mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 6/30/25. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
A Salute To Our Local Gentlemen
In every corner of Gallatin, there are men who inspire us with their dedication, vision, kindness and innovation. For June’s issue, we are celebrating our incredible gentlemen who contribute so much to the fabric of our lives and community. From entrepreneurs and educators to artists and everyday heroes, these men remind us that strength and character come in many forms.
Flipping through our Gentlemen’s Issue this month, you’ll meet individuals shaping the future around us while staying grounded in values that matter. This issue celebrates a local leader and dentist whose expertise and heart for service shine both locally and across the world. We also highlight a gifted artist whose work is leaving a meaningful imprint on our community—and resonating worldwide. Together, their stories remind us that true influence begins with purpose and a passion for giving back.
But it’s not just about accomplishments. It’s also about caring about those around us, and these stories serve as a powerful reminder of what it means to lead as a man with integrity and heart.
We’ve also sprinkled in a bit of fun for Father’s Day! Whether it’s a weekend camping trip with the kids or a night out on the town with your significant other, we’ve rounded up the best local ways to unwind and enjoy time with the men in your life.
This issue is a celebration of community and being a man of honor. It’s about recognizing and appreciating the men who inspire us to be better, do better and live fuller lives. We hope these stories will uplift and inspire you, as they have us.
To all the gentlemen featured in (and reading through) these pages, thank you for making a difference and caring about Gallatin while others look up to you.
Let’s celebrate June and have a wonderful Father’s Day; here’s to the gentlemen in our lives and the inspiration they bring to our community daily.
NICOLE BELL, PUBLISHER @GALLATINLIFESTYLE
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Nicole Bell | nicole.bell@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Scott Bell | scott.bell@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Renee Donnell | renee.donnell@citylifestyle.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Stacey Norman | stacey@plumpoppyphotography.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Estee McIllwain
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Chelsea Lyn Agro, Nicole Bell, Scott Bell, Katie Bobrow, Renee Donnell, Gina Neely, Pat Neely
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Said Diaz, Kristen Weigel
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Good vibes and great convos with Doug Wilson and Dennis Tulpa at B3 2: Beautiful day at the Friends of Gallatin Miracle Park 4th Annual Egg Hunt 3: Chan Gammill, Head of School, welcomes attendees at Sumner Academy’s annual fundraiser 4: The team from The Goddard School of Gallatin at Downtown Gallatin’s Square Fest 5: Smiles, sunshine and family fun at Square Fest in Downtown Gallatin 6: Dive Barre owner, Julie Riemenschneider, shares the power of movement at the WELL event 7: TN Mental Wellness’s Keiara Marsh-Cartwright, LMFT, at the inaugural Women Empowering Leadership and Learning Summit
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DOWNTOWN GALLATIN
DENNIS TULPA
GALLATIN TENNESSEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GALLATIN TENNESSEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SUMNER ACADEMY
Back
Pinched
Knee
“We have worked with David Wilkinson Construction on our screen porches for a very long time now. We install these to separate our homes from other builders. We believe that this helps sell the homes faster and adds more value for the homeowner. The quality of the work is as good as it gets, as well as any follow up you may ever need. We consider David Wilkinson Construction a trusted partner of ours to help build and deliver the product we expect to our customers.”
Welcoming Sumner Academy to Gallatin Lifestyle
Gallatin Lifestyle is proud to welcome Sumner Academy as a new GL partner! With a commitment to academic excellence, character development and personalized education, Sumner Academy serves students from Pre-K through 8th grade. Their nurturing environment and strong foundation prepare students for lifelong success. Learn more about their programs and mission at SumnerAcademy.org
-Wesley G., Local Home Builder Scan to read more
We’re excited to introduce White Buffalo Restoration as one of our
newest partners! Based in Gallatin, White Buffalo Restoration specializes in high-end home transformations—from luxurious kitchens to custom outdoor spaces. Led by founder Matt Miller, their team blends craftsmanship, creativity and precision to reimagine homes with excellence, integrity and artistry. We’re excited to regularly spotlight their incredible work and vision!
Scan to read more
Long Hollow Animal Hospital Opens Doors to Healthier, Happier Pets
Sumner County recently celebrated the ribbon cutting of Long Hollow Animal Hospital, a hometown favorite for trusted pet care led by Dr. Cory Vaughn and his passionate team. From dental cleanings and vaccines to X-rays, ultrasounds and soft-tissue surgeries, Long Hollow Animal Hospital offers full-service veterinary care with top-of-the-line technology. With an in-house lab for quick diagnoses, they’re committed to keeping Sumner’s four-legged family members healthy, happy and close to home.
DR. PHILIP EZELL’S MISSION TO BRING HEALING SMILES TO JAMAICA
Answering The Call
ARTICLE BY NICOLE BELL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“
There is always a life you can impact by simply doing what you do best.
For Gallatin’s Dr. Philip Ezell, the path to dentistry wasn’t just about science and skill—it was about a calling. Growing up fascinated by biology and chemistry, he always knew he would pursue a career rooted in science. Yet it was the influence of a close family friend, a respected dentist in his hometown, that first opened his eyes to the possibilities within dentistry. His early fascination with the profession eventually led him to pursue dental school, and as he waited for his acceptance letter from the University of Tennessee, he made a promise: if given the opportunity, he would use his skills to serve those in need through mission work.
Following dental school, the responsibilities of life—raising a family and building a practice—initially put those mission plans on hold. However, a recent opportunity arose when a colleague invited Dr. Ezell to join a long-running medical mission trip to Jamaica, organized by First Presbyterian Church of Nashville in partnership with Andrews Memorial United Church in Mandeville, Jamaica. For Dr. Ezell, it was a chance to fulfill a long-held promise he made many years ago.
The experience was nothing short of transformative. After flying into Montego Bay, Jamaica, and making the adventurous threehour drive up to Mandeville—a mountain town over 2,000 feet above sea level—the team settled into the humble accommodations of Moorlands Camp, complete with bunk beds and cold showers. Despite the
lack of modern conveniences, Dr. Ezell felt a growing excitement—and nervousness—as the mission work began.
Without X-rays, drills or suctions, the dental team had to rely on traditional methods, using dental elevators and mallets to perform extractions. Folding lawn chairs balanced on construction blocks replaced dental chairs. Each morning by 8:00 AM, lines of patients wrapped around the church grounds, many having endured months of dental pain without access to care. Over four days, Dr. Ezell and his team saw around 500 patients, extracting nearly 700 teeth and providing countless smiles, hugs and encouragement.
Despite the challenges, what stayed with Dr. Ezell was the gratitude of every patient. No matter how difficult the procedure or how scared the individuals were, each one left with a smile and heartfelt thanks. "We were able to put all of our daily stress from our busy lives back home to the side," Dr. Ezell reflected, "to help people who were truly in need."
Even when the formal mission ended, the team’s work didn’t. Back at the camp, kitchen staff approached Dr. Ezell with their own dental needs. This time, using picnic tables as makeshift treatment stations, the team continued serving until everyone they could possibly help was cared for at their camp.
The mission wasn’t without its difficulties. Losing two dentists who had to leave earlier than planned midway through the trip stretched the team thin, but the collective
spirit of service and teamwork kept them moving forward. “Whether you are in construction, healthcare or education," Dr. Ezell shared, "there is always a life you can impact by simply doing what you do best.”
The trip also sparked a renewed sense of purpose back home. Dr. Ezell plans to get more involved in local free dental clinics, recognizing that even here in the U.S., many individuals still struggle to access basic care. He encourages other professionals, no matter their expertise, to use their God-given talents to make a difference, no matter how big or small.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Ezell emphasized how easily we can take our everyday comforts for granted— things like clean water and access to healthcare. His time in Jamaica offered more than just a chance to serve; it offered
a powerful reminder of the deep fulfillment that comes from answering a higher call to help others.
As he looks forward to returning to Jamaica next year, Dr. Ezell hopes his story will inspire others in our community and his profession to take a step toward service, whether across the world or right in their own backyard.
"We're all called to serve in some way," he says. "And sometimes, just showing up can change a life—maybe even your own."
Dr. Philip Ezell
Smile Connections Family Dental 1650 Nashville Pike, #300, Gallatin 615.265.0330
SmileConnectionsLLC.com
FATHER'S DAY
ACTIVITIES
Fun, Local Ideas To Celebrate The Fathers In Your Life
ARTICLE BY RENEE DONNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Located on the shores of Old Hickory Lake, Cages Bend is the perfect destination to unwind. With a beautiful scenic backdrop, unplug and refresh with grilling, fishing, swimming and bonfires! Get out on the water or relax from the shore.
1125 Benders Ferry Road, Gallatin
For the meat lovers, treat yourself to a night of fine dining at The Chop House. Indulge your appetite with mouthwatering cuts, such as filets, prime rib, ribeyes or lamb chops. Finish off your meal with homemade ice cream, caramel fudge cake and more.
200 North Anderson Lane, Hendersonville
Ignite your adventure with axe throwing; make it a party with family or friends! Bad Axe Throwing in Nashville is family-owned and veteran-operated. With a full restaurant, bar and cocktails, and walking distance from Broadway, it’s sure to bring the fun!
652 Fogg Street, Nashville
1. CAMPING Cages Bend Campground
2. DINING The Chop House
3. AXE THROWING Bad Axe Throwing Nashville
For the true sports fans, Music City is hosting three matches for one of the biggest sporting events in the world! Experience international football close-up and personal. Don’t miss the chance to witness some of the best teams in action.
501 Benton Avenue, Nashville
If you’re in the mood for laughter, Zanies is right up your alley! Celebrate the special men in your life by treating them to one of their favorite comedians live. Beer, wine and cocktails are available as well as a specialty food menu with your favorites.
2025 8th Avenue South, Nashville
Take a moment to appreciate your favorite guys with live performances by the artists they love the most. With a four-day lineup, six stages and more than 200 performers, it’s sure to be a great time with wonderful memories made!
1 Titans Way, Nashville
4. COMEDY SHOW Zanies Comedy Night Club
6. CONCERT CMA Fest
5. SPORTS FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Walls That Speak
Bryan Deese’s Murals Celebrate History, Inspire Communities And Creatively Shine A Light On Local Art
Local muralist Bryan Deese’s artistic journey began with a spray can and a spark of rebellion. As a high schooler, he was drawn to the raw energy of graffiti, not as a phase, but as a passion he embraced. What started as street art has transformed into large-scale murals, breathing new life into Gallatin and beyond.
History, design and typography all inspire his work. Painting local history brings art to life, celebrating its importance and those who lived it. “It has the power to uplift the community in that way, and I like that,” Bryan says.
His art benefits the community by meeting them where they are. “I want the community around my work to appreciate it,” says Bryan. “I don’t try to make everyone happy, though. That’s impossible, and it weakens the artwork if you try to make something that everyone will like. I really just try to give the public strong ideas and execution.”
Unexpected challenges while creating a mural are inevitable. Each wall is unique
and presents a different set of challenges to work around. Additionally, weather is often an issue throughout larger, time-consuming projects. “When I work on a big project, I budget in a few extra days, knowing some sort of weather is bound to happen,” Bryan confesses. “Finding solutions during my process, though, is one of my favorite aspects of painting large murals.” Completing a mural, despite the challenges, is extremely rewarding for Bryan.
His art definitely makes a beautiful impact on the community. Bryan’s favorite reaction is from his mural depicting Ray Underhill Jr., a Gallatin native and Tennessee’s first professional skateboarder. “While I was working, his father and stepmother paid me a visit. They were really sweet and appreciative that I was honoring their son.”
Bryan’s murals add charm and character to the community in many ways, and his passion and love for his art are evident and inspiring.
Murals are an art form for the whole community to enjoy.
SO YOU WANT TO BE A COWBOY
DISCOVER THE WHIMSY OF THE WEST AT PAWS UP MONTANA
Favorably referred to as the “Last Best Place” and the “Treasure State,” Montana has captured the hearts of cinematic cowboys like Taylor Sheridan and Harrison Ford and inspired the television series, “Yellowstone” and its prequels, “1883” and “1923.”
Though fictional, they’ve reminded America of its deeply-rooted spirit for adventure and the simple yet rugged way of life that we all crave. Whether its the backdrop of jagged, snowcapped peaks or the endless golden pastures that are peppered with livestock, this Rocky Mountain soil is a breeding ground for dreamers and doers, and the people who call it home are no strangers to the ritual of ranch life. So, you want to be a cowboy? Slipping on some leather and having a little hide in your hat are good ways to start, but visiting a resort that brings the best of this life to the forefront, while also embracing modern luxury, is the experience of a lifetime. Paws Up Montana sprawls the distance of 37,000 private acres of historic estate-land, which houses a working ranch and 10 miles of Blackfoot river. Personalization is key—a divine selection of cuisine for the foodies, awe-inspiring activities for the adrenaline seekers, and world-class lodging that tickles every fancy from stargazing glamping, to timber-style family dwellings, to the uniquely designed green “o hauses” that invite the outside world in.
CHELSEA LYN AGRO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
WHERE TO STAY
Luxury Homes are categorized into preference-based properties that boast the thrill of wilderness living. For larger families and multigenerational groups, consider the Wilderness Estates. At 3,250-squarefeet, these estates sleep up to eight guests and feature three large suites with private baths. The Big Timber Homes are available in one-to-three bedroom options and come ornamented with fire places and private decks. The Meadow Homes are 1,100-square-foot single-story homes that sleep up to four guests, situated amid a pastoral and treed setting. For an extra nod of perfection, choose one of the luxury homes that comes equipped with a private tent—ideal for anyone traveling with children (or adults who beckon back their childhood!).
For a more primitive experience, Glamping Homes offer the right amount of canvas to create a closeto-nature experience. Available mid-May through mid-October, choose from river settings to creeksides, bluffs or cliffs. Each tent is adorned with something unique—a copper tub, a picturesque view of Lewis and Clark’s famous Lookout Rock and Western-chic furniture throughout. Zip down the windows to allow for the cool nightly breeze, yet enjoy the modern convenience of electricity. Each campsite has a dining pavilion. And don’t miss the s’mores boards around the communal fire pit, offered by your own s’moresologist—yes, you read that right, and yea, it’s a thing.
Lastly, but certainly not least, are the state-of-theart accommodations of the Green O hauses. This portion of the property is completely curated for those 21 years of age and older. It’s a resort within a resort, a hidden pearl in an oyster of experience. The Tree Haus is elevated 23 feet in the air and offers unparalleled forest views. The Green Haus includes a skylight above the bed for an unmatched view of pluck-em-from-thesky stars. The Round Haus has curved, floor-to-ceiling windows that offer 180-degree panoramic views. Both the Green and Round Hauses are dog friendly, too, so Fido can rest in the lap of luxury. The Light Haus is illuminated by skylights and unique glass design.
WHAT TO DO
To change your attitude, you need a change in altitude. Gain some speed or turn up the adrenaline level with ATV tours, electric biking, mountain biking, go-karts, paintball, rappelling down Lookout Rock or whitewater rafting down the Blackfoot River. Indulge in the western art of living with archery, fly-fishing, hiking or sporting clays. For those who want to immerse themselves in the language of horses, there are horse-related adventures such as lessons, grooming or feeding, horse-whispering workshops or organized trails rides. Riders can also enjoy cattle drives that bring you back to yesteryear— driving a herd of cattle across the famed landscape—and bear witness to mustang gentling, where the Equestrian Manager communicates with a wild horse through body language and tone of voice. Skyline Aerial Adventure Park is another notable warm-weather activity, taking guests on two high-ropes courses.
HOW TO GET HERE
Airport: Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) transfers from Missoula are complimentary for guests and all luxury home and Green O accommodations come with a Lexus luxury SUV for transportation use on property.
USING THESE TIPS YOU CAN MAKE A DELICIOUS HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE.
A good barbecue sauce is comprised of a variety of the same six components. The key is to discover what style you enjoy most, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Oh, and taste often during the preparation process to adjust if so desired.
SOMETHING SWEET
This can be honey, cola, molasses, preserves, brown sugar, or syrup. This caramelizes as you cook, bringing those smoky, sugary flavors.
SOMETHING TANGY
Think vinegar, mustard, or citrus. This is what brings the zing to your sauce.
SOMETHING SPICY
This provides your heat: a hot sauce is a great choice. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/2 teaspoon for every cup of sauce you’re making.
SOMETHING LIQUID
It can be beer, water, chicken stock, soda, or wine. Start with about 1/2 a cup and see what happens.
SOMETHING TOMATO
You’ll most likely use ketchup, but you can also use tomato paste.
THE SPICE COMBINATION
This can depend on your liking and taste and can include anything from onion powder to garlic powder to chili powder to allspice to cayenne pepper to mustard powder to liquid smoke to cumin to Worcestershire sauce and more. Start with a teaspoon of salt, and keep tasting as you experiment with your desired spices.
HOMEMADE
BBQ SAUCE
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups ketchup
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 5 tablespoons brown sugar
• 5 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
• 1/2 tablespoon ground mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
DIRECTIONS
In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat to simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 1 hour 15 minutes.
Recipe and information courtesy of Pat Neely and Gina Neely.
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This summer at Keke’s Breakfast Cafe, kids eat for just $5* with the purchase of any adult entrée $8 or more.
*Available dine-in weekdays through August 1 at participating cafes. Restrictions apply.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 6TH
Kids Movie Series
The Palace Theater, 146 N Water Ave, Gallatin | 10:00 AM
Historic Downtown Gallatin’s Kids Summer Movie Series kicks off June 6th! Enjoy family-friendly films every Friday at 10:00 AM through the end of July. It’s the perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy a fun, affordable summer tradition with the kids right in the heart of downtown Gallatin.
JUNE 6TH AND 7TH
15th Annual Wild West Team Rodeo
Triple Creek Park, 1333 Touchdown Drive, Gallatin | 7:30 PM
Revel in the festivities at this two night rodeo event, presented by The West Team - Benchmark Realty. With barrel racing, calf roping, bronc riding, bull riding, pony rides for the kids, food trucks and so much more, it’s sure to be an event you won’t want to miss! Tickets required.
JUNE 8TH
Afternoon
Tea & Watercolor Workshop
The Artisan Hatchery, 223 N Water Avenue, Gallatin | 2:00 PM
Unwind with local artist, Creative Carmella, for an afternoon of delicious tea, tasty food and a relaxing watercolor workshop. All materials are included, and all skill levels are welcome! Get a front row seat to this guided workshop, and leave with a beautiful painting. Tickets required.
JUNE 19TH
Third Thursday on Main Concert Series
Downtown Gallatin Square | 7:00 PM
Enjoy great food, live entertainment and support local businesses at Third Thursday, presented by All Access Coach Leasing! This free event offers a fun evening for all. Bring your lawn chairs, friends and family to the downtown square. Free parking is available at City Hall and the Boyers Avenue parking garage. Don’t miss this exciting night!
JUNE 20TH AND 21ST
Gallatin’s Annual Juneteenth Event
Friends of Clearview Park, 536 Blythe Ave, Gallatin | 5:00 PM
Celebrate freedom, culture and community at this free, family-friendly Juneteenth event! Enjoy a barbecue contest, local vendors, live music, games, trail rides, line dancing and more. Festivities begin Friday night and continue all day Saturday. Bring your friends and family for a spirited weekend honoring history, unity and joy in Gallatin.
JUNE 21ST
Flower Fest 2025
Public Square, 116 Public Square, Gallatin | 10:00 AM
Come along for the perfect summer day with Flower Fest, a vibrant and lively celebration of all things flowers, hosted by Apple & Dove Flower Co.! Soak in the magic with live music, mouthwatering food from local vendors, floral art, handmade goods and of course, tons of flowers!
