2011 | imagespulaskigilesco.com ®
pulaski-giles county, tennessee
FORECAST: SUNNY Solar projects warm economy
Southern Comfort Food Diners have good restaurant options
What’s Online Take a look at the area’s rich historic architecture in a quick video.
Final Journey Civil War hero gets fitting tribute
sponsored by the Giles County Chamber of Commerce
Turn it on
As Tennessee's oldest municipal electric system, and the
first system in the state to receive power from the Tennessee Valley Authority, PES has a unique and unrivaled history of service. Giles County, with its industry-friendly environment and its beautiful countryside setting, is located near the interstate corridor between Nashville, Tennessee and Huntsville, Alabama.
www.pulaskielectric.org
PES currently serves nearly 15,000 customers and operates over 1,200 miles of line. We provide service to the City of Pulaski and the communities of Lynnville, Elkton, Minor Hill, Prospect, Goodspring and Ardmore.
With PES Energize the future is here. That means ... Lower prices. With far more choices
at fair prices, PES Energize offers “more bang for your buck.” And no contracts to trap customers. Greater bandwidth. Only a pure fiber network can deliver our amazing Internet speeds. Surfing in Pulaski has never been faster. Superior reliability. Fiber performance is not limited by distance or by interference and shared bandwidth. It’s simply the best there is. Local service and support. PES Energize is owned and operated by Pulaski Electric System. Service fees will stay in Pulaski. PES Energize employees are residents of the community. When you need help, just pick up the phone or come see us at PES. You’ll always find a friendly face.
www.energize.net
128 S. First St. • Pulaski, TN 38478
(931) 363-2522
Tennessee Technology Center believes … that technology is the source, the foundation, and the force that moves our economy. There is no better institution to prepare for your career in the Advanced Manufacturing Education program or Solar Photovoltaic Technology program than Tennessee Technology Center Pulaski.
Explore a Career in Advanced Manufacturing or Solar Photovoltaic Technology! Manufacturing has cleaned up and tuned up, using more light, more technology, more precision, and more ingenuity to produce more refined and more customized products with fewer, but more highly skilled workers. If you want to be in demand in a vital industry and work with sophisticated equipment to create cutting-edge products, advanced manufacturing or solar PV technology could be for you. Tennessee Technology Center 1233 E. College • Pulaski, TN 38478 • (931) 424-4014
www.ttcpulaski.edu TTCP is an EOE/ADA/AAE institution
®
What’s Online imagespulaskigilesco.com
Pul aski - giles county, TN Project Manager mitch kline Audience Development Director lisa battles Proofreading Manager Raven Petty Content Coordinator Jessica Walker Staff Writer Kevin Litwin Copy Editors Jill Wyatt Contributing writers renee elder, joe morris, carson o’shoney, braxton shoop, Media Technology Director Christina Carden Senior Graphic Designers Laura Gallagher, Jessica Manner, Janine Maryland, Kris Sexton, Vikki Williams Media Technology Analysts Chandra Bradshaw, lance Conzett, Michele Niccore, Marcus Snyder Photography Director Jeffrey S. Otto Senior Photographers Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers Todd Bennett, Antony Boshier Web Content Manager John Hood Web project manager noy fongnaly Web Design Director Franco Scaramuzza Web developer i Yamel Hall Ad Production Manager Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan I.T. Director Yancey Bond I.T. support technician bryan foriest Regional Sales Manager Chris Sweeney Senior Accountant Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator Diana Guzman Office Manager/Accounts Receivable Coordinator Shelly Miller executive Integrated Media Manager Mary Ann Stafford Sales Support Manager Cindy Hall color imaging technician Alison Hunter Chairman Greg Thurman President/Publisher Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales Todd Potter, Carla Thurman Senior V.P./Operations Casey Hester Senior V.P./Client Development Jeff Heefner V.p./External Communications Teree Caruthers V.P./Custom Publishing Kim HOlmberg V.P./Visual Content Mark Forester V.P./Content Operations Natasha Lorens V.P./Sales Charles Fitzgibbon, Herb Harper, Jarek Swekosky Controller Chris Dudley Content Director/Travel Publications Susan Chappell
Photos See more photos in our online photo gallery Get the inside scoop from our photographers’ blog
Content Director/Business Publications Bill McMeekin Marketing Creative Director Keith Harris
2011 | imAGESpUlASkiGilESCO.COm ®
Receptionist Linda Bishop pUlASki-GilES COUNTY, TENNESSEE
FORECAST: SUNNY Solar projects warm economy
SOUThERN COmFORT FOOd Diners have good restaurant options
Facts & Stats Dig deeper with in-depth data on industries, schools and more
Final Journey Civil War hero gets fitting tribute
SpONSOREd bY ThE GilES COUNTY ChAmbER OF COmmERCE
Get a moving glimpse at favorite local places and attractions
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What’s Online Take a look at the area’s rich historic architecture in a quick video.
Digital edition
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Pulaski
Distribution Director Gary Smith Executive Secretary Kristy Duncan Human Resources Manager Peggy Blake
Images Pulaski-Giles County is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Giles County Chamber of Commerce and the Pulaski-Giles County Economic Development Commission and its member businesses. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by e-mail at info@jnlcom.com. For more information, contact: Giles County Chamber of Commerce 110 North Second Street, Pulaski, TN 38478 Phone: (931) 363-3789 • Fax: (931) 363-7279 www.gilescountychamber.com Pulaski-Giles County Economic Development Commission 203 South First Street, Pulaski, TN 38478 Phone: (931) 363-9138 • Fax: (931) 363-3408 www.gilescountyedc.com Visit Images Pulaski-Giles County online at imagespulaskigilesco.com ©Copyright 2011 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. Member
The Association of Magazine Media Member
Custom Content Council
Member Giles County Chamber of Commerce and PulaskiGiles County Economic Development Commission
2011 edition | volume 3 速
Pulaski-giles county, TN co nte nt s F e atu r e s 8 final journey
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Civil War hero gets fitting tribute
12 Forecast: Sunny Solar projects warm economy
14 a taste for business Food products one of several strong segments
28 Southern Comfort food Diners have good restaurant options
d e pa r tm e nt s 4 Almanac 16 Biz Briefs 18 Chamber Report 19 Economic Profile 20 Health & Wellness 22 Arts & Culture 24 Sports & Recreation 26 Education 30 Real Estate 32 Community Profile 33 Through the Lens
on the cover Brian McCord A statue of Sam Davis
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All or part of this magazine is printed on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.
Please recycle this magazine
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Almanac
Welcome to Pulaski An introduction to the area’s people, places and events
Historic Homestead The Matt Gardner Homestead Museum honors a man born into slavery who gained his freedom in 1865 and went on to build the first school for African-American students in Elkton. Gardner eventually became the pastor of the New Hope Primitive Baptist Church of Elkton. Today, Gardner's home honors his life and legacy, and educates the public about the African-American experience, from slavery to freedom. To discover more, go to www.mattgardnerhomestead.org or call (931) 309-9695. The museum, in conjunction with Martin Methodist College, will host the traveling Smithsonian exhibit We Shall Not Be Moved Oct. 25 to Dec. 6. The exhibit, which includes a collection of memorabilia and artifacts from the Tennessee State Museum, will be on display at the Gault Fine Arts Center. It pays tribute to African Americans who participated in sit-ins during the Civil Rights Movement. Photo Courtesy of earl campbell
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Tools for Success When searching for hard-to-find home décor and repair supplies, look no further than Abernathy Hardware Co., located on the square in downtown Pulaski. The store has been serving the community for more than 110 years, and features its original 1889 interior. Paint, electrical and plumbing supplies, garden tools and other home improvement items are still stored along the walls, and can only be obtained by climbing sliding ladders. Said to have helped farmers survive the Great Depression, this hardware store has played an important role in Pulaski's history. To learn more, contact Abernathy Hardware Co. at (931) 363-2593.
Turkey Here, Turkey There As the Wild Turkey Capital of Tennessee, Pulaski is home to the annual Governor's One-Shot Turkey Hunt. The event, which attracts hunters throughout the state, takes place in five counties known for their large flocks – Giles, Lawrence, Lincoln, Marshall and Maury. Local guides take hunters to sites in these counties, where they attempt to bag a turkey with a single shot. Each year, the event ends with a banquet and auction in Pulaski, which raises money for clay-target trap teams at the local high school, and a planned public shooting range in the region.
More Than a College Martin Methodist College is in the center of Pulaski – literally and figuratively speaking. The college serves its students while also engaging Giles County residents, as it offers facilities for the community to enjoy, including the new Virginia and Thomas Gault Fine Arts Center. Once the school's historic Old Gym, the cultural center features a variety of amenities for students, as well as a 128-seat recital hall and an art gallery. Martin Methodist has the distinction of being an All-Steinway School and has shown a commitment to musical excellence by using only pianos designed by Steinway & Sons. In addition, the college is a top employer in the area, positively impacting Pulaski's economy. For more information about Martin Methodist College, visit www.martinmethodist.edu.
He's Got Style
Local Treasures
With a location on North First Street in Pulaski as well as in Los Angeles, Calif., Jack White Catering provides food for a variety of occasions. The company caters large events, private parties and weddings with menu selections based on diet, style, theme and time period. White's food-styling creations have been featured in a variety of television shows and movies, such as The Social Network, Star Trek and Date Night. But more than just his food has made it to the big screen: White was cast in the film Iron Man 2, which hit theaters in 2010. White recently recruited Barbara Pollastrini, a close friend and graduate of the famous Cordon Bleu cooking school in Rome, Italy. White and Pollastrini have developed new concepts such as dinner with the chef, cooking school, Italian deli-cooking, homestyle/ rustic made-from-scratch cooking, and meals where everything on the menu is fresh and locally purchased. Visit www.jackwhitecatering.com for more information.
LewLew’s Gift Shop, located in Lewter’s Whole Supply Inc., sells a range of gifts, including antiques, frames, Vera Bradley designs, lamps, jewelry, purses and much more. New items come in weekly and free gift wrapping is available. Store workers will also build gift baskets and deliver items within the Pulaski area for those who don’t have time to make a trip. For more about the gift shop, visit www.lewterswholesale.com/ LewLew_s.php or call (931) 363-6375.
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Pulaski in action
Don’t just take our word for it – see for yourself how great Pulaski is in our quick videos at imagespulaskigilesco.com, highlighting a little bit of everything that Pulaski has to offer.
imagespulaskigilesco.com
Taking the Stage The Southern Tennessee Area Arts Repertory Theatre – commonly known as the STAAR Theatre and Center for the Arts – offers live entertainment and presents a different play or musical every six weeks. This nonprofit community theater organization, consisting of about 200 members, encourages the public to audition for productions and has recently presented popular shows including Annie and Little Women. Performing in the historic opera house building on the square in Pulaski, formerly the Morris Harwell Building, the group has turned the facility's first level into a dinner theater with approximately 100 seats. The 1868 opera house is believed to be one of the oldest of its kind in the nation. The theater group plans to restore the top level performance hall, which has been empty since the 1930s. Check out www.staar-arts.org to find out more about the STAAR Theatre.
Antoinette Hall awaiting renovation
Pulaski At A Glance
Pulaski
POPULATION (2009 Estimate) Pulaski: 7,826, Giles County: 29,082 LOCATION Giles County is in south-central Tennessee, just north of the Tennessee-Alabama state line. Pulaski is the county seat. BEGINNINGS Giles County was created in 1809 and formed out of Maury County from its immediate north. Pulaski was established in 1809. FOR MORE INFORMATION Giles County Chamber of Commerce 110 N. Second St. Pulaski, TN 38478 Phone: (931) 363-3789 Fax: (931) 363-7279 www.gilescountychamber.com Pulaski-Giles County Economic Development Commission 203 S. First St.Pulaski, TN 38478 Phone: (931) 363-9138 Fax: (931) 363-3408 www.gilescountyedc.com
Lew wisburg w g
Summertown m
Lynnville Ethridge h
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GILES Lawrence Law eburg g
Pulaski 65 207
Elkton Minor Hill TENNESSEE
Ardmore
ALABAMA
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Statue of Sam Davis, the 16-year-old “boy hero of the Confederacy” staff photo
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Final
Journey Confederate hero Sam Davis remembered, honored where he was captured and died
Story By Joe Morris
T
he Civil War ended more than a century ago, but standing on the windswept, open fields a few miles south of Pulaski near the Minor Hill community, the conflict feels much more immediate. Boy Hero of the Confederacy This is the spot where the story of courier Sam Davis, the 16-year-old “boy hero of the Confederacy,” begins. Davis was captured here on Nov. 19, 1863, brought to Pulaski to be jailed and tried, and was hanged there on Nov. 27. Many of the sites along his final journey are memorialized on a trail that leads through the county, but the starting point is a place fraught with emotion for those who carry the war, and its heroes, close to heart. “It’s a lonesome place,” says Cathy Gordon Wood, president of the Giles County 257, United Daughters of the Confederacy. “If you can
imagine the area as being wooded, which it was then, and him asleep under a tree, it can really take you back in time.” Sam Davis Trail Has Multiple Stops The UDC has long acted as custodians of the Davis trail’s stops, caring for a marker erected at the capture site in 1926, as well as erecting a life-size statue of Davis in Pulaski’s courthouse square in 1906. It also remains involved in the activities of the nearby Sam Davis Museum, built in 1950 on the site of his execution. The UDC also is working with other groups to place a marker in Maplewood Cemetery, another trail stop, to commemorate Davis’ brief interment there. These and other efforts by civic groups to keep Davis’ story alive have helped Pulaski and Giles County become a major stop for Civil War enthusiasts and history buffs alike, says Daniel Speer, director of the Giles County Economic
What’s Online For more of Pulaski and Giles County’s Civil War history, visit imagespulaski gilesco.com.
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Pulaski
Brian M c Cord
Brian M c Cord
Brian M c Cord Photo Courtesy of Giles County Historical Society
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"If I had a thousand lives, I would give them all here before I would betray a friend or the confidence of my informer."
Jeffrey S. OTTO
Development Commission. “People drive to Minor Hill to start on the trail, and then get to Pulaski where the museum, the statue and the cemetery can all be walked to,” Speer says. “The Davis story really anchors our tourism programs – it’s an ongoing thing for us.” Campbellsville, Anthony’s Hill Among Other Civil War Sites In addition to the Davis sites, history buffs can visit the site of the Battle of Campbellsville, a November 1864 skirmish between occupying Union forces and Confederates that preceded the battles of Nashville and Franklin; the Battle of Anthony’s Hill, which took place the following month in the aftermath of the Nashville-area fighting; and the Confederates’ last stand in Tennessee, which took place in Minor Hill a year and one month after Davis’ execution. From her Edwardian home on Sam Davis Avenue, local resident and historian Margaret Campbell says the steady stream of tourists keeps all this history alive for her, and adds to the pleasure of living in Giles County. “The story of Davis himself is easy to become fixated on, because he was only a boy doing his duty,” Campbell says. “It’s a tremendous part of Giles County’s culture and history, and when people come through, they hear about it, they see our old homes and historic buildings, and we are reminded by them of how beautiful and unique it is here.” For more about the history of Giles County, visit the chamber’s website at www.gilescountychamber.com.
Clockwise from top left: The Sam Davis Museum is part of the Tennessee Heritage Trail; Maplewood Cemetery; Many Civil War trails are located in Tennessee; Sam Davis statue on the square in Pulaski; Portrait of Sam Davis
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Forecast:
Sunny Solar projects warm Pulaski, Giles County economy
Story By Joe Morris
B
y capitalizing on the state’s efforts to lure solar energy researchers and manufacturers, Pulaski and Giles County have become major players in Tennessee’s fastest-growing new industry. These days, the city and county are home to start-ups working to provide new solar and photovoltaic-related technologies to businesses as well as companies that have retooled their existing operations to work in the field. Richland, Outpost Create Parking, Special-Use Arrays A prime example is Richland LLC, host to the first solar parking lot in the Southeast. The lot has spaces with electric vehicle chargers, powered by a 20 kW solar array. The project was built largely with federal and state funds, and is serving as a template for similar facilities in Knoxville, Chattanooga and elsewhere. Richland also has gotten into the burgeoning research and development market with its investment in Outpost Solar, which is bringing defense-related technology to the government and private markets while exploring new outlets for its designs as well. “We wanted to develop and build kilowatt units into armored modules so there would be remote-area generation for power in hostile areas like Afghanistan,” says Wilson Stevenson III, president. “We started out with that focus as a joint venture between my company, BNL Technical Services LLC, and Richland, who came into play because of their custom-fabrication work.” While Outpost didn’t begin as a traditional solar array company, it has gotten into the parking and rooftop systems 12
Pulaski
business because of strong encouragement from local officials and the larger business community. “We are seeing this area embracing new trends and being real advocates for what we’re doing, and what we’re also trying to put together,” Stevenson says. In fact, Outpost has been so successful that it’s now moving into new facilities, a 12,000-square-foot building that the company will upgrade and expand to create its own unique footprint. And other players in Pulaski and Giles County can easily replicate his company’s success, Stevenson adds. “The county and Pulaski Electric System have put everything into place to allow companies to move forward,” he says. “The economics here are very attractive to investment by private companies.” Solar Program At Tennessee Tech Center The area’s academic community also has been riding the solar wave, getting out in front with programs and training facilities to prepare the workforce that these firms will need. At the Tennessee Technology Center at Pulaski, the Solar Photovoltaic Technology program launched in October 2009 has produced its first group of graduates, most of whom had post-graduation jobs lined up while they interned in the field, says Jim Dixon, the center’s director. “The success of our program and the quality of instructor Clay Luna show us that we need to keep developing this program,” Dixon says. “Solar employers from here and all around the state are coming down here to have conversations with our students. They are excited at what we have available, and so we’re looking forward to working with all of them as we expand our program.”
Tennessee Technology Center at Pulaski launched the Solar Photovoltaic Technology program in 2009.
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A Taste for
Business Food products: one of several strong segments
Story By Renee Elder Photography By Brian Mccord
A
nyone who has an appetite for business will find plenty on the table in Pulaski-Giles County.
Manufacturing The region’s central location and low costs of doing business are among factors bringing a competitive edge to companies like Frito Lay. The famous snack maker employs more than 500 at its Pulaski plant, where workers stay busy baking delicious crackers, pretzels and popcorn, and putting the homemade flavor in popular Grandma’s Cookies. Meanwhile, SunDrop Bottling Co. provides the regional favorite soft drink, while also bottling several other brands, including 7UP, Sunkist, A&W and Country Time. Purity Dairies reflects the heritage of Giles County, once known as a dairy and agricultural center. All in all, manufacturing makes up about 37 percent of jobs in Giles County, and of course, good taste isn’t the only item on that menu. Goods made here range from electronic auto parts at Johnson Controls to CD cases
and other consumer packaging at Bert-Co., and workers of all skill levels are needed. Getting There Pulaski's Abernathy Field Airport has a 5,000-foot runway for business travelers in smaller craft. From downtown Pulaski, State Route 31 provides easy access to Interstate 65 and the Nashville International Airport some 80 miles away. Small is Big The community also takes pains to welcome smaller businesses and start-ups. To encourage entrepreneurs, the Giles County Small Business Development Center provides customized assistance through oneon-one counseling. And as one of the country’s HUBZones designated by the U.S. Small Business Administration, small companies following HUBZone guidelines receive priority consideration for federal government contracts, translating to additional revenue. Another plus for business
is Pulaski Energize, a service of Pulaski Electric System. Although it’s the oldest municipal electric system in the state, this utility’s forward-thinking approach includes a 100 percent fiber-optic network to carry high-speed data, TV and telephone service throughout the Pulaski area. Retail Options In the retail arena, shoppers will find a host of dependable chain stores, such as Wal-Mart, where horse parking is available for customers, as well as many one-of-a-kind establishments. Col. Littleton, headquartered in Lynnville, is a specialty retailer selling accessories worldwide through a website and upscale department stores. Downtown Pulaski is practically a one-stop retail destination with stores such as the Clothes Pen children’s shop, Outlook department store, Abernathy Hardware and Reeves Drug Store. “We have a good variety; you just can’t go to the mall and find the things we have here,” says Clothes Pen clerk Paula Word.
Bottom left: Sun Drop Bottling Co. in Pulaski is the third largest Sun Drop distributor in the U.S. Bottom right: Col. Gary A. Littleton sells his products in catalogs such as Neiman Marcus, as well as his store in Lynnville.
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Biz Briefs
A sampling of businesses – big and small – that help define Pulaski-Giles County’s well-balanced economic climate
From left: Ed, John, Preston and Bill Murrey III
Scorecard Business at a glance
$221 million Annual retail sales
$7,492 Retail sales per capita
$17 million Annual hotel and food sales
2,134 Total number of firms Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts
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SHARP MOTOR COMPANY & Murrey Chevrolet Buick GMC Biz: Car dealerships Buzz: You almost need a scorecard to keep track of all the Sharps and Murreys who have worked throughout the years at the Pulaski dealerships of Sharp Motor Company and Murrey Chevrolet Buick GMC. The success of their business ventures come from a combination of hard work, loyalty, tradition and the support of Giles County residents. Sharp Motor Company was started in 1930 by Erskine Sharp and today sells Ford cars and trucks. W.P. “Bill” Murrey Jr., who married Erskine’s daughter, the late Sara Frances Sharp, is today chairman of Sharp Motor Co. while one of his sons, W.P. “Preston” Murrey III, serves as president. By the
way, Bill Murrey will be 86 years old in June 2011 and still works at the dealership every day. Meanwhile, at Murrey Chevrolet Buick GMC, which opened in 1987, the day-to-day operations are overseen by James “Ed” Murrey and his brother, John. “Our success over the years at these two dealerships is thanks to the Giles County community and its supportive people – we get a lot of repeat customers,” John Murrey says. “We mostly draw from Giles County but also get some customers from northern Alabama and surrounding counties. And one thing we’ve been especially pleased with during this rough national recession is that we’ve never had to lay off any employee at either dealership.” www.sharpmotor.net
LEG UP THERAPEUTIC RIDING CENTER Biz: Horseback riding therapy Buzz: This nonprofit organization provides equine-assisted activities for both adults and children with mental or physical needs. Horseback riding has been proven to assist both the physical and emotional recovery of people with special needs, and Leg Up provides personalized care by tailoring lessons to the needs of the individual. www.leguppulaski.org johnson’s Bluebird café Biz: Restaurant Buzz: The original Bluebird Café was a local hangout from 1936 to the mid1990s. The Johnson family reopened the restaurant in 2007 and it’s again become a popular gathering spot. Breakfast and lunch are served Monday through Saturday, and lunch includes a buffet of comfort foods. (931) 804-6814 INMAN’S STOP & CHAT MARKET Biz: Grocery store Buzz: Inman’s Stop & Chat Market has become a Pulaski staple, operating in the area for years, offering an in-store deli and selling local products, including food and household supplies. The interior is decorated with plaques and trophies from high school championships and other notable town achievements, staking the store’s place in Pulaski’s history. (931) 363-1881 BRINDLEY CONSTRUCTION Biz: Construction company Buzz: Established in 1960, Brindley Construction began primarily as a homebuilding company, and has since evolved into a full-service construction company that handles commercial, industrial and medical projects. Its services include building design, general contracting and construction management. The company has been rated one of the country’s largest multifamily builders by Professional Builders. www.brindleyconst.com/index.html
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Chamber Report Agencies look to help small businesses
E
conomic officials in Giles County are concentrating on small businesses in 2011, even to the point of establishing a Giles County Small Business Development Center. “About 94 percent of the 2,400 businesses in Giles County have nine employees or less, so we’re focusing on these existing small businesses to help them grow and become more
successful,” says Dan Speer, director of the Giles County Economic Development Commission. Giles County currently has about 300 small-business chamber members, and Donna Baker, director of the Giles County Chamber of Commerce, says further networking of those businesses is one of the top priorities for the chamber in 2011.
On a FastTrac “Giles County has its own service to help small businesses and entrepreneurs get started in an enterprise, or to expand one. That service is the Giles County Small Business Development Center (GCSBDC), located on the second floor of the Chamber of Commerce building at 110 North Second Street in Pulaski, Tenn. The center is a partnership between Giles County Chamber of Commerce, Martin Methodist College and the Giles County Economic Development Commission. Dr. Jack Forrest, director of the center, provides free one-on-one counseling, and is a certified Kauffman Foundation facilitator. He recently concluded his first 10-week class for the FastTrac New Venture program,” Baker says. Regional Mentality Dan Speer also points out that Giles County leaders, along with those from neighboring communities, are beginning to brainstorm ideas that will help the economy of the entire region. “There is a current effort to really promote the Tennessee Valley, which encompasses several rural municipalities in southern Tennessee and northern Alabama,” he says. “Even attracting entities such as performing arts theaters or other arts-related projects would benefit overall economic development. Giles County and the Tennessee Valley want to grow in a variety of different areas for the good of everyone.” For more information about the Giles County Chamber of Commerce, visit www.gilescountychamber.com. – Kevin Litwin
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economic profile Business climate The county government of Giles County and the city government have an active pro-business attitude. Giles County offers businesses highway accessibility and transportation systems, a strong workforce, low business costs, and advanced information and communication technology.
economic resources Giles County Chamber of Commerce 110 N. Second St. Pulaski, TN 38478 (931) 363-3789 www.gilescountychamber.com The Giles County Small Business Development Center 110 N. Second St. Contact the chamber for more on this program.
income
$23,264 Per Capita Income
$45,354 Average Annual Household Expenditure
government offices County Mayor 222 W. Madison St. (931) 363-5300 City of Pulaski 203 South 1st St. (931) 363-2516 County Clerk – Giles County Courthouse Annex 222 W. Madison St. (931) 363-1509 www.rackleyhost.com Agricultural Extension Service 132 S. Second St. (931) 363-3523
Giles County Economic Development Commission 203 S. First St. Pulaski, TN 38478 (931) 363-9138 www.gilescountyedc.com
Hillside Hospital 300 employees Timken 256 employees Magotteaux-Pulaski 217 employees
tax structure
2.5% City Sales and Use Tax
2.5% County Sales Tax
7% State Sales Tax
WORKFORCE
8,444 Total workforce
71% White Collar Jobs
5.5% State Sales Tax on Food
9.5% Total Sales Tax
transportation
29% Blue Collar Jobs
major employers Frito-Lay 511 employees Johnson Controls 305 employees
Bus/Van Service SCTDD Rural Public Transportation (931) 381-2040 www.sctddtransit.org Giles County Transportation (931) 363-6610 Airport Pulaski Abernathy Field (931) 363-6827 www.gilescountyedc.com
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Health & Wellness
Get Healthy, Stay Healthy Prevention is key, but help is here if you need it From preventative services to treatment for acute illness, health-care providers in Pulaski and Giles County work to make sure residents have the resources they need to get well and stay well.
Hillside Hospital in Pulaski Brian M c Cord
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Hillside Hospital
Home Health
At the center of the local health-care system is Hillside Hospital in Pulaski, part of the LifePoint Hospitals system that operates facilities in 17 states. Hillside Hospital has 95 patient beds and operates a 24-hour emergency room with Life Flight services for the surrounding area. Surgery facilities have been enhanced with a recent renovation. New equipment for diagnostics, including a 16-slice CT scanner, have been added as well. Special services available include obstetrics and nursery facilities, diabetes education and wound care, respiratory therapy, physical therapy, a sleep-disorders clinic and more.
When services are needed outside of an in-patient setting, a number of home health agencies are located in the county that can assist with medical treatments and physical therapy. These include Reeves Home Health Care, Amedisys Home Health Care and NHC Homecare in Pulaski.
Community Outreach Hospital employees reach out to the community through a variety of programs aimed at helping residents stay healthy. During National Heart Month in February, residents were invited to a heart-healthy dinner and a presentation by a staff cardiologist. Other special events have included health and fitness programs for seniors and a well-attended Women’s Night Out event called Lilies & Lace, which paid special attention to women’s health needs.
Wellness Of course, preventative health care starts with diet and exercise. In Pulaski, Curves offers special workouts for women, while Harvey’s Gym provides aerobic classes and strength training. Giles County also offers several walking trails and a full range of activities through the Parks and Recreation Department. – Renee Elder
Long-Term Care Meadowbrook Nursing Home and NHC Healthcare in Pulaski serve individuals requiring longer-term care. Austin Hewitt House and Ivy Crest, both in Pulaski, offer assisted living.
Hooray for Relay Giles County is full of givers. Despite a struggling economy that strained philanthropic efforts across the nation, the Relay For Life of Giles County, which benefits the American Cancer Society, topped its 2010 fundraising goal by 150 percent, raising a record $127,487. It has become one of the most anticipated events of the year in Giles County, and over the past six years, has raised more than $500,000 for the American Cancer Society research, education, advocacy and patient services. The 2011 event will be held June 18 and 19 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. at the Giles County Agripark. For more information about the 2011 Relay For Life of Giles County, visit the website at www.relayforlife.org/gilestn.
Here for all of your urgent care needs – with primary care available.
www.rapidcareclinic.net
R apid Care WALK-IN CLINIC
1414 W. College St. Pulaski, TN 38478 (931) 363-3004 T (931) 363-6004 F
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Arts & Culture
Historical Gems History and art unite to create cultural must-sees Pulaski and Giles County are rich with Civil War history, and have an assortment of other culturally significant things to see and do. Whether you simply love to learn or indulge in the arts, culture is around every corner.
What’s Online Discover more about the creative climate of Pulaski and Giles County in the culture section at imagespulaski gilesco.com.
Home to History Hallehurst is the only neo-classical style house in Giles County, and was built in 1889 by the county's first millionaire Senator Newton H. White. It has been architecturally restored and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Brown-Daly-Horne House is a Queen Ann style house built in 1855 and was purchased by Governor John C. Brown in 1869. Pulaski-Giles County not only has dozens of entries on the National Register of Historic Places but also numerous districts. The Pulaski Courthouse Square Historic District reflects Victorian-style architecture. The square dates back to 1811 and the courthouse from 1909. One of the oldest towns in the area, Lynnville Historic District includes the city of Lynnville, and is named for Lynn Creek because linden “lynn” trees grow along the banks. Sam Davis Avenue Historic District honors world-renowned Confederate soldier Sam Davis, who was condemned and executed for spying. The South Pulaski Historic District, also known as the West Pulaski Historic District, includes three streets that are laid out on the original town plat. The Trail of Tears, a vital part of American Indian history, also is present here. Two land routes pass through Giles County and intersect in Pulaski – the Bell and Benge trails. The Bell trail ran from east of Chattanooga, Tennessee to just west of the Arkansas state line, and the
Benge trail ran from north Alabama to Tahlequah, Oklahoma.
Dance and Vocal Performances Although Pulaski-Giles County exults numerous historical places, the culture doesn't end there. There is a theater to visit, classes to take and even an event where you can sing your heart out. The Southern Tennessee Area Arts Repertory (STAAR) hosts musicals and performance art. Located in the 1868 opera house building, the theater focuses on educating and enriching the lives of the local community while also preserving history. STAAR offers 30 live performances and events throughout the year. The Pulaski Performing Arts Center strives to provide safe and effective classes teaching students to love the art of music and dance. The center offers dance classes in ballet, pointe, tap and jazz, as well as voice lessons, vocal performance and Music with Mommie, an interactive class for small children and their moms. Students participate in local events such as Relay For Life, recitals, festivals and more. The annual Diana Singing Extravaganza is held the second Friday and Saturday in June and September. Since 1969, participants have been enjoying a cappella music in the Diana community. Each show starts at 7:30 p.m. and continues late into the night with campgrounds, a museum and gift shop on-site. – Raven Petty
Clockwise from top: Ballet practice at the Pulaski Performing Arts Center; The Vaughn Ford Mayer historic home on Sam Davis Ave.; The Trail Where They Cried portrays a Cherokee family walking west on the Trail of Tears near Pulaski.
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Pulaski
Brian M c Cord
Brian M c Cord
Staff Photo
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Sports & Recreation
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Pulaski
From Hunting to Horseback Riding Pulaski-Giles County families have plenty of recreation options Pulaski is a quaint town steeped in tradition, and finding something to do in the area is not hard. From hunting and horseback riding to parks and recreation centers, families have options in Pulaski and Giles County.
Hunting State leaders recently named Giles County the Wild Turkey Capital of Tennessee, and they have the wild turkey population to back it up. The large number of turkeys in the area has made Giles County an increasingly popular choice among hunters. Giles County is a host county, along with four others, for the annual Governor's One-Shot Turkey Hunt, which attracts hunters from all over Tennessee, along with a few celebrities every year. The goal for the fivecounty hunt, now in its ninth year, is to bag a turkey with one single shot. Hunting in the county expands beyond turkeys, as hunters also come to the area for deer, fox, quail and pheasants. Deer hunters in the area can join the Giles County Deer Hunters Association, established in 1970, the oldest and largest deer-hunting club in Tennessee, with a membership of more than 350. The Triple Springs Ranch in Lynnville provides hunters with an outlet for quail, pheasant and other game bird hunting.
Equestrian Interests Horses are a way of life in Giles County; nearly every field in the area has at least one horse. The county is home to many equine services and clubs, from driving and dressing associations to trail-riding clubs and numerous shows and rodeos. One organization, the Leg Up Therapeutic Riding Center, is a nonprofit that strives to "inspire the lives of those with life challenges through the benefits of equineassisted activities that promote treatment of
emotional, behavioral, social, mental and physical needs." Visitors to Giles County can get their horse fix by attending one of the community rodeos or horse shows, or by riding on the many horse trails in the area.
Parks & Recreation The parks in Giles County prove to be great places for parents and children alike to spend an afternoon. In Pulaski, the Magazine Road Park hosts a men's adult softball league, and also contains tennis courts, picnic tables and a kids playground. Sam Davis Park boasts football and baseball facilities, along with track and work out stations, while W.D. Savage and Richland Park round out the county park system with basketball and tennis courts, softball fields and playground equipment between the two. Outside of Pulaski, the JohnBarnes Area, Elkton, Lynnville and Minor Hill city parks provide the rest of Giles County with playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts, soccer and baseball fields, horse and rodeo arenas and much more. The main recreation area in the county is Sharewood Park and its Pulaski Recreation Center. Families come from across the county to enjoy the municipal pool, walking trails, basketball gym and other activities. The center offers an array of classes, from swim to quilting lessons. The park also boasts an amphitheater used for concerts, graduations and the annual Monster Triathlon. – Carson O’Shoney
Giles County was recently named the Wild Turkey Capital of Tennessee.
photo courtesy of Sam Hobbs
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Education
Tomorrow’s Techies Training Today pulaski schools prepare students for careers of tomorrow
photos by Brian M c Cord
From its public school system to a private university and technical training programs, Pulaski-Giles County educational institutions provide students with the education necessary to be competitive in the global economy for decades to come.
Giles County High School students lift fingerprints in their forensic science class (top) and work on Project Lead the Way, part of the VEX Robotics Program (bottom right).
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Pulaski
Public Schools Pulaski-Giles County public schools are dedicated to providing students with the best education opportunities available. This devotion is demonstrated by its adoption of a national program called Project Lead the Way. The curriculum of this program focuses on science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The program is designed to foster ingenuity and creativity within students to promote critical-reasoning and problem-solving skills. There are eight schools in the county’s public system, including Giles County High School, which began offering engineering design classes in 2008. It added Principles of Engineering in 2009, and the program was expanded to Richland School. The program is now available to freshmen and sophomore students who are at the Algebra I level. The district’s athletics teams have also excelled. In 2009, the Giles County Bobcats won a state championship in football.
New Private School Giles Preparatory Academy is a new private school being developed in the county. The school would offer a one to 15 pupil to teacher ratio, grades K-3 and incorporate non-denominational Christian teachings. The Academy is located in Pulaski.
Tennessee Technology Center at Pulaski The Tennessee Technology Center at Pulaski provides students with hands-on learning environments and small class sizes to help them develop the skills needed to obtain careers in several high-demand job fields. Among the numerous courses the center offers, two programs are especially relevant in today’s technology-driven economy: the Advanced Manufacturing Education program, which trains students how to use the complex technologies found in the modern manufacturing workplace, and the Solar Photovoltaic Technology program, which teaches students about the practical theory, design criteria, installation guidelines, safety issues and maintenance principles of photovoltaic solar structures.
Martin Methodist College Founded in 1870, Martin Methodist College is a fouryear liberal arts college affiliated with the Tennessee Conference of the United Methodist Church. The college strives to foster students’ intellectual, spiritual, social and personal growth. In 1999, the college aimed to increase its enrollment under a plan called Martin 2010, which included expanded programs and services for students, as well as the renovation of the college’s gymnasium. – Braxton Shoop
Richland Inn of Pulaski Since 1986 “History is our business and business is our history” Richland Inn offers corporate, AAA and AARP rates, which include: Deluxe full hot breakfast Cable TV/HBO/CNN/MSNBC USA Today newspaper Free local calls Laundry and dry cleaning Health club
Free wireless Internet Board room Suites with whirlpool Coin operated washer/dryer Restaurant on premises Complimentary beer and snacks
A mile away from shopping center, industrial park, golf course and the leading restaurants
1020 W. College St. Pulaski, TN 38478 (931) 363-0000 www.richlandinn.com
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Local Flavor
Diners Discover Variety Choose something fresh-picked or cooked to order Fresh from the garden or hot off the grill, there’s a tasty meal waiting in Pulaski-Giles County. Pass the Menu Not inclined to do your own cooking? Head for one of the area’s many restaurants. Sands Restaurant, owned by Barbara and Morton Rudd, has been a Giles County favorite for 44 years. They offer a full menu for lunch and dinner that features steaks, catfish and local favorites, frog legs and the “Sands Big Burger,” homemade mini pies and strawberry shortcake, fried green tomatoes, fried pickles and fried green beans. They also have weekly specials. CK Grill on College Street may be Pulaski’s favorite stop for breakfast fare, from French toast to country-fried steak and eggs. And for lunch, try the buffet of Southern-style food at Hickory House. Get ready for a treat. This affordable dining spot has been noted as having some of the tastiest barbecue, catfish and cornbread anywhere. Folks in Giles County don't just go to a local hospital when they're hurting, they go to Hillside Hospital when they're hungry. The Hillside Hospital Cafe is a popular restaurant and catering service, offering up a healthy variety of vegetables, Southern side dishes and tasty entrees.
photos by Brian M c Cord
Old-Fashioned Flavor
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Pulaski
Every meal comes with nostalgia on the side at Reeves Drugstore. Their oldfashioned lunch counter offers traditional favorites like club, chicken salad and
Club sandwich and salad at Country Kitchen
Brian M c Cord
Soda Pop Junction in Lynnville
pimiento cheese sandwiches, as well as sundaes, home-made fried pies and Coke floats from the soda fountain. Lynnville’s favorite Soda Pop Junction is another good bet for lunch or dinner. The eclectic menu includes marinated chicken, pork chops, barbecue, BLTs, Philly cheese steak sandwiches and milk shakes that draw customers from miles around. March in and place orders at Sarge's Shack, a restaurant in Frankewing that's known for its steaks, catfish and smoked ribs but also offers pasta, fajatas and burgers. The Shack has been in business for more than 20 years.
Fresh Local Flavor The first stop for fresh veggies and fruits is the Giles County Farmer’s Market. The open-air market at the Courthouse
Square invites customers to shop for local produce each Saturday from March through November. Avid locavores will also want to visit Pulaski-area farms such as Rollins Farm on Prospect Road for honey and farm-fresh beef, Limoland on Columbia Highway for tomatoes and pumpkins in season and Quiet Breeze Farm, also on Columbia Highway, for heart-healthy Piedmontese freezer beef.
Want More? Sink your teeth into other stories about Pulaski and Giles County’s local flavor in the food section at imagespulaski gilesco.com.
Special Events And remember to highlight your calendar for the chance to taste a riot of flavors created by contestants in Giles County Chamber of Commerce's annual Chili Cook-off that takes place each October, as well as the fresh berries and pies served up at the Lynnville Blackberry Festival in June. – Renee Elder i m ag e sp u l a s k i g i l e sc o . c o m
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Staff Photo
Victorian house located on Jefferson Street in Pulaski
Real Estate
Neighborhoods Make Value a Top Priority Community pride combines with affordable real estate
Pulaski-Giles County is a magnet for families and individuals looking to slow down a little and enjoy the view. Here, open spaces and friendly communities don’t come with a hefty price tag. The average cost for a single-family house in Giles County is nearly a third less than the statewide average.
Pulaski The seat of county government, Pulaski is home to about 8,700 residents. Cute cottages are found within walking distance of downtown, while family-friendly neighborhoods, such as Northridge and Millington Place, offer spacious brick homes with large yards. Country houses are sometimes available with 20 or more acres, perfect for the gentleman farmer or horse lover.
Lynnville Lynnville is one of Giles County's oldest settlements. Once a bustling market town, it has 59 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In the center of town is a railroad museum, with revitalization efforts underway to bring in more shops and restaurants. Slightly more than
400 people live in Lynnville, with subdivisions and farms offering a range of residential options.
Elkton Elkton, in southern Giles County, was founded in 1808. Situated alongside the Elk River, the scenic town was once a popular steamboat and stage coach stop. It is now home to more than 500 residents. Downtown Elkton is just 2 miles from Interstate 65, providing easy access to centers of employment such as Huntsville, Ala., about 30 miles away.
Minor Hill An incorporated city in southwest Giles County, Minor Hill has the feel of a rural community. The city is home to about 480 residents, many of whom live on larger tracts of land, and farm or
keep horses. City-sponsored rodeos, horse shows and tractor pulls are common. Outdoor recreation such as hunting and fishing are also popular. Minor Hill is about 18 miles from Joe Wheeler State Park in Rogersville, Ala.
Ardmore With approximately 1,200 residents and growing, Ardmore straddles the line between Giles and Lincoln counties in Tennessee and sits adjacent to its sister city, Ardmore, Ala. Newer single-family developments include Ashton Lane subdivision and the upscale Mill Race Estates. In addition, there also are several apartment complexes in Ardmore. The tightknit community comes together for a number of annual events, including a Renaissance fair, car shows and a Christmas parade. – Renee Elder i m ag e sp u l a s k i g i l e sc o . c o m
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community profile Snapshot Pulaski is the county seat of Giles County. The community was named for Kazimierz Pulaski, a Polish patriot and U.S. Colonial army officer.
cost of living
$42,545 Median Household Income
$65,405 Median Home Price
Climate
89 F
Annual Rain Fall (vs. National Average Annual Rain Fall of 37”)
time zone
46% Age 20-54
Age 55 and Over
Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment
82% White
household information
January Average Low
56”
Age 19 and Under
30%
$600
July Average High
26 F
24%
14% Black
7,826
1%
Total Population
Hispanic
40 Median Resident Age
3% Other
Central
54%
transportation
Married
closest airport
16 minutes
46%
Huntsville International (256) 772-9395 Ext. 1972 www.hsvairport.org
Median Travel Time to Work
Single
visit our
advertisers
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Brindley Construction LLC www.brindleyconst.com
PES www.pulaskielectric.org
Giles County – Pulaski Economic Development Commission www.gilescountyedc.com
Rapid Care Walk-In Clinic
Martin Methodist College www.martinmethodist.edu
Tennessee Technology Center at Pulaski www.ttcpulaski.edu
Pulaski
Richland Inn www.richlandinn.com
Through the Lens
Get the Story Behind the Photo Now that you’ve experienced Pulaski-Giles County through our photos, see it through the eyes of our photographers. Visit imagespulaskigilesco.com to view our exclusive photographers’ blog documenting what all went in to capturing those perfect moments. From Our Photo Blog: Pulaski-giles county Besides Virginia, Tennessee had more Civil War battles than any other state. There are lots of unique stories from the battles that happened in the volunteer state, and new attractions like the Civil War Trails and the Sam Davis Trail offer visitors a glimpse into this tragic part of American history. Sam Davis was a young Confederate soldier from Tennessee who was captured by Union soldiers and arrested as a spy, which made him ineligible to be a prisoner of war. He was hanged in Pulaski by Union forces on Nov. 27, 1863 – just after his 21st birthday. Giles County erected three memorials in honor of the local hero and each is a stop on the Sam Davis Trail. Historic items from the Civil War may also be viewed in the museum of the Giles County Public Library in downtown Pulaski. Gen. John Calvin Brown, Confederate General during the Civil War and Governor of Tennessee from 1871-1875.
Posted by brian mcCord
More Online See more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at imagespulaskigilesco.com.
Colonel Gary Littleton Pulaski, TN
Soda Pop Junction Lynnville, TN i m ag e sp u l a s k i g i l e sc o . c o m
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Ad Index
15 Brindley Construction LLC
16 Giles County – Pulaski Economic Development Commission
c4 Martin Methodist College
c2 PES
23 Rapid Care Walk-In Clinic
29 Richland Inn
1 Tennessee Technology Center at Pulaski