2024 Franklin Living September-October by Franklin County

September/October 2024 Vol. 14 Issue No. 5

Ifshoethefits

Craft of farriery helps horses put their best foot forward

CANDLES AND CONNECTION

Childhood hobby lights the way for successful side business DOES EVERYTHING HAPPEN FOR A REASON?

Faith Focus dials in on oft-repeated saying

FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR

These days, it’s rare to find a person who has only one job. Everyone has a side hustle, a secondary business, a passive stream of income. Some people rent property, some people freelance, some people set up at the farmer’s market. Some shoe horses. Some pour candles. It’s those last two we’ll zero in on in this edition of Franklin Living. Actually, farriery – or horseshoeing – is Joseph Baldwin’s main gig, accom-

panied by side gigs in the music industry and as a Franklin County commissioner. Baldwin’s equine passion goes all the way back to his youth. You’ll enjoy hearing about his foray as a farrier.

For Robynn Bragwell, working as a CNP director in the Franklin County Schools system is her “real job,” but creating candles and other products is a fulfilling hobby-turned-side hustle. As with Baldwin, Bragwell’s interest in

Editorial

ALISON JAMES

MARÍA CAMP

Contributors

KATERNIA COLE COFFEY

PHILIP GOAD

EMILY MAYS

DOLAN MCCOLLUM LORI SKINNER

ELLISON Administrative

MORRIS

her craft dates back to childhood, making paraffin candles during summer visits to Grandma’s house.

Interested in starting a side hustle of your own? Maybe one of these Franklin Countians will inspire you. Or, maybe the thoughts of one of our contributors will spark an idea for you. We have insights from Philip Goad, Amy McCollum, Lori Skinner, Emily Mays and the Franklin County Extension to give your brain something to chew on.

Wishing you a lovely fall season!

What’s Happening

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.

Spring Sports Registration

Jan. 1 through Feb. 1

Spirit of Hodges Festival

Franklin County Basketball Tournament

Oct. 11-12

Franklin County Basketball Tournament

Jan. 14-18

There will be activities and fun for all ages at the Spirit of Hodges Festival, set for Oct. 1112 in Hodges Town Park. Live music, arts and food vendors and more will make it a fun family day. Admission is free, and other proceeds support the Hodges Fire and Rescue Department. For more information call Town Hall at 205-935-3445.

Spruce Pine Day

Oct. 19

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

Red Bay, Tharptown, Vina, Belgreen and Phil Campbell 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.

Scale Back Alabama: Weigh-In Week

Jan. 20-26

Jan. 1 through Feb. 1

Jan. 29 through March 7

Red Bay Founders Day Festival

Spruce Pine Day returns Oct. 19 in downtown Spruce Pine. All the action centers on the local community center, with neighborly fun and fellowship for all ages. There will be a Why Knot Show ‘Em Off car show, live music and a variety of vendors. Admission is free. For more information call 256460-5276.

Sept. 28

Jan. 29 through March 7

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.

Red Bay Founders Day welcomes festival-goers to enjoy the King and Queen’s Train Ride, live music, contests, prizes, vendors, a car/truck/motorcycle show and more. The festival will be held downtown from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with most of the action at Bay Tree Park. The Red Bay Museum will be open for tours, and downtown businesses will offer sales and specials. Admission is free. For more information call City Hall at 256-356-4473.

Pumpkin Palooza Scarecrow Trail

October

Rockin’ at the Roxy

Jan. 11 and Feb. 8

The Franklin County Chamber of Commerce hosts the family-friendly Pumpkin Palooza in Russellville at City Lake Park. Admission is free to see the variety of scarecrows created by local businesses, churches and other groups. For more information call 256-3321760 or email info@franklincountychamber.org.

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 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. Cost is $10 for adults, $5

Latino Heritage Festival

Oct. 26

The Weigh-In Week for teams participating in Scale 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

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 Weigh-In Week for teams participating in Scale 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.

A collaborative endeavor thanks to community, business, and religious leaders, this annual festival showcases the diverse Latin cultures present in the local community. Not only will this event expose festival-goers to the diversity within the Latino community, it will also promote cultural unity and foster positive relationships. Honoring one’s ancestors and lineage will serve as this year’s theme. In Mexican culture, this remembrance is traditionally called “Dia de los Muertos.” This all-day, family-focused interactive event will feature live entertainment, dancing competitions, hands-on children’s activity tents, a street soccer match, a vintage car show and a closing parade, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. For vendor and general information call German Castillo at 256-460-2577.

LifeSouth Blood Drives

Jan. 22 and Feb. 1

The LifeSouth bloodmobile will be in Russellville 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 information visit www.lifesouth.org. For additional questions

Everything happens for a reason?

We’ve all heard someone say, “Everything happens for a reason.” Often, the person making this statement seems to be implying that as difficult as it might be to believe, God ultimately wanted all those things to happen that delayed you, frustrated you, angered you and possibly even broke you. In other words, God must have wanted them to happen, or he wouldn’t have allowed them to happen.

Another way some people say it: The things that happened were ultimately God’s will.

Some people who read the story of Joseph’s life would likely conclude he embraced this mindset. In Genesis 50:20, when he is assuring his brothers of both his love for them and their safety, he states, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.” Think about what Scripture reveals about Joseph’s life as we consider whether everything happens for a reason.

to Joseph being sold into slavery. And who could forget Potiphar’s wife? When Joseph ran from her adulterous advances, she accused him of attempted rape, which resulted landed Joseph in prison. Finally, Pharoah’s chief cupbearer extended Joseph’s imprisonment by two years when it took him that long to put in a good word for Joseph after Joseph had interpreted the cupbearer’s dream.

On the other hand, Joseph’s suffering all occurred for a single core reason: Multiple people made sinful choices. The person who holds that God had to have wanted all those things to happen, because he allowed them to happen, must also believe God wanted all of those people to commit sin! And that’s absurd. No fair reading of Scripture would lead someone to the conclusion that God wants people to sin.

Considering all that Scripture teaches, Joseph’s statement in Genesis 50:20 is simply his realization that God still works to accomplish his divine purpose despite sinful choices made by people.

On the one hand, Joseph suffered for a variety of reasons. His father Jacob played favorites among his children, a no-no for quality parenting. Jacob’s father-in-law, Laban, tricked Jacob into marrying Leah, causing family dysfunction. Further, Joseph bragged to his family about his dreams, which fueled his brothers’ hatred and led

In one sense, everything does happen for a reason. Things happen because people make choices. However, Joseph’s story proves some things that happen cannot be the will of God!

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

Cookbook collection puts plenty of good meals on the table

Recipes by AMY DOLAN MCCOLLUM

My “Traveling Cookbook Collection” includes cookbooks from so many of my trips across this country.

I always discover favorite recipes in each book, and now I am sharing some of them

“CLASSIC COOKING WITH COCA-COLA”

with you. These recipes come to you thanks to trips to the Coca-Cola museum in Atlanta, to Rippavilla Planation with a Franklin County Schools gifted class and to Dollywood in Tennessee, as well as New Orleans and Disney World!

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• 4 cups sugar

The next book I wanted to share was from the first gifted trip I went on with one of my daughters. In 2008 I went with Leah to Atlanta to the Coca-Cola museum. This book is definitely a favorite. This recipe for chocolate cake is the best.

Coca-Cola Chocolate Cake

Ingredients

• 4 cups plain flour

• 8 tablespoons cocoa

• 3 teaspoons cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 pound butter

4 eggs

1 cup buttermilk

4 teaspoons vanilla

2 cups Coca-Cola

Icing:

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup Coca-Cola

6 tablespoons cocoa

1 cup chopped pecans

2 teaspoons vanilla

2 boxes powdered sugar

Instructions

Grease and flour an 11x17-inch pan. Sift together the dry ingredients and set aside.

In a saucepan, heat the butter and Coca-Cola until the butter melts.

4. Add the eggs, vanilla and buttermilk and mix well.

5. Add the liquid to the dry ingredients and beat until smooth. The batter will be very thin.

6. Pour into the prepared pan and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

7. This cake must be iced while warm. Icing: In a saucepan, heat the butter and Coca Cola. Do not boil. Add all of the remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour over the cake.

“CIVIL

WAR PERIOD COOKERY”

in 2017 with the Franklin County Schools gifted classes. This is a Civil War home in Spring Hill, Tenn., that is still available to tour. I bought this book in the gift shop. This recipe for sweet pepper relish is a family favorite. I make it every summer and use it all year round to make ham salad. This is definite

TASTE OF FRANKLIN

staple in my home after Thanksgiving and Christmas to use with that leftover ham.

Sweet Pepper Relish

Ingredients

• 12 red peppers

• 12 green peppers

• 12 medium onions

• 1 1/2 pints vinegar

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons salt

Instructions

1. Slice open peppers and remove and throw away all seeds.

2. Mince peppers and put in large kettle.

3. Take the skins from the onions and mince and add to the kettle with the peppers.

4. Add the vinegar, sugar and salt.

5. Blend everything well and bring to a boil.

6. Let simmer for 10 minutes and remove from stove.

7. Fill pint jars while hot and seal.

TASTE OF FRANKLIN

“TENNESSEE MOUNTAIN HOME COOKING”

I bought this book. Everyone loves Dolly Parton. Not only can she sing, but she is also a delicious cook. She is known for her Southern, family-type meals. Here are just a couple of recipes I know you will love.

Cola Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup

• 10 oz. can of cola

• 1 fryer chicken, cut into pieces

Instruc tions

1. Combine ketchup and cola.

“THE UNOFFICIAL DISNEY PARKS COOKBOOK”

delicious places to eat. I purchased this book for my collection in a gift shop. It has the recipes for 57 traditional creole dishes that are very unique to Louisiana . The two recipes I use most often from this book are Passion Cocktail Sauce and Tartar Sauce. For each, you simply mix all the ingredients together and store in your refrigerator.

Passion Cocktail Sauce

2. Skin chicken and place in baking dish.

3. Pour cola mixture over the chicken.

4. Cover and cook at 375 degrees until tender.

Corn Fritters

Ingredients

• 1 cup sifted flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 eggs, beaten

• ¼ cup milk

• 2 teaspoons of salad oil

• 2 1/2 cups of whole kernel corn

Instructions

1. Sift together baking powder, flour and salt.

2. Add eggs and corn.

3. Drop by spoonfuls in hot oil.

4. Fry until brown.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup

• 1 tablespoon Kemon juice

• 4 tablespoons horseradish

• 1/2 teaspoon tabasco

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Tartar Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 1/2 cup chopped dill pickle

• 1 tablespoon minced onion

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

• 1 teaspoon Tabasco

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Caramel Apples

From Main Street, U.S.A., Magic Kingdom. I add chopped nuts or colored sprinkles to mine.

Ingredients

• 6 large Granny Smith apples

• 11-oz. package soft caramels, unwrapped

• 2 tablespoons whole milk

Instructions

1. Prepare your countertop with a piece of parchment paper greased with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

2. Push a Popsicle stick deep into the stem area of each apple. Set aside.

3. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, add caramels and milk. Microwave on high for 30 seconds. Stir and repeat cooking in 15-second intervals and stirring until all caramels have melted.

4. Working with one apple at a time, roll the apple in the caramel to the coat the whole apple. Place on greased parchment paper.

5. Allow the caramel apples to cool about 15 minutes before serving.

This summer I headed off to Disney! Of course, I have a book from there too.

Making sure the shoe fits

Farrier biz keeps hooves happy

Story and photos by MARÍA CAMP

When a horse needs new shoes, a trip to the store doesn’t solve the problem. Instead, a farrier comes to them to take care of the issue and make sure everything is done right. “I became a farrier out of necessity,” explained Joseph Baldwin, who lives in Atwood.

“There’s not a lot of old school farriers around anymore,” he explained. “Some have just become unable, and others have sadly passed on. Through the years, I’ve seen several enthusiastic young'uns start in the spring and quit by the time summer rolled around, but there’s a handful that held on, and they are getting the job done very well … I hope some young gal or guy that reads this becomes interested in becoming a farrier and sticks with it.”

Baldwin said he has often wondered how many horses he has shod and how many nails he’s driven into a hoof. “If I had to estimate a number, I’d say somewhere in the neighborhood of 10,000 horses and over a quarter million nails,” he ventured. He said his love for horses started when he was young and has only continued to grow over the years. “I’m not sure what drew me in initially – just a kid with big ideas, I guess, but it just always seemed natural to work with horses.”

Baldwin said he remembers riding his Great-Uncle Howard’s mule when he was 7-8 years old, and he also remembers the first horse that was officially his – “a short-legged, one-eyed, pot belly, longhaired stubborn Welch pony that had a limp.”

He recalls his favorite horse, “a painted quarter horse stud named Q-ton” who he rode for about 25 years. “We covered a lot of miles and visited different states during his lifetime,” Baldwin said. “I miss him from time to time. I bought him as a yearling and was able to train him myself.”

He currently has three horses, all mares, and a donkey. His horses include a Palomino named Piper, a Sorrel named Bullet and a paint named Patty Bo. The donkey is called Hank and has his own

fanbase on Facebook. Baldwin said a lot of folks stop by to pet him when they see him close to the road.

“My horses are just ‘pasture ornaments’ at this time,” Baldwin explained. “I don’t make the time to ride anymore, and I don’t take them to shows. I’m actually having the three mares bred this year, so we’ll see what that turns into in the future.”

Baldwin said he has a “the more the merrier” attitude when it comes to horses. That mindset helped lead to his foray in the farriery.

“I acquired too many horses when I was young and before I had a ‘job’ to help sustain that passion,” he explained. “I was in my late teens when I started buying and rehoming horses – any horse I could get

I’ve always compared horses and horse hooves to snowflakes – from a distance, they are all the same, but up close, they are definitely unique.

my hands on.” He said he wound up with “at least a dozen or more” within a very short period of time. “Eventually, I had to contact a farrier to come out and tend to all of them, and the resulting bill for his work was way more than I expected.”

Baldwin said his mother helped him with the cost and then told him he needed to get his own tools and learn the trade so he wouldn’t have to pay a farrier again. “She helped me get my first

farrier tools, which I still have to this day,” Baldwin said. “I’ve owned many horses through the years and worked for the public as a farrier for over 30 years. I love those animals. Just something about them that gets me.”

Baldwin said he started to “learn a lot pretty quick” by working on his own horses and watching other farriers. He soon began to work for local horse owners.

I’ve made many friends throughout the years that I would’ve never known if I wasn’t a farrier.

He said horses that have never been shod can sometimes be challenging, noting tying techniques and calming medicines can help in these situations. “Each horse will have a unique temperament. There are horses that are always tough to work with and others that are always easy, and then there’s those bipolar critters that wake up and roll with whichever

way the wind is blowing. Farriers love those. Keeps me on my toes.”

Baldwin said the differences and challenges are all part of what keeps the job interesting for him.

“Some of the horses have great hooves and are easy to work with but others not so much,” he said. “I’ve always compared horses and horse hooves to

snowflakes – from a distance, they are all the same, but up close, they are definitely unique.”

Baldwin said each horseshoe typically has to be shaped to fit each hoof, noting there are many different sizes, types, weights and thicknesses of shoes. “The nails that are used to hold the shoes in place can also be different types and sizes,” he added.

“I guess I’d say it’s kind of an art because each farrier has their own way of shoeing in an effort to achieve the same goal,” Baldwin added. “There was a time that I worked with or rode a horse six or seven days a week, sometimes for fun and sometimes for working cattle –which was fun also. Sometimes I’d ride for a customer whose horse I was breaking, but Father Time has slowed that down significantly.”

Baldwin said being a farrier has allowed him to meet “many new folks” and develop friendships that continue through the present day. “I’ve made many friends throughout the years that I would’ve never known if I wasn’t a farrier,” he explained, “and if any of those new or old friends are reading this, I’d like to say hello and that I hope you are doing well –and if you’re reading this and we’ve never met, I hope to meet you soon.”

And though being a farrier is his primary profession, it’s not his only one.

“I provide musical entertainment in and out of state two to three times a week,” he explained. “I’ve been performing for 20-plus years now. I can’t remember when it started really. I’m also proud to say that I’m currently serving as a commissioner in Franklin County. I think that meeting people through horses and music has helped me as a commissioner. In some crazy way, it all just seems to work, and I thank the Lord for blessing me with these duties.”

Financial Roadmap for Year’s End

As we enter the last part of the year, it’s the perfect time to take stock of your financial situation and set clear, actionable goals to ensure you finish strong. Whether you’re looking to save more, pay off debt or start investing, make significant strides with this to-do list to get you started:

Review your current financial situation: Before setting new goals, it’s crucial to understand where you currently stand. Look at your income, expenses, savings and debt. Review your budget to see if it aligns with your priorities. This will help you identify areas that need attention.

Set specific, measurable goals: Vague goals like “save more money” or “reduce debt” won’t cut it. Instead, make goals specific and measurable. Having clear, quantifiable targets keeps you motivated and makes tracking your progress easier.

3 Create an action plan: Once your goals are set, it’s time to create a step-by-step plan to achieve them. Break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Determine how much you need to set aside each month or week to reach your savings goal.

Cut unnecessary expenses: A critical part of achieving your financial goals is freeing up money. Review your spending habits

and identify areas where you can trim costs. This could mean dining out less, canceling unused subscriptions or finding cheaper alternatives for certain products or services. Every dollar you save can be redirected toward your financial goals.

Increase your income: While cutting expenses is important, increasing your income can significantly accelerate your progress. Consider picking up a side gig, freelancing or selling unused items around the house.

Stay committed and monitor progress: Staying committed to your goals requires regular monitoring and adjustments. Set aside time each month to review your progress. Are you on track to meet your goals? If not, identify the obstacles and adjust your plan accordingly.

There’s no reason to wait until the new year when significant strides can be made by getting financially focused in the remaining months of this year.

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.

andCandlesconnection

Childhood crafting sparks fulfilling side business

Story by MARÍA CAMP

Photos by DAN BUSEY

After 25 years working as a teacher and administrator, Robynn Bragwell became the child nutrition program director for Franklin County Schools in 2017. She’s now in her 32nd year working in education, and it’s a career she loves. Like many people these days, though, she also thrives in a side venture that brings a little extra light to her life – as well as the lives of her customers.

Bragwell said although she loves her work in her primary profession, she also enjoys keeping busy with Oak & Sun Candle Co., which she formed in November 2023. While the business is less than a year old, the inspiration goes back to her youth. When she was a little girl in the ’60s, Bragwell would visit her grandmother’s house in Mississippi, where she learned the foundational skills that got her started in candle-making.

“We always had something to do,” Bragwell explained. “She had 30-something of us grandkids, and there was always something to do. Playing outside and climbing trees was a big part of that, but we also did crafts.”

Bragwell said her grandmother was a retired schoolteacher and always had paper and crayons and other such things on hand – including paraffin wax to seal jellies and other things. “She would get her paraffin wax out and take old milk cartons and

other paper cartons, and we would pour candles.” Her grandmother would let her have broken crayons to melt for the candle-making process, too. “It’s just a really good childhood memory,” she added. “I’ve always known how to make candles.”

Bragwell started pouring candles in adulthood as something “to do for fun,” and when she offered some of the products to friends and family, the ensuing demand turned what had been a hobby into something more. It doesn’t stop at candles, either; she has added other products over time, as requests have come her way.

For Bragwell, it’s not just about the business side of the venture but also about the connection with people. “I love doing festivals because I meet so many people, and it’s just fun to connect,” explained Bragwell, who recently set up at the Franklin County Watermelon Festival. “All of my

products have a Bible scripture on them, and they’re not always the same, but they’re all favorites of mine.” She said at some point in her life each of them has been very important to her.

Bragwell uses organic soy wax for her candles. Her product line also includes a magnesium cream and spray, eczema relief cream, beard butter, a lip line eraser, nighttime face cream, linen/ pillow spray, car diffusers and wax melts. She doesn’t use any chemicals in her products.

“One of the most important things I do is magnesium cream and spray because that really has benefits if you use it for sore muscles and aches and pains,” Bragwell explained. She also makes a skin balm for pets that’s also meant for pads and noses, and she has started making a liquid laundry detergent scent booster.

In her free time, Bragwell enjoys traveling, reading and spending time with family and friends. She and her husband, Roger, live in Belgreen, and together they boast “three beau-

Bethany

tiful children and an adorable granddaughter.” They have a cattle operation, too, as well as four dogs and a number of barn cats.

“I think the key to all of this is I’m a firm believer that God puts us where he wants us,” Bragwell explained, “and when he needs us to be there. That’s all I attribute it to – the Lord gave it to me.”

She has her products in some local stores, including Farmhouse Table Cafe in Russellville, GiGi’s Unique Finds in Phil Campbell and Studio 23 in Florence. She also markets them at festivals, with plans to be at Red Bay Founders Day Sept. 28 and Spruce Pine Day Oct. 19.

For more information, contact Bragwell by phone at 256810-4875, by email at oakandsunathome@gmail.com or on Facebook at Oak and Sun Candle Co., LLC.

A different point of view

Point of view is a key element of every story on the shelf. POV affects how a reader understands and interacts with the story being told. When it comes to titles from a unique perspective, Northwest Shoals Community College library director Lori Skinner has these titles to recommend:

“The Reason I Jump”

By Naoki Higashida

Naoki Higashida’s award-winning memoir, “The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-YearOld Boy with Autism,” is a moving, powerful and intimate glimpse into an autistic mind. Diagnosed with severe autism at the age of 5, Naoki Higashida developed an alphabet grid and began to write poems and stories. At the age of 13 he wrote this memoir, in which he attempts to answer delicate questions such as, “Why do you line up your toy cars and blocks? What’s the reason you jump? Why don’t you make eye contact?” and many others.

“Room”

By Emma Donoghue

In “Room” by Emma Donoghue, we experience the story fully in the voice of 5-year-old Jack. We learn that Jack is the son of a young woman and her abductor, and both are kept locked in a 10-by-10 room, which is his whole world. When Jack’s mother devises an escape plan that works, they both undergo a journey from one world to another. Considered a modern masterpiece, this evocative setting and voice create a strong atmosphere and portrait of love between a mother and her child.

“Three Bags Full”

By Leonie Swann

If you are looking for a murder mystery with an unusual twist, be sure to check out “Three Bags Full: A Sheep Detective Story” by Leonie Swann. This international bestseller seeks to solve the murder of an Irish shepherd, George, who is pinned to the ground with a spade. George, beloved by his flock, has made a habit of reading to the sheep each night, which has made them far savvier about human motivation than one would expect. Led by Miss Maple, the smartest sheep in the flock, they seek to solve the murder of their beloved George by embarking on reconnaissance missions and discussions about crime. If you love this one, be sure to check out the sequel, “Garou.”

“The Thing About Jellyfish”

By Ali Benjamin

When middle-schooler Suzy’s best friend dies in a drowning accident, she stops speaking and retreats into a silent world. After learning of a jellyfish with a deadly sting, she becomes obsessed with learning everything she can about them, with the idea that this is what caused her friend’s death. Ali Benjamin’s “The Thing About Jellyfish,” both a New York Times bestseller and a National Book Award finalist, is a beautiful story about overcoming grief, embracing forgiveness and growing through life’s experiences.

Lori Skinner is the head librarian for Northwest Shoals Community College. She can be contacted at 256-331-6288 or lori.skinner@nwscc.edu. NW-SCC Libraries are open to the public and look forward to serving your library needs. The library has an app, Librista, available on android and Apple devices.

FACES OF FRANKLIN COUNTY

The Phil Campbell Festival, formerly the Hoedown, is two days of community fun. From a car show to contests to live music and more, friends and neighbors come together to kick off the summer.

Photos by MARÍA CAMP

Thomas Miller, Eric Reason and David Baldwin

Jeremy Sharman, Nikkie Melson and Mitch Lane

Hudson Hutcheson and Sadie Hill

Makaylyn Kelley, Jase Swinney and Amber Gardner

Tina McQuary, Michael McQuary and Steve Bell

Dale Moody and Barbara Moody

FACES OF FRANKLIN COUNTY

Jim Sutton

Ashley Harbin and Shane Harbin

Bella Robertson, Jenny Burks and Liz Robertson

Bud Michaels and Donna Michaels

Robert H. Swinney

Michelle and Eddie Marbutt

Rodney Cagle and Drags Belfry

Jeremy Lane and Tommy Thrasher

Jamie Green and Lee Anne Barrett

FACES OF FRANKLIN COUNTY

July Fest is Vina’s annual celebration of family, community, patriotism and summer fun. The Saturday festival was filled with vendors, performances, fellowship, the 50-50 drawing and, to top it all off, fireworks.

Photos by MARÍA CAMP

Joey and Jayden Eads

Alex Butler and Tonya Raper

Graham Long, Joseph Clack, Gabe Engle, Tristan Moomaw and Evan Davis

Nathaniel Green, Skyler Childers, Evan Childers and Cortney Childers

Angela Daniel and Amanda Rayburn

Study up on BACK-TO-SCHOOL healthy habits

Developing a daily routine of healthy habits at home can enhance children’s ability to focus and learn effectively in the classroom. Janice Hall and Erin Reznicek, statewide specialists with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education, provide tips for parents and guardians to support their child’s learning experience at home.

PROVIDE A NUTRITIOUS BREAKFAST

A healthy breakfast is a critical part of a student’s day, providing the energy needed for learning and concentration.

“Establishing a routine of eating breakfast can give children the fuel they need to focus on learning,” Hall said. “Children who eat breakfast perform better academically, have higher school attendance and are more likely to maintain a healthy weight.”

In Franklin County, local schools offer free breakfast to all students. Support your child by knowing when breakfast is

served and planning school arrival time accordingly.

Eating a nutritious breakfast at home can also be quick and easy. Providing a balanced meal that includes whole grains, fruits and protein is a great way to start the day. Nutritious breakfast recipes can be found at www.LiveWellAlabama.com.

“I occasionally prepare breakfast but love the option of our children having

a healthy breakfast at school,” Hall said. “One of my favorite things to do for onthe-go breakfasts is drawing a heart or writing a little message on the wrapper or container.”

UNDERSTAND THE ROLE OF SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAMS

School lunch programs play a vital role in providing nutritious meals to students. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, school meals are the healthiest meals most children get in a day. This helps them maintain energy levels and stay focused in class. Review the school lunch menus with your child and talk about the food options offered.

“Lunchtime is an exciting part of the school day,” Hall said. “It’s not just about eating but also about socializing, which helps build healthy bodies and relationships.”

There are other habits that you can do at home to support healthy food choices. These include involving your child in cooking meals, shopping for groceries and reviewing nutrition labels.

FROM THE EXTENSION

PRIORITIZE SLEEP FOR ALL AGES

Adequate sleep is essential for children’s physical health, emotional wellbeing and academic performance. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends children ages 6-12 should get nine to 12 hours of sleep per night. Teenagers ages 13-18 should aim for eight to 10 hours. To accomplish this, help your child establish a consistent bedtime routine. Also, create a calming environment to help them wind down and get the rest needed to function effec-

tively during school.

Limiting screen time before bed can also improve sleep quality. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends setting boundaries on screen time in the evenings to avoid disruptions in sleep.

ENCOURAGE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Regular physical activity is also essential for children’s growth and development. The CDC recommends at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for children each day.

“While this might seem like a lot, it becomes more manageable when families incorporate movement throughout the day – before, during or after school,” Reznicek said.

The Alabama State Department of Education requires at least 30 minutes of daily instructional physical education for students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Schools often offer extracurricular sports, providing more opportunities for students to stay active. Encourage your child to take part in these activities, and find ways to be active as a family, such as walking or biking together.

“Modeling an active lifestyle is crucial,” Reznicek said. “As a parent, I notice the physical and cognitive benefits for my kids and myself after we engage in physical activity together.”

Reznicek observes that after some movement, her children can focus better on their homework and experience better sleep at night.

GET INVOLVED

Parental involvement in school activities is vital to a child’s learning and development. Engaging regularly with teachers, reading school newsletters and volunteering for school programs are just a few ways you can participate in your child’s education.

By incorporating these healthy habits into daily routines, you can contribute significantly to your child’s well-being and help lay a strong foundation for a successful school year.

MORE INFORMATION

To learn more about nutrition and physical activity, visit www.LiveWellAlabama.com. There, you can find valuable resources, practical advice and key insights to support your wellness journey.

For those looking to connect with others interested in a healthy lifestyle, consider following Live Well Alabama on social media. Their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram platforms offer a space to share experiences, find inspiration and join a community focused on well-being.

Russellville City Councilmen:

David Palmer, District 1; Darren Woodruff, District 2; Gary Cummings, District 3; Dexter Hamilton, District 4; Jamie Harris, District 5; Mayor David R. Grissom