With another successful Watermelon Festival now finished, schools back in session and fall sports and other activities gearing up, there’s plenty to reflect on and plan for in the coming months.

Our community festivals and other events provide good opportunities for us to come out and enjoy special times together from season to season and year to year.

From local restaurants and other businesses to festival food, music, games, car shows, a variety of vendor offerings and more, there’s plenty of fun for all. Despite the heat, there are sweet summer treats and festival fare to highlight our days, as we treasure old memories while making new ones.

In the spirit of festivals, we also have parades, something I always enjoy. Bright costumes and music, candy and creative floats – it’s a special bit of magic, whether young or old. Parades and festivals alike provide opportunities to celebrate and enjoy special things together in our community, even drawing in people from beyond our county lines.

If you haven’t already, check out this week’s Franklin County Times (and keep an eye on our social media accounts and website) for photos from the Watermelon Festival, and we’ll be sharing more later. You just might see yourself or someone you know.

If recent events have you in a celebratory spirit, stay tuned for information about upcoming activities across the county. If you have something to share to go on our community calendar, make sure to get in touch so we can help spread the word.

As many of you are back in school or otherwise rapidly filling your schedules, make sure to plan some time to enjoy everything Franklin County has to offer, whether that’s the “everyday” or something extra special.