Amid today’s grim headlines, this column revisits the original good news of Christmas: the birth of Jesus, Emmanuel — God with us — the greatest gift ever given.

Area second graders team up with deputies and troopers for a $100 Christmas shopping spree, as the Down the Middle Foundation’s “Shop with a Cop” builds trust and holiday cheer in Franklin.

Two birds sparked a line fault and small fire that cut power to southern Franklin for about an hour Wednesday, leaving Burger King last to reconnect.

Franklin council eyes neighborhood cleanups amid staffing and pay band woes in Community Development, sparking a push to rethink hiring, training and pay.

From Franklin rec leagues to pro scouting and a $90,000 community giveback, Lamar Barrett’s journey earns him a place on the Franklin Community Wall of Excellence.

Southampton County School Board creates transparency committee, seeking parents and residents to help review communication and spending; letters of interest due Jan. 8.

Decked-out Jeeps, a fallen trooper’s legacy and a generous community power the third annual Jeep Jingle Show and Shine Event, fueling a local toy drive for children in need.