More Than Books: Building Community at the Leighton Public Library

Make A Difference Minute: A Library Without Limits

On this Make a Difference Minute, I have Charlotte Goodman, children’s coordinator at the Leighton Public Library and Civic Center, as she shares how the library is opening young minds to a world of possibilities. For children growing up in a rural community, opportunities to experience different places and cultures can sometimes be limited. That’s why Charlotte and the library created “Leighton’s International Airport,” complete with passports, TSA officers, visits to countries around the world, international food samples, and even a globe for each child who completed the journey. The inspiration behind the experience came in part from Leighton native and former professional basketball player Leon Douglas. Charlotte remembers hearing him share how, as a young boy, he would crawl under the covers with a flashlight and a map, point to places around the world, and dream of someday visiting them. Through books, those faraway places became real to him long before he ever had the opportunity to travel. Charlotte wants the children of Leighton to understand that same powerful lesson. Where you come from doesn’t determine how far you can go, and the books inside a library can open doors to an entire world waiting to be discovered. This MADM is brought to you by Bankston Motor Homes, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Make A Difference Minute: Facing the Unknown Together

On this Make a Difference Minute, I have firefighter Brett Thomas as he shares his brother Jamey’s unexpected journey after what first appeared to be a routine medical emergency. When Jamey suffered a seizure in May, his family had no idea it would lead to the discovery of a brain tumor. Brett immediately left work to be with his family, helping care for Jamey’s young daughter while his sister-in-law remained at the hospital. Following surgery, Jamey began the difficult process of recovering from weakness on his right side and challenges with speech. While those abilities are steadily improving through therapy, further testing revealed that the tumor was more serious than doctors first believed. Jamey was diagnosed with a grade 3 astrocytoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Jamey's story is a reminder that life’s biggest battles often arrive without warning, but no one should have to face them alone. Through faith, family, friends, and the support of a caring community, hope continues to shine even in the face of uncertainty. This MADM is brought to you by Hydration Lounge, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

More Than Books: Building Community at the Leighton Public Library

From birthday celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary to international travel adventures without ever leaving town, the Leighton Public Library and Civic Center is redefining what a community library can be. On tonight’s special on-location edition of The Mark White Show, I sit down with Library Director Miranda Ball and Children’s Coordinator Charlotte Goodman to talk about inspiring children to read, serving families through innovative programs, partnering with the Food Bank of North Alabama, preserving local history, and creating a place where everyone feels welcome. Their passion for helping others is evident in everything they do, from summer reading adventures and educational activities to assisting residents with job applications, housing paperwork, and everyday needs. It’s a conversation about service, community, and the power of people working together to make a lasting difference. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Make A Difference Minute: Teaching Fire Safety Through Storytelling

On this Make a Difference Minute, I have Russellville firefighter and EMT Alejandro Wallace as he shares how a passion for protecting lives led him to write the children’s book, A Day at the Fire Station with Dad. As a firefighter, Alejandro has seen firsthand the importance of fire prevention and education. Some of his most rewarding moments have come when children recognize him and say they remembered what firefighters taught them in school and were able to use that knowledge when it mattered. The inspiration for his book came even closer to home. As his young daughter began asking questions and exploring the world around her, Alejandro realized that a story could capture her attention in a way a lecture never could. That idea became a book designed to help children learn fire safety in a fun, engaging, and memorable way. His goal is to equip children with knowledge that could one day save a life. You can find A Day at the Fire Station with Dad on Amazon or follow Wallace Bookshelf on Facebook. This MADM is brought to you by Singing River Dentistry, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Serving Beyond the Badge: Firefighters Making a Difference

This episode of The Mark White Show features two firefighters whose commitment to serving others extends well beyond the firehouse. In the first segment, Russellville firefighter and EMT Alejandro Wallace shares the inspiration behind his children's book, A Day at the Fire Station with Dad, and explains why teaching fire safety at a young age can help save lives. In the second segment, we hear from a firefighter serving the Trussville and Margaret communities as he shares the deeply personal journey of supporting his brother, Jamey, through a serious health battle in Decatur. It's a heartfelt conversation about family, resilience, and the power of standing together during life's most difficult moments. These are stories of courage, compassion, and people choosing to make a difference long after the sirens fade. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️