Your Williamson March 2020 Issue by Robertson Media Group

LIFESTYLE

YOUR STAFF

Keep Calm - and -

Wash Your Hands!

Dear Readers,

The Ides of March they are upon us… And let me just say, as I am sure many of you would agree, they have blown into our community and middle Tennessee home in big ways this week. The literal blowing in of a horrific tornado which has decimated parts of the state we all call home; home to friends, home to businesses we frequent and in all respects home to the places we know and see daily and consider the foundations of what is literally our collective community. The coming together of individuals into a collective community, in the harsh reality of destruction and especially the tragedy at loss of life – is astounding. Even surrounded by such sadness and dismay, we can all find our spirit of hope and strength of character to lend a hand to those in need. It’s a beautiful and God sent thing and middle Tennessee and even those from far away, have certainly given all those affected by this unexpected nightmare, a ray of light in their darkness.

While experiencing one of the worst natural disasters in our state’s history, we are also now part of another natural disaster of sorts, in our state, and yes, right here in Williamson County. The Coronavirus has come to our perceived bubble of protection in the world, and all of us are now painfully aware of that feeling of fear, paranoia and panic, that we have seen on the news and thought we were graciously spared from. Of course, we must all remain calm, and carry on with life as we would normally but with rational thought and common sense in what we do. That’s right – WASH YOUR HANDS! COVER YOUR MOUTH! Don’t get out in close proximity to others especially those who are health compromised already, when you yourself may feel ill or have any symptoms of any kind. Be mindful of your surroundings, yes, but don’t close yourself off in fear of the heightened state of alert. Just BE AWARE and BE SMART. We can all make it through this health crisis, as long as we are calm. At least that’s what I am choosing to believe… Now the issue of toilet paper shortages at Costco… THAT my friends may be cause for real alarm! For information on the virus, go to cdc.org.

In all seriousness, as always, in the midst of crisis, tragedy or just everyday life, I am forever thankful to live in such a place as Williamson County. A place full of generosity of spirit and goodness towards each other. If we are facing these things, I would much rather face them here with all of you than be somewhere not quite so good.

This issue is about being merry after all – so let’s not let the month of March slip by without reveling in the usual fun of St. Patrick’s Day, March Madness, Spring Break and some of the great content on celebrating food and drink in our area, found in this issue. I personally am glad people like Ralph Drury are part of our community, as we recognize his accomplishments through A Vintage Affair, celebrating twenty years this year, in this issue. After starting this worthwhile charitable organization and series of events, Ralph and his supporters of board, staff, volunteers and donors, have contributed a million plus dollars to deserving groups here in Williamson County. I can remember when this organization began, have had the privilege of working on and for the event numerous times and luckily, call Ralph Drury and his family, dear friends. It’s people like the Drury’s and events like AVA, that make me proud to be a part of something greater than myself, doing great things in our community.

Shelly Robertson Birdsong Publisher shelly@robertsonmediagroup.com

Monetary donations can be made through the following sites: cfmt.org redcross.org/tennessee salvationarmynashville.org unitedwaynashville.org

Get information on how you can offer hands-on help and volunteering through Hands on Nashville. Visit hon.org to learn ways you can get involved and help.

Photo by Brett Carlsen, Getty Image

YOUR SOCIAL

SECRETARY

MAR 19-22

Nashville Elvis Festival

Here are a few events to add to your Social Calendar this month. Visit yourwilliamson.com for more events.

Factory at Franklin | nashvilleelvisfestival.com.

The Nashville Elvis Festival is a premier Elvis event unlike any other, celebrating the music and legacy of Elvis Presley. The four-day festival will be filled with celebrity appearances, special guests and performances from twenty-eight of the top Elvis tribute artists from all over the world, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland, Norway, Chile, Australia and the USA. Nashville Elvis Festival will also feature appearances by legendary actor and recording artist Pat Boone (in his FINAL Nashville concert appearance!), and many more.

GET CONNECTED

The #FranklinTheatre presented vision for 2020.

MAR 27

Miriam’s Promise

Factory at Franklin | 6pm | miriamspromise.org

Celebrating thirty-five years of ministry, Miriam’s Promise annual fundraising dinner, themed “Looking Back and to the Future,” to support the social impact organization as it offers pregnancy counseling at no charge to young women who find themselves in the midst of an unplanned pregnancy, as well as adoption-related services to people hoping to grow their family through adoption. The Celebrate the Promise evening will also feature a dinner, live and silent auction, live music and an opportunity to invest in the future of the agency.

PAWsome Gala

Factory at Franklin | 6pm | friendsofwcac.org

The second annual PAWsome Gala, hosted by Friends of Williamson County Animal Center and presented by Mars Petcare, will take place at the Factory at Franklin. The evening will benefit the Williamson County Animal Center and guests will enjoy a delicious buffet dinner, live and silent auction, and live entertainment. All proceeds benefit the animals of Williamson County Animal Center. Friends of Williamson County Animal Center works to promote and support quality of life for all animals and the humans who care about them by ensuring a compassionate environment and humane treatment for the animals of Williamson County.

Couture by Tess Bridal gowns modeled during the inaugural #DSWExperience!

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SOCIAL La Bella Notte Patron Party & Gala

Photography Submitted

The La Bella Notte Patron Party and Gala were held in February as major benefits for the Nashville Opera Guild. All proceeds from the events and auction benefit the Nashville Opera Guild Education Program Fund. To learn more about the events and the Nashville Opera, go to nashvillpera.org.

See the latest wedding trends and find inspiration by following us on Instagram @ distinctivelysouthernwedding and liking Distinctively Southern Wedding on Facebook.

Don’t forget to share your distinctively southern wedding day with us too!

Ken & Cindy Williamson, Ellen Williamson, Andrew Lantz, Anita Cash & Larry Cash

Robb McCluskey, Linda Rebrovick, Evan Malone & Ryan Pearson

Tracey Pearson & Don Holmes

Jerry & Angela Bostelman, Melissa & Rob Beckham

Tricia & Bill Sperh

Jeff & Esther Swink

Melissa Mosteller & Patrick Clark

Bob & Ingrid Kessler

Amy Williams, Mary Ragland, Michael Anderson, Helen Huang, Kaylee Nichols & Spencer Riechman

Hiding Behind the Mask

To the Rescue Hair Mask from Noughty

Haircare $12.99

When your distressed tresses are too weak for even a prince to climb, it’s time to call in a hero like this one. Promised to turn dry, damaged, overprocessed hair into locks as strong as woven gold, this 97% natural, super-quenching treatment is packed with sweet almond and black oat extracts to hydrate, restructure and transform thirsty hair. Infused with Lecithin, Meadowfoam oil and Argan oil, this mask provides a light almond and Moroccan Argan and Almond Scent. Purchase at noughtyhaircare.com

Catharsis Face Mask from Earthwise Beauty, $38

Achieve immediate and visible results with this healing, hydrating, firming and invigorating mix of finely milled herbs and green algae. Formulated with Vitamin C rich Aloe, antimicrobial Neem, organically grown spirulina and chlorella algae, this long-lasting powder can be used in the shower or by adding hydrosol, honey or even a few drops of facial oil to mix.

Purchase at earthwisebeauty.com

There are so many new skin and haircare trends, that milling through the clutter can sometimes make you feel lost, confused and ultimately, too overwhelmed to choose what’s best for you. One thing that will never grow old however, is the power of a fabulous mask, and when old meets new, it’s even better.

Check out these super powerful, all natural masks, guaranteed to detoxify and rejuvenate your whole body! Please see below for a powerful solution for your: · Hair · Eyes · Armpits · Breasts · Face.

Radiance Facial Mask from Krisana Vigus, $28

Tone and firm with this anti-microbial powerhouse, designed to draw out surface dirt and debris while visibly diminishing pores. Composed of mineral-rich virgin white clay from Nevada and green clay from the South of France to deliver a vibrant, smooth, and refreshed complexion. Purchase at krisanavigus.com

Underarm Detox Mask from Piper Wai, $11.99

Let’s be real – we aren’t very nice to our pits! Always shaving, waxing, or lathering with harsh chemicals, it’s time to give these under appreciated areas a little extra love. Infused with powerful, natural detoxifiers like Bentonite Clay and Activated Charcoal, the underarm detox mask cleanses and moisturizes the sensitive, sweaty skin under our arms, without parabens or harsh chemicals. Purchase at piperwai.com

KB5 Eye Recovery Masks from Kat Burki, $90

Infused with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid, Plant Stem Cells, Silk Amino Acids and Cold Processed Avocado Oil to refresh tired eyes for the ultimate spa experience.

Purchase at katburki.com

Beauty and The Breast Mask from WHEN Beauty, $12

Get ready to bare it all with WHEN’s Bio-Cellulose Sheets Masks. Designed using patented, non-hormonal ingredients from France, Beauty and the Breast brightens, firms, plumps and hydrates for immediate, youthful looking results. Purchase from whenbeautyus.com

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FRANKLIN – E. NASHVILLE – SYLVAN PARK – GULCH – GERMANTOWN – WEDGEWOOD

LIFE IS TOO SHORT FOR CHEAP SUITS!

- Boston Louie

BY DICK SHIPLEY

With over thirty years experience in the clothing business under my belt and being the benefactor of great training in every facet thereof, I’ve learned a few things on the winding road of sartorial splendor. First, while fashion is very cyclical by nature, style is linear; it is a straightline and never ending evolution in refining who we are and how we get there. Second, the desires and motivations of the clothing consuming public have changed immensely over the years. I entered this crazy business - having had a life-altering experience as a customer, myself, looking for a suit that FIT. Then, as I assumed my role on the other side of clothing, met a gentleman who demanded his suit, to not only make him “look and feel the part,” but, also, to last for twenty years - and be in style when he pulled it out of the closet at any time in between. Thus, my career began!

While my clients today care very little, if any, about a suit that would look good in twenty years, they still want the inherent quality and craftsmanship that would allow it to last that long. Further, men of all sectors seek their own unique style, providing them individualism in a homogeneous world. That’s where I, and the aforementioned experience, enter the fray.

Even though I would eschew the engineering degree I went to college to pursue, it trained me to see things in a three-dimensional way, and it has served me well through the years. I developed an affinity to work with the “tougher fit” clients (being one myself), and quickly understood the advantages of having something made for you, rather than fitted to you. I made myself a student of fit and construction, and the art of blue-pencil patterning. Additionally, I was blessed to be tutored by legends in the clothing business - learning the elements of style, and the style of how to sell it properly.

After years managing the finest men’s specialty clothing store in the south, I started Boston Louie’s Custom Clothing in Atlanta. It began as a Valentine’s present to my wife - a Boston Terrier named Louiewho then became my trusted companion and business inspiration. The marriage didn’t last, but my Boston Louie’s Clothing did.

Today, as always, American made quality, fit, classic, but not boring or stuffy, style, impeccable fabrics, value and concierge service are hallmarks of what I do. I constantly seek the most exclusive fabrics from the world’s finest mills; not because I have to, but because it matters. Your clothing is an extension of who you are, as well as where you are in life. The right suit or sport coat affects how you think and feel; as well as how others think and feel about you. Unfortunately, just as there has been a renaissance in gentlemen’s tailored clothing, there is a dearth of professionals up to the task of truly guiding and giving direction to their clients. While everyone wants to look flattering in their tailored clothing, one size does NOT fit all, so to speak. We are not all built the same, and you can’t betray your body-type. This understanding, along

with my passion and commitment, are what sets me apart from the pack. Nashville is such a great market for me, as we are a spotlight city, and men here are more and more discerning in their attire. That, along with the diminishing number of capable clothiers, is how I’ve created a thriving enterprise and reputation in a short period of time in Nashville.

Personally, what rekindles the flame for me is the gratification derived from making a difference to someone, whether it’s that singular, perfect interview suit that can change a life; or a fresh look for the gentleman with a stable in the closet. I’ve been fortunate to work with people of varying needs, styles, and life-stations: Pro-athletes, team owners and GM’s, businessmen, and every-day gentlemen. Making a difference, one suit at a time. It’s rewarding, and I love it!.

Springtime is the ideal time for the Southern Gentleman to hit the refresh button on his wardrobe. It’s a time for life and renewal...and fun! Easter. Steeplechase. The Derby. Whether it’s that extraordinary fitting suit, or perfect sport coat to dress up or down for all occasions; or a wardrobe makeover with in-home consultation; I’m here for you Nashville, and welcome the opportunity to provide you with my old-school haberdashery skills, and doorto-door service. Because I’ve learned another thing through the years: A good suit is like an old friend!

DICK SHIPLEY OWNER OF BOSTON LOUIE’S

New Data Shows 15.8% of Tennessee Residents Binge Drink

So, while we encourage the mantra of Eat, Drink & Be Merry in this issue – remember to drink responsibly and wisely. More than fortymillion Americans (about one in six adults), indulge in binge drinking. The CDC defines binge drinking as consuming four standard drinks in a two-hour span for females and five for males. Binge drinking has been on the rise over the last decade with more than eight-million new binge drinkers since 2010. While binge drinking historically has been about twice as common in men compared to women, new data suggests the gap is narrowing. Between 2014 and 2016, the number of binge drinkers rose by 2.9 million, out of which two thirds were female.

The CDC estimates that excess drinking kills about 88,000 Americans each year from both direct causes, like alcoholic liver disease, and indirect causes, such as chronic hepatitis and oropharyngeal cancer. The national age-adjusted fatality rate from causes directly related to excess drinking has increased by more than 35% since 1999, from 7.1 to 9.6 deaths per 100,000 people. For women, the increase was 66%; and for non-Hispanic white women, fatality rates rose by 103%.

Binge drinking is most common among the educated, affluent, and middle-aged, with whites having a higher likelihood of drinking than either Hispanics or Blacks. Cities with higher proportions of these demographic groups are more likely to report higher rates of binge drinking. The recent growth in female binge drinking is a trend experts attribute to the normalization of heavy drinking for females, with targeted advertising and products such as the Mad Housewife Mommy’s Little Helper, Skinnygirl Bare Naked Vodka, and Jane Walker. Female binge drinking is especially troubling in light of new studies which show that a single daily drink for females lowers life expectancy and increases the risk of brain atrophy and liver damage.

Given the growing prevalence of excessive drinking in the United States, researchers at 360 Quote wanted to explore which locations report the highest rates of binge drinking. Using data from the CDC and the U.S. Census Bureau, they examined binge drinking across America’s largest cities and states. Perhaps most interesting is that adults in locations with high rates of binge drinking also report being healthier overall. This trend could reflect a disparity between individuals’ perception of their own health and reality.

The analysis found that 15.8% of adults in Tennessee binge drink, compared to a national rate of 16.2%.

Here are the stats for Tennessee:

• Adults who binge drink: 15.8%

• 1-year change in binge drinking rate: 10.5%

• Adults who report good physical health: 78.7%

• Adults who graduated college: 27.5%

• Adults in management and business jobs: 35.7%

For reference, here are the statistics for the entire United States:

• Adults who binge drink: 16.2%

• 1-year change in binge drinking rate: -6.9%

• Adults who report good physical health: 82.5%

• Adults who graduated college: 32.6%

•Adults in management and business jobs: 38.6%

For more information, a detailed methodology, and complete results, you can find the original report here: https://www.carinsurance101. com/cities-with-worst-drinking-problem/.

Help Pets affected by the Nashville Tornadoes

Want to help families and pets that have been affected by the tornadoes that devastated middle Tennessee in early March? Donations can be dropped off at Metro Nashville Animal Care and Control, Nashville Pet Products locations and the Nashville Humane Association. The specific, basic supplies needed to help those affected by the storm include:

Food (wet/dry)

Go GREEN in MARCH with ”The FacTory"” Breakfast Burrito and Green smoothie! they Go Great toGether for a power Breakfast!

For more information, call Nashville Humane Association at 615.352.1010 or visit nashvillehumane.org.

Slobbery smooches to you and yours! - Ollie Pup

See more of Ollie and his adventures at facebook.com/OlliePupBoxer, on Twitter @OlliePupBoxer and follow OlliePupBoxer on Instagram.

We are looking for professionals to join our team in Sales, Marketing, Writing and Photography.

Be a part of Williamson County’s COMMUNITY—SOCIAL—BUSINESS—LIFESTYLE publication and online resource.

We want to meet you! Contact us with your resume and cover letter at: info@robertsonmediagroup.com

Approximately 5 minutes to Downtown Franklin and to the Village of Leiper’s Fork.Rare 2 Acres near Downtown, approved for a 4 bedroom home. Platted and recorded, ready to pull a building permit.

CARLEE AMMONS

In February, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® held its third annual Celebration of Excellence Awards Gala. It was a roaring 1920’s-themed night no one will soon forget. The night kicked off with gorgeous aerialists dancing from silks high above the gold draped ballroom, but the attention soon turned to the real stars of the night: Our award-winning members. Each year the gala honors WCAR members at the top of the real estate field. Winners of these awards not only excel in sales but as members of WCAR. Members participate in areas such as our philanthropic foundation, government affairs, real estate education, and with our various committees that work to make our association and our community even better.

This year WCAR decided to do something they had never done before and named two Affiliates of the Year, Yvette Meldrum of Mid-State Title and Heath Albritton of Renasant Mortgage Lending. This year’s Rookie of the Year Award went to Amy Pappas of Parks. WCAR is proud to call Kyle Shults of Keller Williams Realty our 2019 REALTOR® of the Year.

The night did not end there, no sooner than the applause for our winners ended the applause for the amazing 12 South Band began. Members leapt to their feet and on to the dance floor putting their flapper dresses to the test as the band played hits from the 80s to today. REALTORS®, Affiliates, family and friends came together to celebrate their achievements in 2019 and kick off their own Roaring 20s.

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SOCIAL Antiques & Garden Show

Photography by Paige Atwell

This year’s Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville kicked off on January 31st at Music City Center. Celebrating thirty years, the annual Antiques & Garden Show is the longest-running and largest home and garden event in the country. Each year brings immaculate home and garden displays and incredibly unique vendors, both locally and across the country, and this year was certainly no exception. Attendees from all around the country were able to enjoy designs, lectures and special presentations, specialty cocktails and of course, a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. Each year, The Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville raises funds to help support Cheekwood and ECON, a public charity that focuses on improving the lives of families in the Nashville area. To learn more about this event, visit antiquesandgardenshow.com.

Harriett Adrien & Loni Harris

Tara Acheson & Valerie Bell

Monika & Liza Williams, Perri Anderson, Molly Russell

Donna Harrison & Donna Gilliam

Julie Zuramski & Aly Leiper

Nancy Hart & Paula Dayvault

LeeAnne Kavanagh, Mellody Ray & Carolyn Scarborogh

Kara Christensen & Peggy Kurz

Joy Cox & Katie Staelin

Kimberly & Jan Songy

Julie Davis & Betsy Wall

Charlene Milliken & JoAnne Nichols

Mary Hertel & Heather Devaney

Betty McGuire & Neill Coudill Amy Noon & Laura Eatherly

Behind the Scenes: Plan, Prep and Vision

BY JENNIFER PARKER

Many of my clients come to me with inspiration photos or ideas they love when starting a project. Some clients allow me to start from scratch with totally new ideas to bring to the table, and some have very specific needs and design favorites. After we survey the space together or the floor plans, we talk through style and function. This allows me to create a “point of view” for the space that brings all the elements together to work as one and fully compliment each other and the overall vision of the space we are creating.

In some cases it’s a true collaboration of the space with the client, and in other cases I am bringing all the elements from scratch to present new and fresh ideas. Regardless, the “road map” and overall design plan we create is the most important element so we are able to make sure everything tell the story we want to tell.

One of my favorite parts of the process is to pull together specific elements in textiles, finishes, flooring and paint. Once we have those items narrowed down to things we love, we can then go forward with furniture options, window treatments and all the additional decor items that make the room beautiful and functional.

In fabrics right now I am thrilled there are so many gorgeous options in indoor and outdoor fabrics that are beautiful, and function so great for busy families with pets and lots of entertaining. A favorite is to cover barstools, kitchen chairs and even sofa’s with an indoor/outdoor fabric that cleans up perfectly the spills and accidents of everyday life. Decor is an investment, and many of my clients do not want to worry or dance around an expensive fabric that could be ruined with one glass of red wine.

Creating the story of a room, starts with the function of the space, for me. If the room does not function then it certainly won’t be utilized and loved. After all, the goal of what I want to bring to my clients is that the room, when finished, invites you in to come in, enjoy and create memories.

Beautifully decorated rooms can invoke all sorts of emotions, and knowing what you want that room to do for you, is most important. Starting with color in textiles always brings great inspiration to the birth of an inviting room.

As always, let me know if I can help in creating beautiful spaces for your home!

Battle of Franklin Trust Reveals New Information on Tod Carter

The Battle of Franklin Trust recently uncovered new information about Tod Carter’s escape from imprisonment and how he made his way back to the Army of Tennessee.

Carter enlisted in the 20th Tennessee Infantry in the spring of 1861. Throughout his service, he rose through the ranks and became a captain and eventually served as a quartermaster and aide-de-camp. Carter was captured at Chattanooga in November 1863 and escaped as he was being moved from Johnson’s Island in northern Ohio to another POW camp in Maryland. He escaped near Massillon, Ohio. Less than a year later he was mortally wounded at the Battle of Franklin.

Under the pen name “Mint Julep,” Carter narrated his escape through letters written to “John Happy,” the nom de plume of Albert Roberts, editor of many Confederate newspapers. Carter detailed his escape of how he jumped from a moving train headed to Point Lookout on the night of February 10, 1864, with the help of Captain James Gibbins of the 5th Louisiana. Carter did not head south but traveled first to Pittsburgh, backtracked to Columbus and onto Cincinnati and eventually moved through Memphis. Carter then angled into Mississippi and was detained at Oxford before he continued. Weeks later, after trekking across Alabama, he rejoined the Army of Tennessee at Dalton, Georgia.

“The Battle of Franklin Trust has obtained significant information about Tod Carter’s tumultuous path back to the army,” said CEO Eric A. Jacobson. “We are happy to share this story and it will be part of our tours going forward. We are thrilled to get the details in Tod’s own words.”

After working with family descendants, The Battle of Franklin Trust acquired the bullet that killed Carter and the pass home he carried with him when he was wounded at the Battle of Franklin, which has been lost for more than two decades. Both items are on display at the Carter House.

The Battle of Franklin Trust is a 501(c)3 management corporation acting on behalf of Franklin’s battlefield sites to contribute to a greater understanding and enrich the visitor experience of the November 30, 1864 battle. It is organized for the charitable and educational purposes of preserving, restoring, maintaining and interpreting the properties, artifacts and documents related to the battle so as to preserve an important part of the nation’s history. For more information about The Carter House and the Battle of Franklin Trust, please visit boft.org.

Southern i s y o ur Life s tyle

Set the Table Please

WITH LAURA STOCKETT ROBERTS

Welcome (almost) spring! Of course, this is middle Tennessee. We will probably have one more hard frost some time in April, but that doesn't stop me from starting to get out of the house to do more estate sale and thrift shopping.

If you know anything about me, you know I'm a good southern girl from Mississippi, who lives in a house filled with antiques. I think if you are raised that way, as I was, you can go one of two ways: You either reject it completely as an adult or you embrace it fully.

I'm the latter. I love old things. Essentially, I think: “Why would I buy something new when something old will do?" Old things, either vintage or antique, layer in character into a home and life. Certainly, you can find home decor at big box retailers but then your tables-capes and rooms look just like everyone else's... and I never want to look like everyone else.

One of my favorite things to shop for is tabletop decor. I can't help it. I have a compulsion. In my defense, however, I really do use it. I cook most nights and I love to celebrate an occasion. My late mother instilled that in me. There is always a reason to celebrate something. A birthday, a promotion, a season... celebrate them all!

So I'm always on the hunt for more tabletop to cram into my overstuffed china closet. Recently, I bought this set of seven stemmed glasses at a precious little local charity thrift shop. They were marked a dollar each, but they were half

off that day, so I only paid fifty cents each. How could I resist? My policy is to buy whatever I'm drawn to, especially when I can pay for them with pocket change.

But you might be thinking... what can I do with them? Are they waters or wines? What's the protocol? For what occasion would I use them? Well, first of all, I say, serve whatever you choose from them. Want to make dessert, like Eton Mess? Use these. Want to use them for water at a lady’s lunch? Fine! Mix and match them with other glasses for wine, be it white or red. These green glasses really have more flexibility than you think.

Don't think so? Let's look at them used two ways

This first setting is obviously a fall-inspired table. The chinoiserie tablecloth was made from one drapery panel I bought from a thrift store. The yellow napkins were from an estate sale and the Spode Copeland china in the Buttercup pattern was bought at an antique shop that was going out of business ages ago. It feels very 1930's as well. I paid about $100 for what must be seventy five pieces. It is perfect here.

Now for setting two. Spring. I've brought over the same yellow napkin, julep cup and green goblet. All I did here was to swap out to another tablecloth from Goodwill drapery scraps. I think those green goblet bases play along so nicely with the tablecloth and the Herend Indian Basket Green soup plates.

Are you picking up on a theme here? Literally everything at these two tables is vintage or antique, either inherited or purchased from the "aftermarket" thrift/antique shops, estate sales, etc. The Herend soup plates are more modern, but even they were a score from an online auction, and they went for a

song. It takes persistence, though, to get there. You have to be aware of prices and you have to get out to the estate sales, tag sales, thrift stores and antique malls to score your finds. Look all over. Draperies can be tablecloths. Don't be constrained by whatever you think the rules are. Forge your own path and celebrate those occasions!

Hospitable You

WITHERSPOON

SPRING HOME TOUR

TO BE HELD MARCH 27TH-29TH

Luxury home community Witherspoon’s 2020 Spring Home Tour will be held March 27th – 29th in Brentwood. This year’s tour will feature approximately ten luxury new homes in varying stages of construction priced from $2 - $3 million and built by custom builders Aspen Construction, Barlow Builders, Castle Homes, Ford Classic Homes, Insignia Homes, Legend Homes and Schumacher Homes. Guests will be able tour a fully furnished model and at least one staged home.

The tour runs all three days from 12 Noon to 5 PM. On Saturday, March 28th, the community will hold “Food Truck Saturday” and the first 150 attendees will receive a free lunch from one of the food trucks on site between 12 Noon and 3PM.

Admission to the event is free. Some golf cart service will be available between homes, but guests are also encouraged to wear comfortable shoes as walking can be expected throughout the tour. Guests who tour all the homes will have the opportunity to register for a $500 Nordstrom gift card.

Witherspoon is a 263-acre luxury home community located in the heart of Brentwood. It features 152 home sites on 263 acres. Resort-style amenities inside the community include a clubhouse, swimming pool, kiddie pool, playground, community event lawn with pavilion and approximately three miles of walking trails with connections to Crockett Park and Crockett Elementary School.

300 HADDON CT.

4 BEDS / 5 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

$999,900 / 6,059 SQ FT

6813 PLEASANT GATE LN.

4 BEDS / 3 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

$489,900 / 2,740 SQ FT

1312 STATE BLVD.

5 BEDS / 5 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

$1,174,900 / 5,115 SQ FT

2078 BUSHNELL FARM DR. 4 BEDS / 3 FULL BATHS

$598,525 / 2,626 SQ FT

128 GLENROCK DR. 4 BEDS / 4 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

$899,900 / 3,711 SQ FT

104 HADLEY RESERVE CT. 5 BEDS / 4 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

$984,900 / 4,173 SQ FT

6040 PORTERS UNION WAY

5 BEDS / 4 FULL & 2 HALF BATHS

$1,072,900 / 4,580 SQ FT

6413 JOHNSON CHAPEL CIR. 5 BEDS / 6 FULL & 2 HALF BATHS

$2,790,000 / 8,280 SQ FT

5611 SADDLEWOOD LN. 5 BEDS / 5 FULL & 2 HALF BATHS

$1,699,000 / 6,800 SQ FT

107 GIST ST. 4 BEDS / 3 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

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Meet Tom Black

Owner, Tom Black Center for Entrepreneurial Excellence

In college, Tom worked for the Southwestern Company of Nashville, Tennessee. Southwestern employs thousands of college students each summer to sell books door-to- door. Based on his success in sales (number one for three successive summers), Tom became a sales manager at Southwestern.

Tom then joined FISI*Madison Financial and successfully ran the sales organization. Tom grew sales from $2 million to over $350 million. Tom left FISI*Madison to start Private Business, Inc. Under his leadership as CEO, Private Business grew into the country’s leading provider of accounts receivable programs for community banks. Tom served as CEO for six years and took the company public in May of 1999. Tom was the first employee and the only CEO until the company was sold.

In January 1999, Tom purchased Tecniflex/Bancsource, Inc. Tom formed a sister company, Imagic Corporation, that develops and supports check-imaging systems to community banks. As CEO, Tom expanded both companies from small regional providers to national sales and service organizations. Imagic grew quickly, merged with OSI and went public. Under his leadership, Tecniflex/Bancsource has gone from twenty-seven employees to almost 500 serving 4,000 banks in forty-nine states.

Tom also co-founded Ncontracts, now the leading provider of vendor compliance and risk management for financial institutions. Ncontracts serves over 900 financial institutions nationwide. His most recent venture is the Tom Black Center for Excellence. The Tom Black Center for Excellence, a member of the National Speakers Association (NSA), offers customized sales training and coaching services to national clients of all sizes in a wide range of fields.

To learn more about Tom Black go to tomblack.com.

“Wine is Proof God Loves

You may be one of many who start their day with a quote shared by local businessman and sales guru – Tom Black – when you receive his daily emails. Or you may have had the privilege of purchasing or wishing to purchase, one of his stellar bottles of wine donated to events like the Nashville Wine Auction. You probably wrote or cashed a check in the last several decades, in which case, you too have had some association with the man who is Tom Black. His phenomenal business success story is paralleled with his fascination for, and love of wine, which has led to a collection rivaled and admired across the world.

With a cellar at one time, consisting of more than 60,000 bottles of great wine, Black has formed one of the largest and most well-rounded collections in the United Sates. He also has created two wines with Jim Clendenen of Au Bon Climate, only made available through charity wine auctions like Nashville Wine Auction.

Tom Black has a long track record of success as a business leader in the banking industry. He has led several top companies, providing innovative marketing and technology solutions for the industry. If you’ve ever used an ATM, signed up for a premium checking bank account, or have seen images of your checks on your bank

Us”

statement, then you’ve seen some of Tom Black’s handiwork. Tom has been a co-founder or founder of several start-ups, and he currently he runs the Tom Black Center for Excellence which customizes sales training and coaching services for companies of all sizes. He has written several books including the wildly popular Boxcar Millionaire.

When asked what began his love affair with wine, he answered that he had been encouraged by his boss to know wine so that he could entertain clients. After a weekend trip to Napa Valley in 1986, he, himself, fell in love with wine, and has taken that love to a whole new level of collecting and appreciation. Tom has been a National Board member in the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, a Chambellan in the Ordre de Côuteaux, the highest rank a non-Champagne producer can achieve, and was chosen as one of six collectors to participate in the Millennium wine project for the Smithsonian Institute. He has written over 200 published articles on wine and has a free wine appTomBlackWine.com. As one of the world’s most knowledgeable and well-known wine experts, Tom Black has been featured in international food and wine magazines and is highly respected among celebrity chefs and winemakers alike. “The greatest people on the planet are

Boxcar Millionaire - Nashville’s Foremost Wine Connoisseur, Tom Black

wine collectors. I’ve met self-made billionaires, famous chefs, and lots of famous personalities,” Black says of his life in the world of wine.

But Tom’s passion doesn’t extend merely to the well poured glass at a celebrity wine dinner. He has used his passion for wine as a cause, Tom has raised millions of dollars for charities across the country. Tom Black’s knowledge of wine and generous spirit has made him a favorite son of the wine community around the country and of course, especially in the Nashville area.

So, what helps create such a wine aficionado? Here are a few of Tom Black’s wine words of wisdom:

• First wine book: Michael Broadbent’s Wine Tasting.

• Most exciting bottle ever bought: 1961 Petrus in double magnum. “I bought it in New Orleans from the Windsor Court cellar for $17,000. I sold it fifteen years later for $35,000 and got to drink it with the buyer. Best of all worlds,” he says.

• Advice to a novice wine collector: Go to every tasting you can. Nothing replaces experience.

Black by Black

“Black by Black” was inspired by arguably the top wine collector in the world, Tom Black, and the L.A. Times Winemaker of the Year, Jim Clendenen from Au Bon Climat Winery. The winemaker selected only the finest grapes from their 300 acre ranch in Santa Barbara County to create a special meritage wine that has won several blind tastings and been scored a perfect 100 points. This wine is a combination of 40% California Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 20% Petit Verdot to produce a bold and balanced red wine. This wine is incredibly rare. Only fifty cases were produced and are presently available to the public only at charity auctions.

After a lifetime of success and tremendous respect and recognition in the business world, Black knows that life is meant to be savored in more ways than work. A love of wine and a lifetime spent learning and collecting has led him to note: “Wine is another food item on the plate. It enhances the dining experience. It encourages conversation. It makes us relax. Wine is proof God loves us.”

Friends of Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt announces Friends & Fashion 2020

Former patients of Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt will walk the runway alongside professional models at the annual Friends & Fashion event at Music City Center on Monday, April 6th. The event coordinated by Friends of Children’s Hospital will feature clothing from Dillard’s and The Friends Shop, located inside Children’s Hospital, with a promotional sponsorship from The Mall at Green Hills.

The real stars of the show are the resilient, inspiring young patients who model alongside the professionals. This year’s child models have had experiences with diabetes, open heart surgery, HIV and more.

This year also marks Friends & Fashion’s thirty-year anniversary and will include a look back at fashion throughout the previous decades as well as raise more funds for Children’s Hospital. The event’s fundraising efforts throughout the years have impacted various hospital departments ranging from pediatric cancer to complex care to the hospital’s expansion. This year the event will be supporting a research grant for diabetes along with the palliative care program.

Friends & Fashion is also adding a new addition to the fundraising efforts this year. Fashion Gives Back will occur on April 30th and will include various retailers around the area hosting give back days and special events to support Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

Tickets to Friends & Fashion and a list of Fashion Gives Back retailers are available online at ChildrensHospital.Vanderbilt.org/ friendsandfashion. This year’s event is co-chaired by Sandy Cornelius, Pepper Brown Magaree and Memree Roberts.

Let our Private Dining Managers help you create a memorable celebration. From the custom menu and wine list to the decorations and ambience, we’ll help ensure that every detail is exactly right.

A Vintage Affair Celebrates 20 Years!

This year will mark A Vintage Affair's twentieth year of supporting Williamson County organizations that dedicate their time and hearts to helping women and children in need.

RALPH DRURY

Ralph Drury, A Vintage Affair founder, has a passion for helping those in need… And for wine.

So, creating events that collaborated both was the perfect inception and has continued to raise funds for twenty years.

Carrie Drury, Ralph’s daughter, who serves as the Executive Director for A Vintage Affair now, is continuing the legacy of the nonprofit and its mission.

Over the years, A Vintage Affair events have benefited libraries, medical centers, services focused on preventing domestic abuse, scholarships for higher education and more. The beneficiaries for the 2020 events are Williamson Medical Center, Bridges Domestic Violence Center, Davis House Child Advocacy Center, My Friend’s House Family and Children’s Services, Williamson County Foster and Adoption Care Association, Mercy Community Healthcare and High Hopes Development Center.

"Can't repeat the past? Why of course you can!"

F. S cott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

A Vintage Affair is celebrating this year’s anniversary milestone in true twenties fashion. Dust off your dancing shoes, pinstripes and pearls, and join them as they toast to this momentous occasion on Friday, April 17th in Liberty Hall at the Factory at Franklin. Come early and experience the Speakeasy VIP Pre-Party at The Blockhouse, from 5:30pm to 7pm, where guests will enjoy champagne, select wines, signature cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, fine cigars and early access to the premier silent auction.

The party will continue at the Main Event with doors opening for general admission at 7pm through 11pm. Guests will enjoy stilt walkers, vintage cars, food from local vendors, a variety of wine and bourbon tastings, exquisite desserts, champagne and so much more. The night will feature silent and live auctions, wine auctions and The Top Tier Band will keep you on the dance floor until the evening ends. This is sure to be a night full of bee's knees entertainment that would impress Jay Gatsby himself!

This is a 21 & up event. Gatsby/Roaring Twenties style attire is encouraged, but not required.

The Speakeasy VIP Pre-Party

Tickets (includes The Main Event), are $150, and just the Main Event Tickets are $100. Get your tickets now for this festive occasion at avintageaffair.org.

5:30p 7:00p

LIVE BAND LIVE, SILENT & WINE AUCTIONS FOOD VENDORS WINE VINTNERS & SPIRIT TASTINGS

presented by presented by

Southall Farm’sWildflower Honey

named a winner in the tenth annual good food awards

BY JAY SHERIDAN

PHOTO CREDIT: HEATHER DURHAM

Southall, one of Tennessee’s most innovative and sustainable farms, will unveil its extensive grounds along with a luxury inn, spa and cottages in 2021, but its apiary and its 2.5 million bees are already being recognized as a key player in the larger agricultural and native biome. The Good Food Foundation, known for its dedication to the elevation and continued reform of American food culture, has named Southall Farm’s Wildflower Honey a winner of the 2020 Good Food Awards in the honey category. Dedicated to the ethical production of clean, healthy food, the Good Food Awards showcase honeys most distinctive in clarity and depth of flavor, produced by beekeepers practicing good animal husbandry and social responsibility.

Head beekeeper Jay Williams manages the millions of bees that populate the apiary at Southall, utilizing the property’s native flora to produce the highest quality honey. Williams not only leads the apiary program, but also educates and inspires anyone who is open to listening about the power and importance of bees through his company Williams Honey Farm. Williams attributes the success of Southall’s Wildflower Honey to the diversity of native plantings featured throughout the 325 acres of flourishing land and the team’s dedication to cultivation and innovation. The greenhouses at Southall use native leafcutter bees to pollinate 365 days a year and Williams is pioneering Bluetooth technology to monitor hive health on the property. Below the apiary, nearly 2,000 apple trees live on a terraced hillside. Crop and fruit yields on the farm should increase exponentially each year as a result of the pollinators. Williams is currently in the process of implementing a comprehensive pollination plan on the property that will ultimately include approximately 4.5 million bees, including native species.

“We’re a little different in that we don’t harvest until July, so we capture the flavor profiles of a full season’s worth of nectars. Our great spring weather last year delivered an incredible bloom – the black locust, tulip poplar and basswood all just exploded,” said Williams. “The team at Southall has planted hundreds of native trees and shrubs, while maintaining plenty of wildflowers for the bees. It’s just a perfect scenario for making amazing honey.”

Southall’s award-winning Wildflower Honey offers a mild sweetness, followed by a fruity middle and a sweet finish, complements of the

late basswood nectar. Williams notes that he could harvest every couple of weeks – each of the colonies makes thirty to sixty pounds of honey per season – to capture a well-defined single bloom’s flavor, but due to risks from storms and other factors that could potentially leave the bees starving for honey to feed on, a July harvest allows for them to wind down while building plenty of stock to survive the winter. Williams’ strategic harvesting of the honey and careful attention to the wellbeing of his bees is what makes him such a spectacular beekeeper and the personification of the Good Food Foundation’s ethos.

The Good Food Foundation is committed to fostering land stewardship and cultivating social good. From a blind tasting of 2,035 entries, 324 outstanding food and drink crafters rose to the top, after evaluation to confirm they meet Good Food Awards standards regarding supply chain transparency and environmentally sound agricultural practices. Of the sixteen finalists in the honey category from states ranging from Hawaii to Massachusetts, Southall’s wildflower honey was the only finalist and winner from Tennessee. The highest scoring entries underwent a rigorous vetting process to verify they were not only exceptionally tasty but met the sustainability and social responsibility criteria required to become a Good Food Award winner.

Southall’s award-winning honey is available seasonally for purchase at The Farm Stand, a specially curated retail space located on-property at Southall in Franklin. Visionary chef and farmer Tyler Brown oversees a culinary and agricultural team dedicated to his lifelong dream of marrying agriculture, hospitality and cuisine into a unique and memorable experience at Southall. For more information and to stay connected to the property’s development, visit southalltn.com and follow Southall on social media via Instagram and Facebook.

Located in historic Franklin, Southall encompasses over 325 acres, set across rolling Tennessee hills, and includes a working farm featuring orchards; crops; gardens; an apiary; chicken coop; rotational grazing for livestock; innovative greenhouses; active aquaculture and seed saving programs and a recreational lake. Set to open in 2021, a luxury inn, spa and signature restaurant will offer an escape where guests will enjoy an array of experiences based on the property’s core principles of exploration, discovery and connection.

For more information and to stay connected to the property’s development, visit southalltn.com and follow Southall on social media via Instagram and Facebook.

Looking to get away to celebrate this St. Patrick’s Day? Some of the country’s biggest and most historic celebrations take place in a seemingly quintessential southern city – Savannah, Georgia! But southern takes a back seat ever so slightly the month of March, as Savannah turns out the green to celebrate this beloved city’s Irish history. And everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah! St. Patrick's Day is more like a season here in the Low Country, so check out these festive events to make your days (and not just March 17!) a little bit greener.

Saint Patrick’s Day Parade

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade, hosted on March 17, 2020, is what many consider to be the quintessential Savannah St. Patrick’s Day experience. Featuring area service members, marching bands from all over the United States and even the Budweiser Clydesdale horses, the parade line-up is jam-packed with delightful entertainment. Beginning around 10:15 a.m. and lasting several hours, the route winds through much of the Historic District. Be sure to arrive early, claim your vantage point, and be ready to stay the day.

Greening of the Fountain

Even Savannah’s fountains wear green for St. Patrick’s Day! Each year, the famous Forsyth Park fountain goes green at a special ceremony featuring the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal. Friends, family and ceremony attendees work together to pour green dye into the fountain water. Don’t miss this unique Savannah event on March 6th at noon.

Celtic Cross Ceremony in Emmet Square

During the annual Celtic Cross Ceremony, St. John the Baptist parish members, local Irish families and St. Patrick’s Day parade officials process from the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist to Emmet Park to honor Savannah’s Irish lineage. This year’s ceremony will take place on Sunday, March 15th.

Festival of St. Patrick on Savannah's Waterfront & City Market

HARPETH TRUE VALUE HOMECENTER

MONDAY-FRIDAY 7AM-6PM • SATURDAY 8AM-6PM • SUNDAY 12PM-6PM

With stages at both City Market and River Street, join in festive Irish fun with live music, food trucks, food and beverage vendors and other excitement at the Festival of St. Patrick. Events will be ongoing from March 13th to 15th.

Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist kicks off the St. Patrick's Day festivities in Savannah! Service begins promptly at 8 a.m. on March 17th; you’ll have to arrive early to get a seat! The city’s parade and festivities begin shortly after service in front of the church steps on Abercorn Street.

Tybee Island Irish Heritage Parade

Tybee Island will hold a family-friendly Irish Heritage Parade on Saturday, March 14th. Come decked out in your kelly green and enjoy a day on the island watching Irish clans and families march along with bagpipers and other Irish-themed entertainment.

For more events and to make travel plans to Savannah go to visitsavannah.com

Everything is going green at Harpeth True Value Garden Center! Spring is in the hair and we have everything you need to decorate your home and patio.

LIFESTYLE The Lady Entertains

Hosting a St. Patrick's Day Whiskey Tasting Party

BY KRISTA EHRET

If there ever was an excuse to host a cocktail-driven party, St. Patrick's Day is it. For this article, I decided to do an Irish Whiskey Tasting as the main event, but this could easily be switched out for craft beer if that better suits your crowd's style. Tastings are fun events in general, but toss a boozy holiday in the mix and your stage is set. Here are some ideas and inspiration:

Green, Tartan, and Gold All Over.

St. Paddy's offers such a gorgeous color palette if you really dive in. Save the cheesy and cute décor for your family party and bring in a bit of elegance to honor this adult event. Shades of emerald, mixed with a great tartan pattern, dark wood tones, and pops of gold instantly bring an Irish vibe without being inundated with pots of gold and tiny green men in top hats.

Set the Zones. I recommend an intimate guest list with no more than you can comfortably sit around your dining room table. Have a designated seat for each guest with settings to include rocks glasses, a place card, a water glass, a small plate of crackers to nibble between offerings, and a place for jotting notes down. This is your first zone. Plan to have a buffet style dinner or selection of very heavy hors d'oeuvres. Most Irish food is not known for it's yummyness, so feel free to Americanize it a bit. Go for “stick to your ribs” kind of foods to prep the stomach for the booze. This is your second zone. The third zone needs to be a living or outdoor space for people to lounge in a bit after the food and tasting. This shouldn't be a rush in and rush out style party. Lastly, have a bar set up. Offer a couple of cocktails created with the sampled Irish whiskeys, wine, and beer.

Portion Control. When we have hosted wine tastings in the past, we bring in an expert to serve and explain each option. This is nice as it transforms the party from a normal night of wine drinking into an educational experience. Plus, it implements portion control. I highly recommend a similar mentality when you're serving up straight liquor. What you do not want is an open bar with guests sampling lots of options at leisure. Consider bringing in a whiskey connoisseur or at the very least a bar tender to serve your guests. It keeps you from being the bad guy just in case someone needs to not be further served. If you plan to do this yourself, consider having only three or four tastings and pre-pour each glass before guests arrive.

Other Tidbits. By mid-March, everyone has spring fever. Bring in some fresh greenery to use in the centerpieces or to adorn your bar and food table. Dessert and coffee may not seem an obvious addition with this theme, but some guests may be very happy to have this change of pace at the end of the evening. Skip the boozy Irish coffees and go for basic, but offer a nice cheesecake or dense chocolate cake with a bit of Bailey's Irish Cream for context. Cheers!

KRISTA EHRET The Lady Entertains

What’s on TAP-A

BY MARK R. COOK

A recent visitor to Chattanooga was gushing about that city as he was sharing a pint at Hop House Tennessee Taps and Tapas in Franklin.

Small brewpubs and larger craft breweries there, like Hutton and Smith are transforming the southside of town into a walkable beer destination, following the pattern of Asheville, North Carolina, which some have taken to calling Beer Disneyland.

Chattanooga’s evolution is a part of a business and cultural return to the past, when in 1900, after a century of immigration, there were entire neighborhoods of breweries.

Today there are concentrations of breweries in Memphis, Nashville, Murfreesboro, Cookeville and Sparta, Knoxville and Johnson City. Franklin’s debut of two tap houses during the same week this past winter is also is part of the trend.

According to Brewers Association statistics, brewing peaked in 1871, when there were 4,131 breweries in the USA. But through changing tastes and industry consolidation that number had dropped by 1980 to 101, and the ten largest beer companies controlled 94% of the market.

That’s the decade when tastes began to change again, and the Boston Beer Company (Sam Adams), started a wildfire that continues to spread. Today the Brewers Association counts 6,300 breweries, with 6,266 of them classified as “craft” breweries based on production volume and variety of styles. They counted ninety-nine breweries in Tennessee, including about thirty in Nashville and greater middle Tennessee.

Middle Tennessee came to the party in 1994 when Blackstone Brewery opened. Yazoo started in 2003 in a corner suite at Marathon Motor Works, and last year moved into a large new custom-built facility overlooking the Cumberland River in Madison.

Franklin has served as an incubator for two breweries:

Turtle Anarchy and Mantra. Turtle Anarchy moved to a large facility in West Nashville, and Mantra built a new facility on eighty-six acres near Murfreesboro. Mill Creek, which took over the Turtle/ Mantra brewing space in south Franklin, has since re-trenched at its Nolensville headquarters. Cool Springs Brewing continues to thrive as a restaurantbrewpub.

Beer has become as diverse as wine – perhaps even more so. Today there are hoppy India Pale Ales, malty brown ales and stouts, fruit beers, sours, and many more. Flavors tickle all classes of tastebuds, ranging from the piney and bitter to “juicy” and sweet, clear and crisp to dark and dessert-like. Ciders also are part of the story. Hop House Tennessee Taps aims to bring all that diversity together in one place. Those who say, “I don’t like beer,” probably haven’t tried it in a while, so come see us at Hop House and we can remedy that situation.

Mark Cook, who was a journalist for thirty-eight years, is owner of Hop House Tennessee Taps and Tapas in Franklin and formerly owned Wild Hare Beer Company in Spring Hill

MARK R. COOK AND KENNY SIZEMORE

Hop House Tennessee Taps features 30

The Hop House kitchen

a menu developed by Ray Whitlock, former executive chef of M Street restaurants of Nashville and currently executive chef of Country Club of Georgia. Noted Tennessee cookbook author Daisy King also helped in developing the kitchen and food service.

Reclaiming a

Up until the last ten to fifteen years, when one thought of whiskey, four primary regions came to mind: Scotland, Ireland, Kentucky and Tennessee. For native Tennesseans, this may not have been a surprise given the cultural importance of our state’s flagship distillery down in Lynchburg. The force of that brand has made Tennessee a household name every bit as much as country music has. Because of that, one may be surprised to know that Jack actually carried the torch for a much larger industry that had been a critical part of the cultural and manufacturing heritage of this state from its birth, well into the 20th century.

Historically, most of the whiskey in this country has been made between Ohio River in north Kentucky and the Tennessee River in north Alabama. This is mainly due to a couple of reasons; access to limestone filtered water, critical to the fermentation process of making whiskey, and the heritage of the Scotch-Irish people that settled this area and began distilling Native American corn into a beverage that would become modern day Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey.

From its earliest roots, Tennessee has had a long and rich history with the tradition of whiskey production. The earliest known distillery, located in what would become Tennessee, was Evan Shelby’s East Tennessee Distillery, which was in existence by 1771, five years before the Declaration of Independence was signed. By 1799, John Overton, one of the fathers of middle Tennessee and serving as Supervisor of Internal Revenue for District of Tennessee, reported sixty-one stills serving 4,000 settlers in Davidson County. That trend continued to grow into the 19th Century. According to the 1850 Williamson County industrial census, there were ten distilleries located within its borders. In 1886, the Nashville Union, reported that the distilling industry was the largest manufacturing industry in the state. In addition, to celebrate Tennessee’s 1896 Centennial, the Nashville American newspaper reported that, as of June 30, 1896, there were 322 registered distilleries in the state of Tennessee. Sadly, for some, this cultural and industrial heyday wasn’t to last though.

WITH LEE KENNEDY OF LEIPER’S FORK DISTILLERY

By 1910, fourteen years after the Nashville Union article was written, all distilleries in the state had shuttered and locked their doors. This wasn’t due to a catastrophic downturn in the industry. After years of clamor and struggle, prohibition had finally become a reality in the state of Tennessee. Few residents of our state realize that Tennessee enacted its own prohibition in 1910, ten years ahead of the Volstead Act, which officially marked the beginning of Federal Prohibition. Federal Prohibition permanently and drastically changed the shape and course of the alcohol industry in America. We continue to deal with its effects to this day. Much of our laws, and many of our well known alcohol brands, were propelled into prominence by Prohibition.

With the adoption of the 21st Amendment, in 1933, Federal Prohibition was repealed. At that time Kentucky, our sister state in whiskey production, reopened its doors and welcomed their distillers, and their own rich heritage, back into the state with open arms. Tennessee, for better or worse, did not do this. From 1933 to 2009, whiskey production was only legal in three counties in Tennessee. These were comprised of Lincoln, Moore and Coffee counties, where Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel reside respectively. In essence, Tennessee had a manufacturer’s prohibition of whiskey for 100 years, from 1909-2009.

Fortunately for Tennessee, in 2009, a group of forwardthinking State Representatives and ambitious distillers, including Williamson County’s own Heath Clark, came together to write and enact legislation to allow distilleries back across our state. This officially ended the state’s unofficial prohibition on the manufacture of whiskey.

Since 2009, the Volunteer State’s distillers have worked hard to reclaim the heritage of whiskey production our early settlers brought to the hills and hollows of Tennessee. Currently, there are roughly forty distilleries across the state. These distilleries range from traditional time-honored brands all the way down to a guy running a fifty gallon still to produce his great granddad’s moonshine recipe. As this rekindled spirits industry continues to grow, its economic importance continues to grow as well. The Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. reports, as of January 2020, the combined spirits industry, in all of its forms, has contributed 21,000 jobs and $2.8 billion in GDP to the state of Tennessee. Both culturally and financially, our rich spirits industry continues to make itself known. Once again, the spirit of freedom and self-reliance, which defined our early distillers, can be reflected in a new generation in Tennessee Distillers. They’re working passionately to carry on our rich state traditions and to craft a product we can be proud of as Tennesseans. Go visit them, and whenever you raise a glass of Tennessee made whiskey, remember those early pioneer distillers and the spirit they passed to a new generation of Tennesseans that fought to reclaim their cultural birthright. For a comprehensive sampling of Tennessee Distilleries and what they have to offer, visit tnwhiskeytrail.com.

Learning the Southern Language of Food

BY ANNIE OSTEEN

The south is known for many things: The accent, the slower-paced way of living, the love of college football, and most importantly…the food.

When visitors come to Tennessee, or better yet, to our charming Williamson County, they generally want to experience the authenticity that’s offered in many of our local sites. Whether it’s a visit to Carnton Plantation, or shopping in one of the boutique retailers on Main Street, tourists are also generally anxious to satisfy their palate with dishes that are represented well in the south. That’s where the Franklin on Foot Food Tour comes in.

Margie Thessin, owner of the Franklin on Foot tours, created The Franklin Food tour in 2012. Her noteworthy outing covers six local eateries that provide staples that perfectly display the restaurant's taste and overall foundation of the tour, southern food. Throughout the excursion, Margie provides a marvelous history of the dishes sampled and why the south still continues to adore the cuisine that it does.

If the trends tell us anything, it’s that online researching has become a staple for most us when visiting a new town for the first time and ultimately deciding on what to do with our limited-time in a new area.

Franklin on Foot has been continuously rated as one of the most memorable and worthwhile activities that a visitor can explore when staying in or around Franklin. In addition, these tours have achieved the Certificate of Excellence by Tripadvisor which can only be accomplished by having consistently earned superb reviews. Tripadvisor only presents this certificate to approximately 10% of total businesses on their website, as well.

A recent visitor from Texas stated on Tripadvisor “My wife and I took the food tour with Margie and had a fantastic time. Great food and even better conversation. Margie knows the Franklin food scene like no other. If you are visiting for a few days, I recommend taking the tour early in your stay so that you know of the hot spots to hit while you are in town.”

A tourist from Kentucky expressed his adoration for the Food Tour on Tripadvisor by testifying “We have taken a lot of tours around the country, and there is no company we like better than Franklin on Foot. Touring with Margie and her colleagues is like

visiting an old friend who has moved to a different city and having her show you around ‘her town.’ The food tour more than met our expectations. We made six restaurant stops as well as visiting a spice shop and a honey shop. You definitely do not need to eat before you go. Every bite we took was different and delicious. Someone from each place, often the owner, made time to talk to us about their establishment and their food. It is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon in Franklin.”

Testimonials are ideal when it comes to a thriving business. Margie Thessin and her Franklin on Foot colleagues have certainly demonstrated that to be spot-on. Even local residents of Williamson County enjoy the food tours, ghost tours, civil war tours, kids’ tours, amongst many others provided by Thessin and her impressive group of historical and knowledgeable staff. That’s what’s so beautiful about Williamson County and the town of Franklin—both visitors and residents alike have the opportunity to experience the best of the best when it comes to the selection of dynamic activities and excursions that exist year-round, including the notable Franklin Food Tour. For more information on food tours, or all of the other tours available through Franklin on Foot, for to franklinonfoot.com.

Family. Fresh. Franklin

FAMILY: Zolo’s Italian restaurant is a family owned and operated restaurant.

FRESH: We pride ourselves on serving only the freshest ingredients from the herbs and produce to our wide selection of seafood. Just about everything is made in house, even salad dressings. We buy from the Franklin Farmers Market and many other local produce.

This dinner-only restaurant has an a la carte standing menu, plus daily specials. Drink specials are available as well. We serve by the glass or bottle or you can bring your own wine.

FRANKLIN: True members of the community, we support local efforts in all sorts of ways from non-profit organizations like A Vintage Affairto Sister Cities.

Expect a Crazier March than Ever

BY DAVID CHANGAS

The shocking passing of Kobe Bryant in January has dominated the basketball world since the news came on that fateful Sunday. It took center stage at the recent NBA All-Star Weekend festivities, and for good reason, has garnered attention unlike anything we have seen in a number of years.

While Kobe never set foot on a college basketball court – he was one of the first of his era to make the jump immediately to the NBA and there is no doubt that many of those who currently play the sport were influenced by the Laker legend. The impact of his loss is felt even among those who will never come close to making it in the NBA.

We are now in the midst of the frenzied fan favorite - NCAA Tournament - which even many casual college basketball fans acknowledge as one of the greatest events on the sports calendar. With this event, tributes to Bryant are sure to be common. Expect to see plenty of sneakers “sharpied” with “24” and “8” in purple and gold.

In the past, I have argued that those filling out a bracket should stick to the favorites and take their chances. Based upon the way things have gone in the 2019-2020 season, this year is an exception to that rule. Trying to predict what will happen in this sport has become

nearly impossible, and doing so in the “Big Dance,” will be no different. This season’s polls are littered with names we are not used to seeing.

Take the AP Top 25 poll released on February 17th, for instance. The top five included three schools – Gonzaga, San Diego State, and Dayton – from non-power conferences. While the Zags are used to occupying that rarefied air, the Aztecs and Flyers, as well as teams like Penn State (9th), Creighton (15th), and Colorado (18th) are anything but regulars. What we have seen so far is that college basketball has no truly elite teams, and it stands to reason that in the one-and-done format the NCAA Tournament presents, this year more than ever, anything could happen.

Whether the topsy-turvy nature of the sport is good for its long-term health is debatable. Many would argue that seeing teams like North Carolina and UCLA is not good for the brand. Undoubtedly, though, the crazy scenarios that might play out across the nation starting in the middle of March could bring chaos we have not seen before.

There is no “sure thing” element about the usual elites like Kansas, Duke, and Kentucky who, though all very good, have been prone to drop games this season that no one would expect them to lose. Baylor has occupied the number-one ranking for several weeks and boasts a gaudy 23-1 record, but no one would be too surprised to see the Bears exit the Tournament early.

Figuring out which team will emerge to hoist the national championship trophy will be a tall task, but the wide open season should make for one of the most compelling tournaments we have ever seen.

2020 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

..all about a

fire!

BY TIM KEARNS

For our Eat, Drink & Be Merry issue I thought I’d talk a little bit about a cooking method I love - anything that involves FIRE! My thought is, that if you can’t take the heat stay out of the kitchen or at least move it to the outside grill area. I know many Williamson County Southern Gentlemen who also use fire to create their entertainment atmosphere while they eat, drink, and be merry. With that being said, let me introduce you to a couple friends who have exceptional spots to create a great experience!

Charlie “Bubba” Brown is a Southern Gentleman that loves to cook and enjoy life outside and he certainly has all the toys and tools to do it well. A long time BBQ’er (with trophies to back his skills), you’d have a hard time finding another man who’s more at home in front of a fire. He has created many culinary masterpieces as his friends and neighbors will testify.

A guy with Bubba’s talent needs multiple methods of cooking like using charcoal when he wants to slow cook that pork shoulder or brisket. He has a gas grill that he uses just as much, if not more than his kitchen stove, in addition to the side burner for pan-searing or sautéing. When he’s hosting a tailgate or cooking a dinner he has multiple options including; gas grills, a Big Green Egg, a Webber, an eighty-quart pot for a huge low country boil, and he even has a propane oven to cook breakfast biscuits in the middle of a parking lot at those early Titan’s games. Of the multiple dishes and entrees that Bubba has perfected, my wife and I enjoy his seared tuna the most. I would recommend it over anything you’d find in the very finest restaurants! Additionally, Bubba has created his own backyard entertainment playground to host parties and gatherings that includes a firepit, 60” flat-screen TV alongside a covered area to accommodate his impressive outdoor kitchen. I have

spent many a memorable night during football season enjoying life, enjoying Bubba’s impressive food and extraordinary company!

Alex “GiGi” Gigliotti was born in Sersale, Italy which is found in southern Italy in the Calabria Region (the heel of the boot). Gigi immigrated to the United States with his parents as a child in 1972, on a boat called Michelangelo. This Southern Gentleman, who now resides in Franklin, has been working to perfect his magic with pizza. He loves to make his own sauce and dough from an old family recipe. He has been honing his craft since his teenage years working at pizzeria’s in Pennsylvania. His kitchen oven produced good pizza, but it didn’t give him quite the authenticity he was looking for, reminiscent of his childhood memories in Italy. So, what does a guy like GiGi do? He builds a woodburning pizza oven in his courtyard, of course. The wood-burning oven took a couple of months to complete, creating just the right temperature control and wood layout to make the pizza crust exactly the way he wanted it. After a few adjustments and various methods of containing and controlling the heat, Gigi has taken the old family recipes up a notch to a point of perfection!

On a recent visit to their home, Bess and I were treated to both a breakfast pizza with bacon and eggs as well as an authentic Italian specialty with Soppresata (true Italian sausage). His wife, Lynette, also poured us an Italian Prosecco that made for a delicious and memorable brunch!

COOKS PHOTOGRAPHED

LEFT: CHARLIE “BUBBA” BROWN RIGHT: ALEX “GIGI” GIGLIOTTI

Finally, I have a friend that put together a remarkable entertainment mecca that includes his love of golf, fires, and relaxing, all in one spot. Tom “Above Par” Lazenby, crafted a place to eat, drink, and be merry in a very cool way, right in his backyard. When it came to exactly how Tom and Susan wanted to transform their backyard, it merely evolved over time, starting with a porch, hot tub, patio, grills, fireplace and the piece de resistance - a beautiful putting green!

This backyard oasis has everything that one would need to enjoy the outside ambiance twelve months out of the year. Tom’s porch has automatic screens that can be lowered to create a beautiful enclosure; the porch is furnished with infrared heaters and a flat screen TV that can be enjoyed on a day when the temperature outside is below the freezing mark. For those beautiful, sunny middle Tennessee days

when Tom can’t make it to the golf course, he just grabs a putter and works on his short game while enjoying an adult beverage and the smell of whatever he has decided to put on one of his many grills.

These three Southern Gentlemen are wonderful hosts that have taken the concept of using fire to both cook as well as entertain, to a new level. The common theme among

these men as hosts, is that the outdoor setting is not a place for being in a hurry, it is also for enjoying and relaxing with family and friends. I am very lucky to have great friends who share their astonishing talents and unparalleled backyards with Bess and me to Eat, Drink, & Be Merry often!

Franklin Special School District

The Kickoff to 2020 Projects

2020 marks the kickoff of several special projects that the Franklin Special School District is excited to see come to life. The FSSD Board of Education has been planning for several years to make renovations to Liberty Elementary School. The thirty-fouryear-old school will receive improvements that will not only improve energy efficiency with a new HVAC system, but will also include appropriate updates to wiring and building aesthetics. Liberty Elementary serves over 500 students in pre-kindergarten through 4th grade. The expected date of completion has not yet been established, but significant progress is expected over the summer of 2020.

Another project that the FSSD is excited to get underway in 2020 will be the addition of a second gym to the Poplar Grove campus. Currently one gym is shared by Poplar Grove Elementary and Poplar Grove Middle, which causes significant scheduling conflicts. The elementary physical education departments use a multi-purpose room for its classes, special events, programs and assemblies. Also, the current gym is heavily used by middle school athletic teams and drama practices, which makes finding open gym time very difficult for Poplar Grove Elementary. The new gym will include 470 bleacher seats in a mezzanine setting overlooking the gym floor, high windows to provide natural light, and new locker rooms for both home and away teams. While the new gym will primarily serve the elementary school, the locker rooms will connect with

the current gym, so that the middle school athletic teams will be able to use them. “I am thrilled to see this project come to fruition,” said Poplar Grove Elementary principal Dr. Alisha Erickson. “It has been an identified need for Poplar Grove since we opened in 2000. This will offer much needed space for our physical education teachers to design lessons that maximize participation while keeping children a safe distance from one another during activities.”

Concurrent with the gymnasium project, construction of the FSSD Performing Arts Center (PAC) will also begin in 2020. This project has long been on the wish list of Director of Schools Dr. David Snowden, who envisioned a large, high quality performing arts center that all FSSD schools could use for performances. “Our Franklin community and the FSSD community are strong supporters of the arts and this new Performing Arts Center will offer a state-ofthe-art facility for our students to showcase their talents,” Snowden said, adding that he expects the venue to be used for community performances as well. “I can’t say enough about the strong support of the Board of Education for all the construction projects. They know how much these projects will enhance the educational environment for students.” The new PAC will be built at the north end of the Poplar Grove Middle School and will include a 480-seat auditorium with a multipurpose stage, performance support spaces, including a pre-performance space, changing rooms, and

a prop shop. In addition, the PAC will be home to an FSSD Legacy Gallery where the district’s long history will be celebrated.

Another large-scale project on the horizon for 2020, includes the beginning of the construction partnership between the FSSD and the City of Franklin for a ballfield complex with two playing fields behind Freedom Middle School. This city/school partnership includes constructing two regulation size fields (baseball and softbal), for school and tournament play, creating a concessions area and restrooms, adding lighting for evening practice or play, and creating safe walkways to parking. Nashvillebased Lose Design has created the design plan. They have in their design portfolio the Riverfront Landing area across from Nissan Stadium and the Middle Tennessee State University women's softball complex. The ballfield project is part of a multiphase plan that would bring recreation and athletic field upgrades to the Freedom Middle/Poplar Grove campus, as well as Freedom Intermediate School and Johnson Elementary.

The construction cost for the baseball/ softball complex will be split between the two entities. FSSD schools will have priority use of the complex. The project is expected to be under construction sometime in 2020.

To learn more about these projects and the FSSD in general, go to fssd.org.

WCS STUDENTS MAKE HISTORY AGAIN

Williamson County high school students have once again broken the district record for the highest number of National Merit Finalists, and two schools have their first ever. Fifty-two students have earned the prestigious honor, up one from last year, the previous record. Sydney Hummel is the first National Merit Finalist to come from Nolensville High, and Marel Smietana is Renaissance High’s first National Merit Finalist. High school students enter the National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. To become a finalist, the student and his or her high school must submit a scholarship application with information about the student’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, leadership abilities, employment and any honors and awards. From the finalists, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation will choose the recipients of the National Merit Scholarship. Please go to wcs.edu to see complete list of finalists.

ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 2ND

Online registration for returning WCS students currently in grades K-11 opened Monday, March 2nd. Registration must be completed on a desktop computer using a Skyward login. A parent login must be used. When registering your child, look for the 2020-21 Registration Update for Returning area in Skyward. Registration takes place at the currentlyenrolled school. If a child will attend a different school during the 2020-21 school year, that change will be visible in Skyward over the summer. When registering, be sure to fully complete each step and click submit to ensure registration is complete. A green check mark will appear in the right-hand column of the registration window when all steps are complete. For more details for to wcs.edu.

SENIOR KATELYN HELBERG AWARDED BGA’S MARY CAMPBELL EASEL AWARD

Battle Ground Academy has awarded senior Katelyn Helberg with its Mary Campbell Easel Award for the second quarter. She received the award for her colored pencil rendering: Don’t Block the View. Helberg has been in BGA’s art program for all four years of upper school. She is currently enrolled in AP Studio Art. The Mary Campbell Visual Arts Center and this award are named for the late wife of Stewart “Brother” Campbell who graduated from BGA in 1968. Along with the gift of the Mary Campbell Visual Arts Center, BGA’s art department was also fortunate to receive several pieces of furniture and equipment from Mary Campbell’s studio. One of these was her easel. To honor Mary’s memory, it was decided that every quarter, the Visual Arts teachers would review the work of current students and choose a piece of art they feel exemplifies the qualities BGA students strive to achieve: creativity, effort, and quality. The chosen piece receives the Mary Campbell Easel Award and is displayed for the duration of the next quarter. More information on the school can be found at battlegroundacademy.org.

Special Predators WubbaNub Created to Raise Money for Children’s Charity

If you are the parent of a baby, you are probably very familiar with the WubbaNub pacifiers. Recently, creator Carla Schneider, added a Predators’ Gnash embroidered bear to her collection of familiar and furry friends atop a pacifier. The Nashville Predators Foundation empowered by SmileDirectClub, recently hosted Hockey Has Heart Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) Awareness Night in support of the cardiac research and support that takes place at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. CHD, which impacts 40,000 newborns in the United States per year, results when the heart, or blood vessels near the heart, don’t develop normally before birth.

Prior to the match-up between the Predators and Islanders, joined by two young CHD patients, country music super star Luke Bryan performed the National Anthem. When Luke and his wife Caroline Boyer Bryan lost their niece, Sadie Brett Boyer, to complications of CHD in 2017, they came together with Brett’s parents, Ellen and Bo Boyer, to create The Brett Boyer Foundation in her honor. Since the foundation’s inception, the Bryan and Boyer family has been committed to raising awareness and funding research surrounding CHD.

“We were thrilled by Luke Bryan’s support of our Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Night,” Predators Vice President of Community Relations Rebecca King said. “This disease impacts thousands of U.S. families annually, so we were excited to join forces with Luke in support of a cause that means as much to him as it does to us. We were able to raise awareness and funds for CHD, which affects over 760 babies born in Tennessee each year.”

In addition to Luke’s presence on behalf of The Brett Boyer Foundation, multiple CHD non-profits also participated to promote CHD awareness and research. Bright Heart Foundation, Adult Congenital Heart Association, Hearts World and WubbaNub hosted a mixer in the Bridgestone Arena for over 200 heart warriors and their

families who attended the game. WubbaNub Founder and CEO Carla Schneider, attended and was instrumental in collaborating with the Preds to create the special Preds CHD Bear.

As part of the fundraising efforts for this important cause, Carla Schneider created the special Predators WubbaNub pacifier, and it is available online. All proceeds will benefit CHD research and support at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt. Additionally, limited CHD t-shirts will be available for purchase. Donations will also be accepted.

What better way to soothe your baby than with a locally themed and beneficial WubbaNub!

SOCIAL BGA Denim & Diamonds

Photography Submitted

The Battle Ground Academy Parent Association hosted its annual Denim & Diamonds fundraiser in January at Liberty Hall at the Factory. More than 300 attended the event which raised more than $100,000 for the school. Funds raised at Denim & Diamonds go toward the purchase of “wish list” items that are not covered by the school’s annual operating budget. Past purchases have included covered team benches for the soccer field, a potter’s wheel for the arts department, robotics equipment, athletic scoreboards, playground equipment, a 3D printer and more. Denim & Diamonds was co-hosted by Alice and Curtis Finn, parents of a current student and a BGA alumnus. During the event, guests enjoyed a catered dinner from Pink Lady Catering, music from three talented songwriters and dancing to the music of the 12 South Band. Established in 1889, Battle Ground Academy is a co-educational, college preparatory school for grades kindergarten through 12th grade. More information on the school can be found at battlegroundacademy.org.

Ken & Anne Marie Buettner, Candy & Lawrence Sullivan Amy & Scott Cranford

Meredith Schultenover, Anissa Nelson-Carlisle & Melinda Brown

Christian Casey, Donna & Derek Johnson, Nora Jewell, Anne Marie Buettner, Michelle Arnold & Michelle Dominguez

Alice & Curtis Finn

Morgan Myles, Jessee Lee & Sophie Sanders

JUDY COLLINS WITH THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY

MARCH 24TH | SCHERMERHORN SYMPHONY CENTER NASHVILLESYMPHONY.ORG

It’s a history-making Schermerhorn debut as the iconic Judy Collins joins your Nashville Symphony. A modern-day Renaissance woman, Collins has inspired generations with her sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal triumphs and fervent activism. Be there as this transcendent artist takes you through gorgeous renditions of standards from the American Songbook, as well as some of the most beloved songs from her catalog of more than fifty releases.

THE COLOR PURPLE

MARCH 27TH - 29TH | TENNESSEE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

TPAC.ORG

The Color Purple is the 2016 Tony Award® winner for Best Musical Revival! Hailed as “a direct hit to the heart” (The Hollywood Reporter), this joyous American classic conquered Broadway in an all-new “ravishingly re-conceived production that is a glory to behold” (The New York Times). With a soul-raising, Grammy®-winning score of jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues, The Color Purple gives an exhilarating new spirit to this Pulitzer Prize-winning story. Don’t miss this stunning re-imagining of an epic story about a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the American South. Experience the exhilarating power of this Tony-winning triumph that New York Magazine calls “one of the greatest revivals ever.”

THE

REAL INSPECTOR HOUND

MARCH 27TH - APRIL 11TH | PULL-TIGHT THEATRE

PULL-TIGHT.COM

Tony and Academy Award-winning playwright Tom Stoppard delivers the ultimate cozy mystery parody in this play within a play within a play. A comic spoof of the whodunits popularized by Agatha Christie, The Real Inspector Hound blends a secluded English country manor house, ominous radio reports of a criminal on the loose, suspicious visitors, a relative with a shady past, a dead body, and fourth walls broken down left, right and center to create a riotous evening of immense proportions and answer the ultimate question: Who is the real Inspector Hound?

ARTS & CULTURE

There never seems to be a shortage of arts and culture events to attend in middle Tennessee! Here are just a handful of upcoming art exhibits, music events, plays and more that we can’t wait to see!

“THE ARETHA LEGACY”

FROM STUDIO TENN FEATURING TONY NOMINEE, HONORS THE QUEEN OF SOUL

Studio Tenn Artistic Director Patrick Cassidy will make his directorial debut in the company’s production of “The Aretha Legacy,” a theatrical concert celebrating the life and work of Aretha Franklin, at the Franklin Theatre from March 26th through 29th. Cassidy chose a cast of six performers from diverse backgrounds to star in the original show honoring Aretha, which will tell the story of her musical career, as well as her life and social legacy.

“I believe Aretha is the greatest soul and gospel singer of all time,” Cassidy said. “She became the voice for multiple generations, not only as a musician, but because of what she stood for as an artist, an activist and a person. We are excited to tell her full story through this Legacy Series.”

“The Aretha Legacy” will comprise six shows in the Franklin Theatre, which Cassidy said is ideal for musical artists.

“The Franklin Theatre is such an intimate venue, and it’s the perfect setting for telling a rich story. We’ll have a band on the stage as well as performers, so that we can create a club effect, a speakeasy effect and even a church effect. We’re going to explore all the sides of Aretha, and to do so, we’ll use the space for storytelling as well.”

Current cast members include Piper Jones, Jaimee Paul, Whitney Coleman, Malachi Burrow and Jack Cassidy, Patrick’s son.

Cassidy’s wife, Melissa Hurley Cassidy, is an acclaimed dancer with a vast career of performing, teaching and choreographing. Melissa recently accepted a teaching position at Nashville Ballet, and she will take part in “The Aretha Legacy” by working with the performers on choreograph staging.

“This show includes people of immense talent, from production to performance and beyond, which is only fitting for a tribute to the Queen of Soul,” Cassidy said.

Studio Tenn is a professional regional theater company and a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Franklin. Its programming centers around innovative, custom-designed presentations of classic plays and musicals as well as an original “Legacy” series of theatrical concerts celebrating the work of time-honored musicians. Learn more at studiotenn.com.

ARTS & CULTURE

NASHVILLE ELVIS FESTIVAL

NASHVILLE ELVIS FESTIVAL MOVES TO THE FACTORY IN FRANKLIN, ADDS PAT BOONE TO STELLAR LINEUP

Elvis™ fans from around the world will gather in middle Tennessee March 19th through 22nd for the fourth annual Nashville Elvis Festival, celebrating the music and legacy of the King of Rock & Roll™. The four-day festival will be filled with celebrity appearances, special guests, live music performances and more. Tickets are on sale now at NashvilleElvisFestival.com. Nashville Elvis Festival has moved to Jamison Theater in The Factory at Franklin, located in Franklin. The festival’s new venue will allow for new vendor space, free parking and larger crowds, as most shows sell out each year.

Legendary entertainer Pat Boone, will close out the festival with what he says will be his final Nashville concert appearance. Billed as an evening of stories and songs, Boone will perform his biggest hits such as Love Letters in the Sand and April Love, reminisce about his incredible career, and share some loving memories of his friend Elvis as well. One of America’s most beloved performers, Boone has sold over forty-five million records worldwide, starred in fifteen feature films, hosted his own hit ABC television series, and he has three stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Other special guests confirmed to appear include Larry Strickland of The Stamps, who recorded and toured with Elvis; Charles Stone, who worked for Colonel Parker assisting on Elvis tours as a promoter, booking agent and security; multi-platinum recording artist Michael Sweet (Stryper/Boston); Award-winning singer-songwriter and TV/Radio personality Gary Chapman; Charlie Mattos of WSM Radio’s Coffee, Country & Cody; Grand Ole Opry’s Gina Keltner and more. The festival will also feature headliner performances from Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest® world champions Bill Cherry (2009); Dean Z (2013); Ben Thompson (2018); and reigning champion Taylor Rodriguez (2019). Also appearing are Nashville’s reigning champion, Al Joslin; fan favorites Michael Cillipher and Riley Jenkin; and King of the Elvis Festival late night parties, Jeff Lewis — an award-winning Elvis Tribute artist, GRAMMY® nominated singer-songwriter, actor and emcee.

A highlight of each Nashville Elvis Festival is the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest preliminary round, with the winner moving on to Graceland's Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest Semifinal & Finals in Memphis during Elvis Week each August. Twenty contestants have been hand-selected and invited to compete in Nashville, coming from all over the USA as well as Australia, Canada, Norway, Chile, England, Germany and Ireland. Backing all live performances will be Australia’s TIC Band, known for their performances all over the world backing tribute artists and giving the feeling and excitement of being at an actual Elvis concert.

Tom Brown returns as the festival’s host and emcee. For nearly two decades, he has served as a host for Graceland's Elvis Week, theTupelo Elvis Festival and numerous other Elvis events around the country. He can be seen on Graceland's popular Gates of Graceland web series, and heard each weekday hosting Tom Brown in the Morning, on Sunny 93.3 in his hometown of Tupelo, Mississippi. Nashville Elvis Festival is produced by Tom Brown and Brian Mayes for Music City Festivals. For tickets or more information, please visit the official website at NashvilleElvisFestival.com.

A PREMIER ELVIS EVENT UNLIKE ANY OTHER, CELEBRATING THE MUSIC & LEGACY OF ELVIS PRESLEY.

The 4-day festival will be filled with celebrity appearances, special guests and performances from 28 of the top Elvis tribute artists from all over the world!

For more information, visit www.NashvilleElvisFestival.com.

The Real Inspector Hound

BY TOM STOPPARD

FRANKLIN THEATRE HISTORIC

FRANKLIN THEATRE ANNOUNCES NEW VISION & NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Since its original opening in 1937, the historic Franklin Theatre has seen many exciting changes, and 2020 is proving to be no different. The Franklin Theatre kicked off the year with two major announcements including the naming of Paul T. Couch as the theatre’s permanent executive director as well as introducing an entirely new lineup of performing arts programming which will build upon the excellent track record the Franklin Theatre already has for its live music and movie showings by adding programming that features diverse musical, dance and family performances.

The new season of programming season will begin September 19th with Black Violin and run through April of 2021. The new season consists of three series, each made up of five shows doing three performances each. Tickets for each series went on sale this month, with individual performance tickets going on sale in April.

Another important aspect of the Performing Arts Series is the implementation of educational outreach with these performers. Couch and his team will be seeking opportunities to bring these international acts into schools and working with area non-profits and organizations to offer young people the chance to benefit from the talents, skills and knowledge of these accomplished artists.

With this new season, the theater has also created new mission and vision statements to better reflect the overarching goals moving into 2020 and beyond. The theater’s vision is to be a catalyst for social change, where diverse peoples are unified, lives are touched, and memories are made. The mission is to provide world-class performing arts experiences to diverse Williamson County residents and visitors and to be a platform for local philanthropic engagement and education, while providing unparalleled guest service.

Tickets for the entire series are on sale now, with individual performance tickets going on sale in April. For more information or to buy series tickets, go to franklintheatre.com.

Spring break as we know began in 1936 when a swimming coach from Colgate University in frigid upstate New York decided to take his team down to Florida for some early training at a brand-new Olympic-size pool in sunny Fort Lauderdale.

It’s time for that annual rite of spring for high school and college students everywhere! Spring Break!!! Ever wonder how this so-called “holiday” came to be? Here are a few factoids about this sometimes-infamous break from school.

Did You

Know? - TRIVIA -

A study by the American College of Health reported the average male drinking eighteen alcoholic drinks per day and the average female consuming up to ten per day during spring break.

Every year, between 1.5 and 2 million students in the US go on spring break and collectively spend over $1 billion.

Spring break in the United States dramatically increased in popularity with the release of the book and 1960 movie titled Where the Boys Are. An English professor who tagged along with college students during spring break wrote the novel.

The five top destinations for US spring breakers are 1) Panama City Beach, Florida; 2) Cancun, Mexico; 3) Daytona Beach, Florida; 4) South Padre Island, Texas; and 5) Colorado’s ski resorts.

Join us at our April Mixer! Guests will enjoy food and drinks, giveaways and more! RSVP to our Facebook Event or to info@robertsonmediagroup.com

Hosted by Witherspoon Brentwood 1469 Witherspoon Drive | Brentwood, TN Celebrate

April 20th | 5pm-7pm

It’s Time To...

The # 1 Resort on Florida ’ s Emerald Coast!

Maybe it’s celebrating a major life event like a wedding (congratulations!), escaping for a well-deserved family vacation or because you’ve earned a place at the corporate retreat. The good news is Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is the perfect solution for all the right reasons.

Your Williamson March 2020 Issue

LIFESTYLE

YOUR STAFF

Keep Calm - and -

Wash Your Hands!

YOUR SOCIAL

SECRETARY

GET CONNECTED

Miriam’s Promise

PAWsome Gala

SOCIAL La Bella Notte Patron Party & Gala

Photography Submitted

Sponsored Event

SOCIAL Distinctively Southern Wedding Experience

Hiding Behind the Mask

Haircare $12.99

Catharsis Face Mask from Earthwise Beauty, $38

Radiance Facial Mask from Krisana Vigus, $28

KB5 Eye Recovery Masks from Kat Burki, $90

Beauty and The Breast Mask from WHEN Beauty, $12

LIFE IS TOO SHORT FOR CHEAP SUITS!

New Data Shows 15.8% of Tennessee Residents Binge Drink

Help Pets affected by the Nashville Tornadoes

Sponsored Event

SOCIAL Antiques & Garden Show

Behind the Scenes: Plan, Prep and Vision

Battle of Franklin Trust Reveals New Information on Tod Carter

Southern i s y o ur Life s tyle

Set the Table Please

WITHERSPOON

SPRING HOME TOUR

Meet Tom Black

Us”

Black by Black

Friends of Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt announces Friends & Fashion 2020

A Vintage Affair Celebrates 20 Years!

The Speakeasy VIP Pre-Party

Southall Farm’sWildflower Honey

Saint Patrick’s Day Parade

Greening of the Fountain

Celtic Cross Ceremony in Emmet Square

Festival of St. Patrick on Savannah's Waterfront & City Market

HARPETH TRUE VALUE HOMECENTER

Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

Tybee Island Irish Heritage Parade

LIFESTYLE The Lady Entertains

Hosting a St. Patrick's Day Whiskey Tasting Party

Green, Tartan, and Gold All Over.

What’s on TAP-A

Reclaiming a

Learning the Southern Language of Food

Family. Fresh. Franklin

Expect a Crazier March than Ever

2020 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

fire!

Sponsored Event

SOCIAL Black Tie Affair

LEADERSHIP BRENTWOOD ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF MIDDLE TENNESSEE SEEKS SCHOLARSHIP APPLICANTS BY MARCH 15TH

The

CANCER SOCIETY NAMES FRANKLIN NATIVE AS STATE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

WE HANDLE ALL THE DETAILS, SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO

NEW EXPERIENCES AT DISCOUNTED GROUP RATES

TRAVEL INSURANCE

MAKE NEW FRIENDS WHILE SEEING NEW PLACES!

Franklin Special School District

The Kickoff to 2020 Projects

WCS STUDENTS MAKE HISTORY AGAIN

ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 2ND

SENIOR KATELYN HELBERG AWARDED BGA’S MARY CAMPBELL EASEL AWARD

Special Predators WubbaNub Created to Raise Money for Children’s Charity

SOCIAL BGA Denim & Diamonds

Photography Submitted

THE COLOR PURPLE

THE

ARTS & CULTURE

“THE ARETHA LEGACY”

FROM STUDIO TENN FEATURING TONY NOMINEE, HONORS THE QUEEN OF SOUL

ARTS & CULTURE

NASHVILLE ELVIS FESTIVAL