Reporter for WHNT News 19 | Arizona State Alum | Tweets=mine | Retweets aren't endorsements| Story idea? Kelley.smith@whnt.com
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Articles by Kelley Smith
Agency Guide to Social Media Advertising
Learn tips and tactics for the best ways independent agents can leverage social advertisements as part of their marketing strategy. Designed for agencies that want to fully embrace social media advertisements and be competitive online. This guide demystifies paid social advertisements to help you achieve your goals whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned social advertisement user.
Agency Social Media Guide
For agencies that want to fully embrace social media and be competitive online, a well thought out social media strategy is critical. This guide can help agencies getting started with social media marketing and provide seasoned social media users with some advanced tips that can help you stand out further. Download the guide now to learn: This guide will give your agency information and tips on how to best leverage social media.
Where to Stay in the Shenandoah Valley
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase something using these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep this blog running – thank you! The Shenandoah Valley stretches about 140 miles and includes the towns of Winchester, Berryville, Front Royal, Woodstock, Luray, Harrisonburg, Staunton, Waynesboro, Lexington, and Buena Vista. The northern areas can be a great day trip from Washington, DC or you can stay anywhere in the valley for a weekend.
Water Industry Communications: Vital Tools to Engage Stakeholders and Build Trust
In an era in which information flows rapidly and public trust is hard earned, effective communication has become even more vital for the water industry. Because they provide one of the most crucial public services, utilities must prioritize clear, transparent, and engaging communication to connect with their customers, stakeholders, and internal teams.
Steps to Foster DE&I and Impact Your Bottom Line
Diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) are increasingly mentioned in discussions, news, conferences and professional development. However, it’s important to move beyond just talk and integrate them into your business strategy. That’s where the challenge comes in, as many people think that DE&I is too abstract to really understand—purely academic, or a political stance or affiliation.
4 Ways to Get High Quality Referrals
Referrals help your insurance agency grow and if many of your customers are happy with your agency, you may be wondering why they aren’t referring more people. Contrary to popular belief, people don’t recommend their insurance agent because of these reasons: Insurance agent directly asked them for a referral.
Louisville Water completes its multiyear lead pipe replacement project
Long before lead in drinking water became a common concern, the Louisville Water Co. began a concerted campaign to identify and remove publicly owned lead service lines from its distribution system. Earlier this year, the utility completed this long-term project, marking a major milestone in its efforts to ensure the safest possible drinking water for its customers.
Best Value Brunch in Washington, DC
Brunch in Washington, DC is great in any season. Whether you are looking for an affordable bottomless brunch, a cute patio, or a quick bite, there is something for everyone. The brunch vibe in the city has evolved since the pandemic, but there are still a variety of great deals to check out. Some of the spots on this list are not the cheapest options in town but I always leave feeling like I’ve received a great experience for the price.
5 Ways to Leverage Marketing Automation
Independent insurance agents face unique challenges in today’s rapidly evolving marketplace. The need to stand out, manage resources efficiently and deliver personalized service to clients is more crucial than ever. Leveraging automation tools in your agency can help you survive and thrive, even in tough times like a hard market.
Optimizing Your Google Business Profile Page
In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for businesses of all sizes. One powerful tool that helps boost your online visibility is online listing management. Online listing management involves ensuring that your business information is accurate and up to date across various online platforms, including search engines, directories and social media networks. One particularly beneficial online platform to claim and optimize is your Google Business Profile (GBP) page.
How Independent Agents Create Effective Homepage
The internet is enormous. How can your independent insurance agency stand out from the crowd or attract relevant visitors? If you’re not an experienced website developer or designer, which most small business owners (understandably) are not, it can be even more difficult to determine the best site strategy.
Creating a Memorable Brand Can Help Your Agency
Whether by design or happenstance, you already have a brand. But rather than leaving any part of your image to chance, a deliberate approach can nurture a memorable brand that helps your firm grow. Why does a strong brand matter? Because 77% of consumers say they make purchases based on brand name. And there’s a hiring advantage. According to LinkedIn, 75% of job seekers say they consider an employer’s brand before they apply for a job. Build a Brand that Resonates.
Dinner, dancing, and a costume contest! A Halloween party for a cause hits Huntsville
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – As spooky season returns, so does the most ghoulishly fun party! Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tennessee Valley is putting the ‘fun’ in ‘fundraiser’ and the ‘boos’ in booze during their premier Halloween “Wine Down” event. Wine Down will be on Friday, October 20, at the Huntsville Country Club. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Guests are asked to don their best costumes, appetite and dancing shoes.
Heals, Inc. mobile unit providing access to medical care to children in Madison County
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Oct 9, 2023 / 12:03 PM CDT Updated: Oct 9, 2023 / 12:03 PM CDT MADISON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) – Ensuring children have proper medical care is a vital part of a child’s health, but many families need help accessing it. That’s where the nonprofit, Heals, Inc. steps in. Their mission is to keep kids healthy and keep them in school. The nonprofit has been serving children in the county since 1999.
Anchor Lineup Changes at News 19 Original
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – This is the time of year when you see changes in the fall lineup on your tv. Here at News 19, we’re making a change too. And we couldn’t be more excited for everyone involved. You’ve probably heard by now that morning news anchor, Kelley Smith and her husband are expecting their first child in November.
Take historic trolley rides through Sheffield on Sundays in October
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Oct 6, 2023 / 08:08 AM CDT Updated: Oct 6, 2023 / 08:08 AM CDT SHEFFIELD, Ala. (WHNT) – Take a trip back in time in Sheffield! Historic trolley rides will be available on three Sundays throughout the month of October. The trolley tour is two hours long and is guided by local historian, Jimmy Austin. In a press release from the Colbert County Tourism & Convention Bureau, Austin described the tour and aspirations for its future.
Benefits of Having a Mobile App for Your Agency
It’s no secret that more and more people are glued to their phones. Americans, on average, log 4 hours and 25 minutes daily on their mobile phones, according to a 2023 survey by Reviews.org. That adds up to two months, or 65 days, in a year. As we increasingly rely on our mobile devices, independent insurance agents must adjust their marketing strategies and optimize their offerings for mobile consumption.
North Alabama nonprofit offers free career, counseling services to veterans
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Sep 25, 2023 / 01:51 PM CDT Updated: Sep 25, 2023 / 01:51 PM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – A local nonprofit wants to make sure veterans and their families in North Alabama know that their services are available. Still Serving Veterans, which opened in 2017, offers free veteran-to-veteran job and career services, as well as VA benefits and resource connections.
21st annual Buddy Walk hitting the street in Madison Original
MADISON, Ala. – BUDS, is hosting the 21st annual Buddy Walk in Madison. It takes place Saturday, September 23 at Columbia Elementary School. The walk includes fun activities and inflatables, as well as a foam party, balloon art and face painting. Lunch is included with registration. People can register on the morning of the event.
2023 Lincoln County Fair kicks off in Fayetteville
FAYETTEVILLE, Tenn. (WHNT) – The annual Lincoln County Fair is kicking off Friday, September 15th with a car show and corn hole tournament. The fun officially gets underway on Saturday with a rodeo and armband day. This year’s fair features many events including Quarter Horse races, rodeos, truck and tractor pulls, and a monster truck show as well as agriculture exhibits, 4-H displays, cow shows, a Farmer for a Day exhibit and so much more. There are deals and specials for admission and rides.
Author, coach holding free workshops to teach people the art of asking for exactly what you want Original
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Sep 14, 2023 / 08:58 AM CDT Updated: Sep 14, 2023 / 08:58 AM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – Ever had difficulty or felt uncomfortable asking for something, whether it’s a raise or even a favor? An expert is coming to Huntsville in October to hold two workshops about asking for exactly what you want. Laura Fredricks has a background in law and philanthropy. She now trains and coaches people and nonprofits on “how to ask.” Fredricks is the recipient of the Ralph E.
Monte Sano Art Festival will feature more than 140 local and regional artists Original
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – Nature’s beauty and artists’ creativity will be on full display at Monte Sano State Park this weekend. The Monte Sano Art Festival will take place on September 16 and 17. The festival is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday, and 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday. Officials with Arts Huntsville announced that the annual event will feature 140 local and regional artists across an expanded layout.
Golf tournament benefiting the Care Center tees off in October
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Sep 11, 2023 / 01:03 PM CDT Updated: Sep 11, 2023 / 01:03 PM CDT MADISON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) – The Care Center is preparing for its only annual fundraiser, the ‘I Golf Because I Care’ tournament. The organization’s 21st golf tournament is taking place October 13, at Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. The event starts with check-in at 10:30 a.m. This is followed by a putting competition at 11:00 a.m. and a shotgun start at noon.
8 Oktoberfest Celebrations near Washington, DC
Oktoberfest traces its history back to 1810 when the crown prince of Bavaria married Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen in a public, multiple-day celebration. While traditions have evolved over the years, the celebration continues. Variations of the events are celebrated in many other countries including Oktoberfest events in Washington, DC. In fact, Oktoberfest has only been canceled 25 times since 1810 including in 2020.
Kansas City Barbecue competition taking place at 7th annual Bernard Blues and BBQ Original
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Sep 4, 2023 / 06:52 PM CDT Updated: Sep 4, 2023 / 06:53 PM CDT CULLMAN, Ala. (WHNT) – A tradition seven years in the making is returning to Cullman, touting a weekend full of good food and entertainment. Bernard Blues and BBQ will take place Saturday and Sunday, the weekend of September 9 and 10 at St. Bernard Abbey. This year has a new event. There will be a Kansas City Backyard BBQ competition. The challenge is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society.
Free fall festival celebrates United Cerebral Palsy of Huntsville and the Tennessee Valley's 60th anniversary Original
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Sep 4, 2023 / 04:04 PM CDT Updated: Sep 4, 2023 / 04:04 PM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – United Cerebral Palsy of Huntsville and the Tennessee Valley is marking a major milestone. It’s their 60th birthday and the nonprofit is holding a fall festival to celebrate. The festival is taking place Saturday, September 16 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The free, family-friendly event is being held at 200 Max Luther Drive in Huntsville. Everyone in the community is welcomed to attend.
SugarFest in Arab highlights how life is sweeter in the South Original
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Aug 31, 2023 / 12:23 PM CDT Updated: Aug 31, 2023 / 12:24 PM CDT ARAB, Ala. – Looking for a free family-friendly event this Labor Day weekend? SugarFest is returning to Arab on Saturday, September 2 at the city park. The event begins with a 5k run at 7:30 a.m. The run starts at the Arab City Park Pool. The day will include plenty of activities. This year the festival is rolling out a carnival with rides for both adults and children.
Huntsville Ghost Walk shares spooky true stories about the historic downtown area Original
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Aug 30, 2023 / 02:40 PM CDT Updated: Aug 30, 2023 / 02:40 PM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – It’s almost spooky season and that means the annual Huntsville Ghost Walk is about to start! A familiar face, former News 19 anchor, Robert Reeves joined our 9 a.m. newscast to talk about the upcoming festivities! The first tour will be given Friday, September 1 and every Friday and Saturday night through October 30th.
Registration open for Enable Madison County’s clay shoot fundraiser Original
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Aug 28, 2023 / 12:24 PM CDT Updated: Aug 28, 2023 / 12:24 PM CDT MADISON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)- Enable Madison County’s mission is to enable the aging and home-bound to live at home independently, safely, and with dignity. And an upcoming fundraiser is helping the organization continue that mission. ‘Let’s Aim to Enable’ is taking place September 22 at Old South Clays in Athens. There are two flights for the event.
Explore local collections during Art Tour of Homes Original
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Aug 25, 2023 / 04:41 PM CDT Updated: Aug 25, 2023 / 04:42 PM CDT MADISON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) – Art Huntsville’s Art Tour of Homes is opening the door to local art lovers’ collections. The Art Tour of Homes is taking place on Saturday, August 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. During the event, attendees will get the opportunity to enter the homes of art enthusiasts. Officials with Arts Huntsville say its a chance to get inspired and find new ways to display art in your own home.
‘Rev your engines’ at the annual River Run Car Show in Guntersville Original
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Aug 23, 2023 / 11:31 AM CDT Updated: Aug 23, 2023 / 11:31 AM CDT GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – The 13th annual River Run Car Show will be hosted at the Marshall County Park in Guntersville on Saturday. The family-friendly event will begin at 8:00 a.m. on August 26, and will end at 2:00 p.m. In addition to the car show, there will be entertainment, food and kids activities, including a blow-up car, an appearance by Wednesday the Camel, Barney Fife and famous superheroes.
Support Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tennessee Valley through their annual golf tournament
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Aug 21, 2023 / 01:30 PM CDT Updated: Aug 21, 2023 / 01:32 PM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – Calling all golfers, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tennessee Valley is preparing for an annual fundraiser. Their Tee It Up Fore Kids golf tournament is taking place at the Huntsville Country Club on August 28. On-site registration and a buffet begins at 10:30 a.m. The shotgun start is set for noon. The event includes 18 holes, cart and prizes.
Registration opens for Pullin' for Partnership Fire Truck Challenge Original
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Aug 14, 2023 / 04:11 PM CDT Updated: Aug 14, 2023 / 04:11 PM CDT MADISON, Ala. – Partnership For a Drug-Free Community and Madison Fire and Rescue are teaming up for a fundraiser being held on September 30. The third annual Pullin’ for Partnership Fire Truck Challenge will be held at Bob Jones High School from 10:00 a.m. to noon. The nonprofit is looking for 30 teams of ten people to register and show off their skills.
Enable Madison County’s vegetable garden celebrating 35 years Original
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Aug 9, 2023 / 12:35 PM CDT Updated: Aug 9, 2023 / 03:47 PM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Enable Madison County is getting ready to celebrate a big milestone for their vegetable garden. They are ringing in its 35th anniversary! Enable is hosting a special event to mark the occasion on October 17 at 1:00 p.m. The event will include tours, a reveal of the rebranded garden, speakers, a ribbon cutting with the Huntsville Madison County Chamber, and refreshments.
Generating Referrals for Your Agency
Independent insurance agencies achieve long-term success when they combine high account retention with sustainable organic growth. Achieving organic growth requires a consistent pipeline of new prospects who will become new customers. To populate that pipeline, you must generate referrals. In fact, referrals are foundational to your agency’s customer acquisition strategy. Here are five questions to help you generate referrals for your agency: 1) Who’s your target market?
United Way of Madison County rolling out changes
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Jul 31, 2023 / 12:41 PM CDT Updated: Jul 31, 2023 / 12:41 PM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – The United Way of Madison County has announced two changes to help children and adults across the county. The organization is rolling out a new Volunteer Center of Madison County website in August. They will also be expanding the reach of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Currently, less than 500 children are being served through the Imagination Library program.
4 Ways Insurance Agents Can Get the Most Out of LinkedIn
In today’s fast-paced and digitally-driven world, we are constantly seeking effective ways to expand our network, generate leads and establish ourselves as industry experts. While traditional marketing methods still hold value, there is one platform that has emerged as a game-changer for professionals across industries—LinkedIn. With its vast user base and powerful features, LinkedIn offers unparalleled opportunities to connect, engage, and thrive.
United Way Youth Leaders Council recruiting members for upcoming school year Original
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Jul 24, 2023 / 09:10 AM CDT Updated: Jul 24, 2023 / 09:10 AM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – There are many ways young people can make a difference in their communities – one of them is joining the United Way Youth Council. The United Way Youth Leaders Council is a student-driven organization, made up of young people in grades 9-12 from across Madison County. It includes public, private and homeschooled students. They are currently recruiting members for the new school year.
Heart of the Valley YMCA offers Early Childhood Education programs
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Jul 17, 2023 / 02:17 PM CDT Updated: Jul 17, 2023 / 02:17 PM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — As summer is coming to a close, some parents may be looking for educational childcare for their younger children. An area organization known for its gyms and wellness centers also exercises the minds of young children. Heart of the Valley YMCA offers three Early Childhood Education Programs.
Village of Promise celebrates year of change and positive movement forward
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Jul 13, 2023 / 11:26 AM CDT Updated: Jul 13, 2023 / 11:26 AM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — The Village of Promise, a Huntsville-based nonprofit, is celebrating a year of change and positive movement forward as the organization marks one year with its new CEO, Mark McGillis. “The one word I chose to focus on this past year was partnerships,” said McGillis.
North Alabama Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies receive national recognition
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies in North Alabama took home some big wins during their annual conference, garnering national recognition for the work being done in our area to help improve children’s futures. Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Shoals was named ‘Small Agency of the Year’ and a Huntsville Police officer received an award for his volunteering efforts with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tennessee Valley, based in Huntsville.
Nonprofit preparing for National Hire a Veteran Day on July 25
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Jul 10, 2023 / 06:00 PM CDT Updated: Jul 10, 2023 / 06:00 PM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – More than 370,000 veterans live in Alabama, according to an estimate from the National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics. Still Serving Veterans, based in Huntsville, offers support for military members after they come home. The nonprofit has been in operation for more than 17 years. The organization specializes in helping veterans find careers.
Free prostate cancer screenings in Huntsville July 11
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Jul 10, 2023 / 05:48 PM CDT Updated: Jul 10, 2023 / 05:49 PM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death of men in the United States. African-American men are at special risk, with the highest death rate of any racial or ethnic group, according to the Urology Health Foundation. The Madison County Health Department is providing free prostate cancer screenings Tuesday, July 11.
Huntsville police officer receives national recognition for volunteering with a nonprofit
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Jul 6, 2023 / 08:47 AM CDT Updated: Jul 6, 2023 / 08:47 AM CDT HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – The national spotlight was shown on Huntsville Deputy Chief Michael Johnson after he received an award for his volunteer efforts with Huntsville-based agency Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tennessee Valley. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America made the announcement at their national conference in Anaheim, California last week.
Mark your calendar for Cook Museum's All About Birds Fun Day
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Jul 5, 2023 / 02:24 PM CDT Updated: Jul 5, 2023 / 02:24 PM CDT DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) — Fun and learning takes flight at the Cook Museum. On Saturday, July 8, it’s hosting an event sure to make the whole family want to shake their tail feather. The All About Birds Fun Day takes off at 10:00 a.m. with plenty of events to help give an up close view of our feathered friends.
R.O.S.S. community recovery center to open in Huntsville
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – R.O.S.S. Madison County, a new community recovery center, is preparing to open its doors in Huntsville, and will host a grand opening on Friday, July 7. The community center will be open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. It will have support groups, a computer lab and a kids’ room for DHR visits and reconnecting children with families. The facility will have arcade games, a pool table, and a lounge for sporting events.
United Way of Madison County celebrates 80th anniversary in August
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – The United Way of Madison County is celebrating its 80th birthday in August. The nonprofit is excited to invite the community to mark the occasion with them. A birthday bash is being for the organization at Toyota Field with the Trash Pandas on August 26, and the event will take place in the early afternoon. Cathy Miller, with the nonprofit, says they are also hoping to connect with people who were around when the organization began eight decades ago.
Disney’s The Little Mermaid premiers at the Princess Theatre July 6
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Jun 30, 2023 / 05:41 PM CDT Updated: Jun 30, 2023 / 05:41 PM CDT DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) – Next week, a Disney classic hits the stage at the Princess Theatre in Decatur. The Bank Street Players are presenting Disney’s The Little Mermaid. The show was thrust into the heart of the next generation this summer after the live-action movie debuted in May.
Tips to keep young children safe at the pool this summer
by: Kelley Smith Posted: Jun 29, 2023 / 08:37 AM CDT Updated: Jun 29, 2023 / 08:37 AM CDT ALABAMA (WHNT) – It’s the time of year when many of us are heading to the pool to cool off, but health experts want caregivers to remember just how quickly a fun day out can turn tragic. Water safety is extremely important, especially for young children.
Enable Madison County participating in Give 65 fundraiser next month
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – Enable Madison County helped nearly 2,000 aging and home-bound individuals live independently with dignity in their previous fiscal year. They also built 80 wheelchair ramps in the time frame. The Huntsville-based nonprofit cannot provide these services without the community’s help. Enable Madison County is participating in the 8th annual Give 65 event next month.
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