Ashley Latham becomes the 2018 Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship recipient for the Share America Foundation, Inc. From left are: Marksmen Quartet Founder Earle Wheeler, Brian Latham, Share America President Randall Franks, Ashley Latham, Laura Latham, and Marksmen member Mark Wheeler.
photo by Share America
The Share America Foundation, Inc. announced its 2018 scholarship winner at Ringgold’s Patriot Hall in Ringgold.
The Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship honors students excelling in the Appalachian musical arts. Pearl and Floyd Franks are the late parents and former entertainment managers of actor/entertainer Randall Franks, "Officer Randy Goode," from TV's "In the Heat of the Night."
Singer Ashley Latham, 18, of Anderson, SC was selected as a Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship winner.
She received a $1,000 scholarship.
“Music, how would I describe it?” Ms. Latham said. “I would begin with a healing to the heart. When a song fills my head and heart, I immediately know that God meant that song for a reason, for a certain person and maybe even a certain time.”
Ms. Latham applied for the scholarship to assist in her studies at Southern Wesleyan University this fall to study to become a math teacher.
“I plan to continue to sing every weekend with my family,” she said. “I want to allow God to use my singing in whatever way He wants to minister to others.”
Ms. Latham graduated from Oakwood Christian School in Anderson. She began singing at the age of five and she performs regularly with her parents, Brian and Laura Latham of Anderson, SC, in the group Echoes of Mercy. The group's latest CD is "Finish Well."
“Southern gospel music is a vital part of the Appalachian experience and encouraging talented youth who continue the tradition is an important aspect of our efforts,” said Share America President Randall Franks. “She has an amazing voice that will only open more doors throughout her life and hopefully inspire all that hear her gifts.”
Share America Foundation Board members include Mr. Franks, Vice Chairman Jimmy Terrell, Chairman Gary Knowles, Secretary James Pelt and Jerry Robinson, Sr., vice president.
The next Sacred Sounds Fridays is Nov. 9 at 7:30 p.m. featuring the Jeff Hullender Family and the Testimony Quartet at the Ringgold’s Patriot Hall, 320 Emberson Dr. in Ringgold. Admission is a $10 donation. Mr. Franks will host the event.
For more information about the organization and its programs, contact Share America, P.O. Box 42, Tunnel Hill, Ga. 30755.
Ashley Latham performs "Look Who Just Checked In," supported by her parents in their group Echoes of Mercy
photo by Share America