Bellevue, TN June 2023

ART FOR TODAY'S WORLD

LIFE + CULTURE

PHARMACY WITH A FLAIR

FOOD + BEVERAGE THE RETURN OF UPSCALE DINING

JUNE 2023

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An eye fo r d etail is wh a t m a kes a Da l a ma r H o me so g rea t to li ve in We pa y a t te nt i o n to t he sm a ll j oys as well as t he o bvi o us needs: well-ap p oi nted ki tchens and p roperl y s caled ro o ms , as well as q u i et sp a ces , p l a y ro o ms , and wor ksp a ce with li tt le d eta ils t ha t ma ke a h o me po p Wh ethe r yo u ” re a bu ye r o r a p rofessional in the real e s ta te m a r ket it is ver y cle a r wha t ca re go es i nto ever y home

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One of 3D Design Center's main focus' is kitchen & bath renovations. We transform spaces by structurally redesigning them, resulting in a better look and flow in the home.

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Off The Ground!

Dear Bellevue Friends & Neighbors,

An old song popped into my head today: Paul McCartney’s “Off The Ground.” In 1993, my dad took me to see my favorite ex-Beatle in Atlanta on “The New World Tour” when he toured behind the album of the same name. The song goes, “It doesn’t take a lot to get off the ground.” This struck me as a tad funny and a bit ironic because to get a new magazine off the ground, it takes a dedicated army of supporters and firm resolve on all sides.

I want to thank our elite and esteemed group of business launch partners for their sponsorship, patience and commitment, as well as our corporate team in Kansas City for their unrivaled support and enthusiasm for this project.

We recently announced our winner of the Gaylord Opryland Resort weekend getaway giveaway! Congrats to Bellevue’s Miranda Telford for taking the prize, and we hope you and your family have many memorable and joyful moments this summer at SoundWaves and beyond.

Since we don’t have a dedicated “Letters” page, I’d like to take this opportunity to include some snippets of feedback from you, the readers. We welcome both praise and critique equally; it’s the only way to get better!

“Congrats on the publication of your new magazine! I received the first edition of Bellevue City Lifestyle today and it's fabulous! I've read most of the articles already and appreciate the focus on Bellevue, Nashville's hidden gem!” -

Suzanne MacNeil

“Hi there, I am a Bellevue resident and just received my first Bellevue City Lifestyle and wanted to say how absolutely beautiful your publication is. The artistry and content are spectacular. Thank you for giving this gift to us. I will look forward to every issue and I wish you grand success.” -

Janet McMahan

My conclusion as to why new hyperlocal magazine launches are happening so frequently and successfully even in this digitally saturated world of 2023 is simple: people still love print, especially on the local, community level.

Lastly, we’d love to hear from you regarding unique story ideas about people, places, things and businesses that make Bellevue one-of-a-kind, so please don’t hesitate to send your pitches to our editor, ed.atlas@citylifestyle.com

Until next issue!

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Doug Waterman | doug.waterman@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Ed Atlas | ed.atlas@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Lisa Valentine

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Adrienne Figueroa, Alysse Gafkjen

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

Proverbs 3:5-6

J. DOUGLAS WATERMAN, PUBLISHER @BELLEVUECITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @bellevuecitylifestyle

1-7: April’s Bellevue-Harpeth Chamber luncheon at The Loveless Barn featured Nashville’s Mayoral candidates.

Photography by Ed Atlas

Reports: Wawa convenience store coming to Bellevue

According to multiple media reports and a Facebook post by District 35 Metro Councilman Dave Rosenberg, a Wawa convenience store could be coming to Bellevue. A 9-acre site across from Discount Tire on Highway 100 recently was purchased with the intent to open a Wawa franchise. Though there has been no official confirmation from Wawa, the Philadelphia-based chain, known for its hoagie sandwiches, announced its intention last year to enter the Nashville market. Wawa.com

Cafe 100 opens in former Bria Bistro space

Cafe 100, a new upscale-casual dining establishment, opened on May 1 at 8128 Highway 100 in the space once occupied by Bria Bistro. Owner Keith Simpkins says Cafe 100 features Americana fare including filets, pasta, seafood, burgers and a children’s menu. The bar opens at 3 p.m. daily with dinner service from 4:30 to 10 p.m. weekdays, and until 11 p.m. on weekends. Reservations and walk-ins are welcome. 615.964.7399

YogaSix hosts grand opening and ribboncutting celebration

YogaSix recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to dedicate its studio at 8133 Sawyer Brown Rd. in One Bellevue Place. As the name implies, YogaSix offers a half dozen different class types from hot and powerful to slow and mindful. Beginner classes and sculpt classes are available. YogaSix teachers have been trained in the YogaSix methodology to provide a consistent but creative experience for each class type every time. YogaSix.com/location/bellevue

Photography: Bellevue Harpeth Chamber of Commerce

Photography: Ed Atlas

Pharmacy With Flair

JOSHUA BROWN FAMILY PHARMACY GOES EXTRA MILE TO PERSONALIZE THE PHARMACY EXPERIENCE

ARTICLE BY LISA VALENTINE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADRIENNE FIGUEROA

Joshua Brown and his wife, Annie, went the extra mile to create a welcoming environment at Joshua Brown Family Pharmacy.

With Annie’s background in interior merchandising, the Browns transformed the empty walls of the former donation drop-off center into a sleek and modern pharmacy. Annie knew she wanted to bring a homey feel to the space with upbeat, bright colors rather than something that felt clinical.

“We were intentional about making it an inviting, warm, comfortable place to be,” she says. The Browns worked with a pharmacy design group to help bring their vision to life, keeping the structure’s original concrete floors and eliminating the drop ceilings to create exposed beams for an industrial feel. This was complemented by a hand-built, geometric wood counter and bright foliage to create a vibrant and airy space filled with natural light from the storefront’s large windows.

“If you want a pharmacy where they know you and your family well enough to provide personalized care, this is the spot for you,” says Joshua.

HAND-BUILT COUNTER

The pharmacy’s eye-catching, geometric patterned, front counter was designed and handbuilt by Joshua Brown and his dad.

UNIQUE GIFT SHOP

The father-son pair also built the bright cabinetry that houses the pharmacy’s gift shop, which is stocked with unique gifts and favorite staples including items from local businesses such as Thistle Farms and The Loveless Cafe.

MURAL WITH A MESSAGE

The pharmacy’s turquoise and white mural with the message “but first, love” was painted by a local art teacher to remind customers when they walk in the door that they are loved.

BRINGING ART TO THE COMMUNITY

ARTICLE BY LISA VALENTINE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

LOCAL ARTISTS DISCUSS THE POWER OF ART AND WHY

IT’S IMPORTANT IN TODAY’S WORLD

Gabe Dixon Musician/Singer/Songwriter

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MUSIC?

I am a singer-songwriter who plays mostly piano and keyboards. My music has elements of rock, pop, soul, folk, gospel, jazz, funk, blues, and classical. In my music, you will hear heartfelt lyrics, melodies and some strong grooves, too. And I like to improvise when I play live.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO COMMUNICATE THROUGH YOUR MUSIC?

If listening to my songs and my music makes people smile, feel love and happiness, and feel more connected to other people, then I have done my job.

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE IT’S IMPORTANT IN OUR CURRENT WORLD FOR PEOPLE TO EXPERIENCE ART IN THE FORM OF MUSIC, WHETHER IT IS LISTENING TO OTHERS’ MUSIC OR MAKING THEIR OWN?

Music can touch the human heart, soul, and mind in a way that no other art form can. It can stimulate your intellect, but it can also help you escape your own mind. It can comfort you, unsettle you, make you laugh, make you cry, make you dance. It can help you feel, process, and express your emotions. It helps connect us to one another. That is why we have it everywhere—weddings, funerals, workouts, airports, bars, music venues, movies, TV, social media, religious services, etc. Listening to and playing music and singing together is part of what makes us human.  GabeDixon.com

Gabe Dixon. Photo by Alysse Gafkjen

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ART?

My artwork as a mixed media artist and sculptor of stone and wood is a blend of pigmented papers, modern aesthetics, primitive influences, spiritual themes, with an overall calming feel. My sculptures carry a deep spiritual essence that is both primitive and contemporary and exude a sense of serenity and tranquility that allows viewers to find solace in their presence.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO COMMUNICATE THROUGH YOUR ARTWORK?

I believe that art can serve as a bridge between our inner selves and the natural world. Through my paintings, I seek to convey the sense of calm and serenity that comes from spending time in nature. Whether it’s a vibrant sunset over a calm field, a tranquil forest glen, or a blooming garden, my art strives to capture the essence of nature’s healing power.

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE IT’S IMPORTANT IN OUR CURRENT WORLD FOR PEOPLE TO EXPERIENCE ART, WHETHER IT IS EXPERIENCING OTHERS’ ART OR CREATING THEIR OWN?

In a world that can often feel chaotic and overwhelming, I believe that art or creating art and being in nature can serve as a balm for the soul. By bringing the beauty of nature into our homes and lives, we can create spaces that promote tranquility, balance, and well-being.

LisaJenningsArt.com

Lisa Jennings Sculptor

Lisa Jennings

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ART?

I think of my work as a modern twist on impressionism. The process begins with expressionistic marks that are painted, splashed, batiked, even printed onto high quality papers. These hand painted papers may contain natural inclusions such as fibers, leaves, or grasses for added texture and visual interest. When dry, these pigmented pages look much like nonobjective paintings in their own right.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO COMMUNICATE THROUGH YOUR ARTWORK?

I am celebrating the diversity and strength of women when I make art. I believe women have an inner strength that is rarely depicted in fine art. Young women shouldn’t need to search and hunt for a visual representation of intelligence and integrity in the female form. I choose to showcase multiple facets and attributes found in the women all around us.

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE IT’S IMPORTANT IN OUR CURRENT WORLD FOR PEOPLE TO EXPERIENCE ART, WHETHER IT IS EXPERIENCING OTHERS’ ART OR CREATING THEIR OWN?

Art reflects society. I am not a prudish person or an extreme feminist, I just want the current world to see a broader spectrum of women’s attributes. I can do that visually with my art.

ReginaPaints.com

Regina Davidson

Visual Artist

“I just want the current world to see a broader spectrum of women’s attributes. I can do that visually with my art.”

— Regina Davidson

Regina Davidson

Luckey You

Upscale dining returns to Bellevue with Luckey Hospitality’s Fortuna Italian

Steakhouse

ARTICLE BY ED ATLAS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Finding a good place to eat in Bellevue has always been easy, especially in the midscale, ethnic or dive categories. It’s the upper tier that’s been elusive.

That’s until last year when co-owners Tabor Luckey and Cory Coleman introduced Fortuna Italian Steakhouse.

Fortuna – the Italian word for luck - opened on Highway 100 in a building, once occupied by Applebee’s, that had stood vacant for years. The quality of the location and facility aligned nicely with the owners’ vision for a fine dining experience in Bellevue.

“Downtown rents and parking make operating, in general, more expensive in those areas,” says Luckey, who also owns Luckey Hospitality and Corner Pub Bellevue. “So, what’s trending across the country is that higher-end and smaller restaurants are operating on the outskirts of major cities. They’re finding success because there’s a demand for that type of experience in those areas. Bellevue is in that class.”

Coleman says the space is ideally suited for a fine dining establishment.

Photo by Ed Atlas

“We didn’t have to transform the existing floorplan,” he says. “It was designed originally by a team that knows how to create an efficient kitchen and restaurant service. We left that part alone but updated the lighting, finishes and aesthetic so that it doesn’t present as an Applebee’s.”

Having the operational aspects in good order from the outset provided Luckey and Coleman with more time to create Fortuna’s menu.

“Cory and I are trained chefs so getting back to fine dining is fun for us,” says Luckey. “We probably went back-and-forth one thousand times on the first menu. We’ve been in the kitchen with each other many times and, while we have different ideas, our relationship is such that, at the end, we come out with what we want.”

The menu includes classic Italian specialties like pastas and flatbreads along with an impressive wine and spirits collection. All sauces and baked goods are made from scratch, either on site or at Luckey Hospitality’s Nashville commissary. Whenever possible, ingredients are sourced from local farmers.

But at Fortuna, Braveheart Black Angus Beef is the star.

“We serve nothing but top quality here and Braveheart is top notch,” says Coleman. “All you have to do is sprinkle salt and pepper on it and put it on the grill. You don’t have to resort to smoke and mirrors with quality this good.”

Says Luckey: “You’ll pay a premium downtown for the same steak that’s served at Fortuna.”

Of course, you can’t dine in a high-end Italian restaurant without dessert. The only problem you’ll have at Fortuna is deciding which one to try. Those who can’t make up their mind might want to opt for Coleman’s version of panna cotta which was created with inspiration from his father.

“My dad turned me onto malted milkshakes and I have memories in particular of a banana split malted milkshake,” says Coleman. “So I created Malted Milk Panna Cotta with bananas, luxardo cherries soaked in bourbon and 80 percent cacao dark chocolate over the dish. It’s a great ending to a meal and to honor a memory.”

To date, Fortuna Italian Steakhouse has been well-received by the Bellevue community. Coleman says it’s not unusual for people to stop by for a drink at 5 p.m. and stay through dinner all the way to closing time. And Luckey notes that many patrons from when he owned Bria Bistro have reconnected at Fortuna, underscoring the point that Bellevue is receptive to more fine dining experiences.

Fortuna Italian Steakhouse is located at 8100 Highway 100 in Shoppes On The Harpeth. The restaurant is open daily from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Additional information, including menus and reservations, is available online at FortunaNashville.com

“We’ve been in the kitchen with each other many times and, while we have different ideas, our relationship is such that, at the end, we come out with what we want.”

— Tabor Luckey

What is Bellevue’s Best Kept Secret?

ARTICLE BY ED ATLAS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

We asked five locals to name a Best Kept Bellevue Secret and why it is that way

“Ford Ice Center has a bar and food menu that is low key and really good. The burgers and chicken tenders are phenomenal. If you’re a Preds fan it’s a great place to go and watch the games.”

JACOB TIPPETS

Owner/Booking Agent, Stompin’ Grounds Writer’s Rounds at Bar Louie

“The Well may be known for coffee but they have a great breakfast and lunch menu, too. The sweet potato brunch bowl for breakfast and the chipotle chicken sandwich for lunch are must haves. Great atmosphere.”

“Stompin’ Grounds Writer’s Rounds on Friday night at Bar Louie has been flying under the radar. We’ve had finalists from American Idol and The Voice, people who’ve appeared on major records and others who have performed with A-List celebrities. They’re all baring their souls and stories. It’ll be the hottest patio night life this summer!”

ASHLEY CLEVELAND

Singer/Songwriter, Author, Speaker, Spiritual Director

“Kroger on Highway 70 South carries a lot of products I like and stays pretty-well stocked but what sets it apart is that so many of the employees have been there for years. The city has changed so dramatically, I don’t recognize a lot of it but this Kroger is a little oasis of consistency for me.”

Realtor, EXP Realty and Homes for Heroes

“Warner Parks might be the best in Nashville and they’re right here in the Bellevue area. There are hiking and biking trails, wildlife, a nature center, picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, and a challenging golf course with scenic views. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts of all ages.”

VERLON SNELL

MATT BROWN

Happiness Marketer at The Nashville Marketer

SHARON ASBY

Photographer at The Nashville Photographer

realty report

A sample of recently sold properties in Bellevue.

MAKE AN IMPACT FOR DAD

What do you buy for the man who has everything? Perhaps an experience oriented around what dads value most – time together – is just what he needs. Fathers and father figures are invaluable in our lives. They help shape and mold us. They’re there for us and support us. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Dad feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your dad, husband, brother or father figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Memorable Ways to Celebrate The Father Figure in Your Life

LEARN ABOUT HIS FAMILY TREE

Family heritage websites can offer insight into dad’s past and be an interesting way to study the history of your family. Present Dad with a report on his ancestors or dig in together!

PLAN A STAYCATION

You don’t need to go very far to have a great time with Dad! Explore a new neck of your own woods with a family staycation. You can go out on the town, stay at a fancy hotel and maybe even enjoy some room service!

GO BIRD WATCHING

Lay out a blanket in your backyard and grab your binoculars for a peaceful, naturefilled day. Make a list of how many different kinds of birds you see and guess if you can identify them.

GO BOWLING

Bowling is a timeless classic Dad is sure to enjoy. Bonus if the bowling alley has an arcade, chicken wings and Dad’s favorite beverage of choice.

PLAY FRISBEE GOLF AS A FAMILY

Find a local frisbee golf course and grab a slot for the family to play. This activity is fun for both young and old and helps you take advantage of being in the beautiful outdoors together.

SPOIL HIM WITH BREAKFAST IN BED

Breakfast in bed isn’t just for Mother’s Day. Dads can enjoy it too! Whip up some of his favorite brunch treats and start Father’s Day off the right way.

06 09

HAVE A WINE AND PAINT NIGHT

Sign up for an artistic experience at a local wine and paint shop so Dad can let his creative side show and you can have a custom piece of art for years to come.

TACKLE A TASK TOGETHER

Is Dad a hands-on guy? Why not spend the day constructing a tree house or painting a birdhouse? Or better yet, help him organize the garage or start a garage redesign.

07 10

DO A FITNESS CLASS TOGETHER

Consider signing him up for a fitness class together. Whether he likes cycling, boxing or HIIT, encourage him to be adventurous and try something new.

08

COOK SOMETHING ADVENTUROUS

If some of Dad’s role models include Gordon Ramsay and Bobby Flay, consider thinking outside the box and create a meal with something you wouldn’t usually go for like bison burgers or grilled octopus tentacles. Tackling a complex recipe may seem challenging but the memories and the meal will be worth it.

11

HAVE AN OUTDOOR FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

out after all your hard work.

13 14 15

FIRE UP THE BACKYARD GRILL

There’s no greater way to get to a Dad’s heart than the word “barbecue”. Grab extravagant meats like a rack of ribs or wagyu beef burgers and go to town.

CONSTRUCT SOMETHING OUT OF LEGOS

Harken back to Dad’s childhood with a specialty kit of legos. Embark on a family project of helping Dad build models of favorite movie props like the Death Star or Hogwarts castle.

GO AXE-THROWING

Axe-throwing venues are still going strong across the country. Make an evening of it and practice your throwing skills!

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

VARIOUS DATES

Harpeth Conservancy June Events

VARIOUS

The Harpeth Conservancy is a science-based conservation organization dedicated to clean water and healthy ecosystems for rivers throughout Tennessee. June events include: Tuesday 13, Dinner In The Creek; Saturday 17, Family Fun Day; Thursday 22, Cumberland Kayak's Nashville Skyline Benefit Paddle; Saturday 24, Lessons On The River - Native Plant Float on the Harpeth with Thrive Garden Center. HarpethConservancy.org

Stompin' Grounds Writer's Rounds

BAR LOUIE, 8119 SAWYER BROWN RD. | 7:00 PM

Start the weekend with a Friday night visit to Bar Louie for Stompin' Grounds Writers Rounds. See established and up-and-coming singer/songwriters performing in an intimate venue in the heart of Bellevue. Facebook.com/stompingroundsmusic

Mudbug Madness: Fourth Annual Bellevue-Harpeth Chamber Crawfish Boil

PLANTATION PUB, 8321 SAWYER BROWN ROAD | 12:00 PM

Bring the family and enjoy a relaxing afternoon with some amazing food and Cajun music! Doors open at noon with live music from Bellevue's own Roux da Bayou.Tickets are $35 per person and include all-you-caneat crawfish and two beverage tickets (beer or soft drinks). BellevueHarpethChamber.com

2023

CMA Fest

NISSAN STADIUM AND STAGES THROUGHOUT DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE | ALL DAY

CMA Fest is the longest-running Country Music festival in the world. Fans can choose from a variety of ticketing options, from the complete CMA Fest four-day pass to attending the free outdoor, daytime stages. A portion of proceeds from CMA Fest will support the CMA Foundation and its mission to shape the next generation through high quality music education. CMAFest.com

Full Moon Pickin' Party

PERCY WARNER PARK, 2500 OLD HICKORY BLVD. | 6:00 PM

The Full Moon Pickin’ Party in Percy Warner Park has been a Bellevue tradition for 25 years. Patrons enjoy live bluegrass music, local food trucks, cold brews, and more. Bring an acoustic instrument for discounted admission and join a pickin' circle. Dogs on leashes welcome. Lawn chairs encouraged. Admission includes complimentary soda, water and up to three beers (21+). WarnerParks.org/events/category/benefit-events/full-moon-pickin/party

A Patriotic Celebration

STEPHENS VALLEY CHURCH, 6000 PASQUO RD. | 5:00 PM

Stop by Stephens Valley Church for an early Independence Day celebration featuring live patriotic music with a full orchestra accompanied by the Stephens Valley Church choir. StephensValley.church

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/BellevueTN

“

Painting. Everyone we dealt with from the sales person, to

consultant, to the painting crew themselves were professional, reliable and simply a pleasure to work with. ”