2021 November-December Franklin Living

EMILY MAYS | EXTENSION’S HAPPY HOLIDAYS | PHILIP GOAD

November/December 2021 Vol. 12 Issue No. 6

Christmas crafting Handcrafted ornaments bring something special to the season

TREASURED TRADITION Make evergreen memories at Blanton Christmas Tree Farm

WHERE THE LOVE-LIGHT GLEAMS Moore family embraces holidays with festive home decor

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FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR

S

leigh bells in the air! Beauty everywhere! Yuletide by the fireside and joyful memories there…

Christmastime is here.

Our November/December edition of Franklin Living will hopefully bring the holiday cheer to fill you with the spirit of the season and put a bow on 2021.

With this issue, we give you a peek at the special holiday traditions of a few of your friends and neighbors.

When Casey Blanton was growing up, heading out to the woods with his family to chop down the perfect Christmas tree was a cornerstone of the season. Now, he’s helping make it a cornerstone of the season for other families with Blanton Christmas Tree Farm in Belgreen. Turn to page 16 to read their story.

A tree tradition takes precedence for many of us during the holidays, and the Moore family takes trimming the tree to a whole new level. Themed trees grace

nearly every room in their home, from the woodland tree in the office to the fruitadorned tree in the dining room to the showstopper, filled with holiday memories, in the den. You can find a little decorating inspiration in their story, starting on page 20.

Our cover for this issue is graced by Lela Ray, a familiar face to many in this community. For Lela, the holidays are a time to renew one of her favorite hobbies. We shine the spotlight on her hand-painted Christmas ornaments, and you can find all the details starting on page 11.

Whatever your own holiday traditions, I hope this magazine can be a small part of your festivities this year.

Christmas time is here … families drawing near. Oh, that we could always see such spirit through the year!

Alison James

Features Editorial ALISON JAMES MARÍA CAMP Contributors PHILIP GOAD HEATH GRIMES EMILY MAYS Marketing SHELLEY OZBIRN Administrative SOMMER MORRIS

____________________ Franklin Living is published bi-monthly

by Franklin County Newspapers, Inc. Copyright 2020 by Franklin County Newspapers, Inc. P.O. Box 1088 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1881 fax: 256-332-1883 www.franklincountytimes.com

Franklin Living

4 Letter from the Editor 5 What’s Happening 6 Money Matters 7 Taste of Franklin 11 Christmas crafting 15 Faith Focus 16 Treasured tradition 20 Where the love-light gleams 24 From the Extension:

Have yourself a merry little Christmas 28 Faces of Franklin County 30 Education Corner

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ON THE COVER: One of Lela Ray’s favorite hobbies is creating her hand-painted Christmas ornaments. For her story, turn to page 11.

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What’s Basketb What’s What’s Franklin County Happening Basketball Tournament Happening Happening

Bask Franklin County Jan. 14-1 Basketball TournamentJan. 14-18 Red Bay Jan. 14-18

What’s Happening

Tharpto

Red Bay, Tharptown, Vina, Belgreen and Phil Campbell Jan. 14-18 basketball teams Red Bay, will face off on the court for Tharptown, Vina, the Franklin Belgreen and County Varsity Phil Campbell Tournament.

Submit community events for future issues of Franklin Living to alison.james@franklincountytimes.com. basketball Submit community eventsteams for future issues of Franklin Living to Teams will play Requests must be received by the first of the month for consideration foroff the will face onnext edition. alison.james@franklincountytimes.com.

Requests must be received at Red Bay in byor the first ofthe thecourt monthfor for consideration for the next edition.

All events areissues subject to change Submit community events for future of Franklin Living tocancellation. this annual Submitmust community eventsthe for future issues of Franklin Living to Franklin alison.james@franklincountytimes.com. Requests be received competition among county teams. alison.james@franklincountytimes.com.

Requests must be received by the first of the month for consideration for the next edition.

County Varsity by the first of the month for consideration for the next edition.

Tournament.

Check out all the upcoming events!

Check out all the Check upcoming outcommunity all the upcoming community events!community events!

Check out all the upcoming community events!

BTCPA’s “Seasonal Allergies” Phil Campbell Nov. 11-14

Scal Weig

Teams will play at Red Bay in this annual competition among county teams.

Christmas Bazaar Spring Scale Back Alabama: Jan. 20-2 Scale B Sports Weigh-In Week The Wei Jan. 20-26 Week fo WeighThe Phil Campbell Arts and Spring Registration

Submit community events for future issues of Franklin Living to Nov. 13 alison.james@franklincountytimes.com. Requests must be received by the first of the month for consideration for the next edition.

Spring Sports Registration

Red Bay, Belgreen Tharptown, Vi Phil Cam Belgreen and basketb will face Phil Campbell the cour basketball tea theoff Fran will face on County the court for V Tournam the Franklin Teams w CountyatVarsity Red B Tournament. this ann Teams compet will pla at Red Bay in this annual competition a

Historical Society host Jan. 1 through Feb.The 1willWeigh-In

Week for teams 29 throughBazaar March 7 Nov. Sports Jan. a Christmas participating in Scale Scale Back Alabama: The 13. Russellville Sellers will offer arts Back Alabama will be Registration Parks and Recreation Jan. 20-26, and crafts, Weigh-In unique gifts kicking Week Jan. 1 throughDepartment Feb. 1 will off the two and a half

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Jan. 20-2 The Weigh-In off team the t Week for month pi participating The Russellville is a free Back Alabama and treasure and Christbegin spring sports Jan. 29 through March 7 Jan. 20-26 Parks and Recreation weight-l month program. SBA Jan. 20-26, kic mas decor.with Food will be for registration soccer Department will campaig is a free statewide The Russellville The Weigh-In off the two an signups Jan. 1 through begin spring sports to encou sale from Backwoods Grill. weight-loss Parks and Recreation for teams progra Feb. 1. Youth Week soccercampaign is for boysdesigned and girls ages 3-12, and cost monthAlabami registration with soccer Proceeds willwill help support soDepartment will inthe Scale is $35. Teams participating play their games at the soccer fields by is a freehealthy statew signups Jan. 1 through Feb. 1Jan. 1 through topreserve encourage ciety’s mission to and promote begin spring sports Back Alabama will be the Chucky Mullins Center.

Youth softball signup for girls Feb. 1.

Youth soccer is for boys and girls ages 3-12, and cost weight-loss doing it Alabamians to get Jan. 29 through March 7 ages 6-12 willJan. begin Jan. 29 and continue 7, campaign with soccer Phil Campbell.

The event will befun heldthrough at theMarch Phil Campbell 20-26, kicking is $35. Teams will play their games atregistration the soccer fields by first des cha healthy and have Russellville $35.

For more information 256-332-8870, The Bay TreeThe Council forthe theChucky Performing returns tosoftball the stage signups Jan.for 1with through MullinsArts Center.

Youth signup girlsa cost ofoff the two a half Community Center, 132 Sherry Drive, from 9 a.m. to toencourage 4 million p doing it.and Since theBricecall ext.

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Parks and Recreation ages 6-12 will begin Jan. 29 and continue through March 7, a local w 1. Youth soccer is for boys and girls ages 3-12, and cost month program.

SBA this season, starting with “Seasonal Allergies” in homageFeb. to the first challenge in 2007, Alabamians have lost more than 1to Alabamians p.m. For more information call 256-810-4572. with a cost of $35. For more information callTeams 256-332-8870, Department will million pounds.

For more information, to sign up or to find is $35. will play their games at the soccer fields by is a free statewide healthy and h holidays. Performances will take place Nov. 11-14 at the Weather14. begin springext. sports a local weigh-in site, for visitgirls www.scalebackalabama.com. the Chucky Mullins Center.

Youth softball signup weight-loss doing it. Since ford Centre in Red Bay. Tickets are $8.

For more information visit the registration with soccer ages 6-12 will begin Jan. 29 and continue through March 7, campaign designed first challenge BCPA Facebook page.Jan. 1 through signups with a cost of $35. For more information call 256-332-8870, to encourage million pound Feb. 1. Youth soccer is for boys and girls agesext.

3-12, 6 14.and costNov. 20, Dec.Alabamians to get a local Jan. weigh22 a is $35. Teams will play their games at the soccer fields by healthy and have fun the Chucky Mullins Center. Youth softball signup for girls The LifeS doing it. Since the Red11Bay will 8beJan. 22 and Feb. 1 Jan. and Feb. bloodm Nov. 13, Dec.ages 11 6-12 will begin Jan. 29 and continue through March 7, first challenge in 2007, Alabamians have lost more than 1 in lively in holiday with a cost of $35. For more information call 256-332-8870, The second Saturday Thepounds.

LifeSouth million For more information, to sign up orwill to be find Jan. 11 and Feb. 8 Russellv night at bloodmobile ext. 14. amonth local weigh-in site, visit www.scalebackalabama.com. style of each throughJan. 1 through Feb. 1 Jan. 29 through March 7

Spring Sports Registration

Christmas in the Bay

Rockin’ at theRockin’ Roxy at

Rockin’ at the Roxy LifeSouth Blood Drives

the Roxy

Rockin’ at the Roxy

LifeS

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Jan. 22 a 7 p.m. is the monthly will be in The second Saturday out Gilbert the season, Jan. 22IHP andand Fe Kerry Band Russellville night of each month at 1 at Cric concert at the Historic Jan. 22 at 7 p.m. is the monthly beginning with The LifeSouth Wireless Roxy Kerry Gilbert Band Jan. 11 and Feb. 8 Theatre inDayIHP and Feb. bloodmobile Peppermint p.m. and Russellville. The KGB will be joined by a special guest for 1 at Cricket concert at the Historic will be in 4 informat The second Saturday each show.

Doors open at 6 p.m.

Cost is $10 for adults, $5 Wireless.

The bloodmobile will be at IHP from 9 a.m. to in the Bay Nov. Roxy Theatre in about ap Russellville for children and free for children younger than 6. night of each month at 6-12 p.m. and at Cricket Wireless from noon to 7 p.m.

For more Russellville. The KGB will be joined by a special guest for and Feb. 1 20, 9 a.m. Jan. to 22 5information 2707.

Lif Jan. 22 at visit www.lifesouth.org.

For additional questions 7 p.m. the monthly each show. Doors open at 6 p.m. Cost is $10isfor adults, $5 The LifeSouth about appointments, eligibility and more callIHP 1-888-795p.m. and Feb. for children 6-12 and free for children younger thanBand 6. For PepperKerry Gilbert Jan. 11 and Feb. 8 2707. LifeSouth supplies blood needs at Russellville Hospital 1 at Cricket concert at the Historic bloodmobile

Rockin’ at the Roxy

LifeSouth Blood Drives

6mint Day, which will be in The second Saturday Wireless. The b Roxy Theatre in replaces theRussellville city’s night of each month at p.m. and at Cri Russellville. The KGB will be joined by a special guest for Jan. 22 at Moonlight Madness event, many Bay business ownersinformation willFranklin livin 7 p.m. is the6monthly vi each show. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Cost is $10 forRed adults, $5 IHP and Feb. Kerry Gilbert Band about appoint for children 6-12 and free for children younger than people 6. offer specials and promotions to help in their holiday 1 at Cricket concert at the Historic 2707. LifeSout shopping. The festivities will continuewill withbeOpen Wireless.

The bloodmobile at IHPHouse from 9and a.m. to 4 Roxy Theatre in The second Saturday night of each month at 7 p.m. is the monthcelebration 6 – afrom big noon shopping day in p.m. and at CricketDec. Wireless to 7 p.m.

For more Russellville. The KGB will be joined by a special guest for the Tree Lighting ly Kerry Gilbert Band concert at the Historic Roxy Theatre in Rusinformation visit www.lifesouth.org.

For additional each show. Doors open at 6 p.m. Cost is $10 6 for adults, $5 Red Bay from 1-4:30 p.m., leading up to the city’s Tree Lighting question sellville. Thefor KGB will be 6-12 joined byfree a special guest for each show. about appointments, eligibility and more call 1-888-795children and for children younger than 6. at 5 p.m. at Bay Tree Park, during which special choirs will add Hospita Doors open at 6 p.m. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children 6-12 2707.

LifeSouth supplies blood needs at Russellville to the atmosphere singing favorite holiday tunes. and free for children younger than 6.

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Franklin LivingFranklin liv

Christmas Parades

A Christmas Moment

Russellville, Red Bay, Vina and Phil Campbell will get in the spirit of the holidays with their annual Christmas parades, each starting at 6 p.m. Russellville will kick off parade season Dec. 2. Red Bay’s parade will follow Dec. 6, and Vina’s parade will be Dec. 7. Phil Campbell will wrap up parade season Dec. 9. All local businesses, churches, school groups and community organizations are invited to be part of the parades.

A community Christmas choir will perform A Christmas Moment, taking the stage of the Russellville City Schools Auditorium Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. The choir is coordinated and led by Greg Weeks, Bert Fowler and George Crummie of Calvary Baptist, Russellville First Baptist and Tharptown Baptist churches and includes singers from across the community. The event will feature a full ensemble and orchestral accompaniment as well as as children’s choir, solo performers and a men’s quartet, singing a selection of favorite holiday songs. There will be no admission fee.

Every Light a Prayer for Peace and Tree-Lighting Ceremony

Roxy’s Christmas Spectacular

Dec. 2, Dec. 6, Dec. 7 and Dec. 9

Dec. 5

Dec. 9-12

Dec. 2

Dec. 2 starting around 4-4:30 p.m. will be the Cultura Garden Club’s Every Light a Prayer for Peace on the Franklin County Courthouse steps, just prior to the Russellville Christmas Parade. The local event will feature songs and speakers encouraging peace as well as the centerpiece of the event, the reading of the “Every Light a Prayer for Peace” poem by Emma Frances Bullen. The event will be immediately followed by the city’s tree lighting, across the street in front of the Byars Building.

The Roxy’s Christmas Spectacular takes the stage once again this year to highlight the holiday season in Russellville. The Franklin County Arts and Humanities Council will present performances at the Historic Roxy Theatre Dec. 9-12 at 7 p.m each evening as well as at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Fred the Elf and Gaspar the conductor return with new friends and new songs to share.

Tickets are $15 for the first 10 rows or $10 for rows 11-19. To purchase tickets call 256-810-2711 or 256-460-8988 and pick up at Russellville Florist and Gifts.

Holly Day

A Night in Bethlehem

The Franklin County Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to join Santa at Holly Day. Children of all ages are invited to enjoy a fun hour cookie decorating, ornament making, Christmas coloring, Letters to Santa, goodie bags and pictures with Santa! Holly Day will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the A.W. Todd Centre in Russellville.

Groups will be admitted at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon. Admission is $5. Call the Chamber to reserve a time slot, 256-332-1760.

Mountain View Baptist Church in Phil Campbell will host A Night in Bethlehem, a drive-through nativity scene, for the community Dec. 12-14 from 6-8 p.m. The event is free. The church is located at 2110 County Road 81.

Dec. 4

Franklin Living

Dec. 12-14

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Christmas Decor and Gifts

MONEY MATTERS

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s our screen time ever increases, you can be sure cybercriminals and malicious activity also continue to grow. Your financial institution invests a lot of money, time and energy to be sure they’re keeping your financial livelihood safeguarded – but just as important is what we are doing on our own to protect ourselves from becoming cyber-event victims.

Be proactive and relentless in your efforts to protect your personal financial information.

Here are a few tips to keep at the forefront.

Think before you click, always! Scams get more sophisticated by the nanosecond. Do not click on any link if you don’t feel 100 percent sure about it, especially attachments in email and text messages. When unsure, instead of clicking, go directly to the source. Package delivery notifications are a common trap.

Even if you’re expected something, it’s safest always to go back to the source to confirm.

Choose strong passwords.

Yes, we are all on password overload, but they are crucial to safety. Never share passwords and don’t store them on your devices. If you get hacked, everything is already unlocked for the bad guys. Robust passwords are the locks on the cyber doors and windows of your financial house.

Keep a handle on your financial correspondence.

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Review your account activity regularly and be on the lookout for anything suspicious.

Also, make sure your financial institution has your correct contact information. It’s amazing how many times people get a new phone number and never tell their bank – and that is the number the bank calls when there is an issue with your account.

Use your own device – and secure it. Avoid public computers or devices when accessing your financial information. Public computers can contain software that capture passwords and PINs. Further, be sure to secure your device by installing updates as they become available.

Enable multi-factor authentication, a key control to significantly reduce the likelihood of a cybercriminal taking over a customer account.

MFA uses two or more different types of identifiers to let you log into your account, such as a password plus a code sent by text message or a physical identifier, such as fingerprint, voice or facial recognition.

If you ever think your personal information has been stolen or compromised, take immediate action. First, notify the firm or affected account as soon as possible. Then, change passwords on the breached account and any other account that has the same login. You can also put a fraud alert on your file with each of the credit bureaus.

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Emily Mays is vice president/chief administrative officer at Community Spirit Bank in Red Bay, working in finance for 15 years. She is an enthusiastic social media marketer, financial literacy advocate and go-local supporter. She lives in East Franklin and has one daughter, Lola.

Franklin Living

TASTE OF FRANKLIN

Season’s eatings Try one of these tasty treats at your next holiday gathering

Recipes and photos by AMY DOLAN MCCOLLUM

The holidays are Amy Dolan McCollum’s favorite time to be in the kitchen, cooking up seasonal scrumptiousness. Although some traditional favorites are always on the menu – “I guess the one thing I love most about the holidays are the traditions,” McCollum said – she’s always trying the new craze that seems to be dominating the culinary scene right now: the charcuterie board.

“I am sharing my Christmas tree board in memory of my Grandma Dorothy Dolan,” McCollum explained. “Grandma had a Christmas tree farm in the East Franklin community for many years. I definitely miss being able to go cut a fresh

Franklin Living

tree at her farm.” Her take on the charcuterie board includes a little freshness to cut through some of those heavier holiday treats – broccoli florets, sugar snap peas, sliced bell peppers, dill pickles, red and green grapes and raspberries – along with meats and cheeses and accompanied by a dip.

Of course, a few family recipes are a must for Thanksgiving, including Mama’s Dressing and Rachel’s Sweet Potato Casserole. An apple cake with brown sugar frosting serves as a great dessert option to tempt anyone’s sweet tooth. Speaking of sweets, McCollum’s family also craves a few must-haves for Christmas: Aunt Doris’ Chocolate Candy, Froot Loop Candy and, for Christmas morning, chocolate gravy and homemade biscuits.

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MARSHMALLOW FRUIT DIP Ingredients

• 8 oz. block of cream cheese • Large container of marshmallow crème • Optional: 1/2 cup brown sugar

Instructions

1. Mix ingredients until creamy.

NOTE: I like to add the 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Be sure all clumps are out of the brown sugar.

APPLE SPICE CAKE WITH BROWN SUGAR FROSTING Ingredients

For the cake:

CHARCUTERIE TREE Ingredients

• Meats and cheeses: pepperoni, sliced string cheese for snow and sliced cheddar and provolone for stars and snowflakes • Produce: broccoli florets, sugar snap peas, red and green bell peppers, petite dill pickles, red and green grapes and raspberries • Carbs: pretzel rods and crackers, on the side • Accoutrements: Olives, ranch dip, mixed nuts • Garnish: rosemary

Instructions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Start at the bottom of the board with the pretzel rods for the tree trunk.

Work your way up layering the ingredients, alternating colors.

Use a star cookie cutter to make the tree topper with the cheese.

When you finish, put the sliced string cheese around bottom for snow.

Ruck the rosemary into the sides to add texture to the tree.

Serve with a side of Marshmallow Fruit Dip.

MAMA’S CHICKEN AND DRESSING

• 4 medium Honeycrisp apples, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (about 1 1/2 pounds) • 2 cups sugar • 1/2 cup canola oil • 2 large eggs, room temperature • 2 tsp. vanilla extract • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 Tb. pumpkin pie spice • 2 tsp. baking powder • 1 tsp. salt • 1/2 cup buttermilk • 1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts, toasted For the frosting:

• • • • • • •

8 oz. cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup butter, softened 1 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 cup packed brown sugar 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted

Instructions 1.

2.

Ingredients • • • • • • • • •

1 fryer, cooked, boned and cut in small pieces (reserve broth) 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup Chopped Onion 4 eggs, divided use 8 Tb. butter, melted 2 1/2 cups reserved chicken broth 1 package Pepperidge Farm cornbread stuffing mix 1 cup milk 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup

Instructions 1.

2.

Combine chicken, mayonnaise and chopped onion and set aside.

Combine two eggs, melted butter, chicken broth and cornbread stuffing mix and set aside.

3. In a small bowl, lightly beat remaining two eggs and milk.

4. Spray large casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.

5. In bottom of dish, spread half of the stuffing mixture 6. Layer on the chicken mixture.

7. Add second layer of stuffing mixture.

8. Pour egg and milk mixture over top layer of stuffing mixture.

9. Refrigerate overnight.

10. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

11. Spread cream of chicken soup on top of casserole and bake for 45 minutes.

NOTE: If you don’t have time to boil and prepare an entire chicken, you can substitute chicken breasts and canned chicken broth.

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3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Line bottoms of two greased 9-inch round baking pans with parchment paper. Grease parchment paper.

Place apples in a food processor; pulse until finely chopped.

In a large bowl, beat sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla until well blended.

In another bowl, whisk flour, pie spice, baking powder and salt Gradually beat dry mixture into sugar mixture alternately with buttermilk.

Stir in apples and pecans.

Transfer to prepared pans.

Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 35-40 minutes.

Cool in pans 10 minutes before removing to wire racks.

Remove paper. Cool completely.

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, sugars, vanilla and pie spice until smooth.

Spread frosting between layers and over top and sides of cake.

Gently press pecans into frosting on top of cake.

Refrigerate any cake not eaten right away.

Franklin Living

SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • • • •

For the casserole: 2 40 oz. cans of yams, drained and mashed 1/2 to 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup butter 2 eggs, slightly beaten 1 tsp. vanilla 1/3 cup of milk For the topping: 1 1/2 cups brown sugar 1/3 cup flour 1/2 cup butter, melted Marshmallows Pecans

Instructions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Combine all the casserole ingredients and pour into a casserole dish.

Combine first three topping ingredients and pour over the casserole.

Bake for 25 minutes at 350 degrees.

Top with marshmallows and pecans and bake until golden brown.

SAUSAGE PINWHEELS Ingredients

• 2 tubes of crescent roll dough • 1 lb. bulk pork sausage • 8 oz. cream cheese, softened, divided

Instructions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook and stir sausage in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, about 10 minutes.

Drain and discard grease.

Spread dough from one package of crescent rolls out onto a work surface and pinch perforations together to create a single sheet of dough.

Spread half the cream cheese over the dough sheet, leaving a 1/2-inch margin all around.

Sprinkle half the cooked sausage evenly over cream cheese.

Roll dough up into a log, starting at a long edge.

Wrap log in plastic wrap or parchment paper.

Repeat steps to make a second roll.

Refrigerate rolls at least one hour.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Unwrap rolls and cut each into 1/2-inch thick slices. Place slices onto a baking sheet.

Bake in the preheated oven until pinwheels are golden brown, 10-15 minutes.

Franklin Living

CHOCOLATE GRAVY Ingredients

• 2 cups whole or 2% milk • 3/4 cups sugar • 4 Tb. flour • 3 Tb. cocoa • 2 Tb. butter

Instructions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Combine sugar, flour and cocoa. Whisk together to remove any lumps.

In a heavy saucepan, heat milk and butter to the boiling point.

Stir in dry ingredients.

Remove from heat as soon as the ingredients are mixed and it is free of lumps. Be sure to stir constantly!

If you like a thinner gravy, you can add more milk.

Serve over hot biscuits.

SOUTHERN BISCUITS Ingredients • • • •

2 cups self-rising flour (I use White Lily) 3/4 cup Crisco shortening 3/4 cup buttermilk or whole milk 2 Tb. butter, melted

Instructions 1.

2.

3.

Heat oven to 475 degrees.

Place flour in a large bowl.

Using a pastry cutter or fork, work shortening into flour until crumbs are the size of peas.

4. Add milk.

5. Stir with large spoon just until flour is moistened.

6. Turn dough onto lightly-floured surface.

7. Gently roll dough with floured rolling pin until 1 inch thick.

8. Cut out biscuits using a floured 2-inch biscuit cutter or the rim of a cup.

9. Place biscuits on a baking sheet with edges touching.

10. Reform the scrap dough to make additional biscuits.

11. Bake 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.

12. Remove from oven. Brush tops with butter.

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FROOT LOOP CANDY

AUNT DORIS’ CHOCOLATE CANDY

This Froot Loop Candy recipe was given to me by Martha Pace, a long-time Russellville elementary school teacher. She passed away in the 2011 tornado. She always had a Christmas party for us and made this delicious candy. Christmas isn’t the same without it.

Ingredients

• 24 oz. almond bark – chocolate or vanilla • 1 1/2 cups dry-roasted salted peanuts • 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows

Ingredients

• 24 oz. white almond bark • 1 cup Froot Loops • 1 cup dry-roasted salted peanuts • 1 cup mini marshmallows

Instructions 1.

Instructions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Melt the chocolate in a microwave safe dish.

Stir frequently until melted. Do not scorch.

Add peanuts and cereal and stir until all peanuts and cereal are covered well.

Add marshmallows. Stir until completely covered.

Be sure to add the marshmallows last so the chocolate cools and

Amy McCollum with Martha Pace at the annual Christmas Party, circa 1989. doesn’t melt them.

6. Drop in miniature cupcake papers.

NOTE: Great to box up in holiday tins and give as gifts!

Melt the chocolate in a microwave safe dish. Stir frequently until melted. Do not scorch.

2. Add peanuts and stir until all peanuts are covered well.

3. Add marshmallows. Stir until completely covered.

4. Be sure to add the marshmallows last so the chocolate cools and doesn’t melt them.

5. Drop in miniature cupcake papers.

NOTE: Great to box up in holiday tins and give as gifts!

Wishing You And Yours A Happy And Healthy Holiday Season!

Russellville Russellville City City Councilmen: Councilmen: David Palmer, District 1; David Palmer, District 1; Darren DarrenWoodruff, Woodruff,District District2; 2; Gary GaryCummings, Cummings,District District3; 3; Dexter DexterHamilton, Hamilton,District District4; 4; Jamie Harris, District Jamie Harris, District5; 5; Mayor MayorDavid DavidR.R.Grissom Grissom

Contact ContactRussellville RussellvilleCity CityHall Hall at 256-332-6060 at 256-332-6060 304 304Jackson JacksonAve. Ave.N N Russellville, Russellville,AL AL

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Franklin Living

Christmas crafting

Lela Wright Ray creates special, handcrafted holiday memories Story and photos by MARÍA CAMP

L

ela Wright Ray, retired art, drama and speech teacher from Russellville City Schools, has been painting Christmas ornaments of houses for years – at least 12 a year for the past 25 years.

Ray said when it comes to her creations, she has to notice all the little details most people wouldn’t see as casual observers. While it’s a time-intensive, highlydetailed process, it’s one she enjoys and also takes very seriously.

She said she got the idea for the ornaments in 1996 while visiting an area craft fair, when she saw a snow scene painted inside a clear plastic ornament ball. “I told myself ‘I could do that!’ and I did,” said Ray. The story only grows from there. Ray decided it would be an interesting project for the students in her advanced art class at Russellville High School, and during their annual student art exhibit, RHS counselor Judy Pounders saw her snow scene ornament and asked if she could paint a house with Christmas decorations in an ornament ball. With a photograph to go on, Ray decided to give it a try. That’s how her new hobby transformed into a side business that has brought joy to dozens of homeowners who have purchased her works.

“My ornament will be my favorite forever,” said Tamera Lane. “It’s of our first Christmas in our new home. She painted our ‘forever home’ – the home our children will grow up in. I leave mine out year-round in my bookcase.” Lane said everyone who sees it comments on “how beautiful and detailed” it is. “She painted every last detail of our home,” said Lane.

“It’s something I will always cherish.”

Beth Page Gilmer has been collecting Christmas ornaments since she got married in 1984. “I have many that I love,” said Gilmer, “but none is as special as my Lela

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Ray original. She captured the look of my house perfectly from just a couple of photographs. I hope to go back and find pictures of other houses we lived in and get her to paint more.”

Ray explained it’s deeply meaningful for her to know how well received her ornaments are. “I feel so honored to be part of people’s memories in this way,” said Ray. “I’m not just painting a house. I’m painting a memory, creating something special that can be handed down through families. The details are what makes each one so special – painting the little dog on the sidewalk or a special tree in the window, making sure the shutters are the right kind.”

For Beverly Fuller, her ornament is extra special. “Lela is my very best friend in the whole world,” said Fuller. “We raised our children together, and we’ve had lots of adventures. It’s wonderful to see her using her tremendous talent in a way that is so meaningful for people. Lela has created lifelong memories of loved homes and families in her Christmas ball ornaments.”

Fuller said one of the first ornaments Ray painted was of the Fuller home – and Fuller considers the ornament her most treasured possession. “So many people have seen it and asked about it and told me how special it was,” said Fuller. “It’s our

family home, and we lived there 35 years.

The house in the ornament is my Russellville homeplace, and I leave it sitting on the mantel for everybody to see.”

Ray said she has learned a lot about bricks, shutters and columns over the years of painting more than 300 ornaments. She explained shutters are not all the same, and even the smallest of details is important to get right. “I love architecture,” said Ray. “It’s very satisfying to include all the little details.”

“My favorite part about painting an or-

nament is the reaction when a customer sees it for the first time,” Ray added. “I ask them to hold it up to the light to see the special details, and they are always excited to see it looks like the Christmas tree is lit.”

Ponda Gordon’s ornament shows the first home she and her husband Elliott Gordon built together. “It’s something I treasure. She’s so talented. It’s very special to me,” Gordon said. “Lela was there when we were building our house and even helped pick out some of the colors. We have numerous things she has painted that we treasure.”

“I’ve known Lela forever,” added Elliott Gordon. “The ornament is part of our lives. It’s special because she painted it for us. Not only is it a nice ornament for a memory of the house we live in, but it’s also the fact that she took the time to do it. I grew up with her, and it means a lot to our family to have one of her ornaments.”

The Gordons daughter, Katelynn Gordon Thompson, also has one of Ray’s ornaments. “It’s such a beautiful piece,” said Thompson, “and I love having it out during the holidays. Everyone always talks about how beautiful it is. It’s a lovely ornament that perfectly depicts our first home. I’ve known Lela my entire life, and it’s so special knowing she painted this ornament

Bob Ross the cat often keeps Ray company in her studio.

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just for me.”

Ray’s trusty studio assistant, a black cat named Bob Ross, often keeps her company as she works, frequently sitting in her lap as she plans and draws and paints during the various steps of the process of going from idea to finished ornament.

The price of a “Lela Ray original” has varied based on the cost of supplies and the difficulty of the particular project.

Nowadays, since Ray is retired, she said she uses the funds to save for her travels and to spend on her grandchildren.

“I feel very blessed that God has given me this talent,” said Ray. “I always say a prayer when I start my house orders each year. My lines have to be precise, and I have to get the perspective right. It’s a challenge, and there’s tremendous gratification in accomplishing the final result.”

She has now painted homes both old and new, near and far – including not only those in the Russellville area but also a number of other cities in Alabama, as well as in Tennessee and Mississippi and one in Breisach, Germany.

Each ornament is about six inches in diameter, and most people display them on a special display stand instead of on a Christmas tree.

Franklin Living

“I try to finish orders by Thanksgiving when I can because some people place an order as a gift for family or friends who might be visiting at that time,” said Ray. “I had COVID last July, and I thought I’d never be able to do that delicate work again, but I’m so pleased that I can. I’m still behind, but I have plenty of people who are all too happy to wait until I can get their ornament painted.”

Ray said she includes the same note

with each ornament: “Hand-painted, just for you, A Christmas House Ornament.

Hold it up to a bright light, and you will see lights in and around the house, maybe a sparkling Christmas tree!”

Ray said she has rarely painted the same house more than once; she’s not a machine and has no desire to mass produce products. “I have to enjoy the challenge,” said Ray, “and that comes from having a new house each time.” When possible,

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she likes to visit the house first, sit in her car and “take in the character of the house” and make her own photographs.

Often, Ray said, those who are not artists don’t take the kinds of photographs she has to have to do what she needs to do, so she’d rather take them herself.

When people are ordering for themselves, it’s easy to explain that’s part of her process; however, for gifts meant to be a surprise, she has to take more care to try not to be noticed. “I don’t want anyone to think I’m up to something bad,” explained Ray, noting how it could look if an observer didn’t know what was going on.

When she can, she likes to visit at night to see the home with lights on.

One customer ordered an ornament of her grandmother’s old house. It was about to be torn down, and she was anx-

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ious to preserve its memory in a special way. Another ordered an ornament for a friend, which she sent instead of flowers, to commemorate a family home after a death.

“I love painting my ornaments,” said Ray, “but I have a lot of other interests, too, like playing Bridge and traveling and otherwise spending time with family and friends, so I make sure not to let it take up all of my time.” She said she typically doesn’t start painting until October and then paints for three months. Usually, she doesn’t start until after supper, though she might paint until 2 or 3 in the morning. “I need perfect silence for my work,” said Ray, “and there are special challenges, such as having to use curved lines instead of straight ones because the house is being painted inside a ball.”

Though Ray admires many artists, among her favorites are Vincent van Gogh because she finds him relatable and Norman Rockwell because she wishes she could be more like him. “My favorites are not so much for their work but for their lives,” said Ray. She said she would love it if some day all of her ornaments could be exhibited together, though she acknowledges that’s not likely at this point. “In the beginning, I was afraid,” said Ray, “but now I’m proud of the work I have done and continue to do. We all have a gift to share. I hope my story will encourage someone to just pick up a pencil, draw some lines and color in the shapes. I can’t believe I’ve gotten to share my talent for more than 25 years. It’s been a true joy.”

Franklin Living

FAITH FOCUS

This is the time of year to take inventory

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or most of us who have ever worked retail, manufacturing or distribution, the thought of taking year-end inventory likely evokes some vivid memories – not all of them good. The inventory process can be painful, but it is both necessary and valuable. After all, a significant variance between the actual amount of product on hand versus what the books say should be on hand could be indicative of customer theft, employee theft, weak internal controls, or inaccurate costing systems – to name just a few of the possibilities.

On a personal level, there is also value to be found in conducting an inventory of our lives this time of year. The holiday season is the perfect time to review personal goals, reflect on accomplishments and determine how to be better in 2022 than we were in 2021.

One aspect of our personal inventory process should be thinking about our relationship with the Lord.

During his ministry, Jesus repeatedly called people to the process of self-examination. In the 14th chapter of his gospel, Luke explains that as large crowds were following after Jesus, he wheeled around and fired off several inventory-type questions designed to ensure that those who were following had counted the cost.

Here are some questions designed to help us assess our relationship with God: 1. What are my most prominent spiritual weaknesses?

2. Which sins tempt me most? Am I doing anything to resist them?

3. Is my church attendance consistent?

4. Am I a promoter of peace, harmony and unity among my church family?

5. How often do I read my Bible?

6. Am I the family member God has called me to be?

7. Am I living a life of sexual purity?

8. Have I opened myself up to allowing the Lord to use me in the broadest way possible?

9. Have I stepped out of my comfort zone for Jesus in the past 12 months?

10. Would my life better imitate Jesus if I were more generous with my time and my money?

In the end, quality self-examination will always reveal a variance between where we are and where the Lord would have us be. While we should be overwhelmed with gratitude for both his grace and mercy, we must remember that within that variance is the opportunity for a better 2022.

Be sure to take some time to self-examine as you enjoy the holidays. Even if it’s painful, you’ll be glad you did.

Philip Goad is the minister at North Highlands Church of Christ in Russellville.

He is married to Marla, and they have a daughter, Kayla Thorne, who is married to Josh. They also have a son, Preston, and one grandchild, Greyson Thorne.

Wishing you a Happy H oliday Season !

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Treasured tradition

Belgreen Christmas Tree Farm keeps nostalgia alive

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Story by ALISON JAMES Photos by MARÍA CAMP

A

rtificial Christmas trees have been popular for decades.

Whether because they can be decorated earlier without risk of dying before Christmas Day; because they don’t annoy with their falling needles and sticky sap; because they don’t need to be watered; because they can be reused from year to year; or for any number of other reasons, these “fake trees” have long been a popular choice over their living counterparts.

And yet…

There’s something relentlessly nostalgic about the idea of going out into a brisk fall day with the family, choosing a fresh evergreen, cutting it down and bringing it home for the holidays.

There’s the feel, the scent, the memories made – keeping a “real tree” the top choice for many, especially those with a sentimental nature.

It’s that seasonal sentimentality the Blanton family has captured with their Christmas Tree Farm in Belgreen.

“When I was a kid, me and daddy would always go cut a live tree in the woods, and I’ve always loved a real Christmas tree,” explained Casey Blanton, who operates the local tree farm with his wife Emily. “To me, it’s all about tradition.”

It was 2014 when the Blantons planted their first crop of trees, but it wasn’t until 2020 that they were able to welcome families to the farm for the first year of selling.

“It’s taken forever to grow them,” said Blanton – a hurdle he

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didn’t anticipate when he first dreamed up the tree farm. “I didn’t expect it to take that long.” Cultivating has been a difficult and time-consuming challenge. “We just don’t have the right soil. I think it’s just got too much rock and too much limestone.”

Despite the obstacles, the Blantons sold about four dozen trees in 2020 – the trees that were first planted in 2014. The family planted again in 2015, 2016 and 2017, and Blanton said they will continue to sell each year until those four plantings are gone – but likely not after that. “I’ve just been waiting to see how these did. I didn’t want to keep planting if they weren’t going to produce,” he explained. “I don’t know how much longer I will do it just because of the timeframe it has taken.”

For 2021, however, the tree farm is nearly ready to open for

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business. Blanton said they will likely open around Thanksgiving, and they will have 40-50 of their Leland Cypresses available for those seeking to cut a live tree for the season.

Although the tree farm was Casey’s dream, it’s been a family effort. “I think it’s something unique,” said Emily, a Belgreen native who teaches fourth grade at Belgreen. “There’s no other tree farm in Franklin County, so I’d love to continue it, but they just don’t grow as as fast as we want them to, and they are so much work.”

Besides the work of selling the trees, cultivation has required fertilizing and mowing around the trees, as well as trimming them twice a year to keep them shapely as they have grown. Casey said he planted trees 10 feet apart in his 2-3 acre field. “That way you can still get your mower between them and take care of them,” he explained. “It helps when you’re pruning them too – so you can see what you’re doing and not have them bunched up together.”

The couple has had help from their 12-year-old daughter Chloe, and son Easton, 3, is also part of the memories made. “We cut our own tree two years ago from the farm, and Chloe was excited about it because she’s been watching them grow for years,” Casey said. “Some of the later ones, she helped plant.”

Most of the Blantons’ trees are in the 7-9 foot range, with a few 10-footers, and they run $35-50. “I’m just trying to get my money back, break even and then make a little bit,” Casey said. “I just did it for a hobby.”

To purchase a tree from the Blanton Farm, people can friend the couple on Facebook or keep an eye out for signs or advertisements around town as the season begins. The family maintains a more intimate selling experience by primarily welcoming people

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to the farm on an appointment basis – since the best part has been “just getting to see the excitement on the kids’ faces and the families being there together,” Emily said. People can get a jumpstart on the season by coming out to tag the tree they want prior to Thanksgiving; those details will be made available via Facebook as well.

Although the Christmas tree farm is likely an endeavor with an expiration date, the Blantons will have plenty of other efforts to keep them occupied. When he isn’t working the trees, Casey is a poultry farmer for Pilgrim’s, and he said he hopes to one day have cattle – like his father and father – and maybe some goats. The couple also enjoys fishing, with Cedar Creek being a favorite spot.

To find out more about the tree farm or make an appointment, call Casey at 256-810-4147.

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Where the love-light gleams Deedra and Barry Moore go all out with Christmas decor Story and photos by ALISON JAMES For many people, decorating the Christmas tree is a key event that signals the start of the season. That’s true for Deedra and Barry Moore, too – except it’s not just one tree. The Moore home gets dressed in holiday style with a tree in nearly every room of the house, each with its own theme.

“I love it,” said Deedra, who is the decorator-in-chief for the holidays. “We didn’t start out this way – but I have just grown and added a tree, it seems like, every year.”

The Moores start the season at the beginning of November with their patriotic tree, which comes out for Veterans Day and remains on display the rest of the year. The white tree gleams in the window of the playroom, bedecked with USA ornaments and Ty Beanie Babies bears. It made its first appearance the year Barry was deployed to Iraq with the Alabama Army National Guard 115th Signal Battalion, in 2004.

The biggest tree graces the family den and is laden with ornaments that evoke precious family memories. Among its branches hang daughter Ashton’s baby ornaments, ornaments gifted by students and friends and those collected during family vacations and travels.

Trees of varying sizes bring the holidays to each room. Fruit ornaments dangle from the full-size dining room tree. A woodland animal theme graces the pencil tree in the study. A twiggy tree near the kitchen table is home to ornaments from her mother and stepfather’s travels all over the world.

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From the trees to the other holiday decor, many of the items the Moores put on display are those they have been given or amassed over the years, with a few new touches added each season – from the dishes and chargers she uses to dress her tables to the Byers’ Choice Carolers, Radko ornaments, elves and Santas throughout the home. “I see people who sell their stuff from year to year and start over,” Deedra said, “but I love what I have. When I get it out, I can remember who gave me that – that’s, to me, what’s fun about it.”

The laundry room tree sparkles with Ashton Drake Santas given to Ashton by her grandmother, Barry’s late mother. “They are the cutest little ornaments,” Deedra said. A tinsel tree in Ashton’s room is home to her personal ornaments, those she has been gifted by friends and family. Pine trees in Barry and Deedra’s bedroom feature mostly bird ornaments. A Charlie Brown tree stands proud – or rather, droops pitifully – next to the leg lamp from “A Christmas Story.”

“I usually decorate early because I do so much, I want us to enjoy it. I’m not one of those who waits until after Thanksgiving,” Deedra said. “I just phase it in. I usually start toward the back of the house, in the bedrooms, and work my way up.”

Barry is in charge of the outside decorations, the deer and the wreaths, which are usually the last touches to go up, around Thanksgiving weekend. He also provides the muscle when it comes to getting everything down from the attic. “I don’t know that he enjoys it as much as I do. I think he just

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goes along with it,” Deedra admitted with a laugh.

Labeled tubs, painstakingly organized, make both the unpacking and the return to storage easier, and Deedra said that attention to organization is key for ensuring decorating goes smoothly.

With the house trimmed in its holiday best, the Moores are ready to host friends and family all season long.

Deedra, 51, is a retired educator who now works part time at the Robotics Technology Park with Calhoun Community College.

Barry, 55, is Franklin County probate judge, serving his third term in the position – first appointed in 2007 and first elected in 2012 – with plans to run for re-election in 2024. The couple lives in Russellville. Daughter Ashton, a Russellville High alum, will graduate from the University of Alabama in Birmingham this spring with her degree in civil engineering.

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FROM THE EXTENSION

Have yourself a merry little Christmas

D

ecorating your home for the holidays helps to create positive memories. Holiday decorations also help to make the home comfortable, energizing and uplift-

ing. Remember to start early, take things slow and break down decorating into smaller tasks. Take time to celebrate this joyous, magical and special occasion with your family and friends.

DECKING THE HALLS 1. Incorporate some of the following greenery and flowers used for holiday decorating:

• Boxwood • Noble fir • Magnolia

Greenery • Juniper • Pine • Mistletoe

• • • •

Flowers or flowering plants Chrysanthemums • Orchids Christmas Rose • Amaryllis Red and white roses • Paper Whites Christmas Cactus

2. Keep your holiday foliage fresh and vibrant throughout the season: • Use clean, sharp cutters to cut branches and immediately put cut ends into water until ready to use.

• Crush the ends of woody stems to allow the cutting to take in more water.

• Keep greenery out of sunlight.

• Immerse greenery in water overnight before arranging. This allows the cuttings to absorb the maximum amount of moisture.

• Allow the foliage to dry and then spray it with an anti-transparent to help seal in moisture. Note: Do not use anti-transparent on juniper berries, cedar or blue spruce. The product can damage the wax coating that gives these plants their distinctive color.

• Keep completed wreaths, garlands and arrangements in a cool location until use.

• Display fresh greenery and fruits out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.

• Plan to replace dry or wilted greenery and shriveled fruits throughout the holiday season.

3. Keep safety in mind: Some popular plants used in holiday decorating can present poisoning hazards for small children or pets. Poisonous berries are found on hollies, yews, mistletoe and Jerusalem cherry. The pearly white berries of mistletoe are particularly toxic. Keep all these plants out of the reach of children and curious pets.

Dried evergreens can become flammable when in close contact with a heat source, such as a candle flame or fireplace. Make sure wreaths, roping and garlands are as fresh as possible.

Check needles by bending them. They should be flexible and not break. Avoid using greenery that is shedding needles or that has brown, dry tips.

4. Accentuate with holiday accessories and other decor items: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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Angels Animals Bathroom linens Bells Blankets and throws Bows Holiday serving bowls Cake stands Candles Candle Holders and votives Candy Canes Christmas Trees Garland

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Gift wrapping paper Gingerbread house Holiday dishes Holiday linens Holiday pillows Kitchen towels Lights, indoor and out Nativity scenes Nutcrackers Ornaments Pillows Pinecones Reindeer

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Ribbon Rugs Santa Clauses Sleigh Snow Snowflakes Snow globes Snowmen Stockings Tinsel Trays Wreaths

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5. Remember every space, and don’t forget the finishing touches: The main focal points to decorate are the family room, front porch, entrance areas, fireplace mantel, windows and stairs. Do not forget to add holiday decorating touches to your bedrooms, kitchen and bathroom.

• Intermingle holiday decorations with year-round home decorations.

• Add color by wrapping packages with festive wrapping paper and bows and adding embellishments.

• Display ornaments in various containers.

• Place greenery in containers, urns, buckets and pots.

• Add colorful fruits to containers.

• Place candies in jars.

• Add holiday pillows to your furniture inside and outside your home.

• Add holiday towels to your kitchen and bathroom.

• Change out your regular pillows and throw on your sofa or bed to holiday ones.

• Candles help to add ambience and atmosphere. They also kill odors, and they add a finishing touch to any room.

• Add holiday paintings and prints to décor.

• Play holiday music.

• Use beautiful holiday linens, dishes and serving pieces adorned with bows and greenery.

Franklin Living

Christmas Open House November 5 & 6, 8:00 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Let´s mingle & jingle Homeplace Quilting & Gifts Vintage Finds, Farmhouse Decor, Boutique Gifts, Quilting & Supplies 865 E Lawrence Street Russellville, AL 35653 256.324.1032

Enjoy a day of sales, giveaways, refreshments & fun!

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MAKING A CHRISTMAS MAILBOX SWAG Who doesn’t enjoy seeing Christmas decorations adorning a home’s exterior windows, doors and porch? Let us not forget the mailbox when decorating. Swags are easy to make and add a festive touch.

1. Supplies needed to make a sway include gloves, pruners, wire cutters, floral wire, scissors and zip ties. Additional items of choice might include ribbon, baubles and greenery. Evergreens such as holly, cedar, pine, juniper, magnolia and rosemary make wonderful swags. Holly and nandina can also be gathered for their berries.

2. You will need several branches of your greenery of choice, approximately 2-3 feet in length. Depending on your mailbox size and shape, more or less might be needed. Mixing foliage sizes and types will add depth to your swag.

3. Form the swag by collecting various sizes of greenery. Place the larger branches toward the back and “stack” on top. Here, you can intermix the layers. For example, magnolia could be the base, and pine and cedar could be strategically manipulated to fit between the magnolia leaves.

This step is easiest done wearing gloves and holding the stems’ base. If a branch is not as full as you would like, bind two together using floral wire or zip ties.

5. The final swag should be bound together by tying wire a few inches above the stem bases.

6. Next we make the bow! Don’t be intimidated. Several tutorials on YouTube can assist. Wired ribbon is easiest to manipulate into place.

7. Bauble of choice is limited only by your imagination. Pinecones spray-painted gold are one choice. Instead of wiring each pinecone individually to the swag, we connected the cones together using the floral wire. Cut wire long enough to wrap around the item, leaving a tail long enough to secure to the swag.

8. Now head out to the mailbox with your two swags, bow, pinecones or bauble of choice and zip ties. Someone to lend a helping hand will make the next few steps easier.

9. Place the swags as you like them, then take a step back to see how it looks. This is where the friend comes in handy; they can assist in making sure the swag is symmetrical.

10. Once you have it positioned, you can either wire or zip tie the swag in place. For traditional mailboxes, you will want to secure the swag completely around the box. Make sure it is secure and will not slip out of place. Mail carriers frown upon the swag interfering with opening and closing the door.

11. Attach the baubles using the tail of wire left from earlier. Wire provides some give yet enough structure to arrange the pinecones/ baubles down the sides.

12. Last, top your swag with the bow. It truly is multi-purpose. Bows hide the wiring, give balance and add a pop of color.

Be inspired to create your own swag, whether it be for a door, railing or mailbox! Share photos of your creation with the Extension on Facebook at Franklin County Extension Office-Alabama Cooperative Extension System. As always, contact the Franklin County Extension Office with any questions regarding home horticulture at 256-332-8880.

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A few food tips for healthy, happy holidays According to eatright.org, Americans gain about one to two pounds during the holidays. While this doesn’t sound dramatic, research shows it adds up over the years. Luckily, there are ways to avoid holiday weight gain.

Tip 1: Don’t skip meals.

Saving your appetite for a big holiday party or feast? Don’t. Skipping meals during the day can result in overeating. It is especially important to have breakfast, as research shows that those who eat this important morning meal tend to consume fewer calories throughout the day. Include lots of fiber by eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Fiber-rich foods are high in volume and will satisfy hunger but are lower in calories.

Tip 2: Eat small portions.

Holiday meals tend to be large, buffet-style and include second and third helpings. A common mistake is eating large portions of foods that are perceived as healthy. It’s important to include nutrient-rich foods in your diet, but remember these foods have calories as well and should be eaten in moderation. Using this approach at the holiday dinner table will allow you to maintain a healthful eating plan – one

that can still include dessert.

Tip 3: Pick a strategy to avoid overeating.

There are many strategies to help you avoid overeating. Using a smaller plate, for instance, allows you to put less food on your plate and encourages proper portion sizes. Also, start by filling your plate with vegetables and salad before going to the entrees and desserts. Eating a salad before your meal can help you eat fewer calories overall. Eat slowly and savor every bite, and before you go back for seconds, wait 10 minutes to see if you really are still hungry.

Tip 4: Keep moving.

After dinner, get some physical activity. This is a great time to go for a walk and catch up with family members or play catch or a game of basketball with the kids.

Tip 5: Visit with a registered dietitian nutritionist.

Need help figuring out how to politely refuse Aunt Sally’s push to fill your plate again?

How about ways to stick with your personal lifestyle goals? For more information on eating well, contact a registered dietitian nutritionist in your area.

Courtesy of K. Elaine Softley, human science Extension agent for family nutrition and health.

MAILING HOLIDAY TREATS When mailing your favorites holiday foods, follow these recommendations from the USDA. First, make sure perishable foods are not held at temperatures between 40-140 degrees, the “danger zone,” for longer than two hours. Pathogenic bacteria can grow rapidly in the danger zone but might not affect the taste, smell or appearance of a food. In other words, you cannot tell a food has been mishandled or is unsafe to eat.

For perishable foods prepared at home and mailed, follow these guidelines: • Ship in a sturdy box.

• Pack with a cold source, like frozen gel packs or dry ice.

• When using dry ice, don’t touch the dry ice with bare hands, don’t let it come in direct contact with the food and warn the recipient of its use by writing “Contains Dry Ice” on the outside of the box.

• Wrap box in two layers of brown paper.

• Use permanent markers to label outside of the box.

• Use recommended packing tape.

• Write “Keep Refrigerated” on the box.

• Alert recipient of its expected arrival.

• Do not send to business addresses or where there will not be adequate refrigerator storage.

• Do not send packages at the end of the week. Send them at the beginning of the week so they do not sit in the post office or mailing facility over the weekend.

• Whenever possible, send foods that do not require refrigeration, like hard salami, hard cheese or country ham.

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FACES OF FRANKLIN COUNTY Red Bay comes together for a day of fun at Bay Tree Park and throughout the downtown area for the Founders Day Festival in September.

Photos by MARÍA CAMP

Donna Purser, Destiny Higgins, Magen McClemore and Emily Mays

Linda Bostick, Tracey McCauley, Melody Pearson, Mary Kathryn Wiggins and Edna Byram

Tommie Evans

Linda Rains, Ellie Akers and Julie Akers

Barbara Pierce

Elissa Scott

Charlene Fancher and Maverick Inman

Zach Garrett, Braedyn Raper, Ella Raper and Jennifer Garrett

Derek Humphries, Sheena Humphries and Abby Hicks

Marilyn Averkamp

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FACES OF FRANKLIN COUNTY Spruce Pine Day, always the third Saturday in October, welcomes everyone to the downtown area for food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, a car show, live music and the museum.

Photos by MARÍA CAMP

Ryan Pike and Page Pike

Ethan Whiteley and Lauren Whiteley

Megan Bullock, Baylor McCarley, Bradley McCarley and Brentlee McCarley

Micah Worthington

Joyce Berry and Jim Berry

Bonnie Bragwell and Kimberly Peppers

Tommy Murray and Jacob Murray

Dixie Chavez Dewey Osburn and Blanche Curtis

Laura McDuffa

Jase Swinney and Gail Swinney

Ashley Barnes, CJ Barnes and Myra Lewis

EDUCATION CORNER

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We have so much to be thankful for

s we enter a season that focuses on thankfulness, I’ve naturally been reflecting on all the many things I have to be thankful for in my life. Personally, I have much to be thankful for when it comes to my family, my friends, my health and my earthly blessings – and professionally, I have many things to be thankful for as the superintendent of Russellville City Schools.

We are blessed with amazing students, the best teachers and such dedicated staff and administrators at RCS. What I’m most thankful for right now at RCS is the culture we are creating.

There has been a big push for several years to make sure we are teaching the whole

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student at RCS. We don’t want to focus on just academics, or just athletics, or just fine arts, or just career preparedness. We want to focus on all of it, including developing students’ character and leadership skills and their ability to become happy and productive citizens.

Recently I’ve witnessed tangible examples of how these lessons and this culture of excellence in all areas is paying off.

One example is our state champion baseball team from this past spring was also recently ranked No. 1 in academics in Class 5A in the state.

Top-ranked in their sport, top-

ranked in their academics: That’s a pretty impressive feat that shows our coaches are holding our studentathletes accountable on and off the field to develop well-rounded young people, and they are rising to the occasion.

Another example is watching our students on Friday nights and how they support one another because they have learned the importance of doing that for each other.

The band cheers on the football team and joins in with the cheerleaders; the student section hypes up the team and supports the cheerleaders and

band; the cheerleaders set the tone and cheer for everyone playing a role on the field; and on Homecoming night, when the band performed the halftime show after the game since the Homecoming Court presentation took place during halftime, the football team came out to watch and support the band.

There have been so many other small instances of good character, kindness, helpfulness, and just the well-roundedness of our students on display.

As a superintendent, it makes me thankful and grateful to see that kind of mindset being so prevalent at our schools.

Heath Grimes is the superintendent of Russellville City Schools.

He and his wife Amy have three daughters: Leah, Halle and Erin.

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