Your Williamson Winter 2019

by Melissa DelRossi

LIFESTYLE

YOUR STAFF

PHOTOGRAPHERS

I Have Decided to Stick With Love

Dear Readers,

Feels like I have been floating on a cloud for several weeks now. Perhaps the normal one that everyone may have also been on – or is that better described as a haze? Between the holidays of Christmas and New Year’s, school being out, visitors and guests coming and going, eating more than normal and the silly stupor feeling we get when we are out of work and not sure what we are supposed to be doing – I know most years I feel like I am in a haze too! But no, this year, it’s a cloud. A pink cloud of love and happiness thanks to our personal Christmas miracle, with the birth of our son Alec Calhoun (known as Calhoun) born on December 15th. Johnny, Bo, Keeling and I are all over the moon in love with this little guy. Babies do that don’t they? We all just finished celebrating the birth of THE baby of the world, our Lord – and so as I live on my pink cloud these days, in a bit of a postpartum haze it’s true, I get to spend a lot of time thinking about lots of things… And unfortunately for me, watching a lot of TV! I am not a fan of daytime television, so I mostly stick to the news. And hence, my thoughts about love this month. Obviously, we just recognized Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and many, many times in the news coverage and

on people’s Facebook feeds, I saw different quotes issued by this incredible spiritual and moral leader. Most of the ones people chose to feature, highlight and espouse, had to do with love. For me, it was inspiring but also tinged with some skepticism mixed with sadness at the incongruence with the world in which we live. So much unloving behavior, so much sadness, so much evil; it takes the great work and long-lasting words of someone like Dr. King, to maybe remind us that in all things; goodness or love, beat hate and they can overcome evil.

I wish we had Dr. King’s words on our lips and hearts more than just one day or sadly, as just lip service. Wouldn’t it be nice if we all just decided to stick with love – every day of the year. Not just at Christmas, not just on Valentine’s Day and certainly not just part of a daily news cycle when it suits our political or even personal/professional agendas.

The sweet innocence of a baby can certainly show us again unconditional love and the love that cannot be broken by any evil or despair. And while I would personally contend that a lot of our leaders and those in the news behave like babies or children, perhaps those in leadership could spend some time holding

Alec Calhoun & Keeling Birdsong

an innocent baby or even just have coffee with someone they consider a foe, look at a different perspective on an argument they have upheld, see the bigger picture; acknowledge that we all feel differently about things and see our truth, perhaps in contrast to yours, doesn’t mean either are wrong. Maybe we should all see the world through the haze and cloud of a new mother, a kindergarten sweetheart or a new baby and simply – stick with love. I guarantee you it’s a far lighter, sweeter burden to bear than hate.

Shelly Robertson Birdsong shelly@robertsonmediagroup.com

“I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.”

- MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

The honor of your participation is requested in a publication for the

Middle Tennessee Bride!

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YOUR SOCIAL SECRETARY

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

Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville

Music City Center | antiquesandgardenshow.com

The Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville is an annual charity event thats purpose is to raise funds for Cheekwood and ECON by exhibiting the highest quality antiques, landscaped gardens and horticultural items and by offering a related educational outreach program. Get inspired at this wonderful show!

HeART to Heart Luncheon

Embassy Suites Cool Springs | 10:45am uwwc.org

The annual HeART to Heart Luncheon combines inspirational stories, a fabulous silent auction and a delicious luncheon to support the work of United Way of Williamson County. The silent auction opens at 10:45am, promptly followed by the luncheon at 12pm. Get your tickets now!

Taste of Williamson

CoolSprings Galleria | 7pm-9pm tasteofwilliamson.com

Taste of Williamson is an annual favorite benefiting United Way of Williamson County. The tasty event features the area’s best food and beverages. Ticket holders meet chefs, sip a favorite beverage, taste local restaurant offerings and enjoy musical entertainment as they stroll from station to station. Don’t miss this delicious event!

CONNECTED

Your “Bone Vivant” Ollie Pup helped spread Christmas cheer and slobbery smooches during the holidays! #OlliePup

We rang in the new year! Hello 2019! #HappyNewYear

The annual Eat, Drink & Be Merry edition hits stands in March! Don’t we all love to dine out, eat in, cook a fancy meal and try new and interesting recipes and dishes? Need a caterer? Have a fabulous kitchen to showcase? Do you have a wonderful restaurant that is on the community’s gourmet scene? Then you should be in the 2019 EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY issue!

ADVERTISING DEADLINE

Dancing to the music of Gloria Estefan at TPAC! #OnYourFeet

A PAWsome GAlA

Benefiting the Animals of Williamson County Animal Center

BY ANNA ROBERTSON HAM

On March 7th, from 6:30pm to 10pm at the Barn at Sycamore Farms, Friends of Williamson County Animal Center will present A PAWsome Gala! This inaugural event, with F&M Bank as the title sponsor, was created to fill a need to have a main fundraising event presented by Friends of Williamson County Animal Center and benefiting the Williamson County Animal Center (WCAC). Co-chairs of the Gala, Claudia Parker and Edie Lynn Hoback, are working hard with fellow board members and volunteers to create an event that they hope will raise a good amount of funds for the WCAC.

The WCAC works to make Williamson County better for animals through adoption, education, enforcement and pet population control. Friends of WCAC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is dedicated to promoting and supporting 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. They strive to bring awareness and support to WCAC and have hope that this new event will do that and more.

A PAWsome Gala is expecting 250 guests and will have a dinner, a live and silent auction, as well as live music performed by The Respectables. During the Gala, Friends of WCAC will be offering opportunities for inaugural membership for those attending the event. The goal is to raise funds that will be split evenly between medical care for animals with a

large portion to spay/neuter and behavioral, and a portion going towards the new WCAC shelter to be built on a thrity-eight-acre plot of land near Del Rio Pike and Old Charlotte Pike in Franklin. These funds will help the WCAC to add in some beneficial amenities to the new facility. Some of the amenities they would like to add to the Center is an air filtration system, drainage system, boiling steam wall system for sanitizing and cleaning, as well as other upgrades to operate to the upmost functionality.

If you are an animal lover, this new event is for you! Be a part of something that will help the animals of Williamson County and assist in the ongoing efforts made by the staff, volunteers and Friends of WCAC with your attendance. It will be an event not to miss! To purchase tickets for A PAWsome Gala and learn more about Friends of WCAC, visit them at friendsofwcac.com. To learn more about WCAC, to donate or to adopt an animal, visit adoptwcac.org or call 615.790.5590.

Photography by K. York

The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County held their annual Dickens of a Christmas festival in downtown Franklin for its thirty-fourth year. The name itself charms with visions of characters like Fagin, Jacob Marley, Tiny Tim and of course Mr. Scrooge. These Dickens' characters and more, carolers and period entertainers, filled Main Street with performances and presentations of Victorian wares. Specialty food and other vendors made for a fun-filled weekend. The crowds still braved wet weather to enjoy this start to the holiday season, in an old-fashioned way. To learn more, visit williamsonheritage.org.

Nancy Smith & Greg Flittner

Lyndsay Smith & Lynlee Kennedy

Jena Viviano & Mackenzie Raup

Alyssa, Andrea & Rosanna Zaramella

Sophia & Mich Perry, Max Haseltime

William Wakeman, Steven & Virginia Nix, Garyallan Coleman

Ghenet & Kaitlynn McCormick

Stephanie, Tanner & Trula Hargens

Ceasar Lopez & Matthew Bretherick

Matthew & Brocks Petterson

Summer, Lynette & Savannah Cole

Robin Hillman & Greg Grant

Larry Cotton, John Fraser & Paul Crombie

Patricia Raposo & Michael Chin with Wally

Tim & Katherine Murray

Ryan Howell & Brandon Sandrell

Ryder Hunter

Bill & Davis Beasley

THE STANDARD AT THE SMITH HOUSE

BY PAIGE ATWELL

From the lively night life to the exceptional hospitality, there are few spots that compare to the downtown Nashville dining scene. Likewise, rich with history and exuding decadence, there are few restaurants that compare to The Standard at the Smith House.

If you think the name sounds familiar, you’re probably right. The Smith House has remained a downtown staple since it was first built in 1840. Standing opposite of the abundance of new downtown construction and high-rises, it has certainly earned its place in the Nashville social scene over the years. In fact, it is the only grand townhouse remaining in downtown Nashville.

The home was originally owned and operated by the Claiborne family, who ran a boarding house that is said to have played home to some of Nashville’s most prominent citizens. In 1881, the home was purchased by prominent Jewish banker Julian Sax. A few years later, he leased the building to a social club named “The Standard Club,” an affluent social club that was home to members of some of Nashville’s most high society. In 1898, the home was purchased again by Dr. Giles Savage, who ran his medical practice in the building. It remained as such until it was bought again in 1980 by John W. Hunt and David Nelson, who turned it into a bed and breakfast.

In 2005, the home was purchased by the Smith family, who are responsible for its return to the original, Victorian glory that it is today. After running a successful real estate business, their son, Joshua, came up with the idea of running a restaurant in the downstairs portion of the house. Fast forward to today, and that ‘little restaurant’ has quickly flourished into one of Nashville’s premiere dining experiences. On the first floor, you’ll find a highly-rated, full service restaurant and bar open

to the public. Also featured is a courtyard bar, perfect for afterdinner cocktails and cigars. Upstairs houses a private members club. While you don’t have to be a member to enjoy The Standard dining experience, being a member certainly has its perks. Along with the same prime cigar offerings, decadent interiors and bar services that all guests can enjoy downstairs, the club hosts a multitude of events for its members throughout the year in its grand, upstairs spaces. These include exclusive, high-end wine tastings, live boxing matches, holiday parties and more. In 2012, The Standard Club was named one of the top five cigar bars in the country.

Throughout its 179-year history, The Standard has taken on several faces, but the one thing that remains is the sheer opulence of the home. When you step through the door of The Standard, you’re stepping into an old-world experience. From the parlor rooms and grand chandeliers, to the smell of divine cuisine, classic cocktails and premier cigar selection, it can only be described as something Fitzgerald himself would have dreamt up.

When you walk through the doors, you’re greeted by a grand staircase and the one-of-a-kind hospitality of Mrs. Smith. According to her son, Joshua Smith, she’s part of the experience. “I love to come in at night and meet and greet everybody,” says Mrs. Smith.

As you head into the dining room, formerly used as a gentleman’s parlor, you’re met with white linen table cloths, striking chandeliers and the twinkling lights of the Nashville cityscape peeking through the grand windows. Everything about the look and feel of the house exudes splendor.

Thanks to Executive Chef Joe Shaw, the food is no exception. Like any true fine dining experience in the south, we started off with cocktails, and the Old Fashioned was the obvious choice. With its rich, Bulleit Rye bourbon, hints of cherry and a smoked orange to top it off, these combined flavors made for a warm, smooth classic cocktail.

There is not a dish on the menu I can’t imagine it pairing well with.

While there was a plethora of delicious, southern-inspired appetizers to choose from, I had to go for the fried green tomatoes. There is nothing I love more than good fresh, produce, and these did not disappoint. With my first bite, I could instantly taste the warm, crisp corn meal in the batter. Topped with fresh crabmeat, this appetizer was a win-win.

I can easily say I was most excited for the main course. With all the great options on the menu, ranging from hearty steaks to fresh sea bass, it was nearly impossible to pick just one. Lucky for me, I got to pick two. The first one I tasted was The Standard Filet. According to the Executive Chef, The Standard only serves the freshest ingredients, and their meat

JOE SHAW, EXECUTIVE CHEF

MRS. SMITH

JOSHUA SMITH

is some of the finest USDA prime on the market. I have to say, I’ve had a lot of steaks, but this had to be one of the best. Not only did it have a lot of flavor, something that can be difficult to accomplish with a filet, but it cut like butter. It was accompanied with a truffle hash cake, The Standard special sauce and topped with crisp, fried sweet onions. Truly, does it get any better?

Honestly, I wasn’t quite sure. That is, until I got to the second entrée. I’ve never been much of a lamb eater, but the Leader’s Choice Grilled Rack of Lamb was phenomenal. Served on the bone, the meat had so much flavor. It was accompanied by peach preserves and a corn and okra succotash. Combined, it tasted like southern comfort on a plate.

Last but certainly not least, I finished up with one of their famous desserts. After all, there is always room for something sweet, right? Holding its own to its preceding dishes, The Standard Chocolate Mousse Cake was like heaven on a plate. The smooth slice of chocolate has a rich, chocolate crust, topped with chocolate mousse, caramel and chocolate drizzle and, because there is no such thing as too much chocolate, topped with chocolate candy pieces. It was smooth, rich and absolutely worth every bite.

To put it simply, The Standard is a five-star experience. From the service, ambience, history and incredible cuisine, it was unlike any other restaurant I’ve visited. “We want to give everyone a dining experience, and we want them to take their time. We don’t want to rush. We’re not perfect, but we try to do our very best for each customer,” explains Mrs. Smith. “We consider this our home, and we plan on it being in our family for a very long time.”

To learn more about The Standard, visit them at smithhousenashville.com, or give them a call at 615.254.1277.

SEEING Red

BY JULIE JORGENSEN

Happy New Year y’all! Hopefully everyone has closed out the holiday season and is starting off 2019 on the right foot; whatever that means to you. Don’t worry, I’m not here to lecture you about keeping those New Year’s resolutions. Instead, I’m here to make you see red! Regardless of how you may feel about Valentine’s Day, February is the perfect time to make red your signature color, particularly on your lips! Don’t let the idea of rocking a sharp red lip scare you — red actually comes in many different shades. Take the time at your favorite makeup counter to find a red that compliments your skin tone and play around with different formulas. A muted berry stain is just as pretty as an all-out, glossy brick hue.

That being said, first things first: A bold color will only bring attention to dry, chapped lips. To fix that, have a gentle lip scrub on hand, use a soothing lip balm or mask every single night and don’t let your lips get dry. Ilia and e.l.f. both make fabulous lip scrubs in a stick format and a DIY scrub is easy as pie (well, maybe easier). I like to mix brown sugar and honey for gentle, hydrating exfoliation. It works great as a face scrub too! Beautycounter lip conditioner works like a dream to keep lips soft while you sleep.

The clay beauty craze extends to our pouts too. Sara Happ Sweet Clay Lip Mask goes on like pink cake frosting and leaves behind soft, pretty lips after just a few minutes - but I’ve been known to sleep in it.

BUYING GUIDE

Ilia: Woo Skincare & Cosmetics, FACE Nashville

Our options when it comes to picking a “power pucker” are virtually limitless. Us fair-skinned gals generally look best in blue-based tones like raspberry, brightening up our skin and making teeth look whiter. Those of y’all lucky enough to have red hair are the exception, as a coral red works beautifully for you. Medium skin has fewer limitations, depending on your skin’s undertone. Shades found in flowers and fruit come to mind as poppy, cherry, berry and raisin could all potentially work. Darker skin tones have even more fun as merlot, ruby, candy-apple and even chocolate-cherry all bring your pretty skin to life. The ideal product for you will depend on how dramatic you want to get.

e.l.f.: Target

Sara Happ: Anthropologie

Start by patting on your chosen shade of lipstick with your ring finger or opt for a sheer formula. Then “graduate” to layering a matching gloss to punch it up a little. Should you choose the dramatic route, make sure to layer your look for staying power. Line your lips and fill in with liner, apply your lipstick, blot lightly

and then top with a matching or clear, shimmery gloss. Beauty hack: after applying your product of choice, pucker up around your finger and then remove it to make sure you aren’t sporting any color on your teeth. The more products involved, the higher the maintenance, so consider yourself warned. I like to keep it simple with a sheer, berryplum shade during the week and then get a little more fancy on the weekends with a more opaque lipstick and gloss.

See? That wasn’t that hard. Now when February rolls around, not only will you be ready to “Go Red for Women” since it’s American Heart Month, but you can wear your red any day and pucker up and “see red” as well! Cheers!

Love,

The Beauty Junkie

JULIE JORGENSEN

With Valentine’s Day coming up, love, hearts and all things red seem to be around every corner. These festive items can be a perfect reminder to focus on heart health. Fittingly, February is American Heart Month.

First federally recognized in 1963, American Heart Month aims to bring awareness of the dangers of heart disease. A staggering one in four deaths are caused by heart disease every year.

Hospitals and healthcare clinics around America celebrate American Heart Month by highlighting the importance of living a heart-healthy life to their patients. Many hospitals and healthcare providers also hold free screenings and/or awareness events throughout the month of February.

In addition, American Heart Month brings to light all the amazing work that researchers, physicians and public health professionals are doing to prevent, treat and cure the array of cardiovascular disease seen throughout the population. American Heart Association raises and donates millions of dollars each year to heart disease and stroke research. They also fund community awareness activities and resources to educate communities all over the nation.

Small Changes, Big Difference

HOW

TO STAY HEART-HEALTHY WITH THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

health every single day,” says Dr. Adam Prudoff, a cardiologist at Vanderbilt Heart at Williamson Medical Center. “Right now, more than 2,200 Americans die of heart disease daily. Let’s work together to change that.”

Believe it or not, a few simple lifestyle changes can go a long way to help prevent heart disease. In fact, 80% of cardiovascular diseases are preventable by making small lifestyle changes. You don’t have to be discouraged by the thought of trying to incorporate intense, daily workouts. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of physical activity per week. That’s only thirty minutes five times per week. Encourage daily walks or group exercise sessions with friends or family to get bodies moving and active while holding each other accountable.

“Heart disease is still the number one killer of men and women. That’s why the American Heart Association works to create a community of

Changes to your diet don’t have to be difficult or drastic either. Simply adding a little to spice to your life by opting for herbs or spices, as opposed to salt, to season your food is one daily step that’s easy to incorporate. You can also get creative when adding more fruits and vegetables into your diet. Simple swaps like cauliflower crust in lieu of normal flour/yeast crust can turn into a new family favorite while also improving your health.

In addition to making small lifestyle changes, a great way to get involved in Heart Month is to join your local healthcare providers and American Heart Association staff and volunteers by wearing red on National Wear Red Day, the official kick-off of the month. This year, Wear Red Day falls on Friday, February 1st. Spread the word on all your social media platforms! Use the hashtag #NashGoRed and show the world a picture of you and your coworkers wearing red or getting out for a heart-healthy walk.

There are many resources to get more knowledgeable about heart health. To gain more insight into heart health, prevention and how else you can get involved in the community, visit the American Heart Association at heart.org.

New Year’s Resolution Success

BY DR. ALOK TRIVEDI

It’s the time of year when many people are going about following through with their annual New Year’s resolutions. What can you do to better your chances of success this time? Here are tips for turning those resolutions into realty in 2019!

Starting small: Having a big goal in mind is fine but realize the best way to be successful is to see it as an incremental process. Maybe you want to lose fifty pounds. Instead, focus on losing ten pounds at a time. Don’t get overwhelmed. Smaller goals are easier to accomplish and will leave you feeling motivated and inspired to keep moving towards your larger goals.

Keeping your mouth shut: When you keep your goals to yourself, it creates an inner drive to achieve them. Telling everyone else what you want to accomplish only puts more pressure on you and makes the process much

more difficult to manage.

Not comparing your goals to someone else’s goals: This is your life, your goals and your reality. What you want to accomplish in your life is going to be very different from what someone else wants to achieve. Set goals that are truly valuable to you.

Mastering your failures: Master the areas you have failed at by finding out why. Why didn’t you succeed in the past? If you didn’t accomplish your goals last year, figure out what went wrong so you don’t make the same mistakes. Treat your failures as a learning experience to move you closer to success.

Starting to focus on the experience, not the goal: It’s fine to have your goals, but rather than spending so much time obsessed with them, focus on the experience.

Listening to the negative talk: Paying attention to your negative self-talk is extremely important, but the key is to be optimistic about what you want while listening to the negative thoughts because it will keep you grounded in reality.

Not always waiting until January 1st: Why wait until January 1st? If you’re really serious about making a change, start anytime, wherever you are in the year; right now, this very second.

DR. ALOK TRIVEDI

founder

Institute

Faith with My Hole Heart

BY DARCI CAESAR

According to the American Heart Association, Congenital heart defects result when the heart, or blood vessels near the heart, don’t develop normally before birth. Although it is a birth defect, these sometimes go unnoticed until the child gets older.

When I hear of congenital heart defects (CHD), I think of the little babies. I think of the defects caught in utero, after birth and sometimes even toddler years. I even know about some of the lifesaving surgeries that must be done for that child to survive CHD.

Truth be told, I thought we knew a lot about the faces of CHD. That is, until my husband Greg and I found ourselves sitting in the Vanderbilt Cardiology office with our fourteen-year-old, teenage daughter, Anna Grace, on March 13, 2018.

Anna Grace had been complaining of some chest pain that was bothering her. We went to the pediatrician and the doctor heard a murmur. Knowing that this wasn’t uncommon, we still weren’t too alarmed. That was the first time anything was mentioned regarding her heart.

Three days later, we visited a cardiologist to get an echocardiogram – a real-time picture of her

PHOTOGRAPHY: WORLD OF BROKEN HEARTS/SUHA DABIT

heart and it’s inner chambers. After testing, they explained that the muscle pain was to be treated with Tylenol, BUT they found something else… a hole in the upper and lower chambers of her heart. Due to the position of the defect, it could only be repaired with open heart surgery.

Anna Grace was diagnosed with transitional atrioventricular Septal Defect and it was a complete and utter shock. Anna Grace is everything we dreamed of as parents. She is very active, a good student, healthy, happy and fun! She is a competitive dancer, enjoys summer swim team and pageants. Just like any other fourteen-year-old girl. She was up to date on all of her yearly doctor appointments, shots, sports physicals, etc. There was never any feedback or results showing anything was even remotely alarming. She had been our picture of health.

I couldn’t help to think, ‘Why us, why now?’ There were no red flags and there were no other options for her. Congenital heart defects can be discovered anytime for anyone. Anna Grace didn’t have any symptoms. She didn’t have any signs that were screaming there was an issue.

Luckily for us, Anna Grace’s diagnosis was corrected with a full repair. While she is still on

medication to help keep her heart tissue protected and heal fully, she was released in September with no restrictions. Now that her heart is fully functioning properly, she is actually performing even better than before and has more endurance.

We are so thankful we caught this before it was too late and for the amazing surgeon and medical staff that helped make her heart good as new. We know God has BIG plans for Anna Grace and spreading the word about CHD for teenagers is just the beginning.

The most recent statistic is one in 100 children will be diagnosed with a CHD. There are many heart families just in the Franklin area alone. It wasn’t until another heart family, Ellen and Bo Boyer, lost their seven month old daughter Brett to CHD that a foundation was created in her honor.

The Brett Boyer Foundation raises awareness and helps fund research to advance treatment options for those living with CHD. Alongside the Brett Boyer Foundation and Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, we are determined to make a difference.

To learn more about CHD and how you can help the cause, visit thebrettboyerfoundation.org

Here in Williamson County, roots run deep. And at Walker Chevrolet in Franklin, those roots began in 1926 in this community. As a local, family-owned dealership, Walker Chevrolet takes pride in putting our relationship with the customer first. Get a classic American brand from a local, family-owned dealership at Walker Chevrolet. Visit walkerchevrolet.com or call (615) 591-6000 to get started on buying your new Chevy Suburban.

The 2019 Chevrolet Suburban is the standard when it comes to full-sized SUVs. It gives you a smooth ride, refined good looks, luxurious refinements and all the space you need. With best-in-class V-8 fuel economy, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and so much more, the Suburban gets you where you want to go and is built to accommodate your family’s needs. If comfort, versatility and space are what you’re looking for, then look no further than the Chevy Suburban.

HONORING BELL TOWN YOUR COMMUNITY PARTNER

While driving along the streets of Franklin, it’s no secret that pieces of history seem to reside on every corner. While some of these historical treasures, such as Carnton and Carter House, still stand strong for all to see today, others rely on the great preservationists of Williamson County to keep its history relevant and alive.

According to Williamson County Historian Rick Warwick, when Auto-Zone bought their lot on Columbia Avenue and brought their plans to the city, they began negotiations as to how to make the property the best fit for Franklin. During that time, Mary Pearce, former executive director of the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, suggested allowing some of the designs to include pieces of the history of Bell Town, a historically large, influential African American Community in Williamson County.

“I was asked to help write the text and provide photos,” explained Rick Warwick. “It has been a worthwhile project since it gives a pictorial history of a lost community.”

You can check out these posters here or stop by AutoZone, located at 933 Columbia Avenue in Franklin, to see them for yourself!

To learn more about Williamson County’s rich history, contact Rick Warwick at the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County at 615.591.8500 or visit williamsonheritage.org.

IMany African-American families, declared “free men,” settled in the Bell Town community following the Civil War. Bell Town was also home to many African-American-owned businesses and organizations serving Williamson County well into the 20th century.

n 1819, Franklin attorney John Bell subdivided the area south of Five Points to Columbia Pike and between Evans Street and Fowlkes street and called it “Bell Town.”

Photos courtesy of Rick Warwick, Historian, Heritage Foundation of Franklin and Williamson County

The Johnson Clinic

Established 1948 Columbia Avenue at Buford Bell Town Community, Franklin, TN

John Watt Reddick AND

THE

Mosaic Templars of America

BDr. Charles Claudius Johnson 1886-1966

orn in Keokuk, Iowa, Dr. Johnson studied medicine at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. After his graduation in 1917, Dr. Johnson and his wife, Clara Lowe Johnson, moved to Franklin where he began his medical practice as one of the first African-American physicians in the area. In 1948, Dr. Johnson established the Johnson Clinic in the Bell Town neighborhood to serve the African-American community of Williamson County. Dr. Johnson was a well-respected citizen of Franklin and in 1958, the Dr. Charles C. Johnson Elementary School was built and named in his honor.

BDr. John Wesley Hudson 1891-1949

orn in Clark County, Arkansas, Dr. Hudson studied medicine at Meharry Medical College. He began his medical practice in 1921 and shortly thereafter, joined Dr. Johnson at the Johnson Clinic. Dr. Hudson and his wife, Julia Otey Hudson, who was a school teacher in Franklin, were beloved by the community.

J

ohn Watt Reddick, son of Bolen and Mariah Reddick, was a leader in the African-American community of Williamson County. John lived in a house next door to his parents’ home, which stood on this site prior to the commercialization of the Downtown Franklin area.

An active community leader, John served as Tennessee State Grand Master of the Mosaic Templars of America, an organization founded by and for African-Americans to care for the sick, bury the deceased and provide support to their families.

He was also a member of the Olive Branch No. 7 Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons. The Masonic Hall was built in Bell Town on Cummins Street.

Photos courtesy of Rick Warwick, Historian, Heritage Foundation of Franklin and Williamson County

Photos courtesy of Rick Warwick, Historian, Heritage Foundation of Franklin and Williamson County

The Taste of Romance

BY PAIGE ATWELL

Food might not be the first thing you think of when you think of romance, but it’s actually a love language in its own right. Whether you’re looking to set a romantic tone or boost your own enthusiasm for the holiday, here’s a few foods that can help set the tone for a perfect Valentine’s Day.

CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES

Both chocolate and strawberries are considered to be mood enhancers. Strawberries are full of antioxidants and nutrients, while chocolate, specifically dark chocolate, helps the brain produce serotonin. Combine the two and you have the perfect sweet treat.

COFFEE

blood flow, endorphin levels and are full of antioxidants.

SPICY FOODS

Whether it be peppers, buffalo sauce or seasoning, spicy foods give off multiple reactions that cause it to be a food of love. The spice not only causes your heart rate to increase, but it also makes you physically warm and causes your lips to puff and tingle.

OYSTERS

This one is probably one of the most well-known, and it’s certainly for good reasons! Oysters are a powerful aphrodisiac, as they contain a lot of zinc, which is said to increase libido.

VANILLA

The taste of natural vanilla mimics its smell in that it makes you feel warm and secure, both important factors for a romantic evening. It is also a natural mood enhancer.

HONEY

Aside from its literal sweetness, honey has been considered a natural aphrodisiac since ancient times. In fact, the term honeymoon came from an old tradition of couples drinking mead after their wedding. In its make up however, honey contains boron, which regulates feel-good hormones in both males and females.

FIGS

Similar to chocolate, coffee contains caffeine that spikes your energy levels. It also brings you warmth and increases your heart rate, which is said to mimic the same reaction your body has to love.

POMEGRANATES

This sweet fruit has mythical ties to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. It has also been used as a symbol of passion in literature for centuries. Pomegranates increase

CHERRIES

Aside from being visually appealing and romantic, much like other fruits, cherries contain rich nutrients and sugars that elevates your mood. Cherries are also high in potassium, which is proven to help produce libido hormones.

With mythological ties to the Garden of Eden, figs are considered a sensual fruit. The rich, sweet smell and taste are both considered to be powerful aphrodisiacs.

ARUGULA

Arugula has roots in ancient British and Egyptian civilizations. Still to this day however, it is said to be a potent aphrodisiac. It is full of nutrients that are important for keeping healthy hormone levels and is also rich in antioxidants.

Let’s Get Away A

RETREAT CLOSE TO HOME

BY PAIGE ATWELL

At the age of thirty-six, husband and wife duo David and Liz Gibson decided they needed a change. The problem was, they had absolutely no idea what that meant. David was an entrepreneur and Liz was working in graphic design, and they both shared a passion for the outdoors and leadership. After two years of praying and seeking direction, they stumbled upon a 100+ acre property just ten miles from downtown Franklin and one thing became clear to them: God wanted them to start a camp and retreat center.

Deer Run Retreat opened its doors in 1998 as a 501c3 nonprofit ministry. With a premiere staff and facilities, Deer Run can accommodate 240 overnight guests and up to 450 for day retreats. “The staff at Deer Run genuinely exemplify hospitality and servanthood to our guests. A host welcomes retreat guests and serves them throughout their stay,” says Co-Founder Liz Gibson.

Throughout the years, Deer Run has hosted a multitude of events and retreats for all age groups and organizations. In 2008, they decided to add a new type of retreat specifically for married couples. After going through their own share of marriage difficulties and coming back from what many would consider to be a hopeless place, they wanted others to have the tools to experience this restoration to thrive in a relationship.

These one-of-a-kind retreats are specifically designed to create intimacy and communication. As opposed to larger-scale retreats, Deer Run’s is limited to fifteen couples max. “With a smaller number of attendees, couples get to know each other, share their story, learn from each other and interact on a personal level with guest speakers,” explains Liz.

The weekend kicks off with couples arriving at the upscale lodge for

dinner, fellowship and a guest speaker. Later, couples can enjoy one-on-one time in cozy lodge areas or by the campfire. On Saturday, after hearing from more guest speakers, couples roam the grounds while doing relationship building activities. Husbands and wives work together to accomplish a variety of initiatives and learn priceless tools for communication and trust. The evening concludes with some free alone time and an upscale, candlelit dinner accompanied by live music. Before leaving on Sunday morning, guests enjoy worship and a closing speaker session.

“The weekend ends much too soon for most couples because of the focused time they have spent together,” says Liz. “Because of this shared experience, many leave with new friendships and stay connected for years afterwards; it’s a personal support system that naturally comes together during these weekends.”

The goal of the marriage retreat is to strengthen good or great marriages and give hope to and insight to those who might be struggling. All couples can gain something from the marriage retreat. “Deer Run’s Married Couples Weekends are for couples in all seasons of marriage — from the heights of love to the depths of struggle,” explains Liz. “The weekend is for any age and for those who have been married for any length of time. Couples who are in their younger twenties to those who are in their upper sixties have attended. Some have been married for as little as four months and others for over forty years. Some are in their first marriage and some are in their second or third.”

Although these retreats are offered year-round, there is no better time to experience this bonding experience with your significant other than Valentine’s Day. The Valentine’s Day weekend retreat is the perfect gift to yourselves. Deer Run does all the planning and allows you to take time away from the hustle and bustle of the holiday. You’ll enjoy intentional one-on-one time to focus on one another and strengthen your relationship, along with roses, chocolate, campfires and couple photos.

To learn more about Deer Run and their retreats, visit DeerRun.camp or give them a call at 615.794.2918.

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WCAR KICKS OFF 2019

BY CARLEE L. GREENE

Williamson County Association of REALTORS® is kicking off 2019 with a bang and looking forward to another strong year for REALTOR® education and in market performance in Williamson County.

For the first time ever, WCAR offered a Ninja Selling Class in January. This high-level class set the tone for what is sure to be a great year. “We are so excited about our education and professional development offerings next year both for our REALTOR® members and REALTORS® from all over middle Tennessee,” said Kyle Shults, WCAR board president. “With programs like Ninja Selling, Luxury Home Marketing Specialist and Certified Negotiation Expert, we are excited to see our REALTORS® raising the bar for themselves in the area of professionalism.”

In the real estate market, Williamson County continues to be a driving force in the luxury home market and for desirable, family living. In 2018, average home sale price climbed to over $600,000 during the last four months of the year. With Williamson County’s continued growth, convenience and outstanding schools, housing demand remains high in the county. “Although there are some signs that signal a slight slowing of the seller’s market, most indicators show property values remaining strong. Inventory concerns are still a reality in the low to mid-price points. The typical sale is taking a bit longer, as buyers shop their financing options while interest rates climb slightly,” said Rob Wigton, CEO of WCAR.

In 2019, WCAR will be expanding its’ community outreach efforts. REALTOR® members are constantly looking for ways to give back to the community and WCAR plans to do even more in 2019. For those of you that live in Williamson County, be on lookout for us in your neighborhood.

WCAR remains committed to the communities we serve in the county, and we look forward to growing relationships with area business and political leaders. As we continue to be the voice of real estate in middle Tennessee, WCAR will strive to offer tremendous service to our clients and the public.

For more information on WCAR’s professional development and upcoming events, please visit wcartn.org. For information on the benefits of hiring a REALTOR®, please go to realtor.com.

CARLEE L. GREENE, Communications & Marketing Director

Your Real Estate | wcartn.org With

In with the New

BY JENNIFER PARKER

I have always loved a good “before and after.” After working many months on several fun and inspiring projects, I selected a favorite project to share this month. I began working with the fabulous Walker family last year and we started from scratch to re-work design and decorate the entire house, along with adding the addition of two new bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate five children. We began looking at what was an old storage space that then became a wide hallway leading to the additional bedrooms. The first thing that came to mind was “kids office.” There is no mudroom or cubby room in the new house, and we needed a place to put backpacks and coats along with a place where the kids could do homework and crafts. Thus, a functional “kids’” office and space for all kid stuff it became. I opted for constructing the room with a large built-in unit rather than just placing individual desks and chairs. Number one, it utilizes the space better and creates more room and number two, it looks and feels intentional with the integrity of the style of the home. My promise to Mom, Cackie, was solving the problem of where the kids could “land” all their stuff and a place for just them where they can get homework done and be creative.

Starting with the desks I wanted to do individual ones, yet have the entire room feel connected. I designed four separate desks connected as one large, built-in unit with an additional space at the end of the unit for a built-in printer and places for storage of craft and school supplies. The opposite wall holds individual coat racks for each child with a

“It really is the perfect blend of sentiment, aesthetics and functionality. We all love the kids office.”

-CACKIE WALKER

place for shoes underneath and plenty of hooks for each backpack and multiple coats and sweaters. I had the vision, then the drawings and design, and now it was time to layer in the overall decor work to make it a space for all the kids to enjoy and use.

I chose to stay with the cool palette of the colors we used overall in the house and went with a beautiful, new blueish grey from Benjamin Moore. It blends wonderfully with the trim color and the dark stain of the hardwood floors. I love the tone of this color and it has a nice depth to it as well. I needed a color that was durable and would not show each little scrape and scratch and one that makes a statement that you would not tire of over time. The house is a wonderful mix of old meets new, so thinking about the hardware I wanted to bring in a fun and modern touch. I think hardware is definitely a place where you can add a punch of personality to a room. Don’t overlook your hardware, it’s truly a detail worth paying attention too. I chose a lucite and brushed gold cabinet pull for each of the doors and drawers. I love the fresh and modern

“The kids

office

is a creative solution

to our frustration with sharing computers, printers and office spaces. The kids do crafts, homework and really use the space. It really keeps the clutter in the family rooms to a minimum.”

-CACKIE WALKER

look of the lucite, and the brushed gold is timeless and pops beautifully off the paint color. To compliment the brushed gold, I found four identical brushed gold chairs that were extremely comfortable, easy to clean and also have a fabulous structural design on the back.

I replaced the standard three round flush mount lights with three larger fabulous grey and white ombre, wooden beaded flush mount light fixtures. They give the room great light with incredible light patterns on the ceiling, which is fun for the kids and also a unique design element. The ombre wooden beads on the light fixtures add a playful and fun accent to the space and bring in great texture. They are also a little unexpected, which I like, especially for a kid’s space. Each desk area is equipped with a brushed gold reading desk lights and also brushed gold accessories identical for each desk to create a sense of continuity. Additionally, I added custom measured tempered glass desk toppers to each desk to protect the paint finish and also allow each child to insert photographs or art they would like as keepsakes under the glass. To finish it off, we installed a bulletin board for each desk as well so there is a place to put reminders, special photographs, invitations or notes.

The shared printer is networked so all the kids can use it, and it lives behind the cabinet on a pull-out tray for easy use. I stocked the cabinet with school supplies, paper, scissors, paper clips and an electric pencil sharpener. The individual coat racks hang on the opposite wall behind each desk and are wood plaques I designed with the same lucite and brushed gold hardware for the hooks that matches to cabinet hardware.

I turned an old storage room, turned extra wide hallway, into an extremely useable space that allows this wonderful and large family to have a place for everything, and everything is in its place. Finding unexpected uses of space in a home and incorporating those with the right design execution can truly transform a home. Spaces should be beautiful, but I think they must be functional too. I wish for you new ideas for spaces in your home and hope this article has inspired you to ask what spaces you can create for better function! As always, please let me know how I can help!

JENNIFER PARKER

Interior Thinking | jennifer@parkerhaveninteriors.com

Jennifer is the owner of Parker Haven Interiors. She thrives on helping her clients design their homes, to style their life, with feeling, function and form.

Photography by K. York

Parks Realty’s downtown Franklin office, held their annual Christmas party this year, with a change of venue to Liberty Hall at the Factory. It was a festive scene as guests gathered for this highly anticipated holiday event. The food and cocktails were aplenty, and the room was filled with the sounds of laughter as clients and community friends mixed and mingled with their favorite Parks' agents and staff. Santa Claus even made a special appearance. These real estate elves sure know how to make the holidays bright!

David Landrum, Cameron & Reid Anderson

Jeanette Nelson, Dannie & Trevor Hunt

Marie Parks, Haley Mullins & Christie Mullins

Holly Picciurro, Cari-Beth & Brooks McDonald

Bob Parks, Danny Anderson, Bo Patten & Rob Wigton

Jenni Barnett, Mary Catherine McAnulty, Kim Henderson, Ashlee Button & Molly Henderson

Dave & Rachel Ganatra Cassie & Derby Jones

Lottie McCormick & Amy Tarter

Loy & Cathy Hardcastle, Tom Smith

Steven Shalibo, Beth Sturm, Tim Nicely & Mary Beth Poole

Tyler & Libby Riggins, Amy & Brett Tarter

Richard & Jeanne Hammontree, Alan Simms LC Team with Santa

Melanie Meyerhoff, Ken & Linda Moore

Nancy Smith, Wayne Evans, Susan Hilgendorf, Greg Flittner & Michele Evans

Stacy Wiatrak, Haley & Duncan Mullins, Tamela Swanson

Daniel Earls, Kendra Long & Tyler Blalock

1221 ECHO LN.

5 BEDS / 5 FULL & 2 HALF BATHS

$1,299,900 / 5,460 SQ FT

CULP TAYLOR (615) 300-8285 #262332

366-6635 #325409

611 FAIR ST. 6 BEDS / 6 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

$2,762,000 / 7,527 SQ FT

400-5340 #247239

(615) 579-8139 #334892

MARABETH POOLE (615)

VICKIE FREAS (615)

LISA

MICHELLE ARNOLD

513 DOUBLEDAY LN.

5 BEDS / 5 FULL & 2 HALF BATHS

$1,890,000 / 6,578 SQ FT

1224 ADAMS ST.

4 BEDS / 3 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

$1,149,900 / 3,284 SQ FT

108 GLENROCK DR.

5 BEDS / 5 FULL & 2 HALF BATHS

$979,900 / 4,450 SQ FT

10.60± ACRES

9868 SAM DONALD RD.

4 BEDS / 5 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

$1,299,900 / 5,451 SQ FT

26.87± ACRES

165 TIMBER FALLS LN.

4 BEDS / 4 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

$899,900 / 6,041 SQ FT

200 MERIWETHER BLVD.

4 BEDS / 4 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

$949,900 / 4,056 SQ FT

MEGAN JONES (615) 970-9054 #328005

449 OLDENBURG RD.

4 BEDS / 4 FULL & 2 HALF BATHS

$929,820 / 4,589 SQ FT

107 GIST ST.

4 BEDS / 3 FULL & 1 HALF BATH

$964,900 / 3,270 SQ FT

2719 STANDING OAK DR.

4 BEDS / 3 FULL BATHS

$625,000 / 3,279 SQ FT

PAPPAS (615) 364-7888 #344792 HOLLY HOCKADAY (615) 483-2571 #342517 MICHELLE CHREST (615) 948-7737 #295082

Hosting a Valentine’s Day Party

BY KRISTA EHRET

Whether a romantic dinner for two, a single’s only, anti-holiday party or a fun, family date, Valentine’s Day is a versatile occasion that can take on many different forms. I’ve always enjoyed the scene from the film, Julie & Julia where Meryl Streep’s character and her husband host a Valentine’s Day dinner party for a group of friends. The brief glimpse doesn’t offer too many details about the event, but I love the overall idea behind it and have used it as my inspiration. If you’re looking for a fun, new way to celebrate, here are some ideas and tips to host a Valentine’s Day themed dinner party for friends.

Take a cue from the film. If you’ve not seen the movie, watch it. I’ll wait. If you have seen it, then you may still want to look up this particular scene for some details. There are cute paper chains hanging up around the room, paper place cards with hearts and each guest gets to wear a giant heart pin. The room feels intimate without being awkwardly romantic. If you have a formal dining room, now’s the time to finally use it.

Pour on the cheese. If you serve pasta, you can take this literally, but I’m actually referring to the tablescape and décor. You’re not proposing to your group here, so don’t worry about having dozens of roses or chocolate sculptures. String up some paper heart garlands, lay out the burgundy table linen and bust out that ice bucket that you haven’t used since your wedding. Play up the theme with those little candy hearts, some friendly flowers, like a few red roses mixed with white daisies, baby’s breath and greenery and light some tapered and votive candles. This is the perfect occasion to use that candelabra you’ve had forever that’s never seen the light...err darkness of day.

Show off those chef skills. There are many occasions where I’ll suggest an easy menu. This is not one of them. I don’t say this often, but hide those crockpots. Put your culinary skills to the test and offer your guests an elegant meal such as a surf and turf, chicken cordon bleu or rack of lamb. You may also consider making it a three-course dinner with a bisque to start out and finishing with a nice dessert such as crème brulee or a layered chocolate cake. For beverages: champagne is a must. However, you might also consider a wine paring based on your courses and a perhaps a bourbon. These options should please the majority of guests.

Spread the love. At the end of scene in the film, Stanley Tucci’s character makes the sweetest toast to his wife. Again, it’s not awkward, but extremely endearing. I think it’s only fitting to offer some reminder of why we celebrate this day. Create little question cards and have them in an envelope at each person’s seat. After the meal, go around the table and ask everyone to read their card out loud and then answer it. Questions should encourage cute answers about the person’s significant other, but without being overly personal. Examples could be: How did you first meet? How did he/ she propose? What’s your favorite quirk of your spouse? If the party is friends and not couples, then alter the questions accordingly: What do you and “insert other friend’s name” have most in common? What do you admire the most about “said friend”?

I hope your Valentine’s Day is filled with family, friends and lots of love.... Or two pints of Ben and Jerry’s. Whichever you prefer.

EHRET

The Lady Entertains From intimate dinner parties to huge annual events, Krista believes we can always find an excuse to celebrate. With a background in interior and event design, she loves bringing people together in a beautiful and welcoming environment.

KRISTA

Photography by K. York

Rick and Nancy McEachern, owners of Graystone Quarry, invited friends and neighbors to a viewing party of Amy Grant’s “Tennessee Christmas.” The television special was shot earlier in the year at the Quarry’s gathering room, one of several unique buildings on the private event property located in southern Williamson County. The mood for the evening was set as soon as guests drove through the gate. The trees were adorned in lights, the outdoor fireplace roared. The McEachern’s greeted everyone at the door, welcoming them to enjoy warm cookies, specialty coffees, cocktails and hot cocoa. Forget Me Not entertained guests before the program viewing. It was a perfect holiday evening.

Judy Gregus, Wanda Brock & Susan Mastrianni Tatum, Jenny & Elizabeth Hood

Rick & Nancy McEachern

Griffin Strunk & Olivia Chapman

Barbara Donner & Karen Smotherman

Matthew, Jaxon, Max & Lindsey Tidwell

Josh Hearing & Cindy Brown

Dan & Lynn Ferrell, Michelle & Joe Hicks

Tim & Robin Gipson, Ellen & Buz Midden

MASTER YOUR MESS

THE HOME EDIT’S PRACTICAL TIPS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR HOME

BY JENNY REIMOLD

“Balance is all about setting the bar just low enough that you can accomplish all sorts of bite-sized victories. Life is too short to feel residual guilt about not wearing real pants or making it to the gym every day.” – The Home Edit

It is this witty approach to life, design and organization that launched Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin, founders of The Home Edit, into celebrity stardom. Although The Home Edit started as a business, Clea and Joanna have turned their passion for organizing and order into a successful brand. With their “mullet” social media strategy, featuring a “business in the front, party in the back” approach, these savvy ladies have built an empire by posting beautiful photos of organized spaces on their Instagram feed while uploading hilarious videos of their real life onto their Instagram stories.

The Home Edit catapulted into fame after they reinvented traditional organizing concepts. Their signature rainbow themed approach to stylish and functional organization became a social media sensation. Meticulously styled pantries, playrooms and closets, aesthetically designed in a ROYGBIV fashion, became an Instagram phenomenon. Their color coded level of organizational wizardry not only became popular in middle Tennessee, but caught the eye of some of Hollywood’s biggest names.

After “editing” and organizing the homes of celebrity clients

Gwyneth Paltrow, Mandy Moore, Christina Applegate and Thomas Rhett, Nashville resident and Oscar winner, Reese Witherspoon, reached out with an offer to collaborate. Her network, Hello Sunshine, now produces The Home Edit’s entertaining television show, Master the Mess, while their first book, The Home Edit: A Guide to Organizing and Realizing Your House Goals, will be released on March 19th.

In addition to building an organizational empire, Clea and Joanna also manage home and family life as working mothers, entrepreneurs and volunteers with St. Jude’s and Baby2Baby. Their “surviving not thriving” comical approach to life is one that we all can relate to. It is this practical and humorous life strategy that has made such a lasting impression upon me both as a mother and a designer. I’m humbled to have been able to interview them on everything from label makers to the Kardashians and to have been offered a glimpse into Clea’s Nashville home.

Did your mutual passion for organization and style bring you together or did you know each other as “mom friends” first? Not exactly. We met in 2015 through a mutual friend who suggested we go to lunch due to the fact we were both recent California transplants who moved to Nashville for their husband’s job, had kids the same age and had independently planned on having their own organizing business upon moving. We went to lunch, and four hours later, we were business partners. That same night, we came up with our company name, designed our logo, bought our domain and registered our LLC. Organizers are nothing if not efficient. Looking back, it’s probably ill-advised to essentially get married after a matter of hours, but when it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be.

What areas of people’s homes do you consistently see in need of the most help?

Closets and pantries. Any area that typically lacks space and stores numerous categories.

What areas in your own homes, if any, do you struggle to maintain?

If we are struggling to maintain an area, that means we need to create a new system. Laundry can be tough when we’ve been traveling. In order to keep up with it, we like to use rolling canvas hampers for each family member. We sell them on our website and it’s made laundry day a breeze!

If readers recognize that an area of their home needs help, what are the first steps to take to begin an “edit?”

1. Remove everything- The space should be completely empty when you are done. It might look messy at first but trust us, this is where the magic happens.

2. Create groupings- Start by arranging ALL of the items in front of you into categories. You may be tempted to skip this step but IT’S IMPORTANT. Categorizing makes editing visually easier when deciding what you keep, toss or repurpose, especially if you have any duplicates.

3. Pare down- Take a look at the grouped items in front of you. The harsh truth is that you do not need everything that was in that space. To pare down, ask yourself these questions: 1) Do you NEED it? 2) Do you ever USE it? 3) Do you ever WANT to use it? If the answer is “no” to any of the above, it’s time to ditch or donate. Keep two labeled bins or trash bags close by to keep everything in order.

What are your top five, must-have organizing essentials?

1. Large wicker baskets- We generally keep at least one in each living space. They allow you to easily store blankets and pillows in the living room, or bulky toys in a playroom. By adding them throughout the house, you can quickly clean up any mess your family members leave behind and they have the added benefit of making a room look polished and well-designed.

2. Divided turntables- A perfect storage solution for any room in the house. You can use it on your desk for pens, pencils and scissors, in the bathroom with cotton balls, Q-tips, and hairbrushes - or on an entryway table to hold keys, wallets and change.

3. Acrylic storage containers- We use these in all shapes and sizes in almost every room in the home. They allow you to keep items categorized, contained and easy to spot.

4. Over-the-door Elfa system- Allows you to take advantage of vertical space and clear clutter off countertops, shelves and inside hidden cabinets.

5. Drawer inserts- These inserts provide a way to create a functional system in an otherwise forgotten space. When every item is categorized and has a home, you’ll always know where to find it.

What organizing mistakes do you see people often make?

Skipping the editing process. If you can’t make any edits, you’re just shuffling things back and forth as contained clutter.

I love the ROYGBIV organizational concept. How does a parent maintain that level of organizational mastery with children? Bribes. Just kidding! Believe it or not, the ROYGBIV concept works well with children, often times more than designated bins. It’s more visual and offers a simple way of knowing where to look for an item and where to put it away.

Playrooms can be a different in beast in the organizational world. What tips do you have for parents who want to create a stylish playroom like Clea’s?

Tip 1- Instead of separating out smaller Legos from larger Duplos, consider allowing for more interpretation in where things belong. Creating broad categories that kids intuitively understand — blocks,

dolls, dress-up and so on — will help with long-term maintenance and keep your home neat.

Tip 2- Organizing according to the rainbow helps create a playful and creative space for kids and a stylized space for adults. Arrange the books, art supplies, toys and pretend food by color and you’ll not only have a pretty playroom, but your kids will automatically know where everything is stored.

Tip 3- Use large baskets to accommodate bulky categories like stuffed animals, blocks and train sets. For the smaller and more specific categories, use stackable shoe boxes and a paint pen to identify each item. The paint pen easily wipes clean with rubbing alcohol for future updating.

Tip 4- Try creating zones so every space has a purpose and every item has a home. If you have a lot of trucks, for instance, create a ‘parking lot’ so that there’s a designated spot for them. The zone will hold you accountable and keep the room from descending into toy chaos.

What can readers expect from The Home Edit book? Will there be a shopping list for rookies? New tips for Type A veterans? YES! Our advice appeals to the newbie organizer as well as the type A person who has a system in place. Everyone can glean something valuable from the book, no matter where you are on the organizing spectrum! We bring our tried-and-true decluttering methods straight from our celeb clients’ closets and into your home. Anyone can totally do this. We think that people will really love our step-by-step tips to help build and ultimately achieve your organization goals. Bring on the ROYGIBIV!

What celebrity clients of yours would be your organizational protégés? Who is skilled enough, on their own, to have their own organizing show? Any dream clients you’d like to work with?

Khloe Kardashian. Hands down. We were just over at her house helping her organize and couldn’t understand why she needed us. Not only is she extremely organized, she lives by a ROYGBIV label system too! As for our dream client? The entire cast of Schitt’s Creek.

A new year offers a fresh opportunity to reevaluate what organizational strategies are working in your life and what could use an edit. Be sure to pick up a copy of their new book and use The Home Edit’s practical tips in this article to improve the order in your own home!

JENNY REIMHOLD

Styling Your Everyday

Jenny is your new Styling Your Everyday contributor. She will bring to you design and entertainment tips from her years of experience. Connect with @jennyreimold on Instagram or at jennyreimold.com.

LEGACY

THE STORIES OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY

Veteran publisher and founder of Southern Exposure Magazine, Brandy Blanton, has officially released her first book, LEGACY; The Stories of Williamson County (2002-2018). The 448-page, coffee table piece will be unveiled and sold exclusively at Liberty Hall at the Factory at Franklin on Sunday, January 27th. Brandy created Southern Exposure Magazine in 2002 with the intent to celebrate the community she called home since 1977. In December of 2018, after more than sixteen years, Brandy decided it was time for a new challenge, but she knew she had at least one more project she wanted to tackle. “It was such a privilege to seek out the people and places that make up the tapestry of this wonderful community and share their insights, stories, photos, historical significance and opportunities through the pages of Southern Exposure for almost two decades,” Brandy reflected. “However, it was important for me to create something tangible to immortalize and celebrate those stories and photos, which is how this book came to be. Of course, I couldn’t include every piece that had ever been published, but this is a wonderful collection of what I felt were the things I didn’t want us - as a community - to forget. The pieces were chosen based on their contribution to the fabric and history of one of the most sought-after destinations to call home,” she explained. “Williamson County is recognized worldwide for its award-winning Main Street, its schools, its economic vitality, its heritage

tourism, Civil War history and much more. But for the folks who live here – both natives and newcomers – it’s the people who make the difference.”

The forward is written by bestselling author and motivational speaker, Louis Upkins Jr., who Brandy met while covering a celebrity golf tournament during the first year of the magazine, who remains a treasured friend and mentor. Other people within its pages run the gamut from the nationally recognized names of musical icons like Kix Brooks, Michael McDonald, Wynonna and Naomi Judd, George Jones, Brad Paisley and more to the local community champions like the late State Rep. Charles Sargent, Julian Bibb, Nancy Conway, Coach Jimmy Gentry, Mary Mills, Ed Moody and so many more. The content of the book is as diverse as the Williamson County community, celebrating its nonprofits, local businesses, leaders in government and preservation, local restauranteurs, local authors and also Williamson County’s history.

The book is self-published under the moniker of Soul Cake Publishing. For more information, contact Brandy Blanton via email at brandybblanton@gmail.com or call 615.300.5251.

For the Love of Bubbly

BY KEEGAN CORCORAN

The fourteenth day of February is beset on all sides by believers and non-believers, the impassioned and the unmoved, the emotional and the cerebral, a fevered field blend of those scrambling to pen their feelings onto a glitterclad card before going home…and those looking on bewildered, excited, rather to get home to their dogs. The ceremonies of the day, despite the time invested in concern with enjoying or avoiding them, do in fact (thankfully), yield a common thread of truth: We could all use a drink. To this end, the world of sparkling wines offers us endless avenues to wander down, and on a day such as Valentine’s, I hope to ease any heart fluttering (not romance-induced, regretfully), that may occur when looking for those gems on a wine list or on a retail shelf. I would be remiss if I neglected to begin in the most famed region of the world for sparkling wine, whose bottlings have been cemented as the beverage of choice in both victory and defeat, and whose wines retain a shroud of myth and mystery that can inspire even the dullest of senses to enjoyment…Champagne, France.

To the dismay of some, it can be considered that not all that bubbles is gold, however, thankfully that’s only because this first wine is a sparkling rosé. Champagne Geoffroy ‘Rosé de Saignée Brut’ projects its character from the glass before it has even been gripped. 100% Pinot Noir, the wine sits with ruby reflections, an emblem of the love employed to craft it, almost telegraphing the flavors of tart and fresh strawberries, ripe black cherry, cranberry and fresh rose petals. I feel this wine’s expressions are best enjoyed in a standard white wine glass to allow the fruit character to bloom on the nose. Enjoy with seared duck with cherry reduction, roasted peaches, or candied strawberries if the holiday tradition strikes you. ~$150 At Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse

They say that Italian is the language of love, right? Perhaps it’s fitting then that we venture to Piedmont, Italy (think top left of “The Boot”), where high quality wines have been made for generations, including this next sparkling. Founded in 1867, Contratto is Italy’s oldest producer of wines made using the Champagne method, known regionally as Metodo Classico. The 2010 Contratto ‘Millesimato Extra Brut’ pleases even the most discerning of palates ,characterized by its dry and assertive style but still leans away from austerity and the trappings of formality. A blend of eighty percent Pinot Noir and twenty percent Chardonnay, the first impressions call of fresh red and blue berries, mild notes of cream kissed with toasted vanilla bean and baking spices and a plentiful mouthfeel. Enjoy with fresh crab, shrimp cocktail or even lighter preparations of seabass. ~$75 At Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse

Americans are lovers too, and on this day of crimson commitments, we can surely enjoy some domestic options that won’t break the bank. Domaine Carneros, a property founded by the famed Champagne house Taittinger, sits in the cooler region of its namesake that straddles both Sonoma and Napa in California, and produces world class sparkling wines in a wide array of styles. Reach for the 2015 Domaine Carneros ‘Brut Rosé’, but don’t let the light pink color fool your senses. A lovely blend of fifty-eight percent Pinot Noir and forty-two percent Chardonnay, this sparkler is one that will warm even the coldest of hearts. Its nose is framed in lightly toasted almonds, strawberry, and watermelon, with a complimenting pallet of dried cherries and perfectlybrowned sugar cookies. Enjoy with lightly grilled salmon, mild chocolate desserts or on its own by the fire in a pair of your favorite socks (my preferred Valentine’s date).

~$68 At Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse

We end as we began, and appropriately so with this last wine. One of my alltime favorites, and a legend in the world of sparkling wines, Champagne Ruinart is the oldest Champagne house, having produced its wines on a commercial scale since 1729, and marked with an emphasis on the Chardonnay grape. The Ruinart ‘Blanc de Blancs’ calls from its stout, shimmering bottle the pristine character that matches its golden foil. Made from 100% Chardonnay, the aromas present themselves in complex succession, first yellow apples wrapped in white flowers, followed by citrus cream and white stones. The pallet speaks further of lemon rind, tart tropical fruits and a distinctive mineral center. But what to pair with such a wine?? Anyone that knows me can attest that I will staunchly defend, despite any perceived irony, that, well, fried chicken and Champagne were made for each other. Try it for yourself and thank me later. ~$165 At Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse

KEEGAN CORCORAN, CORPORATE WINE DIRECTOR FOR JEFF RUBY CULINARY ENTERTAINMENT jeffruby.com

Photography by Melissa DelRossi

Kicking off the holiday season, Leiper’s Fork held their annual Christmas Parade in the Leiper’s Fork Village. Families and furry friends came decked out in festive attire and full of holiday cheer. Known for its quirky, spirited and unapologetically country presence, the Leiper’s Fork Christmas Parade is one of a kind. One never knows what they will see in this parade! Horses, pigs, goats and other livestock, tractors and Cheech and Chong’s Mosquito Fogging bus were among the many floats and parade fun. This year included special guests, Kid Rock and John Schneider. For many, the parade marks a tradition of Christmas spirit and fun that is looked forward to every year. To learn more about Leiper’s Fork and upcoming events, visit them at visitleipersfork.com.

Margaret Pollard & Marien Fortner

Lily Armentor, Katie Renfroe, Georgia Deeds & Riley Westbrook

Lily Arms & Shelly Roberts Megan, Drake & Hudson De Tomasi

Grayson, Greg, Kilian & Erin Cooley

Courtney English & Autumn Laslo

Tucker Johnson, Arianna & Brae Ellenberger, Carissa Shapiro

Johanna, Quinn, Kyle & Molly Brooks Anita & Payson Clark Kaitlin & Rosie Askvig Olivia & Angie Basford

Sylvia & Donn Nevins, Cuma

Dyana & Jimmy Jr. Butler, Byrdie & Tipper

Christine & Beka Jenkins Patrick & William Henchy Simon & Rechelle Morris Derrick, Anna & Rachel Jones

Barry Fly & Laura White

Paula & Jeff North Siddha Williams, Rylie & Stephanie Bishop

The Confederate Monument

BY RICK WARWICK

Since the Franklin Confederate Monument has been in the news of late, it might be useful to read what Virginia McDaniel Bowman wrote in 1971 concerning her much beloved icon. Mrs. Bowman served as county historian from 1972 until 2017, taking much pride in her Confederate sympathies. Being a member of Franklin Chapter number fourteen United Daughters of the Confederacy most of her adult life, she never failed to defend the “lost cause.” She was honored to have the cannon facing City Hall named “Virginia” during the dedication ceremony of the new cannon carriages. She apparently overlooked the fact that the four cannons were Federal issued. For students of history and seekers of facts, here is an excerpt from Mrs. Bowman’s writings on the subject as to how the Franklin monument came to be such a beloved and perhaps, sometimes misunderstood part of our community:

Since time, immemorial man everywhere in Christendom has sought to commemorate events sacred to him with monuments. At God’s command, the Israelites mounded up twelve stones from the bed of the Jordon to memorialize its crossing on dry land; the Druids had their Stonehedge; Trafalgar Square has its Nelson: Prague its Wenceslas; Lucerne its lion.

In the south, following the war between the states, when the first trickle of money found its way into southern pockets, her citizens

It must be remembered that monuments over the South were not erected from full coffers but from Confederate children’s pennies, the Confederate widow’s mite, and the Confederate veteran’s dollars wrung from unremitting toil.

began to think of honoring their sons who fought and died in the name of the Confederacy. Statues went up in town squares, courthouse yards and parks from one end of Dixie to the other. Except for the sites of the great battlefields in Virginia and those of Shiloh and Murfreesboro, few places had greater incentive to honor their war dead than did Franklin, Tennessee.

Through the effects of Franklin Chapter number fourteen, United Daughters of the Confederacy, under the presidency of Mrs. Robert Newton Richardson, the beautiful monument to Confederate soldiers was erected in the square at a cost of $2,700. The shaft supporting the statue of a Confederate infantryman at parade rest rises from three bases. The whole is thirty-seven feet, eight inches high. The bases and shaft are granite; the statue six feet tall—is of Italian marble.

Later, during the administration of Mrs. Hardin Perkins Cochrane, the park around the statue was purchased at an additional cost of $500. This monument was unveiled on November 30th, 1899, the thirty-fifth anniversary of the battle of Franklin. Considerable thought had been given as to the direction the statue should face, and finally the southerly approach to town was chosen since nearly every guest at that time arrived by train and came up Maple (Third) Avenue from the depot.

Close to 10,000 people were in Franklin that Thursday. The homes, streets and buildings were bright with flags and buntin in Confederate colors. The whole town did honor to its guests and the historic occasion which brought them together. The grand parade had formed at the Depot at 9:30 after the arrival of the southbound train. Led by a band playing southern airs, it was composed of floats, decorated carriages and red-sashed young men walking and riding horses that pranced nervously in unaccustomed noise.

The procession was in charge of Colonel S.E. Shannon, marshal of the day. His aides were Dr. John B. White, Samuel Claybrooke, J.H. Akin and John Green Herbert. The reception committee at the train was composed of Mrs.

R.N. Richardson. Miss Annie Claybrooke and members of the McEwen Bivouac. All veterans were presented with a badge, a few of which are treasured mementoes today.

The exercises on the square opened with prayer by Dr. J.H. McNeilly, who had served as Chaplain of Quarles’ Brigade in the battle of Franklin. Dr. J.P. Hanner, who had been captain of a company of local boys called the Williamson Grays, made the welcome address. Judge Robert N. Richardson introduced the speakers and also the children who drew the cords unveiling the monument. The girls, Susie Henderson Winstead and Leah Cowan, were daughters of Confederate veterans; the boys, William Wirt Courtney and Reppart Starnes, were the son and grandson of veterans.

After the unveiling, General George W. Gordon made the main address. General Gordon was wounded in a charge at Franklin and escaped death when the enemy caught him by the hair and pulled him over the breastworks out of deadly fire. He and Governor Benton McMillan were introduced by Judge John Henderson.

Mr. George H. Armistead made the address at the laying of the cornerstone which contained copies of local newspapers, A Confederate Veteran magazine, war records of several veterans and a picture of Mrs. John M. Gaut, young ladies, dressed in white and representing southern states and cities, sand “The Bonnie Blue Flag.” At the conclusion of the song, the band crashed into the stirring strains of “Dixie” which brought hats over hearts and tears of reminiscent pride to many eyes.

Only one blot marred the day. Several weeks before the unveiling, when the statue was being raised into position atop the shaft, a horse and buggy driven by Joseph A. Lockhart, himself a Confederate veteran, somehow became entangled in one of the supporting ropes. The statue swayed, and the interested crowd watching the proceedings gasped in horror as it cracked against the shaft. Screams and shouts of warning were too late, and a sizeable piece of the hat was broken off. Efforts to mend it were unsuccessful, and fear that the broken portion would fall and injure someone resulted in its being left off.

It must be remembered that monuments over the south were not erected from full coffers, but from Confederate children’s pennies, the Confederate widow’s mite and the Confederate veteran’s dollars wrung from unremitting toil. Conceived in pride for deeds well done, they were brought forth in loving memory of those who accomplished those feats of courage in the face of overwhelming odds.

The monument in Franklin, guarded by cannon on four sides and rising from a grassy plot beautiful in every season with flowers and shrubbery, is an oasis in a desert of asphalt and automobiles.

Rick has lived in Williamson County since 1970 and has been serving our community for many years. He currently serves as the County Historian at the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County.

Romantic Bed & Breakfasts

BY PAIGE ATWELL

After the stress of the holidays and with Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, what better way to treat yourself and your significant other than with a little get away. Look no further! We’ve gathered some of the top, romantic bed and breakfasts that are sure to help you unwind.

Buckhorn Inn

Gatlinburg, TN  buckhorninn.com

Buckhorn Inn has been offering timeless charm, modern convenience and serene mountain views for eighty years. Guests can enjoy cookedto-order breakfast delivered to in the privacy of their own room, or in front of the roaring fireplace in the dining room. Relax together with side-by-side massages and then cozy up in luxurious bathrobes and take time to enjoy beautiful views of the mountain. The evenings end with a sumptuous dinner lit by lamplight.

Butterfly Hollow

Gordonsville, TN  butterflyhollow.com

Located forty-five minutes east of Nashville, Butterfly Hollow Bed and Breakfast is a romantic 1899 farmhouse nestled on eighty-two secluded wooded acres. Butterfly Hollow is for couples looking to rejuvenate and renew their love. Offering three private bedrooms balancing modern luxury with simple southern charm, each room has a queen bed, private bathroom and antique furnishings mixed with hand-crafted amenities. Enjoy your afternoons/ evenings sitting on the covered porch surrounded by breathtaking landscape as the sounds of nature fill the air. With two miles of walking trails, an abundance of wildlife and a hot tub for hours of stargazing, Butterfly Hollow is truly a romantic escape for all ages.

Christopher Place

Newport, TN  christopherplace.com

Tucked away on 200 acres, you’ll find an upscale Smoky Mountain bed and breakfast resort. An AAA-4 Diamond property since 1996, it was created for romantic getaways, intimate group retreats and delicious fine dining. The serenity and majestic mountains offer breathtaking views from any angle. Spacious bedrooms and suites invite you to forget the world around you with your choice of mountain view rooms or hot tub suites. The location gives you access to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville while still offering the opportunity to escape the busy crowds and truly enjoy the presence of your partner and relax together. Each four-course dining experience is created by the chef with views of the Smokies as you dine.

The Foxtrot

Gatlinburg, TN  thefoxtrot.com

Nestled in the trees at the crest of the mountain, the Foxtrot Bed and Breakfast offers spectacular views of Mt. Leconte and the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy a peaceful, romantic retreat and bask in the tranquility of nature as you escape every day stress. From the balcony, watch the sun rise as you sip your morning coffee or tea. Each room offers a private bath with jacuzzi or whirlpool tubs, plush towels and robes. Enjoy a massage by the fireplace in suites, vista views from private balconies and a candle light spa soak in either a Jacuzzi or whirlpool tub. Come see why The Foxtrot is one of the top romantic destinations in Gatlinburg, TN.

St. Francis Cottage

Chattanooga, TN  stfranciscottage.com

RiverView Inn

Chattanooga, TN  stayatriverviewinn.com

Imagine awaking to the panoramic views of the sun rising over the majestic Tennessee River. You and the one you love sipping your morning coffee from the comfort of old fashioned rocking chairs on your private balcony. Soaking up the sun next to a heated pool while watching the river boats sail by below. At RiverView Inn, it’s not a dream, it’s every day. Built in 1935 and nestled on the side of historic Lookout Mountain, RiverView Inn is a resort style boutique Inn, conveniently located minutes from world-famous Ruby Falls, Rock City Gardens and the Incline Railway. During your stay, enjoy modern amenities, renovated rooms, incredible views, free continental breakfast, highspeed wireless internet and more.

St Francis Cottage is conveniently located on over two acres near Hamilton Place Mall and the intersection of I-24 and I-75, approximately ten miles from downtown Chattanooga. When guests arrive, they step into a world of comfort and rest in an urban cottage setting where they offer personal, southern hospitality with twenty-first century technology.  Relax in one of seven divinely-appointed rooms with luxurious, modern amenities and savor a gourmet, three-course breakfast in the morning. Take advantage of their Valentine’s Day Special of a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine or juice and a bud vase of roses during your stay from February 9th-17th.

AlWAys lookinG to imProve!

BY TIM KEARNS

Each year, January 1st is a celebration of welcoming a brand-new year of fresh opportunities and a “do over” for all those things that you wish you had accomplished the previous year. If there are items on your bucket list that you have been hoping to accomplish, wait no more! Life is short, so put the dream into motion. It doesn’t take a major lifestyle change to improve a little. Consider the analogy of boiling water: At 211 degrees, there are some pinpoint bubbles and the surface is pretty much motionless. But, if you increase the heat by ONE DEGREE to 212, the difference is enough heat and steam to lift the lid off a pot or drive a turbine engine!

I am a goal-oriented person and find a need to establish goals to force myself to keep momentum. A goal for me last year was to swim the two miles from Alcatraz Island to San Francisco. The thought process is easy; when you’re actually in the boat at Alcatraz Island observing the choppy waters of San Francisco Bay, looking at the wide distance to the landing spot two miles away, you get anxious. Once you jump out of a perfectly good boat into the forty-eight-degree water and the waves start beating you around, fear creeps in. Instead of turning back, you need to use that fear to complete your mission! At that point, I was more afraid to fail!

Purpose is defined as, “a result or effect that is intended or desired with determination or resolve.” What is your purpose? Maybe it’s to be a better friend, father, brother or husband? To be a better employee, employer or neighbor? If you want to be a better you, you must focus on those specific objectives to improve. My purpose is to “enjoy life to the fullest, have positive contact with many and leave a purposeful legacy for the future.”

You can’t move in a forward without action!

We come to crossroads every day; the choices of which road to take are up to each individual and the outcome of that choice belongs to us.

Action, energy and focus are the common denominators of successful people. Focus without action will make you a great couch potato. Action without focus will make you a squirrel trying to cross a road without getting run over. Action with focus will lead to success! Be sure to recognize ineffective actions. Wishing for something, worrying, poor habits, associating with negative people, and wasting time are all examples of road blocks that will keep you from being successful.

Common sense tells us that if we concentrate on positives, you place yourself in a position where positive outcomes dominate or have leverage in your life. The adverse is; if you concentrate on negatives, you place yourself in a position where negative outcomes dominate your life. Don’t get lost in a world of distractions and focus on the positives;

The saying “life is full of choices” is cliché, but is also absolute truth. We watch news

every day that highlights people who make bad choices. I always wondered what makes some people “repeat offenders.” Why do some people do bad things over and over again? I truly believe that choices we make on a daily basis can change our lives for better or worse. Bad habits, good habits, people we associate with and time we spend serving others are all choices that will have positive or negative effects on our lives. You can choose to spend time around a family table discussing the events of the day with people you love, or stare at a TV or smartphone. You can choose to call or visit an elderly relative, give them a hand with something that needs to be done, just sit and talk to them or ignore them. You can choose to tell your wife, children and parents that you love them at every opportunity because you never know when that chance might end. You can choose to be a part of your community, be a person of influence, be a mentor to someone and have someone you respect be a mentor to you. Choose to have spiritual life that is a reflection of your beliefs and lifestyle. Being healthy and eating healthy may take a conscious effort on your part, but again, choices are the key.

January 1, 2019 created an opportunity to choose your road; to turn your life up just one degree! Have a purpose, create positive action, make good choices and be influential to everyone in your life! The only way to change is to decide you want to change! Today is the day, now is the time!

Gentleman Is...

TIM

Photography by K. York

Liberty Hall was filled with holiday cheer as friends and family gathered for BrightStone’s annual Christmas program. The musical production, Joys of Christmas, under the leadership of J’Nae Fincannon, provided magical performances by the students. Guests enjoyed the opportunity to shop from BrightStone’s homemade goodies and to purchase items off their wish list tree before and after the concert. The free concert is BrightStone’s gift to the community for their love and support throughout the year. BrightStone provides adults with developmental disabilities lifelong learning programs and are currently working on building long-term living facilities. To learn more about BrightStone, visit brightstone.org.

Brooke & Patty Jarnagin

Randy Elliott, Harvey Vanderweide & Doug Vanderweide

Brenda Hawk & Sherri Joyce

Kristi Perkins & Lauren Howard

Heather Connery & Easton Grace

Erin & Steve Kersey

Shelly Wyllie & Alicia Barker

Beverly Smith, Katelyn Conviser, Jennifer Glasgow & Lauren Wooden

Glenn, Everett, Cole & Jill Harper

Jill Rosenberry, Brynn Johnson, Kristen Robertson, Emory & Graham Robertson

Deb Mangrum, Wini Kraft & Joan Gottesman Tequita & Jeff Young

Ellen Henry & Karen Demers

Tibble Cleveland, Virginia & Mary Looney Doug, Peggy & Brian Glenn Alaina & Kristen Kindoll

Jacqui Grace & Tracie Shelby

Bruce, Amanda & Bruce Peery

SOCIAL | WCAR Tacky Sweater Party

Photography by Melissa DelRossi

The Williamson County Association of Realtors celebrated their annual Tacky Sweater Party at J’s Bar and Grill at Franklin Family Entertainment Center. Guests enjoyed food and drinks, while participants laughed over a friendly tacky sweater competition. Proceeds from ticket sales benefited the REALTOR Good Works Foundation, which raises money annually to support local nonprofits, provide scholarships and promote the fine arts. To learn more about the Williamson County Association of Realtors, visit wcartn.org.

Scott Hudson, Cahl Moser, Hillary Pate & Christopher Close

Kelly Greene Elord & Sherry Clendenin

Jordan Vaughn & Carlee Green

Madison Ogg, Charlie Peterson & Maggie Schuh

Kyle Shults & Danny Anderson

Adrienne Dionne & Ryan McCorduck

Zach Kinlaw, Tyler Blalock, Kendra Long, Bobbi Jo Astorga, Eric Barnes & Megan Menke

Brandi & Chris Thigpen

IF YOU OR YOUR COMPANY HAS COMMUNITY OR BUSINESS NEWS TO SHARE, SEND TO INFO@YOURWILLIAMSON.COM

HERITAGE

FOUNDATION HIRES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE MAIN STREET PROGRAM, DOWNTOWN FRANKLIN ASSOCIATION

The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County has hired outgoing Mayor of Brentwood Jill Burgin as executive director of the Main Street program. Franklin’s Main Street program, also known as the Downtown Franklin Association, is accredited through the National Main Street Center, a division of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Prior to her role as the Mayor of Brentwood, Burgin was elected by Brentwood citizens to serve as city commissioner for nearly eight years. Burgin received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Memphis and later earned a master’s in English education from Vanderbilt University. Burgin is involved in several local organizations including the Middle Tennessee Mayors Caucus, Greater Nashville Regional Council Board of Directors, Williamson County Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors and more. Under the guidance of parent organization, the Heritage Foundation, and working in partnership with property owners, preservationists, city and county government, local businesses and merchants in the historic retail district, the Downtown Franklin Association has helped create one of the nation’s Main Street success stories. For more information on the Downtown Franklin Association, visit downtownfranklintn.com.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY CASA RECEIVES DONATION FROM LOCAL SERVPRO®

Williamson County CASA received a donation of more than $16,000 in December from SERVPRO® of Williamson County, a local cleanup and restoration company. The funds were raised through SERVPRO® of Williamson County’s annual Golf Tournament held in October at the Grove in College Grove. SERVPRO® of Williamson County is a provider of fire and water cleanup, restoration services, mold mitigation and remediation and more. Williamson County CASA is a non-profit organization helping children who are abused and neglected to find stable and permanent homes. CASA advocates for these children by speaking on their behalf in courtrooms, listening to their stories and identifying safe homes. Williamson County CASA was established in 1993 and assists thousands of cases of abused or neglected children in Williamson County. To learn more about Williamson County CASA, visit williamsoncountycasa.org.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY FAIR HEADS INTO 15TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR WITH RECOGNITION FROM INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FAIRS AND EXPOSITIONS

As the Williamson County Fair looks ahead in preparation for its fifthteenth anniversary, the nonprofit organization that operates the annual event recently claimed five awards at the 128th annual International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) Annual Conference in San Antonio, Texas for its outstanding performance in 2018. The Williamson County Fair has long served as a beacon for agricultural education, with an emphasis on nightly livestock shows, educational exhibits and competitive events in a variety of categories including agriculture, livestock, creative, cultural and culinary arts, 4-H and youth and more. Its mission is coupled with a commitment to give back to the community, with more than $27,800 in scholarships awarded to area students since 2013, $171,500 worth of updates and improvements put back into the AgExpo Park and 38,718 pounds of food and other essentials donated to GraceWorks Ministries over the years. The Williamson County

Fair received three second-place awards in the Hall of Honor Communications category for its magazine ads, promotional and advertising posters and mobile app, as well as third place for its website. The Fair also received second place for the Edison Battle Bots and Races, which was located in the popular 4-H & Youth Village and categorized by the IAFE as an activity to increase awareness of competitive exhibits. The fifthteenth Annual Williamson County Fair will be held Friday, August 2nd to Saturday, August 10th at the Williamson County AgExpo Park, and will be marked by a week-long celebration of this important milestone. Among returning exhibit favorites will be Little 1’s Farming, the Children’s Barnyard and the 4-H & Youth Village, each which offers an interactive experience for families through agricultural and STEM- related activities. The Williamson County Fair is sponsored by many local businesses, including Tractor Supply Company, Cigna, Williamson Medical Center, TwiceDaily, Nissan, Vanderbilt Health and Middle Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation, to name a few. For sponsorship opportunities for the 15th anniversary event, go to williamsoncountyfair.org/sponsors.

CHRIS ELROD

615-305-0072

realchriselrod@gmail.com www.realchriselrod.com

LISA WURTH

615-969-5771 lisa@lisawurth.com www.lisawurth.com

The Scoop continued

YOUNG LEADERS COUNCIL ANNOUNCES GRADUATES OF NONPROFIT BOARD TRAINING PROGRAM PARTNERSHIP WITH WILLIAMSON, INC.

Young Leaders Council, a Nashville-based nonprofit organization that has trained more than 2,500 men and women to effectively participate on the boards of nonprofit agencies for the past thirty-four years, announces the graduates of YLC/Williamson Chamber Class of 2018. Partnering with Williamson, Inc. for the sixth year in a row, YLC provided twenty-eight hours of training to the twenty-three participants who live and/or work in Williamson County, and will now serve one-year internships on local nonprofit boards: Karla Anderson (NAI Nashville); Brad Baumgartner (City of Franklin); Christian Dickson (BancorpSouth); Bill Faucher (North Highland); Walker Ferebee (First Tennessee Private Client Services); Wes Garner (Christ Community Church); Courtney Hatfield (Mental Health America of Middle Tennessee); Courtney Hess (TN Department of Treasury); Meg Hopkins (Williamson, Inc.); Joshua Hunley (AIG/VALIC Financial Advisors, Inc.); Chris Lanigan (INSBANK); Tiffany McGee (Mercer Health and Benefits); Hannah McGraw(Triumph Bank); Katie Evans Moss (Division of TennCare, Office of General Counsel); Lizzy Nix (Elliott Davis); Andrew Orr (City of Franklin); Zacari Pennington (Anytime Fitness); Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier (Close the Loop/AQP Consulting); Sean Sawyer (The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County); Carter Thomas (Abound Wealth Management); Jessie Tretbar (Layton Construction Company, LLC); Alan Webb (ALSAC/ St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital); and Rebekah Zeitlin (Parks Realty). Since 1985, Young Leaders Council has been the premier organization for training nonprofit board members in the Middle Tennessee area. Learn more at youngleaderscouncil.org.

GRANT AWARDED TO BRIDGES DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CENTER BY THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF MIDDLE TENNESSEE

The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, a charitable organization dedicated to enriching the quality of life in the forty middle Tennessee counties it serves, announces $2,726,800 in grants to 453 nonprofit organizations as part of the 2018 annual grantmaking process. Bridges Domestic Violence Center has received a $5,000 grant to provide assistance, safety planning, education about and accompaniment for court processes for domestic violence victims. The Community Foundation awards discretionary grants annually from its unrestricted and field-of-interest funds through an open application process to middle Tennessee nonprofits organizations addressing community needs and benefiting the well-being of citizens through valuable programs and innovative services. More information on the grant process is online at cfmt.org. To learn more about Bridges, visit bridgesdvc.org.

NEW YEAR, NEW FINANCIAL OUTLOOK

Is 2019 Poised to Outpace 2018?

BY RICHARD HERRINGTON

No matter how your 2018 turned out, most of us that work in finance agree that it was a stellar year. We saw the economic growth rate soar past three percent, but now we’re looking toward the upcoming year with equal parts excitement and trepidation. Will we be able to sustain last year’s boom, or are we approaching another economic bubble that will burst? Read on to discover my personal take on the predictions for 2019 and beyond.

Financial growth will continue — but at a slightly slower pace.

Thanks in large part to job growth surpassing unemployment, 2018 gave rise to increased consumer confidence in the economy. This, in turn, meant people started buying more and saving less, successfully stimulating the economy. But most experts agree that the three percent growth rate is not sustainable long-term. We will still see development but expect a slowdown to levels closer to two percent for 2019.

The housing market in our area is — and will continue to be — one of the best in the nation.

In 2018, the housing market in the Nashville metropolitan area, bolstered by the booming job market, led the nation. Home values increased by over eight percent and are expected to climb another eight percent in 2019. Williamson County continues to be one of the most desirable places to live. As more and more young families flock to our community, houses will be in high demand.

2020 might signal the next recession — but that’s not a reason to worry.

The 2008-09 recession is still a fresh wound to many, but the silver lining from those financially troubled times is the experience and knowledge of how to keep that from happening again. Many experts are predicting a recession in 2020, but not like the one a decade ago. This predicted recession is part of the natural economic cycle and not a reason to panic. Any time there is a significant bump in a nation’s economic growth, there must be a time of leveling off, presenting itself in the form of a recession.

Are you prepared for 2019’s financial landscape? If you’re anxious about this year (or the next) and are looking for a financial partner that stays on top of both local and global trends, look no further than Franklin Synergy Bank. We’ve got the tools you need to safeguard your future.

RICHARD HERRINGTON We’re in the Money

The joy of the season The peace of mind that makes it possible

matters

GIRL SCOUTS GIRLS THRIVE IN

BY AGENIA CLARK

Girl Scouts has been empowering girls across the country for more than 100 years and has served more than fifty million women. I’m proud that Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee is one of the fastest growing councils in the nation, serving 14,800 girls across thirty-nine counties last year. We provide every girl with a chance to lead, a chance to take risks and a chance to create positive change.

While Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee continues to serve more girls each year with an enriched experience, Boy Scouts of America is pursuing a new experiment: including girls in the full range of its programs for the first time ever. The organization is recruiting girls for Cub Scouts and even allowing girls to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. Boy Scouts is also now using the name “Scouts” to represent itself to the public.

This has led to some confusion. And with this confusion, many parents are now wondering: what is the right choice for my daughter? To those parents, I urge them to consider the difference between an experience and an experiment.

We know that girls thrive in a single gender environment where they feel confident to speak up and ask questions. Girl Scouting was built on that foundation and everything we do is tailored specifically to meet girls’ needs. We also know that this approach works. Research shows that Girl Scouts are more likely than their non-Girl Scout peers to have confidence in themselves, seek challenges, identify and solve problems in their communities and develop and maintain healthy relationships. These qualities impact every area of life.

Our track record speaks for itself. Girl Scout alums lead in all fields, from business to law to government to education to sports. Seventy-three percent of the current female United States Senators were Girl Scouts, as were fifty-two percent of our female business leaders. Girl Scouts even changed my own life when, at seven years old, I met a black female doctor for the first time. I had never known that an African-American woman could be a physician. From that moment on, I knew I could become whatever I wanted to be. And I have. My experience was not happenstance. It was by design. I hear similar stories every day, experiences that were only possible because of the unique philosophy and programming delivered through Girl Scouts. Girl Scouting came into being to inspire girls like me, and it remains critically relevant in our world today where women still face lower wages, restricted opportunities and diminished expectations.

Girl Scouts provides an environment for girls to learn and grow without judgment. It teaches girls how to embrace their strongest attributes and use them. Empowering the next generation of female leaders is critical to our country’s future, and Girls Scouts are the experts.

Parents and their daughters will determine whether the Boy Scouts’ experiment succeeds. But we have already proven that Girl Scouts is best for girls.

CLARK President & CEO

It’s Girl Scout Cookie time in Tennessee!

Here are some key dates and stats on everything cookie:

February 3, 2019: Booth Sales Begin

February 23-24, 2019: National Girl Scout Walk-About Weekend

March 3, 2019: Cookie Sale Ends

11,340 girls participated in the cookie program in 2018

1,980,109 boxes of cookies sold

149 girls earned Stellar Seller awards by selling 1,000 or more boxes of cookies

41,305 packages of cookies were donated to military service members

29,283 packages of cookies were donated to other nonprofits throughout Middle Tennessee

TOTAL of 70,588 packages of cookies donated to military and other charities

COOKIE FINDER: Find booth sales in your area by zip code. girlscouts.org

AGENIA

Agenia Clark is President and CEO of Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee.

Hi there!

Valentine’s Day is almost here and there are many pups and kitties waiting for their forever Valentine at Williamson County Animal Center (WCAC)! Schedule a time to visit these sweet love bugs. I promise that you will be struck by Cupid’s arrow! Here are a couple of the adoptable pups from the WCAC that have been waiting patiently for their love story to begin. Visit adoptwcac.org for more information on these two and more precious pups!

Wiggle bottom and slobbery smooches to you and yours!

Ollie Pup

MEET ADELE

Hi! I’m Adele, which means noble, kind and tender. I am an adorable, happy-go-lucky, three and a half

year old girl! As you can see, I have big, beautiful brown eyes and very distinctive ears! I am great on a leash and a well-mannered companion on daily walks. I love attention and affection, enjoy being around people of all ages and I get along with other dogs. I also love playing with toys and am looking for my person or family to be devoted to! XOXO!

MEET HAGAN

I’m Hagan and I am a friendly, bright and handsome three year old boy that they say is the resident hunk of the WCAC kennels! I enjoy daily walks, running around, playing fetch in the fenced yard and playing with toys. I also love to be petted. I would probably be an excellent hiking or running buddy to help you get your daily exercise! I love people of all ages and also enjoy the company of other dogs. Looks, charm, athleticism - I just have it all! Be my Valentine!

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

WAYS TO ENSURE GOOD HABITS WITH YOUR KIDS IN THE NEW YEAR

BY GINGER JONES

We all seem to see a new year as a fresh start; a time to make ourselves better in one way or another. Why not let your kids in on this? They are always watching and learning from you, so you should be cautious of the example you’re setting. Below are some great ways to ensure good habits with your kids not only in the New Year, but throughout their life as well.

BE CONSISTENT.

Stick to the rules in the house. Do what you say you will do and don’t give up. If you break a rule or commitment to yourself, show your child what giving grace looks like.

DO THINGS AS A FAMILY AND MAKE PRESENCE A PRIORITY.

Try having dedicated time to spend together with no electronic devices being used. This is a great habit to teach older kids who may already be using their own devices. Even on days where work or commitments may limit your time, show your involvement by having a habit of checking in at some point in the day. This helps you know what may be going on in your child’s life and also lets you stay engaged with their emotional status at any given time.

PRACTICE

GRATITUDE.

physically and emotionally if you are making better food choices.

BE ACTIVE.

This goes hand in hand with good eating habits. Getting in a habit of being active now can help you and your child for the rest of your lives. You can make it fun by letting your children help you choose the activities to participate in. When they enjoy what they’re doing, they are more likely to continue it.

TIME MANAGEMENT.

A new year is a great time to invest in a new system for keeping track of schedules and time. Maybe you are still old-school and use a paper planner or wall calendar, or maybe you are all electronic. Either way, you can use your trusty system to your advantage by involving your kids. As you plan out events and activities, talk to them about it, keep them in the loop and show them how you plan around events or important dates. This will help them grow in their timemanagement skills and effectively take on responsibilities of their own.

There are small things you can do to practice gratitude in your home. Talk about one thing you are thankful for that happened that day during dinner or bedtime, or write something you are grateful for every day on a piece of paper and put it in a daily gratitude jar. The more grateful you and your kids are, the happier you all will be because it will consistently remind you of all the things you are lucky to have.

MAINTAIN GOOD EATING HABITS.

Encourage a healthy diet with your family. When you do indulge on sweets or something that is not healthy, talk about it so your children can understand your values and reasoning around deciding to treat yourself in that way. You and your kids will no doubt feel better

Hopefully some of these ideas sound like ways your family can create important and lasting habits. It takes time to acquire new routines, so be patient with yourself and your kids. Make it fun and something you do as a family so that your kiddos will enjoy doing it alongside you. Celebrate your successes along the way. Please feel free to share with us on social media by tagging @gingerjones and @yourwilliamson.

GINGER GELDREICH JONES, M.A., CCC-SLP, LSLS CERT AVT

Your Kids | 615.614.8833

jonestherapyservices.com

Ginger is a Speech-Language Pathologist, Certified Auditory Verbal Therapist and the Founder, CEO of Jones Therapy Services, LLC which provides speech-language, occupational and physical therapy in nine locations across Middle and East Tennessee.

Making a Difference, One Button at a Time

BY PAIGE ATWELL

For thirteen years, Williamson Countians have looked forward to the annual Button Ball, formerly knowns as the Legacy Ball. It serves as an entertaining and exciting night that brings light to a dark reality, Davis House Advocacy Center is the proud host and organizer of this enlightening evening. This year’s ball, being held on March 2nd at the Factory at Franklin, will feature a special guest: Child advocate, Elizabeth Smart.

In 2002, Elizabeth made headlines as one of the most followed cases of the century. At the age of fourteen, she was abducted from her home and held captive for nine months. Thankfully for her and her family, Elizabeth was found and returned home in March of 2003.

“During the planning process for Button Ball 2019, we wanted to focus on a message of hope and to highlight the positive outcomes from healing from the trauma of abuse,” explains Davis House Executive Director, Marcus Stamps. “Elizabeth Smart embodies the message of hope we wish to deliver, and we believe her story will help people in our community understand the trauma that the children we serve endure. Her story is similar, though not exactly the same, as many of the children Davis House serves each and every year.”

In September of 2000, Davis House Child Advocacy center, known then as Williamson County Child Advocacy Center Task Force, served its first child as a 501c3 nonprofit organization. It was designed to provide a safe, child-friendly place for children facing abuse to talk with trained professionals. Through them, both victims and their non-offending caregivers receive services to help them through the healing process. In its twenty-year history, Davis House has served almost 6,000 child victims of abuse. While the Button Ball event began as the Legacy Ball to honor those serving locally in the fight against child abuse, the program has now become an even bigger event that raises funds and awareness for the one in ten children that suffer from this experience.

To some, the name of the event might seem a little random, but for those who have been touched by this organization- not so much. “Children who come to

Davis House for the first-time following reports of child abuse often feel as if they are the only one. They feel alone. They are scared, sometimes ashamed and often embarrassed about the abuse they may have suffered or why they are at Davis House to receive services, even though it’s not their fault,” explains Marcus. “Each child, on their first visit to Davis House, picks out a button from our button box. They place this button into the Button Jar, which contains the buttons from the children Davis House has served who have come before them. On the jar are the words ‘you are not alone.’ This visual reminder immediately lifts their spirits and helps them know that indeed, they are not alone.”

The 2019 Button Ball will kick off with a wine reception held for all attendees from six to seven that evening. During this time, guests will be able to look over and bid on an array of silent auction items. At seven, the seated dinner and awards program will commence, followed by guest speaker Elizabeth Smart. The evening will conclude with a lively and energetic, not-so-silent auction and dancing with a DJ until eleven.

Amidst all the fun, the hopes are to create both insight and funds to allow this organization to continue their efforts. “We all want each community we serve to be a safe place for children, and a place where they can grow up without the long-term impact of childhood trauma,” says Marcus. “Williamson County is an incredibly supportive and generous community and is number-one in the state in so many positive areas, particularly caring for its children. We strongly believe this community has the ability to become number-one in protecting these children from child abuse and will be a model for use across the state.”

To learn more about Davis House, the Button Ball and how you can help, visit davishousecac.org.

Carol Birdsong

WILLIAMSON COUNTY’S VOICE FOR SCHOOL CLOSINGS AND DELAYS

BY ANNA ROBERTSON HAM

Winter is here… And I am not referring to “Game of Thrones.” We are getting to the time of year where snow and ice are not only inevitable, but can be dangerous for commuters. Winter in middle Tennessee can be unpredictable - mild one day and harsh the next. We can go from seventy degrees of sunshine to thirty degrees of ice. This influx of temperature can cause hazardous conditions on roadways. So, being prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store for us is a long-standing frame of mind for residents of middle Tennessee.

Part of what comes with the inclement weather are the announcements of school closings and delays - and the voice that brings you that information via phone, is Carol Birdsong. Carol is the Communications Director of Williamson County Schools (WCS) and says that being “the voice” of our community school’s weather decisions is certainly a conversation starter. “It seems that when I begin talking with someone, I find out that I have either called their home or left a message on their answering machine, or I’ve called the home of their relative or friend. We instantly have something to talk about,” says Carol.

Being practically a celebrity in Williamson County, with a song created by a group of Independence High students as well as a music video found on YouTube by Ravenwood High students, Carol admits that being the weather voice was a bit uncomfortable in the beginning. “Especially when I saw the t-shirts with my name on them,” she says. “Now it’s fun to see what merchandise they will come up with next! People have given me coffee cups and glasses with a variety of snow day sayings.”

She also understands that the calls from her not only have a lot of excitement and happiness from most, but also mixed feelings from some and says that, “After about the third snow day in a row, parents don’t want to hear me call unless it’s to say school is back in session!”

The WCS district has ten inclement weather days built into the 2018-19 calendar and any additional days missed would be rescheduled. So, how do they determine school closings and delays? “We have a team that works together to determine if we can transport students to and from school safely. We work with EMA (Emergency Management), local law enforcement who are on our roads overnight, the National Weather Service, WCS Safety and Security Director Michael Fletcher and members of our transportation department who

check road conditions across the county, to name a few. WCS Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney has the responsibility of making the final decision.”

Parents of Williamson County Schools students not only hear from Carol, but can also get up to date school closings and delays information by social media and email as well. According to the Williamson County Schools district, they work to have a call made by 9pm the night before and if that is not possible then they will notify staff and parents by 5:30am on the day of school closings and delays. Contact made for closures, delays and early dismissals will be made to the main number the parent or guardian has on file in the WCS phone notification system, along with updates on their website, Facebook, Twitter as well as informing local media to spread the word to the community.

Williamson County Schools

1320 West Main Street Franklin, TN 37064 wcs.edu facebook.com/wcs.edu Twitter @WCSedu

FOR MORE NEWS AND INFORMATION ON OUR LOCAL SCHOOL SYSTEMS - GO TO WCS.ORG, FSSD.ORG

OFFICERS WARN DRIVERS:

IT’S

YELLOW FOR A REASON

Williamson County Schools is joining forces with the county’s six law enforcement agencies to protect children when they are getting on and off the school bus. In January, the district released a series of public service announcements aimed at reducing the number of incidents involving the illegal passing of stopped school buses by motorists. Although the U.S. Department of Transportation says children are seventy times more likely to get to school safely when they ride a school bus, the agency points to the time they are getting on or off those buses as a dangerous time for them. In the spring of 2018, the State of Tennessee asked school districts to conduct a one-day count of how many times vehicles passed a stopped school bus which had its stop arm out and lights flashing. In Williamson County, the district recorded eighteen incidents countywide.

FREEDOM MIDDLE WINS

NATIONAL STEM COMPETITION

Freedom Middle School students traveled to Purdue University in December to compete against six other teams across the nation, including sister school Poplar Grove Middle, in a STEM-based competition called TECHFIT (Teaching Engineering Concepts to Harness Future Innovators and Technologists). After presenting, judges announced that the Freedom Middle team won the competition. This past summer, fifty teachers from thirty schools in nine states completed an intensive, professional development program that equipped them with knowledge, skills and technology to design and implement exergames. Only eight schools made the cut and six schools were able to make the trip to Indiana for the competition. TECHFIT seeks to spark interest in STEM, especially computational thinking, in middle school children by teaching them how these skills will help them innovate technologybased fitness exergames.

WCS STUDENTS HONORED AT SCHOLASTIC ART AWARDS

Dozens of Williamson County Schools’ middle and high students will have their artwork on display at Cheekwood Botanical Gardens from February 2nd until March 2nd. T In addition to the students earning recognition in the Gold Key, Silver Key and Honorable Mentions categories, a handful of students were selected as nominees for the American Vision & Voices Award. Brentwood High’s Chandler Gallaher was nominated for the work, and St. Paul’s. Independence High had two nominees: Emily Cole for her work Serious and Madison Gabay for her work Hands in My Hair.

BY Ernest Thompson

Photography by Melissa DelRossi

Known as the South’s premier winter, white-tie gala, the annual Symphony Ball recently celebrated their thirty-fourth anniversary season. Held at the gorgeous Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville, guests were certainly dressed to impress! Attendees enjoyed dinner, drinks and a performance by this year’s Harmony Award recipient, Toby Keith. To find out more about the Nashville Symphony, visit nashvillesymphony.org.

Sheath & Jamaal Marcya

Lisa & David Manning, Sanders & Matt Miller

Melinda & Jeff Balser, Marilyn Dubree

Keith & Nancy Gregg

Kenny Williard & Debra Dement

Anle & Ming Wang

Lenai Augustine & Mary Siroky

Corinna Thompson & Robert Wolle

Newman & Johnathon Arndt

Frank Andrews & Melanie Ball

Marci Houff & Emily Humphreys

Julie & Bob Vero Ryan & Casey Lipscom

Ellie & Drew Holcomb, Mary Katherine Seabury

Kitty Ganier & Logan O’Connor

Michael & Pamela Carter

Todd & Sandra Robinson, Janell & Darrin DeGennaro

Katie Hutchinson & Kendall Gemmill

Laurie Seabury & Katie Crumbo

Mario & Michelle Vigil, Jennie Smith & James Gooch

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!

February 8th-24th | Jamison Theater | studiotenn.com

Always... Patsy Cline

The classics continue in Studio Tenn’s 2018/2019 season with the addition of Always… Patsy Cline! A compelling musical covering the lifelong friendship of Patsy Cline and Louise Seger, this beautiful tale delivers the perfect combination of humor and heart-felt crooning to the Studio Tenn lineup. Revel in a night of Cline’s most beloved tunes such as Anytime , Walkin’ After Midnight , She’s Got You , Sweet Dreams and Crazy and enjoy a trip back to the height of Cline’s career in this season’s most heartfelt production!

February 8th-10th | Andrew Jackson Hall | tpac.org

The Wizard of Oz

There truly is no place like home, and what better place to see the greatest family musical of all time? The wonderful Wizard of Oz twists its way into Nashville this February! The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the yellow brick road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends in this lavish production, featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography and classic songs. Don’t miss the chance to travel over the rainbow and experience this national treasure on stage.

February 7th-10th | Schermerhorn Symphony Center | nashvillesymphony.org

The Music of John Williams

The Nashville Symphony celebrates America’s greatest film composer, with unforgettable music from Superman, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones, Far and Away, Memoirs of a Geisha, The Cowboys and more. This event is guaranteed to be something the whole family will enjoy!

LOVE NOTES LOVE NOTES

February 9th |

Love Notes

|

Love is in the air with the Nashville Opera! Guests will enjoy a romantic evening of music by candlelight. Bring your own bottle of wine or grab some of the bubbly and treats from the lobby while you enjoy a romantic evening with selections ranging from Bernstein and Hammerstein to Gluck and Gounod!

January 25th-February 9th | Pull-Tight Theatre | pull-tight.com

On Golden Pond

This 1979 play takes audiences into the marriage of Ethel and Norman Thayer as they return to their summer home for the forty-eighth year. When they are visited by their middle-aged daughter, who leaves her teenage son with them for the summer, deep family wounds are uncovered. The boy quickly becomes the grandchild the couple has longed for and lessons on love are learned by all. You don’t want to miss Pull-Tight’s take on this beloved tale!

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

In 1976, February was deemed Black History Month. February was chosen intentionally, as both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass have birthdays during this month.

Williamson County is fueled by its rich heritage, pieces of history and the people that dedicate their time and energy to preserving it. In honor of February being Black History Month, here are a few tid-bits of history from your own backyard!

With the help of many citizens and organizations, the Harvey McLemore Home (built by ex-slave Harvey McLemore in 1880) was purchased, remodeled and opened as the McLemore House Museum.

The African American Heritage Society (AAHS) of Williamson County was founded in 1992 by three retired teachers: Mary E. Mills, Louise B. Patton, Bazelia Harris and Historian Thelma Battle along with Mary Pearce, executive director of the Heritage Foundation at the time, and historian Rick Warwick.

ACCORDING TO THE 1860 CENSUS, OVER HALF OF THE WILLIAMSON COUNTY POPULATION WAS AFRICAN AMERICAN AT THE TIME.

The AAHS’s first formal fundraiser, The Black Tie Affair, was held on February 1, 2002. This year, the event will celebrate its eighteenth anniversary with over 600 guests in attendance.

Robertson Media Group cordially invites you to discover Distinctively Southern Wedding, a wedding resource no middle Tennessee bride will want to do without! Look for our Fall 2018 edition on stands now throughout middle Tennessee!

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