Get involved, make an impact

Mentone and its surrounding communities are blessed with people who want to make a difference. The fact that you’re reading this newspaper means you are interested and invested in sustaining the quality of life here.

There are always opportunities to give back, but this month’s issue highlights some significant developments in Mentone. First, the Mentone Fall Festival is a major undertaking that has already brought significant benefits to the town. When the long-standing tradition known as ColorFest came to an end, the Town of Mentone, a group of volunteers, and the entire business community jumped in to keep it alive. Not only were they successful, but they also raised much-needed funds to help preserve this historic school. Sponsors and volunteers are needed again for this year’s festival.

TAKE ACTION: Enter bit.ly/3yxhr4N into your web brower, or stop by Mentone Town Hall to sponsor or volunteer.

On that very campus, Northeast Alabama Community College will begin offering classes this month. If you’ve ever thought about taking college courses, now is the perfect time. If NACC sees community support for its presence, bigger things could be in our future — like a performing arts center for theater, concerts, and more!

TAKE ACTION: Visit nacc.edu or call 256-638-4418 to learn how to register and apply for financial aid.

As highlighted in our cover story, the North Lookout Mountain Fire Protection District is doing a fantastic job serving area citizens and businesses. But beyond donations, they need physical help, too. If you have the time and ability, volunteering as a firefighter might be just the role for you!

TAKE ACTION: Attend a department meeting on Monday nights at 6 p.m. at Station 2 in the Alpine Camp area, or contact Chief Joseph Lee.

Lastly, did you have a career that involved writing? We are working on some fun projects at The Groundhog that will require us to expand our stable of writers. Do you have experience writing (feature stories in particular) and would like to contribute?

TAKE ACTION: Send your information with some writing samples to groundhognews@yahoo.com. Use the subject line “Groundhog Writer.”