Livability Dickson County, TN 2013 by Journal Communications

dickson county livability.com/dickson

tennessee

Check in for History

Clement Railroad Hotel Museum marks its 100-year anniversary

Home Sweet Farm Dickson County celebrates rural lifestyles

2013-14 | sponsored by The Dickson County Chamber of Commerce

City of Dickson 600 E. Walnut St. Dickson, TN 37055

CITy DEPARTMEnTS www.cityofdickson.com Building Inspector/ Enforcement Officer Cemetery City Administrator Fire Department Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office Municipal Court Parks & Recreation Police (Emergency 911) Police Department Public Works Recorder Business Licenses/ Tax Collector Senior Citizens Ctr. Treasurer

441-9505 446-0147 441-9570 446-0390 441-9508 446-9249 446-1721 446-8041 441-9590 441-9506 441-9508 441-9503 446-9350 441-9504

Offering Small Town Values and Outstanding Opportunities

Don L. Weiss Jr., Mayor Council Members: Mike Legg, Vice Mayor Joey Turbeville Horace Perkins III R. Scott England Dwight E. Haynes Betty Lou Alsobrooks Jon B. Armstrong Michael Outlaw Rydell Wesson, City Administrator Jerry V. Smith, City Attorney J. Reese Holley, City Judge

Your Move. Our Passion. Serving your real estate needs for 25 years

Real estate PRofessionals 400 e. College st. • Dickson, tn 37055 • 615-446-8999 • era01@edge.net

dicksonERA.com

You can take it with you

Serving You Since 1905

Enjoy Read the digital edition on your tablet or phone. Click on links within articles for even more information.

Share Share the magazine on social media with your friends and community.

Display 236 Cowan Rd. Dickson, TN 37055 (615) 446-9051

Feature the magazine on your blog, website, or newsletters with a link to one of our easy-to-use tools.

livability.com/dickson VISIT US ONLINE AT

www.dicksonelectric.com

CONTENTS

6 Welcome to Dickson County

An introduction to the community

Things To Do 10 Attraction Check In For History

Clement Railroad Hotel Museum marks 100 years

14 Local Flavor Eat Local in Dickson County

2013 edition

16 Arts & Culture Creativity Thrives in Dickson

volume 13

dickson county tennessee

18 Sports & Recreation Impressive Net Results

Living 22 Agriculture Farm Sweet Farm

Dickson County celebrates rural lifestyles

26 Community Not Bluffing About Amenities

Small-town charm, easy commutes drive growth in White Bluff

0 Education 3 Making It Count 33 Health In Good Hands 35 Community Profile

Business

38 Business Overview Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Good Business 0 Family-Owned 4 Building On Success Yoder family expands

local enterprise

45 Chamber Report Download Dickson Co. 47 Economic Profile All or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

22 On The Cover Lake Acorn at Montgomery Bell State Park Photo by Wendy Jo Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Barr

Please recycle this magazine

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

2013 edition

volume 13

Dickson County Tennessee

The Bank of Dickson began business in 1954. We have originated home mortgages continuously during our 60-year history. We continue to feel home ownership is a worthy goal for residents of our community. The Bank of Dickson is a community bank, with local people, making the decisions of how best to assist community residents with the purchase of their families’ home. Contact one of our experienced mortgage lenders, and give us a chance to help you realize your dream of home ownership.

615-446-3732 www.bankofdickson.com

Livability Dickson County, Tennessee is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Dickson County Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at info@jnlcom.com. For more information, contact: Dickson County Chamber of Commerce 119 Hwy. 70 East • Dickson, TN 37055 Phone: (615) 446-2349 • Fax: (615) 441-3112 www.dicksoncountychamber.com Visit Livability Dickson County, Tennessee online at livability.com/dickson ©Copyright 2013 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. Member Member

The Association of Magazine Media Custom Content Council

Member Dickson County Chamber of Commerce

ONLINE | livability.com/dickson Activities

Index MORE ON DICKSON COUNTY Go to the links below for more articles and photos about Dickson County’s business climate, recreation, food, schools, health care and culture. TOP EMPLOYERS livability.com/dickson/tn/ business DEMOGRAPHICS livability.com/dickson/tn/ facts

SCHOOLS livability.com/dickson/tn/ schools

HEALTHCARE livability.com/dickson/tn/ health NEIGHBORHOODS livability.com/dickson/tn/ living ATTRACTIONS livability.com/dickson/tn/ attractions FOOD livability.com/dickson/tn/ food Learn more about Vance Smith’s Grand Old Hatchery in Dickson, where music lovers of all ages have a toe-tappin’ good time every Saturday night. Visit livability.com/dickson/tn/activities.

Health

Things To Do

QUALITY CARE Get more information on the area’s excellent health-care providers at livability.com/ dickson/tn/health

YOU’LL FIND IT HERE Find fun attractions and destinations throughout the county at livability.com/ dickson/tn/attractions

LOVE DICKSON COUNTY? Share the digital version of this magazine, or grab a widget and post it on your site or blog: livability.com/dickson/tn/ magazine

Livability.com/dickson is a part of Livability.com, a collection of America’s best places to live & visit

livability.com

@livability

facebook/livability

At A Glance

Dickson County, Tennessee A quick, comprehensive overview of what’s great about the community

Slayden 48 49

Vanleer Charlotte

DICKSON White Bluff 70 40

Dickson Burns

dickson County

Location

Dickson County is in Middle Tennessee, about 40 miles west of Nashville and 30 miles south of Clarksville.

POPULATION

50,381 Distances to three major cities nearby Nashville, TN: 40 miles Louisville, KY: 210 miles Birmingham, AL: 220 miles

For More Information

Dickson County Chamber of Commerce 119 Hwy. 70 East Dickson, TN 37055 Phone: (615) 446-2349 Fax: (615) 441-3112 dicksoncountychamber.com

Dickson Count y

Time zone Central

annual rainfall

55”

National Average: 30”

Accolade Golf Digest has recognized Montgomery Bell as one of the “Top 100 Public Courses to Play.”

Country roads wind through rolling hills and centuries-old farmland in rural Dickson County, giving an accurate first impression of its time-honored agricultural traditions. Meanwhile, 24 excellent schools, quality health care, easy interstate access and proximity to Nashville attract new residents and businesses, as a robust manufacturing sector attests. Nashville ash hville Rural Retreat Dickson County residents enjoy the best of country living, choosing to live out in the county or in one of seven incorporated cities – Burns, Dickson, Cumberland Furnace, Slayden, Vanleer, White Bluff and the county seat, Charlotte. It’s a rural retreat for many commuters to Nashville, but also has longestablished native families. Impressive state and local parks give people places to stay fit while connecting to the environment. That natural beauty seems to inspire creative types, too. Artistic expression thrives here, with noted songwriters, performers, visual artists and craftspeople choosing the area to make their homes. Local shops and venues ensure fellow neighbors can enjoy their work. Location advantages Agriculture holds strong as Dickson County’s most enduring economic sector, and many of the county’s 1,250-plus farms double as agritourism attractions. Iron ore discoveries in the early 1800s drove Dickson County’s earliest industrial settlement, but the economy diversified into food production and advanced manufacturing, largely because of the county’s advantageous location and access to transportation routes. The area is within a day’s drive of 76 percent of the U.S. market, and companies can quickly access Interstates 40, 24 and 65, as well as Nashville International Airport.

Historic Preservation

The Dickson County Courthouse in Charlotte, the county seat, was built in 1833 and is Tennesseeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest courthouse still in use today.

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

Things To Do Dickson County’s must-do attractions, activities and dining

Grab a Bike and Hit the Dirt

Take your mountain bike for a spin on a loop that spans 25 miles at Montgomery Bell State Park. The loop has sections ranging from easy to intermediate to difficult, and passes among forest land, freshwater springs and wildlife. The park also includes an 18-hole golf course, three lakes and campsites.

Shopping

Pumpkin Patch

Fair

Farm

Shop downtown

Pick a pumpkin

EAT A FUNNEL CAKE

PET A LAMB

Browse cool shops and restaurants within Dickson’s revitalized downtown district, such as Ace Diner, EK2 Designs, Fussell’s Mens and Boys Shop, Hodges Jewelers, House Blend Coffeehouse, and Reading Rock Books.

Keller’s Corny Country opens to the public every Saturday in October with Dickson’s largest pumpkin patch and corn maze. The working farm also hosts country-style weddings throughout the year inside a barn that accommodates 250 people.

Approximately 50,000 people visit Dickson's 50-acre fairgrounds each September for the Dickson County Fair, which includes agricultural events and shows, truck pulls, a midway, pageants, demolition derbies, and food vendors.

Visitors get introduced to a variety of animals, such as sheep, goats and chickens every October at Three Creeks Farm in Charlotte. There are also demonstrations of blacksmithing and hand-spinning, as well as guided nature walks and a fiber shop.

Dickson Count y

Things To Do

See a Show

Moviegoers can catch the latest movies, including 3-D screenings, at the retro-styled but completely modern Roxy Movie Theater in Dickson. The venue features a top sound system, plasma screens and plenty of comfortable seating with lots of legroom.

Music Venue

Entertainment Center

Festival

Golf Course

FIDDLE AROUND

GO GO-KARTING

CELEBRATE DICKSON

TEE OFF

For years it was a place to hatch baby chicks, and today the same Dickson building hosts Saturday night country music performances under the name of Vance Smith's Grand Old Hatchery Music Show. Audiences typically range from 75 to 100 people.

Family activities at Seven Flags Family Entertainment in Dickson range from go-kart racing and miniature golf to laser tag and a kid's playground. Private events can also be booked, including birthday parties.

Residents take to the streets of Dickson each May for Old Timer's Day, which celebrated its 55th anniversary in 2013. The festival that honors the past includes a parade, pageants, live music, horse-drawn carriage rides and an antique car show.

An excellent test awaits golfers at GreyStone Golf Club, a par-72 layout that spans 6,858 yards. PGA Tour professional Mark McCumber designed the public course, which opened in 1998, and it has hosted several top tournaments and championship events.

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

Things To Do

Uncover Dickson Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Storied Past

Formerly Hotel Halbrook, the Clement Railroad Hotel Museum features exhibits that focus on the local railroadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history and the first people to put down roots in Dickson County. The museum also includes information about Frank G. Clement, a Tennessee governor who was born in the hotel in 1920.

Dickson Count y

Check in for

History

Railroad Hotel Museum Marks 100 years

ickson County’s past meets its present at the Clement Railroad Hotel Museum. Housed in the former Hotel Halbrook, the museum gives visitors a glimpse into the history and people that transformed the once tiny railroad town into the gem it is today.

The stately brick building, located in downtown Dickson, celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2013. And in 2012, the museum welcomed more than 11,000 guests from around the region and the world, including many local residents. “There is such a strong community in Dickson County, and what the museum does is bring their stories to life,” says Terry Vaughan, the museum’s executive director. “[For residents], we get to remind them what a special place they live in.” Step into the Past A walk through the historic hotel’s beautifully restored lobby feels like entering a bygone era. In its heyday in the 1920s and ‘30s, the hotel bustled with railway passengers, personnel and traveling salesmen known as “drummers.” Now the rooms contain 11 permanent exhibits as well as a changing rotation of temporary displays. l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

The Clement Railroad Hotel Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, and the building â&#x20AC;&#x201C; formerly Hotel Halbrook â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Dickson Count y

The Clement Railroad Hotel Museum’s model railroad display

The first two floors of exhibits interpret the local railroad’s colorful heritage through stories of the families that first settled Dickson County after the Civil War. Visitors can also peek inside the cabin of a steam engine and examine the original maps and equipment that once helped keep the trains lumbering along. The museum also shares accomplishments and personal items of Frank G. Clement, Tennessee’s longest-serving governor in the modern era, who was born in Room No. 5 on June 2, 1920. Kids of all ages flock to the popular, volunteer-constructed model railroad display, which runs throughout three rooms. The miniature display recreates what Dickson and the railroads would have looked like in 1920. “It’s really pretty neat,” Vaughan says. “No matter how old you are,

everybody becomes a 10-year-old when they get to go into the model railroad room.” Making Memories for the Future One of the Clement Railroad Hotel Museum’s newest permanent exhibits, the Civil Rights and Education Room, focuses on the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in Dickson County history, such as railroad construction in the 1860s and the integration of the local high school 100 years later. “It’s a wonderful exhibit, and it’s a very emotional one, especially for those who lived through some of it,” Vaughan says. To Vaughan, the museum serves to preserve and celebrate the past for future generations. “The museum has become a real touchstone for the community,” he says. “It’s a reminder of how things

used to be, and how we’re making history for the future. It truly is a living history museum. So when I see people come in and get to share the stories of their lives or their parents’ lives with younger generations, nothing touches me more.” by Miles Britton by staff photographer Wendy Jo O’Barr

Snapshot

Before exploring the mu seum, stop by House Blend in downtown Dickson for a fresh cup of coffee.

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

Things To Do: Local Flavor

Eat Local in Dickson County Iconic area favorites serve up signature dishes

Dickson County residents never are far from a good meal. The area is full of unique, independent dining spots that have earned reputations for palate-pleasing and have become local landmarks. When hunger strikes, check out one of these favorites.

“The decor [at Front Porch on Center Ave.] looks like a grandma’s house. Light yellow walls with white moulding made everything seem bright and happy. The tablecloths were in bright colors and the chairs matched. Everything was just so happy feeling! Then I looked at the menu and felt even more happy.” Nickie G., Yelp reviewer

Local Eats

Landmark Restaurants

Fresh Selections in Downtown Dickson

Ace Diner in downtown Dickson has won loyal followers with its handmade pizzas, pastas, sandwiches and salads. It is open for lunch and dinner Tuesdays through Friday, breakfast through dinner on Saturday and for brunch on Sunday. Opened in 2009, Lugo’s has quickly become a favorite, too. The restaurant serves traditional American cuisine with Caribbean influences, cooked in an open kitchen so guests can watch the chefs at work.

Dickson Count y

For a retro experience, visit Stuffy’s Frosty Jug, a Dickson tradition that recently reopened. Along with hosting cruise-ins with classic cars, Frosty Jug is the place to go for milkshakes, sundaes, smoothies, hamburgers and French fries. Another local favorite for burgers is Buddy’s Restaurant in Burns, where steaks and fresh vegetables are also popular items. Southerners love fried catfish, and people in Dickson County get their fix at Catfish Kitchen in Burns. Not only is the restaurant loved for its piping hot catfish, but also for its hush puppies, white beans, French fries and tasty vinegar coleslaw. Vanleer’s Tri-County Farmer Restaurant serves home-cooked vegetables and meats, as well as pizzas and pastas, often with live music as entertainment.

Other Local Favorites Dickson: Akoya: (615) 375-8389 Bart’s Bar-B-Que and Catfish Cooker: (615) 740-6870 Cindy’s Café: (615) 446-8660 City Lake Café: (615) 441-9901 Dale’s Steakhouse: (615) 740-2001 Farmers Family Restaurant: (615) 446-7775 Front Porch on Center Ave: (615) 441-0006 Las Fajitas: (615) 446-0252 Nori Sushi and Japanese Grill: (615) 446-3233 Sisters: (615) 441-4737 Whitt’s Barbecue: (615) 446-7304

Charlotte: Country View Market: (615) 789-5000

Burns: Donna’s Place: (615) 446-8080 Barbecue

BBQ Joints and eateries For more than 25 years, Carl’s Perfect Pig has carried on the tradition of old-fashioned pit barbecue. Located in White Bluff and known for its mouth-watering barbecue ribs, pulled pork and country vegetables, Carl’s Perfect Pig has been named one of the best barbecue restaurants in the United States by The Wall Street Journal. Nearby in Dickson, Ronnie’s Q Barbecue is also known for tasty, wood-fired pork barbecue and ribs, served with homemade baked beans, coleslaw and potato salad. Ronnie’s Q also offers delivery and catering, including a whole hog barbecue. By Nancy Mann Jackson Find out more about Dickson County’s dining scene at livability.com/ dickson/tn/food.

Your Hometown Energy Source NATURAL GAS • PROPANE GAS We sell and service both natural and propane appliances. SAFE RELIABLE ECONOMICAL CONVENIENT

605 E. Walnut St. • Dickson, TN 37055 (615) 441-2830 • (800) 903-8247

www.gdga.com

Things To Do: arts & culture

Creativity Thrives in Dickson Artists and arts lovers find inspiration here

Dickson may be a former railroad town with a tradition of farming, but the county also claims an equally rich cultural heritage. Just 45 minutes down the road from Nashville, Dickson has had a front-row seat as country, gospel and Americana music have developed in the nearby Music City.

Hoot Hester has called Dickson home since 1975.

Musical Community

Musicians Find Home Here Hoot Hester, a longtime Dickson resident, has been a force in country music for more than four decades, and has been a member of the Grand Ole Opry house band since 2000. As one of country music’s most sought-after fiddlers, Hester has backed singers such as Ray Charles and Randy Travis. Born Hubert Hester on a farm outside Louisville, Ky., Hester learned to play the fiddle at age 9. After winning fifth place in a fiddle contest in the early 1970s and attracting the attention of some of the judges, Hester began getting jobs in Nashville. He moved to the Middle Tennessee area in 1973, and in 1975, he purchased land in Dickson, where he and his wife have lived since. “We love the small-town atmosphere, but we’re still fairly close to Nashville,” Hester says. “Dickson has good schools and churches, and the people are nice and friendly. We have everything we need here.” For Hester and other musicians, Dickson offers the security of a small town, as well as proximity to an arts community. Today, in addition to his duties at the Opry, Hester writes and produces music with Rachel Hester, his youngest daughter, who also lives here.

Dickson Count y

“We love the small-town atmosphere, but we’re still fairly close to Nashville. Dickson has good schools and churches, and the people are nice and friendly. We have everything we need here.” Hoot Hester, Dickson County Resident

Read more about Dickson County’s arts community at livability.com/dickson/ tn/things-to-do.

Visual Art

Local Talent on Display In addition to nurturing musical talent, Dickson County also offers opportunities for visual artists to sharpen their talents. The Tennessee Artisan Market at the Renaissance Center in Dickson features arts, crafts and goods made exclusively by more than 200 Tennessee artisans. Opened in 2010, the market showcases Tennessee artists and their wares including paintings and sculptures, crafts such as pottery and jewelry, and handmade furniture and stained glass. By Nancy Mann Jackson

Exploring Local Heritage

Visitors can experience the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic culture at the Old Spencer Mill, where an 1800s-era gristmill has been fully restored. On a Living History tour, visitors can learn about the workings of such a mill and see it at work with two sets of French burr stones and other original equipment, which is all powered by a 20-foot tall Fitz waterwheel. Also on site, a post office, general store, teepee, cabins, and farm animals help depict an authentic experience along the shore of Parkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Creek.

The Old Spencer Mill in Burns preserves historic documents and materials.

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

photo courtesy of The Dickson Herald

Things To Do: sports & recreation

Impressive Net Results

South Dickson County Basketball league opens to all kids

“It’s all about sportsmanship and learning the game. We even hold coaching clinics for our coaches to become better at their leadership skills. . . . The SDCBL benefits all the kids as well as the entire community. It’s a nice addition to our quality of life.” Rick Smotherman, Dickson County Resident

Dickson Count y

Plenty of hoopla surrounds the South Dickson County Basketball League as it prepares for its upcoming fourth season. The SDCBL formed in 2011 to give boys and girls ages 5-16 a convenient way to learn about basketball as well as advance in the game. The league oversees a nineweek season from early January through early March, with games taking place every Saturday. “Every kid who wants to play will play in our league, whether they have skills in basketball or not,” says Rick Smotherman, referee coordinator with the South Dickson County Basketball League. “It’s all about sportsmanship and learning the game. We even hold coaching clinics for our coaches to become better at their leadership skills.”

Smotherman says the league also works as a feeder program to local schools, with more advanced players progressing with an advantage when trying out for school teams. “We would like local school coaches to get even more involved with our league so they can help us better prepare the more skilled kids,” he says. “As for player participation, the first season we had 285 kids in the league and now we have almost 400, and games are played at three different locations – Burns gymnasium, the Dickson Housing Authority gym and the Centennial Elementary gym.” Fees and Components The entry fee for participants each season is $50 per child, which covers a preseason camp, an eight-

photo courtesy of The Dickson Herald

game regular season, two rounds of playoffs, referees from the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association, and a celebratory postseason awards ceremony at Dickson Middle School. “The age categories start with coed kids ages 5-6 who shoot at eight-foot goals, then everything proceeds from there,” Smotherman says. “The league was started because one already existed in North Dickson County, so now there is also a South Dickson County Basketball League. The SDCBL benefits all the kids as well as the entire community. It’s a nice addition to our quality of life.”

by Kevin Litwin

Discover more ways to get active in Dickson County at livability.com/dickson/ tn/activities.

! w Y o h FL OW n r a e l r o N DICKSON COUNTY MUNICIPAL AIRPORT Flight Lessons • Corporate Aircraft Facilities • Full Service FBO P.O. Box 901 • Dickson, TN 37056 • (615) 446-5962 www.dicksonairport.com

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

living Schools, health care and neighborhoods in Dickson County

Perfect Place to Play

The Field of Dreams Playground adjacent to the White Bluff Community Center covers 17,000 square feet and includes swings, slides, monkey bars, bridges and more. Open to children of all ages and ability levels, the playground exemplifies community cooperation, as it was created entirely through residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; support and donations in 2003. Check out more photos of Dickson Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many family-friendly destinations at livability.com/dickson/tn/photos-video.

Dickson Count y

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

LIVING

Dive Into Agriculture

The annual Middle Tennessee Fiber Festival at the Dickson County Fairgrounds celebrates everything â&#x20AC;&#x153;fiberâ&#x20AC;? with sheep shearing demonstrations, spinning wheel lessons and several different workshops.

Dickson Count y

Farm Sweet

FARM Dickson County celebrates rural lifestyles

or many people in Dickson County, home is where the farm is. The county has deep roots in its agricultural way of life, with more than two dozen active farms that have had single-family ownership for at least 100 years. And Dickson County celebrates this connection to its rural lifestyle with several special events each year.

“We have such a diverse group of farms in this county,” says Rhonda Adams, Director of Tourism for the Dickson County Chamber of Commerce. “We have dairy farms, tobacco farms, cattle farms. We just have a large number of farms, and they play a big role in our community.” Farm, Home & Garden Show The bond between the farmers and the rest of the county was showcased in March at the inaugural Dickson Farm, Home & Garden Show, a three-day event that gave an in-depth look at the outdoor products and services provided by local businesses.

“We had an excellent turnout, and I think we left them wanting more,” says Paul Sullivan, manager of the Dickson Farmers Co-Op. “It gave us a chance to meet and greet people who we might not be able to reach otherwise. There was kind of a ‘wow’ aspect that people didn’t realize just what these businesses do and what all they have to offer the county.” Dickson County Farm Tour Many area farms open their barn doors to the public every year for the Dickson County Farm Tour. Several busloads of visitors – and fellow farmers – travel the l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

county, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., going farm to farm and learning about the various fields, orchards and pastures that dot the countryside. “We try to make it fun for them, with things like a watermelon feast at the end that’s offered by the Co-Op. But we also try to provide information,” Adams says. “The folks at these farms love to share information and talk about what they’re doing.” Some of the farms have gone a step further and embraced agritourism, establishing activities that attract visitors on a regular basis, not just once a year. Adams says Three Creeks Farm in Charlotte, Tenn., is a prime example of how an agritourism farm can flourish. “They’re having success showing how to spin and dye wool, and having birthday parties for children where they go cane-pole fishing,” Adams says. “We’re seeing more people open up their farms for corn mazes, pumpkin patches and hay rides.” James Miller Farm One of the stops on the Farm Tour, the James Miller Farm, won the 2012 Dickson County Heritage Farm of the Year award. The Miller family has owned the farm since establishing it in 1881 and currently raises cattle on its 280 acres. The late James A. Miller, greatgrandson of the original owners and a lifetime farmer and dairy farmer, lived there until his recent passing at the age of 90. Two of his children, Mike Miller and Debbie Miller Stewart, live nearby and help run the farm. “We have one building that I call the museum where we have all these old tools and photographs that go back to the late 1800s,” Debbie Miller Stewart says. “My interest is in preserving that historical part of the farm and sharing it with people, because these farms are an important part of the heritage of the county.” by Cary Estes by staff photographer Wendy Jo O’Barr 24

Dickson Count y

Three Creeks Farm in Charlotte is home to sheep, goats and chickens, as well as dye plants, herbs, flowers and a gift shop.

Mike Miller and Debbie Miller Stewart help run the James Miller Farm.

Farmingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the Family

Mike Miller operates a tractor at James Miller Farm in Charlotte, which dates to 1881 and is one of the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s century farms. The farm also won the 2012 Dickson County Heritage Farm of the Year award.

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

LIVING

Not Bluffing

About Amenities Small-town charm, easy commutes drive GROWTH in White Bluff

on’t let the small-town charm and laid-back pace of life fool you: White Bluff is on the move.

Just a half-hour drive from Nashville, this is the fastest-growing town in Dickson County, the 12th fastest-growing in Middle Tennessee and among the top 25 fastest-growing municipalities in the state. And with some notable improvements coming soon, that growth should continue, as residents and civic leaders thoughtfully plan for the quality of life ahead. “White Bluff is a great place to be, with great schools,” says Jeff Martin, projects director for the Town of White Bluff. “It has a slower place, but it’s close to Nashville and Dickson, and has great proximity to Montgomery Bell State Park and the Harpeth River Recreation Area. People here like outdoor recreation opportunities, and we’re right in the middle of them.”

Dickson Count y

White Bluff residents enjoy proximity to Montgomery Bell State Park.

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

Community-Supported Library

The Jennie Woodworth Library of White Bluff, open since 2009, includes more than 5,000 books and three computers with high-speed Internet access. Volunteers staff the donation-funded library.

“We have a good relationship with the town and have been able to reorganize and expand as we have needed to. If we have an issue, we can easily communicate with the mayor, and we never have had a problem.” Michael Doochin, Interstate Packaging

Dickson Count y

White Bluff Then and Now The area’s location has attracted residents since the early 19th century, when Fort White Bluffs – named for the bluffs along Turnbull Creek – was built. The town was incorporated after the Civil War, when it served as an encampment. Over the years, the town grew. But in 1946 much of it was destroyed by fire, which led to the establishment of the town’s first volunteer fire department and a utility district to provide reliable water. Today, about half of White Bluff’s residents commute to Nashville for work. But many companies have chosen to do business right here, including Nashville Wire Products (shelving, OEM components), Ebbtide Corporation (boats) and

Interstate Packaging (packaging and labels). “We’ve been here since 1966, so obviously we like it,” says Michael Doochin, co-president of Interstate Packaging. “We have a good relationship with the town and have been able to reorganize and expand as we have needed to. If we have an issue, we can easily communicate with the mayor, and we never have had a problem.” White Bluff Things to Do The quality of life has helped grow the town. Residents enjoy hiking, camping, mountain biking and fishing at Montgomery Bell State Park, canoeing and kayaking on the Harpeth River, and in-town amenities such as the community-

Good Neighbors The Bibb family has resided in White Bluff for generations. But family members don’t just live here – they make life better. From Richard Baxter Bibb, who founded the family farm years ago, to his great-grandson, Richard C. Bibb, this family has been distinguished by its commitment to the town and its residents. Most recently, Richard C. Bibb pledged funds to build a new civic center, the latest in a series of gifts that includes donating land for a new fire hall and providing funds for both the Jennie Woodworth Public Library and the renovation of the current community center. “I think it’s just a willingness to do whatever needs to be done,” Richard Bibb says of his family’s generosity. “White Bluff has been good to the Bibb family, and we have tried to serve our community as best we could.”

A Family Tradition

built, 17,000-square-foot Field of Dreams playground. The youngsters who played on its swings over the past 10 years are now excited about a new skate park that is scheduled to open in summer 2013, with equipment donated from a former skate park in nearby Burns. Residents of all ages enjoy the city’s ball field, walking trails and such popular community festivals as the electric light Christmas parade, the Apple Butter Festival, Grillin’ & Greens Cook-Off and the Main Street Festival. New White Bluff Civic Center Soon, residents will have another gathering place, when the

new Bibb White Bluff Civic Center is built. The facility, which will be constructed through a $1.3 million donation from White Bluff native Richard C. Bibb, will be anchored by a 1,700-square-foot library, and will have meeting rooms, a performance hall, community archives and a history center, classrooms, and more. Couple these amenities with the new Tennessee Downtowns economic development/downtown improvement program, and the town’s future looks sunny indeed. “We think White Bluff’s days are only going to get brighter,” Martin says. by Laura Hill by staff photographer Wendy Jo O’Barr

The new state-of-the-art community center will be named in honor of his parents, Zollie H. Bibb Jr. and Hazel C. Bibb. Bibb Jr. was a magistrate and water commissioner who founded both the White Bluff Utility District and the town’s volunteer fire department. Hazel Bibb was a founder of the White Bluff Garden Club. Zollie Bibb Sr., Richard Bibb’s grandfather, established the White Bluff Motor Company and was a community leader. Richard Bibb, a cattle farmer and an accountant who worked for the state for many years, is also a civic leader. The former president of Farmers and Merchants Bank, he is on the Dickson County Chamber Board and the Dickson County Industrial Board.

by Laura Hill

Continue learning about Dickson County at livability.com/dickson. l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

LIVING: Education

Making It Count

Dickson County Schools staff focus on five guiding principles Dr. Danny L. Weeks, Dickson County’s director of schools, has a clear vision for his district: To remain in the top 25 percent of districts statewide, and to be seen as a leader, “a district that others turn to see how we’re doing things,” as he puts it. “Our goals are twofold,” Weeks says. “First, to make sure, as best we can, that all of our students are safe and secure and feel good about their learning environment. Second, we want to equip them with tools that will allow them to further their education and develop themselves.” Dr. Weeks knows a thing or two about fostering a learning-friendly atmosphere. He grew up in a family of lifelong educators – his father a principal, his mother an elementary school teacher – who taught him the importance of working hard and getting a quality education. And before taking the position in June 2012, he served for eight years as assistant director of schools in a nearby district.

Dr. Danny L. Weeks, Dickson County’s director of schools, implemented a “Make It Count” initiative in July 2012.

Dickson Count y

Five Guiding Principles To get the district’s teachers, administrators and students on the same page from the get-go, Dr. Weeks unveiled his “Make It Count” initiative just one month into his tenure, which is a guiding set of principles that “focus every action and every decision within the Dickson County Schools during the school year.” The campaign’s five principles include putting “students first” and setting “high expectations,” while also being “purpose-driven” and doing things for “honor and pride.” Last but not least, Dr. Weeks insists on “mutual responsibility,” with staff and students alike holding each other accountable at each of the district’s eight elementary schools, three middle

schools, two high schools and an alternative school. In other words, Dr. Weeks and Dickson County Schools’ staff embrace the challenge of making an already strong school district even stronger. “Test scores show that our district is one of the top 16 districts in Tennessee in terms of student achievement. We want to continue to push higher,” Weeks says. Growing Forward “Certainly we know Dickson is growing and we see ourselves as part of that growth,” he elaborates. “As business and industry do things to attract people here we want to be able to serve them with the needs that they have.” Never mind that Dickson County already has a reputation as an attractive place to live and work, a distinction not lost on a relative newcomer like Dr. Weeks. He

describes semi-rural Dickson as a friendly place that embraces traditional values, yet is close enough to Nashville for residents to enjoy all the attractions found in a big city. “I have relished making friendships and getting to know the people here,” says Dr. Weeks. “I’m really enjoying being a public servant and helping the people of Dickson.”

by Jason Zasky

LIVING: EDUCAT ION

Making It

DICKSON COUNT

Count

Y SCHOO LS STAFF

Dr. Danny L. Weeks, Dickson County’s implement ed a “Make director of It Count” schools, initiative in July 2012. DICKSO

N CO U N T

FOCUS ON

FIVE GUIDING

PRINCIPLES

Dr. Danny L. Weeks, Dickson County’s director of schools, a clear vision for his district:has remain in To the top 25 percent of districts statewide, and to be seen as a leader, “a turn to see district that others how we’re doing things,” as he puts it. “Our goals says. “First, are twofold,” Weeks to we can, that make sure, as best all of our students are safe and secure and about their feel good learning environme Second, we nt. want to equip with tools them that to further their will allow them education develop themselves and .” Dr. Weeks knows a thing about fostering or a learning-fr two atmosphere iendly . He grew up of lifelong in a family educators – his a principal, his mother father elementary an school teacher taught him – who the working hard importance of education. and getting a quality And before position in taking the June 2012, he eight years as assistant served for schools in director of a nearby district. FIVE GUIDING PRINCIPL ES To get the district’s teachers, administr ators the same page and students on from the Dr. Weeks unveiled his get-go, Count” initiative “Make It just one month into his tenure, set of principleswhich is a guiding that “focus action and every decision every the Dickson within County Schools during the school The campaign’syear.” five principles include putting setting “high “students first” and expectatio also being “purpose-d ns,” while riven” and doing things for Last but not “honor and pride.” least, Dr. Weeks insists on “mutual responsibi with staff lity,” and holding each students alike other accountab at each of le the elementary district’s eight schools, three middle

schools, two high schools alternative and an school. describes In other words, semi-rural Dickson as a friendly Dickson County Dr. Weeks and place that embraces traditiona Schools’ staff embrace the l values, yet challenge enough to is close of an already Nashville strong school making for residents to enjoy all even stronger. district the in a big city. attractions found “Test scores “I have relished district is one show that our making friendships in Tennessee of the top 16 districts and getting in terms of the people to know achieveme student here,” says nt. We want Dr. “I’m really to continue to push higher,” enjoying beingWeeks. Weeks says. servant and helping the a public Dickson.” people of GROWING FORWARD “Certainly by Jason Zasky growing and we know Dickson is we see ourselves part of that as growth,” he “As business elaborates. and to attract people industry do things here we want able to serve to be them that they have.” with the needs Never mind already has that Dickson County a attractive placereputation as an to live and a distinction work, not lost on DIGITAL MAGAZIN newcomer a relative E like Dr. Weeks. Read it online He or quickly share

“Test scores show that our district is one of the top 16 districts in Tennessee in terms student achievem of ent. We want to continue to push higher.” DR. DANNY L. WEEKS, DIRECTOR OF SCHOOLS

on your tablet and articles with friends.

digital magazine Read it online or on your tablet and quickly share articles with friends.

“Test scores show that our district is one of the top 16 districts in Tennessee in terms of student achievement. We want to continue to push higher.” Dr. Danny L. Weeks, Director of Schools

Make our home your home for all your dental needs!

Live Happier, Live HeaLtHier, Live Life on Your own terms Physical, OccuPatiOnal & sPeech theraPy Out-Patient theraPy Getting you back on your feet has never been easier than with NHC HealthCare Dickson. Our multidisciplinary focus extends to in-patient and out-patient services for all ages in a state-of-the-art setting. 812 n. Charlotte st. • Dickson, tn 37055 (615) 446-8046 • syokley@nhcdickson.com

www.nhcdickson.com 32

Dickson Count y

Family Dentistry – Accepting New Patients Same-Day Crowns • Root Canals Veneers • Adult Braces • Friday Appointments

102 Hwy. 70 E. • Dickson, TN 37055

(615) 446-4644 www.easthillsdentalcenter.com

LIVING: Health

In Good Hands

Dickson Community clinic unites many local health-care providers “A lot of people who didn’t have insurance needed care,” says pediatrician Dr. Jeff Gordon, explaining why eight years ago, he co-founded the faith-based Dickson Community Clinic. The health-care facility provides primary care to uninsured patients from Dickson and medically underserved areas in surrounding counties, including Humphreys, Houston and Hickman counties. “Many people can’t afford to go to the doctor, even the walk-in clinic,” says Crissy Vincent, who serves as clinic coordinator and works alongside four part-time nurse practitioners, a medical assistant and a receptionist. “We have 2,800 patients and we see an average of 60-70 patients a week,” she says, noting that the clinic offers both preventative care (like vaccinations and physicals) and treatment for the most common medical conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension. Spiritual assistance is also available. A Community Effort The clinic wouldn’t be where it is today without the broad-based support of the local community. Since 2008, the clinic has been housed in a wing of TriStar Horizon Medical Center, which donated the space. Other major contributors include the Baptist Healing Trust, the United Way of Dickson County, the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, the Tennessee Safety Net program, and countless local businesses and area churches. Local doctors also play a vital role in treating Dickson Community Clinic patients. “We have physicians that volunteer at the clinic a couple of days a month,“ says Dr. Gordon, noting that those appointments are reserved for patients who

Dr. Jeff Gordon co-founded Dickson Community Clinic.

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

would be best served by seeing an M.D. Meanwhile, patients in need of a specialist are referred to Dickson Medical Associates, whose physicians donate their services to perform non-elective and elective procedures alike. Patients can receive a wide range of services, such as bariatric surgery, neurosurgery, colonoscopies, ultrasounds and botox injections for severe headaches. “The hardest thing for anyone without health insurance is elective surgery – like a hernia repair or having a blemish removed from their face – or if they have problems that require an ‘obscure’ specialist,” says Dr. Gordon, who serves as treasurer for the clinic. In cases like this, Horizon Medical Center offers additional support, covering the cost of services (labs and anesthesia, for example) or providing them at a reduced rate. And while it may take a dose of humility for some to come to the clinic, Vincent encourages those in need to ask for help. “The only requirement for our

Several quality health-care providers serve Dickson residents, including Dickson Medical Associates, which has 11 locations, 14 specialties and more than 30 physicians and mid-level providers.

The faith-based Dickson Community Clinic serves uninsured patients.

patients is that they don’t have health insurance,” she says. “No patient will be turned away because of an inability to pay.” by Jason Zasky

Get a healthy dose of Dickson County’s healthcare options at livability. com/dickson/tn/health.

DICKSON COUNTY’s KEY HEALTH-CARE PROVIDERS Medical Center: TriStar Horizon Medical Center Cancer Center: TriStar Sarah Cannon Cancer Center Multi-Specialty: Dickson Medical Associates Walk-In: Dickson Medical Associates Express Care Clinics, Urgent Medical Care, WellNow Urgent Care Physical Therapy: Baptist Sports Medicine and Life Therapies Aging Care: NHC HealthCare Dickson, Dickson Health & Rehab

Dickson Count y

Community profile

$48,826

ethnicity 14% 24%

White Black 4%

cost of living

Hispanic Other 3% 3%

Median Household Income

$108,929 Median Home Price

62%

$778 AGE

Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

90%

17 and younger 18-64 65 and older (percentages based on the total = 50,381)

(percentages based on the total = 50,381)

Median Travel Time to Work

Temperature January Average Low

July Average High

87°

26°

Transportation

15 minutes

31°

76°

Closest Airport: Nashville International Airport January Low National Low

July High

39 miles

National High

This section is sponsored by

Nemak Tennessee (615) 446-8110 1635 Old Columbia Rd. Dickson, TN 37055

Automotive Supplier to Major Car Manufacturers. Products: World-Class Quality Aluminum Cylinder Heads. l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

business Info on Dickson Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top employers, jobs and success stories

Dickson Count y

Read All About It

Reading Rock Books, an independent bookstore in downtown Dickson, is one of the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many small businesses. Owned by sisters Amy Jernigan and Laura Hill, the shop includes new and used books, as well as gift items. Reading Rock Books also includes an online store that features a wide selection of printed books, e-books, audiobooks, music, movies and more. See more photos of Dickson Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s businesses and attractions at livability.com/ dickson/tn/photos-video.

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

business: overview

It’s Good Business

Industrial mix, farms contribute to strong & Varied Economy They mean business in Dickson County, and some of the major players in the local economy specialize in agriculture, food production and manufacturing.

Food Producers Choose Dickson

Tennessee Bun Company, founded in 1996, manufactures more than 1,000 buns and rolls a minute, and has a product line of 20 different bun varieties. Odom’s Tennessee Pride has been producing sausage products since 1943 and has only two manufacturing facilities in the U.S. – one in Dickson and the other in Arkansas.

Agriculture

Farms Flourish here The agriculture industry continues to plow forward, with Dickson County home to more than 1,200 farms. That includes 26 still-thriving century farms, which means they have been in the same family for more than 100 years. The oldest is Larkins Farm that was founded by John Larkins in 1787, with Leslie D. Larkins Jr. serving as the current owner. Other long-standing operations in the county include Baker’s Burden Farm, Cook’s Stokes Farm, Daniel’s Dairy Farm, Dull Farm and Hickory Hill Farm, whose 250 acres continue to produce tobacco, hay and cattle and is owned by Maria Miller Freeman of Knoxville and Kay Miller Waters of Maryland. By Kevin Litwin

“There were two main reasons Sumiden Wire chose Dickson. First, the area is centrally located to minimize distribution time to the majority of our consumers. Second, the city and county officials made a big impact with their very hospitable welcome during the initial site visit.” Brian Burr, General Manager

Learn more about Dickson County’s business climate and workforce at livability. com/dickson/tn/business.

Dickson Count y

Made In Dickson County

Publishing

OUTFITTING OFFICES, CARS & MORE

PRINT PRODUCTION

Top manufacturing companies doing business include Tennsco Corp., which began operations in 1962 and produces durable filing and storage systems, steel office furniture, industrial and institutional shelving, lockers, and shop equipment. Meanwhile, Nemak Tennessee has been around since 1987 and manufactures aluminum cylinder heads, engine blocks and transmission parts for the auto industry, and employs more than 500 people. At Shiloh Industries, the Dickson facility opened in 1994 and its 350 employees produce metal stampings and complex assemblies principally for Nissan, Johnson Controls, Visteon and Ford Motor Company.

The Quad/Graphics print production plant in Dickson is among several of the international companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s facilities. The company, which specializes in printing consumer magazines, special interest publications, catalogs, retail inserts, direct mail, books and directories, bought the plant in 2010.

Manufacturing

Sumiden Wire Products Corp., a subsidiary of Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd. in Japan, opened its Dickson County location in 1990 to manufacture PC steel wire used for strengthening concrete structures. The stainless steel wire is also used in products ranging from surgical staples and catheter wire to springs for military and aerospace applications.

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

business

Dickson Count y

Family Tradition

Phil Yoder founded Yoder’s Dutch Barns with his wife in 1997. Today, the entire family is involved in the business, which continues to grow in the Cumberland Furnace area.

Building on

Success Yoder family expands LOCAL enterprise

f an attractive gazebo or pavilion in Dickson County or thereabouts catches your eye, chances are Yoder’s Dutch Barns had a hand in its creation. The same goes for storage barns, lawn furniture, play sets and more. The Yoder family began constructing customized solutions for storage and outdoor-recreation buildings from their Cumberland Furnace base of operations in 1997, starting “from scratch” with one building at a time. Since then, the business grew to include recreational buildings and equipment, as well as both wood and metal-fabricated structures. Given all the growth, it’s a good thing there’s no shortage of Yoders: Phil and Marietta founded the business, and all six of their children are involved to varying degrees, says Phil Yoder. “I grew up on a family farm and always enjoyed building things, so I wanted to combine those interests,” he says. “There were five of us brothers, and I knew that the farm couldn’t support everybody, so I started this business by going up to the lumberyard and buying enough material for a barn. From there, I’ve just worked my way up.” New types of buildings, such as gazebos and others with metal work, have allowed for new avenues of expansion, and also let Yoder get all of his children involved to some degree. And that suits his sons just fine. “I enjoy working with my dad and my brothers; we have a good time together,” says Jeremy Yoder, the eldest son and shop foreman.

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

Tailor-Made Structures

Yoder’s Dutch Barns creates custom wood and metal-fabricated buildings, such as storage and recreational structures, as well as gazebos. The family-owned operation also builds outdoor furniture and playground equipment.

“The company has really grown. Sometimes I wish we could regulate it a little bit, especially when we’re going all-out, but it’s really been good for us as a family.” New Lines of Business lead to Major Growth The Yoders say that Dickson County has been a great place to grow a business, both in terms of community support and convenient access to markets located throughout Middle Tennessee. That’s important for an outfit that prides itself on customized solutions. “A lot of our buildings are 42

Dickson Count y

standard, but we’re able to move doors and windows around, add lofts and shelves, all the things a customer wants,” Phil Yoder says. “Everyone has certain needs, and we are able to make the structure work for them. That’s how we got into the metal buildings, and in the process, began to carry supplies for metal companies and do metal roofing on houses.” In addition, the Yoders have moved into outdoor furniture and playground equipment, “something for everybody,” Phil Yoder says. But no matter how big the company gets, it’s going to

stay put in Cumberland Furnace. “We’ve got our original shop down in Whiteville, and our retail lot in Cumberland Furnace,” Phil Yoder says. “We wanted a family business; that was our goal. Our boys are helping us in the business, and we’ve been able to hire some other people, so we are growing here where we are. We get a lot of our business by word of mouth, which means we’re keeping our customers happy. As long as they keep coming back, we’ll be here.” by Joe Morris by staff photographer Wendy Jo O’Barr

Gorgeous Gazebos

Yoderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dutch Barns offers a broad selection of gazebos, pergolas and other outdoor buildings. The business is staffed by Phil and Marietta Yoder and their six children: Jeremy, Alex, Andrew, Luke, Sara and Vicki.

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

Because You Deserve More

Business Spotlight THREE TIMES A LADY

• Sales and Service

Customers choose from a wide variety of goods like clothing, shoes, bath and body products, sleepwear and active wear at this specialty boutique for women, which opened in downtown Dickson in 2012. (615) 446-3838

• Heating and AC – Residential and Commercial

MISS AMY’S SCHOOL OF THE ARTS

• GeoThermal Heat and AC Systems

Locally Owned and Operated (615) 446-4364

704 Henslee Dr. • Dickson, TN 37055 www.homecomfortsolutions.co Financing Available

• Ductless Air • Tank and Tankless Water Heater • Plumbing and Electrical Service • Free Estimates on Replacements

Lic. #868

For 25 years, Amy Pilkinton has owned this studio where students ages 3 through adult can learn ballet, tap, clogging, gymnastics, pom pom, cheerleading, lyrical study and musical theater. www.missamysdance.com

THE CROSSINGS AT DICKSON The under-construction shopping center will serve the entire region when it opens in 2014 on Highway 46. The development is located near Super Wal-Mart in Dickson. www.bsmproperties.com

EVENTS ON MAIN

celebrating Being in Business for More Than 35 Years

EstablishEd and trustworthy • We want to thank you for your continued support and trust as we have grown to nine agents and six auctioneers. • We specialize in residential, commercial, farms, land and auction estate sales. 211 McLemore St. • Dickson, TN 37055 • (615) 446-4508

WWW.charLeSWooDarD.coM 44

Dickson Count y

Located in downtown Dickson, the rustic and beautifully restored building gives the public a place to host banquets with as many as 225 people. Party caterers also have access to an on-site prep/ service kitchen. www.dicksonevents onmain.com

KAREN’S Specializing in women’s apparel and swimsuits, the staff at Karen’s also assists customers with foundation undergarment fittings and choices, carrying brands such as Bali, Calvin Klein, Maidenform, Playtex and Spanx. www.karensofdickson.com

business: Chamber Report

Download Dickson County Chamber’s tourism group develops free mobile app Restaurants, attractions, lodging, events and shopping choices are now all within easy touch for residents, as well as anyone visiting Dickson County. Recently, the Dickson County Chamber of Commerce launched a free tourism app that can be downloaded onto mobile devices. Just go to the iTunes app store or Google Play and type “Visit Dickson” or “Dickson County Tennessee” in order to download the app onto your Apple or Android device. “Besides being free, another nice aspect is that a GPS map gives residents or visitors any directions they need to hundreds of Dickson County destinations,” says Rhonda Adams, director of tourism with the Dickson County Chamber of Commerce. ”For example, if there’s a shop you want to go to, click on the shop and it will automatically map you to the store. I use the app all the time, and I’m a local. Often before I leave the office, I pick out a restaurant on the app and call with my order, then go pick up my food and take it home. It’s an excellent convenience.” Adams adds that the Attractions icon can be nice for residents as well as tourists. “A lot of locals aren’t aware of the many attractions we have in Dickson County, so on a rainy day they can pull up Attractions, click on it, then see if there’s something they haven’t seen or done in awhile,” she says. “For instance, we have a new ice skating rink that many residents don’t know about, and now it’s listed on the app.” Extensive Amount of Listings The tourism guide app was produced by Georgia-based Populace Inc., which has also linked the chamber’s Facebook page to the app. “Statistics show that more people are now getting their

information from mobile devices than their personal computers,” says Tommy Duke, vice president of sales with Populace Inc. “The Dickson County app has an extensive amount of listings because it’s a product of the chamber. Basically, whatever information the chamber has anywhere in print has been put into app form for residents and tourists to

carry on their mobile devices.” Duke adds that once the app is downloaded, cell phone service isn’t needed to retrieve information. “After downloading it, the app is always there on your phone,” he says. “You can still access it even if you’re in a remote or rural area that doesn’t have cell service.” by Kevin Litwin

thank you for voting us #1 for five straight years! Come see why more customers are making the short drive to Dickson.

dicksonchevy.com Voted 2012 reaDer’s ChoiCe awarDs winner for Best Place to Buy a New or Pre-Owned Vehicle.

Now even better aCCess with the opening of I-840!

exit 172

2211 Hwy. 46 S. Just 15 minutes from Nashville and Williamson County.

your new gM Connection for Cars, trucks and suvs

l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

… About Your Water. IT’S OUR COMMITMENT The employees of the Water Authority of Dickson County are committed to clean, safe water for your family and their own.

101 Cowan Rd. Dickson, TN 37055 (615) 441-4188 (615) 441-9987 Fax www.wadc.us

Dickson Count y

economic profile Taxes

Dickson Co. Board of Education

Tennsco Corporation

High School Graduate

State Sales Tax

Associate Degree Bachelor’s Degree

9.75%

Master’s Degree

Total Sales Tax

Scorecard

Nemak Tri Star Horizon Medical Center Dickson County Government

Transportation

household income

$606M Annual Retail Sales

$61M

$200,000+ 110

$30,000-199,000 $29,000 and Under

Nashville International Airport www.flynashville. com

3,424

Annual Hotel and Food Sales

5,198

399

Top Employers

County Sales Tax

education level

400

2.75%

69%

505

1,100

City Sales and Use Tax

510

2.75%

16%

2,446

South Central Tennessee Railroad Company (931) 729-4227

Total Number of Firms This section is sponsored by

Serving Dickson for More Than 30 Years with Experience, Quality and Integrity

1085 E. Christi Dr. Dickson, TN 37055 (615) 740-1000 UNITED MECHANICAL & ELECTRICAL Commercial • Industrial Boilers, Chillers, Building Automation, HVAC – Refrigeration, Mechanical Operations

(615) 446-9369

Visit us online for a full list of area attractions, services and amenities.

www.choicehotels.com/hotel/tn351 l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d i c k s o n

Ad Index

45 Alexander Chevrolet Buick GMC

4 Bank of Dickson

44 Charles Woodard

C2 City of Dickson

47 Comfort Inn

19 Dickson County Municipal Airport Authority

2 Dickson Electric System

48 Middle Tennessee Mortgage Inc.

35 Nemak

32 NHC Healthcare

48 Sunbelt Insurance

Agency Inc.

31 Tennessee

Technology Center

C3 DMA

46 Tennsco

48 East Hills Bed & Breakfast

C4 TriStar Bank

32 East Hills Dental Center

32 TriStar Horizon

Medical Center

1 ERA Real Estate Professionals 15 Greater Dickson Gas Authority

48 Greystone

44 Home Comfort Solutions LLC

47 United Mechanical & Electrical 46 Water Authority of Dickson

Life • Health • Auto • Home • Business GORDON LAMPLEY, LUTCF (615) 446-9292 Tel • (615) 740-9997 Fax sunbelt104@gmail.com www.insuranceofmiddletennessee.com

Hosts: JoHn & AnitA LutHer Located on Highway 70 East at 100 East Hills Terrace, Dickson, TN 37055 (615) 441-9428 • jaluther@comcast.net

www.easthillsbb.com Since 1987 We Offer the Experience, Knowledge and Level of Service You Expect and Deserve

Middle Tennessee MorTgage 210 Skyline Cir. Dickson, TN 37055

Call to book your tee time or corporate event today! 2555 Hwy. 70 E. Dickson, TN 37055 (615) 446-0044 www.greystonegc.com

(615) 446-6755 lisa James & gary Davis

Fast approval • FHa • Va Conventional • refinancing

www.miDDleTeNNeSSeemorTgage.Com

Visit Our adVertisers Alexander Chevrolet Buick GMC www.dicksonchevy.com

Greystone www.greystonegc.com

Bank of Dickson www.bankofdickson.com

Home Comfort Solutions LLC www.homecomfortsolutions.co

Charles Woodard www.charleswoodard.com City of Dickson www.cityofdickson.com Comfort Inn www.choicehotels.com/hotel/tn351 Dickson County Chamber of Commerce www.dicksoncountychamber.com Dickson County Municipal Airport Authority www.dicksonairport.com

Nemak www.nemak.com NHC Healthcare www.nhcdickson.com Sunbelt Insurance Agency Inc. www.insuranceofmiddletennessee.com

Dickson Electric System www.dicksonelectric.com

Tennessee Technology Center www.ttcdickson.edu

DMA www.dicksonmd.com

Tennsco www.tennsco.com

East Hills Bed & Breakfast www.easthillsbb.com

TriStar Bank www.tristarbank.com

East Hills Dental Center www.easthillsdentalcenter.com

TriStar Horizon Medical Center www.tristarhealth.com

ERA Real Estate Professionals www.dicksonera.com Greater Dickson Gas Authority www.gdga.com

Middle Tennessee Mortgage Inc. www.middletennesseemortgage.com

Dickson Count y

United Mechanical & Electrical Water Authority of Dickson www.wadc.us

Dickson MeDical associ ates

615.446.5121 www.dicksonmd.com

specialties

Dickson Medical Associates (DMA) is one of the largest multispecialty

• Allergy, Asthma & Sinus

locations offering a wide range of medical services and diagnostic

• Bariatric Surgery

testing. The multispecialty practice of 22 physicians and seven mid-

• Cardiology

level providers offers the latest in medical technology and patient

• Dermatology

care for the five counties it serves. We operate fully accredited MRI,

• Family Practice

CT and nuclear medicine centers, laser and skin care, and a state-of-

• General Surgery • Internal Medicine

physician-owned medical groups in Tennessee. DMA has eight

the-art accredited sleep center. We also have an integrated electronic medical records system and the latest technology in digital radiology.

• Neurology

With an emphasis on convenience and patient satisfaction, DMA

• Orthopedics, Sports & Spine Surgery

Express Care offers two walk-in clinic locations! DMA Express

• Pathology

7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Express Care South is open seven days a week –

• Pediatrics

Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and

• Sleep Medicine

Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with full-service lab and x-ray.

Care at Crestview is open Monday through Friday from

Your Choice of Locations! DMA Crestview 127 Crestview Park Dr.

DMA Crestview

DMA South 758 Hwy. 46 S. DMA Pediatric Clinic 125 Crestview Park Dr. DMA Children’s Clinic 114 Hwy. 70 E. DMA Cardiology & General Surgery 113 Hwy. 70 E. DMA General Surgery & Endoscopy 704 E. College St. DMA Imaging & Bella Vita 758 Hwy. 46 S. DMA Lyles 5194 Hwy. 100, Lyles, TN

DMA South