FYI Guide 2015 Southern Hospitality

Hartselle: the city of

Southern Hospitality

A special publication of the Hartselle Enquirer – July 2015 July 2015-June 2016 • 1

have

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Hartselle City Schools Strategic Plan 2015

MISSION

Inspiring and preparing ALL students for learning, leadership, and life

VISION

Leading the way on local, state, and national levels academically, artistically, and athletically

Learning –

HCS believes a quality education is foundational for success.

Therefore, students deserve the following: • Opportunities to achieve personal best • Rich, engaging educational experiences crafted to meet needs • Tools and resources that are developmentally and academically appropriate for learning • A safe and nurturing environment promoting student success and a positive school climate in which each student is valued and respected

Life – HCS believes life is full of choices, challenges, and possibilities.

Therefore, students deserve the following: • Opportunities to collaborate, create, innovate, and compete • Experiences in developing skills essential for an active, healthy, and balanced life • Experiences that honor the past and blend the best of today with the possibilities of tomorrow • An environment that nurtures productive citizens, autonomous learners, critical thinkers, and effective communicators prepared for the demands of the future

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Table of Contents ON THE COVER The sun rises over Bethel Road in Hartselle. Bethel Road is a beautiful area in southwest Hartselle that is home to F.E. Burleson Elementary and Hartselle High School along with several residents.

Editor’s Note: Many of the photos were shot by Richard Hollingsworth.

To see more, visit http:// nikonrick.smugmug.­com.

STAFF Publisher Randy Garrison

CONTACT US

Advertising Pam Gray

Hartselle Newspapers, LLC 407 Chestnut St. NW P.O. Box 929 Hartselle, AL 35640 256-773-6566 Fax: 256-773-1953

Contributors Richard Hollingsworth Clif Knight Joy Harris Andrea Williamson

news@hartselleenquirer.com

Copyright 2013 by Hartselle Newspapers, LLC

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Office Staff Ann Kirby April Thompson Katie Sparkman

Welcome 5 Letter from Mayor Newcomer’s Guide 6 All about us 7 Getting Connected 9 Taxes and Licenses 10 Elections 11 Public Safety 13 Important Numbers Economic Development 14 New Investments 16 William Bradford Huie Library

17 Hartselle Chamber of Commerce 17 Department of Development Education 18 Hartselle High 18 Hartselle Junior High 19 Hartselle Intermediate 20 Barkley Bridge Elementary 20 Crestline Elementary 21 F.E. Burleson Elementary 22 Hartselle Virtual Academy

Parks and Recreation 24 Sparkman Park 26 Aquatic Center 27 Athletic Facilities in Hartselle 29 SNAP 30 Golf Courses 30 Quail Creek 31 Burningtree 31 Decatur Country Club 31 Point Mallard Golf Course 32 Depot Days Religion 34 Hartselle Tabernacle 36 Church Directory

Welcome

Hartselle: Southern Hospitality at its finest

W

elcome to Hartselle, Alabama – “The City of Southern Hospitality.” We are glad you are here!

Whether you are a first time visitor or a current resident, I believe you will find Hartselle a great place to visit or reside. We have friendly people, a school system rated as one of the best in the state, a low crime rate and a unique downtown full of antique and specialty shops.

Our other many assets include one of the best recreation parks and fire and police departments in the state. Our historic downtown area is a popular attraction guaranteed to pique the interest of antique and specialty item collectors.

Another draw is our annual Depot Days Festival held each fall, that features a half-marathon race, arts, crafts, music and entertainment, car show and food vendors. Hartselle’s bedroom community has a population of more than

14,200 and boasts a low crime rate.

Our city government, utilities department, Chamber of Commerce and business sector work hand in hand to make Hartselle a better place to live. A national guidebook named Hartselle one of the 100 Best Small Towns in America. Hartselle can also be found in the book “The 50 Best Small Southern Towns” written

by Gerald W. Sweitzer and Kathy M. Fields. It is also No. 3 best Alabama town for young families by NerdWallet, the No. 6 safest place in Alabama by Movoto Real Estate Blog and No. 15 business-friendly city in Alabama according to Yellowhammer and the Alabama Policy Institute.

We are proud of these recognitions and hope you will agree.

Don Hall Mayor of Hartselle

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All About Us The Land Situated on the edge of the Cumberland Plateau and the Highland Ridge, Hartselle, Ala., is located along Interstate 65 within the Decatur metropolitan region, and 35 miles from the high tech city of Huntsville, Ala. Latitude: 34:26:42 Longitude: 86:55:55 Distance From: Atlanta, Ga. – 191 Mobile – 321 Birmingham – 70 Montgomery – 164 Nashville, Tenn. – 126 New Orleans, La. – 411 Memphis, Tenn. – 201 Hartselle is part of a growing region, in terms of pop-

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ulation and economic development. The city is located in Morgan County. The county seat is Decatur.

date for the first freeze is late October.

The Weather

Hartselle’s estimated population according to the 2013 Census: 14,466, up 1.5 percent from the 2010 U.S. Census.

Ages: Persons under 5 years old: 6.3 percent; Persons under 18: 25.4 percent; Persons 65 years and older: 14.2 percent; Female persons: 51.8 percent.

Races: White persons: 91.5 percent; Black persons: 4.3 percent; Persons of American Indian or Alaska Native descent: 0.8 percent; Asian persons: 0.4 percent; Persons reporting two or more races: 1.7 percent; Persons of Hispanic or Latino descent: 2.5 percent.

Hartselle experiences primarily mild and pleasant weather all year.

Four months, December through March, account for about 43 percent of the normal annual precipitation. Severely cold weather seldom occurs.

In the transition from winter to spring, appearances of warm moist air in place of the cold air become more frequent, and the greatest variety of weather usually occurs during this season.

The average date for the last occurrence of freezing temperatures in the spring is late March and the average

The People

Households: 5,456; Persons per household: 2.63; Per capita money income in past 12 months: $21,746; Median household income: $47,306; The mean travel time to work is 23.7 minutes.

Number of high school graduates (age 25 and older): 86.6 percent.

Housing units in 2010: 6,076; Homeownership rate: 78.7 percent; Housing units in multi-unit structures: 13.6 percent; Median value of owner occupied housing units: $123,000.

Odds and Ends Morgan County population: 119,490, up 0.4 percent from 2000 Census. Morgan County land area: 579.34 square miles; Persons per square mile in the county: 206.3.

Getting Connected Hartselle Utilities Hartselle Utilities serves the City of Hartselle with water, electricity, natural gas and public sewer.

To get connected with Hartselle Utilities service, a rental lease or a house purchase agreement must be presented to transfer utilities to the new customer.

A deposit of $25 to $435 may be required for connecting services based on credit rating.

If the prospective customer can provide a letter from another utility company stating that he or she was in good standing for at least one year, the deposit fee could be waived and only a connection fee would be required.

For more information on Hartselle Utilities, call 256-773-3340 or log on to www.hartselleutilities.org.

Water

5/8” and 3/4” Meters Monthly Charge: $6.86 1” Meter Monthly Charge: $10.79 1-1/2” Meter Monthly Charge: $27.46 Usage Rates: First 10,000 Gallons- $4.1081 Per 1,000 Gallons Next 10,000 Gallons- $3.8327 Per 1,000 Gallons Next 30,000 Gallons- $3.4566 Per 1,000 Gallons Deposit: $40 (Effective 7/1/2015)

Electricity

Distributors: Hartselle Utilities and Joe Wheeler EMC Source: Tennessee Valley Authority Hartselle Utilities fees Monthly base charge: $12.45 Monthly Usage: $0.09121/kWh

Natural Gas

Suppliers: Various (Fuel oils, coal and Lp Gas available) Hartselle Utilities residential gas rates Monthly Charge: $6.72 Usage Rates: First 100 ccf: $0.50 per ccf Additional ccf: $0.2758 per ccf Cost of Gas Adjustment: $0.3996 per ccf sold (Effective July 2015)

Public Sewer

Sanitary Sewer: Yes (85 percent coverage) Plant Capacity: 2.7 million Storm Sewer: Yes (75 percent coverage) Present Load: 72 percent Monthly Charge Residential Base Rate: $21.03 Usage Rate: $5.0601 per 1,000 gallons (Effective 7/1/2014) See Connected, Page 8

July 2015-June 2016 • 7

Connected Hartselle Garbage Pickup Residents are provided with a special 96-gallon roll-out cart.

Collection trucks are equipped with a lifting mechanism on the side that will lift and empty the cart and return the cart to the ground. The process takes about 10 seconds and can be performed without the driver leaving the truck. For a successful pickup to occur, the cart must be placed curbside according to directions.

If you are new to the City of Hartselle, please call Public Works to set up an account at 256-773-2643.

What days will my garbage be picked up? Please call Public Works at 256-773-2643 or log on to www. hartselle.org.

City Landfill

City of Hartselle Public Works Department Landfill – 256-773-8603 99 Lovelady Street NW Hartselle, AL 35640 Items accepted at the landfill:

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Continued from Page 7 yard waste, wood, paper, plastic, scrap metal, cardboard, furniture, carpet, construction waste, household garbage for transfer to Morgan County Regional Landfill and electronics for transfer to Morgan County Regional Landfill Items not accepted: paints, treated lumber, chemicals, tires, asbestos, medical waste, liquids, batteries, hazardous waste, burned materials and gas bottles.

Residential – no charge Business/Contractors – $52 per ton (min. $5 charge) Mulch Residential – $5 per scoop (free if you load yourself) Mulch Commercial – Contact landfill for current rates

Phone service

For a land-line phone connection the choices in Hartselle are AT&T and Charter Spectrum.

AT&T adds a hookup fee to your first monthly bill, similar to what it does with cell phone connection, but

there is an option available to pay the hookup fee in installments with your monthly payments.

The cost of service from AT&T will depend on the number and type of services you chose.

AT&T’s 24-hour service line is 800-288-2020 and its website is www.att.com.

Charter Spectrum can be contacted at 1-888-438-2427 or on its website at www.charter.com.

Cable Television

AT&T and Charter Spectrum are the only providers of cable television in the Hartselle area without getting satellite service.

Charter’s nearest office is located at 1632 Beltline Road SW in Decatur, AL, 35601 and the phone number is 1-888-438-2427.

AT&T’s 24-hour service line is 800-288-2020 and its website is www.att.com.

Taxes and Licenses Property Taxes Revenue Commissioner: Amanda G. Scott, CPA The Revenue Commissioner is elected by the people of Morgan County for a six-year term and is responsible for the mapping, appraising, assessing and collecting of ad valorem taxes as levied by the government. The office collects approximately $55 million annually.

Locations: Decatur – County Courthouse, Hartselle – Crestwood Shopping Center and Lacey’s Spring – 423 Union Hill Road Telephone Amanda Scott – 256-351-

4690 Renee H. Fields Chief Clerk – 256-3514695 Chad D. Baswell Chief Appraiser – 256-3514674 Christina McCulloch Business Personal Property Appraiser – 256-351-4697 Appraisal Division – 256-351-4694 Assessment Division – 256-351-4690 Collection Division – 256-351-4628 Mapping Division – 256-351-4698 Business Personal Property – 256-351-4862 Board of Equalization – 256-351-4674

Millage

Morgan County State General Fund – 2.5 Mills State Soldier Fund – 1.0 Mills State School Fund – 3.0 Mills County General Fund – 7.2 Mills County Road & Bridge Fund – 3.6 Mills County Wide School – 1.5 Mills County Wide School – 4.3 Mills County Total* – 23.1 Mills *This base amount is to be included in all totals.

Hartselle City of Hartselle – 5.0 Mills Hartselle City Board of Education – 11.3 Mills

Base Amount – 23.1 Mills Hartselle Total – 39.4 Mills

Licenses and Tags

County Commissioner of Licenses: Sharon Maxwell Locations: Decatur – County Courthouse, Hartselle – Crestwood Shopping Center and Lacey’s Spring – 423 Union Hill Road Telephone: 256-351-4770 Website: morganlicensecommissioner.org.

Online renewals are available for vehicle registration, business licenses, boat registration and manufactured home registration. Hartselle business licenses: applications available at www.hartselle.org.

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Elections and Public Officials General Information

To register to vote in Ala­bama, an individual must meet the following qualifications: • Be a United States Citizen • Reside in Alabama • Be at least 18 years old • Have not been convicted of a disqualifying felony (or have rights restored) • Have not been legally declared “mentally incompetent” by a court You may download a Voter Registration Application at www. sos.state.al.us. The form can be printed on your printer, filled out, and then mailed into your local voter registration officials. You may also obtain voter registration services at the following state and local government offices and agencies: • Driver’s licensing office •County and select municipal public libraries •Department of Human Resources • WIC Program, Department of

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Public Health • Medicaid Agency •Department of Rehabilit­ ation Services For more information, contact the Board of Registrars at 256351-4660 or visit the office at the County Courthouse.

Election Regulations

Voter registration is closed during the 10 days prior to any election. Applications for absentee ballots must be submitted no later than five days before the election.

Ballots must be hand-delivered or postmarked by the day before an election. A voter must present a valid form of identification to be eligible to vote. A list of valid types of ID is provided at the Alabama Secretary of State’s website: www. sos.state.al.us.

members and the mayor are elected at large to four-year terms.

Mayor – Don Hall, dhall@hartselle. org Council Place 1 – Kenny Thompson, kthompson@hartselle.org Council Place 2 – Bill Smelser, bsmelser@hartselle.org Council Place 3 – Mike Roberson, mroberson@hartselle.org Council Place 4 – Tom Chappell, tchappell@hartselle.org Council Place 5: Ken Doss, kdoss@ hartselle.org

commissioners who are elected in districts.They serve four-year terms.

Commission Chairman – Ray Long, rlong@co.morgan.al.us (six years) District 1 – Jeff Clark, jclark@­co. morgan.al.us District 2 – Randy Vest, rvest@­co. morgan.al.us District 3 – Don Stisher, dstisher@­ co.morgan.al.us District 4 – Greg Abercrombie, gabercrombie@co.morgan.al.us

Representatives

State District 9 Representative – Ed Henry, R-Hartselle, 256-260-2146 State Senate District 5 – Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, 256-260-2147 U.S. District 5 Representative– Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville, 256-355-9406 U.S. Senator – Richard Shelby, R-Tuscaloosa, 256-772-0460 U.S. Senator – Jeff Sessions, R-Mobile, 256-533-0979 Governor – Robert Bentley, Leadership The Morgan County Commission R-Tuscaloosa, 334-242-7100 Hartselle uses a mayor-council is comprised of a commission form of government. Five council chairman elected at large and four President – Barack Obama, D-Illinois, 202-456-1414 The Hartselle Board of Education is comprised of five members who are elected at large to four-year terms.

BOE Place 1 – Mike Swafford BOE Place 2 – Randy Sparkman BOE Place 3 – James Joy BOE Place 4 – Jennifer Sittason BOE Place 5 – Venita Jones

Public Safety Police Department

Police Chief: Ron Puckett has served as chief since 2005. He began his career as a patrol officer in Puckett 1989. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Athens State College in 1987 and a master’s degree in justice and public safety from Auburn University-Montgomery in 2001. He’s also a graduate of the FBI National Academy in 2002.

The Hartselle Police De-

partment serves a population of more than 14,000 with 29 sworn officers and 9 civilian employees. It is comprised of a Patrol Division, Criminal Investigations Division, Special Operations Division, Corrections and Communications.

The City of Hartselle Police Department sponsors a Citizens Police Academy each year. For more information, contact Capt. Tom Sparks at 256-751-4912 or tsparks@hartselle.org.

Telephone: 256-773-6534 Records: 256-751-4913 Administration Chief Ron Puckett – 256-751-4911 Capt. Tom Sparks –

256-751-4912 Margaret Stinson – 256-751-4913 Criminal Investigation Lt. Justin Barley – 256-751-4914 Inv. Alan McDearmond – 256-751-4917 Inv. Tania Burgess – 256-751-4915 Inv. Chip Reynolds – 256-751-4916 Inv. Webster – 256-560-5036 Special Operations Lt. Linda Fox – 256-751-4924 Sgt. Kel Roberts – 256-751-4930 Michael Hudson – 256-773-5426 Animal Control – 256-773-2934

Municipal Court

Court is held Thursday’s at 7 a.m.

Questions concerning traffic citations, fines, court costs, restitution, court appointed attorneys, scheduling court dates, bail or bonds should be addressed to the Municipal Court Clerk. The Hartselle Police Department will not be able to assist in any of these matters.

Address: 200 North Sparkman St., Hartselle Municipal Court Clerk – Sherry Reagin – 256-7732703 Municipal Judge, Mike Broom – 256-355-9151 Municipal Prosecutor, David Langston – 256-3408048

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Fire Department

The Hartselle Fire Department consists of 19 state certified firefighter/EMTs, 22 volunteer firefighters and one fire chief.

HFD consists of two fire stations. The fire department has a Class 5 fire rating, which enables the city to enjoy lower insurance rates. HFD operates three frontrun pumper trucks that also serve as basic trauma life support units, one rescue truck, and a 100-foot aerial ladder truck.

Hartselle Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services operates with a staff of 19 firefighters, 22 volunteer firefighters and one fire chief. Of the 19 firefighters, HFD has three captains, three lieutenants, six senior firefighters and seven firefighters.

The fire department is constantly training its own personnel and also conducts various Alabama Fire College classes that are open to outside agencies. Other programs offered by the Hartselle Fire Department include a house burning program for condemned property, burn notifications, fire prevention and safety training programs for area schools and

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civic groups.

Hartselle Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services is 100 percent compliant with Homeland Security Directive (HSPD)5, the President Directive to develop and administer a National Incident Management System (NIMS), which would provide a consistent nationwide approach for federal, state, local, and tribal governments to work together more effectively and efficiently to prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from domestic incidents. It was adopted by the City of Hartselle with Resolution No: 05-0726.

At the present time, we, have 20 firefighter I & II certifications, 16 HAZMAT A&O certifications, 12 HAZMAT technicians, 16 apparatus operator pumpers, 16 apparatus aerial operators, 16 fire in-

structors I, two fire instructors II, 13 fire officers I, nine fire officers II, 12 fire investigators, 17 fire inspectors I, three public fire educators I and II, two airport firefighters, one rescue technician rope, one rescue technician confined space, six fire department safety officers, 19 Alabama licensed EMT-Bs and six health and safety officers.

Telephone: 256-773-2545 Emergency: 911 Administration Fire Chief Daryl Fox: – 256-751-4945

Important Numbers Morgan County Courthouse

302 Lee St. NE Decatur, AL 35601 Phone: 256-351-4600 County Offices (All numbers, dial 256 first)

ABC Board – 351-4666 U.S. Rep. Aderholt – 734-6043 Agricultural Service Center – 773-6541 Alabama Co-Operative Extension – 773-2549 Animal Control – 773-2934 Archives – 351-4726 Board of Education – 353-6442 Board of Equalization – 3514674 Board of Registrars – 351-4660 U.S. Rep. Brooks – 355-9400 Circuit Court Division: - Circuit and District – 3514643 - Deputy Clerk – 351-4649

- Criminal/Traffic Division –3514644 - Domestic -Family Division – 351-4790 Circuit Court Judges: - Judge Haddock – 351-4750 - Judge Howell – 351-4700 - Judge Thompson – 351-4785 Circuit Court Reporters: - Anderson Morris – 351-4705 - Toby Chambers – 351-4788 - Beth Russell – 351-4755 Community Corrections – 3514739 County Commission– 351-4730 County Coroner – 560-6084, 345-6442 County Jail – 351-4825 DHR – 334-242-1310 District Attorney – 351-4610 District Court Judges: - Judge Craig – 351-4760 - Judge Langham – 560-6087 - Judge Waters – 351-4765 District Shop 1 – 353-8783

District Shop 2 – 773-7383 District Shop 3 – 784-5476 District Shop 4 – 778-8515 EMA – 351-4620 Engineering Department – 773-5297 Examiner Of Public Accounts – 351-4748 Health Department – 353-7021 Home Health Services – 3062400 Landfill: - Scale House Hwy 20 West– 341-4993 - Director’s Office – 341-4990 License Inspector – 351-4619 MCATS – 351-4650 Meals-On-Wheels – 355-9058 Morgan County 911 MCEMCD: Administration – 552-0911 Operations / Communications: - Non-Emergency – 350-4613 - Non-Emergency ‘1 866’ – 3504613 Probate Office – 351-4675

Property Tax – 351-4690 Revenue Commissioner: -Decatur Office - 351-4690 -Appraisal Department – 3514694 -Mapping Department – 3514698 -Personal Property -351-4698 -Hartselle Office – 751-5017 -Lacey’s Spring Office– 5606165 Sales Tax Office – 351-4618 Sheriffs Office – 351-4800 -Dispatch – 301-1174 -General Investigations – 5606198 -Narcotics Division – 351-4816 -Records Division – 351-4809 Social Security Administration – 340-9751 State Probation – 351-4830 State Troopers – 353-0631 U.S. Bankruptcy Court – 5847900 Veterans Affairs – 351-4636 Worthless Check Unit – 3514740

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Economic Development

New investments exceed $121 million

I

nvestment in new and expanding industry exceeded $121 million and created 310 new jobs in Morgan County from October 2013 to September 2014, according to figures published in the annual report of the Morgan County Economic Development Association.

The investment involved two new industries, nine non-confidential expansions and six confidential expansions or equipment upgrades. The two new companies are JIT Services, located in Hartselle, with a $30,000

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investment and 20 jobs, and Aqua Marine Enterprises, also located in Hartselle, which had a $250,000 investment and created 15 jobs.

The expanding companies, their investments and workforce gains are listed as follows: BP Amoco, Decatur, $95.0 million, no new jobs; C & L Wood Products, Hartselle, $2.6 million and 24 new jobs; Feralloy Corp., Decatur, $3.0 million and eight new jobs; IMS Inc., Priceville, $500,000 and three new See Investments, Page 15

Investments jobs; J & M Signs, Decatur, $107,000 and no new jobs; Lektron, Hartselle, $100,000 and 3 new jobs; Micor Industries, Decatur, $3.1 million and 16 new jobs; Pro-Fab Machine, Hartselle, $7.05 million and 20 new jobs; and Styrolution America LLC, Decatur, $4.0 million and no new jobs.

A consistent leader in Alabama in industrial expansion, Morgan County currently has 154 industries, including 13 Fortune 500 companies and nine Global 500 companies. Workforce development continues to be a priority for Morgan County and our industries. This year, MCEDA introduced intern and cooperative student events to welcome these young professionals to our community, provide resources on events and attractions in Mor-

Continued from Page 14

gan County and allow for valuable networking opportunities amongst themselves.

Other workforce development efforts include engagement with the Tennessee Valley Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management; biannual on-site visits to gather quantitative data and participation on two regional workforce development boards, the North Ala-

CELEBRATING 78 YEARS OF RELIABLE SERVICE

bama Workforce Development Association and the Northeast Alabama Workforce Development Council. MCEDA’s partnership with the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce remains an important asset in targeting and addressing local workforce needs.

MEDA is governed by a 15-member board of directors, which consists of Eddie Allen, Debi Hendershot, Kevin Corum, Sonny Craig, Lynn Fowler, Susan Hines, George Kitchens, Gary Livingston, Arthur Orr, Harvey Pride Jr., Britt Sexton, John Seymour, Trudy Grisham, Wally Terry and Wade Weaver.

Members of the Decatur-Morgan County Port Authority are Larry Bennich, Tim Lovelace, Harvey Pride Jr., Jimmy Ray Smith and Fer-

Our equipment has changed...

(1937-2015)

www.jwemc.org • 256-552-2300

...but our reliability will always remain the same.

July 2015-June 2016 • 15

Hartselle Library

T

he William Bradford Huie Public Library is located at 152 Sparkman Street NW, just off the intersection of Sparkman and Main Street. The library annually serves a population of 22, 685 residents of the area. Inside the walls of the building, 27,208 volumes are housed, and 38,000 transactions take place each year.

Emily Love is the current director of the library. A library board appointed by the city council also aids in operations.

The Hartselle Public Library was renamed the William Bradford Huie Public Library in 2006. A permanent collection of Huie’s primary work is on display at the library.

There age also other significant documents and photographs available to the public at the library.

The library is a free source for the community. There are books for all ages, books on audio, summer reading programs on Tuesdays in July, a used book room and free E-books. There are eight computers for public access of the Internet at the library.

All residents of Morgan County can receive a free library card with proof of their current address. All items in the library except for reference materials may be checked out for three weeks.

Those same items may also be renewed over the phone.

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Overdue fines are $.25 per day per book.

Other services offered include voter registration forms and for $.15 per page copies can be made or items can be printed from the library’s printer.

The William Bradford Huie Library is open Monday through Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The library is closed Saturday and Sunday.

suances within the City of Hartselle.

Inspections are performed on new construction as well as room additions The purpose of the Hartselle Area and alterations on residential and comChamber of Commerce is to promote mercial structures. Other responsibilthe economic and social well being of ities within the building department the people of the Hartselle area. The include: HACC promotes free enterprise and •Processing and approving new conthe Constitution of the United States. struction permit applications Telephone: Local – 256-773-4370, •Reviewing construction drawings Toll Free: 1-800-294-0692 Department of •Issuing building permits Website: www.hartsellechamber.com Development •Interpreting building code The Department of Development The building department is also reStaff encompasses building inspection, plansponsible for code enforcement, which President – Susan Hines ning and zoning, nuisance abatement, primarily investigates and acts on code Administrative assistant – Kathy TayGIS mapping, development marketing violations. lor and special projects administration.

The department serves as the first Planning Board Members point of contact for a wide array of The planning office is within the Chairman of the Board – Rob Payne – specialized areas and is available to Department of Development and is the Edward Jones Investment assist with questions related to zoning, point of contact for all planning, subdiImmediate Past Chairman of the Board building permits and new residential or vision and zoning issues or questions.

– Dwight Tankersley – United Councommercial development.

This office maintains the Hartselle try, Four Oaks Realty and Auction Feel free to contact the department zoning ordinance, subdivision regulaChair Elect – TBA office at 256-773-0188. tions and city GIS. Staff of this office Secretary/ Treasurer – Arthur Peck – serve as advisor to the planning comPeck Funeral Home Building Department mission, board of zoning adjustment, The building department is responCBD design review board and city Board of Directors sible for inspections and permit iscouncil on all planning-related matters.

Larry Murphree – Award Graphics

Hartselle Chamber of Commerce

Nancy Busby – Coldwell Banker – Team Hartselle Real Estate Les McCollum – Individual Janan Downs – Zoey’s Downtown Daniel Copeland – Copeland Classic Cleaners Danielle Gibson – Alfa Insurance Kathy W. Goodwin – Decatur Morgan Hospital

July 2015-June 2016 • 17

Education

Hartselle High School

Location: 1000 Bethel St. Grades: 9-12 Principal: Jeff Hyche Teaching staff: 65 Support staff: 20 Hartselle High School is a fully accredited ninth through 12th grade facility located in the heart of the Tennessee Valley in Morgan County.

The 2014-2015 school year will be the 35th year that Hartselle has been a high school within the Hartselle City School System. This year, we are serving 950 students with approximately 85 teachers and staff.

Hartselle High offers a full range of opportunities academically, athletically and socially. We have extensive advanced placement courses, giving students the opportunity to do collegelevel work and earn college credit hours while still in high school.

We also have seven career academy clusters that are fully business-andindustry certified and prepare students for college programs and careers in business, engineering, IT, teaching, healthcare, agriculture and the fine arts.

The strongest testimony to the success of our students lies in the fact that the vast majority pursues a postsecondary education. Our graduates are well prepared to succeed in college and future careers. In 2014, Hartselle was named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, and U.S. News and World Report ranked the school No. 9th out of all the public and private schools in

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Alabama. In 2015, Niche named us the 10th best high school from hundreds in Alabama.

Secondary only to our strong academic curriculum are the opportunities afforded our students athletically. Hartselle High has a long tradition of excellence on the playing field, winning numerous state championships in our 34 years including recent championships in boys golf in 2015, softball 2014, baseball 2009 and 2013, volleyball 2012, girls’ golf in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 and football in 2011.

Organizations: Ambassadors, Art Club, Band, Book Study, Boys Tennis, Chess Club, Choirs, Color Guard, Cross Country, Debate Club, DECA, Drama, Engineering Club, Environmental Club, FBLA, FCA, FCCLA, FFA, Fishing Team, Freshman Basketball, Future Teachers of Alabama, Girls Tennis, Golf (boys), Golf (girls), HOSA, Interact Club, Journalism, JV Baseball, JV Boys Basketball, JV Cheer, JV Football, JV Girls Basketball, JV Softball, JV Volleyball, Key Club, Latin Club, Majorette, Mu Alpha Theta, National Honor Society, Outdoorsman Club, SADD, Scholar Bowl, Senior Girls, SGA, Spanish Club, Tiger Buddies, Track and Field, Varsity Baseball, Varsity Boys Basketball, Varsity Boys Soccer, Varsity Cheer, Varsity Girls Basketball, Varsity Girls Soccer, Varsity Football, Varsity Softball, Volleyball, Wrestling and Yearbook.

Hartselle Junior High School Location: 904 Sparkman St. SW Grades: 7-8 Principal: Dr. Robbie Smith Teaching Staff: 31 Support Staff: 12 Seventh grade has 247 students enrolled, and eighth grade has 241 students.

Mission statement: The mission of Hartselle Junior High School is to encourage, educate and empower students to become productive individuals in today’s challenging society.

Philosophy: We, the faculty of Hartselle Junior High School, believe the purpose of education in our school is to provide the positive environment and motivation for each individual to develop his capabilities and skills to the fullest so that he may become an effective citizen of society. We value the importance of health and wellness and promote a healthy lifestyle by providing nutritional information and opportunities for physical activities outside of competitive sports.

The faculty strives to develop an individual who has an open mind, a respect for himself and others, a willingness to examine all sides of a question and a desire to use the democratic process in settling problems. We recognize the worth and individuality of each student and accept the fact that each is valuable and should be accepted for what he can contribute.

We seek to provide a desirable

balance among activities designed to enhance the cognitive, affective and psycho-motor domains.

Sports: basketball, football, golf, soccer, tennis, track, cross-country, basketball, volleyball, wrestling and cheerleading.

Fine Arts: Art I, II, III, beginning band, concert band, seventh and eighth grade chorus and drama.

Hartselle Intermediate School Location: Pettain Street Grades 5-6 Principal: Gaylon Parker Teaching Staff: 30 Support Staff: 12 Hartselle Intermediate School began in 2013. It consists of approximately 500 students in grades five and six.

We believe all students must be given the opportunity to excel, not only academically, but also developmentally, socially and artistically.

In addition to rigorous core academic instruction, HIS offers the following opportunities: Alabama Math, Science, Technology Initiative (AMSTI) – HIS receives training, support and resources to enhance lessons.

Academic Competitions – The HIS math team competes in several area events and has won recognition at several contests.

Students also compete in the county spelling bee, poster contests and other opportunities.

HIS students have placed on state and regional levels.

Art and music – All HIS students have the opportunity to take art and/or music. In addition, sixth grade students have the opportunity to enjoy beginning band or chorus.

Technology Enhancement – HIS uses a variety of technological tools to enhance learning. The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program is in its second year. Students are encouraged to use personal tablets, phones, etc. in many classrooms. Skype classroom is used frequently to connect with scientists, authors, other classrooms and guest speakers across the US and in

several countries.

Life – HIS students have many opportunities for leadership and service. The HIS Ambassadors are student leaders who serve various roles including greeting parents, speaking at key events and serving in the community. All students may participate in several service projects during the year including a canned food drive, Relay For Life and Mitten Tree. Fifth grade students participate in a unit of learning as part of the Liberty’s Legacy Super Citizen Program. Students also publish a school newspaper and help with yearbook production.

July 2015-June 2016 • 19

Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School. The honor was conferred in Washington, D.C., in November 2011, and a banner hangs in the school to commemorate the achievement.

In December 2010, BBES was awarded the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence “Lighthouse School” Award for its academic accomplishments, parental involvement and staff performance.

The No Child Left Behind Act required that teachers have specific degrees or pass content competency tests in order to be classified as highly qualified.

Barkley Bridge is a Project Lead the Barkley Bridge Elementary Way STEM School (Science, Technology, Location: 2333 Barkley Bridge Road Engineering and Math. BBES is a Grades: Pre-K-4 Pre-K site under Alabama’s First Class Principal: Susan Hayes (entering 13th Pre-K program. Principal Susan Hayes year as school principal) was an AAESA 2014 Alabama District Teaching Staff: 27 Distinguished Principal.

Support Staff: 11 Sports: Alabama’s HEAL Physical Crestline Elementary School Education Program (Healthy Eating/ Location: 600 Crestline Drive SE Active Living) Grades: Pre-K - 4 Clubs and organizations: Extended Day Principal: Robin Varwig Program, Outdoor Classroom, Career Teaching staff: 39 Clubs, Award-winning Math Team and an Support staff: 19 active PTO. Organizations: Ambassadors, PTO, Noteworthy: BBES is a U.S. Extended Day Program, Volunteer

20 • July 2015-June 2016

Program Learning: Crestline strives to provide a rich and engaging learning environment, helping all students to learn through problem solving activities, hands-on learning, technology integration and allowing opportunities for each student to achieve their personal best. Science classes provide a focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and utilizing the Outdoor Classroom for handson learning. Teachers have been trained in Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative, On-Going Assessment Program and Alabama Reading Initiative. Online learning programs such as First in Math,

Moby Max, StarFall and Accelerated Reader allow students to engage in both enrichment and intervention opportunities at school and at home.

Life: In May, students, teachers, parents and community members under the direction of the Alabama Wildlife Federation, had the opportunity to put learning into action as they built Phase I of Crestline’s Outdoor Classroom. Students worked side by side with their teachers, parents and community members remaking Crestline’s courtyard into a living laboratory and outdoor classroom.

Each spring students and faculty demonstrate their compassion and community service by participating in Hartselle’s Relay for Life. Kindergarten Camp, Summer Learning Challenge, Partners in Education, First Station #2 Adoption, daily physical education, peer tutoring and more help create an environment to nurture tomorrow’s productive citizens, independent learners and effective communicators.

Noteworthy: In 2012, Crestline was named a Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence - Lighthouse School. All Crestline teachers meet or exceed the standards of highly qualified as required by the No Child Left Behind Act.

F.E. Burleson Elementary School Location: 1110 Bethel Road NE Grades: Pre-K-4 Principal: Debbie Napier Queen Teaching Staff: 33 Support Staff: 15 Mission statement: The mission of F.E. Burleson Elementary School is that all learners, through high expectations and effort, are encouraged to strive for excellence.

Organizations: PTO, extended day program and Watchdog Dads. Each grade level participates in servicelearning projects throughout the year.

Partners in Education: People’s Bank of Alabama and Landscape Impact History: F.E. Burleson Elementary School can trace its history directly to the very beginning of formal education in the City of Hartselle. Its predecessor, Hartselle Male and Female College, operated on the school’s old College Street site in the 1870s. The old school building that still stands opened in 1916 and operated as a public school until the last day of the 2000-2001 school year.

In 1967, the name of the school was changed to F.E. Burleson Elementary in honor of Professor Forest Emory

Burleson who served as its principal for over 30 years.

Noteworthy: F.E. Burleson Elementary School was awarded the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence “Lighthouse School” Award in 2011. It is also an Alabama Reading Initiative, AMSTI school and a Seven Habits School. The school began an outdoor classroom, and was certified through the Alabama Wildlife Federation in 2010. The school is a member of PALS (People Against A Littered State), received the Hartselle Beautification Award in 2014 and supports recycling efforts throughout the campus and community. F. E. Burleson received a National Green Ribbon School Award in 2014 for its impact on environmental education.

July 2015-June 2016 • 21

HHS offers online courses for on, off campus

H

artselle High School now offers online classes through the Hartselle Virtual Academy, which began the summer before the 2015-2016 school year.

Students are able to take a wide variety of classes online either in school or off campus, including core classes.

Home schooled or out-of-district students are allowed to enroll in Hartselle High School without having to attend classes on campus. Off campus students are still allowed to participate in extracurricular activities.

These self-paced courses offer flexibility to students who need extra time or want to get ahead. Students can also take a class online for no credit if desired.

HVA offers courses in the Plato curriculum from Edmentum that students can add at any point of the year. The classes do not have an assigned teacher, but courses will instead include

22 • July 2015-June 2016

multiple-choice evaluations, videos, written assignments and more to guide students through lessons.

Some graded assignments are evaluated by a Hartselle High School teacher in a corresponding subject according to an outlined rubric from the lesson.

Tests and exams for both in school and off campus students are taken in a monitored classroom at Hartselle High School. The amount of monitored tests varies by course.

Hartselle City Schools Superintendent Dr. Vic Wilson said this new option adds flexibility of time Hartselle students have never experienced.

“From the beginning of organized education, the only thing that hasn’t changed is the time variable,” Wilson said. “But with HVA online classes, students can now learn at their own pace and at the place and time of their choosing. The beauty is in the choice.”

Hyche said the online courses are intended to help meet the needs of every student.

“HVA is really about meeting stu-

dents where they are,” Hyche said.

“Some students can utilize the online courses to take extra time on their classes since each Plato course is self-guided. Students can spend as much time as they need within reason on each class, even if that’s more than one regular class. These courses can also be used to get extra help or get ahead. Students can finish algebra one in a semester and move on to algebra two the next semester if they want.

Down the road we could eventually

have graduations in May, August and December like colleges with students finishing at different rates.”

Despite the freedom of HVA, administrators and parents still have access to the activity and grades of each students’ courses. Students dropping below a 75 or falling more than a week behind are required to take the class on campus until their grade improves.

A number of courses are offered, including core classes, electives and test preparation. Some courses not pre-

viously offered at HHS include African American Studies, game development, drafting and design, archeology, ASVAB prep and many more.

“We really hope these options will give Hartselle students an advantage,” Hyche said. “This is something we are all still learning about, but we feel it will help us grow and prepare our students. By no means does online mean easy. It’s not traditional, and it’s going to take a lot of dedication, but HVA has opened up so many possibilities.”

We are available for *Weddings *Receptions *Luncheons *Pre-Wedding Parties *Bridal Teas

Visit our website at hartsellefineartscenter.org or email us at hartsellefinearts@att.net

Rent one room or the entire building

Call 256-773-4046

July 2015-June 2016 • 23

Parks and Recreation

Parks have something for everyone

I

t doesn’t matter whether you like baseball, softball, football, soccer, running, walking, swimming or even Frisbee golf or skateboarding.

There’s a good chance anyone in Hartselle can find something to do in Hartselle’s park and recreation facilities.

Frank Miller, director of Hartselle’s park and recreation department, said the parks have been one of the biggest draws for visitors to the city.

According to a study by the North Central Alabama Regional Council of Governments in 2000, Hartselle’s parks brought in as many as 20,000 people.

“It was 20,000 then, and I think it’s closer to 35,000 now,” Miller said.

See Parks, Page 25

24 • July 2015-June 2016

Parks Hartselle’s parks are among some of the best in the state. The department manages 160 acres of land, most of which is at Sparkman Park. Other areas include the soccer fields located near Sparkman Park and the baseball and softball practice fields near Hartselle Utilities.

There are a 3/4-mile walking track, six baseball fields, four softball fields, one youth football and 10 soccer fields.

Miller said they keep the fields in good condition and it makes a positive impact on the teams that play there.

“I think it really makes a difference, especially when they play at the district and state levels,” Miller said. “When we have nice facilities, I think it helps our kids work a little harder and play better when they’re out there.”

Keeping the fields upto-date has also allowed Hartselle to host several major tournaments. Last year, it hosted a Dixie Youth State Tournament and will host the U8 southeast regional tournament.

In all, Miller estimated that at least 1,500 players

Continued from Page 24 signed up to participate in sports with the city. One thing that has also impacted that number is the success of the city’s high school teams.

“When we won state championships in baseball, we’ve always seen a spike in interest in baseball,” Miller said. “We saw the same thing with football the fall after Hartselle won its first state championship.

Our baseball and softball teams have a chance to win state championships this year, so I expect our numbers to be up.”

One of the other main attractions is the city’s walking trail.

“We have people walking or running out here starting at about 4 a.m. and here until 10 p.m.,” Miller said.

The city also has one of the finest Frisbee golf courses around. In fact, it has been used for the U.S. Women’s Open a couple of years ago.

“We have hundreds of people play Frisbee golf every day,” Miller said.

“I never knew there were so many people who were interested in that.

“There’s just something for everyone here.”

July 2015-June 2016 • 25

Aquatic Center setting records

H

artselle usually draws a large crowd each summer to its city pool.

“Our crowds have been growing each year,” said Park and Recreation director Frank Miller. “The only thing different this year than the first year we opened is we have sold over 4,000 season passes this year.”

The record-breaking hot temperatures of June and early July combined with the amenities of a new mini-water park have kept the cash register ringing loudly at the Hartselle Aquatic Center this summer.

“There were no closings due to rain-outs this season,” said Lacey Garnett, aquatic center manager. “The average number of visitors during the week was around 300. For Friday through Sunday on the hottest of days, we averaged 500 to 600 visitors.”

“We’ve been blessed with perfect weather – hot days and

26 • July 2015-June 2016

plenty of sunshine,” said Garnett. “We also have had parties booked every weekend. We were booked up for parties until the end of August.”

Garnett said the center is attracting customers with a wide variety of interests.

“The little kids enjoy playing with the spray toys; older kids prefer the diving boards and water slides; and others prefer floating on the Lazy River or lounging in the sun,” she said. “We really do have something for every member of the family.”

“I’m glad Hartselle has a facility like this and that I’m able to be a part of it,” Garnett said.

The play pool is a zero-entry pool that has a number of splash-pad and water-spraying features. The competition pool features eight 25-yard lanes with a 10-foot diving well on one end. This year a new attraction, a climbing wall, was added in the deep end of the pool that was a big hit.

City has some of finest facilities in area

T

he City of Hartselle boasts some of the best park facilities and recreation in the Tennessee Valley.

Sports and recreation are an integral part of the community in Hartselle.

From Sparkman Park and J.P. Cain Stadium – the home of the 2011 Class 5A football state champions – to several top notch golf courses, Hartselle has a little of everything to offer.

The newest addition to the area’s park and recreation facilities is the $3 million Hartselle Aquatic Center, which includes new slides, a play pool and a lazy river for relaxation.

Sparkman Civic Center is a busy facility throughout the year. From hosting indoor sporting events to concerts to its senior facility, the city has much available for its citizens.

Sparkman Park also features numerous baseball fields from the high school competition Reuben Sims Field all the way down to tee ball.

See Facilities, Page 28 July 2015-June 2016 • 27

Facilities The park also features a Frisbee golf course and a large soccer complex on Groover Road.

The Grady and Margie Long Complex offers softball fields, a community football field and soccer field.

The Walker fields near downtown Hartselle offer two lighted soccer fields while the Legion Field complex offers practice baseball fields and a mini skate park.

Also one of the main draws to Hartselle is the John Mark Stallings Special Needs Accessible Playground located behind Sparkman Civic Center.

In addition to these parks, the area also offers exciting golf courses and country clubs of which residents can be members.

J.P. Cain Stadium

Friday night football in Hartselle is the highlight of the week as summer turns to fall. Newcomers to Hartselle find it hard to believe how the town’s folk support

28 • July 2015-June 2016

Continued from Page 27 Hartselle High football. It is so ingrained that no one asks what your plans are for Friday night. If the Tigers are playing in town, J.P. Cain Stadium will be full.

While the tailgates are let down and the crowd continues to gather, the sound of the band marching in can be heard.

Shortly before 6 p.m. the Tigers walk over from the high school and parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, and friends form a welcoming line to cheer them on and show their support for the team as they get ready to warm up on the field.

As the clock counts down to game time, the stands continue to fill. By kickoff, the stands are full along with areas on the home side of the track.

The student section is packed and loud, cheering on their Tigers.

As each touchdown is added to the scoreboard, the fans’ support builds, even if by a slim chance the scoreboard isn’t in favor of the home team, fans continue to

urge the players on.

After the halftime show the band plays a fight song in front of the stands that even pulls men in their 70s to their feet dancing to the music. The smiles on the faces of the fans give proof to the good time being had by all and how much they enjoy Friday night football.

As the second half draws to a close and the whistle blows, fans are already making plans for next week’s game as they make their way down the steps of the stadium. The support of the team is not yet over as many of the fans wait inside the stadium to congratulate the team as they leave the locker room and make their way back to the school. Pats on the back and good games can be heard as the players move through the crowd.

Yes, Friday nights are alive in Hartselle, especially those that take place in the months of August, September, October and even November. So, if it’s Friday night during the fall, it is the place

SNAP Best in Aquatics

T

he “John Mark Stallings Special Needs Accessible Playground (SNAP) of Morgan County” Splash Pad has been recognized by Aquatics International magazine as a “Best of Aquatics” facility for 2011.

This nationwide competition celebrates the industry’s outstanding aquatics facilities of all varieties — including government, nonprofit and privately owned operations. Entries are judged on programming, promotional materials, aquatic amenities and community involvement.

A panel of distinguished aquatics professionals independently chose SNAP as the best in class over all other spray park facilities that entered the contest.

“This project is an inspiration,” said one of the judges.

“Designing for universal accessibility requires foresight and careful planning. Kudos to the development team.”

Visit www.snapplay­ground.org for more information and send donations to: SNAP of Hartselle, Inc., P. O. Box 512, Hartselle, AL 35640. SNAP is 501c3 approved for tax-deductible donations.

July 2015-June 2016 • 29

Golfing in the Hartselle area Quail Creek Golf Resort and Conference Center Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains is one of North Alabama’s best-kept secrets. This recreational treasure created from the vision of one man and his family is known as Quail Creek Golf Course and Conference Center.

Quail Creek began as a nine-hole course in 1993. Today the USGA rated course plays at a par of 71 with eighteen-holes over 6,520 yards. In the beginning, Quail Creek was just golf, but today Quail Creek is home to golf course, the conference Center and inn, INSTEP Leadership Training,Unison Church Consulting, Quail Creek weddings, Quail Creek Ministries and The Church at Quail Creek.

30 • July 2015-June 2016

Other Quail Creek amenities include a pro shop, snack bar, driving range and “The Masters Golf Academy.”

There is simply no better way to enjoy a beautiful day in North Alabama than by playing a round at Quail Creek Golf Course. Golfers will find generous fairways, fresh water ponds and manicured greens. Quail Creek is conveniently located only 3 1/2 miles off of Interstate I-65. Turn east and follow the signs off either exit 322 or 325.

Quail Creek is a great place to enjoy weekend fun with family and friends.

It is also a great way to relax after a long day at work. Quail Creek offers an 18-hole championship golf course, driving range, practice putting greens, chipping area and pro shop.

Quail Creek offers individual, se-

nior, family, corporate memberships as well as the Quail Creek discount card.

Website: www.quailcreek.com

Burningtree Country Club Burningtree Country Club’s Golf Course is 18 holes of challenging, competitive golf for players of all ages and skill levels. Mature and traditional describe Burningtree, a course featuring Champion Bermuda greens and 419 Bermuda fairways, providing golfers with optimal playing conditions for all skill levels. Spread out on 150 acres, Burningtree is roomier than any course in town.

The practice facilities include a 300-plus-yard driving range, along with putting and chipping greens. The

pro shop offers the convenience of lockers, club repair, shoe care, bag storage, USGA handicap services and more. The professional staff is ready to serve by providing a pleasant atmosphere, along with the expertise to assist in all golf instructional needs.

Burningtree Country Club offers a competitive tournament schedule for the entire family, with a mixture of social events for member enjoyment.

Website: btcountryclub.com

Decatur Country Club Decatur Country Club’s well groomed, 6,100-yard executive golf course is conveniently located in beautiful southeast Decatur, Ala. close to residential areas and a very short drive from the residential, commercial and industrial areas of Decatur, Hartselle, and Madison. Members can leave home or work and be ready to tee off in a matter of minutes on the short but very challenging course.

The course is relatively flat and lends

itself to easy walking for golfers of all ages. Rounds are easily completed in 3 1/2 – 4 hours, even on weekends, leaving more time to spend with family and friends or playing more golf at the club.

The course was rebuilt in 1994 and is defined by fast, bent grass greens with subtle, hard to read breaks. Our narrow bermuda fairways and bermuda rough considerably increase the difficulty of the golf course. The golf course is an excellent in-town venue for golf outings and charity events and is fun to play even for golfers of moderate skill levels.

The Club’s course is short by today’s standards and does not offer a multitude of rewards to the purely long ball hitter, although length is very important on certain holes. The course does force the golfer to be accurate and to fully develop their short game to be successful. It is especially appealing to middle aged and senior golfers and to our lady golfers, most of whom walk the course while playing.

With today’s new club technology, almost anyone can hit a long ball, but only a few possess the true skills of a shot making purist. It’s not how far Golfers can drive the ball, it’s the skill behind the club that will challenge golfer’s at Decatur Country Club.

Website: www.decaturcountryclub. org

Point Mallard Golf Course Point Mallard Golf Course is open daily at 7:30 a.m. and 7 a.m. during daylight savings time. Located on the Tennessee River and Flint Creek, 200 acres of wooded flatlands surround Point Mallard’s championship course. The scenic course is open daily, has a USGA rating of 73.2 (based on a par of 72) and a slope rating of 124. Other course facilities include a driving range, clubhouse, pro shop, restrooms, shower facilities and Mallard Grille with a patio.

Website: pointmallardpark.com

July 2015-June 2016 • 31

Celebrating our city’s heritage

T

hree decades ago, a mule fancier named Eddie Craft had the bright idea of bringing the first annual Alabama Draft Horse and Mule Show to Hartselle.

It didn’t take long for the idea to sprout roots.

Hartselle was not far removed from being a farm town.

A few years earlier, farm folks flocked to town on Saturdays to buy provisions, watch a movie, get a haircut and a shave and play a game or two of pool. A whittler’s bench at the old gin scales was the place to be if you wanted to trade a knife, swap political talk or crack a joke. You could buy a slice of hoop cheese at Stewart & Bennett’s, a pair of overalls at E.R. Roberts or a 32 • July 2015-June 2016

Coke float at Fowler’s Rexall Drugs.

Now why wouldn’t a Mule Days festival be a barrel of fun?

Main Street was lined with onlookers for the first annual Mule Days Street Parade. They gawked and reminisced as wagon after wagon pulled by mules and horses rolled down Main Street. Riders sat proudly dressed in overalls, white shirts and straw hats. They included bank presidents, merchants and elected officials.

Later in the day, half the town turned out at the Morgan County Sheriff’s Posse Grounds to witness show animals competing in show and weight-pulling classes and being sold at auction.

What was being witnessed at that time was the forerunner to Hartselle’s Depot Days celebration.

The crowds are now bigger. Food and merchandise vendors have been added. There’s a tractor show, car, truck and bike show, stage entertainment, 5K run, children’s rides, games and much more.

The focus is still on attracting

widespread interest to Hartselle’s business community by giving visitors a fun time for the family. If you’ve never taken in a Depot Days

festival, this year is a good time to start.

Depot Days will be held Sept. 1219.

July 2015-June 2016 • 33

Religion

Getting that Old Time Religion Beginning Sun., June 14, the Tabernacle was once again lit up and overflowing with campers during the 116th annual Hartselle Camp Meeting.

Each day Sunday through Friday, there were two worship services held at the Tabernacle. The services were led by guest speakers Michael Mason and Tom Tanner.

The music was led by Hartselle First United Methodist Minister of Music Ron Bean.

Hartselle evangelist Junior Hill preached on Sunday evening, and Pastor Appreciation Day was Monday. A memorial recognition service was held Tuesday, and Missions Day and Student Night were Wednesday. For Missions Day, Gene Martin of Global Health Organizations spoke on his organization’s involvement in ministering to Nepal earthquake victims.

While the services were different each night, large crowds gathered throughout the week.

Attendees also enjoyed delicious food in between worship services. At 8 a.m., noon and 5:30 p.m., the Waits Dining Hall served meals.

Additionally, an overnight camp was held throughout the week for teenagers and young adults. The youth attended services and meals with the adults, but they also had additional Bible studies and recreational activities.

34 • July 2015-June 2016

President Rob Cain said that having this program for the youth each year is an important part of the meeting.

“For us, this is one of the highlights,” Cain said. “Being able to allow people to get away from it all and focus on good speakers and good worship is part of how the camp has always been.”

Cain, who also serves as the camp youth minister, has a personal connection to the youth program.

“I became a Christian at the camp meeting in 1980,” he said. “Police Chief Ron Puckett was also saved at camp as a youth, and we now both serve on the board together.”

Cain encourages people of all ages to attend the next camp meeting. When asked what makes this camp unique, Cain said he believes that people meeting together from different churches is part of what makes the camp so special. Another factor, though, is the way the past meets the future.

“The camp is a paradigm,” Cain said. “You see vans from different churches pulling into the parking lot each year, just like an old time camp meeting. However, we bring in new speakers and new program leaders each year, which helps to attract the young people. We hope everyone will come out.”

July 2015-June 2016 • 35

Religion ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

Cedar Creek Freewill Baptist Hwy. 31S, Hartselle 256-773-4608

Flint Baptist Church 4119 US Hwy 31 S Decatur, AL 35603 256-353-7429

BAPTIST

Danville Baptist Hwy. 36W, Danville 256-773-5059

Andrews Chapel Baptist Andrews Road, Danville 256-462-3059

Deer Springs Baptist Church 4961 Hwy. 31 S, Decatur 256-350-9090

Gum Springs Baptist Gum Springs Rd., Hartselle 256-778-7009

Bethel Baptist Church Bethel Road, Hartselle 256-773-2154

East Highland Baptist 1030 Main St. E., Hartselle 256-773-4157

First Assembly of God 2222 Hwy. 31N, Hartselle 256-773-8880

Bethlehem Baptist Hwy. 36E, Hartselle 256-773-5042 Bible Baptist Hwy. 36W, Hartselle 256-502-8036 Calvary Baptist Corsbie St., Hartselle 256-773-5187

Hartselle Missionary Baptist Walker NE, Hartselle 256-773-7901 Hopewell Baptist Hwy. 36 W., Hartselle 256-773-8123

Falkville First Baptist 305 East Main St., Falkville 256-784-5827

Lawrence Cove Baptist 142 Pine Burr Rd. Eva 35621 256-482-2247

First Baptist 210 Woodland St., Hartselle 256-773-5500

Lebanon Baptist Barkley Bridge Rd., Hartselle 256-784-5841

36 • July 2015-June 2016

Liberty Baptist Lane Rd., Hartselle 256-773-1620

Oden Ridge Baptist Rt. 1, Eva 256-287-1249

Lighthouse Baptist Church Falkville

Pines Baptist Church Pines Church Road, Somerville

Mill Creek Baptist Rt. 2, Falkville

Pine Street Independent Baptist, Falkville 256-747-4627

Mt. View Baptist Oden Ridge Mt. Zion Baptist Mt. Zion Road, Hartselle 256-773-8997 New Center Baptist 587 Church Rd., Hartselle 256-773-8733 New Hope North Missionary Wilhite Station Rd., Falkville 256-739-0188

Resurrection Baptist Church 1604 Pine Rd., Somerville 256-778-9963 Rock Springs Baptist Church 525 Rock Springs Rd. Hartselle 256-773-8994 Rural Grove Baptist 5109 Old Rural Grove Road Decatur

256-612-0266 Serenity Baptist Church Perkins Wood Rd., Hartselle Shady Grove Baptist Danville Rd., Hartselle 256-773-5648 Shiloh Baptist Hwy. 36E, Somerville 256-778-8627 Shoal Creek Baptist Shoal Creek Rd., Decatur 256-353-7956 Somerville Baptist Somerville 256-778-8844 Sonrise Baptist Church 1410 Thompson Rd. 256-773-3435 Southwest Baptist 1705 Ridgedale Dr.

256-773-5994 Tunsel Road Baptist Church 1405 Tunsel Road SW 256-773-4685 Twin Oaks Baptist Church 1160 West Lacon Rd. Falkville 256-739-1745 Walnut Grove Baptist Bethel Rd., Priceville 256-773-3247 West Hartselle Baptist Hwy. 36W, Hartselle 256-773-6086 Westmeade Baptist Church, 2030 Beltline Rd. SW. Decatur 256-353-8239 Westside Baptist Hwy. 55, Eva 256-796-7081 Victory Independent Baptist Tapscott Rd. 256-309-7091

CHRISTIAN Cedar Plains Chr. Church Cedar Plains Rd., Falkville Falkville Christian Ministry 256-739-5214 First Chr. Church of Hartselle 209 E. Main St., Hartselle 256-773-6911 Hartselle Christian Church

905 W. Main St. 256-773-2009

CHURCH OF GOD

LUTHERAN

New Ebenezer Chr. Church 1868 Hwy. 157, (Campground), Falkville

Christ Fellowship Church 1708 Hwy. 31 SW, Hartselle 256-773-8008

Christ our Redeemer Lutheran Church 721 Pickens St., Hartselle 256-773-2121

Piney Grove Chr. Church Piney Grove Rd., Falkville

Church of God 927 Midway St., Hartselle 256-773-8001

METHODIST

Valhermoso Springs First Christian Church Hwy. 36, Valhermoso Springs

Fairview Church of God 4154 Huckaby Bridge Rd. Falkville 256-784-5642

CHURCH OF CHRIST Florette Church of Christ Hwy. 67, Florette 256-747-8962 Hartselle Church of Christ 320 S. Sparkman, Hartselle 256-773-6124 Pennylane Church of Christ 615 Pennylane SE, Hartselle 256-773-5654 Somerville Church of Christ 7 Franklin St., Somerville 256-751-9534 Union Church of Christ Hwy. 36E, Somerville 256-778-8700 Westview Church of Christ Vaughn Bridge Rd., Hartselle 256-773-3241

First Church of God 1038 W. Main St., Hartselle 256-773-5133 Pattillo St. Church of God 807 Pattillo St., Hartselle 256-773-2478 Somerville Church of God Somerville 256-778-8782

Antioch United Methodist Rt. 3 Antioch Rd., Somerville

First Independent Methodist 103 Oxmoor Rd., Decatur

423 Bethel NE, Hartselle 256-773-7430

First United Methodist 210 E. Hickory, Hartselle 256-773-6952 Forrest Chapel UMC Forrest Chapel Rd., Hartselle 256-773-2730

Center Springs UMC River Rd., Somerville 256-778-8261

Gandy’s Cove UMC 186 Gandy’s Cove Rd., Falkville 256-482-2057

Cotaco United Methodist Collins Hill Rd., Somerville 256-778-8573

Johnson Chapel UMC 1260 N Johnson Chapel Rd. Danville 256-773-4316

Danville United Methodist Hwy. 36, Danville 256-773-2454

McKendree Methodist 2795 Hwy. 55W, Danville 256-462-3302

Falkville First UMC 253 East Main St., Falkville 256-616-3347

Moss Chapel UMC Moss Chapel Rd., Hartselle Mt. Pleasant CME

Neel UMC 6991 Danville Rd., Hartselle Oak Ridge UMC Norris Mill Rd. Salem UMC Barkley Bridge Rd., Hartselle 256-773-8030 Somerville UMC West End UMC 413 St. Clair, Hartselle

NAZARENE First Church of the Nazarene 739 Main St. W, Hartselle 256-773-6987

OTHER Mountaintop Chr. Church See Church, Page 38

United Church of God Hwy. 67, Somerville

EPISCOPAL St. Barnabas Episcopal 1450 Sparkman St. SW Hartselle 256-773-4206

JEHOVAH’S WITNESS Hartselle Kingdom Hall 70 New Center Rd., Hartselle 256-773-2345

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July 2015-June 2016 • 37

Church 780 Burt Stinson Rd., Falkville 256-612-1197 Bible Way House of Prayer Full Gospel 3148 Ironman Rd., Punkin Center 256-751-1190 Break-Through Ministry for Christ 805 Midway St., Hartselle 256-773-5683 Church of Living God Somerville 256-778-7601 Church at Quail Creek Located at Quail Creek Golf Resort 256-784-5033 Danville Old Time Holiness Hwy. 36, Danville Faith Independent Church Old Hwy. 31, Lacon

Continued from Page 37 GracePoint Church Corner of Hwy. 36 West and Cherry St., Hartselle Faith Outreach Covenant International Ministries 600 Sparkman St. NW Hartselle 256-621-1517 Harmony Grove Church Kirby Bridge Rd., Danville 256-751-1385 Journey Church 3683 Eva Road, Eva 256-796-1112

Oakville Chr. Faith Center 55 County Rd. 205, Danville 256-974-0974 Powell Chapel Old Hwy. 31, Lacon 256-347-0452 Promise Land Church 107 W. Main St., Hartselle 256-773-6099 evenings Riverside Cathedral, 1404 Point Mallard Pkwy., Decatur 256-280-1852

Living By Faith 228 East Parker Rd., Hartselle 256-773-9523

Round Top Community Church 133 Roundtop Rd., Falkville 256-784-5060

Day Star 1010 Nanceford Road, Hartselle 256-737-0800

Somerbrook Church of God of Prophecy 15 Brookwood Dr., Hwy 67

38 • July 2015-June 2016

Somerville 256-778-9112 Victory Fellowship Church Hwy. 55 East, Falkville 256-784-9067 World Harvest Outreach 119 Sparkman, Hartselle 256-773-8472

PENTECOSTAL The Pentecostals of Hartselle 1004 Eubanks St., Hartselle

PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian 406 N. Nelson, Hartselle

PROTESTANT Seventh Day Adventist Church 540 Beltline Rd. SW, Decatur

Scott Anderson half page

July 2015-June 2016 • 39

40 • July 2015-June 2016