Celebrating Home in March
All throughout the cold and blustery winter of 20242025, our homes have been havens that have kept our families safe and warm despite the bitter chill outdoors. No matter the gloom outside, we were always able to find comfort in our homes. From the family room to bedrooms to the kitchen, our homes reflect who we are and how we choose to live.
Now, that March has arrived, it’s time to once again throw off the yoke of winter and to welcome the return of spring. As the month progresses, we will begin to see the return of green leaves, warmer weather and blooming flowers and the return of daylight savings time. By gaining an additional hour of daylight, we will soon return to enjoying many of our favorite outdoor activities. Before long, we will all be savoring the aromas of outdoor barbecues and newly mown lawns as we watch spectacular evening sunsets over Old Hickory Lake.
March also is the perfect time to take part in an annual ritual – spring cleaning. Let’s face it, the winter has been tough on us, but it has been tough on our homes, too. As such, it is time that we show a bit more love toward our humble abodes by getting them into tip top shape for the coming warm weather.
To help get you ready, your Hendersonville Lifestyle team is pleased to bring you our March 2024 issue. From cover to cover, this edition is filled with articles about our homes and our community.
First, we take a look at a beautiful model home built by one of Hendersonville’s finest builders in a new subdivision that is drawing attention from all across the community.
Next, we check in with a local hardware store owner to find out what sort of tools are needed by homeowners to help keep their homes safe and comfortable for years to come.
Next, we visit with one of the Midstate’s leading realtors to pick up a few tips to consider when thinking about buying, selling or downsizing our homes.
Continuing, we sit down with Sumner County’s top emergency manager to learn how to put together a crisis kit that can prepare us to deal with weather and other natural disasters.
Finally, we will bring you the latest in local community and business news that shapes the 37075 every day.
Spring forward, Hendersonville!
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Lynn Bowles | lynn.bowles@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Rick Murray | rick.murray@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Debbie Murray | debbiemurray1989@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Rick Murray
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rick Murray, Lynn Bowles
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
Hannah Leimkuhler
QUALITY CONTROL
LYNN BOWLES, PUBLISHER @HENDERSONVILLELIFESTYLE
Dr. Samantha Wence, Dr. Candace Gallowitz & Team
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The recently announced renovation of the Comer Barn is underway on Jan. 2. 2: The OLOTL Catholic Church Knights of Columbus donated $12,500 to Cumberland Crisis Pregnancy Center. 3: Monthaven's newest exhibition, the "Art of the Buzz," kicked off on Jan. 24. 4: Football fans are enjoying a Titans Stadium model at the "Art of the Buzz." 5: Kelly Riley won first place in the TN Songwriters qualifying round competition on Jan. 31. 6: 19 competitors performed at the TN Songwriters qualifying round competition on Jan. 31. 7: TriStar Hendersonville Medical Center broke ground for its new inpatient expansion on Feb. 4.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
Photography by Rick Murray
Highpoint Wound Care Offers Tips for Post-Radiation Treatment Patients
Highpoint Health Wound Care – Sumner with Ascension Saint Thomas is striving to raise awareness around the potential late effects of radiation therapy. While radiation is essential for treating some types of cancer, it can cause lingering damage to tissue and blood vessels. “Radiation therapy is a powerful tool, but its effects can extend beyond treatment,” said Brandon Mewbourne, MD. “At Highpoint Health Wound Care, we are dedicated to helping survivors address these challenges.
Photography by Highpoint Health - Sumner
TriStar Hendersonville Medical Center recently welcomed Lauren Kane, MBA, BSN, RN, as chief nursing officer. Kane will oversee the professional practice of nursing and provide strategic nursing leadership at TriStar Hendersonville. She will also be a member of the executive leadership team. “Lauren is a relational leader, and it’s clear that she will be a great addition to our team,” said Justin Coury, chief executive officer.
Macon Bank & Trust Announces New Vol State Scholarship
“This scholarship will give opportunities to those who share the same values of work ethic and moral character that is important to our Bank,” said John West, bank president and CEO. Macon Bank and Trust Company is very proud of the impact that VSCC is having on our local communities. We hope to see the VSCC graduates utilize their education to return home and further strengthen their communities,” West said.
Whether you’re visiting one of our growing number of locations, or using our First Anywhere app from your home, work or even on vacation, when it comes to banking anywhere, we put you first.
Photography by TriStar Hendersonville Medical Center
Photography by Volunteer State Community College
HOME AT SHEARWATER
ARTICLE BY RICK MURRAY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYNN BOWLES AND PROVIDED
SCHELL BROTHERS HOME SHOWCASES STYLISH LIVING IN SUMNER COUNTY
The beautiful 4,497 sq. ft. Shearwater model home sits on a spacious one acre lot in The Landing at Branham.
In recent years, there have been a large number of new developments across Sumner County that are being built upon the principles of comfort and convenience. Some of the finest neighborhoods are being developed by Schell Brothers, one of the nation’s leading homebuilders.
The company’s most recent endeavor is called The Landing at Branham, and it represents Schell Brothers’ first community in the Nashville area featuring lots of one acre or more in size. Currently, the company has a beautiful model home in the subdivision that is built on an upscale floorplan called the Shearwater.
Recently, Hendersonville Lifestyle sat down with Schell Brothers Nashville Division Sales Manager Kaylie Austin to find out more the Shearwater.
Four bedrooms offer plenty of room for a growing family.
Open and airy... the Shearwater's interior layout offers plenty of comfortable living space.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HOME’S KEY FEATURES?
“This beautiful home offers 4,497 sq. ft. of living space, including four bedrooms and threeand one-half bathrooms. Other features include a professional kitchen with quartz countertops, a walk-in pantry, a stacked two-story stone fireplace in the spacious great room, a wraparound front porch, a screened-in deck, a detached two car garage, a 2nd floor bonus room, a large deck and exclusive Schell HomeIQ automation and Enerwize energy saving systems. To top it off, this home has a 2nd floor covered porch that is perfect for relaxing or entertaining.”
WHERE IS THE HOME LOCATED?
“The Shearwater model is located in our new The Landing at Branham subdivision in Gallatin at 172 Branham Mill Road in Gallatin. Although having a country feel, this fast-growing community in just five miles from the historic downtown Gallatin town square.”
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE NEARBY AMENITIES?
“Even though The Landing at Branham is located in a quiet community, it is just minutes away from shopping, dining and recreational facilities. Homeowners can shop at a nearby Publix, dine at Jonathan’s or burn off a few calories at Triple Creek Park and the Gallatin Civic Center. For families with school-age children, there are several excellent schools located within a few miles, including Benny Bills Elementary, Joe Shafer Middle and Gallatin Senior High.”
WHAT IS THE TARGET MARKET FOR THE SHEARWATER?
“This layout lends itself to numerous demographics, but it is particularly appealing for homeowners seeking first floor living but also want to have space for guests or kids on the second floor.”
WHAT IS THE PRICE RANGE?
“The Shearwater model home is priced at just over $1,000,000. Other homes start at $750,000, with prices rising to $1,000,000 plus depending upon home/lot sizes and customization.”
Schell Brothers Nashville 150 Saundersville Road, Suite B, Hendersonville, TN 37075
615.608.4557
SchellBrothers.com
The two-story great room is the perfect place to relax and entertain.
Schell Brothers
Since its founding in 2002, Schell Brothers has been an innovator. Its commitment to quality, technology and customer satisfaction has won it numerous accolades, including being named Pro Builder Magazines 2023 Builder of the Year.
Purchasing a Schell Brothers home is not just a transaction, it is a rich and enjoyable experience. Every customer receives personalized attention throughout the process, so there are no surprises along the way.
“At Schell Brothers, the craftsmanship and durability of our homes are unmatched,” says Schell Brothers Nashville Division Sales Manager Kaylie Austin. “Choosing Schell Brothers is about creating a home that reflects who you are, with the peace of mind that comes from working with a builder who cares deeply about your satisfaction.”
An expansive professional kitchen is a hallmark of the Shearwater model home.
The Shearwatercomfort, convenience and a bit of luxury sprinkled in.
Estate living at its finest is evident throughout the Shearwater.
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Essential Tools For Homeowners
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY RICK MURRAY
Homeownership has always been considered to be one of the pillars of the American Dream. The day that a homeowner takes the keys to his or her first home is an exciting time, filled with anticipation and hope for the future. However, as the home endures wear and tear over time, things will begin to break, requiring occasional maintenance. Whereas seasoned homeowners expect and are prepared for most routine repairs, new buyers are often unsure about how to proceed. And after all, that is to be expected, since prior to purchasing their homes, all repairs and maintenance were handled by landlords.
To help new owners get prepared for routine maintenance chores, Hendersonville Lifestyle reached out to Greg Yandell, owner of Hendersonville Ace Hardware.
LOCAL HARDWARE
PROFESSIONAL
OFFERS TIPS FOR EQUIPPING A HOME TOOLKIT FOR EVERYDAY
MAINTENANCE
"WHILE IT’S IMPORTANT TO HAVE THE RIGHT TOOLS, IT’S EQUALLY IMPORTANT TO HAVE THE WILLINGNESS TO TACKLE A REPAIR." - GREG YANDELL
WHAT TYPES OF HOME REPAIR AND/OR UPGRADE PROJECTS SHOULD A HOMEOWNER BE PREPARED TO HANDLE?
“A homeowner should be prepared to repair items in their homes that receive high usage, such as toilets, faucets, shower heads, door handles and cabinet hinges. In addition, owners should be able to repair small dings and holes in the walls. An often-overlooked chore is to inspect and change/ upgrade all of the interior water supply lines to toilets, sinks, refrigerators, etc. every five to ten years. A single burst water supply line can flood an entire home in a matter of hours, requiring extensive costly repairs.”
WOULD YOU RECOMMEND AN ALL-IN-ONE FIRST TIMER’S TOOL KIT OR PUTTING TOGETHER ONE PIECE BY PIECE OVER TIME?
“In our store, we always recommend purchasing a starter set of tools rather than trying to piece one together. That way, homeowners will be prepared to handle more jobs from the onset while saving money. New starter combo tool kits range between $35 to $100, and they represent great value. Overtime, homeowner’s can begin to acquire additional individual tools such as cordless drills, circular saws or other specialty items to reflect their particular needs. Eventually, most owners will want to upgrade their starter bag/box to a multi-level toolbox in order to keep their tools organized and ready for use.”
WHAT ARE THE TOP TEN TOOLS THAT A HOMEOWNER SHOULD HAVE ON HAND FOR ROUTINE REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE?
“To handle most home maintenance items, we recommend the following tools at the minimum: hammer, drill, screwdriver set, standard wrench set, adjustable wrench, pliers, measuring tape, hacksaw and a foot level. Add in a roll or two of duck tape, and most homeowners can handle 80% of the small repairs needed. Since many projects often leave a mess, we also strongly recommend purchasing a wet/dry shop vacuum.”
With the right tools and expertise, many basic home repairs can be made by homeowners.
Working together on a home project is much easier with the right tools.
Greg Yandell
HENDERSONVILLE
ACE HARDWARE / ACE HANDYMAN SERVICES
SUMNER COUNTY
Greg Yandell is a longtime entrepreneur who has become successful in business by offering top quality goods and outstanding customer service. He and his wife Christa opened Hendersonville Ace Hardware in 2020, along with their sons Logan and Alex.
Since opening its doors, Hendersonville Ace Hardware has helped thousands of locals navigate the maze of maintaining their homes and their property by providing them with top quality materials along with knowledgeable service and support.
“A hardware store is essential to any thriving community,” says Greg. “The Ace Hardware cooperative approach provides a warm shopping experience.”
For customers lacking the time or expertise to tackle certain projects, Greg and his team opened Ace Handyman Services Sumner County during fall 2023. Staffed by experienced craftsmen, the company can handle over 1,100 different types of home repairs.
“We all need a little help sometimes, and our team is here to provide it,” says Greg. “Whenever you need an extra hand, give Ace Handyman a call, and we will pick up where you left off.”
WHY SHOULD HOMEOWNERS INVEST IN QUALITY TOOLS AS OPPOSED TO CHEAPER KNOCK-OFF BRANDS?
“Homeowners should look at tools as long-term investments. Many of us still have and use tools that our fathers or grandparents purchased years ago, and they are still in great shape and able to get the job done today. Unfortunately, many first-timers often purchase tools only when an emergency has arisen, often leading to purchase cheaper and lesser quality gear that will not stand the test of time. It is better to spend a little bit more to make sure that you can get a tool that will hold up over the years. Some of the better brands that are available and that we carry in our store are Craftsman, Milwaukee, DeWalt and Ace.”
MANY HOMEOWNERS OPT TO RENT THE MORE EXPENSIVE SPECIALIZED TOOLS RATHER THAN PURCHASING THEM. WHEN DOES RENTING TOOLS MAKE SENSE?
“Renting is a great option for some home repairs, particularly for projects that don’t happen very often. In those situations, renting is much more economical than purchasing. In addition, renting helps to preserve limited home storage space, particularly for larger tools.”
ALONG WITH TOOLS, WHAT SORT OF BASIC REPAIR SUPPLIES SHOULD A HOMEOWNER HAVE ON HAND?
“Most owners will accumulate a steady supply of tools over the years as repair jobs arise. However, starting out, we recommend purchasing a small assortment of nails and screws, zip ties, flashlights, goggles, work gloves, a caulk gun, electrical tape, electrical ties and picture hanging supplies (e.g. wire, frame connectors, small brads).”
FOR PEOPLE WHO HAVE LITTLE TO NO EXPERIENCE WITH TOOLS, E.G. THOSE WHO NEVER TOOK ANY SORT OF SHOP CLASSES IN SCHOOL, HOW CAN THEY LEARN TO PROPERLY USE THEM IN THEIR HOME PROJECTS?
“Learning to use a tool correctly is essential for several reasons, including user and bystander safety, getting the job done correctly and avoiding damage to project materials and the tools themselves. When purchasing a new tool, we always recommend that homeowners ask their provider to learn what they need to know about a particular tool, and to provide an example of its proper use. In addition, there are many great deal of free online training resources on how to get the most out of tools.”
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HOUSEPLANTSThe Perfect Roommate
AN INDOOR GARDEN SANCTUARY
The ubiquitous houseplant has long been a cautious curiosity for many. Comments such as “I don’t have a green thumb,” or “I can’t keep anything alive,” have echoed through the rooms and hallways of almost every home in America. Well, it’s time to dispel all the mistruths about whether houseplants are beneficial and to lay the foundation for a little oasis of green happiness in the corner of every home!
By the way, you don’t really need a green thumb as there are plenty of hard-to-kill houseplants that can survive any level of neglect! And remember not only do houseplants look pretty, they also decrease stress and anxiety, increase happiness, and bring a sense of joy and relaxation to every room.
Houseplants make us feel better about ourselves in many ways because they allow us to care for them and we reap the rewards of that love. No one is alone when you have a houseplant, as they are our forever listeners. Yes, some people actually do talk with their houseplants all day long! There are many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment. Aside from reducing indoor air pollutants and increasing humidity in the home, house
plants have been shown to reduce mental fatigue, accelerate the healing process, as well as improve productivity and focus.
Pothos, spider plants, lady palms, yucca, and succulents are so pretty and easy to grow. It is no wonder that we have seen a revival of indoor gardening trends. Instagram is teeming with photos of incredible indoor “living green” vignettes that show us all how clever we can be when decorating with house plants! All you really need is to a pick a place in the home that has the best light and pick your plants.
ARTICLE BY SEAN O’KEEFE
Think outside of the box when it comes to decorating with houseplants. Look for underused spaces. Use mixed and matched pots of different sizes and shapes. Turn a shelf into a plant display. Go vertical with some hanging plants or an antique ladder. You can even group some of your favorite plants together into a single large decorative pot.
Signature large plant displays anchor the most well-designed rooms in America and it’s all there for us to look at, learn from, and bring into our own home. Whether combined into a single large decorative pot or clustered together in a corner, always remember the key to any house plant décor is to have a thriller, a tall plant usually with a strong color and form; filler plants that literally will fill the pot covering all the soil; and a spiller plant that trails over the edge of the pot. Try any combination of your favorite plants or a tried and true combination of a fiddle-leaf fig, a prayer plant, and a string of pearls. No matter how you look at it, houseplants improve our lives in many ways. Indoor gardens provide us an alternative way to commune with nature and to reconnect with the living world. We all benefit from the additional life that houseplants bring into our homes. In this crazy world of ours, wouldn’t be it nice to return home to your own personal indoor greenspace.
Happy gardening!
mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 3/31/25. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
BARBARA CORCORAN’S CHOICE FOR REAL ESTATE IN MIDDLE TN
When one of real estate’s most trusted names endorses Bernie Gallerani Real Estate, you know you’re in the best hands. Our proven strategies, unmatched expertise, and client-first approach make achieving your real estate goals easier than ever. Let us show you the difference experience makes.
Homebuying, Selling and Downsizing 101
LOCAL EXPERT OFFERS TIPS FOR NAVIGATING THE REAL ESTATE MAZE
ARTICLE BY RICK MURRAY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYNN BOWLES
Every year, we all face a number of critical financial decisions that have long-term impacts upon our lives. From saving for college to planning a wedding, we are tasked with having to balance our very finite budgets against a seemingly infinite number of demands.
For most of us, this dilemma is most profound when we have to make real estate decisions. After all, our homes are often our largest investments, and they are the ones in which we can least afford to make mistakes.
Whether we are planning on buying, selling or downsizing our homes, we are faced with multiple options that can be confusing, and have significant impact upon our financial wellbeing.
To help us sort through the confusion, Hendersonville Lifestyle sat down with one of the area’s leading real estate experts, Bernie Gallerani. Bernie has spent the last 20 years taking care of his buying and selling clients, selling over 7,000 homes in the process. He understands the pitfalls of real estate transactions, and he knows how to navigate his clients to happy home ownership.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE OVERALL RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE MARKET RIGHT NOW AS WE APPROACH THE SPRING OF 2025?
“The real estate market is always moving, either up or down. Over the past year, the outlook has trended favorably, with a number of buyers and sellers coming into the market. Overall, I think that 2025 is going to be a great year for both homebuyers and sellers.”
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE LENGTH OF TIME THAT IT TAKES TO SELL A HOME TODAY, FROM LISTING UNTIL CLOSING?
“The average sale time varies throughout the year. However, if a home is priced correctly and aggressively marketed by the seller’s listing agent, the property should be under contract in 30 days or less. Closing should occur within 30 to 45 days afterward.”
Bernie Gallerani
WHAT IS YOUR TOP TIP FOR PROSPECTIVE PERSONS LOOKING TO SELL A HOME?
“First, it is critical to price the property correctly so that it falls in line with homes in the area that have sold in the last 90 days. Too many homeowners fall into the trap that their homes should sell for a certain amount because of tax assessments and hearsay. The truth is that your home is worth what a buyer is willing to pay for it, and nothing more.”
WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THAT A HOMEOWNER CAN DO TO HELP THEIR HOME SELL FASTER?
“Once a homeowner decides to sell, they should select a listing agent who will aggressively market their home to potential buyers. Once listed, homes should be available for showing seven days a week. They should also keep the home clean and well kept, including taking care of any deferred maintenance needs. Outside, the homeowner should clean out old flower beds and fill them with fresh mulch, and pressure wash all sidewalks and driveways in order to obtain maximum curb appeal.”
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TIPS FOR PROSPECTIVE PERSONS LOOKING TO BUY A HOME?
“The first steps include getting prequalified by a lender and then identifying the area in which you would like to move. If you have children, make sure that your chosen property is zoned for the schools that you want them to attend. Finally,
“Don’t be afraid to buy at today’s current interest rates. There are many advantages to owning a home, and if the rates come down, you can always refinance your property.”
“Realtors help to simplify the home selling and buying process. Selecting the right realtor will protect your homes’ equity by helping buyers and sellers avoid the minefields in the real estate market that can lead to unsatisfactory conclusions.”
before committing to buy, be sure to have the home inspected by a licensed home inspector.”
WHAT ARE SOME COMMON MISTAKES MADE BY HOME BUYERS?
“Many homebuyers believe that there should be no maintenance or repair issues remaining with the property they are considering purchasing. They are under the mistaken assumption that if there are issues, then they shouldn’t buy the home. However, there almost always some issues, often minor, that can be fixed by the seller before closing.”
WHAT ARE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CLIENTS LOOKING TO DOWNSIZE?
“Homeowners looking to downsize need to seek out properties that have less upkeep and low yard maintenance. Achieving these goals usually comes with buying homes with less square footage and smaller lot sizes. However, there are also communities around the area that are dedicated to retirees and downsizers. These communities usually include maintenance as part of an annual fee.”
Bernie Gallerani Real Estate
150 Saundersville Road, Suite A, Hendersonville, TN 37075
615.471.6166
BernieGallerani.com
BY RICK
PROTECTING HOME AND FAMILY THROUGH PREPARATION
In recent years, Hendersonville has experienced more than its share of natural disasters, including flooding, severe thunderstorms, extreme winter weather and of course, tornados. Each of these incidents has caused disruptions that have adversely impacted the community for days at a time.
Ultimately, the community united and began the long, slow repair and rebuilding process. Along the way, most people learned a valuable lesson about how to deal with future similar disasters – be prepared.
As we approach the traditional spring thunderstorm season, Hendersonville Lifestyle decided to pick up a few preparedness tips from our county’s chief emergency manager, Sumner County Emergency Management Agency Director Ken Weidner.
WHAT TYPES OF NATURAL DISASTERS SHOULD PEOPLE IN SUMNER COUNTY AND MIDDLE TENNESSEE PREPARE FOR IN ADVANCE?
“Locally, our biggest exposure is to severe weather, such as flooding and high winds. However, we are also located between the East Tennessee and New Madrid seismic zones, which places us at a medium risk for earthquakes. Any of these situations can cause interruptions to power, communications, fuel and food supplies.”
Ken Weidner, Sumner EMA Director
WHAT FACTORS SHOULD A HOMEOWNER CONSIDER WHEN PUTTING TOGETHER A HOME EMERGENCY KIT?
“Preparing for a home emergency depends upon several factors, including the size of the household, the type of household (city vs. rural) and any special needs by family members (e.g. oxygen, medications, electrically powered devices). If the family has one or more pets, their needs also need to be considered, including food, medications and the need for shelter during adverse weather. This point is particularly critical in rural households with livestock.”
WHAT COMPONENTS ARE ESSENTIAL FOR A HOME EMERGENCY KIT, E.G. ELECTRICAL CORDS, FLASHLIGHTS, BATTERIES, WEATHER RADIO, ETC.?
“While the exact contents of a home emergency kit vary by individual and
family needs, there are several basics that are essential for everyone. Here are some of the things that preparedness experts strongly recommend.
• Water – one gallon per person per day for several days
• Food – several days’ supply, nonperishable
• Medications – prescription and over the counter – should be rotated regularly
• Flashlight
• Weather radio – battery operated
• Cell phone and/or Wi-Fi hot spot
• Batteries and power banks (should be checked regularly)
• First aid kit
• Blankets and other cold weather gear
• Toilet paper and wipes
• Whistle Along with these items, we also recommend including copies of personal identification and contact information.”
CONTINUED >
WHAT SORT OF VITAL RECORDS SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN A HOME EMERGENCY KIT, E.G. COPIES OF INSURANCE DOCUMENTS, PASSPORTS, CONTACT NUMBERS, ETC.?
“The Federal Emergency Management agency recommends including a document folder containing copies of your vital records within your emergency kit, and we at Sumner EMA concur. Here are some items to consider.
"WE ARE AT THE MERCY OF THE POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF SEVERE WEATHER. GET PREPARED NOW, AND DON’T LET COMPLACENCY OVERTAKE YOUR ABILITY TO MAKE DECISIONS FOR YOUR FAMILY DURING CRITICAL TIMES." - KEN WEIDNER
• Identification – birth and marriage certificates, passports, Social Security cards, vaccination records
• Financial and legal – insurance policies, tax returns, deeds, titles, statements and investment records, credit card accounts, wills
• Medical – insurance cards, prescription records, immunization records, contact information for providers
• Emergency contacts – important phone numbers and email information for family members, employers, schools, insurers, utilities, first responders
Along with paper copies of these records, we also recommend maintaining scanned or downloaded electronic versions of these documents. As with their paper counterparts, the electronic copies should be regularly updated and stored in several locations, e.g. flash drive in the emergency kit, secure online storage, secure storage wallet apps on smart phones.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, WHERE SHOULD HOMEOWNERS GO?
“There are a variety of online resources to help homeowners prepare for emergencies, most notably Ready.gov. Of course, we at Sumner EMA are always happy to help our local community stay prepared. We can be reached online at SumnerEMA.org or by phone at 615.452.7584.”
Although relatively rare at one time, damaging tornados have now become common place in Sumner County.
INNOVATION MEETS
ARTISTRY
Kitchen design has entered a transformative era, where innovation meets artistry to create spaces that are not only functional but also personal and sustainable. With advancements in technology, materials and craftsmanship, today’s kitchens are tailored to meet the evolving needs and tastes of homeowners.
According to interior designer Laura McCroskey, kitchens today are about more than just cooking—they’re an expression of personal lifestyle.
“Kitchen design has entered an exciting time where the possibilities feel limitless,” says McCroskey. “For me, the design process starts before lines are ever drawn on a construction document. I believe in creating spaces that enhance life, both functionally and aesthetically. The design process begins with a discussion about what a space needs to do, and what aesthetic will bring a spark to the homeowner. I also firmly believe that when designing a kitchen, one should walk out a recipe to make sure everything is in the right place to
suit one’s lifestyle. Cooking zones are imperative to a well-designed kitchen.”
Modern kitchens emphasize zoning, or the creation of dedicated areas for preparation, cooking and storage, to enhance workflow and functionality. These zones not only improve efficiency but also contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.
Cutting-edge rendering software, utilizing technology similar to that used in gaming, allows homeowners to visualize their dream kitchens in hyper-realistic detail. While these tools inspire creativity, McCroskey advises balancing ambitious ideas with practical implementation to achieve the best results.
Technology, sustainability and customization are driving the revolution in kitchen design. Advanced appliances are at the forefront, enhancing convenience while aligning with a growing emphasis on eco-friendliness.
“From vacuum-sealing drawers that preserve food and reduce waste to smart appliances controlled by your
THE HEART OF THE HOME
phone, the emphasis is on efficiency and sustainability. Functional storage built seamlessly into marble countertops and oversized workstation sinks are making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable. Thoughtful features like composting compartments and advanced food preservation methods reflect a broader effort to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.”
Custom cabinetry that maximizes every inch of space minimizes waste while optimizing functionality.
“Forget the limits of traditional cabinetry. Blind corners, tiny nooks and hidden areas are now designed to maximize storage. Automated drawers and pop-up outlets are becoming increasingly common, marrying convenience with sleek aesthetics.”
Design trends have also evolved, becoming more flexible to reflect individual tastes.
“While white kitchens remain timeless and black adds drama, bleached woods continue to be popular. Style trends are no longer as rigid—whether you prefer modern, transitional, or traditional designs, you can create a kitchen tailored to your unique vision. There’s no limit to what you can achieve with today’s tools and technologies. The goal is to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who live in them.”
The kitchen is the heart of every home and represents a space of endless possibility. Whether your aesthetic leans modern, farmhouse or somewhere in between, the tools and technologies available today make it easier than ever to bring your vision to life.
MONDAY,
KEY SECRETS FOR A SPARKLING HOME
A SPRING KIND OF CLEAN
TIP #1 Freshen up the Kitchen
A fresh, clean kitchen impacts the entire home. To freshen up the sink, Kim says, “Run hot water while pouring in equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar through the disposal. Follow with a few drops of blue Dawn Dishwashing soap to cut away any grease buildup. Sharpen the disposal blades by running cooler water and ice through it. For a fresh smell, grind a few slices of lemon, lime or orange, removing any seeds first.”
To clean everything else in the kitchen, including counters and stainless-steel appliances, use a microfiber cloth and a solution of 2-3 drops of Dawn mixed with water.
TIP #2 Spruce up the Living Room
The living room also deserves special attention. Kim says, “Start by pulling furniture away from the walls, vacuuming and dusting behind it. Make sure you dust air vents as well. Then, pull all of the furniture cushions off to vacuum underneath and in crevices. It’s always good to rotate and fluff cushions too.”
To banish dust from your furniture, Kim suggests using a good microfiber cloth that is slightly damp instead of furniture polish, which can leave a build-up on furniture that actually attracts dust.
TIP #3 Brighten up Windows
Brighten up your whole home by intentionally focusing on the windows. “Homeowners often forget about the inside of the window,” says Kim. “They dust the blinds or the shutters, but when the blinds are pulled up, the windows often have dust or a film on them.” Kim suggests cleaning the inside of the windows on a cloudy day to reduce streaks. “A good glass cleaner with a microfiber cloth works really well. If you still have streaks, try using a little bit of rubbing alcohol.”
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL
