FRIENDS & FASHION
A VINTAGE AFFAIR
MAIN STREET FESTIVAL
A DISTINCTIVELY SOUTHERN PLACE MAY 2015
MATRIARCHS OF WILLIAMSON
Special Mother’s Day Feature
CELEBRATING EDUCATION
Graduation and Beyond
FOURTH
Anniversary ISSUE
Our only ISSUE is having too much to cover! All Williamson. All the time. Williamson County’s Premier SOCIAL w LIFESTYLE w BUSINESS w COMMUNITY Publication
See online magazine, daily content, photo galleries and interactive community calendar at:
www.yourwilliamson.com All Williamson. All the time. /YourWilliamson
@YourWilliamson
/YourWilliamson
Published By:
436 Main Street, Suite 205 Franklin, Tennessee 37064 615.979.1548 | ww.yourwilliamson.com
Custom Publishing & Integrated Marketing Services
YW MONTHLY | MAY 2015 . VOL IV-XLI
FEATURES 52
32
86
Celebrating Amazing Women
Franklin Chief of Police Deborah Faulkner
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Matriarchs of Williamson County
A Gift For Every Mom
48
100
Graduation Gift Guide For Their Next Chapter In Life
In YOUR Backyard Music City Roots
74
YOUR Charitable Self Nashville Symphony Show House
84
YOUR Community Partner
104
Celebrating Education A Lifelong Addiction
106
Celebrating Education Courting the Community Collegiate
108
Keeping Score
Celebrating Education
What is a Grand Prix Anyway?
Designers of the Future
COVER PROFILE Celebrating the ladies in the merry month of May! That is what this issue’s cover is all about. Beautiful matriarchs of Williamson County – Mary Mills, Virginia Bowman, Marty Ligon and Caroline Cross, enjoy an afternoon on the porch of the Nashville Symphony Showhouse by Castle Builders. Photography by Michelle Conner
YW MONTHLY | MAY 2015 . VOL IV-XLI
74
48
69
TABLE OF CONTENTS YOUR Social 14 Main Street Festival 18 Junior League Masquerade 23 Sundae with Friends 24 Friends & Fashion
78 Songwriters & Storytellers 88 Steak & Burger Dinner 93 Outlook Williamson 96 Frist Gala 99 TPAC Season Announcement 109 Pieces of Hope
YOUR Lifestyle 19 YOUR Best Self with Connie Haley
20 YOUR Beauty & Style
Confessions of a Beauty Junkie
22 YOUR Fashion
with Effortless Style
26 TAG BY SWAG 27 Spring Soriee 29 Juice Bar Ribbon Cutting 31 Leadership Franklin Banquet 34 Hard Bargain Celebration
40 YOUR History
30 Happily Ever After
102 YOUR Kids
36 Eat, Drink and Be Merry
38 Randal McGavock Society Dinner
110 YOUR Education
50 Southern Is...
112 A Little Something Extra
54 A Lady Entertains
42 AVA - A Vintner Dinner 44 AVA - A Vintage Affair Goes Country 46 AVA - Preview Party & Main Event 49 Franklin Jazz Festival 56 Three Blind Vines 64 WCAR Vendor Fair 65 Bling & Bowties 72 Miriam’s Promise 76 Fur, Feathers & Friends 6 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
YOUR Community Franklin Hotel Hides Sordid Crime Keeping Kids Engaged In Learning High School Guidance Counselors
YOUR Business 58 YOUR Real Estate News
28 YOUR Health & Wellness
with Williamson Medical Center
with Miss Daisy King
Jeffrey Gray
with Southern Soiree
60 Decorating & Home with Eric Ross Interiors
Williamson County Association of Realtors
66 Styling YOUR Everyday
Grand Avenue
91 It’s YOUR Business 92 Ribbon Cuttings
68 Welcome Home 82 Come Fly with Me 97 Arts & Culture
94 Scoop
105 Read Between the Lines
90 Business Spotlight
Chamber Spotlight You in the News
with Katie Jacobs
5 Sense Living
with Landmark Books
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YW MONTHLY | Your Staff
Shelly Robertson Birdsong
Johnny Birdsong
Anna Robertson
Emily Fordice
Erica Lampley
PRESIDENT
MANAGING PUBLISHER
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
OWNER, PUBLISHER
YOUR Williamson is a publication of: Robertson Media Group, LLC 436 Main Street, Suite 205 Franklin, TN 37064 Office: 615.979.1548 www.yourwilliamson.com Please send all content & coverage requests to: info@yourwilliamson.com
Caitlin Daschner CREATIVE CONTENT EDITOR
Helen Simpkins
Brooke McKee
J.J. Higgins
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Andrea Davis DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Krista Ehret WRITER
Vicki Stout
PHOTOGRAPHER
Ron Cheatham
BUSINESS MANAGER
Tracie Dycus
K York
Adam Sanner
Rachel Weishaupt
Sarah Bailey
Annie Osteen
HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER
PHOTOGRAPHER
PHOTOGRAPHER
PHOTOGRAPHER
WRITER
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
Steve Absher, Account Exec. Kingery Printing Company YOUR Printing Partner
615-828-8661 stevea@kingeryprinting.com quotes@kingeryprinting.com
Launching May 2015: www.yourwilliamson.com The comprehensive daily guide to all things Williamson County! Integrated with our social media and eblasts each week, yourwilliamson.com is where you will go to stay in the know!
ONLINE MARKETING MANAGER
Arde Motorcars We here at Arde Motorcars are thankful for the priviledge of living in Williamson County. Being a family owned business in today’s environment is a challenge and also an opportunity that takes a certain vision that only comes with love and a full time dedication and ability that enables you to stay in the game. Arde Motorcars is a European Automobile Boutique that is only interested in offering this unique community the best in taste, luxury and sport motorcars.
Drive the car that fits your lifestyle – Arde
www.ArdeMotorcars.com
YW MONTHLY | Publisher’s Letter
IN MY DAUGHTER’S EYES Dear Readers,
CUSTOM PUBLISHING
INTEGRATED MEDIA & MARKETING
DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY
CONSULTING
EVENT MANAGEMENT
436 Main Street Suite 205 Franklin, TN 37064 615.979.1548 info@robertsonmediagroup.com
I have spent a lot of time in recent weeks listening to experts in my field and in particular branding, advise me on the growth of my business and the brand of our publication and future endeavors. Branding. It’s that stamp of who and what we are – in business – that we project to the world in the hopes that it distinguishes us from the rest. We hope so anyway. A good brand is as integral to the success of a business as a good business plan these days. Building your brand; A catch phrase for sure, but truly, the pinpointing of who we are and what we want to be to the world, is integral when determining your place on the business map. We celebrate our four-year publishing milestone this month and as always it brings pause. Pause to reflect on the good and the bad…. And to reaffirm the commitment to plow forward. Lately it feels as if we have no longer been plowing, trudging behind the till as we go uphill, in the snow, and quicksand…. But rather have been flying at breakneck speed toward our goals. Fear is the soul mate of a business owner so I will never (and I am sure my fellow small business owners can attest) leave it behind. But as I reflected this year, and correlated my business journey and life in general and another milestone we celebrate in May with Mother’s Day, I realize that all I need to know and all I need to be, is in my daughter’s eyes. If you are a mother, or really anyone with a heart, pull up “In My Daughter’s Eyes,” on ITUNES and have a little heart tugging bawl as you listen to the words Martina McBride sings, all about what it means “In my daughter’s eyes, to be a mother and even more so what it means to be a woman with a daughter. “I I can see the future, see who I want to be, In my daughter’s eyes; A reflection of who I am and what will be, I find reason to believe, In my daughter’s eyes; I’ve seen the light, It’s in my daughter’s When I’m gone I hope you’ll see, eyes.” My sentimentality has me tear up For I’ll be there, every time I listen to this song and think about what my daughter means to me and In my daughter’s eyes.” all that I hope to be – in her eyes - as her mother. The same can be said now for my – James Slater, Published by Lyrics © other creation, in business and all I hope to be. Reservoir Media Management INC In honoring the four women you see on the cover, I did not have to think long or hard about women in this community who, while not my mothers, have been guiding forces and inspiration throughout my life, whether they knew it or not. Their successes, their determinations, their grace and graciousness, are all characteristics I hope to extoll in my own behavior as a business woman, a member of the community and to my daughter. May she see what I have seen and follow. For in those four grand examples – I say – What a brand! Thank you Williamson County for four wonderful years in publication with YOUR Williamson. We have much more to do and share of our brand – to tell the story of your community in our pages. And most importantly to my Mother; Happy Mother’s Day. May I be the mother you have been to me, to my Keeling. No greater success could be mine. Shelly Robertson Birdsong, Owner and Publisher shelly@robertsonmediagroup.com
YW MONTHLY | Your Contributors
Jeffrey Gray Jeffrey Gray is as southern as sweet tea and fried chicken at a Sunday picnic. This Southern bon vivant, decorator, event planner, painter, food slinger and drink pourer gives advice to the men of Williamson County on all things “Southern gentleman.”
Connie Haley Connie Haley Life Coach is a certified life coach that specializes in helping people love the life they have and from there, create the life they always envisioned. Every issue she will show readers ways to find peace and calm in their lives and in themselves.
Miss Daisy King Tennessee’s “First Lady of Southern Cooking,” Daisy King was the founder and chef of the renowned Miss Daisy’s Tearoom and is now the proprietor and executive chef of Miss Daisy’s Kitchen at Grassland Foodland Market in Franklin, Tennessee. Daisy will be the new YOUR Hospitality and Cooking Contributor both in our monthly print edition and online at www.yourwilliamson.com.
Katie Rushton Fashion stylist and owner of Effortless Style, a personal shopping and wardrobe consulting company in Brentwood. She provides a variety of services including Closet Audits, Styling Sessions and Personal Shopping.
12 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Julie Jorgensen A self proclaimed Beauty Junkie, Julie is our go-to gal for all things beauty - She scouts out the best deals and the best beauty tricks around. She treats readers to some hilarious insight into the world of what it takes to be fabulous!
Katie Jacobs Katie Jacobs is a graphic designer, photographer and stylist. She is the art director and creator of stylingmyeveryday. com, a food and lifestyle blog with a focus on styling, entertaining and DIY..
Ginger Jones Ginger Jones is a Speech-Language Pathologist and the owner of Jones Therapy Services, which provides speechlanguage, occupational, and physical therapy in 7 locations across Middle and East Tennessee.
Lauryn Gilliam Lauryn Gilliam is a seeker of fun, student of life and lover of exploring mindful ways to enlist the 5 senses in all her experiences. Join her in every issue as she takes us on a sensory tour of all things arts, culture and dining.
Margie Thessin Franklin on Foot owner and Williamson County historian. Author of Ghosts of Franklin, Tennessee’s Most Haunted Town and Lizzie’s War. Margie is seen throughout Franklin giving historical walking, biking and southern food tours.
Krista Ehret As an event designer and co-owner of Southern Soiree, a full service event and wedding planning company, Krista collaborates with discerning brides to bring their vision to fruition. With a degree in interior design and a passion for all things domestic, she also enjoys bringing beauty into everyday life.
Joel & Carol Tomlin Your monthly book review of great reads, local, regional and beyond is provided by this unique bookstore in historic downtown Franklin. Owners Joel and Carol Tomlin will share insight and knowledge of literature both current and old and encourage our readers to read, read, read.
Joe Harkins Co-founder of Wheelhouse Marketing Advisors after spending the previous six years as Vice President, Group Director at J&A. Joe has more than 25 years of experience in both consumer and business-to-business marketing. Wheelhouse will provide business and marketing insight monthly through their own expertise and that of their clientele via the It’s YOUR Business column.
Eric Ross Eric Ross Interiors specializes in full service residential interior design and interior decoration for homes and provides truly unique, luxury design solutions for any room in your home. From design concept to installation and presentation, Eric Ross Interiors manages every aspect of your project and leaves no detail unattended.
SOCIAL | Main Street Festival Sponsored Event
Photography by K York Everyone knows, when the Main Street Festival comes to town – spring has come to town! This annual rite of spring is downtown Franklin’s celebration. And what a celebration it was for 2015! Beautiful weather was the order for the last weekend in April as over 100,000 revelers visited our fair city! Hundreds of arts and craft vendors, food vendors, musicians and entertainment of all kinds and for all ages, made their way to downtown for two days of festivities and merriment. This nationally recognized event is one of the highlights of the festival season in the country and in our own backyard! For more information on the Main Street Festival and other events presented by the Downtown Franklin Association, go to www.historicfranklin.com. Madison Poss & Myky Morris
Linda Davidson & Sallie Danelz
Joel Hudnall & Kelsey Herbers
Mimi Grant, Debbie & Allison Murry
Justin Hampton
Leslie, Greg & Renee Zarnick, Barb & Stephen Smith
Dixie Hutchins, Ami Kase, Rachel Brannon & Kim Brannon 14 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Connie & Jim Poling
Kelsey Follis & Champ
Gabrielle Segara & Isabelle Segara
McKinley Lane & Katy Lane
Alice Byrd & Paulette Cole McClain, Chris & CoCo Franks
Jason Bynum, Jennifer Mathews & Adam Sanner
Ben Allen
Kishia Nixon & Dorian Nixon
Eddie & Meghann Wynne
Skylark Lark
Natalie Baenziger with Bunny & Kip Tuggle
Cindy Parobek, Melanie & John Alvey
Tiffany, Kailee & Chise Bethmann
Candice Benward, Bella & Sareece Brown
Pat Hallam, Matt & Cory Hallam May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 15
YW MONTHLY | Your Social Secretary
YOUR SOCIAL SECRETARY:
May brings a host of fabulous events we can’t wait to attend! Here are just a few to add to the Social Calendar.
MAY 8
MAY 15
MAY 30
Eat the Street
O’More Collective
Music Country Grand Prix
Friday, May 8th Bicentennial Park
Friday, May 15th Liberty Hall in the Factory at Franklin
Saturday, May 30th Brownland Farm
Franklin’s food truck festival benefiting the 21st Drug Court. Visit EatTheStreetFranklin.com for more information.
Doors at 6:30pm, show at 8:00pm. General admission: $45 For tickets, visit OMoreCollective.com or call 615-794-4254 ext. 220
Gates at 3:30pm, competition at 5pm. General Admission is $15. Visit MusicCountryGrandPrix.com for more information.
YW MONTHLY | Miss Social Grace
Dear Ms. Social Grace:
Dear Bookish:
I am involved in a women’s book club that meets monthly. The group gathers in May and makes a schedule for the year. The times, date, location and books are scheduled at that time. Each time the group meets, the host sends out a reminder about a week before the event and then again the day before the meeting. The host shares her home, offers appetizers and drinks and leads the discussion. A typical response to the meeting reminder is this, six of the eight people will say they are coming, and then by the time the meeting rolls around, the group dwindles down to about three. There is typically a last minute flurry of emails and cancellations the day of the event. This is a great group of women whose company I enjoy. However, the dropping out at the last minute is getting to me. It seems so rude. Am I wrong?
It sounds like a treat to be included in a book club made up of all women! It is very impressive that your group plans a year in advance of your meetings. I do believe that canceling at the last minute, particularly repeatedly, is the height of bad manners. You are correct in your reaction and I bet you are not the only one who feels that way.
Signed, Bookish in Brentwood
Ms. Social Grace
I suggest that, after receiving the next email notice, you respond by reminding the group how gracious it is of the person who is hosting to share their home and provide refreshments. Perhaps, you might also point out how much more fun it is to have a full group in attendance, and therefore, a more in-depth discussion. Sometimes, we all need a reminder to point us in the proper direction. I hope that you will find that this group just needs a little nudge. Thank you for writing. Good luck!
Ms. Social Grace uses several resources including the etiquette defining tomes of Miss Manners as a reference for all responses regarding appropriate behavior. You can get advice on questions of etiquette by writing to Ms. Social Grace at AskMs.SocialGrace@yourwilliamson.com. 16 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
SOCIAL | Junior League Masquerade
Photography by Adam Sanner
The third annual Masquerade benefiting the Junior League of Nashville was held in April at War Memorial Auditorium. Guests dressed in formal attire and enjoyed a special evening of cocktails, dinner and dancing. A late party following the main event for more dancing and celebrating. The Junior League is to serve the Nashville community in a volunteer capacity. To learn more about the Junor League, go to www.jlnashville.org. Susan Guttentag, Luke Gregory, Marilyn Dubree & Adam Guttentag
Lucas & Kerri Burton, Reen & Jamie Baskin
Shelton Harrell, Jennifer Bland, Allison Reichenbach, Lauren Jacques, Jennifer Pinho & Marry Huddleston
Whitney & Alex Kimerling 18 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Clark Elkins & Maria Behr
Anne Taylor & Matt Fones
Ali & Rich Fricke, Emily & Jim Murphy
Paul Huddleston, Jesse Bland, Richard Jacques & Brian Reichenbach
Jamie Warren, Ashley Turner & Caryn Worthey
Brad & Mandy Jones, Ali & Rich Fricke
LIFESTYLE | Your Best Self
MOTHERING ADVICE TO MY YOUNGER SELF II’ve been feeling nostalgic about Mother’s Day this year. The reason finally hit me as I cleaned out my desk and stumbled upon my Mother’s Day gift from my son, dated 1997. He was four. The clay pot was painted to look like strawberry vines. Each of the strawberries was his thumbprint dipped in bright red paint. At first I smiled and then the tears came. Where had the time gone? I felt the regrets start to surface about the time I wasted worrying about my parenting skills instead of just enjoying my time with them. We all have regrets when we look in the rear view mirror. Unfortunately, there is not up side to this mindset. Focusing on what I did well eased the discomfort, but I wondered what advice I would give to my younger self with the knowledge I have now. Here are my 3 favorites: DECIDE WHAT MATTERS MOST TO YOUR FAMILY AND PARENT FROM THOSE VALUES. It’s easy to second guess parenting decisions based on what others are doing. Having an actual list of what values I wanted to instill in my children would have silenced the doubts. I relished dinners together, not in the car. Pinterest worthy birthday parties are great, but my children would have been fine with less elaborate celebrations and a mother who was actually enjoying the moment. WORRY LESS ABOUT THEIR GRADES AND MORE ABOUT SKILLS THAT WILL ENSURE A HAPPY LIFE. I am not suggesting that good grades are unimportant, but they have no correlation to future happiness. Life skills such as developing self-confidence, using your natural talents, nurturing family/friendships, practicing gratitude and giving back do cultivate a happy, fulfilled life. I would have spent way more time nurturing my children’s competency in the above and less time worrying about what reading percentile they were in. DON’T SOLVE ALL THEIR PROBLEMS FOR THEM. Toddlers develop the muscles needed for walking by falling down and getting back up again. Emotional development happens the same way. Listening to and loving my children through the pains of childhood would have served them better than “fixing” the minor situations that caused them distress. Knowing how to deal with the inevitable, negative emotions in life is one of the most useful gifts a child can receive. I could fill the page with more mothering “do-over” items, but it won’t change anything. It all happened like it was supposed to. Besides, God gave me the chance to do mothering again with just the fun stuff. I have grandchildren! Happy Mother’s Day! Be you. No apologies. Connie
You deserve to feel special, beautiful and confident — every single day.
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Katie Rushton | Wardrobe Consultant Closet audits | Styling sessions | Personal shopping 615.734.9956 | kbc.rushton@ gmail.com www.effortlesstyle.com
LIFESTYLE | Confessions of a Beauty Junkie Bloody Marys in town. 55 South is another brunch that pulls out all the stops, and my personal favorite Urban Grub is just up the road. On the other hand, you could hit up Whole Foods or the Farmer’s Market and make something yourself! Take advantage of the delicious veggies from our wonderful local farmers that are in season right now and whip up a beautiful salad or pasta primavera. Cruise Peaceful Pastures or Hatcher Farms for something yummy to throw onto the grill while Mom kicks back with her favorite book or magazine (may I suggest YOUR Williamson?). Snag some vino from nearby Arrington Vineyards and you’re sure to impress, or better yet pack up a picnic and spend the day in the vines taking in the gorgeous scenery and live music currently being offered on the weekend!
MOM’S by: Julie Jorgensen
the word
H
appy Mother’s Day to all of the beautiful mamas, grandmamas, and aunties out there! For all of the hard work you do, day in and day out, each and every single one of y’all deserve some relaxation and pampering on a regular basis—not just on Mother’s Day. That said, there’s no better day to shower the special lady in your life with some extra-special attention. Now y’all know that the Beauty Junkie has you covered, so take notes and get ready to make your mama feel like the queen that she is! Flowers are always great, but a few days later Mom is left with crunchy stems and falling petals. You can do better, smart reader! Pair that bouquet with a gift certificate for a relaxing massage or manicure and pedicure. If you really want to blow her away, pony up for a yearly membership at Massage Envy. With locations all around Nashville, the therapists each serene oasis will put Calgon to shame when it comes to taking her “away” on a monthly basis. (It’s really affordable too.) While you’re at it, throw in a calming facial at Ren Dermatology. Aesthetician Kara is trained in Ayurveda, 20 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
which means she takes a facial to the next level with essential oils and a crazy-awesome neck and shoulder massage that is nothing short of sublime. Mom will be glowing and smiling in no time, though she may be so relaxed that you’ll have to carry her to the car. Another idea for a gift that keeps on giving is a membership in a monthly beauty or wine club. I love Club W for allowing you to customize your monthly wine shipments based on what you like and your designated price point. (They even pick new varietals for you based on your feedback and enclose recipe cards each month for the perfect pairing.) Glossybox is the perfect way to pamper her on a monthly basis, thanks to an expertly-curated collection of beauty samples delivered right to her door. Each box also includes a full-sized product, which more than covers the twenty-dollar monthly subscription price. BeautyFix takes the monthly-subscription concept up a notch by sending four boxes a year (each valued at over a hundred dollars and shipped for free) containing eight high-end beauty products each from a sixty-product lineup and includes a makeup case for her to stash her goodies. Of course a proper meal is in order as a “thank-you” for all that Mom does for us, right? Right. Thankfully, our options are plenty in Williamson County! Our friends at Granite City put on a Sunday brunch that includes prime rib and eggs Benedict, along with mimosas and some of the best
What Mom may be really hoping for is a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Don’t feel like you have to load up the car and make a long trip, though—the Omni and the Hermitage are both fabulous for a Mother’s Day “staycation.” With onsite spa services at each and amazing dining courtesy of Bob’s Steak & Chop House and Barlines (at the Omni) and the Capital Grille (at the Hermitage), you don’t even have to leave the hotel to make her feel like the most special woman on the planet. And that, my friends, is what Mother’s Day is all about, regardless of how you celebrate it. We love you, Mom! Cheers! Love, The Beauty Junkie RESOURCE GUIDE: Massage Envy, locations in Brentwood, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and Nashville: massageenvy.com Ren Dermatology, located in Franklin: rendermatology.com Club W: clubw.com Glossybox: glossybox.com BeautyFix: beautyfix.com Granite City, located in Cool Springs: gcfb.net 55 South, located in downtown Franklin: eat55.com Urban Grub, located in 12South: urbangrub.net Peaceful Pastures and Hatcher Farms, located at the Franklin Farmer’s Market: franklinfarmersmarket.com The Omni Hotel, located in downtown Nashville: omnihotels.com The Hermitage, located in downtown Nashville: thehermitagehotel.com
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LIFESTYLE | Effortless Style
SPRING
FAVES By Katie Rushton
Spring is officially here, and so are the brighter colors and lighter weight fabrics. By now, everyone seems to be ready for that seasonal wardrobe transition. If you haven’t done it already, it’s time to clean out your closets, pack away your fall/winter clothes and bring out those spring and summer bins that you’ve had stored away for months. In last month’s issue, I outlined a few spring trends and what you could expect to see in stores. For this month’s column, I wanted to expand on that a little and talk spring accessories. A few favorites for spring: FLOPPY HATS Whether you are having a bad hair day or just want to add a little kick to your casual t-shirt and jeans, a floppy hat is a great accessory to have in your closet this spring! This must-have hat is a classic silhouette and an essential that can transform any everyday casual look! THE PENDANT NECKLACE This necklace speaks for itself, and the options in pendant necklaces are endless. If you like this look, you will have several to choose from. Keep it simple with a smaller pendant in a basic silver or gold, or for a more daring look, go with a pendant necklace with some color or a bold shape. SCARVES FOR SPRING Some think scarves are a fall/winter only accessory, but that’s definitely not the case. Scarves are a great piece to utilize for the spring season as well. The key to choosing a scarf for spring and the warmer months is the fabric. Look for a lighter weight, airy fabric like this super soft cotton scarf from J. Crew. STATEMENT EARRINGS I mentioned these as one of the “Most Wanted” items for spring in last month’s column. I love the statement earring, and it’s ability to really transform an outfit. One thing I usually recommend to clients about any statement piece of jewelry is to let that particular piece be the spotlight. If you do wear other jewelry items with a statement earring, just make sure and keep the other items simple, so you don’t compete with and take anything away from your statement piece. TASSEL ACCESSORIES It seems like every time I am shopping for accessories for clients lately, I run across necklaces and earrings with tassels. The tassel accent is everywhere: jewelry, shoes, totes, wallets, etc. It’s an easy trend to fit into your wardrobe and it’s a great, versatile piece if done in a necklace or earring! Make sure and stop by our blog www.effortlesstyle.com for more on spring trends! 22 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
SOCIAL | Sundae With Friends Sponsored Event
Photography Submitted It was an afternoon of fashion, glamour, dolls and sundaes at this year's Sundae with Friends held in April. The event included a "Behind the Scenes" glimpse at a runway show with kid-friendly, stylish fun! The girls and their dolls walked the runway and posed for the cameras. This is the second of three events in the Friends & Fashion event series. Learn more about Sundae with Friends benefiting the Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at www.childrenshospital.vanderbilt.org.
May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 23
SOCIAL | Friends and Fashion Sponsored Event
Story & Photography by Vicki Stout More than 500 fashion forward folks gathered recently at the Embassy Suites for the 25th Annual Friends & Fashion Luncheon and Fashion Show, benefiting the Monroe Carrell Jr. Children’s Hospital. The “pre-game” was all about shopping, bidding and buying from a plethora of offerings. Spring fashions were as evident in the crowd as on the glistening white runway where kids stole the show, literally. Models are or were patients at the world-class Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital. The ballroom was pretty in pink with tables centered by gorgeous arrangements while goodie bags and copies of YOUR Williamson marked each place setting. Cheers to organizers and supporters for this spring fashion staple in Williamson County. Melanie Jackson, Marty Ligon & Patti Hudgins
Rose Grindstaff, Ann McKinney & Amanda McKinney
Rachel Hornsby & Heidi Garber 24 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Leigh Anne Mason & Sam Gdowski
Debbie Binkley & Jane Alger
Vera Lee & Angela Bostelman
May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 25
SOCIAL | Tag by Swag Story & Photography by K York Fashionistas gathered for a VIP preview party of the first Tag By Swag sales event at The Factory at Franklin. Designer items of Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Chanel, just to name a few, didn’t stay on the tables very long, as eager shoppers hit the luxury consignment sale. Clothing, handbags, jewelry, shoes and more could be purchased at discounted prices. Check out Tag By Swag and news of future sales on Facebook at ShopAtSwag.
Heather Pray & Sara Blank
Jennifer Parker, Donna Choate & Amy Walters
Lacey Julian & Angela Hoover
Lindsay O’Neal & Sarah Tahiri
Jennifer Bailey & Beth Ambrose
Brock and Corinne Kidd
Friends & Fashion thanks all who supported Monroe Carell Jr. Childrenʼs Hospital at Vanderbilt through the 2015 event!
“By supporting the event, you helped children just like us!”
SOCIAL | Spring Soiree Story & Photography by Vicki Stout The recent Spring Soiree staged in the Omni Nashville Hotel’s grand ballroom gave its 400 guests the feel of being on the iconic “Saturday Night Live” TV show. Two gigantic screens flanked the stage, which during the evening was home to comedians and a dance band. During the cocktail hour, guests stepped up to the camera with a green screen as the background. At the end of the evening, they picked up commemorative photos that showed the Nashville skyline as the backdrop. John Belushi hats, sunglasses and other paraphernalia were in the mix for those who wanted to ham it up for the camera. The evening of fun, dinner, dancing and buying at a live auction benefited the Tennessee Kidney Foundation.
Debbie & Goerge Towne
Rose & Hollis Smith
Drew Mason, Lauren Hansen & Amy Frederick
Shirley Gordon & Candy Strombeck
Chris Sparks, Jessica Bradford & Jamie Harris
Kim Branch & Amy Peterson
LIFESTYLE | Your Health & Wellness
PATIENT EDUCATION HAS POSITIVE EFFECT ON JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY OUTCOMES By Frances Scott, BSN RN Throughout our history of performing total and partial joint replacements here at Williamson Medical Center, we have learned that patients who have had some pre-operative education about their procedure have a better outcome. We’ve seen it. Knowing what to expect really does help you recover. Educated patients are in less pain and are up and more mobile more quickly. They have fewer complications like pneumonia or blood clots because they know what to do to prevent them. This is why we offer joint classes here. We invite anyone who is either already scheduled for a surgery, or anyone who just has questions about joint replacements to attend one of our informative classes. We give people a chance to ask questions and our goal is to educate them so they can take an active role in their joint replacement. We can’t do things for a patient once they go home, but we can help them know exactly what they need to do for themselves to have the best recovery possible. JOINT REPLACEMENT 101 During the classes we will walk people through the process of a joint replacement. There’s a lot that happens before and after the surgery and it’s important for a patient to know these things ahead of time. We will talk about the recovery period, what the hospital stay will look like, we will cover the basics of what a joint replacement surgery encompasses and go over basic physical therapy details and information on 28 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
medications you may go home with. There are many decisions that have to be made regarding your joint replacement surgery. We want you to be a part of making as many of those decisions as possible. Some examples might include decisions about post-operative physical therapy and pain medications. It’s also important for us to make sure the joint replacement candidate has support lined up once they get home after surgery. We want to know how you are going to recover and make sure your home is safe. For example, if your bathroom is upstairs, how are you going to access it? Will someone be staying with you at home? How will you get to and from physical therapy? These are all things that need to be planned before the day of surgery. MENTAL PREPARATION In addition to getting some important details worked out, it’s equally as important for the patient to mentally prepare for their new joint. Joint replacement surgery has one of the highest percentage rates for success among surgical procedures at 90 percent. The other 10 percent is up to the patient when they go home. MOVE IT! The number-one thing we tell patients they have to do after surgery is get up and move. That’s the most important thing, because if you don’t, you are at a higher risk of blood clots. If you don’t move it, the joint can stiffen up and you have to be sedated again to have it fixed. Moving your new joint will optimize your overall recovery and success. We also have to caution people who want to be a champion and not take their pain
medication. In order to get up and move, you have to keep your pain at a manageable level. In the classes we also review infection prevention. We go over how to care for your surgical site and how simple things like applying lotion can be detrimental to your surgical site. JOIN US The joint classes are open to anyone who has arthritis or has questions about joint replacement surgery. Classes begin again in May and will be held at 5:30pm on Mondays in meeting rooms A, B and C on our main campus and at 10am on Thursdays in the classroom on the fourth floor. No registration is required, but if you have questions or need any information, you can call 615-435-6041. Frances Scott, BSN, RN, is the director of WMC’s Joint and Spine Center.
SOCIAL | Juice Bar Ribbon Cutting Story & Photography by K York The Juice Bar of Franklin held a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting at their new location at 232 Fifth Avenue North recently. The Juice Bar is a whole fruit and vegetable juice and smoothie bar with vegetarian, gluten-free and organic lunch items, gourmet snacks and other “superfood’ options. Former Titan Football players Cortland Finnegan, Chris Hope and Keith Bullock attended and autographed memorabilia for the Three Blind Vines silent Auction. For more information, go to www.ilovejuicebar.com.
Josh Collins, Jamie Cox, Megan Weisnger & Allison Bruno
Heritage Foundation staff with Chris Hope
Cortland Finnegan
Carol Collins & Jason Collins
Tiago & Jude Rorex
Shelley Moeller & Ed Cagle
6 specialties 2 Williamson County locations 13 physicians One medical home for you and your family.
Internal Medicine • General Surgery • Family Medicine Pulmonary Medicine • Sleep Medicine • Travel Medicine
WilliamsonMedicalGroup.com WilliamsonMedicalCenter.org
LIFESTYLE | Happily Ever After
TABER – PULIDO WEDDING
DeVan and Karen Ard celebrated the marriage of their daughter, Kristina Taber, to Nicholas Pulido who were married April 4, 2015 at Scarritt-Bennett Wightman Chapel in Nashville, with reception following at Belle Meade Plantation. The couple met when Kristina was a freshman at the College of Charleston and Nick was a senior at The Citadel in Charleston. Nick was commissioned an officer in the United States Navy in May of 2011 and was initially stationed in San Diego, California. While Kristina was in Charleston to finish her degree the two were a continent apart for most of their relationship. However, the two were able to overcome deployments and the challenges that come with long distance relationships. Nick proposed to Kristina in Charleston on the Battery during Valentines weekend 2014, while Kristina’s two sisters were able to take pictures and celebrate in his proposal.
BRIDE: Kristina Taber GROOM: Lieutenant Junior Grade Nicholas Pulido BRIDE’S PARENTS: DeVan & Karen Ard GROOM’S PARENTS: John & Darla Pulido MAIDS OF HONOR: Brianna Taber & Alexandra Taber (Kristina’s Two sisters) BRIDESMAIDS: Janessa Pulido, Alix Briggs, Emma Briggs, Caroline Watson, Amelia Swab, Jessica Doherty, Dakota Isaacs, Katie McClay PASTOR: John Duval ORGANIST: Dick Torrans BAND: Craig Duncan Band
Kristina, along with Olia Zavozina, designed her wedding dress and used family traditions in her inspiration to create a beautiful gown made with and Shantung silk and lace. Kristina used colors of blush and gold, along with antique china to decorate Belle Meade Plantation. The guests dined on shrimp and grits and beef tenderloin, wonderfully prepared By ChefWorks, and enjoyed GiGi’s cupcakes as the wedding cake. Guests flooded the dance floor and danced the night away thanks to Craig Duncan and his band.
CATERER: Chef Works – Jeannette Gooddard
The bride and groom were ushered to their antique Rolls Royce as family and friends toasted them with champagne and glow sticks to light the way. The newlyweds honeymooned in the Caribbean and will reside near Washington, DC.
HAIR & MAKEUP: Cali Jefferies
30 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
CAKE/CUPCAKES: GiGi’s Cupcakes WEDDING PLANNER: Helen Morisette PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Moore VIDEOGRAPHER: Digital Media Tank; Forrest Tanksley FLORIST: Knestrick By Design – Jim Knestrick TRANSPORTATION: Grand Avenue – Grey Rolls Royce WEDDING DRESS: Custom made from local designer, Olia Zavozina
SOCIAL | Leadership Franklin Banquet Photography by K York Leadership Franklin held their annual graduation and banquet at the Embassy Suites Cool Springs in April. The most recent class to graduate along with all Leadership alumni were invited for an evening of fellowship and celebration of this amazing community leaders program. For more information and to apply for the 2015-2016, class go to www.leadershipfranklin.org.
Kerri Hudson & Tina Edwards
Jon Finkel & Alicia Gordon
Chaz & Deaver Corzine
Leadership Class of 2012-2013
Jayne & Julian Bibb
Jason Ritzen & Stephanie Hardy
Philip Peters, Laura Beth Stubblefield & Susan Smallwood
Music City Strings
FEATURE | Matriarchs of Williamson County
MATRIARCHS OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY
By Anna Robertson
The month of May is of course notable as we celebrate Mother’s Day. An opportunity to honor our mothers should never be overlooked and the opportunity to honor women in general, the women who make up our amazing community, even more important. A matriarch typically would signify the mother of the family; maybe even a large and distinguished family and the matriarch would seemingly be its Queen. Well no truer words could be spoken about the four women we chose this year, to recognize as our matriarchs of Williamson County. For as their families are large and notable, they are without a doubt, forces to be reckoned with individually as both the mothers of their clans and as “mothers” in name if not in fact, to many who know and honor them here in Williamson County. 32 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
MARTY LIGON Many know Marty Parish Ligon due to her seasonal home (“LilliHouse”) décor in the historic Hincheyville neighborhood of downtown Franklin. She is also known for her lively personality, support and love for Williamson County. Marty has lived in Williamson County since 1967. She has been married to Ronald Ligon for more than 38 years and is the mother of two children, Meg and Fulton, and stepmother to three sons, Sandy, John and Matt. She also has seven grandchildren. She is a big supporter of many community efforts and has served as the first Chairman of the Heritage Ball, past President of Pi Beta Phi Alumni Club, past Board Member of the Friends of Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, past member of the O’More College of Design School Guild Board, past Board Member of The Blair School of Music-
Vanderbilt, Franklin Chamber of Commerce Tourist Committee Chairman, past member of the Harpeth Hall Auxiliary Board, past member of the American Lung Association, key person in helping found Harpeth Academy in Franklin, past member of the Adventure Science Museum Executive Board and Board of Directors, Board of Belmont Mansion in Nashville and presently serves on the board of the Vanderbilt Bill Wilkerson Speech and Hearing Center. She has also hosted several charitable events in her home supporting numerous organizations. Marty says she has never thought of herself as a Matriarch, but was flattered to be included!
VIRGINIA BOWMAN Virginia Bowman is well known as both the Franklin City Historian appointed in 2006 and the official county historian appointed by the County Court since 1972 to the present. She has lived in Williamson County all of her life and her family has been here since 1808, at least. Her family includes McDaniel, House, Moran and Maury. Virginia, who was married to Joe Bowman in 1943, has a large family with two children, Jody and Colley, two grandchildren, Brent and Hamilton, four great grandchildren, Elizabeth, Josephine, Will and Matthew, and one brother, Gordon. She attended Franklin High and Peabody College. She is a lifetime member of the Church of Christ and has taught bible classes for 60 years. She has been an active member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy for more than 70 years and has contributed much to the historical recollections of our community, including as author of the book Historic Williamson
County—Old Homes and Sites; preparing the County Seal with James H. Armistead; as a member of the Williamson County Historical Society; Life Member and Charter member of the Carnton Board; and past member of the Historic Zoning Commission. Virginia is now working on her second book, Williamson County Tennessee—Old Places and Personalities. Virginia enjoys her position as a matriarch because she loves to give insight into county history since many people have not lived it here first hand. MARY MILLS Mary Mills has lived in Franklin her entire life, since she was born off Lewisburg Avenue. She was one of six children and grew up with her grandmother, who had 13 children of her own. Mary’s grandfather was a Cherokee Indian, but she never had the opportunity to know him as he passed before she was born. She was married to Latham Mills for 51 years and has two children, Joycelin and Latham Jr., five grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Mary attended Franklin High School where she served as Student Council president and graduated from Tennessee State University with an Administrative degree. She then worked in the school system for over 39 years as a secretary at Johnson Elementary and as Principal of Franklin Middle School. After she retired from the school system, she served as Williamson County Commissioner for 17 years in the 11th district. She has also served as a active member of the African American Heritage Society, a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Community Childcare Committee, has been a member of the Board of Trustees of Williamson Medical
center for over 30 years and currently is on the Williamson County Health Council. Mary is a member of Shorter Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church. Mary feels extremely honored to be a Matriarch of Williamson County.
CAROLINE CROSS Caroline Cross has lived in Williamson County for over 54 years and has two children, Amy and Jim, and two grandchildren. Caroline is well known for having founded Leadership Franklin in 1996, which is a non-profit leadership program where members work together and with local leaders, to develop initiatives in government, business, law enforcement, education, media and quality of life. Leadership Franklin has also created an ongoing award in her name, the Caroline J. Cross Award, which was established to honor Caroline and acknowledges someone who is a leader and exemplifies Leadership Franklin. She has been involved with the Heritage Foundation of Franklin and Williamson County as a member and co-chair of the 2nd Heritage Ball, founded the Candlelight Tour and Town & Country Tour, and has served as President. She has also served on boards for Carnton Plantation, the Carter House, O’More College of Design, Vanderbilt, Chairman of WC Economic Development Showcase and presently on board of World Christian Broadcasting Corporation. Caroline is an active member of her church, Heritage Church of Christ and loves being considered a Matriarch of Williamson County.
May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 33
LIFESTYLE | Eat, Drink & Be Merry
THE MERRY MONTH OF MAY DINING WITH MISS DAISY By Daisy King
Friends, When I opened Miss Daisy’s Tearoom in 1974, the beverage of choice was, of course our afternoon tea. The emphasis was given to our “Tea Time” during the merry month of May, as our menu was expanded to include the accompaniment of our Lemon Curd, as well as additional finger sandwiches, assorted sweets and tea breads. Each table was adorned with fresh flowers from Marilyn Lehew’s garden and we occasionally entertained guests with music. Tea Time was our common bond and freshly brewed tea meant everyone was where they needed to be. Tea is something of a lost art to many people. Over the years, I have enjoyed three principal varieties: Afternoon Tea, Cream Tea and High Tea. Afternoon Tea: During the early years of British tea consumption, the beverage was principally at breakfast and as a digestive aid after dinner. In the 1840’s, the seventh duchess of Bedford complained that a “sinking feeling” would strike her between lunch and dinner. Thus, the custom of taking afternoon tea was established. At first the meal consisted of tea and light cakes, but soon bread and butter were added. Today, afternoon tea may also include dainty sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream and petits fours. And despite the name, it is afternoon tea that is held to be the fanciest and most elaborate. This is the one you dress up for and enjoy at Fortnum and Mason or at a posh London hotel like The Ritz. Cream Tea: Also known as Devonshire tea, this mid to late afternoon fortifier, comprising scones, clotted cream and preserves is the specialty of the Devon and Cornwall region of England where the high butterfat content of the milk of Channel Islands cows (Guernseys and Jerseys) enables the cream to clot. Cream Tea was once served in the fields on the farms to tide the laborers over until the evening meal. Presently, Cream Tea is enjoyed in homes or tearooms and might include a sandwich or slice of cake.
Lemon Curd
High Tea: Actually a drink of the working class, it’s enjoyed with dinner in the evening. It is accompanied by mugs of tea, made with strong tea. The term High is thought to refer to the fact that this tea was originally taken at the “High” dining table rather than a lower table in the parlor. The meal may include hot or cold meats, savory spreads, cheese bread with jam, cakes and pastries.
5 egg yolks 1 egg white ¼ cup lemon juice 1 cup sugar 3 tablespoons
The Merry Month of May is the perfect time for tea. It’s a great gift for Mother’s Day, Graduation or a Birthday party. The recipes included will be enjoyed at any of these occasions.
Assemble all ingredients and utensils. In a double boiler, mix all of the ingredients and cook until thick and clear, stirring constantly. Store in a jar and keep refrigerated. Serve with crumpets, tea cakes, or gingerbread, or use as a filling.
Happy Tea Time, Daisy King 34 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Tea Cakes ½ cup butter ½ cup shortening 2 cups sugar 3 eggs, beaten 1 cup flour, plus enough to make a soft dough ½ teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ cup buttermilk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add the sugar, then the beaten eggs. In a medium bowl, place 1 cup of flour and sift the soda and baking powder. Add this to the sugar mixture. Add the milk and vanilla and enough flour to make a soft dough. Turn onto a floured board, and knead until smooth. Roll out to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into any shape. Bake for about 10 minutes or until brown. Yield: 6 dozen
Assemble all ingredients and utensils. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix the butter and shortening until soft. May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 35
Cucumber Tea Sandwiches ½ small onion, coarsely chopped 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened 1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded and coarsely chopped ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper ½ teaspoon minced fresh dillweed 80 slices bread (40 whole wheat and 40 white) crusts removed and thin sliced Assemble all ingredients and utensils. In food processor, combine onion, cream cheese and cucumber. Process until smooth. Add seasonings and mix. Make sandwiches with filling: whole wheat bread on bottom and white on top. Cut sandwiches into thirds. Yield: 120 rectangular sandwiches Miss Daisy’s Kitchen 2176 Hillsboro Road Franklin, Tennessee 37069 615.599.5313 MissDaisyKing.com facebook.com/MissDaisysKitchen
“Tea Time was our common bond and freshly brewed tea meant everyone was where they needed to be.” 36 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
SOCIAL | Hard Bargain’s 10th Anniversary Celebration Dinner
Story & Photography by Rachel Weishaupt The Hard Bargain Association celebrated ten years of service in the Hard Bargain neighborhood with a night of soul food and musical entertainment at the Factory! Guests had the opportunity to enjoy a delicious gourmet meal while listening to music from talented BGA student Jeffrey Zhang. A variety of silent auction items were up for grabs to raise money for the organization. Hard Bargain is a non-profit organization that seeks to preserve the Hard Bargain neighborhood located on fifteen acres in downtown Franklin. For more information about the Hard Bargain Association or for ways to contribute, visit www.hardbargain.org.
Bill & Wanda Graham
Cara Bryant & Paula Hepp
Candy Sullivan, Virginia Bousquet, Julie & Will Kesler
Jasmine Lillard & Janet Wales
Micah Jones, AJ Gibboney, Jordan & Ryan Long
Debbie Martin & Kelly Massey
Sandra Dobbins & Thelma Gosey
Pam Lewis, Pearl Bransford & Marianne Schroer
Loretta Cheairs, Lola Bonds & Gertrude Leach
Pam Pelham & Andy Marshall
Rebecca Johns & Amy Whidby
Chris Ude & Jon Puncochar
Lynne Fleet & Cilla Crane
Abby Mitchell & Amanda Lee
Mike & Sandy Binkley May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 37
SOCIAL | Randal McGavock Society Dinner Story & Photography by K York The annual McGavock Dinner was held in April on the grounds of historic Carnton Plantation. The dinner is an evening to celebrate our Civil War history, Carnton Plantation, the Carter House and the donors of The Battle of Franklin Trust. Guests enjoyed cocktails, a three course meal and jazz music. The Battle of Franklin Trust works to preserve, understand and interpret the American Civil War history in our community. To learn more about The Battle of Franklin Trust, visit www.boft.org.
Jaclyn & Jeff Ledbetter
Joan & Pam Lewis
Porter & Angela Calhoun
Gary & Donna Rosenthal, Rusty & Debbie Godlewski
Lucy & Hunter Battle Bess & Tim Kearns
Clay Perry & Tatum McKnight
Kay & Roderick Heller
Damon Rogers, Joan Lewis & Harry Lee Billington
J.T. & Susan Thompson
N OT HARD ER I N 2015
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COMMUNITY | It’s Your History
FRANKLIN HOTEL HIDES
SORDID CRIME By Margie Thessin
With all the talk about the new downtown Franklin hotel in the works, I thought this would be a good time to review the various hotels, motels, inns and boarding houses from Franklin’s history. All towns, of any size, had lodging for visitors. When you consider a trip from Nashville to Franklin by horseback took the better part of a day, you had to find overnight accommodations. Franklin’s first inn was built in 1803 by Benjamin White on Bridge Street. The two-story frame building stood until it was torn down in 1905. By then it was no longer an inn. Another inn stood on the Square at the location of the current Fifth Third Bank. By 1888 the building was in such disrepair that it was demolished. During the process, a gruesome discovery in the basement caused the police and citizens to scratch their collective head in puzzlement. After the tear down work was finished, the workers then needed to assure the foundation was sufficiently sturdy to build the two-story brick building that stands there today. As they were walking around the basement floor, someone noticed a spongy spot. They wondered if it was a well, or something else they couldn’t imagine, but whatever, they dug down into the soft spot. First they uncovered a couple feet’s worth of trash and debris. Then came a layer of lime. Hmmm…lime, and not the kind that comes with your Corona. This was quicklime, a chemical compound that, among other things, is used to mask unpleasant odors. Sooooo…that raised suspicions. Keep digging, fellas! 40 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Photo courtesy of Rick Warwick
“FRANKLIN’S FIRST INN WAS BUILT IN 1803 BY BENJAMIN WHITE ON BRIDGE STREET.”
Under the layer of lime, they found something shocking. Bones and the remains of a man. From the looks of it, he’d been down there a long, long time. Obviously, as they say, foul play was indicated. That basement was never used as a cemetery. The police had no idea who it might be. So they asked for the assistance of the community, asking townspeople to think back and see if they could remember anything that might shed some light on the body in the basement. Finally, one of the oldest men in town came forward. He remembered something from the distant past he thought might relate to the dead man. We’ll call him Abner (because we don’t know his name). Abner thought it was about 1825 that a peculiar stranger came to town and stayed at the inn. He remembered that the man stayed aloof and standoffish from the town. Franklin was tiny then and as a resident, you’d naturally want to know who was visiting, but this stranger told them nothing about himself. The stranger stayed at the inn for two weeks. One morning, he wasn’t around. When asked, the innkeeper said the stranger had disappeared in the night and, furthermore,
stiffed him on his bill. Everybody commiserated with the innkeeper and the man never came back. About a year later an old man came to town looking for his daughter and the man she’d eloped with. It also came out that they’d stolen some money. The father had tracked the man to Franklin (Abner didn’t know anything about a woman; the thief must have already ditched her). Back then, if someone disappeared or ran off and you wanted to find them, you had to go looking, following the trail. When he described the man, everyone in town said he looked like that man from the year before. That is, everybody but the innkeeper, who gave a totally different description. Abner said folks thought that was odd, because they all said they clearly remembered what he looked like and the timing was right on the man being here. Nevertheless, the trail ended. The old man went sadly away, the search for his daughter (and his money, although not necessarily in that order) having ended in Franklin. Where he went next, we do not know. A year later, the innkeeper sold the inn. To everyone’s surprise, he bought and moved to a big plantation in Mississippi. Abner said no one could believe that he’d made the kind of money it took to buy that property. Six months later, the town got the sad news that he’d hanged himself from the rafters of his barn. What?! They
couldn’t believe it. It seemed as if he’d done so well for himself. Why would he kill himself? No one thought about it again until 60 years later with the discovery of the body in the basement. The pieces of the puzzle finally fit. The innkeeper killed the stranger for his money and buried his body in the basement. He waited, knowing if anyone was missing that man, they might come looking for him. Sure enough, a year later, someone showed up just for that reason. The innkeeper denied ever having seen the man (although everyone else in town said they remembered him) and threw the searcher off the trail. The innkeeper continued to wait it out, just to be safe. A year later he took the money he stole and bought the land in Mississippi. Then…well, we suspect his conscience got to him and that’s why he killed himself. Although I am reminded of Poe’s classic The Tell-Tale Heart…Da-dum, da-dum. Three years of that might just have driven him mad. I hope that’s what happened anyway. I suppose he thought the torture of a guilty conscience would end when he moved away. And I suppose it didn’t. And the only reason we know the truth of what happened is because they found the body in the basement 60 years later. Which makes me wonder, how many other bodies are buried in some of the basements around here? How many murders have gone undetected because a person just “disappeared.” Hmmm…makes you think, doesn’t it? Think about that the next time you check into a hotel.
SERVING WILLIAMSON COUNTY FOR OVER 20 YEARS
SOCIAL | A Vintage Affair A Vintner Dinner Sponsored Event
Story & Photography by Rachel Weishaupt Sperry’s Cool Springs hosted another amazing Vintner Dinner to kick off this year’s A Vintage Affair event. AVA’s top sponsors and guests mingled with this year’s wine makers before dining on the five- course chef prepared dinner. Each course was served with a specially paired wine and everyone had the chance to hear from the wine makers about the selections. AVA is celebrating its 15th anniversary by supporting 15 local charities in 2015. Visit www.avintageaffair.org for more information about upcoming 2015 AVA events.
Ashley Roberts & Kate Yeager
Sandra Fletcher, Brian Morgan & Barbara Leech
Mary Kate Brown, Kathy & Scott Harrison
Eddie & Gina Collier
Scott Kaiser, Tim & Heather Cullen
John Fletcher & Brian Morgan
Mike & Barbara Leech
Kevin Riggs, Cheri Hammen & Laurie Holtsford
Teresa & Joe Walker
Dan & Stephanie Williams 42 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Todd Anderson & Mette Mancuso
Dan Cederquist, David Landrum, Ralph Drury, Jeremy Sweeney & Kenny Phillips
SOCIAL | A Vintage Affair Goes Country Sponsored Event
Story & Photography by Rachel Weishaupt A Vintage Affair guests donned their best cowboy boots and denim to celebrate AVA Goes Country at Green’s Grocery in Leipers Fork. A little spring rain did not stop everyone from socializing and sipping on a variety of delicious Robledo Family Winery selected wines. Guests dined picnic style on delicious food from Texas de Brazil Nashville and Papa C Pies. The night featured a music by Brooklyn Woods. A Vintage Affair is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising money for local Williamson County charities that serve women and children in need.
NOW OPEN FOR PRIVATE LUNCHEONS
Susan & Rick Hargis, Janie & Larry Dunnivant
John Beasley, Jeremy Sweeney & Ralph Drury
From business presentations to personal private events, our banquet rooms offer complete privacy accommodating up to 84 guests. Customized menu planning with A/V capability, we have the space for you at our Cool Springs location.
Cool Springs
650 Frazier Drive Franklin, TN 37067 615.778.9950
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To book your next event contact Pamela Andrews 615.866.7126 or pamela@sperrys.com For events & Promotions Go To
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Rick Hargis
Sarah Williams & Kate Yeager
Billy Bob Baxter, Eunetta Kready & Lizzy Isaacs
Tripp King & Jeffrey Gray
Jessica Sheridan & Stacey Watson
Lynsley & Jerry Roberts
Andrew & Krystal Morgan 44 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Judson Kalthoff & Kristin Perkins
Michelle Boeckmann & Kathryn Beckman
Ashley Moss & Sharon Cannonmenter
Brandi Woodard & Tiffany Wilson
Becky & Heath Clark, Ralph Drury & John Beasley
Nancy Doss & Sarah Mickle
Brandon & Rachel Oliver
Theresa Ora, Sandra Fletcher & Kacy Ora
Diane Smith & Daphne Sweeney
Justin Wilson & Derby Jones
Greg & Kathy Turner
SOCIAL | A Vintage Affair Preview Party & Main Event Sponsored Event
Story & Photography by K York The A Vintage Affair Preview Party was held in the in the courtyard outside Jamison Hall prior to the Main Event at The Factory in April. Vintners provided special wine tastings while fabulous hors d’oeuvres were presented by The Red Pony. The 15th annual A Vintage Affair event featured numerous wine tasting and food stations, live and silent auctions. A Vintage Affair is a non-profit, annual event dedicated to raising money for Williamson County charities benefiting women and children in need.
Tiffany Arbuckle, Chris Carroll, Toni Reeves, Bob Palasky & Debbie Whiten
Chris & Donna Vissman
Cederquist Wine Company
Michael Barker & Ashley Roberts
Mike & Casey Bur
Katrina Roberts & Raquel Smith
Chris & Donna Vissman, Clark Shelton, Paul Benton & Kelly Sutton
46 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Pamela Andrews, Will Powell & Melissa Taylor
Jeffrey Gray & Kate Truscott
Lisa & Monty McInturff
The beneficiaries of "A Vintage Affair" in 2015 are New Hope Academy, Williamson County Library Foundation, WAVES, High Hopes Development Center, Williamson Medical Center, Hope Clinic for Women, Davis House Child Advocacy Center, The Refuge Center for Counseling, O'More College of Design, Bridges Domestic Violence Center, Benton Hall Academy, Mercy Community Healthcare, Franklin Firefighters Toy and Clothing Drive, Saddle Up! and CASA.
Tom Molteni, Glen Casada & Ed Underwood
Margie Creel & Cassie Woodard
Glen & Ondrea Johnson
Dori Lang, Steve Smith & Susan Marsh
Deanna Johnson, Ed Underwood & Monica Funderburk
Jaime & Eva Romero
Don Webb & Ashley Perkins
Emily Fordice, Shelly Robertson, Annie Osteen, Anna Robertson, Stacey Watson, Jessica Sheridan & Jeffrey Gray
Charlie & Deanna Johnson
Nicole & Brian Cunningham May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 47
FEATURE | In Your Backyard
MUSIC CITY ROOTS By Lauryn Gilliam Here in our own backyard…we are privy to a music festival experience almost every Wednesday night with Music City Roots inside The Factory at Franklin. I’m telling you this is, bar none, the most entertaining bang for your buck around. The admission to get in is only $10 a person and $5 for children. Monell’s provides a soul food dinner, ripe with the fixins. From mashed potatoes to corn bread to green beans, the list goes on for about $8.00 a person. If you are looking for a cold, hand crafted beverage, Blackstone Brewery is on hand providing cocktails. For seating, it’s first come first serve, so just a little pocket money and a little pre-planning…you can get there early, have dinner and a front row seat to witness some of the best and brightest on the music circuit. You will experience your headliners and your oldies but goodies and there is no shortage of genres and musicians that are new to the music scene or just coming on the musical radar. Music City Roots was born out of a passion by its founding fathers to create a venue where musicians can be seen and heard. According to Craig Havighurst, the show’s senior producer and co-host, they wanted “To showcase the talent from all around the country and the world the growing roots and Americana movement in Nashville’s music scene.” Founders and executive producers, Todd Mayo and John Walker, came from WSM and 48 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
the show was influenced by the Grand Ole Opry style of presenting music. According to Havigshurst, they wanted to create a “Modern platform for radio, provide an on air energy and be a trusted source for what’s coming up in Nashville music.” They created the dream team of announcers including the infamous and Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame Inductee Keith Bilbrey, internationally acclaimed Jim Lauderdale and journalist Craig Havighurst. Keith and Jim have a natural synergy between them that makes the show both sophisticated and approachable at the same time. There is an authenticity between the two professionals that draws you in and keeps you interested in their antics. Mr. Bilbrey described their relationship as something akin to a Lee Ann Womack song by saying he’s the “Same Kind of Different” as me. Each moment of the show is crafted to entertain. Keith is the show’s announcer and his voice is like butter…the words roll off of his tongue as he reads a word from one of the sponsors or banters with the audience and improvs off of Jim. No matter what the moment brings, he says yes and goes with it in a way that makes it look so easy when in fact this is years of professional crafting. This is a man living his dream and he does not take it for granted, “I went to the Grand Ole Opry for the first time when I was 12 and I knew then that I wanted to be in radio.” And he has been since his first job on a radio station when he was 16 years old. Keith is drawn to
the desire to share talent with the world. “I believe that people need some place to start… an opportunity to play their music and to have a place to be heard,” he says. As the shows co-host, Craig Havigshurst gets up close and personal with the artists in between the musical sets to give people an experience where they can get to know the artists, where they are from and what’s up next for them. Music City Roots wants to provide a place for connection between the audience, the music and the musicians. In 2014, MSR moved their location from The Loveless Barn to Liberty Hall in The Factory. Keith Bilbrey shared “We just never want to have to turn away anybody,” and the new location provides more audience space, a space for the radio show, merchandise store, more square footage on the stage and a larger green room and accommodations for the musicians. You may go there intending to hear a blues band on the ticket and walk away a huge fan of a small folk band you had never heard of before. It’s like the weather in Nashville, if you don’t like what you are experiencing, wait a few minutes and there will be something different for you. The show is now recorded and played on public television and over the airwaves at Hippie Radio 94.5 or you can download their app and stream a shuffle of their favorite performances. Find out more online at www.MusicCityRoots.com.
SOCIAL | Franklin Jazz Festival Story & Photography by K York The Factory was swinging with the sound of Big Band Jazz in Liberty Hall as performers played for the 25th annual Franklin Jazz Festival. This year’s theme “Jazz & Blues, Students & Pros,” brought the two groups together for performances of jazz, funk and rocking vocals for the all day event. High School bands including Oakland, Ensworth, Franklin and Hendersonville High schools and the Williamson County Jazz & Rock bands, all performed. Tennessee State, Middle Tennessee University and Vanderbilt University were well represented also. Professional bands included Dynamo, Adam Nitti’s Group and the event’s headliner the Duffy Jackson Big Band. It was a wonderful event of entertainment!
Wally & Palace McCutchen
Landria Lott & Janice DuCaj
James & Camille Dasilva
Hope Hixon, Casey Shackleford & Addie Hixon
mixer
MAY
Join us for our May Mixer Celebrating our 4 Year Anniversary! We will be enjoying drinks, food and great music at the Music City Roots Show!
May 20th Gregory McCord, Stefani Smythe Chris Foltanski & Abigail Schreiber
Presley & Suzette Wimpy
Phillip Livingston, Christina Livingston & Rachel Livingston
Party starts at 5:30pm Show starts at 7pm The Factory at Franklin - Liberty Hall 230 Franklin Road Franklin, TN 37064 RSVP: info@yourwilliamson.com
LIFESTYLE | Southern Is...
A GENTLEMAN
REMEMBERS
his Mother By Jeffrey Gray
There is a date in May each year that always focuses my mind on thankfulness. This year May 10th is that day, and it is the official calendar day devoted to our mothers. As both a southerner and a gentleman, I feel very blessed and thankful for the beautiful southern belle I call my mother. I know I’ve always been lucky in this life. I was just especially lucky to be born the son of such a wonderful southern woman. I fully recognize this is the foundation from which a gentleman is brought up and molded. I’m thankful for all of the love and guidance given over the years and thankful I can still share mother’s wisdom and loving nature today. I’m indebted to my mother for immersing me in my family’s history and instilling in me a sense of place, belonging and responsibility. Mother was able to accomplish this by sharing wonderful recollections and family stories passed down from previous generations. I was shown daily that it was necessary to have a purpose and to act with a determination to always be my best. It is my mother that I have to thank for showing me that a sense of duty does not have to be a heavy burden but a gift that allows one to shine in a familiar place. It also strengthened me to face the world with head held high ready to meet the demands of the world at large. Now this may seem to be an idealized recollection of growing up, but I find it’s true. It is over time that I’ve been able to appreciate the consistency of a good upbringing. I also remember the wonderful fun and humor mother brought to my childhood and continued to share over the years. Thank you again, mother, for giving me a sense of humor and the ability to laugh at myself and enjoy the absurdity that abounds around me every day. 50 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
This sense of humor and having fun with life has come in handy. Thank goodness I have it and it goes a long way to keeping me upbeat while going through the daily grind. It’s also good when looking at family photo albums. I’m not sure I’ve ever found a picture of me without a bowtie, a day suit, or just too precious smocking until I was at least five years old. I guess it comes honestly - that Southern preppy dress code. I’ve always believed that it was my mother they consulted when compiling ‘The Preppy Handbook’. Thank you, mother, for helping me find my own sense of style and building my confidence. Also, thank you for teaching me to shop as a sport. Thank you, mother, for being a southern belle and having me as your son. I feel blessed to have been raised a much loved son in your home. I’m thankful for your demands of good manners and instilling in me the knowledge of right and wrong and good and bad. Thank you for giving me the foundation and support that has made me the man I am today. I hope you are proud of your little gentleman. I honor you, Dolores E. McGee Gray, every day for your strength, beauty and heart. I am blessed to call you my mother. I choose to honor you on this Mother’s Day and every other day of the year. You are my rock and I thank you. I hope everyone will take the time to thank their mother and reflect on just how important each of our mothers have been in our lives. Always remember and find ways to show your mother how much she means to you and how much you care as often as you can. Time runs swiftly, so don’t allow for regrets later. Happy Mother’s Day! Blessings and beauty to all mothers this day and all the days of their lives! Thank you, Jeffrey Gray, Son
Meet Minnie! The New Face Of Love At The Fountains
FEATURE | Gift Guide
LAST MINUTE STILL LOOKING FOR IDEAS? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. By Krista Cook Mother’s Day is now just a few short days away! While we may have grand ideas of elaborate and time-consuming gifts (thank you, Pinterest), unfortunately they don’t always pan out. If that hand-knitted sweater with your face on it isn’t exactly gift-worthy, don’t fret! Here is a list of some last minute gift ideas to suit any mother’s taste. 1. FOR THE BEAUTY JUNKIE Beauty based gifts can be tricky to purchase even for someone as near and dear as mom. However, gifting a monthly subscription to Birchbox enables one to “give” multiple gifts throughout the year that are tailored to the recipient’s taste. Simply go to the website, sign up for the subscription, and voila! Your mother will get a surprise selection of beauty samples in the mail each month that she can try without spending a fortune, and you don’t have to spend hours at the beauty counter deciding which lipstick says “you’re the best, mom”. 2. FOR THE OVER-WORKED I know, I know, what mom isn’t overworked? For the worn out woman in your life, what better than a spa day? We’re lucky to have some amazing day spa options in Williamson County that offer a variety of relaxation packages or a la carte options. Whether a quick pick me up, or a full day of pampering, mom is sure to appreciate this indulgent gift. 3. FOR THE FASHIONISTA While a gift card to her favorite apparel store is always much appreciated, take it a step further by hiring a personal shopper. These wardrobe fairy godmothers can help evaluate
52 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
and organize an existing closet, help develop a style, and will either go shopping with mom or for mom. Whatever her needs, they are there to help. 4. FOR THE EXERCISE ENTHUSIAST While a piece of workout equipment has to be on the top 10 worst Mother’s Day gifts of all time, there’s nothing wrong with supporting your momma’s healthy lifestyle. A gift card to her favorite sports apparel boutique, a private tennis lesson, or a gift basket with healthy treats, magazines, and custom water bottle are great options that will delight versus insinuate. 5. FOR THE GARDENER Mother’s Day is a great time of the year to buy plants. If your mother has a green thumb and can be found regularly playing in the dirt, surprise her with an assortment of her favorite (plantable) flowers. Kinda sounds like you’re giving mom a job on her special day. That’s where you come in, devoted offspring. Take it a step further by offering to do the planting yourself or create a special memory by doing the digging together. 6. FOR THE HOMEMAKER I know it sounds cliche, but some women actually enjoy domestic duties. I’m not suggesting you dump your dirty laundry on her bed, but a sought-after kitchen gadget, cook book, or gift card to her favorite organizing store will be sure to please. 7. FOR THE SENTIMENTAL SOUL While the hand-written once a day for a year notes may have fallen off the grid
after day 2, there are still options for the mom that prefers something from the heart. Depending on your computer skills, photo slide shows can be pretty easy to put together. Spend a couple of hours scouring your photo albums or Facebook, pick a couple of her favorite songs, put it all together, and watch the tears flow. 8. FOR THE JEWELRY DIVA Jewelry is a classic go-to for Mother’s Day. Thanks to companies like Pandora and Origami Owl, there are lots of great options that are both meaningful and attractive. The great thing about charm bracelets and necklaces are that they can be added to annually to symbolize an event from that year. This is such a sweet keepsake that can be enjoyed every day.
3. 1.
2.
4.
5. 6.
7.
8.
1. UNWRITTEN STAINLESS STEEL BANGLES WITH CHARMS, $80, MACYS | 2. KEURIG 2.0 BREWING SYSTEM, $159.99, TARGET | 3. FICUS PANDERATA BUSH, $16.98, HOME DEPOT | 4. T.W. DIAMOND STUDS, $1,000, MACYS | 5. CHARTER CLUB ROBE, $39.99, MACYS | 6. MICHAEL KORS TOTES, $198, MACYS | 7. ESTEE LAUDER SET, $85, MACYS | 8. ANNE KLEIN FASHION FIT WATCH, $119, MACYS
May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 53
LIFESTYLE | A Lady Entertains
DATE YOUR MATE By Krista Ehret
1. PLAN A PICNIC
This is such a great option, because of the versatility. You can go anytime of the day, any day of the week and make it as formal or casual as you want. When it comes to location, the sky’s the limit. Arrington Vineyards is a good choice if you’re not interested in packing up the whole kitchen. They do the work for you by offering a pre-made basket catered by Simply Living Life. Simply select your menu of choice online, grab a blanket and go. This is a hot spot on the weekend, so you may try to get there early or go on a week night. Carnton Plantation, Pinkerton Park and Bicentennial Park are other appropriate spots.
2. A NIGHT AT THE THEATRE
While going on a date to the movies is far from a novel idea, the historic Franklin Theatre in downtown Franklin adds a unique twist. The building is a land-mark and worth visiting to appreciate it’s updated, but still classic glory. You definitely feel like you’ve taken a step back in time and the vibe is much more romantic than sitting behind the handsy teen-dream couple at the megaplex theater. There are concessions so you can get your popcorn fix and also a bar that offers wine and beer. Surprisingly this classy choice will also save you money. A movie ticket is merely $5.00, which is about the price of one piece of licorice at the larger theaters. If movies aren’t your thing, there is always a great variety of live performances as well.
3. BOOK A BASKET With summer quickly approaching, kids are inching closer and closer to that grand celebration that is the last day of school. Meanwhile, parents are bracing themselves for the days that follow and wondering how to keep these energy-filled runamuckers entertained for two months. Vacations, camps, pool days and many other fun activities will be carefully plotted out to prevent the dreaded “I’m bored” phrase from echoing throughout the house. As you watch your calendar fill up, it’s important to make time for yourself and your significant other - child-free. While this seems like a laughable feat at times, I’ve saved the best part about summer vacation for last. Remember that amazing babysitter that selfishly left last August to “further their education?” Well, they’re back in town and ready to earn some summer cash! Book that heaven-sent collegiate now and get those date nights on the schedule in ink. Now that you’ve carved out the time, what to do? Generating fresh ideas can be tricky, but we luckily live in an amazing area that offers tons of unique, and romantic options. In honor of national “Date Your Mate” month, here are some ideas for a memorable summer. 54 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
We’ve all seen the whimsical hot air balloons gliding along overhead on nice days. If adventure is what you seek, I can’t think of a better idea than getting a bird’s eye view of the county in one of these colorful inflatables. If this is your first time up, I recommend floating first and feasting second. This prevents any flight jitters from creating a less than romantic memory. There are locations in Franklin and Fairview, and all of the gravity-defying details can be found online.
4. KISS THE COOK
Learning a new skill together is wonderful for bonding and feeling close. Whether you both are gourmet chefs or microwave masters, you can always have fun and benefit from learning a new recipe. Dabble Studio in Brentwood offers a variety of evening classes each week. You simply bring your favorite bottle of wine, and they provide the rest. Check out their calendar online to see which dish tickles your fancy and to make reservations.
5. LESS IS MORE
Sometimes the ideal date night plan is simply staying home. Clear out the house of any distractions (kids, pets, grandma) and just enjoy an evening together. This type of date is also extremely versatile and can consist of different themes. Pajama party movie marathon, game night, taco Tuesday, wine tasting, etc. If you don’t want the trouble of cooking, Delivery Dudes is a great food concierge service that will pick up foods from various restaurants and deliver them straight to your door. They will even visit multiple restaurants so you can both have a meal that you enjoy. Ballroom dancing lessons at Champion Ballroom in Cool Springs, a painting class at Uptown Art, horseback riding, antiquing, the list could go on and on. Whatever your idea of romance, the important thing is to keep the fun of dating alive and well in your relationship and to make it a priority in the hustle and bustle of day to day life. Summer is the perfect time to make this resolution, or to simply incorporate new ideas to keep things from becoming too routine. Take the initiative and “date your mate” every month.
B r e n t w o o d , Te n n e s s e e
Morgan Farms is settled among the rolling hills of prestigious Brentwood with the feel of a sophisticated country estate. Forestar Group has gone to great lengths to maintain the natural beauty of the countryside while creating a community unlike any other in Middle Tennessee.
THE MANOR
Custom Homes from $1 million The Manor consists of custom homes built by some of the best custom home builders in the Middle Tennessee area: Barlow Builders, Firethorne Custom Homes and Hidden Valley Homes. Each home design will incorporate your unique tastes in order to provide a home that is distinctly you. Home prices begin at $1 million.
For more information or make an appointment 615-300-4695 or visit www.MorganFarmsLiving.com
Hidden Valley H
H
O
M
E
S
DIRECTIONS: From Nashville, take I-65 south to Moore’s Lane exit east. Right on Wilson Pike. Left on Split Log Road. Morgan Farms is on the right.
Cindy Jasper
SOCIAL | Three Blind Vines
Story & Photography by Vicki Stout Guests practically needed sunglasses for the recent dazzling Three Blind Vines soiree staged by Next Generation members and friends in Liberty Hall, The Factory at Franklin. A blind wine tasting, grazing and a silent auction attracted around 350 guests. All proceeds benefit the Heritage Foundation of Franklin and Williamson County. In this instance, funds were earmarked for the Old, Old Jail renovation project. A silent auction, chock-full of fab treasures, raised $10,000 in its own right. Food was provided by a number of local restaurants and caterers. Jacob & Jennifer Thorington, Kelsye & Austin Jones
Angela Barner & Andrea Davis
Ann Frances & Michael Barker
Kristen Beal & Abby Williams
Jason Talley, Amy Ware & Reid Anderson 56 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Laura Westbrook & Megan Weisinger
Zack & Megan Pfeffer, Trey Gaines
Emily Carroll & Adrianne Creed
Gail Wallace & Jim Knight
Ashley Coulter & Jennifer Diehl
Charlene Gabelman & Wendy Dyes
David Larsen & Jason Miller
Jami Eller & Ashley Cottrell
50 Years of Guiding You Home 0 ,00 5 9 $5
0 ,00 5 7 $5
Travis W. Robeson 615-944-3909 TravisRobeson.com
$1
,2
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116 Old Liberty Pike
6225 Millbrook Road
Downtown Franklin
New Price in River Oaks
Really Something! Open floorplan with 4 BR/2 full, 2 half BA, 2571 SF. Bright and renovated. Sleek design. Perfect backyard.
Shirley McLeod 615-347-7267
Shirley@ShirleyMcleod.com
00
Beth Molteni 615-566-1610
00
,0 00
,5
$4
bethmolteni@comcast.net
Great home for entertaining inside & out. 4 BR/3.5 BA, 3579 SF. Gourmet kitchen, master on main. Custom renovations.
4033 Ayleworth Lane
3200 Del Rio Pike
Grassland Schools
18 Private acres - Franklin
Like brand new! So much space. 5 BR/5 full, 2 half BA, 7750 SF. Beautiful open kitchen. Dreamy master suite. Small gated community of Stockett Creek.
Steve Fridrich 615-327-4420
Steve@SteveFridrich.com
A wonderful piece of Tennessee history. Renovation kept true to historic ties. Breathtaking gardens. Log cabin guest house. Outdoor kitchen & private gazebo. Overlooking the "Meeting of the Waters.
WWW. F RIDRICHANDC LARK. COM
NASHVILLE OFFICE: 3825 BEDFORD AVENUE, SUITE 102, NASHVILLE, TN 37215 | 615-327-4800 WILLIAMSON COUNTY OFFICE: 5200 MARYLAND WAY, SUITE 101, BRENTWOOD, TN 37027 | 615-263-4800
BUSINESS | Your Real Estate With WCAR WILLIAMSON COUNTY AT A GLANCE
Monthly Market Stats
SALES UP AS HOME BUYING SEASON BEGINS Comparing March 2 0 1 5 tW o I LML aI ArMc ShO N2 0C1O4U: N T Y
AT A GLANCE
Home buying season has arrived as Williamson County home sales increased 16% for the month of March compared to this time last year. Not only are sales up, but median home prices for singlefamily residential units rose 3.7% from March 2014 levels. “The warmer weather of home buying season is upon us, which should bode well for sellers looking to capitalize on limited inventory and rising median home sales prices,” said Chip Kerr, 2015 president of the Williamson County Association of Realtors® (WCAR). Since March 2012, single-family closings in Williamson County have increased over 65%, while median closings prices have risen nearly 28.5% over the same period. This is strong evidence of economic improvement in our county. “It is encouraging to see Williamson County sales stats affirm those same positive trends. It is good for economic growth and for sellers in this market,” said Kerr. With nearly 2,000 members, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® provides support and services for area real estate professionals and is the leading voice in the community for its members, as well as residential and commercial property owners. REALTOR® is a registered trademark which may be used only by real estate professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics. For more information, go to wcartn.org.
Monthly Market Stats W I L L I A M S O N
WILLIAMSON COUNTY
AT A GLANCE
W I L L I A M S O N
2 0 1 5 t16%. o March 2014: increased
M A R C H
CWilliamson o m pCounty a r i n closings g M a r c h Res 201 5 t oincreased M a r c16%. h 2014: County
Median price of
Williamson
land closings in County
Total Williamson
Williamson decreased 22%.
County closings County Williamson Franklin single
Median price for County
family closings
increased 26% . condos rose 9.3%in with
a 4.8% increase Franklin single Williamson
family closings in median price.
County rose 9.3% with
a 4.8% increase Nolensville decreased 22%. in median price. inventory up
13% from March
Median price of Nolensville
Chip Kerr family closings WCAR Chip President Kerr rose 9.3% with WCAR President chipkerr@comcast.net
chipkerr@comcast.net a 4.8% increase
Inventory
R E A L T O R S ®
Pendings
DOM
MARCH 2015
2 0 1 5 $206,000 78 Median Price Inventory Pendings
1636
$409,691
1,558
509
22
$206,000
78
29
MARCH 20141636
538
425
Land Closings20
$205,000
463
Res
46
341
Total
366
Condo Condo 2846 Land Total Land
366
Total
28
Land
$265,000 403
Inventory
Pendings
1,596
427
337
1,683
$265,000 22 $162,500
67
R E
1,683
472
568
31
MARCH 2013 $396,342
Median Price
72
1636
150
1,673
445
76
2576
88
Pendings DOM MARCH 2014
$396,342
Condo Total
34 371
$190,555
Total Land
371 34
341 $121,250
1,770754
Land
34
$121,250
754
$190,555
1,673
97
Median Price
445
97 1,770
Inventory
Pending
25 47088
$395,000 470
47
47
5
463
DOM
337 34
5
3152 15078
Pendings
Res Condo
Res
52 1,558
45
$205,000
Inventory
Pending
472
Inventory
MARCH 2013
Closings
276
104
DOM
87568 45 $206,000
425 $162,500 Median Price
Closings
87 $409,691
$395,000
20
Closings
Res
Median Price
32
427 72 Inventory
MARCH 2014
Closings
Res
538
O F
104
MARCH 2015 463 32 276 DOM Inventory Pendings
$205,000 Median Price
341Closings$395,000 Median 1,596 Price
Res Condo
29
DOM
Williamson County Home Sales March 20
Total
13% from March
report please Franklin contact: single
A S S O C I A T I O N
O F
403
20
Condo
land closings in
For information County regarding this For information report please 26% . increased regarding this contact:
425
Res
Land
2014. inventory up
Williamson 2014.
Closings
Total
land closings in
Median Price
H Condo M A R C22
Median price of increased 26% . increased 16%.
A S S O C I A T I O N O F R E A L T O R S ®
Williamson County HomeWSales March 2015509 67 403 $409,691 1,558 I L L I A M S O N C O U N T Y A S S O
condos in Williamson Total
Chip Kerr Median price for WCARcondos President in
C O U N T Y
MARCH 2015
2 0 1 5
Closings
Median price for
decreased 22%.
2 0 1 5
Williamson County Home Sales March 2015
Total Williamson
County C oclosings mparing March
C O U N T Y
Monthly Market St
M A R C H
1,596 211
4
211
Condo 46 $265,000 Single Family Homes Communities Quick View 87 Single Family Homes Communities Quick View
Total 366 1,683 4 Marti WCAR inVeto, median price. Marti Veto, WCAR Executive VP City Closed Median DOM Inventory Pending Executive VP City Closed 28Median DOM Inventory Pending568 Land $162,500 marti@wcartn.org Brentwood 59 $ 670,000 69 291 71 marti@wcartn.org Nolensville Brentwood 59 $ 670,000 69 291 71 10 164,000 13 Fairview 10 $$ 164,000 88 88 64 64 13 Fairview inventory up www.wcartn.org www.wcartn.org 164 446,300 Franklin 164 $$ 446,300 70 70 649 649 206 206 Franklin 13% from March 615-771-6845 615-771-6845 38 $$ 380,342 65 65 154 154 46 Nolensville 38 380,342 46 Nolensville 2014. Spring Hill 75 $$ 285,000 67 67 219 219 88 Spring Hill 75 285,000 88 38 $$ 235,642 50 50 153 57 Thompsons StationClosings Median Price Inventory 38 235,642 153 57 Pendin Thompsons Station
MARCH 2013
For information regarding this report please contact:
Res
337
$396,342
1,673
Condo
34
$190,555
97
Total
371
Chip Kerr WCAR President chipkerr@comcast.net
Land
34
Marti Veto, WCAR Executive VP marti@wcartn.org
www.wcartn.org 615-771-6845
1,770 $121,250
4
4
754
Single Family Homes Communities Quick City Closed Brentwood 59 10 Fairview 164 Franklin 38 Nolensville Spring Hill 75 38 Thompsons Station
Median $ 670,000 $ 164,000 $ 446,300 $ 380,342 $ 285,000 $ 235,642
DOM
Invent 69 88 70 65 67 50
SOLD The Governors Club 2 Carmel Lane $3,950,000
Brentwood 9531 Split Log Road $2,200,000
The Governors Club 5 Vellano Court $1,399,000
The Governors Club 7 Innisbrook Lane $849,000
Inns of Granny White 1168 Travelers Ridge Drive $849,900
SOLD Brentwood 8106 Shady Place $799,900
The Governors Club 12 Portrush Court $789,000
The Governors Club 108 Governors Way $769,000
SOLD
The Governors Club 156 Governors Way $759,000
615.263.4800
Taramore 1833 Kettering Trace $742,500
www.4Warrens.com Fridrich & Clark Realty, LLC
Taramore 9530 Wexcroft Drive $599,900
615.263.4815
LIFESTYLE | Home & Decor
MISSED OPPORTUNITIES CAN’T MISS DESIGN TRICKS TO TRANSFORM ANY ROOM By Eric Ross There are so many decisions to be made when decorating a home. What color should the rooms be? What shade of white should we paint the trim? Should we use shutters instead of draperies? Anyone who knows me knows I always prefer draperies. With all these questions, homeowners can get what I refer to as decision fatigue. This is when you are so overwhelmed by all the questions that arise during a decorating project that you just revert to the tried and true answers. But, nothing untried is necessarily true. This 60 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
is where I think many of my clients reach their limits and reach out to me for help. Or when they do make a decision on their own, they call me to “tweak” their selections. The clients will have made “safe” decisions. They’ll have white ceilings, beige upholstery and solid rugs. All of these “safe” decisions I really see as missed opportunities. So, I have come up with a list of six can’t miss design tricks that will transform your room from safe to savoir faire.
MISSED OPPORTUNITY #1: WHITE CEILINGS I have heard it referred to as the fifth wall. So, don’t just slap on a coat of “designer white.” This is what painters recommend to most of their clients cause it’s easy, of course, and it sounds like a designer chose it! Let me assure you, most good designers obsess over the color of every surface in a home. Great designers see the ceiling as opportunity to create another moment in the room. An opportunity to create a grand gesture to grab your attention or a quiet accent to compliment other finishes in the room. One option is to paint the ceiling a color. This is a very inexpensive choice as you will be painting the ceiling anyway. When I suggest painting the ceiling a color other than white, clients are immediately scared. But it really helps highlight the crown molding. Creating contrast with a color on the wall and the ceiling really makes the trim pop. Or consider using wallcovering on the ceiling. This is more of an investment, of course, but it can really add a sense of drama. I typically use a geometric pattern of some sort, which creates a grid pattern that gives a sense of geometry, which is many times a counterpoint to floral motifs I would use on window treatments or rugs. MISSED OPPORTUNITY #2: COVERING A CHAIR WITH A SINGLE FABRIC This may seem obvious, but you have to cover a chair with some material, either fabric or leather. Or both! So, instead of just using one fabric to cover a chair, consider two or three. Now, this does create anxiety for many of my clients, but that doesn’t stop me. Often I will select a solid fabric for the overall cover and then select a contrasting fabric for the back of the chair. This really works to great effect in a dining room by placing a second fabric on a dining chair it breaks up the monotony of 8-10 chairs all in a row. When you enter the dining room, you will see the backs of one row of chairs and the fronts of the chairs on the opposite side of the table. MISSED OPPORTUNITY #3: PLAIN WHITE DOORS When selecting trim colors for interiors, I always like to change up either one room of paint with dark painted trim, OR I like to paint the interior doors a shade or two darker than the baseboards and casings. This gives more visual interest to the architecture. This is especially effective in small areas where you have limited surfaces for decoration. If you have a small hallway with nothing to look at but doors, not only can you paint the door a contrasting color, but you can upholster doors to create a decorative element in an otherwise blah space. MISSED OPPORTUNITY #4: MATCHING METALS So many clients ask me when I am designing their homes, “What
metal finish should we select for the doors, faucets and cabinet hardware?” When I answer brass and chrome, or bronze and copper, I get a look that says, “I think we need another designer!” This is a BIG mistake homeowners are making today. It’s safe to have all the finishes match because you can’t get it wrong. My rule of thumb for fixture finishes is that in a room, all plumbing fixtures should match. Regarding hardware, each floor should have the same finish on the door hardware. Historically, the best hardware was installed in the public rooms, which where on the main floor. MISSED OPPORTUNITY #5: RECESSED LIGHTING VS. DECORATIVE FIXTURES If you follow interior design at all you may have noticed how many decorative lights, or chandeliers, designers are using in a room. This is one of the most significant changes I’ve seen in building/remodeling in the last three years. In my opinion, this is because homes have gotten so large that to continue to place hundreds of cans in a home creates a Swiss cheese effect on the ceiling. Today, decorative lighting is so beautiful. It really is jewelry for the home. Not only is it decorative, but, it’s much more effective, and flattering to light rooms with a combination of surface mounted fixtures and sconces. This allows you much more control when lighting a room than just light coming from the ceiling. So, which of these opportunities have you missed in your home? Even small changes can set you on your way to realizing your homes fullest potential.
Eric Ross Interiors | 220 Lewisburg Avenue, Franklin, TN 37064 615.472.8236 | EricRossInteriors.com May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 61
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SOCIAL | WCAR Trade Show Story & Photography by K York The annual Williamson County Association of Realtors’ Trade Show was held at the Factory at Franklin. The trade show provides the opportunity for real estate agents and vendors to network and have a great time! Realtors attended educational classes covering nine different topics throughout the day at different locations in the Factory. Catering was provided by Saffire.
Lisa Cotean, Samantha Byers & Jenny Fann
Fran Harmon & Amy Tarter
Marti Veto & Paige Pitts
Lisa Underwood & Stacey Wessner
Darlene Morton & Alma McLemore
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Michelle Ashby, Lisa White & Tammy Nicholls
ŽżŽƁɄ Ʉ Ʉ ƇɄǍƀżƂɄſƃžŽƂ ƢɄ Ʉ ɄƢ
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Ʉ Ʉ Ʉ Ʉ ơ ƇɄƄơƁ Ɔ
Mary Lee Bennett & Holly Curtiss
Nathan Wall, Corinne Gregory & Eric Wheeler
Paula Cirulli & Michele Hendry
SOCIAL | Bling & Bowties
The Williamson County Association of Realtors held their 5th Annual Bling & Bowties: An Evening with the Arts event in late April at Carton Plantation. The event was colorful and inspiring with local artist, a silent auction, drinks, hors d’oeurves and entertainment by Pink Cadillac! Bling & Bowties benefits the Realtor Good Works Foundation, which raises funds for scholarships for Williamson County high school students. For more information on the event, visit w ww.realtorgoodworksfoundation.org.
Patrick & Jennifer Stacey
Becki & Wes Schimmel
Fo rS al e!
Photography by K York
Lydia Miller, Chris Elrod & Lauren Brady
The Brownstones in Historic Downtown Franklin
Michelle & John Griffen, Chip Kerr, Marti Veto, David Logan & Laura Zeitlin
Brett & Amy Tarter, Tyler Blalock & Jennifer Bickerstaff
615-790-6107
Lonzo & Tracey Herron
Danny Anderson & Lisa Cahalan
Daniel-Christian.com ��� �th Avenue South Franklin, TN �����
Rooted Indoors DIY NATURAL TREE STUMP SIDE TABLE By Katie Jacobs 66 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
FOR MORE DIY IDEAS, CHECK OUT STYLINGMYEVERYDAY.COM
I
I love finding ways to bring natural outdoor elements into my home to use as decor. I have jars of sea shells in my bathroom, buckeyes that my grandfather and I collected on my dinning room table and one of my favorite things in our home is a bowl of rocks that my husband and I collected on a volcanic beach on our honeymoon. Yes, one of my favorite things is a bowl of rocks. I think that it is so important to surround yourself with things you love; Items that are important to you and bring back memories of adventures and loved ones. Having natural elements in your home brings life to a space. A live plant, a bowl of apples, or greenery on you mantle can add a punch of life to your space and a much needed breath-of-fresh-air. When I got married several years ago, we transformed a warehouse into a rustic winter retreat. As part of our reception, we had 14 different wedding cakes in different flavors honoring each member of our immediate family. I had them displayed on cedar stumps that my husband and fatherin-law cut down on our family farm. We saved some of the stumps in our basement where they dried out leaving trunks with the bark cracking off until one day I decided the largest would make a really beautiful side table. I started by pulling off all the bark and sanding down the sides and top until it got to a beautiful light color. Then I painted
LIFESTYLE | Styling Your Everyday
the top with a high gloss exterior paint (we had it laying around in the garage). I think that it would be fun to change the top color seasonally because it would be so easy to change and then just paint it back (think red for Christmas). Don’t have a tree stump? You’ll be surprised where you’ll find one (and most definitely for free) and you won’t even have to cut down a tree in your own yard. When we were planning for the wedding I started looking for stumps before we decided cut our own. I saw them EVERYWHERE – really! On the side of the road in ditches, at landscaping retailers, on Christmas tree lots. The important thing is that it really needs to be completely dried out, so you may have to gather your materials and then wait awhile before sanding and painting. Otherwise it will sap all over your floor (especially this cedar) and crack in the heat of your home. Using found objects in home decor is not only super chic but incredibly inexpensive. This tree stump side table cost me a dead stump from the yard, about $4 in sandpaper and some left over paint. Stores like West Elm have tables like this starting at $199! Plus, mine has incredible sentimental value. Our wedding cake sat on top of it and now I get to see it in our home everyday. Now that the weather is beautiful and we are all spending more time outdoors, look around and see what you can bring inside. That fallen tree in your backyard might become your new designer end table!
SOCIAL | Miriam's Promise
Story & Photography by K York Celebrate the Promise was held at Jamison Hall at the Factory with a wonderful dinner and dancing. Guests viewed fine art by Ron York and Friends, and bid on extraordinary items in both silent and live auctions. It was an evening to celebrate the agency’s thirty years helping middle Tennessee families with crisis pregnancy counseling and child placement services. To commemorate the special event, thirty Heroes were honored. WCRE volunteers
Jenna & Kevin Elkins
Amanda & David High, Robin & Tom Davis
Beverly Revo, Kelly Hassall & Kay Ronveaux
Jane Shoun, Mona Collins & Barbara Tamkin
Ashley Switzer, Rebekah Stephens & Alice Chapman
Mike & Alexa Hulsey
Glancy Piper-Osborne, Tyson & Cori Laemmel
Burt & Patsy Newman
Dane Van Eys, Brenda Boon & David Van Eys
Beverly Revo, Dan Elkins, Kelly Hassall & Kay Ronveaux
Erin & Marshall Martin, Kelly Gilfillan
68 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
LIFESTYLE | Welcome Home
HOME SWEET DESIGNER HOME AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE BEAUTIFUL DWELLING OF INTERIOR DESIGNER ERIC ROSS There are so many beautiful homes in Williamson County and it is a treat to get a glimpse inside one, especially a home where an interior designer resides. The home of Eric and Ruthann Ross sits at 220 Lewisburg Avenue in Franklin and was built in 2010 as an infill project in historic downtown Franklin. The builder, Ken Woodard, went through a rigorous review process with almost 18 months by the Design Review Board to make sure it perfectly fit in to the existing neighborhood. The Ross’ along with their daughter, Julianne, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Darby, enjoy this busy corner. Eric, an interior designer and contributing writer for YOUR Williamson’s monthly column on interior design and wife Ruthann, business manager for Eric Ross Interiors, have found blending home and a family business to be the best lifestyle for them. Ruthann, who was raised in Franklin, and Eric, who has called Franklin home for almost 20 years, share a deep love for their charming hometown. Prior to making Lewisburg Avenue home, the Ross’ resided on Carnton Lane for almost 10 years and drove past the corner of Lewisburg and Stewart many times a day. In 2008, they noticed the cabin and adjacent property go up for sale and in 2009 a small sign with a sketch of a house appeared saying “Coming Soon.” During this same time period, Eric Ross Interiors had been established and very quickly the young firm had outgrown the house on Carnton Lane. With the need for dedicated studio space for Eric and office space for Ruthann, Eric says he decided to call the number on the sign and said “you have this sign in the yard that says coming soon, so when’s it going to come?” After that call, the Ross’s met with Ken Woodard and found a perfect floor plan for their needs. “We had looked at many homes with studio space in a basement
or bonus room area and I really didn’t want that. I wanted my studio and the office to be a part of the home so they would relate to the living spaces. I really use my home as a showroom for my clients, so it’s nice that I can show them products and how beautiful things can actually work in everyday life. Then my studio is right off the main living room so my home is a laboratory of sorts, which works for raising a family and running a business. It allows our daughter to come home after school instead of having to take May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 69
70 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
her to an office or retail showroom. It really works for us at this stage of our life. After running retail stores and design showrooms for many years, this creates the lifestyle that we want for our family,” Eric explains. Since it was a new build, the Ross’s got straight to work on decorating it, which took about 18 months. They do continue to add pieces, so they say it’s a work in progress. “Although, my wife would say we do not have a place for one more piece, especially chairs…I have a weakness for them,” Eric exclaims. Eric and Ruthann say they have been collecting since they married almost 20 years ago and have some memorable pieces in their home like the armoire in the living room that they bought at auction in Nashville when they first married. “It languished in a guest room for many years. Then, we used it in our daughter’s room when we decorated her nursery. We took the doors off the top section and used it as a changing table. The interior is still upholstered in raspberry cheetah print from when it was in her room. We use it now for storage…with the doors on, of course.” They also have a passion for blue and white porcelain and prefer
May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 71
Chinese pieces to Dutch or Flow Blue, but love any kind of blue and white piece. Eric explains, “I can tell you where we purchased every piece and when. It is a passion.” The Ross’s entertain quite a bit in their Franklin home and say they have had parties for people they don’t even know. They are frequent hosts to wedding and baby showers, birthday celebrations, book signings for friends and an annual fall harvest dinner. They says guests always comment on how welcoming and warm it is, which is what Eric tries to accomplish with every home he designs. “I don’t want it to be something I create just to be beautiful. It should resonate with the homeowner. That’s what will make them comfortable, then in turn will make them happy to share their home with friends and family. I think that’s what we’ve done here. I’m always so proud and happy to have people see the work we’ve done here and enjoy it,” says Eric. They were honored to be hosts to the Carter House Candlelight Tour a few years ago, as the only non-historic home on the tour. “We welcomed almost 900 guests from Williamson County and all over the United States. It was truly a delight to meet so many gracious people,” explains Eric. They are also looking forward to participating in the Heritage Foundation’s upcoming Town & Country Tour of Homes in June. The Ross’s feel their home is visually significant in that it is a anchor to the corner of Lewisburg Avenue and Stewart Street and acts as a gateway into downtown Franklin as you cross the railroad tracks coming into town. Eric says, “We feel it is a symbol of what can be accomplished when new construction adheres to Historic Zoning and Design Review board guidelines. It can blend seamlessly into the existing neighborhood and not look new!” Eric says that their porch is one of their favorite spaces in the house and is “deceptively private because it’s elevated off the ground and much higher than the road. The leaves on the trees provide a visual screen so that we can see passersby but they don’t see us. Of course, you can always see Darby sitting on the porch stairs watching cars go by.” Their friends love the porch as well and will ask them “Is it porch time?” “We go a lot of places and our front porch is really our favorite place in the world.” 72 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Visit the Ross home on the Town & Country Tour on June 6 & 7. For information go to: historicfranklin.com.
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FEATURE | Charitable Self
NASHVILLE SYMPHONY
SHOW HOUSE MUSIC TO THE EYES The bucolic Hillsboro Road area is accented with deep black, Kentucky four-board fencing and the beautiful rolling hills of Middle Tennessee. Opening for tour June 12, the new Nashville Symphony Show House embraces and reflects this vernacular with a gorgeous Southern Contemporary Folk style home built by the award-winning, Brentwood-based Castle Homes teaming for the first time with noted architect Wade Weissmann. Situated on two picturesque acres, you’ll want to take plenty of design notes on the inspiring house which is Music City’s newest signature home event benefiting one of our greatest treasures the Nashville Symphony. Alan Looney, president of Castle Homes, said the non-profit performing arts organization is the perfect partner and benefactor for the home event already being called “music to the eyes.” Nashville Symphony President and CEO Alan D. Valentine said his organization is honored by the partnership. “We are both extremely thrilled and grateful to be a part of this unique initiative,
which will provide valuable support for the Nashville Symphony’s ongoing work throughout Middle Tennessee,” said Valentine. “Partnerships such as these are a perfect example of the outstanding community spirit that makes Nashville so special, and I am looking forward to an exciting series of events this June at the Castle Homes’ show house benefiting the Nashville Symphony.” Castle Homes, which earned Southern Living’s 2012 Custom Builder of the Year Award, collaborated with Weissmann in creating a modern riff on a quintessential southern home. “From the standing seam metal roof with a baked finish to the deep, fiber cement siding, we have recreated an old folk style home but with all the luxury and amenities of modern day,” Looney said. “Our talented designers, along with Castle’s in-house design team, have embraced the tone and tenor of the home’s style through fresh choices in color palettes, textiles, original art and accessories.”
photograph by Peyton Hoge 74 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Showcasing the latest in building, architecture and interior décor, Mark Simmons Interiors, Julie Couch Interiors and Rozanne Jackson Interiors for The Iron Gate are taking multiple rooms of the home and dressing them with
photograph by Peyton Hoge
their unique flair resulting in a cornucopia of creative ideas. And, meticulous detailing was taken in recreating a historic, lowmaintenance exterior. “You may need to blink twice to realize the home hasn’t always been there. We build an incredible variety of homes throughout the area from English Country to traditional but farmhouse has become a favorite, also the style of the Southern Living Idea House at Fontanel,” Looney said. “While we love recreating these historic home styles, we are also known for low-maintenance exteriors and are always looking for new ways to achieve this.” The Nashville Symphony Show House is a virtual how-to on recreating a lowmaintenance, historically inspired home including: weather-worn brick pavers on the porches; sand-blasted, aged finish driveway; Nichiha fiber cement siding with a heavier profile for a deeper shadow line; 50+ year guaranteed standing seam metal roof with extra insulation to soften residual sound. The architectural show stopper of the home is the sculptural staircase designed by
photograph by Michelle Connor
Weissmann. It also helps divide living spaces and creates a cozy library alcove adjacent to the master bedroom. Weissmann’s design also weaves main level hardwood floors into the master bath. Vanities are placed in front of windows lending a feel of repurposing a sunroom into a bathroom as might have been done in a 1800s home. Prior to the tour opening, Castle Homes is hosting a garden party for area home, garden and food bloggers and media with garden lifestyle expert and Southern Living Magazine Contributing Garden Editor Carmen Johnston along with the iconic Miss Daisy King and PBS Volunteer Gardener Troy Marden, author of “Southern Gardener’s Handbook.” Marden will also have a book signing during the tour on Saturday, June 20 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. where visitors can meet the prolific writer and gardener. With a convenient area shuttle at Congregation Micah, 2001 Old Hickory Blvd, Brentwood, TN (37027), the home will be open for tour daily, from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., June 12-28. On Tuesdays during the tour, REALTORS® presenting a business card can tour the home for free. There will be an After The Tour Sale on Monday, June 29 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. where visitors can enter the site to can purchase home furniture, art and accessories. To follow the build and purchase $15 per person general admission tickets, visit www.castlehomes.com.
photograph by Geinger Hill
The building and design team pictured left to right: Wade Weissmann, Wade Weissmann Architecture, Alan D. Valentine, Nashville Symphony President/ CEO, Julie Couch, Julie Couch Interiors, Rozanne Jackson, The Iron Gate, Deb Tallent, of Mark Simmons Interiors, Alan Looney, president of Castle Homes. May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 75
SOCIAL | Fur, Feathers & Friends Photography & Story Submitted Haynes Galleries recently held an opening reception for “Fur, Feathers & Friends” at their gallery in Nashville. “Fur, Feathers & Friends” is a showcase of animal-inspired artwork by 20th century masters and contemporary realists, featuring paintings and photographs of a diverse range of subjects from friendly pets to exotic beasts. A portion of sales from the exhibition will benefit Happy Tales Humane, a no-kill animal shelter in Franklin. The show runs through May 30th. To learn more about Haynes Galleries and the exhibit, visit www.haynesgalleries.com. Rick Beaty, Debbi Cure, Jacquelyn Poole & Tracy Marks
David Wright, Angela Kuprion, Jane Wright & Cindy Procious
Pat Thompson, Jody Thompson & Terry Rafferty
Debbi Cure & Angela Kuprion
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SOCIAL | Songwriters & Storytellers Story & Photography by Rachel Weishaupt The Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s hosted Songwriters and Storytellers at the Franklin Theatre Monday, March 30th. Local songwriters gathered together for a night of music, stories and support. Guests had the chance to listen to a variety of #1 hits from five songwriters all while learning about Parkinson’s research, education and support groups in middle Tennessee. The Peterson Foundation was founded in 2009 and aims to educate and raise awareness of the effects of Parkinson’s disease. For more information on the event, please visit www.petersonforparkinsons.org.
Jann Beasley & Marlene Stanley
Parks Realty
Becky Brannon, Kelsey Brannon & Donna Brannon
Annie & Andy Byrn
Nanette Johnson & Tammy Peterson
Diane Dorsa & Valeri Overmyer
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COMMUNITY | In the Clicwk
been a busy Prom season here in Williamson County! IN THE CLICK: It’sCheck out some of the lovely ladies in their fabulous fashions and equally handsome escorts found in our PROM county high schools this year!
Wilson Norris & Rachel Stone, Franklin High School
Allea Billington & Luke Roney, Page High School
Zach Boisjoly, Lilly Howard, Lindsey Berg & Van White, Page High School
Michael Burnside & Abigail Yann, Centennial High School
Trip Crawford & Grace Ann Elliott, Brentwood High School
Jon Schwieterman & Alli Brown, Centennial High School
Nicholas Nein & Meg Dunavant, BGA
Hayden Hughes & Amy Waters, Summit High School
Courtney Tipton & Lucas Wilson, Summit High School
Mia Faragalli & Tanner Spalding Franklin High School
LIFESTYLE | Come Fly with Me
Forty & Fabulous IN THE BIG APPLE By Shelly Robertson Birdsong
82 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
LIFESTYLE | Come Fly with Me
New York is an amazing place. Despite my sometimes provincial, small town southern girl mentality, I absolutely love the thrill of this big city. It’s such an experience for the senses and can be quite a fun place to visit. Now, I have been to NYC for Christmas, have done the ball drop at New Year’s Eve, staying right in Times Square (the ultimate bucket list experience, do it)! I have gone to shop, to the theatre, and there is something more to do around every corner no matter what time of year. For my 40th birthday my husband took us for a 3-day jaunt to NYC to simply… experience NYC. No agenda. No lines for tickets, no minute-by-minute itinerary. We went to just be. We walked. I recommend this. It is impossible to take everything in around you but at least when walking (wear comfortable shoes) you can get a first hand look at things close up. And not feel like you will lose your lunch riding in a crazy cab! So walk we did and did I mention springtime in NYC, the middle of May, is a perfect time to go? Not too hot and still needed a jacket. The perfect weather for walking. My goal was primarily to do a few special things, make some memories I could catalog as what I did when I turned 40. Starting with food. We had a few goals we met easily; Great pizza in a dive somewhere on our walk to Wall Street. Amazing! We enjoyed cupcakes and pastries from the famous Magnolia Bakery while sitting on the edge of a fountain watching the street scene before us. We found a great hamburger befitting the masters of the universe in suits at lunchtime, and I enjoyed a birthday glass of champagne at Sardi’s, world famous glamour bar and dining on the Great White Way, where normally you could go after or before the show. The food was mediocre. But the ambiance, the history and the fun… well worth it. But my favorite experience was
my birthday dinner at the 21 Club. I have always wanted to go there and finally had the chance. I know there are literally 1000’s of amazing restaurants in NYC. Places far more recognized from the culinary perspective, but seriously when you want an experience…this is the place. Impeccable service and that old New York feel that made me think I was on an episode of Mad Men. And yes they make a swell martini. Next stop: the Empire State Building. Somehow had missed that before and so up we went. You can buy tickets in advance or from any angle of the building from any number of sales people. The lines were not ridiculous and it went much faster than I thought. Gorgeous day for us and what a view! Truly worth it. We walked all the way to Wall Street from our hotel in Midtown, perfect location for the Park, 5th Avenue, Times Square, best shopping; But not so close to financial district! We took a cab back. But our walk there was a true adventure, where we experienced all parts of the city. Our goal in mind of course, the 911 Memorial. It was awe-inspiring. A must do for anyone who remembers that infamous day. The enormity of the area, where the buildings stood, the newly erected buildings and the massive memorial, are almost surreal.
But to stand in the exact spot of the horror and imagine just another day amidst the regular chaos and normal of life in the city, before the horror, is haunting. We did the Park. Again walking it and seeing so many areas I had not seen before. It’s such a beautiful place to just walk or sit and watch. The Plaza Hotel, all the major shopping places, a carriage ride...the clichés may be trite but are all musts when visiting this timeless city that, while it may be touristy and loud, and constant and incessantly…ON…does maintain charm and likability and it will win you over…one block at a time! Three days is a short trip but if you have the ability to go more than once, probably a perfect amount of time. My feet did give out and I missed my baby (first trip apart) and I just couldn’t eat anymore! So much more we could do and I think Macy’s’ Thanksgiving Parade is my next NYC goal. I may have to wait til I’m 50 for that!
WHEN YOU GO: Sardi’s 234 West 44th Street New York, NY www.sardis.com ‘21’ Club 21 West 52nd Street New York, NY www.21club.com Magnolia Bakery www.magnoliabakery.com New York Hilton Midtown 1335 Avenue of the Americas, New York www.hilton.com Empire State Building 350 5th Avenue, New York www.esbnyc.com 911 Memorial The intersection of Liberty Street and Greenwich Street, at the intersection of Liberty Street and West Street, at the intersection of West Street and Fulton Street. www.911memorial.org
May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 83
FEATURE | Keeping Score
WHAT By Anna Robertson Several horse competitions take place throughout the country this time of year and some right here in middle Tennessee, including the Kentucky Derby, Steeplechase, the Franklin Rodeo and the Music Country Grand Prix benefiting Saddle Up!. Even though we all love to wear a hat and go to these equine events - do we really even know what we are seeing? It’s more than just seersucker and juleps. For example. What is a Grand (pronounced Gran) Prix anyway? Well, it’s all about the jumping. Show jumping is an English form of riding competition where horse and rider clear a round of high fences and are timed. Plain and simple, the fastest clear round with no faults wins. Show jumping has roots that date to 18th century England. The need to have horses that could jump obstacles while fox hunting transformed into a new form of riding. Show jumping was added to the Olympic Games in 1912 and has remained since. Show jumping, also known as stadium jumping, has changed quite a bit over the years. The courses began as several simple straight bar fences and possibly a water jump, whereas now there are straight bar fences, cross-bars, triple bars, oxers, water jumps, just to name a few. The horse and rider must clear these fences with no penalties. Penalties can range from a pole being knocked down, to refusals, to time penalties. A Grand Prix is the highest level of show jumping with ten to sixteen fences on the course that go up to 5'3" in height and up 84 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
IS A GRAND PRIX?
to 6'7" in width. It is an incredible event to witness and the amazing power of the horses that are “jumpers” will put any spectator in awe. This sport is not for the faint of heart and will truly keep you on the edge of your seat, if not out of your seat. Outside of the arena in the horse-jumping world, there is the steeplechase. This event takes jumping horses to a riveting race on a two to three mile turf track jumping ditches and “brushes” that go up to 52" in height. Originated in Ireland in the 18th century, the steeplechase has become another popular event all over the world. And a derby? Well that is just a good ole fashion race typically restricted to three-year-olds horses that is. Lastly, there is a rodeo. And we have one of those here every year - with plenty of fun for all ages. A rodeo is an exhibition or contest in which cowboys show their skill at riding broncos, roping calves, wrestling steers and more. So there you have it. Now you know all you need to know about horse events. Good thing, since horse competition events have become widely anticipated during the month of May. Make sure to mark your calendars for some, if not all, of these upcoming events. UPCOMING EVENTS May 9 May 14–16 May 30
Iroquois Steeplechase at Percy Warner Franklin Rodeo at Williamson County Ag Expo Park Music Country Grand Prix at Brownland Farm
FEATURE | Your Community Partner
Chief Deborah Faulkner, EdD By Anna Robertson
May marks the celebration of law enforcement. This year, National Police Week will be recognized from May 10–16. Along with acknowledgment and thanks to our law enforcement, we are recognizing the amazing female police leadership we have here in Williamson County. Our new Chief of Police serves in a way that keeps the city of Franklin not only safe, but on the path of continued growth and great vision.
consider a career in law enforcement. “I applied and was hired by the MNPD. I have never looked back,” explains Chief Faulkner. “I love the challenge and satisfaction of solving crime, identifying crime prevention tactics, and more importantly, assisting crime victims and their families. Members of my law enforcement family are the best people I have ever known. They are special and I feel honored to have spent my life being among them.”
Franklin City Police Chief, Deborah Faulkner, EdD, is a Nashville native and has always lived and worked in middle Tennessee. She was Tennessee’s first Inspector General and when she retired from the position of Deputy Chief at the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department nine years ago, she moved to Franklin and recently joined the Franklin Police Department (FPD) in 2014. The FPD works to maintain one of the lowest crime rates per capita in the state of Tennessee with over 170 officers.
Chief Faulkner sees her path in law enforcement as a very important journey. She values education and those values of hard work and achieving excellence in academics and professional development. She also sees community as a priority and has served on countless nonprofit boards. “Anything you do in life that is meaningful and important is a journey paved with hard work and dedication. Everything I have ever done in life has brought me to where I am now,” she says.
When asked about how she came to have a career in law enforcement, Chief Faulkner says she started with an undergraduate degree in Broadcast Journalism and worked part time at the Grand Ole Opry while in college. During this time, she met several Metro Police Officers who convinced her to
“Providing professional police service in partnership with the community to create a safe environment and enhance the quality of life.” This is the mission of the Franklin City Police Department. Chief Faulkner knows that the FPD is known for its professionalism and close connection with the people they serve and she strives
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ANYTHING YOU DO I N L I F E T H AT I S MEANINGFUL AND I M P O R TA N T I S A JOURNEY PAVED WITH HARD WORK AND DEDICATION. to maintain this excellence. “We are an internationally accredited law enforcement agency. We will continue to maintain these high standards,” Chief Faulkner explains. “I am setting training goals to ensure my officers are the best they can be.” Chief Faulkner works to maintain a level of service not only to the community, but also to the officers. She wants them to have all of the resources, training and equipment they need to do their job effectively and safely. She continues to recruit and hire men and women who
reflect the people in our community - the people they serve. “We are a part of this community. When something happens to one of our citizens, it impacts us too,” she says. “There is one thing for sure, we are dedicated to keeping Franklin safe for our families and visitors.” Chief Deborah Falkner does not spend all of her time behind the badge. She has a passion for fly-fishing, golf and loves to garden. She recently completed the Williamson County Master Gardener program. “I spend as much time as possible outside,” she says. “I also love reading, especially books on history, biographies and gardening.” “I am blessed to have wonderful friends and a family who have supported me even when I worked long hours at the career I also loved. Working with the men and women of the Franklin Police Department is a joy and I am honored to be their Chief. I hope the citizens of Franklin always know they have my full attention. I will work extremely hard to demonstrate their support is both valued and appreciated by the men and women of the FPD,” says Chief Faulkner. You can give your appreciation and support to our local law enforcement during National Police Week on May 11 at 6pm when there will be a walk beginning at the Franklin Theatre, down Main Street to the old County Court House on the square. There, a wreath will be placed on the monument with the names of County Law Enforcement Officers who have been killed in the line of duty.
SOCIAL | Steak & Burger Dinner
Story & Photography by K York Papa Joe Bradford was the keynote speaker at the Franklin Boys and Girls Club Steak and Burger dinner held in Jamison Hall in The Factory at Franklin during the busy event month of April. Papa Joe, as he is adoringly called, shared parts of his life story hoping to inspire change in the lives of children who face the struggle of poverty. His story was told in the movie “Unconditional.” As always, this causal and fun event benefited a sadly necessary cause and brings attention to helping children in need. For more information, go to www.boysgirlsfranklin.org. Briseyda Maria Gonzalez, Peggy Smith, Bill Smith & Paul Smith
Jarrod Long, Nick Thompson, Emad Youseff, Martia Patty & Jeremy Sandell
Louie Orman & Emma Wilson
Ann Bright & Tim Brown 88 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Joanne & John Saxton
Nicole & Kelsey Boyle, Lacie Simenton & Michelle Koehly
Denise Carothers, Andy Marshall, Cathy Hardcastle & Dan Jernigan
Jon Cherry, Jessica Durham & Toney Sutton
Aziah, Harold, Jamese & Ariah Larcius
Paula & Ed Snyder
BUSINESS | Your Business Profile
TAKE ANOTHER ROUTE
With Grand Avenue they’re driving. And I made sure that our fleet was large and diverse enough, from sedans to limos to vintage cars to coaches, so that everyone has an option, whether they’re a couple or a crowd.” To make Grand Avenue even more customer-friendly, Haley has specialized the company’s services to meet their specific needs.
With Steeplechase and CMA Fest just around the corner, you can expect the streets to be filled with traffic and the parking lots jammed with cars. While everyone is anxious trying to navigate their way safely to their favorite event, you can take another, stress-free route to your destination - Grand Avenue. Carl Haley Jr., a longtime Williamson County resident, knew that his family and friends needed a new way to travel for business and for nights out around town. In 2009, he founded Grand Avenue in order to meet this demand and set his sights on becoming middle Tennessee’s one-stop resource for all ground transportation services. Whether you need a classic sedan, 6-passenger SUV, 32-passenger shuttle bus or 56-passenger coach to get to your summer events, Grand Avenue is there. Williamson County residents can leave traffic headaches, parking lines, and long waits at the valet stand behind. Even more importantly, they no longer have to worry about whether they’ve had too much to drink to get home. Instead they have a highlytrained, professional, sober driver at the wheel. “As a longtime resident of Williamson County, I know first-hand what my neighbors need when it comes to transportation,” said Haley. “Grand Avenue was created to get people where they need to go, safely and worry-free. I have set the highest standards for our chauffeurs so that when you get in a car you know they are safe, trained and knowledgeable about the roads
For Williamson County’s business savvy travelers, the company’s corporate division allows them to focus on work rather than spending time worrying about business travel. Since vehicles are equipped with Wi-Fi, business can continue even while driving to the airport. Business travelers also are provided with an on-call account manager who can simplify and book your travel plans, as well as customize reports to monitor your expenses and invoices. For Williamson County party planners and goers, Grand Avenue makes sure those special life events are even more memorable. From proms, galas or just a special night out, Grand Avenue ensures all details are fine-tuned so that you can arrive in style. For brides and grooms planning their weddings, Grand Avenue matches them with a designated wedding transportation specialist who helps coordinate the transportation logistics to make their big day perfect. And Grand Avenue isn’t just confined to the local market. A lesser known benefit of traveling with Grand Avenue is its network of partners across the globe. Haley has built partnerships with colleagues with the highest regarded transportation services around the world so that Nashville travelers can book transportation effortlessly through Grand Avenue anywhere they go. The company has more than 350 affiliate partnerships, providing transportation in over 550 cities worldwide and that number continues to grow. “I wanted to make sure that the residents of middle Tennessee had the same international options that car services in other
cities provide,” said Haley. “Rather than calling an anonymous operator in another city, our residents can now call a local company that can connect them to travel around the globe. Not only do we set up the travel, we track it at every step and let you know if there are any issues. That is quite a relief for our customers when they are in a strange city or country, trying to navigate new streets, customs and languages.”
Along with Haley’s commitment to improve chauffeured transportation here, he and his wife, Connie, are actively involved in the community. Together, the Haleys have been avid supporters of the Heritage Foundation, Rotary, American Heart Association, Boy Scouts, Battle of Franklin Trust and the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. They are also supporters of two of Franklin’s most historic landmarks, the Franklin Theatre and the Carter House. “I love this community. It is one of the most beautiful parts of this country and Connie and I feel very fortunate to call it home,” said Haley. “In the five years since founding Grand Avenue, I have been so grateful to those residents who have turned to us to make their transportation and lives easier and worry-free. This is why I started Grand Avenue, to make middle Tennessee an even better place to work and live.”
BUSINESS | It’s Your Business
WHAT IF YOUR MARKETING TEAM WAS JUST A CLICK AWAY?
Like most entrepreneurs, you are constantly trying to balance the demands of running your business while still having a personal life. It’s fair to say you wear a lot of hats, including hats for accounting, human resources, operations, marketing and more! You’d probably admit that your plan for successful marketing is focused on maximizing customer satisfaction and working real hard to get more customers. Great marketing takes time, knowledge, experience and resources. Since running your business already has you stretched thin what if you could hand off the marketing duties for your business to someone who will do a great job? What if your marketing team was virtual and available 24/7? Every day, entrepreneurs are launching new companies that are using technology to simplify how we get the things we need to run our businesses. So why not apply that same approach to marketing services for small businesses? Marketing veteran, David Farmer, thought that was a BIG idea and he built MODSocket.com around that very question. David is an award-winning marketing and advertising leader who has worked at global ad agencies on big brands and has built several successful companies. “Big agencies don’t offer their expertise to small business owners,” said Farmer. “We knew offering business owners access to a menu of marketing services guided by a seasoned professional who is dedicated to their business for only $50 a month was something the marketplace needed.” MODSocket is an entire ad agency system in the cloud. It aggregates experienced and talented marketing and advertising agency professionals into an “online agency” that millions of small businesses can access for a low, flat monthly fee. “Now any small business owner can compete with the slick marketing programs offered by their Fortune 500 competitor just down the street,” smiled Farmer. “We recognized the best marketing talent and strategies were focusing more and more on the bigger companies who could afford full-time engagements.” The combination of superior personal service and cloud-based technology is the great equalizer for any small business. In fact, we built our firm, Wheelhouse, around the same basic foundation – seasoned leadership, virtual sourcing and cloud technology – to help our clients solve their marketing challenges. How can your business benefit from today’s technology to create better marketing programs that drive more business? We suggest you look to the clouds.
BUSINESS | Ribbon Cuttings
Catering & Events by Suzette 104 Carr Avenue, Unit 7 Franklin, TN
Goodall Homes 6207 Christmas Drive Nolensville, TN
Pedego 104 East Main Franklin, TN
Mathnasium of Franklin 39 Cool Springs Blvd, Suite 105 Franklin, TN
Planet Fitness 1113 Murfreesboro Rd., Suite 252 Franklin, TN
18|8 Fine Men’s Salon 1844 W. McEwen Dr., Suite 110 Franklin, TN
Finnleys Good Findings 435 Main Street Franklin, TN
Blaze Pizza 7011 Executive Center Dr. Brentwood, TN
Murff’s Craft Brews & Burgers 5015 Harpeth Drive Brentwood, TN
SOCIAL | Outlook Williamson Sponsored Event
Story & Photography by Anna Robertson It seemed as if everyone in town arrived to Jamison Hall at The Factory at Franklin for this year’s Outlook Williamson. The event was sold out and included a half-day forum with breakfast, expert speakers and Q & A sessions discussing business trends and statistics about the growth of Williamson County. Outlook Williamson is presented by Williamson, Inc., which provides education and strives to promote leadership in our community. For more information, go to www.williamsonchamber.com.
Ben Webster, Drew Brooks & Eric Bero
Jordan Vaughn, Tiffany White, Kyle Shults, Marti Veto, Ann Skiera, Josh Gibson & David Logan
Carol Yochen & Galen Longo
Pam Von Ehr & Rogers Anderson
Jon Billington, Susan Shafer & Jason Mathews
David Pickett, Brit Boatright & Dennis Georgatos
Joey Hatch, Stephen Kulinski, Janet Miller, Doug Brandon & Matt Largen May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 93
BUSINESS | Scoop
If you or your company has community or business news to share please send to info@yourwilliamson.com!
GROWTH DRIVES FIRST FARMERS TO RAMP UP HIRING First Farmers and Merchants Bank has announced the hiring of four experienced bankers to its growing team in the heart of middle Tennessee. Elise Gworek joins First Farmers as a Business Banker at the Cool Springs office in Franklin where she will assist businesses of all sizes with their banking needs. Most recently, Gworek worked at Bridgehouse Title in Franklin as a Commercial Loan Agent. Thomas (Tyler) Blalock has been hired as a Mortgage Loan Originator based at the bank’s McEwen Drive office in Franklin. Blalock was previously employed by First State Bank where he was a Mortgage Consultant specializing in conventional, government and jumbo lending. Jim Gardner will take the position of Senior Commercial Relationship Manager at First Farmers’ new Green Hills office. He will work with the bank’s Nashville leadership team in developing its commercial and real estate loan portfolios in Davidson County. Gardner previously worked for Renasant Bank as Senior Vice President, Commercial Lending. Amy Vandygriff has been hired as Commercial Loan Administrator at First Farmers new Green Hills office in Nashville. Prior to joining First Farmers, Amy worked as an Assistant Banking Officer at Republic Bank and as a Loan Administration Officer with Tennessee Bank and Trust. For additional information, visit www.myfirstfarmers.com or call the main office at (800) 882-8378.
FINANCIAL LEADERSHIP OF T. W. FRIERSON CONTRACTOR INC. CHANGES WITH RETIREMENT OF MICHAEL W. DODSON, ADDITION OF MICHAEL MELNYK
As one Mike retires and a new Mike takes over the financial reigns of T. W. Frierson Contractor Inc., the firm is positioned for growth into the future with its financial capabilities and technology. Michael W. Dodson, of Brentwood, chief financial officer of T. W. Frierson Contractor Inc., will officially step into retirement on April 30, 2015, after 24 years with the company. Already on board as of February 2, 2015, is Michael Melnyk, of Franklin, who becomes chief financial officer in his place. Founded in 1958, T. W. Frierson Contractor Inc. is a family owned general contractor specializing in commercial, industrial and institutional facilities throughout the Southeast.
LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN ANNOUNCES GRADUATES OF 2015 CLASS
ANTHONY C. BILLS JOINS WISEMAN ASHWORTH LAW GROUP
Leadership Franklin held graduation ceremonies for its nineteenth class at the Embassy Suites of Franklin on April 8th. Graduates are executives and senior community leaders selected to represent a cross-section of Franklin and Williamson County. Graduates of the 2014–2015 Leadership Franklin Class are: Aaron Kirchner, Alba Gonzalez-Nylander, Britt Rothrock, Chaz Corzine, Corey Napier, Dennis Georgatos, Ed Smith, Greer Redden, Jayne Bibb, Jimmy Moody, III, Jon Finkel, Jose Rodriguez, Kenny Benge, Kerri Hudson, Laura Beth Stubblefield, Patsy Watkins, Philip Feemster, Shelley Moeller, Susan Smallwood, and Taylor Irwin. For more information about Leadership Franklin, visit www.leadershipfranklin.org.
Attorney Anthony C. Bills has joined Wiseman Ashworth Law Group, PLC, as an associate, announced founding member Gail Vaughn Ashworth. Bills was previously an associate with the Nashville firm Manier & Herod. Originally from Franklin and a graduate of Montgomery Bell Academy, he serves as an advisory board member to The Little School. Bills and his family live in Franklin. Wiseman Ashworth Law Group PLC (WALG) was established in Nashville in 2010 by attorneys Thomas A. Wiseman III and Gail Vaughn Ashworth. For more information, visit www.wisemanashworth.com.
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BGA AWARDS FIRST ALYNE Q. MASSEY HONORS SCHOLARSHIPS TO LOCAL STUDENTS
Battle Ground Academy is pleased to announce the first recipients of its new Alyne Q. Massey Honors Scholarships for rising 9th graders not currently attending the school: Ian Gray, current 8th grader at Ironwood Academy Tutorial; Taylor Anne Walters, current 8th grader at Woodland Middle School; Natalie Watson, current 8th grader at Hillsboro Middle School; Wyatt Wilson, current 8th grader at Heritage Middle School. The Alyne Q. Massey Honors Scholarship was established by L.H. (Bill) Armistead III, a member of BGA’s Board of Trustees and a 1969 graduate, in memory of his mother. The scholarships provide partial tuition for high achieving students with strong grades and Independent School Entrance Exam scores. BGA will be accepting scholarship applications for the 2016-2017 school year in the fall. Interested families should contact Robin Goertz, Director of Admissions, at 615-567-9014 or at robin.goertz@mybga.org.
WESTHAVEN TEAMS UP WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY WILLIAMSON-MAURY This spring more than 10,000 women will volunteer at Habitat for Humanity construction sites across the country in recognition of National Women Build Week. Now in its eighth year, Habitat’s National Women Build empowers women take the hammer and take the lead to help lower-income families in their own community purchase safe, affordable housing. This year a group of Westhaven residents have joined together to form the Westhaven Women for Women Build with the goal of providing enough volunteers and monetary support to sponsor 1 of the 10 build days. The group has already raised $3,225 of their $7,000 goal through the fundraising efforts of 30 volunteers and two generous $1000 donations – one from the Westhaven Foundation and one from The Southern Land Company. Learn more about volunteering, homeownership, and sponsorship at www.hfhwm.org.
O’MORE STUDENT WINS THREE GOLD AWARDS IN DISTRICT STUDENT ADDYS O’More College of Design is proud to announce that senior Riley Caroll is the winner of three district gold American Advertising Federation (AAF) Student American Advertising Awards. Caroll will graduate from O’More this spring. He will also be one of a selection of O’More students showcasing work during the O’More Collective on May 15 at Liberty Hall in The Factory at Franklin, Tenn. For more information about O’More College of Design, visit omorecollege.edu. For information about the O’More Collective, visit omorecollective.com.
LEADERSHIP FRANKLIN ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIP WINNER
WILSON JOINS FIRST CITIZENS NATIONAL BANK First Citizens National Bank welcomes Christopher D. Wilson as Senior Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer. Wilson has been in Commercial Real Estate and Residential Lending, as well as a Realtor for over 37 years. He joined First Citizens National Bank in April 2015, and is located in the bank’s Cool Springs office in Franklin, TN. Wilson resides in Brentwood, TN. You may contact Chris Wilson by calling 615.591.2248 or email at cwilson@FirstCNB.com. For more information about First Citizens National Bank please visit www.FirstCNB.com.
Leadership Franklin awarded a $1,500 college scholarship to Franklin High School senior Scott Stuckey during its Graduation Dinner for the Class of 2014-2015 at the Embassy Suites of Franklin. Stuckey, son of Eric and Lisa Stuckey, will attend Ohio State University and major in Biomedical Engineering. Stuckey’s selection was based on his 4.0 GPA academic achievement, community involvement, and written essay. His extra-curricular activities include Varsity Track and Field, the Spiritual Leadership Team, and National Honor Society. He is a graduate of Youth Leadership Franklin. For more information about Leadership Franklin, visit www.leadershipfranklin.org.
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SOCIAL | Frist Gala
Story & Photography by Vicki Stout Co-chairs, Debbie Best and Caroline McNeilly, created an evening fit for British Royals with the recent Frist Gala. The event was a piece of art in its own right, benefiting Nashville’s Frist Center for the Visual Arts. The Gala was themed for the Frist’s current splendid British exhibit: “Houghton Hall: Portrait of an English Country House,” which showcases actual furnishings and art from the splendid country home of generations of royalty dating back to England’s first Prime Minister. Guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres during the cocktail hour in the grand lobby of the Frist, then adjourned at the tinkling of the dinner bell back to a sheer tent that had, a bit like Pygmalion, been transformed to a grand dining hall. Unlike so many events, this one is cocktails and dinner only. No auctions or ancillary events. Like the Royals themselves, it is refined, genteel and civilized.
Trey & Dianne Smith, Ashley Propost & Scott McIllwain
Susan Garaughty, Laura & Ron Stanley
Buddy & Debbie Best, Caroline & Rob McNeilly
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Norm Scarborough & Kim Hewell
JoAnne & Gary Haynes
Kerry & Linda Graham, Lynn & Scott Kendrick
Jim & Courtney Fitzgerald, Charlie & Laura Niewald, Sylvia & Doug Bradbury
Neil Price, Nancy Falls, Parker Duncan & Sandra Roberts
Carol Rochford, Barbara & David Jones
LIFESTYLE | 5 Sense Living
Patrons can enjoy dinner, appetizers and cocktails before a concert, or they can come in afterwards for a night cap and dessert with Lyrics’ new later hours menu. The Chef and staff know their way around the county’s culinary corridor and are taking Lyrics to the next level. Lyrics’ dishes sing proving the use of gastronomic imagination to reinvent classics ! They use only the freshest ingredients, and support the community by utilizing local when possible such as Gulf Pride, Bear Creek Farms and Noble Springs Dairy.
WITH LAURYN GILLIAM Bringing you the 411 on the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of what touches you in Williamson County. Carpe diem y’all!
DINING
LYRICS RESTAURANT & CATERING www.lyricsrestaurant.com Facebook: Lyrics Restaurant and Catering
Music is in the air with the resurgence in The Factory at Franklin and there is no lack of creativity to witness with all the new changes. Sam Barcus and Pat McCracken sensed the change and took this opportunity to rebrand their restaurant, previously known as Stoveworks, and give it a new look and a new name. With Barcus having a musical background and McCracken having grandparents who were in the restaurant business, this is a great blending of family traditions. Now known as Lyrics Restaurant, Sam and Pat sat down with their Chef to determine a menu that would cater to their regulars by keeping some of their customer favorites on the menu and then adding a few more modern sophisticated dishes.
Lyrics get their salmon fresh within 24 hours and you will notice this when you order the Songwriter’s Salmon. This horseradish crusted Atlantic salmon topped with a fresh apple compote and served with a white cheddar potato gratin…from the words of the Christopher Cross song “Arthur’s Theme”… “I know it’s crazy…but it’s true”…salmon and apple compote with gratin? Who woulda thunk it? Some in the North believe that apple pie without cheese is like a kiss without a squeeze but we are in the South y’all and let me tell you…I felt the love of that combination. I had my 10 year old daughter Peyton/child culinary critic with me and even she loved it! Other high notes were the Sassy Shrimp and Grits. The creamy grits made served with fresh shrimp and then topped with a sauce and crispy onion straws created the comforts of home on a plate. The Crescendo Crab Cakes are little medallions of heaven full of pure crab meat and served with a Hollandaise Sauce and Potato Gaufrette Garnish. The trilogy of desserts we had included the Cheesecake with Raspberry Drizzle, Flourless Chocolate Torte and De-constructed Blackjack Pecan Pie…this little scoop of chocolate pecan pie filling served with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sliver of homemade pie crust….genius! Make points with your Mama and let them try Lyrics on May 10th for their special Mother’s Day menu. Bon Appetit!
You won’t be able to help but notice some of the subtle changes that have enhanced the ambiance there. The Factory has become a popular nighttime destination with the addition of Music City Roots and Studio Tenn. There is an energy being created there with musical performances and plays going on within the building, and McCracken and Barcus wanted to create a space that would allow their patrons to be a part this new entertainment venue. A beautiful wooden bar has been added to have a drink before an event; and live music is on the menu weekly now for in house entertainment.
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ART
DAVID ARMS ARTIST www.davidarms.com
CULTURE
When you meet David Arms, you don’t get the feeling you are speaking to a world renowned talent, you get the feeling that this is a person who really wants to share with you their story and to leave a legacy of authenticity. David doesn’t talk about his story as being amazing as much as he seems still a little surprised that he is living it and that it wasn’t just a dream. He talks about how surreal it was to think that one day he was a sought after national corporate and social events planner and almost suddenly he was making his living as an artist. Though the shift happened relatively quickly, it didn’t happen overnight….David described himself as a “dabbler” in the arts as a child, but when asked if his family would define it as “dabbling” he smiled and agreed they may have thought otherwise. David describes his paintings as if they come to him…almost serendipitously… as did this career change. He knew that he wanted to create a special space to house his works, so he did his due diligence in finding the perfect nest for his precious
What is most important to David is that his work stay authentic. He provides symbolism in his art that is very dear to him and that people can connect with. He is purposeful in his meanings yet open to others having different interpretations… “I am sometimes wowed when I hear others take on my work…the meaning that they find in it.” In the art world, this is seen by some as controversial. However, David believes that this is important and maintains his desire for his work to be authentic. Known for his acrylic on wood paintings, he is most notable for florals and colors using language sometimes for literal meanings. But recently he has found himself leaning towards less color and we are looking forward to the unveiling of this new work after the April 25th, 3X3 Gallery event in Leipers Fork. with indoor pieces including sculptures and paper works. The exhibit will take advantage of all of the historic estate’s property including the grounds, gardens and museum galleries. He believes that art has the capacity to change the world and the way we see it and wants you to experience it not only with your eyes but with your heart.
CHEEKWOOD Jaume Plensa Human Landscapes Exhibit
When you combine the talents of a world renowned artist with the backdrop of internationally respected and breathtaking botanic gardens as the stage, you will see a dynamic pairing of music, language and art which is about to take place in our very own backyard. Jaume Plensa, who is known for such works as the Crown Fountain in Chicago, is creating an extensive exhibition at Cheekwood Botanical Gardens.
eggs. The magic of the Leipers Fork community began to speak to him, so he closed the deal on moving his works into a little barn on a hill.
Silent Music II, 2013 Photo: Laura Medina
Cheekwood will remain open until 9 pm on the first Friday of each month during the exhibition (July through October) and will feature Spanish music and programming from May 22–November 1.
The Crown Fountain in Chicago’s Millennium Park creates a place for people to connect, a piece of art that is experiential by nature and encourages, if not demands, that people come engage and literally go into the art as a metaphor for going into yourself to find connection and meaning. Jaume’s goal is to create a silence that demands reflection amidst the chaos and noise around us. Amongst the display at Cheekwood, there will be nine large scale outdoor sculptures,
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The Heart of Trees, 2007 Photo: Jonty Wilde
Portrait of the Artist Photo: Laura Medina
SOCIAL | TPAC Season Announcement Story & Photography by Andrea Davis
MUSIC
JENNIFER LEIGH YOUNG
If you have never been to Music in the Gardens at the Nashville Antique and Garden Show, this is a treat you will want to indulge in next year when they come back. The Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville is an annual charity event organized to raise funds for Cheekwood and ECON. Chris Struko and John Grimes lead the way for this music portion to come to fruition in 2013, integrating the lush garden displays in the show with amazing music. This year’s guests included the likes of Suzy Bogguss and others including the funky, bluesy and soulful rocker, Jennifer Leigh Young. I’m not lying y’all..this girl can sang! Imagine standing in these elegant gardens with fountains and hot houses and she is singing a haunting rendition of “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” You look around and in every direction there are absolutely beautiful booths filled with antique furnishings. It isn’t the typical concert setting but it sure is innovative, and Jennifer commands the attention of shoppers who are winding down their evening and draws them back in. Her husband plays guitar behind her as she does her version of an Elton John song. She has a playful, not shy, strong tone and controls weaving in and out of octaves as she starts in with her version of blues favorites. Jennifer talks to the audience with her music like she is truly telling a story with intimations that pierce the heart. She doesn’t do a song just for the crowds pleasure…she has to feel it! Jennifer’s music is authentic …she shares “I’ve been through enough to feel and sing songs that ring true to connect with the listeners, I will never sing something I don’t believe in or can’t connect to.” Jennifer credits the legends past and present for her style including Patsy, Tammy, Loretta, Susan and Derek Tedeschi, Bruno Mars, George Jones and Johnny Cash. Jennifer was a star singer from a young age but believes now that the mindset of a musician, no matter how talented, must be to stay humble, be a good person, make good choices, put your best forward always and live and breathe your craft every day and you can be successful. The fruits of her labor were noticed by owners and artist management legends Dale Morris and Marc Oswald and can be seen now at Cafe Fontanel where she performs and MC’s every Friday night and look for her back at JJ’s Wine Bar in Franklin this July 31st! She’s also signed to Fontanel Records and performs on their Christmas CD that came out in 2014.
The Tennessee Performing Arts Center announced its 2015-2016 season on in April to a large crowd in Andrew Jackson Hall. TPAC marks its 35th year with the spectacular new production of Phantom of the Opera. This beloved blockbuster will be paired with six new Broadway titles making their Nashville debuts, including Dirty Dancing and Bullets Over Broadway, as well as the Tony Award-winning hits Matilda the Musical, Motown the Musica, The Bridges of Madison County and If/Then. Also, TPAC announced a trio of Broadway specials, including Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Mamma Mia! and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. For more information and tickets, go to www.tpac.org.
Susan Short Jones, Brenda Corbin & Courtney Corbin-Simon
Chris & Tricia Casa Santa, Dale Allen
Andrea & Jim Tothacer
Kimberly Darlington, Lori Ward, Cassie LeFevor & Roberta Ciuffo West
Kevin Hartley, Marcela Gomez & Anthony Ware
Aaron White & Cassie LeFevor
FEATURE | Gift Guide
2.
1. GET A SET OF TOWELS MONOGRAMMED FOR EASY IDENTIFICATION IN SHARED BATHROOMS
GREAT WAY TO SEE HOW THINGS CHANGE THROUGH COLLEGE YEARS
3.
4. 5.
GIFTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL
graduates It’s graduation time again, and chances are you or your family knows a senior who will be ending their high school days and preparing to adventure into college this fall. We’ve come up with a guide to gifting full of items that will be useful in their next phase of life, and have included both traditional and outside the box ideas. With a variety of price points and a selection that touches on every day life and hobbies alike, you’re sure to find something for the grad you have in mind.
6.
7. 8. LOOK FOR A PUBLICATION RELATED TO A GRADUATE’S INTENDED FIELD OF STUDY!
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POPULAR ON CAMPUSES FULL OF TREES
3. 11.
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BACK UP PHONE BATTERY FOR LONG DAYS!
6.
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14. SUBSCRIPTION THAT DELIVERS HEALTHY SNACKS EVERY MONTH
13.
17. FOR QUICK WEEKEND TRIPS HOME!
16. 1. EGYPTIAN COTTON BATH TOWEL SET, $24, JCPENNEY | 2. Q&A A DAY $16.95,ANTHROPOLOGIE | 3. CHAPTER TRAVEL KIT, $24.99, HERSHELSUPPLY.COM | 4. APPLE TV, $69, APPLE | 5. COLLEGIATE TUMBLERS, $16- $30, TERVIS.COM | 6. CREATIVE H N 900 NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES, $99, US.CREATIVE.COM | 7. WALNUT 8GB USB DRIVE, $36, SON OF A SAILOR SUPPLY ON ETSY.COM | 8. MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION, VARIES, MAGAZINES.COM | 9. PADDLE AGAINST THE FLOW, $14.95, BARNES & NOBLE | 10. ENO DOUBLNEST HAMMOCK,$69.99, ACADEMY SPORTS | 11. LOVE FOR TENNESSEE NECKLACE, $9, UNIQUE-VINTAGE.COM | 12. BOSE SOUNDLINK COLOR BLUETOOTH SPEAKER, $129.95, BOSE.COM | 13. BACK ME UP! MOBILE CHARGER, $30, SHOPBANDO.COM | 14. NATUREBOX SUBSCRIPTION, $19.95+ PER MONTH, NATUREBOX.COM | 15. CONTIGO AUTOSEAL WATER BOTTLE WITH STORAGE, $12.53, AMAZON.COM | 16. YETI COOLERS, $249+, BASS PRO SHOP OR YETICOOLERS.COM | 17. LONGCHAMP LE PLIAGE EXPANDABLE TRAVEL MONOGRAM BAG, $255, NEIMAN MARCUS May 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 101
LIFESTYLE | Your Kids
HOW TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVELY ENGAGED IN LEARNING DURING THE SUMMER By Ginger Jones So many moms and kids alike, will be oh-so excited to hear that last bell ringing that means “schools out for summer.” Even though your summer plans may be packed with vacations, camps and other activities, it doesn’t mean your children have to lose ground this summer due to the break. While summer is time for students to unwind, they can keep up their learning all while having fun. Many teachers would tell you that the first few months of the school year are challenging for some kids who have forgotten or lost skills over the summer break. They have to spend valuable time re-teaching skills. There are some simple ways to keep this from happening to your child.
3. Explore the community. This could be a great lesson in history, culture and art. The possibilities are endless in a place like Williamson County. 4. Keep up the reading. Reading is one of the most important skills a child (and really an adult) can have. If your child is resistant to reading over the summer, then encourage them to read for pleasure. 5. Volunteer. By helping out with different organizations in the community, your child can be opened up to a whole new set of skills. Not to mention the other benefits of your child learning about giving back. It’s a win-win.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR KIDS LEARNING OVER THE SUMMER: 1. Before school is out, ask your child’s teacher if they have any recommendations for resources that would help your child. Teachers have knowledge about and access to so many resources. Plus, they know your child so may be able to point you in the direction of the subject areas that would be most worth your time.
6. Have your child keep a journal. This can be helpful in keeping up their handwriting and creative writing skills. Plus they will always have it to look back on.
2. Take the learning outside. Find a great science experiment online and go outdoors to avoid worrying about a mess.
Jones Speech Therapy | 615-614-8833 508 Autumn Springs Court Suite 1A Franklin, TN 37067
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No matter what it is, learning something new will strengthen the brain. So enjoy your summer, have fun and stay actively engaged in learning.
FEATURE | Celebrating Education in Williamson County
A HEALTHY, LIFE-LONG
ADDICTION By Annie Osteen
“ADDICTION, BY DEFINITION, CAN MEAN TO DEVOTE ONESELF TO SOMETHING REGULARLY.” If you happen to watch the news or read the newspaper, you will generally find the word addiction used in reference to drugs or alcohol, which puts a negative spin on the word. What happens if we use the word addiction to describe a hobby like reading? Some may roll their eyes and wonder if it’s possible to become addicted to books? Others may smile and simply know that they are one of those people addicted to holding a book in their hands, turning pages and becoming lost in another world. As an English major myself, I know the addiction well. I grew up reading Nancy Drew, Babysitters Club and anything by Shel Silverstein. It was in high school that I read “The Great Gatsby” and took an obsessive turn into the Jazz Age. It was in college that I was assigned some of the most confusing yet liberating authors to study such as James Joyce, Leo Tolstoy and Ernest Hemingway. My chosen major forced me to read some tough titles but without them, I may have missed several “classics” that teach many lessons in the pages under the book cover. As a mother who consistently reads to her children and has since my pregnancy with both of them, I believe that the tools to start the process lie within the parents. It’s up to the parents to turn off the iPhone, close the email, pick up a book and enjoy an exciting, fictional world with your children. If families read together for 20 minutes a day, 7 days a week, they get more than 121 hours of bonding time every year! Tennesseans are at an advantage when it comes to reading programs that are offered to 104 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
its residents. A single, brief exposure to good reading material can result in a clear increase in enthusiasm for reading. In 1995, Dolly Parton started a literacy program called Imagination Library. It was developed to ensure that kids in her home county in East Tennessee had books to read regardless of where they lived or how much money their parents made. This program currently has 780,403 children registered to receive free books in the United States. Each child receives one age-appropriate book per month from ages 0-5 at no cost to the family. Imagination Library has kept the process simple and secure when signing up on the website. Personally, my children have loved receiving “their” book in the mail each month. The lasting benefits that you will see, as a parent, once your child starts kindergarten will be amazing thanks to the free, unwavering help of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. For more information or to sign up go to: imaginationlibrary.com. Tennessee is a state with leaders that make literacy a top priority which is a wonderful benefit to being a resident. More specifically, Williamson County has many programs that strive to continue the literacy campaign alongside of the State. For instance, you may have seen the Story Bus around Franklin. The Story Bus is a free community program offered through the Franklin Special School District that allows children to nurture their love of reading. Children can enjoy quiet reading time, storytelling, or have a book read to them by one of the certified teachers aboard the bus. To find out more information about the Story Bus locations and times of where you can find it this summer, please FSSD’s website at fssd.org or contact the Story Bus Plus Coordinator, Gina Looney at 615-794-6624.
With the onset of the summer break, it’s a time that parents are asking themselves how they are going to keep their children busy. Experts agree that children who read during the summer break increase their reading skills, while those who don’t often slide backward from where they ended the school year. Each summer, the Tennessee State Library and Archives comes together to create an atmosphere to encourage students to read throughout the summer with their Summer Reading Program. This year’s theme is “Every Hero Has a Story.” Six libraries across Williamson County are making it easy for children to bridge the gap and keep reading skills strong in between school years. This program sets up children to become that much more successful when the new school year begins in August. With programs like the Story Bus and Imagination Library, along with the many free programs offered across Tennessee, there is never a shortage of options to be found for children of every age. The reading addiction is always proven beneficial when started early but like any addiction, it can be found at any time.
LIFESTYLE | Read Between the Lines
join us
FOR A SPECTACULAR SEASON!
ANOTHER SEASON OF GIFT GIVING
The Dixie Swim Club Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope BY AND Jamie Wooten
SHOW RUNS JUNE 5-20. Purchase tickets beginning May 25! Go to www.pull-tight.com any time, or call 791-5007 Tuesday-Friday, 10 am - 4 pm. Discover a treasure. 112 2nd Avenue, South • Historic Downtown Franklin
www.pull-tight.com
Ahhh…springtime is here, one of our favorite times of the year. Everything is new and fresh; So many upcoming events to celebrate and enjoy. Graduations, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, spring and summer weddings...this has become a season of gift giving second only to Christmas. As you peruse your upcoming events and start to consider what would be the most meaningful gift you might offer, we encourage you once again to consider a book. No other gift will be more appreciated, cherished or returned to more often throughout the recipient’s lifetime than a beautiful, carefully selected book with the appropriate gift inscription. It is a gift that can be opened again and again. As far as new releases, some of our favorites might include; a signed copy of Tamera Alexander’s To Win Her Favor, as well as the first book in the Belle Meade Plantation series, To Whisper Her Name, or Karen Kingsbury’s Chasing Sunsets, the second installment in the Angel’s Walking Series. How about Tammy Algood’s new cookbook, Sunday Dinner in the South or Sean Brock’s Heritage Cookbook. Dads and grads would love, Erik Larson’s Dead Wake, Ian Whitelaw’s The History of Fly Fishing in Fifty Flies, Wendell Berry’s Our Only World, or Brian Grazer’s A Curious Mind. There are so many books that are appropriate for each occasion, new, old or rare, in every price range. Beautifully bound books, first editions, signed books, leather books, book sets...the possibilities are endless. The right book, personalized with an appropriate inscription for the occasion, is the perfect answer for all your gift needs. Stop by today and let us help you select the perfect gift for every occasion. We have over 40,000 books from which to choose, and we are open 7 days a week, 10 to 5, or later by appointment. Joel and Carol Tomlin Landmark Booksellers 114 E. Main St. Franklin, TN 37064 | 615-791-6400
FEATURE | Celebrating Education in Williamson County
COURTING THE COMMUNITY COLLEGIATE By Annie Osteen
There’s no doubt that Williamson County has grown at a significant rate over the last few decades. Those that grew up in this area remember it as a farm town where it was only when you traveled into Nashville that you encountered the excitement of a big city. Today Williamson County is one of the fastest growing communities not only in Tennessee but in the entire United States. The crime rate is well-below the national average and the education is well-above the national average. Selling a couple on the idea that raising their family in this area is the right choice isn’t a tough job. As a result of Williamson County public education being the leader in Tennessee and widely recognized on a national scale, it’s only natural that education past the twelfth grade should be an option here as well. With that ideology, Governor Bill Haslam has initiated the Tennessee Promise, a new program in which students have the ability to attend a community college for two years while the majority of costs are covered. The upcoming Class of
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2015 will be the first class to launch this pioneering program. Not only are students excited about the Tennessee Promise but those parents who pay for college tuition, are overjoyed. Brooke Preston, the youngest of four children and a Senior at Centennial High School confirmed by stating “With this program I can stay at home and keep working. It doesn’t cost my parents anything other than books.” The Tennessee Promise has some confused as to how it differs from The Hope Scholarship. The Tennessee Promise is granted to students regardless of their academic qualifications whereas the Hope Scholarship is based on merit and awarded to students with outstanding academic achievements. This new program also offers mentors, provided by partnering organizations across the state, which will help ensure that each student has support when navigating through the admissions process. Of course the Tennessee Promise does have a few specifications in order for students to qualify such as completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on time, fulfilling eight hours of community service for each semester that they receive the Tennessee Promise funding and attend a few mandatory meetings at local high schools. Students that participate in the Tennessee Promise
program can utilize the funding at any of the 13 community colleges, 27 colleges of applied technology, or other eligible institution offering an Associate’s degree program. Roughly 25,000 high school students are expected to utilize the Tennessee Promise this year. The funds will be generated from the state’s lottery reserves along with an endowment created by the state General Assembly. Ultimately, this new program, along with Governor Haslam’s Drive to 55 campaign, aims to increase the number of Tennessee residents with college degrees or certificates to 55% by the year 2025.
One of the 13 Community Colleges participating in this program is Columbia State, which has several locations throughout middle Tennessee, including Franklin. Columbia State, an educational heartbeat in Franklin, has taken notice of the large growth in population and has appreciated that students may not want to travel long distances to gain a higher education. In order to accommodate the growth of Williamson County, Columbia State has started their initial phase of the campus located at 1228 Liberty Pike with the goal of completion in mid-spring 2016. Columbia State currently offers courses relating to over 50 majors where students have the ability to commute to a physical campus or through online courses that can cater to those who may work full-time. O’More College of Design is another gem located in the heart of downtown
Franklin. The seven beautiful acres off of Margin Street isn’t hard to miss as the cultural beauty of the landscape fits in perfectly with the historic richness of Franklin. O’More, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, four year college, currently enrolls approximately 200 students regardless of monetary hardship. The design industry, whether it’s fashion, interactive, graphic or interior design, is ever-evolving. Local students interested in choosing a path in an industry known for progressive change and culture have the perfect opportunity with O’More College of Design. Amy Shelton, VP of Student Affairs at O’More, explained “The most difficult students to recruit are our local ones because most of them want
to go out of town/state to college.” O’More College of Design offers extraordinary opportunities that a big university may not. More personalized, major-focused classes from well-respected faculty in the heart of a town that preserves the same theory of mixing historic prominence with ever-evolving culture. For local students desiring a smaller and more intimate college, Williamson College may be the ideal option without having to relocate. Williamson College, located on Mallory Station Road in Franklin, is a non-profit that welcomes students from all ages and cultures. Williamson College takes pride in an
atmosphere that intentionally strives to keep things on a lighter scale. They recognize that some students perform better in smaller settings, which is important to the administration and staff. All Williamson College classes are taught with a biblical perspective and the academic staff delights their classes with more than textbook knowledge; The staff creates an environment of personally knowing students to facilitate an encouraging journey spiritually and professionally. Williamson County has only seen the start of the many changes coming down the pike. We are rapidly growing and are proud of what we have surrounding us in our community. Families from all of the country and world have found their place in this charming area, knowing that they can find a vast number of impressive options for educational needs. Traveling great distances in search of inspiring, affordable college possibilities seems unnecessary. The best of the best seem to be right here in our backyard.
FEATURE | Celebrating Education in Williamson County
DESIGNERS OF THE FUTURE By Shelly Birdsong
Educational opportunities abound in Williamson County and middle Tennessee but one of our treasured gems has to be The O’More College of Design located in the heart of the historic district. O’More has long made a national and even international mark with programs of study in Interior, Visual and Fashion design amidst the magnolias of a preserved southern mansion and campus. Bucolic and idyllic one might say as far as places to get your college degree but seriously – there are exciting and innovative things happening at this little college on the hill and O’More is a college of choice for students across the country looking for these majors. One of the most impressive things O’More has always done is their showcase of student fashion design at their annual runway show. This year they will celebrate 17 years and have chosen to now expand the show to a
“Collective,” encompassing not just fashion students’ work but also the work of the other two design programs. Of course fashion is always a showstopper and this year will be no different. It’s a production that’s as New York-chic as it is steeped in southern style and tradition. This year’s show will feature collections exploring ideas such as renewed life after death, empowerment, the defiance of dimension and unusual beauty. “Our featured designers all certainly offer unique points of view,” said Jamie Atlas, O’More School of Fashion dean. “From pieces inspired by African wax prints and vintage magazine covers, to designs incorporating Shibori and natural dying techniques, this event promises a panoply of designs satisfying a variety of tastes. We will also have a Rockabilly inspired collection for girls and a collection that takes innovation and creativity in plus-size fashion to the next level.” Five fashion industry experts and area celebrities will participate in the show as critics: Amanda Valentine, Shelley Sarmiento, Van Tucker, Jennifer Herron and Lori Tesoro. “We could not be more thrilled with our line up of judges for this year’s show,” said Atlas. “Their role is important as they will be critiquing each student’s collection’s construction, cohesiveness, creativity, marketability and runway presentation.” Student designers are vying for awards including the Design Achievement Award for juniors offering a $5,000 scholarship prize and a Distinguished Designer Award for presenting seniors awarding a $1,000 stipend and a Singer 8770 Curvy sewing machine valued at $600. Event sponsors include Reflection Agency, Olia Zavozina, Rodney Mitchell, Singer, TruColor and YOUR Williamson. Tickets are available and may be purchased at www.omorecollective.com or by calling 615-794-4254, ext. 220. All proceeds benefit
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O’More student scholarships. Doors open at 5:30pm to the gallery of senior exhibits in Interior and Visual Design, as well as Fashion Merchandising. The fashion show begins at 8pm. Amidts the excitement of the big event, the campus is abuzz with event more excitement. The show will begin with the introduction of the new President and O’More will be graduating 37 seniors. Amanda Valentine from Project Runway seasons 11 and 13 will serve as the guest speaker at their Commencement ceremony on May 9th. Atlas concludes, “And having just received the largest number of applications in our school’s history, we know the future holds many exciting things to come for O’More College of Design.” Do not miss the upcoming events at O’More and for more information visit omorecollege.edu.
SOCIAL | Pieces of Hope Story & photography Submitted The 2015 Pieces of Hope Benefit was a fun evening with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, auctions and live entertainment! Held at The Factory at Franklin, the event benefited Autism Tennessee, which works to create a community where people on the Autism spectrum and their families find respect, acceptance and hope. The money raised at Pieces of Hope supports the valuable services Autism Tennessee provides to the Middle Tennessee Autism community.
STUDENT FASHION SHOW FRIDAY, MAY 15
LIBERTY HALL THE FACTORY AT FRANKLIN
SENIOR EXHIBITS DOORS OPEN 5:30PM
FASHION SHOW DOORS OPEN 6:30PM FASHION SHOW 8:00PM
Blake Lewis, Emily Hoskins, Dylan Brown, Trice Rassel & Addi Young
GENERAL ADMISSION $45 Jackie Kopp, Amanda Peltz & Amanda Weissert
FOR TICKETS VISIT:OMORECOLLECTIVE.COM OR CALL: 615.794.4254, EXT. 220 #OMORECOLLECTIVE A DISTINCTIVELY SOUTHERN PLACE
Ben Liske & Amanda Peltz
Steve Pert & Beth Malow
Chesley & Liz Edwards
David Wu, Hope Freel & Beth Horton
Richard Melamed, Judy Davison, Katherine Veitschegger, Sara Melamed, Alice Newgarden & Warren Melamed
COMMUNITY | Your Education
HIGH SCHOOL
G U I DA N C E
COUNSELORS:
THE JACK OF ALL TRADES By Annie Osteen High school students, generally around their junior year, accrue a large to-do list that keeps them busy. This list is usually compiled of everything having to do with college…the requirements, the admissions and the painful, standardized tests. By the time a high school student’s senior year begins, the college applications have begun and the stress of deadlines and prerequisites becomes overwhelming and tiresome for both the student applying and the parents. Since the beginning of the 20th century, counselors have played an integral role in high schools across the world. In the United States, high school guidance counselors have evolved into becoming a jack of all trades in their role. In the 1970’s and 1980’s, counselors focused on matching students up with professions that would suit their personalities and abilities. Now, a guidance counselor seems to be a part of a much larger scale within the school system in which they are responsible for not only providing academic and personal guidance to students but also training and collaborating with the school to ensure everyone is up-to-date with the latest tools and information regarding students in each grade. School counselors meet the needs of students in three basic areas: academic development, career development and personal/social development. Ideally, guidance counselors believe that a student’s emphasis on the importance of preparing for college starts earlier than their junior year. In many schools across the country students are starting to map out their college plan before they enter the 9th grade. Many counselors suggest taking harder courses early on to better prepare for what lies ahead. Taking a tough math course, when you don’t necessarily need to, will lead to better test scores, which will ultimately lead to better choices when applying to colleges. Many high school guidance counselors take great pleasure in assisting their students with the college admissions process. They recognize how the rules and requirements have changed, making the practice of applying to a college labor intensive. A guidance counselor’s role in this process alone can include sending high schools transcripts to colleges for students, creating lists of 110 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
colleges to suit an individual’s grades, goals and personality, and walking their students through the requirements which can vary from college to college. Some colleges require letters of recommendation from a high school guidance counselor. Guidance Counselors, usually possessing a Master’s or Ph.D, is expected to be knowledgeable and informative to not only the school and students but to the parents as well. A counselor’s role doesn’t always entail sitting behind a desk and looking up admissions information on the computer. Their roles take them out of their office where they may set up training programs or invite certain college recruiters into the school to meet with students. Counselors also play a very active role in encouraging students to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which when successful, will help any student become more attractive to a college admissions recruiter. A high school senior, no doubt, plays the exhausting role that includes the pressures of doing well on homework assignments, standardized tests, exams, extra-curricular activities, a part-time job, community service and an active social life. From a student perspective, getting to know the guidance counselor who can provide one-on-one support to alleviate some of the demands, is the obvious choice to make. At the end of the day, the responsibility of college applications, deadlines and requirements will always lie with the student but making the most of an individual, like a respected and well-trained guidance counselor, can turn a tedious process into a more efficient and memorable one. Thanks to the Princeton Review, which relies heavily on student opinion for data relating to their polls and statistics, there is access to anyone gathering information on colleges. An individual can search universities with a focus on geographical location, demographics, emphasis on majors or even by which schools “party” the most. Testimonies oftentimes are the best source of marketing and can help students, their parents and counselors understand what else is out there that may have been overlooked. Here is Princeton Review’s Top 25 Universities that were chosen in 2015 solely based on “Their Students Love These Colleges.”
PRINCETON REVIEW’S TOP 25 UNIVERSITIES “THEIR STUDENTS LOVE THESE COLLEGES” RANKING
NAME
LOCATION
1
Claremont McKenna College
Claremont, CA
2
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
3
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA
4
Pomona College
Claremont, CA
5
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
6
Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering
Needham, MA
7
Villanova University
Villanova, PA
8
Scripps College
Claremont, CA
9
Rice University
Houston, TX
10
Washington University in St. Louis
St. Louis, MO
11
College of the Atlantic
Bar Harbor, ME
12
Bowdoin College
Brunswick, ME
13
Whitman College
Walla Walla, WA
14
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
15
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
16
Miami University
Oxford, OH
17
Brandeis University
Waltham, MA
18
St. Michael’s College
Colchester, VT
19
Haverford College
Haverford, PA
20
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL
COMMUNITY | A Little Something Extra
campference highlights three tracks of learning for the girls: 1. Health and Wellness 2. Creativity and Innovation 3. Relationships.
By Shelly Robertson
THIS ONE’S FOR THE GIRLS In honor of Mothers, and celebrating women in general this month, we wanted to share the story of a unique and interesting new organization that truly does just that. The brainchild of three local women, Girls to the Moon is a social enterprise company with a mission of surrounding the next generation of girls with truth and education on topics ranging from creative writing and coding to healthy relationships and sex. The idea is the culmination of years of conversation between co-founders Courtenay Rogers and Knight Stivender, who are single mothers of girls and consider one another “other mothers” to their daughters. Girls to the Moon was born but not quite complete, from their mutual passion to empower their daughters, so they invited friend Courtney Seiter to join as the third co-founder. Knight and Courtney met in college at the University of Tennessee and went on to work together at Williamson AM, part of the Tennessean. Knight and Roger had become friends about six years ago when Courtenay’s mother insisted that they meet. All three women have been friends for years and when it came time to take action on moving forward with this passion project, it just made sense for them to do this together. “We want to be a catalyst for conversation about how girls should love themselves, feel comfortable in their own skin and ultimately guide them to be the best humans they can be,” says Rogers. The inaugural “campference” event is on September 26, 2015 with a goal to build a community for smart girls to meet other smart girls and for caregivers, specifically mothers, to learn the best way to connect and communicate with these girls. The 112 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | May 2015
Caregivers are encouraged to attend and have a track of their own, specifically focused on how to effectively communicate with the girls in their lives to help them reach their full potential. Speakers from all across middle Tennessee, in areas like counseling, teaching, mentoring, healthcare and business will lead 20-minute sessions. Hands-on activities such as coding, changing a tire, and exercise will be available throughout the day. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a local non-profit that focuses on helping girls and women. When asked what the ultimate goal of this endeavor is, Rogers says “Our immediate goal is to successfully execute our event in September, and start to build a community within middle Tennessee. Our hope is that the girls will stay connected and we can create smaller meet-up style groups in our area, then ultimately bring the campference to other cities, spreading the passion to educate girls across the country and even abroad. We want these girls to learn to love themselves at a young age, and we plan to give them the tools they need to help them do absolutely anything they want to when they grow up.” Early bird tickets are on sale at website www. girlstothemoon.com and they are looking for volunteers to help at the campference as well as sponsors to help underwrite the event. Email girlstothemoon@gmail.com and LIKE them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/girlstothemoon.
THE CAMPFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS THREE TRACKS OF LEARNING FOR THE GIRLS:
1 2 3
Health and Wellness Creativity and Innovation Relationships.
YW MONTHLY | Williamson County Did You Know?
DID YOU KNOW? HEADED OFF TO COLLEGE
TOP 5 MOST BEAUTIFUL COLLEGE CAMPUSES (HUFFINGTONPOST) 1. STANFORD UNIVERSITY: PALO ALTO, CA 2. UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME: SOUTH BEND, IN 3. FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE: LAKELAND, FL 4. UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI: CINCINNATI, OH 5. UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO: SAN DIEGO A BACHELORS DEGREE FROM THE CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY WILL DO MORE TO MAXIMIZE YOUR MID-CAREER EARNINGS THAN A BACHELOR’S DEGREE FROM ANYWHERE ELSE. Average cost of tuition for the 2014–2015 year was $9,139 (instate), $31,231 (private) and $22,958 (out-of-state).
40% of workingaged Americans hold a college degree. TOP PARTY SCHOOLS (HUFFINGTON POST) 1. Syracuse University 2. University of Iowa 3. University of California- Santa Barbara 4. West Virginia University 5. University of Illinois at Urbana- Champion TOP 10 MOST POPULAR COLLEGE MAJORS IN US: 1. BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT/COMMERCE 2. PSYCHOLOGY 3. NURSING 4. BIOLOGY/ BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 5. EDUCATION 6. ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE 7. ECONOMICS 8. COMMUNICATIONS STUDIES/SPEECH COMMUNICATION AND RHETORIC 9. POLITICAL SCIENCE AND GOVERNMENT 10. COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SCIENCES
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