AS YOU step out of your car, the atmosphere at Clark Memorial Elementary School seems to beam with positivity. You take a deep breath as you stand outside the school, absorbing the electrifying...
Winton Auction & Realty Has a Future Rooted in Service and Collaboration.
FOR OVER seven decades, Winton Auction & Realty has been a cornerstone of Franklin County, its weathered brick facade whispering tales of community spirit and dedication. Founded in 1948 by Bob...
Mountain Mobile Meals Is on the Rise.
ΤHE SCENT of simmering garlic and oregano hung heavy in the air, clinging to the worn denim apron tied around his 16-year-old frame. Condensation gathered on the stainless steel counter as he sliced...
A Local Child Care Center Cultivates Imagination and Empathy in a Cozy Bungalow.
A BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED Craftsman home, painted in a calming sky blue with crisp white trim, reflects the friendly, bright, and refreshing atmosphere awaiting young scholars. Annette Martinez once...
Franklin County’s Trusted Paint Expert Defies Setbacks and Builds a Community Mainstay.
A SHROUD OF pre-dawn darkness blanketed Southern California as Monday morning arrived. As the rest of the world slept, Tony Stone, a soldier turned civilian, sat at his kitchen table, bathed in the...
The Danley Family Has Kept Homes Cozy for 50 Years.
MICHAEL T. Danley the current owner of Danley Heating and Air, didn't initially plan to follow in his grandfather's (Edward Thomas Danley) and father's (William "Bill" Thomas Danley) footsteps in...
The Grace Center of Hope Blends Education, Spirituality,
GRACE CENTER of Hope, a nonprofit founded by visionary Dr. Ashley Dewitt, welcomes the laughter and dreams of children seeking a safe place for after-school activities. The community center bustles...
Franklin County A.M. Rotary Club’s Hands-on Approach to Community Involvement
ORIGINATING IN Chicago, the Rotary Club movement, now a global force, was initially conceived to unite business leaders in service to their communities. The Franklin County A.M. Rotary Club...
Exploring Summer Magic at St. Andrew’s Sewanee
WHEN ENVISIONING summer camp, what image comes to mind? Is it the smell of the half-burnt marshmallows perched atop the bonfire, yearning to unite with graham crackers and chocolate Hershey bars? Is...
Turning the Page to Retirement, a Former Educator Faces New and Exciting Opportunities.
ANGIE FULLER’S students have seen her orchestrating engaging lessons in math and science and blossomed into inquisitive scholars for over 30 years. Inspired by a dedicated mentor who recognized her...
Debbie Edens Brings Comfort and Joy Through Sleep in Heavenly Peace.
FOR MOST of us, sleep comes easily. We lay down at night, heads meeting our soft pillow, cocooning us like warm clouds. Our tired muscles loosen, welcoming the plush embrace of our mattresses. We...
Brightening Days & Building Futures
IN OUR FLOURISHING town, a powerful revolution is underway, led by a group of passionate teenagers who created a coalition known as Teens Making a New Tomorrow. The guiding lights of the movement...
Isaiah 117 House Offers Hope to Foster Children.
AS YOU walk the halls of Isaiah 117 House locations all across America, you’ll witness the uniformity in warmth, kindness, and bright smiles. These homes have an aura like a soothing embrace,...
A Car Accident Inspires the Ratcliffes to Turn Challenges Into Opportunities.
A CLOSE-KNIT FAMILY faced life-altering challenges yet found strength and resilience through community support. Matthew Ratcliffe, a young man with a promising football career ahead, encountered a...
Midtown Veterinary Clinic’s Commitment to Animal Welfare
RAISED IN the tranquility of nature, Dr. Helton's love for animals found its roots in Upstate New York. Her journey eventually led her to Tennessee for veterinary school and ultimately to the heart...
Campora Family Resource Center Is a One-Stop Shop for Hope, Generosity, and Change.
HISTORY WHISPERS through the halls of the old Townsend School, now the heart of transformation at Campora Family Resource Center. Its time-honored history touches the lives of children and families...
Sue Fulmer’s Influential Path to Community Advocacy and Connection
SUE FULMER’S transformative journey commenced in classroom halls, transitioning from an aide to a teacher, ultimately finding her purpose as the site manager/family partner at Head Start. During a...
The Diverse Chapters of Pastor Jim Thomas’ Service to God and the Community
PASTOR JIM Thomas, the man behind the pulpit at Payne’s Baptist Church, was blessed with a journey that spans military service, a career in law, and the skies as a helicopter pilot. Thomas’ story...
Balancing Academics, Passion, and Community Impact
EDEN KILGORE is a young girl, wise beyond her years, who wears many hats — a student, an athlete, a business owner, a volunteer, and a public speaker. One couldn’t help but wonder how she manages to...
The Unbreakable Bond of Maggie and Grant Gipson
MAGGIE AND Grant Gipson’s love story began on a crisp autumn evening on the bleachers at a Franklin County High School football game. It was in the eighth grade when mutual friends played...
Rebuilding, Reviving, Restoring, and Recovering Souls
IN EARLY 2020, Jordan Atkisson and his wife found themselves at a pastor's conference in Louisiana, where a person who had recovered from a drug addiction shared a powerful message. This moment...
The Influence of Family and Upbringing on Jim and Holly’s Life
JIM AND Holly Cortner’s love story unfolds, intertwined with the legacy of their shared values and dedicated service to the community. Jim’s upbringing, which consisted of early morning rises with...
The Walker Way: A Tale of Love, Resilience, and Community Commitment
IN THIS thriving community lies a love story that has stood the test of time. Dennis and CleiJo Walker, a couple with 55 years of marriage under their belt, share their journey of love, support, and...
Exploring Ya-Ya Sisters’ Two Decades of Laughter, Support, and Unforgettable Memories.
THERE’S NO better remedy for the soul than the profound connection of friendship love, known as “philia” in Greek. In 2002, a close-knit group of friends embarked on a journey inspired by the film...
Healing Through Compassion Is Emily Horton’s Personal Mission
IN OUR lifetime, we all come to that inevitable moment when we find ourselves navigating various online listings, sifting through countless advertisements for long-term skilled care facilities for...
A Taste of Hope With Ms. Sandy Bolin
BORN AND raised in Monteagle, Sandy Bolin's roots run deep in the Volunteer State. Ms. Sandy started working at Dairy Queen at the tender age of 16, which instilled in her the value of hard work and...
Delivering Generations of Wellness in Franklin County
FOR DR. Scott Holder, the journey began in his hometown of Franklin County, where he attended Franklin County High School. Fast forward 44 years, and he’s become an integral figure in the community,...
Franklin County Therapist Ensures Mental Health for All.
WHEN YOU hear the word “therapy,” what comes to mind? It’s encouraging to witness the growing recognition of mental health care’s essential role in our lives today. In a world filled with everyday...
Lauren Laurino’s Holistic Health Mission That Transcends Borders
LAUREN LAURINO, a self-proclaimed “hybrid Jersey girl,” embarked on a transformative journey from her urban upbringing in the Northeast to the tranquil landscapes of Tennessee. Her childhood, marked...
Becky Campbell’s Mission Is to Heal and Revitalize Her Community.
THERE IS a servant’s heart in this community whose mission in life centers around healing and revitalizing their hometown one day at a time. This selflessness has touched many hearts and has opened...
The Table – Bridging Disparities With Food and Fellowship
A HIDDEN TRUTH exists that often eludes our attention — the existence of the less fortunate population. These individuals remain easily overlooked as we venture through our daily lives. Among the...
The 59th Annual Cowan Christmas Parade Continues to Unite Generations in Festive Tradition.
THE COWAN Christmas Parade is an event that has brought joy, unity, and family traditions to the community for nearly six decades. Each year, the event fills the community with love, charm, great...
Two Passionate Visionaries Rekindle Winchester’s Christmas Tradition.
RICKY TIPPS and Montana Medina’s childhoods were highlighted by the town’s treasured tree-lighting event and other festive traditions during the holiday season. However, as time passed, this beloved...
A Journey to Illuminate Hearts Beyond the Holidays
IN THE heartwarming Winchester community and beyond, one luminous gem shines with brilliance – Pam Peck. Her presence is a treasured blessing, an embodiment of love itself. Pam is a cherished wife,...
Santa Comes to Town Event Promotes a Season of Giving in Franklin County.
THE HOLIDAY season is a time of giving, sharing, and coming together as a community. The unifying Santa Comes to Town event in historic downtown Winchester strengthens this sentiment. At the...
Ryan Fuller – A Second-Generation Hero Continues His Father’s Legacy to Create Camaraderie in the Community.
MEET RYAN FULLER, a second-generation hero who has dedicated his life to safeguarding the Winchester community as a proud member of the Winchester Police Department. Born and raised in this...
Lamar Howard – Local Police Officer Promotes an Engaging and Thriving Community
IN THE heart of the beautiful city of Winchester is a heroic figure quietly working to protect and serve — police officer Lamar Howard. With a strong sense of duty and a warm, inviting spirit,...
How Bradd Holden Found Healing and Inspiration Through Creativity
TO KNOW him is to love him. Mr. Bradd Holden is a man with a heart of gold who has stolen the hearts of everyone at Elk River Health and Nursing Center in Winchester. This warm and welcoming...
Anita Soluna’s Selfless Service in Peru
IN THE beautiful country of Peru, the air was thick with humidity, and the scent of rich earth and vibrant flora filled the senses. Towering trees draped in emerald greens formed a great canopy...
Belvidere Volunteer Fire Department’s Annual Fish Fry Celebrates Community and Tradition.
THE BELVIDERE Volunteer Fire Department has been a pillar of strength and support for its residents for many years. While their daily sacrifices to ensure neighbors’ safety and well-being are...
Granddaddy’s Farm Welcomes All Ages to Come and Enjoy the Fall Season.
FALL IS an exciting time around these parts. Its arrival brings a sense of warmth, comfort, and joy, with many things to look forward to during the season. High school and college football are...
South Cumberland Farmers Market’s Online Hub Cultivates Quality and Community.
IN ATHENS, Georgia, a passionate advocate of local farmers breathed life into an innovative software that revolutionized connections with nearby growers. Locally Grown emerged as a beacon of hope,...
Five Generations Strong: A Journey Rooted in Franklin County’s Agricultural Heritage
STEP ONTO the vibrant and historic grounds of the Woodall Family Farm in Decherd, and immerse yourself in a history deeply rooted in agriculture. The Woodalls have birthed passionate agricultural...
Lyndi and Darrin’s Mission to Make Franklin County Feel Like Home.
BEAN ACRES Farm Camp, bordering Tims Ford Lake, located on 48 acres of family-owned farmland in Franklin County, has become a cherished haven for children over the past four years. Lyndi Bean and...
Megan Lingerfelt Shares South Cumberland’s Rich History Through Her Awe-Inspiring Mural Creation.
IN A display of artistic brilliance and community engagement, artist Megan Lingerfelt has concluded an extraordinary six-day endeavor in Grundy County, leaving behind Tracy City’s first magnificent...
Food Truck Fridays Event Is Back on the Scene.
AS THE workweek ends in Franklin County, residents eagerly anticipate Food Truck Fridays, a beloved culinary event that unites the community. This weekly extravaganza, which features a rotating...
Joy Stovall Dominates the Gymnastics Scene All Over the U.S.
BORN IN Chicago, Joy Stovall grew up about 90 miles northwest of Rockford, Illinois. There, she discovered her love for springboard diving and found herself competing at just 5 years old. At age 10,...
Uncovering the Hidden Gems in Our Community and Embracing a Brand-New Culinary Experience.
FRANKLIN COUNTY has long been known for its natural beauty and Southern charm, from the rolling hills to the picturesque lakes. But in recent years, there’s been a surge of new restaurants quickly...
Culinary Treasures of Sewanee: A Dining Experience to Remember, Curated by Tom Anderson and Cynthia Krueger
IN THE charming town of Sewanee, a culinary gem awaits those seeking a unique dining experience. La Bella Pearl, a Mediterranean oasis housed in an eye-catching orange building with black and white...
Clayton Knight’s Game-Changing Nutrition Hub Transforms Smalltown Living.
FAR BEYOND traditional wellness, our charming town has a hub of its own — a place where health education and delicious health-conscious drinks collide to create a better, happier life and community....
The Beautiful Story Behind Mot’s Shaved Ice Stand
UPON ARRIVING at Mot's Shaved Ice stand for the first time, your attention is drawn not to their shimmering "OPEN" sign but to the warm and inviting smiles of the staff inside the stand as they...
Lupita Pell Brings a Small Taste of Mexico to the Community of Winchester.
LIKE MANY young adults leaving the nest, Lupita Pell left South Mexico with a vision and aspirations. With her mother, two sisters, and nieces and nephews still in her hometown of Oahaca, she knew...
Monteagle’s Historic Gathering Place Transformed Through Generations.
IN THE historic and charming town of Monteagle stands an old quaint stucco building that had been a witness to many generations. This building, built in 1939 by Raymond and Hazel Sanders, was...
Local Businesses Thrive at Franklin County’s Inclusive Networking Event.
FRANKLIN COUNTY has become a hub for community engagement and business growth. One event that continues to significantly impact the local scene is the 5 O'Dock Somewhere social networking event....
Faith: Discovering Your Unique Purpose Through the Lens of Faith
AS A member of a group of people that only make up about 14% of the country’s population, and as a woman, I have faced unique challenges and experiences that have shaped my identity and journey of...
Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Prepares for the 21st Annual Youth Leadership Program.
THE FRANKLIN County Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for this year’s annual junior leadership program. The adult program is in its 26th year, and the youth program is in its 21st year. The program...
Mountain View Strives to Create a Successful Workplace Through Core Values and Employee Growth.
IF YOU ask Norman Eicher what makes his family-owned company different, he’ll tell you it’s simple: Mountain View is driven by its people and values. According to their shared purpose statement, the...
The Franklin County Educational Foundation Is Committed to Investing in Today’s Youth and the Future Leaders of Our Community.
WHAT BEGAN as a small gathering of people, at the request of director of schools Amie Lonas, in late 2016, soon expanded to a large group of business people, professionals, and community leaders to...
Examining Dr. Cary Holman’s Unwavering Commitment to Improving the Education System.
DR. CARY Holman, director of Franklin County Schools, embodies excellence from his visionary outlook to his relentless pursuit of education and deep love for his community. Born and raised in...
Brent and Lisa Poole – Retired Firefighter and Wife Establish Residential Childcare.
WHEN BRENT and Lisa Poole set out to find a place to call “home,” they knew they wanted a place where they could share in the community’s journey. Brent, originally from the vibrant state of...
Kaleob Ashley Used Roadblocks as Building Blocks to Live the Life of His Dreams.
KALEOB ASHLEY learned about the power of faith and perseverance at an early age. The 23-year-old Airbnb owner, coach, real estate investor, minister, and Huntland alum earned his undergraduate...
The Sound Event at First Baptist Church in Estill Springs
THE SOUND of music fills the air as the audience closes their eyes and lifts their hands, lost in the moment. Christian music concerts offer an unparalleled experience that touches the soul and...
Explore the Musical Roots and Evolution of Self-Taught Musician Zachary Brooks, From Drumming Pots to Winning Hearts.
GOD GAVE him the gift of music. Zachary Brooks spent his high school years performing music he created, using live instruments like the piano, drums, and sounds that captivated his audience. ...
Coordinator Pippa Browne Discusses Upcoming Events at the Artisan Depot.
ART INVITES us into a space of creativity, purpose, self-expression, and fulfillment. Step into a world of originality, wonder, and diversity at the Franklin County Arts Guild’s exhibition space,...
Lisa Clark Discusses the Importance of Participating in Local Parks and Recreation Activities.
YOU AND your family decide to get out and enjoy an excellent summer weekend camping, boating, and fishing at Winchester Parks and Recreation. Upon entering the building, the skilled aquatics...
Get Ready for a Musical Rendezvous This Summer.
SUMMER IS a season of warmth, joy, and fun. It is a time when people get together to enjoy the outdoors, dance to great music, and make unforgettable memories. Summer music festivals are a perfect...
Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Is Gearing Up for This Year’s Annual Poker Run on the Lake.
IT IS that time of the year again when the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce and hundreds of community members prepare for another Poker Run event on Tims Ford Lake, scheduled for June 10....
Sunset Boat Tours and Tims Ford State Park Activities Heat up for Summer.
THE DESIRE to connect with nature remains strong amidst a world dominated by technology. Visitors flock to Tims Ford State Park in search of a unique outdoor experience full of rich history and...
Faith – Dare to Finish the Race
STAR OLYMPIAN Usain Bolt is known as the fastest man in the world, and his reputation was cemented when he won the gold medal in the 100-meter race at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and 2012 London...
Lynch-Rigsby’s Expert Agents Offer Insights and Advice to Help With All Your Real Estate Needs.
LYNCH-RIGSBY REALTY & Auction is not just any ordinary real estate company. It’s a team of seasoned experts who strive to make their clients’ real estate journey successful from beginning to...
The Franklin County Farmers Market Gears up for the Summer
Farmers markets are a place where community, food, and culture unite. They offer a unique experience that transports you from the hustle and bustle of daily life to a place where time moves slower,...
Local Author Brigid Murphy Stewart and Illustrator Cheryl Lankhaar Share Children’s Book.
WINCHESTER AUTHOR Brigid Murphy Stewart and her friend and illustrator from Monteagle, Cheryl Lankhaar, have written and illustrated the children’s book “The Monteagle Assembly, Kinsley’s Story.”...
Through the Cowan Commercial Club, Jarod Pearson Creates Generations of Civic-Minded Leaders.
PRESIDENT OF the Railroad Museum and Cowan Commercial Club Jarod Pearson is a seventh-generation resident of Franklin County and a member of the Cowan Community. He joined the Railroad Museum and...
Doug & Amy Garrett Turn Pain Into Purpose.
DOUG AND Amy Garrett’s love for each other has spanned 27 years as of this past February, but the one thing that unites them more than anything else is their daughter, Bethany. After losing her to...
Janice Summer Dustin Discusses Her Journey as a Mother and Small-Business Owner.
IN RECENT years, there has been a significant increase in the number of women entrepreneurs. According to a report by American Express, the number of women-owned businesses in the United States...
The Story Behind the McEwan Family’s High Score Arcade.
JIM AND Andrea McEwan, the proud new owners of High Score Arcade, moved to Winchester with their family just three years ago. And in that time, they've made quite a name for themselves in the local...
Marketplace Consignment’s 29th Annual Pop-up Sale
YOU CAN find pop-up consignment sales everywhere, but sales that double as community builders are hard to come by. Gina Moore’s 29th annual spring/summer pop-up shop was held March 4-11 at Monterey...
An Inside Look Into Penny Brown’s Journey as a New Bakery Owner.
IT HAS been said that being a baker takes a great deal of creativity, patience, and an outstanding work ethic. Skilled bakers put their heart and soul into every creation, crafting unique dishes...
Dan Williams Is on the Hunt for the “Unknown Soldier” in Franklin County.
DAN WILLIAMS found a photo of an unknown soldier while walking past Glenn Grant’s picture frame shop in Winchester. Grant was retiring at the time, and Williams stepped inside to congratulate him on...
Katelyn Williams Is Paying It Forward at North Lake Elementary.
EVERY STUDENT deserves a healthy learning environment with a teacher who goes above and beyond to ensure their most pivotal school years are as enriching, memorable, and productive as...
4-H Extension Agent Hunter Isbell Discusses the Importance of the 4-H Youth Program.
IF YOU ask a parent how important their child’s academic, physical, mental, and emotional development is, they would probably reply, “extremely important.” You would then direct them to a program...
How Coach Kermit Reed Makes a Difference at Huntland Schools by Demonstrating Loyalty and Longevity.
HUNTLAND HIGH School’s head football coach, Kermit Reed, has demonstrated a remarkable ability to create togetherness for the Huntland Hornets through longevity, improving, and rebuilding Huntland’s...
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