WALKER COUNTY

livability.com/jasper

ALABAMA

STRONG TIES

Leaders improve quality of life through initiatives, programs

Somethin Fishy

Championship-caliber fishing makes for fun times

2014 | SPONSORED BY THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF WALKER COUNTY

CONTENTS

4 Welcome to Walker County

An introduction to the community

Things to Do
8 Retail & Shopping On the Rise
The county is boosting residents quality of life, its budget with smart growth

12 Fishing Somethin Fishy

2014 EDITION VOLUME 2

Championship-caliber fishing makes for fun times

WALKER COUNTY
ALABAMA

16 Local Flavor Heating Up 18 Arts & Culture Drawing Attention 21 Sports & Recreation Take It Outside

Living
Leaders improve quality of life through initiatives, programs

8 Community Improvements 2 Strong Ties

32 Education Preparing for the Future 5 Health 3 Get Better Soon

37 Community Profile

28

Business

0 Business Overview 4 In Good Company 42 Working Here Ready, Willing and Able 47 Chamber Report Forward March

48 Economic Profile

35
On The Cover Sipsey Fork in Walker County Photo by Wendy Jo OBarr

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WALKER COUNTY
ALABAMA
per livability.com/jas

TIES STRONG life ove quality of

Leaders impr s, programs through initiative

y Somethin Fish
ChampionshipSORED 2014 | SPON ERCE BER OF COMM BY THE CHAM

times makes for fun caliber fishing

COUN TY OF WALKER

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WALKER COUNTY

2014 EDITION

VOLUME 2

ONLINE | livability.com/jasper
Things to Do Index
MORE ON WALKER COUNTY Go to the links below for more articles and photos about Walker Countys business climate, recreation, food, schools, health care, culture and more. TOP EMPLOYERS livability.com/jasper/al/ business DEMOGRAPHICS livability.com/jasper/al/ facts SCHOOLS livability.com/jasper/al/ schools HEALTH CARE livability.com/jasper/al/ health NEIGHBORHOODS livability.com/jasper/al/ living ATTRACTIONS livability.com/jasper/al/ attractions FOOD livability.com/jasper/al/ food

Alabama

Editor | Mitch Kline Contributing Writers | Marc Acton, Grace Clausing, John McBryde, Jessica Mozo, Chris Russell Copy Editor | Jessica Walker Boehm Staff Writer | Kevin Litwin Marketing Coordinator | Lauren Zimmerman Lead Designer | Kacey Passmore Senior Graphic Designers | Stacey Allis, Laura Gallagher, Kris Sexton, Jake Shores, Vikki Williams Graphic Designers | Jackie Ciulla, Lindsey Higgins, Matt West Creative Technology Analyst | Becca Ary Lead Photographer | Wendy Jo OBarr Senior Photographers | Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers | Michael Conti, Frank Ordoez, Michael Tedesco Color Imaging Technician | Alison Hunter Integrated Media Manager | Kari Quill Advertising Production/ Sales Manager | Katie Middendorf Sales Support Coordinator | Christina Morgan Ad Traffic Assistants | Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan Web Project Manager | David Day Digital Project Manager | Jill Ridenour Digital Products Designer | Erica Lampley Web Developer I | Nels Noseworthy Web Designer II | Richard Stevens Chairman | Greg Thurman President/Publisher | Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President | Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales | Todd Potter, Jarek Swekosky Senior V.P./Client Development | Jeff Heefner Senior V.P./Operations | Casey Hester Senior V.P./Digital | Michael Barber V.P./Content Operations | Natasha Lorens Creative Services Director | Christina Carden Photography Director | Jeffrey S. Otto Web Creative Director | Allison Davis Controller | Chris Dudley Senior Accountant | Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator | Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinators | Diana Iafrate, Becca Sweitzer IT Director | Daniel Cantrell Database Director | Debbie Woksa Executive Secretary | Kristy Giles Human Resources Manager | Peggy Blake

Learn about Walker Countys ties to the arts and history at livability.com/jasper/al/ attractions/history-andheritage-jasper-al.

Photos & Video

SEE THE COUNTY Check out more great images from around Walker County at livability.com/jasper/al/ photos-video.

Activities
Livability: Walker County, Alabama is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the The Chamber of Commerce of Walker County 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 email at info@jnlcom.com. For more information, contact: The Chamber of Commerce of Walker County 204 19th St. E., Ste. 101 Jasper, Al 35501 Phone: (205) 384-4571 Fax: (205) 384-4901 www.walkerchamber.us Visit Livability: Walker County, Alabama online at livability.com/jasper Copyright 2014 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 The Chamber of Commerce of Walker County

PLAY A ROUND Discover why Musgrove Country Club is a favorite spot for local golfers at livability.com/jasper/ al/attractions.

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Livability.com/jasper is a part of Livability.com, a collection of Americas best places to live & visit livability.com @livability facebook/livability
L i VA B i L it Y. co M /J A s P er

AT A GLANCE

Walker County, Alabama

A QUICK, COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF WHATS GREAT ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Walker Countys friendly people, passionate community leaders, natural attractions, great schools and growing economy create an ideal setting for those looking to live and do business in Northern Alabama. The county offers small towns, Southern values, dining and shopping options, recreational amenities, safe neighborhoods, festivals and historic sites. ALLURING LAKES Among the things that draw both residents and visitors to Walker County are lakes and waterways for fishing, boating and swimming. Lewis Smith Lake, one of 11 waterways on the Alabama Bass Trail, hosts national fishing tournaments and lures thousands of visitors to the area. Walker County Lake, Sipsey River and Black Warrior River are also hot spots for anglers and nature lovers. COMMUNITY BUILDING County and city officials join with civic and business leaders to develop initiatives that improve quality of life. The local chamber partners with educational institutions and businesses to develop a well-trained workforce, increase retail opportunities and make the community a better place. The state of Alabama recently announced more than $12 million in transportation improvements for Walker County, including the widening and resurfacing of roads and bridge restoration. The local school systems provide opportunities to experience careers outside the classroom, while Walker Baptist Medical Center recruits top doctors and adds the latest tools in science and technology. Residents support an arts scene with museums, galleries and events. Read on to learn more about what makes Walker County a great place to live, work and play.
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13

Lewis Smith Lake

69

Carbon Hill Manchester

78

Jasper

WALKER COUNTY
18

Oakman
69

Dora Goodsprings

Walker County

Birmingham

LOCATION
Walker County was formed in 1824 from portions of Marion and Tuscaloosa counties and was named after John W. Walker, one of Alabamas first U.S. Senators. The city of Jasper, home to approximately 14,000 residents, is the county seat.

POPULATION

67,023
DISTANCES TO THREE MAJOR CITIES NEARBY
Birmingham, 40 miles Montgomery, 130 miles Atlanta, 185 miles

TIME ZONE
Central

ANNUAL RAINFALL

FOR MORE INFORMATION

The Chamber of Commerce of Walker County

204 19th St. E., Ste. 101 Jasper, Al 35501 Phone: (205) 384-4571 Fax: (205) 384-4901 www.walkerchamber.us

60

National Average: 30

FAST FACT
Lewis Smith Lake is on the Alabama Bass Trail.

WA L ker C ount Y

Historic Downtown Jasper

Jasper, the county seat of Walker County, has a thriving downtown area with the Walker County Courthouse, restaurants and shops.

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THINGS TO DO
Walker Countys must-do attractions, activities and dining

Cast a Line at Lewis Smith Lake

Lewis Smith Lake hosts several professional fishing events each year, but Walker County residents also cast for bass, bream and crappie, to name a few. The massive lake encompasses 21,200 acres and reaches 200-foot depths. Boat rentals and campgrounds are available.

Shopping

Festivals

Swimming

Hiking and Biking

SHOP AROUND
Browse downtown Jasper, where specialty shops offer a unique experience. These retailers include Bare Bones Cargo LLC , Bernards and Lavish Boutique, to name a few. Many of these merchants offer items that cannot be found elsewhere.

ENJOY THE FESTIVITIES

Celebrate at the Frog Festival in Sumiton and Foothills Festival in Jasper. The Frog Festival features activities like arts and crafts and a car show, while the Foothills Festival is a music extravaganza that draws thousands of fans.

GO FOR A SWIM
Splash and play in Jasper's Natatorium at Memorial Park , an indoor aquatic park and recreation center built in 2002. It features an indoor six-lane pool, an outdoor pool and several meeting rooms, which are available for rental.

TRAVERSE A TRAIL
Take the Horse Creek Trail in Dora. The trail encompasses a 2.2 mile-long asphalt trail, a 1-mile-long unpaved natural trail and five covered rest areas. The trails serene environment makes it a popular place for exercise or relaxation.

WA L ker C ount Y

THINGS TO DO

Learn About a Local Influencer

Visit the Carl Elliott House Museum to learn more about the life of Carl A. Elliott Sr. Elliott was a Congressman who rose from poverty to help guide Alabama and America through tumultuous times in the 20th century.

Camping

Golf

Special Event

Splash Pad

SET UP A TENT
Camp out at Clear Creek Campground in Bankhead National Forest. The campground is the largest recreation area on Lewis Smith Lake and is perfect for several activities, including camping, picnicking, swimming, boating, hiking and biking.

HIT THE LINKS

Tee it up at Horse Creek Municipal Golf Course, Musgrove Country Club and Riverbend Golf Course. Horse Creek and Riverbend are public 18-hole courses, while Musgrove is a private 18-hole course covering 6,605 yards.

CATCH THE PARADE

Get into the spirit with the annual Walker County Christmas Parade. The parade is Walker Countys largest. It features several brilliantly lit floats that cruise through the downtown business district. Santa is always on hand, and merchants stay open late.

PLAY IN THE WATER

Soak up the fun at the Municipal Park Splash Pad in Parrish. The splash pad is an outdoor water park that provides an escape from summer heat. Designed for children, the pad features an array of fountains, water cannons and even a train-styled slide.

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THINGS TO DO

Crystal and Rhonda Williams recently opened a boutique, Bare Bones Cargo, in downtown Jasper. The shop features clothing, accessories, home decor and more.

Shop Local in Downtown Jasper

Staff Photo by WENDY JO OBARR

WALKER COUNTY IS BOOSTING RESIDENTS QUALITY OF LIFE AND ITS BUDGET WITH SMART GROWTH

RISE
by MARC ACTON

On the

alker County is currently in the business of building business. From restaurants to retail, from shoe shopping to book browsing, Walker County locals have never had so many shopping and entertainment options. Jasper and Walker County leaders are spending time and dollars to introduce some big-city retail to the county with one of Alabamas best small-town vibes, and theyre seeing success. But it hasnt been simple.
BIRMINGHAMS INFLUENCE While the countys proximity to Birmingham is key to the areas ability to attract residents, it also makes it easy for those residents to take their important shopping dollars outside county lines. Jasper is dependent on retail sales tax dollars for city operations, but theyre losing significant revenue to Birmingham that needs to stay local, says Robert Jolly, president of Retail Specialists Inc., a group helping Walker County with retail management, research and strategic retail recruitment planning services. Walker Countys budget relies on keeping tax revenues high, which means continuing the trend of new business establishments building a presence in the county. Community leaders are focused on making Walker County a shopping destination for those living within a 60-mile radius. A RISING RETAIL TIDE Jolly says that the synergy between new developments is huge. His current project is a new Walker County retail development, which he says will not just bring new revenue, but will also
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Bare Bones Cargo, located in a former pawn shop, offers unique items designed for women and children.

SNAPSHOT

Bar-B-Q for Stop by Jim N Nicks beef brisket, or rk po led classic pul made pies. me ho and dont miss the

help attract even more businesses. A high tide raises all boats, Jolly says. This development will bring shoppers from outside the market to Jasper to shop. When they are there, they will eat at local restaurants and fill their cars up at local convenience stores. Additionally, we will be able to leverage the fact that these retailers

are locating in the market to attract new retailers that target the same demographics. Some of the areas newest tenants are already finding success attracting local dollars. Restaurants like Jim N Nicks (voted the states best barbecue restaurant by the Alabama Department of Tourism in 2013) and Ezells Fish Camp are filling local bellies, and new gift and clothing shops like Bare Bones Cargo and Lavish Boutique are finding an audience thats buying what theyre selling. These new developments arent just creating a better quality of life for residents directly; theyre also providing tax dollars that are being used to build the area into one of Alabamas most exciting places to live. INTENTIONAL GROWTH The growth in retail and restaurant revenues isnt accidental. Jolly says the state has been

intentional about developing partnerships between public and private entities. This is demonstrated through the adoption of Amendment 772, which allows municipalities to share sales tax revenue with retailers and/or developers to make new developments viable, Jolly says. Public/private partnerships are the new normal in Alabama and in all other states where the municipalities are dependent on retail sales taxes. Thanks to statewide initiatives like Amendment 772, Walker County is poised for tremendous growth. And with a government that has eyes on the future, it will continue to boom.
Continue learning about Walker Countys latest developments at livability.com/jasper.

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WA L ker C ount Y

Sit Down to a Hearty Southern Meal in Walker County

Jaspers Ezells Fish Camp is known for their fried catfish, but also offers other Southern staples like shrimp and grits, gumbo, turnip greens, fried okra, and coleslaw and hushpuppies.

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THINGS TO DO

Staff Photo by BRIAN MCCORD

Find the Catch of the Day

Lewis Smith Lake remains the biggest draw when it comes to luring pro anglers such as David Kilgore (pictured), who finished 8th in the 2014 BassMasters Classic, to Walker County, but the areas smaller lakes, rivers and streams provide plenty of places to reel in a big one.

FISHY
CHAMPIONSHIP-CALIBER FISHING MAKES FOR FUN TIMES

Somethin
by CHRIS RUSSELL

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13

Prepare to Lure One In

Randy Jackson (pictured), Brandons father, helps customize merchandise at Riverside Fly Shop. In addition to fishing supplies and guided trips, the store offers classes focused on casting, fly tying and rod building.

nglers are notoriously secretive about their favorite fishing spots, always fearful that someone else will drop anchor where they want to cast. But residents in Walker County are more open than most about where they fish. Thats because Walker County is full of options, from bass-filled lakes to trout-filled streams.
This massive lake continues to host some of the biggest fishing tournaments in the nation, such as the Bassmaster Open Series and FLW Tour events. State, regional and national tournaments draw anywhere from 175 to 200 boats, bringing in more than 350 anglers. The economic impact of a single tournament can reach upwards of $2 million. Recreational use of the lake over the last 10 years has had a $270 to $400 million impact on the three-county area. Its a great lake and, for the people and facilities involved in the high school tournament, there are none better, says Norman Brown, president and chairman of the board for the Alabama Student Angler

Walker Countys lakes, rivers and streams give anglers and those who love the outdoors a serene environment in which to relax and pass the time. Major bass tournaments held in the area put a spotlight on local lakes and give residents even more to cheer for. FISHING FIX With a surface area of 21,200 acres that includes 500 miles of scenic and accessible shoreline, there is no bigger fishing spot in Walking County than Lewis Smith Lake. Flanked on its west side by the 180,000acre Bankhead National Forest, Lewis Smith Lake spans three counties.

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WA L ker C ount Y

Located below the Lewis Smith Dam, the Sipsey Fork is known for its large quantities of rainbow trout.

Bass Fishing Association and overseer of the areas high school fishing tournaments. Our whole goal is to get kids out on the water for their school and to further their education. Lewis Smith Lake was recently featured on the popular Outdoor Channel network show Fishing University. According to Debra Talley, vice president of program development for the show, the lake was selected in part because of its outstanding fall and winter bass fishing. Walker County Lake, spanning 163 acres, gives those who love the outdoors year-round fishing for largemouth bass and channel catfish. ALABAMA BASS TRAIL CHAMPIONSHIP Big news came for Walker County recently when it was selected to host the first ever Alabama Bass Trail Championship.

Coming to Lewis Smith Lake in October 2014, the championship will feature 250 competitors, says Kay Donaldson, Alabama Bass Trail spokeswoman. Lewis Smith Lake performs exceptionally well at that time of the year and really sets up as an even playing field for both North and South division competitors. Also, Walker County Chamber of Commerce President Linda Lewis and her volunteers run a first-class event, Donaldson says. SIPSEY FORK The Sipsey Fork area of the Black Warrior River is renowned for being a popular fishing spot for rainbow trout, with water that remains below 70 degrees year round. Every month, approximately 3,500 rainbow trout are placed into the water near the Smith Dam fishing platform. The fork also offers more than 8,000 acres of

surface water for boating and other recreational activities. RIVERSIDE FLY SHOP Riverside Fly Shop offers its customers everything they need for an enjoyable fly-fishing trip, from tackle and gear to guided tours for a half or full day looking for specific fish. Owners Brandon and Mary Carole Jackson are both avid anglers and apply their own experience and joy to the trade.

THINGS TO

DO

the Day Lewis Smith Lake comes to luring remains the biggest draw when anglers such to Walker it as David Kilgore County, (pictured) streams provide but the areas smaller lakes, rivers plenty of places Residents and to reel in a here big one. on the Sipsey can choose between fly fishing Fork or going for trout after pan fish in still water.

Find the Catch

of

FISHY
CHAM PION SHIPMAKES FORCALI BER FISHI NG FUN TIME S
Staff Photos by WENDY
JO OBARR
L I VA B I L I T Y. CO M /J ASPER

Somethin
by CHRIS RUSSELL

13

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15

THINGS TO DO: LOCAL FLAVOR

Black Rock Bistro serves a mix of classic and unique dishes.

Heating Up

THE AREAS SELECTION OF FABULOUS FOOD FINDS HAS NEVER BEEN BIGGER This aint your mommas restaurant scene anymore, but shell definitely still like to eat here. Walker Countys dining options have exploded and now include everything from fine smoked meats to fine dining. Heres a sampling of some of the Heart of Dixies most delicious dinners.
Black Rock Bistro

My favorite thing on the menu is the Mexican bean soup, which comes as a side dish with a lot of meals; its fantastic. It is a welcome addition to Walker County.
SCOTT N., BIRMINGHAM, AL VIA YELP FOR LOS REYES MEXICAN GRILL

ORDER A SOUTHERN STAPLE OR TRY A NEW DISH

The Black Rock Bistro is a perfect microcosm of Jaspers growing economy it manages to strike a balance between being comfortable with where it is, with local favorites like fried green tomatoes, and shooting for the stars with their rotating specialties like Catfish Pontchartrain that landed it on New York Magazines "50 Food Pilgrimages You Must Make" list. Pericos

SPICE THINGS UP
Whether the spice of your life is variety or, well, spice, youll find it in Pericos classic Tex-Mex fare. From massive burritos to flavorful staples like chiles rellenos, youre sure to find something to heat up your palate.

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WA L ker C ount Y

Barbecue

GET A TASTE OF THE LOCAL CUE

Walker Countys restaurant scene might be growing, but its still anchored by the slow and low cooking style of the areas best barbecue joints. Leo & Suzies Famous Green Top Bar-B-Q has been around since Harry Truman was in the White House. The restaurant serves classic barbecue plates, barbecue smoked potatoes, sandwiches and more. Dannys Downtown Barbecue, offering spare ribs, baby back ribs, and pulled-pork sandwiches and plates, smokes up Jaspers downtown area. Jim N Nick's Bar-B-Q and its cheesy, biscuity goodness was named best barbecue restaurant by Alabamas Department of Tourism in 2013. Unlike typical restaurant franchises, the eatery creates many of its menu items from scratch. Full Moon BBQ , open since November 2013, has made waves in the local smoked meat market with its Southern-style cue and chow chow, which is a spicy, sweet relish used on barbecue sandwiches.

Jackson, Fikes Hood & Br akefield

Attorneys at Law
Los Reyes is Spanish for the Kings, and youll eat like one at this local favorite. From Mexican specialties like carne asada, carne al carbon and quesadillas to dishes more likely to be found north of the border like pollo loco and fish tacos, Los Reyes food and service will make you feel like Mexican-American royalty. But theyll do it on a paupers budget.

Eat Like Royalty in Downtown Jasper

THINGS TO

DO: LOCAL

FLAVOR

Barbecue

LOCAL CUE Walker Countys restaurant anchored scene might by the slow be growing, and low cooking joints. Leo but its still & Suzies Famous style of the Harry Truman areas best Green Top barbecue Bar-B-Q has was in the barbecue White House. been around plates, barbecue The restaurant since Dannys Downtown smoked potatoes, serves classic Barbecue, pulled-por offering spare sandwiches and more. k sandwiche ribs, baby s and plates, Jim N Nick's back ribs, smokes up Bar-B-Q and and Jaspers barbecue its cheesy, restaurant biscuity goodnessdowntown area. by Alabamas typical restaurant was named Departmen franchises, best t of Tourism from scratch. the eatery in 2013. Unlike Full Moon creates many waves in the BBQ , open of its menu since November local smoked items chow chow, meat market 2013, which is a with its Southern-s has made spicy, sweet tyle cue and relish used on barbecue sandwiche s.

GET A TASTE

OF THE

THE AREAS

Heating Up

Black Rock Bistro serves of classic and a mix unique dishes.

My favorite thing on the menu is the Mexican bean soup, which comes as a side dish with a lot of meals; its fantastic. It is a welcome addition to Walker County.
SCOTT N., BIRMINGHA FOR LOS REYES M, AL VIA YELP MEXICAN GRILL

This aint your NEVER BEEN mommas restauran BIGGER Walker Countys t scene anymore, dining options but shell definitely meats to fine have exploded still like to eat dining. Heres and now include here. a sampling everything of some of the from fine smoked Heart of Dixies most delicious dinners.
Black Rock

SELECTION OF FABULO US FOOD

FINDS HAS

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OR TRY A The Black NEW DISH Rock Bistro economy it manages is a perfect microcosm to strike a of Jaspers with where balance between growing it is, with local for the stars favorites like being comfortab with their fried green le rotating specialties landed it on tomatoes, and shooting New York Magazines like Catfish "50 Food Pilgrimages Pontchartrain that You Must Make" list. UP

ORDER A SOUTHER N STAPLE

Bistro

Los Reyes is Spanish for the Kings, and youll eat like one at this local From Mexican favorite. specialties like carne asada, carne al carbon and quesadillas to dishes more likely to be found north of the border like pollo loco and fish tacos, Los Reyes food and service will make like Mexican-A you feel merican royalty. But theyll do it on a paupers budget.

Eat Like Royalty in Downtown Jasper

Jack son , Fikes Hood & Br akefiel Attorneys d at Law

THINGS

TO DO:

LOCAL

FLAVOR

Barbecue

GET A

TASTE

SPICE THINGS

16

WA L K E R

CO U N T Y

Whether the Pericos classic spice of your life is variety chiles rellenos, Tex-Mex fare. From massive or, well, spice, youll find it in youre sure to find somethingburritos to flavorful staples like to heat up your palate.

My favorite thing the menu on is the Mexican bean soup, as a side which comes of meals; dish with a lot its fantastic. It is a welcome to Walker addition County.
BIRMINGHAM, SCOTT FOR LOS AL VIA N., REYES MEXICAN YELP GRILL

THE AREAS SELECTION OF FABULOUS This aint FOOD your mommas FINDS Walker HAS NEVER Countys restaurant dining meats to scene anymore, BEEN options fine dining. BIGGER have exploded but shell Heres definitely a sampling and now still include of some everything like to eat here. of the Heart from fine of Dixies smoked Black most delicious Rock Bistro dinners. ORDER
The Black STAPLE Rock economy OR TRY Bistro A NEW is a perfect with where it manages microcosm DISH to strike it is, for the a balance of stars withwith local favorites landed between Jaspers growing like fried it on New their rotating being comfortable specialties green tomatoes, York Magazines and shooting "50 Food like Catfish Pericos Pilgrimages Pontchartrain that You Must SPICE Make" THINGS list. UP Whether the Pericos classic spice of your chiles rellenos, Tex-Mex fare. life is variety or, well, From youre massive sure to spice, find somethingburritos youll find it to in to heat flavorful staples up your like palate.

Heating

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Black Rock Bistro of classic serves and unique a mix dishes.

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Los Reyes Jasper is Spanish Kings, for the and youll one at this local eat like From Mexican favorite. like carne specialties asada, carbon carne and quesadillas al dishes more to likely found to be north of the like pollo loco and border tacos, fish Los Reyes service will make food and like Mexican-American you feel royalty. But theyll on a paupers do it budget.

Eat Like Royalty Downtown in

Jackson, Hood Fikes & Br akefield

Attorneys at Law

THINGS TO DO: LOCAL FLAVOR

16

Barbecue

GET

WA L K

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My favorite the menu thing bean is the on Mexican as a soup, which side comes of meals; dish with It is its fantastic. a lot a welcome to Walker addition County.
FOR BIRMINGHAM, LOS SCOTT REYES AL VIA N., MEXICAN YELP GRILL

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Jackson, Hood & Br Fikes Attorneys akefield

at Law

16

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MAGAZINE

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by other legal is services lawyers.

The law rm & Brakeeld of Jackson, Fikes, has engaged practice Hood in continuous clients for more than with 1816 Third of highest a full range 65 years, providing Ave. committed quality. Our of legal services Suite Jasper, to prompt attorneys service AL 35501 are no and efcient Communitymatter the client size of involvement and our the case. P.O. Box community is important, church 748 Jasper, involvement, activities ghting, AL 35502 volunteerrange from Rotary, and Walker Boy Scouts re Commerce, County Chamberof America to serving Area Community of with the (205) 387-2174 practice Walker Foundation. contract, include business, Areas Fax of civil liability, insurance defense, litigation, workers malpractice, premises compensation, product No representation injury medical and mediation. liability, quality personal is made of legal that the greater services than the performed is performed quality of legal services by other lawyers.

200

(205)

387-2171

www.jacksonkes.com

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I L I T Y.

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/J A S P

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The law rm of Jackson, Fikes, Hood & Brakeeld has engaged practice for in continuous 1816 Third more than Ave. Suite 65 years, providing clients with 200 a full range Jasper, AL of legal services of highest 35501 quality. Our attorneys committed are to prompt and efcient service no P.O. Box 748 client matter the size of the Community case. involvement Jasper, AL and our community is important, 35502 church involvement, activities range from volunteer ghting, Rotary, re Boy Scouts and Walker County Chamberof America Commerce, (205) 387-2174 of to serving Fax with the Walker Area Community practice include Foundation. Areas of business, civil contract, insurance litigation, defense, premises liability, workers No representatio compensation malpractice, n is made product liability, , medical that the quality of legal services injury and personal mediation. performed greater than is the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

(205) 387-21 71

www.jacksonke

s.com

L I VA B I L I

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ASPER

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The law rm of Jackson, Fikes, Hood & Brakeeld has engaged in continuous practice for more than 65 years, providing clients with a full range of legal services of highest quality. Our attorneys are committed to prompt and efcient client service no matter the size of the case. Community involvement is important, and our community activities range from church involvement, volunteer re ghting, Rotary, Boy Scouts of America and Walker County Chamber of Commerce, to serving with the Walker Area Community Foundation. Areas of practice include business, civil litigation, contract, insurance defense, premises liability, workers compensation, medical malpractice, product liability, personal injury and mediation.

1816 Third Ave. Suite 200 Jasper, AL 35501 P.O. Box 748 Jasper, AL 35502

(205) 387-2171
(205) 387-2174 Fax

www.jacksonkes.com
No representation is made that the quality of legal services performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

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THINGS TO DO: ARTS & CULTURE

Drawing Attention

THE EYES HAVE IT FOR LOCAL ARTS AND CULTURE The arts and culture scene is alive and well worth seeing in Walker County, with museums, festivals, an arts alliance and even historic stores in downtown Jasper that attract visitors.
Carl Elliott House Museum Bankhead House

EXPLORE A HISTORIC HOME

The Carl Elliott House Museum chronicles the life of Carl A. Elliott Sr., a U.S. congressman who fought for racial equality, better education and quality of life for Alabama residents. View personal photos, handwritten notes and campaign brochures all at Carl Elliotts personal residence. Alabama Mining Museum

SEE THE EXHIBITS

The restored 1920s home of Congressman William B. Bankhead (father to Tallulah Bankhead) in Jasper now hosts art-based exhibits that change each quarter. Recent successful exhibits at Bankhead House & Heritage Center focused on quilting, timeless toys, blackand-white photography, agriculture and mining. Admission is free, and the center is open Tuesday-Friday.

DISCOVER LOCAL HISTORY

The states vast coal mining past is showcased at Doras Alabama Mining Museum, housed in a gymnasium built in 1935 by the federal Work Projects Administration. The museum portrays the stories of people and communities involved in the mining industry from 1890-1940, with hundreds of artifacts such as a 1900s-era train and mining cars.

In September, a Foothills Festival (pictured) descends upon the historic square in Jasper to provide a free day of live music and activities, and an annual Heritage Festival is held every October to pay tribute to the towns past with live music performances, arts and crafts exhibits, and kids activities. Also in October, take a short ride to Sumiton and enjoy an entire day at their Frog Festival , with great food, arts and crafts, and an antique car show.

Attend Walker Countys Fun Festivals

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Walker County Arts Alliance

ENJOY COMMUNITY ARTS EVENTS AND PROGRAMS

Walker County Arts Alliance in downtown Jasper schedules community events, cultural programs and school projects. One of its most successful community arts endeavors is an annual 50-Mule Team Public Art Project, a tribute to the countys rich mining history. The Alliance also sponsors Art in the Park , a one-day event in Jaspers Gamble Park each spring that celebrates arts and crafts, live music and theatrical productions. Additional events include Dinner Theatre and A Tasting of the Arts, which pairs local art with food and drinks from area restaurants.

Stroll Through Historic Downtown Jasper

Read more about Walker Countys artsy attractions at livability. com/jasper/al/attractions.

Jaspers charming downtown district is overseen by the Greater Downtown Jasper Business Association, which emphasizes the development of downtown while preserving the culture and historic points of the area. Historic stores include Bernards Store for Men and Andrew Posey & Son Hardware (pictured), and the district also hosts parades on Veterans Day, Christmas and the Walker High Vikings football homecoming.

VITALIUM ASHI Star Gems Inc. STULLER Rebecca OVERNIGHT Fable Designs Ronaldo Designer Jewelry Inc. GN DIAMOND SIMON GOLUB GPanther SEIKO BULOVA WILLIAM & JAMES KAMELEON Lilly Beck Originals MARATHON sara blaine Teagan Collection CHAMILIA

Jewelry

Gift ware
Arthur Court Beatriz Ball Tyler Candle Company Glory Haus Coton Colors
1811 Hwy. 78 E. Ste. 109 Jasper, AL 35501 (205) 221-2066 www.nicksandersjewelers.com

STORE HOURS: Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Good Directions

THINGS TO DO: SPORTS & RECREATION

Take It Outside

OUTDOOR RECREATION CHOICES ARE BOUNTIFUL Walker County is beautiful on the outside, especially for fresh-air enthusiasts looking to enjoy the many recreation opportunities available here.
George Lindsey Dream Field

EVERYONE GETS TO PLAY BALL

George Lindsey Dream Field is a baseball diamond with rubber surface and inlaid bases that opened in Jasper in 2013 to accommodate special needs ballplayers of all ages. The facility is named for Jasper native George Lindsey, best known for his TV role as Goober Pyle on The Andy Griffith Show, and who raised more than $1 million during his life for Alabama Special Olympics. Natural Areas

SPEND TIME OUTDOORS

Clear Creek Recreation Area covers 425 acres next to Smith Lake, with highlights such as waterfalls, high bluffs and white sandy beaches. Clear Creeks lakefront location is great for boating, fishing and camping. Sipsey Wilderness, with dozens of waterfalls and numerous trails, sits within the Bankhead National Forest and is a perfect place for hiking and camping. Parks

GET SOME EXERCISE

Memorial Park is Jaspers oldest and largest outdoor venue. It has a playground, playing fields, a walking track, swimming pools and a gym. At Gamble Park, amenities include a walking track, playground and a creek. The city of Jasper recently purchased over 25 acres off Walston Bridge Road North to develop a new park.
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Musgrove Country Club in Jasper features a challenging 18-hole course with bentgrass greens, Bermuda fairways and two wooden swinging bridges across Blackwater Creek. Horse Creek Golf Course in Dora is a public course that offers a scenic par-72, 18-hole layout covering 6,883 yards.

Tee It Up and Take a Swing

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Leave your cares at home welcome to the

For a reservation, please call: (205) 221-3334

www.jasperal.hamptoninn.com

100 Industrial Pkwy. Jasper, AL 35501

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State Champions

JASPER TEAM IS NO. 1 IN ALABAMA

The 2013 Jasper Dizzy Dean All-Stars captured the Alabama baseball 12-and-under state championship and then finished runner-up to Tallahassee in the 2013 Dizzy Dean World Series in Mississippi. The Jasper squad of a dozen 12-year-old boys became the first baseball team from Jasper to make it to a World Series final. Adding together our area, district, state and World Series competitions, the Jasper All-Stars compiled an overall 15-1 record and outscored our opponents 144-35, says Dell Green, head coach. Jasper pitchers struck out 137 batters in 89 innings.

12U Jasper Dizzy Dean All-Stars

Bring the Kids and Have Fun

A.P.E.X. (Accessible Playground Extreme Experience) offers modern playground equipment, a wooded walking trail, and a splash pad with more than 25 water sprayers and sun shades. Located next to the Jasper Natatorium, A.P.E.X. is situated in Memorial Park and open to kids of all ages and their parents.

Find more opportunities to get active in Walker County at livability.com/ jasper/al/activities.

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THINGS TO DO: SEE THE COUNTY

Admire Walker Countys Public Art

The 50-Mule Team Public Art Project, sponsored by the Walker County Arts Alliance, honors the mule for its hard work and contributions to the countys top industries. There are now about 50 painted and decorated mule statues throughout the area, with new ones being added to the collection regularly.
Staff Photo by WENDY JO OBARR

See more photos of Walker Countys unique attractions and destinations at livability.com/jasper/al/photos-video.

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LIVING
Schools, health care and neighborhoods in Walker County

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Put Down Roots Near the Water

The Lewis Smith Lake area is one of the most popular places to live in Walker County. The waterfront homes range from $150,000 to $2.4 million, according to local real estate agents, and the properties between $250,000 and $450,000 are the biggest sellers.
Staff Photo

Check out more photos that showcase Walker Countys homes and neighborhoods at livability.com/jasper/al/photos-video.

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LIVING

Come One, Come All

Jennifer Smith, pictured, has been instrumental in bringing accessible recreation to the area. Serving on the city council, Smith has helped fundraise for the George Lindsey Play Field and the A.P.E.X. playground, both of which enable disabled children to play safely.

Staff Photos by WENDY JO OBARR

Strong
by GRACE CLAUSING

AREA LEADERS WORK TO IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE THROUGH INITIATIVES AND PROGRAMS

Ties

alker County prides itself on offering citizens a strong sense of togetherness, allowing individuals to truly feel a sense of community.

THE GEORGE LINDSEY DREAM FIELD AND A.P.E.X. PLAYGROUND Jasper City Council Representative Jennifer Smith wanted to create a place for children with disabilities to play without restrictions. Thus the George Lindsey Dream Field and the A.P.E.X. playground were created. With one of the highest disability rates in the state, Walker County knew it needed to offer future generations the experience of playing without constraints. Both the field and playground feature safety measures for children with disabilities to play on a team or playground, many for the very first time. Ive witnessed individuals receiving their first team jersey, trophy, home run. The smiles on their faces are unforgettable, as are the ones on that dads face seeing his son run the bases for the first time or that mom seeing her daughter wheel up the ramp of the playground, Smith says. Jasper has learned the importance of community. The citizens have changed with each person who helps with the Dream Team or
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Sports Star Helps His Home State

Bo Bikes Bama , started by Bo Jackson, is an event that raises money for the governors emergency relief fund. Cyclists pay a fee, which is donated to the state, and ride through the communities that were damaged by tornados.

It awakened a city that had been in economic decline for six decades and provided us a vision to improve upon what we had.
DREW GILBERT, CORDOVA MAYOR

gets involved with the playground. The chance to see children with and without disabilities playing side-by-side has been eyeopening for the entire town and has formed a sense of community pride. CORDOVA AND BO BIKES BAMA In April 2011, two tornados hit Cordova, Ala. Four people died, homes were destroyed and the Central Business District was wiped out. Two years later, the town is working to rebuild itself and turn its declining economy around.

It awakened a city that had been in economic decline for six decades and provided us a vision to improve upon what we had, says Cordova Mayor Drew Gilbert. By redesigning the city layout and taking advantage of nearby railways and an interstate, Gilbert wants to transform Cordovas downtown into a safe, walkable environment and form a sense of community for the town. In an effort to raise money for the governors emergency relief fund, Alabama native Bo Jackson created Bo Bikes Bama. The annual event started in 2012 and

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BO BIKES BAMA: WES FRAZER PHOTOGRAPHY

Everyone Can Play

The A.P.E.X. (Accessible Playground Extreme Experience) at Memorial Park is designed for disabled children. The playground includes ramps and transfer stations for kids with wheelchairs, as well as accessible swings, Braille panels and a splash pad with sun shades. In addition, the playground is surrounded by a wooded walking trail.

is a one-day group ride through the tornado-affected areas in Alabama. Cordova has benefited from this event by receiving funds from local nonprofits connected with the governors emergency relief fund. YOUTH LEADERSHIP WALKER COUNTY Youth Leadership Walker County offers 40 local high school juniors a chance to get involved with community leadership. During the eight-month program, the students meet once a month and learn how leaders make a difference in their community. In

addition, the students travel to Montgomery to receive firsthand experience on state legislature operations. The Chamber of Commerce of Walker County, Bevill State Community College and the Walker Area Community Foundation are dedicated to education and will continue to develop programs that support our communities students, educators and schools. Youth Leadership Walker County is one more way in which the chamber, educational institutions and the area foundation are working together, says Linda Lewis,

president of the Chamber of Commerce of Walker County. Community leaders continue to build pride in Walker County.

LIVING

Jennifer Smith, pictured, has instrumenta been l in bringing accessible recreation to the the city council, area. Serving on Smith has fundraise for the George helped Play Field Lindsey and the A.P.E.X. playground , both disabled children of which enable to play safely.

Come One,

Come All

AREA LEAD ERS WORK OF LIFE THRO TO IMPRO UGH INITIA VE TIVES AND QUALITY PROGRAMS
alker County prides itself on offering citizens a strong of togetherness, sense allowing individuals to truly feel a sense of commun ity.

Ties
L I VA B I L I

Strong
by GRACE

CLAUSING

Staff Photos

by WENDY

JO OBARR

THE GEORGE AND A.P.E.X. LINDSEY DREAM FIELD PLAYGROU ND Jasper City Council Representa to create a tive Jennifer place for children Smith wanted restrictions . Thus the George with disabilities playground Lindsey Dream to play without were Field and the the state, Walker created. With one A.P.E.X. of the the experience County knew it needed highest disability rates in of to offer future Both the field playing without constraints generations and playground . children with feature safety for the very disabilities to play on measures a team or playground for first time. Ive witnessed , many individuals trophy, home receiving are the ones run. The smiles on their their first team jersey, on that dads faces are unforgetta first time or face seeing ble, that his son run the playground mom seeing her daughter the bases for as the , Smith says. wheel up the Jasper has ramp of have changed learned the importance of community with each person . The citizens who helps with the Dream Team or
T Y. CO M /J ASPER

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LIVING: EDUCATION

Preparing for the Future

AREA SCHOOLS WORK TO READY STUDENTS FOR 21ST-CENTURY WORKFORCE Jasper and Walker County students benefit from having one of the best education systems in Alabama. With a focus on 21st-century education and technology, its no surprise that students in Walker County consistently score above state and national averages on ACT, SAT and AP tests.
Private Schools

TRINITY CHRISTIAN AND SUMITON CHRISTIAN

Walker County has two private Christian schools that serve the community. Jasper's Trinity Christian Academy is affiliated with the Church of God and has about 50 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Sumiton Christian School serves students in K-12th grade. The school offers an extensive list of boys' and girls' athletic options including football, basketball, golf, cheerleading and softball, to name a few. Sumiton is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and is an Alabama Independent School Association Blue Ribbon school. Public Schools

Students Receive Well-Rounded Education

Sumiton Christian School, A God-Focused School, offers a fine arts curriculum, as well as science and math courses.

WALKER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM

The Walker County Public School System serves all of Walker County outside of the city of Jasper and includes six high schools, six combined elementaryjunior high schools, two middle schools, four elementary schools, one alternative school and the Walker County Center of Technology. The WCCT is a free career and technical school for high school students in grades 10-12 throughout the county. The center offers 16 programs in carpentry, collision repair, health science, welding and more. Courses give students hands-on experience and the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school.

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Higher Education

BEVILL STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Jasper and Walker County students don't have to leave the area to further their education after high school. Bevill State Community College is a public, two-year institution with an enrollment of approximately 4,660 students. BSCC has locations in five communities: Jasper, Fayette, Sumiton, Hamilton and Carrollton.

We are so blessed to be a part of Sumiton Christian School ... they love all the children, from the principals to the teachers to the custodians ... To be in an environment where your children can freely worship God is truly awesome.
ROSE ROBERTSON, RESIDENT AND GRANDPARENT OF A SUMITON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STUDENT

Bevill State Community College offers degree and certificate programs in areas such as computer science and liberal arts. Public Schools

JASPER CITY SCHOOLS

Jasper City Schools has an enrollment of about 2,700 students. The districts smaller schools, such as Memorial Park Elementary, T.R. Simmons Elementary, West Jasper Elementary and North Highlands School, offer a more personal approach. The larger schools, including Maddox Middle School and Walker High School, have extensive course topics and many athletic and service club opportunities. The district prides itself in its dedicated administrators and teachers, great parental support and commitment to providing cutting-edge tools to its students, such as iPod Touch devices used in classrooms at Walker High School and Memorial Park Elementary. High school students use iPod apps to study lessons in anatomy, English composition and drivers education, while elementary students in first and second grades are using iPods to flip through digital math flash cards and practice their vocabulary words. The iPods were provided with a $13,000 grant given to the districts Excellence in Education Fund.

Find out more about why Walker County is a great place to learn at livability. com/jasper/al/schools.

Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much

We love what we do. We are familyoriented, full-time realtors. We are servants not here to be served and we want to work for you! 504 Airport Rd. South Jasper, AL 35501 (205) 295-0287 (205) 295-LAKE (5253) (205) 295-0288 fax www.whitepepperrealestate.com

Service With Quiet Dignity

COLLINS-BURKE
FUNERAL HOME Mike Burke, Owner
303 Oak Hill Rd. Jasper, AL 35501 (205) 384-5571 (205) 384-3467 Fax www.collinsburkefuneralhome.com

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Jasper Family Practice

8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday
Derrick Bowling, M.D. Katherine Bivona, M.D. John Bivona, M.D. Kevin Grooms, CRNP Dana McCullar, CRNP Larissa Robinson, CRNP Providing family medicine including: Adult Medicine Pediatrics Geriatrics Gynecology Workers Comp Employment Physicals X-ray Bone Density Full Lab Services Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance welcomed

Shadescrest Health Care and Rehabilitation Center

Where encouraging and nurturing is our mission, but loving is our passion. 331 25th St. W. Jasper, AL 35501 (205) 384-9086 Tel (205) 387-2225 Fax

(205) 221-9351

2201 Airport Rd. North Jasper, AL 35501

Proud to serve those who served us.

ANIMAL HOSPITAL
OF WALKER COUNTY INC.
Sonny Springer, DVM David Kimbrell, DVM
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. 8-11:30 a.m. Closed Sunday

We treat dogs and cats!

248 Arrow Rd. Jasper, AL 35501

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(205) 221-4500

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LIVING: HEALTH

Get Better Soon

TOP MEDICAL SERVICES AVAILABLE TO AREA RESIDENTS Medical professionals in Walker County offer many healthy returns, with Walker Baptist Medical Center and a number of specialty clinics leading the care-giving way.
Hospital

WALKER BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER

Walker Baptist was the first hospital built in Alabama with all private rooms and joined the health ministry of Baptist Health System in 1995. Walker BMC in Jasper has 267 beds and more than 600 employees, making the medical center one of the county's largest employers. It serves an area covering Walker, Fayette, Marion and Winston counties. The range of services at Walker Baptist includes obstetrics/ gynecology, emergency services, adult and geriatric psychiatric units, and specialized medical and surgical units. Walker Baptist offers several programs aimed at improving the overall well being of the community. The hospital has garnered several accolades in recent years, including being ranked among the top hospitals in the Birmingham metro area by U.S. News & World Report. Specialty Clinic

SOUTHERN ORTHOPEDIC
Walker Baptist Medical Center has a pharmacy, making it easy for patients to pick up medications. Patient Protection Southern Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Associates in Jasper was formed in 1984 and has grown to a four-physician specialty clinic that cares for patients who need services such as orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, spine surgery and on-site diagnostic imaging. The four doctors bring more than 60 years of combined experience to the community, and Southern Orthopedic recently added therapeutic massage to its medical services lineup.
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SAFE GUARDS
The staff at Walker Baptist takes extra steps to ensure the safety of all patients. Some of the safeguards nurses and doctors take include: taking time outs before surgery begins to guarantee that the right procedure is being performed on the right patient, bar coding systems make sure that patients are being given the correct medicines, special bands to alert staff of patients that may be at a higher risk for falling, specially trained nurses available 24/7 to provide additional support.

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Hager Oil Company is one of only a few resellers of aviation fuels that have the ability to work with multiple airports to provide custom fuel options. We recently partnered with Vaiden Field to help facilitate the new Flight Training Center at Marion Military Institute. Hager Oil Company Jasper, AL 800.868.3422 www.hageroil.com

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COMMUNITY PROFILE
ETHNICITY
White 32% 24% Black Hispanic Other

COST OF LIVING

$36,312
Median Household Income

$153,700
44% 51% 45% Median Home Price

$584
Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment
Source: Onboard Informatics

AGE
19 and Under 20-54 55 and Over
1% 3%

TRANSPORTATION
Median Travel Time to Work
July Average High

TEMPERATURE
January Average Low

90 76

16 minutes
Closest Airport Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International

29

31

January Low National Low

Source: Onboard Informatics

July High

National High

36 miles

THIS SECTION IS SPONSORED BY

CUSTOMER SERVICE, SATISFACTION AND PROTECTION ARE OUR TOP PRIORITIES.

Dont face MAYHEM without being in good hands.

Offering 24/7 Customer Service AUTO HOME RENTERS BOAT/ATV COMMERCIAL LIFE Jonathan Holladay, Agent THE HOLLADAY AGENCY (205) 221-3216 jholladay1@allstate.com

JCPenney Kmart Belk Sanni Sues Amys Hallmark Cato Fishers Zales Subway General Nutrition Center MasterCuts Robins Nest Shoe Dept. Nail Galaxy Jerrys Music Maurices Carols rue21 Bath & Body Works Hibbett Sports The Childrens Place Garelds Restaurant & Pub Deb & Co. Radio Shack Claires Boutique Chick-Fil-A Prime Communications U.S. Armed Forces Career Center Lin Garden Restaurant Joes Shirt Shop Hottest Trends & Accessories

W .SH OP JA SP ER M AL L.C OM

MALL HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

MILLER ROOFING
Place your roofing in reliable and experienced hands.
46 Years of Experience

300 Hwy. 78 E. Jasper, AL 35501 205-221-2350

FREE ESTIMATES Outstanding Customer Service Quality Roofing Products

Licensed Insured Bonded Services Include: Commercial & Residential Roofing Aluminum & Vinyl Siding Gutter Systems Full Sheet Metal Services Maintenance Service 24-Hour Emergency Roof Repair Two Locations to Serve You:
3304 3rd Ave. S. Tel (205) 384-9768 Fax (205) 384-0278

JASPER

CULLMAN

2024 Main Ave. S.W., Suite C (256) 734-9762 Tel (205) 384-0278 Fax

Emergency/Weekends: (205) 388-9517 www.MillerRoofingAlabama.com

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BUSINESS
Info on Walker Countys top employers, jobs and success stories

Retail Remains a Strong Industry

Staff Photo

Bernards Store for Men , located on the square in downtown Jasper, is one of the countys top retailers. The store carries brands like Alex Cannon and Enro.

Check out more photos of Walker Countys successful businesses and top industries at livability.com/jasper/al/photos-video.

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BUSINESS: OVERVIEW

In Good Company
BUSINESS SECTOR REMAINS ROBUST Walker Countys prominent location on the Interstate 22 corridor northwest of Birmingham makes it attractive to businesses looking to start up, expand or relocate. Executives and entrepreneurs are drawn to Walker Countys Southern hospitality and relaxed lifestyle.

HTNA Opens New Facility

Alabama Governor Robert Bentley joined Hayashi Telempu North Americas Hiroyuki Hayashi, executive vice president and COO, local officials and representatives from Honda and Toyota to celebrate the 2013 grand opening of the new 145,000-square-foot facility. HTNA began manufacturing in Jasper in 2011, and the opening of this second building brought another 110 jobs to Walker County.

Industrial Development

Downtown Jasper

WALKER COUNTY ECONOMIC & INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

The Walker County Development Authority provides information and assistance to the companies looking to expand or locate a new facility anywhere in Walker County. The Development Authority can provide information on available sites and buildings as well as coordinate with state and regional development allies to help move a project forward. Industrial Park Top Industries

RETAIL DESTINATION
Visit historic downtown Jasper, and youll find an array of shops and restaurants, many of which are members of the Downtown Merchants Association. Browse quality mens clothing at Bernards Store for Men, one of Jaspers oldest downtown businesses (established in 1949), or shop for fun and unusual gifts at The Very Idea or Girlie Things Boutique. Andrew Posey & Son is another historic landmark downtown. Established in 1924, Andrew Posey & Son started as a grocery and feed store but today carries a variety of products, from hardware and kitchen supplies to home wine-making and brewing kits. Downtown Jasper also features a jewelry store, flower shop, furniture store, antique shops, a beauty salon, fitness studio, banks and the Black Rock Bistro.

HOTSPOT FOR BUSINESS

The Tom Bevill Industrial Park, located between 1-22 and U.S. Hwy 78 has seen recent expansions from HTNA, Fontaine Engineered Products, Nitto Denko, Central States, Mfg. and DAPA Products. The new 405acre Jasper Industrial Park with a pad-ready 50-acre site is recognized as one of Alabamas Advantage Sites.

WALKER COUNTYS MAJOR INDUSTRY/ MANUFACTURING EMPLOYERS

Major industrial and manufacturing employers include: Mar-Jac, Alabama Power, Drummond Company, North American Coal, Jasper Lumber,BAE Systems, Fontaine Trailer, Marigold Works, HTNA, Alabama Moulding, Nitto Denko and Wilson Machine.

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Business Spotlight
FONTAINE TRAILER CO.
Jasper is becoming Fontaine Trailer Co.s main hub as the city hosts five of Fontaines business units: Fontaine Renew, Fontaine PartSource, Fontaine Military Products, Fontaine Technology and Fontaine Intermodal. www.fontainetrailer.com

COAL

BARE BONES CARGO LLC

Bare Bones Cargo LLC offers customers a wide variety of exclusive items that promise to suit customers' needs and personalities more than mundane items found at typical retail outlets. www.downtownjasperalabama. com/BareBones.htm

Alabamas Greatest Natural Resource

Alabama coal provides jobs and affordable electricity.
Alabama coal mines employed 4,484 workers in 2012. Alabama coal mines produced 19,060,594 tons of coal in 2012. Over half of Alabamas electricity is generated from coal. Alabama ranks among the nations lowest in energy costs due in large part to coal.

THE VERY IDEA

The Very Idea combines decades of experience with an extensive inventory of unique gift items to help customers solve the problem of finding a gift for the person who has everything. www.downtownjasperalabama. com/VeryIdea.html

PERC ENGINEERING CO. INC.

PERC Engineering Co. Inc. gives companies in Jasper and Central Alabama a competitive edge by using its 415 years of combined experience to provide superior engineering and environmental testing services. www.percengineering.com #2 Ofce Park Cir., Ste. 200 Birmingham, AL 35223 (205) 871-3734 www.alcoal.com

SOUTHERN ORTHOPEDICS
Southern Orthopedics draws on more than 60 years of combined experience and uses state-of-theart equipment to provide several advanced medical procedures that keep Jasper residents mobile. www.southernortho.org Stay plugged into Walker Countys business community at livability. com/jasper/al/business.

LIVING GREEN STARTS FROM THE GROUND UP.

Living green is making sure the air in your home is healthy for your family to breathe. Test your home for radon and build radon-resistant. It's easy. That's living healthy and green.

Just call 866-730-green or visit www.epa.gov/radon

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BUSINESS

Working Together
Fontaine Intermodal has donated equipment to the Walker County Center of Technology, and has also provided grant money for programs at the facility.

Staff Photos by WENDY JO OBARR

Ready, Willing and

by JOHN MCBRYDE

Able
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT A STRONG PRIORITY IN WALKER COUNTY
Thats just one example of how workforce initiatives are making Walker County not only a place with employees that are educated and skilled, but also a region that places an absolute priority on workforce development. Like many other relationships between schools and businesses, Bevill State and Alabama Power are experiencing a win-win situation. Its working really well, says Al Moore, dean of Bevill States Sumiton campus and the schools Career Technical Education division. Alabama Power, with a couple of plants located in Walker County, approached BSCC about providing training to its employees in 2007.
L i VA B i L it Y. co M /J A s P er

n what began as training for welders, Bevill State Community College has forged a thriving partnership in recent years with Alabama Power Co.

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Come see our award-winning line up of Honda automobiles.

We take pride in the vehicles we sell and strive to succeed with a great customer experience.

ADVERTISERS
Alabama Coal Association www.alcoal.com Alabama Mining Museum Alabama Power www.alabamapower.com Allstate The Holladay Agency www.allstate.com Animal Hospital of Walker County Bank of Walker County www.bankofwalkercounty.com Bevill State Community College www.bscc.edu City of Sumiton www.thecityofsumiton.com Collins Burke Funeral Home www.collinsburkefuneralhome.com

VISIT OUR

OF JASPER
(866) 395-0100
4102 Hwy. 78 E. Jasper, AL 35501 www.hondaofjasper.com

First Bank of Jasper www.firstbankofjasper.com Fontaine Intermodal www.fontaineintermodal.com Hager Oil Company www.hageroil.com Hampton Inn www.jasperal.hamptoninn.com Haynes Downard www.haynesdownard.com Honda of Jasper www.hondaofjasper.com Jackson, Fikes, Hood & Brakefield www.jacksonfikes.com Jasper Decorating Center www.ofrichter.com Jasper Family Practice Jasper Industrial Development Board www.jidb.us Jasper Mall www.shopjaspermall.com Miller Roofing www.millerroofingalabama.com Nick Sanders Jewelers www.nicksandersjewelers.com Pats Archery & Outdoors www.patsarcheryandoutdoors.com Scott Crump Toyota www.scottcrumptoyota.com Shadescrest Health Care & Rehabilitation Center Valley Estates Walker Baptist Medical Center www.bhsala.com Walker County Development Authority www.wceida.com White Pepper Real Estate www.whitepepperrealestate.com

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Bevill had a dynamic training program, Moore says, so that started the relationship. The training started out as noncredit, then morphed into a credit program. Four years later, BSCC provided space on its Sumiton campus for Alabama Power to create a career development center, and the payoffs for both entities keep increasing. I think it benefits our community in that were providing the workforce, Moore says of his schools partnership with Alabama Power and other companies. Our students are able to get quality jobs, and the companies are able to get a highly skilled workforce that can come in and meet the demands. BEVILL LEADS THE WAY Whether its through the non-credit training courses of its Workforce Development program or its Career Technical Education division that offers associate degrees, Bevill State works with a wide range of businesses and industries. It has, for example, a certified nursing assistant program that gives students short-term training to work as nursing aides. In addition, the school provides non-credit training in local law enforcement for the Jasper Police Department, and more than 6,000 people have received training through its Alabama Mining Academy. BSCC also has partnerships with the Alabama Governors Office of Workforce Development and the Alabama Technology Network, which assists businesses and industries with training needs. Max Weaver, dean of the Fayette campus and the Workforce Development and Community Education division, says interaction is key. We bring in people from business and industry, he says, and talk with them about their needs and how we can help with

Bevill State Community College trains students using a simulator at its Alabama Mining Academy.

their training, and well structure our educational opportunities to fit their needs. EFFORTS FROM ALL FRONTS Education and training also come from the area high schools through the Walker County Center of Technology. Through this program, students in grades 9-12 participate in work-based learning that is certified to state, national and international standards. Fields of study are varied and include agriscience, architecture and construction,

health science, and information technology, among others. The strength of Walker Countys workforce comes from participation of businesses and industries as well. Fontaine Intermodal, a Jasper-based business unit of Fontaine Trailer Co., helps by donating equipment to the Center of Technology and by providing grant money for various programs. Its important that the vocational training is appropriate for the type people we need, says Buck Buchanan, president of Fontaine Intermodal.
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PATS ARCHERY
CLOTHING, GUNS, AMMO, ARCHERY & FISHING

&OUTDOORS
306 Hwy. 78 W. Jasper, AL 35501 (205) 387-7678 tel (205) 387-9909 fax www.patsarchery.com

Jasper
DECORATING CENTER
407 9th Ave. N. Jasper, AL 35501 256.384.9237 www.ofrichter.com

BRANDS: Yeti Coolers, Costa Del Mar, Browning, Zoom

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BUSINESS: CHAMBER REPORT

Forward March
The Chamber of Commerce of Walker County is looking forward all the way to 2017. A chamber program called Forward Walker County launched in late 2013 as a five-year effort that targets area economic growth through 2017. Four specific initiatives retail and commercial growth, tourism and image, workforce readiness and education, and leadership and community engagement are being addressed to better move Walker County forward into the economic future. The chamber continues to help existing business members thrive, plus we want to add more businesses that bolster our local economy even more, says Linda Lewis, Chamber of Commerce of Walker County president. The chamber has been working with consultants who say that the days of going to trade shows and setting up a booth to attract business prospects are over. Todays progressive communities decide what kinds of businesses they want, then work toward creating opportunities for growth. Lewis says four local multiindividual committees are overseeing the four initiatives linked to Forward Walker County. For example, the retail and commercial growth committee is looking at attracting national tenants into the Jasper-Walker County area to make us a shopping hub, she says. We recently welcomed Hobby Lobby, Petco, Shoe Carnival, T.J. Maxx and others. MULTIPLE BACKERS The mission of Forward Walker County is to establish orderly, targeted economic growth and better prepare students and the workforce for future top careers. Lewis says the annual budget for

CHAMBER INITIATES FORWARD WALKER COUNTY

Forward Walker County is $140,000, with $60,000 going to retail and commercial growth efforts, $45,000 to tourism and image, $20,000 to education and workforce readiness, and $15,000 to leadership and community engagement. There are multiple investors in the program, including local governments, industry, private companies and interested individuals, she says. The chamber represents all of Walker County, and I thank all investors for taking an interest in the Forward Walker County program and the growing economic prosperity of our entire community. by Kevin Litwin

Valley Estates
Designed to emphasize the beauty of its natural surroundings, the community has a neighborhood clubhouse, swimming pool, walking track and lake for shing. All of this is for your family and friends to enjoy. Join the many families already living in this community and enjoying the close relationships that have been formed.

Live

like you deserve on a unique country-side lot at Valley Estates. Your family will feel safe and relaxed as you stroll the walking track by the lake in this intimate, gated community nestled in a country setting, but within minutes to all the conveniences of city life.

Gated Community 2,000-Square-Foot Homes (Minimum) Lake for Fishing Lake Pavilion Clubhouse with Pool Walking Track Homeowner's Association Natural Gas Underground Utilities Curbed and Guttered

VALLEY ESTATES JASPER, ALABAMA

Call 205-387-7514 or email soside@wildblue.net for more information.

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Ad Index
41 ALABAMA COAL ASSOCIATION 48 ALABAMA MINING MUSEUM C3 ALABAMA POWER 37 ALLSTATE THE HOLLADAY AGENCY 34 ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF WALKER COUNTY 36 BANK OF WALKER COUNTY 46 JASPER DECORATING CENTER 22 BEVILL STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE 48 CITY OF SUMITON 33 COLLINS BURKE FUNERAL HOME 20 FIRST BANK OF JASPER 34 JASPER FAMILY PRACTICE 38 JASPER INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT BOARD 38 JASPER MALL 38 MILLER ROOFING 44 FONTAINE INTERMODAL 36 HAGER OIL COMPANY 22 HAMPTON INN 2 HAYNES DOWNARD 44 HONDA OF JASPER 17 JACKSON, FIKES, HOOD & BRAKEFIELD

Ad Index (cont.)
19 NICK SANDERS JEWELERS 46 PATS ARCHERY & OUTDOORS C4 SCOTT CRUMP TOYOTA 34 SHADESCREST HEALTH CARE & REHABILITATION CENTER 47 VALLEY ESTATES C2 WALKER BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER 46 WALKER COUNTY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 33 WHITE PEPPER REAL ESTATE

ECONOMIC PROFILE
3%
4%

INCOME
101-499 100 and fewer

6%

Median Family Income 87%

TOP EMPLOYERS

$37,408
EDUCATION LEVEL
High School Graduate Associate Degree Bachelors Degree Masters Degree Median Household Income

Walker Baptist Medical Center, Bevill State Community College, Marshall Durbin, Wal-Mart (Jasper) Wal-Mart (Sumiton), Alabama Power, First National Bank, Jasper Lumber B & D Industrial Service, Alabama Moulding and Cabinet, Warrior River Steel

$20,689
Per Capita Income

SCORECARD

TAXES

TRANSPORTATION

$904M
Annual Retail Sales

2%
County Sales Tax

$74M
Annual Hotel and Food Sales

4%
State Sales Tax

Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International www.ybirmingham.com

5,365
Total Number of Firms

6%
Total Sales Tax
Remembering the Past, While Embracing the Future MAYOR Petey Ellis COUNCIL MEMBERS Bill Fowler Kenneth Russell Brian Sides Floyd Burton Diane Martin

Burlington Northern Railroad www.bnsf.com

Sumiton

Town of

The Friendly City

Alabama Mining Museum 120 East St. Dora, AL 35062 For more information, please call (205) 648-2442.

P.O. Box 10 Sumiton, AL 35148 (205) 648-3261 www.thecityofsumiton.com

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500+

$46,018

Preserving the Heritage of Mining in Our State