Discover lakeside living at its finest on Ryan Creek, where this brand-new luxury retreat blends modern design with timeless elegance. Nestled within the exclusive gated community of Pointe Sixteen, this 4BR/4.5BA home offers breathtaking east-facing views and the iconic rock shoreline that defines Smith Lake. The open-concept main level features a chef’s kitchen, gas fireplace, and lakeside covered porch, while the primary suite and two-car porte-cochère add refined comfort. Upstairs, two ensuite bedrooms and a spacious recreation area invite relaxation, and the lower level offers a wet bar, third recreation room, and outdoor terrace with fireplace—perfect for entertaining.
A double-slip boathouse floats in deep year-round water, creating a flawless connection to lake life. Pointe Sixteen offers paved roads, fiber internet, a private ramp, and a secure gated entrance, just five minutes from Trident Marina and Grille.
All designer furnishings convey.
Welcome to Smith Lake at its most spectacular—luxury redefined at Pointe Sixteen.
713 PENDRAGON CT, FRANKLIN, TN
BEDS: 4 | BATHS: 4 | SQFT: 4,035 | $1,699,900
Located in one of Franklin’s most exclusive gated communities, this exceptional home offers privacy & an elevated lifestyle just minutes from Cool Springs, Historic Franklin, and Brentwood, & less than 30 minutes from Downtown Nashville. Set on a landscaped half-acre cul-de-sac lot among multi-million-dollar estates, the property features a fenced, tree-lined backyard and long-range views. The home showcases a dramatic two-story great room with stone fireplace, a remodeled chef’s kitchen with Wolf & Sub-Zero appliances, & seamless indoor-outdoor living. The main level includes a private primary suite with spa-style bath and sitting room, + dedicated home office, while upstairs offers a media room with wet bar and three additional bedrooms. Expansive outdoor living areas, wooded privacy, and recent updates including new HVAC, new water heater, and an encapsulated crawl space.
$3,219,900
#1 Team at Onward Real Estate
Leveraging real estate resources with a creative and tenacious spirit, the LCT Team of Onward Real Estate are experts in delivering a synergy of success for each client with long-time REALTOR® Lisa Culp Taylor as team leader. We are ready to help you buy or sell a home in the Franklin, Brentwood, or Nashville areas - and we have the experience and knowledge to make the whole process easier for you. View listings at LCTTeam.com.
The Love Local Issue
As February rolls around, I always find myself in a familiar tug-of-war. On one hand, I want to resist the pull of another commercialized holiday, yet on the other, I can’t help but savor the sweet moments it brings—an excuse to celebrate love in all its forms.
Do we opt for a Valentine’s Day date out or settle in for a cozy night at home? A handwritten card or a heartfelt kind word? For me, it’s usually a mix of both. Each of us will find our own ways to mark the occasion, shaped by our unique preferences and personalities. But what unites us all is the opportunity to remind those around us just how much they mean to us.
This month’s issue is dedicated to helping you do just that—celebrating and highlighting the best of what’s to love in our local community.
As we navigate the lingering chill of winter and the promise of spring’s arrival, let’s take a moment to come together with the people who matter most. Whether they’re in your home, down the street, or across the community, February is a wonderful time to connect and share love.
“Love local” isn’t just about supporting the businesses in your area—it’s about cherishing what’s near to you in every sense. At the heart of everything we do is the belief that together, we’re stronger. Every month, the stories shared within these pages prove that again and again.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of the life you’re building. Our greatest hope is that this issue helps you love it just a little more than before.
Here’s to a February filled with love—both local and beyond!
Sophie Brock, Morgan Raum, Sue Baldani, Mary Compton, Sue G. Collins, Gabi De La Rosa
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sophie Brock, Ford Fairchild, Caroline Allen Photography, Zeke Ruelas, Jada Brown from Embelle Photo, Kyla O'Neal Photography, Mary Compton, Robertson & Co
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
Setting the Stage with Will Butler
Digging Up the Past
$5,500,000
city scene
1-14: Southern Oak Wealth Group’s Holiday Party 1: David Wood and Jon Trusty 2: Lauren & Wyatt England 3: Morgan & Adam Cichostepski 4: Tracy & Sarah Wyatt, Ann & Donnie Young 5: Jay & Beth Hosay, Katie Kazarian, Owen Hosay 6: Paige Hastings and Katherine Robeson 7: Ryan Harry, Jim Schneider
Photography by Sophie Brock
8: Wilbert Long, Susan Thomas, Daphney Long, Robert & April Bosse, Alyson Poling, Matt & Katie Tomako 9: Stone, Chase, & Hadley Wilkinson 10: Brandon & Michelle Ketchum 11: Marc Amy & Shannon Walker 12: Mike, Emma, & Ella Gilmore 13: Mary Ann & Sam Crouch 14: Tony Tantaris, Patrick, Frank, Holly, Alyson, & Christian Poling
Photography by Sophie Brock
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Brentwood: 1585 Mallory Lane STE 103, Brentwood,
Brentwood: 1585 Mallory Lane STE 103, Brentwood, TN 37027
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Downtown Franklin Art Crawl
On February 6th, the Franklin Art Crawl will feature dozens of artists throughout downtown Franklin, in businesses, churches, at The Factory at Franklin, and other locations listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The free monthly event celebrates Williamson County, Tennessee’s local artists, and provides everyone with an opportunity to see a wide variety of magnificent works.
business monthly
Barbelles Strength & Fitness To Open in March
Barbelles Strength & Fitness is Tennessee’s first exclusive women-only strength gym. They have a beautifully designed space with a spa aesthetic that is the perfect balance of strength and beauty. All of their equipment is brand new and has been carefully selected for women by women. They have private red light saunas, theraguns, a commercial tanning booth, a fitness room, and a members' lounge. They aim to open on Saturday, March 7th. Limited founding memberships are on sale now. Follow them on Instagram @bbstrengthandfitness , Facebook, Barbelles Strength and Fitness, www.barbelleswomen.com
Pelato To Open Franklin Location
Beloved Italian restaurant, Pelato, has announced plans to open up a Franklin location early this year. This will be their third location at 1914 Galleria Boulevard, with their other two locations in Nashville and Charleston.
Want to be featured?
Wedding Moments Worth Toasting
From rooftop toasts to intimate gatherings, celebrate your wedding moments in spaces made for connection. Thoughtful design, warm ambiance, and room blocks for those who matter most.
Photography Provided by @pelatorestaurant
CRAFTED FOR THOSE WHO CRAVE MORE THAN THE ORDINARY
We take pride in delivering a refined, customer-focused automotive experience. From quality vehicles to tailored storage options, our team is committed to helping you drive away with confidence.
YOUR COMPLETE DESTINATION FOR ALL THINGS AUTOMOTIVE
Concierge-led sales process for every type of automobile
ART INSYXIENGMAY’S JOURNEY FROM PANDEMIC POP-UPS TO HATTORI NORI
FROM HOME TABLES
TO THE COUNTER
For chef Art Insyxiengmay, food has never been about flash or fame; it’s about discipline, creativity, and connection. From quietly working behind the scenes to becoming a chef-owner shaping Nashville’s dining culture, his culinary journey has been one of great humility.
Art has worked nearly every role in a restaurant you can imagine: dishwasher, line cook, sous chef, kitchen manager, and assistant manager. By watching, listening, making mistakes, and showing up every day willing to improve, he learned the craft. He didn’t attend culinary school; his education came from the kitchens themselves and the people who ran them.
“I worked for all types of restaurants, and every restaurant taught me something different – technique, speed, respect for craft, and the importance of consistency,” Art explains.
In 2020, like many chefs, Art found himself without a kitchen when the restaurant where he worked closed during the pandemic. Meanwhile, people were gathering in smaller circles at home, craving experiences they could no longer access – especially sushi, a cuisine that demands precision, knowledge, and quality ingredients.
When a friend’s family member mentioned wanting sushi for a birthday party, something clicked. Art began inviting friends over and cooking for them, and his friends shared the experience online. Word spread quickly, and soon people were asking him to bring that same experience into their homes. That momentum became the foundation for Ricey & Co., Nashville’s premier sushi catering company.
As Nashville slowly reopened, Ricey & Co. grew through pop-ups and events wherever opportunities arose. A significant turning point came when Art was invited to do a weekly sushi pop-up at Love and Exile, which helped build consistency, community, and trust. That momentum eventually led to an introduction to the Sheraton Grand Nashville. After one visit to the Skye Lounge – which overlooked the city skyline – Art’s belief was confirmed: sushi and views belonged together.
Today, Ricey & Co. operates five nights a week at Skye Lounge and is approaching its third anniversary in the space. What began as a home-cooked idea during a moment of uncertainty has evolved into a respected culinary presence rooted in consistency and care.
CONTINUED >
At the heart of Art’s cooking is his experience as a first-generation Laotian American. Growing up between two cultures, he learned early how food could bridge worlds, witnessing hesitation transforming into curiosity, and curiosity into connection. To Art, food has always been love. That belief still guides him today, shaping how he cooks and how he shares food with others.
Now, Art is preparing to open his most ambitious project yet: Hattori Nori, Nashville’s first hand roll bar. This chef-driven experience is built around simplicity and freshness. Hand rolls are made one at a time, directly in front of guests, and meant to be eaten immediately. Crisp nori, warm rice, and pristine fish come together at the counter, where diners watch each roll crafted and enjoy it the moment it’s served, getting to witness the process and respect the craft.
The concept is informed by years of travel and research.
"I have visited over 30 hand roll bars around the world, from Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, and New York to Paris, London, and even Mexico City, alongside countless sushi counters across Tokyo and Southeast Asia,” Art explains. “The biggest lesson I learned from those experiences wasn’t imitation
"IT’S TAUGHT ME DISCIPLINE, RESPECT, PATIENCE, AND CONSTANT IMPROVEMENT. THOSE LESSONS CONTINUE TO GUIDE EVERYTHING I DO.”
– it was restraint. The best places simply do them, staying true to who they are."
Hattori Nori reflects that philosophy. The space will feel balanced and minimal, shaped by natural materials and calm energy. The focus remains on quality ingredients, thoughtful execution, and an experience that feels both elevated and welcoming.
Rather than chasing novelty, Art sees Hattori Nori as a long-overdue introduction. Hand roll bars have become staples in major cities around the world, yet Nashville has largely gone without – until now. Hattori Nori is meant to change that, offering locals a first look at a globally loved concept and an invitation to discover why it’s resonated everywhere from New York to Paris.
For Art, opening Nashville’s first hand roll bar is deeply personal. It’s a way of bringing something he fell in love with through travel back to a city that has supported him for years – introducing something new without losing warmth or integrity.
Looking ahead to 2026, Art is focused on momentum and refinement.
Alongside the opening of Hattori Nori, he plans to continue growing Ricey & Co. at Skye Lounge, introduce a sushi food trailer for festivals and outdoor events, and remain present for the private celebrations that have defined the brand since the beginning.
Reflecting on the past five years, Art remains grounded.
“The journey has kept me humble in the best way,” he says. “Sushi has changed my life – not just as a craft, but as a mindset. It’s taught me discipline, respect, patience, and constant improvement. Those lessons continue to guide everything I do.”
To learn more about Art Insyxiengmay, Ricey & Co., or Hattori Nori, follow along on social media.
A TALENTED TEAM THAT CAN BRING HOMEOWNERS VISIONS TO LIFE
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZEKE RUELAS
When a couple sought to recreate a historical home on a sprawling estate in Davidson County, they wanted to find a home builder with a deep respect for architectural history and the ability to translate classical design into a livable, enduring residence.
Ultimately, the homeowners chose Castle Homes to bring their vision to life, which was heavily inspired by Heritage Hall, a historic Greek Revival landmark built in 1811 in Madison, Georgia. “The homeowners were deeply drawn to its timeless proportions and classical presence and sought to recreate that spirit with architectural integrity,” says Alan Looney, Castle’s president and founder.
“The homeowners were deeply drawn to its timeless proportions and classical presence and sought to recreate that spirit with architectural integrity.”
In order to ensure an accurate depiction, his team personally toured the original residence, documenting details from exterior elevations to interior moldings to ensure the final design reflected a true historical precedent rather than a surface-level interpretation.
Explains the homeowners, “We had a vision for the style of house we wanted to build, and Castle Homes and architect Kevin Coffey and in-house Castle Homes designer Joy Huber were able to create a custom gem box of a home using 19th-century Greek revival elements and integrate them into the way our family lives and enjoys our time at home.”
The majestic home is situated just as a country estate would have been—gracefully set amid open acreage, allowing its architecture to be fully appreciated from every angle. As soon as one walks in the door, says Alan, paneled walls and wide-plank hardwood floors in a striking herringbone pattern in the foyer immediately set the tone, while historically accurate trim profiles further elevate the craftsmanship.
While the home is a near-replica of the original in form and proportion, and designed to truly honor the enduring beauty of classical architecture, the team also took into account how a modern family lives today.
“Inside, the floor plan transitions into a more contemporary lifestyle layout— balancing tradition with livability,” he says. “Formal spaces such as a study and dining room coexist effortlessly alongside an open kitchen and living area, creating a home that feels both grand and welcoming.”
The kitchen, the heart and soul of every home, not only serves as a functional workspace but also makes a grand statement. Castle Homes’ interior design team designed the custom cabinetry, and a hidden pantry was finished in rich green cabinetry.
“The Castle Homes team made building and designing our house an experience that was exciting, personal, and thoroughly enjoyable.”
“A defining layer of the home’s design is its use of historically inspired wallcoverings,” says Alan. “The dining room features a French mural wallpaper by Papiers de Paris, depicting a classical landscape scene inspired by Telemachus on the Greek isle of Calypso. Rendered with depth, movement, and restraint, the mural feels less decorative and more architectural— evoking the kind of hand-applied papers found in historic European estates.”
In additional spaces, such as the pantry, he states that the wallpaper was carefully chosen to echo traditional patterns and textures, reinforcing the Greek Revival narrative while adding depth, warmth, and a sense of permanence.
Paying homage to architectural authenticity is reflected in the home’s custom millwork and moldings as well. To ensure historical accuracy, the Castle team collaborated with Kuiken Brothers, architects, and respected historical preservationists known for their knowledge of classical architecture.
“Kuiken Brothers develops molding profiles specific to each architectural period, allowing every crown, panel, and entablature in the home to reflect true Greek Revival precedent. These carefully proportioned details reinforce
the home’s classical integrity, ensuring the craftsmanship feels timeless rather than interpretive.”
Other thoughtfully designed spaces include a richly detailed library, a stair hall with a dramatic flair, and a powder room and secondary bath finished with heavily veined Italian marble. Marble, he explains, is a material historically favored in classical homes for its natural movement and character.
“While the home includes outdoor living areas and a pool, the primary focus of the project remained on architectural authenticity and interior craftsmanship— ensuring every visible detail reinforced the home’s classical roots,” says Alan.
Adds the homeowners, “It was a complete pleasure working with Castle Homes to make our dream home a reality. The Castle Homes team made building and designing our house an experience that was exciting, personal, and thoroughly enjoyable. Our expectations were exceeded at every phase of the design and build process.”
To make your vision a reality, visit its social media or website.
CastleHomes.com
@CastleHomes
ARTICLE BY MARY COMPTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLINE ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY AND KYLA O'NEAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Setting the Stage with Will Butler
Local set artist breaks a leg when it comes to theatre design
Will Butler, set designer, actor, teacher, and theatre buff, began his company, Butler Scenic Co., in 2019 as a one-stop shop for design, fabrication, and educational services for the theatre industry. From Sumner County, Tennessee, Butler graduated from Belmont University with a degree in theater performance. He moved to New York after graduating to pursue acting. After he realized acting was not the right fit, he moved back home to Middle Tennessee in 2011.
Back from New York, he took a job in interior design working for a friend of a friend within the industry. Working for a few years, he truly enjoyed the job, and it carved the path towards set design.
In 2014, he applied for a teaching position as a theatre teacher at Hillsboro High School. The previous teacher had a background in set design, and Butler, too. He fit. There, he met his wife, Kristin, also a theater teacher at Hillsboro.
While creating sets for the high school’s theatre department, the theatre community took notice. Through word of mouth, Butler was onto a booming business, busy nonstop. He has contributed to and designed over a hundred sets. Butler has worked with named theaters such as Studio
Tenn, Nashville Children’s Theatre, Maples Repertory Theatre in Missouri, The Theater Bug, and Belmont University, just to name a handful.
Butler has won recognitions such as TPAC’s Spotlight Awards for Outstanding Design Concept in 2016, 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023. He won Outstanding Set Design in 2015 for Hairspray and 2019 for Rock of Ages. In 2019, he won Best Set Design for the Broadway World Nashville Awards. In 2023, Butler won the First Night Award for Outstanding Set Designer. And in 2024, he was a Star Award Recipient.
One of the sets that most stands out to Butler is his work on the musical Into the Woods by playwright James Lapine. The set came together, “like lightning in a bottle,” Butler describes, “all the pieces fell into place.” Because the musical takes place with characters from fairy tales, Butler wanted the scenes to be conceptually set in an abandoned and rundown library.
The set was two stories high with bookcases as hidden doors opening and closing with “magical fluidity.” Behind the scenes, the tech crew opened and closed the doors on command. The aesthetic looked like the characters had magic powers to open and close the doors.
“Sets create the psychological and emotional environment for the actors to play and the audience to enjoy,” said Butler.
Hillsboro Player's Urinetown, photo by Kyla O'Neal Photography
A quote from the musical states, “Tell him the story of how it all happened.” A library setting was very suitable as the backdrop for the stories that unfolded on stage.
Butler is not only a thespian and set designer, but he also works in experiential design, creating themed experiences for clients across the country. Butler created two pop-ups for the Fairlane Hotel in Nashville: “The Dollhouse at Fairlane” in 2023,
during the summer Barbie came out in theaters, and the second was “Emerald City at Fairlane” for the musical Wicked. Butler designed and fabricated an immersive Wizard of Oz Halloween event for the company SEASIDE in fall 2025. Butler traveled to Cincinnati, Ohio, to put together the “Tinselhaus” pop-up in December 2025. The process of creating a set can be daunting, but it is a welcomed challenge to Butler. He likes bringing a play to life,
creating something memorable for the audience. He hopes that audiences can find something within his designs that hits home or resonates with them.
“Sets create the psychological and emotional environment for the actors to play and the audience to enjoy,” said Butler.
As trends come and go, the set design industry has evolved too. Not only do sets involve construction, but now new additions like LED screens, up-to-date fly systems, and new audio and visual components have revolutionized the industry.
From start to finish, Butler meets with the director and converses about the themes and what the audience will see. Second, he reads the play or musical several times, looking for themes to emphasize. Putting pencil to paper, he sketches his ideas. He uses 3D modeling software and mood boards, too. Once the director is happy with the results, Butler and his crew start the process of building, which lasts about one to two months. And through the hard work of many, the set is ready for opening night.
Butler has a crew of 5, each with their own expertise ranging from sculptural artistry to scenic painting to electrics and lighting to fabrication. Many of his employees are past students.
Up and coming production designs are Hello, Dolly! at Hillsboro High School Feb. 27-March 2, and Hamlet at Nashville School of the Arts April 9-12.
butlerscenic.com @butlerscenicco
Butler Scenic Co. Crew, photo by Caroline Allen Photography
mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 2/28/26. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JADA BROWN FROM EMBELLE PHOTO
A HOME FOR Life’s MILESTONES
The story of The Sloane, a family-owned venue rooted in community and timeless design
Over the last decade, the event and wedding industry has undergone a remarkable transformation. As life’s milestone celebrations grow more intentional and grand, finding a space that feels both timeless and personal has become more important than ever. With over 20 years of experience in the event planning world, Kristin Fridrich King saw that shift firsthand and knew that there was room for something more. Alongside her husband, Robert, she brought that vision to life with The Sloane, an idyllic event space nestled in Germantown that has been the backdrop for countless unforgettable moments since opening its doors in fall 2024.
“The Sloane is more than a venue,” Kristin explains. “It’s owned and operated by a local family deeply rooted in the Nashville community. We created a space that feels like an extension of our home.”
Kristin’s 20-year journey in the events industry has been one of constant evolution. Beginning as an assistant to her mentor, renowned local wedding planner Elizabeth James, she went on to plan events and work with several of Nashville’s leading event production companies. Along the way, she worked in nearly every major venue across the city, gaining a deep, firsthand understanding of what makes an event truly exceptional. With that plethora of experience behind her, Kristin knew exactly what she wanted The Sloane to be.
“I decided to take my experience, knowledge of multiple aspects of the event industry, and wealth of contacts, including long-standing relationships with local planners and vendors, and launch a business that I felt passionate about,” she says. “I wanted
to create a space that was unique to Nashville and give the community a special place to celebrate life's most important moments.”
She also understands that every detail – no matter how small – plays a vital role in bringing an event to life. That understanding made the decision of where her venue would be all the more meaningful. She envisioned a space that could be transformed into anyone’s wildest dream. Her search began in 2014, and after years of searching, planning, and imagining, she and her husband purchased The Sloane in 2021, after nearly a decade-long search.
“I wasn’t going to take just any space; it had to be really special,” she recalls. “I wanted to create something exceptional and different than anything that already existed in Nashville. I wanted something with a historical element, light fixtures that wowed, plenty of natural light, a feeling of old yet new, I wanted brick, stucco, and decorative trim on the walls and ceilings, and of course, fireplaces that worked. I wanted European design elements; they always get it right. It’s traditional and classic and never goes out of style.”
With trends in the wedding and events world constantly evolving, Kristin understood that creating a truly enduring venue meant thinking beyond what's popular in the moment. Rather than chasing trends, she focused on having a space with strong bones, one that could evolve alongside the industry while still maintaining its own sense of identity. By prioritizing architectural character, warmth, and flexibility, she ensured The Sloane could seamlessly grow with changing styles while never losing its sense of soul.
“I wanted to create a space that was unique to Nashville and give the community a special place to celebrate life's most important moments.”
“The main thing that’s changed (is that) there are so many more options, especially with decor and event rentals,” Kristin says. “The ability to customize everything is incredible. It used to be so standard and boring. The wedding industry has come a long way, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
At its core, The Sloane is a reflection of Kristin’s belief that meaningful moments deserve a meaningful setting. It’s a space shaped by intention, patience, and a deep respect for celebration in all its forms. From intimate gatherings to once-in-a-lifetime milestones, The Sloane offers more than just a beautiful backdrop; it offers a place where stories begin, memories linger, and moments are made to last. As Nashville continues to grow and evolve, The Sloane stands as a testament to thoughtful design, community, and the enduring magic of bringing people together.
For more information or to see availability for dates, check out The Sloane’s website or social media.
thesloanenashville.com @thesloanenashville
The Sloane
“I wasn’t going to take just any space; it had to be really special,” she recalls. “I wanted to create something exceptional and different than anything that already existed in Nashville.”
EmpowHER Health is a Tennessee-based telemedicine practice dedicated to helping women 35+ navigate perimenopause, menopause, and stubborn weight gain with expert hormone replacement therapy and medically managed weight loss, including GLP1 prescriptions. We exist to make women feel seen, heard, and believed — because your symptoms aren’t “just aging,” and you deserve real answers and real care.
Feel like your body’s rewriting the rules? Weight gain that won’t budge, brain fog, fatigue, mood swings, hot flashes, declining sexual wellness, just feeling..off? This is for the woman who wants her energy back. Her confidence back. Herself back. Founded by a provider who’s walked this road herself, EmpowHER Health is on a mission to help women feel like themselves again..maybe better.
Visit www.kengelhardtnp.com or scan the QR code to get started right now.
Serving all of Tennessee
“My wife and I are buyers for the middle TN area, and Gabrielle patiently found out what our specific needs and price points were, and she showed us a number of very nice houses, and we settled on one and closed this December. I heartily recommend her!”
CHRIS SHINAR, BUYER
Digging Up the Past
ARTICLE BY MARY COMPTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Brentwood’s time capsule recalls how our community has changed in 25 years
In Brentwood, on a day in April 2000, a time capsule was buried on the grounds of the John P. Holt Library to mark the beginning of a new century.
In partnering with the City of Brentwood, the Brentwood Rotary Club placed items of significance in the capsule from the year 2000.
The Rotary Club put a call out to the Brentwood community to donate pieces of current history. The time capsule was a metal box and contained a stuffed animal from Lipscomb Elementary School, newspaper clippings from the year, a copy of People Magazine showcasing Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise’s relationship, a TV guide, and Brentwood’s 2020 Plan.
The stone plaque read “Millennium Time Capsule, placed here in the year 2000, by the Brentwood Morning Rotary Club, and the City of Brentwood, to be opened in the year 2025.”
The unearthing of the capsule took place on a crisp and sunny fall afternoon on October 5, 2025, with Past Rotary President Larry Boyd, Brentwood Mayor Nelson Andrews, and current Rotary President Rob Aurenheimer digging up the dirt.
Not only were Mayor Nelson Andrews, city commissioners, and members of the Rotary Club present, but also curious members of the community.
When digging up the capsule, the outside was, as expected, aged. It was rusty and also water-damaged. The 2010 Williamson County floodwaters had seeped into and corroded parts of the capsule.
Musty and dewy, the box was brought forth from the ground, buried a few feet down, and the contents were revealed and analyzed with fascination. The water-damaged contents will be dried and prepped for display. The memorabilia will be exhibited for residents to see in the near future.
Since 2000, Brentwood has changed greatly. The population in 2000 was 25,000, and now it is 46,000. In 2000, the Tower Park on Heritage Way was built. Now we have a total of 15 different parks for our residents.
With all these developments, it leaves us with the question: How will Brentwood change in the next 25 years?
Charles Booth, Director of Community Relations in Brentwood, said about the future and learning from the past that, “It’s important to remember where you come from.” The past gives you hindsight and helps with your future decisions. Our past can help guide our future.
Brentwood no doubt looks forward to another bright 25 years.
The stone plaque read “Millennium Time Capsule, placed here in the year 2000, by the Brentwood Morning Rotary Club, and the City of Brentwood, to be opened in the year 2025.”
Charles Booth, Director of Community Relations in Brentwood, said about the future and learning from the past that, “It’s important to remember where you come from.”
Wond has begun
BECAUSE.
CHOCOLATE.
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
When my kids were little, we would address valentines to classmates, deliver flowers to neighbors and decorate the house with hearts and snowflakes (cut from white coffee filters). For dinner, I would make their favorite meal: dessert! Why not? I'd melt chocolate (the good stuff) and let them line up their dippers. They thought dessert for dinner was magical. Of course, I'd fed them a protein-packed after-school snack and served “dinner” early so they could get their sugar wiggles out before bed. Delightful! Happy Valentine's Day!
• 1 tablespoon dark chocolatecovered coffee beans, chopped
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, 1/2 cup cream, and whole coffee beans. Bring to a simmer, turn off heat, cover, and steep beans for 1 hour. Strain liquid and return to saucepan; discard beans. Bring the milk-and-cream mixture back to a simmer, add chocolate, and whisk until incorporated. Remove from heat; whisk in Kahlua. Whip remaining 1/2 cup cream and the confectioners' sugar until soft peaks form. Divide the hot chocolate between 2 cups and garnish each portion with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of chopped chocolate-covered coffee beans.
ARTICLE BY MORGAN RAUM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FORD FAIRCHILD
CHANGING LIVES ONE HEART AT A TIME
A LOOK INSIDE THE BRETT BOYER FOUNDATION, AN INSPIRING ORGANIZATION THAT FUNDS RESEARCH AND RAISES AWARENESS FOR CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE (CHD) WHILE CELEBRATING BRETT’S LEGACY.
In honor of National Heart Month, Ellen Boyer and Caroline Bryan— founders of The Brett Boyer Foundation—sit down for a candid conversation discussing their why behind the foundation, along with their passion for raising awareness and helping other families who have a CHD diagnosis. Driven by their commitment and hard work, the Brett Boyer Foundation partners with 11 hospitals nationwide for inpatient care and family support. They are also proud to have funded the research that led to the world's first partial heart transplant. Last year alone, they funded over one million dollars in research!
FOR ANYONE WHO DOES NOT KNOW YOUR STORY, CAN YOU SHARE THE INSPIRATION AND HEART BEHIND THE BRETT BOYER FOUNDATION?
Ellen Boyer: “When we found out our daughter, Brett, would be born with CHD and Down syndrome, we weren’t lucky enough to know someone with Down syndrome. We feared what we didn’t understand and completely feared the wrong diagnosis—we thought we could ‘fix’ her heart defect. What we hope people feel
from our mission is that we celebrate Brett’s Down syndrome diagnosis because it only brought cures to our lives… we fight for more options for kids born with congenital heart disease. We want people to know how common it is and that they aren’t alone.”
Caroline Bryan: “The heart and soul is Brett—their daughter, my niece. We had never experienced CHD before [so] this was new to us. We hadn’t experienced Down syndrome either, and didn’t know the joy it brings. We experienced [CHD] firsthand—the loss and the struggle—and wanted to make sure it wouldn’t affect other families in the same way it did ours.”
THE
FOUNDATION CHAMPIONS BOTH CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE AND DOWN SYNDROME ADVOCACY. HOW DO THESE TWO PILLARS INTERTWINE IN YOUR WORK?
Ellen Boyer: “[From] our perspective, CHD needs a cure, Down syndrome does not. Brett’s Down syndrome diagnosis only brought goodness to our whole family… it was one of my favorite things about
her, but it was just one part of her. About 50% of children born with Down syndrome will also have a congenital heart defect. Brett’s particular heart defect—AVSD—has a 97% success rate after open heart surgery; we just happened to be in the 3%. There are more children with CHD who don’t have Down syndrome. 1 in every 100 babies will be born with CHD… the cause for most CHD’s are unknown.”
Caroline Bryan: “ Our tagline that Ellen came up with is ‘we support and celebrate’ Down syndrome—I just love that. We, of course, support families with family members with CHD, but we celebrate Down syndrome! The joy it can bring is amazing, and we want to make sure that more people are aware of that.”
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FAMILIES FACE WHEN NAVIGATING CONGENITAL HEART DEFECTS, AND HOW DOES YOUR WORK AIM TO BRIDGE THOSE GAPS?
Ellen Boyer: “When we received Brett’s CHD diagnosis and heard [that our] baby would have to have open heart surgery to survive, we felt like the only people in the world who must have ever heard those words before. When you are in the thick of that fear, it can feel very isolating and infuriating when you find out how common it really is and how underfunded CHD research is—despite being the most common birth defect. We want, first and foremost, for parents and families to know they aren’t alone… that we are committed to funding research that can help all kids and adults with CHD. Receiving a CHD diagnosis definitely brings emotional and financial strain, [so] we’ve taken our lived experiences to proactively fill the gaps families will be feeling both while inpatient and at home— both from mine and Bo’s experience as Brett’s parents, but also Caroline and Luke’s as her aunt and uncle doing everything they could to support us. We assist the cardiac social workers with meeting families’ needs while in the thick of it all—from bill assistance, to date night gift cards near the hospital, to feeding the unit so they can stay close to their heart warriors, even to providing final outfits for kids who, like Brett, might run out of options. It's the first act of kindness we hope to offer in their deepest time of need.”
Caroline Bryan: “The biggest challenge was the emotional toll it took—emotionally, it is so hard. A lot of these families don’t know or aren’t prepared, even if it’s expected… even if they are told when the baby is in the mother’s belly. There are so many unknowns. With Brett, it was supposed to be an easy fix—one surgery. Obviously, it wasn’t, and that is a grief we share. Other than the primary mission, raising funds for research to provide better outcomes for children with CHD, we also offer resources and funding for mental health support. We also understand that it can be financially detrimental to families, and we have tried to bridge that gap as much as possible.”
BRETT CONTINUES TO LEAVE A LEGACY AND INSPIRE SO MANY PEOPLE EVERY DAY. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO KNOW YOU HAVE FORMED A COMMUNITY AND HAVE HELPED SO MANY OTHER FAMILIES ALONG THE WAY?
Caroline Bryan: “ This is all Ellen… I have to give credit where it’s due. I’m here to support and help her however she needs. We always knew that Brett changed our family for the better, and now, is changing the community for the better. We have people reaching out to us—big brands, high-end designers, huge companies—wanting to be a part of what we’re doing. I think that’s the most amazing thing—that now we are able to give back to families who are struggling the same way Ellen and Bo have.”
Ellen Boyer: “Each day, I am more proud to be Brett’s mom. I am so proud of the way [we] have all used our strengths to keep Brett’s legacy alive and give back in a way I believe we were each created to do. Don’t let Caroline fool you—she’s constantly making miracles happen. She’s a doer, and she fights for what’s right… she’s the one who keeps us going. Together, we’re proud to meet needs we each had through Brett’s life—it is the most positive way we can all continue on with what we continue to learn from Brett and each other. I’m so proud of the way we continue to seek ways to meet the needs of CHD families as we’ve grown. People have been so generous and supportive of our mission and passion behind it—we know we’re on to something, and it feels so good to be able to take our hurt and use it for good.”
YOUR INITIATIVES HAVE CAPTURED THE HEARTS OF MANY—CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT CODE QUEEN BEE?
Caroline Bryan: “ Code Queen Bee started, unfortunately, through the tragic passing of Brett. I watched Ellen and Bo in the hospital and, obviously, they were in shock. Ellen wanted to have some fresh clothes for Brett, so her sister, her cousin, and I went to a local store [called] Plaid Rabbit. We were walking around like zombies. The sales girl was so sweet— she recognized the situation and gave us 5-6 outfits. She wouldn’t charge us, and told us to take the outfits to Ellen and have her choose what she wanted and return what she didn’t. That act of kindness stuck with me, and I went back to the shop a few weeks later and told her I wanted to help other families. I started Code Queen Bee, where we donate a certain amount of money and if the social worker sees a need for the family, they can utilize this fund for a burial outfit. It’s in place to help them so that they can have one less thing to think about at that time in their life. No parent should have to pick out what their child is buried in.”
Ellen Boyer: “Caroline completely spearheaded this… we saw it was really meeting an unfortunate great need within the CHD community. We decided to bring even
more options to families [and] started this at Vanderbilt. We now have this program at 11 partner hospitals. Our partners keep items in-house, giving families the option to choose from what we keep on hand if they don’t want to go to a store.”
THE FOUNDATION HAS A STRONG PRESENCE IN EVENTS AND FUNDRAISING. WHAT MAKES A BRETT BOYER FOUNDATION EVENT UNIQUE?
Ellen Boyer: “We work really hard to make CHD digestible for the guests at our events who have possibly never heard of it before. CHD is very complex, and it’s not the easiest to share all of the variables that come with that diagnosis in a short event. We sprinkle in awareness at every turn, followed by something fun to keep people engaged. We want them to have the time of their lives, but learn what we’re doing and really feel our passion behind it.”
Caroline Bryan: “ Something I think is wonderful [is that] we started something that hadn’t been done, and now I see people mimicking it—-which is great! Every cause is worthy. When we started talking about our first big event, we realized we wanted to break out from the same ‘gala’ feel that so many other events we attended had—there’s nothing wrong with that, but we wanted to do something new… we wanted something that was fun and more casual. We created this all-day event with everything from skeet shooting, putting, and fishing with Bill Dance—among other things. At the end of the night, we have celebrities come on stage to sing and play. I think we’ve
changed how a lot of people are doing charity events now, at least in this area, which is awesome.”
WITH FEBRUARY BEING AMERICAN HEART MONTH, HOW DO YOU PLAN TO RAISE MORE AWARENESS AND CONTINUE TO SHARE THE MISSION OF THE FOUNDATION?
Ellen Boyer: “Heart month is our Super Bowl! We will be all over the country this February, visiting our partner hospitals and spreading as much awareness as possible. We love sending heart families signs for their yards to help celebrate their heart warrior, feeding families while inpatient, honoring staff who dedicate their lives to the whole family touched by CHD, and host events like Hockey Has Heart with the Nashville Predators—which is on February 4th this year. We have a pregame reception for heart families and their heart healthcare providers to get together to celebrate our wins together, and just be with people who have been on this journey together. It’s great to have the support of the Preds to help us raise awareness… and [it’s] always so nice to have Luke sing the anthem with a couple of our favorite heart warriors.”
Caroline Bryan: “ Hockey Has Heart is one of my favorite nights! Luke sings the anthem with heart warriors, and we get [them] and their care teams back together—possibly for the first time since they went home from their surgeries. It’s really amazing to see how it encourages the healthcare workers to see the kids they fought to save running around and enjoying a hockey game with their family.”
LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT DREAMS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE FOUNDATION’S NEXT CHAPTER?
“I HOPE PEOPLE SEE THAT THEY AREN’T ALONE, AND THAT WE HAVE A PLACE FOR THEM TO JOIN US IN MAKING A DIFFERENCE."
WHAT DO YOU HOPE FAMILIES TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR MISSION AND WORK?
Ellen Boyer: “I hope people see that they aren’t alone, and that we have a place for them to join us in making a difference. I hope they see that we’ve dedicated our lives to make things better for everyone both now and in the future with CHD.”
Caroline Bryan: “ I think anytime anyone sees Ellen speak, there’s no doubt it’s not rehearsed or fake or curated—it comes straight from her heart. People leave going, ‘wow, I didn’t know this,’ or really feeling the impact of her words. Often, [people will] come up and say [their] daughter or niece or cousin has CHD, which is a testament to her word, but also the fact that this is so much more common that many realize. If people keep talking about it, it’s going to be better known and the impact will reach farther. I hope at the end of the day, people leave realizing how much this really means to our family.”
Ellen Boyer: “My goal is to fund more CHD research each year… to have more projects make it to the bedside, so that we can see lasting progress for each family that is to come. If 1 in 100 babies are born with CHD, and 100 people are moving to the greater Nashville area each day—most of which are having families here—we have to grow to meet those needs. I hope to expand to more partner hospitals to help financially, mentally, and emotionally support families through their CHD diagnosis, no matter where they are in the U.S.”
Caroline Bryan: “ I’m enjoying starting to do events more regularly—now we’re [expanding] to California… we’ve been in Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee. I think this is huge—our charity is only 8 years old! I don’t think it’s that common to have that kind of reach so soon. I’m excited about going to multiple states and highlighting what we do and spreading the mission further.”
FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO WANT TO GET INVOLVED, WHAT’S THE MOST MEANINGFUL WAY THEY CAN SUPPORT YOUR MISSION?
Ellen Boyer: “Please check our website for opportunities to support our events, see what projects we are doing, help us fill hospital wish lists, and how you could help support locally and nationwide. We would love to share all the ways we are supporting families in the hospital and at home. Whether bringing warm meals to families, supplying gas cards for their many appointments, or lifting up heart warrior families in prayer, we would be so proud to have you in our corner.”
Caroline Bryan: “ Check out the website and our socials… see how you can help your local community. CHD is in every single city, every single state. This is not a local issue, it's worldwide. Get involved however you can on a local level—even if it’s not with us.”
For more information on The Brett Boyer Foundation, visit their website or follow them on social media.
thebrettboyerfoundation.org @brightforbrett
I didn’t set out to build a company. I set out to find answers I could trust for my family.
– Dr. Christina Rahm WE STARTED WITH THE TRINITY
STRAIGHT FROM MUSIC CITY: HOT CHICKEN AT HOME
ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK
HOT CHICKEN
• 1 whole chicken (about 3 pounds), washed, patted dry, and cut into quarters
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon Louisiana-style hot sauce
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• Sea salt
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup lard, melted and heated (or hot frying oil)
• 3 tablespoons cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Pickle slices, for serving
Directions
1. Dry-brine the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon kosher salt and 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper; cover and refrigerate overnight or up to 24 hours.
2. Make the dip and dredge: In a bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs and hot sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and 2 teaspoons sea salt.
3. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, then dip it in the milk mixture, then in the flour mixture again, shaking off the excess after each step.
rack on top of a rimmed baking sheet and set aside. Working in batches, lower the chicken into the fryer and fry until crisp, 15 to 17 minutes for breast quarters and 18 to 20 minutes for leg quarters. Remove the chicken and let it drain on the rack.
5. Make the spicy coating: Carefully ladle the lard or frying oil into a medium heatproof bowl and whisk in the cayenne pepper, brown sugar, 3/4 teaspoon sea salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, the paprika, and garlic powder. Baste the spice mixture over the hot fried chicken and serve immediately; garnish with pickles.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a deepfryer to 325 degrees F. Set a wire Ingredients
Nashville Hot Chicken
(Recipe credit: Food Network Magazine, courtesy of Lee Brian Schrager and Adeena Sussman)
Nashville is synonymous with hot chicken, a fiery, crispy staple born in local kitchens and perfected in neighborhood joints. What began as a bold, spice-forward meal has become a defining flavor of the city, drawing locals and visitors alike to chase the heat.
CELEBRATING a talented LOCAL artist
A gallery filled with impressive collections from near and far
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
While Bennett Galleries Nashville showcases artists from all over, it's especially proud of its representation of local and regional artists. “We definitely have a lot of people coming in specifically hoping to see local artists,” says curator Miranda Herrick. “They want to be able to say, ‘My neighbors and my friends created these.’”
Founded almost 50 years ago, the gallery has fostered a multitude of connections within the community, including with artists, art lovers, and collectors. "We're Nashville's oldest commercial art gallery, and we're very proud of the relationships we've built with our community,” says Scott Kinman, its marketing director.
Due to these connections, local artists have a much broader audience viewing their work than probably anywhere else in the Nashville area. One of these artists is Kris Prunitsch Bennett. Originally from Hopkinsville, she has lived and worked in the Nashville area for many years. She also has an interesting tie to the gallery.
On June 23, 2004, Kris approached the founder and then owner, Bill Bennett. “I was impressed with Bill’s captivating mix of traditional and contemporary work by local as well as national and international artists,” she says. “I’d always felt my work would be a good fit at Bennett Galleries and asked for an interview.”
She got it, and he agreed to start exhibiting her work. Two years to the exact date, she became his wife. Now, 22 years later, her partnership with both continues.
“I still feel comfortable and confident exhibiting at Bennett’s with current owner, Elizabeth Perkins,” she says. “And, because of the inspiring environment and staff, I also feel continuously challenged to reach for new creativity, which for an artist is the point.”
Kris Prunitsch - Bruised Sky - 57x39
Kris Prunitsch - Firebird Finale
Bennett Galleries Nashville currently has an inventory of 20 of her pieces. “Kris has a pretty distinctive style,” says Miranda. “She does large-scale paintings with a lot of mixed media and figurative [elements], and she also has a lot of variety with her subject matter, including landscapes and abstracts.”
CONTINUED >
Kris Prunitsch - Uncharted II
Kris is well known in the Nashville Art Community and was chosen as the featured artist for The Brentwood and Harding Art shows, and is a top-selling artist at Artclectic, often selling out her shows.
“She's certainly one of the artists that people often ask about because they remember her work and want to see what she's up to now,” she says.
Kris is also, says Miranda, a joy to have as an artist on our roster. “She's completely down to earth, unpretentious, and a delightful human being, which is great, because we want the art process to be enjoyable. That's one of Elizabeth Perkins’ goals. She wants art to be extremely accessible, and I think Kris is a poster child for making art fun. She's just wonderful and super vibrant.”
The gallery often hosts shows, where visitors can meet the artists while viewing their work. “It puts a face to the art and makes it very human,” she says. “Everything that we display is handmade, but sometimes that's hard to imagine until you meet the person and hear what their process is and learn a little bit about their life story. It makes it more special.”
A unique exhibit of another local artist is being planned in the gallery this spring. “It's a retrospective on Anton Weiss,” says Miranda. “He has passed, so this will be a great memorial. We're going to have historical placards and memorabilia from his life, as well as an amazing collection of artwork.”
The gallery's events are always free and open to the public. Some visitors, especially art students, treat it like a museum and appreciate not having to pay to view impressive collections.
In addition to the art gallery, which occupies the first floor of the business, the second floor is dedicated to framing. "We have a huge inventory of archival-grade materials, and we frame everything from family photos and heirlooms to new works for local artists and major projects for the city's top interior designers."
To learn more, visit its website. BennettGalleriesNashville.com
Kris Prunitsch Bennett
After graduating with a BFA in graphic design, Kris freelanced for an ad agency in Los Angeles and began a 35-year career as an international flight attendant. The many sites, cultures, landscapes, and colors of the world inspired her to paint.
In 2000, after transferring to fly out of Nashville International Airport, she participated in workshops with the late Louise LeQuire, Anton Weiss, and Randy Moberg. Her work has been commissioned for various restaurants, offices, and private collections. She has also received the Hopkinsville Art Guild Memorial Award and has been named a Madison Art Center Emerging Artist Finalist.
Kris PrunitschEmber Entrance
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FOR THE LOVE OF IT
Six Ways to Spend Your Valentine's Day
ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK
It’s time to celebrate the one you love most this Valentine’s Day! Here’s our roundup of some of the best date-night spots in town.
1.
Karrington Rowe is an ideal date-night destination with a warm, welcoming atmosphere where guests can expect excellent service. Enjoy elevated comfort dishes, craft cocktails, and wine in a cozy yet polished setting, perfect for lively conversation and connection over a memorable meal. karringtonrowe.com
Come create some Valentine’s themed cocktails at Liquor Lab! Valentine's Day-themed classes will run the week of the holiday through the weekend, where multiple classes will be offered throughout the day for people to attend. Guests can expect to make three themed drinks per class, and all classes can be taken with N/A options. Book online and secure your date today! liquorlab.com
Cozy up at Old Glory in Edgehill Village. Tucked into a converted 1920s boiler room with moody lighting and craft cocktails, it’s perfect for intimate conversation, creative drinks, and a memorable night out. A speakeasy-style vibe with character that sets the tone right, just look for the golden triangle off of Edgehill Avenue for the entrance. oldglorynashville.com
ENJOY DINNER AT KARRINGTON ROWE
2. TAKE A COCKTAIL CLASS AT LIQUOR LAB
3.DATE NIGHT AT OLD GLORY
Photo by Robertson & Co
4. COOKING CLASS AT KITCHEN SOCIAL
Swap the usual dinner date for a hands-on experience at Kitchen Social, where you and your partner can cook together in a fun, interactive class. With expert instruction, complimentary drinks, and appetizers, this is the perfect chance to bring your new knowledge into your own kitchen. Make sure you check their schedule to see which dishes they are serving up! kitchensocial.com/locations/nashville
5. COUPLE PHOTOSHOOT WITH PHOTOWALK NASHVILLE
Enjoy a 1-hour, private photoshoot and walking tour experience with a professional photographer and your loved one in the Gulch. Seize this opportunity to get updated photos together, learn some more information about the city you live in, and enjoy the included champagne pop on a private rooftop overlooking the city. photowalkyourtravel.com
Come enjoy some wine on a romantic train ride! Departing at 10 a.m., this train ride will have a layover in Watertown, where you can have lunch and shop. DelMonaco will be selling wine at their store in Watertown, and guests can bring it back to enjoy on the train. Order your tickets soon, as this trip sells out quickly! tcry.org
Karrington Rowe
Maven TN | 615 970 6611
Allison@maventn com | 330 317 0586 @allisonellis realtor
WHAT I’M SEEING, SENSING, AND BETTING ON FOR THE YEAR AHEAD
01. Lifestyle Over Rates
eople are done waiting Homes that support real life will drive ecisions more than interest rates.
02. Turnkey Wins
Move-in-ready, well-designed homes sell faster & for more rojects are officially out of fashion.
03. Renovate or Relocate
Homeowners will split between improving what they have or moving on. Both work. Clarity decides.
04. Smart Pricing Beats Wishful Thinking
Strategic pricing creates momentum Overpricing kills it
05. Less Chaos. More Clarity.
Buyers and sellers want clear plans, timelines, and expectations. Clarity is the new currency.
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DIS COVER THE VALAIS REGION OF SWITZERLAND, WHERE ALPINE TRAILS, THERMAL SPRINGS, AND LOCAL TRADITIONS CREATE RESTORATIVE TRAVEL.
AN ALPINE ESCAPE
In Switzerland’s Valais region, wellness and adventure are always part of the same itinerary. Morning could bring a high-alpine hike, afternoon a soak in mineral-rich springs, and evening a table set with traditional cuisine, always including delicious wine and cheese. For travelers, the best part will be finding the perfect balance between exploring the outdoors and relaxing with wellness-infused activities in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
A CAR-FREE ALPINE ADVENTURE IN ALETSCH ARENA
An easy train ride from Zurich lands visitors in the Aletsch Arena, a high-alpine region on the south side of the Bernese Alps, home to three villages: Riederalp, Bettmeralp, and Fiescheralp. Known for its ski slopes in winter and hiking in summer, the area is entirely car-free, making walking and local buses the main modes of transportation through its quaint chalet-lined streets.
One of the main attractions of the ski-in/ski-out area is the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 12-mile glacier is visible from several vantage points, shaping every experience in the area.
WHERE TO STAY
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
Located in the heart of Bettmeralp, Hotel Panorama provides no-fuss accommodations steps away from the picturesque Chapel Maria Zum Schnee. The hotel’s restaurant offers delicious regional cuisine, including raclette paired with Swiss wine. A good bottle of Pinot Noir or Gamay is also easy to come by because the Valais region of Switzerland is one of the largest wine-producing areas in the country, with vineyards dotting the steep slopes of the Rhône Valley. In addition to wine and cheese, eating cholera, a covered vegetable pie invented in the region during the cholera epidemic, is a must.
Take in sweeping alpine views across Switzerland’s Valais region.
WHAT TO DO
Begin at Viewpoint Moosfluh, the closest and lowest vantage point of the Aletsch Glacier. From there, trailheads lead to Villa Cassel, once the home of a British financier and now a museum focused on history and conservation. The hike passes through a thousand-year-old forest with views of both the glacier and the Matterhorn.
Walk over Goms Bridge, a nearly 1,000-foot-long suspension bridge that connects two hiking areas over the Rhône River. For a final look at the majestic glacier, take the cable car to Viewpoint Eggishorn. At nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, Jungfraujoch, or the “Top of Europe,” and the most comprehensive view of the Aletsch Glacier.
HISTORY AND ALPS MEET IN MARTIGNY
A short train ride takes visitors to one of the largest cities in the Valais region of Switzerland. The city is a crossroads between Italy and France, with a history dating back to Roman times. Visitors can tour Roman ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheater, ancient settlements, and Roman baths.
WHERE TO STAY
Martigny Boutique Hotel is minutes from the train station and is one of the few establishments in the city employing people with disabilities. The light and bright hotel provides a comfortable base for exploring the city.
WHAT TO DO
Take the steepest funicular in the world, the MontBlanc Express, on a scenic ascent through the Alps. The funicular connects to a smaller train that leads to the Trient Valley on the French-Swiss border, where, at the top, a full day of activity begins. Hiking, biking, zip-lining, or traversing the Emosson Dam, which straddles France and Switzerland, are all options. The crystal clear blue waters of Emosson Lake are perfect for a picnic or a break between adventures.
Back in Martigny, Barryland, the only theme park in the world dedicated to St. Bernard dogs, offers a look at the history of the dog, bred by monks in the 17th century for alpine rescue work. The Barry Foundation, founded in 2005, continues to preserve the breed and educate visitors about it. Guests can watch the dogs train, play, and interact as they learn about their role in the region.
Roman influence remains visible across the city, including at Les Bains Publics at Hotel Borsari, where visitors can soak in cement wine barrels located in the hotel’s spa. The baths sit on the site of a former wine tank factory and offer a circuit of hot and cold pools in a historically inspired, wine-colored setting.
Goms Bridge over Rhone River.
Funicular railway at Lake Emosson.
Personal Chefs, Personal Nutrition
Brentwood’s newest park opens grounds ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
Windy Hill Park Has Landed
On the sunny, but windy morning of December 13th 2025, the new Windy Hill Park opened to the public with the cutting of a red ribbon. Mayor Nelson Andrews, with members of the city park board, and the Sensing family were present at the induction ceremony. A white tent was set up to fight against the windy weather befitting the name of the park. The park opened for its first season, and the public was welcomed to join the celebration.
“There was a fantastic turnout. There were over 100 people there,” said Vicki Sanford, Chair of the Park Board.
Placed on a 52-acre plot of land along Old Smyrna Road, this passive park has all
the features the Brentwood community can enjoy. The park includes walking trails, playgrounds, greenways with a 400-meter loop track, picnic shelters, bike trails, open fields, bathrooms, plenty of parking, and a rich history, serving over 1,900 homes in north Brentwood.
Windy Hill Park used to be Windy Hill Farm, owned by the Sensing Family. The farm was bought in the ‘70s by the Sensings. The land was used as a runway for the father, Wilbur, who was a recreational pilot. The original hangar for the plane is still on the property.
The Leadership Brentwood Committee, which often participates in community
projects, commissioned the painting of a mural on the side of the hangar. The mural depicts a replica of Wilbur’s plane paying tribute to the family’s history and legacy.
Before the Sensing family owned the farm, it was a historical property dating back to the early 1800s, used for agriculture.
Windy Hill Park will be a part of the collection of gorgeous parks Brentwood has to offer. Its completion marks the 15th park in this city. Residents can stop by anytime to enjoy the property and amenities. Whether you are a runner, stroller, picnicker, or playing on the playground, everyone, from residents to visitors, young and old, is encouraged to visit.
Other Brentwood Parks:
Concord Park
Crockett Park
Deerwood Arboretum
Flag Pole Park
Granny White Park
Marcella Vivrette Smith Park
Margaret Hayes Powell Park
Maryland Farms Greenway Trail
Maryland Way Park
Missy Peggy’s Bark Park Owl Creek Park Primm Park River Park Tower Park Wikle Park
“Green space is important for every community. Windy Hill touches several neighborhoods and will serve the northeast corner of Brentwood,” said Sanford.
“The park is beautiful and very scenic with rural character,” said Charles Booth, Director of Community Relations for Brentwood. It has a rural charm. It’s an asset to our town.
The park is open every day of the week from sunup to sunset. Conveniently placed in one of Brentwood’s affluent neighborhoods, the address is 9133 Old Smyrna Road. Check it out today.
A winning Smile.
Introducing Madison Kunst Miss Tennessee USA 2025
Nashville Aesthetic Dentistry, founded by Dr. Dennis Wells, is among the nation’s elite and pioneering practices for cosmetic dentistry. Our smiles are found on the faces of some of the most high-profile people in the world, including movie stars, music celebrities, professional athletes, and models. Our commitment to conservative, minimally-invasive dentistry and custom smile design is the reason patients from all walks of life choose our accomplished team of dentists.
• AACD distinguished member and accreditation candidate
• Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry, International College of Dentistry, and Pierre Fauchard Academy
• Scientific Education Chair to the Tennessee Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
• Official dentist for Miss Tennessee USA and Miss Tennessee Teen USA
