Lebanon, TN June 2023

TIME TO FIND NEW ROADS

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Let’s celebrate the guys!

Hey Fellas, this month it's all about celebrating YOU!! We are so excited for you to enjoy our June Men's issue...from fast cars, to showcasing local men in our community inspiring us all, a delicious recipe on the smoker for you to try and things you'll enjoy doing on Father's Day...this one is for the guys! We have packed this issue full of so many cool stories and my staff and I have loved learning so much about each of these gentlemen and their devotion to this community. .

We also want to take this month to celebrate all the Dad's out there! As I reflect on my Dad this month, and several other key father's close to me, I recall all the positive attributes and loving thoughts I envision when thinking of them. My Dad always was trying to teach me and prepare me for life. He always used to say to me as a teen heading out the door, "Remember your last name". That phrase has stuck with me and to this day, I still hear him say it in my mind. I even tell my son the same thing, as he is now a teen. I have always wanted to make him proud and never disappoint him. Dads are our idols. Our heros.

Here are just a few of the ways dads can build up their own home and inspire those watching:

• A father’s strength can be powerful

• A dad’s words can be fueling and inspirational

• Hugs from a dad can be deeply comforting

• A dad’s smile can instill joy and confidence

• A dad’s guidance can be life-changing and foundational

• A father’s correction can be life-saving and life-giving

• Adventures with a dad can be exciting and memorable

Let your father or a father figure in your life know how much he matters to you. And if you are a dad, let us be the first to say - thank you. You are invaluable to the people who know and need you as well as the community and neighbors around you. We are honored to celebrate you this month and every single day!

Happy Father’s Day to my guys and all those reading! Know that you are loved and appreciated.

This one is for my Daddy! I hope to always make him proud!

XoXo,

June 2023

PUBLISHER

January Alexander january.alexander@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Lindsey Hickman | lindsey.hickman@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Scott Coffin | scott.coffin@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jared Dean Photography, Kelsi Carter Photography, Jon Schrader Photography, Girldad Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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Tag your Instagram photos with @lebanoncitylifestyle

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Libelle Beech Celebrates 8th Anniversary June 17

Champagne and sweet treats will be flowing at Libelle Beech Salon as they celebrate a major business milestone, eight years! "We encourage the public to come in, get a tour of our space and a swag bag," says owner Rachel Beechboard. Fingers are crossed that Sweet Thing Bakery truck can also make it's debut, along with other vendors from the community. Open House Saturday, June 17th from 10am-2pm

Scan to read more.

Neal McCoy comes to Lebanon June 23

Tickets available to see national recording artist Neal McCoy preforming at Cahoots Dance Hall & Honkytonk playing all his #1 and top 40 Hits!! Neal McCoy “Live” at Cahoots June 23, tickets available at  eventbrite.com

Barbecue and Country Music Festival – BBQ Country Fest 2023

Smoke filled, fire breathing, steak sizzlin’ fun on June 3rd at the Wilson County Fairgrounds in Lebanon. Country music stars Billy Dean, Andy Griggs, Chad Brock and others perform live. See celebrity guest BBQ judge Jon Pardi as The Country Network films the final episode of Barbecue Country, where 12 backyard cooks pair up with 12 professional pitmasters, competing to be “Backyard BBQ Champion”. Food trucks, BBQ, beer, bourbon and more. BBQcountry.com for tickets.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/LebanonTN

CRUSHIN’ THAT SMALL TOWN HALLMARK MOVIE KINDA LIFE

GENTLEMEN OF WILSON CO. ARE LEADERS, ENTREPRENEURS

If there are two things these influential men of Wilson County can agree on, it’s their love of this small-town Hallmark movie kind of life, and feeling blessed to raise their family here. These five men impact our community daily with their work, businesses, volunteering and their commitment to paving the way for future leaders to maintain and continue to improve the lifestyle and culture of Lebanon. They are role models, stewards, coaches, husbands, entrepreneurs, and are all passionate about making a difference in the region they’ve spent most of their life in.

WILLIAM TRAVIS RIGGINS

PRESIDENT, RIGGINS CONSTRUCTION

Riggins Construction is a custom home builder based in Lebanon, specializing in quality in and around the Wilson County area for more than 15 years.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN WILSON COUNTY?

Lived in Wilson County since 2003, came here on a football scholarship for Cumberland University and my wife and I decided to stay and start our family here after college.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOING BUSINESS IN OUR COMMUNITY?

The people. The leadership, locals, small business owners, and growth of this county is what makes it so special

WHAT ARE TWO THINGS YOU CONSIDER UNIQUE ABOUT LEBANON/WILSON COUNTY THAT YOU ENJOY AND WHAT IS YOUR WHY FOR CONSIDERING IT YOUR HOMETOWN?

We love the small-town feel and its proximity to so many outdoor activities and other cities we enjoy visiting

WORDS TO LIVE BY?

You don’t have to be perfect, just present.

JEFF GANNON

STATE FARM INSURANCE AGENT

Jeff was born and raised in Wilson County and says he enjoys owning a business in a community he has lived in his entire life. Helping families recover from the unexpected and realizing their dreams is the perfect passion for an insurance agent, and with new offices in Lebanon and Mount Juliet, Jeff continues to expand his footprint in the region.

WHAT ARE TWO THINGS YOU CONSIDER UNIQUE ABOUT LEBANON/WILSON COUNTY THAT YOU ENJOY AND WHAT IS YOUR WHY FOR CONSIDERING IT YOUR HOMETOWN?

I enjoy the proximity to a larger city with the feel of a smaller town. My wife Felicia and I both grew up in the community and honestly gave little thought to ever moving away after our return home from school at the University of Tennessee.  It’s hard to explain to people not from the area… It just feels right.

WORDS TO LIVE BY?

If Plan A doesn’t work the alphabet has 25 more letters! Stay Cool. And of course, also, “Like a Good Neighbor…”

ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE?

We are a multiple office State Farm Agency with locations on both sides of Highway 109 in both Lebanon and Mt Juliet.

JASON JOHNSON

WILSON COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU (CVB)

Jason has called Wilson County home for overs 20 years, and says he’s proud and lucky to have a beautiful wife of almost 11 years, Kristy, and amazing 9-year-old twins, Aiden and Elijah. As the director of tourism, Jason takes pride in showcasing all that Lebanon and the rest of Wilson County offers, leading the support team for businesses throughout. The CVB says, here you will find friendly faces, historic places, and authentic southern hospitality. With boutique shopping, diverse dining experiences, lakes, caves, horse-back riding, drive-in movies, a state-of-the art expo center, and so much more - you are sure to discover what makes Wilson County near Nashville, but far from ordinary.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOING BUSINESS IN OUR COMMUNITY?

The hospitality of the people. As someone whose job is marketing and selling Wilson County to visitors and tourists, a welcoming and friendly Wilson County is a much easier sell!

WHAT ARE TWO THINGS YOU CONSIDER UNIQUE ABOUT LEBANON/WILSON COUNTY THAT YOU ENJOY AND WHAT IS YOUR WHY FOR CONSIDERING IT YOUR HOMETOWN?

It’s very hard to nail down just two things. Wilson County is like that perfect recipe. There’s just enough shopping and events and movement, yet just enough lake life and hiking and peacefulness that keeps everything balanced.  It’s like we live in the backdrop of a Morgan Wallen song!

WORDS TO LIVE BY?

Better. Be better, do better, treat everyone better, better my community.  With “best”, you spend so much time comparing yourself with others, with “better”, it’s easier to compare with who you were yesterday and hopefully be...better. CONTINUED >

SCOTT WALKER

Action Restoration takes pride in providing outstanding customer service to those in need 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Fire and water damage can disrupt your home or business at any hour of the day or night and their Disaster Recovery Team is always ready to help those in need.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN WILSON COUNTY?

My entire life other than my 4 years in college at UT.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOING BUSINESS IN OUR COMMUNITY?

Being able to get involved and give back. We enjoy sponsoring kid’s teams and activities, non-profits, and different community events. Being able to make a difference where we work and live has always been important.

WHAT ARE TWO THINGS YOU CONSIDER UNIQUE ABOUT LEBANON/WILSON COUNTY THAT YOU ENJOY AND WHAT IS YOUR WHY FOR CONSIDERING IT YOUR HOMETOWN?

Lebanon/Wilson Co is great because it still has that small-town feel in which you can get to know people, be involved, and build relationships. However, it is still large enough that you don’t have to travel outside of our community for most things and if you do, it is such a short drive to Nashville. You get the best of both worlds.

WORDS TO LIVE BY?

My Dad told me early on in business “Do good work, treat people right, charge a fair price, and the rest will follow”. I have always remembered that and have continued to communicate that with our work team and with my family. Running your own company is hard, but if you can get the simple things right, it helps tremendously.

DANIEL WOLFENBARGER

OWNER, BLACKBEARD BARBERSHOP

Daniel has called Wilson County home for 36 years, now with his wife Lindsey and three beautiful little girls, Paityn, Lyla, and Ellys. He is a longtime member of The Journey Church and owner of one of Lebanon’s most loved barber shops. Since founding in 2019, BlackBeard Barbershop has built a reputation for quality with 350 Google reviews all raving a nearly perfect 4.9/5 stars for clean cuts, hot shaves, and good times!

BlackBeard Barbershop offers all of the following: Fades, skin fades, bald fades, straight razor cuts, straight razor shaves, beard line-ups, beard trims, hot lather, hot towel, shampoo, hard parts, kids haircuts, first haircuts, appointments, and multi person appointments. Blackbeard Barbershop is located inside The Mill of Lebanon.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOING BUSINESS IN OUR COMMUNITY?

Strengthening the community by supporting each other we are continuously adding value to our community. The “small town” “family” feel where “everybody knows everybody” deepens every single time we do business within our community.

WHAT ARE TWO THINGS YOU CONSIDER UNIQUE ABOUT LEBANON/WILSON COUNTY THAT YOU ENJOY AND WHAT IS YOUR WHY FOR CONSIDERING IT YOUR HOMETOWN?

I have always loved the Wilson County Fair! There is nothing quite like it. Another local love of mine is the historic Mill at Lebanon. I am fortunate enough to operate my barbershop within the walls of this local piece of history. I don’t just consider this my hometown it is my hometown. I have lived all of my life, aside from 9 months in Kentucky, here in Wilson County. I’m a Lebanon High school alum, I have built my home here, and I am raising my family here. This is my hometown.

WORDS TO LIVE BY?

“Let er’ rip tater chip”

When Kason isn't in the studio or on stage, you might find him at his family's strawberry farm in Lebanon.

Lebanon Singer Songwriter Impresses Hollywood

brings home new inspiration and knowledge

Kason Lester

You represent Lebanon, and your family farm, wearing your strawberry shirt in social media photos as you gain more followers daily. How did growing up on a farm so close to music city shape you?

After making it to the top 40 on The Voice, Kason Lester is back, ready to roll with new music, tons of inspiration and a forever heart for his Wilson County roots. The Lebanon native who made it to the third round of eliminations on American Idol 2019, impressing judge Katie Perry, decided to give it another go this year with a new opportunity on The Voice where he made it on Blake Shelton’s final team. He may be back from his second trip to Hollywood, but the experience Lester has gained has prompted what he calls some of the most authentic music he’s ever released.

YOU IMPRESSED THE JUDGES ON AMERICAN IDOL IN 2019, AND NOW YOU’VE MADE IT TO THE TOP 40 ON THE VOICE. WHAT HAVE THOSE EXPERIENCES BEEN LIKE AND WHAT LED YOU ON THE REALITY MUSIC SHOW ROUTE?

American Idol and The Voice have a lot of similarities; lots of producers, interviews, and all of that stuff that goes into a TV show. For American Idol I showed up at the big audition lines with thousands of people, and for The Voice that was all online. I would say that I saw fun opportunities and took the chance to be a part of them, that’s what it’s about for me. I never set out to do a show or expected a show to make my career. Getting to do something surrounded by tons of talented people, singing with a world class band, and just experiencing something new is what I wanted to do. With something like a tv show, you can’t go in with expectations because so much of it is completely out of your control, you just have to have fun with it.

WE HAVE TO ASK, WHAT’S BLAKE LIKE?

He was funny, personable, and witty; I think that’s what people love about him. It was a honor to be on his last season.

I just love my hometown of Lebanon and Wilson County in general. It’s a special place, full of great people. Growing up in a supportive community prepares you to be able to take ristks and not be afraid to dream. It gives you a foundation to build on. My family is from here and still lives here, and it’s where I love to be. The strawberry farm [Lester Farms] has been a great way to get to spend time with my brother and my parents, and a way to get to interact with the community as well.

Be on the lookout for new music, live shows and more from Kason Lester now that he is back home. Follow him on Instagram @kasonlester and find his music on all major streaming platforms.

Take a Trip on the Bourbon Trail

Let Sherie Clarke of Picture This Travel plan your adventure

Looking for a fun Father’s Day trip without going too far? Check out this Lexington based itinerary curated by Sherie Clarke of Picture This Travel. Picture This can help you plan every detail of your trip from the best hotel for your adventure, reservations for tours and events, and a road map to get you from place to place.

WHERE TO STAY

Kentucky Castle The Kentucky Castle offers the perfect getaway location with its beautiful grounds, luxurious accommodations, and attentive staff. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or vacationing with friends or family, our rooms will exceed your expectations in every way possible.

The Campbell House, A Curio Collection. Once an equestrian farm, our 1951 building is a member of Historic Hotels of America. Today, they offer award-winning dining, reimagined antebellum interiors, and event space for up to 2,100 guests. The University of Kentucky is in walking distance, and we’re within 15 minutes of Town Branch Distillery, Keeneland Race Track, and Blue Grass Airport. Recommended Bourbon Distilleries for Tours/Tastings

• Woodford Reserve, Versailles, KY

• Four Roses, Lawrenceburg, KY

• Castle & Key, Versailles, KY

• Buffalo Trace, Frankfort, KY

• Makers Mark, Loretto, KY

• Bardstown Bourbon Company, Bardstown, KY Want a guide? Picture This Travel recommends Mint Julep Tours, offering tours of the region including Louisville Distilleries.

LOOKING FOR MORE JUST WHISKEY? SHERIE ALSO RECOMMENDS THESE OTHER KENTUCKY-RELATED TOURS

• Private tour of Claiborne Farms (traditional, old school, Secretariat) and/or Runnymede Farms, etc. Alternates: Win Star (state-of-the-art training, breeding), Three Chimneys (near Wallace Station, Seattle Slew buried/retired there, breeding, not as impressive), Ashford Stud (Versailles, international horse industry, home of American Pharah and Justify - last two Triple Crown Winners) with local Horse Farm guides

• Kentucky Horse Park with guided tour

• University of Kentucky Arboretum

• Sip & Paint Experience with Kentucky Artist (paints all things Bourbon and Horses) Kayla Weber Nord

Don’t forget your meals . A travel agent can even book and recommend their favorite restaurants along your route. For this trip Sherie says Kentucky Native Cafe, Don Jockeys, Heirloom, Holly Hill Inn, Wallace Station,Kentucky Castle, Dudley’s, Carson’s, The Grove, Honeywood, Windy Corner Market, and Epping’s on Eastside are their top picks.

Hometown Garage Guys

Make dad’s dream garage floor a reality this Father’s Day

Friends Casey Gibson and Matthew Rotenberry sought to make something ordinary and boring, exciting and aesthetic when they came up with the idea to start a concrete finishing business. Three years ago Gibson asked Rotenberry to join him on an adventure that has been a creative and successful venture since the start.

“At OCS Concrete Solutions, we can just about make any boring concrete exciting,” they say, “From making it look like wood floors to making them look almost 3-D with the metallic epoxies.”

This Wilson County born and raised duo has been making their way through the region adding a unique backdrop for car collections, garage workers and patio enthusiasts like the one featured here.

OCS has given facelifts to everything from airplane hangers and big rig repair shops,

to restaurants, residential garages, patios, and basements. Whether it's repair of an old peeling DIY project, rehab of stained and cracked unsightly concrete, or re-imagining a new space that you’re looking for, these hometown concrete finishing guys are available to help you with your space.

According to OCS, polished concrete is the ultimate no-wax flooring material. With the proper floor grinding equipment and experience, concrete polishing contractors can grind concrete surfaces, whether new or old, to a high-gloss finish. Factor in the superior durability and performance of concrete, and it's no wonder why retail, commercial warehouse and office facilities, and even homeowners are catching on to the appeal of these smooth, high-luster floors.

For more information and to request a quote, visit ocsconcretesolutions.com .

New Superspeedway GM Drives Philanthropy

Wilson Bank & Trust Track Laps Day success keeps donations flowing in for community nonprofits

With its new GM Matt Gerci at the helm, Nashville Superspeedway continues to grow their already outstanding reputation for community support through Speedway Motorsports nonprofit organization, Speedway Children’s Charities (SCC).

Gerci says it was the incredible people and endless opportunities in Middle Tennessee that drew his family here, explaining that the culture, community and first-class entertainment in this region make it such a desirable place to work and live.

Each Speedway operates a chapter of SCC designed to drive impact at a local level with charitable funds

raised through dedicated events such as the Wilson Bank & Trust Track Laps Day hosted last month. Ticket holders were allowed to drive personal vehicles around NASCAR’s largest concrete track, right here in Lebanon.

Proceeds then support organizations like Rescue 1 Global, a Tennessee group focused on combating human trafficking, that was awarded $12,000 earlier this year (pictured above).

Gerci said, “We are honored to partner with their team and excited about the additional opportunities we’ll have to come alongside other organizations making a difference in our community.”

Sheri Clarke is an award-winning travel agent who leads an agency of 15 agents that specialize in river cruising, Customized Individual Travel, and group land vacations. Over the past 20 years, Sheri has led 85 groups to 65 different countries, with those groups ranging in size from eight to 1,500 people. Sheri has been recognized as a top producing agent multiple years in a row, received five sales achievement awards, and is a six-time member of the exclusive President’s Club, which honors the industry’s top performing agencies.

Sheri’s wealth of travel experiences make her uniquely qualified to plan trips to all corners of the globe, with particular expertise in ITALY FRANCE SPAIN | UNITED KINGDOM GREECE AFRICA

MAKE AN IMPACT FOR DAD

What do you buy for the man who has everything? Perhaps an experience oriented around what dads value most – time together – is just what he needs. Fathers and father figures are invaluable in our lives. They help shape and mold us. They’re there for us and support us. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Dad feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your dad, husband, brother or father figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Memorable Ways to Celebrate The Father Figure in Your Life

LEARN ABOUT HIS FAMILY TREE

Family heritage websites can offer insight into dad’s past and be an interesting way to study the history of your family. Present Dad with a report on his ancestors or dig in together!

PLAN A STAYCATION

You don’t need to go very far to have a great time with Dad! Explore a new neck of your own woods with a family staycation. You can go out on the town, stay at a fancy hotel and maybe even enjoy some room service!

GO BIRD WATCHING

Lay out a blanket in your backyard and grab your binoculars for a peaceful, naturefilled day. Make a list of how many different kinds of birds you see and guess if you can identify them.

GO BOWLING

Bowling is a timeless classic Dad is sure to enjoy. Bonus if the bowling alley has an arcade, chicken wings and Dad’s favorite beverage of choice.

PLAY FRISBEE GOLF AS A FAMILY

Find a local frisbee golf course and grab a slot for the family to play. This activity is fun for both young and old and helps you take advantage of being in the beautiful outdoors together.

Everyone loves pizza. Make or buy some premade pizza dough and put different toppings in bowls and have Dad and the kids decorate it!

30

MAKE

Fondue

HAVE 08 GIFT GUIDE | ENTERTAINMENT

Licensed Medical Aesthetician

Health SkinPen Microneedling

(615) 767-1070 therefinerytn.com 130 1/2 Public Square Lebanon, TN 37087

realty report

A sample of recently sold properties in Lebanon.

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

JUNE 3RD

39th Cumberland University Phoenix Ball

CUMBERLAND UNIVERSITY

One of the premier charity events in Tennessee, the Phoenix Ball is a black tie gala benefiting Cumberland University, which was founded in 1842. Attended by hundreds of prominent middle Tennesseans, the Ball has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for scholarships for students attending Cumberland. Visit phoenixball.com for more information.

JUNE 3RD

Rotten Revival 2023

CAPITAL THEATRE, 110 WEST MAIN STREET, LEBANON, TN 37087 | 1:00 PM

Nashville Curiosities Collective presents their 6th Annual Rotten Revival. Shop unique, weird, wonderful and all around awesome artists, makers and vintage vendors. Free admission, visit do615.com for more information.

JUNE 8TH

Women In The Lead Lunch & Learns Return

SAMMY B’S, 705 CADET COURT, LEBANON | 11:30 AM

Women In The Lead is a Lunch & Learn held every other month, on topics related to health & wellness, finances, and balancing home & work life balance. Be encouraged to grow as a female professional and business person in business. Hosted every other month. $15 per person, RSVP TO Tonya@LebanonWilsonChamber.com

Smoked Nashville Hot Chicken Wings

Fellas, if you haven’t smoked on a Recteq, you should!

Summer is upon us and if you are like my family, we love to use our smoker as much as possible! One of our favorite quick and easy meals is hot wings. Check out this recipe you are sure to love from Recteq.com. Nashville is known for its Hot Chicken and I think this one will be a winner for all the backyard cooks out there!

Prep Time: 120 mins

Cook Time: 60 mins

Difficulty -Beginner

Serving Size -6

INGREDIENTS:

WINGS

24 Chicken Wings, whole 2 tablespoon Olive Oil

MARINADE

2 cup Buttermilk

1/2 cup Favorite Hot Sauce

DRY RUB

3 tablespoon Ron's Screamin' Pig Rub

2 tablespoon Ray's Loco Gringo Rub

1 tablespoon Cayenne Pepper

1 tablespoon Cumin

2 tablespoon Brown Sugar

1 tablespoon Chili Powder

TOOLS NEEDED

Medium Bowl (x2)

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1:  In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce, add the wings and allow to marinate in the fridge for 2-4 hours. Combine all of the ingredients for the dry rub.

Step 2: Remove the wings from the marinade and dry them well with paper towels.

Step 3: Preheat smoker to 400°F.

Step 4: In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil and the prepared dry rub.

Step 5: Allow the wings to rest with the dry rub for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Arrange the wings on the smoker in a single layer; cook for 25 minutes.

Step 7: Flip and continue to cook until the skin is crisp and the wings temp at ~190°F.

Recipe provided by Recteq Smokers at recteq.com .