mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 7/31/26. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
Ann Beadle, RN, ACNP Nurse Practitioner
Kristina Moore, PA-C
Physician Assistant
Jonathan Cornelius, MD
Shoulder & Knee Arthroscopic Reconstruction, Hip, Knee and Shoulder Replacements, Minimally Invasive Partical Joint Replacement, and General Orthopaedics
William Melton, MD Hand, Wrist and Elbow Surgery
Katie Walker, PT, DPT Director of Physical Therapy
Jennifer O’Donnell, MD Orthopaedic Spine Surgery Shawn Mountain, DO
Arthroscopic Surgery, Sports Medicine, Shoulder Injuries, and Joint Replacement Lucas Richie, MD
Arthroscopic Surgery, General Orthopaedics, Joint Replacement, Knee and Shoulder Injuries, Sports Medicine, Upper Extremity, and Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement
Exploring Wilson County
There’s something about July that invites us to slow down just enough to savor the season. I love the heat and being outdoors to explore summer.
The days are longer. The gardens are thriving. The grills are fired up. Children are chasing fireflies, families are gathering around the lake and our community seems to come alive in a different way. Summer has a way of reminding us that some of life’s greatest treasures aren’t found in our schedules — they’re found in the moments we make together.
As I write this, I’m reminded of just how fortunate we are to call Lebanon home. We are surrounded by beautiful countryside, thriving local businesses, incredible community events and endless opportunities to explore our own backyard. Sometimes the best adventures aren’t found across the country — they’re right here in Middle Tennessee.
This month’s Summer Fun & Explore issue is dedicated to helping you make the most of these sunny days. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, discovering a hidden gem close to home, spending time on Center Hill or Old Hickory Lake, enjoying local festivals or simply searching for new ways to connect with family and friends, we hope these pages inspire your next adventure.
As a publisher, I often have the privilege of meeting people who are building, creating, serving and investing in our community. Their stories remind me that exploration isn't always about traveling somewhere new. Sometimes it's about seeing familiar places through fresh eyes, supporting a local business you've never visited, trying something outside your comfort zone or taking the scenic route home.
July also gives us an opportunity to celebrate the freedoms we enjoy and the community we cherish. As we gather for Independence Day celebrations, backyard barbecues, lake days and family vacations, may we never lose sight of the blessings that surround us — faith, family, freedom and the people who make this community so special.
My encouragement to you this month is simple: Get outside, explore something new, support local, make memories and soak up every bit of summer you can. These seasons pass quickly, but the moments we create within them often become the memories we treasure most.
From my family to yours, I wish you a joyful, adventure-filled July.
July 2026
PUBLISHER
January Alexander | january.alexander@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Scott J Coffin | scott.coffin@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Alana Cheeves | lebanon@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Madison Aichele | madison.aichele@citylifestyle.com
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Schedule an appointment today!
Creating Your Healthiest & Happiest Smile
Providing quality, innovative dentistry with a compassionate touch is at the heart of everything we do at Gregory Dental Group. From teeth cleanings and examinations to dental implants and teeth whitening, our dentist and staff look forward to creating your best and brightest smile.
Dr. Catie Conlon
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: An unforgettable evening of elegance, philanthropy and community spirit, the 2026 Phoenix Ball brought together supporters from across the region to celebrate and invest in the future of Cumberland University. Guests enjoyed a night of fine dining, entertainment and meaningful connections while helping advance the university’s mission of transforming lives through education.
Build with intention. Experience the Benton Thomas difference.
At Benton Thomas Construction, craftsmanship isn't an add-on- it's the foundation of your custom built home. From thoughtfully selected materials to custom finishes, every detail is intentionally designed and expertly built. Because a home should feel as beautiful as it is enduring. It's All About The Details.
business monthly
A New Place to Stay in Lebanon
Family visiting for the summer? Home2 Suites by Hilton Lebanon has you covered! Newly opened this spring, the hotel features modern aesthetics with a fitness center, pool and everything you need for a relaxing extended stay. Enjoy free hot breakfast each morning, free WiFi and streaming entertainment for added comfort. Bringing pets along? There’s room for them too! Make hosting family or friends easy and stress-free. Book your stay at Hilton.com
City of Lebanon’s July 4th Celebration
Gather for the City of Lebanon’s 4th of July Celebration with Mayor Rick Bell, happening from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Wilson County Fairgrounds. Enjoy an exciting evening featuring live music from El Dorado, delicious food trucks, kids’ activities and plenty of family fun. The night will end with a spectacular fireworks show, perfect for celebrating Independence Day with friends, family and a great community atmosphere!
Classic Summer Drive-In Nights
Spend your summer evenings at Stardust Drive-In Theater, the perfect destination for families and friends to relax under the stars. Enjoy a wide array of classic concessions while watching films from the comfort of your car. Don’t miss Retro Wednesdays, featuring beloved classic movie screenings that bring nostalgia to life. Plan your visit for a memorable night out and make it a seasonal tradition. Visit StardustDriveIn.com for the full schedule and plan your visit.
Photography by Home2 Suites by Hilton Lebanon
Carrying the LAKESIDE TORCH
HOW MICHELLE GENTRY PRESERVES LEGACY AT AWEDADDYS BAR & GRILL
ARTICLE BY MADISON AICHELE
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY AWEDADDYS BAR & GRILL
There’s a restaurant nestled in the Gallatin Marina on Old Hickory Lake that’s been part of the community’s story for more than 10 years. Awedaddys Bar & Grill has been inviting customers into its lakeside establishment every April through October since 2011.
The anticipation on opening day is palpable. For Michelle Gentry, who’s owned Awedaddys since 2023, there are always nerves as they prepare to open the doors.
Michelle says, “Once the familiar faces start rolling in, it’s like we never closed.”
Nerves turn to excitement as Awedaddys welcomes customers back with familiar favorites, as well as new additions to keep each season feeling fresh. This year, the restaurant debuted a tiki merch hut.
On opening, Michelle says, “I love getting back our veteran workers who are always so excited to come back home, as they say, and all the new faces who are experiencing Awedaddys for the first time.”
It’s that sense of home and belonging, along with famously-loved dishes and drinks, that has made Awedaddys an essential community establishment.
The Bushwacker is one of those irresistible, boozy beverages renowned among customers. With real ice cream and customizable toppings like snickerdoodle, peanut butter, and salted caramel, it’s no wonder the Awedaddy secret recipe has won best bushwacker on the lake.
Michelle says, “Laid back and Bushwacked is our slogan for a reason.”
The hand-breaded Cheese Styx stand out as another classic staple. Their classic menu line, “Often imitated but never duplicated,” does justice to the signature, cheesy delight. CONTINUED >
The weekday specials are a big draw, featuring dishes not on the regular menu. Taco Tuesday offers fish, shrimp, pork, beef and chicken tacos, as well as nachos, chips, queso, guacamole and a two-for-one special on all Mexican beers. On Wing Wednesday, customers can get eight smoked wings with a 16-ounce draft. Thursday features All You Can Eat Catfish served with french fries, cole slaw and hushpuppies.
Sunday Brunch is a popular time to visit Awedaddys. Customers can enjoy a breakfast buffet, a special menu with items like stuffed strawberry french toast and hot chicken and waffles, plus a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar.
Awedaddys is also growing, with a pizza kitchen now open on weekends at the gas dock, and a food truck coming soon to keep the summer flavor going year-round.
Benke hired her as a server at Grandstands in 2000. Michelle says she knew then that it was more than work, it was purpose. She worked with Benke for more than 23 years.
“He was like a father to me, and I loved him dearly,” Michelle says.
When Michelle purchased Awedaddys from Benke, she wanted to continue the legacy of rich relationships and high-quality food he had begun. Benke passed away shortly after she became owner.
I want
Awedaddys to be a longstanding staple of Gallatin for many years to come.
Whether you’re coming with family for a weekday special, gathering with friends for happy hour or enjoying live music on the lake, Awedaddys sets the scene for summer experiences.
Michelle says, “Awedaddys has lasted because it has always been more than just a restaurant — it’s a place where people make memories.”
Michelle’s personal story encapsulates the heart of the Awedaddys name. The late Vern
“If these walls could talk, there would be many stories to be told about how someone has a core memory of an experience here at Awedaddys,” says Michelle. “What stands out the most to me was in 2023 when I took over the restaurant, and so many of our regulars and people in the community reached out to tell me that they were so thankful that I was able to keep the place open and a part of all their lives.”
Michelle says, “I love this place and the customers and crew, and I learn something new every day, and will continue to carry the torch for my family to have their own legacy one day. I want Awedaddys to be a longstanding staple of Gallatin for many years to come.”
NICOLE AND DANIEL PRUITT BRING TRUE CONNECTION TO TRISTAR AUCTION GROUP AND PRUITTSFARMSTEAD
HEART AND HOSPITALITY
For Nicole and Daniel Pruitt, intention begins at their farmstead. Their mornings often start with coffee, gathering eggs from their chickens, watering the plants and carving out time for prayer and gratitude. Before they dive into work, they sit down to talk about the rest of their day.
“That early rhythm sets the tone before the business side of the day begins,” says Nicole.
Their attention then turns to TriStar Auction Group, where their hearts for hospitality shine. The couple-founded, live-virtual auction company specializes in helping people sell heavy equipment and trucks. That focus felt clear to the Pruitts.
Nicole says, “... It became a natural specialty for us because it is an industry built on trust, relationships and real-world value. These are not just machines, they are tools people rely on to make a living.”
The couple brings complementary strengths to TriStar that help the company shine.
Daniel is widely recognized as a leading source of equipment valuation in the Southeast, with a deep understanding of market trends, asset values and the details that truly matter in heavy equipment sales. His expertise provided a strong technical and strategic foundation for the business.
Nicole brings a strong background in customer service and relationship building, with a focus on communication, organization and creating experiences where people feel supported and confident throughout the process.
TriStar Auction Group grew out of a very practical need to help people move assets honestly and efficiently. It connects buyers and sellers across the country through its cutting-edge digital LiveCast platform,
WHAT SETS US APART IS THAT WE HAVE NEVER LET TECHNOLOGY REPLACE CONNECTION.
providing the energy and accountability of auctioneers with the accessibility of a virtual format. While the Pruitts value efficiency and technology that serve buyers and sellers well, they prioritize connection that many may not expect in a virtual-based process.
“What sets us apart is that we have never let technology replace connection,” says Daniel. “We use digital tools to extend our reach, but we still believe in clear communication, transparency and walking both sellers and buyers through the process personally. Whether someone is bidding from across the country or working with us behind the scenes, we want them to feel informed, confident and well supported from start to finish ... Even though everything sells virtually, our goal is for the experience to feel personal, professional and rooted in strong values on our equipment yard and office.”
Professional growth and leadership are two of the values driving TriStar. Daniel is a graduate of the Certified Auctioneers Institute and is the current president of the Tennessee Auctioneers Association.
The Pruitts have been active in the National Auction Association since 2013, and Daniel’s involvement with the Certified Auctioneers Institute helped lay a strong foundation for TriStar.
Nicole joined the CAI in March to further her learning and grow as a professional in the industry.
“CAI represents the highest level of education, ethics and leadership in the auction profession,” says Nicole. “Being part of that community allows me to deepen my understanding of market strategy, valuation and best practices, which directly benefit both our sellers and buyers. It elevates the experience by ensuring every auction is approached with intention, transparency and professionalism.
“At the end of the day, it is about stewardship. When people trust us with significant assets or important purchasing decisions, they deserve partners who are committed to continual learning and excellence.”
Beyond the role of furthering how she serves buyers and sellers, Nicole says her professional growth is also about faithful representation.
“As a woman in a predominantly male industry, it is important to me to show up
fully, lead with confidence and ensure my strengths are clearly represented,” says Nicole. “I also believe it matters to create space for other women in the auction industry, showing that expertise, leadership and professionalism come in many forms.”
TriStar Auction Group is one of the fastest-growing equipment and truck auction companies in Middle Tennessee and a finalist in the National Auction Association Marketing Competition for good reason. The strong foundation of values, commitment to high-quality live virtual experiences and continued education set this company apart.
When asked how sellers can maximize the value of their assets at an auction, the Pruitts say several factors matter most:
Preparation is key. “Clean equipment, accurate descriptions and complete documentation build buyer confidence and encourage stronger bidding. When buyers clearly understand what they are purchasing, they are more willing to push the bid button. TriStar takes great pride in listing your equipment and trucks on the best platforms the auction industry provides and marketing it in ways that are cutting edge in the industry.”
Understand your selling options. “At TriStar Auction Group, we offer the flexibility to sell equipment either from our place or directly from the seller’s location. Selling from the seller’s site can reduce transportation cost, while selling from our place, we can handle all the details. We help sellers choose the option that best fits their operation so the process is efficient and straightforward.”
Choose the right auction partner. “Sellers benefit from working with a team that understands heavy equipment, markets the machines to a global market and represents their assets with honesty and care. Our role is to guide
WHERE WE
sellers through every step and create a transparent environment where value can rise naturally.”
In addition to their auctions, the Pruitts host events at the farmstead where people can experience the hospitality at the heart of what they do. PruittsFarmstead features a custom-built home designed with people in mind. They have hosted countless celebrations, gatherings and special occasions over the years. It’s also where they rest at the end of the day and gather with friends and family for dinner.
“The farmstead keeps us grounded,” says Nicole. “It is where we begin and end our days, and where we are reminded that the most meaningful work is often the quiet, intentional work done at home.”
Looking ahead, the couple sees TriStar Auction Group as a lasting business that continues to set the bar for heart and hospitality in their work. The same mission is embodied by PruittsFarmstead, where Nicole and Daniel are eager to welcome people for events they will remember for a lifetime.
Food Truck Fun
The Trailer Park Serves Up a Rotating Lineup of Exceptional Local Bites
Imagine a place where the smell of mouth-watering food fills the air. Options abound when it comes to ordering as you navigate a line of food trucks. Any type of food is at your fingertips, and so is cold beer on a hot summer day. That is a day at The Trailer Park.
Not only does The Trailer Park boast an impressive lineup of delicious food trucks that can appease any craving, but it also features the perfect summer environment, complete with a beer barn and an AstroTurf play area. The Trailer Park opened in the fall of 2025 and quickly became a local favorite because of its diverse food options and relaxed environment where families and friends can gather for meaningful time together. It is Lebanon’s first-ever permanent food truck park where local bites are available year-round, and the lineup often rotates, making each visit a unique experience.
The location is perfect for any occasion with its family-friendly atmosphere, casual lounge areas and petfriendly environment. The Trailer Park also often hosts themed events each month, such as Royalty Bingo.
Whether the family is torn on what to get for dinner, friends want to gather to catch a game over a draft beer or you simply want to attend a local event, The Trailer Park is the perfect space for summer fun.
TheTrailerParkTN.com 1600 Callis Rd, Lebanon, TN
Not only does The Trailer Park boast an impressive lineup of delicious food trucks that can appease any craving, but it also features the perfect summer environment, complete with a beer barn and an AstroTurf play area.
There are currently over 15 local food truck vendors at The Trailer Park. From pizza to hot chicken to BBQ, the dining options are endless. The full lineup is available on The Trailer Park website, where you can check which vendors are there and when they are open. You can even see which food trucks are coming soon. Bring your family, friends and appetite!
The beer barn is the ultimate summer hangout for anyone looking to beat the heat. With crisp, refreshing drafts on tap, an endless selection of ice-cold cans and premium wine options, The Trailer Park truly offers up something for everyone. It is the perfect place to kick back, relax with friends and enjoy a cool drink on a warm evening in Lebanon.
The Trailer Park hosts live events each month. There are staples like Royalty Bingo every Wednesday and Mahjong Monday, with lessons available. They also host a cigar bar on the first Friday of the month through September. They have even hosted a candle-making bar in the past. You can keep up with events they host by checking the website or following along on Instagram: @thetrailerparktn
The Trailer Park reflects the warmth and welcome that Lebanon is known for. In addition to good food, refreshing drinks and fun live events, The Trailer Park offers a family-friendly and pet-friendly atmosphere to kick back and relax. Gather around the fire pits and settle into comfortable lounge chairs nestled under string lights to chat with friends while the kids enjoy the AstroTurf play area.
Experience the Roar of the Engines at the Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix
Racing Into Lebanon
ARTICLE BY MADISON AICHELE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BORCHETTA BOURBON MUSIC CITY GRAND PRIX
INDY fans, mark your calendars and buckle your seatbelts, because race day is almost here. The Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix is returning to the Nashville Superspeedway in Lebanon for the third consecutive year on July 18 through the 19. Fans will have the opportunity to take to the stands to witness the high-speed thrills of NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone drivers battling for prime starting positions during the qualifying day before heading back to see who will ultimately take the crown.
The ultimate open-wheel racing experience is not limited to the action on the iconic 1.33-mile concrete oval. Down in the free Fan Zone, there will be driver autograph opportunities, live entertainment, vendors and more that make the race weekend live up to the Nashville name.
Whether you are a racing enthusiast or want to make summer memories with the family, the Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix will leave a lasting impression. There are individual tickets and weekend ticket packages available, as well as addons to enhance the experience—such as Garage and Pit Passes—which offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse of race day before the action kicks into high gear.
To purchase tickets and explore race day packages, visit MusicCityGP.com.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
PAUL VERSLUIS
Spending time outdoors and enjoying friends and family over good food and drinks is a great way to enjoy the season’s beautiful weather. From the fresh flower arrangements, produce, and herbs, this earthy spread is brimming with character and flavor. The earthy ceramic and clay vases give the perfect vessel to fill with organic cut herbs and handpicked wildflowers. We arranged a beautiful medley of Queen Anne’s lace, mint, sage, rosemary, lavender, lamb’s ear, nigella, buddleia, oregano, dill, feverfew, and geranium to name just a few of these beautiful blooms.
Al Fr es co STYLE
We love a good home-cooked menu mixed with a signature drink, so we paired our meal with a delicious craft cocktail. Buttermilk-brined fried chicken was a must for this outdoor party. A delicious peach bread pudding with salted vanilla caramel cream rounded out our meal for the perfect sweet treat. We wanted to share a few of our favorite recipes for you to try at home. Enjoy!
FARM-TO-TABLE ENTERTAINING
Buttermilk-Brined Fried Chicken
INGREDIENTS:
Dried spice mix
• 2 tablespoons white pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 5 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons fresh black pepper
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons cayenne
• 1 teaspoon celery salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 teaspoons onion powder
• Palm kosher salt
Buttermilk Brine
• 4 cups buttermilk
• 1 bunch fresh sage
• 1/2 of spice mixture
Dredge
• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• Whole cut up chicken or 2 bone-in breasts, 2 thighs and 2 drumsticks
To cook
• 4 cups shortening
INSTRUCTIONS:
Marinate chicken in brine for up to 24 hours. Place chicken in large Ziploc bag and pour marinade over top. Add fresh sage and store in fridge. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a baking rack with a sheet pan for raw chicken and one for cooked chicken. Add remaining spice mixture to flour mixture. Whisk together well. Heat shortening to 350 degrees. (Preference is cast iron Dutch oven.) Pull chicken out of buttermilk mixture and let drip. Coat firmly in flour mixture and set on raw chicken rack. Complete each piece of chicken. Heat oil to 350 degrees. Place 2 or 3 pieces of chicken in oil and cook 3-5 minutes per side. Place on cooked chicken rack. Put cooked chicken in oven to complete cooking for 15 minutes. Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving!
Peach Bread Pudding
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 loaf brioche
• 5 fresh peaches
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 eggs
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes. Dice peaches into medium dice. Place peaches, white sugar, and butter in saucepan. Cook until sugar is dissolved and peaches are soft. Mix all other ingredients together. Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan and add peach mixture with brioche pieces and then add milk mixture. Bake for 45 minutes. Let cool for 20 minutes before cutting.
El Ahumado
Spanish for “Smoky”
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 ounces Reposado tequila
• 1/2 ounce aperol
• 3/4 ounce lime juice
• 1/2 ounce agave nectar
• 1/4 ounces luxardo cherry syrup
• 1 spritz of Mezcal
INSTRUCTIONS:
Lightly sweet, pleasantly bitter. The Mezcal adds just a hint of smoke to make a beautifully balanced, interesting cocktail.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
CreativeIceCubes FOR SUMMER
Stay Cool with Fun Infused Ice Recipes
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Summer can be sweltering, but you can beat the heat with these fun and refreshing infused ice recipes. Not only are they a great way to stay cool, but they also add a delightful twist to your favorite beverages.
Coffee Ice Cubes for Iced Coffee
Transform your iced coffee experience by using coffee ice cubes. This simple trick ensures your drink stays strong and flavorful without getting watered down.
Ingredients:
• Freshly brewed coffee
Instructions:
1. Brew Coffee: Make a pot of your favorite coffee.
2. Cool and Freeze: Allow the coffee to cool, then pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze.
3. Serve: Add the coffee ice cubes to your iced coffee for a rich, undiluted flavor.
Edible Flower Ice
Create stunning and elegant ice cubes using edible flowers. These pretty ice cubes are perfect for special occasions or adding a touch of beauty to everyday drinks.
Ingredients:
• Edible flowers
• Water
Instructions:
1. Prep the Flowers: Rinse the edible flowers thoroughly.
2. Fill the Tray: Place the flowers in an ice cube tray, filling each compartment halfway with water.
3. Freeze Partially: Freeze until the water is just starting to set, then fill the rest of the tray with water to fully submerge the flowers. This helps keep the flowers centered in the cubes.
4. Freeze Completely: Freeze until solid.
5. Serve: Use these beautiful ice cubes in your favorite drinks for a floral touch.
These infused ice recipes are not only practical but also add an extra layer of enjoyment to your summer beverages. Enjoy these refreshing and creative ways to stay cool all season long!
events
JULY 3RD
Independence Parade
Downtown Lebanon | 7:00 PM
Hosted by the City of Lebanon and Lebanon's Chamber of Commerce, this festive hometown tradition brings the community together for an evening of patriotic fun, music and celebration. The parade route will begin at City Hall and conclude at the Wilson County Courthouse. Any individual, organization or business wishing to participate in the parade must submit an application. Learn more at LebanonWilsonChamber.com
JULY 11TH, 18TH, 25TH
Saturday Night Cruise-In
Snow White Drive-In Diner | 4:30 PM
Cruise over to Snow White Drive-In Diner every Saturday from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for an evening of classic cars, live music and hometown fun. Guests can enjoy diner favorites while exploring a collection of hot rods and vintage vehicles. Whether a car enthusiast or simply looking for a fun family outing, this summer tradition has something for everyone.
JULY 13TH-17TH
BeHealthy Kids Camp
Wilson County Fairgrounds/Fiddlers Grove | 9:00 AM
Join BeHealthy Kids Camp for a free, hands-on farm-to-table learning adventure for children. Participants will plant, cook, exercise and explore pioneer life while learning healthy habits. Lunch is included daily, and the program is completely free to attend. Families can find full details at LebanonWilsonChamber.com and are encouraged to register early.
Vincenzo Arnieri | System Administrator
Want to be featured?
JULY 18TH
Cedar City Smokeout BBQ Tasting Event/Cornhole Tournament
Pucketts Supply Co. | 10:00 AM
Think your cornhole team has what it takes? Join the Cedar City Smokeout grilling contest and Cornhole Tournament for a day of friendly competition, great food, live music and family fun. Compete for cash prizes, custom boards and bragging rights while supporting Kylan’s Light and its important community mission. Visit CedarCitySmokeout.com to learn more and register.
JULY 18TH-19TH
Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix July 19th 6pm
Nashville Superspeedway | 6:00 PM
Get tickets now for an unforgettable Grand Prix weekend filled with racing excitement. Watch the INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT drivers battle for position on Saturday, then enjoy the Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix presented by OnlyBulls on Sunday. A free fan zone offers entertainment, autographs, vendors and more. Visit MusicCityGP.com to secure a spot.
JULY 29TH
Full Buck Moon Hike
Cedars Of Lebanon State Park | 8:00 PM
Experience the Full Buck Moon with Park Ranger Bridgers during a magical nighttime hike from the Nature Center from 8-10 p.m . Explore the night sky, spot constellations and enjoy your night vision adventure. Dress warmly, wear sturdy shoes and bring a red-light flashlight. Hike will be canceled in case of inclement weather. Visit TNStateParks.com for details and to register.
STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY
The Perfect Steak
ARTICLE BY CASEY WEBER, TALL GRASS MEAT COMPANY
Nothing describes summer better than a good cookout! And what is a cookout without a good, quality steak and the perfect grilling recipe?
1. Thaw and acclimate the steak. For searing to occur, the proteins in steak need to be heated to at least 310°F. Tossing cold meat onto a hot grill lowers the temperature and can prevent a crust from forming, so it’s important that any frozen steaks are thawed completely before cooking.
2. Salt your steak 30-45 minutes before grilling. This causes the salt to draw moisture from within the steak up to the surface, where it dissolves the salt and creates a brine that gets reabsorbed into the steak where it breaks down tough connective tissues.
3. Oil the grate on the grill, not the steak. Use tongs and a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to lube your grates.
4. Manage your heat well. Remember that your grill needs to be hot for your steak to get a good sear. But if it’s hot enough to cause your oil to smoke, it’s too hot.
5. Use the 60/40 rule. The best-tasting steaks are seared on both sides and cooked evenly in the middle. The simplest way to do that is to only flip your steak once. The 60/40 rule suggests that 60% of your cook time should be spent on one side, and 40% on the other.
6. Keep the lid closed. It may be tempting to peek, but trust the experts and keep it shut! Opening the lid makes your grill lose heat, which makes steaks cook unevenly.
7. Check for doneness. A meat thermometer will give you the most accurate temperature reading:
• Rare: 120°F
• Medium Rare: 130°F
• Medium: 140°F
• Medium Well: 150°F
• Well: 160°F
8. Let your steak rest. Pull your steaks from the grill once they’re cooked to 5-10 degrees below your target temperature and rest for 10-15 minutes.
