for more information visit us online at

Propex Inc.’s Nashville, Georgia

facility has been a strong

community partner since 1968.

Propex has supported many

local initiatives including

United Way, American Cancer

Society Relay for Life, Habitat

for Humanity, and Valdosta

Technical College partnership

for educational improvement.

For more informationvisit us online at

www.propexinc.com

Berrien County Chamber of Commerce2

CommunityLink.com 1 800-455-5600

production

production manager MATT PRICE

director of media & content DIAnA VAughn copywriting BERRIEn CounTy

ChAMBER of CoMMERCE

copy editor LAuRA WILCoxEn

proofreader ChRIsTInA REEsE

director of photography LIsA LEhR

photography s.g. soLoMAn JR.

WILD ADVEnTuREs

creative director CLInT EILERTs

cover design AMAnDA WhITE

supporting design KELLy fRIEDERICh

web site creation & support Josh ChAnDLER

business development

director of business development gEoRgE PRuDhoMME

director of outside sales sTEVE gRAff

director of inside sales nAnCy oDoM

assistant director of sales DEBBIE Moss

regional director of publications AnnA MADDox

business development manager BonnIE EBERs

marketing consultant BRAD EsTEs

customer service director KAThy RIsLEy

customer service representative TAMARA sAnTos

advertising

ad research MARy KoPshEVER

MILLy MAson

AMy sChWARTzKoPf

KAThy sCoTT

ad traffic CARoL sMITh

director of advertising KACEy WoLTERs

ad design JosEPh goETTIng

Josh MuELLER

administrative support

administrative support KAThy hAgEnE

CARoL sMITh

account support TERRI AhnER

TRICIA CAnnEDy

human resources assistant TEREsA CRAIg

customer service advocate JuLIE VoRDTRIEDE

mailroom technician MELInDA BoWLIn

information technology

publishing systems coordinator ChRIsToPhER MILLER

executive leadership

chairman and founder CRAIg WILLIAMs

chief financial officer RhonDA hARsy

ABOUT This book is published by CommunityLink

and distributed through the Berrien County Chamber

of Commerce. For advertising information or

questions or comments about this book contact

CommunityLink at 800-455-5600 or by e-mail at

[email protected]

FOR INFORMATION Berrien County Chamber of

Commerce, 201 North Jefferson St., P.O. Box 217,

Nashville, GA 31639, 229-686-5123, Fax 229-686-7196,

www.berrienchamber.com

© 2008 Craig Williams Creative, Inc., 4742 Holts Prairie

Road, Post Office Box 306, Pinckneyville, IL 62274-0306,

618-357-8653. All rights reserved. No portion of this book

may be reproduced without the expressed written consent

of the publisher.

Table of Contents

Welcome and History ............................................. 3An Open InvItAtIOn tO vIsIt BerrIen COunty

Location .................................................................................. 4A unIque AtmOsphere

Education .............................................................................. 5prOmOtIng ACAdemIC AChIevement

Local Government ...................................................... 8We the peOple

Health Care .....................................................................10COmpAssIOnAte COmmunIty CAre

Business and Industry ..........................................12We’re entrepreneur FrIendly

Homes ...................................................................................14the Old sOuth meets COntempOrAry COnvenIenCe

Recreation and Area Attractions ..............15COme Out And plAy

Worship and Civic Clubs .................................17FAIth In ACtIOn

Close .......................................................................................18the ChAmBer Is WOrkIng FOr yOu

Index of Advertisers ...............................................19pleAse suppOrt the AdvertIsers WhO helped tO mAke thIs puBlICAtIOn pOssIBle

www.berrienchamber.com 3

W elcome to Berrien County, Georgia! The mission of the Berrien County Chamber of Commerce is to enhance

the economic environment for its business, agri-cultural and professional members through advo-cacy and promotion, while striving to enhance the quality of life for all citizens.

You have an open invitation to visit Berrien County, whether to shop, dine or to soak up our Southern hospitality.

Our community is rich with history. Berrien County is Georgia’s 116th county. The county was named for John Macpherson Berrien, a Savannah lawyer who served as a judge — including on the Supreme Court of Georgia — a state senator, a United States Senator, and the United States Attorney General under President Andrew Jackson. Berrien County

has one of the state’s oldest post roads, the Coffee Road. It was opened in 1823 to chan-nel settlers’ crops to Florida.

The county seat of Berrien County is Nashville, which was incorporated in 1892. Nashville was named for Gen. Francis Nash of North Carolina, a distinguished soldier of the Revolutionary War. Other incorporated towns in the county are Alapaha, Enigma and Ray City.

Alapaha was incorporated in 1881 on the site of a Seminole village with the same name. Its city hall is located in the old Alapaha Station, the former depot for the now defunct Brunswick and Albany Railroad. Some believe that Alapaha was the Creek word for “other side”; others believe it was the word Timucuan Indians used for “bear.” The Alapaha Station

Celebration occurs the second weekend of each November.

Enigma was incorporated in 1906. Histories of the town’s name are apocryphal, and so, as one source opined, the name remains an enigma. Georgia writer Harry Crews used Enigma as the setting for his first novel, The Gospel Singer (1968).

Ray City was incorporated in 1909 as Ray’s Mill. The white settlement dates to 1863, when locals knew it as Rays Pond. The current name was adopted in 1915, after the town was moved to the railroad junction.

Four buildings in Berrien County are on the National Register of Historic Places: the Berrien County Court House, the Alapaha Colored School, the old Berrien County Jail and the William G. Harrison/Eulalie Taylor House.

An Open Invitation to Visit Berrien

County

WelCOme And hIstOry »


W e are a unique community located just east of Interstate 75. Four municipalities are nestled within

the county’s more than 450 square miles. Alapaha, Enigma, Nashville and Ray City each play host to unique retail and dining estab-lishments. With a population of more than

17,500 and growing, Berrien County offers a unique atmosphere, with all the convenience and technology of larger communities but loaded with Southern hospitality and charm. Residents and visitors alike enjoy our mild winters and scenic beauty.

Our county neighbors are Tift County to the north and Lowndes County to the south. Berrien County is conveniently located less than 20 miles north of Moody Air Force Base (www.moody.af.mil). We are approximately 200 miles from Atlanta, the state’s capital, and 50 miles from the Florida line.

This area is served by air, land and sea transportation. Valdosta Regional Airport offers daily flights to Atlanta via Atlantic Southeastern Airlines, a Delta subsidiary. We have several major highways that run through our community,

including U.S. 129 and U.S. 82, as well as sev-eral state highways. Freight rail service is pro-vided by CSX, Norfolk Southern and Valdosta Railway via a state-owned freight service. Both the Brunswick and Jacksonville ports are eas-ily accessible from Berrien County.

lOCAtIOn

A Unique Atmosphere

»

Residents and visitors alike enjoy our mild winters and scenic beauty. »


Berrien County School System www.berrien.k12.ga.us

The Berrien County School System serves more than 3,000 children in grades Pre-K through 12 with five schools. The school system is in the process of constructing a new elementary and primary school. Berrien Primary and Berrien Elementary have been recognized as Title I Distinguished Schools for the past eight and six years, respectively. Berrien High School received the Governor’s Cup, recognizing a 50-point gain in SAT scores over the past three years. All students have access to superb academic instruction, music, physical education, computer labs and well-equipped media centers.

Classworks, an innovative Web-based instructional and prescriptive assessment program in grades kindergarten through eight, utilizes data to assist teachers in modi-fying instruction based on the individual student’s needs.

Students are offered the opportunity to study art and music, as well as pursue extra-curricular activities through clubs and various athletic programs.

Berrien Primary SchoolBerrien Primary School houses Pre-K

through second grade. Approximately 786 students receive academic instruction, music lessons and physical education and have regular access to computer labs and a well-equipped media center. Early intervention, an after-school/summer program, ESOL, a spe-cial education program with co-teaching, and a gifted program serve at-risk, special-needs and high-achieving students.

An instructional coordinator and two lit-eracy coaches provide assistance to the teach-ers and oversee the implementation of the Learning Focus Strategies.

Berrien Elementary SchoolBerrien Elementary School has approxi-

mately 676 students in grades three though five. Third and fourth grade students are served in self-contained classrooms, while fifth grade students use a parallel block schedule. In addition to academic instruction, students receive art, music and physical education.

Berrien Elementary School has two fully equipped computer labs and a media center. At-risk, special-needs and high-achieving stu-dents are served through the early interven-tion program, ESOL, gifted education or the special education program. An instructional coordinator and the two literacy coaches assist administrators with implementation of Learning Focus Strategies and provide sup-port to the teachers, students and parents.

Berrien Middle SchoolBerrien Middle School (BMS) houses grades

six through eight, with approximately 750 stu-dents receiving academic instruction as well as chorus, band, physical education, art, family and consumer science, and computer skills.

Students have ready access to computer labs, a well-equipped media center and two mobile laptop computer labs. An academic math coach provides support to math teachers, models effective teaching strategies and assists teachers with such activities as planning differ-entiating instruction and progress monitoring. An instructional coordinator provides assistance to teachers and monitors the implementation of Learning Focus Schools (LFS) strategies.

Berrien High SchoolBerrien High School (BHS) has approxi-

mately 850 students in grades nine through 12. Advanced placement (AP) classes are offered in math, English and history, giving students the opportunity to earn college credit. Honors

classes are offered to students who excel aca-demically, with most being taught by gifted-endorsed teachers. Additional services include co-teaching, supportive instruction, small group and individual instruction, and consultation.

An instructional coordinator provides assistance to teachers and monitors the imple-mentation of Learning Focus Schools (LFS) strategies. Students have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of classes, clubs, extracurricular activities and athletic teams. A high school graduation coach identifies at-risk students to ensure each student successfully completes high school on time.

The Berrien Academy Performance Learning Center

The Berrien Academy Performance Learning Center, a charter school, serves 75 students in a business-like learning environ-ment for academic innovation. The center provides students who are not successful in the traditional high school classroom setting with another path to pursue and attain a high school diploma.

Students independently undertake and complete the curriculum with guidance from

eduCAtIOn

Promoting Academic Achievement

»

Plenty of extracurricular activities lead to enthusiastic school spirit at Berrien High School.


a learning facilitator. Class assignments and testing are completed at their own pace using NovaNet, an online, computer-based program. Students enrolled at the Berrien Academy Performance Learning Center have the opportunity to participate in internship programs and can take advantage of dual-enrollment programs in either college or technical school. An element of the total cur-riculum is the completion of service projects within the community.

As a charter school, Berrien Academy does not participate in events or extracurricular activities sanctioned by the Georgia High School Association.

Alapaha Tutoring Center 229-532-7587

The Alapaha Tutoring Center is a nonprofit tutoring program that is dedicated to working towards the advancement of education and religion, to lessening neighborhood tension, and to combating community deterioration and juvenile delinquency.

The work setting of the Alapaha Tutoring Center is strictly educational. The tutoring program is divided into four areas, including tutoring, academic teaching, homework and team-building activities.

Carrie Dorsey Perry Memorial Library 229-686-2782

The Carrie Dorsey Perry Memorial Library is the Berrien County library and is an affiliate of the Coastal Plain Regional Library System, which also serves Cook, Irwin, Tift and Turner counties.

Library collections include popular fic-tion and nonfiction, magazines, audio books, videotapes, and reference materials. The library also has 11 computers, all equipped with Internet service and word-process-ing software, for public use. The library also offers an extensive genealogy section, a meeting room that seats 60 comfortably, and copy, fax and lamination services for a nominal fee.

Carrie Dorsey Perry Memorial Library also plays host to a number of programs for chil-dren throughout the year. Vacation reading programs are held during school holidays, and group visits are encouraged and may be arranged by calling in advance.

Higher EducationBerrien County is surrounded with higher-

education resources, all within a 30-min-ute drive. Schools include Valdosta State University, Valdosta Tech, Georgia Military College, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and Moultrie Tech.

Valdosta State UniversityValdosta State University (VSU) offers

undergraduate work leading to the following degrees:

Associate of Applied ScienceAssociate of ArtsBachelor of Applied ScienceBachelor of Arts (14 major programs)Bachelor of Business Administration

(five major programs)Bachelor of Fine Arts (six major programs)Bachelor of General StudiesBachelor of Music (two major programs)Bachelor of Science (11 major programs)Bachelor of Science in Education

(11 major programs)Bachelor of Science in Exercise ScienceBachelor of Science in Nursing

Graduate degrees offered include:Doctor of Education

(three major programs)Education Specialist (10 major programs)Master of Art EducationMaster of Arts (two major programs)Master of Business AdministrationMaster of Education (14 major programs)Master of Library and Information ScienceMaster of Music EducationMaster of Public AdministrationMaster of Science (five major programs)Master of Science in NursingMaster of Social Work

New baccalaureate and graduate degree programs are added from time to time to meet the needs of the population served by the university.

Valdosta Technical CollegeValdosta Technical College (VTC) offers day,

evening and extended-day schedules for techni-cal, health care and business training. The focus is on hands-on practical training. Founded in

1963, VTC’s goal is entry-level employment, career advancement and the promotion of life-long learning for its students. Serving six coun-ties, with the main campus in Valdosta and a location at Moody Air Force Base, VTC touches more than 10,000 lives each year.

Georgia Military CollegeEstablished in 1879, Georgia Military

College (GMC) offers two-year cooperative degree programs in education, administra-tion, early childhood education and behav-ioral science. With eight sites around the state, including campuses in Valdosta and on Moody Air Force Base, GMC also has five distance-learning center campuses on military installations throughout Georgia.

Abraham Baldwin Agricultural CollegeAbraham Baldwin Agricultural College

(ABAC) is Georgia’s newest state college. A total of 3,574 students enjoy a beautiful 421-acre campus nestled in the heart of South Georgia.

The Division of Agriculture and Forest Resources is the largest division on campus, and nursing is ABAC’s largest single program major. The college offers 40 college transfer programs in which students move on to four-year colleges and universities after their ABAC careers are complete. Students can also choose from 15 two-year career technological degrees that propel them into the job market. Another option is the certificate program, where ABAC offers 11 selections, each of which can be completed in one year.

Moultrie Technical CollegeMoultrie Technical College serves four

counties with five campuses conveniently located in each area. These counties include Colquitt, Tift, Turner and Worth.

The college’s doors are now open to over 1,900 students, a staff of 130-plus employ-ees, and more than 50 degree, diploma and certificate programs. While change has been constant during Moultrie Technical College’s history, it is evident that Moultrie Tech strives to remain on the cutting edge of technology and delivery of instruction. With the full participation of individual citizens and the collaboration of business, industry and educa-tion groups, the college will continue to strive to promote individual student development and to improve the quality of life in the com-munities it serves.

eduCAtIOn»

Berrien Middle School serves approximately 750 students.


Berrien County 229-686-5421

Berrien County was created in 1856 from Coffee, Irwin and Lowndes counties. Berrien consists of more than 450 square miles, and the county works diligently to maintain every inch.

Berrien County has 150 employees provid-ing fire protection through seven volunteer fire departments, library services, health ser-vices through the health department, police protection and jail, recreation, emergency services (911 and EMS), airport services, animal control, code enforcement, court ser-vices, and tax digest preparation. The county has 13 sworn deputies, a sheriff and 150 volunteer firefighters stationed throughout the county. Berrien County has five county commissioners who qualify by district but run

and serve countywide; the chairman is elected by the Board.

As of January 2008, all county services, with the exception of the Sheriff’s Department, are in one convenient complex located at 201 North Davis Street. This new $5 million com-plex will enhance the Nashville downtown area, which is currently undergoing a major beautification project.

City of Nashville www.cityofnashvillega.net

The City of Nashville was incorporated on December 20, 1892, becoming the county seat for Berrien County. Nashville has a pres-ent population of nearly 5,000.

With 43 employees, the City of Nashville provides water, sewer, gas, sanitation and of course public safety services. The City of Nashville has 16 certified police officers, and

23 volunteer firefighters to protect and serve the city’s more than 4,600 residents.

Nashville has a city council/city manager form of government, with six council mem-bers and the mayor representing the interests of the city.

City of Ray City [email protected]

The City of Ray City was incorporated in 1909. Ray City, a certified City of Ethics since 2001, has a present population of just under 800, and the city limits total 0.8 square miles. Ray City is conveniently located just 10 miles south of Moody Air Force Base.

Ray City provides water, sewer and sanita-tion services to its citizens. The city has one full-time and one part-time police officer and 15 volunteer firefighters. Ray City has a mayor/city council form of government with

lOCAl gOvernment

We the People

»


four city council members and the mayor representing the interests of the city. Ray City hosts an annual 4th of July celebration the Saturday before July 4.

City of Enigma 229-533-4185

Enigma was incorporated in 1906 and has a present population of nearly 900. A mayor and four council members serve the City of Enigma. Fire protection is provided by 14 volunteer firefighters, and three police officers (two full-time and one part-time) patrol the city’s 3.3 square miles. The city provides water and sanitation services to its citizens.

The City of Enigma hosts its annual Fire Cracker Celebration every July 4th.

Town of Alapaha 229-532-7475

Alapaha was incorporated in 1881 on the site of a Seminole village with the same name. Its city hall is located in the old Alapaha Station, the former depot for the now defunct Brunswick and Albany Railroad.

The Town of Alapaha provides its citi-zens with water/sewer/sanitation services. Its 12 volunteer firefighters provide the one square mile of city limits with fire protec-tion. Alapaha’s population is just under 700. A mayor and five councilpersons represent the town.

The Town of Alapaha hosts the Alapaha Station Celebration the second weekend of November.

BERRiEn CoUnTyAirport ...................................229-686-1871Ambulance ............................229-686-2828Animal Shelter .......................229-686-9113Board of Education .................229-686-2081Chamber ...............................229-686-5123Code Enforcement .................229-686-6589Commissioners ......................229-686-5421Community Services ...............229-686-7871Development Authority ............229-686-7124District Attorney .....................229-686-7015Elections ................................229-686-5215Emergency Management ........229-686-6578Extension Service ...................229-686-5431Family & Children Services .....229-686-5568Forestry Department...............229-686-3766Health Department .................229-686-5411Jail ........................................229-686-7664Library ...................................229-686-2782Magistrate Court ....................229-686-7019Probate Court ........................229-686-5213Recreation .............................229-686-5757Road Department ...................229-686-3230Search & Rescue ...................229-686-2445Senior Citizens Center ............229-686-5648Sheriff’s Office .......................229-686-2091Superior Court .......................229-686-2180Tax Assessor ..........................229-686-2149Tax Commissioner ..................229-686-7461Victim’s Assistance .................229-686-7856

CiTy of ALAPAHAClerk’s Office .........................229-532-7475Fire Department .....................229-686-7664Post Office .............................229-532-2128

CiTy of EniGMACity Hall .................................229-533-4185Fire/Police Emergency ............229-533-6717Police Department ..................229-533-4185Post Office .............................229-533-3095

CiTy of nASHViLLECity Hall .................................229-686-5527Fire Department .....................229-686-2154Parks & Recreation ................229-686-7764Police Department ..................229-686-7666Post Office .............................229-686-5936Work Control ..........................229-686-5784

CiTy of RAy CiTyCity Hall .................................229-455-2501Police Department ..................229-455-4921Post Office .............................229-455-2022Senior Center .........................229-455-2236

oTHER iMPoRTAnT nUMBERSBerrien County Hospital ................. 543-7100Drivers License ............................. 386-2056

UtilitiesColquitt EMC (rural) ....................... 686-7431Georgia Power (city) ...................... 686-2056Mediacom Cable ........................... 244-4400W indstream

(phone/Internet)...................800-501-1754

IMPoRTANT NuMBERS

lOCAl gOvernment »


Berrien County Hospital 229-543-7100

Berrien County is the home of Healthcare of Berrien County Inc., a comprehensive health care provider offering extensive health care services through the 63-bed acute care hospital, Berrien County Hospital; long-term and rehabilitative care services through the 108-bed Berrien Nursing Center; and home health services to 10 counties through its Georgia Home Health Services, with offices in Nashville, Valdosta and Tifton. One of the county’s largest employers, Healthcare of Berrien County not only provides superb health services, but also offers the wid-est range of quality employment oppor-tunities for the citizens of Nashville and Berrien County.

Committed to Compassionate Community Care, Berrien County Hospital is fully

accredited through the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). The hospital offers fully staffed, 24-hour/seven-day-per week emergency ser-vices, as well as an assortment of diagnostic and support services, including radiology, fluoroscopy, CT, MRI, nuclear medicine, ultra-sound, mammography, clinical laboratory, behavioral health services, physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, EKG, stress testing, and community and patient education. The hospital’s telemedicine tech-nology provides the community convenient access to the very best specialists through-out the State of Georgia. Berrien County Hospital is a health care provider that deliv-ers care from individuals to individuals. The care and compassion delivered by Nashville’s community hospital is unattainable from any other provider.

Berrien Nursing Center is regionally recog-nized as the caring alternative for both long-term and rehabilitative care. Fully accredited by JCAHO, the nursing center is generally full of residents enjoying a wide range of activities, including worship services, musi-cal entertainment, dancing, bingo and other games. The successful rehabilitation program results in numerous short-term stays, as resi-dents return home after achieving the desired health improvements. Berrien Nursing Center is staffed by caring individuals Committed to Compassionate Community Care. Nashville also has two privately owned nursing centers.

Fully accredited by JCAHO, Georgia Home Health Services is South Georgia’s premier home health agency, providing a wide range of health services and education at the client’s home. With offices strategically located in Valdosta, Nashville and Tifton, you can be

»heAlth CAre

Compassionate Community Care


assured Georgia Home Health will be respon-sive to all your home health care and edu-cational needs. The clinical staff of Georgia Home Health is Committed to Compassionate Community Care in all 10 counties it serves, and this care is delivered right to your home.

Healthcare of Berrien County invites you to visit us at www.berrienhospital.com for a full list of services and job opportunities. As you consider Berrien County as a home, business location or vacation destination, you can always be assured that, at Healthcare of Berrien County, we are Committed to Compassionate Community Care.

Berrien County Health Department 229-686-5411 www.southhealthdistrict.com

The Berrien County Health Department serves the entire population of the county. The department’s services (environmental, health education, family planning, general nursing, immunizations, infectious disease programs, school health, sexually transmitted disease programs, sickle cell screening and counsel-ing, county health planning, stroke and heart attack prevention, and travel immunizations) are available to everyone regardless of age, race, religion, national origin, political belief, disability or sex.

The department charges only minimal fees for services, and some services have adjusted fee scales based on ability to pay. Health care services will be provided even if someone is unable to pay. Medicaid and Medicare are also accepted forms of payment. Clinic hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

»heAlth CAre

Berrien County Hospital offers comprehensive care around the clock.


Small Business HavenBerrien County is home to more than 450

businesses, 93 percent of those being small businesses with 20 employees or fewer; but small business does not mean small selection.

In April 2007, Berrien County was desig-nated as Entrepreneur Friendly by the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD). The Entrepreneur Friendly program maximizes the benefits of working with local resources and service providers, providing local initiatives to encourage entrepreneurs. The program’s goal is to help small businesses develop and succeed.

Berrien County is a regional partner of the Sowing Entrepreneur and Economic Development Success (SEEDS) Center, which provides business startup and development resources, including a reference library, market research databases and on-site consultation.

Industrial ParksBerrien County has three industrial parks

located within its borders: Berrien County Industrial Park, Nashville-Berrien Industrial Park and North Berrien Industrial Park.

The Berrien County Industrial Park is home to the county’s largest employer, Chaparral/Robalo Boats. This park is currently full. The Nashville-Berrien Industrial Park is home to B&H Electronics, Parker’s Pickles, West Heating and Air, and Newbern Construction. This park is also currently operating at full capacity.

North Berrien Industrial Park is the newest industrial park and is currently in the devel-opmental stages. The 175-acre park is located on Highway 82 in Enigma and provides direct access to interstates 75, 95 and 10, as well as to the Brunswick Port. This park has been des-ignated for light manufacturing/distribution.

What We offerSeveral factors make this area extremely

attractive to employers and employees. According to the 2000 Census, the median family income in Berrien County is $30,036, and nearly 20 percent of our population has some post-secondary education. The cost of living index here is 77.9 (the U.S. average is 100). Berrien County is an employment hub for this area, drawing qualified employees from several surrounding counties.

Transportation services via land, air and sea are another amenity for businesses locat-ing in Berrien County. Access to Interstate 75 is just 12 miles away, and Interstate 10 is just an hour away. Freight rail service is pro-vided by CSX, Norfolk Southern and Valdosta Railway via a state-owned freight service. Both the Brunswick and Jacksonville ports are easily accessible from Berrien County. The Valdosta Regional Airport serves the area with daily flights to Atlanta on Atlantic Southeast Airlines, a Delta Connector. Berrien County also has an airport, which can accommodate small private planes. Ports within two hours include Savannah and Brunswick, Georgia, as well as Jacksonville, Florida.

Berrien County Development Authority

The Berrien County Development Authority recognizes and responds to the needs of industry large and small. Its seven-member board relies on the executive director ([email protected]) to carry out the day-to-day operations.

The Berrien County Development Authority buys and sells property and helps distribute funds from the local governments to new and existing businesses; recruits and

provides assistance to new, incoming indus-tries; and supports existing industries.

AgricultureWhat is the largest industry in Berrien

County? The answer is agriculture. Berrien County boasts 65,000 acres of farmland planted each year, with an economic value of more than $96 million.

The county produces a wide array of crops and livestock, such as corn, soybeans, pea-nuts, cotton, vegetables, swine, beef, poultry and forestry.

Shopping and Dining/ Historic Downtown Nashville

Crops are not the only thing popping up in Berrien County. We also have a variety of great retail shops and restaurants that offer unique gifts as well as great eats. Berrien County boasts more than 450 small businesses within its borders. Many of these businesses offer one-of-a-kind merchandise and service that is second to none.

In the heart of Nashville, the historic courthouse square stands as an anchor for Berrien County. Nashville is proud to be home to a historic downtown community that is alive and thriving while overflowing with Southern hospitality.

Nashville began its revitalization process in 2001, when the city was designated a Better Hometown Community by the Department of Community Affairs. After Nashville received this prestigious designation, the Better Hometown organization spearheaded a huge downtown cleanup and revitalization process. The downtown area has blossomed, with many of the downtown storefronts being historically restored and the area beautifully landscaped

»BusIness And Industry

We’re Entrepreneur

Friendly


with planters overflowing with flowers and seasonal flags surrounding the courthouse square. The revitalization process hit a high point when Nashville received a $663,000 Transportation Enhancement Grant.

The Streetscape project that has changed the face of downtown Nashville includes a new, beautifully landscaped greenscape park; new brick pavers on the sidewalks located on the north side of the square; new brick pavers surrounding a beautiful fountain located in the park area; a new parking lot; and enhance-ments to the Nashville Community Center, which is located inside the park grounds across from the courthouse. The excitement and growth of downtown Nashville has been con-tagious and has continued to spread each year, with new improvements and new businesses. Historic downtown Nashville is now home to over 15 specialty shops, including ladies’ and children’s clothing boutiques, antique shops, a lighting shop, gift shops, home decor shops, a jewelry store, a Christian book store, a bath and body shop, and plenty more.

Downtown Nashville also has six delicious restaurants and two cafés within walking dis-tance of the courthouse square that offer good food, quaint atmosphere and friendly service. Berrien County’s only bed and breakfast is also located in downtown Nashville, one block off of the courthouse.

Downtown Nashville is also home to a variety of businesses, including law offices, beauty shops and salons, a photography stu-dio, a pharmacy that also offers ice cream for that afternoon snack, a garden center, a workout center for women, a pool center, cellular and telecommunication services, a newspaper, an insurance agency, a real estate agency, and much more. All this combined makes Nashville unique, because we are able to offer so much to the residents of Berrien County and surrounding areas and are still able to maintain that wonderful, small-town Southern hospitality.

Vivian’s Gift ShoppeBusIness And Industry »


W ith its convenient location and beautiful year-round climate, Berrien County is filled with

opportunities. In the last several months, four brand-new

subdivisions have opened in Berrien County, with lots varying in size from one-third of

an acre to 2.5 acres. The average price of a three-bedroom, two-bath home is $125,000. New homes range in price from $99,500 to $257,000. Price per square foot on new con-struction is $80 to $110.

One of the advantages of the housing mar-One of the advantages of the housing mar-One of the advantages of the housing market in Berrien County is that there are nice homes available in all price ranges. There is

also a selection of apartments and homes for rent. Residents also benefit from the commu-nity’s affordability: Our community’s cost of living is 77.9, which compares favorably to the U.S. average of 100.

The Berrien County community is very residential-oriented, and the influence of the

Old South is very evident. Ranch-style homes are also very popular. Common amenities include fireplaces, swimming pools and beauti-ful landscaping, with plants and flowers blooming year-round.

Berrien County’s south-ernmost community, Ray

City, continues to grow, with increased resi-dential developments there. Ray City is conve-niently located just seven miles north of Moody Air Force Base. Ray City’s low crime rate and laid-back lifestyle make this part of Berrien County an attractive choice to consider.

»hOmes

The Old South Meets Contemporary

Convenience

one of the advantages of the housing market in Berrien County is that there are nice homes available in all price ranges.

»


B errien County has much to offer out-door enthusiasts with its warm cli-mate and picturesque surroundings.

Whether you like to play ball, drop a line in the water, or just take a leisurely stroll, Berrien County is filled with a variety of rec-reational options.

The Berrien County Recreation Department services over 1,600 area youth Department services over 1,600 area youth Departmenteach year, offering a variety of sports, includ-ing baseball, softball, basketball, football and soccer. The Recreation Department also main-tains three public tennis courts and three com-munity parks in Nashville. The Senior Citizens Center in Ray City offers meals for its 20-plus members as well as a wellness program, weekly bingo games and occasional trips.

There are several privately owned stables that offer boarding and riding lessons. The Berrien County Saddle Club is very active, hosting a variety of speed events, horse shows and trail rides throughout the year.

Berrien County boasts hundreds of acres of unblemished woods for the hunting and

camping enthusiast. There is an abundance of wild game in our community, including quail, dove, deer and wild hogs. For the hunter in the family, there are several hunting clubs within the county, as well as preserves that offer private scheduled hunts. If fishing is more your speed, the Alapaha River and Patrick’s Paradise provide the area with freshwater fishing, as do the many private ponds and lakes in the county.

Berrien County is located close to a variety of regional attractions, including state parks,

numerous golf courses, a racetrack, a theme park and beaches.

Wild Adventures Theme Park is located Wild Adventures Theme Park is located Wild Adventures Theme Parkapproximately 35 miles south of Berrien County, off exit 13 in Lowndes County. Wild Adventures has more than 500 wild ani-mals and the largest collection of wild rides in the Southeast, as well as family-oriented shows and concerts. More than 55 rides and attractions — including nine roller coasters, a go-kart track, a water park and Adventure Golf — mean fun for the whole family.

Reed Bingham State Park (www.gastateparks.org) surrounds a 375-acre lake that has become a major boating and water-skiing attraction in South Georgia. Fishing for bass, crappie, catfish and brim is excellent. The Coastal Plain Nature Trail and Gopher Tortoise Nature Trail wind through a cypress swamp, sand hill area and other habitats rep-resentative of southern Georgia. Watchful visi-tors may see waterfowl, the threatened gopher tortoise and indigo snake, and other creatures. However, the park’s most famous residents are

the thousands of black vultures and turkey vultures that arrive in late November and stay through early April, making this park the largest winter vulture roost in Georgia. Reed Bingham is less than six miles from I-75, mak-ing it a relaxing stop for travelers. Park hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area is a protected wetland within a 13,000-acre wetlands system; it is second in size only to the Okefenokee Swamp. There are hiking trails, a 2,000-foot boardwalk and a 54-foot observation tower that overlooks open prairie and a heron rookery. Water lovers enjoy the canoe trail and boating through the Blackgum Swamp. Wildlife here includes tortoises, snakes, egrets, ibis, cranes, frogs, river otters, deer, raccoons, bobcats, gray foxes, opossums and armadillos.

GolfMany come to South Georgia just for the

golf. Berrien County is conveniently located close to several award-winning courses.

The closest links to Berrien County is less than 12 miles away at Circlestone Country Club in Cook County. Circlestone offers an 18-hole course.

Neighboring Valdosta and Lowndes County also offer several courses. The Valdosta Country Club is a private club with three

reCreAtIOn And AreA AttrACtIOns »Come

Out and Play

Berrien County is located close to a variety of regional attractions, including state parks, numerous golf courses, a racetrack, a theme park and beaches. »


nine-hole courses playable in three 18-hole combinations. Valdosta’s Stone Creek Golf Club is a semi-private, par-72, 18-hole cham-pionship course. Its slightly hilly fairways, oak trees, sand bunkers and water hazards make the game even more interesting.

Francis Lake Golf Club in Lake Park is a par-72, 18-hole course. Quiet Pines Golf Course at Moody Air Force Base is open for play year-round, seven days a week, and non-Department of Defense employees are eligible to play this challenging nine-hole course.

Kinderlou Forest, designed by Davis Love III of Love Golf Design, is the newest attraction for golfers. The front nine holes feature wide

spaces with long-range views and dramatic changes in elevation. The back nine holes are long and flat but are set in a pine forest with rolling terrain. Electric carts equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) are available. The clubhouse features large porches, a pro shop, and indoor and outdoor dining areas.

Our neighbor to the north, Tifton, is home to the Golf Club of South Georgia, an 18-hole championship course open for public play. The course was constructed in 1990 and designed by Tom Flick. That same year, the course was nominated by Golf Digest as one of the best new courses in Georgia.

Stephen W. Shiver, D.M.D., P.C.

Ladies Apparel,Accessories, Bridal

Registry, &GiftsA Place to Dress with

Style, Flair and Classall with a personal touch

»reCreAtIOn And AreA AttrACtIOns

Berrien County is conveniently located close to several award-winning courses.


I f you seek a house of worship in Berrien County, you will find more than 60 churches representing the diversity of

the South’s religious heritage. Whatever the faith expression, the community’s churches provide many opportunities to enhance Christian growth, fellowship and education in the county. Here, you’ll find faith in action as people abide by their Christian values.

Some of the Christian denominations rep-resented in many independent congregations in our community include Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Catholic, Pentecostal, Mormon,

Holiness, Church of Christ, Church of God, Nazarene, Christian and Non-Denominational. If you are a believer, you can find a kindred spirit and a comfortable place to worship here.

But more importantly, Berrien County people go outside the walls of the church in their ministries. There is a strong commit-ment in Berrien County to helping others. Organizations like the Women’s Club, the Rotary Club, the Lions Club and the Men’s Club have their own programs aimed at assist-ing the physically and mentally challenged as well as the underprivileged.

“The Old Reliable”

Ageless Creations

NashvilleCREDIT UNION

Having fun playing youth sports

WOrshIp And CIvIC CluBs »

Faith in Action


T he mission of the Berrien County Chamber of Commerce is to enhance the economic environment for its busi-

ness, agriculture and professional members through advocacy and promotion, while striv-ing to enhance the quality of life for all citi-zens. With offices located in the historic Old County Jail on 201 North Jefferson Street, the Chamber extends its presence into many offices, stores and factories in our county. Chamber membership offers many benefits:

• The Chamber is the public’s first stop when seeking information about our community.

• The Chamber can help establish, relocate or expand a business.

• The Chamber contacts state officials for assistance in various educational, economic, agricultural and industrial development projects.

• Members will benefit from referrals. It is the Chamber’s policy to refer only Chamber members.

• Members will receive a discount on materials sold at the Chamber.

• Members with two to 99 employees can receive a 3 to 5 percent discount on group medical insurance with Blue Cross/Blue Shield.

• Members are eligible for the Drugs Don’t Work Program, which can save members nearly 8 percent on workers compensa-tion insurance.

• The Chamber hosts various events, including Ribbon Cuttings, Quarterly Business After Hours, the Annual Banquet and the Annual Golf Tournament.

Regardless of what aspect of life in Berrien County you choose, you are sure to see the common threads of hard work and dedication.

»ClOse

The Chamber Is Working for You


Index of AdvertiserspleAse suppOrt the AdvertIsers WhO helped tO mAke thIs puBlICAtIOn pOssIBle.

ACCouNTANTS

Advantage Tax & Accounting — Page 16708 Park Place Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-9782fax (229) [email protected]

We prepare all types of income tax returns at affordable prices while finding legal ways to reduce your tax burden. We also provide payroll services and financial planning.

AGRICuLTuRE

Dixon Brothers’ Flying Service — Inside Back Cover(229) 686-8364 or (229) 532-5305“Call us for all of your cropdusting needs”

Dixon Farm Supply, Inc. — Inside Back CoverP.O. Box 498Alapaha, GA 31622(229) [email protected]

Seed, Chemicals, Fertilizer & More

Dixon Gin Company, Inc. — Inside Back Cover242 Dixon Gin RoadEnigma, GA 31749(229) 533-5000fax (229) 533-6998

ALuMINuM CoNTRACToRS

Scott’s Awnings, Screen Rooms & Pool Enclosures — Page 95119 Old Valdosta RoadNashville, GA 31639(229) [email protected]

Providing professional aluminum screenrooms and pool enclosures installations for 18 years. Licensed and insured. Serving Berrien county and surrounding counties since 1998.

AuToMoTIvE – DEALERSHIP/REPAIR

Family Auto Plaza.com — Page 18408 S. Jefferson St.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-2505www.FamilyAutoPlaza.com

CoMMuNICATIoNS

Willis Communications — Page 4114 S. Jefferson St.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 543-1211fax (229) 543-1615

CoNCRETE

Reames Concrete Company — Page 18P.O. Box 458Valdosta, GA 31603

Concrete • Brick • Block • Masonry Products

Adel Plant: (229) 896-4515Industrial Park: (229) 244-0811Barretts Plant: (229) 242-0035Nashville Plant: (229) 686-7732Valdosta Plant: (229) 244-9326

CoNSTRuCTIoN/CoNTRACToRS

Howard Ray Construction — Page 38006 Highway 129P.O. Box 746Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-2026fax (229) 686-3968www.howardrayconst.com

With continuous operation since 1947, Howard Ray Construction Company is one of Georgia’s oldest .general contractor/construc-tion management firms specializing in commercial and institutional construction.

CoNvENIENCE SToRE / GAS / DELI

Anderson Shell oil - Nashville — Page 9405 S. Davis St.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 543-1417fax (229) [email protected]

• Gas• Rebel Car Wash• Convenience Store & Deli (Breakfast & Dinner)

DENTISTRy

Stephen Shiver, D.M.D., P.C. — Page 16410 E. McPherson Ave.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-7451fax (229) 686-7547

EDuCATIoN

Berrien County Schools — Page 7100 E. Smith Ave. P.O. Box 625Nashville, GA 31639-0625(229) 686-2081fax (229) 686-9002www.berrien.k12.ga.us

ELECTRICAL

AC/DC Electrical Supply — Page 98040 Highway 129P.O. Box 496Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-6438fax (229) 686-6366acdces.com

ACDC is known and dedicated as a “premier supplier” of Industrial and residential electrical supplies. Our mission is to provide our clients with uncompromising quality, service, professionalism and continuous improvement.

FINANCIAL INSTITuTIoNS

Bank of Alapaha — Page 3201 W. Marion Ave.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-7491fax (229) 686-7161

Bank of Alapaha is the oldest bank in Berrien County, serving our community since 1905. Proud of our rich heritage and excited about our promising future.

The Citizens Bank — Page 1301 S. Davis St.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-744424-hour: (229) 686-6902www.nashvillecitizensbank.com

• Home Equity Line of Credit: home improvements, consolidate high-interest credit card balances and more

• Internet Banking 24/7: bank statements, make loan payments and view processed checks

• Loans from construction to permanent financing


Farmers & Merchants Bank — Page 17202 W. Washington P.O. Box 98Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-9451fax (229) 686-3898www.fmb.net

“Your banking relationship can and should be one of life’s most important relationships, not casually made nor hastily changed.”

Nashville Credit union — Page 17902 S. Davis St.P.O. Box 456Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-7611fax (229) [email protected]

FuNERAL & CREMATIoN SERvICES

Lovein Funeral Home, Inc. — Page 41218 Adel RoadP.O. Box 25Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-2007fax (229) 686-2009www.loveinfuneralhome.com

FuRNITuRE

Magnolia House Furniture & Gifts — Page 17418 S. Davis St.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-3932fax (229) 686-5347www.MagnoliaHouseOfFurniture.com

GovERNMENT

Berrien County Commission — outside Back CoverP.O. Box 446Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-5421fax (229) 686-2785

Berrien County Recreation Department — Page 17P.O. Box 446 1015 Exum RoadNashville, GA 31639(229) 686-6576fax (229) 686-6580

Berrien County Recreation Department gives an opportunity for our youth to participate in sports. Our youth sports include football, soccer, cheer, basketball, baseball, softball and numerous camps throughout the year.

HEALTH CARE

Georgia Home Health Services — Page 11Valdosta: 229-247-4663Nashville: 229-686-5502Tifton: 229-382-8443

“Caring for you … at Home”

By Professional: Registered Nurses, Physical Therapists, Speech Therapists, Medical Social Workers, Home Health Aides

24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week

HealthPlus — Page 14205 Dogwood DriveNashville, GA 31639(229) 686-6979www.discoverhealthplus.com

A facility of Tift Regional Medical Center, HealthPlus allows special-ists to rotate to Nashville on a weekly or monthly basis for the convenience of patients and referring physicians.

Healthcare of Berrien County — Page 111221 E. McPherson Ave.Nashville, GA 31639www.berrienhospital.com

Berrien County Hospital: 229-543-7100Berrien Nursing Center: 229-543-7335

INSuRANCE

Morris & Shaw Insurance Agency — Page 11106 N. Dogwood Drive P.O. Box 726Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-3060fax (229) 686-3037

State Farm – Lee Stallings — Page 3114 N. DogwoodP.O. Box 607Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-7800fax (229) [email protected]

Providing insurance and financial services.

MANuFACTuRING

Propex Fabrics Inc. — Inside Front Cover1 Nashville Mills RoadNashville, GA 31639(229) 686-5511fax (229) 686-1330propexinc.com

The Nashville facility is a leading producer of industrial textiles. Products include geotextiles, building products, flooring, packaging, and furniture and bedding.

NuRSERy / FLoRIST

Ramblin Rose Emporium — Page 19Route 4Box 3365Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-2558fax (229) 686-2558

We are a full floral service.• Free local delivery• We help with your landscaping needs• Perennials• Antique roses• Knock-out roses• Annuals• Herbs• Shrubs• Trees• House Plantsand much, much more.

PARTS

obsolete Reliable Parts — Page 17311 E. Washington Ave.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-5101fax (229) 686-7125obsoletereliableparts.com

PHySICIANS/SuRGEoNS

William D. Nash M.D., P.C. — Page 161225 E. McPhearson Ave.P.O. Box 626Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-3125

Dr. Wheeler — Page 16416A E. McPherson Ave.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-2093fax (229) [email protected]

REAL ESTATE

Dogwood Real Estate Services — Page 4112 Dogwood DriveNashville, GA 31639(229) 543-1510fax (229) [email protected]

Southern Traditions Realty & Development, Inc. — Page 14303 N. Davis St.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-1712fax (229) 686-9161southerntraditionsinc.com

We’re a customer service oriented company serving the South Georgia Area. In addition to a full line of real estate services for homes, farms and commercial property, Southern Traditions also offers appraisal services.

RESTAuRANTS

Huddle House — Page 11718 S. DavisNashville, GA 31639(229) 686-9880

Where friends meet friends. Serving a delicious breakfast and din-ner menu and a vegetable lunch Monday–Friday. Locally owned and operated by Hiram and Jeanne Griffin.

RETAIL

Trends & Treasures — Page 16309 W. McPherson Ave.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-2227fax (229) 686-2227

A place to dress with style, flair and class, all with a personal touch! Come see us!

vivian’s Gift Shoppe — Page 13105 E. Washington Ave.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-9478fax (229) 686-9837

SCRAPBookING SuPPLIES

Ageless Creation — Page 17711 N. Davis St.Nashville, GA 31639(229) 686-9136fax (229) 686-9137

We are a full-line scrapbook store. We have a digital photo printer with scanner, albums, cutters, stickers, embellishments, adhesives, laser-cuts, paper, and more.

uTILITIES

Georgia Power Company — Page 16404 E. McPherson Ave.Nashville, GA 31639toll free: (888) 660-5890fax (229) 241-2311

vETERINARIANS

Branch’s veterinary Clinic, P.C. — Page 17740 S. DavisNashville, GA 31639(229) 686-3661

for more information visit us online at

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