Puttshack Nashville offers an immersive mini-golf experience, blending competitive play with an upscale, diverse dining menu right in the heart of the Gulch. Opened recently, this location stands out for its prime spot near Broadway, surrounded by popular tourist stops, which helps bring steady foot traffic to the venue. Puttshack’s Manager, Bradley Brunson, shares that its location is one of its strengths, as Nashville’s popularity for bachelor and bachelorette parties makes it a go-to for pre-Broadway entertainment. “Everybody comes here for travel,” he notes, “We get good business…and we’re indoors, so we don’t have the elements on us. It’s a great selling point.”
As Brunson explains, the Puttshack Nashville venue includes four tech-powered mini-golf courses, a full-service bar, and a spacious dining area. It’s not just about the mini-golf, though; the culinary experience plays an essential role. “Our food and beverage director, Chef Mark Boyton, made it a priority to have options for everyone—vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, you name it—but it’s not your average bar food,” says Brunson. Indeed, the menu offers items like a vegan cookie skillet and an “Atlanta Hot” portobello sandwich. The sandwich isn’t Nashville Hot as some might expect but instead draws on the flavors of Atlanta, paying homage to Puttshack’s first U.S. location in the city. It’s a unique twist that reminds diners of the brand’s origins while bringing a different Southern flavor profile to Nashville’s dining scene.
In addition to its regular dining service, Puttshack Nashville is designed for events, offering seven private dining rooms that hosted multiple gatherings during our visit. These spaces are ideal for corporate events, holiday gatherings, or any celebration that combines fun with the ease of planning that Puttshack provides. Each private room can accommodate group sizes of various capacities, with the flexibility to tailor food and beverage packages.
Brunson shared that Puttshack has been on a unique journey of expansion, launching its first location in Atlanta just as COVID-19 shut down much of the nation. The decision to open there first came from necessity: “Our first location was originally going to be in Chicago, but COVID shut it down. Atlanta didn’t, so that’s where we started.” Now, Puttshack is home-based in Chicago but has found a strong footing in Nashville and plans for broader growth.
Playing mini-golf at Puttshack is an experience in itself. The venue’s four tech-infused courses each use Trackaball™ technology, which keeps track of scores automatically and offers bonus points for special moves, making it easy for players to stay focused on the fun rather than keeping score. Each hole offers interactive features that make every game unique, and the design encourages friendly competition. Whether you’re a mini-golf pro or just looking for a lighthearted round with friends, Puttshack’s courses make the game exciting and accessible for everyone.
With great food, a tech-infused mini-golf setup, and a perfect spot for gatherings, Puttshack Nashville is well worth a visit. It’s a place where friendly competition meets good flavors—an ideal stop before or after hitting Broadway.
Clarksville, TN — The Montgomery County Democratic Party (MCDP) will host a Get Out the Vote (GOTV) unity rally this Saturday, November 2, 2024. The event, focused on motivating voters in the final push for 2024 general election, will kick off at 11:30 a.m. at Dixon Park (117 S. 10th St.).
MCDP chair, Charles “Chas” Uffelman, says, “Saturday will be the largest gathering of Democrats in Clarksville in a long while. Voting has never been more important. Join us as we get out the vote to restore women’s reproductive freedom, invest in our public schools, and eliminate the grocery tax.”
The unity rally will feature Montgomery County Democratic candidates as the guest speakers, including Rep. Gloria Johnson, Megan Barry, Councilperson Karen Reynolds, Rep. Ronnie Glynn, Garfield Scott, and Allie Phillips. Afterwards, volunteers will gather to canvass voters. The first ten to sign up will receive a free Harris-Walz 2024 sign.
“Our amazing team of candidates have shown up throughout our community. They have answered the questions people have asked and shared their clear visions for a better Tennessee. They are our neighbors and friends, who care about the people of our county. They just need the people of Montgomery County to show up and vote,” says MCDP Press Secretary Tanisha Taylor.
Nashville, TN (October 30, 2024) – Metro Social Services (MSS) is experiencing an uptick in requests for support from individuals and families struggling to navigate the higher cost of living, resulting from inflation and Covid-19 recovery. One of the primary requests for support is access to food.
Seeing this dire need, MSS leadership planned the department’s first Food Pop Up food box giveaway to be held this Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024 at 10am, located in the parking lot of the office at 3055 Lebanon Pike (Hermitage) next to TruFit. The boxes will be given away on a first come first serve basis.
“We’ve noted a gradual increase in people coming to us for help in the last year, but we traditionally see numbers spike in the cold weather season. We are forecasting much higher numbers this year compared to last,” said Executive Director Renee Pratt. “But this is exactly what we are here for; creating solutions for families struggling so they don’t have to go through this crisis alone. No child, or individual should go without eating.”
Annually, MSS releases two signature reports that identify trends and patterns diagnosing the social and economic well-being of Nashville residents. The most recent Community Needs Evaluation found that:
1-in-10 Nashvillians is food insecure
Half of Nashville workers earn below a living wage
Economic hardship is widespread for Nashvillians
“The need is so great. The struggle is so unbearable for so many families, that we decided that this will not be our only food box giveaway. We just can’t let our families go hungry,” said Demetria Vaughn, programs director.
The food boxes will be filled with several non-perishable items (beans, rice, pasta, etc). Guests will simply pull into the car line and receive their box. Walk-ups are accepted as well. No registration or proof of Davidson County residency is required.
The world has lost a giant. James Earl Jones, the legendary actor known for his powerful baritone and unparalleled stage presence, has passed away at the age of 93. Surrounded by family at his home in Dutchess County, New York, Jones leaves behind a legacy that spans seven decades of entertainment.
Born in Mississippi in 1931 and raised on a farm in Michigan, Jones struggled with a severe stutter as a child. It wasn’t until high school that he found his voice—both literally and figuratively—through poetry, paving the way for a career that would see him become one of America’s most iconic actors.
Best known for voicing Darth Vader in Star Wars and Mufasa in The Lion King, Jones’ unmistakable voice became part of pop culture history. But his talents stretched far beyond these roles. He won two Tony Awards, earned an honorary Academy Award, and was a force on stage in classics like The Great White Hope and Fences.
Whether in dramas like Cry, the Beloved Country or comedies such as Coming to America, Jones’ ability to embody complex characters with dignity and strength made him a favorite across a broad spectrum of audiences. His voice became a cultural touchstone, narrating everything from documentaries to commercials, and lending an unmistakable resonance to any project he touched.
Despite the challenges of being a Black actor in a Hollywood dominated by racial barriers, Jones forged a path that inspired countless others. His work transcended boundaries, making him a beloved figure across generations.
Rest in power, Mr. Jones. Your voice will forever guide us.
Nashville, Tenn. – On August 29, 2024, the North Nashville community gathered to commemorate the grand opening of the Dr. Ernest Rip Patton, Jr. North Nashville Transit Center (NNTC) with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Located at 2521 Clarksville Pike, the state-of-the-art facility is set to enhance public transit services while honoring the legacy of one of Nashville’s most esteemed civil rights icons, Dr. Ernest Rip Patton, Jr.
More than 100 people joined Mayor Freddie O’Connell, WeGo CEO Steve Bland, and Dr. Patton’s family members at the event. The celebration highlighted both the importance of the new transit center and the city’s commitment to modernizing its public transportation infrastructure. The ribbon-cutting comes at a pivotal moment as Nashville continues to expand its network of transportation options.
Mayor O’Connell emphasized the city’s forward-thinking approach, saying, “What happens here is a sign that we are moving beyond an antiquated hub-and-spoke system that pulls everybody thinking about using transit into downtown, and, instead, moving to a point-to-point distributed network that’s built for convenience and speed.”
A Tribute to Dr. Ernest Rip Patton, Jr.
Patton, a Nashville native, played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement as a Freedom Rider. In 1961, he was arrested for participating in the historic ride to desegregate public transportation in the South. Dr. Patton and 13 other students were expelled from Tennessee State University (TSU) for their activism, though he was later awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from TSU in 2008 for his contributions to civil rights.
Dr. Patton’s life extended beyond activism; he was a professional musician, truck driver, and passionate storyteller of America’s civil rights history. Naming this transit center in his honor is a lasting tribute to his dedication to equality and justice.
Serving North Nashville: Past, Present, and Future
The NNTC stands as a reflection of North Nashville’s past, present, and future. From its civil rights roots to its vibrant cultural identity, the center is designed to serve the community in multiple ways. Inside, public art installations celebrate North Nashville’s history and future. A mural by Woke3 covers the concrete retaining walls, featuring the voices of local youth on important issues like education, homelessness, and environmental care. The mural also includes a QR code that links to a digital art piece by LeXander Bryant, offering visitors an immersive, interactive experience. Bryant’s work highlights the essence of Black culture in the American South, emphasizing stories of resilience and triumph.
Enhancing Transit for the City
As part of WeGo Public Transit’s efforts to improve city-wide connectivity, the center will provide enhanced transit options to North Nashville and surrounding areas. The facility aims to reduce the reliance on downtown transfers at WeGo Central and offer direct crosstown service, making travel more efficient for those who live outside the city center.
The $16.9 million transit center features multiple bus bays, an air-conditioned waiting room, free Wi-Fi, and real-time schedule displays. Additionally, it boasts public art, bike racks, and other amenities designed to enhance the rider experience. The facility was built with a strong focus on accessibility, including public restrooms, paratransit access, and designated pickup/drop-off zones for rideshares and taxis.
A Sign of Nashville’s Broader Transit Vision
The opening of the transit center comes on the heels of several other transportation announcements, including a $4.7 million federal grant for upgrading Nashville’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure and the selection of 25 new traffic calming projects by the Nashville Department of Transportation and Multimodal Infrastructure (NDOT). These initiatives underscore the city’s commitment to creating a more connected and sustainable transportation network.
Mayor O’Connell noted that transportation improvements like these are essential to the city’s future. “My administration is guided by the goals of improving quality of life and lowering the cost of living in Nashville,” he said. “Improving our transportation system does both as Nashvillians will find more convenient transportation options and spend less time navigating antiquated infrastructure.”
One major initiative in this vision is the Choose How You Move transportation improvement program, which will appear on the November 2024 ballot. This program includes expanding sidewalks, upgrading traffic signals, enhancing transit routes, and adding community transit centers like the NNTC. If approved, the program could generate dedicated funding that would leverage over $1.4 billion in future federal support for Nashville’s transit system.
A Step Toward the Future
The transit center is more than just a transportation hub—it is a cornerstone for the future of North Nashville. Surrounded by affordable housing developments and supported by local organizations, the center represents an investment in both the physical and social infrastructure of the community. With 41% of the project targeting Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation, the center also aims to have a positive economic impact on the area.
The opening of the Dr. Ernest Rip Patton, Jr. North Nashville Transit Center is a testament to the resilience and growth of the community it serves. By honoring the past and building for the future, the center stands as a beacon of progress and unity in North Nashville.
Moving to a new city is often challenging, which is why building a social network is essential for feeling at home and connected. But in The Music City, you’ll find many opportunities to meet new people and create lasting friendships. Don’t worry; we’ll guide you on how to build a social network in Nashville, ensuring you feel welcome and part of the community. From local events to volunteer opportunities, there are many ways to connect with others in your new city and get to feel at home in no time.
Secure Your Move First
Before adjusting to your new environment, you need to get here safely. With the assistance of allstatemoving.net, a reliable moving company, you’ll have nothing to worry about. These professionals can pack and transport all your belongings so you can focus on discovering Nashville.
Start with Your Neighbors
Knowing your neighbors is a great way to build your social network. It can help you feel more at home and establish a sense of community in your new environment. Importantly, take the first step by introducing yourself. A simple hello can go a long way. Share a bit about your background and ask about theirs. It’s an easy way to start a conversation and build connections.
Online platforms like Facebook and Nextdoor have neighborhood-specific groups where residents can share news and organize events. Joining these groups can help you get to know your community better and stay updated on local happenings.
Next, neighborhood events provide a fantastic opportunity to meet people living nearby. Look out for block parties, street fairs, and other community gatherings. These events are designed to unite residents and can be a fun way to connect. Many neighborhoods also have local gatherings or associations that organize events and activities. Joining these groups can help you stay informed about what’s happening in your area. It also gives you more chances to meet and interact with your neighbors.
Engage in Local Events and Activities
Participating in local events and activities is a fantastic way to meet new people and immerse yourself in Nashville’s community. For starters, the city hosts many festivals and concerts throughout the year. These events draw large crowds and provide an excellent chance to meet locals who share your interests. Check local listings for events like the Nashville Film Festival or the CMA Music Festival.
Second, you can explore your interests by joining hobby groups or taking classes. Whether it’s a cooking class, a painting workshop, or a fitness group, these activities are perfect for meeting like-minded individuals. Look for classes at community centers or local businesses.
Likewise, city tours and cultural events can help you learn more about Nashville while meeting new people. Guided tours, historical site visits, and museum events are all great options. They offer both education and social opportunities. In addition, websites like Eventbrite and Meetup are valuable resources for finding local events. These platforms list various activities and gatherings, making it easy to find something that interests you.
Join Professional Networks
Building professional connections is crucial for career growth and finding job opportunities, not to mention it makes for an easier transition into your new city. Start by joining professional networks in Nashville to help you expand your contacts and meet industry peers. Search for local professional associations related to your industry. These groups often host events, workshops, and networking mixers. Attending these events can help you meet professionals in your field and stay updated on industry trends. On top of that, industry-specific events and conferences are excellent opportunities to connect with others in your field. Look for events hosted by professional organizations or trade groups.
Naturally, LinkedIn is a powerful tool for building your professional network. Connect with Nashville-based professionals and join relevant LinkedIn groups. Engage with posts, share industry insights, and participate in discussions to increase your visibility. Similarly, consider joining the Nashville Chamber of Commerce or attending events like the Nashville Business Journal’s networking sessions. These platforms offer numerous opportunities to meet other professionals and expand your network.
Volunteer for Local Organizations
Volunteering is a meaningful way to connect with people while giving back to the community. It helps build relationships and makes a positive impact. First of all, look for local organizations that align with your interests. Whether it’s animal welfare, environmental causes, or helping the homeless, choose something you’re passionate about. That places you in a group of people who share your values and interests, making building genuine friendships and connections easier.
Use websites like VolunteerMatch and Hands On Nashville to find volunteer opportunities. These platforms list various local organizations and events, making finding a cause that suits you easy. Volunteering contributes to the community and helps you build a social network in Nashville.
Technology to the Rescue When Creating a Social Network in Nashville
Social media, online communities, and apps are powerful tools for connecting with people in Nashville. They offer easy ways to engage with locals and stay informed about community events. Obviously, local Facebook groups are excellent for meeting people and learning about events. Search for groups related to Nashville or specific neighborhoods. Participate in discussions and share your experiences.
Follow Nashville influencers and community leaders on platforms like Instagram and Twitter. They often share valuable insights about the city and promote local events. Engaging with their content can help you feel more connected. You can also join discussions on platforms like Reddit and Nextdoor.
Similarly, networking apps are excellent tools for meeting new people in Nashville. They help you find friends and professional contacts with ease. Bumble BFF is designed for making new friends, while Meetup allows you to find and join groups based on your interests. Whether it’s hiking, book clubs, or tech meetups, there’s something for everyone.
Wrap Up
Building a social network in Nashville is essential for feeling connected in your new city. Engage with your neighbors, attend local events, join professional networks, volunteer, use social media, and explore networking apps. These steps help you meet people and form lasting connections. Be proactive and open to new experiences. But remember, creating a social network anywhere takes time, but the relationships you build will be rewarding.
In an inspiring convergence of leadership, the Women and Men Leadership Conference, held on August 8-9, 2024, brought together some of the most influential voices in business, athletics, community development, and beyond. Organized by DRC Ventures and Elysian, the conference celebrated diversity and inclusivity in leadership, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between women and men across various sectors.
Day 1: A Kickoff to Connection
The event began with an intimate kickoff on August 8 at a private residence in Nashville, setting the stage for the two-day conference. This gathering, attended by speakers and participants alike, created an atmosphere of collaboration and connection that carried into the next day. Reflecting on the personal nature of the event, Anita Zucker, keynote speaker and business leader, explained, “I think that events like this are phenomenal because it’s kind of small… what’s nice about it is everybody gets to know each other, and if you have one particular person that you really want to talk to after you’ve heard them speak, it’s very easy to get to that person to find out what you need or what can help you.”
Day 2: Leaders Take the Stage
On August 9, the main conference took place, featuring thought-provoking panels and discussions that offered attendees the opportunity to learn from a wide range of accomplished leaders. The day kicked off with a powerful keynote speech by Zucker, whose insights into leadership, philanthropy, and community engagement set a tone of inspiration for the rest of the event.
Following Zucker’s keynote, the first panel showcased a distinguished group of women leaders. Lori Taylor, founder and CEO of Rev Media Marketing LLC and Galactic Legacy Labs LLC, shared her experiences navigating the rapidly evolving world of media and technology. Katherine O’Neil, CEO of Spartanburg One, offered valuable perspectives on leadership in education, while Dawn Ellerbe, senior associate athletic director at Vanderbilt University, spoke passionately about breaking barriers in the world of sports administration. These leaders were joined by Jenn Hildebrandt, CEO of Fearless Entrepreneur, and Renae Eichholz, founder and president of Prevision Practice Management, who shared their insights into healthcare leadership and empowering business owners.
Mentorship and Empowerment: A Central Theme
One of the highlights of the conference was the second panel, which focused on the importance of mentorship and empowerment in leadership. Led by Dr. Christina Rahm, founder and CEO of DRC Ventures, the panel explored how mentorship has shaped the careers of successful women and continues to drive their professional and personal growth. Dr. Rahm explained in an interview, “I feel like that’s how the world needs to grow. If we look at life like we’re family, we might be able to make a different, you know, more of a change for the positive instead of acting like we’re all so important or we’re better than someone else or there’s someone less than us.”
Speakers like Jessica Word, CEO of Word & Brown General Agency, and Dr. Alveda King, founder and president of Speak for Life, added their voices to this discussion, emphasizing the critical role of mentorship in fostering leadership across industries. The session featured diverse perspectives from Carmel Fauci, Director of NFP Insurance, Grace Nicholson, investment advisor and founder of Akamai Advisors, and Tammy Kovar, founder and CEO of Biological Tree Services. Together, they shared stories of overcoming challenges and creating opportunities for others.
Collaboration Across Genders
A refreshing element of the conference was the focus on men in leadership roles and their support for women leaders. This segment, featuring a dynamic group of male leaders, emphasized the importance of mutual support across gender lines in professional environments. Participants appreciated the holistic view of leadership that showcased the benefits of working together toward common goals, regardless of gender.
As Dr. Rahm continued in the interview, “We are all imperfect pieces to a perfect puzzle. Each person has a unique role to play, and when we come together, we can create something truly powerful.” This sentiment resonated throughout the conference, as attendees engaged in lively discussions and collaborative networking sessions between panels.
A Legacy of Leadership
As the conference drew to a close, the atmosphere buzzed with the energy of new connections and shared wisdom. Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, empowered by the diverse perspectives and personal stories shared over the two days. The event underscored the importance of mentorship, diversity, and collaboration in leadership, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
The Women and Men Leadership Conference, presented by DRC Ventures and Elysian, proved to be a powerful platform for fostering dialogue, celebrating leaders, and inspiring future collaborations. As one participant put it, “This event wasn’t just about listening—it was about learning, connecting, and growing together.”
Nashville, TN – A new clothing line, “Feels Like ’08,” has officially launched, bringing a fresh wave of excitement to the 2024 election season. This line, inspired by the energy and hope of the historic 2008 Barack Obama campaign, is designed to resonate with supporters of Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as they make their bid for the White House.
The collection includes a range of t-shirts, hoodies, and accessories that merge fashion with a cause, featuring designs that evoke the spirit of change and progress. The apparel is aimed at those who believe in a brighter future and wish to show their support for the Harris-Walz campaign in a stylish way. Whether at rallies, volunteering, or going about daily life, these products allow supporters to wear their political enthusiasm with pride.
In addition to offering eye-catching designs, the “Feels Like ’08” line is also committed to social justice. A portion of the proceeds from each purchase will be donated to the Color Of Change PAC, an organization focused on fighting for racial justice and supporting progressive candidates. By choosing to shop with “Feels Like ’08,” customers are not only acquiring unique merchandise but also contributing to a movement aimed at fostering positive change in American.
For more information and to explore the full collection, visit www.feelslike08.com.
Nashville is gearing up for an exciting evening as prominent community leaders come together to support Kamala Harris for President. The event, titled “Nashville for Her!” will be held on Thursday, August 1st, at 7:00 PM CT (8:00 PM ET).
This gathering aims to galvanize support for Kamala Harris, offering an opportunity for the community to hear from notable figures and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of the country. The event will feature an impressive lineup of speakers including Frank Stevenson, Michael Joyner, Breonus Mitchell, and Jerry L. Maynard II. Their collective voices and experiences are sure to inspire and motivate attendees to get involved in the political process.
Adding to the excitement, the event will also feature a special guest appearance by T.J. Ducklo, Senior Advisor for Kamala Harris for President. Ducklo’s insights into the campaign and his experience in political strategy will provide valuable context and highlight the importance of grassroots support in the electoral process.
Attendees will have the chance to contribute to Kamala Harris’s campaign through donation links and join a call to discuss how they can further support her candidacy. The links for donating and joining the call are prominently featured, ensuring that those who wish to participate can do so easily.
T.J. Ducklo, Senior Advisor, Kamala Harris for President
This event promises to be an engaging and impactful evening, offering a unique platform for Nashville residents to show their support for Kamala Harris and engage with key figures in her campaign. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the movement and help shape the future of the nation.
Nashville’s Hillsboro Village has always been a vibrant hub for culture, dining, and nightlife. Recently, it has become even more exciting with the establishment of four dynamic venues by Make A Play Hospitality, all proudly Black-owned. These establishments—Jar Cocktail Club, Bungalow 10 Dining, Sunset on Belcourt, and Supper Club at Belcourt—are reshaping the local scene with their unique offerings and rich cultural heritage.
Jar Cocktail Club
Located at 1910 Belcourt Ave, behind Bungalow 10, Jar Cocktail Club is an exclusive spot perfect for those who appreciate a refined cocktail experience. The club offers an intimate atmosphere where guests can enjoy meticulously crafted drinks in a sophisticated setting. In addition to its exceptional cocktails, Jar provides a vibrant nightclub experience with dancing, making it a top destination for nightlife enthusiasts.
Sharing the same address as Jar, Bungalow 10 Dining, at 1910 Belcourt Ave, Nashville, TN 37212, brings a delightful dining experience to the village. Known for its innovative menu and cozy ambiance, Bungalow 10 is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Just a stone’s throw away at 2000 Belcourt Ave, behind Supper Club, Sunset on Belcourt offers a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. This venue is perfect for those looking to unwind with good music, excellent food, and a welcoming crowd. It’s also the perfect place to enjoy a fine cigar, adding a touch of elegance to the overall experience.
Also located at 2000 Belcourt Ave, Nashville, TN 37212, Supper Club at Belcourt is the epitome of upscale dining in Hillsboro Village. This venue offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that highlights the best of modern cuisine.
These four venues, each with its unique charm and offerings, are not just enhancing the local nightlife and dining scene—they are also significant in showcasing the excellence and entrepreneurial spirit of Black-owned businesses. Make A Play Hospitality has truly made a mark in Hillsboro Village, and these establishments are a testament to their vision and dedication.
Both tourists and locals will find these spots to be perfect destinations for enjoying exceptional dining and entertainment experiences. By supporting these Black-owned businesses, patrons are not only enjoying the best that Nashville has to offer but are also contributing to the growth and sustainability of diverse local enterprises.