Brentwood February 2016

Brentwood FEBRUARY 2016

PREMIERE ISSUE

BrentwoodLifestylePubs.com

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by Community

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Lifestyle Letter

Welcome to Brentwood Lifestyle!

W elcome to the premiere issue of Brentwood Lifestyle!

We’re excited to provide you engaging stories about the people and businesses of Brentwood, Tenn. every month. Our goal is simple: we hope to play a small role in helping the area flourish by producing each issue as a resource filled with interesting content, special events, community news, and more.

I’ve personally experienced the friendly, community-focused atmosphere that this area is famous for. From the events, local restaurants, schools, entertainment and more, we couldn’t be more proud to serve the people of Brentwood. 2016 is well underway and I see a bright future with businesses growing, industries expanding, and our families flourishing.

This publication would not be possible without the outstanding advertising partners that have placed their trust in us to reach Brentwood readers. We promise to work hard each and every month to be a good steward of your time and resources. We ask our readers to patronize our advertising partners as we are very deliberate with who we choose to represent us and our area.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank my awesome team (and neighbors), the City of Brentwood, the NFIB, Williamson County Chamber of Commerce, and all of the other great local organizations for their outstanding support of Brentwood Lifestyle.

FEBRUARY 2016 publisher

Donald Hawkins | Donald.Hawkins@LifestylePubs.com editor

Ed Atlas | Ed.Atlas@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Holly Cowan, Jay Wilke contributing photographers

Lauren Athalia

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF SALES OFFICER

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor

ART DIRECTOR

| Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Kim Foster, Megan Seymour

DESIGN SPECIALIST

| Nicolette Martin | Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT

Donald Hawkins, Publisher Donald.Hawkins@LifestylePubs.com

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

LAYOUT DESIGNER

To our readers, we look forward to growing each month while providing you relevant and captivating content. Brentwood Lifestyle is YOUR magazine and we hope to do you proud.

From my family to yours, cheers!

| Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

WEB DEVELOPER

| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

Donald Hawkins, Publisher Donald.Hawkins@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

BrentwoodLifestylePubs.com JOIN US

ON THE COVER Get a ‘taste’ of Mere Bulles’ elegant, yet relaxed, dining experience on page 18 PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN LONG 4

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Brentwood Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Brentwood’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Brentwood Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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February 2016

Departments

18

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

City Scene

14

Trend Setter

26

Driver’s Notebook

28

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

16 From Children’s Treat to Grownup’s Business.

Brigitte Hohman delivers the baked goods at Gracey’s Gourmet Cookies.

18 Hidden Gem or Local Icon?

Mere Bulles wears both of them well.

22 Asian Cuisine. Southern Hospitality.

Fulin's will change the way you think about Chinese restaurants.

14

16

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Good Times

Brentwood Celebrates the Holidays!

Brentwood celebrated the holidays in style. The Williamson, Inc. Young Professionals Holiday Mixer was held at TechnologyAdvice. The Williamson Chamber's Women in Business members celebrated at Homestead Manor.

Williamson Medical Center held its annual event at The Factory in Franklin. Salon Atash celebrated its grand opening.

8

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

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Around Town

AROUND TOWN

Participants will have the ability to customize the service for National Weather Service alerts, and to set certain hours that they do not want to be disturbed. They can even add localized alerts for specific areas such as a child’s school, workplace, or a loved-one’s home.

WILLIAMSON, INC. APPOINTS NEW BOARD MEMBERS Ten new members have been added to the Board of Directors of Williamson, Inc. for 2016.

The new board members are: • Nelson Andrews, Owner & General Manager, Andrews Cadillac/ Jaguar/Land Rover Co. • Derek Bell, Vice President and Partner, Bell & Associates Construction, and Owner/Founder, Corsair Distillery • Alex Fisch, Senior Vice President of Capital Markets, Southern Land Company • Kelly Gilfillan, Chief Executive Officer and Editor, Home Page Media Group • Cherie Hammond, Business Development Associate and

TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY NAMED TITLE SPONSOR OF NEW MULTI-PURPOSE EQUESTRIAN FACILITY Tractor Supply Company has made a five-year sponsorship commitment to Friends of Franklin Parks that includes naming rights to the new multi-purpose equestrian facility at Harlinsdale Farm.

Tractor Supply Co. Arena will enable the non-profit organization to introduce more people in the area to a variety of equestrian experiences, including horse competitions, riding lessons and arena polo matches.

Friends of Franklin Parks plans to use the Tractor Supply Co. Arena to implement educational partnerships with schools and work-to-ride programs that ensure every child has an opportunity to learn to ride.

In addition to Tractor Supply Co. Arena, the five-acre facility includes a concession stand, public restrooms and a restored 24-stall barn adjacent to the arena site.

LEADERSHIP BRENTWOOD TO PROMOTE EVERBRIDGE EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM

Financial Advisor, Aspen Grove Asset Management • Richard Herrington, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Franklin Financial Network/Franklin Synergy Bank • Tena Mayberry, President & CEO, Century II and Fortune Industries, Inc. • Celeste Patterson, Chief Operating Officer/Chief Financial Officer, H. G. Hill Realty Company, LLC • Richard Perko, President, Lee Company • Paige Thompson, Vice President of Relocation & Corporate Services, Zeitlin & Company Realtors The 36-member governing body of the Williamson Chamber includes 32 members, three ex-officio members and the President & CEO, Matt Largen. Board members serve three-year terms, with 10 board members added every year on a rolling basis.

BROOKDALE HOME HEALTH AGENCIES CAPTURE NATIONAL HONOR Thirteen Brookdale Home Health agencies have been named among the 2015 HomeCare Elite, an initiative that recognizes the top-performing home health providers

A six-person team from Leadership Brentwood, a Williamson, Inc.

across the United States. HomeCare

program to foster civic leadership and engagement, has partnered

Elite analyzes providers on an array

with the city to raise awareness of the need to sign-up for the Citizen

of publicly reported measures.

Alert Emergency Notification System. Also known as Everbridge, the

The HomeCare Elite program

system enables residents throughout Williamson County to be noti-

identifies the top 25 percent of the

fied in the event of emergencies such as natural disasters, chemical

nation’s nearly 10,000 Medicare-

spills, school lockdowns and train derailments.

certified home health agencies. It bases the determination on the quality

The county-wide emergency system has the ability to mass-notify everyone who has a traditional landline telephone. Resident can sign-up to receive text or email alerts by registering online at Brentwood-TN.org/CitizenAlert.

10

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

of outcomes and the patient experience, along with implementation of best practices and other related measures.

Brentwood-based Brookdale operates 62 home health agencies and 23 branch offices.

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City Scene

New

Business & Shopping Hub

Launching Soon in Brentwood The Hill Center is rising in the heart of Brentwood's business district.

HILL CENTER BRENTWOOD OPENING IN 2016 ARTICLE JAY WILKE | PHOTOGRAPHY ED ATLAS

B

rentwood locals will soon be eating, shopping and working in an exciting new mixed-use community. With the first phase on track to open in October 2016,

Hill Center Brentwood is poised to bring a wealth of new dining, retail and busi-

ness options to the heart of Brentwood. Located adjacent to Maryland Farms on Franklin Road, the development will eventually include ten buildings with 600,000 square feet of commercial space.

The site is being developed by H.G. Hill Realty Company, a successful real estate company with roots in the Nashville area dating back to 1895.

"The heart of Brentwood's business and retail district is on the cusp of transforming into a more walkable and connected community with more shopping, restaurant and employment opportunities, and we are pleased to be a part of the exciting things happening here," said Jimmy Granbery, CEO, H.G. Hill Realty Company.

Phase I has 158,000 square feet of office space and 66,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space. A number of office tenants are gearing up to move into the new development, including: LBMC, a CPA and business consulting firm, TMPartners, an architecture, interiors and planning firm, and First Tennessee Bank. The bank will occupy approximately 31,000 square feet and expects to have around 100 employees.

The first wave of restaurants were recently announced and they’re set to add exciting new eateries to Brentwood’s rapidly expanding dining scene.

One of the first restaurants announced is Uncle Julio’s, a unique border-style casual Mexican restaurant. "I am very excited to be opening our first Tennessee location in Brentwood. In fact, we have created a new prototype building designed especially for the Hill Center and the Brentwood community that showcases the patios and outdoor environment," said Brentwood resident Tom Vogel, Uncle Julio's president and CEO.

Drivers along Franklin Road will have many new retail and dining options when The Hill Center opens later this year.

Other dining tenants coming to the center are Nama Sushi Bar, offering traditional sushi and innovative Asian fusion cuisine, and YEAH! BURGER, an artisan burger restaurant named one of Bon Appétit magazine's 10 "Favorite Burger Spots" in the United States.

Announced retail tenants include: The Cosmetic Market, a regional beauty destination for quality-conscious shoppers; Hand and Stone, a spa with a full range of massage, facial and hair removal services; and Cori & Co, a high-end infant and children’s boutique.

A six-level parking garage is also expected to open this summer. To help relieve traffic in and around Hill Center Brentwood, completed road enhancements include a new intersection and traffic signal at Executive Center Drive and Franklin Road.

Additional tenants will be announced in the coming months. For more information on Hill Center Brentwood, visit HillCenterBrentwood.com 12

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

Artist's rendering of the Hill Center, now under construction on the southwest corner of Franklin Road and Maryland Way.

Trend Setter

Making a Fashionnt Stateme

“There is amazing talent here.

They are creative and have new ideas.

They inspire me.” her staff are as warm and welcoming as they are fashion forward.

“We’ll dress the customer from head-to-toe,”

STACEY RHODES AT THE FOREFRONT OF NASHVILLE'S EMERGING FASHION INDUSTRY

says Rhodes. “I’ve had customers come in at

ARTICLE ED ATLAS

tomers to bring things in. It doesn’t matter if it’s

PHOTOGRAPHY LAUREN ATHALIA

a dress or a hat, we can start with that one item

five who need to be at an event that evening and say, ‘dress me.’

“We’re all stylists and we encourage cus-

F

and create a look that works just for them.” ew people have been as intrinsically

A Brentwood native, Rhodes is a graduate

involved with Nashville’s emergence as a

of O’More College of Design in Franklin where

fashion industry influencer than Stacey Rhodes.

she earned an interior design degree.

As the owner of Stacey Rhodes Boutique,

“Merchandising and design all overlap,” she

she has served as a conduit between established and up-and-coming designers, and clientele that desires to wear something that cannot be found everywhere.

“My customer considers me a little edgier

says. “My degree has helped me with color, Stacey Rhodes has been making a fashion statement on Franklin Rd. since 2010.

textures and textiles. And I love discovering new designers and telling people about them.

People like to know about what they’re wearing and the story behind it.”

and fashion forward,” says Rhodes. “We offer

Rhodes is visible throughout the commu-

quality apparel that is fresh, fashionable and

nity. She appears monthly on WSMV-TV’s

stylish. Something that people will love and feel

“More at Midday” with Kacy Hagerty, serves

comfortable wearing.”

as a mentor to fashion students and leads a

As Nashville has grown in stature within the

charitable fundraiser.

fashion world, Stacey Rhodes Boutique has

“I love that in Nashville we’re supporting

blossomed as well. What began in 2002 as a

our city by developing new designers and not

small department within a larger store is now a

trying to look for something else, somewhere

destination unto itself.

else,” says Rhodes. “There is amazing talent

The boutique moved into its current location at 144 Franklin Road in 2010. Rhodes made a

here. They are creative and have new ideas.

They inspire me.”

considerable investment in time and resources

In April, Stacey Rhodes Boutique hosts

for a four-month renovation. Now the eclectic,

“An Affair of the Hat,” an annual fundraiser

1,500-square foot space is a fixture among the

that features handmade, one-of-a-kind

unique shops and restaurants north of the busy

hats, just in time for springtime social

Franklin Road and Maryland Way/Church

events like the Iroquois Steeplechase and

Street intersection.

The Kentucky Derby. A percentage of the

“I love this location. There was pent-up

proceeds form each hat sold is donated to

demand and the store needed to be here,” says

the TJ Martel Foundation for cancer, leuke-

Rhodes. “What happened was that people no

mia and AIDS research.

longer wanted to drive to Nashville. We could not have done this five or 10 years earlier.

“When I first moved here, Brentwood was so welcoming. There was more space and people loved it.”

“I like being involved with non-profits and ‘An Affair of the Hat” is a fun thing I do,” says Rhodes.

“For some people, the hat is the thing. Or bring in a dress and we’ll find a hat that goes with it.”

And with her sense of style and civic sen-

If you think the boutique - with its hardwood

sibilities, Stacey Rhodes figures to be among

floors, handmade rugs, antiques and art - is

Nashville’s leading fashion influencers for a

only for aficionados, think again. Rhodes and

long time to come.

14

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

144 Franklin Road, Suite A, Brentwood (615) 221-9992 | staceyrhodesboutique.com

Fro

m

to

Brigitte Hohman upholds grandmother’s legacy with Gracey’s Gourmet Cookies.

ARTICLE HOLLY COWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY ED ATLAS

L

ike many of us growing up, Brigitte Hohman loved holidays and special occasions. But they were

particularly exciting for her because it meant being treated to her grandmother’s shortbread cookies.

Her grandmother, now deceased, lived in Canada

ped . en ship e world ave be h th s d ie n k u o o r o a C t d e n a rm States 's G ou Gracey ut the United o h throug

where shortbread cookies are very popular. So popular in fact that Hohman’s grandmother created her own special recipe, calling them Gracey’s Cookies.

Although there was no significance to the name, the recipe itself was, and remains, closely guarded.

While Hohman eventually learned that secret recipe, she never imagined the treat she loved as a child would become her fulltime occupation as an adult.

After all, she hadn’t set out to have her own cookie business. After graduating from the University of Tennessee she and her husband settled in Nashville with Hohman working for Nestle for 10 years.

During that time she started baking Gracey’s Cookies for friends and neighbors. And once they had a taste they were hooked. “People told me I should start a business and sell them,” says Hohman.

“We looked into it and decided to give it a shot.”

In business since 2009 under the name of Gracey’s Gourmet Cookies, Hohman bakes at her home in Brentwood. But this is no ordinary home kitchen. It’s actually a “Certified Kitchen” by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture and Hohman herself went through their training program and is subject to regular inspection.

Brigitte H selling ohman has b een Gracey 's Cookie s since Gourmet 2009

Cookies for a Cause

On December 14, 2015 Brigitte Hohman hosted a Holiday Open House at the Lansdowne of Brentwood neighborhood clubhouse with a portion of the proceeds going to the Sam McGahren Memorial Fund, a cause dear to her heart.

Hohman began selling Gracey’s Gourmet Cookies at the Farmer’s Market in Franklin SAM MCGAHREN MEMORIAL FUND

and now has a large customer list, spread by word-of-mouth. While most customers are

Sam McGahren died suddenly on July 1,

in Tennessee, Hohman receives orders from all over the country. She has even shipped to

2014 at 18 years of age. A triplet, Sam suffered

China and to soldiers in Iraq. Hohman says, “We’ve learned that the cookies travel well.

significant effects of prematurity resulting in

They can handle the shipping.”

Cerebral Palsy and many other intellectual,

It’s not hard to imagine that peak season is Christmas. During that time she’s in the

health and developmental issues. Despite his

kitchen 12 hours a day. “Baking at home is a big advantage. You never know when the

disabilities, Sam participated in many activi-

phone is going to ring with someone interested in placing an order. There’s a lot you can

ties provided to the special needs community

do at 9 p.m.,” she says.

in Davidson and Williamson counties. These

Gracey’s Gourmet Cookies are popular with businesses as well. Hohman fills

programs enriched Sam’s life. His family will

many corporate orders and even ices cookies with corporate logos. She says,

remember him as a boy who loved life and

“We’ve added ginger cookies and a pumpkin dip, but I keep it simple. I only make

made friends with everyone he met. In his brief

two kinds of dough.”

life, Sam impacted so many people. This fund

When asked about all she’s accomplished Hohman explains, “It’s a full-time

is raising money to build a facility where young

job so I really don’t have time to think about how the business has grown.

adults with developmental and intellectual dis-

I’m glad people like them. Customer referrals are the greatest compliment.”

abilities can continue to receive the care and

One thing is certain: Hohman continuing to delight with her cherished family

training they need to live healthy, happy and

recipe is the ultimate compliment to her grandmother’s legacy.

productive lives.

February 2016 | Brentwood Lifestyle

17

Iconic Restaurant Doubles as Brentwood’s

Hidden Gem

For understated elegance, Mere Bulles means business.

It’s

ARTICLE ED ATLAS | PHOTOGRAPHY LAUREN ATHALIA AND STEVEN LONG

I t ’s

not often that a restaurant can be classified as both a “hidden gem”

Steven Smithing acquired Mere Bulles in 2006 and began operating

and a “local icon.” But those labels can be applied simultaneously to

the restaurant in April 2007. From the ingredients to the menu, and from

Mere Bulles. And the venerable Maryland Farms eatery wears both

service to the setting, Smithing keeps it simple.

of them well.

In a day when restaurants come-and-go, Mere Bulles’ longevity solidifies it’s iconic status. It is the mainstay of Brentwood dining establishments, having operated at 5201 Maryland Way since 2000. Prior to that it enjoyed a 15-year run in downtown Nashville.

“We source the highest quality ingredients and buy the best meat and produce,” he says. “Our guests are our top priority and we’ll serve them only the best and we do it the best way possible.

“You have to know your guests. People do bring families and we have a big Sunday brunch. But it's a business-class restaurant and

But when a restaurant is shrouded by tall trees and tucked away

businesses want it pretty safe. They want to get in here by six and

from the main drag in a 74-year-old plantation home, it becomes a

be out by eight. When they’re entertaining a client, they don’t want

quintessential gem among rows of cookie-cutter office buildings.

a lot of surprises.”

18

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

of providing a dining experience that is elegant, yet relaxed. The presentation is appealing, not overpowering. Whether it’s a full meal in one of the spacious dining rooms, a drink at the handsome bar, a wedding reception or a private meeting upstairs, the Mere Bulles guest is always at home.

“I feel like I have a good ability to taste and sense,” says Smithing.

“I consider myself the ‘Everyman’ of dining. If I like it, so will others.”

This emphasis on simplicity is evident on the menu where prime

Mere Bulles owner Steven Smithing

By understanding the guest, Mere Bulles has mastered the craft

rib and a deep wine list take center stage. According to Smithing, the restaurant goes through 40 loins of prime rib – about 500 servings – each week. And all bottles of wine are half-price all day, every day.

Newcomers and longtime guests alike gravitate toward Mere Bulles’ classics like Charleston She-Crab Bisque and Rib Rolls.

“We have a good brand name and I think we have more top-ofmind-awareness than we used to,” says Smithing. “That also means we have to continually evolve. Prime Rib is a menu staple but that customer tends to be about 40 years old. Younger people lean more toward a seared fish, like halibut, sea bass or grouper. And there are enough vegetarians out there that we offer some really nice dishes in that category.”

Mere Bulles' experienced staff includes (l-r) Vernon Williams, Josh Werle, Pam Kemp, Jessica Hancock and owner Steven Smithing

“I feel like I have a good ability to taste and sense,” says Smithing.

“I consider myself the ‘Everyman’ of dining.

If I like it, so will others.”

The result is that the restaurant has grown each year that Smithing has owned it. Helping him pull it all together every day “managed chaos,” in Smithing’s vernacular - is a staff that is among the most experienced in town.

Josh Werle is a production-oriented chef and kitchen manager.

Christopher Smithing, Steven’s brother, is also a chef with a creative flair who comes up with specials and wine dinners.

Jessica Hancock is the event coordinator and daytime maître d’.

Managers Matt Hastings and Abby Waltz started as servers. Pam Kemp has worked at Mere Bulles longer than anyone, including the owner, and Vernon Williams is the most-requested server.

“Pam cares about this restaurant as much as anyone,” says Smithing, “and I’ve seen Vernon thank everyone and shake their hand as they walk out the door. You can’t teach that. You have to want to do that that.

“This isn’t life or death; it’s food. But there’s a rush of energy that comes from doing the job right and making people happy. When people leave and say ‘great job,’ it makes you feel good every time. You never get tired of hearing that.”

And it’s the kind of service and hospitality one would expect from any hidden gem or local icon.

February 2016 | Brentwood Lifestyle

19

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Fulin’s Takes New Approach

to Chinese Restaurant Experience

David Lin’s unlikely inspiration will likely change how you think of Chinese restaurants.

ARTICLE HOLLY COWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY ED ATLAS AND PROVIDED

W

ith an ideal location near Target on Old Hickory Boulevard, practically everyone in Brentwood has seen Fulin’s. But the experience created by the Lin family is likely to change the way you think about Chinese restaurants.

Founder David Lin discovered his calling in the restaurant business rather unexpectedly. A creative writer in China, he came to the United States shortly after Tiananmen Square seeking political asylum. He worked in various mom and pop Chinese buffets up and down the east coast to support himself, eventually moving to Tennessee to open a buffet in Clarksville. While the business was profitable, it did not fulfill what had become his dream.

Lin’s son Brandon, now Chief Marketing Officer of the Fulin’s chain explains, “My father felt there was a lack of passion in the food, service and presentation in the buffets. His vision was to serve high-quality food in an upscale restaurant for upscale clientele.”

That vision came to be Fulin’s which opened in 2005 in its current Brentwood location. The restaurant quickly expanded and the chain now has 10 stores in Tennessee and two in Alabama.

Fulin’s goal is to serve authentic Chinese cuisine the way it’s supposed to be done. Says Brandon Lin, “If you go to China and CONTINUED >

22

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

Fulin's Founder David Lin, Chief Marketing Officer Brandon Lin and Chief Financial Officer Sam Chin are out to change the way people think about Chinese restaurants.

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FULIN’S

(CON TI N UED)

“We try to set the bar high and present a restaurant that is nothing like Brentwood has ever seen. We strive to be the best in town.”

24

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

eat in an authentic restaurant, the food is outstanding. But the service is not. It’s just not part of the culture.”

Here the family tries to bridge the gap between cultures. They infuse southern hospitality and offer an upscale urban feel with conveniences such as online ordering and a new app for pickup orders.

While Brandon Lin believes his father is one of the best chef ’s in town, he’s more focused on running the daily operations at Fulin’s. A 26-year-old graduate of New York University, when he immigrated to the United States in 2001 he did not speak a word of English. Now he’s fluent and a naturalized American citizen.

In the kitchen, Brandon Lin can prepare anything from sauces to sushi and even waits tables from time-to-time to stay in front of the customers. He says, “I’m born and bred in the restaurant business. I’d come home from school and do my homework in the kitchen. I enjoyed NYU and loved living that life. But this is what I know and Brentwood is home. I found myself missing the south. I’m really a Tennessee guy.”

It’s not all in the family for the Fulin’s chain, however. Lin’s Chief Financial Officer, Sam Chin also sought political asylum shortly after the uprising at Tiananmen Square. And even though they came to the United States about the same time, their paths didn’t cross until a chance meeting locally led them to become friends and business partners.

Both share similar business values. Lin explains, “In China, life was not simple. I came here to make a living. We must provide great food and service, but also provide good training and treat employees well. Bringing jobs to the community is as important as profit.”

And that’s the heart of the Fulin’s experience.

Says Brandon Lin, “We try to set the bar high and present a restaurant that is nothing like Brentwood has ever seen. We strive to be the best in town.”

Our Scholars look forward to welcoming yours.

Discover why more than 250 Williamson County families already call Father Ryan home.

• $24 Million received in scholarship offers last year • 13 National Merit Honorees in 2015 • 10 Military Academy Appointments in the last four years • 39 Perfect scores on ACT and SAT tests in the last two years • Acceptances to Princeton, UNC, Chicago, UVA, Vanderbilt, Notre Dame, Carnegie Mellon, NYU, Boston College For more information or to schedule a visit, contact us at admissions@fatherryan.org or call us at 615-383-4200.

®

A Tradition of Faith, Knowledge, Service

700 Norwood Drive • Nashville, TN 37204 • (615) 383-4200 • www.fatherryan.org •

Driver’s Notebook

The 2016

LINCOLN MKC BLACK LABEL

THERE IS NO SOPHOMORE SLUMP FOLLOWING THIS LUXURY, COMPACT SUV’S IMPRESSIVE DEBUT ARTICLE DENNIS MALCOLM BYRON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

I

n 2015, the boom of the compact SUV—a five-door vehicle that is considerably smaller, more economical, and less expensive than the larger versions— has increased competition between automakers in a new segment. However, due to its sleek, distinctive tell-from-a-block-away exterior, defining push-button gear shift, smooth ride, responsive four-wheel maneuvering, and posh interior, the all-new 2015 Lincoln MKC Black Label AWD successfully made a bold entrance into the market. The 2016 version promises to maintain its momentum and erase any mention of a sophomore slump.

The Black Label is the top-tier edition of this five-passenger automobile; the other three trims are Premiere, Select, and Reserve beginning at $33,260.

MKC’s impressive standard features include a panoramic Vista roof with a powershade cover; hands-free liftgate (starting with the Select); MyLincoln Mobile App with Embedded Modem to operate functions from your mobile phone; extensive airbag placement including curtain and driver’s knee; three driving modes; and a “concierge” to chat with.

On the optional side, the 20-inch painted aluminum rims; parking assist; a gorgeous Chroma Couture Premium Metallic (rich purple-brown fusion); theater-esque THX sound system; and Active Park Assist deserve mention, but with the prestigious Black Label upgrade, owners can enjoy free car washes anytime, a yearly car detail service, and an interior owners can customize with various exotic materials and color schemes. But the major differences between the 2015 and 2016 version is the latter’s increase of towing capacity in the 2.3-liter engine to 3,000 pounds and the inclusion of the new signature Lincoln Sync 3 touchscreen interface, enabling voice command for phoning, entertainment and navigation.

Lincoln has always been a brand that emphasizes the importance of driving in luxury since its inception almost a century ago. As its spokesperson—revered actor Matthew McConaughey—says while seemingly in bliss driving the 2016 MKC Black Label in recent television commercials, "Sometimes you've got to go back, to actually move forward." This compact SUV surely adds validity to this statement.

2016 MKC

Base Price: $46,455 Fuel Economy: 20 city/29 highway Horsepower: 240 to 285 horsepower Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder, 2.3L 4-cylinder Photos courtesy of Lincoln.

For more information, visit Lincoln.com 26

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

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Lifestyle Calendar

February FEBRUARY 5 PEPPA PIG LIVE: PEPPA'S BIG SPLASH RYMAN AUDITORIUM The popular NickJr star comes to Nashville for Peppa’s Big Splash, an interactive experience full of singing, dancing, games and muddy puddles. The show is a guaranteed blast for preschoolers and their parents alike! 6 p.m. 615.889.3060. Ryman.com.

FEBRUARY 5 OPENING DAY LECTURE: TREASURES FROM THE HOUSE OF ALBA THE FRIST CENTER FOR THE VISUAL ARTS For over five hundred years, the Alba family has formed part of the most important aristocratic lineages in Europe. Join Dr. Mark A. Roglán, Director of the Meadows Museum, for a special presentation exploring the historic and cultural legacy of the Alba family and the formation of its storied art collection. 6:30 p.m. Exhibit runs

FEBRUARY 2, 4, 6, 9, 15, 18, 20, 27

through May 1, 2016. 615.244.3340. FristCenter.org.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS

FEBRUARY 5

BRIDGESTONE ARENA

WINTER JAM 2016 TOUR SPECTACULAR

The Predators have eight home games in February against St. Louis

BRIDGESTONE ARENA

(2, 27), Philadelphia (4), San Jose (6), Washington (9), Dallas (15), Bos-

For King & Country and Matthew West are the headliners for Chris-

ton (18) and Los Angeles (20). All games faceoff at 7 p.m. at Bridge-

tian music’s biggest tour of the year. The diverse lineup also includes

stone Arena with a special 2 p.m. matinee against St. Louis on Febru-

Crowder, RED, Lauren Daigle, New Song, Trip Lee and Tedashii. 6:45

ary 27. 615.770.2355. Predators.nhl.com.

p.m. PremierProductions.com.

FEBRUARY 5

EVERY SATURDAY

FRANKLIN ART SCENE

FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET

DOWNTOWN FRANKLIN

THE FACTORY AT FRANKLIN

This monthly art crawl takes participants through downtown Frank-

From produce, fruit and dairy to baked goods and meats, you’ll find

lin’s historic buildings and celebrates Williamson County’s unique

delicious, farm-fresh food at the Franklin Farmers Market. And be-

artistic talent. The socially-engaging event provides an opportunity

cause it’s all from local farms, the variety of goods increases and

to see a sweeping variety of magnificent work that connoisseurs and

changes each week through the seasons. A select number of local

novices will enjoy. Free trolley transportation is available. Many ven-

crafts persons are on hand with unique good for sale. Every Satur-

ues serve complimentary refreshments and some offer live music.

day from 9 a.m. to Noon behind The Factory at Franklin. 615.916.1274.

DowntownFranklinTn.com.

FranklinFarmersMarket.com.

CONTINUED >

28

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

Leipers Fork Land & Home 4151 Old Hillsboro Road Franklin, TN 37054

1025 Carlisle Lane $9,726,000

706 Abbott Place $430,000

208 Kathleen Court South $590,000

3883 Perkins Rd $2,375,000

170 Acres Leipers Creek Rd $1,700,000

3353 Fly Road $139,000

Waddell Hollow Rd 72 Acres

CINDY GARVEY

O: 615.599.3676 C: 615.202.9515 www.leipersfork.com

Burck Stevens Greg Musgrave Mike Foy Vera Gervais Casey Delaney

615.390.2675 615.775.5378 931.981.5035 615.517.7935 270.847.8980

Lifestyle Calendar (CON TI N U ED)

FEBRUARY 14 DISNEY LIVE! MICKEY & MINNIE'S DOORWAY TO MAGIC BRIDGESTONE ARENA Unforgettable Disney moments and grand illusions come to life with Mickey &Minnie and Donald & Goofy. In all, 25 Disney characters will perform, surprising and captivating at every turn of the “Doorway to Magic” knob! 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. BridgestoneArena.com.

FEBRUARY 27

FEBRUARY 12

SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE ART

BARRY MANILOW

ANSBACH ARTISANS

BRIDGESTONE ARENA

A monthly showcase presenting original work from local artists. This

Legendary pop star and songwriter Barry Manilow brings his “One

month’s theme is "Black History Month" with featured artists Essence

Last Time” show to Bridgestone arena for what is likely to be his final

DeVonne, Xavier Payne, N’Digo Kali, Elisheba Israel, Michael McBride

full-scale tour. 7:30 p.m. BridgestoneArena.com.

and Lakesha Moore. Guest musician Roland Gresham will perform.

Family friendly environment. Refreshments provided. 1974 Wilson

FEBRUARY 13

Pike. 615.974.6300. AnsbachArtisans.com.

TEDDY BEAR CLINIC NASHVILLE ZOO AT GRASSMERE

FEBRUARY 29

Children are invited to bring their favorite teddy bear or stuffed animal

WWE RAW

friend to Nashville Zoo’s Teddy Bear Clinic. The Nashville Zoo Veterinary

BRIDGESTONE ARENA

Department will be on call to perform routine checkups on your child’s

Celebrate “Leap Day” with WWE RAW at Bridgestone Arena. Favorite

stuffed animal. Learn about the excellent care Nashville Zoo’s animals re-

WWE superstars like Roman Reigns, “The Lunatic Fringe,” Dean Am-

ceive from the zookeepers and veterinarian staff. The clinic is free with zoo

brose, Dolph Ziggler, Triple H and the Authority and the WWE Divas

admission. No registration is necessary. 615.833.1534. NashvilleZoo.org.

are slated to perform. 6:30 p.m. BridgestoneArena.com.

Your lender

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Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

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custom closets garages home offices pantries laundries mud rooms hobby rooms

business directory AUTOMOTIVE Arde Motorcars (615) 376-3550 ardemotorcars.com

Music City Motor Cars (615) 261-7337 musiccitymotorcars.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS & ORGANIZATIONS Williamson County Chamber of Commerce (615) 771-1912 williamsonchamber.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS Kemp Orthodontics (615) 373-3831 kemportho.com

Nashville Center for Aesthetic Dentistry (615) 823-2927 drdenniswells.com

EDUCATION

Father Ryan High School (615) 383-4200 fatherryan.org

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Stacey Rhodes Boutique (615) 221-9992 staceyrhodesboutique.com

32

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

Townsend Style (615) 376-5900 townsendstyle.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING

Crye-Leike Real Estate Services (615) 373-3513 chipkerr.crye-leike.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

United Country Real Estate (615) 599-3676 leipersfork.com

Renasant Bank (615) 347-0578 heathalbritton.com

SMARTCore Method (615) 721-7189 smartcoremethod.com

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

SALONS & SPAS Parlour 3 (615) 942-9020 parlour3.com/

Castle Homes (615) 309-8200 castlehomes.com

Barbour 3 (615) 712-9525 barbour3.com

HOME SERVICES

Brentwood Jewelry & Gifts (615) 373-5959 brentwoodjewelry.com

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Pear Tree Avenue (615) 221-1010 peartreeavenue.com

Closets by Design Nashville (615) 261-8700 nashville.closetsbydesign.com

Nashville Centre for Laser & Facial Surgery (615) 329-1110 drbiesman.com

Parting Thoughts

Love Is In The Air ANNE POTTER RUSS

W

ho knew boarding a simple airplane 23 years ago in my blue sweat suit (think ‘80s wear) would change my entire life? Certainly not me, or I might have dressed a bit snappier and put on a smidge of makeup and perfume. But, I had reached that elusive place of peace in my quickly-nearing-explosion biological countdown when I figured if the right guy was to come along, I best relax a bit and calm down.

So, calm down I did and donned one of the ugliest outfits I had for sheer comfort. In walks my seatmate for our eighthour flight and we commence what could be termed as a date – dinner, movie, etc. There were way too many intelligent conversations, laughs and glasses of wine, and the next thing I knew, the sun was coming up on our trans-Atlantic flight and I didn’t want the fun to end. He was returning home to Germany, and I would eventually return home to Kansas City – worlds apart.

He called a week later asking if he could come to visit for Christmas in a couple of weeks. “Sure!” I answered, not knowing how many martinis it would take to enlighten my parents of this impending event. So, I commenced, “I am 29 years old, you have trusted me this long, blah, blah, blah.” Their shock equaled my freak-out. I’d known him for eight hours. When I went to the airport – in a much spiffier outfit – I actually wondered if I would recognize the gentleman who had wooed me weeks before. I had already endured all of the “Are you CRAZY?” comments from friends, so I took my chances that he would at least look familiar.

Honeymoon is the word we use for those two weeks of Christmas bliss. Without question, we would end up together, so two years of trans-Atlantic, pre-Internet, large phone bill dating ensued. There were some language and culture barriers to overcome, and fortunately for my non-German speaking self, he was excited to move to the States. We were married two years after meeting, and immediately moved to California for his engineering job. Now, I have to giggle at people with text and Skype who complain about having to endure long distance relationships from New York to Boston.

Love at first sight does happen, and sometimes it comes in a big old jumbo jet of a package. We are ready to celebrate our 22nd anniversary and have two wonderful teenagers. Maybe the blue sweat suit wasn’t such a bad choice after all.

34

Brentwood Lifestyle | February 2016

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