February 4, 2012

Auto & Energy Fair Saturday

Centennial High School (CHS) in Cool Springs TN will host an Automobile and Energy Fair this Saturday, Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the school as part of the school’s participation in an energy education program sponsored by the Energy Policy Office of the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.

The fair, hosted by the CHS ecology classes, is an educational outreach program intended to raise awareness of the importance of proper vehicle maintenance and the resulting reduction of resource usage and emissions.

Like most schools, Cool Springs Centennial High School students and parents drive a variety of types and ages of vehicles that have varying impacts on the environment. The fair will have on display new, high-mileage vehicles and alternatives to conventional vehicles such as hybrids and all-electric vehicles, and the appropriate personnel will be on hand to discuss these options with interested parties. Education on other viable transportation alternatives and energy-saving techniques for the home will also be offered.

The event is open to the general public in addition to CHS parents and students. It is intended as a community outreach effort to educate and increase awareness of the necessity of automobile efficiency; reducing emissions and fuel usage; alternative transportation options; and energy tips that reduce power usage.

School representatives attended an Energy Camp for teachers offered by ECD earlier this year and received a grant to fund the Automobile and Energy Fair activities. To learn more about Tennessee’s Energy Policy Office, visit their Web site at http://www.state.tn.us/ecd/CD_office_energy_policy.html.

The Tile Shop Opening Feb

The former Cool Springs Circuit City location will have a new tenant soon, The Tile Shop.  The  new Cool Springs location is one they have been trying to find for over two years.  Nashville, Brentwood and Franklin TN  The 18,000 square foot in-line shopping center location will sell a wide variety of tile products.  This is a fat chunk of vacant Cool Springs retail space being absorbed by a strong user.  Eric Snyder with the Nashville Business Journal reported on this earlier today.

Types of natural stone that will be carried in the Cool Springs Tile Shop are granite, slate, travertine, marble, mosaics, only and sandstone.  Floor tile to be offered include ceramic, porcelain and stone.  Wall tile varieties such as back-splash, ceramic, metal, stone wall, subway tile and architectural facings round out the diverse tile products carried.  A full line of tools and supplies are available as well as DIY kits and instruction.

This looks to be a fantastic addition to the Cool Springs retail landscape. I’m really looking forward to the the February opening of The Tile Store.  We need a little diversity in the tile choices around here! 

How many backsplashes and tiled bathrooms done by quality builders have you seen that all looked the exact same?

Free Classes at Williams-Sonoma

The Williams-Sonoma in the Cool Springs Galleria is offering FREE 1 hour technique classes on 3 upcoming Sundays.  A great chance to learn something interesting and meet some new people!  If you’re staying at one of the area Cool Springs Hotels, here is a fun, random activity to break the monotony of being away from home on a Sunday.

Williams-Sonoma is located on the bottom floor of the Cool Springs Galleria in Franklin TN.  I spoke with Laura and she said although class sizes are limited they generally do not turn people away.  Times I have been in the store during these events, there seem to be a handful of people who show up and attend the entire hour, while other shoppers stroll in and out.  It is not often instruction of this quality is offered at no charge.

Here are the upcoming Sunday classes as described by Williams-Sonoma:

Balsamic Vinegar & Beyond: Sunday, August 9

Explore the exciting world of vinegars and discover the secrets to using them as flavor enhancers for a host of foods.  You’ll learn when to use sweet or acidic vinegars, and find your own favorite varieties.

All About Olive Oil: Sunday, August 16

Join us as we learn all about “liquid gold”.  We’ll discuss why certain extra virgin olive oils are so special and how to use them for cooking, drizzling, finishing and flavoring foods.  We’ll share invaluable tips, including how the right choice of olive oil can transform homemade pesto into something exceptional.

Pizza & Panini: Sunday, August 23

Now that the kids are back in school, you’ll want to expand your repertoire of quick and satisfying meals.  Pizza and panini fit the bill perfectly.  We’ll share our favorite sweet and savory recipes, along with make ahead tips and easy ways to incorporate leftovers.  You’ll learn some great recipes for entertaining too.

I’ll try to attend some of these complimentary technique classes and share my experience with you.