Hendersonville, TN May 2021

M AY 2 02 1

Honoring Our Ladies LI F E + C U LTU R E WO M EN O F D IS T I N C T I O N 2021 SERVAN T L E AD ERSH I P BY L AN D AN D BY SE A FOOD + DRINK L I L I B EL L A'S CAK ES C O F F EE AN D T RE AT S I N H EN D ERS O NVI L L E

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2021 PUBLISHER

Lynn Bowles | lynn.bowles@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Celebrating The Ladies MAY IS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL TIMES OF THE YEAR IN HENDERSONVILLE. With warm weather, blue skies and fragrant, blooming flowers, it is the perfect time to pause and reflect upon the ladies in our lives. Wives, daughters, mothers, grandmothers, sisters – they have all helped to nurture and guide us into becoming the best that we can be.

Rick Murray | rick.murray@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman L AYO UT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rick Murray CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rick Murray, Lynn Bowles

While we celebrate these women on Mother’s Day, we at Hendersonville Lifestyle strive to take it a step further. Instead of honoring our ladies on a single day, we devote our entire May issue to recognizing women who are making Hendersonville such a great place in which to live.

We begin our tribute by taking a look at four ladies who give of themselves every day in order to help our community grow and prosper.

Next, we take you on a trip to one of Hendersonville’s sweetest treasures, a local bakery that is spreading goodness across our town, one treat at a time.

Finally, we visit with a local servant-leader who has dedicated her life to serving her

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

family, her community and her country.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

The City by the Lake is thriving today and every day, in large part due to the tireless

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

contributions of the wonderful women in our community. For that, we humbly salute you.

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Stay safe, Hendersonville. We’ll see you around town soon.

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Lynn Bowles, Publisher 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

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CityLifestyle.com/Hendersonville ON THE COVER Desneige VanCleve PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICK MURRAY 4

Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 Hendersonville Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Hendersonville area’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Hendersonville Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2021

FEATURES 16 Women of Distinction - 2021 Local Ladies Who Are Making A Difference Every Day

22 Lili Bella's Cakes Coffee and Treats in Hendersonville Making Mother's Day, and Every Day, a Little Bit Sweeter, One Cake at a Time

16 28

28 Servant Leadership By Land and By Sea Kelley Crecelius Balances Work, Family, Community and Country

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08 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

12

Around Town

16

Local Limelight

28 Local’s Choice 34 Lifestyle Calendar

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615-824-7258 (SALT) www.saltmedspa.com CityLifestyle.com/Hendersonville

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GOOD TIMES 1.

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Wonderland Egg Hunt and Tea Party Historic Rock Castle hosted the annual Wonderland Easter Egg Hunt and Mad Hatter Tea Party on its grounds on Apr. 3. Open to children from toddlers through age 12, Wonderland featured egg hunts, tea parties, crafts, games, face painting and inflatable bounce houses. In addition, several concessions vendors were on site to provide a variety of food and drink options.

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1. Executive Director Sam Gilbert makes announcements before the egg hunt begins. | 2. The Mad Hatter offers his suggestions on sipping tea. | 3.

Alice shares a moment with the Mad Hatter. | 4. The Queen of Hearts visits with her subjects. | 5. Members of the Hendersonville Fire Department handed out toy helmets to kids. | 6. Over 200 volunteers kept things running smoothly at Wonderland. | 7. Along with the egg hunts and tea parties, inflatable play houses were available for the kids. | 8. Four year old Carter Floyd shows off his egg hunt treasures. | 9. The Wonderland Easter Egg hunt gets underway. | 10. The Wonderland Egg hunt takes place in front of Historic Rock Castle. | 11. The Mad Hatter chats with some of his young guests. | 12. The Wonderland tea parties were a hit with kids and adults.

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Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

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Tutu School Ribbon Cutting The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of the Tutu School at its 300 Indian Lake Blvd., Suite D-120 location on Mar. 20.

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1. Mirrors help dancers improve their form. | 2. Colorful dance outfits are available for the dancers. | 3. Grand opening refreshments were available for guests. | 4. The Tutu School of Hendersonville is adorned with inspirational dance decorations. | 5. The Tutu School of Hendersonville holds a ribbon cutting ceremony. | 6. Tutu School owners and guests celebrate after the ribbon cutting.

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iCare Primary Care Ribbon Cutting The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for iCare Primary Care at its 260 West Main St., Suite 211 location on Apr. 1.

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1. A variety of cakes and refreshments greeted guests at the ribbon cutting. | 2. Hendersonville Mayor Jamie Clary talks with a guest. | 3. Kimberly Overton, Lynn Bowles and Dr. Dotun Oyewole share a moment. | 4. A large crowd attended the ribbon cutting for iCare Primary Care. | 5. Hendersonville Chamber members Greg Wilson and Michael Sands are enjoying the ribbon cutting. | 6. iCare Primary Care holds its ribbon cutting ceremony.

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GOOD TIMES 1.

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Little Free Library at Mary's Magical Place Ribbon Cutting The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Little Free Library at Mary's Magical Place in Veterans Park on Apr. 1. The library is sponsored by the Jethro Sumner Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

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1. Rachel McAuley donates books to the Little Free Library with Nancy Gilley. | 2. Hendersonville Parks Director Andy Gilley poses with his mom and Jethro Sumner DAR Regent Nancy Gilley. | 3. The Little Free Library at Mary's Magical Place in Veterans Park. | 4. Andy Gilley shares a moment with Rachel McAuley. | 5. Members of the Jethro Sumner Chapter of the DAR pose by the Little Free Library. | 6. A large crowd attended the ribbon cutting ceremony. | 7. Jethro Sumner DAR Regent Nancy Gilley addresses the crowd. | 8. Jethro Sumner DAR Librarian Becky Wright addresses the crowd. | 9. DAR members prepare for the ribbon cutting. | 10. Hendersonville Parks Director addresses the group. | 11. Rachel McAuley expresses her gratitude for the addition of the library to the park. | 12. The Little Free Library ribbon cutting ceremony takes place.

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Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

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Hendersonville Chamber Hosts Author Greg Coker at its April Meeting Best-selling author Greg Coker was the featured speaker at the monthly membership meeting of the Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce held at Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club on Apr. 1.

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1. Kimberly Overton and Dr. Dotun Oyewole enjoy a moment before the meeting. | 2. Beth Pickel hosts the BeneFirst Solutions sponsor booth. | 3.

The Frost Environmental Services booth offered information about eco-friendly solutions for businesses. | 4. Hendersonville Chamber board chair Lee Rucks poses with author Greg Coker and Chamber event coordinator Erin Morton. | 5. Author Greg Coker addresses the membership. | 6. Author Greg Coker speaks to the crowd.

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AROUND TOWN monthly data collection including crib audits, and noted improvements in their safe sleep practices.

“Our Safe Sleep initiatives include ongoing education for the moms and families of newborns, nursing staff training and providing sleep sacks to every infant born at Sumner Regional,” said Joyce Arand, PhD, RNC, interim director of Women’s Services.

VOL STATE KICKS OFF 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Approval for establishing a community college in Sumner County was given by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission in June 1969. Following acquisition of property, the groundbreaking for Volunteer State Community College was held in Nov. 1970, with classes beginning in 1971.

In recognition of a half century of providing higher education for thousands of area students, Vol State is celebrating the college's 50th anniversary in 2021.

VOL STATE INCREASES IN-PERSON CLASSES FOR FALL SEMESTER 2021

The year-long celebration is intended to engage the

Volunteer State Community College is welcom-

entire community in recognizing the accomplish-

ing students back to school with more in-person

ments and growth of the institution.

classes this fall. The college will be increasing the number of on-ground classes available on all four campuses: Springfield, Gallatin, Cookeville, and Livingston. The college will also be expanding opportunities for students to engage in campus activities while still maintaining safety measures.

Along with in-person classes, Vol State will continue to offer online education in three options - asynchronous, virtual synchronous and hybrid instruction.

SUMNER COUNTY SCHOOLS IMPLEMENT SPARK PHYSICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM Twenty-four physical education teachers have received certification as SPARK (Sports, Play and

SUMNER REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER RECEIVES SAFE SLEEP AWARD

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Active Recreation for Kids) Certified Instructors after completing online courses. These courses covered

evidence-based

physical

education

Sumner Regional Medical Center has been

best practices, and strategies to increase mod-

awarded a Milestone Award by Tennessee

erate-to-vigorous physical activity, fitness skills,

Initiative for Perinatal Quality Care (TIPQC)

sport skills and enjoyment of physical activity.

for their progress in the Safe to Sleep Project.

“Anyone who has ever experienced a SPARK

This milestone award is based on participation,

training knows how life-changing it is,” said

Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

Sumner County Schools Coordinated School Health Coordinator, Janel Garrett. “We have set a goal to become a SPARK district and are proud of the consistency in learning content and skills.”

SPRING RETURNS TO HENDERSONVILLE After a long winter, the Spring of 2021 finally arrived in the City by the Lake during late March and early April. Hendersonville locals, weary of cold weather and coronavirus isolation, rejoiced at the return of warm temperatures, sunny skies and blooming plants. The pleasant weather, coupled with the steady rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine, offered signs that a return to normal life might not be too far away.

TRISTAR HENDERSONVILLE MEDICAL CENTER CELEBRATES TWO YEARS OF ZERO CLABSIS The

nurses

and

providers

of

TriStar

Hendersonville Medical Center were recently CONTINUED >

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AROUND TOWN

recognized for their commitment to preventing harm by recording their 2nd consecutive year with zero CLABSIs. A CLABSI is a Central Line Associated Blood Stream Infection, a serious infection that occurs when germs enter the bloodstream through a central line.

CLABSIs result in thousands of deaths and higher healthcare costs each year in the United States. The good news is that CLABSIs are preventable, and the care team at TriStar Hendersonville follows evidence-based practices to prevent them.

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ Hendersonville using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

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Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT ARTICLE RICK MURRAY | PHOTOGRAPHY RICK MURRAY AND SUBMITTED

LOCAL LADIES WHO ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE EVERY DAY

C O N N I E M AY N O R D MODEL & ACTOR FREELANCE TALENT AND COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER WHO ARE YOU? “I am a model and actor, and I regularly appear in television commercials, most notably for Blue Cross Blue Shield and Toyota. I have also had roles in music videos and network television shows, including ‘Nashville.’”

WHAT ARE YOUR COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES? “I

am

a

member

of

the

Newcomers

&

Community Club of Sumner County, HolidayFest, the Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce, Nashville Women in Film and Television and Women Within group at Our Lady of the Lake.”

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? “My family, including my husband Chris, my oldest son Dominic and my youngest son Matthew, who recently passed away. They motivate me to live my life to its fullest.”

WHO IS YOUR MENTOR? “My parents taught me love, respect and caring for others. I also received advice from my Aunt Jan, who shared ‘if you accept a gift from someone, then you also accept the responsibility to send a thank you note.’”

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST LIFE LESSON? “Cherish your family members. Hold them close and tell them daily that you love them.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS? “Dance, like no one else is watching. Love, like you’ve never been hurt. Sing, like no one is listening.

Live, like you’re in heaven on earth.”

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Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

Women of Distinction - 2021

JENNIFER MILLER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JSM DIVERSITY WHO ARE YOU? “I am the founder and executive director of JSM Diversity, an organization devoted to advancing humanitarian services and equal opportunities for women, people of color and at-risk youth. My team and I strive to empower and educate leaders to set the standards that define a diverse and inclusive environment.”

WHAT ARE YOUR COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES? “I am an active member of several local organizations, including the Hendersonville Rotary Club, Life Group and the Kappa Nu Theta Christian Sorority. I also serve as a foster parent mentor.”

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? “People who are in need of help. I have dedicated my life to serving others, and I don’t believe that there is any higher calling than helping those who can’t help themselves.”

WHO IS YOUR MENTOR? “I have been blessed to have several strong mentors in my life. However, my youth pastor had the greatest impact on my life.”

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST LIFE LESSON? “God made us all different from one another, but not superior to each other.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS? “Time is the only thing in life you cannot get back.

Invest it in the people and things that truly matter, and not in the things that do not.”

CONTINUED >

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

CHERYL STRICHIK EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO MONTHAVEN ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER WHO ARE YOU? “I am the executive director of Monthaven Arts & Cultural Center in Hendersonville. Our mission is to collect, preserve and interpret local and regional art, and to present exhibits of regional, national and international significance. We create a vibrant art, educational and cultural experience for people of all ages.”

WHAT ARE YOUR COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES? “My role at Monthaven is predicated upon community service. However, I also serve in other organizations, including the Newcomers & Community Club of Sumner County and Long Hollow Baptist Church.”

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? “I like to identify needs in the community and then find ways to address them. I believe that the key to a fulfilling life is to always make a positive difference in everything that I do.”

WHO IS YOUR MENTOR? “My mother had the most influence on me. She instilled strong values in me that have served me my entire life.”

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST LIFE LESSON? “Don’t just hear someone, listen to them with empathy.

Learning to understand a person’s problem represents the beginning of finding a solution.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS? “Never hold a grudge. Always be willing to forgive others, regardless of the circumstances.”

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Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

D E S N E I G E VA N C L E V E FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR GRACE PLACE MINISTRY, INC. WHO ARE YOU? “I am the founder and executive director of Grace Place Ministry. Our mission is to empower single mothers in need and their children to develop healthy, safe and independent lives in our local community.”

WHAT ARE YOUR COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES? “Currently, I am involved in several different community organizations, including the Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce, the Hendersonville Rotary Club, Leadership Sumner and Long Hollow Baptist Church.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? “Nothing is more motivating to me than a challenge. If something hasn’t been done yet, I want to do it. If that something is thought to be very difficult, even better.”

WHO IS YOUR MENTOR? “I’ve had a community of mentors my whole life – some are teachers while others are coaches.

They impact the world in immeasurable ways as friends, mothers and/or community members.”

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST LIFE LESSON? “I have two life lessons. First, stay focused on what you’re doing – avoid distractions. Second, choose your battles.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS? “I would offer three tips. First, know yourself to lead yourself. Second, laugh as often as you can with as many people as you can. Finally, listen to others.”

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Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

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Lili Bella's owner Jennifer Ramos welcomes guests to her bakery.

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Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY RICK MURRAY

LILI

L i l i B e l l a's C a k e s - C o f fe e a n d Tr e a t s i n t h e C i t y By the La ke

MAKING MOTHER'S DAY, AND EVERY DAY, A LITTLE BIT SWEETER, ONE CAKE AT A TIME

ON THE WEST SIDE OF HENDERSONVILLE LIES A QUAINT LITTLE COTTAGE, COMSHADE TREES. Rustic and tranquil, the setting seems rather ordinary, at first.

However, as you draw nearer, you are suddenly

cake studio and a locally roasted coffee and

enveloped by the delightful aroma of freshly

expresso bar at its Shivel Drive location. Owners

baked treats. Step through the door, and you will

Jennifer and David Ramos specialize in providing

find an array of colorful cakes, cookies and other

custom wedding and special events cakes and

goodies, the likes of which you have never seen.

desserts for all occasions.

For a moment, you wonder if you are dream-

“At Lili Bella’s, our goal is to always serve the

ing. Then you realize that it is not a dream, but

best baked treats and coffees in town,” says

instead, sweet reality.

Jennifer. “We welcome all of our guests to come

Welcome to Lili Bella’s Cakes.

inside and cozy up with a tasty dessert and a hot

Lili Bella’s is a unique, family-owned business

coffee. We love to get to know our customers, and

that incorporates a small-batch bakery, a custom

we really care about them.”

Neither Jennifer nor David originally planned to go into the bakery business. Jennifer worked in the legal and education fields for many years, while David spent time in the corporate world, carving out a career in consumer goods. In addition, Jennifer and David also worked in different capacities in the restaurant industry, which gave them good insight into what it takes to run a consumer-oriented small business.

However, the opportunity to start their own business arose shortly after the birth of the Ramos’ daughter, Isabella.

“After having our daughter, we decided that I would stay home with our daughter and our three sons. During that time, I began baking cakes and cupcakes for my sons’ school events. Before long,

Colorful, floral cupcakes are popular Mother's Day treats.

my home baking spiraled into graduation cakes, custom birthday and special event and wedding cakes,” says Jennifer. “I soon realized that I loved CONTINUED >

B E L L A’ S

FORTABLY NESTLED UNDER A STAND OF

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LILI BELLA’S CAKES (CONTINUED)

Cakes with seasonal decorations, such as the Easter-themed carrot cake, are popular bakery items.

24

Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

baking for others and that I had a flair for creating unique custom cakes for any occasion.”

Over time, Jennifer’s home baking business grew so large that she had to begin turning customers away. At this point, she and David decided that it was time to turn her home bakery operation into a true small business.

“As Jennifer’s baking prowess became more widespread, there was a steady increase in the demand for her cakes,” says David. “We soon realized that it was time to get into the bakery business full time.”

Once the couple had decided to open a bakery, they were faced with several typical startup issues, including determining the name of their business.

“We considered several names before settling on Lili Bella’s,” says Jennifer. “We came up with the name one afternoon while doing yardwork. It is derived from our daughter’s name, Isabella Liliana. At

Lili Bella's owners David and Jennifer Ramos enjoy a moment in their bakery.

first, we were going to call it Bella Lili’s, but we finally decided that we liked the sound of Lili Bella’s better.”

popular item is our famous cinnamon rolls. We usu-

With the name settled, Jennifer and David began

ally have people lined up outside to purchase the cin-

to search for a suitable location. After an extensive

namon rolls, and we always sell out of them quickly.”

search, they finally located the small building that

Like other small businesses, Lili Bella’s had to

was to become their bakery.

adapt to the new normal spawned by Covid-19.

“We wanted our business to have a ‘home’ feel,

However, despite the uncertainty of the pandemic,

and when we found the 84-year-old cottage on

Jennifer and David were able to continue to grow

Shivel Drive, it was like a dream come true,” says

their business through innovation.

Jennifer. “It was originally designed and built by

“During the early days of the coronavirus, we had

Braxton Dixon, who was known as the builder of

to figure out ways to acclimate to the new environ-

choice for country music stars.”

ment in order to stay in business,” says Jennifer.

After purchasing and renovating the property,

“We began offering curbside pickup, contactless

they were finally able to open Lili Bella’s in Sept.

payment options and home delivery. We also cre-

2019. Soon thereafter, the sweet deserts and flavor-

ated our ‘Do It Yourself’ (DIY) cookie kit, that allows

ful coffees became the talk of the town.

families to spend time together decorating cookies.

“We offer a large selection of baked goods, including custom cakes, cookies, cupcakes, brownies and chess squares,” says Jennifer. “However, our most

It remains one of our biggest sellers, even today.”

The pandemic also presented them with an unexpected silver lining.

“Due to the coronavirus, David had the opportunity to leave his corporate position and join me at the bakery full time,” says Jennifer. “It was scary at first, but ongoing community support of our business has helped to make our dream of working together come true.”

CONTINUED >

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LILI BELLA’S CAKES (CONTINUED)

With Mother’s Day soon approaching, Lili Bella’s is the perfect place to go to get Mom some sweet treats that she will long remember.

“To make Mom’s day, we suggest an order of cinnamon rolls and an amazing Bella’s Cafe caramel or other coffee drink,” says Jennifer. “Some other great options include a cupcake bouquet, a sampler bakery box or a DIY cookie kit.”

However, there is no need to wait until Mother’s Day. If your sweet tooth is calling, head on over to Lili Bella’s for the tastiest treats in the City by the Lake.

But if you have a yen for cinnamon rolls, be sure to show up early!

Lili Bella’s Cakes 109 Shivel Drive, Hendersonville, TN 37075 Cake pops are a customer favorite at Lili Bella's.

615.447.5266 Lilibellas.com

F R A M E L E SS S H OW E R D O O R S When Quality Matters B E A U T Y » F U N C T I O N » VA L U E SHOWROOM: 103 Tennessee Way Hendersonville, Tennessee 37075 (615) 4 31-5070 nashvilleshowers.com 26

Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL City Lifestyle

YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

A S ERV NT E LE AD R S H I P-

BY L A N D A N D BY S E A KELLEY CRECELIUS BALANCES WORK, FAMILY, COMMUNITY AND COUNTRY ARTICLE RICK MURRAY PHOTOGRAPHY JEFF HAWKINS, RICK MURRAY, SUBMITTED 28

Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

S

ervant-leaders are true community treasures. Every

day, these individuals place the needs of others ahead of their own in order to bolster the common good. Regardless of their positions, servant-leaders inspire those around them to seek and achieve higher goals through their personal examples of hard work and self-sacrifice. In essence, they personify leadership by example.

The Hendersonville area is blessed to have a number of dedicated servant-leaders who fill a variety of leadership roles in business, nonprofit and government entities. They tirelessly give of their time and talent to help our city grow

“The servant-leader is servant first. It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead.” Robert K. Greenleaf

and prosper, while simultaneously balancing work, home and civic responsibilities.

One such individual is Kelley Crecelius.

Most community leaders wear many hats, and Kelley is no exception. Most days, you will find her hard at work as a relationship manager at First Horizon Bank, handling the financial needs of her banking clients.

“I had the opportunity to join First Horizon Bank in 2016, and I knew right away that it was the right move for me,” says Kelley. “God opened the door for me at the Hendersonville Main branch, and it has been a wonderful fit.”

Since the advent of Covid-19, Kelley’s daily work schedule has been busier than ever.

“I am part of a team that processes Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for the bank, and our workload has increased dramatically since the start of the pandemic,” says Kelley. “However, it has been a blessing to be able to help small businesses obtain the funding they so desperately need to keep their doors open.”

For most people, holding down a full-time professional position would provide enough challenges. However, not for Kelley.

Along with her banking responsibilities, Kelley also serves part-time as a Lieutenant Commander in the United States Coast Guard. Since 1997, she has performed in a variety of military roles, including search and rescue, law enforcement, procurement, public affairs, aviation and training.

CONTINUED >

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LOCAL’S CHOICE (CONTINUED)

“Since I was about five years old, I knew I wanted to be in the military,” says Kelley. “I researched all five branches of the armed services before deciding to join the Coast Guard. At the time, it was prior to 9/11, and the Coast Guard was the branch that was the busiest and that had a defined, daily mission.”

Banker, military officer – most people would think that these two roles would be enough for any individual. Once again, however, not for Kelley.

Along with her banking and military responsibilities, Kelley is also very active in a variety of professional and community associations. She currently serves as the chair for the Bankers en Motion Resource Group of First Horizon Bank, the committee co-chair for the Sumner County United Way, a director for the Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce, a Sea Scout charter captain and a volunteer with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.

In her rare moments of free time, Kelley enjoys working on her farm with her husband and her children. She also finds time to read books on military history, usually while relaxing to tunes from her favorite musical artist, the late Country Music Hall of Famer Don Williams.

Kelley also enjoys another leisure activity that is becoming increasingly popular around the country.

“Since I was about five years old, I knew I wanted to be in the military.”

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Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

“I love judging barbeque competitions,”

my parents and my mother-in-law all help

says Kelley. “I have been a Kansas City

keep things going at home when I am gone

Barbeque Society certified judge for several

with the Coast Guard. I also work for a great

years, and I love sampling and rating meats

company who encourages and supports

prepared by world-class grill masters.”

my community activities.”

Given all of Kelley’s professional, civic

There is no doubt about it – Kelley

and family obligations, most people would

Crecelius is an inspiration for all, and she

marvel at her ability to strike a healthy

is a credit to her family, her community

work-life balance.

and her country.

However, like most servant-leaders, Kelley is quick to give the credit to others.

“I am blessed to have an amazing support system,” says Kelley. “My husband,

If you happen to run into Kelley around town, be sure to thank her for her service.

That is, if you can catch her before she

“I am blessed to have an amazing support system.”

moves on to her next challenge.

CityLifestyle.com/Hendersonville

31

32

Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Hendersonville

33

MAY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1

4

If so, come out to one of the best

MIDDLE TN MAGNOLIA MARKET

STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS

Songwriter Series! The first event

Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club

will be held on May 29 between 5:00

The Middle TN Magnolia Market

The annual State of the City address

p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Food and drink

is coming up on Saturday, May 1st

will be given by Mayor Jamie Clary

vendors will be available.

from 10:00-3:00pm at the Streets

during the regular monthly member-

of Indian Lake. Merchants will be

ship meeting of the Hendersonville

offering goods in a variety of cate-

Area Chamber of Commerce on May

gories, including fashion clothing,

4. The event will be held at Bluegrass

baby items, beauty products, home

Yacht & Country Club.

Streets of Indian Lake

community

décor and much more. There will also be giveaways for a $250 shopping spree and other door prizes throughout the event.

1

7

in

Sumner

31 ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY CLASSIC RUNNING EVENT Drakes Creek Park

The annual Memorial Day Classic, benefitting the Cumberland Crisis

STRAWBERRY JAM CONCERT & FIREWORKS

Pregnancy Center, will be held on May 31, starting at 7 a.m. This popular running event features 3 distances -

Market Street, Portland

of

5K and 10K races and a 1 mile fun run.

Commerce to kick off the Middle TN

While the races will follow safe Covid-

Moss-Wright Park, Goodlettsville

Strawberry Festival on Friday, May

19 prevention practices, there will

The 2021. GOODFest and Spring

7th with the Strawberry Jam Concert

also be virtual race options available.

Market will be held on Saturday,

& Fireworks event.

May 1, 11am – 3pm. This event joins

Live music & food vendors start at

Goodlettsville Farmer’s Market ven-

5pm. The "Resurrection – A Journey

dors with a variety of additional local

Tribute" concert starts at 7 p.m. with

artisans and marketplace vendors

fireworks to follow at 8:30 p.m.

GOODFEST AND SPRING MARKET

Join

events

County — the Rock Castle Summer

the

Portland

Chamber

(retail resellers) and is held at MossWright Park on the road just behind the Visitor’s Center.

14

31 THE ISAACS MEMORIAL DAY CONCERT Veterans Park

The Isaacs will perform live at Veterans Park on Memorial Day at

1

ANNUAL EDUCATE A WOMAN LUNCHEON

EPIC Event Centre, Gallatin

VIETNAM: 2 SOLDIERS, 2 ARTISTS, 2 JOURNEYS

gates will open at 12:30pm.

The annual "Educate a Woman" lun-

There will be a limited number of free

cheon will be held at Gallatin's EPIC

tickets available for the event through

Monthaven Arts and Cultural Center

Event Centre from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.

to Eventbrite. Ticket holders will need

From helicopters and hand gre-

on May 14. Karen Mills, a stand-up

to bring their own seating. Food

nades to watercolors and canvas,

comic and distinguished female ath-

trucks will also be available.

"Vietnam: 2 Soldiers, 2 Artists, 2

lete, will be the speaker for the event.

Journeys, Then & Now" is the story

"Educate a Woman" is sponsored

of two brave soldiers who battled

by the Volunteer State Community

their way into the world of art.

College Foundation.

2pm. The event will be presented by Hendersonville Hometown Jam, and

This memorable exhibit features highlights of artists David Wright's and Chuck Creasy's best work from Vietnam.

The event runs through Aug. 1.

34

Hendersonville Lifestyle | May 2021

29 SUMMER SONGWRITER NIGHT

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you!

Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

Historic Rock Castle

Hendersonville using the Get In

Are you looking for a relaxing night of

Touch link and let us know what

outdoor family fun and great music?

you think.

At Vanderbilt Health Hendersonville, we’re making your health care personal with convenient care closer to home. With women’s health, pediatric specialists, imaging, orthopaedics, adult primary care, and walk-in care, you’ll have access to personalized health care right here in your own backyard.

We’re conveniently located at 128 N. Anderson Lane in Hendersonville, TN across from Lowe’s and just off Indian Lake Boulevard.

VanderbiltHealthHendersonville.com