Hartselle Living March/April

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UNSUNG HERO

HARTSELLE NATIVE FEATURED IN UPCOMING KING + COUNTRY FILM

MATT HOLMES ︱ 5 QUESTIONS FOR BRIAN CLAYTON ︱ KATIE’S ESSENTIALS March/April 2024
HARTSELLE LIVING

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THE EDITOR

DDear readers,

As we step into a new season, I am delighted to welcome you to the latest edition of Hartselle Living. Our vibrant community continues to inspire us, and we are excited to share stories, insights and experiences that capture the essence of life in Hartselle.

In this issue, we explore the diverse tapestry of our town, celebrating the unique individuals who contribute to its richness. From local artisans crafting masterpieces to the heartwarming tales of community members making a difference, there’s something in this issue for everyone.

As the editor of Hartselle Living, my goal is to bring you content that resonates with your interests, passions and curiosities. We strive to create a magazine that reflects the dynamic spirit of Hartselle and serves as a mirror to the wonderful lives we lead.

Your feedback is invaluable to us, so don’t hesitate to reach out and share your thoughts. Whether it’s a story idea, a suggestion or simply a note about what you love in this issue, we welcome your input as we aim to make Hartselle Living a true reflection of our community.

Thank you for being a part of the Hartselle Living family. Together, let’s continue to embrace the beauty of our city and the wonderful people who make it a place we are proud to call home.

Wishing you joy, inspiration and countless moments of discovery as you delve into the pages of Hartselle Living.

Thanks for reading,

rebekah.yancey@hartselleliving.com

7 UNSUNG HERO

Hartselle native featured in upcoming King + Country film

13 CRAFTING DREAMS

Matt Holmes’ artistic journey in woodworking

19 KATIE’S ESSENTIALS

A healing journey through clean living

24 HEY HARTSELLE

25 READ THIS BOOK

26 5 QUESTIONS FOR BRIAN CLAYTON

28 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS

4 Hartselle Living
19 FROM
ON THE COVER
Hartselle native Kay Dekalb Smith, left, is pictured with friend and neighbor Helen Smallbone. The two are featured in an upcoming film about the Smallbone family that will be released April 26. Photo by Evin Photography

HARTSELLE LIVING CONTRIBUTORS

STAFF

Editorial

Rebekah Yancey

Contributors

Michelle Blaylock

Sara Laughmiller

Alex VanKoughnett

Chrissy Tucker

Marketing

Anna Baker

Kim Roberts

Baretta Taylor

JACOB HATCHER, writer

Born in Georgia and raised in Tennessee, Jacob Hatcher now lives in Hartselle with his wife and three kids. Jacob is a freelance writer for the Hartselle Enquirer as well as a blogger at Son of a Biscuit Eater on Facebook where he writes about faith, family and life in the south. Jacob comes from a long line of master storytellers and porch sitters and loves few things in life more than a great story and a sad country song.

CONTACT US

Hartselle Newspapers, LLC

206 Cedar St. NW

P.O. Box 929

Hartselle, AL 35640

Phone: 256-773-6566

info@hartselleliving.com

Hartselle Living is published bimonthly Hartselle Newspapers, LLC.

A one-year subscription to Hartselle

Living is $16.30 for 6 issues per year.

Single copies are available at select locations throughout the Hartselle area.

To advertise or to get more copies, call 773-6566.

Copyright 2024 by Hartselle Newspapers, LLC

CONNIE PEARSON, writer

Connie Pearson is a freelance writer, blogger and author of four books. Formerly, she was a private piano teacher and public school music teacher in Hartselle and Morgan County. She and her veterinarian husband Steve served for four years as Southern Baptist missionaries in Ecuador. They have three adult children, 15 grandchildren and one great grandchild. You can follow Connie and learn more through her website ThereGoesConnie.com.

RACHEL HOWARD, photographer

Rachel Howard is the creative visionary behind RAW Images. Rachel’s passion for capturing moments through her lens is an integral part of her life. A lover of travel, golf and her furbabies, Ralphie and Bud, she is married to her middle school sweetheart, Nick, and the couple welcomed their first child, a boy, in November.

JENNIFER SHERWOOD, photographer

Jennifer Sherwood has loved photography for as long as she can remember and has owned her own business for more than 14 years. She now owns a studio in Priceville. She most enjoys photographing people with their families and capturing their exciting and memorable life moments. She is married to Jeff and has four children, Aubrey, Emmy, Caleb and Ethan.

6 Hartselle Living
Hartselle native featured in upcoming King + Country film STORY BY CONNIE PEARSON PHOTOS BY EVIN PHOTOGRAPHY
UNSUNG HERO

WWhen former Hartselle resident, Kay Dekalb Smith, befriended a family who had just moved into her neighborhood, she never dreamed her acts of kindness would be portrayed in a movie 30 years later.

The movie “Unsung Hero” will be released on April 26, documenting the life of Helen Smallbone, wife of David and mother of seven children who moved from Australia to Brentwood, Tenn. in the early 1990s.

Shortly after the Smallbones arrived in America, they discovered that the job their husband and father had been promised was not going to materialize. Desperate for money to survive, flyers were distributed at a nearby school offering the services of their family members for babysitting, ironing, leaf raking, housecleaning or pulling weeds. When Kay’s daughter brought one of the flyers home, Kay was motivated to help and showed up at Smallbone home with two bags of groceries. Helen, then pregnant with her seventh child, opened the door to Kay, and a friendship began that continues today. Helen’s unwavering faith in God’s provision, her overwhelming gratitude and her reliance on God’s guidance were constant sources of inspiration for Kay. After dropping her two daughters off at school, Kay began visiting regularly, often folding clothes while Helen ironed to make money. The Smiths hired the oldest Smallbone daughter, whom they called “Beck,” to babysit. Kay’s most frequent contribution was a box of cereal, toilet paper and soap, a gift that she left on their back porch often. The Smallbones began referring to her as “Auntie Kay.”

Fast forward a few years, and “Beck” became known to many as Rebecca St. James, a Christian pop rock recording artist. She has a Grammy and three Dove awards to her credit and is also a recognized actress and author. She has sold almost two million albums and has had nine singles to hit #1 on Christian radio stations. Two of her brothers, Luke and Joel, are widely known as the contemporary Christian duo, For King & Country. The duo have also racked up numerous Grammy and Dove awards. To read more about the mom of these amazing musicians, check out Behind the Lights: The Extraordinary Adventure of a Mum and Her Family, a memoir written by Helen Smallbone, Lisa Stilwell and Rebecca St. James.

Kay Dekalb Smith’s role in the “Unsung Hero” movie will be played by Candace Cameron Bure of “Full House” and Hallmark movie fame. Kay has a personality to match her red hair and has entertained audiences with her own brand of wit, music and charm for many years. She was once dubbed “the Carol Burnett of Christian entertainment.” Fittingly, Candace will don a red wig for the part. In an intriguing side note, the Smallbones said there was never an indication that anyone else ever received one of their flyers – only Kay.

8 Hartselle Living Hartselle Living 9
PHOTO BY EVIN PHOTOGRAPHY Kay Dekalb Smith, right, pictured with actress Candace Cameron Bure who is portraying Smith in the film Unsung Hero.
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Kay often dropped off bags of groceries at the Smallbone home.

Kay said her years in Hartselle had a big impact on her early life. The Dekalb family moved to Hartselle in 1960, when Kay was six years old. Her father worked at Redstone Arsenal and learned from a friend that Hartselle was a great place to rear children. Kay learned about acts of kindness to others by watching her mother Jan reach out to children living in the housing projects. Jan invited them to vacation bible school and loaded her own car to transport them. She often returned later with bags of clothes and groceries to homes where she recognized the most needs. Jan was a nurses’ aide at the former Hartselle Hospital and later worked at the Lurleen Wallace Developmental Center on Highway 31 in Decatur teaching life skills to mentally challenged adults.

Kay graduated from Morgan County High School in 1972, the same year she was chosen Miss Alabama Teenager. The following year, she was crowned Miss Birmingham. In 1982, Kay married Ed Smith, who is now the President of Williamson College in Franklin, Tenn. They have two daughters and five grandchildren.

Joel Smallbone makes his directorial debut with “Unsung Hero,” a film co-authored by him and Richard Ramsey.

Drawing from the real-life experiences of the Smallbone family, the narrative revolves around the lead character played by Smallbone himself, embodying his father, David Smallbone.

Daisy Betts portrays Helen. The ensemble cast includes Jonathan Jackson, Kirrilee Berger, Lucas Black, Terry O’Quinn and Hillary Scott. Behind the scenes, producers Justin Tolley, Josh Walsh and Luke Smallbone steer the production.

10 Hartselle Living Hartselle Living 11
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER
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Joel Smallbone makes his directorial debut with “Unsung Hero,” a film co-authored by him and Richard Ramsey. Drawing from the real-life experiences of the Smallbone family, the narrative revolves around the lead character played by Smallbone himself, embodying his father, David Smallbone. Daisy Betts portrays Helen. The ensemble cast includes Jonathan Jackson, Kirrilee Berger, Lucas Black, Terry O’Quinn and Hillary Scott.
Ser

Access thousands of free eBooks and audiobooks with a library card

HHello from the William Bradford Huie Library of Hartselle. I was recently talking to someone who preferred e-Books to printed books and was very surprised to learn that with a library card, she could have access to thousands of eBooks and audiobooks by just downloading the free apps, Libby and Hoopla.

Libby offers more than 57,900 titles in the form of eBooks and audiobooks. There are books for all age groups and many different genres such as romance, mystery, thrillers, suspense, historical fiction, nonfiction, beginner readers, juvenile fiction and many more. Patrons can check out an unlimited number of books, but not more than five at a time.

Hoopla offers a much bigger selection including 774,000 eBooks, 198,000 audiobooks, 25,000 movies, 377,000 music albums, 45,000 television episodes, and 28,000 graphic novels. Patrons have a borrowing limit of seven titles

per month. Hoopla is also available on Roku televisions if you prefer to view movies or television episodes on a screen larger than a tablet or cell phone. These apps are very easy to use. However, if you have any difficulty with them, our librarians are here to help, just give us a call or stop by the library. If you would like to try Libby or Hoopla, and need your library card number, please call the library and after verification we will provide you with your number. If you do not have a library card and live in Morgan County, please stop by the library with proof of address such as driver’s license, rental agreement, utility bill, or mail provided it has your name and address and is postmarked in the last thirty days. Our librarians will be happy to set up a library card for you. Library cards are free to Morgan County residents.

Hope to see you soon at the library!

Endorsed by:

12 Hartselle Living CRAFTING DREAMS Matt Holmes’ artistic journey in woodworking
PHOTOS
BY JENNIFER SHERWOOD
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IIn the realm of woodworking, each creation is a masterpiece; a symphony of skill, passion and creativity. One artisan who has carved his unique niche in this world is Hartselle native Matt Holmes, a self-taught craftsman whose journey began in 2015 as little more than a hobby.

“I didn’t care for our dining table,” Matt confesses, reflecting on the catalyst for his woodworking journey. In 2015, he embarked on a mission to build a piece that not only boasted superior quality but also resonated with his personal taste. What started as a dissatisfaction with furniture evolved into a full-blown passion for craftsmanship.

14 Hartselle Living Hartselle Living 15
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“I have always been a creative person,” Matt shares, tracing his roots back to childhood. A love for creating things fueled his artistic endeavors, making woodworking a natural progression. With no formal background in carpentry, Matt’s journey was a trial by fire. Armed with an art background and an insatiable curiosity, he delved into the craft, learning through hands-on experiences and online tutorials.

Matt’s portfolio showcases a diverse array of furniture, ranging from tables made of wood or wood/epoxy mix to desks, cutting and charcuterie boards and more. His specialty, however, lies in tables and cutting boards, with a particular fondness for crafting custom epoxy tables where he can unleash his creativity.

“The hardest project I’ve taken on was a custom American Flag table,” Matt shares. Designed for The Shawn Ryan Show, this project pushed him to new heights. Ensuring the flag details were proportional to a real flag and infusing a unique design challenged his skills and creativity. I wanted to make sure that it was really unique since I had free reign on the design,” he added.

The smar ter low cost imaging choice.

Matt’s dedication to his craft is evident in the time he invests in each project. Allotting a month for completion, he allows for contingencies such as special wood orders and the unpredictable nature of life. This approach, he said, ensures that every piece bears the mark of meticulous craftsmanship.

Beyond his standard repertoire, Matt gladly takes on custom projects. From signs and boards of all kinds to golf putter heads and kitchen island tops, his versatility knows no bounds.

While some dream of storefronts and brick-and-mortar establishments, Matt’s woodworking shop on his home property is his haven; a space where creativity flows, sawdust settles and

dreams take shape. It not only serves as the birthplace of his creations but also reflects the essence of his craft—an intimate and personal experience for both the artisan and the admirer.

For those captivated by Matt’s craftsmanship, reaching out is just a click away. His website, www.mh-creations.com, serves as a portal to his world of woodworking wonders. Alternatively, inquiries can be directed to his email at holmesmatt68@gmail.com.

In Matt Holmes’ hands, wood transcends its form, becoming a canvas for creativity, dedication and the pure joy of bringing dreams to life.

16 Hartselle Living Hartselle Living 17
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KATIE’S ESSENTIALS A healing journey through clean living STORY BY REBEKAH YANCEY PHOTOS BY JENNIFER SHERWOOD 1807 2ND AVE SW | CULLMAN, AL 256 - 8 41- 6755 CULLMANFURNITUREMARKET.COM C U L L M A N ’ S L A R G E S T F U R N I T U R E S H O W R O O M R O W E F U R N I T U R E . C O M | R O B I N B R U C E . C O M 580741-1

KKatie Cross is on a mission.

Katie’s journey began with a simple yet powerful idea – to create a line of products that are safe, non-toxic and effective that she could share with others. The inspiration behind her venture came from a personal struggle as both her husband and son suffered from headaches and allergies triggered by the harsh chemicals she says are present in most conventional cleaners. Determined to find a solution, the Hartselle woman decided to craft her own cleaning essentials that would prioritize the health and well-being of her family. Her background as a registered nurse for the past eight years played a pivotal role in shaping the direction of the business. In April 2023, Katie faced a health crisis, discovering that her heart was suffering from a second-degree blockage due to the lingering effects of Long Covid. In the midst of recovery, Katie founded Katie’s Essentials as a way to support her family and explore the impact of household products on overall health.

Katie’s Essentials made its debut during Moulton’s Fall Fest, where Katie said the

20 Hartselle Living Hartselle Living 21
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response was overwhelmingly positive. “The product sold so well, I knew I had something special,” Katie says.

Recognizing the potential of her products, Katie expanded to the Providence Market in Huntsville in 2023. She is eagerly anticipating its reopening April 6. Local communities have shown a keen interest in products that prioritize family safety and health, driving Katie to reach out to nearby stores to stock her essentials.

Katie’s Essentials has found a home in various stores, including El-Marie’s Antiques in Hartselle, Sprouts Children’s Store in Decatur, Gloria’s Good Health in Decatur, Mavens and Makers in Cullman and Alabama Goods at Jones Farm in Huntsville. These locally-owned establishments have embraced the ethos of Katie’s Essentials, offering a range of non-toxic alternatives for households in search of a healthier lifestyle.

Since its inception in August 2023, Katie’s Essentials has witnessed remarkable success. The best-selling product, Defender All-Purpose Cleaner is a Thieves base product made to help combat colds and flu. The Sweet DreamZzz Linen/Room Spray, a lavender-based concoction, has also captured the hearts of those seeking a peaceful night’s rest. What’s more, Katie’s belief in the power of natural ingredients shines through, offering households a refreshing scent without compromising on safety.

“Our products leave a refreshing smell without all the chemicals of common household products,” Katie says. “I believe science has brought a lot of amazing advancements, but the natural ingredients God gave us are still the safest and best for our homes.”

Find Katie’s Essentials at local stores or follow the business on Facebook.

WHERE TO FIND

KATIE’S ESSENTIALS

El-Marie’s Antiques – Hartselle

Sprouts Children’s Store – Decatur

Gloria’s Good Health – Decatur

Mavens and Makers – Cullman

Alabama Goods at Jones Farm – Huntsville

22 Hartselle Living Hartselle Living 23
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#HeyHartselle

Follow @hey_hartselle on Instagram and use the hashtag #HeyHartselle for a chance to be featured on this page in each issue.

@oliviapreuitt: winter formal

@hartselletennis2024:

Congrats to former Tennis Tiger Lanie Shaw on her signing to play soccer at the University of Mobile #LetsG

@whitneyeddy:

@sadie.evans: I love my nieces

READ THIS BOOK

Must-read audiobooks:

Who says audiobooks don’t count? Below are just a few of many amazing audiobooks that will transport you into another world. These incredible narrators set the scene and paint the picture of complex characters. You won’t want to press pause on any of these great books.

From the librarians:

The William Bradford Huie Library of Hartselle is proud to offer readers recommendations from our librarians. These books are picked by Sarah Laughmiller, Chrissy Tucker and Alex VanKoughnett. Come to the ibrary to check these out and more.

“DAISY JONES & THE SIX”

Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid

In the 1970s, the rock band Daisy Jones and the Six rose to international fame. But the band fell apart as quickly as they rose. Years after their breakup, Daisy and the rest of the band are ready to sit down and tell the story of the band getting together and breaking up. This novel’s audiobook is read by a celebrity cast where each character has its own narrator. The diverse voices bring the story to life. This audiobook can be found on the Libby app.

“I’M GLAD MY MOM DIED”

Author: Jennette McCurdy

In her heartbreaking and dark humor filled memoir, actress and writer Jennette McCurdy details how her unhealthy relationship with her mother caused her to become a child actor, develop eating disorders and spend most of her life trying to fit the image her mother craved. This memoir leaves nothing to the imagination when it comes to Jennette and the relationship she had with her mother. Readers should be prepared to be horrified, cry and laugh while listening to Jennette tell her own story. You can listen to this audiobook on the Libby app.

“FOURTH WING”

Author: Rebecca Yarros

Violet Sorrengail is the youngest child of General Sorrengail. Despite being a general’s daughter, Violet had her sights set on joining the Scribe Quadrant of Navarre’s army. A life of books and translations is what Violet wants. However, her mother decrees that she will join the ranks of the Rider’s Quadrant. The Rider’s Quadrant is made up of dragon riders who spend years training and earning the chance to bond with a dragon. Only the strongest, bravest and most cunning are known for bonding with the dragons. Violet is too petite, too fragile and not prepared for cadet training. However, she defies the odds and joins the ranks of riders. There are two different audiobooks for Fourth Wing. On Libby, you will the audiobook narrated by Rebecca Soler and Teddy Hamilton. On Hoopla, you will find the Graphic Audio version that contains a full cast, sound effects, and music.

“THANK YOU FOR LISTENING”

Sewanee Chester is an audiobook narrator who started out in Romance. After winning awards and gaining popularity, she has sworn off the genre simply because she no longer believes in the “happilyever-after.” Now she is content to narrate Women’s Fiction from her sound booth at home where she can hide. What was to be a low-key work thing turns into one of the most interesting nights of her life when she meets a charming stranger named Nick. Even though she has left Romance, the money is just what she needs to pay for her grandmother’s medical fees. The only thing is, it’s a dual narration with the leading male voice in audiobooks – Brock McKnight.

24 Hartselle Living Hartselle Living 25

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

5

Dr. Brian Clayton

Hartselle City Schools superintendent

Dr. Brian Clayton is proud to serve the students, faculty, staff administration, and the community of Hartselle City Schools as its superintendent. He is a native of Eutaw, Alabama and is a graduate of the University of Alabama where he earned four degrees which includes a doctorate in Education Leadership in 2005. He has served students as a math teacher, basketball and football coach, assistant principal and principal in Hale County Schools, Thomasville City Schools, Tuscaloosa City Schools and Madison City Schools for nearly three decades. For the past 10 years, he served as the first principal of James Clemens High School. During his time at James Clemens, Dr. Clayton was awarded the honor of State of Alabama Secondary Principal of the Year in 2018. Also with Madison City Schools, Dr. Clayton served as Principal of Liberty Middle School when the school was named a National Blue Ribbon Award winner in 2012.

Dr. Clayton has served his peers as president-elect of the Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals for the 2019-20 school year. Additionally, he serves with the Council for Leaders of Alabama Schools (CLAS) Board of Directors and is a member of the Executive Board of CLAS.

What inspired you to pursue a career in education administration, and what motivated you to become a superintendent?

I was inspired in education by the many examples I had growing up. My uncle Jack Clayton was a 40-year veteran of education. He was a math teacher and principal. I had the opportunity to work with him for the first five years of my career. He was also my principal when I was in elementary school.

Can you share a bit about your leadership philosophy and how you plan to apply it to improve our school district?

Believe in keeping the main purpose of education student wellbeing and achievement. This in turn calls on all of us

to make sure that we make all decisions based on our students.

What do you see as the most significant challenges and opportunities facing our school district, and how do you envision addressing them?

The most significant challenges we have in our district at this time is financial wellbeing with the continued growth that we are experiencing in the City of Hartselle. I believe that planned growth is what is best for any community. Mr. (Bradley) Colburn, our Chief Financial School Officer, does a great job in this arena.

How do you plan to engage with teachers, students, parents and the community to foster open communication and collaboration?

In the beginning of my time here, we established a student advisory group for the superintendent. We have representatives from all schools who I meet with quarterly in order to receive student input on decisions that we have to make in the school system. I would like all of our community members to know that I have an “open door” policy and believe that we are all in this together for the betterment of our students.

Outside of your professional life, what are some of your hobbies and interests that you’d like to share with our school and community?

I love to support the University of Alabama athletics. Additionally, I enjoy traveling and reading biographies of leaders.

HUNDREDS DAZZLE AT CINDERELLA BALL

Hundreds of young girls dressed to the nines to dance the night away at Hartselle’s Cinderella Ball Feb. 9-11. The seventh annual event, held at Burningtree Country Club, was organized by the Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce. Cinderella and Prince Charming made a special appearance and took photos with the little princesses who were also treated to a horse-drawn carriage ride. Lead outs and a catered meal were also part of the magical night.

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OUT & ABOUT

Jasmine Sanderfer

PRESIDENT & CEO

Jasmine Sanderfer, the President and CEO of the Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce, is a North Alabama native and brings 15 years of real estate expertise and a growth-focused approach to her role.

Her career began by assisting REALTORS®️, and she subsequently worked at the largest local realtor association in Alabama, the Birmingham Association of REALTORS®. Later, she made history as the first African American female Government Affairs Director at the Williamson County Association of REALTORS®️ in Brentwood, Tenn. In this role, she passionately lobbied on behalf of REALTORS®️ at the federal, state and local levels.

Jasmine’s extensive network spans the U.S., and she continues to learn from industry leaders. Expanding her horizons, she began working independently as a government affairs strategist, advocating for companies and individuals. She believes in the significant impact of politics in every industry and offers her expertise in navigating these dynamics.

Jasmine prioritizes a healthy work-life balance. She is a dedicated mother to her son, Harrison, who has a nonprofit called Harry’s Webs. Jasmine instills in him the importance of giving back and inspiring others to excel, emphasizing that “influence is the ability to change behavior,” all while he’s jumping off the couch being Spiderman himself.

With a passion for people, service and a commitment to making a difference, Jasmine is eager and excited to serve Hartselle and the surrounding areas.

Tina Alexander

MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR

My name is Tina Alexander. Always ready to help those around me, my background in healthcare administration and desire to make people smile were the building blocks in my decision to join the Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce. I have always been a nurturer by nature and being able to serve my members and merchants and guide them through one of the biggest investments of their lives makes me happy. You can count on me to be passionate, genuine and focused throughout your process. My natural curiosity drives me to listen to and learn about the people I encounter. I am committed to listening to my client’s needs and utilizing my negotiation skills to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. In my free time I enjoy hanging out at the lake, fishing and yoga.

Kati Salverson

MARKETING & EVENT COORDINATOR

I’m a proud Hartselle native, having graduated from Hartselle High School in 2010. My journey led me to the University of North Alabama, where I earned a degree in Music Business. For the next seven years, Nashville became my second home, and during my time at Warner Music Nashville, I immersed myself in the vibrant world of country music.

For more than six years, I had the privilege of promoting country music to radio, contributing to an impressive 25 no. 1 country radio singles. My work brought me in close collaboration with artists like Blake Shelton, Kenny Chesney, Cody Johnson, Ashley McBryde and Cole Swindell, just to name a few.

In 2021, the call of family and love brought me back to Hartselle, where I now reside with my boyfriend, Alex, and our dog, Chief. In my downtime, you’ll find me enjoying the river, attending concerts and cheering on my favorite sports teams.

Thrilled to contribute to the Hartselle community, I’ve joined the Chamber team, eager to leverage my experience and skills for the betterment of our hometown. As the saying goes, “Home is where the HARTselle is.”

Annabeth Keel

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR

My name is Annabeth Keel and I graduated from Mississippi State University in May 2023. I have worked at the HACC since graduation. I am an Army brat, so my family is not from the Hartselle area. My parents recently retired from active duty and reside in Eva. Even though I am not from this area, I have fallen in love with Hartselle and the surrounding community. If I am not at the Chamber, I am planning my wedding, hanging out with my family and friends, travelling or at a Mississippi State sporting event.

P.O. Box 817, Hartselle, AL 35640 256. 773.4370

 admin@hartsellechamber.com

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