HEALTH & WELLNESS IN THE
2025 - A New Year and a New You
“Time keeps on slipping, slipping, slipping, into the future.”
Steve Miller Band. Fly Like An Eagle
After a fun-filled holiday season, 2025 has finally arrived – out with the old and in with the new.
As always, we approach the new year with a mixture of anticipation and anxiety. Although we are hopeful for happiness and prosperity, the future is always uncertain. Despite our tremendous strides in technology, we have yet to invent a time machine that will give us a peek at what will unfold this year.
However, one thing is certain – we live in Hendersonville, the best city in the world in which to live, work and play. We will face the new year together, resolved to enjoy all of the good times that are sure to come our way in our City by the Lake.
Along with ushering in the new year, January’s arrival also represents a time of renewal, and a time of change. It is also a time of resolution and commitment.
Many of us made new year’s resolutions before the clock struck midnight on Jan. 1, and a lot of them involve improving our personal health and fitness. Whether your goals involve losing a few pounds or tackling a full marathon, January is the perfect time to start your journey.
As always, Hendersonville Lifestyle will be there right beside you, and we are ready to help you kickstart the year with our annual health and wellness issue. It is filled with stories that will inspire you to hop on your bike and begin your journey to good health. We will be proud to ride along with you all the way.
To begin our new year’s trek, we visit with a local dentist who shares some great tips for attaining and maintaining good dental health in 2025 and beyond.
On our second lap, we make a stop at a local college to get an inside view of coaching student athletes.
Rounding the corner and heading toward home, we explore one of Hendersonville’s newest gyms to learn how it can help us reach our fitness goals this year.
As always, we also bring you the latest community and business happenings in and around the 37075.
Now, it’s time to begin.
So, lace up your workout shoes, down your energy drink and let’s merge onto the highway to fitness.
Happy New Year, Hendersonville!
January 2025
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
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler Learn
LYNN BOWLES, PUBLISHER @HENDERSONVILLELIFESTYLE
city scene
1: United Way of Sumner County celebrated a ribbon cutting on Nov. 7. 2: Nutrishop celebrated a ribbon cutting on Nov. 12. 3: The Grace Place team poses during Grace Vegas on Nov. 14. 4: Guests enjoyed casino games including roulette during Grace Vegas on Nov. 14. 5: The stakes were high but the cause was great during Grace Vegas on Nov. 14. 6: Reenactors surround the new monument honoring William Henderson at City Hall on Nov. 16. 7: A new monument honoring Hendersonville founder William Henderson was unveiled on Nov. 16.
RICK MURRAY
LYNN BOWLES
RICK MURRAY
RICK MURRAY
LYNN BOWLES
RICK MURRAY
RICK MURRAY
Dr. Samantha Wence, Dr. Candace Gallowitz & Team
RICK MURRAY
RICK MURRAY
RICK MURRAY
Highpoint Health –Sumner Celebrates Anniversary of Milk Bank Depot
Highpoint Health – Sumner with Ascension Saint Thomas recently celebrated the two-year anniversary of its Milk Bank Depot, which has collected an incredible 6,183 ounces of milk for babies across Tennessee since its opening. In partnership with the Mothers’ Milk Bank of Tennessee, this program has played a vital role in supporting the health of preterm and medically fragile infants. All donor milk collected at the hospital is transferred to the milk bank.
Photography by Highpoint Health - Sumner
TriStar Hendersonville Medical Center Welcomes Thanksgiving Week Babies
The Birth Center at TriStar Hendersonville Medical Center celebrated the arrival of four newborns during Thanksgiving week 2024. Each of the babies were dressed in festive holiday attire for a photoshoot.
“We are grateful and honored to care for our smallest patients and their families. These little miracles remind us to be thankful for the gift of life every day, not just on Thanksgiving,” said Director of Communications and Community Engagement Megan McConnell.
Whataburger of Hendersonville Holds A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for Whataburger at its new 164 East Main Street location on Nov. 11.
by Lynn Bowles
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Melinda Calvert Founder & Principal
Photography by TriStar Hendersonville Medical Center
Photography
YEAR ROUND lakeSIDE DINING!
------ LUNCH & DINNER ------
The Rudder at Anchor High Marina is a full-service, family friendly restaurant on Old Hickory Lake in Hendersonville, TN. Come check out our New Winter menu and join us for our Happy Hour WednesdayFriday from 2:00-6:00 PM. Visit our website for the live event schedule and fill out the contact form to inquire about booking your own private event!
WEDNESDAYS AT 7:30 PM
Whether you’re visiting one of our growing number of locations, or using our First Anywhere app from your home, work or even on vacation, when it comes to banking anywhere, we put you first.
^ Smashburger Grilled Salmon with Jasmine Rice ^
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU, NEW SMILE
During the holiday season, many people resolve to make changes in their lives at the start of the new year. A large number of those resolutions involve improving a person’s overall wellness and fitness levels. From losing weight to starting a workout regimen, better health will be the goal for many of us during 2025. However, one important area of wellness is often overlooked –maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Without proper dental hygiene and regular dental care, a person’s overall health can be seriously compromised. To learn more about how to keep a healthy smile, Hendersonville Lifestyle visited with local dentist Dr. Samantha Hughey-Wence, the owner of Imperial Dental Care in Hendersonville and Smiles by Samantha in Lebanon. Along with her fellow dentist Dr. Candace Gallowitz, Dr. Samantha helps thousands of people across the community maintain good dental health.
Dr. Samantha Hughey-Wence
WHAT SERVICES DOES IMPERIAL DENTAL CARE OFFER TO PATIENTS?
“At Imperial Dental, we provide a wide range of dental services, including routine checkups and teeth cleanings, restorative fillings, crowns, extractions, implant placement and restorations, full and partial dentures, select root canals and Invisalign treatments. We also offer BOTOX treatments to treat TMJ pain and discomfort, as well as for cosmetic reasons. In our practice, we love to treat the whole family – kids and adults.”
WHAT IS INVISALIGN?
“Invisalign is a cutting-edge alternative to conventional braces. With Invisalign, we apply a series of custom crafted clear aligners that progressively straighten teeth for healthy bites and smiles. Unlike regular braces, the Invisalign aligners provide a discrete, comfortable and convenient way of correcting teeth misalignment.
At Imperial Dental, we are one of the top providers of Invisalign treatments in Tennessee. I am a platinum plus certified Invisalign provider, which is one of the highest distinctions within the profession. I am happy to help my patients with this wonderful treatment for both cosmetic and functional needs.”
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TIPS FOR MAINTAINING HEALTHY TEETH AND GUMS?
“Dental care is not difficult, but it does require daily attention, including regular brushing and flossing. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet that is low in sugary and acidic foods. We encourage our patients to also be careful about what they drink by limiting sodas, teas, coffees and energy drinks as these liquids can cause teeth to break down over time. It is best to only consume these items when eating a meal and drink water the rest of the day.”
CONTINUED >
Dr. Samantha consults with a patient.
WHAT TYPES OF DENTAL CARE PRODUCTS DO YOU RECOMMEND?
“We encourage our patients to brush their teeth regularly using an electric toothbrush. There are many great toothbrushes on the market now that do a great job cleaning teeth. Rinsing devices such as Waterpiks are also good for maintaining good gum health. For patients looking to whiten their
"MY STAFF AND I REALLY ENJOY GETTING TO KNOW OUR PATIENTS. WE SEE THEM AS INDIVIDUALS, AND NOT NUMBERS. WE ARE GENUINELY INTERESTED IN OUR PATIENTS AS PERSONS, AND NOT JUST THEIR TEETH."
teeth using over the counter products, we recommend Crest White Strips, as they offer the best bang for the buck. Finally, for patients with sensitive teeth, we recommend Sensodyne toothpaste in order to minimize brushing discomfort.”
HOW CAN PATIENTS OVERCOME THEIR FEAR OF GOING TO THE DENTIST?
“Regular dental visits reduce anxiety by allowing teeth and gum issues to be caught at early stages, avoiding big surprises and procedures. Also, many patients wear headphones to listen to music to avoid hearing noises such as drill sounds, which can make them nervous. Finally, we talk our patients through every procedure so that they understand what we are doing.”
WHAT SHOULD PATIENTS LOOK FOR IN A DENTIST?
“Patients should seek out dentists who will treat them as individuals and help them achieve their goals for oral health. A dentist should value their patients’ time and treat them with respect.”
Imperial Dental Care
537 East Main Street, Hendersonville, TN 37075 615.822.0833
ImperialDentalTN.com
The Imperial Dental Care team is ready to help patients keep healthy smiles.
AT SMILE CONSTRUCTION ORTHODONTICS
we offer many treatment options for patients of all ages, including: Clear and Metal Braces • Damon Smile Self-Ligating Braces
Invisalign and Invisalign Teen Clear Aligners • Botox
Acceledent for Accelerated Treatments • Surgical Orthodontics
Treatments for Sleep Apnea and Temporomandibular Disorder
Life and Hoops
LOCAL COLLEGE BASKETBALL COACH TEACHES BASKETBALL, FITNESS AND LIFE LESSONS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICK MURRAY
Few things in life are more rewarding than coaching young people. Helping young players grow and develop as they chase their goals is often an immensely fulfilling experience. However, coaching also has its challenges, particularly in college settings. Every day, coaches have to work hard to help their players balance the many demands of being student athletes.
Recently, Hendersonville Lifestyle sat down with Volunteer State Community College Head Women’s Basketball Coach Otis Key to get an inside look at coaching today.
WHAT IS YOUR BASKETBALL BACKGROUND?
“After high school, I played college basketball at Austin Peay State University and Lincoln University of Missouri. Once my college career ended, I played for the Harlem Globetrotters from 1998 to 2008 before formally moving into coaching. I was an assistant coach and head freshman coach at South Warren High School followed up by being the head coach for the Kentucky Bisons of the American Basketball Association. Subsequently, I came to Vol State, where I have been the women’s basketball coach for 10 years.”
WHEN DID YOU FIRST REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO COACH BASKETBALL?
“I was helping a friend coach a team of 14-year-olds in 2005 and before one pivotal game, something happened, and he didn’t show up. Per the league rules, I knew that if we didn’t play the game, it would be a forfeit. So, I decided to coach the game myself, since I didn’t want to let the kids down. As it turned out, we ended up beating the powerhouse team in the city, and after that, I was addicted to coaching.”
WHAT IS A TYPICAL DAY LIKE FOR YOU?
“On non-game days, I spend a lot of time reviewing film and stats on upcoming opponents in order to develop and
Volunteer State Community College Head Women's Basketball Coach Otis Key.
execute a good practice plan. This plan helps me to decide on player matchups and how to exploit those in our favor. On game days, we have an early shootaround where I try to get the team to focus on the upcoming contest. I review personnel assignments, and I explain how I want the players to attack and defend. After games, I analyze the stats and game film in order to determine what adjustments I need to make to help the team succeed.”
HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH THE DISTRACTIONS OF SOCIAL MEDIA AND MOBILE PHONES?
“Social media and cellphones are major distractions that can cause players to lose focus. I always make sure that the players turn off their phones when we are going over our game plan so that they understand what we are trying to accomplish. I also have firm rules about what can be posted on social media. As Vol State student athletes, they represent something that is bigger than themselves, and they have to be very careful about what they send out.”
WHAT KEEPS YOU COMING BACK SEASON AFTER SEASON?
“Like most coaches, I have a strong desire to achieve success through winning. However, the main things that keep me returning every year are my players. I love working with them and helping them to achieve their goals. It is extremely gratifying to watch them grow and develop as both basketball players, and as strong, empowered women.”
Coach Key keeps a watchful eye on the game action.
“When a player commits to play for me, I find out what they want to achieve in college, and I help them lay out a plan for success.”
“My proudest moments are watching my players graduate from college. Some of them are the first in their family to graduate, while others may have overcome considerable adversity. I am extremely proud to have been a part of their journey.”
ALONG WITH BASKETBALL FUNDAMENTALS, WHAT ELSE DO YOU EMPHASIZE WITH YOUR PLAYERS?
“Community service is very important to me and to our program. We participate in holiday parades and food drives, as well as helping put together food boxes when needed. We also spend time helping local community agencies such as Habitat for Humanity and women’s shelters across Sumner County. I believe that it is important to give back to the communities that support us.”
WHAT IS YOUR PRIMARY GOAL FOR THIS SEASON?
“Our main goal is to put ourselves in a position to have a good seed for the postseason tournament. I believe that this team is talented and that we can compete with anyone. However, our players are very young and still learning. If we can play at the level that I believe we are capable of playing, then I think we can have a deep run in the tournament.”
The 2024-25 Vol State Lady Pioneers tip off to start a game.
Coach Key paces the side court as he directs his players during a game.
Coach Key goes over some game strategies during a practice session.
Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
smart SWEETS
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Getting Fit In 2025
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY RICK MURRAY
At the start of every new year, health and fitness is on the minds of a lot of people. Some of them overindulged during the holiday season, and they are lamenting their new larger waistlines. Others are dealing with a lack of stamina that comes from spending too many hours sitting idly. Whatever the motivation, January is always a great month for those wishing to get into shape to begin their fitness journey. Some people choose to pursue their health and wellness goals on their own, investing countless hours each year in counting calories and following a solo exercise regimen. Others choose to chase their goals in group settings, surrounded by likeminded people. They enjoy sharing their exercise time with others, and they derive motivation from being surrounded by constant sources of encouragement. As a result, they generally choose to join a local gym or workout facility, or to sign up for a local recreational sporting league.
HENDERSONVILLE’S NEWEST WORKOUT
FACILITY HELPS
CLIENTS GET INTO FIGHTING SHAPE
“UFC GYM IS DEDICATED TO ATTAINING CLIENT RESULTS BY PROVIDING AN ENVIRONMENT THAT’S BUILT TO DRIVE MOTIVATION AND DISCIPLINE.”
Fortunately, the City by the Lake offers ample opportunities and resources for erstwhile fitness seekers. From an expansive parks system to many full service and boutique gyms, Hendersonville is a great place to get fit in the new year.
In late 2024, Hendersonville’s newest workout facility opened in the Streets of Indian Lake – UFC Gym Hendersonville. This comprehensive gym offers a wide range of individual and group fitness activities in a state-of-the-art facility that can put anyone onto the path toward health and wellness. To find out more about UFC Gym Hendersonville, our Lifestyle team visited with General Manager Quentin O’Bryant to learn about what makes his business unique.
HOW DID YOU SELECT HENDERSONVILLE FOR YOUR LOCATION?
“We were attracted to Hendersonville for many reasons, most notably its warm and welcoming people. Hendersonville is a destination of choice for many families, and we wanted to be a part of helping its citizens reach their fitness goals. UFC is built around community, and we are dedicated to helping our neighbors become healthier together.”
WHY DID YOU SELECT UFC GYM AS YOUR FRANCHISE?
“Since 2009, UFC GYM has stood on the core value of providing a clean, friendly and well-maintained environment in each of its locations in over 38 countries around the world. Our brand is dedicated to attaining client results by providing an environment that’s built to drive motivation and discipline.”
HOW IS UFC GYM DIFFERENT FROM OTHER HEALTH AND FITNESS BUSINESSES?
“Quite simply, we improve the health and wellness of others by providing high quality modalities that match our client’s lifestyles and fitness interests. Top tier workout equipment, safe and clean environment, cryotherapy treatments, specialized youth fitness programs, mixed martial arts (MMA) classes, bootcamp workouts – we provide everything needed to make every person’s fitness journey fun, exciting and results-based. At UFC Gym Hendersonville, we do it all, and we do it well.”
CONTINUED >
Quentin O’Bryant
GENERAL MANAGER –UFC GYM HENDERSONVILLE
UFC Gym Hendersonville General Manager Quentin O’Bryant is a veteran of the fitness industry, having managed several gyms in California in his career. The Compton native came to Hendersonville last year to oversee the build out of the new gym and to manage the facility once it opened during fall 2024.
Quentin’s passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals derives from his own personal commitment to health and wellness. During January 2019, he experienced a health scare in which he was diagnosed as prediabetic. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Quentin knew that he had to take control of his life in order to avoid becoming diabetic.
As a result, he began training with a personal trainer at a Compton gym in order to improve his overall health. During the first four months of his workouts, Quentin lost 45 lbs. and lowered his body fat from 36.8% to 15.5%. Since then, he has continued to follow a strict workout regimen in order to maintain his fitness level.
Today, he talks the talk and walks the walk
HOW MANY PERSONAL TRAINERS DO YOU HAVE ON STAFF?
“We currently have ten fitness coaches ready to help clients achieve their fitness goals.”
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE SIGNATURE PROGRAMS OFFERED BY UFC GYM?
“Since its founding, UFC Gym has been the industry leader in MMA training – it is in our DNA. We offer Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, boxing, self-defense classes and a full recovery day spa. We also offer onsite childcare so that parents can work out without incurring additional worries and costs.”
WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR PROGRAMS OFFERED BY UFC GYM?
“Our signature programs are our MMA and Daily Ultimate Training (DUT) classes. DUT is a high-intensity interval training class that combines a wide variety of exercises and equipment to help improve strength, speed, agility and endurance. Our self-defense classes are also very popular, particularly amongst our female clients.”
HOW DO UFC’S MEMBERSHIP FEES COMPARE TO OTHER LOCAL FITNESS CENTERS?
“Our fees are competitive with other industry players, but we believe that we provide a higher value proposition. We offer the best value and customer experience in the area.”
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE WANTING TO GET FIT AND STAY FIT IN THE NEW YEAR?
“Personal training is what made me who I am today, so I always suggest for people to start their journey with one of our coaches. They have the training and experience to help clients achieve measurable results on their way to lifelong fitness.”
HOW DOES THE UFC GYM TEAM HELP CLIENTS ACHIEVE THEIR FITNESS AND WELLNESS GOALS?
“At UFC Gym, we provide accountability, education and structured programs for both workouts and for nutrition and supplements. We constantly challenge our clients to stay motivated and disciplined in their lives.”
UFC Gym Hendersonville
300 Indian Lake Blvd., Suite 340, Hendersonville, TN 37075
629.262.0652
UFCGym.com
