


The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum was awarded the National Medal of Arts.
“For cataloging one of the Nation’s great homegrown art forms,” the White House Citation recognized the Museum’s enduring work, which “preserves history, honors giants of the genre, and inspires future generations to write their own songs about the American story.” This is the United States’ highest honor in the arts.
CONGRATULATIONS FELLOW NATIONAL MEDAL OF ARTS RECIPIENTS HONORED ON OCTOBER 21, 2024
Ruth Asawa
Randy A. Batista
Mark Bradford
Ken Burns
Clyde Butcher
Bruce Cohen
Melissa “Missy” Elliott
Leonardo “Flaco” Jimenez
Alex Katz
Jo Carole Lauder
Spike Lee
Eva Longoria
Idina Menzel
Herbert I. Ohta
Queen Latifah
Selena Quintanilla
Bruce Sagan
Steven Spielberg
Carrie Mae Weems
“Sleighbells ring, are you listening? In the lane, snow is glistening. A beautiful sight, we’re happy tonight, walking in a winter wonderland.”
Dick Smith and Felix Bernard
Welcome to December in the 37075. We might not have snow on the ground yet, but Hendersonville is still glistening with colorful lights and festive decorations spread across homes and businesses all across the City by the Lake. All around town, the air is filled with the sounds of Christmas music and the aromas of holiday feasts with family and friends.
In anticipation of the arrival of the jolly red elf and his reindeer, we are excited to bring you the December edition of Hendersonville Lifestyle. Our holiday and giving issue is filled with a lot of great features that are sure to help you get into the Christmas spirit. As always, we invite you to come along with us as we dive into one of our favorite months of the year.
Sound like fun?
Then hop aboard our Hendersonville Lifestyle Christmas Express train with us, and let’s begin our tour of the winter wonderland of Hendersonville.
Our first stop is at a longtime Hendersonville business that will help you choose the perfect wines and spirits for all your holiday occasions.
After crossing over the river and through the woods, we look at some classic versions of one of our favorite holiday tales – “A Christmas Carol.” However, never fear, you won’t be feeling “Bah, Humbug” after you check out these timeless videos.
Rounding the bend, we visit with three local merchants to pick up a few gift ideas for him, for her and for fur.
Finally, after a long day of riding the rails and catching snowflakes on our tongues, we pull back into the station where we will enjoy a new holiday cocktail while we thaw out by the fireplace.
As always, we will keep you up to date on all the great things happening in our exceptional city.
Ho, Ho, Ho and Happy Holidays,
Lynn Bowles
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Lynn Bowles | lynn.bowles@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Rick Murray | rick.murray@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Debbie Murray | debbiemurray1989@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Rick Murray
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rick Murray, Lynn Bowles
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
Learn
mor e. With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only.
Expir es 12/31/24. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) was a rare sight over Hendersonville on Oct. 10. 2: The annual Music City STOL competition took place in Gallatin on Oct. 12. 3: A classic warbird flyover kicked off the 2024 Music City STOL competition on Oct. 10. 4: Pilots tested their short take off and landing skills during the 2024 Music City STOL. 5: Jennifer Smith, Beth Pickel and Kara Brumley greet guests during the 2024 Golden Apple Awards. 6: Hawkins Middle School accepts a grant award during the Golden Apple celebration on Oct. 15. 7: Liberty Creek High School accepts a grant during the Golden Apple celebration on Oct. 15.
8: The annual Monthaven Boots & BBQ event honoring veterans was held on Oct. 19. 9: Monthaven Executive Director Cheryl Stritchik addresses the crowd during Boots & BBQ on Oct. 19. 10: The Hendersonville Chamber hosted an Alderman candidates forum on Oct. 22. 11: Candidates took turns answering questions during the 2024 Hendersonville Alderman forum. 12: The annual Every Kid is a Hero Day returned to Station Camp on Oct. 24. 13: Everyone enjoyed Every Kid is a Hero Day on Oct. 24. 14: The new Sumner County Courthouse was dedicated on Oct. 25.
15: A back stage view of the 2024 Hendersonville Pig Fest concert on Oct. 25. 16: Julia Cole performs during the Hendersonville Pig Fest concert on Oct. 25. 17: Dillon Carmichael headlined the Hendersonville Pig Fest concert on Oct. 25. 18: Judges and other dignitaries celebrate the ribbon cutting for the new Sumner County Courthouse. 19: There was a whole lot of grilling going on during the 2024 Hendersonville Pig Fest. 20: Good Times star Jimmy Walker was a featured guest during the 2024 Gallatin Comic Con. 21: The Happy Days crew arrives at the Gallatin Comic Con on Oct. 26.
Photography by Rick Murray
Sumner Regional Medical Center and Ascension Saint Thomas have announced a new partnership to advance healthcare for all Middle Tennesseans. The new healthcare entity, Highpoint Health, brings together the organizations’ clinical expertise, best practices, and talented caregivers to collaborate in new ways that improve access to clinical programs and specialty care for patients.
We share a vision of transforming healthcare by improving health outcomes, enhancing the patient experience, and improving access and convenience.
Highpoint Health System patients have access to the same care providers and locations they know and trust, while gaining new opportunities to receive care from Ascension Saint Thomas’ network of nationally recognized service lines, clinical programs, physicians and caregivers.
The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Thai Orchid at its 387 East Main Street location on Oct. 10.
The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Bryson McCarley State Farm at its 133 Walton Ferry Road location on Oct. 10.
The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Schell Brothers Oak Tree Estates at 1414 Stop 30 Road on Oct. 17.
The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Music City Books and Music at its 260 West Main Street location on Oct. 25.
The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Rebuilding Lives Church at its 403 Walton Ferry Road location on Oct. 23.
The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce will host the Merrily Made Holiday Artisan Market at Schell Brothers at its 150 Saundersville Road location on Dec. 14. The market will feature a large number of local vendors, pictures with Santa, Christmas Carolers and food/drink options.
Photography Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce
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ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICK MURRAY
Bluegrass Beverage Sommelier Kenneth Skutnik and General Manager Jake Richardson displaying some of their favorite holiday wines and spirits.
The holiday season is always a festive time filled with warm celebrations shared with friends and family. From lavish feasts to ornate cocktail parties, yuletide is the perfect time for entertaining.
For those planning December events, there is always one question that needs to be answered – what sort of libations should be served? Given the wide array of choices available,
selecting the right beverages can be a challenge. Fortunately, Hendersonville Lifestyle is here to help. We reached out to Bluegrass Beverages to help us choose the perfect drinks for this holiday season. Sommelier Kenneth Stutnik and General Manager Jake Richardson graciously helped us choose a variety of spirits and wines that will be perfect for most holiday occasions.
described
“Like champaign, this crémant is made in designated areas of France. It has a fruit-forward taste that makes it an affordable favorite.”
“This wine is from California, but it is crafted in a classic Southern Rhône style with tinges of apples and pears.”
“With a hint of lavender, this smooth Merlot blends the sweet tastes of stewed fruit and baking spices.”
CONTINUED >
4.SMIRNOFF PEPPERMINT TWIST VODKA – 750 ML - $14.99
“A perennial favorite, this flavored vodka is a perfect holiday drink that is great in cocktails or over ice.”
Spirits – Selected and described by Jake Richardson
5. SOUTHERN COLLECTIVE MAPLE HARVEST SINGLE BARREL BOURBON WHISKEY – 750 ML - $91.99
“This whiskey is a barrel pick that is exclusive to Bluegrass Beverages. It is at least 5 years old, with a proof of 119 that is tamed by its smooth maple finish.”
6. BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY BOURBON CRÈME – 750 ML - $24.99
“This drink is like other crème liqueurs. It drinks like eggnog – smooth and easy.”
Bluegrass Beverages 555 East Main Street, Hendersonville, TN 37075
615.824.6600 BluegrassBeverages.com
SURE TO BE CROWD PLEASERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, INDULGE IN THESE DELICIOUS, STRESS-FREE RECIPES simple, yet fancy,
INGREDIENTS
• 2 pears (or substitute green apple)
• 8 ounces of brie cheese
• 2 cups baby arugula
• 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped
• Balsamic glaze
INSTRUCTIONS
• Cut pear and brie into 1/2-inch cubes. Leaving the rind makes skewers less sticky to handle!
• Take (4-inch) skewer, add pear, arugula, and cheese.
• Gently press chopped walnuts onto brie cheese to stick.
• Drizzle balsamic glaze overtop.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 (8 oz.) container light cream cheese spread
• ½ cup chopped cranberries
• 1 Tbsp. grated orange peel
• ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted
• Rosemary and olive oil crostinis
INSTRUCTIONS
• Top crostinis with a dollop of cream cheese.
• Add cranberries and pecans.
• Garnish with grated orange peel.
Join the Chamber and Give Your Business the Gift That Gives Back All Year Long.
When you’re not part of your local Chamber of Commerce, you’re missing out on the connectedness that comes with it. And, as a non-profit, your investment in the Chamber supports the community you work and live in. So go ahead, treat yourself to the gift that gives back to you and your business throughout the year. Join us and be a part of something meaningful. Memberships start at only $80 for the entire year.
Go to www.hendersonvillechamber.com
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ARTICLE BY RICK MURRAY
Few holiday tales warm the heart as much as the inspiring tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from miser to generous benefactor in Charles Dickens immortal “A Christmas Carol.” Over the years, there have been many movies and television shows based upon the story; here are some of our favorites that we enjoy every holiday season.
ITEM NUMBER 1:
“A Christmas Carol” (Alistair Sim), Blu-Ray, $13.99, Amazon.com
ITEM NUMBER 2:
“Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol” (Jim Backus), Blu-Ray, $19.43, Amazon.com
ITEM NUMBER 3:
“A Christmas Carol” (George C. Scott), BluRay, $17.91, Amazon.com
ITEM NUMBER 4:
“Scrooged” (Bill Murray), BluRay, $9.91, Amazon.com
ITEM NUMBER 5:
“A Christmas Carol” (Patrick Stewart), DVD, $8.99, Amazon.com
For Him – Items 1 – 3: Volunteer Outfitters | 1. Southern Marsh Performance Quilted Vest ($109) and Shirt ($95) | 2. Real Tree Timber Leather Patch Cap ($29.99) and Dog and Blind Hoodie ($29.99) – with custom logos and designs | 3.
For Her: Items 4 – 6: Hancock Diamonds | 4. Honeymoon Diamond and Gold Pendant – Hancock-exclusive 89-facet center diamond ($5,799) | 5. Two-tone Gold and Diamond Bracelet ($5,000) | 6. Ethiopian
For Fur: Items 7 – 9: Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming | 7. Up Country
are
|
26.99,
| 9.
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!
ingredients:
• 1 oz. Rye (at least 100 proof)
• 1 oz. Jamaican Rum (unsweetened)
• .25 oz. Banana Liqueur
• .25 oz. Simple Syrup
• 3 dashes Black Walnut Bitters
• 3 dashes Chocolate Bitters
Step 1. Pour rum into a mixing glass.
Step 2. Add banana liqueur and Simple Syrup.
Step 3. Add black walnut and chocolate bitters.
Step 4. Stir for 30 seconds.
Step 5. Serve neat or over ice and garnish as desired.
Introducing a new holiday cocktail – Rich & Rye. Created by Bluegrass Beverages General Manager Jake Richardson, this smooth drink will be a hit at any holiday celebration. It features a robust blend of rye, rum and banana liqueur, complimented by just the right amounts of black walnut and chocolate bitters.
A Smooth Holiday Cocktail That Is Perfect For Sipping By The Fireplace
ARTICLE BY RICK MURRAY