7/15/2019 6:55:20 PM

By John Pilati

Franklin County children enjoyed a day of magic, science, athletic skills and fun that featured two Franklin County residents who have taken their talents to the national, and international, level.

The events took place at Belgreen High School on July 12 as part of the Franklin County TRACKS 21st Century Community Learning program, which provides summer and after-school education and recreation for local children.

TRACKS summer campers enjoyed some magic and a lot of fun science facts from entertainer Steve Trash. Trash, whose real name is Stephen B. Richerson, is a Frog Pond resident who has entertained children across the world with his unique magic show that incorporates STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education in a fun way to help children learn about science, ecology and recycling, as well as character lessons.

Trash appears on Alabama Public Television in a Saturday morning series that helps children learn STEM education in a fun and entertaining way. According to Trash’s website, he has entertained more than 25 million people since he began performing in 1984.

The event was planned as part of a “Fantastic Fun Day” organized by Dr. Susan Hargett with Franklin County Community Education and Katernia Cole-Coffey with the Franklin County Extension System. Cole-Coffey serves as co-applicant for the Franklin County TRACKS grant and has been associated with the program for several years. Rep. Jamie Kiel (R-Russellville), Rep. Proncey Robertson (R-Mount Hope) and Sen. Larry Stutts (R-Tuscumbia) provided funding for the Fun Day. 

“We truly appreciate the support from Senator Stutts and representatives Kiel and Robertson,” Cole-Coffey said. “Without their support, this program would not have been possible.”

Kiel, who attended with his children, has been a fan of Steve Trash for years.

“Steve travels across the United States and around the world entertaining and using his talent to make people aware of the need to recycle,” Kiel said. “He’s always very busy teaching kids about science with his new PBS television show. Because Steve is on the road so much, most people don’t know he lives right here in Franklin County.

“We were very fortunate to have an opportunity for our community to experience his unique show. I’ve known Steve for years, and he’s truly one of Franklin County’s greatest ambassadors.”

There were two shows on July 12. In between shows, students enjoyed the new LU Interactive Playground and a lunch provided by Franklin County Child Nutrition.

After the last show, students enjoyed some sno-cones courtesy of Cole-Coffey and then headed to the Belgreen gymnasium for a show by another Franklin County talent, Siran Winston.

Winston, a Russellville resident, is a member of the Harlem Globetrotters and renowned for his basketball ball handling skills. Winston put on a demonstration and shared some basketball fundamental skills with students.