Counting Our Blessings In November
“One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do…”
Harry Nilsson, Three Dog Night
It’s true – one is the loneliest number. However, do you know what isn’t lonely? 100.
This month, 100 has a very special meaning for your Hendersonville Lifestyle team as we celebrate the 100th issue of our magazine. Since August 2016, we have worked hard to bring you stories about the people, places and things that make our community such a special place in which to live, work and play. We are grateful for all the support that we have had over these many years from our readers, advertisers and corporate team – we salute you all.
We think that it is only appropriate that we celebrate our 100th edition during November – after all, it is the month of thanksgiving. It is the perfect time to reflect upon our many blessings and to express our gratitude for our good fortunes.
This month, we bring you several special stories about gratefulness that are sure to bring smiles to your faces, as well as help you usher in the holiday season. From now until the end of the year, we will all be busy celebrating special events with our friends and family. However, before we get overwhelmed with seasonal activities, come ride the rails with us on our thanksgiving express as we venture into November.
After boarding at the station, we begin our journey by celebrating some of our greatest citizens and true American heroes – our local armed forces veterans.
Rounding the bend, we explore the countryside to check in on some of the great fall activities going on across Sumner County.
Heading back on our return loop, we make a brief stop at one of the area’s most beloved annual events in which local restaurants and diners express their gratitude to one another.
While we debark at the station, we will also tell you about the latest in community and business happenings to keep you in tune with the Hendersonville and Sumner County lifestyle.
As we look ahead to our 101st issue in December and beyond, we renew our pledge to keep you up to date about all the happenings across our city and our county. Here’s to our next 100 issues.
Happy Thanksgiving, Hendersonville.
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Lynn Bowles | lynn.bowles@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Rick Murray | rick.murray@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Debbie Murray | debbiemurray1989@gmail.copm
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Rick Murray
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Rick Murray
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Leisa Byers served as emcee for the Neighborhood Health breakfast on Sept. 25. 2: The TriStar Skyline Trauma team celebrates its new designation as a Level One center. 3: Jennifer Flanagan and Dilya Knight share a moment at the Neighborhood Health breakfast. 4: The 2nd annual Dozer Day event was held at the Comer Barn on Sept. 28. 5: Children had the opportunity to try out heavy equipment with pros during Dozer Day. 6: Children of all ages enjoyed the 2024 Dozer Day. 7: Everyone had fun in the sandpile during the 2024 Dozer Day on Sept. 28.
Photography by Rick Murray
Vol State Receives Ambulance Donation to Boost EMS Training
On Sept. 23, Volunteer State Community College announced the receipt of a fully equipped, used ambulance donated by the Sumner County Commission. The ambulance will bolster Vol State’s ability to address the growing demand for skilled emergency medical services professionals in the region. The contribution was enthusiastically supported by key leaders including County Mayor John Isbell, Budget Committee Chairman Matt Shoaf and Health and Emergency Services Chairman Darrell Rogers.
Park Place Retirement Community Celebrates Ribbon Cutting
The Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Park Place Retirement Community at its 31 Executive Park Drive location on Sept. 19.
Scan to read more
Highpoint Health Imaging for Women Announces Addition of Sensory Suite
On Oct. 2, Highpoint Health Imaging for Women with Ascension Saint Thomas announced the incorporation of a new sensory suite to its comprehensive women’s imaging services. This latest addition is designed to enhance the patient’s ability to relax and get comfortable during 3D mammograms, a crucial screening tool for early breast cancer detection.
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Photography by Highpoint Health-Sumner
Photography by Rick Murray
THANKFUL FOR VETERANS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY RICK MURRAY
COMMUNITY SUPPORT IS ON FULL DISPLAY AT ANNUAL PARADES
Vintage warbirds soar over the 2023 Hendersonville Veterans Day parade.
November is known for many things, including gathering friends and family together for elaborate Thanksgiving Day feasts. However, the month also has a much deeper meaning. It is a time to pause and give thanks for all our blessings, and to express our gratitude to the men and women who have made it possible – our armed forces veterans.
In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson established Armistice Day, which was designated to honor the service and sacrifices of American veterans every November 11. 35 years later in 1954, Congress and President Dwight Eisenhower renamed the holiday to Veterans Day. Since then, the day has served as a time for grateful citizens across the nation to come together to celebrate all veterans.
Fox 17 News Anchor Scott Couch emcees the annual Hendersonville Veterans Day parade.
Veteran Tom Hughes waves during the 2023 Gallatin Veterans Day parade.
Marching bands, such as Hendersonville High School's Band of Gold, are popular staples at area Veterans Day parades.
Each year, Sumner County turns out in force to honor the service of local veterans. While some people choose to commemorate the time with private ceremonies, most locals turn out for two of the area’s signature events – the annual Hendersonville and Gallatin Veteran’s Day parades.
At each parade, hundreds of well-wishers line the streets in both cities to show their support for their hometown heroes. Both celebrations feature a variety of entrants, including veteran honorees, local dignitaries, scout troops, clowns, JROTC teams and marching bands. Many parade participants ride atop colorfully decorated floats, while others chose to march along the parade routes.
“Veterans Day parades are significant to local veterans because it is a tangible public recognition for their service to our great nation and the sacrifices that they and their families made while fulfilling their obligation to keep our country safe,” says local veteran and Hendersonville parade organizer David Moomy. “Veterans Day also offers an opportunity for veterans to reflect on their own tours of duty in their respective armed service and the comradeship they developed with their fellow veterans. The parades are special celebrations that honor our past and present veterans.”
For many years, Sumner County resident and Fox 17 News Anchor Scott Couch has proudly emceed the Hendersonville Veteran’s Day parade. He has a long-standing respect for those individuals who have served their nation.
“I was born in Nebraska where my father was stationed at the time in the Air Force,” says Scott. “Service to our nation has always been something I respect. Lending my voice to our Veteran’s Day parade is a chance to express that respect and gratitude.”
This year’s Gallatin Veterans Day parade will be held on Saturday, Nov. 9, and the Hendersonville parade will be held on the following day, Sunday, Nov. 10.
The Hendersonville Fire Department Honor Guard marches during the 2023 Veterans Day parade.
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HOW TO: seasonal home scents
PFUL TIPS A N D R E C IPES FROM S
Fall essential oil combinations provide a warm and cozy scent while also protecting from sickness prevalent in the colder season. Follow these oil combinations to create your own seasonal scent.
immune boost
DIRECTIONS :
Combine the following essential oils with a base oil (coconut oil).
INGREDIENTS:
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiseptic
• Lemon: Uplifts; Kills Bacteria Reduces Inflammation
• Oregano: Antimicrobial; Antioxidant
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
HOW TO USE:
Apply to wrists or feet. Do not use it on your face.
home defender
DIRECTIONS:
Combine the following essential oils.
INGREDIENTS:
• Orange: Reduces Stress; Antimicrobial
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Black Pepper: Supports the Nervous System
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Rosemary: Reduces Stress; Helps with Respiratory Fatigue
HOW TO USE:
Fill the diffuser with water and apply the desired amount of drops.
ARTICLE BY CELENA CISCO
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.
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Sumner
Fun
Celebrations And Special Events Abound Across The Community In November
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICK MURRAY
Sumner County Tourism, Gallatin Nov. 2 and Nov. 3
The 13th annual Artists & Artisans Studio Tour will occur on the weekend of Nov. 2 – 3 at various locations across Sumner County. This event will feature multiple artists and artisans who will have their work on display at studios across the county. Maps for the self-guided tour will be available at Sumner Tourism, as well as at other area businesses. VisitSumnerTN.com
Hendersonville City Hall Nov. 2 – 10 a.m.
The Hendersonville Handmade Market is the place to go to get a head start on the holiday shopping season. City Hall will come alive with arts, crafts and merchandise from some of the area’s most talented artisans and craftspeople. HvilleTN.org
Half Batch Brewing Nov. 2
Stumpberfest is Hendersonville’s version of a traditional German Oktoberfest celebration. The Bavarian-themed event will feature an afternoon and evening of games, beer, food and music at the brewery’s Hazel Path Center location. HalfBatchBrewing.com
1. 13TH ANNUAL SUMNER COUNTY ARTISTS & ARTISANS STUDIO TOUR
2. HENDERSONVILLE HANDMADE MARKET
3. STUMPBERFEST
Historic Downtown Gallatin Nov. 8 – Nov. 10
The Gallatin Tinsel & Treasures weekend has helped kickoff the holiday shopping season for area gift seekers for 53 years. On Friday Nov. 8 through Sunday Nov. 10, local merchants will welcome customers to their ornately decorated establishments for a fun shopping experience.
GallatinTN.org
White House Nov. 6
The merchants of White House will welcome customers to their annual holiday shopping launch event on Saturday, Nov. 6. There will be special sales at shops across the city, as well as door prizes, free gifts and a chance to win a $500 shopping spree. WhiteHouseChamber.org
The Streets of Indian Lake Nov. 28 – 8 a.m.
For seventeen years, the Indian Lake Loop has become a treasured Thanksgiving tradition for families across Middle Tennessee. On Thursday morning, Nov. 28, over 1,000 runners and walkers choose to begin their holiday by participating in the Loop. IndianLakeLoop.com
5. TINSELS & TREASURES 6. THE INDIAN LAKE LOOP
JINGLE & MINGLE AROUND TOWN
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.
A Taste of Fall
Beloved Hendersonville Festival Kicks Off the Holiday Season with Gratitude
Every year on the last Thursday in September, people from across Sumner County converge on Hendersonville to take part in one the Midstate’s most eagerly anticipated celebrations, the annual Taste of Hendersonville. Held at the Streets of Indian Lake, the Taste event provides an opportunity for local restaurants and their customers to express their support and gratitude for one another.
Taste was originally created by the Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce to bolster the growing local restaurant sector. However, over its 22-year existence, the event has since morphed into a much larger celebration. Along with having the opportunity to sample and savor the best in local dishes and drinks, guests can meet and mingle with their friends and neighbors while enjoying the ambience of an early fall evening.
“I’m so grateful for the Taste of Hendersonville as it kicks off the holiday season in such a meaningful way,” says local realtor and Hendersonville Chamber Board Chair Fran Marcou. “This
event brings our community together, allowing us to support local businesses while celebrating the spirit of giving that makes Hendersonville so special. It’s a reminder of how fortunate we are to live in a place where neighbors come together, not just to enjoy great food, but to share in the joy of community and generosity during this festive season."
This year’s Taste was held on Thursday night, Sept. 26, and it featured wares from dozens of restaurants and vendors who were eager to showcase some of the finest food and drink options available in Hendersonville. Despite the imminent approach of the remnants of Hurricane Helene, the rains held off to the delight of hundreds of discerning diners who were able to sample multiple appetizers, entrees and desserts, as well as vote for their favorite eateries.
In keeping with its community festival theme, Taste organizers worked hard to ensure that there was something for every visitor. Foodies who were seeking a more elevated experience had the option of upgrading their admission to VIP status, which included a dedicated seated
Martin Tudon celebrates his Meat Sweats BBQ after winning the 2024 Taste of Hendersonville.
"Taste is a great way to foster relationships with those in our great city." “
Kori Langford and her Myers' Front Porch team are eager to serve.
Restauranteurs and customers express their gratitude to each other.
Hendersonville Lifestyle publisher Lynn Bowles and his wife Towana are enjoying the 2024 Taste.
Taste of Hendersonville Lelan Statom and Holly Thompson share a moment with Hendersonville Chamber Board Chair Fran Marcou.
Eileen Minton is enjoying the mild evening during the 2024 Taste of Hendersonville.
Food and fun were the orders of the night at the 2024
Taste.
Desserts topped off the evening for many Taste diners.
A wide variety of cuisines were on display during the 2024 Taste of Hendersonville.
The 2024 Taste of Hendersonville judges are having a good time trying out the food.
A steady crowd strolled through the 2024 Taste of Hendersonville on Sept. 26.
dining area, adult beverage tickets and access to special fast pass lanes that helped them avoid the food lines. For younger guests, there were several kids’ activities including a balloon artist and an expansive play area featuring a wide variety of bounce houses and games. Throughout the entire evening, the atmosphere was kept light and easy with live music by the group Karli & James.
While the hungry foodies waited patiently in lines, local restauranteurs were eagerly dishing out tasty delights and expressing their gratitude for their customers, as well as the Taste of Hendersonville event.
“We are grateful that the Taste of Hendersonville has given local businesses the opportunity to showcase their craft,” said Martin Tudon, owner of the Meat Sweats BBQ. “Every year at this event we get to meet many of the great people who make up this wonderful community. We are proud to be part of the culinary choices that Hendersonville has to offer.”
Martin’s sentiments were echoed by veteran restauranteur Kori Langford, owner of Myers’ Front Porch
“We love participating in Taste of Hendersonville every year and sharing our amazing food,” said Kori. “It is so much fun to see many of our regular guests there as well as meet new people who have not yet dined with us, but who will soon become regular guests. At Myers’, we encourage community, and the Taste of Hendersonville is a great way to foster old and new relationships with those in our great city.”
At the end of the evening, all food vendors had their offerings and their presentations rated by a panel of judges. This year’s judges included News Channel 5 Talk of the Town Host and Meteorologist Lelan Statom, News 4 Anchor Holly Thompson, WHIN Radio Personality
Jeff Shannon, Hendersonville Chamber President Kathleen Hawkins and local social media celebrity Justin on TikTok.
“Serving as a judge at the Taste is one of the highlights of my year – I absolutely love it,” said Holly. “I am always honored to put my taste buds to the test at this massive food-centric event and make sure my appetite is ready to go. I love seeing all the friendly faces, checking out creatively themed booths and, of course, eating amazing food. It's a night to savor, and I'm so grateful to be a small part of it all.”
Following the event, the Hendersonville Chamber announced this year’s winners.
• Best of Taste – The Meat Sweats BBQ
• People’s Choice – Capital Tacos
• Best Booth Display – Red Cedar Glen
• Best Entrée – Taziki’s Café
• Best Sandwich – Birdie Bros
• Best Appetizer – The Rudder
• Best Side Dish – Puckett’s Restaurant
• Best Kids Cuisine – Pizza Ranch
• Best Dessert – Sweet Sensations Cheesecakes and Desserts
• Best Beverage – Nekter Juice
Planning for the 23rd Taste of Hendersonville is already underway, with the event scheduled for Thursday Sept. 25, 2025. Many people are already looking ahead to another special evening, including the judges.
“I'm so grateful for the Taste of Hendersonville and the joy that it brings each year,” says Holly. “I love the smiles and laughter, the conversation, the new introductions and the excitement in the air. It is amazing that it’s all generated by something as simple as food.
It's an incredible way to taste delights made by our talented Hendersonville folks, discover area businesses new to you, meet amazing people and have a marvelous evening. I can’t wait!”
Daily Gratitude Journal Prompts
ARTICLE BY DELIA JO RAMSEY
The art of gratitude can be healing well beyond the month of November, but this is a great time of year to get in the true mindset of gratefulness. To aid in your endeavors, check out these 30 daily gratitude journal prompts and stick to them until it feels natural.
1. Five things that make you happy instantly:
2. Did you get any pleasant surprises today?
3. Did you do any acts of kindness today?
4. What's something big or small you can do for those less fortunate than yourself?
5. Five personality traits you're grateful for:
6. Favorite song and how does it make you feel?
7. One small step you can take toward overcoming a challenge you currently face:
8. List something good that caught your attention today.
9. What nice thing did another person do for you this week?
10. What's something you did for another person this week?
11. Three things you own that make your life easier:
12. How can you turn something that makes you angry into something more pleasant?
13. Think of five people who irritate you or you have trouble getting along with. Name three positive qualities about them.
14. What are you most thankful for in your life?
15. Name three of your significant accomplishments.
16. Most stunning place you’ve ever visited:
17. Think about the personalities and unique qualities of someone you admire. Which qualities of them do you want to see in yourself, too?
18. What's your favorite holiday and why?
19. What friends are you most grateful for having in your life?
20. What basic daily necessities are you thankful for today?
21. What are you grateful for in your career?
22. Focus on your five senses and write down how you can make them more active.
23. Three elements of nature you're most grateful for:
24. Three things you love about your town:
25. List three struggles you experienced and overcame in your life. What did you do to overcome them, and who helped you through them?
26. What meals do you enjoy most?
27. Something you saw this week that melted your heart:
28. A time when someone went out of their way to support you:
29. A happy memory from childhood:
30. Make a list of five places you'd like to visit and consider visiting at least one very soon.
