PRATTVILLE

AND AUTAUGA COUNTY, ALABAMA

livability.com/prattville

UNITED FOR FUN

Residents rally for Americas Favorite Park

GOING STEADY

Long-established businesses set bar for new enterprise

2014 | SPONSORED BY THE PRATTVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Interstate Business Park

Prattville, Alabama
Spec building
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Ex pa nd ab le to 80 ,00

32 ft. eaves/35 center

0s q. f

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215-acre mixed use development 55 acres dedicated to light industrial/retail Fully infrastructured Less than a mile from Interstate 65 Direct interstate access to all major automotive manufacturing factories in Alabama

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Five miles to the Prattville residential and commercial market

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203 Legends Ct. Prattville, AL www.Holidayinnexpress.com/prattvilleal

CONTENTS

6 Welcome to Prattville
An introduction to the community

and Autauga County

Things to Do
12 Downtown Core Values
Downtown attractions benefit businesses

16 Local Flavor Southern Comforts 18 Arts & Culture Plug Into Creative Outlets 20 Sports & Recreation Our Great Outdoors

PRATTVILLE
AND AUTAUGA COUNTY, ALABAMA

2014 EDITION

VOLUME 11

Living
Residents rally for Americas Favorite Park

18

24 Community Spirit United for Fun

28 Education Earning High Marks 29 Health The Whole Package

31 Community Profile

Business

36 Overview Growth Spurt

28

38 Working Here Going Steady

Long-established businesses set examples for new enterprises

1 Chamber Report 4 Whats New

43 Economic Profile

24
On The Cover Home Place clock tower Photo by Wendy Jo OBarr

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YOU CAN TAKE IT WITH YOU

PRAT T VILLE
livability.com/p ratt ville

2014 EDITION

VOLUME 11

PRATTVILLE
AND AUTAUGA COUNTY, ALABAMA
Editor | Lisa Battles Contributing Writers | Carol Cowan, Laura Hill 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 | Adrien Flint/Zach White 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 Steven 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

AND AUTAUG A COUNTY, A

L A BA M A

sidents rally for Americas Fav orite

UNITED FOR FUN Re

Park

Long-establi shed busines set bar for ne se w enterprise s

GOING STEADY

2014 | SPO NSO RED

BY THE PRA TTV ILLE ARE A CHA MBER OF COM MER CE

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Livability: Prattville and Autauga County, Alabama is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce 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: Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce 131 N. Court St. Prattville, AL 36067 Phone: (334) 365-7392 Fax: (334) 361-1314 www.prattvillechamber.com Visit Livability: Prattville and Autauga County, Alabama online at livability.com/prattville 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 Member The Association of Magazine Media Custom Content Council

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P rattville and A utau G a County

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Attractions Index
MORE ON PRATTVILLE AND AUTAUGA COUNTY Go to the links below for more articles and photos about the areas business climate, health care, culture, schools and more. TOP EMPLOYERS livability.com/prattville/al/ business DEMOGRAPHICS livability.com/prattville/al/ facts SCHOOLS livability.com/prattville/al/ schools HEALTH CARE livability.com/prattville/al/ health NEIGHBORHOODS livability.com/prattville/al/ living ATTRACTIONS livability.com/prattville/al/ attractions FOOD livability.com/prattville/al/ food Find out more about the Prattauga Art Guild and other arts destinations around Prattville and Autauga County at livability.com/prattville/al/attractions.

Living

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AT A GLANCE

Prattville & Autauga County, AL

A QUICK, COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF WHATS GREAT ABOUT THE COMMUNITY
Southern hospitality combined with an unusual New England charm, plenty of recreational activities, and a strong and growing economy are just a few reasons to make Prattville and Autauga County home. QUAINT LIVING, CITY CONVENIENCES Prattville fuses the beauty of nature with proximity to the Montgomery metro area. Its a tightly-knit community combining rich history with forward vision all qualities that help the city maintain its charm despite being ranked as one of the fastest-growing areas in the state of Alabama. Modern upscale neighborhoods and national retailers meet classic older homes spreading out from a historic downtown dotted with spring fed artesian fountains. INDUSTRY-CENTRIC COMMUNITY Its no wonder Prattville is such a pro-business community now, considering its industrial roots. Unlike most larger communities in the South, the city developed with industry at its geographical center like many New England towns, and in homes you will see that areas architectural influences as well. Located on Autauga Creek, Prattville was destined to become the Birthplace of Industry in Alabama when Daniel Pratt selected the site to establish his cotton gin manufacturing company in 1833 a company that went on to become the leading cotton gin producer in the world. Pratt was a New Hampshire native who grew up familiar with the industrial villages of New England, so when the architect-builder settled here to create an industrial village around his plant, he modeled the homes after those back home.

Billingsley
82

31

AUTAUGA
14

65
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Prattville
Autaugaville

Prattville
LOCATION
Prattville is in the central part of Alabama, about 13 miles across the Alabama River from Montgomery, Montgomery the state capital. In the heart of the River Region, the town stands at the convergence of the Coosa and Alabama rivers.

POPULATION

55,514
DISTANCES TO THREE MAJOR CITIES NEARBY
Montgomery, 11.3 miles Birmingham, 76.1 miles Atlanta, 176 miles

TIME ZONE
Central

ANNUAL RAINFALL

58

National Average: 76

FOR MORE INFORMATION

FAST FACT
Prattville is the birthplace of soul singer Wilson Pickett, who recorded more than 50 songs including In the Midnight Hour, Land of 1,000 Dances and Mustang Sally.

Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce

131 N. Court St. Prattville, AL 36067 Phone: (334) 365-7392 Fax: (334) 361-1314 www.prattvillechamber.com

P rattville and A utau G a County

Historic Downtown Prattville

Overlooking Autauga Creek, downtown Prattvilles Heritage Park includes the Gordon and Kathleen Musgrove Fountain.

livability. com / prattville

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

Float or Row Your Boat

Experience the steady flow of water that makes paddling great along the Autauga Creek Canoe Trail, with a main launch point at City Hall and a 4-mile route. Hairpin turns and small rapids grace the waterway.

Historic Site

Natural Area

Park

Tour

SEE THE CITY

Enjoy beautiful views of Prattville and Autauga Creek from the elevated Daniel Pratt Cemetery, where the citys founding father is buried not far from the factory he established in the 1800s. A historic marker at the entrance road details Pratts accomplishments.

SEE THE TREES

Stroll through bamboo that reaches heights of 60 feet in Wilderness Park, which also houses native trees, including Alabama's second-largest beech tree. Years ago, The Spinners Club women's service organization saved the wilderness from subdivision development.

DROP A LINE
Relax during a day of boating or fishing on Cooters Pond, which is equipped with four floating docks that provide easy access for shoreline fishing. Also on the grounds are a playground, dog park and hiking trails.

EXPLORE HISTORY
Seek out the areas 20-plus historical markers on the Autauga Creek Historical Marker Tour. The markers recognize significant places such as the Daniel Pratt home site, as well as people like Prattville native and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Wilson Pickett.

livability. com / prattville

Smith-Byrd House Bed & Breakfast & Tea Room

Step back in time as you enjoy afternoon tea or an overnight stay in the only B&B and tea room in the historic district.
(334) 365-1459 137 N. Washington St. www.smithbyrdhouse.com

Indulgence Salon & Spa

Salon and spa consisting of full hair care, manicure and pedicure, facials, massage, make-up, reflexology and waxing.
(334) 358-7114 156 W. Main St. www.indulgencesalonandspa.net

Carol Brooks Home & Holiday

Creekside gift shopping at its best. Including: Arthur Court, VIETRI, Crabtree & Evelyn, Mark Roberts fairies, Trollbeads and so much more.
(334) 491-0142 167 W. Main St. www.carolbrooksshoppe.com

BWS Technologies
Computer Services Network Systems Website Solutions Making IT easy since 1996!
(334) 358-6305 1797 E. Main St. www.bwsIT.com

The Turtle Shell

From home to school and back again. Games and toys for the young and young at heart, educational materials and supplies, Christian products, books and much more.
(334) 358-0902 160 W. Main St. www.theturtleshell.com

Paravicinis Home Furnishings & Decor

Professional decorating staff, custom upholstery, area rugs and custom window treatments.
(334) 358-9719 170 Tichnor St. www.paravicinis.net

Uncle Micks Cajun Cafe

Cajun caf selling authentic Cajun cuisine. Featuring Crawfish Etoufee, Chicken and Sausage Sauce Piquante, Gumbo, Alligator Sauce Piquante, Grilled Tilapia, Crabmeat Au Gratin and daily specials.
136 W. Main St. www.unclemickscajun.com

Victorias Boutique
Upscale womens boutique featuring Vera Bradley, Brighton, Sorrelli and Silver Jeans. Find us on Facebook!
(334) 491-2220 133 W. Main St. victoriasboutique1@hotmail.com

Prattville Downtown Unlimited

Unique shopping and eateries in the historic district www.visithistoricprattville.com

SHOP

THINGS TO DO

Take your pick of golfing on three 18-hole championship courses at Capitol Hill , its three layouts called Judge, Legislator and Senator. All three courses incorporate nature, yet differ dramatically from one another.

Play A Round

Antebellum Mansion

Arts Center

Artesian Wells

Splash Pad

ADMIRE ARCHITECTURE
Take in the beauty of Buena Vista Mansion, an antebellum home from the 1840s that offers an ideal example of Deep South architecture. The mansion has European fashion pieces created by top artisans from 19th-century England.

APPRECIATE ART
Stare if you like at the beautiful exhibits on display at the Creative Arts Center on Chestnut Street behind downtown City Hall. The 1890s building that fronts Autauga Creek also hosts a variety of programs that are free and open to the public.

SIP FROM THE SOURCE

Refresh yourself in The Fountain City, which is Prattvilles nickname due to its artesian water wells. Some drinking wells around town are open to the public at spots such as Heritage Park and in the back yard of the Prattaugan Museum.

COOL OFF
Visit Pratt Park, where a $100,000 splash pad has opened complete with a comfortable surface of blended rubber, plastic and other materials. Admission is free and hours are 8 a.m. to sunset. The park also includes a walking trail, picnic tables and more.

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THINGS TO DO

Core
S
Prattville is a unique experience, says Stephen Brooks, who with his wife, Carol, owns the Carol Brooks Home & Holiday Shoppe at the corner of Main and Bridge streets. A lot of folks come downtown to see the old gin mill or other historic sites. Its a destination where they can stroll and enjoy our fine restaurants and our fine shopping.

VALUES
VIBRANT AND VISITOR-FRIENDLY, DOWNTOWN BENEFITS BUSINESS
troll among historic homes, amble along a picturesque creek-side path or visit a colorful museum. Theres much fun to be had in downtown Prattville, and these activities also foster a healthy business community in the district.
PRATTVILLE ATTRACTIONS The citys many downtown attractions draw thousands of visitors each year. The Daniel Pratt Historic District and Old Prattvillage showcase beautifully preserved and restored buildings dating to the 1830s when Daniel Pratt established the town. The Prattauga Museum and Archives tells the citys story from its early

by LAURA HILL

Staff Photos by WENDY JO OBARR

Downtown Draws

The Prattville Mill Dam , located on Autauga Creek, is one of downtown Prattvilles many attractions. The area also includes shops, parks, museums and restaurants.

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The Daniel Pratt Historic District features the Smith-Byrd Bed House Bed & Breakfast and Tea Room.

days as the Birthplace of Industry in Alabama, while downtown walking tours bring that colorful past to life. When it comes to culture, the Creative Arts Centers gallery hosts a changing calendar of exhibits. Outdoor fun is just steps away. The popular Creek Side Walk follows the recently refurbished and cleaned Autauga Creek as it winds through downtown. Take a quiet walk, or launch a canoe or kayak and float down a 4-mile waterway. Heritage Parks threetiered fountain recalls Prattvilles fountain city name. BUSINESSES BENEFIT This historic yet busy setting is a plus for downtown businesses, from Prattville native Albert Striplins Key Finance, to Quality Comix, a new business that serves comic book collectors, to Legacy Catering. Pzazz, a multipurpose art studio on Main Street that offers classes and more for children and adults, benefits from its downtown location, says owner Kasey Hope.

Downtown Prattville has several locallyowned spots for dining and shopping.

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P rattville and A utau G a County

Kasey Hope of downtowns PZazz Art Studio teaches classes focused on painting, drawing and more.

There are so many cool things within walking distance downtown, Hope says. Across the street is a garden where my students can go and be little Monets, painting in the garden as he did, and if you go further, you find the creek. You can go buy a cupcake, or just read and sketch on a park bench. Its a treat to be surrounded by so many little nooks and places to enjoy. SPECIAL EVENTS Prattvilles busy calendar of special events and festivals also helps businesses grow and maintain their clientele. Highlights of the year include the Christmas parade and tree lighting; the Fountain City Arts Festival each spring; a Fourth of July fireworks display; a Mardi Gras parade and such favorites as Touch a Truck,

where youngsters can sit in a fire truck, police car or construction vehicle; a Back to School celebration; and the annual Cardboard Boat Race. In October we have a Kids Candy Walk downtown, which probably exceeds 2,000 children, says Brooks, who considers downtown festivities really cool advertising. For Anne Moore, a retired schoolteacher who owns The Turtle Shell, downtown community events and recreational activities offer potential customers a chance to explore her store. They bring in people who might not ordinarily come to our store, or who dont realize all the things we have here besides bulletin board sets and teachers supplies, like dance wear, Moore says. I love working in downtown.

There are so many cool things within walking distance downtown ... Its a treat to be surrounded by so many little nooks and places to enjoy.
KASEY HOPE, DOWNTOWN BUSINESS OWNER

Core VAL
Staff Photos

THINGS TO

DO

VIBRA NT AND DOWN TOWN VISITOR-FR IENDL Y, BENE FITS BUSIN ESS

UES
by LAURA

HILL

Prattville experience, is a unique says Stephen who with his Brooks, wife, Carol, owns Carol Brooks Home & Holidaythe Shoppe at the corner of Main and Bridge streets. come downtown A lot of folks to see the old mill or other historic sites. gin destination Its a where they can stroll and enjoy our and our fine fine restaurants shopping.
by WENDY
JO OBARR

troll among historic homes, picturesque creek-side path amble along a museum . Theres or visit a colorful much fun to downtow n Prattvil le, and be had foster a healthy these activitie in business commun s also ity in the district.
PRATTVILL E ATTRACTI ONS The citys many downtown attractions draw thousands visitors each of year. The Daniel Pratt Historic Prattvillage District and Old showcase beautifully preserved and dating to the restored buildings 1830s Pratt established when Daniel the town. The Prattauga Museum and Archives tells the citys story from its early
The Prattville Mill Dam , located on Autauga one of downtown Creek, is many attractions Prattvilles . The area also includes shops, parks, museums and restaurants .

Downtown

Draws

L I VA B I L I

T Y. C O M /

P R AT T V I

LLE

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THINGS TO DO: LOCAL FLAVOR

Southern Comforts

LOCAL RESTAURANTS DELIVER ON EXPECTATIONS FOR DOWN-HOME COOKING Prattvilles options for dining out range from traditional barbecue and authentic Cajun to flavorful Mexican and satisfying steaks. Heres a sampling.
Downtown Dining

GRAB A BITE DOWNTOWN

Excellent, authentic and incredibly friendly are words used to describe Uncle Micks Cajun Market and Caf, where alligator and sausage sauce piquante is on the menu, along with crawfish touffe and gumbo. Nearby, an afternoon tea service is available Wednesday through Saturday at the Smith-Byrd House Tea Room. Tea is served with scones, quiche or sandwiches in a Queen Anne-style residence built in the 1880s. Another popular lunch spot on weekdays is MealThymes Caf and Catering, which serves traditional Southern entrees along with fresh baked desserts. Those looking to host a private luncheon or party need look no further than Sugar Bs Bakery. Located in an antebellum home with large antique windows and pine floors, Sugar Bs has three private dining rooms that can accommodate up to 100 guests. Barbecue

ENJOY LOCAL CUE AND SOUTHERN SELECTIONS

Family owned and operated, Fat Boys Bar-B-Que Ranch features barbecue pork, beef brisket, ribs, smoked chicken and camp stew. Fat Boys proudly slow-cooks its barbecue over hickory hardwood and racks up raves for both main dishes and sides, with baked beans and hearty potato salad a few of the favorites. Read more about Prattville and Autauga Countys restaurants at livability. com/prattville/al/food.

Fresh and Flavorful Food

Located in downtown Prattville, MealThymes Caf and Catering serves soups, salads, sandwiches and casseroles. Homemade baked goods, such as cakes and cookies, are also on the menu.

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P rattville and A utau G a County

Try Authentic Cajun Cuisine

Uncle Micks Cajun Market and Caf guarantees customers will feel like theyre One Bite Away from the Bayou. In addition to regular entrees, Uncle Micks provides pre-cooked and frozen items to take home.

Seafood, Steak and Pizza

SATISFY ANY CRAVING

For seafood, check out the Islamorada Fish Co., located inside Bass Pro Shops. Fish and fried seafood are the specialties, including the world famous Islamorada sandwich. Or order one of the legendary steaks at LongHorn Steakhouse: Filet, sirloin, porterhouse, flat iron, T-bone, rib-eye and New York strip are all on the menu, and all are available with LongHorns unique Steak Sauce made tableside. Or grab a pizza at one of two lively pizza places: Pasta, Pizzeria and Grill or Foxs Pizza.

Prattville is growing, and with that growth we are seeing a continual expansion of dining options in the area. Im excited to see whats new and next for our dining scene.
STACEY LITTLE , RESIDENT, PUBLISHER OF SOUTHERNBITE.COM AND AUTHOR OF THE SOUTHERN BITE COOKBOOK

Mexican Food

SAMPLE SALSA AND SPICY ENTREES

Chicken fajitas, taco salad, steak quesadillas and "addictive" salsa have made Mexico Tipico Restaurant a longtime favorite. Tipico also features a full bar and a banquet room for lunch meetings or family gatherings. For its part, Los Toros is best-known for the two dozen choices on its favorites menu, with options that include sizzling steak fajitas and fried pork.
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THINGS TO DO: ARTS & CULTURE

Plug Into Creative Outlets

ATTRACTIONS, EVENTS ENCOURAGE ARTS APPRECIATION, PARTICIPATION Prattville residents immerse themselves in the arts, whether its paintings, sculptures or live performances. Surrounded by beautiful architecture and natural beauty, artists here find inspiration at every turn.
Historic Sites Performing Arts

ARTFUL ARCHITECTURE
In the 1830s, Daniel Pratt bought 1,000 acres to build a cotton gin manufacturing plant along Autauga Creek. Today, the Daniel Pratt Historic District covers 140 acres and includes 154 buildings, with architecture ranging from Greek Revival to Italianate and Bungalow styles. Grand residences are also part of the landscape in Prattville. The Bell House, completed in 1893, is a two-story Queen Anne beauty that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Buena Visa, a distinctive Greek Revival home, has attracted admirers for nearly two centuries. It's said that Andrew Jackson liked the staircase so much he built one at the Hermitage in the same style.

SEE A LIVE SHOW

Way Off Broadway Theatre offers shows and acting lessons and hosts special events. Founded in 2002 as part of the Prattville Creative and Performing Arts Council, the theater presents approximately four productions annually. The Prattville Community Chorus and Prattville Pops also keep residents entertained with their distinctive musical stylings.

Create Your Own Masterpiece

Bob Adams paints the Daniel Pratt Gin Factory from his vantage point in downtown Prattvilles Heritage Park.

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P rattville and A utau G a County

Admire the Artwork

Downtown Prattvilles Creative Arts Center, located behind City Hall in a historic home from the 1890s, features a permanent collection of art, as well as a selection of rotating exhibits. Free art classes and workshops are also available at the center throughout the year.

Visual Arts

CHECK OUT LOCAL ART

The Prattauga Art Guild brings fine arts and art education to the entire region. The Creative Arts Center is home to the guild's permanent collection, featuring works by Prattville's own internationally known artists such as Charlie "Tin Man" Lucas, Russell Everett and Nancy Ria. Special events also nurture the local arts scene, including ARTrek, which takes place each September and spans several locations in the River Region. The guild holds an annual Prattauga Art Guild Juried Fall Show each October. You can also channel your personal creativity into works of your own by choosing from many different art classes offered at P'zazz Art Studio in downtown Prattville.

Festivals & Events

MANY FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUNCTIONS

The Annual Canoe Trail Fun Run allows people of all ages to try their hand at canoeing down Autauga Creek. The Annual July 4th Celebration is held at Pratt Park Amphitheatre and includes the Annual Cardboard Boat Race, when families build boats out of cardboard and race them. A spectacular fireworks display follows. Other annual events include a fall pumpkin patch, the Halloween Candy Walk for trick-or-treaters, a Christmas Parade, outdoor movie nights, a Mardi Gras parade, the Fountain City Arts Festival and Prattville CityFest, which is also an arts and crafts event and has taken place for more than 25 years.

Continue learning about Prattville and Autauga Countys artsy attractions at livability.com/prattville/ al/attractions.

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THINGS TO DO: SPORTS & RECREATION

Our Great Outdoors

GOLF, FISHING, SUNNY DAYS AT THE PARK ROUND OUT RECREATION Surrounded by natural beauty and enjoying a warm climate much of the year, Prattville residents never lack an excuse to get outside and hunt, camp, fish, boat or golf.

Fishing and Hunting

City Parks

GRAB YOUR GEAR AND HEAD OUT

Need somewhere to use that gear purchased at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World store in Prattville? Youll find dozens of creeks, streams, ponds and lakes all within a short drive. The Alabama River lies just to the south, offering a prime waterway. One of the most popular places to play is Cooters Pond Park, located right off the river. Featuring boat ramps and docks, along with a river walk, basketball court, dog park and open green spaces, Cooters Pond Park offers families an enjoyable day on the water or the land. Bear Creek Hunting Preserve in nearby Autaugaville offers sportsmen hunts for trophy whitetail, quail, dove and wild turkey. Both individual hunters and groups are welcome. One of the regions most distinctive parks is the Wilderness Park, which features giant oriental bamboo that lines a short walking trail and shoots up more than 60 feet in the air. The park, established in 1982, was the first of its kind to open within a city in the U.S.

PLAY BALL
The park system in Prattville consists of nearly 20 city parks. Families with small children can take advantage of the playgrounds at Spring Hill, Kiwanis, North Highland, Easy Street and Pratt parks. In addition, baseball, softball and soccer fields can be found at many of the parks, including Spinners, Bell, Upper Kingston, Mac Gray and Newton parks. To see a complete list of parks, visit the City of Prattville online at www.prattvilleal.gov.

Cooters Pond Park named for the water turtles, also known as cooters, that bask on the ponds logs offers access to the Alabama River and includes fields, pavilions, boat ramps and more.

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P rattville and A utau G a County

Golf

TAKE A SWING
Golf has become a major attraction in Prattville, thanks to the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. The trail is a collection of challenging, championship-caliber golf courses distributed across Alabama. One of the most popular sites on the trail is the Capitol Hill site in Prattville. Capitol Hill contains three separate 18 hole courses: Judge, Legislator and Senator. The Judge course was named one of the top 50 courses in America by the Zagat Survey of Americas Top Golf Courses, while Golf Magazine named it one of 10 sites worthy of hosting the U.S. Open. All three courses offer different challenges for golfers of all skill levels, and keep golfers coming back for more. The Prattville Country Club offers another distinctive 18-hole course, along with an Olympic-size pool and cabana. The club was established in 1965 and features a restaurant offering hand-cut steaks, fresh fish and fine wines.

Prattvilles 18-hole Judge course at Capitol Hill is one Americas top golf courses.

So much shade!!! Lots of trees and scenic overlook opportunities if you venture up on the hill of Cooters Pond. Seems to offer space for reflection. There is also a docking area for boats and seems this is a popular spot for people on gorgeous days.
RHEA P., YELP CONTRIBUTOR

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LIVING
Schools, health care and neighborhoods in Prattville and Autauga County

Explore Old Prattvillage

Downtown Prattvilles Old Prattvillage is home to several buildings from the 19th century. In addition to shops and restaurants, the district includes Prattvillage Garden, a chapel and an original mill worker cottage.
Staff Photo

Discover more photos of Prattville and Autauga Countys top destinations at livability.com/prattville/al/photos-video.

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P rattville and A utau G a County

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LIVING

United

for Fun
COMMUNITY RALLIES FOR AMERICAS FAVORITE PARK
by CAROL COWAN

hen the city of Prattville decided to jump into Coca Colas 2012 Americas Favorite Park contest, it was already two weeks behind the competition. When Pratt Park won the $100,000 grand prize awarded to the park that received the most online votes it was because the whole community got on board.

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P rattville and A utau G a County

I felt that if we could give a good enough project, maybe we could get buy-in that way, says Teresa Lee, executive assistant to Prattvilles mayor. Lee, the mayor and the parks and recreation director, settled on a splash pad for the kids. The mayor authorized everything and put out a press release that day, and we just started voting like crazy, she says. VOTE-A-THONS AND MIDNIGHT FLASH MOBS As word got out, the community pulled together, and Pratt Park started climbing the contest ranks. The city organized vote-a-thons in the park using laptop computers provided by the Autauga County Extension service. Volunteers showed people how to vote and set up smartphones with the Foursquare app, because Foursquare check-ins counted for extra votes. The mayors wife, Stephanie Gillespie, and volunteers Jeremy and Emily Abbott helped Lee administer the 6,000-member Facebook group that played a crucial role in securing the win. Using Facebook and Foursquare,

Pratt Park Splash Pad, located behind Pratt Pool, opened in July 2013.

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25

Honestly, we could have managed all day long, but without everybody in the community deciding that this was worth going for, it never would have happened. That was probably the most amazing thing that this community of 34,000 pulled together and then brought in the entire nation.
TERESA LEE, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO PRATTVILLES MAYOR

Gillespie coordinated late-night flash mob check-ins three times each hour. My job was to get people keyed up for the flash mob vote, Gillespie says. Wed do a countdown, and then everyone would vote together. Jeremy and Emily Abbott kept track of all the data and posted charts and graphs on the Facebook page, making sure that voting kept pace. MAXWELL AFB, CHAMBER SPREAD THE WORD Thanks to nearby Maxwell Air Force Base and the military presence in Prattville, the network of friends and family voting for Pratt Park stretched across the country. We were capturing the traffic, the analytics, and we could see that wed gotten votes from every single state, Lee says. It was pretty amazing.

The Prattville Chamber of Commerce promoted the contest with banners and signage all over town urging Vote PrattPark.com. Flyers went out on pizza delivery boxes. Auburn University at Montgomery sent letters to its entire student body. Joses Cantina opened its doors to hard-core voters who ate chips and voted by the hour. Lee, Gillespie and the Abbotts spent 18-20 hours a day for five weeks managing the social media blitz, but Prattvilles people earned the win. Honestly, we could have managed all day long, Lee says, but without everybody in the community deciding that this was worth going for, it never would have happened. That was probably the most amazing thing that this community of 34,000 pulled together and then brought in the entire nation. SPLASH PAD FINISH LINE The win secure, community spirit continued. The Alabama Department of Environmental Management provided a $42,000 grant for the splash pad surface. The County Fair Association chipped in $10,000 for fencing and landscaping. Others donated benches and umbrellas. The day the splash pad opened, children squealed with delight. I did this for my son, Preston, Jeremy Abbott says. Seeing how excited he was, I remember thinking that we did something awesome.

Dost er Ro

ad

Doster Street

PRATT PARK

Water Street
Se lm y wa igh aH r ste Do a Ro d

LIVING

for Fun
COMMUNITY RALLI ES AME RICA S FAVORITE FOR PARK
24
P R AT T V I LLE AND A U TA U G A CO U N TY

United
hen the city of to jump into Prattville decided Coca Americas FavoriteColas 2012 it was already Park contest, competition. two weeks behind the When Pratt Park won the $100,000 grand that received prize awarded to the park the most online because the whole commun votes it was ity got on board.

by CAROL

COWAN

I felt that if good enough we could give a project, maybe could get buy-in we that way, says Teresa Lee, executive assistant Prattvilles to mayor. Lee, the mayor and the parks and director, settled recreation on a splash pad for the kids. The mayor authorized everything and put out a press release that day, and we just started voting like crazy, she says. VOTE-A-TH ONS AND MIDNIGHT FLASH MOBS As word got pulled together,out, the community started climbingand Pratt Park the contest The city organized ranks. vote-a-thon the park using s in provided by laptop computers the Autauga County Extension service. Volunteers showed people how to vote set up smartphone and s with the Foursquare app, because Foursquare check-ins counted for extra votes. The mayors Gillespie, and wife, Stephanie volunteers Jeremy and Emily Abbott helped Lee administer the 6,000-mem Facebook group ber that played crucial role a in securing the win. Using Facebook and Foursquare Pratt Park , Splash

Pad, located

behind Pratt

Pool, opened

in July 2013.

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T Y. CO M /

P R AT T V I

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P rattville and A utau G a County

Prattville Embraces Teamwork

The Prattville community worked together to ensure Pratt Park was named Americas Favorite Park in 2012. Thanks to the $100,000 prize and a $42,000 grant, the park now features the Pratt Park Splash Pad.

livability. com / prattville

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LIVING: EDUCATION

Earning High Marks

AREA SCHOOLS PREPARE STUDENTS FOR ADVANCED DEGREES AND CAREERS Public or private, liberal arts or tech-oriented, theres a school to suit every student in Prattville and Autauga County.
Higher Education

AUBURN MONTGOMERY AND ALABAMA STATE

Auburn Montgomery (AUM), a branch campus of Auburn University located about 20 miles southeast of Prattville, educates approximately 5,000 students. Established in 1967, AUM features a business school and nursing school, along with programs in science, education and the liberal arts. An additional 10,000 students are part of the universitys Center for Lifelong Learning, which offers noncredit personal and professional development classes. The Small Business Development Center in the College of Business Administration at Alabama State University provides technical and management assistance to existing and pre-venture startups. Not only does the SBDC counsel small-business people for free, it encourages the development of student entrepreneurial skills through instruction and internships. Public Schools

Students Learn and Practice Valuable Skills

The Autauga County Technology Center, led by new director Brock K. Dunn, offers a diverse curriculum designed to prepare students for entry into the workforce or further study. Courses are offered in such subjects as agriconstruction, building construction, early childhood education, finance, therapeutic services, cosmetology, engineering, automotive technology, and network systems and computer services.

AUTAUGA COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM

Autauga Countys school district is made up of 13 public schools and serves approximately 10,000 students from kindergarten through grade 12, with reading and math achievement levels consistently exceeding the statewide average. The school systems athletic programs are also highly regarded, fielding teams in football, basketball, baseball, tennis, soccer, golf, track, volleyball, wrestling and softball.

Private Schools

FAITH-BASED ACADEMIES
Families who prefer a private Christian education can choose from East Memorial Christian Academy, Prattville Christian Academy or Autauga Academy. East Memorial educates approximately 300 students and provides an academically challenging education in a Christian culture. Prattville Christian is an independent school that aims to glorify God by inspiring qualified students to excel academically, physically and spiritually. Autauga Academy, founded in 1969, offers a college preparatory curriculum in a family environment that embodies Christian values.

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P rattville and A utau G a County

LIVING: HEALTH

Healing the Whole Body

MANY HEALTH-CARE PROVIDERS KEEP RESIDENTS IN TOP FORM Prattville residents are never without access to quality health care, thanks to Prattville Baptist Hospital, several urgent care clinics, and many choices among qualified specialists, surgeons, dentists and chiropractors.
Baptist Health Specialty Health-Care Providers

PRATTVILLE BAPTIST HOSPITAL

Prattville Baptist Hospital, an acute care, 85-bed community hospital on South Memorial Drive, has been serving Autauga and Elmore counties since it was founded in 1952 by two local physicians. In the 60-plus years since, it has grown to offer the latest in medical technology and a wide range of services, including general medical and surgical services, 24-hour emergency services, cardiopulmonary services and a dialysis center. The radiology department offers an array of inpatient and outpatient imaging services, including magnetic resonance imaging and a CT scanner. And the hospitals Sleep Disorders Center can diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia, sleep walking and night terrors.

SPECIALISTS, DENTISTS, CHIROPRACTORS AND EYE CARE

Residents needing care for specific health-care needs will find that here, too. Local dentist offices include those of Dr. Kim Kornegay, Autauga Station Dental and Prattville Pediatric Dentistry. Vision care is provided by Primary Eyecare Associates, Wyatt-Kirkpatrick Eye M.D. Associates and Montgomery Eye Physicians - Prattville. Those in need of kidney care can go for treatment at DaVita, and cancer patients are not far from services at Montgomery Cancer Center. Prattville also is home to Mora Surgical Clinic , Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, Southern Orthopaedic Surgeons and OB-GYN of Montgomery, which has a location here.

CENTER FOR ADVANCED THERAPY

People seeking speech, occupational and physical therapies and audiology services go to the Center for Advanced Therapy for interdisciplinary care provided by an experienced team of therapists and a Doctor of Audiology. Though the center treats patients of all ages, its focus is on children with special needs, such as those with Down syndrome, autism or sensory integration disorder.

Prattville Baptist Hospitals physicians use the latest technology to treat patients.

livability. com / prattville

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Urgent Care and Walk-In Clinics

Prattvilles All Med Physicians operates a clinic on East Main Street and offers a Youre Next call-ahead program to minimize wait times. American Family Care (the second-largest privately owned urgent care operator in the country) has a facility on Cobbs Ford Road. And the Jackson Clinic, which operates an extended-hours family medicine clinic in Montgomery, operates a branch in Prattville where Dr. Jade Hoy, board certified in family medicine, assumed the practice of Dr. Charles Cloutier. Dr. Scott Bell recently joined the clinic as well. Autaugaville residents enjoy convenience to general medical services offered at the Autauga Medical Clinic.

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P rattville and A utau G a County

COMMUNITY PROFILE
ETHNICITY
24% 29% White Black 3% 29% 19% 16% 6% Hispanic Other

COST OF LIVING

$56,751
Median Household Income

$159,833
Median Home Price

$790
75% Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

AGE
19 and Under 20-34 35-54 55 and Over

(percentages based on the total = 34,782)

(percentages based on the total = 35,872)

TRANSPORTATION
Median Travel Time to Work

TEMPERATURE
January Average Low July Average High

91 76

22 minutes
Closest Airport: Montgomery Regional Airport

31

31

January Low National Low

July High

National High

12 miles

THIS SECTION IS SPONSORED BY

LIVING: SEE THE CITY

Fine Arts in Education

Part of the Autauga County School System, Prattville High School offers fine arts classes in visual arts, music, drama and speech. The school is one of 13 in the district.
Staff Photo by Wendy Jo OBarr

Find more images showcasing the Prattville and Autauga County community at livability.com/prattville/al/photos-video.

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P rattville and A utau G a County

livability. com / prattville

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P rattville and A utau G a County

BUSINESS
Info on Prattville and Autauga Countys top employers, jobs and success stories

Shopping Like Pros

Prattvilles Bass Pro Shops is the companys first store location in Alabama. The retailer specializes in outdoor gear and equipment for activities such as fishing, hunting, camping, backpacking and boating.
Staff Photo by WENDY JO OBARR

Browse through more photos of Prattville and Autauga Countys top businesses at livability.com/prattville/al/photos-video.

livability. com / prattville

35

BUSINESS: OVERVIEW

Growth Spurt

POPULATION BOOM OVER PAST DECADE DRAWS INVESTMENT Prattville and Autauga County are among the fastest-growing areas in Alabama, and theres no question why. All the best of Southern suburban living top-notch neighborhoods, award-winning schools and beautiful scenery come together here, providing a quality of life that draws business investment as well as new residents.

Advantages for Business

Air transportation options include Prattvilles Grouby Field, which has a 5,400-foot runway for general aviation. Montgomery Regional Airport is just 12 miles from Prattville, and Birmingham-Shuttlesworth puts 120 daily flights about 75 minutes away from home. Interstate access is made easy by Interstate 65, running along the eastern edge of Prattville. The city is also home to the Economic Development Association of Alabama, a leader in workforce development and business investment in the region.

Growth and Expansion

PRATTVILLES PROGRESS
According to the 2010 Census, Prattville ranks second among the top 20 most populous cities in Alabama for population growth, which was almost 40 percent over the past decade. Although many residents still find professional employment across the river, there are plenty of opportunities in the vibrant local community. These include International Paper Co. as well as Fras-Le, a Brazilian brake manufacturer that opened its first U.S. friction materials manufacturing facility in Prattville in 2008 and expanded in 2013 with an investment of $11 million and addition of about 100 jobs. Maxwell Air Force Base, which employs about 15,000 active duty and civilian workers, is approximately 13 miles from Prattville.

Retailers

SHOPPING DESTINATION
Theres no shortage of local retail and service businesses in the area. Bass Pro Shops in Prattville offers a spacious and well-equipped haven for sportsmen (and women) of all persuasions. The shop includes a restaurant and meeting rooms, and offers workshops on fly-fishing, hunting and other popular outdoor pastimes. Downtown is where tradition and commerce intersect. Two hardware stores, a grocery store, restaurants, and many specialty shops make the historic city center a fun and convenient place to shop.

36

P rattville and A utau G a County

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Sunday Morning

Sunday School 8:15 & 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship 9:30 Contemporary Worship 11:00 a.m.
Sunday Evening

Discipleship Training 5:00 p.m. Worship 6:00 p.m.

Dr. Travis Coleman Jr. Wednesday Evening

Senior Minister

Prayer Service 6:00 p.m.

Boxboard Production

Main Street

Washington

International Paper Co., one of Prattville and Autauga Countys largest employers, creates industrial and consumer packaging products and high-quality paper for several brands. The companys Prattville facility, employing about 600 people and commonly known as the Riverdale Mill, produces boxboard, which is a firm cardboard thats used to make boxes.

138 S. Washington St. Prattville, AL 36067 (334) 365-0606 (334) 361-9481 Kindergarten (334) 361-9497 Moms Day Out mail@fbcprattville.org www.fbcprattville.org

First Baptist Third Street

Street

Exit 179

I-65 Cobbs Ford

Can you imagine a world without children?

BUSINESS: OVERVIEW among the fastest-gro why. All the best of Southern wing areas in schools and suburban living Alabama, and beautiful scenery theres no top-notch come together investment neighborhoods, as well as new here, providing award-winning residents. a quality of life that draws business POPULATION BOOM OVER PAST DECADE DRAWS INVESTM Prattville and ENT Autauga County question are

Growth Spu rt

SCHEDULE

OF EVENTS

Air transportat s ion options Prattvilles Grouby Field include , which has a 5,400-foot runway aviation. Montgome for general ry Regional Airport is just 12 and Birmingham miles from Prattville, -Shuttlesw puts 120 daily orth flights about minutes away 75 from home. access is made Interstate running along easy by Interstate 65 , the eastern Prattville. edge of The city is also home Economic to the Developme nt Association of Alabama , a leader in workforce developme nt and business investment in the region.

Advantages for Busines

Morning Sunday School 8:15 & 9:30 a.m. Traditional Worship 9:30 Contemporary Worship 11:00 a.m. Dr. Travis Coleman

Sunday

Discipleship
Jr.

Senior Minister

Prayer Service 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday

Training 5:00 p.m. Worship 6:00 p.m.

Evening

Sunday Evening

Growth and

Retailers

SHOPPING

36

P R AT T V I

ON Theres no shortage of local retail Bass Pro Shops and service in Prattville businesses sportsmen in the area. (and women) offers a spacious and well-equipp of all persuasions and meeting ed haven for rooms, and offers workshops . The shop includes other popular a restaurant outdoor pastimes. on fly-fishing, Downtown hunting and is stores, a grocery where tradition and store, restaurants, commerce intersect. historic city Two and many center a fun specialty shops hardware and convenient make the place to shop.
LLE AND A U TA U G A CO U N TY

DESTINATI

According to Prattville ranks the 2010 Census, second among top 20 most the populous cities in Alabama for population growth, which was almost 40 percent over the past decade. Although many find professiona residents still l employmen across the t river, of opportunitie there are plenty s local communityin the vibrant . These include Internation al Paper Co. as well as Fras-Le , a Brazilian manufactur brake er that opened U.S. friction its first materials manufactur facility in Prattville ing in 2008 and expanded in 2013 with an investment of $11 million and addition of about 100 jobs. Maxwell Air Force Base , which employs about 15,000 active and civilian duty workers, is approximate 13 miles from ly Prattville.

PRATTVILL ES PROGRESS

Expansion

First Baptist Third Street

Washington

Street

Internation al Paper Co. , one of Prattville Countys largest and Autauga creates industrialemployers, and consumer packaging products and high-quality paper for several brands. The companys Prattville facility, employing about and commonly 600 people the Riverdale known as Mill, produces boxboard, which is a firm cardboard thats used to make boxes.

Boxboard Production

138 S. Washington St. Prattville, AL 36067 (334) 365-0606 (334) 361-9481 Kindergarten (334) 361-9497 Moms Day Out mail@fbcprattv ille.org www.fbcprattv ille.org

Call 1-800-996-4100 to help. www.stjude.org

We Cant.

Main Street Exit 179 Cobbs Ford

BUSINESS:

POPULATION BOOM OVER PAST Prattville DECADE question and Autauga DRAWS County why. All INVESTMENT schools are among the best and of Southern the fastest-growing investment beautiful scenery suburban as well come areas living as new top-notch in Alabama, residents. together here, neighborhoods,and theres providing no a quality award-winning of life that draws business

Growth

OVERVIEW

Spurt

Can you imagine a world without children?

SCHEDULE
Dr. Travis

Prattvilles Grouby options include a 5,400-foot Field , which aviation. runway for general has Airport Montgomery is just and Birmingham-Shuttlesworth 12 miles Regional from puts 120 Prattville, minutes daily flights access away from about 75 is home. running made easy Interstate Prattville.along the by Interstate eastern 65, Economic The city is also edge of of AlabamaDevelopment home to the , a leader development Association in workforce investment and business in the region. Growth

Air transportation

Advantages

for Business

Senior

Minister Jr.

Coleman

Sunday School Morning 8:15 Traditional & 9:30 Contemporary Worship a.m. Worship 9:30 11:00 a.m. Discipleship Sunday
Sunday

OF EVENTS

Expansion PRATTVILLES

and

Retailers

SHOPPING
Theres Bass Pro no shortage Shops of sportsmen in Prattvillelocal retail and service (and women) and meeting offers a spacious businesses of all other rooms, persuasions. and popular and in the well-equipped area. Downtown outdoor offers workshops The shop stores, includes haven for is where pastimes. on fly-fishing, a a restaurant historic grocery store, tradition hunting and commerce city center restaurants, and a fun and many intersect. and convenient Two hardware specialty T VIL LE A place ND A to shop. shops make U TA U G A CO the UN
TY

DESTINATION

36

P R AT

for populationcities which in was almost growth, over the 40 percent past Although decade. many find professional residents across still the river, employment of opportunities there are plenty local community.in the vibrant International These include well as Paper Fras-Le Co. as manufacturer , a Brazilian U.S. friction that opened brake materials facility its first in manufacturing expanded Prattville in 2008 investmentin 2013 with an and of $11 addition million of and Maxwell about 100 Air Force jobs. employs Base, about and civilian which 15,000 active workers, 13 miles duty is from Prattville. approximately

PROGRESS According Prattville to the 2010 ranks top 20 Census, second most populous among Alabama the

International one of Paper Prattville Co., Countys and Autauga creates largest employers, industrial consumer and products packaging and high-quality paper for companysseveral brands. employing Prattville The facility, about and commonly 600 the Riverdale known people as boxboard, Mill, produces cardboard which is a firm thats make used boxes. to

Boxboard Production

Training Evening Worship 5:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Prayer Service Evening 6:00 p.m.

Washington

138 S. Washington Prattville, AL 36067 St. (334) 365-0606 (334) 361-9481 (334) 361-9497 Kindergarten mail@fbcprattville.org Moms Day Out www.fbcprattville.org

Baptist Street

Third

Street

First

Main

Street

Exit 179

BUSINESS:

POPULATION

Growth

OVERVIEW

BOOM Prattville OVER question and PAST Autauga DECADE schools why. County and All the best DRAWS investment are among beautiful of INVESTMENT as well scenerySouthern the as new come suburbanfastest-growing residents. together living areas top-notch here, in Alabama, providing neighborhoods, and a quality theres of life no award-winning that draws business
Air transportation Prattvilles

Spurt

Advantages

a 5,400-foot Grouby options aviation. runwayField, include Airport Montgomery which for and is just general has Birmingham-Shuttlesworth 12 miles Regional puts 120 from minutes daily Prattville, access away flights running is made from about home. 75 Prattville.along easy Interstate by Interstate Economic The the eastern city of AlabamaDevelopment 65, is also edge development home of , a leader to investment Association in workforce the and in the business region. Growth

for Business

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

and PRATTVILLES Expansion According PROGRESS Prattville to top ranks the 2010 20 most second Alabama Census, populous among which for population cities the over was almost in the growth, past 40 Although decade. percent find many professional across residents the of opportunities river, employment still there local are community. in International plenty the vibrant well These as Fras-LePaper include manufacturer Co. , a Brazilian as U.S. friction that facility opened brake materials in Prattville expanded its first manufacturing investment in 2013 in 2008 addition of $11 with an and of about million Maxwell employs and 100 Air and about Force jobs. civilian 15,000 Base, 13 miles which workers, active from is approximately duty Prattville.

Retailers

SHOPPING
Bass Pro no shortage sportsmen Shops of local in Prattville and meeting(and women) retail other offers and popular rooms, service of all a spacious Downtown outdoor and offers persuasions. and businesses stores, is where pastimes.workshops The well-equipped historic a grocery in the shop tradition area. city on fly-fishing, includes haven centerstore, restaurants, and a fun commerce a restaurant for hunting and and convenient many intersect. and place specialty Two to shop. shops hardware make the Theres

DESTINATION

paper and high-quality for companys several employing brands. Prattville and The about commonly facility, the 600 Riverdale known people boxboard, Mill, as cardboard which produces make thats is a firm boxes. used to

International one of Prattville Paper Countys creates largest and Co., Autauga industrial employers, consumer products packaging and

Boxboard Production

Can a world you imagine without children?

Cobbs

Ford

36

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MAGAZINE

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Call

Read it online quickly or on your tablet share articles and with friends.
Air transportation Prattvilles

MAGAZINE
POPULATION

BUSINESS:

Cant. 1-800-996-4100 www.stjude.org to help.

We

Growth

OVERVIEW

BOOM Prattville OVER question and PAST Autauga DECADE schools why. County and All the best DRAWS investment are among beautiful of INVESTMENT as well scenerySouthern the as new come suburbanfastest-growing residents. together living areas top-notch here, in Alabama, providing neighborhoods, and a quality theres of life no award-winning that draws business

Spurt

Cant. Call 1-800-996-4100

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

We

Advantages

www.stjude.orgto help.

a 5,400-foot Grouby options aviation. runwayField, include Airport Montgomery which for and is just general has Birmingham-Shuttlesworth 12 miles Regional puts 120 from minutes daily Prattville, access away flights running is made from about home. 75 Prattville.along easy Interstate by Interstate Economic The the eastern city of AlabamaDevelopment 65, is also edge development home of , a leader to investment Association in workforce the and in the business region. Growth

for Business

and PRATTVILLES Expansion

Retailers

SHOPPING
Bass Pro no shortage sportsmen Shops of local in Prattville and meeting(and women) retail other offers and popular rooms, service of all a spacious Downtown outdoor and offers persuasions. and businesses stores, is where pastimes.workshops The well-equipped historic a grocery in the shop tradition area. city on fly-fishing, includes haven centerstore, restaurants, and a fun commerce a restaurant for hunting and and convenient many intersect. and place specialty Two to shop. shops hardware make the Theres

DESTINATION

36

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According PROGRESS Prattville to top ranks the 2010 20 most second Alabama Census, populous among which for population cities the over was almost in the growth, past 40 Although decade. percent find many professional across residents the of opportunities river, employment still there local are community. in International plenty the vibrant well These as Fras-LePaper include manufacturer Co. , a Brazilian as U.S. friction that facility opened brake materials in Prattville expanded its first manufacturing investment in 2013 in 2008 addition of $11 with an and of about million Maxwell employs and 100 Air and about Force jobs. civilian 15,000 Base, 13 miles which workers, active from is approximately duty Prattville.

paper and high-quality for companys several employing brands. Prattville and The about commonly facility, the 600 Riverdale known people boxboard, Mill, as cardboard which produces make thats is a firm boxes. used to

International one of Prattville Paper Countys creates largest and Co., Autauga industrial employers, consumer products packaging and

Boxboard Production

MAGAZINE

Can a world you imagine without children?

Call

Cant. 1-800-996-4100 www.stjude.org to help.

We

Call 1-800-99 6-4100 www.stjude.orgto help.

We Cant.

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BUSINESS

Going STEADY
LONG-ESTABLISHED BUSINESSES SET SOLID EXAMPLES FOR NEW ENTERPRISES
Small Businesses Succeed Here
Jen Pease fulfilled her lifelong dream when she opened Pease of Cake, which offers cupcakes and custom cakes.

by KEVIN LITWIN

38

P rattville and A utau G a County

Staff Photos by WENDY JO OBARR

Prattville diners have enjoyed traditional Southern meals at the locally-owned Jims Restaurant since 1958.

arion Bowen established Arrow Pest Control in Prattville in 1967, while the history of Jims Restaurant in Prattville dates back even farther to 1958.
logo and tagline that identifies the organization as The Preferred Chamber Where Everyone Matters. IN GOOD COMPANY Besides the four honorees, other longestablished top companies in Prattville include Carol Lemon Realty, Herrods Chevron Station, Kinedyne and Larry Puckett Chevrolet. Meanwhile, newer businesses continue to establish themselves in Alabamas fifth-fastestgrowing city, including retailers and restaurants such as Bass Pro Shop, Chappys Deli, Kinnucans and Pease of Cake that are tenants at the new High Point Town Center. Over the last five years, Prattville has added more than 400 hotel rooms and issued 150 commercial business permits. The Prattville area also has four industrial parks with spaces suited to relocating or expanding larger companies. Phyllis Tampling, owner of Jims Restaurant (where breakfast can be ordered all day), says that even though the city continues to grow steadily, Prattville retains its small, hometown feel thanks in large part to friendly people. I wouldnt live or work anywhere else besides Prattville. Theres a true feeling of home here, she says. There is low crime, business owners know one another, and I think that the feeling of being a close-knit community will remain always.
livability. com / prattville

Those two businesses along with two other long-standing companies Royal Office Equipment and Luckie Heating & Air Conditioning took the spotlight in September 2013 at the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce membership meeting, which also served as a celebration for the chambers 40th anniversary. The four longtime businesses were saluted for several reasons, among them to show how small businesses are valued and can thrive alongside Prattvilles larger industries. Small businesses are perhaps more critical to the countrys economy as one might think: They are responsible for creating 60 to 80 percent of all new jobs in the U.S. each year, according to the Small Business Administration. The chamber wanted to make a point of honoring those longtime local economic contributors while perhaps encouraging more entrepreneurs to set up shop here. The city is great for doing business, says Terry Bowen, vice president of Arrow Pest Control, a Prattville native and former chamber president. And hopefully we will attract new industries in the near future, especially since we have a strong highway system and an airport, plus were in the middle of the state near Montgomery, the state capital. Prattville remains a very pro-business community. The chambers 40th anniversary celebration included another move to reinforce that inclusive attitude, a new

39

Smith-Byrd House
The Smith-Byrd House is a bed & breakfast inn and tea room located in the Daniel Pratt Historic District. The bed & breakfast has two rooms, each with kingsize bed and private bath. Your overnight stay includes a homecooked breakfast the following morning. The tea room is open Wednesday-Saturday from noon until 5:00 p.m. and features a traditional afternoon tea menu with more than 100 varieties of loose tea to choose from. While reservations for tea are not required, we highly recommend calling ahead to ensure that we have seating available for you and your party. Whether you are looking for a place to stay while you visit Prattville or just looking for a nice quiet atmosphere to spend an afternoon catching up with an old friend, we invite you to consider the Smith-Byrd House. For more information, go to our website or give us a call. SMITH-BYRD HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST AND TEA ROOM 137 N. Washington St. Prattville, AL 36067 (334) 365-1459 info@smithbyrdhouse.com www.smithbyrdhouse.com

Bed & Breakfast/Tea Room

Business Spotlight
KINNUCANS SPECIALTY OUTFITTER
Located in the new High Point Town Center in Prattville, Kinnucans product line includes footwear, cold and warm weather apparel, collegiate goods, sunglasses and womens fashion. www.kinnucans.com

BRYAN JEWELRY
One of the most trusted names in Prattville for 60 years, Bryan Jewelry features classic and cutting-edge jewelry designs for all its rings, earrings, pendants and bracelets. www.bryanjewelry.com

FOSTER DRUG OF ALABAMA

The long-standing pharmacy on North Memorial Drive is family-owned and specializes in helpful, courteous service in person or by phone, with customers greeted by name. (334) 365-3327

VISIT OUR ADVERTISERS

Alabama Power
www.alabamapower.com

International Paper
www.internationalpaper.com

Arrow Pest Control

www.arrowpestcontrol.net

Jackson Hospital
www.jackson.org

HAMPTON INN & SUITES PRATTVILLE

This new Hampton Inn is off Interstate 65 just 10 miles from Montgomery, and features in-room Internet access, a gym/fitness center and a free hot breakfast. (334) 285-6767

Autauga Prattville Public Library

www.appl.info

Jackson Thornton
www.jacksonthornton.com

Baptist Health
www.baptistfirst.org

Marriott Legends at Capitol Hill

www.marriottcapitolhill.com

BWS Technologies
www.bwsit.com

Prattville Downtown Unlimited

www.visithistoricprattville.com

UNIVERSAL TURBINE PARTS

Established in Prattville in 1993, UTP and its 40 employees supply turbine engines and component parts to customers throughout the small gasturbine engine industry. www.utpparts.com Find out more about Prattville and Autauga Countys companies at livability.com/prattville/ al/business.

Central Alabama Electric Cooperative

www.caec.com

Prattville YMCA
www.prattvilleymca.com

Realty Connection
www.ahomewithrobin.com

Charlton Place Rehabilitation & Health Care

www.charltonplacerehabandhealthcare.com

Smith-Byrd House Bed & Breakfast

www.smithbyrdhouse.com

First Baptist Church Prattville

www.fbcprattville.org

The Park Apartment Homes

www.theparkapartmenthomes.com

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

www.holidayinnexpress.com/prattvilleal

Vinyltech Signs & Decals

www.vinyltechsigns.com

40

P rattville and A utau G a County

BUSINESS: CHAMBER REPORT

How Refreshing

CHAMBER MARKS 40TH ANNIVERSARY WITH WEBSITE UPGRADE, NEW LOGO

The Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce gave itself a present for its 40th anniversary. The chamber rolled out a revised website and launched a rebranding effort that includes a logo change to celebrate four decades of serving Prattville and Autauga County. The chamber, established in 1973, also revamped its Facebook page. The website features a fresh, eye-pleasing home page with links to tourism, economic development, news and events. Brink of Design in Prattville developed the new site. TWO LANDMARKS The new logo features the words Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce displayed between two wellrecognized landmarks in the community. On the left side of the logo is an artistic rendering of a water fountain that graces Heritage Park in downtown Prattville, and the right side showcases an icon of a clock tower found on the east side of Prattville near Interstate 65. The water fountain represents a link to citys past, when early industrialist Daniel Pratt founded this community and worked hard to develop it. The clock tower represents modern days as well as the progress that continues to be made over time throughout Prattville and Autauga County. The chamber also adopted a new tag line: The Preferred Chamber Where Everyone Matters. The tagline connects the chambers mission to advance the community as a whole as well as the citys tagline of the preferred community - a place where individuals and businesses alike work together to create an excellent quality of life. by Kevin Litwin

Board of Directors 2013-2014

OFFICERS Chairman of the Board Walter Kennedy, Marriott Legends at Capitol Hill Chair Elect Rusty Golden, Jackson Thornton Past Chair Mike Lamar, River Bank and Trust Treasurer Adam Stephenson, Warren Averett LLC Vice President Economic Development Lisa Miller, Alabama Municipal Electric Authority Vice President Membership Services Rendi Tallmage, W.W. Grainger Vice President Special Events/Projects Rebecca Thomas, MAX Credit Union BOARD OF DIRECTORS Julie Young, Central Alabama Electric Cooperative

Gene Crane, River Bank and Trust Eric Alford, Bass Pro Shops-Prattville Bill Paravicini, Paravicinis Home Furnishings and Decor Martha Ellis, Ellis Counseling Gary Smith, AKD Dawn Grooms, Autauga County Technology Center Randy Grissett, Sterling Bank Brian Davis, Energen/Alagasco Suzzanne Sanders, Indulgence Salon and Spa Ginger Henry, Prattville Baptist Hospital John Schmidt, Centerpoint Fellowship Church David Lewis, YMCA Diane Hamm, City of Prattville Carl Gunter, International Paper

EX OFFICIO Mayor Bill Gillespie, Jr., City of Prattville Mayor F. B. Ward, Town of Autaugaville Mayor Greg Davis, Town of Billingsley Chairman Carl Johnson, Autauga County Commission Superintendent Spence Agee, Autauga County Board of Education Lt. Gen David Fadok, Maxwell Air Force Base J. Robert Faulk, Attorney at Law, McDowell, Faulk & McDowell LLC CHAMBER STAFF Patty VanderWal, Executive Vice President, Financial Director Donna Jackson, Membership Director
livability. com / prattville

41

Serious Luxury

2100 Legends Dr. Prattville, AL 36066 334-491-7275 tel 334-491-7276 fax www.theparkapartmenthomes.com

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

42

P rattville and A utau G a County

ECONOMIC PROFILE
7%
15%

TAXES

72%

2%
County Sales Tax

TOP EMPLOYERS
Autauga County Board of Education, Intl. Paper Co. Wal-Mart, City of Prattville, Prattville Baptist Hospital, Autauga County, Prattville Health and Rehabilitation LLC Kinedyne Corp., Central Alabama Electric Cooperative

EDUCATION LEVEL
High School Graduate Associate Degree Bachelors Degree Masters Degree

4%
State Sales Tax

9.5%
Total Sales Tax

SCORECARD

HOUSEHOLD INCOME
$200,000+ 320 $30,000-199,999 $29,999 and Under
9,759

$598M
Annual Retail Sales

149100

TRANSPORTATION
Montgomery Regional Airport www.iy montgomery.com Autauga Northern Railroad www.watcocompanies.com

$83M
Annual Hotel and Food Sales

2,954
Total Number of Firms

3,138

THIS SECTION IS SPONSORED BY

Connecting Buyers and Sellers with Their Future

Specializing in Residential Sales and Rentals in the Tri-County Area

ROBIN DAVIES ~ Broker/Owner

Cell: 334-657-8495 Email: AHomeWithRobin@yahoo.com Web: www.AHomeWithRobin.com

599150

City Sales and Use Tax

600+

6%

3.5%

Ad Index
44 ALABAMA POWER 42 ARROW PEST CONTROL 42 AUTAUGA PRATTVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY C4 BAPTIST HEALTH 31 BWS TECHNOLOGIES C2 CENTRAL ALABAMA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 30 CHARLTON PLACE REHABILITATION & HEALTH CARE 37 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH PRATTVILLE 1 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES 8 INTERNATIONAL PAPER 30 JACKSON HOSPITAL 2 JACKSON THORNTON C3 MARRIOTT LEGENDS AT CAPITOL HILL 10 PRATTVILLE DOWNTOWN UNLIMITED 42 PRATTVILLE YMCA 43 REALTY CONNECTION 40 SMITH-BYRD HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST 42 THE PARK APARTMENT HOMES 42 VINYLTECH SIGNS & DECALS