within six months to a year “came to Christ, saw the light and finally just changed.” Fuller said he is a “totally different person” now, one people “would not recognize as the same man.”

The results Fuller has seen aren’t isolated to his own experience or program. David Kelley, pastor of Trinity Assembly in Red Bay, said for the past 15 years, his church has hosted and sponsored a Celebrate Recovery group as part of their community outreach. “We’re just trying to make a difference by helping people,” he explained. In line with the Russellville program, he said their group is not just for those with addictive behaviors but offers a place for anyone with “hurts, hang-ups and habits” – though the majority are those struggling with addictions, including alcohol and drugs as well as other addictive behaviors, such as pornography.

Kelley said some come for help dealing with grief over losing a loved one or going through a divorce or dealing with other traumatic experiences. The goal, he explained, is to give people an opportunity “to have hope and see there’s help out there and that they can change.”

“We have small groups, and that helps,” he continued. “We’re also there to support family members being affected by someone with addictive behaviors.”

Kelley said Patrick Brooks is program coordinator at Trinity Assembly. Like Fuller, Brooks has himself escaped an addictive lifestyle. “Patrick and his parents helped me get this program kicked off here,” Kelley said. “We are right on the state line with Mississippi here, and we also reach out to Tishomingo and Itawamba counties.”

Kelley said Brooks and the church work to provide a non-threatening environment where people won’t feel judged and can see there are people who care and want to help them. “It hasn’t been easy,” Kelley said, “but it’s certainly been worth it. We’ve seen a few people fall through the cracks, and we’ve also seen a lot of people who have been helped, as well.”

He said they have connected with some long-term rehabs to provide options for those who need more help than a weekly meeting can provide.

“We want people to know there’s a different life they can live, but it’s a choice you have to make,” Kelley added. “Addictive behavior has a very strong hold on people’s lives, and they need help to overcome it.”

WHAT THEY HAVE FACED

Fuller said the program is designed to help people battling addiction, as well as a variety of issues, including anger, anxiety, grief and many others – “any issues that take us away from God, anything we’re struggling with that we just can’t seem to get past.”

Fuller explained both of his parents were alcoholics, and he “wanted to be somebody new,” somebody who wasn’t an “addict, manipulator, liar, cheat, steal or sneak.”

His sponsor – someone who walks with a person during recovery – told him he had two choices: to live his old life and

Milestone chips help participants track their progress.

eventually relapse or to change his life and never go back.

“I finally quit fighting and surrendered my life to Jesus,” Fuller said.

One person who has been going to the Russellville group, Tina, said she is gaining more than she could ever imagine. “I’m seeing lives change in front of my eyes, and it’s absolutely amazing,” she said. “I want people to know that there is help, and with God as your higher power, anything is possible.”

Tina said to say she was powerless and that her life was a mess before starting this program would be “such an understatement,” explaining she has “so many issues” she works through every day, including “anxiety, anger and resentment toward a situation I can’t control.”

“I work every day to keep going,” she added.

Jordan Ruple is among those attending the Red Bay program. “I’m a recove -

ring drug addict from way back,” he said. “Celebrate Recovery is an awesome place to be. I try to keep my week full of the spirit somehow. Jesus is the true reason I’m set free. If you work the steps, then it works, but if you just come to get your court-ordered attendance card signed and go back out into the world and don’t apply it to your life, then it won’t do much good.”

Ruple said he’s glad to have the opportunity to try to encourage people and help them find hope – to see that there’s life beyond addiction. “My all-in date right now on recovery is eight months, but I’ve been coming, off and on, for the past two or three years,” he added.

Brooks, as ministry director for Trinity’s Celebrate Recovery program, explained they want to provide a safe place for people to come and to know their privacy and anonymity will be closely guarded.

“I’ve been sober 17.5 years,” he said. “I was addicted to meth and got forced into a treatment center. I couldn’t go a single day without smoking it in the beginning.” Three years into his sobriety is when he started the program at Trinity Assembly.

“It’s about having a place that’s always there where people won’t be judged,” he added, “and if they lapse or decide to leave otherwise and later return, we don’t ask where they’ve been. We just say we’re glad to see them.”

Meetings at both Russellville and Red Bay start at 6 p.m. with a meal and then a period of worship together, followed by small group meetings. Participants go through workbooks and are invited to share their testimonials.

Another attendee in the Red Bay program is Ann Ziels. “I had early childhood trauma,” she said, “and I struggled with drugs and alcohol, mostly methamphetamine.

Program participants who now work for Russellville Dream Center: Zachary Gamble, Joshua McDonald and Maegan Burks.

She started attending because the court ordered her to attend either this or a similar program, but like so many others, she said she found that committing to the steps created real change in her life. “Celebrate Recovery helps you stay on track, and the fellowship with others who are struggling or have struggled helps,” she said. “My kids and grandkids get the best of me now.”

Owen Terry, another participant in the Red Bay program, said he and his wife started attending the church first, later deciding to give Celebrate Recovery a try.

“I’ve been sober for almost 11 years,” he said. “This program really helped me get on the road to sobriety and combating addictive behaviors, including drugs and other struggles, as well as pornography.”

Terry said he started doing drugs at age 14 and continued for 17 years. “Thanks to this program and the people

in it, I finally was able to get sober and stay sober – and, of course, also thanks to God.”

RUSSELLVILLE DREAM CENTER

People who think of recovery options in Franklin County likely think of the Russellville Dream Center. Pastor Shawn Reathford, of the Russellville Dream Center, said Celebrate Recovery is “a wonderful resource that works for numerous people.” Reathford said he teaches at Celebrate Recovery programs in Mississippi, noting “they’re very helpful for families and people who are struggling with depression and anxiety, any life struggles, and it’s an excellent resource.”

What the Dream Center offers is along similar lines but is not a Celebrate Recovery program. Reathford said they’re having “a real good response” to their program, which is open to anyone. “They

don’t have to be looking for religion or God,” he continued, “but we do talk about that, and we let people know upfront. Our program is set up to give people truth about how to deal with life in addiction.”

Maegan Burks, who now works for the Dream Center, said she started as a program participant, coming from Tennessee in 2011 to get off drugs. “After coming here, I realized having a relationship with Jesus was the most important thing,” she added, “and the only way I could stay sober.”

Another participant-turned-employee is Joshua McDonald, who explained his addiction started “young in life,” progressing over time.

“About two weeks before I came here, I tried to take my life and wound up in ICU with no hope,” he said. “I’ve been here 23 months now. God brought me out of that situation, and I sought help and wound up here.

Red Bay’s Celebrate Recovery group includes Owen Terry, Patrick Brooks, Jordan Ruple and Ann Ziels, with her grandson, Maddox.

“Before I came here, I knew of God, but I didn’t truly know God, and I think I’ve found him on a personal level here,” McDonald added. “I found true hope, and it’s changed my life.”

Burks had a similarly life-changing experience. She said while she was was “raised in church,” she didn’t know truly know the Bible or Jesus. It took “a good two months to even want a relationship with Jesus because I had done so many bad things.”

Burks said a lot of people suffering from addiction want help but are afraid of going to treatment and being judged. “We all know what it’s like to be an addict, and there is a way out if you’ll just ask for help,” she added. “We want to help.”

That’s what Zachary Gamble found when he came to the Dream Center about three years ago. Another participant who now works for the program, Gamble said he had a good upbringing but never-

theless fell into addiction that followed him for 20 years, “starting with alcohol, marijuana and, eventually, cocaine and opioids.”

“Things just never got better until 30 months ago.” That’s when he tried to take his life, “but God intervened,” Gamble said. “I knew without a shadow of a doubt there was a God and that he loved me, and that’s when I came to the Russellville Dream Center.

“Life now is what God designed me to have. I found my calling, my purpose, and I’m able to help myself by helping others – and that’s the reason I’m still here.”

HERE TO HELP

That, in a nutshell, might be the reason why everyone who is involved in leading the recovery process is here.

“We have to let people know where we are, who we are and why we’re here,” Fuller explained. “If we can get some hea-

ling in the community, that’s where the big change comes.”

Kelley said they want “to let people see that Jesus is the answer, and that we’re here to help them, and to make sure they know they aren’t alone.”

It’s something Margie Brooks, mother of Trinity program leader Patrick Brooks has experienced firsthand, from seeing her son’s struggle to dealing with her own issue of being an enabler. “If you want to be helped, this is a good place to get help,” she said. “You gotta do your part and do the work in order to get the benefit out of this program. “When you’ve got Jesus there, it gets a whole lot better.”

To learn more about the Russellville program at Gateway Church, call Fuller at 205-242-2505. To learn more about the Trinity Assembly program, call the church at 662-279-3926. To learn more about the Russellville Dream Center, call 256-332-4732.

Russellville Dream Center offers options for help for those suffering from addiction and other life struggles.

Decades of devotion

Mrs. Betty cheers generations in Vina school cafeteria

Story and photos by MARÍA CAMP

For Betty Mahan, the reason behind her six-plus decades in the Vina school cafeteria is simple:

“I enjoy working,” Mahan explained, while sitting at a cafeteria table surrounded by fellow lunchroom workers.

Now 94, Mahan, or “Mrs. Betty,” as she is affectionately known, still enjoys going to the cafeteria each day to perform the work she has so lovingly done for what will be 63 years this May.

BEGINNINGS

At $2 a day and 31 years old when she started working in the Vina school cafeteria, Mahan has happily served and cheered generations of children, staff and faculty.

“I grew up in Vina,” Mahan explained. “I was born right down yonder,” she added, indicating an area not far from the school. “This is my life. I love these kids.”

Richard Townsend, retired Vina school guidance counselor, started first grade at Vina the same year Mahan began working in the lunchroom.

“I guess you could say we started school together,” he said with a laugh. “I retired in 2014, and she’s still working. She’s one strong and dedicated lady – always greeting the kids and teachers with a warm smile and asking how their day is going.”

Savannah Smith shares similar first memories of “Mrs. Betty.” “She was here when

I was little, and I was attending the Head Start program,” Smith recalled. Smith, now a Pre-K teacher at the school, said Mahan was “always happy to see us,” adding she doesn’t think she’s ever seen Mahan not happy.

Smith said Mahan would stand at the end of the line, hand them their condiments and other things, smile and say, “Hello, children.”

Townsend said nobody will ever come close to having Mahan’s work ethic; he’s never seen anyone work as hard as she does. “You hear people say you need to retire and enjoy life. I believe she’s enjoying life now – she loves what she’s doing.”

THROUGH THE GENERATIONS

“She’s always the first one the children see,” said kindergarten teacher Deborah Townsend. She said “Mrs. Betty” hands them their food, bag or treat and always has a “sweet comment or compliment and a nice smile, just something to make their day.”

“She loves Vina school, and we all love her,” she added.

Through nine principals, four directors of child nutrition and five superinten-

dents, Mahan’s presence remains a beloved constant in the Franklin County Schools system.

“Mrs. Betty is a real treasure,” said Vina Principal Brent Gillespie. “This is my fifth year here, and I have really enjoyed getting to know her.”

Gillespie said Mahan tells him stories almost every morning of years gone by when he goes in to check on the lunchroom. “She is a busy, hard-working lady, and I have a ton of respect for her,” he added. James Pharr, former Vina principal, also described her as “a very dedicated and hard-working lady” and said he was “blessed to work with her for 15 years.”

“I love Mrs. Betty,” agreed FCS Superintendent Greg Hamilton. Before being elected superintendent, he taught history, coached baseball and served as assistant principal at Vina school. “I had the pleasure of working with her for 20 years. I will never forget the stories she shared with me throughout the years. She’s a truly remarkable lady – a lady of moxie.”

Current Child Nutrition Program director Robynn Bragwell has known Mahan for about six years, and she said she loves getting to enjoy Mahan’s “quick wit.”

“She’s an icon for child nutrition in Franklin County.”

Robynn Bragwell FCS CNP Director

“Mrs. Betty” — Betty Mahan — greets students from Savannah Smith’s Pre-K class. From left: Willa Gray Barnes, Mallorie Cochran, Sawyer Darracott and Oaklynn Sipes.

“She’s always telling a funny story or saying something funny. Mrs. Betty is just very quick-witted,” said Bragwell. “She’s very popular with the students, and we all love her. She’s an icon for child nutrition in Franklin County.”

FRANKLIN FAMILY

Mrs. Betty married Monroe Mahan in Mississippi July 1, 1952. They had one child, Mary Jane, who passed away Jan. 13, 1987. She was also married to Randall Armstrong, and they had no children.

Mahan also, however, has her Vina family. “We take care of each other just like a family,” explained long-time Vina school cafeteria manager Kathy Smith. “The students love her.”

Fellow lunchroom worker Debra Winsted said if the students don’t see her, they ask about her.

“We have so many good memories together,” added Smith. “Every day here is a blessing.”

OFFICIAL RECOGNITION

Mahan’s history of service has not gone unnoticed.

May 8, 2015, the Vina school cafeteria was dedicated in her honor. A photo display memorializes the dedication, a framed sign noting her “many years of hard work and dedication to Vina School.”

In 2020 she went to Montgomery to be honored by the State Child Nutrition Association for her many years of dedicated service.

Amy McCollum was the CNP director at the time, and she said she recalls Maham fondly. “Mrs. Betty is a wonderful person, and she cares about everyone,” McCollum said. “She’s got a work ethic that a lot of young people nowadays don’t have.”

WORK HARD, PLAY HARD

When not at the school, Mahan said she enjoys tending to her chickens, mowing, burning and otherwise cleaning up outside. She also keeps up several rental properties. She and fellow lunchroom worker Lucinda Barnes, her “football buddy,” share a love for Auburn football. She is a member of Vina First Baptist Church.

“I enjoy getting up every morning and coming to work,” said Mahan. “We have a good team. We work hard, but we have a good time in here.”

For all the green thumbs

As the weather warms up, our thoughts often turn to preparing our gardens and spending time out in the sunshine. Check out these reads, both fiction and nonfiction, to help you prepare for spring planting or to get lost in a great book. Northwest-Shoals Community College library director Lori Skinner has these titles to recommend:

“The Timber Press Guide to Vegetable Gardening in the Southeast”

By Ira Wallace

“The Timber Press Guide to Vegetable Gardening in the Southeast” by Ira Wallace is a great resource for a new gardener. With regionally specific information for the Southeast, you can use the month-by-month recommendations to plan your spring garden for maximum harvest. It includes information about drip irrigation, canning, worm bins and more.

“Raised-Bed Gardening for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know to Start and Sustain a Thriving Garden”

By Tammy Wylie

If you are interested in a garden but are unsure whether you have the space, consider raised-bed gardening. “Raised-Bed Gardening for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know to Start and Sustain a Thriving Garden” by Tammy Wylie offers step-by-step instructions for bed construction, advice on soil mixtures, suggestions for crop maximization and full profiles of easy-to-grow plants. This guide offers instruction for basic methods that will inspire a new gardener to get started.

“The Darling Dahlias and the Red Hot Poker”

By Susan Wittig Albert

“The Darling Dahlias and the Red Hot Poker” by Susan Wittig Albert brings an idyllic small town in Alabama to life and captures the Depression era with an engaging whodunit. When a firebug repeatedly strikes in Darling, Ala., the members of the Darling Dahlia Garden Club – and everyone else – feel like they could be the next victim. With a hurricane headed toward them and a fiery senator making a campaign stop in town, things are ready to burst into flame. Susan Witting Albert is a beloved master of the cozy mystery, and this one, set in the 1930s, is a satisfying read with authentic period details and clever puzzles.

“A Hoe Lot of Trouble”

By Heather Webber

“A Hoe Lot of Trouble: A Nina Quinn Mystery” by Heather Webber is the first in the Nina Quinn mystery series. Set in Ohio, Nina’s story is one of a garden landscaper business owner who specializes in surprise garden makeovers. She has a lot going on: She has kicked her husband out of the house because of his affair; her delinquent stepson has let his pet snake loose in the house; and her mother is driving her crazy about her sister’s upcoming wedding. When she discovers her mentor has been murdered, she starts digging into what is going on in her peaceful Ohio hometown.

On the run

Northwest-Shoals Community College Athletics reintroduces cross country

Story and photos by ALISON JAMES

As of November 2022, Patriot athletics are back in the running, so to speak – with the resurrection of a cross-country program at Northwest-Shoals Community College. Named head coach in January, Phil Campbell’s Mark Wells will be leading the new program.

Since the athletics relaunch began at NW-SCC, Patriot athletics director Taylor Franks and Dr. Timmy James, dean of academic affairs/athletics administrator, have been in discussions about what each next step should be for reinstating

sports at the local college. The school began by announcing the return of softball and baseball in October 2021, naming coaches and beginning play in 2022. That sparked plenty of excitement among Patriot fans, who are now hungry to see NW-SCC’s athletics offerings grow – and Franks said “everything is on the table,” in time.

“We wanted a sport down here at Phil Campbell. When we looked at everything that we want to bring back, cross country

made the most sense for now,” said Franks, explaining budgets, resources and facilities are big factors when it comes to the school’s sports rollout. “With it being an outdoor sport, that made it a little easier … We were really excited when we announced it, and I thought it was well-received. Phil Campbell folks were excited, and the community was excited.”

According to NW-SCC, the Patriots last fielded a women’s cross-country team in 2000 and men’s team in 2008.

Cross country coach Mark Wells has two big fans in his wife, Jamie, and his daughter, Avery, 11, who is part of his Running Club at Phil Campbell.

“We’ve looked at golf and tennis, and of course we’re looking at volleyball and basketball,” Franks said. “For right now, cross country was the right fit, and it was the right time. But definitely, everything is on the table. We definitely want to give what the community wants.” Ideally volleyball will ultimately be based on the Phil Campbell campus as well, Franks said. Of course, that’s the future. The present, the current excitement, is cross country.

Wells said he was among those excited to see the news about the return of cross country, but he only had a small thought of

applying for the coaching position himself. In his seventh year now at Phil Campbell High School – as special education teacher, junior high and varsity boys track coach and junior high boys basketball coach – Wells, 35, was born and raised in the community, graduating from Phil Campbell High in 2005. He attended NW-SCC for two years before transferring to the University of North Alabama to complete his bachelor’s degree in secondary education/physical education. He earned his master’s degree from the University of West Alabama in special education. He taught one year at Tharptown Elementary before making his way back to Phil Campbell.

When someone told him the NW-SCC XC job had been posted, he decided to throw his proverbial hat in the ring. “Originally I didn’t even know whether I’d get an interview or not, to be honest,” Wells said. “I’ve been running for the past 15 years and I guess mostly concentrating on myself and training.” When NW-SCC offered him the job, “of course, I took it.”

Wells said he had started to feel, more and more, the drive to inspire his same passion for running in others. It was this drive that had already prompted him to start a running club for Phil Campbell elementary students this past year. He said he hoped for maybe at least 10 students to

Wells and daughter Avery examine the Running Club’s “road trip” map, depicting the miles they have run collectively as a route across the nation.

“I’m very competitive, and I want us to do well and win races, but this first year it’s just about building the right foundation.”

Mark Wells

NW-SCC XC Coach

show some interest. He was awed to have 50 sign up and 43 maintain their interest and involvement. Clearly, running is hot in Phil Campbell – and gaining ground. This year 110 students have signed for the co-ed, two-day-a-week after-school club.

Wells said he didn’t start running himself until after high school. One night at Valley Grove Baptist Church, where he was attending with then-girlfriend, nowwife Jamie, he was encouraged to give it

a try by Joshua Aycock, who coordinates the Swampers 5K in Muscle Shoals – a Road Runners Club of America run.

“He came up to me and asked if I would run his race,” Wells said, remembering with a laugh that “I actually had to Google, at that time, what a 5K was.” Deciding to try it, he showed some natural ability, finishing the 5K in 22 minutes. “I was told, for not training and never running a 5K before, that was pretty good,” Wells said. “I got addicted after that. I started running

all the time. I have no idea how many races I’ve run – it’s in the hundreds.”

From obstacle course races to road races to trail running, Wells has run all over the Southeast, often at Monte Sano in Huntsville. He became pretty competitive, finding himself rise first to top three in his age group and then top three overall at races of various lengths. His favorite road race he said, might still be his first – the Swampers 5K, to which he took eight members of his running club this past year; another 12 did the associated one-mile run. He also particularly enjoyed the Wild Things Trail Series this past summer at Monte Santo State Park; the Spartan Race obstacle run at Fort Campbell, crossing from Tennessee to Kentucky and back; and the Barbarian Challenge at Noccalula Falls Park.

“I can tell my knees and joints are starting to get older,” Wells said. “I’m hoping to take everything I’ve learned and try to pass it on to others … I’m very competitive, and I want us to do well and win races, but this first year it’s just about building the right foundation.”

Franks said the coaching position had a number of qualified candidates who looked good on paper, but Wells’ particular experience and background helped him shine above the rest. “Bringing back a sport, you need energy and enthusiasm and passion,” Franks said. “The running club illustrated his recruiting skills … When you’re looking at someone who can be relatable to student-athletes and get them excited about coming to run for your school, being a Patriot – that was a big factor for us in our hiring decision. We wanted somebody who was passionate about running and could help our student-athletes.”

XC practice can start Aug. 1, and races will be held this fall, so in the meantime, Wells is deep into the recruiting aspect of the job. Several incoming NW-SCC students have already expressed interest, and Wells has been communicating with high school coaches across the northwest and central Alabama areas to share what NW-SCC has to offer and see what prospects might be a good fit for the new program. He said he’s focused

on attracting not only good runners but young men and women of character, who will be known for being good students as well as good teachers overall. The school is offering five scholarships each for men and women, with hopes to put seven on each team total.

Of course, he’ll also continue cultivating his future talent with the elementary running club members – among them, his daughter Avery, a fifth-grader at PCES. “I’m getting older, and she’s getting faster,” Wells quipped. With his mother, Donna Wells, teaching special education and helping with the running club, and his wife Jamie – a professional artist who also works at Austin’s Shoes in Florence – teaching art class at PCES and also volunteering with the running club, Wells has a true family affair in place at Phil Campbell.

“He has a passion for running, and he works great with the kids,” said Jamie. “He loves it. We’re always there to cheer him on.”

From 3-3:45 four days a week – Monday and Wednesday for third- and fourth-graders, Tuesday and Thursday for fourth- and fifth-graders – Wells can be found with his young running enthusiasts, logging miles and playing running games around the edge of the practice football field, inspiring and motivating that next generation of runners. That’s exactly what NW-SCC wants to see.

“We want to start with kids who are young, and we want them to have their Northwest-Shoals shirts on and say, ‘I want to do this,’” Franks said. “We want to be in the conversation. I think his passion and enthusiasm and being in the community … We felt like everything we saw and heard in talking to him, it made sense. We’re really excited.”

FACES OF FRANKLIN COUNTY

BTCPA’s “A Bad Year for Tomatoes”

Feb. 9-12 the Bay Tree Council for the Performing Arts performed its second production of the season, a revival of “A Bad Year for Tomatoes,” written by John Patrick, at Community Spirit Bank’s Weatherford Centre in downtown Red Bay.

Photos by MARÍA CAMP

Olend and JoAnne Rye

Kathy Deline and Alice James

Beth Henderson

Harley Strickland, Kenzlee Bohannon, Jacey Moore and Emma Campbell

Treon and Lewis Frederick

Doris Baggett and Yvonne Hightower

Hannah Haddock and Mary Moore

Isabella Russell and Brandon Hill

Becky Gober, Carter O’Neal and Casie O’Neal

The cast: Brente Jeffreys, Sharon Page Strickland, Holly McKinney, Brittany Faris, Tina Smith, Scotty Kennedy and Theron Struzik

June Green

Carolyn Seahorn and Gina Tate

Joyce Whitehead, Beverly Robbins and Pat Bottoms

Barbara Mitchell

Rick Harkness, Larry Cantrell, Nina Cantrell, Lisa Lambert Nunley and Scott Nunley

March is National Peanut Month

March is National Peanut Month. Did you know the peanut is Alabama’s official state legume? There are many interesting facts about peanuts. As listed on www.alpeanuts.com:

• Approximately half of the peanuts grown in the United States are grown within a 100-mile radius of Dothan.

• Alabama has about 900 peanut farmers.

• The National Peanut Festival, the nation’s largest peanut festival, is held each fall in Dothan to honor peanut growers. For more information, call the NPF office at 334-793-4323 or visit www.nationalpeanutfestival.com

• Americans consume 700 million pounds or 3.3 pounds per person, of peanut butter per year. That’s enough to coat the floor of the Grand Canyon.

• There are approximately 810 peanuts in an 18-ounce jar of peanut butter.

• The United States produces four basic varieties of peanuts: Runner, Virginia, Spanish and Valencia. Each type is distinctive in size and flavor. Runners are grown mainly in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Texas and Oklahoma.

• Brundidge hosts the annual Brundidge Peanut Butter Festival the last Saturday in October. For more information, call 334-735-2385.

KATERNIA COLE COFFEY Extension director

• The peanut is unusual because it flowers above the ground but fruits below the ground.

• By law, any product labeled “peanut butter” in the United States must be at least 90 percent peanuts.

• Nearly half of the United States peanut crop is used to make peanut butter.

• In the U.S., annual peanut production – about 1.5 million tons per year – often exceeds the production of beans and peas combined.

• Worldwide, about 2/3 of the crop is processed for peanut oil.

• 20 percent of the world’s peanut production is used in candy.

• Peanut oil accounts for 8 percent of the world’s edible oil production.

• Peanuts are also called goobers, goober peas, pindars, ground nuts, earth nuts, monkey nuts and grass nuts.

• Peanuts are members of the pea family.

• Georgia is the largest producer of peanuts in the U.S., and Alabama is ranked second.

• The first peanuts grown in the United States were grown in Virginia.

• Peanuts are a favorite food for many, but there are many uses for their shells, too! Peanut shells can be found in kitty litter, wallboard, fireplace logs, paper, animal feed and sometimes as fuel for power plants.

• Two peanut farmers have been elected president of the United States: Thomas Jefferson and Jimmy Carter.

• One acre of peanuts will make 30,000 peanut butter sandwiches.

DID YOU KNOW?

George Washington Carver, research scientist and inventor at Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, discovered more than 300 uses of peanuts, such as salted peanuts, peanut butter, chocolate-coated peanuts, cooking oil, peanut and popcorn bars, peanut hay meal and laundry soap, to name a few.

256-332-3850

After Hours: 256-332-2230

721 South Jackson Avenue • Russellville

Support our schools as we aim to finish strong

Our spring semester is solidly underway, and we are moving into what is typically the busiest part of our entire school year.

Spring sports are getting their seasons started, which means games, matches and meets will be taking place multiple days a week now. Our fine arts department will be preparing for spring musicals and programs. Our students and teachers are busy each day preparing for standardized testing and working on ways to improve and grow from where they were last year. Everyone is starting to see the proverbial “light at the end of the tunnel” as this school year inches towards its conclusion at the end of May.

For those who are part of RCS, my advice when we hit this time of year is to dig in and focus on meeting those goals that have been set. It’s easy to want to coast when the end of something is in sight, but there’s something so important about finishing strong and taking pride in a job well done.

I can truly say this idea is embraced at RCS, and I’m always so proud of what we’re able to accomplish – especially when we focus on the task in front of us.

For those who are in the community, my advice is to get plugged in to what’s going on at our schools! We pride ourselves at RCS on having such a supportive and involved community that truly cares about our schools. We see the impact it makes when our community shows up for our students, athletes, teachers, coaches and more. A huge cheering section can turn the tide of a big game. Encouraging comments on a social media post about academic achievements can serve as motivation to keep learning and growing. A standing ovation at the end of a performance can encourage students to continue pursuing their passion and talents. Seeing familiar faces in attendance at different events can make such a difference to students who need to know they matter.

So please, jump in and support these amazing students and teachers at RCS! We can’t tell you the impact it has on achievement, growth and making sure we finish the year strong.

As always, it’s GREAT to be a Golden Tiger!

Heath Grimes is superintendent of Russellville City Schools. He and his wife Amy have three daughters: Leah, Halle and Erin.