&UDLJ 2]ELUQ Craig Ozbirn is a second generation employee at Tiffin where he first began on the assembly line in 1983. After growing up in Vina and graduating from Vina High School, Craig followed in his father’s footsteps by joining Tiffin. His IDWKHU ZRUNHG DV D ZHOGHU IRU 7L൶Q Motorhomes for twenty four years where he welded the actual gas tanks going into the vehicles. As part of the assembly line, Craig spent his GD\V SXWWLQJ ¿QLVKLQJ WRXFKHV RQ the motorhomes, such as adding tail lights and other parts before they left IRU VDOH +RZHYHU 7L൶Q 0RWRUKRPHV is not the kind of company that NHHSV LWV HPSOR\HHV LQ RQH VSHFL¿F ¿HOG IRUHYHU &UDLJ TXLFNO\ PRYHG on from the assembly line to line stocking. Those responsible for line stocking are part of the glue that keeps the factory running like clockwork. On a daily basis, Craig drives a forklift from the warehouse to the assembly line ensuring that the assembly line has all the parts necessary to create the motorhomes. Keeping the assembly line stocked is not the only thing Craig does for
7L൶Q WKRXJK 'HSHQGLQJ RQ WKH GD\ he does everything from driving a forklift to tile work and even helps with diagnostics on the fabulous KHDWHG ÀRRUV DYDLODEOH LQ VRPH RI the luxury motorhome models. Those ZKR ZRUN IRU 7L൶Q NQRZ WKDW WKH VN\ is the limit when it comes to helping around the factory or warehouse and Craig jumps in to help wherever he might be needed. This kind of team environment is due in large part to the family-like culture DW 7L൶Q 0RWRUKRPHV 1RW RQO\ LV Craig part of a multi-generational family working with the company, but he has good friends at work as ZHOO ,Q IDFW WKH HPSOR\HHV DW 7L൶Q IUHTXHQWO\ VD\ WKDW WKH SHRSOH DUH WKH best part of the job and Craig is no GL൵HUHQW )RU KLP WKRXJK LW¶V QRW MXVW the people he works with that make ZRUNLQJ IRU 7L൶Q VR IXQ +H KDV KDG the pleasure of meeting and working with people from all across the United States and even from as far away as 1HZ =HDODQG Craig and his wife Patricia live in the Vina community and have two children, Lisa and Robert, and two grandchildren, Aubrey and Annabelle. Outside of work, he enjoys spending
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time with his family. He and his family are active members at Vina )LUVW %DSWLVW &KXUFK DQG KH DQG KLV wife are happy to be involved in their children’s and grandchildren’s lives. Craig also spends a lot of time working in his woodshop when he can and cheering on The Tide in college sports. It’s easy to see why Craig feels VR DW KRPH DW 7L൶Q EHFDXVH ZRUNLQJ DW 7L൶Q LV OLNH VSHQGLQJ WLPH ZLWK your friends and family every day.
Staff directory Interim Regional Publisher DANIEL HOLMES Managing Editor ALISON JAMES Staff Writer LAUREN WESTER Sales PEGGY HYDE AMARENT SPARKS TORI WAITS Photography CHRISTOPHER WEBB MONTANA HESTER APRIL WARHURST Customer Service SOMMER MORRIS ____________________ Franklin Living is published
Features 5
Looking Back
6
What’s Happening
7
A taste of Franklin
11
Loft living
15
Health and Wellness
16
Small town Saturday night
19
Instilling the passion
23
Money Matters
24
Faces of Franklin County
28
Faith
29
Marketplace
30
Why I Love Franklin County
bi-monthly by Franklin County Newspapers, Inc. Copyright 2018 by Franklin County Newspapers, Inc. P.O. Box 1088 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1881 fax: 256-332-1883 www.franklincountytimes.com ON THE COVER: Colt Thomas was one of the first members of the fledgling Junior Cattlemen’s Association. Read the full story starting on page 19.
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FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR
I
n this issue of Franklin Living, we’ve got all the cornerstones of life in Franklin County covered: we’ve got your good eats, your home comforts, your agricultural activities and your Saturday night entertainment, all within the pages of this very edition.
Debuting this month is a new endeavor to tempt your taste buds with the best recipes Franklin County has to offer. We feature a couple of menu favorites from local restaurant 24 Crossroads in Red Bay. If you’re feeling hungry, be sure to check out this month’s recipes – gouda grits and pimiento cheese. Mmmmm. Life in Franklin County is moving on up with loft apartments in downtown Russellville. Although you might have seen the adorable Southern balconies as you cruised down main street, Franklin Living is giving you a chance to peek inside these upscale apartments and meet the people calling them home. Whether you want to get down on the farm or join the line dance, there’s a place for both in our corner of north Alabama. Meet the Franklin County Junior Cattlemen, a program of the Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association. You won’t believe how smart – and passionate – these kids are about cattle farming and other agricultural pursuits. Dedicated men and women in the Cattlemen’s Association are getting these Juniors started off on the right foot and ensuring a bright future for farming in Franklin County. Just like in Brooks and Dunn’s “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” Mountain Valley Hee Haw is out in the country past the city limit sign, but you won’t find whiskey and smoke – just the
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good, family-friendly, twangy country the South is known for. The Welch family has kept this free venue cranking out live music every Saturday night since 1983, drawing the young and old alike to the homegrown venue for a clean good time. If you haven’t been out there on a Saturday evening, you’re really missing something special. As autumn quickly approaches – Sept. 22, for those who are counting – there are plenty of fun community activities coming up, so be sure to mark your calendars. Check out What’s Happening for everything you can look forward to over the next couple of months in Franklin County. As always, we would love your suggestions for future feature stories we should include in Franklin Living. Contact me anytime at alison.james@franklincountytimes.com.
Alison James
FRANKLIN LIVING
LOOKING BACK
Looking back photos courtesy of the Franklin County Archives
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WHAT’S HAPPENING
3rd Annual Beast Feast Sept. 15 HUNT Outdoors Ministry will host the 3rd Annual Beast Feast Sept. 15 at 5 p.m. at Mountain View Baptist Church in Phil Campbell. TW Norman will serve as guest speaker, and attendees will be treated to wild game, singing, fellowship and $6-7K in door prizes.
Red Bay Founders Day Festival Sept. 15 Founders Day 2018 will welcome friends and neighbors back to Red Bay for the annual community festival. Festival-goers can enjoy the King and Queen’s Train Ride, live music, fried pie contest, buck dancing, arts contests, fiddling and a barbecue cook-off. The festival will also feature prizes, vendors, a 5K, car/truck/motorcycle show and fashion show. The Museum will be open for tours, and downtown businesses will offer sales and specials.
Senior Health Fair
FRANKLIN COUNTY FOOTBALL Sept. 7 Phil Campbell at Lexington Red Bay at Hatton Russellville at Corner Tharptown at Sheffield Vina hosts Phillips
Sept. 14 Phil Campbell at Clements Red Bay at Addison Russellville hosts Hayden Tharptown hosts Colbert County Vina at Cherokee
Sept. 21 Phil Campbell hosts Vina (HC) Red Bay at Belmont, Miss. Russellville at West Point Tharptown hosts Tanner
Sept. 28 Phil Campbell at Phillips Russellville at Haleyville Tharptown hosts Brilliant (HC)
Oct. 11 A Senior Health Fair will be held Oct. 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the A.W. Todd Center in Russellville. Seniors are invited to learn more about Social Security updates, weight management, healthy eating, estate planning, funeral planning, exercise, breast cancer, tours and trips and more. Lunch will be served. Preregister by calling the Franklin County Extension at 256-332-8880 or the Foster Grandparent program at 256-332-6800.
Spirit of Hodges Festival Oct. 13
Oct. 5 Phil Campbell hosts Westminster Red Bay hosts Sheffield Russellville hosts Lawrence Vina hosts Mars Hill
Oct. 12 Phil Campbell hosts Lauderdale Red Bay hosts Colbert County Russellville hosts Hamilton Tharptown at Hatton Vina at Waterloo
The 2018 Spirit of Hodges Festival will be held Oct. 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Town Park. Live music will entertain all day while visitors shop the vendors. The train ride and inflatables will return again this year for the children, along with the fire engine ride. There will also be a car and truck show, and Swamp John’s will sell plates. All proceeds from the festival go to the Hodges Fire and Rescue Department.
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FRANKLIN COUNTY FOOTBALL Oct. 19 Phil Campbell at East Lawrence Red Bay at Tanner Russellville at Jasper Tharptown hosts Addison Vina hosts Shoals Christian (HC)
Oct. 26 Phil Campbell hosts Colbert Heights Red Bay hosts Tharptown (HC) Russellville hosts Dora Vina at Hackleburg
Nov. 1-2 Phil Campbell at Hackleburg (Nov. 1) Red Bay hosts Wilson (Nov. 2) Russellville at Central (Nov. 2) Tharptown at Vina (Nov. 2)
FRANKLIN FALL FESTIVALS RMS 10th Spooktacular Oct. 18 Russellville Middle School’s 10th Spooktacular show Oct. 18 will boast an ’80s zombie prom theme. The show will be staged at RCS Auditorium Oct. 18 at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $5 for school age and older.
Fall Festival Oct. 31 The Cowboy Church of Franklin County on Highway 24 in Russellville is having a Fall Festival Oct. 31 from 5-9 p.m. Festivities include chili cook-off, arena games, judgement house, horse and rider costume contest, hayrides and raffle drawing. Call 256-324-5856 for more information.
FRANKLIN LIVING
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Spruce Pine Day Oct. 20 Spruce Pine will host its annual community festival, Spruce Pine Day, Oct. 20 in downtown. Among numerous activities and attractions, the festival will boast the annual Car, Truck & Bike Show, with registration from 8 a.m. to noon. Fee is $20, and there will be a 75/25 ticket drawing (75 percent to winner). Cash drawing start at 9:30 a.m. with $50 giveaways every 15 minutes all day long.
RPL Zombie Walk Oct. 20 Russellville Public Library will be hosting its sixth annual “Feed Your Brain” Zombie Walk Oct. 20. There’s no cost for admission, and the doors open at 10 a.m. Festivities include a professional makeup team to help attendees get zombieready, zombie karaoke (1 p.m.), zombie trivia (2 p.m.) and movie marathon, a brain eating contest (3 p.m.), all-ages dance party, costume contest (4 p.m.) and more. The walk begins at 6 p.m. Event T-shirts are available for pre-sale, $10, through Oct. 8. For more information contact Ashley Cummins at Russellville Public Library, 256-332-1535.
Halloween Bash Oct. 27 A Halloween Bash welcomes visitors to Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park Oct. 27. A trail ride starts at 10 a.m., and a horse and rider costume contest will start at 6 p.m. There will be classic festival games and activities for children such as apple bobbing and a cake walk. Admission is free other than the trail ride fee, and donations are greatly appreciated. There will also be Trunk or Treat, a Haunted Hay Ride and more.
Trunks of Treats Oct. 31 To give your pumpkin a sweet treat this Halloween, the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce will host Trunks of Treats in downtown Russellville, Oct. 31 from 6-8 p.m. for all ages. Cars and tents will fill parking spaces downtown to give out candy, and the Chamber is accepting reservations for those spots. To find out more about reserving a space for Trunks of Treats, call 256-332-1760 or email info@ franklincountychamber.org.
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FOOD
A taste of Franklin 24 Crossroads shares favorites Photos by MONTANA HESTER
24 Crossroads at Hotel Red Bay is the place where farm table and Southern elegance meet. Guests can enjoy an eclectic casual atmosphere, traditional Southern dishes and elegant table settings, Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in downtown Red Bay. Manager Emily Strickland is highlighting the restaurant’s Gouda Cheese Grits dish because of its status as a Southern staple and Pimento Cheese in honor of its “new popularity as an entrée, appetizer or burger topping.”
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Gouda Cheese Grits 4 cups of water 1 cup of half-and-half or whipping cream ½ stick of butter 2 cups os quick grits 2 tsp. of salt 2 cups of shredded gouda cheese Bring water, half-and-half and butter to a boil in a saucepan. Add remaining ingredients and continue cooking until melted and well-blended. Serve in a baking dish, garnished with additional shredded cheese. Serves 10-12.
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FOOD
Pimento Cheese 4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese 2 tsp. of pimento 1 ž to 2 cups of mayonnaise, to taste 1 tsp. garlic salt Mix all ingredients and serve. For a great strawberry glaze to accompany, mix 1 cup of your favorite strawberry preserves to 1/8 cup of red wine.
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Loft living Downtown apartments bring new life to Russellville
Story by ALISON JAMES Photos by CHRISTOPHER WEBB
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hen Kayla Hall, 25, finally ends her busy workday as an emergency room nurse, she loves to come home and lounge on her balcony, watching the sunrise or sunset. With her “roommate and child,” a Siamese cat named Stinky, she enjoys spending time in her upscale, industrial-modern loft apartment, featuring all new stainlesssteel appliances, restored original hardwood floors and trendy interior construction. Hall is one of just a few tenants to call downtown Russellville home. The first of their kind in Russellville, the Reed Building loft apartments at 110 Jackson Ave., first opened in June 2017, bringing a unique downtown living opportunity. The apartments were designed, constructed and leased by Made in USA Properties – a business partnership between Russellville Mayor David Grissom and Franklin County Commissioner Chris Wallace. When Grissom first began efforts toward the revitalization of downtown Russellville, he soon envisioned loft apartments in the second story of downtown businesses. Once new zoning guidelines were established downtown to permit loft apartments, he said it was time to put his money where his mouth was.
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“Downtown is the heartbeat of every community,” Grissom said. “Successful cities have always kept downtown as the heartbeat of the community. I knew we had good bones downtown. Nice churches, law offices, the post office – we had a good core to our downtown area, we just had some areas that needed attention.” In late 2016 Wallace and Grissom purchased what was once Reed’s General Store – Grissom’s greatuncle’s store. “It was a neat thing to find out that history and about my kinfolks,” said Grissom. They began to renovate, with a dream of developing two apartments on the second floor, above retail space on the first floor. “We both enjoy challenges. When someone tells you it won’t work, it makes us work harder to make sure that it does,” Grissom said. With a can-do attitude, it wasn’t long before their dream became a reality. The one-bedroom, onebathroom apartments were the result of a topdown building renovation, including an all-new roof, plumbing, wiring and windows. The heart pine floors were refinished, and the beautiful original brickwork was left exposed, a complement to the exposed ductwork that gives the apartment that industrial feel. By the time Grissom and Wallace were ready to open the new apartments, they had already managed to lease them both – one of them, the “back apartment” facing the alley, to Hall. Originally from this area, the 2011 Tharptown graduate was looking to move back home but having trouble finding a place she wanted to live. With a job offer from Russellville Hospital on the table, Hall said she needed to find a place quickly. That’s when someone told her about the new downtown lofts. It was love at first sight. “They reminded me of really swanky apartments I have seen before in Nashville and more up-and-coming cities,” said Hall. “They were rustic but modern at the same time.” She toured the apartment one morning, signed a lease the same day and moved in the last weekend of July 2017. She describes the apartment as having a modern feel but with the character that can only come when a place is steeped in history. “When you first walk in, the first thing I notice is the exposed brick,” said Hall. She also values the high ceilings – “it makes it feel super huge when you walk in” – the beautiful cabinetry, exposed duct work, granite countertops and, of course, the restored original floors. “They have scratches in them and stains and little holes, so they are very characterized, and it just fits,” Hall said. Another feature she likes is “above the counter, the light fixtures have Edison bulbs, the old-fashioned lightbulbs. That caught my eye.” Hall isn’t the only satisfied tenant living in downtown Russellville. Tyler Lowe, a senior at Mississippi State University, found himself in need of a place to live when he accepted a plant manager internship position
INSET RIGHT: Of note to downtown visitors is the REED lettering on the exterior of the building, marking its general store history. Grissom and Wallace had them sandblasted, repainted and rehung in tribute to the building’s original purpose.
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Grow With Us
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Chris Wallace and David Grissom are developers of loft apartments in Russellville.
at Pilgrims. “We didn’t know anything about Russellville, so we spent two or three weeks trying to find apartments and call places,” said the Jackson, Miss., native. When he and his family connected with Made in USA Properties, Lowe said they knew they had found a gem. “We saw the pictures, and my family and I fell in love with it,” said Lowe. “We said yes, it’s perfect.” Like Hall, Lowe said he enjoys the proximity of the apartment to his work as well as other amenities, like the post office and downtown businesses. He has an 11-minute commute, “so it’s very convenient, and everything is nice and set up well.” He praised the balcony, which overlooks Jackson Avenue – “It’s nice to come back from work and sit there and look at the town” – as well as the large master bedroom, granite countertops and exposed brick. “It’s just very beautiful.” The second-story apartments are accessed by a long flight of stairs. Inside, the bedroom is separated from the common area by a partial wall, and a kitchen island creates distinction between the kitchen and living room areas. Countertop stools provide a place to sit at the island and enjoy a meal or conversation. Following the success of the Reed Building renovation and with interest in loft living on the rise, Wallace and Grissom immediately took on another remodel. During the Reed Building open house, they started taking notice of a building two doors down – the old “Ed Carter building,” once Carter’s Menswear, which they determined was identical in construction to the Reed Building. It wasn’t long before Made in USA Properties had purchased and remodeled the second downtown building, opening two more apartments – nearly identical to the Reed apartments – for downtown living. Both Wallace and Grissom saw the purchase and remodel work as an investment opportunity. “I’ve mostly been involved in new construction. I haven’t done a lot of remodeling, so it was a little different,” said Wallace. “Remodel work costs at least 30 percent more than new construction. It would have been a lot easier to come out here somewhere, buy a lot and build a new set of apartments,” — however, “it was definitely mine and David’s willingness to reinvest in downtown.” The downstairs of the Reed Building is leased to Southern Wellness Services. The downstairs of the Ed Carter building is home to Common Cents Clothing. Downstairs, it’s all business. But upstairs, it’s all about the loft living lifestyle. “I just love my apartment,” said Hall. “It feels like a retreat. It’s the nicest place I’ve ever lived in, and I am proud of it.”
FRANKLIN LIVING
HEALTH
Healthy seasonal foods for your fall grocery list Storyy b Sto byy RED ED BAY BAY HOSP H HOSPITAL OSPITA ITAL L
S
oon the weather will be getting cooler, but before you reach for all things pumpkin spice consider, some of the healthy seasonal foods of fall. The season brings a bounty of foods that will provide both nutrition and a festive flare to a healthy diet. Here are just a few of those choices:
Apples This delicious fall staple is satisfying whether in baked goods like the famous apple pie or simply eaten own their own. Apples are packed with antioxidants and are a great source of fiber. To find ideas for fun recipes and more on health benefits, check out the U.S. Apple Association.
Squash An obvious but important addition to our fall foods list is squash – including pumpkins. Squash has made a name for itself as much more than a fall decoration. The seeds can be a delightful snack and are packed with magnesium and fiber, while the squash itself is known for massive amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, the B vitamins and anti-inflammatory as well as antioxidant compounds.
Sweet Potatoes These veggies are for much more than holiday casseroles.
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This Thiis Th is versatile ver ersa sati tile ti le ffall allll food al food fo d can can be b served d sweet and d dusted d d with brown sugar in a variety of ways or perhaps served mashed and paired with grilled chicken and asparagus. Whatever satisfies your taste buds, sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin B6 and have high levels of vitamin C and vitamin D, as well.
Brussel Sprouts The vegetable we sometimes love to hate, Brussel sprouts – when cooked properly – actually taste divine. An excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin B6, fiber, folate and manganese, they provide support to three key areas of the body: its detox system, the antioxidant system and the body’s inflammatory/ anti-inflammatory system.
Pears With their sweet and juicy taste, this fruit is a real crowdpleaser. Cooking can bring out their great flavor, so try them baked, poached or in some delicious preserves. Pears are an excellent source of vitamin C, copper and fiber.
Cranberries Frozen, dried or fresh, cranberries deliver high amounts of vitamin C and fiber to reduce inflammation and the risk of heart disease. Besides tasting amazing next to our holiday bird, they are rich in antioxidants that repair cell damage done to our bodies, as well.
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Small town Saturday night Hee Haw brings live music to Phil Campbell
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Story by ALISON JAMES Photos by APRIL WARHURST
G
ene Welch Sr. first opened the Mountain Valley Hee Haw in 1983. Thirty-five years later, it’s still going strong in its original location on Highway 79 in the Dime Community. Tucked away into rural East Franklin, the Hee Haw might be overlooked by people who don’t already know it’s there – but for faithful attendees, it’s the place to be on a Saturday night. When Welch Sr. passed away of a heart attack 19 years ago, his son, William Gene Welch Jr., decided to carry the torch and keep the family-friendly live music venue in operation. “He liked music, and he didn’t want to go anywhere where there was drinking and stuff like that. If you have drinking, you’re going to have fights,” Welch said. All of their family is musical; Welch himself used to play lead guitar. With no ready-made spot for some downhome country concerts, Welch’s father just decided to open his own venue – or to be more specific, his own four walls, with no roof or floor to speak of. “We had all coal heaters in here.” Welch said the new venue was well-received by the community right away, with bluegrass fans pouring in for their weekly dose of toe-tapping, twangy banjo music. It has been improved since then – with, among other changes, the addition of a floor and a roof – but it’s still the same cherished place to go “out on the town.” The House Band plays almost every Saturday night, but the venue has also played host to guest groups like Hank Snow’s band, Elvis impersonators, Travis Wammack and the Snakeman Band and more. Turnout to Hee Haw on a Saturday can range from 40-100 or even more, Welch said. Attendees have been as young as 6 months to older than 100, with folks coming from across Franklin County and beyond. Welch said four or five new people wander in most
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Saturdays, but much of the audience is repeat guests, coming week after week for live music and dancing. “A lot of the older folks who come out here, this is the only place they go. Most of the time they stay at home,” Welch said. “There’s a lot of them who come out here who have nowhere to go.” Admission is free, and Welch keeps the venue running with donations, raffles and from his own pocket, from his full-time roofing and construction business. House band members are Hudon Franklin, Phil Campbell, lead guitar and lead vocals; George Strawbridge, Red Bay, lead guitar; Jimmy Sneed, lead guitar, Russellville; Ray Crawley, bass, Phil Campbell; Anthony Greene, drums, Phil Campbell; David Britnell, rhythm guitar, Muscle Shoals; and Anthony Gardener, banjo and fiddle, Russellville. Visitors to the Mountain Valley Hee Haw can choose a chair from among the rows facing the stage or pull up a seat at one of the table fillings the large music hall – but many of them choose to find their way to the dance floor in front of the stage. Whether the country music songs call for a two-step or a slow dance, nearly every tune brings someone to their feet. Colored strobe lights enhance the festive atmosphere, and when the last note from the House Band fades away, about 10 p.m., the Hee Haw stage opens up for karaoke singers. The newest attraction, just outside the Mountain Valley Hee Haw, is the Town of Hee Haw, a Western-themed collection of cabins that, when they are all completed in a couple of years, will be available to rent. Welch said he expects the one-bedroom cabins to attract fishermen and hunters, as well as others. “I build houses for a living, and that’s just leftover materials,” Welch said. Each cabin is designed to look like a building in an old Western town – the steepled church, the saloon, the town hall and the barbershop, for a start.
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Instilling the passion
Bo, Kade and Madalyn Lemay stretch their cattle-farming skills.
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Junior Cattlemen’s Association introduces next generation to cattle farming Story by ALISON JAMES Photos by MONTANA HESTER
W
hen people think of what defines Franklin County, they can hardly help but think of agriculture. From the multiplicity of poultry farmers to those who plant fruits and vegetables to sell at the local farmers markets, Franklin is teeming with passionate growers and producers. Perhaps none are so zealous or prolific as the Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association – the largest county association in the state and a vibrant, active group in the county. From donating beef to the local school systems to selling steak sandwiches for scholarship funding, the Franklin County Cattlemen are always on the move. Last year, however, a few Cattlemen decided it was time to do something more. Expanding a tradition and culture of reaching out to Franklin students, the Cattlemen founded the Franklin County Junior Cattlemen’s Association. For Junior Cattlemen directors Joe Hester, Gannon Nunley, Caleb Beason and Michael Pounders, it’s all about sharing their passion for cattle farming and guiding the future of the industry
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in Franklin County. “The kids can learn all aspects of cattle younger, so somebody is going to have to come along behind production and how beef is actually put on the table,” Hester us,” Gannon said. “Hopefully they will take to it and carry on the explained. “We try to teach them the right way as far as handling, legacy … The youth is where it’s at. If we don’t teach our youth, treatment, developing and raising their cattle. With any livestock, who’s going to?” you want to provide the best care you can for them. That’s what “If we can show them we’re raising these animals in a humane, we’re striving for here.” quality way that respects these animals and When the Junior Cattlemen’s Association teach them the right way to do things, was founded late last year, Hester said we can combat a lot of the negativity there was an immediate response. surrounding the meat industry as a Sign-ups have continued since whole,” added Kristin, who is an that time, and the organization agriculture teacher in Hamilton. now boasts about 50 members. “I think that’s really important, The Association is open to to teach them not to be afraid ages 21 and younger, and of what these farmers are Hester said Franklin County’s producing.” group ranges from 3-18. Cattle farming is often a CALEB BEASON “It’s a great organization family endeavor. The Nunleys JUNIOR CATTLEMEN DIRECTOR to keep kids involved in the are first-generation farmers, livestock industry and bridge that and they said they are excited to gap into the Cattlemen’s Association, have their own children – Cooper, 8, as well,” added Beason, who is also the and Adalie, 4 – involved with the Junior Franklin County Cattlemen vice president. “If Cattlemen. They aren’t the only ones who we start them younger, it instills that passion, and then are actively participating with their children, either. A they want to do it for the rest of their lives.” number of parents were right there with their Junior Cattlemen Fall 2017 and summer 2018 field days have provided an at the summer field day – like cattle farmer Lucas Gilbert, who is opportunity for even the youngest junior cattlemen to get introducing 6-year-old Addie to the family business. excited about cattle farming, try their hands at cattle judging, “She’s a little bit young, but she’s been around this stuff a lot, interact with livestock and learn more about the importance of and I want her to have the opportunity to be part of different the industry – something Nunley and his wife Kristin said is crucial things so she can decide what she likes,” Gilbert said. “She loves when it comes to ensuring a bright future in cattle farming. animals; she has even talked about being a veterinarian one day.” “Farmers are making up less than 2 percent of this world, and The group’s first-ever Summer Field Day was held in June there aren’t any of us who are in it now who are getting any at Mike Madden’s farm in Spruce Pine, where attendees
“If we start them younger, it instills that passion, and then they want to do it for the rest of their lives.”
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learned about cattle judging and enjoyed chute side demonstrations on working and caring for the cattle, from outfitting with ear tags to administering vaccinations. Children also got to ride a horse and enjoy a hamburger cookout. “Mr. Madden is one of our biggest supporters. From day one he’s just been a huge supporter of the Junior Cattlemen’s Association,” said Hester. “We appreciate it so much. Very few people have the facilities he has.” The Nunleys also praised Madden’s involvement. “He’s such a supportive individual for the kids,” Kristin said. “You can see his passion for trying to educate this future generation. That shines through with everything that he does.” Besides offering his barn and property for Field Day, Madden has also supported the Junior Cattlemen by incentivizing membership recruitment. He offered a prize heifer to the member who could recruit the most new members in May. It was a close battle between Noah Wyatt, 12, and Colt Thomas, 14, who were the first two members to join – but Noah ultimately signed up 16 new members to Colt’s 15. Noah, a Belgreen student, said he likes being part of the Junior Cattlemen because “it’s fun, and you really get to learn stuff,” he said. “It’s enjoyable, and everyone should join and come have fun with us.” Colt said he enjoyed the opportunity to visit Madden’s farm and showing his cows to fellow Junior Cattlemen. “I like showing off my cows and talking about them,” Colt said. He said he also likes helping organize activities and show his peers where their food comes from. With all the success the fledging organization has enjoyed so far, Beason said he anticipates a bright future. “As we continue to have more events and get the word out, it seems like it’s getting better and better,” Beason said.
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FRANKLIN LIVING
Cutting the budget
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he biggest obstacle to cutting your budget: selfcontrol! You can have the best laid plans, the most organized budget and all the financial apps you can think of, but when it comes right down to it, spending or not spending ultimately comes down to you. Distinguishing between what is a necessity and what isn’t is tough. We all have different ideas about needs verses wants. As a self-proclaimed “social media guru,” fast internet and high-speed data feel like a necessity to me – then the internet and cellphone bills come due, and suddenly I second guess that need for speed. So how do we determine where to cut costs? I’m here to tell you, those decisions are going to be unique to everyone. As a starting point, here are some common cuts that can make a difference in your budget. Hopefully this will provide you with a jumping off point to start considering what expenses you have that might could be reduced or even eliminated. • Energy bills! We all know Alabama summers (and winters for that matter) can be harsh. Keeping a check on the thermostat can save you a lot of cash. Studies show you save or cost yourself around 3 percent for every one degree you adjust your temperature. Adjusting the temperature while you’re away from home can also account for major savings. • Dining out! Everyone can be guilty of this one. Often times it actually does feel more cost effective to just eat out than to have a large grocery bill. The trap we fall into is buying groceries, eating out anyway and throwing food away we didn’t cook. This decision on how you can save gets really personal. If you know you won’t cook, cut down on the groceries and focus on purchasing nonperishables. If you like to cook, but just can’t make a habit of it, try meal prepping. There are tons of “meal prep experts” on social media who are constantly sharing tips and tricks to aid you in getting started. Focus on it for a month and see how it goes. (You can search the hashtag: #mealprep). • Entertainment/activities! This one doesn’t need much decision making. It easily falls into the “not a necessity” category. The hardest part is just having the self-control and forethought to plan for what you will spend. Going to the movies? Could you do the Sunday matinée for $5 instead of Friday night for $14? Do you have a coupon that could be used? Are there specials available that you could take advantage of? The way to save here is to avoid spur-of-the-moment purchasing. Plus, fitting in a little research ahead of time doesn’t hurt! Last but not least, the hardest part is just saying no. Whether to yourself or your kids, “not getting” to do something can be a bummer. You can cushion the blow by looking for fun, cost-effective alternatives. In the end, it’s all what you make of it. If you’re down in the dumps and begrudging every cut you’re trying to make, then this can be a pretty awful process. Likewise, if you can view it as a financial challenge or competition, it will be a lot more fun!
Franklin County Business & Service Directory
Mon-Sat. 9am-5pm ... Closed Wednesday
____________________________________________________________ Emily Mays is vice president/senior marketing director at Community Spirit Bank in Red Bay, working in finance for 13 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, 10.
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FACES OF FRANKLIN COUNTY July brought an opportunity for Franklin County folks to enjoy the annual Vina July Fest, complete with festival foods, vendors, live music, Draw Down, fireworks and more. Photos by ERICA SPARKS
Lee, Lydia and Candy Morphis and Braden Pardue
Annie, Simon and Amanda Mak
Issac Harper, Kaylie Lawler and Hailey Cantrell
Sarah Elizabeth and Joseph Williams
Ashley Brown and Raley Gassaway
Faye Correll
Josh and Amanda Hester
Junior and Requina George
Hannah Lynn Jones, Jonathan Jones and Steven King
HB Bolten, Johnny Mack and Martha Morrow
Olivia and Dustin Creekmore
Yolanda Motes, Nikki Mays and Allie Holt with CNC Woodcrafters
Bobby and Bentley Welch
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FRANKLIN LIVING
FACES OF FRANKLIN COUNTY The Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Watermelon Festival drew throngs of happy festival-goers to downtown Russellville. Photos by ERICA SPARKS
Addie Strickland, Summer Butler and Alejandro Wallace
Kase and Kaden McDowell
Elijah and Ayden Sparks
Suzanne and Katie Messer
Kaeli James and Beth Pace
Justin, Kayla and Waylon Harris
Carrie and Zander Maddox
Kayla Smith and Jackson Hightower
Melissa Johnson and Wanda Jenkins
FRANKLIN LIVING
Chad and Gunner Elliott
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FACES OF FRANKLIN COUNTY
Beth, Jilliyn and Jimmy Senkbeil and Bella Carr
Ashley and Cassidy King
James, Kasi, Kash and Kovie Cottingham
Mason, Gavin and Ashley Cummins
Ashley Flippo, Lizzie and Eli
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Gannon, Jacob, Alana and Jennifer Morgan
FRANKLIN LIVING
FACES OF FRANKLIN COUNTY
Jim Tedford and Abby Hovater
Chris, Pamela and Hannah Waldrep
NiNi Wyatt
Lauren Williams, Jose Sanchez and Amber Barnett
Amber Channell and Candace Pounders
Kim and Ashlyn Sherrill
Emmalyn Johnson and Marypillow Mitchener
FRANKLIN LIVING
Stephanie and Chase Phifer
Samantha and Michael Franklin
Nicole, Rowan and Bella Jennings and Shirley Freeman
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Gulliver 4-Light Galvanized Drum Pendant with Weathered White Wood Accents
Good intentions
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Rustic and Modern Farmhouse home decor, as well as Urban Industrial and Coastal interior settings. Three metal banding features embossed wood grain pattern for rich visual texture.
Shoals Lighting 2308 Woodward Ave., Muscle Shoals 256-383-1437 www.ShoalsLighting.com
hey say “the road to hell is paved with good intentions,” and each of us have lived through family vacations or other events that went all wrong because of poor planning or poor execution of plans. Our intentions don’t guarantee a positive experience! Although these things continue to happen in our lives, we still struggle with an “intention-action gap” in many areas. Somehow our actions don’t always add up to our intentions. Intentional living doesn’t just happen; it’s a commitment to actions that bring about specific results. There’s a lot of wisdom in the Book of Proverbs. One passage says, “Commit your actions to the Lord, and your intentions will succeed” (16:3). If you make yourself do what’s right, your thoughts will eventually get in line and follow your actions. You can literally “do” yourself into a better way of thinking! That diet isn’t going so well because of what you are doing, not because of what you are thinking. That new budget isn’t working because of your spending habits, not because you don’t have good financial intentions. Those relationships are stale, stagnant and growing toxic because of someone’s actions or inactions – not because of the intentions of someone’s heart. What you actually do matters more than the thoughts you are thinking about what you should do. To keep things as they are, just do nothing! But if you have higher hopes, if you want to be and do better, you have got to act. I’m challenging you to live by decision rather than living by default. Default is what happens when we don’t think, when we do what we’ve always done and follow our blind passions or when we refuse to listen to wise counsel. Default sends us in the wrong direction. It stifles our growth and destroys any thoughts of change. C.S. Lewis once said, “Spiritual growth requires an intentional effort; spiritual stagnation requires no effort at all.” Whether you desire spiritual growth, or financial gain, or weight loss or anything else that requires intentional effort, you have got to move. Make a change. Do something different. Stop “planning” to get up and go to church – do it. After you’ve taken action over and over again, you’ll start to think differently. Your mind will follow your actions. It’s how God designed our minds. He tells us to “capture our thoughts” so that our thoughts serve us, rather than allowing those thoughts to destroy us! So what intentions are you leaving untried in your mind? What could you do differently today to release joy, kindness, goodness and love into your family and our community? Do something different today and bridge the gap between your intentions and your actions! _____________________________________________________ Trae Durden has been the preaching minister at North Highlands church of Christ in Russellville since January 2013. He is married to Leann Durden, and they have a daughter, Darcy Grace (15), and a son, Dalton (12).
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FRANKLIN LIVING
Marketplace Franklin Living • 256.332.1881
Caregivers & Nurses ALWAYS THERE IN-HOME CARE Immediate need, Flexible hours, Benefits available. Call for more information 256-5391400 www.alwaysthereinc. com B&B LAWN CARE FULLY LICENSED Full lawn care service to meet your needs. Upand-coming business. Willing to beat the prices of competitors. Give me a call or text! Free Estimates!!! (256)668-4533 Carroll Fulmer Now Hiring Class-A CDL Drivers. Overthe-road positions Available. Dry vans. No hazmat. Must have one year overthe-road experience and a clean MVR. Competitive pay and bonus package. Good home time. Call 800633-9710 ext. 2 Lenders’ New 1st Time Homebuyer’s Plan at Clayton Homes, Cullman. You can be APPROVED! 256-734-1930 Economic Solutions & Services • Concrete Work Stained Concrete, Driveways, Patios, Sidewalks and much more! 256-309-9035 *Free Estimates!* Your Vision - Our Team Great Projects -
FRANKLIN LIVING
Round Hay 5x5 (in shed, under cover) Mixed hay. $45/ roll. Square bale. Mixed Hay. $5/roll or $4.50/100. Located in West Point ALABAMA 256-734-4202 Service Technician to join Holly Pond & Spruce Pine locations!! Requirements: •Customer service skills •Electrical,plumbing, mechanical systems experience •2yrs experience repairing and replacing electrical, plumbing and mechanical equipment Responsibilities: •Troubleshooting, repairing faulty parts & equipment in modern poultry facilities in Cullman, Franklin and surrounding counties LOCATIONS TO APPLY: 85 Lick Creek Rd Cullman,AL-35055 256-796-6507 6561 Hwy 43 Spruce Pine,AL-35585 256331-2817 OR Visit “Career” to learn about position and apply:www.hogslat. com EOE/AA/M/F/Vet/ Disability Come work with us as a Caregiver or CNA! Competative wages, Shift premium for weekends, Flexible Schedules, Friendly Staff, Endless Opportunities, Apply today at www. homeinstead.com/250 or call 256-883-3080
White Oak Transportation is hiring CDL-A drivers in your area. Great Pay! Excellent Benefits! Visit our website www.whiteoaktrans. com for more information EOEM/F/D/V Now Booking! Spring, Summer, and Fall. Estate, Antique, Farm Equipment and Real Estate Auctions. Call Auctioneer Chris McNatt • ASL#1474 • TSL#5074 • Firm 2652 • 256-874-3786 Soon the Mark of the Beast Will Be Enforced. Free Book & Bible Study. PO Box 171 • Samantha, AL 35482 205-339-4837 Lake and Pond Fish Stocking: Bass, Bluegill, Shell Cracker, Grass Carp, Catfish, Minnows & more! Aerators & Fountains. CALL FOR PRICES! WE DELIVER! 615-9770752 Smith Motors Two locations on Hwy 31, Decatur Lot #1 256-350-9938 Lot #2 256-350-9937 smithmotorsautosales. com Town Hill Mini Storage 160 Units Vacancies All Sizes 256-332-9928
Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedental assisting.com or call (205) 561-8118 & get your career started! WARRIOR MET COAL NOW HIRING Located in Brookwood, AL Immediate need for experienced: •Underground Miners •Electricians •Maintenance Foreman •Supervisors Apply online: www.warriormetcoal. com WCA • Roll Off Drivers needed for our Alpine, AL location. Class A or B CDL is required along with one (1) year of verifiable equivalent commercial truck driving experience. Must have a valid and safe driving record. We offer competitive wages & a comprehensive benefits package which includes: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, Life Insurance, Short & Long Term Disability, Paid Holidays and PTO. Please apply through our website at www. wcawaste.com EOE M/F/D/V
(all miles): 51 cpm, 52 cpm at 6 months, 53 cpm at 1 year. 100% Outbounds loads Pre-loaded & Tarped. 75% Inbound No Tarp. Late Model Peterbilt Trucks. Air Ride Trailers. Home weekends. Low cost BCBS Health & Dental Ins. Matching 401K. Qualifications: 18 months Class A CDL driving experience with 6 months flatbed; Applicants must meet all D.O.T. requirements. Contact recruiting at 1-800-634-7315 or come by HTL office at 1700 Boone Blvd, Northport. EOE Need appliance or air conditioner parts? How about a water filter for your refrigerator?We have it all at A-1 Appliance Parts! Call 1-800841-0312 www.A1Appliance.com G&G STEEL, Inc. is currently seeking qualified Welders & Machinists Apply in person or at www.ggsteel.com Competitivepay and benefits. EOE-Minorities/ Females/Vets/Disabled
DRIVERS Hanna Truck Lines is seeking Professional Flatbed Drivers. 53 cpm No surprises: Starting pay
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Why I Love Franklin County:
Photos by ALISON JAMES
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ussellville native Randy Seal began his career with the Russellville Fire Department in 1996 as volunteer firefighter. A volunteer job soon became a career passion, and Seal has been full time with the department for 20 years. Seal’s wife Kim is an RN at Russellville Hospital on the home health side. Their son Jacob, 23, is a business and finance graduate from the University of Alabama who now lives and works in Nashville, and son Joshua, 20, is a junior on the golf team at Birmingham-Southern College. They are both Russellville High School graduates. What is your job title, and what does your work entail? As B-shift captain, I see to the day-to-day operations for B-shift, every third day. I make sure all firefighters come in for their assigned shift and are safe and productive on the job and get them back home to their families. What made you choose your job, and what about it is meaningful to you? Being a volunteer was one of the main reasons I decided to choose the profession. It was seeing what all was involved and the excitement of the cause. After becoming full time, it was more about being that person who went to help people when they needed help. One of the biggest things over the years that has been most satisfying to me has been being able to help children in different ways: through our fire prevention program every year when we see them and teach them what they need to do in case something happens at their house and the Toy Drive we do every year. A lot of stuff we do here is geared toward helping children, and I especially enjoy that part of the job. What is your favorite place to visit in Franklin County? I don’t have on particular favorite place in the county that I enjoy visiting. I enjoy wherever my family and friends are – family events, and that could be anywhere. What are your favorite Franklin County restaurants, and what do you like about each of them? 43 Grill is my favorite in Russellville. I like it because the people who run it are friendly and talk to everyone who comes in. It’s Christian family-owned. I usually get the grilled pork chop. The other place I go to every now and then that I like is Backwoods Fish Camp because I love seafood, and they have the seafood buffet up there. Why do you love Franklin County? I have never known anything else but Franklin County. I’ve lived in Russellville my entire life. I love the closeness of the community and how we have always taken care of each other. Everybody seems to be pretty friendly and always have been. Franklin County is not a big city area, big metropolis. It’s more of a country background, and I like that. It’s a laid-back place but still has plenty to offer.
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FAST 5 1.
Favorite hobby: Golf, working out, coin collecting
2.
Favorite food: Grilled stuffed shrimp
3.
Goal or ambition: To continue on with my career at the fire department department, be a good example and support my sons and maybe be a grandparent one day
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Church: Calvary Baptist Church
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Something people might not know about me is: I’ve worn a flat top for over 20 years, and I do that in honor and remembrance of my family members who have been in the military. I have four or five uncles, several who have passed on, who served, and my grandfather also served.
FRANKLIN LIVING
OUR VISION To become the BEST and MOST RESPECTED Company in our industry, creating opportunities for a better future for our team members.
APPLY ONLINE TODAY!
www.pilgrims.com
Cassidy Cullum has worked at Southern Homes for the past three years in Franklin County.
Homes for giving me this chance to let others know that there is support for them.”
“I love working at Southern Homes. They make it possible for their employees to provide for their families and help build happiness,” Cullum said when asked about her employer. “The team at Southern has been so supportive with my outreach to raise awareness about suicide.”
Cullum has created “Breaking the Silence,” a page on Facebook where 860 people have connected to give support to each other. The group is not only for the prevention of suicide but also for the grieving families that have suffered from suicide.
“September marks six years that I lost my mother to suicide. I feel that uniting as a community to keep families together and safe is so important,” she said. “I would like to thank Southern
There will be an “Out of Darkness” walk on Oct. 28 at Florence High School. Registration will start at 1 p.m., and the walk will follow at 2 p.m.