An Evening at the Harvester Event Center
08.23.2025 - The Harvester Event Center in Historic Downtown Smithville, Tennessee, proudly hosted a remarkable event in partnership with Ascension St. Thomas, with representatives from all over Middle Tennessee including Nashville, Murfreesboro, and Smithville Hospitals. With high-caliber speakers such as Fahad Tahir, President and CEO, along with Neal Kelly, Regional President and CEO, these two men emphasized the significance and importance of rural hospitals. The atmosphere was vibrant and full of energy.
Behind the scenes, Jan Strawn of Mack and Kate's Catering out of Nashville proved to be an invaluable ally, seamlessly coordinating operations and ensuring everything ran smoothly. The professionalism of our crew, led by Jesse Kooienga at the helm of the bar team, alongside Eschelle Nunley, Holly Sheets, and Ava Nokes, set a standard that could rival any top venue. Their dedication was evident as we prepared to welcome our guests.
What started as a rainy and windy day transformed into a beautiful Mid-August evening, showcasing the best of Middle Tennessee. The sun broke through just in time for us to demonstrate that Smithville knows how to entertain. This Saturday evening was a cherry on top, highlighting the Harvester’s charm and our successful collaboration with such a prestigious organization.
The evening was further enriched by the incredible performance of Jordan Morack and His Immortals. A big, beautiful Jazz, Funk, Rock, Soul Band! Thank you Phil Stafford for the sound and the mother hen back at the epicenter named Laura Johnson that connects all the dots. This classy band feature:
Jordan Morack - saxophone
Zach Douglas - trumpet
David Cooper - trombone
Peedy Chavis - vocals
Izzy Moore - vocals
Spencer Harris - guitar
Isaac “Bam” Richardson - drums
Darius Salazar - ass
Lance Lucas - keyboard
Special thanks also go to our staff members Carrington, Courtney, and Tristen at The Hen House Bar. The Parking Crew: Pat, Junior, Mike, Jimmy Wayne, and David Judkins, our physical plant manager and the one who ensured the green room and catering were in impeccable shape.
This event exemplified the spirit of collaboration within our community and the vibrant partnerships we share with local businesses. As we reflect on this successful gathering, we’re excited for what lies ahead and truly grateful for all who contributed to making this evening a resounding success.
Up next: Explore our downtown even more at the Historic Downtown Smithville Fourth Annual Art Walk on Friday, 9/19 with live music by Marguerite Beane - visit this link for more info on becoming a vendor, and the Midnight Ramblers, and join us for an evening of Motown Review with Bizz and Everyday People on Friday, 10/3 - visit this link for more info on becoming a vendor. Stay tuned as we have new event announcements coming soon, and stay up-to-date with all the events in the Bert Driver Network (Nursery, Burlap Room, and the Harvester) by signing up for our ‘The Local Vibe Newsletter - released the first Tuesday of the month, straight to your inbox! And don’t forget the Harvester is for rent (Casablanca Office Suites, too!): corporate events and parties, weddings, receptions, graduations, baby showers, or whatever you’re celebrating, we host ‘em all! Contact us for more information, and check us out on Wedding Wire or The Knot!
