Livability Williamson County, TN 2013

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williamson county

tennessee

A good Sport Venues benefit kids, businesses

creative class

Innovative businesses flock to county

Community Spirit Local festivals, family fun bring community together 2013-14 | sponsored by williamson county chamber of commerce

ONLINE | livability.com/williamson-county Activities

Index MORE ON WILLIAMSON COUNTY Go to the links below for more articles and photos about Williamson County’s business climate, recreation, food, schools, health care, culture and more.

TOP EMPLOYERS livability.com/franklin/tn/ business DEMOGRAPHICS livability.com/franklin/tn/ facts

MONICA STILES Realtor

Monica has the unique ability,

SCHOOLS livability.com/franklin/tn/ schools

Learn about soccer and the facilities available in Williamson County. http://livability.com/ franklin/tn/activities/soccercommunity-franklin-tn

NEIGHBORHOODS livability.com/franklin/tn/ living

Business

ATTRACTIONS livability.com/franklin/tn/ attractions

making real estate easy instead of complicated. Monica has lived

FOOD livability.com/franklin/tn/ food

and sold real estate full time in the Williamson County area for more than 12 years, she knows the market, and is connected to a deep social network. Monica promises you a responsive and positive relationship as she helps you find that perfect home.

Member: National Association of Realtors Williamson County Association of Realtors

Brentwood Library See where the Brentwood Library ranks on Livability.com’s list of the top 10 libraries for kids. http://livability.com/top-10/ top-10-libraries-children

www.MonicaStiles.com

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Franklin, TN 37067 615-465-3700 Cell: 615-394-5797

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CONTENTS

williamson county

tennessee

6 Welcome to Williamson County An introduction to the community

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Things to Do 0 Sports 1 A Good Sport

Venues benefit kids and businesses

6 Downtown Franklin 1 Recipe for Success

Franklin’s charming, historic downtown blends nicely with vibrant businesses

2 Events 2 Community Spirit

Local festivals, family fun bring community together

26 Local Flavor Eat Up! 0 Arts & Culture 3 Arts Smart On The Cover Families enjoy a mix of historic buildings, hip shops and restaurants in Downtown Franklin. Photo by Wendy Jo O’Barr

2 Sports & Recreation 3 A Walk in the Park

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You can take it with you

Enjoy Interact with app-exclusive content such as photos, videos and maps.

Share Tell others about the app through social media and show it to prospective residents and businesses.

download Visit your favorite app store on your phone or tablet and search for Williamson County Magazine.

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CONTENTS

Assisted Living NOW OPEN 68

Living

Business

40 Local Agriculture Fresh from the Farm

66 Working Here Large and in Charge

Community support boosts area agriculture

44 Small-town Living We’re in Williamson County Too

Smaller towns, cities remain vibrant

48 Innovative Businesses Creative Class

Innovative businesses flock to county

52 Retirement Golden Living

Retirees enjoy an active life and amenities

Independent Villas and Memory Care Coming Soon!

Successful large companies grow roots in county

68 Big Economic Players A Place to Call Home

County location attracts many company headquarters

72 Future Plans Developing Story

Office development booms in Cool Springs

77 Chamber Letter Executive Sweet

79 Economic Profile

56 Education Learning for Life 58 Health Works in Progress

60 Community Profile

For More Information: 615.567.3717 www.fountainsfranklin.com 300 Celebration Circle Franklin, TN 37067

All or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

Please recycle this magazine

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At A Glance

Williamson County, Tennessee A quick, comprehensive of what’s great about the community Nashoverview illle 40

431 4 3

Brentwood 96

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100

Fairview Leiper’s Fork

96

Cool Springs

Franklin

65

Nolensville 31A

WILLIAMSON

31

Thompson’s Station Spring Hill

H

Arrington ar Triune pe th R i ve r

College Grove

Williamson County

Location

Williamson County is a vibrant, growing community known for its scenic beauty, quiet neighborhoods and thriving business districts. Home to many community groups, historic sites and an array of activities, the county offers something for the entire family.

POPULATION

192,911 Distances to three major cities nearby Nashville, TN.: 22 miles Louisville, KY: 196 miles Birmingham, AL: 177 miles

For More Information Williamson County Chamber of Commerce 5005 Meridian Blvd. Suite 150 Franklin, TN 37067 Phone: (615) 771-1W1C (1912) Fax: (615) 373-8810 williamsoncountychamber.org

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Time zone Central

annual rainfall

54”

National Average: 30”

Accolade Williamson County’s 94% high school graduation rate is the highest of any county in Tennessee.

An award-winning school system attracts many families to Williamson County, and they soon find the benefits of living in one of the wealthiest and fastest-growing counties in the state.

Lots to See and do Located just south of Nashville, Williamson County offers smalltown charm and big-city amenities.

The landscape includes gently rolling hills, century-old farms and preserved historic areas, among them the treasured Main Street in downtown Franklin. Children and adults keep fit on a collection of playing fields and in recreation centers and parks. Residents gather for cultural celebrations at annual events like the Williamson County Fair, Main Street Festival and Spring Hill Country Ham Festival. Local farms supply area restaurants and grocery stores with organic produce, fresh milk, cheeses and meats. New bands and established songwriters entertain at amphitheaters, bars and concert halls. Stores in the county’s commercial districts sell the latest fashions, newest technology and must-haves.

Tight-Knit Community Local governments keep streets and public buildings well maintained and carefully plan for growth. Well-funded police and emergency departments provide a blanket of protection. Williamson Medical Center, clinics and respected physicians provide the latest in healthcare advances and techniques. Community and economic leaders welcome new businesses with open arms and support growth initiatives, particularly those which foster innovation and new technology.

In the following pages you’ll see why Williamson County is one of America’s best places to live, work and play.

History Meets Modern

The Confederate Soldier, Chip, overlooks the antebellum courthouse in downtown Franklin, which is full of high-end boutiques, upscale dining and a variety of entertainment.

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

Eat to a Beat

Enjoy food and music at Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant. The original Leiper’s Fork store opened in the 1950s, and since then Puckett’s has opened locations in Franklin, Nashville and Columbia. Today, the three Puckett’s Grocery stores double as home-style restaurants that showcase live music acts.

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Theater

Wine Tasting

Outdoors

Kids’ Activities

See the Show

Raise Your Glass

Pedal in the Park

Check It Out

Attend a performance at the Franklin Theatre, which dates back to 1937.

The Heritage Foundation of Franklin and Williamson County raised $8.2 million to buy and restore the landmark and today the theater on Main Street shows movies and stages live concerts and theater.

Sample wines at Arrington Vineyards, founded in 2005 by country music singer Kix Brooks, located on 75 hilly acres in Arrington.

The vineyard opened for retail sales in July 2007 and now sells 12 different varieties of wine. It schedules several wine-tasting events.

Get on your bike and ride at Bowie Nature Park in Fairview, which has 17 miles of trails ideal for mountain bikers who enjoy varying terrains. Bikers can ride trails through forests and along lakes, as well as near ecosystems such as wetlands, grasslands and bottomlands.

Take the kids to the Brentwood Children’s Library, a Livability.com Top 10 Children’s Library, thanks in part to the facility’s appealing spaces and range of programs.

The library hosts story times, including preschool sessions four times a week and a family story time every Saturday.

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Things To Do

Step Back in Time

Check out Franklin’s Civil War sites, where the Battle of Franklin was fought in 1864. Franklin’s Charge was established in 2005 to help preserve threatened battlefield land. Tourism sites today include Carnton Plantation, Carter House, Franklin Battlefield Park and Lotz House Museum.

Antiques

Water Recreation

Shopping

Golfing

Treasure hunt

Canoe and Fish

Wear Comfy Shoes

Go Clubbing

Go antiquing in Nolensville.

The Three French Hens mall contains dozens of vendors, and the Roost offers even more vintage goods. Village Antiques & Gifts is a relatively new antique market; other venues include Morgenstern’s 1949 and Roses & Rustics.

Drop a line in the Harpeth River, where paddlers can put in at five access points in Franklin including Fieldstone Park. Fishing is also allowed on the Harpeth, with good catches of bluegill, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and, in the winter, trout.

Shop in Williamson County, where there’s plenty in store.

CoolSprings Galleria is the largest destination with 150 stores. Other top shopping spots include downtown Franklin, The Factory, Brentwood Town Center, and specialty stores in Nolensville and Spring Hill.

Hit ‘em far and straight at 10 public and private courses, including the 36-hole Vanderbilt Legends Club and Temple Hills Club, which features 45 holes.

Other top destinations include the Brentwood Country Club, Nashville Golf & Athletic Club, and The Governors Club.

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Things To Do

A Good

Sport

venues benefit kids and businesses

Take the Whole Family to the Game

Little leaguers play hard at Nolensville Park, which includes a Bark Park for dogs. Amenities include baseball and football fields, a playground, walking trails, restrooms, and for the dogs there are runs with obstacles and a water fountain.

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Children participate in Williamson County youth soccer.

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mong the most highly prized amenities in Williamson County are its sports facilities, which continue to grow and improve.

Outdoor sports parks and indoor complexes host state, regional, and national tournaments and provide the perfect setting for pickup games and athletic instruction. Though the economic impact on Williamson County from all these facilities is unknown, community leaders say it’s in the millions of dollars.

“We strive to offer the best services to our residents in everything we do, including offering them safe, state-of-theart sport facilities,” says Kerri Hudson, public information coordinator for Williamson County Parks and Recreation.

Bring Your A-Game An example of the variety in the county’s sports facilities is the A-Game Sportsplex, with two full-sized ice rinks for hockey and figure skating, as well as six

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• Minutes from downtown Franklin, Nashville City Center and Cool Springs Conference Center • Free hot breakfast • Free Wi-Fi • Outdoor pool • Fitness center • Whirlpool • 24-hour business center w/free copy, fax and print services • Conference facilities available

1738 Carothers Parkway Brentwood, TN 37027 (615) 277-8700 www.magnusonhotels.com/magnuson-hotel-cool-springs/

An Excel Aquatics member swims at the Williamson County Indoor Sports Complex in Brentwood.

basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, a fitness center, five acres of outdoor field space for lacrosse and flag football and the only jungle-themed laser tag facility in Middle Tennessee.

In 2013 alone, A-Game will host national and regional basketball tourneys such as the AAU State Tournament, the Battle in the Boro and the Music City National Prep Girls Invitational, among several others.

Soccer Kicks Things up The Indoor Arena at Crockett Park sports a professional multipurpose field and a conference room, and hosts multiple soccer and

Magazine app Kids practice hockey at A-Game Sportsplex in Cool Springs.

Download the app to see photos come to life. l i va b i l i t y. c o m / w i l l i a m s o n - c o u n t y

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Indoor Sports Complex in Brentwood is one of the sports facilities available for indoor recreation.

Ready, Set, Hut!

flag football leagues. The Robert A. Ring Indoor Soccer Arena’s modern indoor turf and glass walls on the spectator side allow for a great view of the field. Each facility has hosted soccer matches of the annual Winter Indoor Series, which brings in more than 150 teams from four states.

Brentwood’s Indoor Sports Complex has employed its five tennis courts to host the Big Harpeth Classic Tennis Tournament. The building also features a 150-meter indoor training pool, fitness classes, aquatics and tennis programs.

“The Indoor Sports Complex is awesome. It always felt top-notch to me,” says Scott Chaney, a Williamson County resident whose son and daughter have participated in summer swim leagues. “There are plenty of places to congregate outside, where they set up tents for the teams, and the bathrooms are very clean. In case the meets went long, the concession stand was a welcome sight.”

Best of the Rest Other top indoor facilities include the Williamson County Soccer Complex, the Franklin Recreation Complex and the Longview Recreation Center at Spring Hill. The last two offer everything from pools and fitness centers to senior activities and therapeutic recreation.

Those who wish to get their game on outside can check out Crockett Park, the largest park in Brentwood, with more than 164 acres of open fields.

Its eight lighted baseball and softball diamonds host games for all ages.

“Quality parks and recreation facilities are viewed as a necessity in Williamson County as part of our excellent quality of life, and we with the Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department aspire to meet that need every day,” Hudson says.

by Chris Russell by staff photographers Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord, Wendy Jo O’Barr and Jeffrey S. Otto

Brentwood Blaze Youth Football League hosts their spring camps at Crockett Park. With 164 acres of open space, including eight multipurpose fields, concessions and facilities, Crockett Park is the largest park in Brentwood.

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Game On In Williamson County, there is no shortage of places that keep athletes and sports enthusiasts ready for their next challenge.

Showtime Sports Academy Showtime Sports Academy provides baseball and softball instruction at its 35,000-square-foot facility, as well as a seasoned group of instructors, among them a former Major League Baseball pitcher, a Hall of Fame college coach and a Sun Belt Conference player of the year.

“We are creating a new and exciting atmosphere for young athletes to take their skills to the next level through intense one-onone personal training,” says General Manager Greg Manuel. “Our goal is to help each athlete reach his/her greatest potential, while preparing them to be a complete player and person.”

D1 Sports Training D1 Sports Training gives its clients a full-scale training and coaching regimen to maximize their conditioning, whether the person simply wants to get in better shape or is an athlete who wants to take it to the next level.

Training and guidance are provided for a variety of major sports.

The athlete is schooled on everything from fundamentals to growing a strong work ethic and the importance of nutrition. The company has tutored such alumni as NFL first-round draft choices Tim Tebow and Michael Oher, and other pro stars.

Golf House Tennessee Golf House Tennessee Learning Center offers world-class coaching and development programs for children and adults. It includes a 19-acre practice range with greens, bunkers and the nine-hole Little Course at Conner Lane.

Check out more fun things to do in Williamson County at livability.com/ williamson-county.

Things To Do

55 South on Main Street is one of several restaurants offering outdoor dining in Downtown Franklin..

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Dig in and Relax

The Franklin Mercantile Deli, or “the Merc”, is a favorite among locals. The deli is open Sunday-Thursday for breakfast and lunch, and Friday-Saturdays for all meals.

Recipe for

Success Franklin’s charming, historic downtown blends nicely with vibrant businesses

W

hen Valerie Jacobs and her fiance, Jeff McCue, left Birmingham in 2011 they thought they were moving to Nashville – until they drove through downtown Franklin.

Though McCue had lived in Franklin earlier, Jacobs had never seen it and found the downtown shops, historic homes, and restaurants a pleasant surprise. Today, they still enjoy those things. But now they can walk to them from their home in the city’s historic district.

“I really like living in downtown Franklin, with the quaint streets and all the little shops and restaurants. It’s got that oldschool charm,” Jacobs says. “But the proximity to Nashville is also great. I like that we can leave the Bridgestone Arena (in downtown Nashville) and be home to our quieter life in Franklin in just a few minutes.” l i va b i l i t y. c o m / w i l l i a m s o n - c o u n t y

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Shopping, History, Dining Make Franklin Special Jacobs and McCue, like most Franklin residents, savor the special ingredients that make up the city’s recipe for success: a charming, restored downtown, a retail mix that includes stores like Anthropologie and Chico’s, as well as locally owned gift, home accessories, stationery, clothing and antique shops, diverse restaurants, and a rich historical legacy that offers much to explore.

“We really like the downtown historic walking tours, and the signs that let you dial a number and hear information about an historic site,” Jacobs says. “We like to take our dog, Sandy, to the dog park at Harlinsdale.

We bike a lot around Franklin, and we like to walk downtown for lunch or dinner. I particularly like the shops – well done, friendly, with a different mix of products than you’d find in Nashville.”

Get out and enjoy Southern flavor and at 55 South in Franklin.

Preservation Efforts Now a bustling tourist destination, and frequently cited on “best places to live” lists, a few decades ago Franklin was looking at a very different future.

Many downtown shops hid under ugly aluminum awnings, historic buildings were being demolished, and strip malls and subdivisions were multiplying.

Concerned citizens realized that something had to be done to retain the city’s character and ensure its economic survival. Today, awardwinning efforts by the Heritage Foundation of Franklin and Williamson County and other groups have renewed much of downtown.

THINGS TO

DO

Dig in and

The Franklin

Relax

Mercantile

a favorite among Deli, or “the Merc”, is locals. The Sunday-Th deli is open ursday for breakfast and Friday-Satu lunch, and rdays for all meals.

Recip

Succeefosrs FRAN KLIN ’S CHAR MING BLEN DS NICE , HISTO LY WITH VIBRA RIC DOW NTOW N NT BUSIN ESSES

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hen Valerie Jacobs and her fiance, Jeff McCue, left Birmingham in 2011 they thought they were moving to until they drove Nashville – through downtown Franklin.

Though McCue had lived in never seen Franklin it and and restaurants found the downtown earlier, Jacobs had shops, those things. a pleasant surprise. Today, historic homes, But they still the city’s historic now they can walk to them from enjoy their home “I really like district. in living in downtown streets and Franklin, all school charm,”the little shops and restaurantswith the quaint Jacobs says. also great. I “But the proximity. It’s got that oldlike that we to Nashville can leave the downtown Nashville) is and be home Bridgestone Arena (in Franklin in to our quieter just a few minutes.” life in

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digital magazine & APP The Franklin Theatre in downtown Franklin hosts live shows and movies.

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

With large portions of Franklin on the National Register of Historic Places, the city has become known for historic preservation.

“The historic setting is what makes us special,” says Graeme Asch, who owns the Franklin Mercantile restaurant with his wife, Corrie. When it launched in 1999, a good day’s customer count was perhaps 35. Today, “The Merc” as it is fondly known, serves about 120 customers a day, and on a recent Saturday served 450. The reason for their success, Asch says, is a combination of things unique to Franklin.

“Franklin’s done a great job mixing an old setting with fresh, young businesses, great food, great music,” Asch says. “It’s a friendly place to stroll, a good place for families. Where I came from in Louisiana, there was good and bad. Here, there’s just a whole lot of good.”

by Laura Hill by staff photographers Wendy Jo O’Barr and Jeffrey S. Otto

Lulu on Main Street sells bed, bath and lifestyle products.

Shop, Dine and Explore

While preserving its small town, historic vibe, downtown Franklin is full of high-end boutiques, upscale dining and a variety of entertainment. Take a daytime walking tour, such as Franklin on Foot, to learn about the city’s history, and have lunch at one of the 20-plus restaurants in the area.

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Town Center: The Heart of Brentwood Brentwood’s Town Center is rapidly becoming what planners always hoped it would be: the vibrant shopping, entertainment, dining – and now, residential – heart of the community.

Complementing Brentwood’s upscale neighborhoods, the area bounded by Old Hickory Boulevard, Interstate 65, Church Street and Franklin Road embraces an expanding roster of retail, dining and service providers. More than 100 businesses are located in the Town Center area, and soon the neighborhood’s first residences will open their doors.

Bristol Development’s Tapestry project, which comprises 393 one- and two-bedroom leased condos, sits just north of the Brentwood Place shopping center and adjacent to Synergy Business Park. Synergy Business Park, meanwhile, will welcome a new Hilton Garden Inn, to be built around the historic Mooreland Manor.

“There is an awful lot going on in Town Center these days,” says Cindi Parmenter, chief operating officer of the Williamson County Chamber.

Visitors and residents alike enjoy abundant choices in Town Center, from specialty shops like Nashville Needleworks to of-the-moment fashion and home accessory stores like Spruce and Stacey Rhodes Boutiques, to The Edge Salon and The Skinbar.

Conveniently located dining establishments include

Try the crepes at The Perch in the Town Center.

Mexican (Local Taco), Southern (Puffy Muffin), barbecue (Judge Bean’s Bar-B-Que), Asian (Peter’s Sushi & Thai), The Perch’s coffee and crepes and more.

Weekends, from spring through fall, Town Center Saturdays showcase local food purveyors, music, shopping and kids’ activities, such popular events that they now are held inside Synergy Business Park to accommodate the crowds. Year round, the Towne Centre Theatre packs ‘em in for its season of Broadway plays and musicals.

By Laura Hill

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Things To Do

Jam Session

Musicians from Red Line Acoustic Guitars join several acts that play at Franklin’s Main Street Festival, which attracts more than 100,000 people from all over the country.

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Community

Spirit

Local festivals, family fun bring community together

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illiamson County residents know how to have some good oldfashioned fun. All year round people flock to its cities and hamlets to take part in local festivals, fairs, free concerts and other family entertainment.

Families enjoy year-round festivals and events.

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Watch bull-riding at the Franklin Rodeo.

“It really brings us together,” says Andy Marshall, who grew up in Franklin and owns the popular Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant Southern-style restaurants in the region. “[The events] mean a lot to us, and they’re a great way to show off our community.”

Festivals for Every Season In April, ring in spring at the Main Street Festival in Franklin.

Consistently rated one of the top 20 Southeast events by the Southeast Tourism Society, the weekend-long festival attracts more than 100,000 people, who come from all over the country to sample international food, dance to live bands, shop for handmade arts and crafts, and much more.

“It has so much going on at one time,” says Nancy Williams, Find more fun family activities and events at livability.com/williamsoncounty.

Fair-goers can swing, along with trying local food and listening to live music, at the Williamson County Fair.

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director of the Downtown Franklin Association, which helps produce the Main Street Festival. “And it’s all ages, so there’s something for everyone.”

In the summer, nearby Nolensville throws the annual Nolensville Lawn Festival, sponsored by Nolensville First United Methodist Church. The June event features a parade, antique cars, homemade ice cream and lots of kids’ activities.

Early October is a great time to pig out at the Spring Hill Country Ham Festival. The two-day event is chock-full of ham-related fun like hog-calling competitions, baby pig races and an array of creative dishes, from country ham casserole to country ham pepper jelly. In late October, kids and adults alike get a kick out of Pumpkinfest in downtown Franklin, which features costumes, pumpkin painting and a delicious chili cook-off.

Country Fun for the Whole Family Want to see some bull ridin’?

Then grab your cowboy hat and head on down to the famous Franklin Rodeo. Andy Marshall and his wife haven’t missed it in years.

“It’s a big community event,” he says. “You see your neighbors.

Everybody comes to have a good time. It’s just a blast.”

Farm animals also take center stage at the award-winning Williamson County Fair, set in the rolling green hills near Franklin. In the quaint village of Leiper’s Fork, catch some great music and folksy charm at the Lawnchair Theater.

The free, outdoor venue is the perfect place to spread out a picnic blanket in the grass and watch a bluegrass band or a family-friendly movie on a big screen.

Charitable events also play a big role in Williamson County life.

One of the largest, the Susan G. Komen Greater Nashville Race for

Snapshot

More than 25,000 peo ple participate in Race for the Cure to raise money for breast cancer resear ch.

the Cure in Brentwood, draws thousands of people to raise money and awareness to help end breast cancer.

“There are just so many neat people that live here,” Marshall says. “We take such pride in our community, and it shows up in all these events. I can’t imagine living anywhere else.”

by Miles Britton by staff photographers Jeff Adkins, Michael Conti and Jeffrey S. Otto

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Things To Do: Local Flavor

Bring Your Appetite and Wet Wipes

Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint in Nolensville has attracted national attention for its whole-hog cooking method. Take the whole family and try the pulled pork, which is smoked at least 22 hours.

Eat Up!

No matter what you’re craving, Williamson has it ready to serve Dining options in Williamson County continue to grow. New restaurants and breweries offer tempting treats for the most discerning taste buds, while longtime residents are still loyal to favorite eateries that serve tried and tested recipes with a side of hospitality and a cup of conversation. Here’s a sample of what you can sink your teeth into.

Barbecue

Different styles and sauces Barbecue is plentiful in the county. Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint in Nolensville has attracted national attention for its whole-hog cooking method. Corky’s Bar-B-Q in Brentwood is a popular outpost of the legendary Corky’s in Memphis, famous for its sausage and cheese plate and, especially, its ribs. And speaking of ribs, Famous Dave’s in Cool Springs serves them St. Louis-style, dry-rubbed and topped with an award-winning sauce.

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fast fact Pucketts Grocery & Restaurant started as a country store in Leiper’s Fork during the 1950s.

Chicken, Steaks and Seafood

“The place I go to most is 55 South. Their menu is like no other in the county. The Po’Boy Benedict and steak and eggs are to die for.

They’ve also got a Bloody Mary bar. It’s probably the best I’ve ever seen.” jondie davis, co-owner of jondie boutique in franklin

Brews and Sports

Raising the Bar Libations aplenty are available at Old Chicago Pasta and Taproom in Cool Springs, where a huge menu is complemented by 110 varieties of beer and beer flights. Granite City Food & Brewery serves five beers brewed on the spot, including Broad Axe Stout and Duke of Wellington Pale Ale, and a full menu of good things to eat. And Jonathan’s Grille’s classic menu of burgers, salads, steaks, chicken and seafood backs up the claim that it’s “not your average sports grille.”

American Classics Franklinites have long been sitting down at Dotson’s on Main Street for solid Southern cooking, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Famous for its biscuits, Dotson’s has earned a reputation for fine fried chicken too.

Uncle Bud’s Catfish Shack, with locations in Nolensville and Franklin, is another longtime favorite, serving farm-raised catfish specialties and other casual fare.

The locally owned Franklin Chop House packs them in after church on Sunday for brunch, and throughout the week for lunch and dinner.

The Chop House serves classic American comfort food, sandwiches, salads and more at its Murfreesboro Road location. And Stoveworks is a charming destination for ladies who lunch and everyone craving such specialties as creamed chicken on cornbread. The name?

Stoveworks is in The Factory at Franklin, where stoves were once manufactured.

Italian, Mexican

International Flavors If something a bit more spicy appeals, try Porta Via Italian Kitchen in Cool Springs for pasta, Northern Italian and Mediterranean entrees, and pizza made in the authentic Neapolitan way. Sal’s Family Pizza in Independence Square in Franklin is run by the entire Servidio family – Ron, wife Tanya and their four kids. Their Godfather Pizza Challenge involves an 11-pound pie you must finish in an hour. Really. Sal’s Pizza & Restaurant (no relation) on Ward Circle in Brentwood tempts with goodies like Fried Calamari and Eggplant Parmesan, to enjoy there or carry out.

For delicious dishes from south of the border, visit Nacho’s Mexican Restaurant at Center Point Place in Cool Springs.

By Laura Hill

Kick back at Granite City Food & Brewery, located adjacent to the Drury Plaza Hotel in Cool Springs.

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Come and enjoy …

Middle Tennessee’s most beautiful and challenging golf course.

NaTioNal aCCRediTaTioN Hole #6 Selected as one of the “18 Greatest Golf Holes in america” – Sports Illustrated Ranked 15th as “Greatest Tournament Courses in the Country” – Golf Digest Middle Tennessee’s Most Challenging Course – Business Journal Weekly also host to: Two international Championships Three National Championships eight State Championships

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www.ngac.net 1703 Crockett Springs Trail • Brentwood, TN 37027 • 615.370.3346

Eating In

What’s cooking country ham and cheese biscuits The city of Spring Hill comes together during the annual Country Ham Festival, which benefits the Tennessee Children’s Home. Here’s a recipe for biscuits that will get you ready for the party.

Ingredients • 2 cups unbleached self-rising flour • ¼ cup shortening • 1 cup cooked country ham, finely chopped • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese • ¼ cup milk or buttermilk • 2 ½ tablespoons butter or margarine, melted • 1 cup sour cream Instructions 1. P reheat oven to 450°.

Recipe courtesy of FarmFlavor.com

2. Measure flour into medium to large bowl.

3. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Add ham, cheese, milk or buttermilk, and sour cream.

Mix until well blended.

5. Knead gently on lightly floured surface 2-3 strokes.

6. Roll dough about ½-inch thick.

Cut without twisting cutter.

7. Bake on ungreased baking sheet for 8-10 minutes. Brush tops with melted butter or margarine. Serve warm.

Prep Time: 20-30 minutes

Things To Do: arts & culture

Arts Smart

Theater, art, festivals and libraries provide a changing calendar of things to see and do The lights dim. You stop chatting, and snuggle down in your seat to take a closer look at the program. The music begins to play. It’s curtain time! You may feel like you’re at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center or even a Broadway theater – but you’re right here in Franklin, where a top-notch performance of a hit musical is about to begin.

Art Galleries

Gallery hopping The visual arts also enjoy a loyal following, and the county’s unique art galleries showcase both local and nationally celebrated artists who work in various media.

Leiper’s Creek Gallery, a jewel of a space in Leiper’s Fork, hosts changing exhibits of distinguished artists’ work, workshops and more.

Watch art being made at The Row at The Factory, where painters, sculptors, jewelry-makers and more work in open studios.

Impressive Collection

Franklin’s Gallery 202 is located in historic Clouston Hall, which dates from 1821. The redbrick house once entertained three past Presidents and served as a Civil War hospital during the Battle of Franklin. Today, more than 45 local and international artists are on display, in medias such as original paintings, art glass, sculpture, artisan jewelry, pottery, woodwork, metal and photography.

Read more about Williamson County’s artsy attractions at livability.com/ franklin/tn/attractions or livability.com/brentwood/ tn/attractions.

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Accolade

Theater

On the stage Exciting theater is just one of many cultural opportunities available to Williamson County residents, who support their local arts venues with enthusiasm. The Pull-Tight Players, for example, have been delighting audiences since 1968, when they presented their first production, Our Town. Ensconced in a former church building on Second Avenue, the company today produces a seven-play season that includes dramas, musicals, comedies and original plays. Not far down the road, at The Factory at Franklin, the Boiler Room Theatre celebrated its 12th season in 2013, with an ambitious roster that included Noises Off, Escanaba in da Moonlight, Floyd Collins, Promises, Promises, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, The Producers and Scrooge, the Musical.

For theater with an historic flare, the Tennessee Renaissance Festival, held each spring in Triune, entertains with jugglers, jousters, lords, ladies and various colorful characters straight from the 15th century – all on the grounds of Castle Gwynn.

The Brentwood Library ranked 8th on Livability.com’s list of Top 10 Libraries for Children.

Libraries

More Than Just Books For those with a literary bent, two libraries in the county mean not just plenty to read, but plenty to do, from readings and community events to classes and workshops. The Williamson County Library’s main building is in Franklin, with branches in Nolensville, Fairview, Leiper’s Fork, Bethesda and College Grove, all of which are popular community gathering places. The library’s collection includes books, periodicals, newspapers, eBooks, audiobooks, video and audio recordings, and much more.

The Brentwood Library is free for Brentwood citizens and accessible for a small fee to others. More than 165,000 books and other material, including audiobooks, DVDs, music CDs and reference databases are available, as well as a large collection of newspapers and magazines.

The facility also has study rooms, a conference room and a large meeting room that can be rented.

By Laura Hill

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Things To Do: sports & recreation

Embrace Adventure

American Indians, settlers and past presidents have traveled Natchez Trace Parkway. Today, outdoor enthusiasts can bike, camp and hike on five trails.

The National Park Service has designated the entire parkway as a bike route, and commercial traffic is prohibited.

A Walk in the Park

Park-goers can get back to nature, find fun and more No matter where you are in Williamson County, you’re never far away from the peace and quiet that nature provides. The county is blessed with natural beauty, and residents take great pride in preserving areas for all to enjoy. While the county is blessed with many athletic fields, it contains a number of passive parks that are great places to hike, picnic or just catch some fresh air.

Wildlife Preservation

Back to Nature Bowie Nature Park in Fairview features 17 miles of mountain bike, horse and walking trails and a modern nature center. Protected by the Land Trust for Tennessee, the park offers guided hikes and school programs to educate youngsters about everything from flowers to fossils.

At Deerwood Arboretum & Nature Center in Brentwood, almost 70 different species of trees provide a picturesque backdrop to its bikeway and jogging trails and wildflower meadow. The state-certified arboretum has an educational curriculum for schools and service groups.

Access to Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary in Brentwood is by reservation only and trails are unpaved, part of the sanctuary’s mission to protect and preserve its 160 acres. Owl’s Hill hosts art and music events, family programs, workshops, private tours and its own Fairyland.

Brentwood’s Marcella Vivrette Smith Park has forested wildlife habitats and hiking trails. Future development plans include multipurpose athletic fields and internal park improvements.

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“To me, the parks here are a retreat. I work and play quite a bit in Nashville, but Williamson County is where I unwind, sit back, take a deep breath and appreciate the quieter moments. It’s where I write, run, ride my road bike, and watch my daughter learn and grow.” knight stivender, williamson county resident

Family Recreation

Take a Break Pinkerton Park offers 34 acres where families and friends can take a walk, sit down for a meal or watch the kids play on one of two playgrounds. The park is connected to downtown Franklin by a pedestrian bridge that crosses the Harpeth River.

Jim Warren Park in Franklin features sports fields and courts, a catch-and-release fishing pond, and a skate park.

By Chris Russell

Play Time

Maggie’s Bark Park in Franklin welcomes four-legged friends in the first off-leash dog park in Tennessee. Amenities include fenced areas, a pool, walking trail, agility equipment for older canines and a play area (Rascal’s Run Around) for dogs weighing under 30 pounds.

Selling Tennessee One Acre at a Time

148 5th Ave. N. • Franklin, TN 37064 • (615) 790-8884 www.facebook.com/TTPRealtors • www.timthompsonpremierrealtors.com

Things to do: see the county

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Nature at Its Finest

The Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile drive through three states, makes its way through Williamson County.

See breathtaking views from the bridge, especially in the fall when the leaves explode with color.

See more photos that showcase Williamson County’s natural beauty at livability.com/williamson-county.

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STYLISH GUEST ROOMS • EXECUTIVE SUITES • BUSINESS CENTER FITNESS CENTER • FREE WI-FI, BOTTLED WATER and COFFEE FREE PARKING AND SHUTTLE WITHIN LOCAL AREA MEETING/CONFERENCE FACILITIES BANQUET/WEDDING FACILITIES 3,800 SQUARE FEET OF FLEXIBLE MEETING SPACE WITH HIGH-SPEED INTERNET ACCESS

Live Music Every Tuesday 7-10 p.m.

Featuring American casual food in a contemporary, inviting atmosphere.

760 Old Hickory Blvd. • Brentwood, TN 37027 • (615) 964-5500 • www.fourpointsbrentwood.com

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Things to do: see the county

Challenge Accepted

Fair ladies and knights alike enjoy jousting, live performances, artisans and food at the Tennessee Renaissance Festival, which takes place every weekend in May. Costumes and big appetites are welcome.

Find more festivals in Williamson County at livability.com/williamson-county.

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living Schools, health care and neighborhoods in Williamson County

Preparing for Their Future

High School students study on the campus of Battle Ground Academy, established in 1889. The school’s name derives from its original location on the battle ground of the Civil War Battle of Franklin, BGA. See more photos that showcase Williamson County’s quality of life at livability.com/williamson-county.

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LIVING

Fresh from the

Farm

Community support boosts area agriculture

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ocal, fresh and healthy are the key words when it comes to area farmers’ relationships with the communities around them.

Whether or not they’re technically affiliated with a communitysupported-agriculture (CSA) program, farms in Williamson County don’t have to look far to see who is keeping them in business.

“Our customer base is people concerned about where their food is coming from,” says Hank Delvin Jr., a third-generation farmer at Delvin Farms in College Grove. “They’re looking for local alternatives, healthy alternatives.”

Veggies, Meat and Milk Agriculture choices vary in Williamson County, where diversified farming dates back to the postRevolutionary War era. Delvin Farms has a rich history of growing fruits and vegetables, growing them organically for the past several years. Milk products from Hatcher Family Dairy in College Grove can be found in stores and restaurants throughout Middle Tennessee, and Tap Root Farm has a loyal following for its fresh meat raised and butchered on its cattle farm in Franklin.

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Meet The Growers

Delvin Farms is a family-owned farm in Williamson County that sells organically grown produce.

Customers can visit Delvin’s stand at the Franklin Farmers Market each Saturday at The Factory in Franklin.

“We first began selling our milk at the Franklin Farmers Market in 2007, and people started spreading the word about us, and it took off from there.”

Charles Hatcher, Hatcher Family Dairy

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As it became a certified organic farm in 1999, Delvin Farms began participating in a CSA, a program in which consumers can sign up to receive a season’s worth of produce from a local farm. Their CSA accounts for about 70 percent of Delvin Farms’ business.

“If you’re looking for local produce, it’s a good value,” he says. “You get a lot of produce in the box, and you get things you don’t normally pick up at the grocery store.”

About 20 percent of Delvin Farms’ business is wholesale, primarily to area restaurants such as Saffire, the Yellow Porch and Burger Up. Its produce can also be

found at area farmers markets, particularly at Franklin Farmers Market at The Factory.

“Franklin is our flagship,” Delvin says. “I think it’s the best farmers market in the state. You’ve got about 80 different farmers that come there.

It’s a producer’s market, meaning you’ve got to grow it to sell it.”

Loyal Customers The family from Hatcher Family Dairy would agree with Delvin’s assessment of the Franklin Farmers Market.

“That’s where it all began for us,” says Charles Hatcher, a fifthgeneration dairy farmer from a farm

Taste the Freshness

Hatcher Family Dairy in College Grove provides fresh milk and other dairy products to customers in Williamson and surrounding counties. The farm also hosts charity events and farm tours.

that dates to 1831. “We first began selling our milk at the Franklin Farmers Market in 2007, and people started spreading the word about us, and it took off from there.”

Hatcher dairy products can still be found at Franklin Farmers Market, as well as in many stores and restaurants in a four-county area. It also has a store on its farm with many loyal customers.

Loyalty is also evident at Tap Root Farm, where the Ingraham family sells beef from the cattle it raises on its Clovercroft Road farm. Tap Root sells a variety of quantities and cuts to customers who return every year, quarter or month, depending on how much they purchase.

“We have a strong customer list that buys from us regularly,” says Susan Ingraham, who plans the farm’s different events. “I like selling directly to customers because we develop a relationship.”

by John McBryde

by Staff Photographers Jeffrey S. Otto and Wendy Jo O’Barr

Snapshot

Try an appetizer, burger or salad at Burger Up, which use s produce bought from local far mers.

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LIVING

Not Too Far Out

Thompson Station’s residents enjoy scenic rolling hills and pastoral countyside, with proximity to recreation, shopping and entertainment. The rural town sits just 10 miles from Franklin and 25 miles south of Nashville.

We’re in

Williamson County too Smaller towns, cities remain vibrant

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Authentically Amish

The Feed Mill Amish Country Market in downtown Nolensville sells homemade jellies, pasta, breads, butter and more. Join other customers for a true Amish breakfast every Saturday from 8-10:30 a.m.

C

omplementing the more metropolitan settings of Franklin and Brentwood are Williamson County’s smaller cities, Fairview, Spring Hill, Thompson’s Station and Nolensville. As these towns grow, community leaders remain focused on preserving their character and quality of life, which continue to attract residents and businesses.

Fast-growing City The largest of these towns is Spring Hill, which straddles the border of Williamson and Maury counties. The city’s population grew by more than 21,000 between 2000 and 2010. Today, Spring Hill is home to about 32,000 people.

“We are a city where people have nice homes, low taxes and plenty of shopping opportunities,” says Victor Lay, Spring Hill city administrator. “Adding to those shopping choices is a new Walmart Supercenter under construction, and already in place is The

Crossings shopping mall with tenants such as Target, Kohl’s and 50 other retailers.”

Spring Hill has its own golf course, where Arnold Palmer once played, and numerous restaurants with such familiar names as Logan’s Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel and Olive Garden.

“Our residents can enjoy spending time outdoors at places such as Harvey Park and Evans Park, and dogs even have their own Bark Park,” Lay says. “Spring Hill continues to blend beautiful Tennessee countryside with thriving residential and commercial growth.” l i va b i l i t y. c o m / w i l l i a m s o n - c o u n t y

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The Crossings shopping mall in Spring Hill.

Poised for Growth

Hamlets and Small Towns While Spring Hill is a more traditional suburb, Thompson’s Station, a town of more than 2,100 people, is a hamlet poised for significant growth. Officials here estimate that more than 100 building permits will be issued in 2013. Mars Petcare is constructing a four-building innovation research center that will employ about 150 people.

“This is a great place to call home,” says Greg Langeliers, Thompson’s Station town administrator. “There are pastoral settings along with top schools and multiple outdoor activities.

Thompson’s Station is a beautiful town.”

City officials anticipate steady growth for the city of Fairview, which is located 18 miles west of Franklin.

The Fairview City Hall is in the center of the community, located only 5 miles from State Route 840.

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A planned north-south walking/ biking trail will connect the town’s northernmost subdivision, Tollgate Village, with a 23-acre park.

“After that, the future goal is to connect the trail with the Heritage Elementary School campus and then Tanyard Springs subdivision in Spring Hill,” Langeliers says.

Just east of Brentwood is the Town of Nolensville, which includes comfortable homes, an expanding park system, a growing commercial base and convenient access to good highways.

Nolensville’s historic district contains antique shops, boutiques and restaurants. Its central shopping area was recently remodeled, and the town completed construction of a new town hall. A new recreation center is under construction, and several businesses have expressed interest in building new retail locations.

“This is a community where people want to live because we offer an excellent quality of life,” says Nolensville Mayor Jimmy Alexander. “This community provides a safe, small-town setting, while easy access to Interstate 24 and State Route 840 allows for a short drive to Nashville, Murfreesboro and Franklin.”

The recent completion of State Route 840 has Fairview residents anticipating commercial growth.

More rural, with homes on large lots and farmland, Fairview’s city center is just five miles from SR 840, a popular route for business travelers. Fairview officials point out that their home prices remain some of the lowest in the region.

City leaders have crafted a plan to expand and enhance roadways and utilities, while keeping Fairview’s rural character intact.

by Kevin Litwin by staff photographers Brian McCord and Wendy Jo O’Barr

Learn more about all the cities in Williamson County at livability.com/ williamson-county.

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LIVING

Creative

Class

Innovative businesses flock to county

A

thriving local arts scene, trendy workspaces and a prime location work together to make Williamson County the next hot location for creative minds to work and creative businesses to thrive.

In April 2013, The Americana Music Association and Sugar Hill Records moved into new space at The Factory at Franklin. Dark Horse Recording is currently constructing two new studios, also at The Factory. And almost every night of the week, local residents and businesspeople can drop in at a local venue for live music or theater.

Creative types fit right in at The Factory.

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Bringing in Creatives Attracting more creative businesses to the area is part of the plan for many local business leaders. Calvin LeHew, former owner and creator of The Factory at Franklin, “always preached the incredible theories of the power of attraction,” says Jack Grant, property manager for The Factory.

“His dream of rebuilding a complex based on creative retail, fine dining, learning centers, and creative and innovative technology became an amazing reality. The new ownership is in line to take this power to an astronomical level.”

For The Factory, bringing in new tenants like the AMA, Sugar Hill Records and Dark Horse Recording promises to attract more creative, innovative businesses and organizations, Grant says.

“Dark Horse Recording and Sound Engineering School should attract big-name and up-and-coming recording

Big Names, Big Talent

Dark Horse Recording studio, a major player in the music industry, recently started the Dark Horse Institute, where students study with engineers and producers and gain hands-on studio experience.

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Always in tune with your needs.

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615.594.4687 cell 615.376.4500 office paul@paulross.org www.paulross.org Past Chairman, Brentwood Chamber of Commerce

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artists,” he says. “And bringing the AMA and Sugar Hill Records on board can only enhance our relationship with CMT, MTV, the Country Music Association and countless other entertainment venues.”

Benefits for Creatives As for the newcomers, moving to Williamson County just makes good sense.

“Clearly, there’s a movement toward more creatives in Franklin; it’s not just us going there,” says Jed Hilly, AMA executive director, citing Provident Label Group, Studio Tenn, and other businesses in the area. “The groundwork has been laid to put the creative class of Franklin on the map.”

Hilly also looks forward to locating his association in a former wood stove factory.

“In many ways, the architecture of The Factory reflects the mission of our association,” he says. “It is rich in history and culture and Main Street America. What could be more Americana than that?”

Cliff O’Sullivan, general manager and senior vice president at Sugar Hill Records, also believes Franklin is a great fit for his business.

“We’re moving into a great facility and neighborhood,” he says. “I love what’s happening at Franklin Theatre, and I love Jed’s ideas to bring more music into the area.

Since we’ve decided to move to Williamson County, I’ve received a lot of phone calls from other groups who are thinking about doing the same thing.”

Middle Tennessee has long been a haven for creative people and organizations, and Williamson County now has an important place in that heritage.

“There are creative pockets opening up all over the Nashville area,” O’Sullivan says. “It will be great for us, and I look forward to seeing others do the same.”

by Nancy Mann Jackson by staff photographer Wendy Jo O’Barr

Taylor Swift is among the many who have recorded in Franklin.

enjoy the creative culture in these williamson county live music venues: • Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant • Kimbro’s Cafe • The Bunganut Pig Pub & Eatery • Cool Springs Brewery • Arrington Vineyards • Angelo’s Bistro • Henpeck Village Market • Mickey Roos • The Pond • Merridee’s Breadbasket • Franklin Theatre • Saffire • Tin Roof 2

It Just Keeps Getting Better

The Factory at Franklin brings in new creative tenants like the AMA, Sugar Hill Records and Dark Horse Recording, and expects to attract more creative, innovative businesses and organizations.

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LIVING

Golden

Living Retirees enjoy an active life and amenities

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illiamson County’s focus on serving the needs of an older, yet active, population has made it a choice destination for those ready to enjoy their retirement years in the seasonal climate and beautiful pastoral setting.

photo courtesy of Kevin Foster

While no state income tax and superior health-care services are obvious draws, says Joe Horne, Williamson County community development director, “many seniors have chosen to move to the county, following their adult children who came here to take advantage of employment opportunities. This allows them to maintain their family ties while enjoying an active lifestyle in a pleasant small-town environment.”

Housing Options Housing is a key issue for those moving to the area. Fortunately, Williamson County has plenty of choices – from modern and historic

homes, upscale apartments and farms to senior communities and assisted living centers able to meet the needs of older residents.

NHC Place at Cool Springs, in Franklin, is the county’s only assisted living center and multispecialty health center on a single campus, with assisted living, long-term care, rehabilitation and palliative care options. Emeritus at Legacy Crossing and The Manor at Steeplechase, both in Franklin, provide independent seniors a full, active lifestyle. The Maristone of Franklin, another assisted living community, offers a separate memory-care unit and specialized adult day services.

Snapshot

Families enjoy concer ts at Eddy Arnold Amphitheater at Crockett Park in Brentwood.

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Live It Up

The Maristone of Franklin offers luxury assisted living in 41 individual suites and The Village, a 13-unit separate memory care community.

Special adult services are also available, and each suite includes housekeeping and laundry services, 24-hour access to the soda shop/pub, and library and media center.

photo courtesy of Kevin Foster

The Fountains of Franklin is Franklin’s newest senior living community, with services for independent, assisted and memorycare residents. The 59-unit assisted living facility opened in May 2013, with construction on the memorycare unit and some villas to begin in 2014.

An active senior community in Brentwood, The Heritage at Brentwood features a 48-acre campus of villas and apartment residences, surrounded by the natural beauty of the wooded Tennessee hills. Richland Place includes independent retirement living for active people 55 or older, assisted living Elmington Suites at Richland Place and Richland Place Health Care Center, offering skilled nursing care, rehab, intermediate care and general inpatient hospice care.

Unwind at the Spa or Library

The Heritage at Brentwood features apartment-style homes, a clubhouse for hobbies and day spa services, a Steeplechase Lounge for socializing, and a well-stocked library for quiet reading.

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Recreational Amenities Williamson County’s diverse recreational opportunities are a major attraction for seniors. With the outdoor charm of the county’s many public parks, entertainment options such as the Summer Concert Series at Brentwood’s Eddy Arnold Amphitheater, and the proximity of Nashville’s big-city attractions, it’s no wonder seniors have found the county a vibrant and entertaining place to live.

Forget about sitting on the porch and rocking away those golden years. The biggest challenge for seniors in Williamson County is finding enough time to enjoy all the

“Many seniors have chosen to move to the county, following their adult children ... This allows them to maintain their family ties while enjoying an active lifestyle in a pleasant smalltown environment.”

See WHY families are moving to Williamson County …

Joe Horne, Williamson County community development director

available activities. For example, in addition to its host of recreational opportunities and leisure services, the Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department also has senior programming at its Franklin and Spring Hill locations, with discounted prices for those 55 and older.

To support lifelong learning (and more than a little fun) FiftyForward College Grove, Brentwood’s FiftyForward Martin Center and the JL Clay Center in Franklin, offer a variety of classes and programs including health and fitness education, recreation, arts, travel, and community service for adults 50 and older. The county is also home to three YMCA branches – Brentwood Family YMCA, Maryland Farms YMCA and YMCA of Cool Springs – and many other sports, recreational and outdoor areas, such as Deerwood, a 27-acre natural area and statecertified arboretum in Brentwood.

by Nancy Christie

RETIR EES ENJO LIFE AND Y AN ACTI VE AMEN ITIES

william

son co unt y

FOSTER OF KEVIN

W

illiamson County ’s focus on serving the needs of an older, yet active, population has made it a choice destination for those ready to enjoy their retirement years in the seasona l climate and beautifu l pastoral setting.

PHOTO COURTESY

Living 52

While no state income tax superior health-care and homes, upscale services are obvious draws, farms to senior apartments and says Joe Horne, Williamson County community assisted living communities and development SNAPSHO director, “many the needs of centers able to meet T have chosen older residents. seniors to NHC Place following their move to the county, at Cool Springs, Franklin, is in the came here to adult children who take advantage assisted living county’s only employmen of t opportuniti multispecia center and es. This lty allows them to maintain single campus, health center on a their family ties while enjoying long-term care, with assisted living, an active lifestyle in a pleasant small-town palliative care rehabilitation and environment.” options. Emeritus Legacy Crossing Seniors and The Manor at Steeplechase, can enjoy HOUSING at Arnold both OPTIONS Amphith concerts at Eddy provide independenin Franklin, eater at Park in Housing is Brentwo Crockett t seniors a full, active lifestyle. od. moving to the a key issue for those The Maristone Franklin, another of Williamson area. Fortunately, assisted living County has community plenty of choices – from , offers a separate modern and memory-care historic unit adult day services. and specialized

l i va b i l i

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william

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@WCSedu

Recreational Leagues for Ages 4 to 19 • Fall & Spring Outdoor Soccer Indoor Arena Soccer Leagues • Hot Shots & Little Kickers Summer Camp

(615) 791-0590 53

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

www.facebook.com/wcs.edu

Celebrating 36 Years of Soccer Fun! Learning the game of soccer has never been so exciting!

LIVING

Golden

Your main source for Williamson County Schools information: www.wcs.edu/infocus

info@williamsoncountysoccer.com

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LIVING: Education

Learning for Life

Students have access to superior education, from childhood through adulthood It’s no secret Williamson County schools rank as some of the best in the state. Education remains at the forefront of innovation and development, with partners like Lipscomb University joining to create a new idea center, ensuring all students enter the workforce well prepared.

Early Education

Kindergarten Through Grade 12 Williamson County students benefit from award-winning schools. Williamson County Schools serves 31,000 K-12 students at 42 schools, and ranked the state’s highest-achieving and growing school district, according to the 2012 State Report Card.

Programs such as Bring Your Own Technology, in which students are encouraged to use their electronic devices for educational purposes, and a pilot program that prioritizes Spanish and Mandarin Chinese language education, keep the district on top.

Franklin students in elementary and middle school attend the Franklin Special School District’s seven schools before entering county high schools.

Thinking Big

Spark: Lipscomb’s Idea Center’s 6,400-square-foot building on Aspen Grove Drive in Cool Springs includes a variety of meeting rooms, studios and work spaces, small and large, designed to accommodate all kinds of uses, from small off-site staff meetings to large professional presentations. All or part of the center can be rented, and Spark provides an impressive array of tools, including HD audio and video conferencing, digital presentation displays, document printing, recording and broadcast tools, even Post-It notes. Catering is also available.

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Higher Education

spark: lipscomb’s idea center Looking at the vibrant, expanding business scene in Williamson County and ever-changing demands of that scene, Lipscomb University planners saw a need for something new. An innovative place that was a degree-granting adult learning center, but also a special center where collaboration, creativity and ideas could grow and with them a better way of doing business. And so Spark: Lipscomb’s Idea Center was born.

In addition to its business function, the center will offer graduate degrees in business administration, information security, education, information technology management and marriage and family therapy.

existing campuses expanding Working adults may earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing, liberal arts or business administration at Belmont @ Cool Springs, Belmont University’s satellite campus. Columbia State Community College will celebrate the opening of its new campus at the end of 2014.

The campus will allow enrollment at the two-year school to expand from 1,600 to 2,000 students, and when fully built to 6,000.

Read more about why Williamson County is a great place to learn at livability.com/franklin/tn/schools or livability.com/brentwood/tn/schools.

“Our children are learning so much more than required standards; they’re learning life, community, belonging, and love. What a beautiful way to educate our future.”

Stephanie Warner, Williamson County Resident

Private Schools

College Prep Private education has been part of Williamson County since the 19th century. Battle Ground Academy in Franklin is the oldest remaining private school, founded in 1889, and has the largest enrollment.

Brentwood Academy, another prestigious coed private school, educates students in grades 6-12.

By Laura Hill

LIVING: Health

Still Growing Strong

Williamson Medical Center, one of the county’s largest employers, offers 53 medical specialties and subspecialties. The hospital’s accredited cancer program helped the center earn a 2012 Outstanding Achievement Award by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer.

Works in Progress

Williamson Medical, Vanderbilt Medical to expand Williamson Medical Center, a major hospital presence in Williamson County since 1958, will expand even more in 2013.

Future Plans at WMC Officials at the 185-bed hospital have announced plans to add more surgical suites and, in partnership with Vanderbilt University Medical Center, build an adjoining tower for pediatric services at its existing campus off Carothers Parkway in Franklin. Construction is scheduled to begin in late 2013.

“Our leadership team is continually looking for ways to expand to meet the growing needs of the communities we serve,” says Donald Webb, CEO of Williamson Medical Center.

The pediatric tower, named the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital Vanderbilt at Williamson Medical Center, will feature a dedicated children’s emergency department and pediatric wing with 12 inpatient beds and four observation beds. The current WMC emergency department treats more than 6,000 children annually.

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WMC is fully accredited by the Joint Commission.

Its 1,400 employees manage more than 10,000 inpatient visits and 35,000 emergency visits each year.

Williamson Medical physicians perform about 7,000 surgeries annually.

Vandy to Consolidate Vanderbilt University Medical Center oversees 16 individual medical facilities throughout Williamson County, including the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center Cool Springs, Walk-In Clinic. Vanderbilt Dermatology and the Vanderbilt Eye Institute.

Vanderbilt teams with Williamson Medical Center in many of those clinical efforts. In 2011, Vanderbilt decided to ultimately move most of its 16 facilities to one location, so it purchased 22 acres of land at the intersection of McEwen Drive and Carothers Parkway for an $82 million medical center. The Construction project is currently projected to begin in 2015.

“Construction will take at least two years to complete on this large building that will encompass

235,000 square feet of space,” says John Howser, Vanderbilt University Medical Center assistant vice chancellor for news and communications. “This will become a central campus for our many Williamson County practices, and all of the services at the new campus will be dedicated solely to outpatient care.”

Saint Thomas and TriStar Saint Thomas Health Services of Nashville also has a presence in Williamson County. Saint Thomas Heart is a cardiac center in Franklin. Saint Thomas’ Baptist Sports Medicine and Life Therapies clinic on International Drive in Cool Springs provides wellness care and outpatient rehabilitation services.

TriStar Southern Hills Medical Center , based in south Davidson County since 1979, serves many residents of northern Williamson County. Its services include vascular surgery, orthopedics, oncology, a sleep center, and cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. Southern Hills opened a YMCA on its campus in 2012.

by Kevin Litwin

You Can Have the Healthy Smile You Always Wanted …

Cool Springs Laser Dentistry No Needles, No Drills

Kellye N. Rice DMD Cosmetic & F amily D entistry with a Woman’s Touch Learn more about Williamson County’s hospitals and care centers at livability.com/franklin/tn/health or livability.com/brentwood/tn/health.

1800 Mallory Ln., Brentwood, TN 37027 Conveniently located across from Cool Springs Mall

615.373.4488 www.kellyerice.com l i va b i l i t y. c o m / w i l l i a m s o n - c o u n t y

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Community profile

$89,063

ethnicity

10%

White

Hispanic

Black

Other

29% 5%

61%

cost of living

Median Household Income

$292,900

4%

Median Home Price

5%

$889 AGE

Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

86%

18 and Under 20-54 55 and Over (percentages based on the total = 192,911)

(percentages based on the total = 192,911)

Transportation Median Travel Time to Work

Temperature January Average Low

31°

July Average High

89°

22 minutes 76°

25°

Closest Airport Nashville International Airport

January Low National Low

July High

25 miles

National High

This section is sponsored by

Welcome to

Brentwood Tennessee’s MosT Progressive CiTy! info@brentwood-tn.org www.brentwood-tn.org www.explorebrentwood.com Facebook, Twitter and nixle government access channel 19

CiTy oF BrenTwood

5211 Maryland way • Brentwood, Tn 37027 • (615) 371-0060

LIVING: see the county

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Stay Glassy

At Franklin Glassblowing Studio on Columbia Avenue, a glassblowing art gallery and studio, patrons can watch artist Jose Santisteban or take classes to learn how to make their own unique pieces.

See more photos that showcase Williamson County’s arts scene at livability.com/williamson-county.

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business Info on Williamson County’s top employers, jobs and success stories

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Automotive Giant

Nissan North America’s headquarters in Franklin handles all operations in the United States, Canada and Mexico including automobile styling, corporate and consumer financing, and engineering.

Learn more about Williamson County’s business climate and top employers at livability.com/williamson-county.

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business: overview

Large and in Charge

successful large companies grow roots in county The future is wow for the Williamson County business community. More than 50 percent of the largest publicly traded companies in Middle Tennessee call the county home, and Franklin has been named one of the Top 10 U.S. Cities for Startups by BusinessWeek.com. Here are some local business success stories.

Automotive Manufacturing

Nissan North America The automotive manufacturer has 1,300 employees at its corporate headquarters. Many of them are designers and engineers for the company’s product line, which includes the Xterra SUV, Altima sedan, Cube compact SUV and Frontier pickup. Nissan North America also oversees the Infiniti brand of cars.

Health Care

Williamson Medical Center The 185-bed hospital has nearly 1,300 employees; its physicians represent more than 50 specialties.

All specialists have years of additional education after completing medical school. Services at Williamson Medical include a breast health center, cancer care, cardiac services and a sleep center.

Other Big Industries

More Top Employers

Shopping Galleria Brings in Big Numbers

The 1 million-square-foot shopping complex is one of the biggest and most successful retail centers in the Southeast – and the largest annual tax generator for Williamson County. It remains a huge draw, with 13 million annual visitors and yearly sales topping $400 million. CoolSprings Galleria has five anchor stores and an additional 150 specialty stores and restaurants. The Galleria has 3,500 employees.

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Additional large and successful Williamson County companies include Verizon Wireless with 1,300 employees; Hospital Corporation of America (HCA), providing physician services and patient accounting; Comdata Corporation (payroll services); Jackson National Life Insurance; AIM HealthCare Services; Ford Motor Credit; Mars Petcare; and Tractor Supply Company.

By Kevin Litwin

A Healthy Economy

Community Health Systems is one of the leading overseers of hospitals in the United States.

The organization’s affiliates own, operate or lease 123 hospitals in 29 states, with an aggregate of approximately 18,000 licensed beds. In 65 percent of the markets served, CHS-affiliated hospitals are the sole provider of healthcare services. CHS employs more than 2,000 people at its Cool Springs headquarters.

Check out a full list of Williamson County’s top employers at livability.com/franklin/tn/ business

Sharing The Ride … Reduces Traffic … Saves $$ on Gas and Car Maintenance … Supports a Healthy Environment

www.VanStar.com Offer A Better Commute for your employees and join hundreds of companies nationwide designated as best workplaces for commuters.

Contact a VanStar customer representative at (888) 924-6540 or info@vanstar.com.

VanStar is a Division of The TMA Group, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee.

business MARS Petcare and The Nutro Company want to ensure customers and their pets receive high-quality, nutritious pet products. The companies’ new LEED-certified center is set to open in Thompson’s Station in 2014.

A Place to Call

HOME county attracts company headquarters

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Tractor Supply Company remains one of many fastgrowing companies in Williamson County.

W

hen Tractor Supply Company officials decided to move their corporate office from its current location in Brentwood, they didn’t have to look very far.

Not much beyond their parking lot, as a matter of fact.

“We considered other opportunities within Middle Tennessee, but felt that staying in Brentwood and Williamson County was the best option for Tractor Supply,” says Greg Sandfort, the company’s president and CEO. Tractor Supply Co., the nation’s largest retail and farm ranch supply store chain, has been leasing space in Maryland Farms since 2004.

The company is building a 260,000-square-foot building just one block over on Virginia Way, and expects completion by mid-2014.

“We have been a proud member of the Brentwood and Williamson County business communities for more than eight years,” Sandfort adds, “and we are pleased that we will continue to call this area our home.”

Exceptional Quality of Life There is a long list of companies that call Williamson County home in terms of corporate or regional headquarters, including not only Tractor Supply but also Nissan North America, Jackson National Life, Community Health Systems, Healthways and Verizon Wireless.

Of particular note are Mars Petcare and The Nutro Company, which

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Selling Homes, Land and Commercial Properties in Williamson County for 35 Years Brent M. Sanders Owner/Broker Tom McArthur Jr. Owner/Broker Mamie McArthur Sanders Owner/Broker

1619 Galleria Blvd.

Brentwood, TN 37027 (615) 370-4663 VISIT US ONLINE: www.mcarthursanders.com

have had their home offices in Franklin since 2006 and 2007, respectively. The companies are building an $87 million regional innovation center in nearby Thompson’s Station that will be the home base for creating future pet- care innovations for their North America market.

The four-building campus will support 144 employees upon its expected completion in spring 2014, and all corporate office employees will eventually move to Thompson’s Station.

“It’s no secret that areas with an exceptional quality of life attract and retain the best talent, and Williamson County is certainly this type of place,” says Debra Fair, vice president of corporate affairs at Mars Petcare. “Its central location provides us with the best access to key customers, consumers, suppliers and our manufacturing operations.

It gives us a clear advantage.”

Partners in Growth Government partnerships were also instrumental in Tractor Supply’s decision to stay put in

Williamson County.

“This transition would not have been possible without the assistance of our government partners at the city, county and state levels,” Sandfort says.

Tractor Supply is experiencing impressive growth, and its total of 650 employees at its Brentwood location is expected to be more than 1,000 at the new facility.

Known as its Store Support Center, Tractor Supply’s headquarters will be a LEED-certified building located in a new development on Virginia Way. It’s part of a recently approved development that will include a new City of Brentwood passive park named Margaret Hayes Powell Park.

“Our Store Support Center is currently responsible for supporting nearly 1,200 stores in 45 states,” Sandfort says. “In 2013 alone, we plan to open 100-105 new stores, and this rapid growth has created a need for more space for our Store Support Center team members.”

by John McBryde by staff photographer Jeffrey S. Otto

“It’s no secret that areas with an exceptional quality of life attract and retain the best talent, and Williamson County is certainly this type of place.” debra fair, vp of corporate affairs, mars petcare

Magazine app Download the app and watch exclusive videos about why business executives chose to relocate to Williamson County.

MARS Petcare in Franklin allows and encourages employees to bring their dogs to the office.

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business

Developing

Story office development booms IN Cool SPRINGS

M

ost office complexes are buildings with parking lots, but officials at Boyle Investment Company of Nashville wanted their Meridian Cool Springs office park to be more like a neighborhood.

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More Than a Business Complex

The 60-acre Meridian mixed-use development in Cool Springs includes hotels, a day spa, businesses and restaurants, like Bosco’s, and brings in pedestrian traffic with bocce ball courts and sidewalks.

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“We went with a mixed-use concept of developing the environment outside of our office buildings,” says Thomas McDaniel, partner with Boyle Investment Company. “We could have constructed six large buildings but settled on eight smaller buildings within a campus that also has two hotels, nine restaurants, a bank, dry cleaner and barber shop.”

Meridian is just one example of the innovative development occurring in Williamson County’s commercial center, which continues to be one of the strongest geographical office markets in Tennessee. New projects in various stages of planning and construction provide businesses the opportunity to locate their employees in areas that also offer recreation, entertainment and housing. They’re filling up fast.

“Cool Springs office space is so attractive that there is currently more than 95 percent occupancy, which is a very high percentage,” says Matt Largen, president of the Williamson County Chamber of Commerce. “Probably the hottest construction areas of Cool Springs these days are along Carothers Parkway as well as McEwen Drive.”

Office Parks Galore Highwoods Properties and SouthStar LLC are developing a mixed-use project on 145 acres on McEwen Drive at Carothers Parkway, with plans for 1.3 million square feet of office space along with shops, housing and a hotel. Duke Realty Corp. owns prime undeveloped acreage at the intersection of Carothers Parkway and Liberty Pike, while Southern Land Company has been constructing a mixed-use office/ retail/restaurant complex along McEwen Drive at Mallory Lane.

Spectrum Properties/Emery is constructing a 71-acre mixed-use office complex called Franklin Park along McEwen Drive just east of Interstate 65. The complex will include five office buildings, shops, an apartment building 74

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All Within Easy Access

Try restaurants like Brixx on McEwen Drive, located in a mixed-use community that combines retail, office and residential space.

and an 11-acre park complete with a 600-seat amphitheater.

Two Adding to One And off Carothers Parkway just northeast of McEwen Drive, Crescent Resources plans the Two Greenway Centre office park on the heels of its One Greenway Centre that Crescent constructed in 20092010. Crescent is also the master developer for the nearby Venue at

Cool Springs, a 428-unit luxury apartment community.

“Crescent Resources has a long history in Cool Springs, including the purchase of 300 acres and development of nine buildings known as Corporate Centre at Cool Springs beginning in the mid1990s,” says Jason Holwerda, vice president of Crescent Resources.

Holwerda says Two Greenway Centre will be constructed adjacent

KWAY PA R

ERS OTH CA R

LAN E

RIN G

R STAT

RD

Two Greenway Centre

E VA

INT E

B OUL

E 65

S

MALLO RY

SP

Franklin Park McEwen Development

COOL

Meridian

Venue at Cool Springs MC EW EN DR IVE

to the existing One Greenway Centre, which already has 100 percent occupancy with sole tenant Jackson National Life Insurance Company. Groundbreaking for Two Greenway Centre, a five-story, 155,000-square-foot building, is tentatively scheduled for late 2013 or 2014.

Back at Meridian, on the northern end of Carothers, Boyle recently completed construction of a speculative two-story building.

McDaniel considers it “chancetaking” in what is still a sluggish national economy.

“But Meridian has been so popular that we anticipate no problems leasing all those final office spaces,” he says.

by Kevin Litwin by staff photographers Brian McCord and Wendy Jo O’Barr

Find out more about Williamson County companies at livability.com/ brentwood/tn/business.

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On the National Register of Historic Places 43 Retail Shops & Restaurants • Art • Antiques • Clothing • Unique Gifts • Home Furnishings • Event Venues • Dining Experiences • Learning Centers

The Factory at Franklin Six blocks from Historic Downtown Franklin 230 Franklin Rd. • (615) 791-1777 • www.factoryatfranklin.com

Business Spotlight As top contributors to the Williamson County Chamber of Commerce’s Founding Members Council, these companies are committed to supporting local residents and fellow businesses.

Here’s a look at other ways they’re helping the community.

Jackson National Life Insurance Company Jackson National invests in organizations, programs, schools and events in the communities where its employees live and work, including the Williamson County area, through the Jackson National Community Fund. www.jackson.com

Nissan North America Nissan partners with Habitat for Humanity to provide affordable housing throughout the United States and in Williamson County.

The company also has donated more than $150,000 to the Harpeth River Watershed Association. www.nissanusa.com

MARS Petcare MARS Petcare hosts annual adoption fairs in Williamson County, where healthy dogs and cats from more than 20 local shelters are in one area and ready to be taken home. www.mars.com

Vanderbilt University Medical Center VUMC provides free health screenings for cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure and Body Mass Index (BMI) in the Williamson County area, and also offers free medical consultations from specialty physicians. www.vanderbilthealth.com/ williamson 229 Franklin Rd. Brentwood, TN 37027 615.373.2741

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330 Mayfield Dr. Franklin, TN 37067 615.309.0703

Stay plugged into Williamson County’s business community at livability.com/franklin/tn/ business.

business: Chamber Report

Executive Sweet

Unified chamber chooses new headquarters The Williamson County Chamber of Commerce, formed from three local chambers of commerce in September 2012, continues to make news.

In May 2013, the chamber settled into new headquarters in the mixed-use Meridian Cool Springs development. This is the first headquarters for WCCC since the unification of the Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber, the Cool Springs Chamber and the Franklin Williamson County Chamber.

“We are occupying 5,000 square feet of ground floor space at 5005 Meridian,” says Matt Largen, WCCC president. “The office has private work areas for staff members and two conference rooms, with the larger room able to seat 24 people. Our office is also only minutes from Interstate 65.”

Williamson County today,” he says. “In both Cool Springs and Brentwood, there is less than 5 percent office space occupancy available right now.”

Largen adds that the WCCC office is geographically close to Nashville, which is advantageous whenever potential companies look to locate in the Middle

Tennessee region.

“I’m a board member with the Nashville Technology Council, so I know when top companies are thinking about the Nashville metropolitan area,” he says.

“That can sometimes mean those companies choosing Williamson County to locate.”

by Kevin Litwin

Natural Leader Largen says one goal in 2013 is to form focus groups and survey the 1,500 chamber members to find out what they expect from the WCCC. “About 90 percent of our members are small businesses, and the chamber already does a great job providing networking opportunities for them,” he says.

“The next step is developing specific programs and initiatives that will add value to their individual companies.”

Largen says WCCC is a natural leader in the community and can bring together different voices for the common good.

“We want to partner with organizations such as Columbia State Community College, Franklin Tomorrow, Spark: Lipscomb’s Idea Center and others to help tackle issues that are unique to Williamson County, and one of those issues is developing more office space in case the next Nissan calls and says they want to move into

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Learn more about the Komen Race for the Cure by visiting www.komen.org or calling 1-877 GO KOMEN. This space is provided as a public service. ©2008 Susan G. Komen for the Cure®

economic profile Taxes 17%

5%

33%

County Sales Tax

7%

education level

3,500+

2,100+

2.25%

50%

3,400+

City Sales and Use Tax 8%

High School Graduate

State Sales Tax

Associate Degree Bachelor’s Degree

9.25%

Community Health Systems

Master’s Degree

Total Sales Tax

CoolSprings Galleria

Scorecard

$3B Annual Retail Sales

$383M

Top Employers

household income

Williamson County Schools

Transportation

9,419 Nashville International Airport www.flynashville.com 10,655

Annual Hotel and Food Sales

25,339 Total Number of Firms

3,671

$100,000+ $30,000-99,999 $29,999 and under

The TMA Group www.tmagroup.org

This section is sponsored by

The City of Spring Hill, TN is Proud to Support Maury County 199 Town Center Pkwy. • P.O. Box 789 • Spring Hill, TN 37174 • (931) 486-2252 • www.springhilltn.org

Ad Index

C4 Aloft Nashville-Cool Springs

78 Crye-Leike Relocation Services

60 Arrowhead Cabin Rentals

78 Exodus HR Group

50 First State Bank

1 Ascend Federal Credit Union

15 BancorpSouth

31 Bank of Nashville

70 BBE Solutions

57 Brentwood Academy

77 BrentWord Communications LLC

5 Fountains of Franklin

36 Four Points by Sheraton Nashville Brentwood

78 Franklin Special School District

21 Franklin Synergy Bank

25 Harpeth True Value

78 Carole B. Starr AS BS MBA

12 Holiday Inn

60 CharacterEyes

28 Hyatt Place Nashville – Franklin – Cool Springs

50 Judy Oxford Attorney at Law

59 Kellye N. Rice DMD

70 McArthur Sanders

61 City of Brentwood

79 City of Spring Hill Tennessee

36 Columbia State Community College

Ad Index (cont.)

47 Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority 2 Monica Stiles – Coldwell Banker

76 The Factory at Franklin

70 The Goddard School

67 The TMA Group – VanStar

33 Tim Thompson

60 Montessori Academy

28 Nashville Golf & Athletic Club

78 Nashville Pizza Company

20 Vanderbilt Legends Club

78 NGage Marketing Group

C3 Vanderbilt Medical

47 Pilkerton Realtors – Hagan Stone

Center Williamson

78 PMC Mobile Solutions

Premier Realtors

55 Williamson County Schools

29 Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant

55 Williamson County

76 Puffy Muffin

C2 Williamson Medical Center

50 Realty Trust

75 YMCA Middle Tennessee

43 Zeitlin & Co. Realtors

4 Susan Gregory – Bob Parks Realty

Soccer Association

Visit Our adVertisers Aloft Nashville – Cool Springs www.aloftnashvillecoolsprings.com

McArthur Sanders www.mcarthursanders.com

Arrowhead Cabin Rentals www.arrowheadpigeonforge.com

Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority www.flynashville.com

Ascend Federal Credit Union www.ascendfcu.org BancorpSouth www.bancorpsouth.com Bank of Nashville www.bankofnashville.com BBE Solutions www.bbesolutions.com Brentwood Academy www.brentwoodacademy.com BrentWord Communications LLC www.brentwordcommunications.com/ brentwordmarketing.php Carole B. Starr AS BS MBA www.linkedin.com/in/carolebstarr CharacterEyes www.charactereyespc.com City of Brentwood www.explorebrentwood.com City of Spring Hill Tennessee www.springhilltn.org Columbia State Community College www.columbiastate.edu Crye-Leike Relocation Services www.crye-leike.com Exodus HR Group www.exodushrgroup.com First State Bank www.first-state.net Fountains of Franklin www.fountainsfranklin.com Four Points by Sheraton Nashville Brentwood www.fourpointsbrentwood.com Franklin Special School District www.fssd.org Franklin Synergy Bank www.franklinsynergybank.com Harpeth True Value www.harpethtruevalue.com

80

Monica Stiles – Coldwell Banker www.monicastiles.com Montessori Academy www.montessoriacad.org Nashville Golf & Athletic Club www.ngac.net Nashville Pizza Company www.nashvillepizzacompany.com NGage Marketing Group www.ngagemarketinggroup.com Pilkerton Realtors – Hagan Stone www.haganstonehomes.com PMC Mobile Solutions www.pmcmobilesolutions.com Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant www.puckettsgrocery.com Puffy Muffin www.puffymuffin.com Realty Trust www.realtytrustresidential.com Susan Gregory – Bob Parks Realty www.homesaroundnashvilletn.com The Factory at Franklin www.factoryatfranklin.com The Goddard School www.goddardschools.com The TMA Group – VanStar www.tmagroup.org Tim Thompson Premier Realtors www.timthompsonpremierrealtors.com Vanderbilt Legends Club www.vanderbiltlegendsclub.com Vanderbilt Medical Center Williamson www.vanderbilthealth.com/williamson Williamson County Schools www.wcs.edu

Holiday Inn

Williamson County Soccer Association www.williamsoncountysoccer.com

Hyatt Place Nashville – Franklin-Cool Springs www.franklin.place.hyatt.com

Williamson Medical Center www.williamsonmedicalcenter.org

Judy Oxford Attorney at Law www.judyoxfordlaw.com

YMCA Middle Tennessee www.ymcamidtn.org

Kellye N. Rice DMD www.kellyerice.com

Zeitlin & Co. Realtors www.zeitlinrealtors.com

Willia mson Count y

2013-14 edition

volume 27

williamson county

tennessee

Editor | Mitch Kline Contributing Writers | Miles Britton, Nancy Christie, Laura Hill, John McBryde, Nancy Mann Jackson, Chris Russell Content Coordinator | Jessica Walker Boehm Staff Writer | Kevin Litwin Proofreading Manager | Raven Petty Lead Designer & Digital Product Designer | Erica Lampley Senior Graphic Designers | Stacey Allis, Laura Gallagher, Kris Sexton, Jake Shores, Vikki Williams Graphic Designers | Kacey Passmore, Matt West Creative Technology Analyst | Becca Ary Lead Photographer | Wendy Jo O’Barr Senior Photographers | Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers | Michael Conti, Frank Ordonez, Michael Tedesco Color Imaging Technician | Alison Hunter Integrated Media Manager | Mary Ann Stafford Sales Support Project Manager | Sara Quint Sales Support Coordinator | Christina Morgan Sales Graphic Designer | Rachel Lorance Ad Production Manager | Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants | Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan Web Project Manager | David Day Digital Project Manager | Jill Ridenour Web Developer I | Nels Noseworthy Web Designer II | Richard Stevens Web Product Manager | John Hood Chairman | Greg Thurman President/Publisher | Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President | Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales | Todd Potter Senior V.P./Client Development | Jeff Heefner Senior V.P./Operations | Casey Hester Senior V.P./Sales | Jarek Swekosky V.P./Content Operations | Natasha Lorens Audience Development Director | Deanna Nelson Creative Services Director | Christina Carden Distribution Director | Gary Smith Photography Director | Jeffrey S. Otto Web Services Director | Allison Davis Controller | Chris Dudley Senior Accountant | Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator | Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator | Diana Iafrate IT Director | Daniel Cantrell Executive Secretary | Kristy Giles Human Resources Manager | Peggy Blake

Livability Williamson County, TN is published annually

by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Williamson 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: Williamson County Chamber of Commerce 5005 Meridian Blvd., Ste. 150 • Franklin, TN 37067 Phone: (615) 771-1912 • Fax: (615) 373-8810 www.williamsoncountychamber.org Visit Livability Williamson County, TN online at livability.com/williamson-county ©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.

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Member Williamson County Chamber of Commerce