Hendersonville, TN April 2026

Welcome AprilWe Are Glad You Are Back!

Unfortunately for most of us, it is also tax time. Just when we start to feel good about spring, April 15 arrives, and the tax man cometh to extract his annual pound of flesh, er, cash.

However, despite the pain that comes from having to pay tribute to Uncle Sam, April is also a great time to take a look at personal and community-wide investment opportunities.

Every day, we have the option of investing in many things, including our families, our communities, our careers, and of course, ourselves. Regardless of what we invest in, we hope that something good will come about as a result.

As we turn the calendar to April, we at Hendersonville Lifestyle believe that this is the perfect time to take a look at how and what we choose to invest in. This month we are bringing you several inspiring stories about making the most your investment opportunities.

First, we begin our journey by visiting with a local organization that is bringing together public and private partners to foster economic and workforce development across Sumner County.

Next, we take a look at some of the best do-it-yourself software packages that can help take the sting out of filing your income taxes.

Finally, we drop in at a local small business that helps homeowners increase the value of their homes by investing in kitchen and bath upgrades.

As always, along with our features, we bring you the best in local happenings to keep you in the know about good things happening in the City by the Lake.

So come along with us this month as we invest in ourselves, our families and our community – you will be glad that you did.

See you around the 37075 soon,

April 2026

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 PHOTOGRAPHER

Lynn Bowles

LYNN BOWLES, PUBLISHER @HENDERSONVILLELIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Liz Nixon

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle Learn

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: T.G. Sheppard tells a story during the Heritage Music series at Monthaven on Feb. 12. 2: T.G. Sheppard performs before an intimate crowd at Monthaven on Feb. 12. 3: T.G. Sheppard sings one of his many hits at Monthaven on Feb. 12. 4: The 2026 Elevate50 board of directors poses with Executive Director Julie Merriwether. 5: Lonestar member Cody Collins performs at the Elevate50 luncheon on Feb. 20. 6: Executive Director Julie Merriwether welcomes the crowd during a fundraising luncheon on Feb. 20. 7: Elevate50 Board Chair Linda Bolt offers closing remarks during a luncheon on Feb. 20.

Let

SERVICE & PARTS

Our

Multi-Point Vehicle Inspections

Oil Changes & Fluid Services

Brake Inspections & Repairs

Tire Service

Diagnostics & Engine Repairs

Transmission Service & Repair

Accidents

Paint Refinishing & Color Matching

Frame Alignment & Structural Repairs

Bumper & Panel Replacement

Highpoint Health Breaks Ground on SchoolBased Clinic in Portland

Highpoint Health with Ascension Saint Thomas, in partnership with Sumner County Schools, recently announced a new school-based clinic at J.W. Wiseman Elementary School in Portland, Tennessee. This innovative initiative is designed to improve access to healthcare for local families and support student success. “This partnership is a game-changer for our students and families," said Superintendent of Sumner County Schools Dr. Scott Langford.

TriStar Hendersonville Celebrates Cardiovascular Professionals Week

TriStar Hendersonville Medical Center celebrated Cardiovascular Professionals week from Feb. 7 through Feb. 15. The occasion recognizes healthcare workers devoted to the care of heart and vascular issues.

by Rick Murray

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Dr. Brad Leath Brings Women’s Healthcare Back to Westmoreland

Highpoint Women's Health with Ascension Saint Thomas recently announced the opening of a new outreach clinic at HOPE Family Health. The clinic’s provider, Dr. Brad Leath, originally from Westmoreland, is a board-certified OBGYN passionate about supporting local families and providing high-quality care throughout every stage of life.

From floor to ceiling we will design and remodel your space to the standard you’ve always dreamed of. Meeting deadlines and staying affordable is the key to our continued success. Call today! dreamkitchenandbath.biz

SHOP ONLINE for cabinetry assembled or unassembled, shipped directly to your doorstep in 2-4 weeks!

and

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Community Investing in

LOCAL NONPROFIT BRINGS CIVIC LEADERS TOGETHER TO BUILD A BRIDGE TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR SUMNER COUNTY

ARTICLE BY RICK MURRAY PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICK MURRAY

For many years, Sumner County has been one of the fastest growing counties in Tennessee. From Hendersonville to Gallatin to White House, new residents and businesses are moving to Sumner County at a rapid pace, making it the 8th largest county by population in the state.

While this growth has brought many new opportunities to the county, it has also brought a significant number of challenges. As in many communities across the nation, the increasing population has often outpaced the existing Sumner County’s infrastructure, including roads, utilities, housing and schools.

For many years, municipalities across the county attacked the infrastructure shortage dilemma individually, without considering the impact of their solutions upon the entire county. Needless to say, this “going it alone” process was inefficient, occasionally resulting in suboptimal solutions.

Over time, civic leaders began to realize that the “going it alone” approach had its drawbacks. As a result, in 2002 a group of progressive thinkers created a public-private

Breakout sessions are often used to brainstorm solutions to common issues.

"I BELIEVE THAT FORWARD SUMNER EXISTS BECAUSE WE BELIEVE IN SOMETHING BIGGER THAN ANY ONE ORGANIZATION OR JURISDICTION."

KELLEY CRECELIUS

organization focused healthy and sustainable economic growth – Forward Sumner.

Forward Sumner is Sumner County’s economic and workforce development office, charged with marshalling leaders from across the county to work together for the common good. The primary areas that the group focuses on are economic development, transportation, infrastructure, workforce training and development and education.

“I believe that Forward Sumner exists because we believe in something bigger than any one organization or jurisdiction,” says Board Chair Kelley Crecelius. “We believe in thoughtful growth, strong partnerships and a shared vision for a thriving Sumner County.”

Kelley’s comments were echoed by Forward Sumner Executive Director Chris Taylor.

“Forward Sumner’s three pillars are work force, economic development and infrastructure, and we are making a lot of strides toward the future,” says Chris. “Thanks to the assistance that we have received form our municipal, county and state

leaders, our county has received significant funding to help us accomplish several major projects. Some of the more prominent fundings include $1 billion toward Tennessee Department of Transportation road projects, $145,000 to support Sumner County Schools’ Carolyn Smith Innovation Center and $50,000 for a feasibility study for a convention hall in our county.”

One of the key areas of focus for Forward Sumner over the past few years is fostering a closer bond between local businesses and the county school system. This partnership yields benefits for both the schools and participating businesses.

By aligning public and private partners, Forward Sumner helps ensure that Sumner County continues to attract opportunity while protecting the quality of life that makes this community such a special place to live and work,” says Kelley.

Forward Sumner 1598 GreenLea Boulevard, Gallatin, Tennessee  37066 615.206.6624

ForwardSumner.org

Taking The Sting Out Of Taxes

$55.99

TurboTax has an intuitive, step-by-step interface for users of all levels. Along with the deluxe edition, TurboTax also comes in different versions to support all types of tax returns. $39.99

$39.99 Amazon.com

H&R Block Basic features a comprehensive, user-friendly experience that walks users through the entire filing process. It also has the added benefit of over 12,000 physical offices for times when person-to-person advice is needed

Dream Kitchen & Bath

INVESTING IN YOUR HOME TO MAXIMIZE ITS VALUE

ARTICLE BY RICK MURRAY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

LYNN BOWLES AND

PROVIDED

Proud homeowners are always on the lookout for ways to enhance the value of their largest asset – their home. From dedicated home offices to modern exterior siding to new garage doors, every upgrade enhances homeowner enjoyment as well as boosting the home’s value.

Two of the most popular home improvement projects are upgrading kitchens and bathroom. Done correctly, an efficient kitchen, coupled with stylish baths, provides homeowner enjoyment, elevated curb appeal and a solid return on investment when the house is sold.

To find out more about kitchen and bath remodeling, and how it can enhance the value of a home, Hendersonville Lifestyle recently visited with Melinda Calvert, founder of Dream Kitchen & Bath.

“AT DREAM KITCHEN AND BATH, WE FOCUS ON INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS. WE LISTEN TO WHAT THEY WANT, AND WE ESTABLISH THE DESIGN BASED UPON THEIR WISHES."

WHY SHOULD CUSTOMERS INVEST IN A REMODELED KITCHEN AND/OR BATHROOM?

“Investing in a kitchen or bathroom remodel or your home not only improves your life as far as aesthetically but also get everything organized and updated. By investing now, you can use the space, and if you decide to sell your home later you can still recoup the money that you put into the investment.

HOW DOES INVESTING IN AN UPGRADED KITCHEN AND/OR BATH AFFECT THE VALUE OF A CUSTOMER’S HOME?

“The standard rule for kitchen and bath remodels is not to spend more than 30% of the value of your home in order to yield a higher return on investment.”

WHAT TYPE OF KITCHEN AND BATH SERVICES DO YOU OFFER, E.G., CONSULTATION, DESIGN, INSTALLATION, ETC.?

“Dream Kitchen and Bath is a full-service remodeling firm that offers consultation, design and full turnkey projects.”

What are some of the brands that you carry?

“We only work with the best vendors and the top brand products.  Some of the manufacturer lines that we carry are MSI, Forevermark, Richiloue, Hardware Resources, Wurth, Wolf Cabinetry and many, many others.”

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE 2026 INDUSTRY TRENDS IN KITCHEN REMODELING, E.G., CABINETS, COUNTERTOPS, APPLIANCES, ETC.?

“Current trends for 2026 are darker to medium stain wood tones for cabinetry, along with some pops of jewel tone colors and more taupe and cream shades. As far as hardware and fixtures, we are seeing more brushed bronze unlacquered brass old world style fixtures, along with a lot of modern streamline fixtures in Champagne bronze, black and pewter.”

Homeowners looking to modernize their kitchens and/or their bathrooms need look no farther than Dream Kitchen & Bath, Inc. in Hendersonville. Founded by Melinda Calvert, Dream Kitchen and Bath can help homeowners transform their dreams into reality.

“At Dream Kitchen and Bath, we offer anything from standard cabinetry and countertop replacement to full-blown remodeling projects,” says Melinda. “Our team is committed to delivering the highest quality home renovation solutions for each of our clients.”

Dream Kitchen & Bath 111 Dunn Street, Hendersonville, TN 37075 615.445.0087

DreamKitchenandBath.biz

WHAT IS YOUR TOP RECOMMENDATION FOR REMODELING/REDESIGNING KITCHENS?

“Clients should always work with professional designers – they are not that expensive, and they can create one-of-akind designs that are budget friendly. In the long run, clients will save a lot of money by hiring someone who knows what they are doing.”

WHAT SETS DREAM KITCHEN AND BATH APART FROM ITS COMPETITORS?

“At Dream Kitchen and Bath, we focus on individual clients. We really listen to what they want, and we establish the design based upon their wishes. We specialize in in creating affordable projects where the design tells the story.”

“We also encourage our customers to keep an open mind about design possibilities. As an experienced designer, it is my responsibility to create unique kitchen and bath layouts that match the desires and personalities of the homeowners.”

mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 4/30/26. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK

FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO INVEST IN YOUR MORNING AND START YOUR DAY OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT

habits morning for success

One of the best ways to invest in yourself is by creating a consistent and intentional morning routine. No matter how unpredictable or chaotic the rest of your day may become, starting your morning with self-care and purpose sets a positive tone that stays with you throughout the day.  Once you develop a morning routine that truly resonates with you, you’ll look forward to it every night, knowing it will set the foundation for a productive and fulfilling day.

If you’re ready to elevate your mornings, here are some meaningful ways to invest in your routine and start each day on the right foot.

Be Your Own Barista:

One of life’s simplest pleasures is savoring a homemade coffee each morning. While skipping the drivethru may be tough at first, brewing your own allows you to appreciate the process—and chances are, you’ll end up preferring your own perfect cup of joe.

Get Your Steps In:

An hour-long gym session before work may not be realistic, but a quick morning walk is. Use this time to clear your mind, enjoy nature, and listen to your favorite podcast or artist—an easy way to start your day feeling relaxed.

Enjoy Some Breakfast:

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, yet often the most overlooked. Setting your alarm just minutes earlier to prepare a fresh, nutritious meal can transform your morning, fueling your body and mind for a more energized and productive day.

Read A Book:

Starting your day with a book is far more calming than scrolling through social media. Reading in the morning helps ease you into the day, providing a peaceful and mindful escape that sets a positive, focused tone for what’s ahead.

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Inquiring Chef

START WITH A VEGETABLE

Jess Smith is the founder of the popular food blog InquiringChef. com, which she started in 2010 after moving to Thailand with her husband. She explored Thai cuisine, took cooking classes, and documented her experiences on the blog. Over time, her passion for cooking grew, leading her to focus on quick, easy meals for families. Today, Inquiring Chef receives over 5 million page views annually and supports a small team. She shares new recipes weekly through email, her blog, and social media, helping home cooks simplify mealtime without sacrificing flavor.

Smith is now an author. Her debut cookbook,  Start with a Vegetable, published in 2025 reimagines meal planning by putting vegetables at the center of the plate.

“Start with a Vegetable was the result of a natural transition in the way I started thinking about preparing dinner for my family. At the end of a busy day, I often didn't have the energy to think about dinner in parts by preparing a separate protein, vegetable, and starch,” says Smith. “I realized that if I put a vegetable at the center of the dish, the rest was easy to fill in.”

The book features 100 flexible recipes proving vegetables aren’t just a side—they’re key to simple, satisfying meals.

As chief recipe developer for the Cook Smarts meal-planning app, Smith worked closely with families struggling to get dinner on the table. She noticed a common challenge: people wanted to eat more vegetables but didn’t know how to build meals around them.

“As I started planning and testing recipes for the book, I just loved how easy it made dinnertime feel. Are there carrots in the fridge? Here are a bunch of ways to turn them into dinner. Nearly all of the 100 recipes are complete meals and include easy swaps to make them vegetarian. The book is truly flexitarian, with vegetable-forward recipes for all types of eaters.”

Unlike most cookbooks,  Start with a Vegetable is organized by ingredient. Each chapter focuses on a different vegetable, offering multiple ways to turn it into a meal.

“The concept is resonating with many readers who tell me they love that the chapters are organized by vegetable, making it easy to use whatever they have on hand.”

Smith went through a rigorous testing process, starting with over 300 ideas before narrowing them down to 100.

“I always have running lists of recipe ideas. I started sorting recipes into categories, making sure there was variety for each vegetable. I wanted different cooking methods and types of dishes, so each chapter might have a soup, a salad, a roasted dish, a stove-top dish, and a sandwich or pasta.”

After perfecting the recipes in her own kitchen, she passed them to a trusted friend, an everyday home cook, to ensure they worked under real-world conditions.

“I want to know how these recipes worked for a home cook who was shopping at regular grocery stores and trying to make dinner for a family on a weeknight. She sends me feedback on any ingredients that are hard to find, anything that is unclear in the recipe, and tracks how long it takes her to make it with reallife interruptions.”

To further refine the book, Smith enlisted 30 volunteer home cooks through Instagram and her email list to test the recipes.

“My goal was to ensure that the recipes in this book are reliable, easy, and adaptable. I wanted this to be a cookbook for real home cooks. I'm so grateful to that team of volunteers for helping to ensure that it is.”

To order a copy of the cookbook visit: InquiringChef.com

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