by Jeriah Brumfield | Apr 17, 2025 | Feature, Franklin County
THE FIRST time Paula Watts picked up her instrument in North Middle School’s band room, the world suddenly made a little more sense. Students tuned their instruments, chair legs scraped against the tile, and off-key notes quickly found their pitch. At the front of the...
by Jeriah Brumfield | Apr 17, 2025 | Feature, Franklin County
CHERIE WILLIAMS never set out to be a teacher. In fact, she was certain she wouldn’t be. Growing up, she was inspired by Mary Tyler Moore’s iconic television persona and dreamed endlessly of city lights and newsroom deadlines. But life had other plans. Williams was...
by Jeriah Brumfield | Apr 1, 2025 | Feature, Franklin County
WHAT DOES it mean to be part of a community? Is it simply sharing a space, celebrating victories, and exchanging smiles and stories? Is it coming together to help those in need, offering a leg up when life feels overwhelming? Look around you, and you’ll see the heart...
by Jeriah Brumfield | Apr 1, 2025 | Feature, Franklin County
SUSAN BINKLEY walks the construction site with both pride and purpose, her eyes scanning the 24,000-square-foot building. The sun catches the gleaming metal roof of a sprawling barn-like structure, its silhouette rising against rolling farmland like a promise coming...
by Jeriah Brumfield | Feb 24, 2025 | Feature, Franklin County
The Vietnam veterans returned to a home they hardly recognized — a country overshadowed by protests, riots, and resentment. For many of them, the reception was almost as cold as the battles they had fought abroad. Ann Solomon grew up hearing stories of service...
by Jeriah Brumfield | Feb 24, 2025 | Feature, Franklin County
There’s magic to John and Virginia (Jenny) Smith’s story, the kind of charm you only find in a Southern home with a porch swing that’s seen many sunsets and family gatherings. For over 30 years, they’ve shared both a life and purpose and have created a heritage of...
