A month from now, five queens will be reigning in Franklin County.

Perhaps the pinnacle of high school football season is each team’s homecoming game – a time to welcome alumni back home, and time to claim victory on the gridiron and the all-important time to crown the homecoming queen.

Phil Campbell’s Maddie Riddle ascended to her throne Friday, and Tharptown’s queen will enjoy her coronation this Friday. Russellville, Vina and Red Bay will announce their own high school royalty in October.

We want to congratulate these queens, as well as their accompanying courts, for representing their schools and attaining this monumental accomplishment. Chosen for a wide range of positive attitudes, members of Franklin County homecoming courts are among the best of the best, and we bow to their achievements – or curtsy, as may be appropriate.

Homecoming is a special night for all, from the players and coaches, to the student body, to the fans and alumni. Whether standing at midfield for the crowning or cheering from high in the stands, every person gets a chance to be part of his or her school’s proud traditions.

Phil Campbell’s Homecoming court was featured in last week’s newspaper, and Maddie Riddle graces our front page. Tharptown’s court may be found on page 12 of this week’s paper, and the queen of the Wildcats will take center stage on page one next week. Be sure to enjoy our homecoming court coverage throughout the next month as talented and beautiful young women at each of our high school enjoy the royal treatment.