Franklin, TN April 2023

BETTER

Kevin Griffin

LEIPERS FORK DREAM HOME

FRANKLIN • 5005 LILLY VALLEY

Offered at $11,000,000 | 7 Beds | 8 Full - 2 Half Bath | 10,697 SF

Co-Listed with Marty Warren, Warren Bradley Partners | 615-973-8757

JEWEL OF KINNARD SPRINGS

FRANKLIN • 3301 RUNNING SPRINGS CT

Offered at $3,700,000 | 5 Beds | 6 Full - 1 Half Bath | 8,713 SF

615.790.8884 | 148 5TH AVE N. FRANKLIN, TN 37064

TIM: 615.207.3295 | timtrealtor@gmail.com

TESS: 615.207.3296 | a.tess.thompson@gmail.com

BRENT: 615.207.3305 | brentjthompson24@gmail.com

BRENTWOOD HOME RICH IN HISTORY

BRENTWOOD • 3045 HILLSBORO RD

Offered at $1,299,900 | 3 Beds | 2 Bath | 3,393 SF

Unrivaled country estate situated on 45+ acres of rolling countryside. Showcasing classic modern design, luxurious amenities and superior craftsmanship. The primary suite is a true oasis with a large open concept, sitting area, spacious walk-in closet and a spa shower. Enjoy the panoramic views, new pool and organic lifestyle. Rejuvenate in the newly built pool house featuring a work out gym and sauna. Get the best of both worlds, private country setting and prime location to Leiper’s Fork Village and Historic Franklin.

Beautiful estate home on 5 acres in sought after Kinnard Springs. The heart of the home is the stunning family room with wood burning fireplace, gourmet kitchen, full dining room, study and piano room with custom built-ins. Guests will delight in the expansive 2,400 sq ft finished apartment with office, fireplace, kitchen and full bath. Entertain in the gorgeous outdoor living space with +1,000 sq ft cabana featuring full kitchen, bath, pool and hot tub.

Charm and history hallmark this lovely home originally built in 1889 situated on almost 2 private acres. The all one level main home features a large living room with wood burning fireplace, custom built-ins thru-out, delightful primary bedroom with full bath and added spacious bonus room with vaulted ceiling. Included with the property is an 1800s cabin with fireplace and a loft. Conveniently located with equal distance to Green Hills, Brentwood and Franklin shops & dining.

L O VE WHERE YOU WORK!

WE ARE PASSIONATE about the care we o er and the culture of compassion, excellence and teamwork that make us Williamson Health. Our mission is to treat people professionally, with dignity and respect. And we’re looking for talented, caring people to help us do just that.

To see our open positions, visit WilliamsonHealth.org/Careers or scan the code below.

DENTAL BLISS IS TRULY UNIQUE, AS THERE IS NO OTHER DENTAL PRACTICE LIKE IT IN THE WORLD. WE WELCOME YOU TO TAKE A TOUR, SAY HELLO, AND MEET OUR TEAM. WE HOPE TO CONVEY, IN A SMALL WAY, WHAT MAKES DENTAL BLISS SPECIAL & WHY OUR GUESTS BECOME RAVING FANS.

We are excited to bring you our April “Explore” issue. We certainly have a lot of interesting stories for you and great places to explore.

Firstly, we invite you to explore Manna Mountain Lodge in Sevierville. This luxurious mountain retreat nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains offers stunning views, unparalleled tranquility and is the perfect getaway spot for your family and friends to explore.

Exploring closer to home, read about how three generations of realtors at Tim Thompson Premier Realtors have successfully combined family and real estate for decades. State Farm agent, Cody Wheeler, talks about how exploration leads to career happiness.

Be sure to read about the new tween clothing line at The Purple Butterfly, offering trendy and stylish options for the younger fashionistas out there.

The team at Precision Roofing shares valuable insights regarding roof health. On the topic of health, explore Williamson Health and all the regional healthcare system has to offer local residents.

Check out the “Best of the Best” of Williamson County in the annual Sizzle Awards. Go explore - you may find some new favorites!

Our exploration of the latest in luxury automobiles features the new BMW-i7. With its sleek design and cutting-edge technology, this car offers a luxurious driving experience while also being environmentally friendly.

Lastly, we are thrilled to feature local resident, Kevin Griffin, founder of the Pilgrimage Festival and lead vocalist of the band Better Than Ezra. In addition to his musical talents, Kevin is also a gifted writer and is set to publish his new book, The Greatest Song: Spark Creativity, Ignite Your Career And Transform Your Life, a fictional business parable packed with inspiring real-world advice.

We hope you enjoy exploring all the exciting features in this issue and find inspiration in its pages. As always, we welcome your feedback and ideas for future issues.

Warmly,

April 2023

PUBLISHER

Athena West | athena.west@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Maria Dinoia | maria.dinoia@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Karen Creason | karen.creason@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Susan Falls | susan.falls@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Emily Smith | emily.smith@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kellie Walton Benz, Ed Atlas, Sue Baldani, Jessica Wayman, Christina Madrid, Judy Beaudin, Karen Creason, Dawn Burns

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Deb Scally

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

ATHENA WEST, PUBLISHER @FRANKLINTNLIFESTYLE

Franklin Lifestyle is available for pickup at the following locations:

• Whole Foods - Franklin

• Tim Thompson Premier Realtors - Franklin

• United Country Real Estate- Leipers Fork

• Local doctors and professional offices around the area

We are proud to offer some of the richest farmland Tennessee has to offer and we pride ourselves in listening to our clients and making their real estate dreams a reality.

Meet our Team Meet our Team

Williamson County, an area of gently rolling hills along the Harpeth River , has become one of the most sought-after counties in the country With low taxes , award winning schools , and beautiful land we have a lot to offer our clients We specialize in land , farms , estate homes , recreational property, and equestrian properties This is how we live , and we understand the lifestyle our clients are looking for Our agents are happy to serve the Leipers Fork community, Franklin TN , all of Williamson County, as well as the surrounding counties with outstanding service and attention to what our clients are looking for We would love to work with you and show you what makes our corner of the world so special

Cindy Garvey Owner/Principal Broker

Greg Musgrave Affiliate Broker

Tim Weathers Affiliate Broker

Carla Harris Affiliate Broker

Max Solomon Broker

Hilliary Green Affiliate Broker

Gina Pittman Affiliate Broker

Steve Poe Affiliate Broker

Vera Nichols Affiliate Broker

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1-7: Franklin & Thompson's Station Lifestyle magazines hosted one of two special Galentine's evenings for friends and partners at Sugar Drop Cafe & Dessert Boutique.

OUR YES MAN DOESN ’ T EXIST.

Yes men. They tell you everything you want to hear and nothing that you need to know. Which is why we don’t hire any. Instead, we hire people who help buyers clear all the inevitable hurdles of home buying with honesty, transparency, and even the occasional “No” if it needs to be said. For example, “No, we don’t recommend you put carpet in the bathroom.”

Saying “No” when it’s right to do so might not be every builder’s business model, but it’s the one that works for us and it seems to work pretty well for our thousands of happy clients.

Learn about our team, our building philosophy, and our available homes and floor plans at WillowBranchHomesTN.com.

We’re built different.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @franklintnlifestyle

8-14: Franklin & Thompson's Station Lifestyle magazines hosted one of two special Galentine's evenings for friends and partners at Carriage House Custom Homes & Interiors.

1100 ATHENA COURT, FRANKLIN, TN. 37069 | BEDS: 5 |

BATHS: 6 | SQFT: 5180 | $2,899,000

Nestled within the heart of Franklin’s picturesque equestrian countryside, is a casually elegant home designed for today’s living! Fully integrated “smart home” features a bright & open floor plan, vaulted, tray & beamed ceilings, custom lighting & gorgeous architectural details. Work from home in a private office complete w/1st of 4 fireplaces. Entertain in the expansive kitchen featuring oversized quartz island & luxury appliances open to a beamed keeping room w/cozy fireplace & large great rm, both overlooking a charming screen porch w/center stone fireplace & barn doors leading to a stunning resort style backyard w/entertaining gazebo, outdoor kitchen, sound, fire feature & saltwater pool! Spa like primary & guest suites on the main, 3 ensuites, media+ game rm w/wet bar up. WOW!

6205 LYNCH LANE, COLLEGE GROVE, TN 37046 | BEDS: 4 | BATHS: 4.5 | SQFT: 5328

Custom built by Legend Homes to take full advantage of the 18th Fairway view, this gorgeous property is a true WOW! Designed with entertaining in mind, buyers will absolutely love the amazing first floor spaces! From the light filled dining room with adjacent bar, through to the great room featuring built ins and cozy fireplace, leading through french doors to the GORGEOUS keeping room, complete with 2nd fireplace and floor to ceiling windows all overlooking a charming backyard with outdoor kitchen… and of course the 18th tee! After dinner on the patio, tempt guests with desert around a huge custom island in the home’s luxury kitchen or treat them to a screening of the latest blockbuster in a rarely found first floor media room! When the evening is over, out of town friends and family can retire to the 1st floor guest suite or head upstairs where they will find 2 additional guest suites and a game room for late night fun… while you head to your large primary suite with spa like bath… for the perfect ending to the perfect day! Live every day like you are on vacation at The Grove a Greg Norman 18 hole Signature Course. three pools, five tennis courts, fitness center, state of the art spa, casual and fine dining, gated, fishing village, coffee shop, and equestrian center.

C: 615.618.1330 | 0: 615.778.1818

PreviewNashvilleRealEstate.com

9175 Carothers Parkway Franklin, Tn. 37067

#1 Keller Williams Agent in the Southeast

COMING SOON IN THE GROVE

Same

Studio Tenn Announces New, Permanent Theater Home

Studio Tenn, Franklin’s professional theater company, announced that its new, permanent performance home will be in The Factory at Franklin and will be named the Turner Theater.

Construction on the multimillion-dollar project has started, with a target completion date of August 2023. Studio Tenn’s 202324 season begins in October. It will be the first time in the organization’s 14-year history that all of a season’s performances will take place in one location. StudioTenn.org

We understand that purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments in a lifetime. We’ve streamlined our process to ensure that the experience of obtaining your mortgage is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

RUT H PICHA REALTOR

CLHMS, RENE, ABR®, SRS

CELL: 615-864-2959

VILLAGE: 615-790-3400

ruthsellsnashvillehomes.com

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Made In TN To Open 12South Retail Location

Made in TN, a Nashville-based retailer curating the best Tennessee-made goods, will soon open doors on its third brick-and-mortar location at 2905 12th Ave. S., Nashville. Located in the popular 12South district, this means fans of local brands such as Olive & Sinclair, Ranger Station and Music City Suds have one more convenient spot to shop their favorites. The other two locations are inside L&L Market at 3820 Charlotte Ave. and inside the Factory at Franklin located at 230 Franklin Road.  ShopMadeInTN.com

FirstBank Amphitheater and Gibson Gives Raise Over $47,000 for Students

FirstBank Amphitheater’s 2022 concert season featured performances from Miranda Lambert, Nine Inch Nails, Cody Johnson, Willie Nelson, Third Eye Blind, Halsey, Earth Wind

& Fire, and so many more! Artists sign a classic Gibson electric or acoustic guitar knowing it will be auctioned off to a great local cause. Proceeds from the guitar auction are earmarked for use by Williamson County Public Schools for music education initiatives. The auction has collected over $47,000 in the last two years.

The Iroquois Steeplechase Enhances Race Day Experience For The 82nd Anniversary

The Iroquois Steeplechase, sponsored by Bank of America, announced enhancements to the race day experience to be held at Percy Warner Park Saturday, May 13.

• Additional lounge seating in The Royal 615

• Tailgaters can add an equipment package upgrade

• Hillside and Hunt Club attendees will have access to mobile wash stations and track-side viewing

• The box seats and Paddock Club decks are undergoing a phased restoration

• Tickets are being sent digitally this year

• A new ride-share location Tickets are on sale now. Iroquoissteeplechase.org

Heritage Foundation Calls for '2023 Sites to Save' Nominations

The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County is now accepting this year’s nominations for its preservation advocacy program,  Sites to Save, which seeks to identify historic places that are vulnerable to demolition, development, or neglect.

The Sites to Save list highlights properties that are historically significant and endangered because of age, condition, or potential development. It is designed to raise awareness of Williamson County’s significant historic, cultural, geographical, and archaeological resources.

To nominate an endangered historic place in Williamson County, visit  WilliamsonHeritage.org/EndangeredPlaces-Nomination/

Photography: 2022 Site to Save

Historic Franklin Masonic Hall

Lotz House has expanded by opening the Lotz House Antiques & Museum

Store featuring the antiques and collectibles from the estate of the late Sue Armstrong Thompson, also known as the “One Woman Road Show.” The retail store opened last month and is located next door to the Lotz House on the lower level of 1117 Columbia Avenue.  LotzHouse.com

Photography: Lotz House

Williamson County Schools Announce the Employees of the Year

Williamson County Schools (WCS) recognized the District-Wide Classified Employees of the Year in February.

At the elementary level, Clovercroft Elementary's Mary Jo Rothlisberger is the District-wide Classified Employee of the Year. Legacy Middle's Vanessa McCain is the Middle School Classified Employee of the Year, and Franklin High's Gina Cavender is the High School Classified Employee of the Year.

"These employees are vital for the success of our district," said WCS Superintendent Jason Golden. "We can't thank them enough for the support they give our teachers and students."  WCS.edu

Photography: WCS

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Franklin

Scout & Dylan, Owners

“I

I am extremely pleased.”

- Susan

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

ARTICLE BY DAWN BURNS

You only live once; make the most of it! Choose your next adventure and broaden your horizons, increase your heart rate, and try something new that will fill your bucket.

Our Picks to Choose Your Next Adventure

TREEHOUSE GROVE: Glamp in a TreeHouse! TreeHouse Grove located in Gatlinburg allows you to sleep amongst the trees in their luxury treehouses with cozy accommodations.

JACKSON & STILLHOUSE HOLLOW FALLS: Chasing Waterfalls! Add Jackson Falls, Old Stone Fort Archaeological Park and Stillhouse Hollow Falls to your adventure list for hikes and waterfalls.

THE CLIMB GYMS: No mountains needed. See how high you can climb at The Climb Gyms. Great rainy day activity!

NASHVILLE PADDLE COMPANY: Enjoy Percy Priest Lake by stand-up paddle boarding with Nashville Paddle Company. Kayak rentals, yoga and fitness classes are also available.

THE ADVENTURE PARK: Zipline your way through trees lit up by glow attire, colored lights, music and more at The Adventure Park at Nashville.

Scan

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Dawn Burns aka The Nashville Mom | @thenashvillemom

Lifestyle blogger Dawn Burns calls Franklin home, where she is a mother of two and wife to husband, Seth. Dawn has always had a growing love for community and an even stronger passion for families traveling to her beloved city. Striving to connect others with happenings in and around Music City and all it has to offer, Dawn, the face behind The Nashville Mom, has become the #1 resource for families to discover the best restaurants, shops, kid-friendly activities and events in town.

Nashville Paddle Company

DOES MY CHILD HAVE SLEEP APNEA?

Unfortunately, the answer might be yes. More parents are searching for answers to questions about this than ever before. Sleep disorders are common in children, with estimates suggesting that up to 50% of children may experience some form of sleep problem at some point in their lives. Addressing this as early as possible is crucial to the health and development of any child. Common findings in sleepy children can range from stuffy noses to dark circles under the eyes, too crowded baby teeth, poor head posture and ADHD symptoms.

So, let’s talk about getting back to the basics of good breathing during the day. Our bodies were designed to be exclusively nasal breathers. We are meant to breathe only through our noses, not our mouths. The nose is equipped to warm, filter and humidify the air we breathe, allowing for better absorption of oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange, so that it can be more readily used by the rest of the body. Mouth breathing in contrast uses the tonsils to attempt to filter the same air. And then, you guessed it, when that happens enough of the time, the tonsils start to become inflamed and makes breathing even more inefficient. And sleep disordered breathing is mouth breathing.

In his book, “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art”, James Nestor offers practical advice for improving breathing habits to optimize health, including proper breathing techniques, and how breathing affects our immune system, mental health, and athletic performance. Pretty good advice for us adults, too. But let’s get back to our children.

What is the biggest reason for poor breathing day and night? Research from Dr. Robert Corrucini’s anthropological research from 1960’s found that our soft diet since the Industrial Revolution is one of the biggest causes of underdeveloped jaws and small airways in children. The lack of breastfeeding and soft diet in toddlers in our modern times can also influence this lack of proper jaw development by not properly stimulating the chewing muscles, including the tongue, to encourage best growth of the upper jaw. And since the roof of the upper jaw is also the floor of the nasal cavity, this can create the perfect storm for mouth breathing and sleep disordered breathing in our children. This can result in snoring, gasping for air during sleep, and pauses in breathing.

Maxillary underdevelopment can also lead to a variety of facial abnormalities, such as a recessed chin, a long face, and a narrow nasal passage. These abnormalities can further exacerbate sleep apnea and other breathing issues. In severe cases, sleep apnea can cause oxygen deprivation, which can lead to developmental delays, behavioral problems, and other health issues.

Studies have shown that children with ADHD are more likely to have sleep disorders than children without ADHD. Dr. Karen Bonuk, in a 6 year study, found that up to 50% of children with ADHD had some form of sleep disorder, and there was also a strong association with diminished IQ. Another study found that children with ADHD were more likely to have SDB than children without ADHD. In her book, “Sleep Wrecked Kids”, Dr. Sharon Moore, a pediatrician and sleep specialist, explores the impact of sleep deprivation on children’s health, behavior, and academic performance.

Fortunately, there are treatments available for maxillary underdevelopment and sleep breathing issues in children. One common treatment is the use of a palatal expander, which is a device that is attached to the upper jaw to widen the palate and improve the airway. This treatment is most effective when done early, ideally between the ages of 6-10. It is also possible to treat children younger than age 5 with removable growth guiding mouthpieces.

So, how do parents get the answers they need? This is where an Airway Centric dentist and ENT can work together to find the best treatment plan for your child. CBCT 3D imaging is vital to diagnosing craniofacial underdevelopment in any age individual, and now Myofunctional therapy to retrain the weak tongue to function properly, we can get lasting breathing habits, better sleep, and change the course of that child’s life.

Dr. Kellye Rice, DMD, FAGD, ABDSM

Child with palate expander

Easter Eats

Spring has finally arrived in Middle Tennessee. Along with warmer weather, early April brings the celebration of Easter into many of our lives. I don’t know about you, but the dishes I prepare each year for our holiday dinner never deviate from our menu of 25+ years. We enjoy the tradition and familiarity it brings to the gathering. I’ve never dared to propose alternatives to the glazed ham, deviled eggs, and homemade rolls that grace our annual table. Traditions mean a lot to our families and friends. Rocking that stable boat will disappoint everyone, right? Maybe not. This year I’m keeping some favorites while replacing a few with these Easterworthy spring dishes that celebrate and embrace the joy of the season.

Skillet Chicken Breasts with Creamy Lemon Pan Sauce

INGREDIENTS

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 6 tablespoons butter

• 1 cup white wine

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• ½ teaspoon sugar

• 1 cup heavy cream

DIRECTIONS

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

A DELICIOUS DINNER SURE TO PLEASE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUDY BEAUDIN

2. In a skillet over medium high heat, add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter.

3. Brown chicken breasts about 4 minutes per side. Remove to a plate and cover.

4. Remove pan from heat; add half of the wine. Cook over medium heat until slightly reduced. Add garlic and thyme. Stir one more minute.

5. Add remaining wine and chicken broth; cook for 5-6 minutes.

6. Add lemon juice, remaining butter and heavy cream; whisk 8-10 minutes until thickened.

7. Return chicken breasts to pan and heat through. 6 servings

Asparagus and Pea Orzo

INGREDIENTS

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups orzo pasta

• 1 pound asparagus, cut into 2” pieces

• 1 cup frozen sweet peas

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic; sauté 30 seconds.

2. Add chicken broth; bring to a boil. Add orzo, reducing heat to medium. Cook 5 minutes, then add asparagus.

3. Cover and cook 4-5 more minutes or until liquid is absorbed and asparagus is just tender.

4. Add peas and Parmesan, stirring over low heat to blend cheese . 6 servings

Simple Crépes with Roasted Strawberries

INGREDIENTS

Crépes:

• ¾ cup flour

• 1 cup milk

• 2 eggs

• 3 tablespoons sugar

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

• ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Extra butter for cooking

• Vanilla ice cream, softened

DIRECTIONS

1. Whisk first 7 ingredients together in a medium bowl. Over medium heat, coat a 10” skillet or crépe pan with butter.

2. Pour ¼ cup of batter into pan, tilting to coat surface. Cook about 45 seconds; flip and repeat on second side.

3. Remove to a covered plate and repeat with remaining batter.

INGREDIENTS

Roasted Strawberries:

• 1 pound strawberries

• ¼ cup sugar

• Sea salt

• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375º. Slice off strawberry stems. Cut larger ones in half.

2. Roast for 25 minutes, or until berries are tender.

TO SERVE

Scoop 1/3 cup ice cream down the middle of the crepe, near one end. Roll to other end. Serveon individual plates, adding strawberries and juice over top. 8 servings

Photo By ShannonLaBlanc

Meet the Chef

JUDY BEAUDIN

Judy Beaudin is an award-winning competitive cook/baker. Her dessert and pastry work has been featured in national marketing campaigns and on HGTV. She has been featured in local and national lifestyle and industry magazines.

Inside Williamson Health

In 1950, Williamson County’s population was just shy of 24,300. Now, a little more than 70 years later—a little less than the average Tennessean’s lifetime—the population is more than 10 times larger.

Back in 1958, a small community hospital provided all the care Williamson County residents needed. But over the years, as the region’s population has boomed, the need for exceptional healthcare close to home also grew—and today’s Williamson Health is rising to meet the challenge. Now a full-service regional healthcare system, Williamson

Health has plenty to offer Williamson County, both now and in the future.

EXPLORING THE BRAND

When it comes to Williamson Health, there’s a lot to explore. Anchored by Williamson Medical Center (WMC), its flagship acute-care hospital, Williamson Health has a presence in more than 30 locations across the county. Combining award-winning facilities, world-class technology and highly-skilled and compassionate providers, Williamson Health is more than a

EXPLORING ALL THE REGIONAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM HAS TO OFFER

hospital—and the new parent brand reflects that. “The hospital is a vital part of who we are at Williamson Health, but we’ve grown to be much more than just the hospital,” says Phil Mazzuca, Chief Executive Officer of Williamson Health. “We’re a regional healthcare system that’s rooted in our history and our community, and the new Williamson Health brand allows us to talk more accurately about who we are as an organization and the care we provide.”

Announced earlier this year, Williamson Health is the new parent brand of Williamson Medical Center and its family of healthcare services and providers. In addition to WMC, the full-service system has providers across the entire healthcare spectrum, including Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee, The Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital Vanderbilt at Williamson Medical Center, Williamson Health physician practices that are strategically located throughout the community, countywide Emergency Medical Services (EMS) that include 18 rapid response units, Williamson Health Foundation, and multiple joint-venture Vanderbilt Health and Williamson Medical Center Walk-In Clinics in Williamson County. “While the new brand doesn’t change the day-to-day processes or affect patients and staff in any way, Williamson Health helps the community understand that we are more than a hospital,” says Michele Simpson, Williamson Health Director of Marketing and Communications. “The Williamson Health brand encompasses the many different healthcare services we provide throughout the region and better explains who we are to our patients and the community,” Simpson says.

PUTTING EXCEPTIONAL CARE ON THE MAP

More than a name, Williamson Health embodies the healthcare system’s commitment to providing outstanding healthcare close to home, Mazzuca says. “Williamson Health offers the exceptional healthcare our patients need and deserve throughout every stage of their lives,” he says. “We’re committed to providing worldclass care that feels like home, right here in Williamson County. ”Families will find extensive women’s services, state-of-the-art cardiology services, advanced surgical

technologies, an award-winning obstetrics and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), leading-edge orthopaedics, outpatient imaging services, and comprehensive emergency and inpatient services for both adult and pediatric patients. The accolades and awards speak for themselves. In 2023, WMC was named one of America’s Best Hospitals for Women’s Services, Obstetrics, Heart Care, Minimally Invasive Surgery and more by the Women’s Choice Award®. The Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center, an integral part of the Williamson Health system, was also recognized with a 2023 Women’s Choice Award, ranking among the best of the best for comprehensive breast care and mammogram imaging. Additionally, Williamson Health EMS is a five-time recipient of the Tennessee EMS Region Five “Star of Life” award for providing exemplary lifesaving care; a multi-year recipient of the American Heart Association: Mission Lifeline recognition; and named the Tennessee Ambulance Service Association

2020 ALS (Advanced Life Support) Service of the Year. The orthopaedic surgeons and specialists at Bone and Joint Institute, which recently celebrated its fifth anniversary, are routinely counted among the best, receiving recent CareChex Medical Excellence awards in Orthopaedic Surgery and a Patient Safety Award for spinal fusion. The list of award-winning care and services could go on, but the message is clear: Williamson Health is committed to providing first-class care—and they want to make sure area residents know that care is right here, close to home.

PLANNING THE FUTURE NOW

One way Williamson Health is living up to that commitment, Mazzuca says, is through the historic renovation and expansion project now underway at WMC. The $200 million project broke ground last year and will touch nearly every department of the hospital, including improvements to Labor and Delivery, the NICU, Cardiology, the Emergency Department, Intensive CareUnit(ICU) and more.

“We’re positioning ourselves for the future,” Mazzuca says. “By updating these spaces and expanding and broadening the services we offer, we are making it

“While the new brand doesn’t change the dayto-day processes or affect patients and staff in any way, Williamson Health helps the community understand that we are more than a hospital.”

— Michele Simpson, Williamson Health Director of Marketing and Communications

possible to provide patients the highest level of care right here in Williamson County now and for years to come.”In addition to state-of-the-art facilities, the physicians and other care providers who make up Williamson Health continuously pursue cutting-edge procedures and treatments that lead to easier recoveries and better outcomes for their patients. WMC was the first hospital to adopt the use of fluorescence imaging to assist surgeons using the da Vinci Si robotic surgical system. A stateof-the-art vascular suite houses some of the most up-to-date technology available today, and WMC’s new cath lab also offers the newest systems to help doctors diagnose and treat cardiovascular disease. The surgeons at Bone and Joint Institute are also leading their field, using the most advanced surgical technologies such as Mako SmartRobotics™and Exactech GPS to name a few. With the help of this technology, physicians and patients can be more confident in the strategy, accuracy and recovery surrounding their surgeries. “We’ve been a part of this healthcare system since 2018, but the connection has not

always been clear,” said Bone and Joint Institute CEO Darren Harris. “The creation of Williamson Health as our umbrella organization really crystalizes our relationship and showcases the breadth of our services available to our patients and the community as a whole.”

A future-focused approach and drive to find advanced solutions that benefit both patient and physician will allow Williamson Health to provide world-class care long into the future, Mazzuca says.“Our state-of-the-art facilities, excellent providers and modern technologies truly set Williamson Health apart,” Mazzuca says. “The transformation we are undergoing—both on the Williamson Medical Center campus and through the introduction of the Williamson Health brand—simply means that residents of Williamson County and the surrounding areas will have access to exceptional care for many generations to come.”Want to learn more about Williamson Health and all it has to offer? The entire Williamson Health System is committed to providing world-class care that feels like home. WilliamsonHealth.org

ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE DEL VALLE @ THE HISTORY & CULTURE CENTER OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY

Better Than Ezra's Kevin Griffin Is Singing A Different 'Song'

THE PILGRIMAGE FESTIVAL CO-FOUNDER EXPLORES ANOTHER SIDE OF HIMSELF

You may have first heard Kevin Griffin's name back in 1993 when his band, Better Than Ezra, first emerged on to the music scene with the album Deluxe and 1995 hit single "Good" which reached number one on Billboard's Modern Rock Tracks chart. Or maybe you remember his name from 2015 when he helped to launch Franklin's beloved Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival, now in its ninth year. Today, you'll hear Kevin Griffin's name again as the author of the highly regarded book,  The Greatest Song: Spark Creativity, Ignite Your Career And Transform Your Life, a fictional business parable with inspiring real-world advice, due out later this month.

Kevin says, "I started doing speeches with Young President's Organization (YPO) groups like five or six years ago. And when I sat down to write my speech, I started to think, 'What would be compelling to a business person?' This organization was made up of very successful business people. People are just so interested in music and behind the scenes, and it's a career that people

“I hope I'm speaking to people who are saying, ‘What's my second act? Where am I in my life? I've done this, but I really want to do this. How do I continue getting better?’”

are fascinated with. So I started thinking 'How have I stayed successful in a notoriously fickle business, and are there actual things that I've done, tangible things that I've done, to stay in this game that I've learned over the years?'

That's when Griffin realized he really did have something to say. "I realized there are these tools and these kind of methods that I do, sometimes overtly, but also just out of habit, these things I do to stay in the game. And I put it together in a speech that was really a story arc of my career from the beginning of Better Than Ezra to writing hit songs for other people. The ups and downs of the music business, getting dropped, peppered with the hits that I've written for other people. And then I put these five things that I do to stay in the game."

Kevin's Five Tips

• Creative collaboration

• Filling the well

• Leaving your comfort zone

• Change your attitude

• Dare to be stupid

"Writing books is a long process. It takes a long time. I was like, 'I'm going to do a business parable about a songwriter' and not make it autobiographical, but it couldn't help but be just a little bit. It's just the things that I've learned and the anecdotes and the stories and the characters, and it all just fell together. It took a long time to write. I spent many, many hours at Frothy Monkey. I was that guy on the computer," says Griffin.

Writing a book was something the English major from Louisiana State University (LSU) always wanted to do. Next up, he says he's working on a purely fiction book. Griffin adds, "I love doing it all. I really love pivoting. It's always exciting to me, and what I learn. It's inspiring that within any profession, there's a whole skill set that you aren't aware exists. And I'm a firm believer in always evolving."

Speaking of evolving, what's next for Better Than Ezra? "We have a new album coming out at the end of the summer. It will be our first full-length album in nine years. And we're doing a summer amphitheater tour with Train. It starts in Northern California, and goes all the way across the U.S. And then in the fall, we'll do our own tour of theaters along the East Coast and the Midwest."

KevinGriffinMusic.com

The Greatest Song is available locally at Parnassus Books, on Amazon, and anywhere you can buy books online.

Are you ready to function at peak performance?

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Overcoming Hard Times

ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

HOW STRUGGLE AND OVERCOMING CHALLENGES CHANGED LIFE FOR THE BETTER FOR BEDDY’S FOUNDER, BETSY MIKESELL

“Your hardest times often lead to the greatest moments of your life. Keep going. Tough situations build strong people in the end.” ~Roy T. Bennett. Betsy Mikesell had a strong parenting game. Her daughter, Alyssa,  “always had a bow on her head and never a spot on her face." But after having twins [sons Brock and Boston], "I thought it was a good day if we all bathed,” she jokes. Her requests for her children to make their beds were largely ignored. While showing her children how to make their beds, Betsy quickly discovered that bunk beds positioned against the wall made the task nearly impossible.

Unable to find bedding solutions online, Betsy turned to her mother for help in creating a “zipper bedding” prototype. Little did they know, Betsy’s idea would create a multimillion-dollar business aptly named Beddy’s (pronounced "Bed-Ease").

Betsy shared her idea with Angie White, her best friend and neighborhood running buddy. Angie quickly realized how useful this “zip your bed instead” bedding would be for her own family when traveling in their trailer and instantly agreed to partner with Betsy.  “Angie is calm, quiet, and collected, whereas I'm wild, spastic, and creative," says Betsy. "We joke that I am the person throwing glitter and she is the person who thinks, ‘We have to clean up this glitter.’ She is the exact opposite of me in every way and complements me in every way.”

Armed with a prototype and a patent, but in need of $250,000 in start-up funds, the duo decided to

Betsy with her business partner, Angie White (L). Photo by @carrlywalden

test the market with crowdsource funding through Kickstarter. In just 40 days, Beddy’s raised $108,000. The remaining start-up funds were secured by home equity loans. Hard times persisted; terrible margins and high shipping costs forced the pair to hand deliver as many Beddy’s as possible. Seeing firsthand how people were using Beddy’s propelled them forward. “I will never forget meeting one woman with a small boy with Down Syndrome who cried because her son could finally make his bed by himself. It gave him independence,” Betsy recalls. Another mother of a son with autism and a sensory processing disorder reported it was the first night in seven years she didn't have to hold her son to get him to sleep. She zipped him in and he went right to sleep. “I did this because I wanted a tidy room but for some parents, it's a life changer," continues Betsy. "Their children can make their own beds and witnessing the sense of pride in their accomplishment is priceless.” From these experiences, Beddy’s charitable campaign was founded. With every Beddy’s purchase, a donation is made to the Make-AWish Foundation.

Beddy’s was thriving through COVID and “life was great” until August 2020 when the family was involved in a small-engine plane crash. Betsy, her husband of 23 years, Gentry, twin sons, and friends, pilot Shad Feild and his wife Jazlyn, crash-landed near a campsite in the Utah mountains. Nearby strangers rushed to help and luckily one was an EMT that saved the lives of both men.

Gentry’s substantial injuries forced Betsy to take time off work. “I'm so grateful because I learned that I could do tough things. It changed everything for me.”

In 2021, The Mikesells moved to Williamson County. Feeling they were “supposed to be here,” the move brought peace and healing. “The change has been good for our whole family,” reflects Betsy. And changes keep coming. Daughter Alyssa, (@alyssakatejohnson) owner of @indyclover_gilbert, recently married and moved to Arizona.

Not long ago, Alyssa introduced her new clothing designs in collaboration with @loveoliveco and @kivaclothing.

Brock and Boston also have changes ahead as they are set to graduate high school next month. They continue vlogging on their YouTube channel which they started in 2016 (Brock and Boston) and are active on Instagram.

"Through these hardships, my faith in strangers, friends, family and myself was strengthened and multiplied. I strive to be understanding at all times as you never know what hardships someone else is struggling with."  — Betsy Mikesell

The Mikesell Family/Photo by @lauramollphoto

the DETAILS

1. A SOLUTION FOR EVERYONE

Perfect for individuals with differing abilities, the elderly, and everyone who wants to make their bed with ease. Great for beds against walls, bunk beds, dorm beds, travel trailers, RVs, campers, day beds and more.

Goes on like a fitted sheet.  The built-in bottom sheet always stays in place.

Easy pull zipper tabs along both sides meet in the middle at the bottom of the bed.

You can kick your legs out or stay nice and snug all zipped up.

Minky (the softest, cuddliest fabric) or 100% cotton.

(@BrockandBostonOfficial).

Last year they bought, renovated and sold a home. While their next steps have not yet been determined, Betsy and Gentry have faith that Brock and Boston’s future endeavors will be met with success.

Gentry is still recovering and making progress. He keeps busy managing The Mikesell Family YouTube channel (where you can see actual footage of the plane crash). Betsy is relishing her “new normal” life and is thankful their family bond is stronger than ever. While those hard times have truly brought the greatest moments, Betsy quips, “All I want now is to own a horse and to one day become a cowgirl.”

@Beddys @BetsyMikesell

2. ONE PIECE CONSTRUCTION

3. SMOOTH ZIPPERS

4. TOP COMPLETELY DETACHES

5. TWO LINING CHOICES

WILLIAMSON COUNTY'S AWARD WINNERS

BUSINESSES THAT SIZZLE

ARTICLE BY FRANKLINIS.COM

You have spoken. 7,000 voters logged into Franklinis.com for the 17th annual Sizzle Awards poll choosing the "Best of the Best" in Williamson County. The Sizzle Awards voter's choice poll compiled over 406,000 counted votes in 89 categories to reveal your favorites. And here they are!

BEST ASIAN CUISINE

1st Wild Ginger

2nd Koi Sushi and Thai

3rd Peter's Sushi and Thai

BEST BAKERY

1st Five Daughters Bakery

2nd Merridee's Breadbasket

3rd Triple Crown Bakery

BEST BBQ

1st Martin's BBQ

2nd Puckett's Gro. & Restaurant

3rd Bar-B-Cutie SmokeHouse

BEST BREAKFAST OR BRUNCH

1st The Puffy Muffin

2nd Merridee's Breadbasket

3rd Biscuit Love

BEST BURGER

1st Burger Up

2nd Ground Restaurant

3rd The Bunganut Pig

BEST CASUAL RESTAURANT

1st Tazikis Mediterranean Cafe

2nd McCreary’s Irish Pub and Eatery

3rd CoreLife Eatery

BEST CATERER

1st Tito’s/Pueblo Real Mexican Restaurants

2nd Blue Coast Burrito

3rd CoreLife Eatery

BEST COFFEE SHOP

1st Frothy Monkey

2nd The Coffee House @ Second and Bridge

3rd High Brow Coffee + Tea

BEST FAMILY FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

1st Chick-fil-A of South Franklin

2nd Tito’s/Pueblo Real Mexican Restaurant

3rd Franklin Chop House

BEST FINE DINING

1st Sperry’s Restaurant

2nd Cork and Cow

3rd Red Pony Restaurant

BEST HEALTHY MENU

1st CoreLife Eatery

2nd Herban Market

3rd Franklin Juice Bar

BEST HOT CHICKEN

1st Big Shake’s Hot Chicken

2nd Party Fowl

3rd Bishop’s Meat & Three

BEST MEXICAN CUISINE

1st Tito’s/Pueblo Real Mexican Restaurants

2nd Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant- Franklin Location

3rd Mojo’s Tacos

BEST PIZZA

1st Mellow Mushroom

2nd Sal's Family Pizza

3rd Nashville Pizza Company

BEST SWEETS SHOP

1st Kilwins

2nd Tiny Little Donuts

3rd Whit's Frozen Custard-Berry Farms

Coffee House at 2nd & Bridge /Photo by Aubri Poff Puckett's/Photo Courtesy of Visit Franklin

BEST ART GALLERY

1st Leiper's Creek Gallery

2nd Gallery 202

3rd David Arms Gallery

BEST BAR OR LOUNGE

1st Jonathans Grille

2nd O' Be Joyful

3rd Tony's Eat & Drink

BEST COMMUNITY EVENT

1st Main Street Festival

2nd Dicken's of a Christmas

3rd The Buttercup Festival

BEST ENTERTAINMENT ACTIVITY

1st Franklin Family Entertainment Center

2nd Franklin Walking Tours

3rd Third Coast Clay

BEST EVENT VENUE

1st The Factory at Franklin

2nd Franklin Theatre

3rd FirstBank Amphitheater

BEST FUNDRAISER/CHARITY EVENT

1st GraceWorks Ministries Turkey Trot

2nd Wine Down Main Street

3rd Franktown Festival of Lights

BEST GOLF COURSE

1st Westhaven Golf Club

2nd Legends Club

3rd The Governors Club

BEST LOCAL BREWERY/DISTILLERY

1st Leiper’s Fork Distillery, LLC

2nd Mill Creek Brewing Co.

3rd Franklin Distillery

BEST SUMMER CAMP

1st Deer Run Camps & Retreats

2nd Williamson County Parks and Rec

3rd Act Too Players School of Music & Theatre

BEST THEATRE COMPANY

1st Williamson County Performing Arts Center at Academy Park

2nd Pull-Tight Theatre

3rd Studio Tenn Theatre Company

BEST TOURIST ATTRACTION

1st Arrington Vineyards

2nd Historic Carnton Plantation

3rd Franklin Farmer’s Market

BEST YOUTH ARTS/MUSIC PROGRAM

1st Williamson County Parks and Rec

2nd Act Too Players School of Music & Theatre

3rd ROOTS Academy

BEST YOUTH ATHLETIC PROGRAM

1st Williamson County Parks and Rec

2nd Williamson County Soccer Association

3rd Let It Shine Gymnastics

BEST APARTMENT LIVING

1st Dwell at McEwen Apartments

2nd McEwen Northside Signature Apartments

3rd Tapestry at Brentwood

Dickens of a Christmas Festival

Photo courtesy of Visit Franklin

Franklin Theatre / Photo courtesy of Visit Franklin

BEST AUTO DEALERSHIP

1st

BEST AUTO REPAIR

1st

BEST BANK

BEST

BEST

BEST

BEST BOARDING & PET DAYCARE

BEST

BEST DAYCARE/PRESCHOOL

BEST

BEST

BEST

The Harpeth Hotel / Photo courtesy of Visit Franklin

BEST INDOOR HOME SERVICES

1st Franklin Pest Control LLC

2nd Holly Thompson Homes

3rd 7.0 Blinds & Shutters LLC

BEST INSURANCE AGENT/FIRM

1st Williams Insurance Group

2nd Irvin Dyal and Brown Ins

3rd Stewart Insurance Group

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES

1st ONYX + ALABASTER

2nd Paige Williams Interior Design

3rd Lisa Thompson Designs

BEST LEGAL FIRM

1st GriffithLaw

2nd Hartzog & Silva, PLLC

3rd Stites & Harbison, PLLC

BEST MARKETING FIRM

1st Nice Branding Agency

2nd Mill Creek Creative

3rd Full Cycle Marketing

BEST OUTDOOR LIVING SERVICES

1st Embers Grill and Fireplace Store

2nd Blake Shelton Landscaping

3rd Mike Hayes & Associates

BEST PET GROOMING

1st The Farm at Natchez Trace

2nd My Second Home

3rd Bubbles & Bows Dog Grooming

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

1st Evin Photography

2nd Boulay Photography

3rd Andrea Farmer Photography

BEST PLUMBING

1st Lee Company

2nd Don Wood Plumbing Co

3rd Dixon Plumbing Company LLC

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

1st Battle Ground Academy

2nd Saint Matthew School

3rd Brentwood Academy

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY/FIRM

1st Parks Realty

2nd Keller Williams Realty

3rd Benchmark Realty LLC

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT/TEAM

1st Erynn Lavagnino, Realtor

2nd Elizabeth Leanza, Synergy Realty

3rd Brandon Hannah Properties

BEST ROOFING COMPANY

1st Superior Roofing LLC

2nd Five Points Roofing

3rd Tennessee Roofing Concepts

BEST SENIOR LIVING

1st NHC Place, Cool Springs

2nd Morning Pointe of Franklin Senior Living

3rd Fountains of Franklin

BEST SPECIALIZED SERVICES

1st T-Square Engineering and Surveying

2nd Franklin Sign Co

3rd Jimmys Cleaners

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY

1st Franklin Travel

2nd JK Mouse Travel

3rd MK Luxury Travel

BEST AUDIOLOGY PRACTICE

1st Johnson Audiology

2nd Vanderbilt Audiology in Franklin

3rd Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee (OAT)

BEST CHIROPRACTIC PRACTICE

1st Cool Springs Chiropractic

2nd Mason Chiropractic Health + Wellness

3rd Elite Chiropractic & Wellness Center

BEST COSMETIC SURGEON

1st Cool Springs Plastic Surgery

2nd Franklin Skin and Laser

3rd Mary Lynn Moran, M.D. Facial Plastic Surgery and Medspa

BEST DENTAL PRACTICE

1st Rachel Oates Family Dental

2nd Berry Farms Dental

3rd Aspen Grove Dental Associates

BEST DERMATOLOGY PRACTICE

1st Franklin Dermatology Group

2nd Heritage Medical Associates Dermatology

3rd Vanderbilt Dermatology Franklin

BEST EYE CARE PRACTICE

1st Cool Springs Eyecare

2nd Aspen Grove Vision Source PLLC Dr. William L. Jones

3rd Berry Farms EyeCare, PLLC

BEST HEALTH & WELLNESS

1st Williamson Medical Center

2nd Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee

3rd Wild & Well A Wellness Emporium

BEST INTEGRATIVE & FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

1st Integrative Family Medicine

2nd Nashville Osteopathic and Integrative Medicine, PLLC

3rd The McMurray Clinic

BEST ORTHODONTIC PRACTICE

1st Cox Orthodontics

2nd Kemp and Rice Orthodontics

3rd Fowler Orthodontics

BEST ORTHOPEDICS PRACTICE

1st Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee

2nd Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics

3rd Vanderbilt Health — Orthopedics

BEST PEDIATRIC DENTAL PRACTICE

1st Pediatric Dental Care “Dr. Buzz”

2nd Franklin Pediatric Dentistry

3rd Brentwood Pediatric Dentistry

BEST PEDIATRIC PRACTICE

1st Harpeth Pediatrics

2nd Pediatric Associates of Franklin

3rd Brentwood Children’s Clinic

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY

1st STAR Physical Therapy

2nd Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee

3rd Results Physiotherapy

BEST THERAPY OR COUNSELING SERVICES

1st Mercy Community Healthcare

2nd Brentwood Counseling Associates

3rd Polly Douse, MMFT with Therco, LLC

BEST VETERINARY PRACTICE

1st Williamson County Animal Hospital

2nd Animalia Health & Wellness

3rd Dr Foster’s Mobile Pet Clinic

BEST WOMEN'S HEALTH SERVICES

1st Vanderbilt Franklin Women’s Center

2nd Women’s Group of Franklin

3rd Bridges Domestic Violence Center

BEST BARBER SHOP

1st Uncle Classic Barbershop

2nd Scout’s Barbershop

3rd Flynn & Company Barbershop

BEST DAY SPA/WELLNESS CENTER

1st A Moment’s Peace Salon & Day Spa

2nd Pure Sweat + Float Studio

3rd LifeSpa at Life Time Athletic

BEST FITNESS FACILITY

1st Williamson County Parks and Rec

2nd TrueForm Fitness: A Lagree Studio

3rd Orangetheory Fitness Franklin

BEST FITNESS STUDIO (BOUTIQUE)

1st Burn Boot Camp Franklin

2nd TrueForm Fitness: A Lagree Studio

3rd F45 Franklin Cool Springs

BEST HAIR SALON

1st Artistry SALONsouth

2nd A Moment’s Peace Salon & Day Spa

3rd Studio Gaven hair colour

BEST MASSAGE

1st A Moment’s Peace Salon & Day Spa

2nd Franklin Massage Center

3rd Cool Springs Chiropractic

BEST MED SPA/AESTHETICS

1st A Moment’s Peace Salon & Day Spa

2nd Cool Springs Plastic Surgery

3rd Pinup Skin Spa

BEST NAIL SALON

1st A Moment’s Peace Salon & Day Spa

2nd Noire The Nail Bar

3rd Deluxe Nails and Spa

Photo courtesy of Visit Franklin

PAY A VISIT TO NASHVILLE’S FIRST CIDERY

ARTICLE BY KELLIE WALTON BENZ PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Tennessee may be known for its whiskey, but a pair of friends are working to bring a new drink of choice to the region: hard cider. A staple in the Pacific Northwest, hard cider is a crisp, refreshing alternative to beer, with apples at its core (pun intended).

“My business partner, Adam Diskin, moved to Nashville about 12 years ago from the Seattle area,” Todd Evans, founding partner of Diskin Cider, recalls. “When he arrived here, he could not find any craft cider on the shelves.”

With the abundance of apples in the northwest, cider’s popularity was trailing close behind craft beer. Together, Adam and Todd saw an opportunity to bring the trend to middle Tennessee.

“We started making cider in his garage,” Todd shares. “We toyed around with all different things, and that began the journey.”

The pair committed to continuing their education, even moving to Washington to take classes and work in an operating cellar to learn the proper production process: one that begins with raw apple juice and moves through fermentation, blending, carbonating and canning or kegging. With their recipe perfected, the doors of Nashville’s first cidery, Diskin Cider, opened in May of 2018.

“We were hoping for around 1,000 [at the opening], and we had about 5,000 people show up,” Todd recalls. “There are very few things in Nashville that you can say you’re the first and only of, so we really rode that train.”

A key initiative for the Diskin team revolves around education to break the perception of what craft cider actually is. When you arrive at the cidery, the team is prepared to make recommendations based on personal drink preferences, so you’ll find your favorite in no time.

“When you hear the word cider in the south, the premonition is always sweet,” Todd says. “Every day, in everything we do, we educate people on what craft cider is and what makes us different.”

Sourcing tannic apples – which are bitter in taste – from Shelby, Michigan, the order is pressed fresh, loaded and delivered to Diskin in no more than 36 hours. The result is an incredibly fresh base before beginning the fermenting process. The brand offers anywhere from 12 to 15 ciders available at a time, ranging from best-sellers like Todd’s favorite, the dry and bubbly Bob’s Your Uncle, or innovative flavor pairings like passion fruit habanero.

“I lived in Franklin up until about two years ago, and there’s nothing better than walking into a grocery or liquor store and seeing your product on the shelf,” Todd shares. “Growing up in this town, we’ve developed great relationships. We’re looking to partner versus just sell products, and that’s helped us tremendously.”

All are welcome (pups included) at the Diskin Cidery in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood of Nashville, open Thursdays through Sundays. Check the calendar for regular events ranging from trivia to pre-parties for Nashville SC home games. DiskinCider.com

Photography by Haley Mantlo Photography

Our Tween Collections

Where Franklin’s Stylish Tweens Shop

A Tween's Dream

Inside the Purple Butterfly’s Chrysalis Room

ARTICLE BY KELLIE WALTON BENZ | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Neil and Dale Budde

As a mother to three boys, Dale Budde’s life forever changed when she learned her first grandchild would be a baby girl.

“I went crazy, and I could not buy pink and bows fast enough,” Dale shares, laughing alongside her husband, Neil. When pondering their post-retirement plans, one of which included extensive sailing, the pair decided that moving closer to their grandchildren was the answer, and soon their journey to Franklin began.

“Neil suggested starting a store,” Dale shared. “So we went to the Atlanta market and started buying lots of stuff, but we still didn’t have a storefront. I knew I wanted to be one of those cute little shops, like Meg Ryan owned in You’ve Got Mail .”

Dale’s vision and perseverance paid off when a realtor helped her discover the charming white house on downtown Franklin’s Second Avenue North that

would soon become the home of the children’s boutique named in memory of her father: the Purple Butterfly.

Since opening in 2018, the Purple Butterfly has become a beloved staple in Franklin, welcoming parents, grandparents, friends and family searching for the perfect outfit or gift for a little one’s special occasion. But as the store has grown over the past five years, so too have its regular customers.

“We knew we needed bigger sizes because our clients’ kids were aging out,” Dale says. “One of my customers, Camille Hodges, used to be a buyer in New York and Los Angeles, so we brought her on to be our tween buyer.”

The team at the Purple Butterfly set out to develop a dedicated space for children between the ages of seven and 12 to shop for stylish and age-appropriate options.

Housing everything from casual to special occasion clothing, jewelry and accessories, the renovated space features trendy touches like a pink neon sign against a wall of greenery, crystal accents and a dedicated dressing room for tweens only.

The space has earned the coveted stamp of approval from its clientele. “The tweens think it’s so cool, they just want to hang out here,” Dale adds.

And while the space is especially suited for tweens, the Purple Butterfly also sparks a sense of childhood nostalgia for its adult shoppers. “We cater to your child and your inner child,” Neil says.

Having just opened the new space in early 2023, Dale and Neil look forward to evolving the Chrysalis Room as the seasons and styles change. Shop the room in person at the Purple Butterfly, or online at PurpleButterflyKids.com

Photo by Haley Mantlo Photography

Photo by Haley Mantlo Photography

DR. KOREY SHERIDAN // DR. NICOLE BARTON // DR. MOLLY STEVENS

Protecting Your Most Valuable Investment’s Most Valuable Part

Precision Roofing Provides Homeowners With Peace Of Mind When It Comes To The Roof Over Their Heads

ARTICLE BY ED ATLAS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

If experiencing the change of seasons is one of the benefits of living in Middle Tennessee, the wear-and-tear the elements can impose on your roof is one of the hazards. Because when it comes to function, aesthetic, and expense, a strong case can be made for the roof being the most valuable part of your home.

Still, the decision to repair or replace a roof is often made in haste. While you may know that your roof is showing its age, you may not know that it’s compromised until damage is apparent, usually in the form of a leak or missing shingles. What ensues is a mad dash to the Internet to find a qualified roofer who can do the job immediately. It’s at this point that you probably wish you had done your research ahead of time.

Jason Shepherd of Precision Roofing and Construction understands how you feel. “I’ve seen companies install roofs that look good, but they don’t last because they use cheap materials,” says Shepherd. “I have a client who hired a low-cost contractor and within months her roof was leaking. But the contractor was from another state and the sales rep was nowhere to be found. I went out there last year and replaced her roof, which was less than two years old.”

If your roof needs to be replaced, Shepherd encourages you to consider the type of shingle you will use. Precision Roofing, for example, is GAF-certified and an Owens-Corning Preferred Contractor. “There are no shortcuts when it comes to quality,” he says. “A 25-year

shingle is rated for a 60-mph wind while a 40-year architectural shingle is rated for 130 mph. That’s a huge difference in quality but it’s not that great of a difference in price. “If your roof is an insurance claim, and you had a lesser shingle, your insurer is not likely to pay for an upgrade. But I’ll provide the better shingle at no additional cost. On a large roof, that’s a few hundred dollars out of my pocket but the peace of mind is worth it, for you and for me.”

Shepherd applies the same principle to your roof’s ventilation system. He installs ridge vents, at no additional charge, even if the old roof had less expensive box vents. “There’s some inexpensive stuff out there but we don’t go that route because cheap materials will fail in five years,” says Shepherd. “We’re all about quality, not quantity.”

Precision Roofing’s installation teams install or repair more than 300 roofs a year. According to Shepherd, about 70 percent of those jobs are covered by insurance. “If you think you have a qualifying claim, we’ll come out, get on your roof and we’ll mark hail and wind damage where we find it,” says Shepherd. “We’re your advocates and we’ll work with the insurance company on your behalf.”

Shepherd says that a new roof can be installed on a typical home in less than two days. “Generally speaking, the old roof will be removed and the new one installed on the first day. The next day is dedicated to the finishing touches, a thorough inspection and cleanup. We are sticklers about cleanup and quality. The teams know what I expect.” PrecisionRoofingTN.com

RISK MANAGEMENT

Cody Wheeler is a Middle Tennessean and State Farm agent by choice. They are choices that have served him well even if they were made with a certain level of uncertainty.

YOUR CAREER PATH IS INTERESTING. HOW DID YOU PIVOT FROM BEING A TVA COMPLIANCE OFFICER TO BECOMING A STATE FARM AGENT?

I was interning at TVA while studying business at the University of Tennessee. When a full-time opportunity became available around the time of graduation, I told TVA I wanted the job. I had basically completed a 9-month on-the-job interview and they hired me. TVA offered security but at the end of the

day, I wanted to be in a field where I could unlock my potential. I looked at different industries like real estate, mortgage lending and insurance where I could make that happen while maintaining a sensible work-life balance. I chose insurance because it’s something everyone has to have. Not everyone has to refinance a house. But almost everyone drives a car or owns a home.

AT THE TIME YOU DIDN’T THINK COULD MAKE A CLEAN DEPARTURE FROM TVA. WHY WAS THAT?

I couldn’t leave TVA because they paid for my MBA. But a new CEO came in and offered voluntary departures. I asked if they’d forgive the loan and they agreed to do so. Soon I was

"I chose insurance because it’s something everyone has to have. Not everyone has to refinance a house. But almost everyone drives a car or owns a home."

driving to Franklin to interview with a representative from State Farm’s corporate office. I returned to Knoxville and told my fiancé, Ashley, I was taking her from her lifelong home in East Tennessee to Savannah in West Tennessee, where I would begin my insurance career, learning under an established agent. That was two months before our wedding.

AFTER TWO YEARS IN SAVANNAH, HOW DID YOU END UP IN FRANKLIN?

Middle Tennessee is a highgrowth market and an ideal location for a family like ours. By the grace of God, an opportunity became available here. There’s a lot more to it but I interviewed for the job and was awarded my own agency. Of course, when we opened in October of 2016 there was zero business on the books. But for someone like me, who likes to get out and meet people, there was no better place to be.”

AS SOMEONE WHO ENJOYS BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS, WHERE MIGHT YOU BE SEEN AROUND TOWN?

It starts right here in Berry Farms. We insure a lot of people and businesses here. I enjoy golf and hunting. I play in a lot of scrambles and this is turkey-hunting territory. I’m also involved with HopeKids. Weekends are spent with my two young boys and Ashley, who is in her last semester at Belmont where she’s working toward her doctorate as a nurse practitioner. AgentWheeler.com

Cody Wheeler and family

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The Magical World Of Fiction

HOW ONE LOCAL BEST-SELLING AUTHOR IS ENTERTAINING US ON PAPER AND ON SCREEN

Books have the ability to transport us into other worlds. They can bring us joy, comfort, knowledge and hope. When one of our favorite books is made into a television show or movie, it’s a chance to see the characters and plots we love in action.

Local author Jenny Hale, who has penned over 22 novels, with another coming out for Christmas, has entertained us for the last 10 years with stories created by her imagination and put down on paper. Jenny didn’t start out to be a best-selling author. “I wasn't one of those people who grew up wanting to be an author, but I’ve always gravitated towards the written word,” she says. “I'm creative in a lot of ways, and writing was just one outlet for me. I was on staff at my high school newspaper and I wrote poetry in high school for fun, but the idea of writing novels didn't really occur to me until adulthood.”

When it did, she was a busy wife and mom with two young boys and a career as an elementary school teacher. “I needed a break at the end of the night, so when my kids went to bed, I would write,” says Jenny. “I read books all the time, so I thought I could write one. The first time I tried, it was awful and never saw the light of day! So I went back to reading and that's when I started to teach myself how to do it.”

Jenny placed her first book, Coming Home for Christmas, with a digital publisher in London and from there it soared in the charts. Nina Weinman, a screenwriter for Hallmark, was looking for a Christmas book and noticed it. She took it to a Christmas party and passed it around to see if everyone else liked it. They absolutely did. So amazingly, the first novel she ever published was turned into a Hallmark movie. The second one chosen by Hallmark was Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisse s.

Jenny describes her style of writing as very down-home, relaxed, heartwarming, and friendly. She wants people to feel hope as they’re reading. “There's never really a villain. The conflict is more about two good people wanting two different things.”

Ideas come to her in many ways. “Living near Nashville, whenever I go to a songwriter night, I really want to have my laptop with me because sometimes the pathway just opens as they’re telling their stories and singing their songs. Sometimes it can be the simplest thing. There was this lady in a coffee shop who spilled something right on her chest, and she was frustrated while wiping it off. I grabbed onto that persona and in that moment created a character. I love making and building up these characters, and making sure the guys are swoon-worthy,” she says, laughing.

Living in Franklin with her husband, two boys, and a labradoodle, some of her books have been set locally. It Started With Christmas takes place in Leiper’s Fork and The Memory Keeper is set in Franklin. "I also have a couple of Christmas books that are set in a fictional town in the mountains of Tennessee.”

Hale is originally from Southern Virginia, so a lot of her books also take place in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. “Growing up, that's where we went on vacation all the time. I have some set in Richmond, too, which was about 20 minutes away from where I lived.”

In addition to writing, Jenny also enjoys the publishing side of the industry, and in 2020, she started her own

publishing company, Harpeth Road Press, which focuses on romantic fiction. It was named after the Harpeth River that flows around Nashville. “I wanted to be in on the marketing and the cover design and branding, and, as an author, I couldn't do that with a traditional publisher.” She now publishes her own books as well as other authors’ works.

The Memory Keeper was her first book published under Harpeth Road Press, and The Magic of Sea Glass was just released in March under its label. The book is about an event planner who loses her fiancé and can't seem to go on with her career or the life she'd built with him. So she makes an impulsive decision to sell her half of the business and spend the summer in the Outer Banks. There she helps take care of an old inn along with its elderly owner. What she doesn't expect to find is a story hidden away in a string of sea glass that will change her life forever.

ItsJennyHale.com  | HarpethRoad.com

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PAIGE SZUPELLO

Hailing from Ohio, Paige is now one of Nashville’s premier celebrity makeup artists.

She’s known for her glamorous artistry on shows such as “Chrisley Knows Best” and “Love, Tom”, and clientele

Megan Moroney, Raelynn, Cassie Kelley, Danny Gokey, Randall King and many other recognizable faces.

After getting glammed up at the Parker House on Main, she loves frequenting antique shops, collecting vintage makeup compacts and lipsticks and researching the history of makeup.

Hair/Photography @samuelallen_hair

MOVING FORWARD, TOGETHER

ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA MADRID PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Behind every successful organization is a forward-thinking leader. Mindy Tate, the force behind Franklin Tomorrow, a community visioning nonprofit organization, is no exception. Her media background and ties to the Franklin area almost make her fated for this position.

Mindy’s family moved from Indiana to Nashville when she was a child so she could attend David Lipscomb Academy. She went on to study at Middle Tennessee State University and took an internship with the Franklin Review Appeal , a weekly newspaper. The job gave her a deeper understanding of the area. “Franklin looked a lot different then, but I appreciated it for what it was then and I appreciate it for what it is now,” Mindy says.

After working several other media-related jobs in the Nashville area, Mindy returned to  The Review Appeal as editor until it was acquired by The Tennessean . When staff layoffs hit, Mindy assembled a group of investors and started her own paper, The Williamson Herald (now owned by CMD Publishing) in less than 90 days.

The paper was a realization of a dream, but in 2010, Mindy decided it was not what she wanted to do for the rest of her life. “I loved the media, but it is fast-paced, 24/7,” she says. So in 2011, she become the Executive Director of Franklin Tomorrow and was named CEO last year.

She loves the mission to engage the community, foster collaboration and advocate for a shared vision. Franklin Tomorrow began in 2000 when a group of community leaders got together to form a steering committee to preserve Franklin’s special qualities. Not surprisingly, Mindy was part of this group. Today, the organization hosts numerous events (mostly free) such as the monthly FrankTalks Lecture series, and the quarterly Breakfast with the Mayors event, to help educate and highlight issues facing the community.

Mindy is particularly passionate about an initiative called Find Hope Franklin, designed to help reduce the stigma associated with mental health. Franklin Tomorrow offers QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) training to better identify and help individuals at risk for suicide. Franklin Tomorrow also raises funds for the Franklin Christmas Tree and recently launched a

HOW FRANKLIN TOMORROW IS HELPING THE CITY OF FRANKLIN MAINTAIN ITS UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS LONG INTO THE FUTURE

“FRANKLIN TOMORROW DOES A LOT FOR THE COMMUNITY, BUT WE CANNOT DO IT ALONE,” SAYS MINDY. WHILE THEY PARTNER WITH OTHER COMMUNITY SERVICES AND ORGANIZATIONS, RESIDENT INVOLVEMENT IS CRUCIAL. FOR A LONG TIME, MINDY LIKED AND USED THE NIKE MOTTO, “JUST DO IT.” BUT NOW, AS SHE WORKS TO ENGAGE AND ENCOURAGE COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO BE INVOLVED, HER MOTTO HAS SHIFTED ACCORDINGLY TO “JUST DO IT - TOGETHER.”

donation campaign for an art installation honoring the late coach Jimmy Gentry and lost heroes of WWII.

One of Franklin Tomorrow’s proudest moments was in 2020, in partnership with the city, when Franklin received the All-America City award by the National Civic League for its work in community engagement and collaboration. “Franklin Tomorrow does a lot for the community, but we cannot do it alone,” says Mindy. While they partner with other community services and organizations, resident involvement is crucial. For a long time, Mindy liked and used the Nike motto, “Just Do It.” But now, as she works to engage and encourage community members to be involved, her motto has shifted accordingly to “Just Do It - Together.” FranklinTomorrow.org

Mindy Tate has been Executive Director, now CEO, of Franklin Tomorrow since 2011, having previously served the non-profit community visioning organization as a board member and president during her almost 30-year career in the news media.

MINDY TATE

Franklin Tomorrow CEO Mindy Tate laughs as Franklin Mayor Ken Moore and Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson make a joke during a Breakfast With the Mayors

Three Generations Of Helping People Grow New Roots

Tim Thompson, Brent Thompson and Tess Thompson Singer of Tim Thompson Premier Realtors

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY AND TRUE TO THEIR TENNESSEE ROOTS

ARTICLE BY KAREN CREASON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEB SCALLY

Siblings Tess Thompson Singer and Brent Jordan Thompson recall growing up on their Franklin family farm playing in the dirt, swimming in the creek and helping with the farm animals. They both fondly recall days spent climbing in the old tree beside their “second home” at 148 5th Avenue North in Franklin - the historic building just off Main Street and the current office of locally owned and operated real estate brokerage firm, Tim Thompson Premier Realtors (TTPR). Following in the real estate footsteps of their grandfather, George Thompson, and father, Tim Thompson, a consistently ranked top 20 Realtor in Middle Tennessee, third-generation Realtor Tess asks “How many realtors out there can say they were truly born into this business and were raised here?”

Unique is their deep generational roots and ties to Franklin and Williamson County. Their mother, Jennifer, can trace her patrilineage back to 1796 when Revolutionary War solider, William Jordan and his family, became the first non-Native American settlers in the eastern Williamson County unincorporated community of Triune.

George Thompson taught his son, Tim, how to treat people by example.

It was not unusual for George to invite his real estate clients over for Sunday lunch. With 30+ years of experience in real estate, Tim is equally well known for always going above and beyond for his clients. He has even helped clients by rehoming animals to his personal farm including miniature fainting goats, miniature donkeys and even a one-eyed horse! This white glove service has not gone unnoticed by his clients or his children. Tess and Brent credit their dad and mom, former Franklin High School sweethearts and current business partners, with providing them, and the 11 agents in the office, with the tools they need to be successful.

Giving back is natural for the Thompson family. Tim has been a long-time coach of area youth, middle and high school sports teams and is still close with his past players. Much like her father, Tess also enjoys coaching, specializing in competition cheerleading. Brent credits sports for a ”great sense of community and many connections over the years as well as instilling the know-how to work together and the enthusiasm and commitment to always get the job done.”

Lucky to have inherited the Thompson gene of being able to talk to just about anyone, Tess is guilty

at times of over-communicating - which is helpful in the world of real estate where communication is key. “Often my clients become my friends and there is no greater compliment to my dedication than that.”

Tess and her husband, Dave, are thrilled to be raising their daughter, Sage, in Williamson County.

Brent and his wife – ironically also named Tess (aka T2), live in Franklin with their daughter, River, and are expecting a son in June. With a natural love of the outdoors, Brent is passionate about helping clients develop land. If he is not out showing land for or with his clients, he is likely out enjoying it by fishing, hunting, or exploring. Last month, to get his client's home ready for professional pictures, Brent personally cut up and removed a tree that had fallen on the property.

Family love and support abound. “It's not always easy working with family but Tess and I have been best friends since we were young kids out on the farm," says Brent. The two recently teamed up with one of their investors to help him purchase several 10,000+ square foot homes and personally helped them remodel the homes from top to bottom.

Not everyone has the opportunity to work daily with their family but one benefit for TTPR clients is at least one Thompson is always on the clock. This seamless flow “helps clients reap the rewards of our family business, long-time experience and professionalism with a local flair,” adds Brent.

The TTPR family team feels truly blessed to have the privilege of representing local farmers and residents, professional athletes, relocation clients and celebrities. “We love our Williamson County communities,” says Tess.

The Thompson family ties, generational roots and lessons learned from their parents and grandfather will continue to guide Tess, Brent and the Tim Thompson Premier Realtors team in serving clients beyond acting just as Realtors. And who knows, maybe in 20 years Sage, River and her brother will join TTPR as fourth-generation realtors. TimThompsonPremierRealtors.com @ttpr_franklin

4th generation! Tess' daughter, Sage, with grandpa Tim

MAKE LASTING MEMORIES AT MANNA MOUNTAIN LODGE

ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA

Luxury And Splendor In

The Great Smoky Mountains

What do you get when you mix luxury, natural beauty and relaxation with modern comforts? You get a next-level mountain retreat at Manna Mountain Lodge in Sevierville! Located just a swift 3-1/2 hour car ride from Nashville, the lodge is a truly distinctive and unique mountain property vacation experience.

From the moment you arrive, you know you've stepped into something special. This stunning home features six sizable bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a home theatre, game room, and a lavish, heated indoor pool, just a few of its many amenities. In addition to the spectacular mountain views of Cove Mountain and Mount Le Conte, one

of the more notable features of the lodge is its modern feel. The interior blends rustic elements with the home's modern flare and clean lines. Rustic wood accents add warmth and texture to the home's contemporary mountain aesthetic. High-end finishes and luxurious furnishings round out the home's unsparing appeal.

The 5,600 square foot main house, which can accommodate up to 12 guests, also boasts multiple decks, including an outdoor spa, where you can relax and take in the iconic views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, the Manna Mountain Lodge has a custom carriage house that can accommodate up to eight people in the four full-over-full custom built-in bunks. The lodge is outfitted with plenty of bath and pool towels, grilling tools and a fully-loaded kitchen.

According to owners Scott and Vivian Caruthers, who offer the property through Mountain Vacation Vibes, Manna Mountain Lodge was three years in the making. "It has been carefully planned, thoughtfully designed and professionally decorated to create a truly distinctive property. We wanted to give guests something beyond the norm and felt like the uniqueness of the property, which is sort of a peninsula surrounded by views, provided a chance to do that. To not design the house in a way that maximized and featured those views, would have been a wasted opportunity to create a great place that could be enjoyed by many."

The lodge is just the beginning of your weekend adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains. Just minutes away from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, there are plenty of activities and things to do to keep you busy, from Dollywood (just eight minutes from Manna) and hiking trails to restaurants, shops, and galleries, there's plenty to explore.

Whether you're looking for a fun family vacation, a corporate retreat, or even a place to gather for a family reunion, Manna Mountain Lodge has everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable stay without ever having to leave. MannaMountainLodge.com

"We wanted to give guests something beyond the norm and felt like the uniqueness of the property, which is sort of a peninsula surrounded by views, provided a chance to do that."

— Scott Caruthers

Georgette and Abby

LIVING AND PORTRAYING THE LIFE OF GEORGE JONES AND TAMMY’S WYNETTE'S DAUGHTER

In 2022, Showtime debuted the miniseries, "George and Tammy" – a six-part drama based on the book, The Three of Us: Growing Up with Tammy and George written by their own daughter, Georgette Jones. The show depicts the true, heart-wrenching love story between George Jones and Tammy Wynette, also known as Mr. and Mrs. Country Music. The story has also brought together two people as friends whose paths may have otherwise never crossed.

Abby (L) and Georgette

Singer Georgette Jones is the only child born to George Jones and Tammy Wynette together. Before the days that Georgette would be known as a musical artist herself, she held a front-row seat into the lives of the iconic country music couple. She watched with her own eyes the love and pain, the ups and downs. She lived it. Many people feel like they know the story of George Jones and Tammy Wynette, and some of them feel like they know it well enough to write books about it, but very few people other than Georgette have anything close to her insight.

While reading one of the many books already written about her mother and father, she felt like the author didn’t know Tammy Wynette at all. “I wanted to be able to tell their true story and tell some more about them as people and not just as artists,” said Georgette. “Although they were certainly known for their music, they were parents and good friends to people, and there was so much more to their lives.”

No stranger to a struggle herself, Abby Glover, the actress who plays the character of Georgette Jones as a young adult in the show, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, when she was just seven years old. Born in Nashville, she and her family had moved to West Tennessee when she received her diagnosis, and she was treated for her cancer at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Full of courage and determination, Abby beat her cancer, and by eight years old, she was performing in plays. When her father’s job finally moved them back to Franklin, Abby enrolled in Franklin High School and spent all her spare time focusing on her acting career. She graduated from FHS in 2016, and by the next year, Abby had landed the role of Kai on the ABC comedy, "Kevin (Probably) Saves the World." The doors were wide open from then on including the one to Georgette’s story.

Five months away from being on set, Abby had been cast as Georgette and wanted to dive as deeply as possible into her role. She did a little research on the real Georgette Jones and realized that she was more within reach than she originally thought. At the time, Georgette was living in Spring Hill,

the same town that Abby had lived in when she was first born. Abby decided to reach out to Georgette on social media and was delighted to discover how approachable Georgette was and how welcoming she was into her story about her young life with her parents. They hit it off. “She is a ball of energy – everything about her makes me smile,” said Georgette about Abby. They met for coffee in Nashville, and they talked for more than four hours, Abby recalled. “She was so down to earth and nice and loving. All I cared about was representing her in the best way – that she felt like her truth was being accurately depicted,” said Abby.

The show as a finished project has been very satisfying for Georgette. “It was a very open and honest look at what their relationship was like and what their lives were like at that time. I was very pleased with what they did,” said Georgette. This year, Jessica Chastain won the SAG Award for her performance in the role of Tammy Wynette. Abby’s heartfelt performance can be seen in episode six of the miniseries, and if you keep an eye out, you’ll spot a cameo by Georgette herself as a backup singer on stage behind George and Tammy and on the tour bus with them singing an old Hank Williams Sr. song – one of the Possum’s all-time favorites. As for Georgette and Abby’s friendship, in the words of George and Tammy, “they’re gonna hooold on to each other.”

“I wanted to be able to tell their true story and tell some more about them as people and not just as artists.”

— Georgette Jones

BY JOSH VAUGHN

THE ULTIMATE CHAUFFEURING MACHINE

Let's get straight into controversy-the new BMW i7 looks. Love it or hate it (there seems to be little middle ground), the new i7 certainly looks distinct. I wasn’t a fan initially but the more I learned about the reason it looks the way it does, I changed my mind.

Here’s a quote from the official BMW press release for the i7:

“The presence of the front end is complemented by a clear and monolithic surface design. This gives the front end of the new BMW 7 Series a progressive and memorable appearance.”

Progressive? Maybe. Memorable? Absolutely, and I think that’s the best compliment that could be paid to the new 7 series’ exterior appearance- you won’t forget it. BMW also states in its press release that the new 7 series was designed specifically for “particularly demanding target groups in a globalized marketspace.” It then goes on to say that the company's most important sales region is now China. Once I read this it all made sense. If you’re not familiar with the Chinese car market simply google “Chinese luxury cars” and you’ll see what I mean. Compared to others in this space the new 7 series is downright subdued, even conservative. The hottest trend in the Chinese luxury car world is a gargantuan front end. Think “monolithic”- a word usually reserved for giant stone structures. Needless to say, designing a luxury car for the Chinese market means its going to stand out here in the states.

INTERIOR

So that’s that. Now that we understand the exterior styling we can move on to the best thing about the new i7- the interior. The model we drove had the optional “executive package 2” ($3,700) meaning it comes with automatic doors. Press a little button on the door handle and the door glides open revealing a gorgeous interior draped in soft leather, crystal controls and the most amazing looking speakers you’ve ever seen. The Bowers and Wilkins Surround sound speakers are arguably the best sounding speakers you can get in a car and the brushed silver artwork coverings offer a lovely contrast to the black merino leather and dark Fineline Open Pore wood trim. Slicing from door to door across the center console is a crystal light bar that houses various controls. The light changes color based on mode settings and does a great job giving the interior a glowing ambiance.

DRIVE

The new i7 is fully electric, all wheel drive and produces 536hp and 549 lb-ft of torque so needless to say it has more than enough power but so do almost all electric cars nowadays. What not all electric cars have is a ride that rivals Rolls Royce. I’m not saying the BMW i7 rides better than a Rolls Royce Phantom but, I’m confident that if I was blindfolded and driven in the back of each I’d probably have a hard time telling them apart. It’s that good. Is this BMW the ultimate driving machine? Well if you’re looking at it from a ride perspective, absolutely. Nothing south of a half a million dollar price tag is going to give you a ride this plush.

TECH

This car has more tech than anything I've ever driven-and that's saying something. Aside from the biggest rear screen you can get in a car- 31 inches and 8k, it's got more features and functions than most owners would likely even use. The rear passengers each have control screens built into the door handles which can deploy the screen (completely obscuring the drivers rear view), open and close window shades, recline the seats, activate various massage features and change the “mood” of the car. The screens are a nice feature and with this amount of tech they’re pretty necessary but the touch response time is a little laggy. I'm sure there will be people who own and drive this car for years who are completely oblivious about some of the features this car has. If I'm honest, it's a bit much for my liking. I like simple, intuitive and easy to use cars but this one comes with a pretty steep learning curve if you're not coming straight from another BMW. The BMW i7 may require a computer science masters from MIT to operate but mastering all the tech might just be part of the appeal.

CONCLUSION

The EV market is getting more and more competitive but the new BMW i7 stands alone at the very summit of the Luxury EV market. If you have to have an electric car and want the best and more luxurious of the breed, nothing comes remotely close.

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Easter Activities

Have fun with your kids with these Easter activities

1. Painting Easter Eggs

Bring out the colorful paint and brushes! Decorate your Easter eggs with the brightest colors and unique designs.

2. Egg and Spoon Race

This game is fun for all! Play the Egg and Spoon Race by placing an egg on a spoon and see who can reach the finish line first without dropping their egg.

3. Jelly Bean Guessing Game

This game is fun and challenging! All you need is a jar and jelly beans. Fill your jar to the top with jelly beans and have your kids guess how many jellybeans are in the jar.

4. Make an Easter Egg Tree

Cut out paper Easter eggs and color them and use ribbon to tie them to a tree. You can either decorate a tree in your yard or you can collect a few branches and make a DIY tree decoration.

5. Easter Bunny Cupcakes

Bake yummy Easter themed treats! Don’t forget to decorate with jelly beans and chocolate eggs!

6. Easter Bunny Goody Bag DIY

Take a white paper bag, cut out and glue on ears, and draw a bunny face! Use this goody bag to surprise friends with Easter goodies.

ARTICLE BY BAILEY MORRIS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Tour More Than A Dozen Market & Furnished Model Homes Take a Golf Cart Tour to Learn About Our Resort-Style Amenities Visit with On-Site Mortgage Experts to Learn Why NOW is the Time to BUY

Friday, April 21 thru Sunday, April 23

Open Daily from 12 - 5 PM

Homes priced from the $400s - $1+ Million 5711 Shelton Blvd. - Murfreesboro, TN

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Open Daily 12–5pm

Three UltraUnique Getaways for Families

A TRIO OF FUN-FILLED ESCAPES THAT WILL LEAVE YOUR FAMILY BEGGING FOR MORE

ARTICLE BY NADINE BUBECK

Introducing Vermejo...

“At the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy and your eyes sparkling.”

Bienvenidos to Raton, New Mexico, home to Vermejo Ted Turner Reserves. Flaunting over 550,000 acres of picturesque terrain, Vermejo will welcome your family to a crown jewel of natural beauty.

This destination invites you to custom plan a swoon-worthy experience; choose between kid-friendly fishing expeditions, hiking tours, horseback rides, archery, and more. Indulge in your choice of luxe accommodations and take your taste pallet on a culinary adventure thanks to delectable dining options.

Notably, the property values conservation efforts including the protection of wildlife like bison and wolves.

Rates inclusive of meals and two daily activities.

Introducing Glenwood Springs...

“The greatest legacy we can leave our children is happy memories.”

Happy memories await in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Known for its hot springs, the Rocky Mountain resort city is rich with wildlife and sheer beauty. Offering an array of family-friendly activities, the area is home to the esteemed Glenwood Springs Adventure Park, a must-do with amusement rides and subterranean caverns—a magical geological excursion.

Surely, you’ll want to take a dip in the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. Invigorating and rejuvenating for adults and super fun for kids, there’s a vast splash zone, water slide, diving board, and lap lanes.

Glenwood Springs is primed with pristine river spots; the white water is mild and ideal for guided rafting adventures. You can also rent duckies (inflatable kayaks) or paddleboards.

If you’re going to check one hike off your list, opt for the Doc Holliday memorial, and for older kids, explore mountain biking paths for every skill on the paved Rio Grande Trail. In addition, Bair Ranch, located in Glenwood Canyon, offers several activities like horseback riding, ATV & Jeep tours, and sport clay shooting.

Family accommodations include Hotel Glenwood Springs, located at the Glenwood Gondola base that goes to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. The property also flaunts a small indoor water facility. For included admission to the hot springs pool, families can also book the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge. The exciting city has over 80 restaurant choices as well.

Glenwood Springs

Vermejo Ted Turner Reserves

Introducing Snow Mountain Ranch...

“Never underestimate the importance of having fun.”

Consider Snow Mountain Ranch a fun hub for families; a camp-like atmosphere for those seeking a genuine back-tothe-basics escape. Located in Grand Country Colorado, the YMCA of the Rockies destination is what vacation is meant to be... packed with frivolous play. Awake to breathtaking mountain views and the sound of songbirds, and after an actionpacked day, witness a dreamy sunset from your personal porch.

Accommodations vary; choose between private cabins, spacious lodge rooms, scenic campgrounds, or yurts. Cabins can sleep up to 12, and are equipped with full kitchens, a fireplace, and a deck. You’ll likely spot some deer outside your front door.

Included in all stays: roller skating, swimming, mini-golf, sports, hiking/biking trails, nature walks, and more. But

what makes Snow Mountain extra special are the entertaining “extras.” To make the most out of your stay, partake in archery, axe throwing, horseback riding, arts/crafting, knot-tying, geocaching, and beyond. Plus, there are tons of educational programs that teach guests about local wildlife like bears and wolves. And here’s a tip; if you’re craving some adult-only time, choose to register your child (ages 3+) for summer day camp. Grown-ups can do some adventuring of their own while the kids get a taste of what summer’s supposed to be. And as for food, there’s an array of on-site dining options available.

Everyone will feel like a kid at Snow Mountain Ranch, and the secret’s out; cabins book far in advance, so be sure to secure your spot well ahead of time.

Snow Mountain Ranch

| 6498 Arno College Grove Rd, College Grove

Listed by: Jessica Kane, The Tremayne Group at Benchmark

Sleep Inside, Outside

4 Incredible places to (literally) sleep under the stars

Photography by Amangiri, USA

It’s always magical to spend a night sleeping under the stars. In decades past, adventure seekers have packed the SUV or camper with tents and gear for ‘roughin’ it’ in the great outdoors. But the swanky and exploding category of luxury outdoor hotel is something to investigate for an unforgettable, next-level experience.

For those who prefer glamping rather than pitching their own tent fireside, here are a few options that incorporate sweeping views and a unique

opportunity for travelers to be more authentically embedded in the landscape of the place they’re visiting. These resorts have bucket list-worthy rooms that capture the best of both the luxury resort experience and the outdoors.

Whether you crave the dry heat of the remote Utah desert or the luminous beauty of the Northern Lights, we’ve curated a short list of some places you *must* check out.

Amangiri, Utah

In southern Utah, Amangiri is a five star resort perfect for an adventurous weekend in the desert. However, it is the simple rooms built to emphasize the beauty of Canyon Point that truly make it an incredible place to stay. Each suite has an outdoor lounge and fireplace with private pools or rooftop terraces available too. Don’t miss a dip in the ‘gram-worthy pool, which wraps around the landscape’s curved dunes and arid plateaus. CONTINUED >

Photography by Amangiri, USA

Kakslauttanen

Arctic Resort, Finland

These arctic igloos make Urho Kekkonen National Park look like a dreamy winter wonderland. Snuggle up inside the glass-roofed globe and watch the dancing northern lights overhead. Get immersed in the world of northern lights, midnight sun and other miracles of this world-renowned arctic resort. Just bundle up before stepping outside – temperatures can drop to -22 degrees!

Photography by Valtteri Hirvonen

Photography by Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort

Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza

The Spanish island Ibiza boasts lush pine forests, hidden calas (cove beaches) and Hacienda Na Xamena, a resort suspended on a cliff 600 feet above the Mediterranean. Guests flock to its spa for the eight saltwater thalassotherapy (seawater as a form of therapy) lagoons, which are linked together with waterfalls. Swim to the edge of the pool and drink in the sweeping sea vistas.

Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica

This jungle hideaway is so out there, you have to whitewater raft down a river or ride a gondola to get there. A network of hanging bridges connect the villas, which have thatched roofs, plantation teak wood floors, rattan furniture and private plunge pools. In the evening, zip 400 feet down a cable for a meal at the Nest, a platform at the top of a ceiba tree, then take a night-time stroll along romantic pathways lit by candles and lanterns.

Photography by Pacuare Lodge

Photography by Pacuare Lodge

Photography Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza ©

LOT 36

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

APRIL 1ST

Hoppin' Hounds

Easter Egg Hunt

FRANKLIN RECREATION CENTER

SOCCER FIELDS | 2:00 PM

All hounds and their humans can join this Easter hunt for dogs! There are two hunts, based on size, along with vendors and food for all. The Easter bunny will be there for a photo op. WCParksandrec.com

APRIL 1ST

AN OPPORTUNITY TO INVEST IN FLOURISHING WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE

The Hills is well positioned to take advantage of all that Williamson County has to offer. 4.4 miles away, the mixed-use development June Lake features 3.9m square feet of commercial office space and 1.3m square feet of retail and restaurant space. Even closer is Roderick Place, comprising almost 80 acres of live, shop, work and retirement options, and slightly further afield at 9 miles lies The Berry Farms, a characterful, curated mixed-use community with commercial, residential and retail offerings. The cities of Franklin and Nashville are just 10 and 32 miles away, adding an extra layer of convenience for commuters.

Mad Hatter Tea Party

WILLIAMS COUNTY ENRICHMENT

CENTER | 10:00 AM

Don’t be late for this very important date! At the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, guests will have refreshments, story time and an egg hunt. Children must be accompanied by an adult. WCParksandRec.com

APRIL 8TH

Cedarmont Farms

Easter Egg Hunt

2030 CEDARMONT DRIVE, FRANKLIN | 12:30 PM

Bring a blanket for an afternoon of hunting. Tickets must be purchased in advance and support Tennessee Alliance for Kids. CedarmontFarm.com

APRIL 10TH

The Stories Behind The Songs with Tim McGraw

FRANKLIN THEATRE | 7:00 PM

The 21st District Recovery Court is hosting its first-ever singer-songwriter night. The intimate musical experience showcases the talents of Williamson County’s very own Tim McGraw. The superstar entertainer, author and actor will perform some of his greatest hits in a songwriter in the round style event alongside Tom Douglas and The Warren Brothers. FranklinTheatre.com

APRIL 14TH

Jurassic Quest

WILLIAMSON COUNTY

AG EXPO | 9:00 AM

A weekend-long dinosaur adventure for the whole family with realistic, life-size animatronic dinosaurs -  80 dinosaurs in all. You may even have a chance to ride one. JurassicQuest.com

APRIL 22ND

One Night Only

LIBERTY HALL AT THE FACTORY | 6:30 PM

“One Night Only,” Studio Tenn’s largest fundraiser, is set to take the stage at The Factory at Franklin on April 22 for its annual celebration of Broadway, with classic tributes and interactive performances. The 2023 event will celebrate Bob Fosse, the prolific Broadway and Hollywood choreographer and director who has numerous Tony and Academy Awards to his credit. StudioTenn.org

APRIL 22ND

39th Annual Main Street Festival

DOWNTOWN FRANKLIN

10:00 AM

Middle Tennessee’s favorite twoday festival brings 150+ arts & crafters, food vendors, two stages with live entertainment, a carnival, and a kid's zone. WilliamsonHeritage.org

APRIL 29TH

Arbor Day

PINKERTON PARK | 10:00 AM

A family-friendly celebration with tree sapling freebies, tree climbing, kids activities, and environmental education. FranklinTN.gov

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Franklin

Granite Empire Granite Empire

Granite, Marble, Quartz Countertops

Installed in 5-7 Business Days

Over 250 Colors to Choose From

(615) 802-2245

granitemj.com

Let us fabricate and install the kitchen countertop of your dreams.

RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AND PLANNING

When we began searching for an architect for HGTV Urban Oasis 2022, we wanted someone with fresh, modern ideas. We were introduced to Turner Binkley and couldn’t be more pleased with his work. Turner designed the home using a brilliant mix of modern elements and traditional style that perfectly celebrates the vibrant city of Nashville. The home is flooded with natural light from skylights throughout and features a studio-styled garage and deck for entertaining. Turner had so many creative ideas for the space and was incredibly easy to work with. We’d recommend him to anyone looking for a beautifully bold and refreshing take on residential design.

-Scott Branscom Project Manager, HGTV Urban Oasis

Boutique Design Firm Custom + Single Family Homes Renovations

Designer of the 2023 HGTV Urban Oasis Giveaway® home in Nashville, TN

CONSULTATION BY APPOINTMENT

Middle Tennessee’s Leading Plumbing Showroom

4 Reasons to Enjoy

Squeeze Massage

1 2 3 4

Custom, custom, custom.

Did you say custom? That's right. You can choose your own pressure, music (or not), lighting and fragrances to make the massage your very own. Each massage includes your choice of deep tissue, heat therapy, percussion therapy and aromatherapy at no additional charge.

The mobile app is all you need.

You can book your appointment, add your preferences, pay, tip and review the experience all from the comfort of your phone at your fingertips. Then save your massage preferences to your profile, so your therapist knows exactly what you want, each and every time you visit.

The vibe.

From the treatment rooms to the guest lobby and in between, Squeeze Brentwood provides 3,200 square feet of a stress-free, relax-ready atmosphere. Tranquility and serenity will be the only things you feel when you walk in.

Drybar founder Alli Webb.

That's right. Alli, founder of Drybar, your onestop shop for all things hair and blowouts, is one of the innovators behind Squeeze. Webb partnered with Drybar's former VP of Marketing, Brittany Driscoll, to offer this unique, one-of-akind massage experience.

SqueezeMassage.com

ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Unrivaled in its beauty and caliber, this property sweeps across 45+ acres of rolling countryside. Gorgeous Estate home with classic modern design, luxurious state of the art amenities and spectacular views. Enjoy the outdoor panoramic views, new pool, and organic living. Rejuvenate in the newly built pool house featuring a vaulted 24x19 workout facility, fabulous sauna and more. Get the best of both worlds, private country setting and prime location mere minutes to Leiper’s Fork Village and Historic Franklin shopping, dining and conveniences.

Co–Listed with Tim Thompson, Tim Thompson Premier Realtors - 615.790.8884

Warren Bradley Partners

Whether you’re selling or buying, across the street or around the globe, we are here to help!

warrenbradleypartners.com

MARTY WARREN

marty@warrenbradleypartners.com

(c) 615.973.8757

NANCY WARREN

nancy@warrenbradleypartners.com

(c) 615.300.8663

WENDY WARREN BRADLEY

wendy@warrenbradleypartners.com

(c) 615.566.6930

DOUG BRADLEY

doug@warrenbradleypartners.com

(c) 615.566.0007

5005 Lilly Valley Trail | Franklin | Offered at $11,000,000

9520 Wexcroft Drive | Brentwood, Taramore Offered at $1,450,000

9518 Wexcroft Drive | Brentwood, Taramore Offered at $1,199,900

Under Contract

Under Contract