Families in Sumner County can now apply for Pre-K programs for the 2026–27 school year.

Children who will be 4 years old by August 15, 2026, are eligible, while those turning 5 by that date should enroll in kindergarten.

Sumner County Schools offers three Pre-K choices: the Tennessee Voluntary Pre-K (state-funded for qualifying families), the Head Start Pre-K Partnership (federally funded for eligible applicants), and tuition-based Pre-K for typically developing children.

Review requirements and complete the Universal Pre-K Application, which covers all options.

After applying, be ready for possible screening requests or paperwork.

Placement is decided after reviews and potential lottery draws, with notifications sent afterward.

Seats for VPK and Head Start are based on eligibility, not application timing, and waitlists are possible.

For help with disabilities or language access, families can call (615) 451-6352 or email Early Learning for support.

Dr. Jason Hulme, a Hendersonville native and leading sports chiropractor, has been unanimously elected President of the Tennessee Board of Chiropractic Examiners for 2026.

He brings over sixteen years of clinical and leadership expertise, anchored by his role as founder of Active Sports Therapy in Hendersonville.

Since opening the clinic in 2009 with his wife, Cassie, Dr. Hulme has championed community-focused care and earned national recognition for his approach to chiropractic evaluation and mentorship.

His work has also been highlighted in The Business of Movement, where he contributed as a subject matter expert.

Dr. Hulme will serve as team chiropractor for Nashville Soccer Club in 2025 and 2026, and previously led medical planning for the Hendersonville Half Marathon for eight years.

Honored as 2020 Chiropractor of the Year by the Tennessee Chiropractic Association, he remains committed to advancing public safety and professional standards across the state.

Gallatin Shalom Zone is set to host its 4th Annual Sneaker Ball on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 6:00 to 10:00 PM at the Legacy Gym, 600 Small Street, Gallatin, TN.

This celebrated event merges formal fashion with the ease of sneakers, inviting the community to enjoy a night of dinner, specialty cocktails, and dancing, all for a meaningful cause.

Guests can expect plenty of surprises throughout the evening, making it a truly memorable experience.

Funds raised will support Gallatin Shalom Zone’s essential programs for local children, families, and individuals.

Attendees will also get a first look at Phase 1 of the Legacy Gym revitalization, which aims to upgrade the community facility.

Tickets and customizable sponsorships for tables of eight are available now.

Don’t miss the chance to make a positive impact while celebrating local spirit and style.

Rock Castle Historic Site in Hendersonville will reopen in March 2026 following a major renovation, timed to coincide with America’s 250th anniversary.

Upgrades led by the Tennessee Historical Commission include a state-of-the-art visitor center with exhibits, expanded event spaces, and modern amenities.

The 2026 celebrations feature POE-etic History at Halloween, festive Jane Austen and Little Women Christmas events, candlelight tours, and a refreshed Merry Castle Christmas.

A yearlong heritage skills program will teach traditional arts like blacksmithing and weaving, with hopes of launching an ongoing apprenticeship to preserve these crafts.

Educational programs also expand, with new tours, exhibits, robust field trips, and the three-day Living History Days, reviving Daniel Smith Days.

The reimagined site honors all who shaped its past, from indigenous peoples to frontierswomen, making it a meaningful part of the nation’s milestone celebrations.

By Eileen George, Broker at Reliant Realty ERA Powered

2026 President, Sumner Realtors

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo

A one‑pot pasta that feels comforting without being heavy.

Overview

This orzo recipe takes about twenty minutes from start to finish. You can serve it as a side or make it the main dish with a bit of chicken or shrimp. It’s creamy, full of garlic flavor, and simple enough to make on a weeknight.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Start the base
   In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.

2. Toast the orzo
   Stir in the orzo and cook for two to three minutes, letting it take on a light golden color.

3. Add the broth
   Pour in the chicken broth and stir. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed.

4. Add the cream and cheese
   Stir in the cream and Parmesan. Keep stirring until it looks smooth and thick. Taste and season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve
   Spoon into bowls, sprinkle with parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

If you prefer a lighter option, use milk instead of cream. To turn it into a full meal, mix in cooked chicken or roasted vegetables. It keeps well in the refrigerator for two days and reheats nicely with a splash of broth.

This one feels simple but special, the kind of dish you can make without a plan and still feel like you cooked something real.

Sumner County will bring the spirit of Ireland to Bledsoe's Fort Historic Park in Castalian Springs, TN with its annual Irish Festival on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visitors can enjoy lively Irish music, step dancing displays, and interactive storytelling throughout the day.

Guided hikes will highlight local history, taking participants past an old settler cemetery and the ruins of a 19th-century spring house.

Food trucks and craft beer from Half Batch Brewing add local flavor, while children’s activities promise family-friendly fun.

Costume contests invite attendees (and their pets) to showcase their Irish-themed attire for a chance to win unique prizes.

Admission is $15 per vehicle, with advance ticket sales available.

Vendor applications remain open until February 13, 2026.

Experience the joy, tradition, and welcoming energy of the Sumner County Irish Festival.

The Sumner County Beekeepers Association announces the first-ever Beekeeper Jamboree, coming to the Gallatin Civic Center on March 28, 2026.

This gathering will bring together beekeeping fans from Sumner County, TN, and beyond for a day filled with education and community.

Acclaimed apiarist Kent Williams will headline the event, sharing his expertise and enthusiasm with attendees.

The Jamboree includes eight unique sessions covering the ins and outs of beekeeping, ideal for both beginners and experienced practitioners.

Guests can browse vendor booths featuring modern beekeeping products and equipment.

A pre-conference mixer on March 27 offers a relaxed chance to network over shared interests.

Hancock Bees is raffling a nucleus colony, with $5 tickets available through official channels—all proceeds benefit local beekeeping projects.

Join to learn, connect, and celebrate the essential role of bees in our community.

Experience an evening of intrigue at the Spirits of Sumner Historic Haunts Bus Tour on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Gallatin, Tennessee.

Guests will gather at the storied Comer House, located at 2310 Nashville Pike, before boarding a luxury bus provided by All Access Coach & Leasing.

This year’s exclusive itinerary adds two new stops, including a suspense-filled mystery location.

Stops feature the Comer House, Blythewood, Palace Theatre, and Maggie Mansion, where guests can enjoy a plated dinner.

At each site, discover fascinating local history and stories of hauntings that weave together Sumner County’s rich past.

With only 48 tickets available and high demand expected, early booking is essential.

Luxury amenities, dinner, and guided storytelling ensure a memorable exploration of haunted history.

White House, TN is buzzing with opportunities for community engagement this season.

The Parks and Recreation Department has opened registration for the Challenger Baseball League, which welcomes children and individuals with disabilities to experience baseball in a supportive and inclusive setting.

Volunteer coaches are also needed and no experience is required, just a great attitude and a passion for making a positive impact.

Registration stays open through March 8, with games starting in April.

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Proud Member of the Gallatin Area Chamber of Commerce