State funds emphasize the benefits of small industries
The importance of small businesses in our communities is often stressed by chamber of commerce leaders, especially as we approach the annual holiday season. “Shop local” is a popular slogan as it emphasizes the significance of spending our dollars where the money is needed the most — in the cities and towns in Franklin County.
But let’s not forget the small industries that also serve our cities and towns. They, too, are bedrocks of economic vitality, providing jobs and wages for thousands of our citizens. That’s why it warms our hearts when we learn one of our industries has been noticed and rewarded at a higher level.
Recently, Miller Family Dairy located on the borders of Franklin and Colbert counties received a $1.9 million boost from the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI). The funds will completely reshape the dairy’s future and broaden its market.
And that’s exactly what state officials are trying to do with the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) program.
The program, which targets industries in the middle of the food supply chain, seeks to connect producers to markets they have not been able to serve.
State Ag Commissioner Rick Pate said Miller Family Dairy was a natural fit for the program.
“By their very nature, smaller dairies are struggling,” Pate said, adding there are only 16 dairy farm operations left in Alabama. “The program is targeting local growers and producers and helping them add value to what they raise.”
Miller farm owner Jennilee Miller said funds received will allow her to add a new pasteurization process, as well as provide more space and the equipment needed to produce cheese and butter products.
When the project is completed later this fall, shoppers in Franklin and Colbert counties will find Miller Dairy products in local grocery stores, or they can shop directly at the farm.
That’s means this fall, the “Shop locally” slogan in Franklin County could add a new twist: “Shop locally at the farm.”
A new tradition is launched
Homecoming parades and homecoming courts have been a staple at Franklin County high schools for decades. But fans at Belgreen High didn’t participate in the pageantry until a week ago.
Belgreen sports fans celebrated their first-ever football homecoming celebration on Sept. 6, and fans and community residents embraced the tradition with open arms.
For decades, homecoming at Belgreen was a winter tradition tied to basketball with no parade or football festivities. But with the school’s football program entering its second varsity season in 2025, students, alumni and the community rallied together to kick off a new tradition.
And what a great day it was. The afternoon parade featured floats, cheerleaders and a wave of blue and white pride rolling through town. That night, the Bulldogs dominated the Tharptown Wildcats 34-0 to give fans a memory they won’t likely forget.
Ann Taylor, 88, who graduated from Belgreen High, said after the homecoming celebration she believes the new traditions will strengthen community bonds.
“I just thought it was great for this community to have,” she said of the parade and homecoming activities. “It makes a community closer when you can have things together. It’s something you can look forward to each year.”
We agree. Congratulations, Belgreen High. Here’s hoping your homecoming festivities become the highlights of each new football season. Well done!
