Gallatin, TN July 2023

ARTS + CULTURE AN ICONIC STAYCATION

HEALTH + WELLNESS

LIFE + CULTURE CLIMBING TO NEW HEIGHTS

FOOD + BEVERAGE

ALL AROUND SMILES FOR GOOD SUMMER SAVORIES WITH CHEF LAURA WALLACE

The best waxing experience requires two things: the best service providers and the best wax. Luckily, we have both. Our highly-trained Cerologists® are the ultimate pros at their craft. They use our custom-formulated wax, which offers gentle hair removal while soothing, exfoliating and softening your skin.

20% off for all new clients on their first service.

Summers are made for sharing

A world of endless possibilities unfolds during the blissful days of summer that brings a sense of excitement and adventure. In many ways this is a time to enjoy the fullness of life with friends and family on sandy shores, in lush green fields, in the comfort of one’s backyard under the twinkling night sky, galavanting in exploration of the mountains or splashing around in a shimmering pool.

Summer is a time to make memories that have lasting impacts. In our Summer Fun issue, we delve into the captivating journeys of two deeply-rooted Gallatin family-owned businesses whose unwavering commitment to their community has turned into a pillar of influence. These locally owned businesses symbolize the relationship of family and fostering connections for generations to come and are magnified even more over the summer days when friends and family become even more important.

Also, in our Summer 2023 issue, we help you make the most of this season in and around Gallatin. We even take a quick jaunt to a local historical gem nestled just outside of Gallatin where southern hospitality meets modern luxury and just so happens to share the same name as our charming city! After reading our Summer Fun issue, we invite you to embark on a journey of pure joy and exhilaration, either by yourself or with friends and family, to capture the moments to make memories for a lifetime.

Here’s to you, family and friends and the journeys, memories and little moments around us that make summer living something very special!

July 2023

PUBLISHER

Nicole Bell | nicole.bell@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Scott Bell | scott.bell@citylifestyle.com

PHOTO EDITOR

Stacey Norman | stacey@plumpoppyphotography.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jessica Cheek, Patti Gordon, Nicole Bell, Scott Bell, Laura Wallace

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brandy Austin Photography, Jaren Minnix, LaurenBrooke Deakins, Lyndsey Sayles Photography, Plum Poppy Photography, Tim Toonen

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 Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

NICOLE BELL, PUBLISHER @GALLATINLIFESTYLE

city scene

1: Mayor Brown delivers flowers to moms just in time for Mother's Day 2: Tony Spicer & Justin Hays at Pistols, Petals & Pearls 3: Smile Connections Family Dental in Gallatin is recognized as a Main Street Media 2023 Finalist 4: Billy Shrum and first place winners at 12th Annual Cystic Fibrosis Fishing for a Cure 5: Stephen O’Brien at the 2023 Gallatin Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament 6: All smiles during day one of Gallatin Shalom Zone's Street Feed 7: Birthday celebrations on Old Hickory Lake with Cherokee Boat Club

SUMNER REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

JUSTIN HAYS

NICOLE BELL

TIM TOONEN

GALLATIN SHALOM ZONE

LAUREN MCKENZIE

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

NICOLE BELL

NICOLE BELL

SAVANNAH DANA

Preferred Care at Home Wins Prestigious Award

Preferred Care at Home (North Nashville, Sumner & East Wilson office) was recently presented with the prestigious Epitome Award at the National Preferred Care at Home (PCAH) conference in Delray Beach, Florida. The recipient of the Epitome Award is honored as the 2nd top producer of the PCAH franchises in the United States. The North Nashville, Sumner & East Wislon office provided 125,292 hours of care to clients in 2022 in the communities served.

A Celebration for the Whole Family

The wait is over! Crown & Iris, Gallatin's family lifestyle boutique, has officially opened its doors! Located at 1915 Long Hollow Pike in Gallatin, in the brand new Newmans Crossing Center, you're sure to find unique gifts for anyone on your list and something for yourself. Pop in, check out their creatively designed space and see what a boutique for all seasons of life has to offer all under one roof, right here in Gallatin!

Scan to read more.

Opening Doors to Hope and Healing

Emily Runyan and her amazing team celebrated their growing group practice and a remodel of the former Rolling Stone house (iconic in Gallatin) that now serves as their working office location. Their serene, psychotherapy center is a warm and inviting space for individuals of all ages. The team at TN Mental Wellness has even extended a free Stress & Anxiety Reduction class every Tuesday night, in-person or virtually. Visit tnmentalwellness.com/ free for more information!

Scan to read more.

14

JULY

local experiences

Don’t let the summer season get away from you! Before school begins and cooler temperatures return, venture out of your comfort zone this summer and check off a few bucket list items in our area that will make the most of the sunny days and warm nights!

GET UP AND GO KAYAKING OLD HICKORY LAKE: Observe diverse wildlife and tour some of the most scenic views with tree-lined shores, rocky cliffs and stunning sunsets while kayaking Old Hickory Lake. 400 Zieglers Fort Road, Gallatin, TN

TOMMY GARROTT AQUATICS FACILITY: Enjoyable for all ages, the Tommy Garrott Aquatics Facility includes three waterslides, party areas, spray toys, concession areas and room for relaxation. 210 Albert Gallatin Avenue, Gallatin, TN

ANAKEESTA: Explore Tennessee's award-winning mountaintop adventure park located above the heart of downtown Gatlinburg and take in stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains. 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN

MONTHAVEN ARTS AND CULTURAL CENTER: Make it a day and immerse yourself in world-class art and culture at Sumner County's premier art center. 1017 Antebellum Circle, Hendersonville, TN

NASHVILLE SHORES: Located on Percy Priest Lake, enjoy a full water park, zip lines, adventure park, lake-beach swimming, cabin and boat rental, RV and campsites. 4001 Bell Road, Hermitage, TN

Want to recommend a local experience?

The best places and things to do in our area.

A Staycation for Good: Hotel Gallatin

A DECORATED HISTORY, ICONIC PRESENT AND VIBRANT FUTURE MAKE THIS LEGENDARY STAY WORTH YOUR WHILE

ARTICLE BY NICOLE BELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JARED MINNIX

What was once a place of worship has since transitioned into a staycation spot with extraordinary design, catching the eyes of many around the Nashville area. The Gallatin Hotel, located in East Nashville on Gallatin Avenue, is unlike any other hotel in town and possesses a rich history that began when the hotel brand, Mission Hotels, acquired the property in 2019 from the former congregation of Eastside Church of Christ. The congregation relocated to northeast Nashville as the majority of their members had moved over time and they desired that their campus be more centrally located.

Collaborating with talented, local Nashville artisans and vendors who crafted unique and customized furnishings, artwork and other distinctive elements, the vision became a reality. The Gallatin Hotel is characterized by a bright, vibrant and colorful atmosphere aimed at creating a sense of joy and excitement for guests. Each room is thoughtfully curated, ensuring that no two spaces are

exactly alike, providing delightful surprises around every corner.

The inspiration behind the one-of-a-kind hotel came from another successful restoration named, The Russell, also a former church-turned-boutique hotel. While keeping that same passion and honoring the story and history of the property through The Gallatin, this journey led Mission Hotels to expand the brand and continue its charitable mission. Mission Hotels is the only hotel brand in the United States that gives away the majority of its profits to the community across various programs.

Driven by core values, particularly the belief that “to whom much is given, much is required,” Mission Hotels has fostered a culture of generosity since its inception. The team understands the responsibility that comes with the blessings they themselves have received and they view their mission as a calling and as a way to be faithful stewards of the resources entrusted to them.

CEO Micah Lacher shares that The Gallatin Hotel, along with their other properties, prioritize giving back to the community through the Rooms for Rooms program, an initiative that donates the majority of profits to seven other local partner organizations, which include: The Nashville Rescue Mission, Nashville Young Lives, ShowerUp, Room in the Inn, People Loving Nashville, Corner-to-Corner and Maple Built. Through this remarkable work, some of the most underserved and vulnerable communities in our area are served. Assisting the homeless, supporting teen moms, providing workforce development and empowering community members to start successful businesses has been a reward in its own right.

Although the hotel operates like an Airbnb without a front desk, the team ensures that guests receive exceptional service and attentive care from the experienced management team throughout their stay. Guests will find a box filled with complimentary local snacks, a Dyson hairdryer, in-room coffee and unique design touches across every space that are Instagram-worthy, further enhancing the experience. This commitment to excellence has earned top rankings on TripAdvisor, ranking among the best in category.

Aside from the beautification and intricate remodel on this beautiful property, The Gallatin Hotel and other Mission Hotels serve as economic engines for giving and community restoration. The alignment of a deep commitment to making a positive impact in the community drives the mission and is seen behind every vibrant color and every impeccable design.

@thegallatinhotel

thegallatinhotel.com

Plum Poppy Photography

Plum Poppy Photography

A Summer of Sumner Smiles

Whether it's being on the lake, grilling on a back porch or volunteering for school-related activities, the hot months bring so much energy, emotion and excitement. While we all have our favorite summer memories, for Dr. Philip Ezell, wife Jamie and their family, summers in Gallatin represent exactly what it means to be invested in the community.

DR. PHILIP AND JAMIE EZELL KEEP GALLATIN SMILING AND CONNECTED

Jamie graduated from Mount Juliet High School while Dr. Ezell grew up in Goodlettsville and graduated from Goodpasture. After high school, Dr. Ezell attended Campbellsville University where he graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Biology and Chemistry and was accepted into the University of Tennessee’s Dental Program, graduating with a Doctorate of Dental Surgery. Post-graduation, Dr. Ezell began working at a local practice while settling in Mount Juliet. For several years, he worked as an associate and then later partnered with another dentist to create a mobile dentistry clinic that traveled throughout the state working on children that were in the custody of the State of Tennessee. The partners ran their mobile dentistry clinic for seven years before deciding to retire the idea.

While Dr. Ezell was attending dental school, Jamie was working as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) at a dental practice in Mount Juliet as well. The two were introduced and they have been inseparable ever since. They married in 2010 and spent a lot of time traveling through Gallatin

to visit their families in connecting towns. At the end of 2012, they chose to move to Gallatin, as it happens to be the in-between spot for both sides of their families. After living here for a few years, Dr. Ezell and Jamie began dreaming up their future dental clinic concept and as a way to continue to contribute to the local services here. With that in mind, and putting a plan into action, Dr. Ezell and Jamie opened their family-oriented dental practice, Smile Connections Family Dental, in March of 2018 as a way to demonstrate what it means to be a part of their community.

Since opening, Smile Connections is still the same family-owned clinic with the same beliefs and desire to serve the public as it was when they opened the doors. Smile Connections has found its heartbeat here in Sumner County and Dr. Ezell and his team are diligent about staying up-to-date in the newest dental procedures to be better equipped to meet their patients’ needs. With Jamie by his side, Dr. Ezell has crafted such an amazing outreach and service tool to our community.

Together, the couple has three beautiful children: Kaitlyn (20), Karlee (12) and Dallas (9). During the summer months, they love shopping at our local shops, eating at local eateries, attending community festivals and listening to live music on the square. The Ezell children have all attended Sumner County schools and Dr. Ezell and Jamie take pride in being able to give back to the community by sponsoring many school events. The family has two dogs, a mixed-breed pup named Duke and a Goldendoodle named Benji. Benji even frequents the dental office as the office therapy dog and is affectionately referred to as the “office lap dog.”

The Ezells love any opportunity to get outside and enjoy the weather; summer continues to be where they find that their greatest memories are made. This year, they are looking forward to their upcoming annual family beach vacation and a summer spent outdoors. At home, Dr. Ezell loves firing up the grill for the family while Jamie is the family baker. The Ezells have recently welcomed an exciting new addition to their family in their first granddaughter, McKenzie Dawn, and they cannot wait to spend time loving on their baby girl!

While the summer months can be hectic, for the Ezells, the summertime fun and jam packed schedule is exactly what they love. Being in the community and being able to enjoy all that our area has to offer is exactly what the doctor ordered. @smileconnectionsfamilydental

Shrum's Roofing elevates Tennessee to amazing new heights

SERVICE TO OTHERS CONTINUES TO BE THE FAMILY BUSINESS

ARTICLE BY PATTI GORDON PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYNDSEY SAYLES PHOTOGRAPHY

Hometown businesses magnify and foster a sense of community that impacts and contributes to our local identity. They are often deeply rooted and create a strong presence, being known for their personalized, strong relationships and contributions. For Billy Shrum, a second-generation roofer and Gallatin resident, he knew this was something he wanted to continue.

Growing up, Billy’s father worked on roofs during the day and worked second shift at Oscar Mayer at night while his mother worked hard in a factory. At the young age of ten, Billy himself began working with his dad part time on roofing jobs and as he grew older he continued roofing on the side while working a separate full-time job. Through the seasons of life, Billy met his love and soulmate, Jessica. They dated for six years before marrying in 1997 and in that same year, with the help of Jessica, Billy took over the roofing business from his father.

Billy and Jessica knew how important it was to provide a hometown feel through a local business and they wanted to fully root Shrum’s Roofing Company in Gallatin. By investing in

the community and sponsoring various organizations such as Gallatin Little League, Shafer Middle School Girls Basketball, Gallatin High School Football, Sumner County Historical Society, Sumner County Emergency Services and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, they were able to ensure that they not only provided services to customers but to those in our area who needed a helping hand.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation holds a special place in the hearts of the Shrum family. Billy and Jessica’s daughter, Gaby, was born with Cystic Fibrosis, a genetic disorder that causes severe respiratory and digestive issues. The Shrum family remains deeply dedicated to advocating and raising funds for the research of CF and over the years, Billy and Jessica have hosted numerous events and fundraisers. A yearly fishing tournament held in May, which is also Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, brings in around 150 boats and a lifetime of memories for the Shrum family, who so enjoy being on the water themselves. Seeing the good that comes from the annual fishing tournament and fundraiser is always a bonus for them!

The many organizations that Billy and Jessica are engaged in intertwine with the personal lives of Gaby and her twin brother, Gage, who are actively involved in local sports. When Billy isn’t working hard to keep his customers safe and dry, he’s on the ball field coaching the American Legion Post 17-15 U baseball team. The love of the game has now also led Billy and Jessica to their second business here in Gallatin: On Deck. The indoor state-of-the-art baseball training facility offers a first-class learning environment and expert coaching to help baseball and softball players of all skill levels maximize their potential year-round. Branding as Gallatin’s premier hitting and training facility, On Deck also has a pro shop, camps, clinic, batting cages, individual lessons and group party facilities.

Billy has been blessed to be surrounded by supportive teams that allow him to step back from time to time and focus on the importance of family, which keeps him grounded in life and business. This has also been the driving force behind diligently expanding Shrum's Roofing here in Gallatin and a successful opening of a second location in Knoxville. With faith and momentum on their side, they are now setting their sights on a third Shrum's Roofing location in Chattanooga.

Hard work lays the foundation and success is the fuel for the greater good, both professionally and personally. Billy and Jessica are the definitions of hard work and as ambassadors for expanding their reach and influences locally and across our great state of Tennessee.

ARTICLE BY CHEF LAURA WALLACE, @MIREPOIXNASHVILLE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURENBROOKE DEAKINS & BRANDY AUSTIN

Strawberry (and Cinnamon!) Fields Forever

EXECUTIVE CHEF LAURA WALLACE SHARES HER SUMMERTIME STRAWBERRY BRUSCHETTA AND CINNAMON SUGAR PITA

Ripe, juicy strawberries are truly one of the best parts of summer. I am always looking for new ways to showcase their natural goodness. This strawberry bruschetta is a twist on a classic summertime favorite that highlights their sweetness while drawing out some savory notes. Pair with the cinnamon sugar pita for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or as a topper for grilled chicken.

Strawberry Bruschetta

ingredients:

• 2 cups of Strawberries, diced

• 1 small shallot, diced

• 1 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp of fresh basil, chopped

• 1 lemon, zested

• Salt and pepper, to taste

directions:

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well. Let sit at room temperature for ten minutes before serving.

Cinnamon Sugar Pita

ingredients:

• 4-5 pieces of pita bread, cut into triangles

• 1 cup of melted butter

• 1/2 cup of sugar

• 1 tsp of cinnamon

• Dash of salt

directions:

Laura Wallace, Mirepoix Owner/Executive Chef: Growing up celebrating food and traditions, Laura pursued an education in Culinary Arts. After working in many fine dining establishments and catering, Laura wanted to bring intimate dining to homes.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl combine sugar and cinnamon and set aside. Place the pita on a sheet pan and brush each triangle with butter. Bake for 10-15 minutes. Transfer the warm pita to the bowl of cinnamon sugar and toss until coated thoroughly.

DIY Your Way To a Bug-Free Summer

Adult- and Kid-Friendly Natural Bug Repellents from A Beautiful Mess

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY A BEAUTIFUL MESS

Adult Blend Kids Blend

(age 15 and over)

MATERIALS:

• 10 drops lemon essential oil

• 10 drops lemongrass essential oil

• 8 drops lavender essential oil

• 8 drops eucalyptus essential oil

• 1.5 ounces distilled water

(minus 1 teaspoon to make room for the essential oils in the bottle)

• .5 ounce 95% proof grain alcohol*

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a 2-ounce spray bottle, add the grain alcohol (or Solubol) and drop in essential oils. Swirl to combine. Place the cap back on the bottle. Allow the oils to disperse in the alcohol for about 1 hour, then add distilled water, swirling again to combine.

MATERIALS:

• 10 drops lemon essential oil

• 10 drops lemongrass essential oil

• 4 drops lavender essential oil

• 1.5 ounces distilled water

(minus 1 teaspoon to make room for the essential oils in the bottle)

• .5 ounce 95% proof grain alcohol*

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a 2-ounce spray bottle, add the grain alcohol (or Solubol) and drop in essential oils. Swirl to combine. Place the cap back on the bottle. Allow the oils to disperse in the alcohol for about 1 hour, then add distilled water, swirling again to combine.

*The grain alcohol is used as a preservative as well as a carrier for the oils, but you can also use a product like this instead of grain alcohol at a 1:4 ratio (1 drop essential oil to 4 drops Solubol) if you’d rather and then just fill the rest with water to fill the 2-ounce spray bottle.

While there can be concern about citrus oils on the skin when exposed to sunlight, lemongrass isn’t a photosensitive oil, and if lemon essential oil is steam-distilled rather than cold-pressed (Oui Fresh essential oils are cold-pressed) it can be used on the skin. So just make sure to note which one your lemon oil is and only spray on clothes if you don’t have a skin-safe lemon oil (which is an application method a lot of people prefer anyway if they are more sensitive to oils).

Find more DIYs at ABeautifulMess.com.

events

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

DinoTrek at The Nashville Zoo

THE NASHVILLE ZOO, 3777 NOLENSVILLE PIKE, NASHVILLE | 9:00 AM

The prehistoric beasts are back! Through July 30, guests will have a chance to embark on a journey from the past and venture through a wooded forest alongside more than 20 life-size animatronic dinosaurs for an up close and personal, truly one-of-a-kind experience!

Monster Jam World Finals

NISSAN STADIUM, 1 TITANS WAY, NASHVILLE | 6:00 PM

Champions will be crowned and legends made when Monster Jam World Finals races into Music City for the first time ever with the biggest event of the season. See some of the best monster trucks and world-class drivers compete for a total of four championships in Racing, Freestyle, High Jump and Skills competitions.

4th of July Fireworks, Food Trucks & Foam Party

TRIPLE CREEK PARK, 240 CHAMPION DRIVE, GALLATIN | 4:00 PM

Join us for a fun day celebrating the Fourth of July with a foam party provided by the Gallatin Fire Department, multiple food trucks and ending the night with a fireworks show! Hosted at Triple Creek Park, located at 240 Champion Drive in Gallatin. This is a free event, and the whole community is invited!

JULY 6TH, 13TH, 20TH & 27TH

Summer Family Movie Series

GALLATIN PUBLIC LIBRARY, 123 E MAIN STREET, GALLATIN | 10:30 AM

Join us each Thursday in July at 10:30 a.m. for a state-of-the-art movie experience with surround sound and free refreshments! Bring a friend and come with the whole family to share in the experience and magic!

Summer Songwriter Night

HISTORIC ROCK CASTLE, 139 ROCK CASTLE LANE, HENDERSONVILLE | 5:00 PM

Looking for a relaxing night of outdoor fun for the whole family? Come out to one of the best community events in Sumner County with food trucks, iced treats to keep you cool and locally-crafted beer from Half Batch Brewing. Bring a blanket, sprawl out on the lawn and enjoy original music from some of Nashville's most talented rising stars.

JULY 21STSEPTEMBER 8TH

Under the Stars Concert Series

CHEEKWOOD ESTATE & GARDENS, 1200 FORREST PARK DRIVE, NASHVILLE | 7:00 PM

Summer nights invite lingering and lounging under the stars at Cheekwood, where over five spectacular evenings, music fills the air. The region’s finest players, writers and singers perform in Cheekwood’s signature lush gardens while attendees enjoy mouthwatering bites and craft cocktails. Music lineups are as diverse as they are rich: Jazz, Bluegrass and songwriters galore!

Want to be featured?

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

The Sooner. The Better.

When you have an emergency, you want to be seen as quickly as possible. With wait times frequently under 15 minutes or less, the Emergency Room at Sumner Station is sooner. And as the only ER staffed solely with board-certified emergency medicine-trained physicians, it’s also a better choice for life-saving care.

The Emergency Room at Sumner Station

 Open 24/7/365

 On-site lab and imaging, including MRI

 Comfortable, clean atmosphere

 Local, experienced physicians and staff

 All insurance plans accepted

Conveniently located at Sumner Station, at the intersection of Big Station Camp Blvd. and Vietnam Veterans (State Highway 386)

To learn more, visit MySumnerMedical.com/SumnerStationER