Classic Cullman 2015 - 2016

070200019561

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 3

42 table of contents

16 7 Introduction
50 8 Letter from the President
9 Chamber of Commerce Board
10 Community Causes
14 Faith & Religion
16 Healthcare
24 Outdoor Living

26 26 Healthy Lifestyles
28 Senior Living
30 Lake Living
32 Suburban Living
33 Urban Living
34 Cullman: The Best Place to
Raise Children in Alabama
36 Public and Private Education
40 Wallace State Community College
42 Top 5 Most Business Friendly
44 Retail Booming in Cullman
46 Cullman Regional Airport
48 Agri-Business
50 Research & Development
Surges in Cullman
53 Quick Reference Guide
59 Calendar of Events
65 Membership Directory

Featured article on page 50 ‘Research & Development surges in For more information, contact:
Cullman, AL’. Bill St. John with St. John & Associates, is pic-
tured in the BMW X5. Vehicle provided by Century Automotive The Cullman Area Published by
Huntsville – BMW – Volvo – Jaguar – Land Rover – Porsche. Chamber of Commerce The Cullman Times

About the Cover 301 2nd Avenue Southwest 300 4th Avenue NE
Pictured L to R: Thatcher, Austin, Cullman, Alabama 35055 Cullman, AL 35055
Finley, Mallory Hall and Farley
Marcel Hutchens (Owners: Phil and 256.734.0454 256.734.2131
Patty Hutchens) cullmanchamber.org cullmantimes.com
Cover photographer/Lisa Jones
Layout by Jessica Wells
4 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 5

A LittCleUbiLt aLbMouAt tNhe AREA

Cullman, Alabama offers the convenience of a growing number of retail stores, restaurants and entertainment venues,
while maintaining the positives of a smaller community. The wonderful thing about Cullman is that it offers a family
feeling you cannot find anywhere else. Cullman is located in the center of the northern half of Alabama on Brindley
Mountain, part of the Cumberland Plateau. Situated just off I-65, Cullman is 35 miles south of the Tennessee River
and approximately 30 minutes from Decatur, 45 minutes from Huntsville and 45 minutes from Birmingham.

Cullman County covers 743 square miles and includes 11 municipalities: Baileyton, Colony, Cullman, Dodge
City, Fairview, Garden City, Good Hope, Hanceville, Holly Pond, South Vinemont and West Point.

Population Statistics

Cullman County 80,648 Households 31,959
Town of Baileyton 610 Average Household Income $45,312
Town of Colony 268 Median Household Income $33,044
City of Cullman US Unemployment Rate 5.8%
Town of Dodge City 14,864 Alabama Unemployment Rate 6%
Town of Fairview 593 Cullman County Unemployment Rate 4.3%
Town of Garden City 446 Average Home Value $128,590
City of Good Hope 492 Average Age 37.4
City of Hanceville
Town of Holly Pond 2,264 Census 2010
Town of South Vinemont 2,982
Town of West Point
Total Incorporated 798
Total Unincorporated 749
586
24,652
55,843

Top 10 Employers

Top Ten Employers Product Number of Employees
Cullman County School System Education 1,349
REHAU Inc. Bumpers/Molding 1,000
Wal-Mart Distribution Center Retail Distribution 939
Cullman Regional Medical Center Health/Medical 910
State of Alabama Government 683
Golden Rod Broilers Poultry 600
Wallace State College Education 550
Cullman County Commission Government 524
Topre America Corp. Automotive Metal Stamping 481
Wal-Mart Supercenter Retail 450

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Introduction

Cullman, A Great Place to Call Home

Cullman’s
Founder
PHOTO: JESSICA WELLS
Forced to leave his native country of Bavaria, Cullman’s
founder and young revolutionist made his way to America.
He settled in the south, favoring its inherent charm. Stak-
ing his claim in the countryside, he bestowed his surname
as the town’s official name - Cullmann.
Col. Johann Gottfried Cullmann left Europe penniless and
bankrupt, fleeing from a country ruled by a ruthless mon-
arch. He worked on a freight boat to earn enough money
to travel over to the United States, leaving behind his wife
and three children to care for his terminally ill mother-in-
law.
In 1869, just four short years after the Civil War had ended
and the South was busy rebuilding, Cullmann was living in
Cincinnati and began to read about the new opportunities
that lay in Dixie. Cullmann had found the land he wanted
but didn’t have the money to buy it. Eventually Cullmann
met an official of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad who
liked Cullmann’s idea for a new settlement and would help
turn his idea into a reality.
Cullmann took an option out on several hundred thou-
sand acres of land and then narrowed his choice down to
a substantial amount of land that the railroad agreed to
finance. Cullmann advertised for settlers and convinced 15
Cincinnati families to relocate and colonize in Alabama.
In April of 1873, the first families came to what is now
known as Cullman. The very first store went up in the fall
of that year. An incorporation election was held the next
year in 1874, with 23 people voting in favor to form a city
and seven opposed. The decision was made final and Cull-
man officially became a town, choosing to keep its original
name but with only one “n.”

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 9

Photo: Shannon Federer

W elcome to the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce thers to create, enhance and promote the economic environ-
ment, employment opportunities and the quality of life in our
and to our community - one of THE best places in Alabama to community and to advocate and create solutions for business
live, to work and to raise a family. and community issues. The CoC works with local civic and
The Cullman Area is an eclectic mix of industry, retail busi- private groups to encourage new business development. We
ness, banking, healthcare, education, food service and agricul- help create awareness of problems facing our community and
tural production – all working together for the common good. help develop potential solutions to those problems.

The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce understands that in As the Chamber President, I am honored to serve alongside
order to have a strong economic environment, you must have the army of volunteers that work out-front and behind the
a strong community that supports and encourages growth and scenes to build a better Cullman Area for all its citizens. That
innovative thinking. We are truly blessed in Cullman Coun- is the uniqueness of our community. We think outside the box,
ty to have leaders, business owners, educators and a wealth of we work together to make things happen and we support the
private citizens who recognize that we all share in the respon- efforts of all.
sibility of creating economic success and stability as well as a We hope you enjoy this publication. Whether you are looking
healthy community environment for our children and grand- to stay a day or a lifetime, we look forward to seeing you in
children. Voted the #1 place in Alabama to raise children, this Cullman, Alabama!
is a true testament to our commitment.

As a community, we share the vision. We work, we volunteer, Leah Bolin
we support and serve as we build on the successes of those who
came before us and develop new and innovative strategies that
will make Cullman even better.

For the past 73 years, the Cullman Area Chamber of Com- President & CEO
merce has diligently fulfilled the mission of the founding fa-

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Chamber Staff

The Chamber staff is here to assist you at any time. Please feel free to call
or e-mail us with questions, concerns or ideas for improvement.

Cecelia C. Smith Derek Lane 2015-16 EXECUTIVE
COMMITTEE
Tourism Director Director of Small Business &
[email protected] Workforce Solutions Chamber Chair
Mr. Jason Grimmet
[email protected] Drinkard Development, Inc.

Leah Bolin Chair-Elect
Ms. Sammie Danford
President & CEO United Way of Cullman County
[email protected]
Vice Chair, Business Development
301 2nd Avenue SW, Jackie Moore Magan F. Bartlett Mr. Jason Spann
Cullman, AL 35055 American Proteins, Inc.
Director of Finance Director of Membership
Open Monday – Friday, & Administration & Marketing Vice Chair, Industry & Workforce Development
8 AM - 5 PM [email protected] Mr. Perry Shields
[email protected] ATN-Cullman/Hanceville
Phone:
256-734-0454 Debbie Matthews Natalie F. Bonner Vice Chair, Finance & Administration
Mr. Jimmy Cockrell
Toll Free: Executive Assistant Administrative & Peoples Bank of Alabama
1-800-313-5114 [email protected] Media Specialist Vice Chair, Membership & Marketing
[email protected] Mr. Mike Donaldson
Fax: Quality Staffing Solution, Inc.
256-737-7443
Vice Chair, Tourism & Recreation
Email: Ms. Susan Copeland
[email protected] Wallace State Community College
www.cullmanchamber.org
Immediate Past Chair
Ms. Melissa Cartee
Cullman Electric Cooperative

2015-16 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mr. Albert Von Pelser Mr. Ben Harrison Dr. T.J. Franey Rev. John Bussman
REHAU Automotive, LLC Cullman Regional Airport Cullman Co. Commission St. Paul’s Lutheran Church
on Education Mr. Travis Kress
Dr. Donna Bryant Ms. Emily Niezer Johnston Mr. Shawn Crider Cullman County Soil & Water Con-
St. Bernard Preparatory School Emily Niezer Johnston, LLC HH Technologies, Inc. servation
Mr. Jamie Speakman Dr. Lori McGrath
Ms. Bethany Hogan Ms. Kay Shabel Liberty National Cullman Regional Medical Center
V & W Food Mart MoMoSHE 103 Mr. Matt Heim Dr. Matt Dellinger
All Steak Restaurant Matt Dellinger DMD, LLC
Mr. Keith Wise Ms. Kristen Holmes Mr. Richard White Ms. Sue Carter
R.E. Garrison Trucking Wallace State Community Ed White Jewelers Weichert Realtors -
Carter & Company
Hon. Barry Willingham Mr. Bill St. John
Co. Revenue Commissioner St. John & Associates, Inc.

Ms. Frances Cooper Mr. Austin Hall
The Community Shopper’s Nearen Construction Company, Inc.

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 9

Therapeutic horseback riding is opening a new door
of confidence and recovery for people with mental,
physical and emotional challenges.

Photo/H.O.P.E. - Horses Offering People Encouragement

Community Causes

Cullman is a community that believes in giving back, Cullman and the surrounding counties could benefit
and volunteering is one way that anyone can get in- from interaction with the program. Since the program
volved. began in 2010, H.O.P.E. has served people with condi-
A multitude of worthy causes can be found within tions from ADHD and learning delays to those suffer-
our community. In most cases, you don’t need special ing strokes or paralysis. People with disabilities such
training or education — just a heart that wants to help as cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis can find a bit
others. of normalcy when riding or interacting with a horse.
Therapeutic horsemanship is the use of horses and
H.O.P.E. equine-oriented activities to achieve therapeutic goals
(Horses Offering People Encouragement) for youth or adults with physical, mental or emotional
disabilities. Benefits include muscle and nerve stimu-
H.O.P.E., Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated lation, improved balance and coordination and even
to providing therapeutic horsemanship and riding respiration and circulation improvement.
opportunities to mentally, physically and emotionally Riding a horse is not necessary for the therapy. Some-
challenged individuals. times the benefit is the responsibility learned from
More than 2,000 special needs children and adults in helping care for the animals.

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Wheelchair bound clients can find freedom like kind of social change agent are you?” — Are you a
they’ve never been able to experience from riding a purposeful participant or a solid spectator or some-
horse. At risk youth find unconditional love and ac- where in between?
ceptance through interaction with a horse. This year’s emphasis is “Be the One” to change some-
Although the program has been in the works since one’s life. Anyone looking to get involved in helping
2007, H.O.P.E. has just this year started offering their community is sure to find a perfect fit with one
equine therapeutic activities at its permanent location of the local United Way agencies.
at 1301 Convent Road in Cullman. United Way partnering agencies include 4-H of Cull-
Volunteers, donations and items used in animal up- man County, Commission On Aging, Cullman Car-
keep are always appreciated. ing For Kids, Cullman County Center for the Devel-
opmentally Disabled, Daystar House, Easter Seals,
The Link of Cullman County First Call for Help, Foster Grandparents and Senior
Companion Programs, Girl Scouts, Good Samari-
The Link is a faith-based non-profit group that sup- tan Health Clinic, Hospice of Cullman County, Pilot
ports the needs of its neighbors through goal-setting, Light House, Victims Services and Youth Advocacy
career advising and financial counseling. Program.
Poverty is not a hopeless condition. The Link seeks These agencies provide community assistance in a
to change the surrounding circumstances by offering variety of ways including meals-on-wheels, the local
career counseling and uncovering job skills. In some food bank, preventing child abuse and domestic vio-
cases, those living in poverty have made choices that lence, caring for the mentally disabled and teen coun-
led them away from their dreams and visions for the seling programs.
future. Locally, the United Way disperses approximately
Once those dreams are rediscovered, Link counsel- $400,000 annually, with 98 percent of the donations
ors strategize with clients on how that dream can be going right back into our community. Without the
accomplished by practical goal setting that can move umbrella of the United Way, none of these individual
them in the direction of their dream. Sometimes peo- programs would be able to make as great an impact as
ple need their support in getting to their goals. That they do by working together.
support may be in the form of a job, furthering their
education or learning how to manage their money Chamber for Charities
well.
Link volunteers also go into local schools to lead sem- The local community is widely recognized for its car-
inars on positive financial practices to establish pos- ing and charitable spirit, which is embraced and pro-
itive financial behavior and practices at an early age. moted by the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Link works to foster community in Cullman The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce provides
County to maximize available resources and trans- a community platform for area residents to assist lo-
form lives as volunteers seek to mirror the love of cal children and their families through the “Chamber
Christ. Volunteers banning together to solve challeng- for Charities” program, which is held each Decem-
es faced within the community are the lifeblood of the ber. During the annual Christmas Open House, the
organization. Chamber provides a location to drop off canned food
For more information, log on to www.linkingcull- and gifts for children.
man.org. Art After Hours is the final installment of Business
After Hours for the year, where items ranging from
United Way original paintings and pottery to repurposed furniture
and wire creations are sold at a silent auction event. A
The United Way challenges you to ask yourself “What portion of proceeds from the annual Art After Hours

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 11

12 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

Photo/Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce

The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center
Directors present check to Javon Daniels & Nancy Bryant;
Cullman Caring for Kids. Money was raised through the Art
After Hours – a program presented by the Chamber.

event is donated to the local non-profit Cullman
Caring for Kids.
Local artists donate 50-100 percent of their profits
from the event, culminating into a $2,000 dona-
tion to the charity.
Cullman Caring for Kids not only provides food
for children and local families, the organization
works throughout the community to promote a
healthy living environment for children.
Non-profit Chamber members are regularly given
a platform to promote their organizations role in
the community.

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 13

Desperation Church in downtown Cullman offers
worship services and activities throughout the week.
Area churches cover a wide range of denominational
and non-denominational congregations.

Faith & Religion

When it comes to faith, Cullman County has plenty to go Day Adventist, and Mormon churches are all available in Cull-
around. Cullman’s religious background is evident when you man County.
drive through town. First United Methodist Church of Cullman, pictured to the
Our community of churches runs the gamut when it comes to right, provides many opportunities for community service. By
denominations and worship styles. reaching out to others, the church congregation to striving to
Germans who were seeking their own religious freedom change lives of those dealing with issues such as hunger. They
founded the land, and that ideal has carried over to present partner with several area schools in the “Knapsack For Kids”
day through the various options that residents have for church feeding ministry, which sends food home over the weekend
services on the weekends. with children who otherwise may go without. First Methodist
Southern Baptist churches dominate the area, but they are ac- emphasizes using Christ’s love as a catalyst to get attention off
companied by Free Will, Independent and Missionary Baptist our own needs and place it on the needs of others. By doing so,
churches. they strive to “shape a new you and a new community.”
The Catholic influence remains strong as the area is home to The commitment to individual spiritual growth and group
three monasteries: St. Bernard Abbey, Sacred Heart of Jesus worship can also be found at Northbrook Baptist Church,
Catholic Church in Cullman and the Shrine of the Most Bless- where introducing others to the love and lifestyle of Jesus
ed Sacrament of Our Lady of Angels in Hanceville. Christ is at the heart of the ministry. The mission of North-
Methodist, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, Church of God, Con- brook Baptist Church is to introduce others to the love and
gregational Christian, Disciples of Christ, Nazarene, Assem- lifestyle of Jesus Christ. The church also focuses on continuing
blies of God, Church of Christ, non-denominational, Seventh in a lifelong journey of spiritual growth through small group
14 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

Photo/Desperation Church

ministries. The church offers two contempo-
rary morning worship services each Sunday,
along with multiple small group opportuni-
ties. Northbrook Baptist strives to invest in
tomorrow’s generation by breaking children’s
ministry into groups targeted specifically to
preschoolers, elementary age, middle school-
ers and high school students.
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church is one of Cullman’s
many older, historic churches. But don’t let
that fool you into thinking their teachings ar-
en’t relevant in the face of today’s changing
church climate. St. Paul’s stands firm on the
tenet that “Jesus is Lord” and that “All Scrip-
ture is God breathed.” Truth in scripture is
the foundation for everything that they be-
lieve and teach. This extends to the church’s
primary ministry, St. Paul’s School, which is
open to children age 3 through sixth grade.
For a complete list of Churches please see
our Membership Directory located in the
middle of the publication.

Photo/Carla Cain

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 15

Healthcare

By Lindsey Dossey Foundation’s Refresh-A-Room Campaign which launched
in 2013. The funds raised by the campaign are currently
Marketing & Public Relations Manager at being used to create a more comfortable environment with
Cullman Regional Medical Center modern aesthetics which are designed to facilitate a re-
laxed, less-clinical-feeling environment for patient guests
Cullman Regional Medical Center (CRMC) is fully ac- and their families while also upgrading to produce a higher
credited by The Joint Commission and is currently li- standard of care. In 2011, a new Emergency Services Cen-
censed for145-beds. Located on Alabama Highway 157, ter was unveiled following the CRMC’s Foundation’s Gold-
the medical center serves more than 175,000 residents in a en Window Campaign. The existing 5,000-square-foot
five-county area with some of the most up-to-date medical emergency center was renovated and expanded by another
equipment and technology currently available. The hospi- 3,000 square feet, bringing its total of emergency treatment
tal is solely owned by the Health Care Authority of Cull- rooms up from 16 to 24. An upgraded Trauma Room,
man County and employs approximately 1,000 with nearly Chest Pain Center and Stroke Center were also added. The
300 physicians on the medical staff providing care in more center also added an Express Care area for non-emergent
than 30 specialties. Cullman’s hospital opened in 1939 at care which is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a
its first location downtown before relocating to its current week. CRMC is a BlueCross BlueShield Tier 1 hospital in
location in 1995. In October 2014, CRMC celebrates 75 quality care, patient satisfaction and cost containment and
years of healthcare in the community. The new campus a Tier 1 provider of heart and stroke care by the Ameri-
features three professional office buildings and is current- can Heart Association and American Stroke Association.
ly undergoing a complete renovation thanks to the CRMC

16 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

CRMC Nursing Directors Angle Kline, RN, BSN &
Kathy Jones, RN, BSN

Photo/Cullman Regional Medical Center Photo/Cullman Regional Medical Center

It consistently ranks in the top 10 percent in the nation offers a fully-accredited sleep disorders center, diagnostic
for patient satisfaction and quality outcomes for patients. imaging center, pain management clinic, outpatient sur-
In 2013, the hospital launched the Good-to-Go Patient gery as well as outpatient physical therapy and rehabilita-
Discharge Education tool leading the way for patient dis- tion services through ONE Rehab, a CPAP Care Center,
charge education in the United States. This leading-edge a new Center for Wound Healing opened in 2012 and a
technology gained the hospital nationwide recognition women’s diagnostic center that houses the latest technol-
and awards, including the 2013 Modern Healthcare Spirit ogy for digital mammography and stereotactic breast bi-
of Excellence Award for Patient Safety; the 2013 Nursing opsy. CRMC’s Nurse Navigators offer specialized services
IT Informatics Innovation Gold Award for Patient Safety; to cancer patients in the community, helping patients and
the 2013 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Care About their families navigate their cancer diagnosis and treat-
Your Care Patient Safety Award; and the 2013 Dorland ment plan with a physician of the patient’s choice. Nurses
Health Case In Point Platinum Award for Discharge Plan- follow patients every step of the process in order to make
ning. In 2012, the hospital received the Hospital & Health sure they understand all aspects of their care plan, from
Care Network’s Most Wired Innovator Award for Surgery doctor visits to follow-up appointments. They serve as the
Electronic Patient Tracking System created by its own in- patient advocate throughout their treatment. The hospital
house information technology department. The system al- also reaches out to inform the community through routine
lows patients’ families to track their loved ones through the educational health seminars and benefits to women of all
surgical process via a personalized patient pin number. A stages of life as well as active seniors 50 years old and up
variety of inpatient services are provided at CRMC includ- through the WomenFirst and SeniorChoice membership
ing heart care and interventional cardiology as well as trau- programs.
ma care, inpatient surgery and critical care. Additionally, Part of CRMC’s mission is to promote wellness in the com-
the maternity and nursery center delivers around 1,000 munity, and to accomplish that objective, the medical cen-
babies a year. In addition to inpatient services, the hospital ter has created an extensive employee wellness program

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 17

Photos By Lindsey Dossey Photo/Cullman Regional Medical Center
Marketing & Public Relations Manager
at Cullman Regional Medical Center A child gets special attention from a staff member at Cullman Regional
Medical Center.
as well as a community partnership effort
with the Cullman County Health Coalition
which launches in the Fall of 2014 called
Get Movin’ Cullman County. CRMC is
also a proud partner of the Good Samar-
itan Health Clinic. The clinic, located on
Arnold Street in the old hospital Emer-
gency Department is available to serve
the uninsured and underinsured people
of Cullman County who are without ac-
cess to primary healthcare. The clinic grew
out of an idea from Rev. Brent Norris, for-
mer rector of Grace Episcopal Church and
quickly evolved to include 12 churches.
The first patients were seen in 2004. Since
beginning as a one-night-a-week clinic, the
Good Samaritan Health Clinic now offers
medical care Monday through Friday. It
offers a dental extraction clinic two nights
per month, eye disease exams for diabetics
at local ophthalmologists’ office, a once-a-
month hearing clinic, diabetic supplies and
referrals to specialists in Cullman and Bir-
mingham.

18 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

ANESTHESIOLOGY CARDIOLOGY/ EAR, NOSE, THROAT
INTERVENTIONAL
Eric Jay Bray, M.D. CARDIOLOGISTS Jack W. Aland, M.D.

Cullman Anesthesiology & Pain Silvio Papapietro, M.D. ENT Associates of AL P.C.
Consultants, P.C. 1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 410
PO Box 1005, Cullman, AL 35056-1005 CRMC Cardiology Clinic Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 734-5000 1912 Alabama Highway 157 (256) 737-0368
Began Practice in Cullman: 2006 Cullman, AL 35058 Began Practice in Cullman: 1997
(256) 737-2095
Peter A. Crisologo, M.D. Began Practice in Cullman: 1994 Sheldon J. Black, M.D.

Cullman Anesthesiology & Pain CHIROPRACTIC ENT Associates of AL P.C.
Consultants, P.C. 1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 410
PO Box 1005, Cullman, AL 35056-1005 Michael L. Patterson, D.C. Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 734-5000 (256) 737-0368
Began Practice in Cullman: 1991 Patterson Chiropractic Care Began Practice in Cullman: 1995
1613 3rd Street NE
Robin T. Hall, M.D. Cullman, AL 35055 C. Peyton Colvin, M.D.
(256) 734-5050
Cullman Anesthesiology & Pain Began Practice in Cullman: 1984 ENT Associates of AL P.C.
Consultants, P.C. 1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 410
PO Box 1005, Cullman, AL 35056-1005 DENTISTS Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 734-5000 (256) 737-0368
Began Practice in Cullman: 1989 Thomas A. Barnes, D.M.D. Began Practice in Cullman: 1995

Gary Keith Morton, M.D. Dental Arts Howard M. Goldberg, M.D.
704 2nd Ave. SW
Cullman Anesthesiology & Pain Cullman, AL 35055 ENT Associates of AL P.C.
Consultants, P.C. (256) 739-5533 1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 410
PO Box 1005, Cullman, AL 35056-1005 Began Practice in Cullman: 1983 Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 734-5000 (256) 737-0368
Began Practice in Cullman: 2012 Daniel H. Darnell, D.M.D. Began Practice in Cullman: 1997

AUDIOLOGIST/ General and Cosmetic Dentistry Alice H. Morgan, M.D., Ph.D.
HEARING AIDS 920 Olive Street
Cullman, AL 35055 ENT Associates of AL P.C.
Julie Fortenberry, MCD, CCC-A (256) 734-6444 1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 410
Began Practice in Cullman: 1986 Cullman, AL 35058
ENT Associates of AL, P.C. (256) 737-0368
1948 Al Hwy 157, Suite 410 Jonathan Echols, D.M.D. Began Practice in Cullman: 1987
Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 737-0368 Cullman Cosmetic & Family Dentistry Bruce A. Morgan, M.D.
Began Practice in Cullman: 2009 311 6th Avenue SE
Cullman, AL 35055 ENT Associates of AL P.C.
Aaron L. Johnson, Au.D. (256) 734-7151 1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 410
Began Practice in Cullman: 2004 Cullman, AL 35058
Johnson Hearing Services, P.C. (256) 737-0368
1900 Main Ave SW, Suite 1 Ashley Holladay, D.M.D. Began Practice in Cullman: 2008
Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 841-0930 Cullman Cosmetic & Family Dentistry L. Clark Simpson, M.D.
Began Practice in Cullman: 2002 311 6th Avenue SE
Cullman, AL 35055 ENT Associates of AL P.C.
CARDIOLOGISTS (256) 734-7151 1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 410
Began Practice in Cullman: 2013 Cullman, AL 35058
James S. Lee, M.D., F.A.C.C. (256) 737-0368
DERMATOLOGY Began Practice in Cullman: 1996
Heartcare P.C.
2021 AL Hwy 157 Steve Skinner, M.D. FAMILY PRACTICE
Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 737-1946 Cullman Dermatology Clinic B. Gregory Bostick, M.D.
Began Practice in Cullman: 1998 1205 Co. Rd. 1466
Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman Family Practice
Mir Kwon Wu Varquez, M.D., F.A.C.C. (256) 739-9711 408 Clark Street NE
Began Practice in Cullman: 1994 Cullman, AL 35055
Cullman Heart & Urgent Care P.C. (256) 734-3202
1801 Parkview Drive, NE DIABETES Began Practice in Cullman: 1985
Cullman, AL 35058 EDUCATION
(256) 775-6550 Walter Brumleve, M.D. 070201698451
Began Practice in Cullman: 1996 Tammy Cornelius, CRNP
Family Medical Clinic
Edward Mahan, M.D. 1800 Al Hwy 157, Suite 101 1800 AL Hwy 157, POBIII, Suite 101
Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman, AL 35058
CRMC Cardiology Clinic (256) 734-1012 (256) 739-4131
1912 Alabama Highway 157 Began Practice in Cullman: 2010 Began Practice in Cullman: 1991
Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 737-2095
Began Practice in Cullman: 2014

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 19

FAMILY PRACTICE FAMILY PRACTICE GENERAL SURGERY 070201698452

Christopher Coccia, D.O. Randall Quinn, M.D. Brad R. Moody, M.D.

Cullman Family Practice Cullman Family Practice Surgical Arts, P.C.
408 Clark Street NE 408 Clark Street NE 1930 AL Hwy 157
Cullman, AL 35055 Cullman, AL 35055 Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 734-3202 (256) 734-3202 (256) 734-7850
Began Practice in Cullman: 2004 Began Practice in Cullman: 2006 Began Practice in Cullman: 2010

Tammy Cornelius, CRNP Michael L. Schendel, M.D. William E. Smith, Jr., M.D.

1800 Al Hwy 157, Suite 101 Cullman Family Practice Surgical Arts, P.C.
Cullman, AL 35058 408 Clark Street NE 1930 AL Hwy 157
(256) 734-1012 Cullman, AL 35055 Cullman, AL 35058
Began Practice in Cullman: 2010 (256) 737-3202 (256) 734-7850
Began Practice in Cullman: 1990 Began Practice in Cullman: 1987
Kimalyn Dumas, CRNP
Jamie Sharpton, D.O. Gregory Windham, M.D.
Family Medical Clinic
1800 AL Hwy 157, POBIII, Suite 101 1800 AL Hwy 157, Suite 101 Surgical Arts, P.C.
Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman, AL 35058 1930 AL Hwy 157
(256) 739-4131 (256) 734-1012 Cullman, AL 35058
Began Practice in Cullman: 2003 Began Practice in Cullman: 1993 (256) 734-7850
Began Practice in Cullman: 1982
Angelia Elliott, M.D. Mark Tafazoli, M.D.
GYNECOLOGY
Cullman Family Practice 1800 AL Hwy 157, POBIII, Suite 303
408 Clark Street NE Cullman, AL 35058 Howard F. Williamson, M.D.
Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 775-1090
(256) 734-3202 Began Practice in Cullman: 2001 Cullman Primary Care Women’s Center
Began Practice in Cullman: 2001 1800 AL Hwy 157, POB II, Suite 302
Sharon Turner, CRNP Cullman, AL 35058
John (Rick) Gober, M.D. (256) 736-6224
Cullman Family Practice Began Practice in Cullman: 1979
Family Medical Clinic 408 Clark Street NE
1800 AL Hwy 157, POBIII, Suite 101 Cullman, AL 35055 INTERNAL MEDICINE
Cullman, AL 35058 (256) 734-3202
(256) 739-4131 Began Practice in Cullman: 1990 David L. Crowder, M.D.
Began Practice in Cullman: 1978
Dan Williams, M.D. David L. Crowder, M.D., Inc.
Adam Harrison, D.O. 1985 AL Hwy 157, Suite B
Williams Prompt Care Cullman, AL 35058
Cullman Internal Medicine 312 Arnold St. NE (256) 736-1405
1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 300 Cullman, AL 35055 Began Practice in Cullman: 1999
Cullman, AL 35058 (256) 734-0606
(256) 737-8000 Began Practice in Cullman: 2000 Lane F. Freidman, M.D.
Began Practice in Cullman: 2014
GENERAL SURGERY Cullman Internal Medicine
Joseph Johnson, M.D. 1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 300
J. W. Evans, Jr., M.D. Cullman, AL 35058
Family Medical Clinic (256) 737-8000
1800 AL Hwy 157, POBIII, Suite 101 Surgical Arts, P.C. Began Practice in Cullman: 2006
Cullman, AL 35058 1930 AL Hwy 157
(256) 739-4131 Cullman, AL 35058 W. Michael Hall, M.D.
Began Practice in Cullman: 1995 (256) 734-7850
Began Practice in Cullman: 1992 Cullman Internal Medicine
Joseph Jowers, M.D. 1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 300
Kim Graves, CRNP Cullman, AL 35058
Cullman Primary Care (256) 737-8000
1800 AL Hwy 157, POBIII, Suite 101 Surgical Arts, P.C. Began Practice in Cullman: 1981
Cullman, AL 35058 1930 AL Hwy 157
(256) 739-4131 Cullman, AL 35058 Melinda Brown Hart, M.D.
Began Practice in Cullman: 2003 (256) 734-7850
Began Practice in Cullman: 2006 Cullman Internal Medicine
Michael Machen, M.D. 1890 AL Hwy 157
Donald R. Marecle, M.D. Cullman, AL 35058
Family Medical Clinic (256) 737-8000
1800 AL Hwy 157, POBIII, Suite 101 Cullman Surgical Associates, P.C. Began Practice in Cullman: 2003
Cullman, AL 35058 1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 250
(256) 739-4131 Cullman, AL 35058 L. James Hoover, M.D.
Began Practice in Cullman: 1986 (256) 739-6050
Began Practice in Cullman: 1985 Cullman Internal Medicine
Thomas W. Montgomery, M.D. 1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 300
Cullman, AL 35058
Cullman Family Practice (256) 737-8000
408 Clark Street NE Began Practice in Cullman: 1981
Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 734-3202 Benjamin Rogers, M.D.
Began Practice in Cullman: 1984
Cullman Internal Medicine
20 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 300
Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 737-8000
Began Practice in Cullman: 2012

INTERNAL MEDICINE NEUROPSYCHOLOGY OPHTHALMOLOGISTS

William F. Peinhardt, M.D. Angela Ross, Ph.D. T. L. Dawson, M.D.

Cullman Internal Medicine Cullman Internal Medicine Cullman Primary Care
1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 300 1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 220 1800 AL Hwy 157, POB III, Suite 301
Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 737-8000 (256) 737-8055 (256) 736-5507
Began Practice in Cullman: 1976 Began Practice in Cullman: 2014 Began Practice in Cullman: 1979

Nakayla A. Ruse, M.D. OBSTETRICS/ William E. Holcomb, M.D.
GYNECOLOGY
Cullman Internal Medicine William E. Holcomb, M.D. & Associates
1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 300 Lisa G. Franklin, M.D. 1813 Kress Street
Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 737-8000 Henderson & Walton Women’s Center (256) 739-3605 or 1-800-990-EYES
Began Practice in Cullman: 2006 105 4th Ave. NE Began Practice in Cullman: 1994
Cullman, AL 35055
C. Anthony Rutledge, M.D. (256) 737-9306 James R. Veal, M.D.
Began Practice in Cullman: 1996
Cullman Internal Medicine James R. Veal, M.D. & Associates. P.A.
1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 300 Cynthia L. Lassiter, M.D. 1979 AL Hwy 157
Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 737-8000 Henderson & Walton Women’s Center (256) 734-9613
Began Practice in Cullman: 1985 105 4th Ave. NE Began Practice in Cullman: 1981
Cullman, AL 35055
Jeremy Stidham, M.D. (256) 737-9306 OPTOMETRISTS
Began Practice in Cullman: 1990
Cullman Internal Medicine R. Bryan Boozer, O.D.
1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 300 Thomas Richard, M.D.
Cullman, AL 35058 1000 2nd Ave. SW
(256) 737-8000 Cullman Primary Care Women’s Center Cullman, AL 35055
Began Practice in Cullman: 2009 1800 AL Hwy 157, POB II, Suite 302 (256) 739-4000
Cullman, AL 35058 Began Practice in Cullman: 1983
MEDICAL ONCOLOGY (256) 736-6224
Began Practice in Cullman: 2010 Gary C. Few, O.D.
Johnny Nacilla, M.D.
Shane L. Sheffield, M.D. William E. Holcomb, M.D. & Associates
Cullman Oncology and Hematology 1813 Kress Street
1750 AL Hwy 157 Cullman Primary Care Women’s Center Cullman, AL 35058
Cullman, AL 35058 1800 AL Hwy 157, POB II, Suite 302 (256) 739-3605 or 1-800-990-EYES
(256) 255-2500 Cullman, AL 35058 Began Practice in Cullman: 1991
Began Practice in Cullman: 1999 (256) 736-6224
Began Practice in Cullman: 2006 Wayne B. Fuller, O.D.
Harry Yu, M.D.
Glori S. Short, M.D. Fuller Optical
Cullman Oncology and Hematology 210 2nd Ave. SE
1750 AL Hwy 157 Henderson & Walton Women’s Center Cullman, AL 35055
Cullman, AL 35058 105 4th Ave. NE (256) 734-1121
(256) 255-2500 Cullman, AL 35055 Began Practice in Cullman: 1971
Began Practice in Cullman: 2005 (256) 737-9306
Began Practice in Cullman: 1997 Melanie Sivley, O.D., F.A.A.0. 070201698453
MEDISPA
John G. Wideman, M.D. Boozer Eyecare Associates, PC
Mir Kwon Wu Varquez, M.D., F.A.C.C. 1000 2nd Ave. SW
Cullman Primary Care Women’s Center Cullman, AL 35055
Belle d’Mir Medi Spa 1800 AL Hwy 157, POB II, Suite 302 (256) 739-4000
1801 Parkview Drive NE Cullman, AL 35058 Began Practice in Cullman: 2013
Cullman, AL 35058 (256) 736-6224
(256) 255-1946 Began Practice in Cullman: 2010 ORTHOPEDIC
Began Practice in Cullman: 2011
Randy J. Yarbrough, M.D. Vince F. Bergquist, Jr., M.D.
NEUROLOGY
Cullman Primary Care Women’s Center ABOS Board Certified
Christopher C. LaGanke, M.D. 1800 AL Hwy 157, POB II, Suite 302 Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists
Cullman, AL 35058 1938 AL Hwy 157
North Central Neurology Assoc., P.C. (256) 736-6224 Cullman, AL 35058
1809 Kress Street Began Practice in Cullman: 2008 (256) 739-4030
Cullman, AL 35058 Began Practice in Cullman: 1977
(256) 739-1210 OCCUPATIONAL
Began Practice in Cullman: 1999 MEDICINE David Dueland, M.D.

Pamela Quinn, M.D. T. Scott Powers, M.D. Cullman Regional Orthopedics &
Sports Medicine, P.C.
North Central Neurology Assoc., P.C. Cullman Physical Medicine 1942 AL Hwy 157
1809 Kress Street 1701 Main Ave SW, Suite D Cullman, AL 35058
Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 737-5115
(256) 739-1210 (256) 736-8998 Began Practice in Cullman: 1996
Began Practice in Cullman: 2013 Began Practice in Cullman: 1998

Sheri L. Swader, M.D. James V. Thomas, M.D.

Cullman Primary Care Neurology Alabama Urgent Care
1800 AL Hwy 157, POB II, Suite 201 1908 Cherokee Ave. SW
Cullman, AL 35055 Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 736-1615 (256) 736-1460
Began Practice in Cullman: 2005 Began Practice in Cullman: 1998

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 21

ORTHOPEDIC ORTHOPEDIC PAIN MANAGEMENT 1698426
SPORTS MEDICINE
Dr. Steven Fuller Ann C. Still, M.D.
Dr. Steven Fuller
Alabama Orthopedic Institute Comprehensive Pain Specialist
Board Certified Sports Medicine and Alabama Orthopedic Institute 1701 Main Avenue SW, Suite E
Orthopedics Board Certified Sports Medicine and Cullman, AL 35055
1908 Cherokee Ave. SW Orthopedics (256) 290-0849
Cullman, AL 35055 1908 Cherokee Ave. SW Began Practice in Cullman: 2009
(256) 734-4700 Cullman, AL 35055
Began Practice in Cullman: 2001 (256) 734-4700 Lindsay M. Harrison, CRNP
Began Practice in Cullman: 2001
Ben Gomez, M.D. Comprehensive Pain Specialist
Ben Gomez, M.D. 1701 Main Avenue SW, Suite E
Cullman Regional Orthopedics & Cullman, AL 35055
Sports Medicine, P.C. Cullman Regional Orthopedics & (256) 290-0849
1942 AL Hwy 157 Sports Medicine, P.C. Began Practice in Cullman: 2015
Cullman, AL 35058 1942 AL Hwy 157
(256) 737-5115 Cullman, AL 35058 PEDIATRIC
Began Practice in Cullman: 1997 (256) 737-5115
Began Practice in Cullman: 1997 Heidi Blair, M.D.
Don R. Hirsbrunner, M.D.
Don R. Hirsbrunner, M.D. Cullman Pediatric Clinic
ABOS Board Certified 1965 AL Hwy 157, Suite B
Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists ABOS Board Certified Cullman, AL 35058
1938 AL Hwy 157 Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists (256) 775-2722
Cullman, AL 35058 1938 AL Hwy 157 Began Practice in Cullman: 1996
(256) 739-4030 Cullman, AL 35058
Began Practice in Cullman: 1989 (256) 739-4030 PHYSICAL MEDICINE &
Began Practice in Cullman: 1989 REHABILITATION
Dee Dee Gardner, CRNP
Tony Ruse, M.D. T. Scott Powers, M.D.
Cullman Regional Orthopedics &
Sports Medicine, P.C. Board Certified Sports Medicine & Ortho- Cullman Physical Medicine
1942 AL Hwy 157 pedics 1701 Main Ave SW, Suite D
Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman Internal Medicine Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 737-5115 1890 Hwy 157, Suite 300 (256) 736-8998
Began Practice in Cullman: 2003 Cullman, AL 35058 Began Practice in Cullman: 1998
(256) 737-8000
Tommy Mullican, PA-C Began Practice in Cullman: 2006 PLASTIC SURGERY

Cullman Regional Orthopedics & John E. Songer, M.D. Steve Seidel, M.D.
Sports Medicine, P.C.
1942 AL Hwy 157 ABOS Certified Seidel Plastic Surgery
Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman Primary Care Orthopedics & 1919 Dahlke Drive NE
(256) 737-5115 Rehabilitation Center Cullman, AL 35058
Began Practice in Cullman: 2006 1800 AL Hwy 157, POB III, Suite 100 [email protected]
Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 739-9993
John E. Songer, M.D. (256) 736-5505 Began Practice in Cullman: 1996
1(877)381-BONE (2663)
ABOS Certified Began Practice in Cullman: 2004 PODIATRY
Cullman Primary Care Orthopedics &
Rehabilitation Center PAIN MANAGEMENT Robson F. Araujo, D.P.M.
1800 AL Hwy 157, POB III, Suite 100
Cullman, AL 35055 Peter A. Crisologo, M.D. AACFAS Board Qualified
(256) 736-5505 CPC Podiatry
1(877)381-BONE (2663) Cullman Anesthesiology & Pain 1800 AL Hwy 157, Suite 100
Began Practice in Cullman: 2004 Consultants, P.C. Cullman, AL 35058
PO Box 1005, Cullman, AL 35056-1005 (256) 736-5505
Robert Ward, M.D. (256) 737-2235 Began Practice in Cullman: 2003
Began Practice in Cullman: 1991
Cullman Spine Institute, Inc. Eric. B. Fillinger, D.P.M.
1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 430 Gary Keith Morton, M.D.
Cullman, AL 35058 FACFAS Board Certified
(256) 734-7707 Cullman Anesthesiology & Pain Fillinger Foot Clinic
Began Practice in Cullman: 2006 Consultants, P.C. 2108 AL Hwy 157
PO Box 1005, Cullman, AL 35056-1005 Cullman, AL 35058
ORTHOPEDIC (256) 737-2235 (256) 737-7339
SPORTS MEDICINE Began Practice in Cullman: 2012 Began Practice in Cullman: 1998

Vince F. Bergquist, Jr., M.D. Roger McLain, CRNP PSYCHIATRY

ABOS Board Certified Cullman Primary Care Pain Center Mike Phillips, L.P.C.
Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists 1800 AL Hwy 157, Suite 201
1938 AL Hwy 157 Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman Primary Care
Cullman, AL 35058 (256) 775-7246 101 2nd Ave SE
(256) 739-4030 Began Practice in Cullman: 2015 Cullman, AL 35055
Began Practice in Cullman: 1977 (256) 739-4910
April Robertson, CRNP Began Practice in Cullman: 2008
David Dueland, M.D.
Cullman Primary Care Pain Center Kathy Tanner L.C.S.W, PIP
Cullman Regional Orthopedics & 1800 AL Hwy 157, Suite 201
Sports Medicine, P.C. Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman Primary Care
1942 AL Hwy 157 (256) 775-7246 101 2nd Ave SE
Cullman, AL 35058 Began Practice in Cullman: 2015 Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 737-5115 (256) 739-4910
Began Practice in Cullman: 1996 Began Practice in Cullman: 2006

22 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

PSYCHIATRY SPINAL SURGERY URGENT CARE

Daniel Meadows, M.D. Dr. Steven Fuller James V. Thomas, M.D.

Cullman Primary Care Alabama Orthopedic Institute Alabama Urgent Care
101 2nd Ave SE Board Certified Sports Medicine and 1908 Cherokee Ave. SW
Cullman, AL 35055 Orthopedics Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 739-4910 1908 Cherokee Ave. SW (256) 736-1460
Began Practice in Cullman: 2000 Cullman, AL 35055 Began Practice in Cullman: 1998
(256) 734-4700
PULMONOLOGY/ Began Practice in Cullman: 2001 Dan Williams, M.D.
PULMONARY MEDICINE
Robert Ward, M.D. Williams Prompt Care
G. Scott Warner, M.D. 312 Arnold St. NE
Cullman Spine Institute, Inc. Cullman, AL 35055
Chest Medicine of Cullman 1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 430 (256) 734-0606
1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 420 Cullman, AL 35058 Began Practice in Cullman: 2000
Cullman, AL 35058 (256) 734-7707
(256) 739-7050 Began Practice in Cullman: 2006 UROLOGY
Began Practice in Cullman: 1996
SPORTS MEDICINE Nicholas T. Braswell IV, M.D.
RADIATION
ONCOLOGY David Dueland, M.D. Cullman Urology, P.C.
1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 450
Vincent T. Karolewics, M.D. Cullman Regional Orthopedics & Cullman, AL 35058
Sports Medicine, P.C. (256) 739-2885
Lifefirst Oncology 1942 AL Hwy 157 Began Practice in Cullman: 1999
1811 Parkway Circle Cullman, AL 35058
Cullman, AL 35058 (256) 737-5115 James W. Davis, M.D.
(256) 737-2285 Began Practice in Cullman: 1996
Began Practice in Cullman: 1996 Cullman Urology, P.C.
Ben Gomez, M.D. 1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 450
RADIOLOGY Cullman, AL 35058
Cullman Regional Orthopedics & (256) 739-2885
Van Wadlington, M.D. Sports Medicine, P.C. Began Practice in Cullman: 1976
1942 AL Hwy 157
Cullman Primary Care Diagnostic Center Cullman, AL 35058 William H. Parker, M.D.
501 Clark Street NE (256) 737-5115
Cullman, AL 35055 Began Practice in Cullman: 1997 Cullman Urology, P.C.
(256) 739-9898 1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 450
Began Practice in Cullman: 2012 Tony Ruse, M.D. Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 739-2885
RHEUMATOLOGY Board Certified Sports Medicine & Ortho- Began Practice in Cullman: 1981
pedics
Celia Fernandez, M.D. Cullman Internal Medicine Rodney C. Sanders, M.D.
1890 Hwy 157, Suite 300
Cullman Internal Medicine Cullman, AL 35058 Cullman Urology, P.C.
1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 300 (256) 737-8000 1948 AL Hwy 157, Suite 450
Cullman, AL 35058 Began Practice in Cullman: 2006 Cullman, AL 35058
(256) 737-8000 (256) 739-2885
Began Practice in Cullman: 2014 URGENT CARE Began Practice in Cullman: 1995

SLEEP DISORDERS Richard Dodd, M.D. VASCULAR SURGERY

Mark Tafazoli., M.D. Urgent Care Center William D. Jordan, M.D.
1701 Main Ave. SW, Suite A
Sleep Board Certified Cullman, AL 35055 Affiliated with:
1800 AL Hwy 157, POBIII, Suite 303 (256) 737-0880 Surgical Arts, P.C.
Cullman, AL 35058 Began Practice in Cullman: 2010 1930 AL Hwy 157
(256) 775-1090 Cullman, AL 35058
Began Practice in Cullman: 2001 Gary Holland, M.D. (256) 734-7850
Began Practice in Cullman: 2007
G. Scott Warner, M.D. Urgent Care Center
1701 Main Ave. SW, Suite A WEIGHT LOSS
Chest Medicine of Cullman Cullman, AL 35055 SURGERY
1890 AL Hwy 157, Suite 420 (256) 737-0880
Cullman, AL 35058 Began Practice in Cullman: 1992 K. McClain Cottingham, M.D.
(256) 739-7050
Began Practice in Cullman: 1996 Tom Oliver, M.D. Cullman Regional Medical Center
Horizon Surgical, P.C.
Mir Kwon Wu Varquez, M.D., F.A.C.C. Urgent Care Center 1890 Hwy 157, POB II, Suite 420-B
1701 Main Ave. SW, Suite A Cullman, AL 35058
Board Certified in Sleep Medicine Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 736-BAND (2263)
Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease (256) 737-0880 LAP-BAND Surgery for Weight Loss
Serenity Sleep Lab Began Practice in Cullman: 1995 Plus all other forms of general surgery
1803 Parkview Drive NE Began Practice in Cullman: 2009
Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 255-1931 070201698455
Began Practice in Cullman: 1996 1698427

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 23

Cullman’s parks provide
outdoor activities like hiking
trails for those looking to
get back to nature.

Photo/contributed

Outdoor Living

Cullman County is blessed with an abundance of nat- and, of course, fishing.
ural beauty in lakes, waterfalls, creeks and wooded The deep waters of the lake provide a cool water en-
vistas. vironment for a vast variety of fish. With a maximum
Our park systems offer the best way to take advantage depth of 264 feet, Smith Lake teems with bass, crap-
of those resources. Cullman city and county govern- pie, bream and catfish. The park is complete with its
ments have two parks and recreation departments, own boat launch area, and plans are underway to con-
each with separate missions and different kinds of struct a handicap-accessible boat dock.
parks. Park goers can easily find quiet spaces to walk Camping accommodations are available year round.
and reflect on the area’s natural treasures or can join The park has nine cabins, 199 full sites, five water and
groups to participate in organized runs, golf games or electric sites and 61 tent sites. It also boasts a swim-
water adventures. ming pool, carpet golf and several playground areas.
Cullman County Parks and Recreation oversees Smith The park is home to Cullman’s premier Fourth of July
Lake Park, Sportsman Lake Park/Veterans Park, fireworks show, complete with musical entertainment
Clarkson Covered Bridge Park and Stoney Lonesome and activities for children.
OHV Park. For a quick afternoon of outdoor fun, Sportsman
Smith Lake Park is on the shores of one of the state’s Lake Park offers a wide variety of options without the
best lakes. Lewis Smith Lake is a 21,000-acre reservoir drive. It is located in the heart of Cullman and features
that’s great for water skiing, tubing, paddleboarding a lake, picnic pavilions, walking trails, a train, a play-

24 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

ground with a new splashpad and bike trails. Fishing draws tourists for ball tournaments, there are also
and camping spots are also available. Sportsman Lake many other smaller parks under the city’s recreation
Park features paddle boats for a leisurely trip around umbrella. Ingle Park is popular with basketball play-
the lake and feeding the ducks and geese. The park, ers and is home to a recreation center where seniors
which rents bikes, has a popular trail around the lake play games, attend classes and exercise.
enjoyed by bikers and pedestrians alike. Nesmith Park, near West Elementary School, features
Clarkson Covered Bridge Park is the site of one of the youth ballfields, tennis courts and a swimming pool.
state’s few remaining covered bridges. It was recently The department has also launched a new weekly sum-
restored and is preserved for public use with the help mer program called Just Play, which encourages chil-
of grant funds. The park includes picnic sites, trails dren to get outside and participate in organized recre-
and a pond for fishing, plus a rustic rental cabin. ation activities at various city park locations.
Cullman City Parks and Recreation oversees numer-
ous parks and activities including Heritage Park, fea- Photo/Carla Cain
turing tournament-caliber ballfields, soccer fields,
a walking trail, picnic pavilions, a playground with Children play on the bridges and trails of the restored park at
splashpad, basketball court, extreme disk course and Clarkson Covered Bridge. Area residents can fish from the bridge
a dog park area. in the pond.
In addition, Heritage Park is home to Relay For Life,
an annual event raising money for the American Can-
cer Society. In recent years, the park has become the
venue for the wildly popular Rock The South music
festival, drawing more than 40,000 people this past
year.
While Heritage Park serves as the crown jewel that

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 25

The Cullman area offers abundant opportunities for maintaining
fitness through carefully developed parks and recreation facilities
to private fitness centers that provide individualized training.

Photo/City Parks & Recreation

Healthy Lifestyles

Cullman offers its residents multiple ways to become ginners and advanced riders.
healthier through area gym memberships, recreation- The park hosts multiple events throughout the year,
al sports and many other activities. including midnight rides and motocross races. It also
Cullman Heritage Park is still expanding to meet the is a venue for campers as it includes a 20-cabin camp-
needs of the community. It hosts baseball and soft- ing area for visitors with pavilions, 16 RV site hook-
ball tournaments and concerts, as well as basketball ups and bathhouses.
courts, soccer fields, several miles of walking and run- Health clubs in Cullman offer multi-recreational op-
ning trails, an outdoor beach volleyball court, and an portunities.
18-hole disc golf course. It also features a kids’ play-
ground and an outdoor splash pad. ANYTIME FITNESS OF CULLMAN
OHV Stony Lonesome Park, the first public park of Anytime Fitness of Cullman offers 24-hour access and
its kind in the state, opened in 2009 and provides trail security and offers a wide range of exercise options,
riding to ATV enthusiasts that includes mud and fun including weights, cardio equipment, exercise class-
for the entire family on 1,456 acres of off-highway es and personal training. Call 256-841-6500 for more
park. information.
Enabling rock crawlers, dirt bikes, Jeeps, OHVs and
ATVs, trails are labeled and easy to accommodate be- CULLMAN WELLNESS & AQUATIC CENTER
The Cullman Wellness and Aquatics Center is a fit-

26 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

ness center complete with weights, cardio, specialized provide opportunities for those with special needs.
equipment and professional training. It hosts an in- The community has been impacted greatly with the
door rubberized walking track, exercise classes, in- productive additive the park provides.
door and outdoor competition pools, whirlpool spa,
gymnasium equipped for volleyball and basketball,
and an outdoor water park featuring water slides, div-
ing boards and a lazy river.

CULLMAN SPORTS FIT & WELLNESS CENTER Photo/City Parks & Recreation
Cullman Sports Fit and Wellness Center offers yoga,
Dance-Fit (Zumba), spinning and personal training Children and families can find leisurely, healthy activities
classes. The facility hosts an Olympic-sized swimming throughout the area.
pool, saunas, steam-rooms and whirlpools in both
locker rooms. They offer four racquetball courts, tan-
ning, and an indoor walking track, alongside Cybex
equipment, cardio equipment, weights and personal
trainers. For more information, contact Sports Fit at
256-739-0039.
The Field of Miracles complex at Chester Freeman
Park opened in 2007 and created a field to allow those
with all abilities and special needs to enjoy recreation-
al activities. It was an effort met by the City of Cull-
man’s Parks and Recreational Department in order to

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 27

Photo/The Cullman Times

Senior Living

Seniors in Cullman have no problem filling their so- gustine, Florida; Alaska; and the Ohio Amish country.
cial calendars with a wide range of activities to stay For more information on opportunities at the Donald
active, healthy and a vital part of the community. E. Green Senior Center, call 256-734-4803.
One of the area’s most dynamic settings for a lifetime The Cullman County Commission On Aging operates
of exciting offerings is the Donald E. Green Senior seven full-time senior nutrition centers. These include
Center at Ingle Park. The center is operated by Cull- Brushy Pond, Colony, Cullman, Crane Hill, Hancev-
man Parks and Recreation. Acting their age is option- ille, Holly Pond and West Point. Hot meals are served
al with offerings such as line dancing, karaoke and daily and planned activities range from card games to
Wii bowling. From bluegrass to southern gospel and quilting. Hot meals are also delivered to home-bound
shaped note singing, seniors will find music to their seniors in these communities as well. Hours of opera-
liking. Want to play an instrument? It’s never too late tion are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., ex-
to learn with weekly dulcimer lessons. cept holidays.
Travel is on the agenda for the Senior Spirit Club. Se- Satellite senior centers operate in 10 communities, in-
nior Spirit is a free program that focuses on providing cluding Baileyton, Center Hill, Dodge City, Fairview,
recreation, social and leisure activities for individu- Good Hope, Jones Chapel, New Canaan, Hill Top,
als 50 and over. Participants join together for various Cold Springs and Simcoe. These centers function with
trips all over the country. Recent trips include St. Au- varying meeting schedules from twice weekly to once

28 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

Retirement is not a matter of slowing down as
area seniors stay on the go with activities ranging
from dancing, performing concerts and traveling.

Photo/The Cullman Times

a month. Rx program for free prescriptions or at a reduced cost,
Limited transportation is often an obstacle for se- fresh vegetable coupons, tax return preparation help
niors. Thanks to Cullman Area Rural Transportation and special events.
System, or CARTS, Cullman residents do not face Throughout the year, seniors participate in special
this problem. The COA oversees a fleet of nearly 40 programs such as Senior Family Shindig, Senior Fish-
vans and buses with the purpose of taking residents ing Day and Senior Day at the Cullman County Fair.
to doctors appointments, shopping or senior centers. For more information on the Cullman County Com-
Seniors must make reservations a day ahead to en- mission On Aging, call 256-734-1241.
sure pick up. CARTS vehicles, which are wheelchair Cullman Regional Medical Center is another out-
accessible, run from 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. weekdays, let providing special services for seniors. The Senior
except holidays. Choice program supports the emotional, physical
Seniors can also benefit from educational and finan- and social well-being of those “50 or better.” Partici-
cial opportunities provided by the Commission On pants can receive monthly educational seminars and
Aging. Senior driving courses are offered periodically health screenings, discounts with many local retailers
that can sharpen skills and even lead to reduced insur- and free copies, faxes and notary services through the
ance costs. Also, senior centers offer computer classes Senior Services office at Cullman Regional Medical
for those 60 and up to help them keep up with tech- Center. For more information, call 256-737-2600
nology, from filling out online applications to surfing
the web.
Additional basic resources found through COA in-
clude legal services, Medicare assistance, the Senior

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 29

Lewis Smith Lake is one of the
area’s most scenic and satisfying
locations for families, or to enjoy
a vacation home.

Photo/David Warren

Lake Living

Life is better on the lake, especially if that lake is Lewis they are here, they discover all Cullman has to offer in
Smith Lake. the way of shopping, dining and entertainment. Lake
Whether you’re looking to spend an afternoon on a visitors also have easy access to Cullman’s vast recre-
paddleboard or spend your retirement years fishing ational programs plus the many amenities found at
from your very own dock, Smith Lake can easily be Smith Lake Park.
your destination. Real estate opportunities along Smith Lake remain
Nestled in the lush Bankhead National Forest, Smith vast for anyone looking for a peaceful setting. Lots re-
Lake is one of the features that makes Cullman Coun- main available for building new houses, while other
ty an outstanding community for family life and rec- properties in move-in condition are available as well.
reation. Interest in lake property is reaching a new high. An
The lake, which runs through Cullman, Walker and increasing number of people are looking to find that
Winston counties, is well known for its scenic views, perfect second home or even to make the transition
stunning rock formations and fishing opportunities. to full-time lake living. Boat houses and swimming
Many people traverse to the lake each weekend from piers front both luxurious homes and moderate hous-
metropolitan areas such as Birmingham and Hunts- es with outstanding views of the peaceful water.
ville seeking tranquility and water recreation. While Numerous marinas offer launching area, boat storage

30 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

and even restaurants accessible by water. Photo/The Cullman Times
Smith Lake watersports are available to more
people than ever due to a growing number of Homes along Lewis Smith Lake are built to provide residents with spectacu-
business that rent equipment such as paddle- lar views of the water and wooded areas.
boards, kayaks, canoes, tubes and boats. Water-
skiing remains a popular activity on the lake, Family owned for 45 years
and younger lakegoers are seen enjoying the
white, frothy water while being pulled behind 601 7th Ave. S W, Cullman, Al 35055
boats in intertubes built for a crowd. www.culpepperrealestate.com
Even locals seek serenity by reserving one of
the many options for a quick vacation – rus- 070200044939
tic cabin rentals, high-end condos or bed-and-
breakfasts.
With Smith Lake bordering the Sipsey Wild-
life Preserve, it isn’t uncommon to see many
animals in their natural habitat, including the
endangered bald eagle.
If fishing is a top priority, Smith Lake has no
equal. Bullhead, perch, striped bass, bream,
bluegill, carp, catfish, crappie and largemouth
bass can all be found in Smith Lake. Wheth-
er you’re baitcasting, fly fishing or spinning,
chances are good that you will get a bite. Night
fishing is also popular with local anglers, and
tournaments are plentiful.
Looking out on the clear, pristine waters and
shady banks, it’s hard to believe the lake itself
did not exist 60 years ago. It was built in 1961
by Alabama Power Company when it complet-
ed a 300-foot high dam, which impounds the
Sipsey Fork of the Black Warrior River to form
the lake. With a surface area of 21,200 acres,
Smith Lake spans 35 miles and three counties.
Approximately 500 miles of shoreline adds to
its natural beauty. One of the deepest lakes, it
is 264 feet at its deepest point with an average
depth of 66 feet.
Smith Lake will become even more accessible
soon as work is underway on a new interchange
off Interstate 65, bringing traffic directly into
view of the main corridors leading to the lake.
The new interchange will not only support ex-
isting industry in the area but will ease traffic
flow to the proposed Bass Fishing Hall of Fame
and the new Cullman Civic Center.

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 31

A wide range of housing options provide
homes with large yards, or even a few acres,
as well as garden homes and apartments
with plenty of amenities.

Photo/The Cullman Times

Suburban Living

Cullman County offers a variety of housing and diverse
settings to suit all types of lifestyles.
Whether you’ve interested in a few acres of land for
your home or a neighborhood near the conveniences
of the city but capturing the peace of the country, the
selections are plentiful throughout the area.
Magic Farm, just north of Cullman is one of the pop-
ular choices as it overlooks the countryside pastures
and ponds. Yet the homes are built with all the modern
family conveniences in mind.
The smaller communities and countryside also provide
opportunities for families to develop small farms, or
simply enjoy the rich scenery of the area.

Photo/The Cullman Times

32 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

Downtown loft

Photo/The Cullman Times

Urban Living

The historic district connecting to downtown
Cullman features homes that recall the early years
of the city’s development. And if you like being
in the thick of a revitalized commercial zone, loft
living is growing in popularity downtown. Antic-
ipation of even more downtown living is on the
horizon as developments continue.
Many residents enjoy neighborhoods that sur-
round local schools, allowing students to walk or
have easy access to campuses. Many homes of-
fer large lots for families to enjoy a wide range of
activities. But for those who want a more quaint
lifestyle, there are garden homes and quaint
houses with beautiful architectural features.
For a different scenic setting, the neighborhood
surrounding Sportsman Lake Park offers tree
covered lots and quick access to main thorough-
fares such as Alabama 157 and U.S. Highway 31
and Interstate 65.

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 33

Children can take a dive into a swimming pool at
Cullman Wellness & Aquatic Center as part of their
summer or after-school activities.

Photo/Rob Ketcham

Cullman: The Best Place to
Raise Children in Alabama

Cullman holds national recognition as a great place to more than 10 points over the state average of 81.06.
raise children. Reading scores are also consistently above the state av-
Bloomberg Businessweek has ranked Cullman as the erage.
best place to raise children in Alabama. The national With a population nearing 15,000, the city of Cullman
business magazine cited the success of the Cullman carreis a median income of $52,207.
City Schools system as one major factor, as well as the The magazine evaluated 4,169 places with a crime in-
size and location of the city. dex less than 10 percent above the national average,
“As a lifelong resident of Cullman, I’ve always known it populations between 1,000 and 50,000 people, and
was a good place to raise children, but what this does median family income within 20 percent of the state
is verify that,” Mayor Max Townson said. “This is just a median. Factors such as school scores, economic in-
magnificent place to live and raise children.” dicators, crime, parks, air quality and ethnic diversity
West Elementary School in the city and West Point El- also played a role in the selection process.
ementary School in Cullman County have both earned Business Alabama also has high praise for Cullman,
the National Blue Ribbon Schools award from the U.S. noting its convenience between the large metropolitan
Department of Education. centers of Huntsville and Birmingham, but offering
In the city school system, the average math score is residents and visitors a vast amount of quality shop-

34 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

ping, recreation and a vibrant cultural setting. Photo/Amanda Shavers-Davis
The city enjoys some of the highest rated parks and
recreation venues in America. The Cullman Wellness Cullman offers one of the state’s top school systems, backed by
& Aquatic Center features state-of-the-art water parks, one of the nation’s best recreation settings for children.
indoor and outdoor pools and splash centers.
The reviews on Cullman from the national and state 1BJOU t 4VOESJFT t $BSQFU t 8PPE t 'MPPSDPWFSJOHT t $FSBNJD
levels is that of a community with small-town charm
and the amenities found in much larger areas. $PNNFSJDBM BOE 3FUBJM
Townson has several years promoted the area as the
“city of character” because of the charitable spirit of 'JSTU 4USFFU 4&
residents and the determination and success of grow- $VMMNBO
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ing stronger economic and cultural foundations for the
quality of life. XXX PGSJDIUFSBOETPOT DPN
As a family-based community, festivals, education,
churches, and recreation combine to make a setting for 070200111052
a well-grounded foundation for children growing up.

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 35

Cullman High School underwent a
complete renovation and offers an
outstanding academic enviornment
for students.

Public and Private Education

Cullman County Schools awards and have earned the opportunity to present
Cullman County Schools, providing a quality educa- their projects at the NASA headquarters in Washing-
tion for every student, every day! ton, D.C.
Voted Alabama’s number one community to raise a A leadership initiative, the Student Advanced Leader-
family, the Cullman County School System consists of ship Teams (SALT), was formed to instill leadership
29 schools in grades K-12 with over 9,500 students and qualities in students and prepare them for leadership
is the home of two nationally recognized Blue Ribbon roles in their schools and communities.
Schools, West Point Elementary and the Exemplary Students may attend the Cullman Area Career Center
Reading Program Award, Parkside Elementary. The where they may earn their high school diploma with
Cullman County School System received district wide a career/technical endorsement in the areas of Archi-
AdvancEd Accreditation (SACS Accreditation) and tecture and Construction, Health and Human Ser-
is focused on high academic standards and increased vices, Manufacturing, Pre-engineering/ Electronics,
student success; preparing graduates who are college Transportation, and Drafting and Technology. Stu-
and career ready. dents may also participate in the Jr. ROTC program.
Special partnerships with the University of Alabama The Cullman Area Career Center is excited to add
in Hunstville and NASA offer students the opportuni- Mechatronics to their programs this year.
ty to explore career choices in Engineering. Cullman Students have opportunities to participate in various
County students have won numerous INSPIRESS activities such as academic teams, band, fine arts, ath-
letics, robotics, engineering (INSPIRESS) and many

36 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

Photo/Wallace State Community College

Elementary schools are
implementing the use of
technology in the
classroom across
Cullman County.

Photo contributed by local school

Photo/Trent Moore A college preparatory curriculum for boarding
and day students in grades 7-12
others. Students may participate in the Fast Track and
Dual Enrollment programs. Now accepting applications
Cullman County Students continue to receive state,
national and international recognition, along with nu- Scholarships available
merous team and individual honors; and are award-
ed millions of dollars each year in scholarships. The Contact us for a personal campus tour
most recent recognitions include: the West Point High
School Scholars Bowl Team which received 7th place in “Explore the possibilities...right here at St. Bernard”
the National Scholars Bowl Competition, the Cullman
Area Career Center’s Mars Land Rover Team which re-
ceived 7th place in the International Mars Land Rover
competition, and the Culinary Arts Team which re-
ceived first place in the state culinary competition.
Cullman County Schools…focusing on high standards
and expectations for excellence!
For more information about Cullman County Schools,
please visit the system’s website at www.ccboe.org

Cullman City Schools
The Cullman City School System, nationally recog-
nized for its innovative technology and instructional

070200132987

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 37

programs, is proud to be Alabama’s first school-wide more than 60 years.  We teach academics in a Chris-
1:1 Laptop Initiative site. tian environment to Preschool 3 years-6th grade. 
Cullman City Schools continues to innovate through Our teachers guide students as they serve their neigh-
technology with its recent announcement of a 1:x Ini- bors, work and develop projects, take part in Student
tiative which will give every student access to multi- Council, Robotics Club and the Fine Arts.  Visit www.
ple devices and will depending upon the task at hand. stpaulscullman.com to learn more about our school.
Students can now take hands-on responsibility for St. Bernard Prep School
their education, equipped with the best 21st Century Administered by the Benedictine Monks of St. Ber-
tools that will enhance the learning process and con- nard Abbey, the purpose of St. Bernard Preparatory
nect them to a future of opportunity and achievement. School is to help students in grades 7-12 become fully
Rated among the top two school systems in Alabama alive intellectually, socially, physically and spiritually;
on comparative test data (PARCA), CCS is home to to become independently thinking and socially re-
two nationally recognized Blue Ribbon Schools and sponsible Christ-like members of society.
has been named Alabama’s number one city in which St. Bernard Preparatory School has been educat-
to raise children. Earning over $4.5 million in aca- ing young men and women since 1891 in a Chris-
demic scholarships this past year, students also find tian-based environment, providing a college-prepara-
focus through state award winning athletic teams, tory curriculum that emphasizes the ability to think,
band, choral, theatre, art and community service, to read with understanding, to express oneself with
having donated more than 24,000 hours of volunteer confidence and grace, and to solve problems creative-
efforts since 2007. ly. Courses not only provide the transmission and
All five schools in the system — Cullman High, Cull- reception of pertinent facts, they encourage the devel-
man Middle, East and West Elementary, and the Pri- opment of mental and physical discipline, of breadth
mary School — are fully accredited by AdvancED and and depth of view, of responsible thought and action,
house approximately 3,200 students. Additional pro- and of critical thinking.
grams include Pre-K and Head Start. Students leave What does a St. Bernard education offer?
the Primary School with a firm foundation in reading, • SACS full accreditation
writing, and math setting them up for success in the • Day school and boarding school options
upcoming years. Newsweek has identified Cullman • College preparatory curriculum
High School for inclusion in their “2013 America’s • Small classes: 12 to 1 student/teacher
Best High Schools” listing. Only about 5 percent of
the more than 36,000 public and private high schools ratio
in the nation are included on this prestigious national • Disciplined, directed instruction from
listing. Newsweek identified 20 Alabama high schools
as America’s Best High Schools from the more than highly educated and experienced faculty
360 public secondary high schools located in the state. • Advanced Placement and
Cullman High School has been through a rebuilding
and renovation program, which provides students Dual-enrollment classes
and teachers with enhanced technology abilities. The • ACT and SAT scores consistently rank
rebuilding also includes several storm safety features
for students and staff. above the national average
The mission of Cullman City Schools is to inspire stu- • Acceptance to prestigious colleges and
dents for lifelong success through character, citizen-
ship and scholarship. For more information regard- universities
ing the school system, go to www.cullmancats.net. • Extensive athletics program. Member
St. Paul’s Lutheran School
St. Paul’s has been Growing Christian Leaders for of the Alabama High School Athletic
Association. Sports include: Cross
Country, Track and Field, Volleyball,
Basketball, Soccer, Baseball, Softball,
Tennis, and Swimming.

38 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

• Fine Arts program include: Music Association of Colleges and Schools, the school con-
Ensemble, Jazz Band, Drama and tinues to offer a strong, viable curriculum in a Chris-
Theater, Visual Arts tian environment. Not just for Catholics, Sacred Heart
welcomes children of all faith backgrounds without
• Foreign Languages: Latin and Spanish prejudice or prerequisites. Educating children from 3
• Average of $2.5 million in scholarships years old through 6th grade, the fully certified facul-
ty prepare the children well for continuing education
per 25 graduates per year beyond the walls of Sacred Heart School.
• Foreign travel opportunities for all Described by some as “Cullman’s Best Kept Secret,”
Sacred Heart currently has 138 children. Enrollment
students for next year indicates an increase in this number.
• Cultural diversity promoted through our Tours and information may be obtained by calling
the school at 256-734-4563. We are located in town
international student population at 112 Second Avenue Southeast, “The small school
• Safe, secure environment on the where big things happen!”
Cullman Christian School
picturesque 800 acres of St. Bernard Cullman Christian School provides Christian second-
Abbey ary education from an evangelical, Protestant per-
“St. Bernard has changed me by its constant beckon- spective for students in K5 through twelfth grade.
ing to me…it calls me to be someone greater. In my
studies, in my prayers, and with my friends, I am chal-
lenged to be greater.” (2014 St. Bernard graduate).
For more information about St. Bernard Preparatory
School visit our website at www.stbernardprep.com.

Sacred Heart School The school is independent and non-denominational,
Sacred Heart School (www.shscullman.net) has met governed by a board of parents who are members in
the educational needs of Cullman children for over good standing of various churches in Cullman. The
135 years. Accredited by both the State and Southern school’s website is www.cullmanchristian.org.

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 39

Students at Wallace State
Community College learn specific
skills for an ever-evolving job
market.

Photo/Wallace State Community College

Wallace State Community College

Nestled in southern Cullman County sits Wallace among health care students. It also has two comput-
State Community College whichboasts nearly 100 er labs, a 500-seat auditorium and café for students
programs of study in academic, health and techni- and faculty. Biology department chair Fred Halstead,
cal programs and roughly 7,000 credit and noncredit Ph.D. said the new building was a huge benefit for
students. the students, but he emphasized it was Wallace State’s
The 300-acre college campus is home to a new $25 teaching philosophy that set it apart.  “As a rural com-
million state-of-the-art nursing and biology building munity college, developing students is important,
and soon, the state’s longest disc golf course. and it’s unique at Wallace that students have access to
Founded in 1966, Wallace State is constantly striving us at all times.”
to modernize its facilities and update technological This spring, officials plan to open the first on-cam-
options for its students. pus disc golf course at any community college state-
The new School of Nursing and Center for Science wide. Students and the college are raising money for
building, unveiled last spring, was designed by ar- the project which is expected to bring in out-of-town
chitects in the shape of a chromosome and includes tournaments. The college has also established itself as
a simulation lab designed to replicate a hospital a regional center for the arts through the Ottis and
and emergency room for interdisciplinary learning Evelyn Burrow Center for the Fine and Perform-

40 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

Photo/Wallace State Community College

ing Arts, Evelyn Burrow Museum, and Betty Leeth students that exceeds the state and national average.
Haynes Theatre. “We have a sincere focus to serve students,”
Wallace State is accredited by Southern Association said President Vicki Hawsey Karolewics.
of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Wallace State has been recognized for its innovations
to award the Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, in teaching and learning on the state and national
and Associate in Applied Science degrees. Many pro- levels. An Achieving the Dream institution, Wallace
grams have additional accreditation from organiza- State has been rated the first choice among commu-
tions appropriate to the particular disciplines. Class- nity colleges by high school seniors taking the ACT,
es are offered day, evening, weekend and online. Dual designated by the Aspen Institute as one of the top
enrollment opportunities for high school students, 120 community colleges in America according to
including an on campus Fast Track Academy, adult student outcomes, ranked among the “Top 100 Com-
education and GED preparation, short-term training munity Colleges” and among the “Top 50 Associate
programs, continuing education and lifelong learn- Degrees: Health Professions and Related Clinical Sci-
ing classes are some of the many ways Wallace State ences” by Community College Week, and ranked No.
serves its communities. 2 in the South for Workforce Development by South-
Its athletics program includes baseball, basketball, ern Business and Development magazine.
cheerleading, golf, soccer, softball and volleyball as
well as intramurals. Between academic and student
life, Wallace State has achieved a retention rate among

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 41

Top 5 Most Business Friendly

Cullman is recognized across the state and nation as a as a regional center of commerce.
business-friendly community. The city government has invested in the community
The healthy balance of locally owned businesses and through facade improvement programs for merchants
large retail franchises that thrive in Cullman show a as well as tax incentives for larger developments to en-
solid foundation for continued growth. sure that the demands of consumers are met by a wide
The Alabama Policy Institute, which ranks Cullman range of stores and restaurants.
as a Top 5 Business Friendly community, notes that Overall revenue, buoyed largely by an increase in sales
qualified cities typically have responsible limited gov- tax revenue, was up more than 6 percent for the first
ernance, reasonable tax rates, quality schools, low six months of the 2015 fiscal year in the City of Cull-
crime, easy access to transportation infrastructure man.
and a thriving economy despite significant economic The latest financial data shows year-to-date revenue
challenges in recent years. Cullman has met all those in the city is up to $15.7 million, compared to $14.8
characteristics, but through its commitment to mea- million at the same point in 2014, marking an overall
sured, sustained growth has pushed beyond the basic increase of $926,898. That increase is led by by a
formula for success. 9.24 percent up-tick in sales tax, from $6.9 million
With Cullman bordering Interstate 65, the area has in 2014 to $7.6 million in 2015. Business licenses
taken advantage of its thoroughfares to establish itself also saw a 5.46 percent increase, from $2.17 million

42 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

Photo/Wallace State Community College

Photos/The Cullman Times

in 2014 to $2.29 million in 2015.
Sanitation fees were also up 3.27
percent, from $2.13 million in
2014 to $2.20 million in 2015.
Building permits were up an
eye-popping 76 percent year-to-
date, from
$102,942 in 2014, to $181,747 in
2015. Officials credited much of
the overall financial growth to an
increase in new retail and con-
struction projects, along with the
general health of the local econo-
my.
The commitment to education
is also maintained with a special
half-cent sales tax that goes di-
rectly to schools. The education
system has been recognized for
years as among the state’s best ac-
ademically.

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 43

The revitalized Cullman Shopping
Center creates a new variety of options
for shoppers from across the region.

Retail Booming in Cullman

Never in Cullman’s rich history has such a retail boom such as Hibbett’s, Hobby Lobby, Goody’s and Tuesday
occurred as the past few years. Options are plentiful Morning.
and increasing almost daily for local shoppers. However, Cullman Shopping Center may prove to be
From large national chain stores to locally owned the most evident upgrade. Located in the middle of
shops, variety is paramount to Cullman’s success. Cullman, the center has undergone a massive renova-
Shopping areas are expanding to the north with sig- tion, drawing in new businesses such as Publix, Dick’s
nificant growth on Highway 157. A second Walmart Sporting Goods, Petsmart, Ross Dress for Less and
Supercenter has been built near the corner of St. Jo- Ulta. Anchor stores already at the location include
seph Drive. The project’s plans also call for several Belk, Books-A-Million and Rue 21.
smaller retail spots within the development, which is Restaurants are plentiful in all with many new choices
attracting new restaurants and hotels to the area. such as Buffalo Wild Wings, Jim & Nick’s, Applebee’s,
Cherokee Avenue on the south end of Cullman has Buena Vista and a second Dairy Queen. The down-
experienced rampant progress as well. Walmart Su- town has welcomed Moe’s BBQ, Brothers Kitchen and
percenter, TJ Maxx, Maurice’s and Cato are available Pourhouse, the Red Door Cafe, which doubles as an
for clothing needs. art gallery, and Karma’s Coffee House.
Townsquare Shopping Center continues to attract Local favorite eateries include Johnny’s BBQ, All Steak
shoppers to the south end of town with businesses Restaurant, Grumpy’s Italian Grill, Berekely Bob’s

44 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

Photo/Matheny Goldmon

Coffee House, Rumor’s Deli, Carlton’s Italian Restau- Hanceville is home to unique shops just as Just Repur-
rant, and the Downtown Grill. posed and Jenia’s Henhouse. The downtown area is
The downtown area and the Warehouse District have currently being upgraded with the help of a revitaliza-
taken local shopping to a new level. Eclectic shops of- tion grant. Several antique stores add a charming flair
fer boutique clothing and accessories that reflect indi- to the area, which is home to Soulmate Bakery and
viduality. Jennifer’s Treasures, Younique Boutique and longtime business Hanceville Drug Company and
MoMo She 103 are a few of the recent additions. Soda Fountain. A new drive-thru has been added, but
Monograms Plus features popular brands in a wide the trademark black-and-white checkerboard floors
variety of merchandise such as Simply Southern, Yeti, and red booths remain unchanged. Old-fashioned ice
Pandora and Vera Bradley. cream floats are a favorite treat at the county’s only
Retail opportunities are plentiful outside the city, soda fountain.
as well. Good Hope is well known as home to Jack’s But not all of our shopping is done from 9 to 5. The
Western Wear. Jack’s offers the latest in top brand Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce and local mer-
boots, Wranglers, hats, western button-down shirts chants are banning together to sponsor 2nd Fridays
and popular lines of sunglasses. They also carry pre- in Downtown. Once a month, shoppers are invited
mium outdoor brands such as Columbia, Carhartt to “eat local and shop late,” with businesses extend-
and Merrell. Although western wear remains the top ing their hours, restaurants setting up shop and other
seller, Jack’s also caters to other fashion trends and has attractions in place including bands, games and car-
a wide variety of women’s clothing. riage rides.
Home to Wallace State Community College, Hancev-
ille offers unique shopping experiences as well. Locat-
ed just 10 miles south of Cullman,

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 45

Photo/Wallace State Community College

Cullman Regional Airport

The Cullman Regional Airport is increasingly becom- “We have been looking at the airport’s potential for a
ing a major focus in economic development for the re- long time, and now, with Huntsville growing, Cullman
gion. has started to see more interest in the airport from out-
Situated between two large metropolitan areas — side,” said Dale Greer, assistant director of Cullman
Huntsville and Birmingham — the local airport is Economic Development Agency. “In particular, there’s
drawing interest as a site suited for aviation based busi- more interest in MRO [maintenance, repair and over-
nesses. Additional hangars have been added to the facil- haul]. There is a demand for facilities that are within a
ities in recent years. one-hour flight time from Huntsville, and we’ve begun
A Federal Aviation Administration grant helped fund seeing interest in that.
a $1 million, 12,000-square-foot apron at the airport, The airport board is comprised of five officials: Cullman
adding the potential for increased traffic and business Mayor Max Townson, County Commission Chairman
in Cullman County. Kenneth Walker, Dr. Vince Karolewics, Tanya Carter,
With additional land under control of the airport, the and Dr. Ben Gomez.
potential to build more hangars to serve corporate cli- Townson said the use and potential of the airport is in-
ents and create business opportunities is increasing. Ef- creasing. He said the airport has long been a valuable
forts are also under way to expand the runway by 700 asset in attracting investors to Cullman County and is
feet to handle the landing of heavier aircraft. frequently used by corporate guests and potential de-
Cullman Regional Airport currently has 10 Corporate velopers.
hangars and 56 T-Hangers. The Cullman Regional Airport has also been a winner
46 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

Photo/Wallace State Community College

Cullman Regional Airport is a
growing part of the economic picture
in Cullman with its use by corporate
executives and developers.

of the Nationwide Airport of the Month. gionalairport.org. It has been updated and is now live.
Funded as a joint venture of the City of Cullman and Staff can be contacted at the airport at 256-775-1011,
Cullman County, the airport was established in the seven days a week from 7a.m. until 5 p.m.
1950s when land was purchased from local families in The airport is also host to a major Veterans Day cele-
the Vinemont area. The airport was orginally named bration that draws visitors from across the region for
Folsom Field after the late Gov. Jim “Big Jim” Folsom. airshows and a look at authentic military airplanes.
The airport’s website can be found at www.cullmanre-

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 47

Cullman County is the state’s leader
in agriculture, producing poultry, beef,
sweet potatoes and other products.

Photo/Johnny Grantham, Cullman Soil and Water Conservation District

Agri-Business

Alabama is known for its rich farmlands, but nowhere Local farmers are also finding great success in grow-
in the state compares to Cullman County. ing melons and vegetables in the rich soil of Cullman
With the distinction of being the state’s largest pro- County. Some area farmers are even specializing in
ducer of poultry and egg, farmers across this county certain vegetables to supply directly to fine dining es-
of more than 80,000 residents are a valuable supplier tablishments in the region.
of vital food products to the entire nation. Broiler pro- Forestry production is also on the rise in the Cullman
duction alone in Cullman County contributes nearly area, opening the door to continued business oppor-
85 percent of the area’s total agricultural production. tunities.
Cattle are also an important part of the agricultur- Alabama’s agricultural community has an economic
al community. While raising cattle is second in the impact reaching into the billions of dollars. Cullman
county, it typically ranks at or near the top in the state. County carries a huge share of that impact because of
While the presence of carefully crafted and controlled its diverse production.
poultry houses and fields of cattle are common in the Efforts to increase markets for Alabama farmers are
county’s farmlands, Cullman is also the state’s big pro- being pushed by state leaders. Former Alabama First
ducer of sweet potatoes. This hand-harvested crop has Lady Marsha Folsom and a company she is involved
long been a major part of the farming community and with are pushing for bamboo farming in another area
finds their way to stores and tables across the country. of the state, which could open other opportunities in

48 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN

spinoff businesses across the region.
While farming is big business across Cull-
man County, many farm families still de-
light local shoppers by bringing a portion
of their harvested crops to the Festhalle
in Cullman to sell. The popular market is
often crowded with residents and visitors
looking to find the best of locally grown
food.
Cullman’s rich agricultural history is tak-
ing hold across the region, evidenced in
the popular Farm Ya’ll event that features
a wide range of food grown locally and the
handiwork of chefs using these products.
A special treat in the event is arrival of gi-
ant pumpkins from the farms, including a
state record for two years in a row. Crowds
are also delighted by the pumpkin drop,
which send a thousand pounds of the deli-
cacy crashing to the ground.

Photo/Johnny Grantham, Cullman Soil and Water Conservation District

2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN 49

Rehau produces the spoiler for the BMW X5
shown here in front of Rehau’s new Research
and Development Center.

Research & Development Surges in Cullman

Cullman’s widely recognized industrial growth is cre- work was done in Germany, and now we’re bringing
ating an emerging environment for research and de- it to Cullman. This is the culmination of many years
velopment. of hard work.”
Companies such as Webb Wheel, REHAU and Cash REHAU is a tier-one supplier for Mercedes-Benz,
Acme are entrusting a vital portion of their success and in addition to the myriad other polymer prod-
in Cullman by establishing their research centers near ucts produced by the company, the Cullman location
their successful production facilities in Cullman. also manufactures bumper assemblies for Mercedes’
REHAU opened its research and development center C-Class and M-Class vehicle lines.
Sept. 2, marking the first time in the company’s histo- “I think this is such a tremendous positive for our area
ry that its engineers will be based outside Germany. that REHAU has the confidence in our community
After launching a $115 million expansion, the au- and workforce, said Peggy Smith, director of Cullman
tomobile component manufacturer moved forward Economic Development Agency. “Some really good
with its high-tech center, bringing additional highly ideas have come out of the Cullman facility and now
skilled jobs to the area. they will have their engineers here to continue their
“In addition to producing our innovations here in successful research and development.”
Cullman, we’ll also be furthering our expertise with The technical center, which will be used to develop
the research center,” REHAU plant manager Albert and refine production processes, is the first ever built
Von Pelser said. “Historically, much of that type of outside of REHAU’s native Germany. Similar to a re-
50 2015-16 CLASSIC CULLMAN