María Camp

1 week ago | franklincountytimes.com | María Camp

RUSSELLVILLE — The public library launched its 2025 summer reading program, “Color Our World,” with a fun-filled kickoff event on Friday. Children received reading logs to track 20 minutes of daily reading throughout the summer. Those who meet their reading goals will get to choose a prize from the library’s treasure box at the next event. The kickoff included face painting by Shirley Jimenez, refreshing treats from Sub-Zero Shaved Ice, and a creative bookmarkmaking station.

1 week ago | franklincountytimes.com | María Camp |A. Stacy Long |Bernie Delinski |Kevin Taylor

R U S S E L L V I L L E — Teaching for Diane Maddox has never been just about grammar rules or reading comprehension, but rather about connection, creativity and care. After 26 years at Russellville Middle School, Maddox is retiring, leaving behind a legacy built on compassion, curiosity and laughter. “I always tried to see each student not just for who they were in class but for who they were becoming,” Maddox said. “Teaching is personal.

1 week ago | franklincountytimes.com | María Camp

BELGREEN — Jemma Moore has been named to the AHSAA First Team All-State for softball, becoming just the ninth player in school history to earn the distinction. Her performance this season helped lead the Bulldogs to their best record ever — 36 wins, 18 losses, and a trip to the state tournament. For Moore, the honor is the result of years of dedication to a sport that’s shaped her life from a young age. She will be a junior when school starts back this fall.

1 week ago | franklincountytimes.com | María Camp

PHIL CAMPBELL — Hannah King was crowned Miss Phil Campbell 2025 during Saturday’s pageant at the Phil Campbell campus of Northwest Shoals Community College. In its second year, the event, emceed by Blaze Bishop, welcomed 26 participants and crowned winners across multiple age divisions. For pageant coordinator Michelle Marbutt, the night’s true beauty went beyond crowns and sashes. “The best part was watching the girls encourage each other,” Marbutt said.

1 week ago | franklincountytimes.com | María Camp

SPRUCE PINE — When naturalist Joel Pounders sees his four-year-old grandson, Koda McNutt, holding a smooth earth snake (harmless and fully grown at just a few inches), he’s glad he already knows it’s safe to do so. The Spruce Pine resident and lifelong student of Alabama wildlife has spent decades teaching others that snakes, despite their reputation, are more often friend than foe. It’s a common mistake.