FRANKLIN LIVING MAY/JUNE 2018 —

It’s hard to find someone more engaged in all things Franklin County than Cassie Medley. A 1991 graduate of Russellville High School, Cassie is married to Jamie Medley, supervisor with the Alabama Department of Public Health, and they have two children: Sydney, a sophomore at Russellville High School, and Nathan, an eighth-grader at Russellville Middle School. Cassie is the executive director of the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, where she takes the lead on promoting local business and tourism.

What does your role as executive director of the chamber of commerce involve?

I interviewed for this job because I enjoy planning and organizing events, along with meeting new and interesting people. I enjoy my job because no one day is the same as another. I enjoy meeting those who travel and stop in the office seeking information about our county. One of the most meaningful aspects of my job is meeting new members of the Junior Leadership Program and seeing their leadership growth in ten months.

What is your favorite place to visit in Franklin County?

I could not choose just one favorite place to visit. In 2017, I loved attending the Roxy’s Legend of Toyland. However, two other frequented stops are the Dismals in Phil Campbell and the Red Bay Museum. I never tire of visiting these places.

What is your favorite local restaurant and menu item?

I have more than one favorite restaurant too! Here is my list:

In Russellville, 43 Grill’s beef tender and steamed veggies; Frosty Inn’s chicken finger sandwich and onion rings; Rancho Viejo’s cheese dip and salsa; The Bricks’ pork chop with whipped sweet potatoes and Brussel sprouts; Pilgrim’s barbecue with baked beans and vinegar slaw; and Destination’s West Coast wrap and house chips.

In Red Bay, I love Fourth Street Grill and Steakhouse’s salad bar, bacon, lettuce and fried green tomato sandwich with homemade chips and Mason Jar on Main’s chicken finger wrap and onion rings. In Phil Campbell, my favorite is the Dismals’ grilled chicken salad with cheese bread.

Each restaurant has their own unique qualities along with great service.

Why do you love Franklin County?

I love Franklin County because it is filled with precious people who love their communities and their jobs and strive to make a difference each and every day.

Cassie Medley’s Fast 5

1. Favorite hobby: Watching classic black and white movies
2. Favorite food: Salad
3. Goal: No matter what job or task, I strive to do my very best
4. Church: Russellville First Baptist
5. Something people might not know about me: I served as pianist at Crooked Oak Baptist Church for over 26 years