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2013 | lIvAbIlItY.COM/WIllIAMsOn-COUntY
COMMUnItY COnneCtIOns
Williamson localities give residents many attractive options
HAPPY 75tH
Natchez Trace celebrates anniversary
One Chamber
sPOnsOred bY tHe WIllIAMsOn COUntY CHAMber Of COMMerCe
Find local business listings at www.williamsoncountychamber.org
One Williamson,
Unification joins countys three largest chambers of commerce
With thoughtful amenities and comforting personal touches, our Wingate by Wyndham Brentwood/Franklin/Cool Springs hotel is designed to make travel easy. Conveniently located off Interstate 65 and less than 30 minutes from downtown Nashville. Our Brentwood, Tenn., hotel is near Nashville International Airport perfect for business or pleasure. Minutes from downtown Franklin, Nashville City Center and Cool Springs Conference Center Free hot breakfast Free Wi-Fi Outdoor pool Fitness center
Brentwood/Franklin/Cool Springs
Whirlpool 24-hour business center w/free copy, fax and print services Conference facilities available
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co nte nt s F e at u r e s
10 One WIllIAMsOn, One CHAMber
Unification joins countys three largest chambers of commerce
tennessee
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COMMUnItY COnneCtIOns
Bustling to bucolic, Williamson localities offer residents many attractive choices
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COMMOn GOAls
Williamson County community rallies around soccer
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HAPPY 75tH
Natchez Trace celebrates anniversary of becoming national park
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Countys economic success attracts more developers and companies
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rOOM tO sPAre
New hotels support tourism industry
d e Pa r tm e nt s
6 51 54 57 58 60 62 64 66 68 70 Almanac Chamber report biz briefs economic Profile see the County local flavor Health & Wellness Arts & Culture sports & recreation education Community Profile
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2013 | lIvAbIlItY.COM/WIllIAMsOn-COUntY
COMMUnItY COnneCtIOns
Williamson localities give residents many attractive options
Williamson County is published annually by Journal Communications inc. and is distributed through the Williamson County Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at info@jnlcom.com. fOr MOre InfOrMAtIOn, COntACt: Williamson County Chamber of Commerce 1164 Columbia ave Franklin, TN 37064 Phone: (615) 794-1225 Fax: (615) 790-5337 www.williamsoncountychamber.org vIsIt WIllIAMsOn COUntY OnlIne At lIvAbIlItY.COM/WIllIAMsOn-COUntY Copyright 2013 Journal Communications inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. all rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. Member The association of Magazine Media Member Custom Content Council Member Williamson County Chamber of Commerce
HAPPY 75tH
Natchez Trace celebrates anniversary
FacTS
One Chamber
sPOnsOred bY tHe WIllIAMsOn COUntY CHAMber Of COMMerCe
Find local business listings at www.williamsoncountychamber.org
One Williamson,
Unification joins countys three largest chambers of commerce
Get the most up-to-date info on cost of living, top employers, schools, population demographics and more.
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Hole #6 Selected as one of the 18 Greatest Golf Holes in America Sports Illustrated Middle Tennessees Most Challenging Course Business Journal Weekly NatioNal accreditatioN
Ranked 15th as Greatest Tournament Courses in the Country Golf Digest also host to: Two International Championships Three National Championships Eight State Championships
New for 2012: revised Junior Membership (to age 33) Special Junior Guest rate New No initiation Family Membership New Senior Membership classifications
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a Shoppers Paradise
CoolSprings Galleria Mall lures one-stop shoppers with more than 150 stores that cover more than 1,100,000 square feet including five major department stores. The galleria also provides plenty of room to rest and recharge in its 500-seat Oasis Food Court. The malls other conveniences include a play area for children, aTMs, and escalators and an elevator to reach the second floor. visit www.coolspringsgalleria.com for more information.
Fast Facts
n Williamson county is home to 13 of the largest 25 publicly traded companies that are located in the Nashville area. n more than 6,000 businesses are situated in Williamson county. n The countys high school graduation rate is the highest of any county in Tennessee. n The Factory at Franklin is one of the areas most popular destinations for shopping, dining and entertainment. n The Downtown Franklin association features an awardwinning main street Program thanks to its revitalization efforts.
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Whats online
Take a virtual tour of Williamson County, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at livability.com/williamson-county/tn.
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One Williamson,
One Chamber
UnIfICAtIOn jOIns COUntYs tHree lArGest CHAMbers Of COMMerCe
STORy By KevIn lItWIn
rad Dunn says the process of consolidating three separate chambers into one new Williamson County Chamber of Commerce was like building an airplane while flying it. It took some doing, but it happened, says Dunn, chairman of the Williamson County Chamber of Commerce. Now we can all ride the positive momentum of one centralized chamber throughout 2013 and beyond. For decades, the northern part of Williamson County has had three individual chambers of commerce the Franklin-Williamson County Chamber, BrentwoodCool Springs Chamber and a separate Cool Springs Chamber. Dunn says a conversation began several years ago about the possibility of the three separate chambers becoming one. The community has grown and changed so much in recent years that unification seemed to be a logical possibility, so a series of meetings took place in 2009, followed by a task force being commissioned in 2010 to study whether unification would be possible, he says.
MaRTiN B. CHeRRy
Williamson county chamber of commerce interim General manager Jerry sharber and chairman brad Dunn
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Clockwise from top left: october 2012 Williamson county chamber membership luncheon; 2012 Professional Womens Holiday luncheon; a chamber-sponsored Town Hall meeting with Rep. marsha blackburn in December 2012
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area businesswomen register at the chamber-sponsored Professional Womens Holiday luncheon in 2012.
The task force determined that a unified chamber would best serve Williamson County, so the process started. A 94 Percent vote Dunn says the reality of three individual chambers began to become difficult for many chamber members who had joined all three, given the numerous events and expenses associated with the effort to support all of the organizations. We wanted one chamber that could serve the community regionally, so a 16-member committee was formed in October 2011 to shape a unified chamber, Dunn says. Eventually, it was put to a vote to all of the membership in August 2012, and the membership voted 94 percent in favor of unification. So on Oct. 1, 2012, a unified Williamson County Chamber of Commerce opened for business. To make the process as seamless as possible, the transitional board hired former Franklin Mayor Jerry Sharber as interim general manager while the consolidation process took place. We hosted our first membership luncheon in October 2012, and 400 people were in attendance all of whom were excited about the new organization, Sharber says. Then immediately after the luncheon, we got back to work addressing more behind-the-scenes details including finding a new centralized office in Cool Springs on the east side of the I-65 corridor. We
Williamson county young Professionals joined for a fun Tacky sweater Party in December 2012.
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Hundreds of business leaders turned out for the october 2012 Williamson county chamber membership luncheon.
project that everything in the office will be in place by March 2013 to best serve our 1,500 members. new President, new Website Another key detail had to be addressed finding a president/CEO for the unified chamber. Matt Largen, who has served as director of the Williamson County Office of Economic Development since 2008, was selected, Sharber says. Matt assumed his chamber post Feb. 1, 2013, and there are seven fulltime employees. Sharber also oversaw three databases of memberships being consolidated, plus the launch of a new www.williamsoncountychamber.org website. This was a consolidation of these three separate chambers, but I need to mention that there are still individual chambers within Williamson County in the communities of Fairview, Nolensville and Spring Hill, he says. The current consolidation was simply with three chambers that were geographically very close to each other, and a unification was needed. Now, it has happened.
att Largen has become the first president and CeO of the unified Williamson County Chamber of Commerce. after a nationwide search in late 2012, Largen was selected president following his five-year stint as director of the Williamson County Office of economic development. Now his role as chamber president/CeO will also include overseeing economic development. it made sense for the chamber and economic development to join forces under one roof, so thats what is happening, Largen says. The two combined offices can do a lot more for Williamson County than they could do on their own. during Largens tenure with the Office of economic development, more than 8,000 jobs were created in the county thanks to companies that relocated here as well as those that targeted expansion. They include Jackson National Life insurance, Mars Petcare, Tractor Supply Company and verizon Wireless. One of my goals is to have the chamber engaged, for example, in helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses in Williamson County, he says. and im a big proponent of networking and marketing between chamber members. it leads to what i like to call spontaneous capitalism. Kevin Litwin
Whats online
For more stories on the people, places and events that define Williamson County, visit livability.com/williamson-county.
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community
connections
bUstlInG tO bUCOlIC, WIllIAMsOn lOCAlItIes Offer resIdents AttrACtIve CHOICes
STORy By lAUrA HIll PHOTOGRaPHy By jeff AdKIns & jeffreY s. OttO
harming small towns. Booming suburban cities. Quiet rural enclaves. Williamson Countys communities reflect lifestyles and tastes as diverse as the countys residents. Young families are flocking to many of these areas, drawn by community amenities, good schools and well-priced homes. Older couples are downsizing into condominiums and apartments in other parts of the county. And young singles are finding the restaurants, chic shops and recreational opportunities they want in the very communities they grew up in. Communities Meet diverse needs People move to different communities for different reasons, says Allison King of the Williamson County Association of Realtors. Some people want to stay close to Nashville for work and are pulled to Brentwood, more so than to Spring Hill. But then people in Spring Hill are enthusiastic about affordable new homes there, compared to other parts of the county. And of course, everyone is intrigued by the good schools. Fairview, in western Williamson, once was so isolated that a phone call from Franklin was long distance, historian Rick Warwick recalls. Today, its growing steadily, thanks
to the beautiful rural landscape, affordable homes and convenient Interstate 40 access. Tiny Leipers Fork has become a phenomenon with its shops and historic homes drawing country music stars and corporate executives alike. Historic Communities in eastern Williamson On the other side of the county, College Grove, Triune and Arrington retain the evocative rural charm of the 19th and early 20th centuries, offering lovely homes, quaint shops and a proud cultural history, Warwick says. Further north, Nolensville once was the dairy farming center of the county. Now, King says, it is popular for very attractive larger homes at all price points, and special amenities families enjoy, like outdoor kitchens. The vibrant towns growth is aided by its proximity to Nashville. I-65 Corridor Much of Williamsons growth has been along the I-65 corridor, from Brentwood south to Cool Springs, Franklin, Thompsons Station and Spring Hill. Brentwood, which came into being with the railroad line from Nashville to Franklin in 1855-56, is known for its luxury residential developments, large lots and homes,
Clockwise from top: Historic downtown Franklin offers a variety of restaurants, shops and more. martins bar-b-Que Joint in Nolensville; Genworth Financial in brentwoods maryland Farms area; a home in spring Hill, one of the fastest growing cities in the U.s.
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easy commute to Nashville, and the Maryland Farms office development. Cool Springs, a regional shopping mecca, has become nearly a city all its own, with single family homes, condos and apartment residences springing up around corporate headquarters and office campuses. Growing fast and looking ahead to even more development are Thompsons Station and Spring Hill, bolstered by the General Motors plant and easy access to Interstate 65. These historic, oncerural towns are popular for their attractive homes, new schools and community amenities.
Franklin reflects much of all that Williamson has to offer, from rural beauty to stately historic homes to suburban housing developments. Its residents are diverse, but they share a sense of pride in their community, King says. The county seat is immersed in history, yet very 21st-century wherein lies much of its appeal. Franklin has capitalized on its historic legacy, while at the same time developing, Warwick says. People may be living in a suburban setting like Cool Springs, but they think of themselves as living in historic Franklin.
Clockwise from far left: coolsprings Galleria in Franklin; arrington vineyards; one of Franklins many downtown community gatherings; The Governors club in brentwood; shopping in Downtown leipers Fork; a historic home near downtown Franklin
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Greener
frIends Of frAnKlIn PArKs WOrK tO rejUvenAte CItYs leIsUre-tIMe sPOts
STORy By lAUrA HIll PHOTOGRaPHy By jeffreY s. OttO
The Grass Is
riends of Franklin Parks, a new organization, is bringing creative energy, volunteer spirit and improvements to the citys 16 parks. Founded in spring 2011, the growing nonprofit, an offshoot of the Franklin Tomorrow civic advocacy group, hopes to involve local parks-lovers in building an unparalleled park system. Our organization was formed to bring business, government and private citizens together to make our parks better, says the organizations leader, Dr. Monty
left: Pinkerton Park in Franklin right: Park at Harlinsdale Farm
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McInturff of Tennessee Equine Hospital. We know government funding can only be at a certain level for parks, and this allows us to get involved and contribute. friends share Parks dept. Goals For the citys parks department, the help couldnt have come at a better time, as a flagging economy slowed planned improvements and additions, says Anna Shuford, parks and recreation superintendent. A foundation can be an umbrella for volunteers and fundraising groups whose goals parallel the parks departments goals, Shuford
says. A really awesome thing is that grantors look more favorably on them than they do government agencies. Its a great collaboration to have Friends drive the process of helping us develop, especially when times are tough. equine History Matters The city maintains three types of parks active, passive and historic and Friends of Franklin Parks will support all three. Throughout 2012, the groups primary focus was on improving the Park at Harlinsdale Farm, the former historic horse farm at one of Franklins northern gateways.
The city acquired the 200-acre farm and its 16 buildings for $8 million in 2004. Located across Franklin Road from The Factory, it offers gorgeous rural vistas of rolling pastures, quaint buildings and distant hills in addition to some of the areas rich equine history. As a kid I worked at Harlinsdale, and as a vet I understand what a huge impact horses have had on this community. Harlinsdale Park
Clockwise from top left: Playground at Pinkerton Park; K-9 Korral Dog Park; Growing Kids Educational Garden at the Park at Harlinsdale Farm; Franklin Recreation complex
Above: children tour the Growing Kids Educational Garden at the Park at Harlinsdale Farm in Franklin.
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Above: a resident plays tennis at the Franklin Recreation complex on one of the facilitys outdoor courts. below: Park at Harlinsdale Farm
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is a remembrance of that, McInturff says. The reality is that there are more horses in Williamson County than in any county in Tennessee. We hope to bring back the horses. One of the visions of the Harlinsdale master plan is for it to be an active horse park one day with riding arenas, trails and an equine museum. Central Park for franklin Initial plans call for re-roofing the farms barn and farmhouse, for which Friends of Franklin Parks planned a Raise the Roof fundraiser in June 2012. Deciding how the buildings will be utilized is next on the agenda. Shuford envisions a multipurpose community gathering place, which already offers concerts, holiday events, historic reenactments, family fun days, walking and running trails, a dog park, catch-and-release fishing, a childrens garden and more. In 50 years, could Harlinsdale function like Central Park does in New York? Shuford wonders. Its doable. We have to crawl before we can run, and Friends will help us take those steps to build a fabulous park system.
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STaFF PHOTO
Above: a couple walks along a trail at crockett Park, which comprises more than 164 acres of multipurpose fields, baseball diamonds and more.
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common goals
WIllIAMsOn COUntY COMMUnItY rAllIes ArOUnd sOCCer
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he soccer scene in Williamson County has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years, thanks to top-notch facilities, active participation by several clubs and the strong sense of community among those involved.
tennessee soccer Club The Tennessee Soccer Club formed in June 2012, unifying two established groups: the Tennessee Futbol Club and the Brentwood Soccer Club. With roughly 1,600 players, 70 coaches and more than 1,400 families now bonded together, we have a tremendous opportunity to leverage our club and allow kids to play competitive soccer, get fantastic coaching and possibly take their soccer dreams as far as their effort and dedication take them, says Scott Hill, board member of the Tennessee Soccer Club. Some other goals of the newly merged organization, Hill says, include better serving players needs, leveraging resources, creating teams with tighter development range and getting more players into the premier soccer leagues.
The unification had been discussed many times over the years. And momentum and enthusiasm for the sport in Williamson County always has been palpable. Before the merger, both clubs were experiencing significant growth. For the past several years, we both set records for the number of kids attending tryouts, Hill says. The sense of community continues to grow throughout the county. Not only does our team work together and hang out, and we have that sense of community, but as we play, there are people on the other team asking how our kids are doing, says Brandon Brison, who participates in the Williamson Indoor Soccer League for adults. The players know the refs, and people bring their kids to watch the games. Its awesome, a lot of fun. Matthew Ensor, who has a daughter in the U6 division of the Williamson County Parks and Recreation League, says its fun to get to know different families in the area and see the kids learn all about teamwork.
Above: Williamson county soccer enthusiasts can play year round at two indoor soccer facilities, the indoor arena at crockett Park in brentwood and the Robert a. Ring indoor arena in Franklin.
BRiaN M c CORd
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puBlic liBrary of cincinnati & hamilton county cincinnati, oh central Branch of Birmingham Birmingham, al vancouver community liBrary vancouver, Wa el paso puBlic liBrary el paso, tX BrentWood liBrary Brentwood, tn ioWa city puBlic liBrary iowa city, ia lied scottsBluff puBlic liBrary scottsbluff, ne laramie county liBrary cheyenne, Wy imaginon: the joe & joan martin center charlotte, nc hardesty regional Library & Conners Cove tulsa, oK
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left to right: The Williamson county soccer association provides youth soccer to the community, offering both indoor and outdoor soccer programs. Kids play soccer at the indoor arena at crockett Park, which includes a multipurpose field, conference room, concessions and other amenities. PHOTO By BRiaN MCCORd
fantastic facilities The soccer facilities in Williamson County reflect the areas dedication to the sport. Two indoor playing fields (Robert A. Ring Indoor Arena and the Indoor Arena at Crockett Park) give participants the opportunity to enjoy the sport year round, both as players and as spectators. The Ring Arena has modern indoor turf and glass walls on the spectator side to allow for a great view of the field. Williamson County soccer Association Meanwhile, the Williamson County Soccer Association has more than 6,000 registered players each year, and everyone gets involved. The WCSA stipulates that all players must play at least 50 percent of the game, thus assuring no one spends a whole game riding the bench. fairview soccer Association The Fairview Soccer Association, founded in 2000, is staffed by parent volunteers and has a recreational program open to kids ages 3 through 18. It offers a variety of tournaments, as well as opportunities to learn about the sport. FSAs success depends on strong relationships through our elementary, middle and high schools, as well, says Tom Daugherty, director of FSAs Heat Academy, a developmental program for kids from third grade through high school. Everything we do is for the youth of our community, Daugherty says.
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happy th
75
typical Sunday drive in Williamson County can mean instantly connecting to a vital part of American history. The Natchez Trace Parkway, with its north end near Fairview at Highway 100, has been traveled by pioneer settlers, Native Americans and even U.S. presidents. Today, outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the Parkway for camping, biking and hiking, while motorists travel its 444 miles from here to the southern terminus in Natchez, Mississippi. In 2012-13, the Parkway is celebrating its 75th anniversary of being a national park, kicked off by an event at Brandon Hall Plantation near Natchez, where dignitaries first gathered in October 1937 to plant trees on the future thoroughfare. Event highlights include a re-creation of the tree-planting ceremony and the Natchez Little Theatre staging a play about the group that started the NTP Association, which pushed
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President Franklin Roosevelt to have the Parkway built. It wasnt until 1938 that Natchez Trace was given its own special designation as a unit of the National Parks Service, which is why the Parkway is being honored in both 2012 and 2013, says Tony Turnbow, Natchez Trace Parkway Association president. A photo history book that is entitled Building the Natchez Trace Parkway has also been published to commemorate the 75th anniversary. Specific Parkway celebration events are posted on the NTP website at www.natcheztrace.info.
War of 1812 Observance Also in 2012, NTP officials encouraged people to remember the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and the Traces role in it. The original Natchez Trace Military Road was created by Thomas Jefferson in order to move large numbers of troops to defend the Gulf Coast, and troops led by Tennessee native Gen. Andrew Jackson marched on the Trace several times. More troops died along the Trace than died in the entire War of 1812, because of hazardous conditions that existed in those days. All deceased troops are buried in unmarked graves along the Parkway.
Turnbow says a key reason the Parkway was established in the 1930s was to memorialize those troops. It was where Jackson earned the nickname Old Hickory, and his military decisions along the Natchez Trace earned him recognition he used to win the White House, he says. Leipers Fork is where many of his troops first camped, making it one of the sites that played a key role during the War of 1812. nearby sites to visit For Parkway attractions today near Williamson County, Turnbow suggests a visit to the John Gordon House, the first major site south of
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JeFFRey S. OTTO
the county. Gordon was captain of Andrew Jacksons company of spies and therefore played a prominent role in the War of 1812. The Gordon House is at milepost 407.7, about 20 miles west of Columbia. Just south of there is Grinders Stand, where famed explorer Meriwether Lewis is buried and a small cabin exists. It is also where the boundary was set between U.S. settlers and the Chickasaw Nation.
bottom left: Harpeth bicycle club members cycle along the Natchez Trace Parkway. bottom right: Waterfall flows near Natchez Trace
Celebrating 35 Years of Soccer Fun! Learning the game of soccer has never been so exciting!
Recreational Leagues for Ages 4 to 19 Fall & Spring Outdoor Soccer Indoor Arena Soccer Leagues Hot Shots & Little Kickers Summer Camp
(615) 791-0590
info@williamsoncountysoccer.com
Six blocks from Historic Downtown Franklin 230 Franklin Rd. (615) 791-1777 www.factoryatfranklin.com 33
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ClAss
COUntYs edUCAtIOn sYsteM A fOrCe fOr reCrUItInG
STORy By jOHn MCbrYde
Head of the
tudents from select Williamson County schools are helping to pave a path for a new foreign language curriculum in the district. A well-respected university in Nashville has recently opened a campus in the Cool Springs area that offers an environment considered far from business as usual. The countys oldest private school will be celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2014. These are just a sampling of facts that demonstrate the role education plays in making Williamson County one of the countrys most vibrant areas to live and work. From kindergarten through college and into continuing adult learning, the countys education infrastructure is high on the list of what attracts residents and businesses alike. I think its the most important thing we do, says Matt Largen, president of the Williamson County Chamber of Commerce and
formerly the countys economic development director. Our No. 1 priority is to make sure we promote the education system of Williamson County, and that we partner anywhere we can to make a stronger connection between the business community and the education community. rigorous standards The highlight of the education system here is perhaps Williamson County Schools, Tennessees highestachieving and growing school district, according to the 2012 State Report Card released in November. WCS recorded an A in achievement for every subject area. Obviously, we have great teachers and administrators that have an intense focus on helping students master the standards, says Dr. Mike Looney, WCS superintendent. We have a supportive community, especially parents. And we have a very
intentional focus on specific, rigorous learning standards. Initiatives Aplenty Special initiatives, such as the Bring Your Own Technology program, highlight the WCS districts strengths. BYOT began during the 2012-13 school year, allowing students to use smartphones, tablets, e-readers and the like in classes. In the same calendar year, the school system began a pilot program that focuses on students learning Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. The idea is to implement a full foreign language program for all grades within the next couple of years. With a growing population in the county, WCS plans to build a new high school in Nolensville and a new elementary school in Spring Hill by 2015 or 2016. excellent Options Seven elementary and middle schools of the Franklin Special
Clockwise from top: battle Ground academy; omore college of Design; Ravenwood High school
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256 Seaboard Ln. Ste. D-101 Franklin, TN 37067 (615) 579-8435 www.codexlabs.com
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School District also serve local residents, and a wide range of respected private schools dot the county. The oldest private school here, Battle Ground Academy, dates to 1889 and has the largest enrollment of the countys private schools, followed closely by Brentwood Academy. Students at the college and continuing education levels have many options, as well. Lipscomb University opened a campus in Cool Springs in early 2012 known as Spark: Lipscombs Idea Center. It serves as both a learning center and a meeting facility an innovative idea center thats far from business as usual, according to its website. Belmont University also has a campus in Cool Springs, and the Franklin site for Columbia State Community College has grown so much that a new campus is being built. Also in Williamson County are OMore College of Design, University of Phoenix and Williamson Christian College.
Clockwise from top: currey ingram academy; brentwood academy; battle Ground academy; Ravenwood High school
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Keeping Things
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ranklins historic attractions have long been a lure to Williamson County, and the area is poised to provide even more to see and do for people interested in Civil War history, thanks to a local nonprofit organization. Franklins Charge, a group started in 2005 to preserve the threatened battlefields in Williamson County, is raising funds and acquiring properties to preserve the remnants of the Battle of Franklin, one of the bloodiest days in American war history. For many years, the Civil War Trust listed the Franklin battlefield as one of the 10 most endangered battlefields in America, considered such because so much of the battlefield had been developed, says Julian Bibb III, founder and past chair of Franklins Charge. One of the most impressive feats of the organization was leading a public-private effort to acquire and
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preserve the battles Eastern Flank, a 112-acre site adjoining Carnton Plantation and about 40 acres owned by the state of Tennessee. The $5 million-plus purchase, which Bibb calls a remarkable success, was completed by Franklins Charge and the city of Franklin in 2005. The plan for it is to develop a public battlefield park. The nonprofit currently is raising funds to buy the Cotton Gin property along Columbia Avenue and develop a site that would include a replica of the Carters Cotton Gin, a primary focus of the battle. Bibb says that acquiring this piece of property is vital because it marks the high watermark of the Battle of Franklin. Historians label the property along Columbia Avenue as extremely important to the ability of the community to tell the story of the battle. And a battle it was. To say that the day of Nov. 30,
STaFF PHOTO
1864 was a disaster for the Confederate Army is an understatement. Gen. John Bell Hood led several frontal assaults against fortified Union Army positions led by Maj. Gen. John M. Schofield. The town of Franklin saw approximately 1,750 Confederate soldiers killed and 3,800 others wounded. The Union Army casualties were comparatively light with less than 200 killed and just over 1,000 wounded. More American soldiers were killed in five hours than there were during the D-Day invasion of Normandy in World War II. Today, sites commemorating the battle have a big economic impact on Williamson County. As a result of taxes generated by tourist activity in Williamson County (of which the Battle of Franklin is a big part), each household pays approximately $358 less in local and state taxes annually.
Whats online
For more stories on people, places and events in Williamson County, visit livability.com/williamson-county.
Clockwise from right: a battle of Franklin reenactment takes place in Williamson county; The carter House, which is a Registered Historic landmark, is located in downtown Franklin; a historian at the carter House leads a group tour of the home and grounds.
JeFFRey S. OTTO
Carter House and Carnton Plantation The Carter House and Carnton Plantation are testimony to how civilian lives were disrupted by war. The two locations combine to bring in about 80,000 visitors each year. The Carter House is a Registered Historic Landmark that first served as the headquarters of Union Gen. Jacob D. Cox. The property was used as a defensive position during the battle while its owners, widower Fountain Branch Carter and his family, hid in the basement. The state bought the home in 1951 and opened it for tours in 1953. Former Nashville Mayor Randal McGavock built Carnton Plantation, which was the areas largest field hospital during the war. In 1866, the family donated two acres of the land to serve as the burial site for nearly 1,500 Confederate soldiers who died there. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Business
Magnetic
Countys eConomiC suCCess attraCtive to developers, Companies
STory By John mCBryde
FORCE
T
here is one simple reason why developers and companies are so attracted to doing business in Williamson County. Success breeds success, says Matt Largen, president of the Williamson County Chamber of Commerce and formerly the countys economic development director. Weve been successful for years. This is seen as a low-risk area for development because of the success other developers and companies have had in the area. In addition to luring top companies such as Nissan North America, Williamson County has also attracted high-profile developments. The Berry Farms development on the south side of Franklin is an example of recent
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the meridian Cool springs development brought several new shopping and dining choices to area professionals and residents.
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My Promise to you is to give your Family the same Service I would want my Family to receive.
More than 20 years of experience in Williamson County and the Middle Tennessee area
Brenda Wilhoite
Realtor
206A Cool Springs Blvd. Franklin, TN 37067 (615) 771-6620 (615) 473-5217 cell Brenda@BrendaWilhoite.com
www.BrendaWilhoite.com
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Wi lliam so n Co u nt y
major projects that exemplify Largens success formula. Located near the Williamson County Agricultural Exposition Park at the Peytonsville Road interchange of Interstate 65, Berry Farms is a mixed-use development on a 600-acre lot near what is considered the southern gateway to Franklin. Phase 1 of the development, which will include office, residential and retail use, is under way. As growth continues down 65 South, Berry Farms becomes even more important from a strategic standpoint, Largen says. This is land that can be developed 10, 15, 20 years out. high-tech Jobs Growth is also apparent in the countys technology sector. High-profile examples include M*Modal, a health-care technology provider of advanced clinical documentation solutions; Windstream Communications, which provides broadband Internet, phone service, and digital TV for residential customers as well as data-related service for business; and Radsource, a provider of specialized MRI interpretations that has launched a softwaredevelopment side of its business that provides PACS (picture archiving and communication system) to health-care systems. ProtonPACS, as the new component is known, is definitely where were focusing our resources, says Jaclyn Carney, senior director of business development for Radsource. We have more than tripled our revenues in the last year. Largen says the areas largest technology employers wont necessarily be of the high-tech variety. I think the technology sector is not concentrated in just one or two companies, he says. Its spread throughout corporate operations in Middle Tennessee. They may not be a big-tech name, but certainly technology employment is going to become even more important than it is now.
Top 10
Downtowns
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Business
rOOM sPAre
TO
the Marriott, Embassy Suites and Aloft properties as high-end accommodations in the county. Meanwhile, bed-and-breakfast properties such as Butterf ly Meadows add to the mix of options for guests looking to stop and stay a while. More visitors means more opportunity to share community pride, but even better, they bring more tax revenue to the area,
ith its scenic countryside, historic sites, and thriving restaurant and retail scene, Williamson County has long been a magnet for visitors. Now, with an expanding roster of hotel and other overnightstay properties, the county aims to keep more guests a little longer. Open since 2012, the new Drury Plaza Hotel in Franklin has joined
which in turn can be used to maintain and increase amenities for its residents. Growing tourism destination Williamson County is now No. 6 in the state for tourism spending, a jump of two spots in the last four years. At the same time, tourism traffic to the countys visitor center has grown 132 percent, and is
Above: aloft Nashville-cool springs, located in Franklin, is one of the many upscale hotel offerings in the area. right, clockwise from top: aloft Nashville-cool springs; butterfly meadows inn & Farm, situated in Franklin, offers seven guest rooms and suites, and is surrounded by 40 acres of woods and meadows; aloft Nashville-cool springs
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Business
seeing an almost 10-to-1 return on its investment in a greatly expanded Williamson County Convention & Visitors Bureau. We are adding about 10 percent to our hotel inventory this year, which will give us around 3,500 beds, says Mark Shore, executive director of the Williamson CVB. Now were working to make sure that both our new and existing hotels have all the support they need so that everyone stays on an even keel while all this expansion is going on. The Drury, like other properties, markets the county as much as the hotel itself in its advertising materials, so the CVB is benefiting from additional outreach for
events, Civil War historic destinations and more. Shore says he expects to build on that trend as the county becomes an overnight and weekend destination for large groups and other tourist sectors that may have visited before, but only for the day. To that end, the CVB will be working to effectively use a portion of the lodging tax that is set aside for tourism marketing and promotion. Independent Cvb Helps Grow business We had a task force in 2006 and 2007 that made three recommendations, one of which was to reorganize the CVB as an independent organization so that
it could move in the marketplace very quickly, Shore says. That has allowed us to make decisions and respond to our tourism-related properties concerns much quicker. It also led to strong strategic and marketing plans, which have really helped us stay focused not only on what we would do, but what we wouldnt do, to grow our tourism industry. The CVBs goal going forward will be to continue to grow overnight-stay properties, but also boost destination retail, restaurant and historic sites so that Williamson County becomes an all-inclusive destination for both family and group travelers. We have really grown our role
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in helping the various tourismrelated businesses here, and those that want to come, identify what will be a good fit for the area, Shore says. We can help them work through what is a great idea, as well as what might not be exactly right for Williamson County. Our businesses really want to hear our thoughts, so we look forward to continuing to deepen those relationships.
CINDY GARVEY Broker/Agent 615-202-9515 Wanda Adkins 615-438-1361 Dewane Klooster 615-512-6145 Olivia Stelter 615-668-0877
Earl Wilson 615-663-8900 4151 Old Hillsboro Rd. Franklin, TN 37064 615-599-3676 www.leipersfork.com
Each Office Independently Owned and Operated
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www.nashvillepizzacompany.com
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Business
chamber report
NolENsvillE aTTRacTs REsiDENTial aND commERcial DEvEloPmENT
he economy is turning around a bit, and Nolensville is no exception. We have two commercial developments under way, and seven subdivisions are experiencing construction, says Chuck Fann, chairman of the Nolensville Chamber of Commerce. Things here never really slowed down too much during the recent rough economy, especially with regard to residential development. More people are recognizing that Nolensville is a comfortable place to live. Fann says because of the steadily growing population, Nolensville is becoming a very attractive place to do business. There are now more than 5,800 residents in Nolensville, and with home sales continuing, we finally have enough people in our town to support businesses that open, he says. One new business that Fann has frequented since it debuted in 2012 is Nanas diner, which is located on Nolensville Road. The restaurant joins a variety of
other successful eateries in town such as amicos New york Pizza, Mamas Java, Martins Bar-B-que Joint, Oscars Taco Shop and Uncle Buds Catfish Shack. Nanas is a meat-and-three restaurant that serves good comfort food, he says. i like the chicken parmesan.
Wheel in Motion
Fann wants to also remind people about the Broken Wheel Festival, Nolensvilles annual celebration in September that brings the community together and introduces residents to local businesses. anyone can exhibit a booth at the festival, and approximately 1,000 people annually attend Broken Wheel, he says. There are many activities, and proceeds go to our three schools: Nolensville elementary, Sunset elementary and Sunset Middle. This town is very much family-oriented, with a quality school system and many sports activities for children. Kevin Litwin
chuck Fann, the Nolensville chamber of commerce chairman, poses in front of the Nolensville Town Hall.
JeFFRey S. OTTO
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HarpetH
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Business
chamber report
FaiRviEW cHambER PUsHEs GREEN iNiTiaTivE
everly Totty, who serves as Fairviews mayor and chamber of commerce president, says she would like to see Fairview Growing Green possibly become the citys new branding slogan. We are promoting walkability and a healthier community through a number of initiatives, including the establishment of a greenway system that stretches from Fairview City Hall to Bowie Nature Park, Totty says. The city received a grant to establish a greenway system that includes installing a handicap-accessible trail around the lake at Bowie Nature Park. That trail will allow everyone to see the beauty of our crown jewel park.
times, there has been a lot of road construction taking place, which is always a forerunner to a growing community, she says. We have a widening project for Highway 100 completed in the summer of 2012, consisting of three lanes as well as sidewalks on both sides of the street. again, the sidewalks are to promote walkability and good health.
Welcome to fairview
The city is also in the midst of a beautification campaign that includes installing new Welcome to Fairview signs, and adding sidewalks from schools to identified neighborhoods. Totty says the greenway system and beautification campaign are part of several upgrades planned for Fairview. if you have driven through the city in recent
JeFFRey S. OTTO
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Business
Biz Briefs
bUsiNEssEs boTH laRGE aND small THaT HElP DEFiNE WilliamsoN coUNTys EcoNomic climaTE
scorecard
bUsIness At A GlAnCe
$3 billion
Annual retail sales
$19,834
retail sales Per Capita
$383 million
Annual Hotel and food sales
25,339
total number of firms
Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts
MAserAtI, rOlls-rOYCe, bentleY Of nAsHvIlle Biz: Luxury vehicle dealership Buzz: Located in the Cool Springs area, Maserati, Rolls-Royce, Bentley of Nashville offers a variety of new and used luxury vehicles. The dealership, which is open Monday through Saturday, also has a parts department and a service center.
www.maseratinashville.com
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InsIde OUt PlAY PArK Biz: Family-based play center Buzz: Inside Out Play Park offers an indoor play area where children as old as 10 can enjoy a treehouse, monkey bars, climbing walls, slides, a bike track and more. Additionally, Inside Out Play Park provides child care and day camps, as well as a coffee bar and a cafe with nutritious selections.
insideoutplaypark.com
bArrY AlexAnder AUtOMOtIve Biz: Vehicle dealership Buzz: Barry Alexander Automotive offers pre-owned cars, trucks, SUVs, minivans and motorcycles, and carries popular makes such as Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Nissan and more. Eco-friendly vehicles, such as electric-powered scooters, ATVs and UTVs, are also available. Located in Franklin, the dealership in open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m.
barryalexanderautomotive.com
ArrInGtOn vIneYArds Biz: Vineyard and winery Buzz: Arrington Vineyards, founded in 2005 by Kix Brooks, Fred Mindermann and Kip Summers, offers awardwinning wines created from grapes grown on site. Guests can enjoy wine tastings and a gift shop, and can picnic on the property. Arrington Vineyards also hosts special events and the facilitys Cellar Patio can be rented.
www.arringtonvineyards.com
tOllGAte vIllAGe Biz: Residential community Buzz: This Dock Street Community development captures a small-town feel with single family homes, resort style amenities, parks and planned retail shops, restaurants, and offices. Tollgate Village is located on Highway 31, near State Route 840.
tollgatevillagetn.com
We Cant.
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advertisers
Aloft Hotel Cool Springs www.aloftnashvillecoolsprings.com American Constructors www.americanconstructors.us Ascend Federal Credit Union www.ascendfcu.org Avatar Software www.avatar-soft.com BancorpSouth www.bancorpsouthonline.com BBE Solutions www.bbesolutions.com Bell Historic Franklin www.bellhistoricfranklin.com Bob Parks Realty Susan Gregory www.homesaroundnashvilletn.com CharacterEyes www.charactereyespc.com Columbia State Community College www.columbiastate.edu Crye Leike Brenda Wilhoite www.brendawilhoite.com Crye-Leike Relocation Services www.crye-leike.com Currey Ingram Academy www.curreyingram.org Dock Street Realty of Tennessee LLC www.tollgatevillagetn.com First Light Home Care www.firstlighthomecare.com First State Bank www.first-state.net Franklin Special School District www.fssd.org Franklin Synergy Bank www.franklinsynergybank.com Goodall Homes www.goodallhomes.com Harpeth True Value www.harpethtruevalue.com Hyatt Place Nashville Franklin-Cool Springs www.franklin.place.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels
visit our
GenerAL L Aw PrActice
civiL LAw business
Judy A. Oxford www.judyoxfordlaw.com Keller Williams Paula Rait www.BenandPaulaRait.com Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority www.nashintl.com Middle Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation www.tpalmer@mtemc.com Nashville Golf & Athletic Club www.ngac.net Nashville Pizza Company www.nashvillepizzacompany.com
criminAL LAw
divorce
custody
juveniLe
&
OxfOrd
Attorney
At
Judy
L Aw
Primrose School of Cool Springs www.primrosecoolsprings.com Pucketts Grocery & Restaurant www.puckettsgrocery.com Southeast Financial Credit Union www.southeastfinancial.org Star Physical Therapy www.starpt.com Tennessee Credit Union www.ttcu.org The Factory at Franklin www.factoryatfranklin.com The Goddard School www.goddardschools.com Tim Thompson Premier Realtors www.timthompsonpremierrealtors.com
United Country Real Estate www.leipersfork.com Vanderbilt Legends Club www.vanderbiltlegendsclub.com Vanderbilt Medical Center Williamson www.vanderbilthealth.com/williamson Williamson County Soccer Association www.williamsoncountysoccer.com Williamson Medical Center www.williamsonmedicalcenter.org Wingate by Wyndham www.wingatehotels.com
(615) 791-8511
www.judyoxFordLAw.com
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Business
eCOnOMIC PrOfIle
bUsIness ClIMAte
Williamson County is home to a highly-skilled workforce that comprises nearly 6,000 businesses. The countys proximity to major cities such as Nashville makes it an attractive location.
GOvernMent OffICes
Williamson county mayor Rogers anderson 1320 West Main, Suite 125 Franklin, TN 37064 (615) 790-5700 www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov city of brentwood 5211 Maryland Way Brentwood, TN 37207 www.brentwood-tn.org city of Fairview 7100 City Center Way Fairview, TN 37062 (615) 799-CiTy www.fairview-tn.org city of Franklin 109 3rd avenue South Franklin, TN 37064 (615) 791-3217 www.franklin-gov.com Town of Nolensville 7218 Nolensville Road P.O. Box 547 Nolensville, TN 37135 (615) 776-3633 www.nolensvilletn.gov city of spring Hill 199 Town Center Parkway Spring Hill, TN 37174 www.springhilltn.org Town of Thompsons station 1550 Thompsons Station Road West Thompsons Station, TN 37179 www.thompsons-station.com
MAjOr eMPlOYers
CoolSprings Galleria: 3,500 Williamson County Schools: 3,435 Community Health Systems: 2,153 Williamson County Government/Services: 1,842 Williamson Medical Center: 1,397 HCa: 1,368 verizon Wireless: 1,300 Nissan americas: 1,200 United Health Group: 1,200 Healthways: 900 Comdata Corporation: 869 Ford Motor Credit: 800 Mars Petcare: 742 Lee Company: 625 Tractor Supply Company: 552
InCOMe
$121,883
average Household income
$41,977
Per Capita income
trAnsPOrtAtIOn
AIrPOrts:
Nashville international airport 1 Terminal drive Nashville, TN 37214 (615) 275-1600 shultz airport 4622 villa Green drive Nashville, TN 37215 (615) 665-0663
eCOnOMIC resOUrCes
WIllIAMsOn COUntY CHAMber Of COMMerCe
1164 Columbia avenue Franklin, TN 37064 (615) 794-1225 williamsoncountychamber.org
bUs servICe:
The Tma Group 708 Columbia avenue Franklin, TN 37064 (615) 790-4005 Franklin Transit authority (615) 628-0260
MAjOr rOAdWAYs:
i-65, i-40, state Route 840
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Local Flavor
Pucketts Grocery & Restaurant in leipers Fork offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and live music.
BrentWood dining
Brentwoods restaurant scene includes several unique establishments such as Mre Bulles, which is a local favorite for fine dining and special events. The restaurants menu features entrees such as steak, lamb and seafood, as well as wine and cocktails. another top spot is Wild Ginger, a fusion restaurant that serves a combination of Pan-asian, South american and Western cuisine including sushi, duck and sea bass. For a more casual experience, visit the Wild iris. The eatery has entrees such as pork chops, shrimp and scallops, and also includes a popular outdoor patio. Craving coffee and crepes? Head to The Perch, where diners can also enjoy omelets, Belgian
waffles and specialty salads, as well as tapas, wine and champagne after 2 p.m. The Puffy Muffin has great breakfast options, too, including pastries and pancakes, plus a lunch menu with soups, salads and sandwiches. Serving Tex-Mex food, Local Taco offers lunch and dinner. The restaurant features an expansive drink menu with margaritas, cocktails, wine and beer. To enjoy barbecue, stop by Judge Beans, which also has ribs, smoked sausage, tacos and wraps.
Franklin restaurants
iconic eateries that continue to grace the Williamson County food scene include Merridees Breadbasket and The Bunganut Pig. There is also Pucketts Grocery & Restaurant, which got its start in Leipers Fork and has since opened a similar eatery on Fourth avenue South in downtown Franklin. Pucketts serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with menu items such as barbecue and ribs that the kitchen staff hickory-smokes.
Pucketts recently rolled out its newest offering, Trolley Parton, which is the first food trolley to debut in the area. it offers madeto-order items such as smoked pork, chicken, burgers, sweet potato fries and cobblers, and also provides signature Pucketts menu selections including catfish tacos and the brisket chimichanga. Trolley Parton can be reserved for private events and festivals. another landmark is dotsons, a Franklin mainstay restaurant for more than 60 years. it specializes in old-fashioned meat-and-three meals, where customers typically order meat and three side items such as corn, fried green tomatoes and white beans. Other great places for sit-down meals in the Franklin area include Saffire Restaurant, Mellow Mushroom, Franklin Chop House, Joe Naturals Farm Store & Cafe, and Sals Family Pizza.
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Noshville is a New york-style delicatessen, and Boscos offers a variety of appetizers, salads, entrees and gourmet pizzas, plus seasoned beers and microbrews with names like Boscos Brown ale and Tennessee Cream ale. Relatively new to Cool Springs are drakes and Newks. drakes features a neighborhood bar-andgrill setting where the motto is Come Play, while Newks has casual in-cafe dining with menu choices such as pizza, tossed salads and toasted sandwiches. Kevin Litwin
JeFFRey S. OTTO
Partners in health
WilliamsoN mEDical cENTER aND vaNDERbilT UNivERsiTy mEDical cENTER TEam UP To PRoviDE WoRlD-class PaTiENT caRE
ealth-care options for Williamson County residents are greater than ever thanks to an affiliation between Williamson Medical Center and vanderbilt University Medical Center.
outpatient clinics at 17 locations within Williamson County. Patients receive care in services ranging from dermatology to cardiology. Both Williamson Medical Center and vanderbilt have made large financial investments in Williamson County during the last decade to improve access, quality and excellence, says don Webb, CeO of Williamson Medical Center. aligning with one another is the natural next step in continuing to provide high-quality, patient-focused care in Williamson County.
appreciative of the opportunity to continue to strengthen our relationships with the physicians providing outstanding health care within Williamson County, says dr. C. Wright Pinson, deputy vice chancellor for health affairs and CeO of vanderbilt Health System.
VanderBilts Future
vanderbilt is constructing a Cool Springs campus near WMCs Carothers Parkway campus. The $5.1 million, 22-acre site will consolidate specialty outpatient clinics and outpatient surgical services. The initial $60 million office building could open as early as 2014 and will eventually double in size. in 2012, vUMC also announced plans for a laboratory to be located within the Cool Springs Life Sciences Center that will house growth necessary to the vanderbilt Center for Neuroscience drug discovery. Melanie Kilgore-Hill
a healthy PartnershiP
The agreement ensures both hospitals will remain independent, and that patients will receive more efficient, cost-effective care. While this agreement is focused on the joint creation of programs with our colleagues at Williamson Medical Center, we are
VanderBilt Williamson
Meanwhile, vanderbilt University Medical Center operates more than 20 specialty
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aging care
WIllIaMSon CounTy haS Many ChoICeS For ThoSe SeekInG qualITy SenIor Care anD aSSISTeD lIvInG oPTIonS. They InCluDe:
Belvedere Commons of Franklin Brighton Gardens of Brentwood BrightStone Inc. Claiborne & hughes health
Center Inc. elmcroft of Brentwood Grace healthcare of Franklin The Maristone of Franklin nhC Franklin nhC Place Cool Springs
Fairview 799-1915
SErviCES iNCluDE: Physical/Occupational Therapy Manual Therapy Sports Medicine Womens Health Cancer Care Industrial Rehabilitation Balance Therapy and more
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WilliaMsON cOuNty resiDeNts eNJOy a caleNDar full Of fuN eveNts. aMONg the largest are: July Franklin on the Fourth, Franklin august Williamson County Chamber Golf Classic, vanderbilt legends Club, Franklin Williamson County Fair, Franklin septeMber Broken Wheel Festival, nolensville Franklin Jazz Festival, Franklin OctOber Country ham Festival, Spring hill healthy living and lifestyles health expo, Brentwood Pumpkinfest, Franklin Susan G. komen race for the Cure, Brentwood Town Center Saturdays, Brentwood NOveMber Wine Down Main Street, Franklin DeceMber Dickens of a Christmas, Franklin
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JeFFRey S. OTTO
and refreshments from local bars and eateries as they get a taste of the culture. The Williamson County arts scene would not be complete without the artists Row at the Factory, a community of artists in their studios who manage their own spaces and have their work on display for others to enjoy at The Factory at Franklin. They put it all out there for people to see with their production studios and their retail spaces all in one area. it really is a unique experience, damico says. There is always something new and exciting to see each month.
Brentwood academy has several galleries to showcase artwork created by both students and locals. Meanwhile, the FiftyForward Martin Center offers arts programs and classes and hosts events such as zoes Gallery of Friends, an art exhibition and sale with works from more than 40 local artists. Chris Russell
highly used parks. There are plenty of picnic pavilions, tables, and grills, along with a childrens playground. a one-mile paved pedestrian track encompasses the entire park and is well-lit for evening use.
Pinkerton Park
With the Harpeth River along its west side and historic Fort Granger to the north, Pinkerton Park is one of Franklins most
Above: the paved trails at brentwoods Crockett Park lure skaters, walkers, runners and bikers from Williamson county and surrounding areas.
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STaFF PHOTO
experienced and novice skateboarders. The park includes bowls, ramps, stairs and railings.
Connector Trail and Mill Creek Greenway Trail. another area known for its natural beauty is Brentwoods deerwood arboretum and Nature Center, which has 27 acres of native trees, migratory birds, a walking and bikeway trail, a wildflower meadow and more.
MiCHaeL CONTi
education
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JeFF adkiNS
reater convenience to higher education and workforce training is just around the corner for residents here, with ground broken recently for a new Columbia State Community College campus. around $6.5 million in state funding cleared the way for the college to purchase property in Franklin. The campus will replace the facility that has served residents for more than 30 years, and will offer the chance to complete two-year, certificate training and eventually four-year studies at home, says Bethany Lay, executive for advancement at Columbia State.
says. We think thats one way we can serve as a strong recruiting tool for the county. Williamson County takes pride in its k-12 education system, and the new campus will allow those students to complete the education spectrum. agreements with nearby four-year colleges allow for credit transfer, and the plan is to offer some of their programs on campus so Columbia State students can earn a four-year degree without transferring.
COMMUnItY PrOfIle
snAPsHOt
Williamson County is a vibrant, growing community known for its scenic beauty, quiet neighborhoods and thriving business districts. Home to many community groups, historic sites and an array of activities, the county offers something for the entire family.
26.1%
White collar
edUCAtIOn
WIllIAMsOn COUntY sCHOOls
472-4000, www.wcs.edu
73.9%
blue collar
eMerGenCY nUMbers
Fire, Police or Medical emergency 911 Tennessee Highway Patrol 794-1442
edUCAtIOn levels
(Percentage of persons age 25+) High school graduate, 94.8 Bachelors degree or higher, 51.8
WOrKfOrCe
97,060
labor Force
44,290
Work inside the county
36,144
Work outside the county
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COst Of lIvInG
(2nd quarter 2012) Composite index Grocery items Health care Housing Misc. goods & services Transportation Utilities U.S. average 88.3 95.4 85.8 73.5 97.8 92.8 87.2 100.0
POPUlAtIOn
(2011 estimates) Williamson County Brentwood Fairview Franklin Nolensville Spring Hill Thompsons Station 188,560 38,144 7,947 64,317 6,036 29,735 2,258
ClIMAte
average annual temp. Jan. average high Jan. average low June average high June average low average annual precip. average annual snow 58.8 46.9 28.4 86.4 65.1 59.5 8.2
nUMbers tO KnOW
driver license election Commission Recycling vehicle Registration voter Registration 790-5515 790-5711 790-5848 790-5712 790-5711
UtIlItIes
CAble
Charter Comm. Comcast 931-388-3550 244-5900
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Ad Index
C3 Aloft Hotel Cool SpringS 55 AmeriCAn ConStruCtorS 1 ASCend federAl Credit union 56 AvAtAr SoftwAre 36 BAnCorpSoutH 58 BBe SolutionS 51 Bell HiStoriC frAnklin 4 BoB pArkS reAlty SuSAn gregory 32 CHArACtereyeS 8 ColumBiA StAte Community College 32 Crye leike BrendA wilHoite 58 Currey ingrAm ACAdemy C4 doCk Street reAlty of tenneSSee llC 49 firSt ligHt Home CAre 38 firSt StAte BAnk 34 frAnklin SpeCiAl SCHool diStriCt 16 frAnklin Synergy BAnk 32 goodAll HomeS 36 HArpetH true vAlue 16 HyAtt plACe nASHville frAnklin-Cool SpringS 38 Judy A. oxford 34 Crye-leike reloCAtion ServiCeS
Ad Index (cont.)
59 keller williAmS pAulA rAit 59 metropolitAn nASHville Airport AutHority 29 middle tenneSSee eleCtriC memBerSHip CorporAtion 8 nASHville golf & AtHletiC CluB 34 nASHville pizzA CompAny 25 primroSe SCHool of Cool SpringS 47 puCkettS groCery & reStAurAnt 15 SoutHeASt finAnCiAl Credit union 49 StAr pHySiCAl tHerApy 25 tenneSSee Credit union 21 tHe fACtory At frAnklin 56 tHe goddArd SCHool 53 tim tHompSon premier reAltorS 29 united Country reAl eStAte 34 vAnderBilt legendS CluB 31 vAnderBilt mediCAl Center williAmSon 21 williAmSon County SoCCer ASSoCiAtion C2 williAmSon mediCAl Center 2 wingAte By wyndHAm
eleCtrICItY
Middle Tenn. elec. Nashville electric 794-3561 736-6900
GArbAGe COlleCtIOn
Franklin (city) 794-1516
nAtUrAl GAs
aTMOS energy Piedmont 794-2596 734-0665
telePHOne
aT&T: Residence aT&T: Business United Telephone 800-288-2020 866-620-6000 800-779-2227
WAter
Brentwood 371-0080 794-4572 794-7796 628-0237 794-5947 776-2511 441-4188
Paula cell: (615) 585-1700 Ben cell: (615) 585-9400 Office: (615) 778-1818
Franklin HB and TS Util. Mallory valley Util. Milcrofton Util. Nolensville Fairview
www.BenandPaulaRait.com
lIbrArIes
Bethesda Brentwood College Grove Fairview Leipers Fork Nolensville Williamson County 790-1887 371-0090 368-3222 799-0235 794-7019 776-5490 794-3105
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