34 minute read
Your Charitable Self
Boo at the Zoo
Since opening its doors in 1991, Nashville Zoo has grown from a small, private operation located just outside of Nashville to an AZAaccredited facility that welcomes more than one million visitors each year. They are also involved with international conservation and research efforts to save threatened species.
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Nashville Zoo’s progressive and dynamic zoological park is located in south Nashville. With just ninety of 188 acres developed, the Nashville Zoo is the ninth largest zoo in the country by landmass. The Zoo is one of the top tourist attractions in the state and has been named the Best Regional Attraction and Best Day Trip by The Tennessean.
Nashville Zoo’s popular Boo at the Zoo will celebrate a safe Halloween for six nights a week from October 15th to 30th. To address social distancing, the event will take place over a longer period, limit nightly attendance and require timed entries.
“About 40,000 guests attend Boo at the Zoo every year,” said Kindell Williams, Nashville Zoo’s director of special events. “We have worked hard and found ways to keep everyone safe while providing an exciting evening that our guests expect from Nashville’s top family attraction.”
This year’s Boo at the Zoo will run nightly (except Mondays), from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., starting October 15th and ending October 30th. Attendance will be restricted to a nightly maximum of 2,500 guests entering at scheduled half-hour times. The event will offer a oneway path featuring treat stations, themed areas, photo opportunities, entertainment, rides and more.
Tickets for Boo at the Zoo are $14 for Zoo members and $16 for nonmembers. Boo at the Zoo is supported by Middle Tennessee Honda Dealers. Contributing sponsors include ICEE, Irwin Entertainment and Liberty Party Rental.
To purchase Boo at the Zoo tickets and see a full list of activities, visit nashvillezoo.org/boo.
Discover the magic of refined country living at Whitestone Inn, a charming and welcoming, East Tennessee bed and breakfast! Our 360-acre bed and breakfast halfway between Knoxville and Chattanooga, Tennessee, resembles a village, complete with a farmhouse, cottage and twenty-two unique rooms that make for charming, luxurious, and comfortable lodging accommodations.
The beautifully secluded acres on the shores of Watts Bar Lake (a reservoir of the Tennessee River), provide a peaceful country space for all to enjoy, providing you with a much-needed retreat from the fast-paced world that we live in. Whether you are planning a corporate retreat, family reunion or a simple trip by yourself, we are sure you’ll find Whitestone a true “sanctuary for the soul.”
Whitestone’s 360 acres of rolling hills and scenery make for a gorgeous backdrop for the perfect wedding, featuring a variety of venues to host your dream ceremony and reception. With catering and experienced wedding planners onsite, you can rest easy, knowing that every detail is thoughtfully cared for. Check out our flexible indoor and outdoor wedding venues at Whitestone.
Located in the heart of beautiful East Tennessee, you are never far from an adventure when you stay at Whitestone. Our peaceful bed and breakfast is just a short drive from destinations such as Knoxville, Chattanooga, Tri-Cities, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains.
Experience southern dining with influence from Northern Italy at the Whitestone Inn Restaurant. The menu changes each evening, but the views of the water and mountains consistently impress. Our guests enjoy complimentary breakfast served each morning, as well as tasty snacks served throughout the day.
We are adding new events all the time! Holiday lunch buffets, concerts, cooking classes and more.
Each of the rooms at Whitestone Country Inn come with a whirlpool tub, free WiFi, a mini fridge and fireplace, as well as a country breakfast in the Farmhouse restaurant, surrounded on three sides with windows providing incredible views of meadows, the lake and mountains. The intimate fireplaces, comfortable beds and fresh air are what make our romantic getaway such a great choice for your quiet retreat.
1200 PAINT ROCK ROAD KINGSTON, TN 37763 865.376.0113 INFO@WHITESTONEINN.COM WHITESTONEINN.COM
PUMPKIN HUNTING 101 When searching for the perfect gourd, everyone has their personal preferences. White, orange, giant, small, smooth or bumpy. The combinations are endless. Whatever your taste, there are a few things to look for during your search. Choose a pumpkin that is firm and feels heavy. Check for any soft or moldy spots. The stem should still be firmly attached. For carving, make sure there is at least one flat side and that the pumpkin sits level on a flat surface. If you like the white pumpkins, don’t delay. These sell out quickly so buy them as soon as you see them.
THE 411 ON PUMPKINS
BY KRISTA EHRET
Pumpkin carving is an annual activity enjoyed by most fall lovers. It’s one of the few craft projects that can be tailored for any age or skill level making it a great go-to party activity. Whether hosting a large fall bash or a fun family night, here are some ideas from the seed scooping to the stoop display. PUMPKIN PRESERVATION We’ve all seen the sad collapsed faces staring at us days before Halloween has even arrived. To keep your creation looking its best, you can spray with bleach or go the natural route with the following concoction: Combine two tablespoons of borax, eight ounces water, and forty drops of peppermint essential oil in a spray bottle. Shake to mix and spray the pumpkin inside and out. Try to keep your jack o’ lanterns out of direct sun light and avoid cleaning solutions that suggest apple cider vinegar as these may attract bugs.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT TOOLS Once you have the perfect array of pumpkins, you’ll want to gather your supplies. If you have little ones, a fun and safe way for them to get involved is to let them select a few of the tiny pumpkins and then display their artistic ability with paint, glue or glitter. There are also some really cute kits that allow you to stick pieces onto the pumpkin to create different faces or animals. For amateur carving, grab some of those handy packs that include your tools as well as some patterns. If you prefer something more advanced or unique, make sure you have a large serrated knife to cut through the top or bottom of the pumpkin, a large metal spoon for scooping, a paring knife for more precise cuts. Grab plenty of newspaper to grab the mess, perhaps some painting smocks and flameless candles with batteries to put inside your creation.
SETTING THE STAGE A pumpkin carving party is typically one of your more casual get-togethers. There’s no need to go over the top on preparation. Put out your existing fall décor, light a seasonal candle and (weather permitting) get a fire pit or fire place going. Chili is a crowd-pleaser that is super easy when thrown into a crockpot. Set a DIY toppings bar with cheese, corn chips, sour cream, onion, etc., and pair with some cornbread for the perfect comfort food are easy and go great with the chili. Hot chocolate is a warm treat for the kiddos after they finish their pumpkins. Warm caramel or peanut butter poured over apple slices make for a yummy but not over indulgent dessert. THE SKINNY ON SEEDS While the goopy pumpkin innards are less than appetizing, the seeds actually make a yummy snack when prepared correctly. Start by scooping everything out and then separating the seeds. Clean them by rinsing in a colander and then give a good shake to dry. Spread the seeds on a baking sheet and roast at 300°F for thirty minutes to completely dry them out. Toss with olive oil and your seasonings of choice and then bake for an additional twenty minutes or until golden and crisp. There are some great options for flavors online such as buffalo, ranch, cinnamon sugar and taco. For a simple savory option, toss with two tablespoons of melted butter and one teaspoon seasoned salt per cup of seeds.
CREATING YOUR DISPLAY meal. Offer cider only if your crowd will drink it. Beer and wine
Whether in their natural state or decorated to the nines, pumpkins are the quintessential fall focal point. When creating your design, use a variety of sizes, colors and textures for lots of cohesive visual interest. To keep things from looking flat add some height by bringing in potted plants, hay bales, lanterns, urns or wooden crates. You can also add some personalization by painting your family’s last initial or the street address on one or more of the pumpkins. Draw inspiration from design ideas on Pinterest and then throw your own spin on it.
KRISTA EHRET The Lady Entertains | yoursouthernsoiree.com
Krista is an event designer and co-owner of Southern Soiree, a full-service event and wedding planning company. She also enjoys bringing beauty into everyday life.
8 TIPS FOR THE FIRSTTIME HOME BUYER
1. Know how much home you can afford. As a first-time home buyer, it’s important to have an accurate idea of how much money you can borrow and how much you can afford.
2. Get Pre-Approved. With a pre-approval, you’re in a better position to negotiate because the seller knows that your offer is more solid.
3. Consider what kind of mortgages you
should be looking at. The mortgage best for you will depend on: Your current financial situation; Whether or not your financial situation will change in the next few years; How long you want to stay in your home and If your income is steady or fluctuating.
4. Have your documents ready. Almost always, you’ll need these items to complete your mortgage application:W-2’s; Pay stubs; Bank and/or other asset statements.
5. What Is a Reasonable Offer? Have your real estate agent run comparable sales in your area and pay attention to prices per square foot for recent sales.
6. What Is a Purchase Agreement? The purchase agreement sets the amount of your offer and usually includes extra details, such as which appliances stay, who pays closing costs and when you’d like to take possession of the house. The seller (or selling agent) will have you sign the purchase agreement and offer “earnest money.”
7. Have the Home Inspected. You should never buy a home without inspecting it, and most purchase agreements are contingent upon inspection. Spend a few hundred dollars and hire a qualified/licensed professional to inspect your new home. It’s the only real way to ensure the home is in good condition.
8. Know your Closing Costs. All mortgage lenders are required by law to disclose in writing your estimated closing costs and fees, so you’ll know ahead of time. Before your closing, you’ll receive a document that outlines the actual costs you’ll pay at closing. Be sure to ask for and to take a final walk through of the property shortly before the closing to make sure the home is in the condition you expect it to be.
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Do you know our story?
Dianne Christian
615.260.3313 Dianne@Daniel-Christian.com
Matt Daniel
615.498.6129 Matt@Daniel-Christian.com
There is a story behind most all things, and our company and business is no exception. In a nutshell, here’s ours. . .
Family-owned and operated real estate business w/mother, Dianne, and son, Matt 6th and 7th generation natives and lifelong residents of Franklin/Williamson County 53 years of combined experience in the business of helping buyers, sellers, builders and investors buy and sell real estate in the Middle Tennessee area We live and work in historic downtown Franklin Daniel-Christian Real Estate, LLC is now 8 years old with 14 affiliated agents Both Dianne and Matt are brokers with Matt the managing broker for the company Matt served as 2018 President of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® Dianne and Matt both have served years as Directors of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® Dianne serves as a Director for the Downtown Neighborhood Association Dianne and Matt are committed to keeping Franklin the charming, quaint and special place that it has always been Seems hard for newcomers to believe that we have lived here our entire lives!
We would not have it any other way!!
615.790.6107
www.Daniel-Christian .com
Daniel-Christian Real Estate, LLC 203 2nd Avenue South in the historic district of downtown Franklin
Representation Photo
Representation Photo
4701 FARMSTEAD PVT LANE, LOT A THE FARMSTEAD | FRANKLIN | $1,540,000 | 3.14 ACRES 5 Bedrooms • 5.5 Baths • 4,989 Sq. Ft. • 3-Car Garage All Zoned Schools Are Within 2.5 Miiles of Home MLS # 2156570
419 MURFREESBORO ROAD HISTORIC FRANKLIN | $2,499,900 | 1.08 ACRES 5 Bedrooms • 4.5 Baths • 6,128 Sq. Ft. • 4-Car Garage Historic Renovated Home • Walk to Pinkerton Park MLS # 2192774
506 - SOLD!
NEW CONSTRUCTION IN BRENTWOOD TUSCANY HILLS • 0.50-0.63 ACRE LOTS Basements Available • Homes From $1.2 - $1.7 RAINTREE FOREST • 0.39-0.59 ACRE LOTS Basements Available • Homes From $1.1 - $1.7
502 & 506 FRANKLIN ROAD
PRIME BRENTWOOD LOCATION | STARTING AT $4,500,000 502 Franklin Rd - 3.28 Acres | 506 Franklin Rd - 2.77 Acres Build Your Dream Home with Arnold Homes!
LOTS ARE NOT FOR SALE - WILL BUILD
192 BARLOW RD FRANKLIN | $669,000 5 Bedrooms • 4 Baths 3,850 Sq. Ft. • 2-Car Garage Corner Lot 2 Bedrooms on Main Level MLS # 2179886
SOLD!
207 WATSON VIEW DR
FRANKLIN | $494,900 3 Bedrooms • 2.5 Baths 2,519 Sq. Ft. • 2-Car Garage Immaculately Maintained Fenced Back Yard MLS # 21913785
HARDEMAN SPRINGS
ARRINGTON | HOMES FROM THE $800’S & UP Custom Quality From Award-Winning Builders: Turnberry Homes, Heritage Homes, and AR Homes Convenient to Historic Franklin, Nolensville, Murfreesboro, Arrington Vineyards, I-840, Shopping, Restaurants, & Entertainment Highly Sought-After Williamson County Schools
SOLD!
5816 WAGONVALE DR ARRINGTON | $829,900 4 Bedrooms • 3.5 Baths 3,804 Sq. Ft. • 3-Car Garage
Brand New Floorplan From Award-Winning Turnberry Homes MLS # 2159387
1596 EASTWOOD DRIVE
BRENTWOOD | $1,349,900 5 Bedrooms • 5.5 Baths 4,533 Sq. Ft. • 3-Car Garage 2 Bedrooms on Main Level Built By Aspen Construction MLS # 2143137
SOLD!
1593 EASTWOOD DRIVE BRENTWOOD | $1,449,900 5 Bedrooms • 5 F & 2 H Baths 5,476 Sq. Ft. • 3-Car Garage 2 Bedrooms on Main Level Built By Artisan Homes
MLS # 2105104
COMING SOON!
2191 HARTLAND RD FRANKLIN | $1,124,900 5 Bedrooms • 4 Baths 4,281 Sq. Ft. • 3-Car Garage 2 Bedrooms on Main Level Double Sided Gas Fireplace MLS # TBD
5026 HILLTOP LN COLLEGE GROVE | $2,324,900 5 Bedrooms • 5 F & 2 H Baths 6,613 Sq. Ft. • 4-Car Garage 7.91 Acres • 2 BD’s on Main Bonus Rm w/Walk-Behind Bar MLS # 2147356
COMING SOON!
6434 TEA ROSE TER
BRENTWOOD | $2,049,000 4 Bedrooms • 4.5 Baths 5,207 Sq. Ft. • 3-Car Garage 3 Bedrooms on Main Level Thermador Appliances MLS # 2160450
2172 HARTLAND RD
FRANKLIN | $1,225,000 5 Bedrooms • 6.5 Baths 6,745 Sq. Ft. • 3-Car Garage Full Finished Basement Well Maintained MLS # 2190624
POOL INCLUDED!
1252 MORNING GLORY BRENTWOOD | $2,699,900 7 Bedrooms • 6.5 Baths 7,084 Sq. Ft. • 3-Car Garage Gated Community Cul-De-Sac Location MLS # 2149602
Halloween
Movie Musts
It’s the time of year to pop some popcorn and watch a spooky flick! Here are the top Halloween movies - from scary to family friendly - that are a must watch this year!
Come see us for Fall and Thanksgiving Centerpieces and Decor!
PARKS On Main 415 Main Street Franklin Your Real Estate Professionals of Middle Tennessee Franklin, TN 615.790.7400 Danny Anderson 615.790.7400 PARKS On Main | 106 East Main Street | Franklin, TN 615.790.7400 | ParksAtHome.com
Danny Anderson 615.790.7400 Darci Caesar Reid Anderson615.947.6038 615.406.3426 Christopher Close 615.490.2004Jeannie Bankins 310.499.8146 Lisa Davis 615.982.9404Mary Jane Cochran 615. 438.6640 Tammy Fitzpatrick Cindy Denson615.335.0405 615.587.0366
Greg Fritz 615.347.1732 Cindy Garner 615.587.0366Mary Grace Gardner 615.506.4419 Loy Hardcastle 615.948.3704 Loy Hardcastle 615.948.3704 Kim Henderson 615.881.9053 Kim Henderson 615.881.9053
Lisa Davis Scott Hudson 615. 982.9404615.403-1055
Sandy MelzPatrick Jackson 615.609.7424615.566.9598 Margaret Flowers Orton Sarah Beth Litzenberg 615.604.2590615.712.4312
Brentwood ParksAtHome.com Brentwood Brentwood Office 8119 Isabella Lane, Suite 105 Brentwood, TN 37027 615.370.8669 8119 Isabella Lane, Suite 105 | Brentwood, TN 37027 615.370.8669 | ParksAtHome.com Nelle Anderson 615.939.8323
Teresa Chiles 931.607.7513 Melissa Taylor 615.427.1412 Lauren Sullivan 615.289.8610
Dawne Davis 615.945.7139 Lisa Culp Taylor 615.300.8285
Kathy Danner 615. 815.5856 Susan Gregory 615. 300.5111
Susan Gregory 615. 300.5111 Debbie Hovsepian 310.701.7477 Tammy Morris 615. 596.3900 Candace Revelette 615. 456.4022 Kim Day Shacklock 615.838.8850
Cindy Stanton Luanne Story Nathan Throneberry Cindy Stanton 615. 482.2224 615.714.7511 Kim Day Shacklock 615.542.5822 615. 482.2224 615.838.8850 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 45
autumn
BY JENNY REIMOLD | PHOTO CREDIT: EVIN PHOTOGRAPHY FLORAL CREDIT: CARL DENTON DESIGNS
In planning to style my home for fall, I left the buffalo check pillows and pumpkin-filled, vintage trucks in the attic. While I still appreciate that classic look, I needed something that felt a bit more fresh and a little less cluttered. Inspired by a $4.99 plate from HomeGoods and freshly baked desserts, this year’s two autumn tables focused on the textures and scents of the season. “Falling for Neutrals” and “Cinnamon and Sage” highlight the beauty of dried botanicals and cinnamon flavored baked treats.
For a gorgeous table of white, ivories and wood tones, style three neutral table runners HORIZONTALLY across the table. This adds a bit more texture and gives a hard surface a lot of visual appeal. Transform bamboo or rattan lanterns into statement vases. Instead of a candle, fill the glass inside with pampas grass or your favorite dried florals. Group a collection of odd numbered vases, like these neutral, bamboo lanterns, in a cluster at varying heights. Style the table with your favorite metallic accent. Copper and gold are perfect colors for an autumn table. I added an inexpensive gold flatware set from Amazon to complement the gold rim on the dishware.
Tablescapes
crisp from Meesh’s Bakery Franklin and mini pumpkin spice cakes from Momma Nik’s Cheesecakes in Nashville. I love adding a dessert as a place setting topper. These welcome guests to the table whether they save these savory treats for after dinner or take them home as a party favor.
Inspired by my love of cinnamon buns and fall’s muted colors, I designed a “cinnamon and sage” tablescape in my dining room. Vases filled with eucalyptus, peach roses and blooming ranunculus , created by Carl Denton Designs, anchored the layered place settings. Copper chargers were stacked between sisal placemats and classic white hobnail plates to become the foundation for Momma Nik’s delightful mini pumpkin spice cheesecakes with fresh cinnamon rolls. Judy Beaudin, owner of Scrumptious, a boutique catering company in Franklin, baked decadent mini cinnamon roll cakes as a welcoming invitation to dinner . Candied sage leaves and warm cinnamon sticks garnished these homemade treats that were a huge hit with our family.
For more family friendly designs and honest lifestyle content, visit my Instagram, @jennyreimold. More fall videos and sources can be found in my FALL highlight.
JENNY REIMOLD, DESIGNER & MEDIA STYLIST Styling Your Everyday
Writer and Franklin resident, Jenny Reimold, is a local designer who serves as HomeGoods’ “Style Expert.” Her work has been featured in House Beautiful, HGTV, People Magazine online, Property Brothers and Good Morning America. To follow her work, visit her Instagram @jennyreimold.
Haunted Hincheyville
SHELLY ROBERTSON BIRDSONG
When we moved to the historic downtown Franklin neighborhood of Hincheyville five years ago, I had two thoughts in mind: My porch has to look great and how much candy will we need to buy for Halloween? EEEEEKKKKK! Well the porch is done once again this year... And I think if I had really been planning ahead I would have started buying candy back in the winter to prepare for the onslaught that will overtake downtown on Halloween night. For those who do not know – West Main Street in downtown Franklin is closed to traffic on Halloween so that all the ghosts and goblins can wander safely from door to door collecting their treats and a few tricks! Those tricks come from the residents themselves, who have made Halloween into yet another amazing downtown event, complete with pirate ships, haunted garages, chainsaws and plenty of skeletons, black cats and who knows what else!
There is a Queen of West Main Street who is the maven of all things Halloween. Marty Ligon begins decorating in September so her home kicks off the season in high style. She says she began decorating back in the early seventies for her children who loved Halloween even more than Christmas, she remembers. Starting first with one lone Pumpkin Man, who was later feeling lonely as she recalls, and adding more Pumpkin “people,” until eventually she had a whole family gathered on her famous front porch.
Eventually the pumpkins grew into… The Land of OZ characters of course, and soon each year saw a new scene or theme come alive every magical October. This year it is Gone with the Wind – of skeletons. There are hoop skirts, big hats, a skeleton horse drawn carriage and a party in the yard!
All this revelry isn’t just the outside of the house. The inside of her Victorian dollhouse soon saw as many spooks as the Adams Family mansion, as she started and continues to, decorate each and every room! Yes, even the bathroom has a shower capped skeleton peeking out from behind the shower curtain to frighten anyone who dares to disturb their bath! In the beginning, Marty allowed trick or treaters to come into the house – to visit Uncle Lester asleep in his coffin. Yes, a real coffin, set up in the foyer. There are spooks taking tea in the dining room and enjoying a card game in a bedroom. The skeleton collection has been ongoing through the help of the real decorator as Marty puts it – her friend Tammy. And there have been other helpers along the way. Artist Chris Tibbott who did backdrops for the television show “Hee Haw,” and others, did the faces on the pumpkins and a scary backdrop inside the garage.
Oh yes. The garage. The small structure to the rear of the property is unassuming enough on any given day. But come October 1st-31st every year for now, twenty-five years, the garage becomes a haunted walk thru for kids and adults alike. This year, complete with a skeleton over the (doorway) into a child’s Halloween delight. The garage is decorated with every magical, mystical, frightening, whimsical, Halloween collectible and décor you can imagine. It is lit up all month long, twenty-four hours a day, so anyone passing by can enjoy a glimpse into this not too terribly frightening, fun house.
So how does the Queen of Halloween prepare for the masses of children and visitors that descend on West Main each year? “I plan for around 5000,” she says… “5000?” this neighbor asks with a gasp... Well that includes all month long in the garage, but still… Probably a highly accurate assessment. “I started out handing the children quarters, until I kept seeing some of the same faces coming through more than once,” Marty laughs. After many years the crowds became too much to manage inside the house, “Although we have never had anything stolen, except for one mask in the garage,” she exclaims. Still, as people became more and more aware of this scene right out of the movies, even the city decided it was time to step in and a few years ago closed the street and made it a great place for the kids and adults alike to enjoy the holiday.
Make no mistake, Marty has inspired the rest of the street to join in on the fun and there are very few dark porches come dusk on October 31st, as every home is decorated in some form or another. All with different vignettes or themes. Homeowners don’t just hand out treats, they dress up and jump out from behind bushes with a chainsaw, make you walk the plank (sidewalk) to the porch to get your candy, and have other ghoulish surprises waiting for you in the darkness of a side yard or driveway.
There is very little magic in the world anymore, but if you get the chance to experience haunted Hincheyville - hopefully this year - you will not be disappointed and the kids will have a Halloween that truly is magic. And goodness knows, we could all use a little more of that. Be safe and Happy Halloween!
This story was re-printed with minimal updates from its original run in October 2016. All Halloween 2020 trick-or-treating plans for Hincheyville, at press date - TBD. But.... Marty’s garage IS open for touring daily!
Franklin has been named one of the 2020 Top 100 Best Places to Live by Livability. com, outpacing more than 1,000 cities with populations between 20,000 and 1,000,000 in this data-driven ranking.
The 2020 rankings were guided by each city’s “Opportunity Score,” which consists of several variables centered around the economy, job opportunities and growth. While Livability factored in obvious data points, such as unemployment rates, density of jobs and disposable income, other variables played a part in calculating each city’s opportunity score — like the percentage of households with high-speed broadband. This year’s ranking of the Top 100 Best Places to Live also factored in two exclusive data points from Emsi that measured the growth of high-paying jobs and overall wage growth. When combined, these points offer a snapshot of the opportunity landscape of each city, and the potential for businesses and residents to thrive and grow.
“Creating a list of the best places to live in a year marked by uncertainty and disruption was challenging, but also clarifying,” says Winona DimeoEdiger, Livability.com editor-in-chief. “The pandemic and ensuing economic turbulence made people rethink their commitment to big, expensive cities, and the rise of remote work provided a unique opportunity to live anywhere. The dust is still settling, but the chaos of this year made the things that have always mattered — affordability, safety, community and opportunity — matter even more. The small to mid-sized cities on Livability’s list offer exactly what people are looking for right now.”
More than 1,000 cities with populations between 20,000 and 1,000,000 were ranked on forty data points measuring economics, housing, amenities, infrastructure, demographics, social and civic capital, education and health care. The eight scores were weighted based on an exclusive survey conducted for Livability.com by Ipsos Public Affairs, a leading global market research firm. Sources included the best public and private data available from organizations like the U.S. Census Bureau, Emsi and Esri.
The full list of the 2020 Top 100 Best Places to Live is featured on Livability.com
About Livability.com:
Livability.com highlights the best small to mid-sized cities and what makes them great places to live, work and visit. Through research and original content, we examine issues such as affordability, cultural amenities and talent attraction, and celebrate the accomplishments of these cities through top 10 lists, our annual ranking of the Top 100 Best Places to Live, and articles exploring the who, what, why and how behind the “where.” Livability.com is a division of Journal Communications, Inc.
Family. Fun. Friendship.
EXPERIENCE THE FOUNTAINS
Fall Into the Coast at
The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
With miles of pristine white-sand beaches and Spanish-moss draped live oaks, world-class golf, a thriving culinary scene and that famous southern hospitality, it’s no wonder Hilton Head Island has been named “the #1 Island in the Continental U.S.” by Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler for the past four years. Access to the island can be a day trip by car through the beautiful landscape of the southeast, or for those wanting to expedite their arrival, the on-island Hilton Head Island airport has daily flights from Atlanta and Charlotte.
Located in the beautiful Lowcountry of South Carolina, Hilton Head Island is a picturesque destination, beloved for generations. The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa lies perched upon the island’s iconic beaches, offering stunning views and unforgettable serenity. This
oceanfront resort’s prime location on the island’s more secluded north end allows for the quiet serenity that separates The Westin apart from its competitors. From the moment of arrival, guests are immediately enveloped in the peaceful beauty of the natural beachfront, the warm hospitality of the resort’s associates and a sense of the brand’s commitment to wellness infused into every element of the guest experience.
Being a member of Westin Hotels & Resorts, the premier wellness brand within Marriott International, this resort provides the resources for guests to prioritize their wellness routine while on the road. With amenities like the iconic Westin Heavenly Bed, RunWestin local running maps, the New Balance Gear Lending program, a 24hr state-of-the-art workout facility with three Peloton bikes, Eat Well menus with healthful choices, and miles of natural beauty to be explored by foot, bike, or kayak, feeling well comes naturally at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa.
All 416 rooms at this resort feature private balconies to take in the inspiring island views. Three oceanfront pools and the on-site Heavenly Spa by Westin provide abundant opportunities for renewal and relaxation. Just steps away from world-class golf and one-of-a-kind island adventures, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa offers something for every type of traveler. “Farm-and-sea-to-table” dining options in the resort’s dining outlets provide guests with the opportunity to taste the flavors of the Lowcountry.
For the past thirty five years, this resort has continued to receive accolades such as AAA 4-Diamond Award, TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice, The Knot Best of Weddings, and WeddingWire Couples’ Choice, to name a few. What makes this resort such a favorite for travelers, most of all, is its incredible team of dedicated associates, some of which have worked at the resort since its opening in 1985.
The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa’s wedding scene is one of its greatest successes, with some
of the most stunning venues on the east coast attracting couples from near and far. The Grand Ocean Terrace, pictured here, boasts sliding glass doors opening onto a full-length balcony for open-air sea breezes and spectacular ocean views. This venue shines as a reception space, with climate-controlled comfort, vaulted ceilings and chic coastal decor. The perfectly pleasant climate of Hilton Head Island makes outdoor events possible nearly all year long, with panoramic views and ocean breezes from the Oceanfront Deck, also pictured here. The seasoned team of associates on the Events team are experts in all things weddings, from intimate beachfront ceremonies to grand and lavish affairs.
For those planning fall travel, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa is introducing two brand new packages designed to meet the needs of today’s travelers.
Given the changing landscape of travel, work and school, the resort has created the “Work Well, Play Well” package, for those who are able connect remotely to step outside of the home environment and, instead, connect amidst the beauty of this picturesque resort. With various locations around the resort to set up office, business resources on hand, spectacular “office” views and unique experiences to enjoy outside of work hours, travelers can “work well,” fueled by the productivity and creativity that comes with a change of scenery, and “play well” when the tasks of the day are done. Travelers can experience unforgettable Lowcountry activities like dolphin eco-tours, guided kayak excursions and private fishing charters, or simply bask in the South Carolina sunshine to the gentle sounds of the Atlantic Ocean.
More information at: westinresortHHI.com/work-play Or with promo code ZE2
For those looking for a luxurious, stress-free escape, the “Ultimate Escape” package is for you. With three nights in The Westin’s spacious Heritage Suite, spa treatments, private cabana, food and beverage credits, personal car service and more, travelers will enjoy a true escape in this stunning resort destination. Those who book the package will be quickly connected with their Personal Experience Planner, who will take care of making all of the arrangements throughout their stay, such as beach chairs and umbrellas, bike rentals, island activities and more.
More information at: westinresortHHI.com/ultimate-escape Or with promo code ARN
With one-of-a-kind travel experiences and renewing amenities that inspire wellness amidst the stunning natural beauty of Hilton Head Island, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa has stayed true to its promise that guests will leave feeling better than when they arrived.
The Menefee Family Charity Challenge Cup was held on Saturday, September 26th and the polo match was hosted by Orrin Ingram at Riverview Farm and organized by James and Lexie Armstrong. Teams Ironhorse Farms, sponsored by Crispin and John Menefee, and Colonial Hill Farm, sponsored by Eleanor Menefee Parkes, held the match to fundraise for Rochelle Center and Saddle Up! Team Ironhorse Farms consisted of Crispin Menefee/ Max Scott-Barnes, Emmanuel Huerta, Armando Huerta and Zulu Scott-Barnes. Team Colonial Hill Farm included Tom Warriner/Finn Secunda, Lexie Armstrong, Wes Finlayson and Orrin Ingram and claimed the victory.
The Menefee Family Charity Challenge Cup
Finn Secunda, Tom Warriner, Eleanor Menefee Parkes, Orrin Ingram, Lexie Armstrong & Wes Finlayson
Tom Warriner, Eleanor Menefee Parkes, John and Crispin Menefee
Emmanuel Huerta, Zulu Scott-Barnes, Max Scott Barnes, Crispin Menefee & Armando Huerta
1561 Columbia Avenue Franklin, TN 37064 p: 615.786.0571 www.franklinhorse.com
We are Open!
Shop Local this Holiday Season at Franklin Horse Supply
We specialize in farmhouse decor, personalized gifts, tack, boots, apparel, Breyer model horses and more unique gifts! Some of our featured brands include Dubarry of Ireland, Breyer, Bird Dog Bay, Ariat, 227 Franklin Road | Franklin, TN | 37064 Smathers and Branson, Park Hill Home and more! 615.591.7990 | alwaysinbloominc.com YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 59
Breeders’ Cup World Championships
Combining the best horses, owners, trainers and jockeys with first class dining, fashion, hospitality and entertainment, the Breeders’ Cup World Championships is one of the world’s most prestigious Thoroughbred racing events and luxury lifestyle experiences. Every year, Breeders’ Cup brings its event to a different racetrack in the country, providing an exciting experience for its fans and making the event accessible to a wide audience. Every year, guests can expect luxury lifestyle components and programming such food and beverage curated by celebrity chefs such as sushi master Masaharu Morimoto and Chopped judge Amanda Freitag; musical performances by legends including Jewel, Tony Bennett, Kristin Chenoweth and Richie Sambora; and celebrity sightings such as Emily Ratajkowski, Kate Upton and Carson Kressley. This year, the 2020 Breeders’ Cup World Championships will be held on November 6th and 7th at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, Kentucky – an iconic and historic institution in the Thoroughbred industry and a world-class racetrack. It was recently announced that this year’s World Championships will be held without fans on-site to limit the potential spread of COVID-19. Despite the new operational plans, Breeders’ Cup will continue to host a world-class event for both participants as well as fans engaging from home. The brand is working closely with its broadcast partners at NBC Sports to develop and introduce new and innovative production elements that will enhance the at-home viewing experience, as well as implementing advanced technologies and capabilities across our own platforms and channels.
Additionally, guests are celebrating the event with their own Breeders’ Cup Official Cocktails at home. The cocktails, which were created last year, were developed in partnership with iconic New York City restaurant '21' Club. The two cocktails – the Torrie Cup and the Garland – will feature high-quality and easy-to-find ingredients while boasting impressive and sophisticated flavors. To make it simpler for viewers to create the cocktails, Breeders’ Cup has collaborated with Minibar, a leading alcohol delivery service, to bring the ingredients to their homes. With dedicated online pages for both the Torrie Cup and the Garland, viewers will be able to purchase the cocktail ingredients with a touch of a finger for a seamless partyviewing experience. Recipes for the Torrie Cup and the Garland are also available at BreedersCup.com/Cocktails.
