Rural Leader Magazine OCTOBER 2025

OCTOBER 2025

COVER STORY

Empowering Rural Voters with Confidence at the Polls, pg.10

Cover Story

Move It Monday: A Free, Low-Cost Wellness Tool Rooted in Rural Resilience pg. 16 GetRuralLeaderMag.com | OCTOBER 2025 1

Contents

4 What you do matters Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication that highlights every day people doing extraordinary things nationally and abroad. www.RuralLeaderMag.com www.GetRuralLeaderMag.com

About Us

Launched in March 2014, Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication with a mission to highlight every day people doing extraordinary things in business, education, music, community, art, sports, and leadership nationally and abroad.

Rural Leader Magazine honors exemplary individuals on a variety of levels, such as the 20 under 20 Honors, 40 under 40 Honors, Best Small Town Restaurant, Small Town America’s 100 Most Influential People, the Scholars of Collegiate Distinction, Fifty under Fifty, and the Eagle Elite Club.— Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, in English, or other languages, is prohibited without written consent.

7 The ranching life: Stewards of the land, animals and community 9 Give Cancer the Boot: A Women's Wellness Event COVER STORY 10 Barbershop Talks 360: Empowering Rural Voters with Confidence at the Polls 12 Healthcare on the Go: AAPHC Hosts Drive-Thru Health Fair in Albany 13 Forty-four percent of Americans say pumpkin spice now costs more - but they’re still buying: New study

15 Haircuts, Hams, and Health: Men’s Wellness Clinic Returns for Third Year in Cuthbert 16 Rural Leader Magazine Opens 2026 Forty Under Forty Tri-State Call for Nominations Celebrating Emerging Leaders in Alabama, Florida, and Georgia 18 How students can get the internet connectivity they need 22 Barbershop Talks: Teen Edition to be held Oct. 13 23 Trunk or Treat, Barbershop Style: A Safe and Spooky Night for Families in Cuthbert 24 Rural Leader Magazine Expands to YouTube: Real Stories, Rural Voices, Powerful Impact

Send editorial ideas to Kuanita Murphy, PhD, Editor-in-Chief Contact Us ruralleadermagazine@gmail.com Tell us what you think about our publications, if you have a great idea for a story, or to just share. We may print your comments in Rural Leader Magazine. By sending us your comments, you’re giving permission to call you for an interview. Please be sure to include your name, address, email address, and phone number so we can reach you. Write to us at RuralLeaderMagazine@gmail.com— 2

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Editor’s Note

The Quiet Power of Rural Consistency

By Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy, Publisher Rural Leader Magazine

In rural communities, we often hear that “slow and steady wins the race.” But after 26 years in the work of connection, I’ve come to believe it’s not just about winning—it’s about building. And what we build together, with faith and persistence, can outlast any single challenge we face.

Since founding Rural Leader Magazine in March 2014, I’ve had the honor of documenting what progress looks like in small towns. It rarely comes with fanfare. More often, it comes in quiet, consistent action—the neighbor who shows up, the volunteer who never quits, the local leader who keeps answering the call even when resources are low.

This September marked a personal milestone: 26 years with Randolph County Family Connection. But more than a celebration, it became a chance to reflect on what truly moves communities like ours forward.

We saw that commitment in real ways: At the Move It Monday One-Mile Walk, over 100 neighbors showed up for health.

At the Wellness Café, people gathered for conversations that strengthen both body and spirit.

In every meeting, strategy session, and youth engagement, we witnessed the quiet rhythm of people choosing to act.

We’re also preparing for what’s ahead: Give Cancer the Boot, a women’s wellness event focused on early detection. Barbershop Talks: Teen Edition, where youth lead bold conversations about real-life issues.

Trunk or Treat and Haircuts & Hams, events that mix tradition with purpose, reaching families, men, and young people alike.

What I’ve learned after more than two decades in this work—and over a decade publishing this magazine—is that small, consistent efforts build trust. They create resilience. And over time, they shape legacy.

In rural leadership, change doesn’t shout. It whispers. But if we listen closely, those whispers tell powerful stories.

So, as fall arrives and we move forward together, I want to thank you—our readers, partners, and neighbors—for being part of this journey. For showing up.

For staying the course. And for proving that even in the smallest places, bold futures are being built.— Regards,

What you do matters. @RuralLeaderMag GetRuralLeaderMag.com | OCTOBER 2025 3

What You Do Matters. In the image above, he’s just young, standing on tiptoe, gripping a paintbrush too big for his hand. The wall in front of him is dull gray—blank, forgotten. But with one bold stroke of blue, everything starts to change.

This isn’t just paint. It’s possibility.

In that small moment, he reminds us of something we too often forget: what you do matters.

The choices we make—especially the quiet ones, the unseen ones—have the power to shape the world around us.

Whether you’re raising a child, planting a garden, helping a neighbor, or showing up when it would be easier to walk away—every act of effort, care, and courage adds color to the world. It may not feel big. It may not look like much. But it matters.

So pick up the brush. Make your mark. Because someone, somewhere, is watching you create hope where there used to be gray.— Rural Leader Magazine

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The ranching life: Stewards of the land, animals and community When you picture a cattle rancher you might imagine someone wearing a cowboy hat and riding a horse, not a conservationist. But that’s what most ranchers are.

“Ranchers and farmers were the first environmentalists, and we take that very seriously,” said Darrick Whipple, Land & Government Affairs Manager at Deseret Ranch.

Caring for cattle is also an opportunity to care for the land, and farmers and ranchers work hard to protect the land they are entrusted to manage, and that we all depend on. Not only is this the right thing to do, but it’s also critical for ranching families who take pride in passing the way of life down to future generations.

While farming and ranching looks different across the country, one thing remains the same: when it comes to raising cattle, it all starts with healthy soil and plant life. Without that, the cattle would have nowhere to graze, and the farm or ranch could not be

sustainable - environmentally or for the future. This is why for farmers and ranchers, sustainability means so much. More than 90% of U.S. farms and ranches are family-owned and 78% of ranchers plan to invest in their community by continuing to preserve open space and passing their farm or ranch on to future generations. It is this family pride that drives farmers and ranchers to carefully manage the land and leave it better generation after generation.

The “Cattle Calling” series by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, offers glimpses into the real lives of ranching families across the country. From families who have been ranching for more than 100 years, to those who just got their start, each video reveals how farmers and ranchers tackle everything from environmental challenges and extreme weather events to family obligations and community building.

Thriving in harsh environments GetRuralLeaderMag.com | OCTOBER 2025 7

The founders of Deseret Ranch acquired 200,000 acres of untamed land in central Florida 75 years ago.

Today, 45,000 cows and close to 100 full-time employees call this challenging environment home, enduring high temperatures, humidity and very sandy soil as they raise cattle and carry on a lesser-known way of life with deep roots in the Sunshine State.

Over the years Central Florida has become less known for its marshes and wildlife and more for theme parks and rapid growth. A state known for its tourism, many visitors to Florida have no idea that just miles off the beaten path, tucked between the attractions and the beaches, one of the world’s largest ranches has been able to preserve Florida’s natural landscape and wildlife habitat.

“The cattle and wildlife have to have a symbiotic relationship,” explained Eric Batey, Area Manager.

“Our responsibility as stewards of the land is to keep the native populations of animals thriving,” added Jase Taylor, Wildlife Manager.

While the gators, otters and vibrantly colored birds co-existing with thousands of head of cattle is unique to Central Florida, this is one example of how grazing lands and ranches across the country provide a range of ecosystem services like water regulation and purification, carbon sequestration, wildfire suppression and wildlife habitat. Ranchers know the decisions they make today have an impact for future generations, so they work to manage natural resources in a way that benefits the environment, because that environment is what pays them back.

Putting land and animals first: In the much drier climate of southeastern Colorado is May Ranch. At first glance the landscape appears harsh and less than ideal for wildlife, but what can’t be seen is the colony of endangered black-footed ferrets that live underground and call the ranch home. The May family has long been known for their conservation efforts, which is exactly why their ranch was chosen by Colorado Parks and Wildlife for the releasing of North America’s rarest mammal into the wild.

Just two years later, both the effort to save the endangered species and the family livelihood were tested when a wildfire tore across the ranch. In all, more than 9,000 acres burned, threatening cattle and wildlife and destroying more than 50 miles of fence.

Undeterred, the family worked to rebuild stronger with an increased focus on conserving the land’s diverse ecosystem.

“We care so deeply for all of our animals. We take care of them before we take care of ourselves,” said Debbie Davis. “We make sure they have everything that they need.”

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The May family is committed to educating the next generation about the importance of biodiversity and is well aware of the importance of grasslands for carbon sequestration.

“It’s unbelievable when you start studying how much carbon can truly be stored here underneath our feet,” said Riley May. “This ranch would not have been kept in its native state if it had been plowed up and farmed; it would have had a huge release of carbon,” added Dallas May. Supporting the community: In the middle of Tennessee, first-generation cattle farmers Ben and Lauren Neale are supporting their community from the ground up. While raising four busy children, one of whom has special needs, the Neales still find time to manage their growing farm and serve their local community by opening a local processing facility and store - a true farm-to-table family story.

Through Light Hill Meats, the Neales support the entire community with access to local meat processing and high-quality food products, and by providing jobs to those in need. Their retail store allows them to work with a sober living program and they often employ people who are transitioning to life after prison and recovering from substance abuse.

“Ben appreciates the work being done at home so he can go out and grow this business and branch it out to where he is bringing it into the community,” said Lauren Neale. “He’s bringing in people who have a great skillset, giving them a livelihood. I’m proud and glad to help him on that journey of helping other people.”

The role of cattle in sustainability: When well-managed, beef cattle provide important ecosystem services like converting human-inedible plant fiber into protein, cycling organic nutrients into the soil, maintaining wildlife habitats and producing food from land that could not otherwise be used for crops. These ranchers help to keep these pristine places intact, while providing a much-needed resource for society.

Visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com to learn more.

To watch the Cattle Calling videos, visit CattleCalling.org.— References: USDA-NASS. 2017. Census of Agriculture.

Farm Typology. https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/ AgCensus/2017/Online_Resources/Typology/typology. pdf National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA). 2017.

2017 Cattlemen’s Stewardship Review. Found on https:// www.beefboard.org/2018/05/14/2017-cattlemens-stewardship-review/.

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COVER STORY

Barbershop Talks 360: Empowering Rural Voters with Confidence at the Polls Rural Leader Magazine Staff

On a warm September evening in Cuthbert, Georgia, the steady hum of clippers inside Unique Images Barbershop gave way to a different kind of buzz—one powered by conversation, clarity, and community.

Folding chairs replaced waiting customers. Posters lined the mirrors, not with celebrity fades, but with voter ID facts and election readiness tips. And in the middle of it all, neighbors leaned in to listen—not to gossip, but to get informed.

This was Barbershop Talks 360: Confidence at the Polls, a grassroots initiative built on one powerful belief: when people are informed, they are empowered.

And in rural communities where misinformation and access barriers often shape voter turnout, that empowerment can change everything.

The Barbershop as Civic Classroom. Hosted by Freddrick B. Cannon, owner of Unique Images Barbershop and a respected community voice, the event reimagines what civic engagement can look like in rural America. Forget the formal auditoriums and dry presentations. Here, political literacy is taught in the same place folks come to get cleaned up and catch up.

“Barbershops are one of the last safe spaces where men, especially Black men, gather to talk freely,” says Cannon. “So why not bring the information where the people already are?”

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That’s exactly what happened on Tuesday, September 2, when over several attendees—ranging from first-time voters to seasoned citizens—packed into the barbershop for a conversation that went far beyond politics. The evening’s special guest, Rev. Dr. Monica Spencer, Interim State Director of VoteRiders.org, led an interactive discussion on what every voter should know ahead of the upcoming election cycle.

Dr. Spencer’s message was simple but essential: Don’t wait until Election Day to find out you’re not ready. Practical. Nonpartisan. Necessary.

Unlike many voter engagement efforts that fall along party lines, Barbershop Talks 360 is staunchly nonpartisan. The mission is not to sway voters but to equip them—especially in communities that have historically faced disproportionate barriers at the ballot box.

Participants walked away with answers to real questions: What kind of ID do I need to vote in Georgia? What if I lost my ID or recently moved?

Can I vote if I have a past conviction? Who can I call if I need help before Election Day? Many of those answers came courtesy of VoteRiders.org, a national nonprofit that provides free, state-specific resources to help voters understand and meet ID requirements. The organization offers ev-

erything from printable guides and voter ID checklists to hands-on help with obtaining the necessary documentation.

“In rural counties, where DMVs might be 30 miles away and public transit is nonexistent, something as simple as an updated ID becomes a huge hurdle,” says Dr. Spencer. “VoteRiders helps clear those hurdles—no matter who you plan to vote for.”

Their work is especially crucial in Georgia, one of 38 states that requires some form of identification to vote. Laws are frequently updated, and misinformation can easily spread. Without access to accurate, nonpartisan guidance, rural voters often find themselves discouraged—or worse, disenfranchised.

VoteRiders not only fills that gap but does so free of charge. You can learn more or request help by visiting www.voteriders.org A Movement, Not a Moment. What made Barbershop Talks 360 such a success wasn’t just the information—it was the atmosphere. There was laughter, honest questions, tough truths, and moments of realization. One attendee expressed surprise that his outof-state college student son needed a different form of ID to vote absentee. Another realized her expired license might prevent her from casting a ballot.

And yet, there was no shame—only support.

Everyone walked out better equipped to engage the democratic process.

The evening closed with a robust Q&A session and a clear call to action: Don’t assume. Ask. Prepare.

Vote.

Rural Readiness is Civic Power. Barbershop Talks 360 is more than an event series—it’s a rural civic engagement model that could be replicated across

counties, states, and even regions. In small towns where local news has vanished and polling places seem to move further every year, creating spaces for trusted dialogue is not optional—it’s essential.

And it’s working. As word spreads, more community partners are reaching out to bring Barbershop Talks 360 to other rural barbershops, salons, and community centers. The goal? Equip every eligible voter in every rural zip code with the tools to cast their ballot confidently and correctly.

Cannon, who plans to host additional sessions leading up to the 2026 election, says the blueprint is simple: “Meet people where they are. Speak plainly.

Listen more than you talk. And never underestimate the power of informed people in small places.”

What’s Next? Future sessions of Barbershop Talks 360 will tackle youth voter engagement, local ballot education, and reentry resources for returning citizens. And while the venue may be humble, the vision is ambitious: full participation, zero confusion.

To stay informed about upcoming sessions or to bring Barbershop Talks 360 to your town, contact: barbershoptalks360@gmail.com Why It Matters. Democracy doesn’t just happen in big cities or state capitals. It happens in small rooms, small towns, and—sometimes—small barbershops.

It’s in the questions asked over a haircut and the confidence that comes from knowing your voice counts.

Barbershop Talks 360 reminds us that informed voters aren’t born—they’re built. One conversation at a time.

Because in rural America, what we do together truly makes the difference.—

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Healthcare on the Go: AAPHC Hosts Drive-Thru Health Fair in Albany

On Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Albany Area Primary Health Care (AAPHC) will bring healthcare directly to the community—without requiring anyone to leave their vehicle.

Hosted at the Exchange Club Fairgrounds, located at 810 S. Westover Blvd. in Albany, Georgia, this Drive-Thru Health Fair offers a safe, convenient, and family-friendly way for residents to access essential health screenings and wellness resources.

Participants can expect a variety of services, including blood pressure checks, glucose screenings, and helpful materials on preventive care—all delivered with the signature professionalism and warmth of AAPHC’s healthcare team.

The format ensures minimal contact and maximum efficiency, making it ideal for busy families, seniors, and anyone looking to stay on top of their health in a stress-free environment.

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This innovative event reflects AAPHC’s ongoing commitment to community wellness and accessibility. By meeting people where they are—literally— AAPHC continues to break down barriers to care and reimagine how rural health can be delivered.

Whether you're managing a chronic condition or simply staying proactive, this drive-thru fair is a quick and meaningful way to prioritize your well-being.

For more information, visit AAPHC’s website or follow their social media channels for event updates.—

44% of Americans say pumpkin spice now costs more but they’re still buying: New study Pumpkin season is here and some are asking for a price check: 44% of Americans say tariffs and inflation are making pumpkin-flavored items cost more and the “pumpkin spice tax” or the premium price on seasonal items is real (39%), according to new Empower research. Still, more than half (54%) say they look forward to purchasing these specialties every season (62% younger generations). Millennials spend the most, averaging around $64 per month on pumpkin spice-flavored products during the fall, more than five times what Boomers spend at $12.

Pumpkin spice prices are on the rise: A third of Americans admit they’re willing to pay more for pumpkin spice-flavored versions of everyday products, and the appetite is even bigger among younger generations: 41% of Millennials and 39% of Gen Z say the seasonal spin is worth the splurge. In fact, nearly half of consumers say pumpkin spice gives products a more premium or exclusive vibe.

While Americans say they spend $32 per month on pumpkin spice-flavored items during the fall, the spending habits vary by generation: * Gen Z: $45

* Millennials: $64 * Gen X: $29 * Boomers: $12 Why pumpkin spice is still brewing big: For some, pumpkin spice goes beyond flavor: 54% of Americans say buying these products is something they look forward to every fall. Close to half (47%) actively purchase pumpkin spice goods during the season, and among younger consumers, that jumps to 53%.

The excitement kicks off earlier and earlier, as 1 in 3 Americans (34%) say they start buying as soon as pumpkin spice products hit the shelves, often before the official end of the summer season. For Gen Z and Millennials, that number spikes to 45%. The pumpkin effect can be a differentiator: more than a third (35%) say they’re loyal to certain brands specifically because of their pumpkin spice offerings.

Still, not everyone is paying extra for pumpkin: 56% say they avoid seasonal markups, and 58% stick to a budget to avoid spending extra on seasonal flavors. Yet 48% of Gen Z admit they spend more on food and drinks in the fall because of pumpkin spice promotions (34% overall).

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What’s getting the pumpkin treatment? Americans are purchasing pumpkin products across a wide range of categories: * Baked goods - 40% * Coffee/beverages - 39% * Candies/snacks - 26% * Ice cream/dairy products - 24% * Accessories/decor - 23% * Breakfast foods - 22% * Personal care items - 16% Younger generations in particular can’t get enough of their seasonal coffee: 51% of Gen Z and 47% of Millennials are sipping on pumpkin spice-flavored

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coffee. When it comes to motivation, 37% of Americans say they simply love the taste. Another 24% say the limited-time nature of pumpkin spice makes them more likely to buy.

Visit The Currencyâ„¢ to read Empower’s full research report, “The Pumpkin Premium.”

Methodology: Empower’s “The Pumpkin Premium” study is based on online survey responses from 2,200 Americans ages 18+ from Aug. 9-11, 2025. The survey is weighted to be nationally representative of U.S. adults.

Haircuts, Hams, and Health: Men’s Wellness Clinic Returns for Third Year in Cuthbert Rural Leader Staff

This fall, the barbershop will once again become more than just a place for sharp cuts—it will become a hub for sharper health. On Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM EST, the Third Annual Haircuts and Hams Men’s Wellness Clinic will be held at Unique Images Barbershop and Salon, located at 40 East Dawson Street, Suite 34, Cuthbert, GA. Open to men ages 18 and up, this unique event combines the comfort of a trusted local space with the critical mission of increasing access to healthcare in rural Georgia.

Where Wellness Meets Real Life. Men's health often goes unspoken and underserved—especially in rural areas. According to the CDC, men are far less likely than women to visit a doctor regularly, and rural men face higher risks of chronic illnesses due to delayed care, limited access, and stigma around seeking help.

Haircuts and Hams breaks that silence. “This event is about more than screenings,” says Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy of Randolph County Family Connection, the host organization. “It’s about giving men permission to take care of themselves—and doing it in a space where they already feel comfortable.”

What to Expect From free health screenings and educational resourc-

es to fresh haircuts and hearty giveaways, the event is built around making wellness approachable, accessible, and even enjoyable. Each year, local partners provide vital checks for blood pressure, diabetes, and other health markers—many of which go unchecked far too long.

And yes, attendees can also walk away with a ham—just in time for the holiday season.

A Community Backed by Innovation. This year’s event is proudly supported by its Premier Sponsor, the Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center at Mercer University School of Medicine. Their commitment to bridging health gaps in rural areas adds powerful momentum to an event that is already making a tangible difference in men’s lives.

Registration Opens September 30. Men are encouraged to pre-register starting September 30 to reserve their spot and access full event details. Space is limited, and early sign-up is encouraged.

Why It Matters. Events like Haircuts and Hams aren't just helpful—they're life-changing. They meet men where they are, remove barriers to care, and shift the narrative around health and masculinity.

In towns like Cuthbert, where resources may be few and far between, this kind of proactive outreach can make all the difference.

Because when men prioritize their health, entire families and communities grow stronger.— GetRuralLeaderMag.com | OCTOBER 2025 15

Rural Leader Magazine Opens 2026 Forty Under Forty Tri-State Call for Nominations Celebrating Emerging Leaders in Alabama, Florida, and Georgia Rural Leader Magazine Staff

Leadership doesn’t begin in the spotlight—it begins in the quiet moments when someone chooses to step up, speak out, or serve without fanfare. Rural Leader Magazine is proud to announce the 2026 Forty Under Forty Tri-State Call for Nominations, honoring rising leaders who are changing the face of rural progress across Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

From September 1 to November 1, 2025, nominations are open for individuals under the age of 40 who are making bold moves in business, education, healthcare, agriculture, nonprofit leadership, public service, or community engagement. This tri-state recognition program shines a light on those who are not only achieving personal and professional excellence but also creating meaningful impact in their communities.

Who We're Looking For: The Forty Under Forty spotlight is reserved for individuals who exemplify innovation, service, and resilience. They may be entrepreneurs transforming local economies, educators shaping future generations, or advocates standing up for equity and access in overlooked communities. What they all share is a commitment to creating a better future—right where they are.

How to Nominate: Nominating is quick and simple. Visit https://bit.ly/4LHoQBy or scan the QR code provided in the promotional materials to access the nomination form. Submissions should include a short bio, a summary of the nominee’s accomplishments, and details about their community impact. Individuals may nominate themselves or others.

Why It Matters: In rural communities, leadership often looks different. It’s personal. It’s rooted in relation-

ships. It’s about showing up consistently and carrying the weight of progress one step at a time. Forty Under Forty honors those who are not waiting for permission to lead—they’re already doing it.

"Rural leaders often go unrecognized, not because their work lacks value, but because they’re too busy getting it done to seek the spotlight," says Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy, Publisher of Rural Leader Magazine. "This recognition helps elevate voices that deserve to be heard and encourages young leaders to keep moving forward."

The 2026 Class Announcement: The selected honorees will be featured in the Spring 2026 issue of Rural Leader Magazine, with a digital and in-print spotlight. This special edition will showcase not only their achievements but also the potential of what rural leadership looks like across three states.

Nominate. Celebrate. Elevate.

Help us recognize the next generation of rural changemakers. Because leadership isn’t just about titles—it’s about impact.— 16

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How students can get the internet connectivity they need Coral Almazan was in high school during the pandemic. Like millions of other kids in school at that time, she suddenly found herself adrift, sent home to continue classwork online, but without reliable internet access at home.

She recalls how challenging it was to stay connected to the internet - and to her school, teachers and classmates - as she worked hard to earn her high school diploma.

“Those are supposed to be the best times of your life, yet we were stuck behind computer screens,” Almazan recalled. “There were times the electricity bill still needed to be paid, and I was left wondering, ‘How will I connect to my classes? How will I complete my homework?’ I remember struggling.”

The digital divide: The pandemic brought into clearer focus the wider problem that still persists: the digital divide, or gap between students who have regular access to reliable internet and those who do not.

That’s why her story still resonates. Despite the clear ongoing need for connectivity in today’s increasingly digital-first learning environment, reliable home internet still remains out of reach for too many.

Too many families still need to access internet connectivity at their local library, or even sitting outside neighborhood businesses where they can tap 18

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into free Wi-Fi to get homework done, communicate with teachers or apply to college.

In a new survey* commissioned by T-Mobile, 3 in 10 parents describe their home internet as only somewhat reliable. For many families, staying connected comes at a steep cost. In fact, nearly onefourth (24%) have had to cut back on essentials like food or utilities just to afford their internet. Most parents (85%) agree that families shouldn’t have to make that kind of trade-off to keep their students learning.

How T-Mobile is making a difference: To help families nationwide get connected, T-Mobile’s nationwide initiative, Project 10Million, has been working to help close the digital divide by offering free mobile hotspots, free high-speed data and access to low-cost devices to eligible K-12 student households.

Since 2020, the program has connected over 6.3 million students, delivering over $7.3 billion in products and services that enable learning from home.

Project 10Million offers free internet access to eligible K-12 student households including: * A free mobile hotspot * 200GB of high-speed data per year for students who sign up directly with T-Mobile through the

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T-Mobile website, not their school district (increased from 100GB in 2024) * Access to low-cost laptops and tablets: Project 10Million is available to any student household participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or other government assistance programs.

Families can sign up at T-Mobile.com/project10million or through participating school districts.

Families who sign up directly receive a hotspot, powered by T-Mobile’s network - America’s Best Network. If families reach their data cap, they can purchase a 10GB data pass for just $10, keeping the service accessible and affordable.

Connectivity leads to success: Looking back, Almazan credits her free T-Mobile hotspot with helping her succeed in high school as well as getting into college.

“It changed everything for my whole family,” Almazan said. “It wasn’t just my schoolwork. My siblings were able to do theirs too, with no lag, even when we were online together. The graphics on my class Zooms got so much clearer. It made a huge difference.”

Today, Almazan is pursuing a criminal justice de-

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gree at Houston Christian University and is already taking graduate-level courses. She’s also using her experience to inspire other students and advocate for more equitable access to digital resources. She credits T-Mobile’s Project 10Million as a pivotal part of her aspirations.

“Project 10Million definitely influenced me to go into policy work,” Almazan shared. “Helping each other out should be everybody’s motivation.”

To learn more about the program or to sign up, visit T-Mobile.com/project10million. *The Project 10Million Survey was conducted via a PN View survey fielded by Big Village among a sample of 1,005 U.S. adults 18 years of age and older who are parents with children 17 years of age and under living at home. This survey was live on July 24-29, 2025.—

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Trunk or Treat, Barbershop Style: A Safe and Spooky Night for Families in Cuthbert

By Rural Leader Magazine Staff Community Feature On October 31, 2025, the streets near Unique Images Barbershop and Salon in Cuthbert, Georgia, won’t just echo with the sounds of clippers and casual conversation—they’ll come alive with costumed kids, candy-filled trunks, and the kind of community spirit that turns ordinary events into unforgettable traditions.

Back for its third year, the Trunk or Treat: Barbershop Edition invites families across Randolph County and surrounding areas to a safe, fun, and festive Halloween alternative. From 5 PM to 8 PM EST, the barbershop lot at 40 East Dawson Street, Suite 34, will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland—complete with decorated car trunks, themed games, music, treats, and more.

Building Community, One Pumpkin at a Time More than just a candy grab, this event—organized in partnership with Randolph County Family Connection—has quickly become one of the most anticipated fall traditions in the area. With its mix of fun and familiarity, it’s the perfect example of how small-town spaces can be transformed into vibrant community anchors.

“This is about giving kids and parents a safe, joyful place to celebrate Halloween while reconnecting with their neighbors,” says Freddrick B. Cannon, owner of Unique Images Barbershop and host of the event. “It’s not just about the costumes—it’s about the connections.”

Literacy, Safety & Laughter In previous years, the event has included not only candy and costumes but also literacy-focused giveaways, safety tips from local leaders, and even pop-up booths offering community resources. And this year promises even more.

Parents can expect: Safe, well-lit trunk stations hosted by volunteers and local partners; Age-appropriate activities for kids of all ages; A welcoming, judgment-free space for all families; Plenty of treats—and a few friendly tricks. Costumes are encouraged, creativity is celebrated, and participation is free.

Why It Matters Events like Trunk or Treat do more than fill candy buckets—they fill a community need. In rural towns, where access to safe public events can be limited, gatherings like this provide a vital space for connection, GetRuralLeaderMag.com | OCTOBER 2025 23

tradition, and trust.

They also offer a meaningful reminder: when local businesses and community leaders come together, great things happen.

As families prepare their costumes and volunteers decorate their trunks, one thing is certain—this Halloween, Cuthbert will once again prove that small towns know how to show up big for their children.

Save the Date: Thursday, October 31, 2025 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM EST Unique Images Barbershop and Salon 40 East Dawson Street, Suite 34, Cuthbert, Georgia 39840 To learn more or get involved, contact Randolph County Family Connection or follow Unique Images Barbershop on social media for event updates.—

Rural Leader Magazine Expands to YouTube: Real Stories, Rural Voices, Powerful Impact

By Rural Leader Magazine Staff are bold, true, and accessible.”

In a world overflowing with digital noise, Rural Leader Magazine is carving out a bold and necessary The Rural Leader YouTube Channel will feature exclusive interviews, leadership highlights, on-lospace—this time, on YouTube.

Led by Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD, Editor and vi- cation event coverage, and real-time conversations sionary behind the publication, the new Rural Leader around rural health, education, entrepreneurship, and civic change.

YouTube Channel brings the magazine’s guiding Premier episodes drop January 2026, kicking off message—“What You Do Matters”—to life through powerful visuals, authentic interviews, and real com- a powerful video series that promises to inform, inspire, and ignite action. munity voices.

For over a decade, Rural Leader Magazine has Whether you're a local leader, a lifelong learner, or someone seeking substance in your scroll, this chanchronicled the resilience, innovation, and everyday leadership that define rural communities across the nel offers a front-row seat to what’s real—and what’s working—in rural America.

South. From Alabama’s backroads to Georgia’s fields With Dr. Murphy at the helm, viewers can expect and Florida’s front porches, the magazine has spotdepth, honesty, and an unwavering commitment to lighted the unsung heroes who are doing the work, telling the stories that matter most. day in and day out.

Now, those stories are going from the printed page Subscribe now and be the first to catch the premiere. Because rural voices deserve to be seen—and to the screen.

“This isn’t just a channel. It’s a platform for possiheard. — YouTube | Rural Leader Magazine. Like. bility,” says Dr. Murphy. “Rural people deserve to see themselves and their impact reflected in ways that Subscribe. Share. January 2026 is just the beginning.

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