Clarksville Living Magazine March/April 2024

Last Train to Clarksville St. Patrick's Day

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Publisher Tony Centonze

Executive Editor

Mark Haynes

Editor

Linda Austin

Graphic Design

Mark Haynes

Brandy Ham

Staff Writers

Christie Crawford

Linda Austin

Alexandra Arnold

Cindy Chambers

Paige Eisemann

Photographer

Tony Centonze Clarksville Living Magazine

© 2007-2024

Publisher's note

Dear Community Members,

As we transition from the frosty days of winter to the blooming promise of spring, March brings with it a sense of renewal and celebration. Daylight Saving time begins on March 10, which is a welcome relief from what seems like months of darkness.

St. Patrick's Day, celebrated on March 17th, is a time for all to embrace the spirit of the Irish. Whether you're donning green attire, indulging in traditional Irish fare, or simply enjoying time with friends and family. 31.5 million Americans claim Irish ancestry, so let's all raise a glass.

Easter begins its approach early this year, heralding the arrival of spring. We eagerly anticipate the blossoming of new beginnings and fresh opportunities. From egg hunts to religious observances, Easter (Sunday, March 31st) signifies hope, rebirth, and the promise of brighter days ahead.

Be sure to let us know about upcoming events at info@clarksvilleliving.mag.

As always, we welcome your contributions, feedback, and support as we continue to celebrate the unique spirit of our community. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives, and may this season be filled with joy, warmth, and lots of sunshine.

Warm regards,

Tony Centonze Publisher Clarksville Living Magazine

This month's find-a-word puzzle for clues about what's inside this month's issue!

DISCLAIMER

The opinions expressed by articles, advertisements and listings in this magazine are not necessarily the views of Clarksville Living. Reasonable care has been taken to ensure the information presented is accurate, but no responsibility can be taken by Clarksville Living Magazine if it is not.

Photo by Josh Vaughn

Last Train to Clarksville

Mural artist Ricky Cavaness

Ricky Cavaness says he has been painting for about twenty years but has been doodling and drawing since he was a little kid. You might have seen one of his latest works, a mural entitled Last Train to Clarksville, adoring a support structure under the pedestrian bridge crossing Commerce Street.

The mural depicts train 0831-1968 bursting through the wall, and at the official unveiling, attended by dozens of officials as well as local supporters of art and history, Cavaness hung painted rocks in front of the image to give it a 3-D effect.

So, how does a project like this come to be? Where does it start, and how long does it take? This one started with well-known local photographer David Smith, who also happens to sit on the board of Clarksville's Arts & Heritage Development Council. “This goes back at least six years,” Smith said. “We had approved the Starry Night mural when I was on Montgomery County's Clean, Green, and Save Committee. We wanted to do more

like it as a way to attract more people downtown. That pedestal was just bare.”

Cavaness was recommended to Smith. The two came up with a loose idea of what the mural would look like, but the project got put on the back burner for a while.

“Ricky was gracious enough to stick with us during all the delays,” Smith said. “I talked to City Council members and got some interest. Dr. Ellen Kanervo and Arts & Heritage agreed to pay for it. We had Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts on board, then met with Jennifer Letourneau from Clarksville Parks and Recreation.”

With all the approvals finally in place, Smith said he was able to turn Ricky loose last summer and let him get the long-awaited project underway.

Smith clarifies, “This mural is not about the song by the Monkees. We didn't want the comparison, and people telling us 'the song isn't about Clarksville'. So, if you look at the top of the mural, you'll see 08 31 1968. That's the date the last train came through the Clarksville station.

“Although, there have been articles with Micky Dolenz

Continues on page 6

Story and Photos by Tony Centonze

Dr. Ellen Kanervo and Carolyn Ferrell

Ricky Cavaness and Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts

David Smith and Ricky Cavaness

Ricky Cavaness and Montgomery County Mayor Wes Golden

FEATURED

Continued from page 5

saying it was about Clarksville and its relationship to Fort Campbell. I think he would know. Anyway, I think Ricky did a fantastic job. I gave him a picture and an idea, and he ran with it. It evolved significantly over the five years since the idea was conceived.”

Smith says he and AHDC are now working on an idea for the water tank in Valleybrook Park. “Folks at Parks & Recreation wants to do a 'pollinator' scene. We've all met an have an idea of what they want to do. We will get the numbers back and see if it's feasible.

“This is another park we can put a spotlight on, and by adding something interesting and new, make it a place to go. We're going to incorporate the official TN reptiles, flowers and trees, butterflies and birds. We want to make it interactive. We'll put those things in the mural, and let people come by and find them.

Cavaness says he has been doing larger-scale items, like murals for about ten years. “They've been more consistent over the last couple of years,”Cavaness continued. “I've probably done ten, over the years. I've done them in Texas and Florida, and a few here in town, sadly a couple of them have been painted over. They

don't all last forever.

“David came to me about six years ago. The project was in the works but kept being put on hold. We were waiting on approvals and sponsorships and all those things. He fought pretty hard to keep it going.

“The design didn't change that much. My interpretation of the original mock-up changed quite a bit, but the idea was always for the train to burst out of the wall. I just thought that would be really cool.”

Cavaness likes to start the process by touching the wall to familiarize himself with the surfaces, the finishes, and the challenges they will present.

“This surface had never been sealed,” Cavaness said. “There was algae and moss growing on it. It was a process to clean it, prime it, and get it ready to paint. I started in May and finished in November. My girlfriend Chloe Ficklin helped quite a bit.”

The artist says he is still playing with some ideas for finishing touches.

Jim and Jane Diehr, Kitty Harvill, Pam Hoon and Christoph Hrdina

“Yeah, it's still a work in progress,” Cavaness said. “Everybody's talking about it. It has been really cool. It has gotten me a different demographic of customers. I'm a full-time tattoo artist. Now I'm hearing from people who say 'I saw your wall' or 'I saw you on the news'. It has been really cool hearing from all these new people.

“As an artist, I can always find something to change on a piece, but I'm super happy with Last Train. At some point with big scale work, you have to decide what looks good from the street, and what looks good from three feet away. My favorite parts are the details that you only see up close. For sure, this won't be my last one.”

The good news is Smith and Cavaness both acknowledge that there are more ideas in the works. Smith has found new leads for big projects, and Cavaness has had half a dozen quote requests for murals around town.

“We think that creating more art at locations throughout downtown will bring people down, and we want them to stay,” Smith said. “We want them to frequent the shops and restaurants and be curious about our city. That's why we did the Clarksville Then & Now project. It's another way for people to be engaged with downtown.”

To see what Ricky's up to, go to his website www.Rickycavaness.com or find him on Instagram @iputketchuponmyketchup

Jim Diehr bravely stands in front of The Last Train to Clarksville

Opening Grand

Amanda Martin and Deana Mills have worked together for years, but they are very excited about their latest project, The Coffee House on Dover Road. “The owners of the property were talking to Deana,” Martin said. “They knew we wanted to open a coffee shop and they offered us this space. We thought it was a great opportunity. We have a lot of friends on this side of town, it's growing rapidly, and needs more places for people to go.” Since opening, Martin said lots of people have come in and thanked them for choosing that location.

The business opened on January 6th, but recently held its official grand opening, with 10% discounts all day, free pastries for the first 20 customers, and a raffle. Mills said, “This is my dream. I've always wanted to do baking. I love it. This is just golden.”

Martin and Mills say they are a full-service coffee shop, offering all the basics, and they want to expand their food offerings. “We want to start offering a little bit of lunch, soups, and sandwiches because there aren't a lot of choices out here,” Martin said. “I ran a coffee shop for two years, and that's what turned my restaurant ideas into the coffee shop. I love

coffee. When I was a barista, I thought this is amazing, you get to talk to people and memorize their orders and make them feel special.” Mills was a bartender in her younger years. “Amanda said, ‘Just think of it as bartending, you're just pouring espresso shots instead. I was like, yeah, that works.”

They want to encourage local artists to display their works at The Coffee House, “so we can share their work with the public,” Martin said. “I want everyone to come in, and look at really cool stuff while they drink their coffee If they want to be alone and read a book, we want it to be so comfortable they can stay here for hours. They can listen, people-watch, whatever. We're going to have a deck with a pickup window, so they can sit in the sun. We want this to be a comfortable place that is pleasing to the senses, with great coffee and snacks.”

“We offer traditional lattes - hot or iced,” Martin said. “We can do frozen lattes, Matcha, Chai, and assorted bagels and pastries Deana makes all that home-made, and they are fabulous. The cheesecake muffins are crazy good. We sell out every day.”

Melissa Olson

Amanda Martin & Deana Mills

Leaping Leprechauns, Five Places that Really Know How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

Story by Christie Crawford

Named for the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick’s Day is a big production in a country that never needs much of a reason to celebrate.

On March 17th, over 44 towns across America celebrate the Irish tradition with parades, festivals, and, of course, green beer. Interestingly enough, until 1995, pubs in Ireland were closed for the big day due to rowdy and often illegal behavior.

The tide turned when the Irish government realized they were losing tourism dollars by not letting travelers visit and participate in events there.

Meanwhile, in 1565, in St. Augustine, Florida, Spanish Celts held their first celebration, and in 1601, led by Padre Thomas Hassett, hosted the first St. Patrick’s Day parade in the world.

As more Irish immigrants made it to American shores, Irish Aid societies, bagpipe, and drum regiments formed, and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations sprung everywhere. Two areas, Savannah, Georgia, and Suffolk County, Massachusetts (its seat is Boston), even declare it a national holiday.

If you are of Irish descent, enjoy Celtic traditions, or just love an excuse to get your green on, here are five places that you might want to put on your calendar to visit in March:

Boston, Massachusetts

An unofficial holiday, March 17th here, is also simultaneously celebrated with Emancipation Day when the British ended their occupation of the city.

The parade here is known as the Southie Parade, and it starts in the South Boston area of the city.

The celebration also holds an annual 5k road race, features music and Guinness at the abundant Irish pubs, and promotes its 3-mile Irish Heritage Trail.

The trail features 20 landmarks in the city that mark the contributions of Irish immigrants, including John F. Kennedy.

A Boston Irish Pub

Savannah, Georgia

Beginning with the greening of its many fountains and continuing with a Celtic mass honoring Irish descendants, the city also celebrates with a full military honors procession for soldiers of Irish and non-Irish descent and culminates in a parade on St Patrick’s Day. Savannah has been celebrating on March 17th since 1824. Attendance here rivals that of New York in size and scope.

New York City, New York

Midtown Manhattan hosts a parade for over 700+ revelers on or near March 17th. Irish whiskey tastings, Irish cuisine, and green beer during pub crawls are the norm in this city. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest Neo-Gothic church in America, or the Tenement Museum in the Lower East Side to learn about Irish American culture and history.

Don’t miss “40 Shades of Green “ at the New York Irish Center for six hours of performances dedicated to the Irish holiday. Lastly, make it a point to look up after dusk to see the green lighting of the Empire State Building.

St. Augustine, Florida

Hosting the Celtic Music & Heritage Festival close to March 17th, this Florida city, known as the oldest Celtic city in the US, features a weekend full of international and U.S. Celtic music, foods, crafts, Irish whiskey tasting, Highland Games, and a parade.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago was the first city to “green” itself when, in 1962, the city’s plumber union came up with the idea to discharge environmentally friendly dye into its river for a month. The tradition continued. The city hosts three parades, a downtown option, as well as Northwest and Southside events. After the downtown procession, Shamrock'n the Block begins a 6-hour-long block party. Irish pubs will be hopping, and there’s always a chance to enter the 2-mile run/walk called the Shamrock Shuffle. Chicago has a few unique festivities as well, including the Wearing of the Green Dance and classes at the Trinity Academy of Irish Dance. And if movies are more your thing, you can catch a flick at the Chicago Irish Film Festival.

Chicago’s Irish Dancers

New York’s Empire State Building on March 17th

One of Savannah’s Fountains

St. Augustine Parade

Champagne & Chocolate

At the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center

Customs House Museum & Cultural Center kicked off its 40th anniversary with Champagne & Chocolate, an event that has become the museum's “premier winter fundraiser”.

Guests at the sold-out event enjoyed sweet and savory bites, wine and other beverages, and of course champagne and chocolate. The elegant soiree included live music from Sam Isaacs and a silent auction.

“We raised more than $25,600 at this year's event,” Customs House Director Frank Lott said. “It's our second biggest fundraiser of the year, and this was our fifteenth year. It always happens right around Valentine's Day, so it has become a great date night for young and old.”

Lott estimates that there were about 170 guests in attendance. Catering was by North Meets South. As always, Lott praised the Museum Guild, saying, “They are like a well-oiled machine. They always put on a great event.”

Ed Larson Tony Nave Tom Creech

Gaelic Gastronomy

What You Need To Know About Saint Patrick’s Day Food

March 17th is the typical St. Patrick’s Day celebration or “Paddy, “ as they say in Ireland, from the patron saint Pádraig. Food on this special day is all about comfort, soothing the body and soul, and a perfect cuisine for the cold weather. And yes, there is Guinness and potatoes involved.

In America, we celebrate with corned beef and cabbage but you won’t find it in the Emerald Isle. This dish was created by Irish immigrants settling in New York in neighborhoods close to existing Jewish areas. There they bought their meat from kosher delis and became fond of a beef brisket preserved with salt crystals known as “corns’. This easy-to-slice and tender meat, along with inexpensive traditional Irish vegetables such as cabbage, potatoes, and carrots, became the dish we cherish today.

this day or a big favorite, shepherd’s pie. Traditionally made of lamb cooked in red wine with herbs, corn, and peas, this entree is best known for having thick layers of mashed potatoes on top. It would be known as a cottage pie if you choose beef.

Irish soda bread will accompany the meal. Historically it was cooked on an open fire in a round that would be cut as a pie with a soda flavor we know as baking soda. The Irish version is plain, while the flavorful US version sometimes contains currants or caraway seeds. A cross is generally cut on the top to ward off mischievous fairies.

You will find lamb or beef stew on many Irish tables

Other vegetables include boiled or braised cabbage, served with butter and sometimes vinegar. Another popular dish is Colcannon, coming from the Gaelic word cal ceannann, meaning white headed cabbage. This recipe is mashed potatoes blended in with cabbage, onions, butter or cream and is known as the soul food of Ireland (my personal favorite, and one I’ll share on the page to the right).

Story by Christie Crawford

Shepherds Pie

Corned Beef and Cabbage

Colcannon Recipe (serves 10)

Ingredients

3 Tbl butter

1 cup sliced green onions

4 medium potatoes, peeled, cooked and mashed (approximately 2 lbs)

3/4 cup 1% milk

1 small cabbage, cooked, drained and chopped (approximately 1 pound)

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp white pepper

Instructions

Heat butter and salted green onions until softened but not browned, about 2 minutes. Add potatoes and stir to combine. Add milk and gently stir over low heat. Add cabbage, salt, and pepper and stir over low heat until heated through.

Desserts range from fruit pies to cakes, with no particular sweet item served. Drinks on the other hand start with Guinness, the popular ale that was inspired by the British porter brewed in the 18th century, Arthur Guinness invented the beer and introduced it to the public in 1769. It didn’t make it to our shores until 1840 where it premiered in New York taverns. Irish whiskey also makes its rounds during the dinner with the final drink of the night, Irish Coffee.

A fairly new cocktail, San Francisco travel writer Stan Deplane was traveling back from Ireland from Shannon Airport in 1952. Before he departed, he brought the recipe back to the Buena Vista Cafe in San Francisco, where the bartender tried his efforts to recreate the drink. Unsuccessful, the bartender flew back to Ireland to perfect the cocktail.

( A personal aside-my father proposed to my mother here over Irish coffees in 1958). The drink became so successful that today the cafe boasts serving over a million per year. I’m sharing the popular recipe here:

Buena Vista Cafe Irish Coffee

Ingredients

2 sugar cubes

4-6 ounces brewed coffee

1 1/3 ounces Irish whiskey

Heavy cream, lightly whipped

Instructions

Preheat a 6-ounce heat-proof glass by filling it with hot water. Once warm, discard the water.

Add two sugar cubes to the glass, then add coffee until the glass is 3/4 full.

Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

Add 1 1/3 ounces of whiskey to the coffee and stir gently and briefly to combine.

Float a layer of whipped cream over the top of the coffee by pouring it gently over the back of a spoon.

Celebrate with the Irish and incorporate some of these dishes on your St. Patrick’s Day table this year and Sláinte! “To your health” as the toast says (pronounced Slawn-cha).

ClarksvilleLivingMag.com

Scholarship Dinner & Southern Soul Dance The Joseph E. Stewart Social Club’s

The annual Joseph E. Stewart Scholarship Dinner and Southern Soul Dance was held recently at TownePlace Suites, drawing more than 240 guests who helped support the organization's scholarship fund and other community outreach endeavors.

Three scholarships were awarded this year. Two of the recipients were on hand to receive the award and address the audience. APSU student Dezmond Fort hopes to go into real estate, and Kylah Lassiter is pursuing her degree in nursing from MTSU.

The organization also donates to local non-profits that benefit the community. The NAACP was this year's winner. Guests enjoyed dinner by Chef Ricardo Brantley and music by DJ Foley, aka Big Fish.

Students interested in applying for 2025 scholarships can do so through August 18th, 2024, by contacting Willie Celestine at (931) 2786735 or by email at wceles5699@aol.com. Put the scholarship application request in the subject line.

The Farrow Family

Natalia Cornelio & James Petty

Melanie Thompson & Terri Wilson

Lisa Prichard

Kevin & Labridgette Seymour

Kimberly & O'Neal Wiggins

Kathleen Evans

Janet Williams, Willie Celestine & Natasha Stevenson Sarina Bell & Andrea Fifer

Lisa Boyd & Jackie Adams

J. E. Stewart

Larry & Cynthia Chappell

Kylah Lassiter

William & Rita Johnson

Gwen Prowell & Yvetta Johnson

Denise & Terry Batemon

Doris & Lee Farrow

Calandria Wilson & Taelynn Stovall

Bridgette Merriwether & Tampa Washington

Ann and Marlon Bynum

Darin and Nicole Hall

Melanie Thompson & Lois Jones

Rashad & Terressa Kelly

Willie Celestine

Brianca Fizer

Trazo Meadery Buzzes into Spring

Spring is the season of bees and trying new things. What better way to be in the spring spirit than trying mead at Trazo Meadery?

Trazo Meadery, named after the founder (Travis) and his grandmother (Zola), opened its doors in 2020 between the Roxy Regional Theatre and Blackhorse Pub & Brewery. Inside is a warm atmosphere with colorful art adorning the walls. Bee imagery can be seen in the additional outdoor seating.

Trazo Meadery all started with some yeast. Travis loved

Story by Alexandra Arnold

the sourdough bread his grandmother would make every week when he was younger. When Zola passed, she gave the sourdough yeast to Travis. Travis feeds it, keeps it alive to this day, and uses it at the meadery.

What exactly is mead? Mead, known as “nectar from the gods”, is an ancient alcoholic beverage made from fermented honey. The process is very similar to making wine. Collecting honey is a more difficult process than collecting grapes, so wine became the more popular choice.

To make mead, water, and yeast are added to honey. The

Sip Mead Amid Colorful Art and Bee Imagery

sugar causes fermentation to occur.

The different flavors of the mead at Trazo come from the different honey used, allowing for an eclectic collection of beverages. Every honey is unique! “While lots of meaderies add spices or fruit, we focus on showcasing the flavor of each particular honey,” said David Powell, Trazo’s “mazer”. Trazo Meadery makes sure the honey is the highlight of the drink.

Trazo serves a wide variety of drinks and cuisine. In addition to mead, Trazo is also famous for their lemonade and ciders. They have created many cocktails using their mead and cider.

During Halloween, you can get a taste of their “Time Warp cocktail,” consisting of mead and a blend of blood orange and rosemary syrups. A “meadarita” is another original from Trazo, using their tequila, barrel-aged mead and citrus juices.

When it comes to good eats, Trazo’s got you covered with a lovely selection of items that pair well with mead and cider! They offer specially sourced charcuterie boards, flatbreads, soups and bruschettas - their Bacon Gouda Grilled Cheese being a fan favorite of customers.

You can also buy mead by the bottle if you would like to take some home with you. Additionally, Trazo Meadery merchandise, such as T-shirts and hats, is available so

you can show your support for the business.

Not only does Trazo offer a Halloween-themed drink, they also host a Valentine’s dinner. This year will be their 3rd year offering this experience. At the dinner, they have a fixed-price menu that includes an appetizer, salad, entree, dessert, and drinks.

When we use something from nature, it is important to give back. Trazo Meadery does this by raising awareness for bees and their byproducts. David says, “We try to offer our customers information about bees and the history of mead when they visit us.” This year, Trazo is doing monthly videos to show how David is taking care of Trazo's apiary on their Adams farm.

The world is being reintroduced to mead, thanks to Trazo Meadery. Trazo Meadery was the first of its kind in Tennessee so it is very special to both the owners and the City of Clarksville. “Trazo was the first meadery to be licensed in Tennessee, but we're happy that more are popping up, like Honey Tree in Nashville,” said David.

It is hoped that with Trazo Meadery, more Clarksvillians can widen their palate and try a taste of a not-so-new sweet treat!

You can find more information about Trazo Meadery, mead, and the bees on their website, www.trazomead. com

You can also order bottles of mead and merchandise.

Business After Hours

AT THE

Holiday Inn

Clarksville Northeast

The Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce held its January Business After Hours at Holiday Inn Clarksville Northeast.

The gathering took place inside the hotel's casual onsite restaurant, Burger Theory, which featured a variety of gourmet burgers, and signature wraps including the Philly cheese steak, firecracker shrimp, and a selection of appetizers and desserts.

The networking event, which is held monthly, had a great turnout, with dozens of local business owners and leaders gathering around great food and frosty beverages.

Eric Lehman & Andrea Maynard

Heather Parada & Carol Finch

John Gannon, James Cox, & Taylor Caulder

John Gannon

Melinda Shepard & Tanya Johnson

Darwin Eldridge

Keshia Walker & Jonathan Anglin

Rhonda & Kevin Kennedy

Tina Parker

Yolonda Williams

Darryl Gladney, Len Tharpe, & Marsalis Teague

Teri Wilson & Kevin Kennedy

Kaitlin Remini, Carrie Brannock, & Brittney Parham Mark Kelly

Tim Johnson

Michelle Taunton & Andrea Maynard

Sadie Parsons & Sarah Daniel Tim Johnson, Shannon Kitchens, & Arlinda Baxter

Andrew & Ivonne Pequeno

Mark Hays & O'Neal Wiggins

Elizabeth Meyer & Cheryl Hood

Blake Monroe & Chris Recker Angie Brady & Abby Scurlock

Appleton's 19th Annual Chili Cook-Off

Seems like there is always something cool going on at Appleton Harley-Davidson. Recently, dozens came out for Appleton's 19th Annual Chili Cook-Off which features interesting categories, creative contestants, cash prizes, and more.

Dale Griffin is Appleton's new General Sales Manager. He spoke about the day’s activities. “We're doing the chili cook-off right now, and then there is a jalapeno eating contest that starts at 1 p.m.

“I'm new here, but I believe this is our nineteenth year for this event, and as always we have a really good turnout today. People are really enjoying themselves, trying the great chili, and having fun. We just got a delivery of the new 2024 models, and everybody seems to be having fun checking them out as well.”

March Fun Facts about St. Patrick’s Day and Easter

1. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, was born in Britain (not Ireland) near the end of the 4th century.

2. He was kidnapped by Irish raiders at the age of 16 and sold as a slave.

3. Most of St. Patrick’s Day traditions and symbols are based on the ancient Celtic religion.

4. Patrick used the shamrock as a visual guide when explaining the Holy Trinity. By the 17th century, it had become a symbol of emerging Irish nationalism1.

5. The First St. Patrick’s Day Parade Was Held in America. Millions of Irish American immigrants displaced by the great potato famine organized celebrations to promote their Irish pride and their heritage.

6. Popular St. Patrick’s Day celebration foods are Corned Beef and Cabbage, Irish Soda Bread, Shepherd’s Pie, and Guinness Stew.

7. The largest chocolate egg ever made was created in Italy in 2011. It stood 34 feet tall and weighed 16,000 pounds.

8. Easter Lilies represent the purity and innocence of Jesus. The blooming process represents Christ’s resurrection.

9. Ham has been an Easter dinner tradition for centuries. Before refrigeration, people cured ham in wintertime, and in the spring, the ham thawed out.

10. The Easter Bunny and easter eggs are from ancient pagan traditions celebrating the birth of abundance in spring. German immigrants brought the traditions of the Osterhase (a magical egg-laying bunny) to America in the 18th century.

11. “Easter” is from Eostre, the Anglo-Saxon pagan goddess of spring and fertility.

12. “Pascha,” which means “Passover” in Hebrew. Jesus ate a Passover meal the night before his crucifixion.

13. Easter commemorates the Resurrection of Jesus three days after his Crucifixion.

14. Easter Sunday varies yearly based on the spring equinox and the moon cycle.

Story by Linda Austin

For several years, the CSM Gary Crisp Post 289 of the American Legion has been organizing a Four Chaplains Interfaith Memorial Service at Sykes Funeral Home. The ceremony is a solemn event that tells the story of four brave chaplains who made the ultimate sacrifice to save others.

In February of 1943, Rev. George L. Fox, Dr. Alexander Goode, Rev. Clark V. Poling, and Father John P. Washington gave up their own lives to save others in a dramatic act of heroism. The ceremony commemorates the sinking of the S.S. Dorchester, a troop transport ship, by a Japanese submarine. Only 209 out of 904 men who went into the water that night survived. If you want to learn more about this incredible story, you can search for "The Saga of the Four Chaplains25th anniversary event at The Emerald Clarksville.

Tommy Bates, Jr., Legends' President and CEO said, “Tonight we are celebrating 25 years, and taking this opportunity to say thanks to all the customers who have made this possible. We want to show our appreciation for all their support, which has helped us get to this point. “In the beginning, when we were raising capital, we started with two little offices in the business park. We now have nine branches, and we're currently building our tenth branch, in Ashland City.”

LG Chem’s Groundbreaking

LG Chem recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Clarksville plant, a $3.2 billion facility that will produce cathode material, one of the main components in EV batteries.

The ceremony took place in a heated tent on a 420-acre site near Exit 4. Hundreds were in attendance, including Governor Bill Lee, TNECO Commissioner Stuart McWhorter, Senator Marsha Blackburn, and other local dignitaries.

It is projected that LG Chem will create more than 800 jobs in Clarksville-Montgomery County, a large percentage of them, 6-figure jobs. In addition to Governor Lee, Commissioner McWhorter, Mayors Pitts and Golden speaking, LG Chem's CEO Hak Cheol Shin, and Korean Ambassador to the US – Hyundong Cho took the podium, as well as executives from Toyota North America and General Motors.

Easter Eggs

The tradition of Easter eggs has ancient roots that span different cultures and religions. One theory suggests that the concept of Easter eggs originated from pagan spring festivals, where eggs symbolized fertility, new life, and rebirth. As Christianity spread, the symbolism of eggs was adapted to represent the resurrection of Jesus Christ, celebrated during the Easter holiday.

Christians began to dye eggs red to symbolize the blood of Christ shed on the cross, while also representing the empty tomb from which Jesus emerged after his resurrection. Over time, the tradition evolved, and eggs were decorated with various colors, patterns, and symbols, often using natural dyes and intricate designs.

In some cultures, such as in Eastern Europe, intricately decorated eggs, known as pysanky, became highly prized and were exchanged as gifts during Easter. These eggs were adorned with symbols and motifs believed to bring protection, fertility, and good fortune.

As the tradition spread, Easter eggs became a symbol of joy, renewal, and new beginnings, celebrated worldwide by people of various faiths and backgrounds.

Today, decorating and hunting for Easter eggs is a beloved part of the Easter holiday, bringing families and communities together in celebration and joy.

Easter Egg Salad

Ingredients

6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped 1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon dill relish 2 green onions, thinly sliced Salt and pepper to taste

Paprika

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped dill (if using), and sliced green onions.

Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve the egg salad on sandwiches, wraps, salads, or crackers.

Enjoy your delicious homemade egg salad!

Story by Linda Austin

CLARKSVILLE CPAA

Comedy for Cops Comedy for Cops

Clarksville Citizens Police Academy Alumni (CCPAA) recently held its first Comedy for Cops fundraiser, but based on the spectacular results, it won't be the last. The sold-out event raised more than $24,000 that CCPAA will use to assist our local police officers. Organizers, in a short time, were able to sell out Civic Hall for a comedy show with Chris Monhollen's Funny 4 Funds.

Guests of the show bought food, and raffle tickets, then enjoyed the comedy stylings of Carollynn Xavier, June Colson, and Mike Murray. Funds from the event will help CPD with things like retirement rings and watches, as well as community education programs and materials.

Caitlin & Josh Swaffer Heather & Adam Fleming, Una & Joe Smith

Valerie & Michael Long

Ron Ewing, David Caruso & Collin Hartman

Jiyoon Ro & Darnell Wilks

Joe & Debbie DiFiore

Senator Bill Powers & Fran Powers

Gary Santora & Melissa Hogan

Erinne Hester & Deanna McLaughlin

Bryce & Erinne Hester

Belle & James Bagby

Chad & Lindsay Koyama

Sandra Empey & Valerie Long

Eric Arnett & Angela Garcia

Donald & Tamera Batiste

Jamie Peltz & Connor Noe

Ashley & Brandon Bridges

Amber & Johnathan Blick

Chris Monhollen

At Home in Clarksville

J“Our whole purpose in life is to entertain,” Jim Vickers says firmly. The home he shares with partner Brian Schafer is a testament to that philosophy.

Burnished antiques, vintage table settings, and a glowing fireplace reflect a time when entertaining was an art, rather than a chore. Over delicate finger sandwiches and dainty cups of perfectly brewed tea, Brian echoes his sentiment. “I don’t think Jim could thrive without entertaining. He has a gift.”

The couple boasts the perfect setting to display that gift: Their Clarksville home has welcomed

guests for nearly three-quarters of a century.

Clarksville Living

Designed by architect Clarence Speight, who also developed the historic Glenwood district adjacent to Madison Street, the 4,000-square-foot house originally included only two bedrooms. Every other foot of the “Hollywood Regency”-style home – from the cozy walnut-paneled family room to the chandelierdraped living room – was created to wrap visitors in indulgent luxury.

In a home built to impress, firsttime guests might easily feel intimidated. But Jim and Brian work as a team to ensure that visitors are both comfortable and catered to.

“People have different kinds of spiritual gifts,” says Brian. “The

ames Vickers & Brian Schafer: History Loves Company

Story by Cindy Podurgal Chambers, Photos by James Neville Vickers

gift of hospitality is ours.”

Hospitality starts with making guests feel special and “extremely privileged,” Jim says. They learn their guests’ preferences, whether it be their favorite hand-crafted cocktail or a meatless meal. They choose a small mix of talkative people with something in common, often placing food on several tables so guests can move and mingle while they nibble. In warmer weather, the party flows from tree-shaded patio to family room with ease.

The home’s unofficial “chef de cuisine,” Jim chooses a main dish for a seated dinner based on seasonal offerings or – he adds with a smile -- “whatever’s on sale at Kroger.” He typically prepares a simmering roast or stew that allows him to leave the kitchen and join the conversation.

Brian is the chief baker, turning out everything from hand-decorated petit fours to rich pound cake topped with fresh strawberries. The pair work together to create tablescapes – Brian arranges the perfect floral displays, while Jim selects from a vast collection of treasured dinnerware, crystal, and linens. The final effect is a blend of casual elegance steeped in tradition.

That tradition, Jim says, is a reflection of his mother, Dorothy, who shared the sprawling home with his father Hubert. “My mother had tremendous style, and was always elegantly dressed. She taught me the art of entertaining.”

Jim started hosting dinner parties while still in high school at the newly opened Clarksville Academy, bringing ideas inspired by family trips to “museums and estate sales and fabulous old homes and restaurants” both domestic and abroad. One of those restaurants was his father’s own local dining landmark, the Gastronome, where Jim worked and became “a doer of all.”

That combination of early training and innate creativity led Jim to initially study Art History at Austin Peay. A selfprofessed dilettante, he ultimately took classes in “everything he could” and graduated with a degree in Philosophy. From there, he worked as a highend wallpaper specialist for many years. He met Brian, an Indiana native, in Nashville in 1998. They were soon sharing a fivelevel, mid-century modern home in the city.

How the pair came to own the home in Clarksville is a story both personal and poignant.

“My parents’ historic home on Franklin Street was destroyed in the tornado of ’99,” Jim recounts. “This house was on the market, and besides being easier to navigate with just one story, it was perfect for their social lifestyle. It took a while, but I finally convinced them to buy it.”

Jim Vickers and Brian Schafer

COMMUNITY

Continued from page 31

Jim’s mother immediately put her impeccable taste to work, furnishing the home, decorating it with a mix of family heirlooms and timeless treasures acquired on her travels.

Tragically, Dorothy passed away in 2015 after a sudden illness, and the very next day, Hubert was diagnosed with dementia. Jim and Brian made the decision to move in to care for his father until he died just five years later.

Little has changed in the house since then. Collections of everything from porcelain dogs to silver services top inlaid tables; petit point designs grace stately dining chairs; marble busts of Romeo and Juliet perch on matching marquetry pedestals; stunning ceiling medallions surround crystal chandeliers that glitter like hundreds of candles.

The home seems perfect for the pair. One of its most unique features is a walk-in bar just off the chef’s kitchen. What started as a former owner’s photographic darkroom now resembles an exclusive speakeasy, with gleaming red lacquered wallpaper, a gold foil-dappled ceiling, framed vintage liquor ads, and black-and-white photographs of Hollywood royalty.

Hundreds of bottles and glassware of every description bear witness to Jim’s reputation as a gifted and gracious mixologist. Newer additions include an ever-changing display of paintings from up-and-coming local artists (purchased for a song at the Downtown Artists’ Co-op), and a sleek black cat named Jasper (who snoozes, decoratively, on red blankets only).

Work is also underway in several rooms to repair the damage from straight-line winds that sent giant branches crashing through the roof in March of 2023. Restorations will follow a time-honored formula: Furnish with the perfect blend of provenance … and people. In the home of Jim Vickers and Brian Schafer, history truly loves company.

Chamber's Veteran Business of the Month

When Chris Fadely got out of the Army, he took advantage of the post-career guidance that is offered to retirees. He found one business with a clever name that made him laugh. He went home and joked with his wife, “Hey, I'm gonna start a pooper scooper company”.

The idea stuck with him, and now Fadely is the owner of ParaPooper Scoopers, a pet waste removal service in Clarksville.

“I've been doing this three years now. September will be my 4th anniversary,” Fadely said. “The business is doing very well. It grew a lot more than I thought it was going to.”

Fadely had a “regular” job, in communications doing AV work for a variety of companies when Covid-19 hit. “Everyone got furloughed,” Fadely said. “I got laid off. After about 6 – 8 months of furlough, I decided to start this little business. By the time they decided to call me back, I had about sixty customers and an employee. So, I had to make a decision. “

Fadely spent twenty years in the Army. His career began

in communications as a radio operator. It ended in IT, which Fadely says is the “Army path” these days.

His new business has a mix of residential and commercial clients. “I set up pet waste stations for

Chris Fadely

apartment complexes, HOA's, etc. Most of my clients are residential, so we work with a lot of elderly folks who can't pick up after their dogs, people who work a lot and just don't have the time to take care of them, wives of deployed soldiers, and some folks who just don't want to do it.

“We offer weekly or every-otherweek service. If an area goes too long, it becomes unmanageable with the yards around here, which are usually about 1/4 acre. I offer a discount if someone wants to pay six months or twelve months in advance, but generally there are no contracts. You pay when the work is performed.”

ParaPooper Scoopers isn't the only game in town, but Fadely has managed to build a successful business over the

last few years.

“I'm hoping to eventually expand. I've had several calls out of Hopkinsville. I may try to move the business in that direction or towards Nashville. We are getting close to 180 customers. I plan on staying with it and would like to expand in the future.

“I want to continue to grow in Clarksville. I still meet people who say, 'I didn't know you were here'. Everybody knows about businesses like lawn care services. Most people don't realize there are services like ours. It's not a bad job. I get to meet dogs, and that's good, and I am my own boss.”

Find out more at www. parapooperscoopers.com on Facebook at ParaPooper Scoopers or by calling 931.410.0456.

L.O.S.S. Meeting Treva Gordon's

After the loss of her husband, Treva Gordon took action, creating L.O.S.S. (Lending Our Shared Stories) a support group that helps local men and women deal with the loss of a loved one. In December, the group came together at Christ the Healer Church for brunch and some encouraging words from Bishop Calvin Lockett, MoCo Trustee Kim Wiggins, Kleeman Community Center Director Herman Brown, and others.

“L.O.S.S. has been around since 2019,” Gordon said. “The group currently has dozens of members and has touched hundreds of lives over the years. Lending our shared Stories is about grief support. This is our annual widow(er)s breakfast. It's a free event right here at the holidays to let our members know they are loved and supported. I think this is our 4th annual. L.O.S.S. also holds events around Valentine's Day and throughout the year. The group's monthly meetings are at the Kleeman Community Center."

“At our meetings, we sit in a circle and share our stories,” Gordon said. “It's a way to heal and cope. We also have movie nights and other fun activities. We love to help people lift their spirits. We love on them, and encourage them to go out and do life, just as their loved one would want.”

L.O.S.S. meetings are held at 6 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month at the Kleeman Community Center.

Treva Gordon Kleeman Recreation Center Director Herman Brown

Treva Gordon's

L.O.S.S. Monthly Meetings

DATE: 4TH MONDAY OF EACH MONTH

TIME: 6 PM LOCATION: KLEEMAN COMMUNITY CENTER

Montgomery County Trustee

Kimberly Wiggins

Tammy Killian

Servella Terry

Robyn Gordon

O LD ABE ' S B REWHOUS E GRAND O PENING

Jarrod Stover just opened Old Abe's Brew House on Lowe's Drive. “We've been working on this for about two months,” Stover said. “I brought Eric Brannstrom on as our Master Brewer and we decided to set this up as a military-style Olde English Pub.

Old Abe's is said to be a 'nano-brewery', Stover explains. “It's a smaller brewery, but we still have a respectable amount of beer on hand.

Right now we have more than 50 kegs of beer in the building and tonight we're offering several flavors, including Old Abe, Valhalla Vanilla, Grapefruit and Orange Rattlers, Screaming Eagle, Balls of the Eagle, No Slack Brown, a Schwarzbier, and a Blood Makes the Grass Grow IPA.

Old Abe's offers a nice selection of food items, with a variety of chicken wings, beer cheese and pretzels, cheesecake, and Stover says there is more to come.

Eric Brannstrom

Joe Padula

Jimmy Wiesner & Petra Roush

Rylee and Wesley Massie

McKenzie, Jim, & Charles Grandchamp

Jimmy Wiesner

Linda Farnum, Teri Craig, & Maria Fernandez

Mary King & Alisha Dodds

Wendy Brannstrom

Jarrod Stover

Kristi & Jarrod Stover

Debbie Haines-Kulick & Louis Kulick Brian Butorac

Claire Yakabe

CeCe Manuela and Clarksville Creative Sound

Story by Paige Eisemann

You just have to follow the instructions. For CeCe Manuela, this has been a guiding principle in her life. Following the instructions she says God has given her, CeCe is poised to take the music industry by storm.

Born in the tiny village of Mgombe, Cameroon, Africa, CeCe moved to the United States in 2006 when she was ten years old. She is grateful to have learned so much about American culture and English as a second language from a young age, and says she never questioned her purpose in life.

While attending Bible college in Pennsylvania studying early childhood education, a professor assigned students to “use their gifts for God’s purpose”. CeCe wrote a song about her personal faith and turned it in. That song made its way to the desk of the President of the university,

who was the first in a long line of people who have told CeCe that music is her calling.

Having come from a very traditional Christian background, her experiences in college opened up the world of Contemporary Christian music for her. She cites both her school chapel worship services and a Michael W. Smith concert as eye-opening experiences that introduced her to music beyond traditional hymns.

At the time, CeCe had no formal musical training. Instead, she studied videos and albums of artists that she admired. She was drawn to opera and imagined that she might begin lessons to learn the classical singing style. She says God told her that she and her husband would come to Tennessee, where she would be led into making Christian music.

When a job opportunity for her husband brought them here, she felt validated. In the five years they’ve been

here, she has gone through many changes, including the birth of her son. She has never waivered on the purpose she says God has given her. It was that unflinching faith that led her to the doors of the local record company, Clarksville Creative Sound.

Clarksville Creative Sound is a full-service recording studio and record label that is owned and operated by Curt Ryle and Steve Markwardt. Curt Ryle has extensive experience as a musician, having performed and recorded with Taylor Swift, Justin Moore, Trisha Yearwood, Brooks and Dunn, Chris Stapleton, and many more. As a successful songwriter, Curt has written songs for Billy Ray Cyrus, George Jones, Johnny Bush, LeeAnn Womack, and many others.

Curt recalls the day that CeCe walked into his recording studio and told him that God sent her, saying, “She came in dressed to go pick up firewood. I thought she was lost! She told me God had sent her here and then showed me a song she had written. I got her in front of a microphone and started recording.

It never happens that a new artist comes in the door with a song and the first recordings you make evolve into a debut single. That doesn’t happen, but with CeCe, it sure did!” Curt shares that even with only a tiny amount of formal training, CeCe has astounded him with her ability to pick up harmony and performance.

Lubbock, Texas, on January 18, the world premiere of CeCe’s first music video premiered on January 19. Media attention is coming quickly at both CeCe and Clarksville Creative Sound. Curt, the label, and the recording studio have recently agreed to be a part of American Country Network, a rising television network based in Nashville that is predicted to be the largest Country-themed outlet available.

In talks to begin production of a reality/variety show, Curt is ready to spotlight CeCe and other artists on his label (including his own son, Brayden Ryle, who is a highly successful artist in his own right with a large YouTube following) on this new platform. CeCe has been featured on podcasts and radio, and with the release of her debut song performance, the attention is only growing.

A lifetime of “following the instructions” has led CeCe Manuela to the edge, where her dreams and purpose are becoming reality. She states that she doesn’t view this as her career, but that Christian music is her calling, her consecration, and her purpose. She has come a long way from her family’s home in Cameroon, through her college experience in Pennsylvania, and now to a recording studio in Clarksville- where the instructions have led her straight onto a path that she’s always been certain she was meant to follow.

You can learn more about CeCe Manuela and Clarksville Creative Sound by visiting:

He shares that she sang every note on her debut song, “My Jesus Lives”, performing all the harmonies and layers of sound herself. Among the many artists represented by the Clarksville Creative Sound label (of which there are more than fifteen), CeCe is the first Christian artist. Curt is confident that her talent and determination to be led by her faith will make her a huge success.

Along with a single debuting on KSSL-FM Radio in

www.clarksvillesound.com, www.KSSLFM.COM , www. spotify.com, www.youtube.com@CeCeManuela

Via Facebook: @Clarksville Creative Sound Promotions, @CeCeManuela

VIa Instagram: @Clarksville_Creative_Sound, @ CeCeManuelaOfficial

ClarksvilleLivingMag.com

RENZO GRACIE Visits Clarksville

What started in 2015 as Clarksville Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, became, over time, Gracie Baja and in 2019 transitioned to Renzo (pronounced “Henzo”) Gracie Clarksville Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Combat Sports. Recently the Master himself paid a visit.

“In 2020 we moved to our current location at 327 Warfield Blvd., and the larger location has allowed us to grow to almost 400 students,” Lynda LaBelle said. “Master Gracie came in from New York and will be teaching about 140 people today on techniques that he teaches at his academy. He will be sharing things that have helped him excel in Jiu-Jitsu and the MMA world.”

On the night before, there was a panel discussion with Master Renzo Gracie, Professor Hoskins, and Professor Andrew Hansen. They sat down for the After Mat podcast, and they held a 2-hour discussion with about 30 guests. There were autographs and pictures.

First Lady Dr. Jill Biden

VISITS FORT CAMPBELL, KY

Dozens of the 354 Fort Campbell families who were directly affected by the December 9th tornado were invited to a very special event just before Christmas, a visit by First Lady Jill Biden, and Santa Claus himself.

The two arrived on “Sleigh Force One” to join a celebration that included the affected local military families, and many of the community members who offered support in the tornado's aftermath. Also on hand were members of the U.S. Marines Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program.

After brief comments from MG Sylvia, Commanding General Fort Campbell and the 101st Airborne Division, and First Lady Jill Biden, families were invited up for photo opportunities. As the families returned to their tables, stacks of toys and gifts were delivered to them.

The Armed Services YMCA and Mission BBQ were joined by other local organizations to make this event possible.

Governor Bill Lee

Visits the Common Ground Cafe

Progressive Directions' (PDI) Jay Albertia welcomed Governor Bill Lee TN DIDD Commissioner Brad Turner, and others from across the state to Common Ground Cafe, a grant-supported business that leads the way in creating gainful employment for Tennesseans with disabilities.

He thanked local leaders, former County Mayor Jim Durrett, Current County Mayor Wes Golden, and Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts for the support they provided and continue to provide that makes it all possible.

Mayor Golden pledged continued support and expressed his appreciation for the PDI team and the amazing work they do. Commissioner Turner spoke next, thanking Governor Lee for his investment in Tennessee's Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

The Governor was given a tour of the facility, a crash course in latte-making, and gifts from the CGC staff. He then spoke to an audience of approximately 100. He commended the staff at CGC, saying, “You’re serving people, and our community, and that is one of the most valuable things we as human beings can do for one another.”

CALENDAR

March

9 saturday

Comedy to the Rescue!

Saturday, March 9th | 5:00pm

Price: $35, Silent Auction Access Only $10

The Humane Society of Clarksville-Montgomery County and the Roxy Regional Theatre are teaming up for one hilarious night of fun! A comedy show with a pre-show silent auction, this benefit to fix pet overpopulation features nationally touring comedian Clay Foley, former cruelty investigator, animal rescuer and transporter, and host of Foley Informed.

Silent auction, bar and concessions start at 5pm. Silent auction ends promptly at 6:30pm, at which time bids will be tallied. Show ticket holders will pick up their winnings AFTER the show to ensure everyone is seated and ready to have fun at 7pm! Only auction-only ticket holders will be able to pay and pickup immediately following auction.

Please note: This show may contain adult themes and language and is best suited for ages 16 and up.

Roxy Regional Theatre

100 Franklin Street | Clarksville, TN

10 sunday

African Americans & the Arts: Celebrating Black History Month

Through March 17th | Lobby

Price: Admission Fee

The Black History Month theme for 2024 highlights the many impacts Black Americans have had on visual arts, music, cultural movements and more. Experience the works of local artists through a diverse variety of mediums and subjects.

Customs House Museum

200 South Second Street | Clarksville, TN

F&M Bank Huff & Puff Express Model

Trains

Exhibit open daily | Trains run Sundays 1:00pm–4:00pm, Wednesdays 10:00am–12:00pm, Fridays 10:00am–12:00pm and the last Saturday of each month 1:00pm–4:00pm

Submit your event to events@clarksvillelivingmag.com by the15th of the month for the next issue.

Celebrate the upcoming seasons with our model train exhibit as it takes you on a magical adventure!

Customs House Museum

200 South Second Street | Clarksville, TN

Anne K. Beyer & Wyatt Severs: Inhabit

Through March 24th | Crouch Gallery

Price: Admission Fee

Ceramicist Anne Beyer and wood artist Wyatt Severs bring together a new collection of furniture, vessels and more intimate pieces that can be found in the space we inhabit.

“We create our home and make it ours with the objects that we choose to live with, and that in turn gives us agency for how we want to inhabit our home.”

Customs House Museum

200 South Second Street | Clarksville, TN

14 Thursday

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

March 14th, 15th, 16th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 28th, 29th, 30th | 7:00pm

March 23rd, 30th | 2:00pm

Price: Tickets $35 (adults) and $15 (10 and under)

Happiness is great musical theatre! Charlie Brown and the entire Peanuts gang explore life’s great questions as they play baseball, struggle with homework, sing songs, swoon over their crushes, and celebrate the joy of friendship. Based on the beloved Charles Schulz comic strip, this revue of songs and vignettes – featuring musical numbers “My Blanket and Me,” “The Kite,” “The Baseball Game,” “Little Known Facts,” “Suppertime” and “Happiness” – is guaranteed to please audiences of all ages!

Roxy Regional Theatre

100 Franklin Street | Clarksville, TN

16 saturday

ClarksvilleCon Spring 2024

Saturday, March 16th | 10:00am-5:00pm

Join us for our Spring 2024 show on Saturday March 16th, 2024. It’s fun for the whole family and kids are free. Huge Videogy Game & Cosplay Contests. For more info visit www.ClarksvilleCon. com

Quality Inn Exit 4

3095 Wilma Rudolph Boulevard | Clarksville, TN

17 sunday

Sunday Studio: Painting with Sarah Spillers

March 17th | Third Sunday of each month | 2:00pm

Price: Free, with registration required; does not include Museum admission

Sunday Studio is a new workshop series for adults in partnership with APSU’s Community School of the Arts! This month, we’re celebrating St. Patrick's Day with an adorable gnome painting.

Whether you are a beginner or have painting experience, this workshop is designed to help you develop your skills and express your creativity. This workshop is free and all materials are included, but registration is required. For ages 16+.

Register at www.customshousemuseum.org.

Customs House Museum

200 South Second Street | Clarksville, TN

Clarksville Community ConcertDavid Byrd-Marrow, French Horn

Sunday, March 17th, 2024 | 3:00pm-4:30pm

Price: $22.50-$25; APSU students-FREE; all other students $5.

Hailed as “stunning and assured” by the New York Times, Atlanta native David Byrd-Marrow is the Solo hornist of the International Contemporary Ensemble. Arrive early! On Sunday, March 17th at 2:00pm, attendees can attend a pre-concert talk to learn more about Mr. Byrd-Marrow and what to expect at his 3:00pm performance. Tickets may be purchased in advance at www. clarksvillemusic.org or onsite at the concert hall.

APSU George & Sharon Mabry Concert Hall

780 Marion Street | Clarksville, TN

21 thursday

Storytime & Craft: And It’s Spring!

March 21st, 10:30am | All ages, with adult

Price: Free with membership or paid admission | Family Art Studio

Get ready to welcome the sights and sounds of spring! We’ll be diving into the stories of Happy Springtime! by Kate McMullan and When Spring Comes by Kevin Henkes. Then, inspired by the

budding trees and blossoming flowers of the season, children will get to paint their very own springtime trees!

*All parents are expected to participate with and supervise their children.

Customs House Museum

200 South Second Street | Clarksville, TN

23 saturday

Spring Hike: Our Cultural Landscape

March 23rd | 9:30am-11:30am

Price: Free, $10 / Attendee + Donation, $20 / Attendee + Donation

Celebrate the arrival of Spring while learning about the rich cultural history at Dunbar Cave

Join Ranger Adam for a 2.75 mile loop hike to discover how the landscape has been altered by the various cultures that have utilized it throughout the centuries. Please wear good walking shoes and bring water. This is a free program. Consider choosing one of the donation options to help us continue to meet our mission.

Go to www.tnstateparks.com/parks/event_details/ dunbar-cave to register.

Dunbar Cave State Park

401 Old Dunbar Cave Road | Clarksville, TN

Iris Princess Pageant

Saturday, March 23rd | 10:00am

The Clarksville Sunset Rotary, in partnership with the Miss Queen City and Miss Austin Peay Volunteer Scholarship program, is proud to sponsor the Second Annual Clarksville Iris Princess Pageant! A portion of the proceeds will benefit Miss Austin Peay Volunteer Scholarship fund.

For more information visit www.sunsetrotarytn.org

APSU Clement Auditorium

Henry Street | Clarksville, TN

24 sunday

Clarksville Spring Fest 2024

Sunday, March 24th | 10:00am-9:00pm

Price: $20 General Admission, $10 Ages 6-10, Free 5 and Under

This March at the Clarksville Speedway we will be kicking off a Spring Fest to open up the

season. On March 24th there will be a car show where winners will receive a 4' trophy per class followed by other events to include drifting and grudge style drag racing.

For more information, be sure to check out www.clarksvillespeedway.com to get the latest information on the event.

Clarksville Speedway

1600 Needmore Road | Clarksville, TN

30 saturday

Family Art Saturday: Easter Eggs Balloon Art

March 30th | 10:00am–12:00pm & 2:00pm–4:00pm | Ages 3+, with adult Price: Free with membership or paid admission | Family Art Studio

Get ready for an egg-citing activity that is perfect for families and kids who want to add a splash of color and fun to their weekend.

With balloons as the canvas and paint as the palette, participants will dip balloons into an array of vibrant colors and press them onto paper to create their very own Easter egg-ceptional masterpieces.

*All parents are expected to participate with and supervise their children.

Customs House Museum

200 South Second Street | Clarksville, TN

Fifth Saturday Donation Day

March 30th | 10:00am–5:00pm

Fifth Saturday is Donation Day! During any month with five Saturdays, on the fifth Saturday any monetary donation to the Museum is your admission. Smash'n Beef Co. food truck will be serving up their signature SmashBurgers in the Courtyard.

Customs House Museum

200 South Second Street | Clarksville, TN

April

2 Tuesday

Homeschool Fieldtrip Day

April 2nd | 10:30am | All ages, with adult

Price: Free for Museum members; $3 per student and $5 per adult for nonmembers

Every semester, local homeschool groups are invited to experience an unforgettable day of exploration and learning. For more information on how to register, contact Curator of Education Stephanie Stafford at stephanie@ customshousemuseum.org

Customs House Museum

200 South Second Street | Clarksville, TN

9 tuesday

Company Cabaret: And the Award Goes To…

April 9th | 7:00pm

Price: Tickets $20

Join us for a special night of music and entertainment, featuring our company of professional actors who come to us from all over the country. Musical selections will vary from musical theatre to contemporary music, classic standards to holiday tunes.

In anticipation of the Tony Award nominations and ceremony, “And the Award Goes To…” will feature some of your favorite songs from awardwinning musicals!

Roxy Regional Theatre

100 Franklin Street | Clarksville, TN

13 saturday

Bach to Broadway

April 13th | 7:30pm

Price: Tickets $30

Join us for an evening benefiting the GFWC Clarksville Women’s Club and their endeavor to raise funds for APSU scholarships! The evening will begin with a reception at 6:30pm, followed by the stunning vocal stylings of soprano Dr. Penelope Shumate, Assistant Professor of Voice in the Department of Music at APSU, accompanied by pianist Jan Corrothers.

Praised by The New York Times for singing with “bell-like clarity and surpassing sweetness,” Dr. Shumate will amaze you with her smooth and seamless transitions from classical opera and the stylings of Bach to her take on some of Broadway’s well-loved standards.

Roxy Regional Theatre

100 Franklin Street | Clarksville, TN

ClarksvilleLivingMag.com