In recent years, Hendersonville has experienced rapid growth as many new residents and businesses have chosen to make Sumner County their home. There are many reasons for this growth, including beautiful scenery, a strong economy and, of course, Old Hickory Lake. However, the most important thing is its people. This month, Hendersonville Lifestyle profiles three local men who are committed to making our community the best that it can be.
Ross El-Bobou
Restauranteur
Ross El-Bobou has over 37 years of experience in the restaurant industry, having served in operational and management roles in many eateries, including Major Wallaby’s, Crackerbarrel, Logan’s Roadhouse and O’Charley’s. Currently, he is currently the Managing Partner and Executive Chef at Safari’s Brick Oven & Grille in Hendersonville. Ross loves giving back to the community through his meal donation program, in which he donates complete meals to families and organizations in need across Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky.
Why Hendersonville and Sumner County?
“The people in our community are what makes it great.”
Motivation
“There are many things that motivate me, but the thing that excites me the most is seeing happy guests at my restaurant.”
Mentor
“My mentor was Andy Ermerec. He taught me a great deal over the years.”
Life lesson
“The most important life lesson that I have learned is that the harder you work, the luckier your get.”
Advice to younger self
“Buy real estate at a younger age.”
Advice to others
“Always be humble and be smart when making decisions. Also, be patient – things happen for a reason.”
Michael Ponce
Attorney
Michael Ponce has 31 years of experience as an attorney, and he is currently the founder and owner of Ponce Law, a well-known local law firm. He is very active in organizations across Sumner County and Middle Tennessee, including the Hendersonville Evening Rotary Club, St. Timothy Lutheran Church and the Nashville Union Rescue Mission. Michael and his firm support many local causes each year, including the Ponce Law Outstanding Teacher Contest, Fox 17 Tennessee Heroes, the Goodlettsville 4 Mile Classic, the Sumner County YMCA Frostbite Races and Plunge and Pedal for Paws.
Why Hendersonville and Sumner County?
“I grew up in Sumner County and I love the people here. There is not a more caring and considerate group of people anywhere else in the world.”
Motivation
“My biggest motivators are my wife Kim, my two sons Michael and Alex, and the incredible team that I have the honor of working with at Ponce Law.”
Mentor
“My mentor was U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge John Minor Wisdom.”
Life lesson
“My dad taught me that almost every obstacle that you face in life can be overcome with determination, hard work and persistence.”
Advice to younger self
“I would tell myself to not be so stressed. Success will come in time if you put in the work.”
Advice to others
“Find at least one thing to improve about yourself every day.”
Matt Rucks
Business Owner
Matt has been involved in the automotive repair industry for 16 years, and he is currently the owner of Christian Brothers Automotive in Hendersonville. He is very active in the Sumner County community where he is a member of First Baptist Church Hendersonville, the Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce and a board member at Living Sent Ministries. He is also involved with Grace Place Ministry and the Cumberland Crisis Pregnancy Center.
Why Hendersonville and Sumner County?
“My wife Lee and I have lived here for almost 16 years, and it has become the home where we raised our kids. The people in Hendersonville are what make the community so special.”
Motivation
“I enjoy helping other people become successful.”
Mentor
“My father was my greatest mentor.”
Life lesson
“God is in control, not me.”
Advice to younger self
“Relax – don’t worry about things that you cannot control.”
Advice to others
“Work hard, be honest and take care of others. The rest will fall into place.”