A 2002 Franklin High School graduate has created her own scholarship for Franklin graduates.

The first recipient of Kathleen Moore’s scholarship was Conya Postell, a 2011 Franklin High School graduate and freshman at Howard University.

Kathleen each month sets aside enough money from her paycheck for the $500 annual scholarship. A 2006 graduate of George Mason University, she serves in the U.S. Navy, where she works in intelligence.

Kathleen said she chose Conya for her dedicated work ethic, commitment to community service and stellar academic achievements.

• Plans are under way for the Franklin Fall Festival on Friday, Sept. 30, and Saturday, Oct. 1, in downtown Franklin.

A block party and fireworks will be held Friday at Barrett’s Landing. Gates open at 6 p.m. and admission is $3. Food and refreshments will be available. Fireworks will be shot off at 9:15.

The evening will include shows by Shaggin’ on the Beach with Jay Jenkins from 6 to 8 and the Band of Oz Band from 8 to 11.

Saturday opens with a street festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Food, craft booths, clowns, entertainment, children’s games and activities, a Mustang car show and the Franklin Farmers’ Market are planned.

Major sponsors for the event are Pecht Distributing Co., Downtown Franklin Association and WLQM FM-101.7 Real Country.

• I assume all of you are bracing for Hurricane Irene. Of course we hope for the best, but in the news business, we must prepare for the worst. We plan to keep readers up to date through our website all weekend with more detailed coverage in our Wednesday, Aug. 31, print edition.

We’re more than happy to accept photos and news from our readers. So if you see damage or hear an amazing story, please call us at 562-3187 or send an e-mail with photos — if able — to editor@tidewaternews.com. Thanks and be safe.

GWEN ALBERS is managing editor of The Tidewater News. Her email address is gwen.albers@tidewaternews.com.