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From Smoke to Soul

How The Mission Redefines the Cigar Lounge Article by William Horton | Photography by NLMac Photography @nashvillephotoguy In a restored historic home just steps from Main Street, a soft hum of conversation drifts across a wooden deck lit by warm lanterns. Smoke curls into cool evening air as glasses clink and strangers become friends. At first glance, The Mission Cigar and Social in downtown Franklin may look like a refined cigar lounge, but to owner William Horton, it is something more. It...

Finance + Legal Services

Preserving the Great American Story

A Franklin Local’s Second Act Article and Photography by Provided When Tom Hand sold his successful Wisconsin cheese company at age 58, he could have easily settled into a comfortable retirement. Instead, this West Point graduate found himself with plenty of drive and a burning passion that would reshape his golden years into something far more meaningful than quiet leisure. Rather than fade into an easy retirement, Hand threw himself into his lifelong love of American history. He began by...

Food + Beverage

Buon Natale!

Say Merry Christmas As Italians Do With A Party Perfect Antipasto And Cocktail Pairing Article and Photography by Judy Beaudin In this season of giving, we can probably all agree that giving and receiving the gift of hospitality is one of our most treasured experiences of the holidays. If we take a little time to pause December’s long to-do lists, priceless memories are made when we spend time with family and friends. In most Italian households, a spirit of warmth and hospitality is a part of...

Food + Beverage

Eggnog Reinvented

Combining Flavors In This Barrel House Nog Article by Provided | Photography by Belle Meade Spirits A fireside twist on traditional holiday tipple, Belle Meade Bourbon and Louisa’s Coffee, Caramel & Pecan Liqueur come together in a silky eggnog with smoked salt, brown butter, and a toasted pecan syrup. The smoked salt brings a savory note both to the nose and palate while the rich traditional flavors of the season wrap around the warmth of the bourbon and play perfectly with the coffee...

Life + Culture

A Legacy of Service, Leadership, and Heart

Franklin Fire Department Battalion Chief Joe Polenzani Retires after 27 Years of Dedicated Service Article by Katie Polenzani and Carolyn Kalil | Photography by Provided There are people who work for the City of Franklin, and then there’s Joe Polenzani, who has devoted his career to protecting and serving its residents. After 27 years at the Franklin Fire Department, Joe will retire on December 18, 2025.  Chief Polenzani’s passion for firefighting runs in the family. His father, Al, served as...

Entertainment

Mark Mackay Strikes A Festive Chord

The Franklin Musician Unwraps New Christmas Music Article by Maria Dinoia | Photography by Iris Leonardo Country-rock musician Mark Mackay is celebrating the season with his new Christmas EP, a mix of festive originals and reimagined classics. Listeners can hear Mackay's love of the season in his voice as he captures the warmth, nostalgia, and joy that make this time of year so special. It’s a holiday soundtrack made for cozy nights and merry memories.  What inspired you to create a holiday...

Arts + Culture

Leigh-Allyn Baker's Next Chapter

The Actress And Creator Shares Heart, Humor, And Her Hometown Spirit Article by Maria Dinoia | Photography by Jeff Carpenter, Readylight Media Leigh-Allyn Baker just knew her life's path would take her into the entertainment business. “I always grew up knowing exactly what I was meant to do and much to my parents’ horror, that was being an actress," says Baker. And now, years into a prolific career, she says what drives her has evolved. “What keeps me interested now is that my role...

Life + Culture

Giving Machine Returns For 5th Year

Loving Our Neighbors In Need This Christmas Article and Photography by Provided The Light the World Giving Machine, the popular vending machine that serves our neighbors in need, returns to Downtown Franklin this month for another season of giving. The annual Christmastime initiative, which invites all to serve in small and simple ways, is a global phenomenon.  The Giving Machine is a simple and memorable way to donate much-needed items to those in need, whether they live around the world or...

Arts + Culture

Antiques & Garden Show Returns To Music City Center Next Month

The January Show Celebrates 'American Elegance' Article and Photography by Provided Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville, a benefit for Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and Economic Club of Nashville (ECON) Charities, announced  “American Elegance”  is the theme for the 2026 Show, returning to Music City Center January. 9 – 11.  The 2025 Show, which marked 35 years, drew more than 17,000 attendees for the 150 antiques, art and horticulture dealers, immersive garden showcases, live music and special...

Life + Culture

Celebrating The Season

Holidays Around The World Article by Maria Dinoia From candlelight to community, generosity to joy, December’s global celebrations remind us that the spirit of the season shines brightest when we share with others. December becomes a tapestry of traditions that span cultures, continents, and faiths. While each holiday tells its own story, they all share the common threads of history and heritage. Whether lighting candles for Hanukkah, gathering for Kwanzaa, exchanging gifts on Boxing Day, or...