Free Computer Classes for Seniors

3:15 pm | Wednesday, Jan 13th
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The Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department is pleased to team up with the Williamson County Public Library to offer four free computer classes for seniors (55+). Learn about iPhones & iPads, Ancestry.com, Facebook and Pinterest. Classes will be held at the main branch of the Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Ave. Students can pick the specific sessions they want to attend (see below), or choose to attend all four (reg. code #5792). All classes are Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Registration is required online at www.wcparksandrec.com.

  • February 26: i101 (iPhones & iPads). Registration deadline 2/23; registration code # 5793.
  • March 4: Intro to Ancestry.com. Registration deadline 3/1; registration code # 5794.
  • March 11: Facebook profiles. Registration deadline, 3/8; registration code # 5795.
  • March 18: Intro to Pinterest. Registration deadline, 3/15; registration code # 5796.

Williamson County Parks and Recreation is a public organization, here to benefit the community. Anyone may register for and participate in the department’s programs, teams, classes and events. For more information about the facilities and programs of the Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department, visit www.wcparksandrec.com, or call (615) 790-5719, ext. 2010. You can also receive up-to-date department information by “liking” us on Facebook or following us on Twitter at @wc_parksandrec or on Pinterest.

Scholarship Available to Williamson County Students

3:11 pm | Wednesday, Jan 13th
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High school seniors and current college students who live in Williamson County are encouraged to apply for the scholarship to be awarded by Leadership Franklin. The non-profit organization will award one $1,500 scholarship to a student who meets the scholarship criteria.

Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average to be considered. A copy of the student’s transcript and a 500-word essay are part of the application requirement.

Scholarships are awarded based on a combination of scholarship application points, community involvement, and quality of essay. All students are encouraged to apply.

Applications are due March 4, 2016. Applications may be obtained online at www.leadershipfranklin.org.

Now in its 20th year, Leadership Franklin is a non-profit community leadership organization dedicated to educating, informing, and empowering leaders to improve the quality of life in Franklin and Williamson County. Leadership Franklin is funded primarily by business, individual, and alumni contributions. Each year, twenty participants are selected based on commitment to the Williamson County community, previous participation in community, civic, or professional organizations, and demonstrated leadership in current or previous positions.

 

For more information: Contact Executive Director Paula Harris at 615-252-4312 or paula.harris@bwsc.net or Debbie Henry, Associate Executive Director, at 615-628-0264 or DHenry@tmagroup.org.

Mexican Manicotti

3:03 pm | Wednesday, Jan 13th
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The latest from JustAPinch.com, “Can’t decide if you want Mexican or Italian for dinner tonight? Why not both! Laura Yoder experimented in her kitchen and came up with this fun Mexican Manicotti My Way. It has all the taco flavors and ingredients you love (ground beef, cheese, beans, olives), stuffed inside manicotti shells. It’s delicious, easy and fun! See step-by-step photos of Laura’s recipe plus thousands more from home cooks nationwide at: www.justapinch.com. You’ll also find a meal planner, coupons and chances to win! Enjoy and remember, use just a pinch…

 

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 2 c mexican blend shredded cheese
  • 1 can(s)refried black beans (bush’s)
  • 1 pkg taco seasoning mix
  • 1 jar(s)16 oz. picante sauce
  • 2 c sour cream
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 small can(s)sliced black olives
  • 2 c water, warm
  • 1 box manicotti shells
  1. Mix raw ground beef with taco seasoning, 1 cup of cheese and 1 can refried black beans.
  2. Using the uncooked manicotti shells, stuff the meat mixture into the shells and place in a large baking dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray.
  3. Pour the jar of picante over the stuffed shells. Then pour in the 2 cups of warm water.
  4. Cover with foil and bake in 350 degree oven for 1 hr to 1 1/2 hrs.
  5. When shells are done and dish is bubbly top with sour cream, reserved cheese and olives.
  6. Put back in oven for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Remove from oven and top with green onions.
Serves: 6
Cook: 1 Hr 30 Min
Method: Bake

Fabulous Friends for Africa Valentine’s Party

2:45 pm | Wednesday, Jan 13th
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This event was started by a group of women turning 50 who wanted to raise money for the needy in Africa instead of hosting a birthday celebration for themselves.  In its ninth year, the women who call themselves Fabulous Friends for Africa have raised more than $500,000 to support 100 orphans in Lizulu, Malawi and purchase study Bibles for the AL training programs throughout Africa. This year, proceeds raised through the party will benefit women and children across Africa who have been through traumatic experiences, either by war or in the sex slave industry.  African Leadership (AL) a local organization committed to providing church leaders with theological education and come along side these leaders as they work to impact their local communities across the continent.

Host a reserved table for ten for $750 or buy individual tickets for open seating at $75 in advance…$100 at the door.  Register at www.fabulousfriendsforafrica.org   Cost includes Italian buffet dinner, silent auction and dancing to the music of 12 South Band.

Love, Americana Style

2:41 pm | Wednesday, Jan 13th
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Love, Americana Style is a five-day themed celebration that takes place February 10-14, 2016 to commemorate Valentine’s Day, from break-up to make-up and everything in between. Whether it’s a candlelight dinner, live Jazz and a romantic stroll beneath the twinkling lights of Main Street or rejoicing in the single life with happy hour and a songwriters night, there is something for everyone during this holiday of love.

 

Wednesday, February 10th: Galentine’s Day

 

Thursday, February 11th: Puppy Love

Friday, February 12th: Stupid Cupid

 

Saturday, February 13th: Everlasting Love

 

Sunday, February 14th: Valentine’s Day

 

Retail Specials

Homeowners Reap Remodeling Benefits Whether Selling or Staying, Say Realtors®

4:20 am | Tuesday, Jan 12th
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Homeowners preparing to sell often make improvements, both big and small, to their homes that can help yield positive results and garner top dollar from buyers. According to a new report from the National Association of Realtors®, remodeling projects can also bring major benefits to homeowners who choose to remain in their homes.

“Realtors® know that certain home upgrades and remodels can be beneficial to get more buyer eyes on a property, potentially bring in more offers or gain more equity from a home,” said NAR President Tom Salomone, broker-owner of Real Estate II Inc. in Coral Springs, Florida. “But remodeling projects are just as valuable to homeowners who simply want to get more joy out of their dwellings. Regardless of the situation, Realtors® know what remodeling projects bring the biggest bang for the buck and what projects are most likely to improve a homeowner’s impression of their current place.”

According to NAR’s 2015 Remodeling Impact Report, which uncovers the reasons homeowners choose a remodel and the increased happiness certain projects bring once completed, 64 percent have experienced increased enjoyment in their home after completing a remodeling project. Additionally, 75 percent of respondents said they felt a major sense of accomplishment when thinking of their completed project. Fifty-four percent of respondents felt happy about the changes to their home, and 40 percent felt satisfied. As for their reasons to complete a remodeling project, 38 percent of homeowners said they wanted to upgrade worn-out surfaces, finishes and materials; 17 percent wanted to add features and improve livability; and 13 percent believed it was time for a change.

Realtors® named kitchen upgrades, complete kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations and new wood flooring as the interior projects that most appeal to potential buyers. Similarly, Realtors® also ranked projects based on expected value at resale (without accounting for project price); the projects that ranked the highest in this category were complete kitchen renovations, kitchen upgrades, bathroom renovations and the addition of a bathroom.

When looking at the interior projects that yield the biggest financial results upon resale, Realtors® ranked hardwood flooring refinishes (100 percent of project cost recovered upon resale), insulation upgrades (95 percent recovered), new wood flooring (91 percent recovered), and converting a basement to a living area (69 percent recovered) as projects to consider.

Exterior projects are also important for both sellers and homeowners looking to increase satisfaction with their current home. Realtors® said new roofing, new vinyl windows, new garage doors and new vinyl siding are most appealing to potential buyers and are highly valued upon resale (both considering project price and disregarding project price). Upon resale, Realtors® said new roofing would recover 105 percent of its project cost, a new garage door would recover 87 percent, new vinyl siding would recover 83 percent, and new vinyl windows would bring back 80 percent of their cost. As for exterior projects that bring the most happiness for those not necessarily intending to sell, homeowners said new fiber-cement siding, new fiberglass or steel front doors, new roofing, and new garage doors brought the most satisfaction.

The 2015 Remodeling Impact Report, the first of its kind from NAR that examines personal satisfaction from remodeling projects, surveyed Realtors®, consumers who have completed their own remodeling projects, and members of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

“Remodeling projects can greatly improve both the value of and satisfaction with one’s home, which are great things no matter the reason for a project,” said Judy Mozen, president of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. “This report highlights the best projects to consider in either situation and showcases just how much of a difference a good and professional remodel can make in real numbers.”

Salomone said the report not only assists homeowners who are preparing to sell in choosing the best projects to attract buyers, but it also helps those looking to get more personal satisfaction out of their homes. “Realtors® know that remodeling projects aren’t just done to get more money for a home once it’s time to sell – a home is your sanctuary, the place you raise your family and where you make lifelong memories, which is why the report can also help consumers decide which projects could enhance their current quality of life and happiness,” he said.

The National Association of Realtors®, “The Voice for Real Estate,” is America’s largest trade association, representing 1.1 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry is the medium for business development, a platform for advocacy and the principal source for industry intelligence. NARI connects homeowners with its professional members and provides tips and tricks so that the consumer has a positive remodeling experience.

Police warn residents of phone scams

2:05 am | Monday, Jan 11th
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Franklin Police want to remind area residents of the jury duty scam making its way through Williamson County, and across the nation.

Here is how the scam works:
The offender calls an unsuspecting resident, claiming to be an official with the Sheriff’s Office. They tell the resident that they have failed to meet a jury duty obligation, and then threatens their arrest unless the resident buys a prepaid card, loads it with money, and then arranges for transfer of those funds to the suspect. In some cases, the suspect may claim that only cash is accepted, and then attempt to meet the victim in front of a courthouse, police station, or other government building.This is not how the real police operate. In fact, police officers will never call you to demand payment in lieu of arrest. If you receive a phone call that you believe is part of a jury duty scam, or any other scam – hang up, and call your local law enforcement agency.17362Children who have aging parents should talk with their loved ones about these types of scams. Warn them to never give anyone numbers or codes to their credit cards, bankcards, or any personal or financial information over the telephone. Also, be sure to warn them never to meet anyone who calls demanding payment over the telephone, in person.

Sprouts Farmers Market

1:34 am | Monday, Jan 11th
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Sprouts is the grocery shopping experience that makes healthy living easy and affordable. Their bright and cheery neighborhood grocery stores offer fresh, natural and organic foods and products at incredible prices – and in an approachable setting that feels like an old-fashioned farmers market.

You’ll find mountains of colorful, fresh fruits and vegetables, barrels of wholesome grains, nuts and sweets, and full-service deli, meat and seafood counters—complete with handmade burgers and sausages. Roam around our spacious, low-profile aisles and you’ll find fresh baked goods, tasty and convenient, ready-to-eat meals, gourmet cheeses, sensibly-priced vitamins and supplements, and thousands of natural, organic and gluten-free groceries.

Whether you’re shopping for everyday essentials or exploring the aisles to try something new, you can’t miss their very own Sprouts Brand products sprinkled throughout the store. Our buyers go to great lengths to source new and unique, top-quality items on a regular basis – so you’re bound to find new favorites every time you shop.

Beyond the unique layout, shopping experience and product selection, they are proud to be a healthy living resource for customers by sharing recipes, how-to videos, wellness webinars and educational content right here on sprouts.com.

Simply sign-up today to set your preferences and opt to subscribe to receive weekly specials via email. Plus, if you’re on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest, you’ll find an abundance of DIY’s, health tips, new product alerts, giveaways and more to inspire healthier choices when you join Sprouts’ social media communities.

Monarch Landscape Company

8:43 pm | Thursday, Dec 31st
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In 2002, Adam Chesney founded Monarch Landscape Company with a commitment to provide his clients with services which rate a cut above their expectations. “Our core philosophy is based on a deep respect and appreciation for our clients’ landscaping needs and desires,” says Chesney. “We do this by establishing a customer centered plan, then applying the skills and experience of the Monarch staff to create a masterpiece that can be maintained or one that may evolve in a dynamic expression of the client’s creativity.”To achieve such high level of customer satisfaction, Monarch Landscape Company is staffed with employees in leadership positions who are educated with degrees in horticulture and/or employees who have the experience of owning successful private landscaping companies.

Chesney credits the growth of the company to his dedicated staff who seek out continuing education opportunities in order to stay current in an industry that is always moving forward. “It takes a staff of this quality to understand the importance of developing the strong customer relationships which underscore our commitment and then follow through with excellence in our garden products and landscape services. It is our great staff that enables us to handle the challenges that arise daily.”

“I began mowing lawns for neighbors and friends of the family as soon as my dad would let me push a mower. He drove me from house to house, until I could drive myself. I loved it!” That was the first of Chesney’s business ventures which lasted through high school. Then, he was off to Berry College for the next five years. “While there, my love for the outdoors grew and studying Horticulture just seemed to be the natural thing for me. Berry has an extensive student work program and I was able to work on the manicured grounds on campus and at the Oak Hill Gardens and Museum gaining invaluable experience.”

Monarch Landscapes Monarch Landscape is a fully insured, licensed and bonded landscape and irrigation contracting company. They carry worker compensation, general liability and property damage insurance with a limit of $1,000,000 per occurrence. Monarch is licensed by the State of Tennessee to provide pest control services under the category HLT Lawn and Turf Grass Pest Control. Our current staff numbers over thirty employees and service over three-hundred clients in the Middle Tennessee area. To learn more visit Monarch Landscape Company, today.

Books from Birth, Niswonger Foundation Partner On New Hospital Book Initiative

6:14 pm | Thursday, Dec 31st
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The Governor’s Books from Birth Foundation (GBBF) and the Niswonger Foundation announced their new partnership aimed at increasing early enrollment of Northeast Tennessee children in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (DPIL) program.  Parents who enroll newborns before leaving the hospital will be given the first book, The Little Engine That Could, as an incentive to begin reading aloud with their children beginning at birth, an activity proven to support early childhood literacy.

This partnership will enable the GBBF’s “Birthing Hospital Initiative” to expand across Northeast Tennessee, starting with the three Mountain States Health Alliance hospitals – Indian Path Medical Center, Franklin Woods Community Hospital and Johnson City Medical Center. In 2014, more than 3,200 deliveries were performed in those three hospitals combined.

“Our Foundation is proud to join in partnership with the Governor’s Books from Birth Foundation to inspire families to read to their children.  The earlier children are introduced to books and stories, the greater the likelihood that they will develop the literacy skills that can lead to their success in school.” said Niswonger Foundation Chairman and Founder, Scott M. Niswonger.

Dr. Nancy Dishner, Niswonger Foundation President and CEO added, “We are honored to be able to present the very first book to the family of each child born in our region.  Symbolically, this represents our desire to ensure that every child has an opportunity to develop early literacy skills.  Research is clear that early language and learning are directly linked to families reading to children.”

The GBBF is committed to enrolling more newborns into the program, giving them the benefit of receiving their own library of up to 60 books upon reaching age five. Research on Tennessee’s Imagination Library program has demonstrated that participating children begin kindergarten better prepared to read and learn than non-participants, regardless of economic background.

“We know that literacy is tied to good health, and that childhood literacy is key to lifelong learning,” said Alan Levine, president and CEO of Mountain States Health Alliance. “Mountain States is excited to participate in this initiative to give children a head start on that learning journey before they even leave the hospital.”

The Governor’s Books from Birth Foundation, housed in the Office of the First Lady, partners with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to manage the statewide implementation of the Imagination Library program.

“Bill and I are grateful that the Niswonger Foundation is helping to enroll more children in the Imagination Library program at birth,” said First Lady Crissy Haslam.  “Early literacy skills start children on a developmental trajectory for success, and we are glad this initiative encourages more Tennessee children to experience books and reading as soon as they are born.”

GBBF president, Theresa Carl agreed, “This initiative will raise awareness about Tennessee’s Imagination Library and its accessibility to all Tennessee children, ages birth to five. These partners represent the perfect alignment of resources around a common belief in the mission to help Tennessee’s children increase their early reading proficiency.”

About the Niswonger Foundation

Established in 2001 by Scott M. Niswonger, the Niswonger Foundation’s mission is “To create opportunities for individual and community growth through education and other sustainable projects.” The Foundation’s primary programs are the Scholarship and Leadership Program, and the School Partnership Program.  Additional information regarding the work of the Foundation is available at www.niswongerfoundation.org.

About Mountain States Health Alliance

Since 1998, Mountain States Health Alliance has been bringing the nation’s best health care close to home to serve the residents of Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Southeastern Kentucky and Western North Carolina. This not-for-profit health care organization based in Johnson City, Tenn., operates a family of 13 hospitals serving a 29-county region. Mountain States offers a large tertiary hospital with a level 1 trauma center, a dedicated children’s hospital, several community hospitals, two critical access hospitals, a behavioral health hospital, two long-term care facilities, home care and hospice services, retail pharmacies, outpatient services, and a comprehensive medical management corporation. The team members, physicians and volunteers who make up Mountain States Health Alliance are committed to caring for you and earning your trust. For more information, visit www.MountainStatesHealth.com.

About the GBBF

Tennessee’s Imagination Library is available to all Tennessee children, ages birth to age five, through a unique partnership with the Governor’s Books from Birth Foundation that grants one-half of the cost of books for the Imagination Library affiliates in each of Tennessee’s 95 counties, mailing one new, age-appropriate, high-quality book each month to registered children. The GBBF receives vital financial support from the Tennessee General Assembly, private foundations, individuals, and corporate sponsors. An annual gift of about $25 provides 12 books for one child per year. For more information on how to support your local Imagination Library program or how to enroll a child, visit www.GovernorsFoundation.org or call toll-free, 1-877-99-BOOKS.

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