In an effort to support local schools, Jasper Highlands is announcing that all elementary schools in Marion, Grundy and Sequatchie counties will have the chance to name the three new firetrucks that will be serving the Jasper Highlands community by the expertly-trained volunteers of the newly formed Jasper Highlands Fire Department. Awards of $10,000, $7,500 and $2,500 will be donated to the schools that come up with the top three names as voted on by the public through www.livejasper.com/vote/.
“We understand the importance of supporting our neighboring schools and providing funding to help educate the youth of our community,” said John “Thunder” Thornton, owner and developer of Jasper Highlands and CEO of Thunder Enterprises. “We hope to see some fun and creative names from the students for these unique firetrucks.”
The top prize will be paired with the newest and largest truck in the fleet, which was most recently stationed in Fort Hood, Tx. This massive truck that drives up to 60 miles per hour features a 6,100 gallon tank with a turret that shoots out a six-inch diameter cannon of water, as well as a 500 gallon foam tank. If necessary, it will quickly draw water into its tank from an adjacent pond or stream. With its considerable power, the truck could clean the windows of a 40-story building.
"It's wonderful to see Jasper Highlands giving back to the local schools through involvement with this fun competition to name Jasper Highlands’ new firetrucks," said Janet Layne, principal, Monteagle Elementary. "Monteagle Elementary is thrilled for the opportunity to potentially receive additional funds to put back into the school for the materials we use every day. May the best name win!"
Jasper Highlands has worked diligently to build its newly minted fire department which will employ community volunteers to ensure developers and homeowners receive the safety and security they need and expect. Jasper Highlands’ growing community resides over 8,893 acres of mountaintop landscape and has 26 homes completed and/or under construction currently, with more breaking ground this month. People from 26 U.S. states — and even other countries — have purchased lots in the development.
“Building the Jasper Highlands Fire Department and providing the best trucks and equipment available has been our number one priority, and we are so proud of our terrific volunteer firefighters for stepping up to help us provide safety for our community,” Mr. Thornton said.
Local schools participating in the firetruck naming contest include: Jasper Elementary, Monteagle Elementary, South Pittsburg Elementary, Whitwell Elementary, Coalmont Elementary, North Elementary, Palmer Elementary, Pelham Elementary, Swiss Memorial Elementary, Tracy City Elementary and Griffith Elementary.
Voting begins on Thursday, March 24, and is open to the public – please visit http://www.livejasper.com/vote/ to vote. The Jasper Highlands office will be open for community members without internet access to go in and vote on Saturday, March 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Jasper Highlands is at 104 Battlecreek Road Kimball, Tn. 37380 (at the base of Jasper Mountain)
Winners will be announced on Wednesday, March 30.