Gratitude: The Spirit of the Season
As the season of thankfulness approaches, the Gallatin Lifestyle team is blessed beyond measure. While reflecting on all of the reasons for our gratitude, we are overwhelmed by the generosity and passion our community exudes. Recognizing the love that Gallatin holds is truly amazing. What’s more, the heart of our community is all of the wonderful people who call it home.
Made up of people brimming with commitment, com passion and humility, Gallatin openly represents the spirit of the season. We are honored to walk alongside those who proudly embrace the health and strength of our community. From memories made to hearts that have grown three sizes, this issue truly is a gift to us as much as we hope it is to you.
In honor of the season, this issue features a local couple dedicated to giving back and providing expert care to those in need. TN Medicare Concierge, a booming local service, is proud to share the purpose behind their work. Their hearts are full knowing that they offer services crucial to seniors who are stepping into a stage of life where having an ally on your side is a must. We are thrilled to get a front row seat to the difference their care and compassion will make.
Additionally, this time of the year offers an excellent opportunity to personally make an impact. We have compiled a list of beautifully life-changing nonprofits that thrive and flourish because of your generosity. From food assistance and spiritual support to affordable housing and even specialized care for our senior furry friends, you are sure to find the perfect nonprofit to support and encourage during this season.
We have also included some special additions to this issue to add a touch of magic to the upcoming holiday season! From highlights of local public service workers who pour out their hearts to serve during the most stressful time of the year to seasonal scents that we believe will elevate your home’s aesthetic, this issue is full and sure to surpass your expectations!
As the holiday season begins, we hope that you, our community, will share in the wonderful celebrations of gratitude and thankfulness surrounding us. We encourage you to be mindful of those in need and offer your support however you and your family best see fit! The Gallatin Lifestyle team proudly presents to you our November Issue!
November 2024
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
Emma Balkenbush, Nicole Bell, Scott Bell, Angela Broockerd, Renee Donnell
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Nicole Bell, Executive Brand Growth, Janie Jones, Sara Grace Waters, SG Creative
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
RENEE DONNELL, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @GALLATINLIFESTYLE
NOVEMBER 2024
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Gallatin’s Farm-to-Table event with Honey + Suede, Ikaria Infusions & Aesthetics and Broadway Mortgage Group 2: Broadway Mortgage Group and friends come together to support the St. Luke’s Community House fundraiser 3: Waxing The City Gallatin shines at the Waxing The City conference, celebrating growth and expertise 4: Volunteer State Community College proudly celebrates donors at the “Complete the Dream” Casino Night 5: Friends, fun and wine at Habitat for Humanity’s Pinot and Purses fundraiser event 6: A beautiful evening at Habitat for Humanity’s Pinot & Purses event, supporting a wonderful cause 7: Celebrating Shine Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics open house with their team and local area providers
KANEISHA DOTSON
NICOLE BELL
KATHRYN GOOD
VOLUNTEER STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
BROADWAY MORTGAGE GROUP
NICOLE BELL
WAXING THE CITY GALLATIN
As your local Gallatin independent insurance agent, I specialize in creating customized insurance solutions just for you. Since 2005, My Team Insurance Services has prided itself in putting you first, listening to your needs to ensure you have the right coverage at a competitive price. We also understand that your needs change over time, and we are there for you through life’s changes to make sure you are protected today, as well as in the future, with access to flexible options for any phase of life. myteaminsurance.com |
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Gallatin Lifestyle Wins Team City Lifestyle Award for Collaboration Excellence
Gallatin Lifestyle, along with the entire City Lifestyle-Nashville team, was honored with the prestigious “Team City Lifestyle Award” for their outstanding collaborative efforts in the community. This award recognizes the teamwork and innovation displayed by the Middle Tennessee Lifestyle publications in creating impactful, community-driven content. Their shared dedication to quality storytelling and supporting local businesses truly set them apart in the City Lifestyle network. Congratulations to the Middle Tennessee Lifestyle publications for this well-deserved recognition!
M.L. Rose Craft Beer & Burgers Opens in Gallatin
M.L.Rose Craft Beer & Burgers is excited to announce the opening of its newest location at 2145 Nashville Pike in Gallatin. Known for its craft beer and delicious burgers, the restaurant offers a cozy, community-driven atmosphere with seating for over 200, a dog-friendly patio and a private dining room. Guests can enjoy 36 craft beer taps, creative burgers, and weekly specials like trivia nights, happy hours and weekend brunches.
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Historic Gallatin Gymnasium Restored for Community
After nearly 30 years, the historic Union High School gymnasium on Small Street in Gallatin is being fully renovated for community use by the local nonprofit Shalom Zone. Abandoned in the 1970s, this gym will soon serve as a safe space for local youth. Over 50 volunteers joined the restoration, led by a Nashville construction team, transforming the gym with new floors, lighting and basketball hoops. This piece of local history will open this month.
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“David Wilkinson is such a good guy. You won’t find anyone better to do your screen porch enclosure. Hire them and you will see what I mean. Great guys.” - Jace
not home for the holidays
CELEBRATING OUR LOCAL HEROES WHO KEEP OUR COMMUNITY TOGETHER DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON
ARTICLE BY RENEE DONNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Audrey Frazier
Registered Nurse & Co-owner of Ikaria Infusions & Aesthetics
Audrey has been an RN for 17 years. She’s been married for 19 years and has three beautiful children, all of which are extremely understanding of the schedule and demands that come with her career. Audrey explains that one of the difficulties of working holidays is being away from her family, although her colleagues have become like a second family by having potlucks and playing Secret Santa! The joy of serving and bringing a smile to her patients’ faces during the holidays makes her hard work worth it!
FTO Keziah Oakes
Gallatin Police Officer
Keziah has been a Police Officer for GPD for four years. Her experience includes becoming a Negotiator, Field Training Officer and Bike Officer. She is surrounded by an extremely supportive family, including her father who is her biggest fan and her cat Goggles! Keziah often reminds herself that she is serving and protecting her community, which fuels her purpose and makes the holidays a little less lonely. She explains that the love she receives from other officers and the community during the holidays is incredible, such as the homemade meals brought to the department.
Brendan Lucas Monroe Jackson Boyd III
Physician Assistant, Comprehensive Health and Wellness
Brendan has six years of clinical practice as a PA under his belt, along with 13 years of total experience in healthcare. He finds joy in his two four-legged children, Gunner and Tullie! Brendan admits that working holidays present a longing for the traditional celebration of the season. Although his celebrations may look different than he’d like, Brendan anchors himself in his values and reminds himself of his purpose. One way he does this is by setting time aside to gather with family and showing appreciation to his colleagues!
Paramedic/Captain, Sumner County EMS
Monroe has been serving his community for 13 years. He married the love of his life in 2010, and they share a beautiful son and furry friend! Monroe says that the most difficult part of working during the holidays is missing out on all of the little moments with his family. Although celebrations may take place on different days, Monroe believes leftovers are just as good! One way his family supports him is through his son, who has bonded over his work and even tags along at special events! Monroe is proud to represent the best First Responders around!
Debra Kilpatrick
Registered Nurse & Co-owner of Ikaria Infusions & Aesthetics
Debra has been an RN for 16 years. Her household consists of a wonderful, blended family who offers love and support by often visiting her at the hospital during the holidays. Debra explains that it’s all about perspective; she has a wonderful job and gets to go home after work, which is only a couple of reasons to be thankful! Her colleagues keep the spirits high by wearing festive attire, and they brighten up the unit with holiday decorations. Her career is very humbling, and Debra is very grateful.
info@cheerville.com
Local Giving
ARTICLE BY RENEE DONNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
During the season of giving, we are blessed to be surrounded by a range of impactful nonprofits that make a difference in our area. Below is a curated list of local nonprofits that provide help and support for those in need, including our furry friends. Consider donating or volunteering locally as a way to serve our community!
1. Habitat for Humanity of Sumner County and Habitat ReStore restoresumner.com
Partners with local families to build strength, stability and self-reliance through safe and affordable housing.
2. Feed Sumner feedsumner.org
Serves the immediate needs of local families by offering food assistance and spiritual support.
3. Grace Place Ministry graceplaceministryinc.org
Empowering single mothers in need and their children toward developing healthy, safe and independent lives.
4. Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary ofsds.org
Providing lifetime homes and care to over 500 senior dogs, along with dental care and all the affection they deserve.
AND LOVED ONES
ARTICLE BY RENEE DONNELL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Seasonal Home Scents
CANDLES, SOAPS AND MORE TO EMBRACE THE SEASON’S SPIRIT
122 N. Water Ave, Gallatin, TN, 37066
Introducing Dr. Allen Bush, DDS to the team
GALLATIN’S GUIDING LIGHT
ARTICLE BY EMMA BALKENBUSH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA GRACE WATERS, EBG
If you or a loved one are getting ready to begin the Medicare journey, or maybe you already have a plan, you now have a team of local and caring experts standing by to guide you through the often misunderstood process right here in Gallatin. Long-time Gallatin residents Brad and Elizabeth Hobdy Jones have made it their mission to help the 65+ community navigate the various government programs available, and they take their responsibility personally.
The husband and wife team recently founded TN Medicare Concierge--a one-stop shop and local liaison designed to be a resource funnel to the seniors in our community who need help in understanding the nuances of what it means to participate in Medicare and the options available to them. TN Medicare Concierge is based in Gallatin, but it also serves the entire state of Tennessee. Elizabeth said she and Brad were inspired to start the service after
Local Couple Helps Tennessee Seniors Navigate The Medicare Process with Care and Expertise
discovering the need for Medicare resources around the state and seeing the needs of others in our area.
“I have owned an insurance company in Gallatin for fifteen years, and we started having customers asking about Medicare during open enrollment season,” Elizabeth said. “My husband and I spent the last year diving into Medicare products and the government guidelines.”
Elizabeth and Brad both grew up in Gallatin and share a deep love for the community and Middle Tennessee. They stay active in the school system and love serving the community. Their team at TN Medicare Concierge also includes Medicare
advisor Jon Suddarth, a longtime friend and former Gallatin High School classmate of Brad’s—a truly local connection.
Elizabeth admits that the process of beginning Medicare can be overwhelming and many people don’t know where to turn. What many people need is someone to walk them through the details of an otherwise daunting process.
“When you turn 65, the government says, ‘Okay, you have to go on Medicare.’ Well, telemarketers start calling them and there’s no one locally to take the time to talk everything through with them,” Elizabeth explained. It can be a staggering process without proper guidance and help.
People who work with TN Medicare Concierge can discuss their specific needs for their lifestyle and
future goals. The service offers a variety of carriers and prescription drug plans.
For those approaching 65, understanding the ins and outs of the government program can feel impossible. They may have questions about different premiums or penalties and may not have anyone to turn to to help them navigate the process.
“To have somebody local in your community that you can sit down with who wants to help you is a huge need in the community,” Elizabeth says. “The 65 and up population in Middle Tennessee grew by 13 percent the last three years, and the number of Tennesseans aged 60 or over is expected to increase by more than 300,000 over the next decade.”
Many of the calls they get are from those looking for Medicare help for a parent. They want to feel confident
that their loved one will be in good hands. Even if someone is already on Medicare, Elizabeth encourages them to reach out to TN Medicare Concierge to evaluate their current plan, as there could be better options than their current one.
“Keep your doctors; we’re not wanting to change anything you’re doing now, but there may be a better plan for you,” she said.
Elizabeth notes that it’s also important to keep in mind the Inflation Reduction Act and how that will likely cause significant changes in many people’s plans in 2025.
“It really is the time to look at it because your drugs that used to cost $80 are probably going to cost close to $150 now; the doctors who were taking your plan may not be taking it anymore,” she said.
No matter what component of Medicare Elizabeth, Brad or Jon helps a customer with, their hard work always pays off when a customer tells them they’ve given them peace of mind and they have a shoulder to lean on for local guidance.
“When we have a customer that tells us, ‘You have no idea how scared I was when I turned 65 because I didn’t have anyone to guide me through this process,’ it means the world to us,” she said. “I want people to know they can trust us for this. We’ve heard the need for years, we’ve put the work in, and we’re here to serve the community.” While their main office for Medicare assistance is currently in Gallatin, their goal is to eventually have offices all over Tennessee.
TN Medicare Concierge 402 Maple Street, Gallatin tnmedicareconcierge.com
615.527.4633
more information
• When it comes to navigating Medicare, seeking help from local services can make all the difference. Local Medicare advisors, such as TN Medicare Concierge, offer personalized, faceto-face guidance tailored to individual and unique needs. Unlike impersonal call centers or national services, local experts understand the specific healthcare providers, hospitals, and resources available in your community. This local knowledge can help ensure that your plan covers your preferred doctors, specialists, and prescription needs.
• Since TN Medicare Concierge is local, they are invested in the well-being of their community, often building longterm relationships with clients and offering a level of trust and reliability that large companies can’t match. For a smoother, more personalized experience, turn to your local team!
Dr. Mark Groff
giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
garlic herb
feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions: Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.
As a Gallatin resident and insurance agent for 14 years, my team and I proudly rank in the top 1% nationwide We offer comprehensive insurance solutions, including home, auto, commercial, life, and more! We’re excited to introduce our new department, TN Medicare Concierge, dedicated to helping you easily navigate Medicare. Whether you’re approaching Medicare age or assisting loved ones, our expert advisors are here to provide the guidance and support you need.
2024
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 2ND
Ghosts, Lore & S’Mores
Historic Rose Mont, 810 S Water Ave, Gallatin | 6:00 PM
Immerse yourself in an evening of campfire storytelling, s’mores and spine-chilling paranormal investigation at Rose Mont. If you’re curious about cryptids or unexplained phenomena, this event is for you! Explore ghostly tales and local folklore while enjoying a thrilling night under the stars. Open to ages 13 and up—don’t miss the adventure!
NOVEMBER 8TH – 10TH
Holiday Tinsel & Treasures Gallatin’s Shop Local Weekend
Participating Gallatin Retail Locations
For 53 years, Gallatin’s Holiday Tinsel & Treasures “Shop Local” Weekend has kicked off the holiday shopping season. Every second weekend in November, local retailers welcome early shoppers with unique finds, giving businesses a head start before Black Friday and Shop Local Saturday. Join us this year, November 8-10, for a festive weekend of local shopping!
NOVEMBER 9TH
Rose Mont Christmas Market
Historic Rose Mont, 810 S Water Ave, Gallatin | 3:00 PM
Join us for a magical evening at the Christmas Market at Rose Mont! Stroll through a winter wonderland as local artisans showcase unique, handcrafted treasures perfect for holiday gifting. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit while discovering one-of-a-kind goods that make your season truly special. Don’t miss this enchanting holiday experience!
NOVEMBER 9TH
Merry Market at the Gallatin Farmers Market
Gallatin Farmers Market, 160 W Franklin St, Gallatin | 10:00 AM
Join us for Merry Market Day at the Gallatin Farmers Market on Saturday, November 9th, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, in conjunction with the “Tinsel & Treasures” Holiday Merchant Open House Weekend. Shop local handmade crafts, artisan goods and fall harvest treats while enjoying live music from local singer-songwriters. Free to attend—start your Christmas shopping early!
NOVEMBER 17TH
Dive Barre & Pilates Full Moon Flow
Dive Barre & Pilates, 110 N Water Ave, Gallatin | 6:00 PM
Come join Deanna for Full Moon Flow at the Dive Barre! She’ll guide us through a yoga flow with essential oils, crystals and a guided meditation that will help you feel completely renewed. Celebrate the Full Moon by strengthening your connection to yourself and leaving all the craziness on the mat. Spaces are limited. Members $12.50/Drop in $25.
NOVEMBER 30TH
Small Business Saturday with Boutique Bazaar
The Chapel at Three Oaks, 502 Douglas Bend Road, Gallatin | 10:00 AM
Come experience an exclusive Boutique Bazaar featuring 30 hand-selected local favorites for one day only! Discover handcrafted, vintage, and one-of-a-kind treasures in our indoor, climate-controlled barns and covered patio. Santa Shaw and Mrs. Claus will be available from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM for magical photos. Enjoy food trucks, shopping, and festive fun.
mor e. With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only.
Expir es 11/30/24. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
You deserve quality care. You deserve compassion. You deserve specialty treatment and innovation right here, close to home. Highpoint Health with Ascension Saint Thomas brings nationally recognized clinical expertise and talented caregivers together to improve healthcare for all of us who call Gallatin home.
As your caregivers, we’re dedicated to putting patients’ needs first. This is the care you’ve trusted for generations, now with a new name. Together we make our communities healthier. Together we care. See what we can do together at HighpointHealthSystem.com