How about Sambucus Nigra? It's not safe if you have young children or pets who might chew on the leaves, but tolerates competition, is disease and pest resistant and grows vigorously. I also like the berries, but if you don't you may have neighbors who would love to turn them into wine or jam.

Some say too vigorous -- you do have to mow to keep the seedlings down.

Osmanthus americanus (Devilwood)
Osmanthus fragrans (Tea olive)
Prunus caroliniana (Cherry Laurel)
Myrica cerifera (Wax myrtle)
Ilex vomitoria (Yaupon holly)

I have used these with other slower growing shrubs and they work great for privacy.

Leyland cypress. Plant close and thin later. CUt and paste URL
http://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheets/HGIC1013.htm

Thanks everyone for the suggestions. I'm going to the nursery today and will let you know what we decide.

Silverthorn (Elaeagnus pungens) is a large-growing evergreen-like shrub that does well around here and is great for screening. I've seen unpruned stands as tall as 20', so they may not get as tall as you need (in that case I vote for Arborvitae as a very tall screen, but they are so slow growing). My Silverthorn plants are only a couple of years old and have already formed a whopping 7' tall screen in my backyard. I like the silvery-green leaves and interesting stems. Birds love to perch in them on their way to my feeder. Last but not least, you can't beat the sickening sweet smell in October, when the small flowers form. I look forward to the smell each year, but unfortunately it only lasts a couple of weeks. Good luck with your selection.

Tom (Helena, AL)