Maury County Living March/April 2026 Issue

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From the Publisher ...

After the winter we had, the warmer temperatures are a breath of fresh air. The sense of renewal comes alive as the days grow longer, the grass turns greener, and the trees begin to bud. This gives me deep appreciation and optimism, knowing I survived another winter and that spring is here!

In this issue, the cover feature highlights Amy Montgomery as she steps into a new chapter following the closing of her retail shop, Amy Montgomery Home in Columbia. Read about her journey, her plans to stay connected with the community, and what is in store for the future now that she has opened her private design studio.

Discover Island Bend Farms along the Tennessee River and why it might be just for you. From the riverbanks to the private runway, this extraordinary farm offers an opportunity seldom seen. Lee Pepper shares the secrets of his success in his new book Never Outmatched. Gallery 48 spotlights artist Mary Lehner, learn about the new 2026 tax changes, and, fitting for spring, read why your gut is like a garden.

Plan an escape to Puerto Vallarta this year as we share the reasons this Mexican destination belongs on your travel list. Learn how stress can take a toll on your oral health, and meet Florian Kober, an exchange student from Austria whose dream of playing American football found a home and a warm welcome in the Spring Hill community.

I am so grateful to our readers and am proud to continue serving the community. The business partners who made this issue possible, thank you for your faithful support. I hope these pages inspire you to enjoy the beauty of spring and all the new beginnings it brings. April 5 marks Easter this year. Take the time to remember that He is the reason.

Wishing you peace and hope,

Publisher | Editor in Chief

MUSIC CITYpublications INC.

MAURY COUNTY LIVING

WILLIAMSON COUNTY LIVING

MARCH | APRIL 2026

PUBLISHER | EDITOR IN CHIEF

Kathy Fox

DESIGNER | ART DIRECTOR

Shelly Wells

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tom Adkinson

Katie Baker

Allen Buckley

Kathy Fox

Vanessa Kohorst

Elizabeth Shane

Lori Zabka

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tom Adkinson

Allison Elefante

Kathy Fox

Ross Jaynes Visual Media Co. Nashville Media Co.

maurycountyliving.com williamsoncoliving.com SOCIAL

@maurycountyliving @williamsoncoliving

Clinical excellence here at home

While we have grown into a leading regional health system — with three hospitals, a medical sta of more than 500 providers and nearly 40 outpatient locations and physician practices — we remain focused on delivering clinical excellence and compassionate care for every patient, every day.

By investing in enhancements to our facilities and expanding access to care, we are building a future where world-class medicine is always within reach.

At Maury Regional Health, our purpose has remained steadfast for seven decades: to serve, to care for and to strengthen this community. Find a doctor or location near you at MauryRegional.com. A new look for the care you trust This rendering represents the future of your care: a modernized, accessible campus designed for our community. As we work to bring this vision to life, we are deeply grateful for your patience. Thank you for growing with us.

Setting the Table for What's Next in

Life

BY KATHY FOX

There’s an old saying that the only way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time. Often used for overwhelming seasons of life, it reminds us that even the most significant transitions can be managed thoughtfully and steadily. For Amy Montgomery, that idea has become both philosophy and practice.

For four years, customers and friends have walked into Amy Montgomery Home in Columbia, Tennessee, greeted by warmth, southern charm and hospitality, and beautifully curated pieces for entertaining and home goods. This January, she closed the shop and pivoted back to her roots in interior design.

While she focused on retail, Montgomery intentionally paused taking design clients. Now, she’s returning to the work she has loved for more than three decades: helping people see what a space can become. “I’ve never stopped being a designer. I just stopped saying yes for a while.” The pause wasn’t an ending; it was a deep breath to a new beginning.

Her design career began organically in the early 1990s, when word of mouth was everything. Montgomery loved to invite people into her home and entertained often. Guests visited her West Nashville home and left inspired, often asking for help recreating the warmth and balance they experienced there. These guests left saying the same thing, “Whatever this is, I want it.” Then, somewhere between dinner parties and conversations over coffee, design requests began to pile up. Bookshelves and living rooms soon grew into fullhome projects.

Early opportunities came with challenges: staging homes on tight budgets, selecting finishes for stalled builder projects, and transforming uninspired spaces into inviting ones. The results spoke for themselves homes sold, clients returned, and referrals multiplied. “I designed things that made sense,” said Montgomery, and practical, honest design quickly became her signature.

There’s no blueprint for life after divorce, but redesigning your life is possible, one thoughtful decision at a time. “ “

When she moved to Columbia and opened her shop, it wasn’t part of a master plan. The transition was difficult at first. Life felt unfamiliar, but something unexpected happened: people lingered. They talked. They shared life’s milestones, celebrations, losses, and everyday moments. Montgomery took great pleasure in helping her customers one-on-one.

Just like that, Columbia was home. The shop became a gathering place. “There’s not a day that goes by that someone in Columbia doesn’t check on me,” Montgomery said. “You don’t leave a place like that.” Though the storefront has closed, the relationships remain. She continues her involvement in community events, including the Maury County Benefit Ball, the Polk Home, and The Polk Ball, carrying forward the connections that matter most.

As her professional life evolved, so did her personal life. Montgomery navigated divorce with intention and reflection. “There’s no blueprint for life after divorce, but redesigning your life is possible, one thoughtful decision at a time.”

Rather than viewing the change as loss, she approached it as refinement. “I was still me just a different, happier me.” Balance became central: balance in work, relationships, and personal well-being. Daily walks, mindful meals, quiet mornings, and deepened friendships became foundational rather than optional.

Divorce changes the relationship status and rearranges the architecture of life. It isn’t about erasing the past or starting from scratch. It’s about meeting yourself where you are and moving forward with intention. “Over and over, friends and strangers have commented that I am glowing, my smile is brighter,” Montgomery said. “Yes, I think that what you feel inside definitely reflects how you are feeling emotionally, spiritually, and physically.”

The art of presence is equally important to Montgomery. “Dressing with intention and leaving the house composed even on ordinary days is a quiet declaration of self-respect and can easily raise my mood. I show respect for myself and my surroundings by choosing to dress mindfully. I think a woman who moves through the world with a little polish is dignified, poised, and quietly confident.”

I think a woman who moves through the world with a little polish is dignified, poised, and quietly confident. “ “

Equally important has been community. Letters, notes, and gestures of kindness from friends became tangible reminders of support. “Strength isn’t measured by solitude alone,” she said. “It’s measured by the wisdom to reach out.” Those expressions of care reinforced her faith, which she says has been refined rather than diminished. “Divorce has not weakened my faith; it has deepened it.”

TRAVEL THE WORLD

Beyond

The Riverbanks

CAPTIVATING RHINE - FESTIVE DELIGHTS

THE NETHERLANDS, GERMANY, FRANCE, SWITZERLAND

Cruise through the heart of Europe during the most festive time of year and experience the timeless tradition of its magical Christmas Markets.

MUSIC CITY PUBLICATIONS INVITES YOU TO SAIL ON THE AMACERTO

Captivating Rhine - Festive Delights November 18-25, 2026 Amsterdam to Basel

For additional information about the sailing contact Kathy at kfox@musiccitypublications.com

Her approach remains consistent: take something that isn’t working and shape it into what it should be. That philosophy also extends to hosting flower tutorials again in her Columbia home.

Today, Montgomery is stepping back into design not as reinvention, but as a return. Her approach remains consistent: take something that isn’t working and shape it into what it should be. That philosophy also extends to hosting flower tutorials again in her Columbia home. She has created a welcoming home that reflects her signature warmth. Built-in bookshelves anchor a thoughtfully designed library. A refreshed kitchen supports her love of cooking and entertaining. Family antiques hold places of honor. “Nothing has to be finished to be meaningful,” she said. “You just start.”

Beginning in March, she will host intimate private gatherings in her home; dinners, floral workshops, popups with guest artists, and brunches centered around conversation and the art of hospitality. Evenings will begin with appetizers in the library, followed by shared meals and discussions about entertaining and design. “It’s what I’ve always done,” she said. “Just more intentional.”

She has also launched a refreshed website, featuring longtime collaborators who are picking up where she left off and updating it to reflect where she is headed. Her designer pillow line was re-launched in July. The locally made pillows will be available exclusively at her Nashville shop, Gas Lamp, Too, and are made with materials sourced in the United States. The pillow collection reflects her belief that beauty should feel welcoming and lived-in.

Columbia, Tennessee

A heartfelt thank you to the businesses that graciously allowed Amy Montgomery to photograph on site. Their hospitality and support helped us capture this beautiful story. We invite you to visit, shop local, and support these businesses.

The Bourbon Gospel

807A S GARDEN STREET | COLUMBIA, TN 38401 (615) 821-0813 | resy.com

Hester & Cook

340A MAIN STREET | FRANKLIN, TN 37064 (615) 205-2600 | hesterandcook.com

J.J. Ashley’s

125 SOUTH MARGIN STREET | FRANKLIN, TN 37064 (615) 791-0011

Trader Joe’s

545 COOL SPRINGS BLVD | FRANKLIN, TN 37067 (615) 771-3697 | traderjoes.com

Woven

28 PUBLIC SQUARE | COLUMBIA, TN 38401 (931) 797-8446 | wearwoven.co

This design is about presence — about showing up with clarity, confidence, and gratitude. It’s about honoring the past while embracing what’s ahead.

Alongside her product offerings, she consults on renovations and new builds, guiding homeowners and realtors in thoughtfully elevating spaces. Most recently, she has partnered on a new home build in Williamson County and will be showcasing a behind-the-scenes look at creating a luxe home from the ground up.

This design is about presence about showing up with clarity, confidence, and gratitude. It’s about honoring the past while embracing what’s ahead. “There’s freedom in starting again, and power in knowing who you are,” Montgomery concluded.

And so, the elephant is tackled. Slowly. Purposefully. With intention and at a beautifully set table. n

AMY MONTGOMERY has over 25 years of design experience and is the owner of Amy Montgomery Home, located in Nashville. Her Columbia design studio is available by appointment only at (931) 982-4988 Montgomery’s curated collection of entertaining essentials is available online, along with a selection of her many design services and a calendar of events. Visit amymontgomeryhome.com to learn more.

L E A R N M O R E A T C A B U L L D O G S .

FROM RUNWAY TO RIVERBANK

A Sportsman’s Paradise at Island Bend Farms

BY KATIE BAKER

Set along the sweeping bends of Kentucky Lake and the Tennessee River, Island Bend Farms is a rare and remarkable 1,100±-acre legacy property in southwestern Middle Tennessee that redefines what it means to own land with purpose, scale, and possibility. With more than four miles of river frontage, a private FAA-charted airfield, 114±-acre private island, and a diverse mix of pasture, hardwoods, and water features, this extraordinary farm offers an opportunity seldom seen in today’s market.

At its core, Island Bend Farms is a property of options. Whether envisioned as a private family retreat, an elite outdoorsman’s reserve, a hilltop estate with panoramic river views, or a thoughtfully planned development for marinas, resorts, or riverfront living, the land lends itself effortlessly to multiple futures each as compelling as the last.

With more than four miles of river frontage, a private FAA-charted airfield, 114±-acre private island, and a diverse mix of pasture, hardwoods, and water features, this extraordinary farm offers an opportunity seldom seen in today’s market.

Approximately 1,000± acres of property lie on the mainland, where open pasture and mature hardwoods create a classic Southern landscape. The fertile bottomland has a long agricultural history and is currently improved pasture, producing hay from a blend of ryegrass, fescue, orchard grass, and clover. Roughly 300± acres of open ground support agricultural use, while wooded areas provide privacy, beauty, and abundant wildlife habitat. Adding to the ecological richness, approximately 130± acres are enrolled in a Wetland Reserve Program easement, offering protected wetlands that attract waterfowl and enhance the property’s natural character.

Water is a defining feature of Island Bend Farms. Two inlets from the Tennessee River weave through the property, forming a private 38±-acre lake and flooded cypress sloughs that feel both wild and serene. The river itself opens the door to boating, fishing, and cruising adventures supporting travel south to the Gulf of Mexico or north toward the Great Lakes for those pursuing the famed Great Loop.

Accessibility sets this property apart. The private, FAA-charted Island Bend Farms Airport (Identifier: 4TN9) features a freshly graded 3,000±-foot grass runway, with the potential for expansion to 6,000 feet. With Nashville and Memphis nearby, flights are only about 25 minutes away, blending rural seclusion with exceptional connectivity. On the ground, more than 13 miles of improved interior roads make the property easily navigable by truck, ATV, horseback, or utility vehicle.

Elevated wooded hilltops throughout the farm provide ideal building sites for a 5+ bedroom estate, family compound, or boutique resort. These vantage points offer sweeping views of the river and surrounding countryside from one of the highest points in Decatur County. Existing improvements include two half-acre river lots on Scenic Lane, a modern tiny home on stilts overlooking the river and inlet, and a substantial 148' x 96' pole barn suited for equipment, storage, or operational needs.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Island Bend Farms is nothing short of exceptional. The land supports year-round recreation, including whitetail deer, turkey, duck, geese, and dove hunting, boating, fishing, trail riding, and equestrian use. Deer stands and blinds are already in place, and the mix of open fields, hardwoods, wetlands, and water creates a premier habitat for both game and wildlife viewing.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Island Bend Farms is nothing short of exceptional. The land supports year-round recreation, including whitetail deer, turkey, duck, geese, and dove hunting, boating, fishing, trail riding, and equestrian use.

Island Bend Farms

Island Bend Farms is just an hour and a half away from Columbia and two hours from Franklin and is listed with Baker Group Realty in downtown Columbia, Tennessee. For questions and inquiries about this unique property, reach out to Jacob Haddad at 615-390-0229 or Katie Baker at 901-351-7235.

Despite its privacy and scale, the property is conveniently located near I-40, making travel to Nashville and Memphis by car easy. Nearby attractions include Ross Creek Landing Golf Course, Clifton and Riverstone Marinas, and the Bath Springs Farmers Market adding lifestyle appeal beyond the gates.

Island Bend Farms may be purchased in its entirety or divided into thoughtfully planned parcels, with options beginning at $4,750 per acre. Available tracts include Conservation, Scenic Lane, Island, Marine, Airfield, Primary, Development, and Residential parcels, allowing buyers to tailor their ownership to their vision.

In a world where truly irreplaceable land is increasingly scarce, Island Bend Farms stands apart. It is not just acreage it is a legacy, a destination, and an open canvas for those ready to create something extraordinary along one of the South’s most storied waterways. n

KATIE BAKER is a local REALTOR and the owner of Baker Group, Maury County’s boutique brokerage. Baker Group specializes in Fine Properties, Historic Homes, Vacation Homes, and Commercial Real Estate in Middle Tennessee and the Tennessee River. Call (901) 351-7235 to schedule an appointment and follow them on social media @bakergrouprealty

Q&A WITH LEE PEPPER NEVER OUTMATCHED HHH

In a world where leadership is constantly tested by change, pressure, and uncertainty, Lee Pepper has built a reputation for meeting every challenge head-on. In his book Never Outmatched, he shares the mindset, discipline, and lived experiences that have shaped his approach to leadership, resilience, and marketing.

Pepper is an Army veteran and seasoned C-suite executive with more than 25 years of experience in marketing and leadership. As a former Army Armor Officer, responsible for strategically directing tanks and heavy armored units to achieve maximum effect, he has held CIO and CMO roles in the healthcare sector, helping scale organizations to more than $1.5 billion. Drawing from this depth of experience, he shares hardwon insights to empower others to navigate challenges, grow confidently, and succeed in their own daily battles in the business world.

As a former Army Armor Officer, responsible for strategically directing tanks and heavy armored units to achieve maximum effect, he has held CIO and CMO roles in the healthcare sector, helping scale organizations to more than $1.5 billion

We hope you enjoy this Q&A as Pepper opens up about the lessons behind the book, the moments that pushed him to grow, and the principles he believes can help anyone show up stronger both personally and professionally.

HHH

When did you know you wanted to write your book, Never Outmatched, and what was the main inspiration leading you to write it?

I traced my inspiration back 15 years, when I was asked to present at our private equity sponsors’ conference of portfolio companies. That experience could have been derailed if I had not stood my ground on the data I was sharing and my style of presentation. I realized that so many young leaders get overwhelmed by bureaucracy and the status quo, so I wanted to share the strategies I learned early in my service.

Give our readers a high-level overview of what they can expect to learn about blending marketing with military strategies.

Two aspects of my book come to mind. First, some companies jump from tactic to tactic because the modern social media platforms are easy to navigate, but difficult to build a return on the investment. So, we are always chasing performance. Start with the strategy and those platforms may be appropriate, but they also might now be part of your marketing strategy, don’t let fear of missing out dictate your approach. Secondly, is commander’s intent. I love working with millennials, Gen Z, and now Gen Alpha. I don’t micromanage, and I serve to remove bureaucracy so they can innovate. Give them your commander’s intent and let them execute the mission.

In the modern-day marketing battlefield, what is your number one piece of advice to small businesses?

Force Multiplication! You are already spending time and money on pieces of content like a blog post, photos, social media, or print. You need to force multiply that content across as many platforms as dictated by your initial strategy. You’ve already done the hard work and spent the dollars, now multiply it to further your reach. Don’t wait for your customers to find you, go engage with them.

You reference many quotes throughout the book. What are two quotes, one military and one not, that resonate the most with you?

“Success in war depends on the golden rules of war: Speed, simplicity, and boldness.”

GENERAL GEORGE PATTON

“Some leaders stick their heads in the sand and claim they are in a sandstorm.”

NOAH BENSHEA

Being a Franklin resident with a military background, how does the town’s history connect with you?

My father had a 26-year career in the Army. During one of his assignments, he taught Military Science at MTSU, so I grew up visiting battlefields. I passed this along to my two sons, taking them up to Winstead Hill and Fort Granger for explorations from an early age. We are fortunate that the active preservation continues with new markers and sections opening every year.

What’s next for you? Are there any other books in the works or new projects?

I just finished my first TEDx talk in Ocala, so presentations and speaking are keeping me busy. I do have a second book that I am working on, and I continue to consult in behavioral healthcare.

Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

Your book is a wealth of information. What message do you hope readers take away after reading it?

Your success is within you; it is at your fingertips. It will require research, practice, mentorship, and decisions. Your leaders, the Board of Directors, and the C-Suite hired you; the pressure can be high, but they are cheering hard for you to succeed!

There are some amazing authors in Williamson and Maury County, and we still have bookstores! With all the disruptions caused by screens in our youth these days, give a young person a book and highlight or write something in the book to spark their interest! n

Follow Peper on social media @theleepepper. Find his book Never Outmatched both in physical and e-book/audiobook formats online and at local retailers, so you too can learn to lead, innovate, and win!

Seeing Beauty Through ART

GALLERY 48

BY KATHY FOX

Beauty, as they say, is in the eye of the beholder and at Gallery 48 in downtown Columbia, Tennessee, beauty unfolds in layers of color, texture, and story. The gallery showcases a vibrant mix of local and international artists, each offering a unique perspective on the world around them. Among those artists is Columbia-based painter Mary Lehner, whose original art captures still lifes, seascapes, and landscapes.

Art has been part of Lehner’s life for as long as she can remember. Raised in a creative household, she was surrounded by visual thinking and design from an early age, as her father worked in construction and drafting. Her passion for art followed her through high school and into college, where she earned a degree in illustration. Painting became a deeper passion after the birth of her oldest daughter, when a watercolor workshop sparked a lasting love for painting outdoors while living in Hawaii.

Primarily working in watercolor, with oils and acrylics splashed into the mix, Lehner describes her style as interpretive realism. While her work is grounded in realism, it is guided by intuition and emotion rather than strict representation. Color plays a central role in her paintings bold, expressive, and unapologetic. Trends toward monochromatic palettes have never tempted her. “If it doesn’t have color, it feels lifeless to me,” she stated.

Her goal is simple yet profound: to show beauty and allow others to experience it the way she does. “There is a sensation in experiencing God’s creation that I infuse into my pieces by painting from life and also reinterpreting those pieces in my studio. Psalm 19:1-4 continues to be my inspiration. ‘The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge.’ What an amazing reason to paint!”

There is a sensation in experiencing God’s creation that I infuse into my pieces by painting from life and also reinterpreting those pieces in my studio.

Lehner took a scenic route to Columbia in 2021, with her life’s journey taking her through Hawaii, California, Washington, Oregon, and even Canada before finally landing in the South. Much of that movement followed family, as she and her husband prioritized staying close to their children and grandchildren.

Along the way, Lehner became involved in the art communities where she lived. She first taught watercolor classes in Spokane in 2005 and, after a 7-year hiatus, returned to teaching in Portland in 2018. Teaching challenged her to slow down and articulate what had long been instinctive. Watching students discover their own artistic styles became one of the most rewarding parts of her career. “I love seeing students come into their own and watch them develop their own style.”

Watercolor, Lehner admits, can be an unforgiving medium especially for beginners. She encourages her students to give themselves grace, reminding them that growth comes through both successes and failures. That same lesson has stayed with her personally, especially during recent seasons of life marked by profound change and loss.

Last August, Lehner experienced the loss of her husband of nearly 25 years. During his illness, painting had taken a back seat, but in October, she felt ready to return outdoors to paint again. That decision led her to enter the Eagle Plein Air Festival & Competition in Eagle, Idaho. In this weeklong event, artists paint on location, capturing the natural beauty of Eagle Island State Park.

This experience tested her confidence at a delicate stage of life and pushed her to create again. By the end of the competition, she had entered two paintings for judging. Over the years, Lehner has won numerous awards in juried exhibitions, but was stunned to receive Best Architecture and Best New Artist honors. Even more unexpectedly, all six of the paintings she created during the event sold before she returned home an affirmation at a pivotal moment in her life.

Today, Lehner continues to nurture her 30-year passion for painting. She continues to teach in studio and on location, is working on expanding her Southern art portfolio, and accepts commissions. Her current collection of work captures both reflection and renewal, drawing inspiration from places she has lived, moments she has experienced, and the quiet dialogue that happens when faith, memories, and creativity intersect. Before each painting, she pauses and prays, allowing the process to unfold as she is led.

Lehner’s work will be featured at Gallery 48 throughout April, with a meet and greet at the Opening Reception on Thursday, April 2, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Lehner will also be in gallery on Friday, April 3, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. as part of Columbia’s First Friday festivities. Wine and small bites will be served, and visitors are invited to experience her work up close color, story, and all. n

Gallery 48 is located at 107 West 7th Street, Columbia, Tennessee. For additional information on featured artists such as Mary Lehner, visit gallery48.art. Follow on social media @gallery48.art

411 on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act 6 Key Provisions

BY ALLEN BUCKLEY

In the ever-evolving world of tax policy and economic incentives, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025, stands out as a comprehensive piece of legislation designed to provide relief and opportunities for millions of Americans. This act builds on previous tax reforms while introducing new measures aimed at boosting take-home pay, supporting families, and encouraging long-term savings. As we begin 2026, it's worth exploring some of the most impactful changes that could reshape personal finances for workers, families, seniors, and even the next generation.

While these new provisions are welcomed, remember that your individual circumstances will vary; always consult your CPA or investment advisor to understand how they might apply to you.

1

Permanent Extension of the 2017 Tax Cuts

One of the cornerstone changes is the permanent extension of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provisions. Originally set to expire, these adjustments to income tax rates and brackets are now locked in, averting what could have been a significant tax hike for many middle- and working-class households starting this year. For a typical family of four, this could mean retaining thousands of dollars annually. Estimates of take-home pay range from $7,600 to $10,900, depending on income levels. This stability in tax structure not only eases budgeting but also stimulates broader economic growth by leaving more money in consumers' pockets.

2

No Federal Income Tax on Tips

Another provision generating buzz, especially in service-oriented industries, is the elimination of federal income tax on qualified tips, available as an above-the-line deduction up to $25,000 per year (through 2028). This benefit is fully available for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) below $150,000 (single filers) or $300,000 (married filing jointly), phasing out gradually above those thresholds until fully eliminated. Affecting millions, roughly two-thirds of tipped employees, this change allows for full deduction of tip income from federal taxes, while still preserving contributions to Social Security and Medicare. Its temporary nature through 2028 adds an element of urgency for those in the service economy.

3

No Federal Income Tax on Overtime Pay

Closely related is the no federal income tax on qualified overtime pay, provided as an above-the-line deduction up to $12,500 per taxpayer ($25,000 for married filing jointly). The deduction is fully available below a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of $150,000 (single) or $300,000 (joint), with a gradual phase-out above those levels. This deduction incentivizes extra hours without the federal income tax bite, potentially increasing effective wages and encouraging workforce participation in sectors like manufacturing, construction, and healthcare. For those relying on overtime to make ends meet or save for big goals, this could translate to noticeable gains in monthly earnings.

4

Enhanced Deductions and Relief for Seniors

Seniors also stand to gain from enhanced deductions and relief measures. The act introduces an additional standard deduction of up to $6,000 for those aged 65 and older, combined with the permanent lower tax rates. This could result in many retirees paying little to no federal tax on their Social Security benefits, helping stretch fixed incomes amid inflation and healthcare expenses. With millions of Americans in or nearing retirement, this provision offers a meaningful layer of financial security.

5

Increased Child Tax Credit and Family Support

Families with children receive targeted support through the permanent extension and slight enhancement of the Child Tax Credit, now up to $2,200 per qualifying child in peak years. This refundable credit provides direct relief to lower- and middleincome parents, reducing tax liabilities or even delivering refunds. It's designed to offset the costs of raising children, from education to childcare, and affects a wide swath of households. The potential to alleviate some financial pressures of parenthood makes this a welcome development for growing families.

Additionally, philanthropists Michael and Susan Dell have pledged $6.25 billion, adding $250 per account for up to 25 million children aged 10 and under in ZIP codes with median incomes below $150,000, with private contributions capped at $5,000 annually and accounts opening on July 4, 2026.

As these six provisions unfold, they represent a blend of immediate relief and strategic incentives that could influence everything from daily budgets to generational wealth. However, the complexities of tax law and investments mean that what seems beneficial on paper may interact uniquely with your situation. Be sure to seek guidance from your CPA or investment advisor.

Spring Cleaning for

YOUR BODY

WHY YOUR GUT IS LIKE A GARDEN

BY LORI ZABKA

Spring invites renewal. Windows open, clutter clears, and many head outside to prepare gardens. Yet in all this external renewal, the most important garden gets overlooked: the one inside the body.

As a longevity specialist and founder of Hearth & Health, I learned that the gut microbiome the trillions of bacteria living in the digestive tract functions exactly like a garden. I came to understand this lesson years ago in my garden at the feet of the Blue Ridge Mountains that in the same way soil nourishes a backyard garden, the gut microbiome shapes whether we thrive or merely survive.

The Lesson in the Dirt

Determined to grow beautiful organic vegetables, I planted with enthusiasm. But the garden failed miserably. Blight, mildew, and insects descended. I treated every visible problem as it appeared spraying here, adjusting there convinced that if I could just manage the surface chaos, everything would flourish.

Nothing worked. Then a local gardening guru delivered the hard truth. "It's about the soil, Lori. You've got to build the soil." No quick fixes or sprays. Just a redirection downward, beneath the struggling plants, into the dark earth itself. "What you see above the ground is just a manifestation of what's going on below the surface," I was told. "Stay focused and keep building your healthy soil."

Following this advice, I stopped waging war against every visible pest. Instead, I worked with the rhythm of the garden itself. I added minerals to balance the soil, rotated crops to restore depleted nutrients, and composted kitchen scraps into rich organic matter. Layer by layer, season by season, I built an ecosystem, not a battleground.

Slowly, my garden was transformed. The plants reflected the care happening below, becoming resilient enough to fight off threats. That garden taught me the cornerstone of my work with clients: symptoms can't be treated on the surface if the foundation beneath is broken.

Most people spend years chasing symptoms, never

addressing what lies beneath: a dysregulated gut microbiome.

The Body’s Internal Soil

As I explain to clients, your gut is the body's foundation — the internal soil from which all vitality grows. Within your digestive system lives a vast community of trillions of microorganisms. This microbiome regulates your metabolism, produces 90% of your serotonin and other hormones, manufactures dopamine and GABA, and houses two-thirds of your immune system. Yet modern life assaults this ecosystem. Processed foods, chronic stress, poor sleep, antibiotics, environmental toxins, and sedentary lifestyles all erode microbial diversity. The result? A compromised soil.

When the microbiome becomes unbalanced, the body sends signals: perpetual fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, unpredictable digestion, bloating, and eventually chronic disease. These conditions are often dismissed as normal aging. Most people spend years chasing symptoms, never addressing what lies beneath: a dysregulated gut microbiome. They never build the soil.

Rebuilding the Foundation

The beautiful truth? The microbiome can be restored. The body has a remarkable capacity to heal when given what it needs. My approach starts with these foundational steps:

Eat for the microbes.

A fiber-rich, colorful variety of vegetables and plant foods. Fiber feeds beneficial gut bacteria.

Include healthy fats.

Avocados, nuts, olive oil, and omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and support vitamin absorption.

Move regularly.

Daily walking and strength training support gut motility and reduce stress.

Reduce irritants.

Limiting processed foods, refined grains, and added sugars prevents feeding harmful bacteria and fueling inflammation.

Consider a quality probiotic. Unlike conventional probiotics that often don't survive stomach acid, spore-based probiotics can reach the intestines and help restore balance.

Prioritize rest.

Quality sleep allows the gut to repair and heal.

Reconnect with nature.

Time outdoors introduces beneficial microbes that support immune and gut function.

Eliminate toxins where possible.

Choosing organic foods when possible, swapping conventional cleaning products for natural solutions, and replacing toxic personal care products with safer alternatives all support gut health.

Rethink antibacterial products. Antibacterial soaps don't discriminate between good and bad bacteria. Instead, use regular soap and water for everyday cleaning so as not to kill the good bacteria.

Rebuilding your internal soil takes time, intention, and consistency, but the rewards are profound. When your gut thrives, your body and mind follow. Digestion improves. Inflammation quiets. Energy returns. Mental clarity increases.

As people prepare their gardens this spring, I remind them that better soil is needed. Rebuild the gut. Remove what's harming. Restore what's been depleted. And watch what grows. Your body is capable of extraordinary things — at any age, but it needs the right foundation. This spring, give it one. n

ZABKA is a Longevity Specialist and the Founder of Hearth & Health.

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How Football Made America Feel Like HOME

BY VANESSA KOHORST

When Florian Kober arrived in America last July as an exchange student, the scale of everything struck him immediately everything felt massive. Coming from the quiet countryside of his Austrian hometown, a peaceful farming village of just around 3,000 people, where he was used to a life centered on orchards, sprawling fields, livestock, and simple routines.

On his family's farm in Markt Hartmannsdorf, located 30 minutes east of Austria’s second-largest city, Graz, they produced pears, apples, wheat, pumpkins, and tomatoes, and Kober even helped care for nearly 200 chickens. It was a world of early mornings, honest labor, and the comforting predictability of rural life. Yet one ambition burned brightly in Kober: he was determined to play American football.

Travel had never been a big part of Kober’s life. Having flown once before, the journey from Vienna to Nashville International Airport felt like entering an entirely new world. Waiting for him at BNA was his host family, eager to welcome him and help usher in his new chapter of life in the States.

Without much time to rest or recover from jet lag, Kober was taken straight from the airport to football practice. There, he met nearly 90 players, and it was a whirlwind introduction to American high school sports. Practices were fast-paced and intense, filled with terminology he had never heard before. Yet the team quickly embraced him, offering encouragement, friendship, and patience as he learned. Many of those teammates soon became close friends, helping Kober feel at home.

Kober had never played American football before, but it had always been a dream. His background in soccer gave him a strong foundation that naturally translated into kicking. Coaches recognized his potential almost immediately, and #45 began training as a kicker for Battle Creek High School in Spring Hill, led by head coach Justin Burum. With determination and countless hours of practice, he sharpened his technique and built confidence week after week.

Friday nights soon became magical. Riding the school bus to games with teammates, hearing the crowd under the stadium lights, and feeling the team's shared energy created memories that felt straight out of a movie. Kober was embraced not only by the coaches and players but also by the school community and host family, who supported him through every milestone.

As the season progressed, Kober developed consistency, accuracy, and composure under pressure, earning the trust of his coaches and teammates. He became one of the most liked and respected players on the roster, admired not only for his athletic performance but also for his positive attitude and humility. His journey from a quiet Austrian farm to a competitive American football field captured the community's attention.

Recognition soon followed. Kober was awarded Special Teams Player of the Year and earned All-Region Second Team Kicker honors. He also received Big Bad Breakfast Player of the Week and multiple team awards with the Battle Creek Grizzlies. His accomplishments even led to an appearance on a local radio show, where listeners learned about the international student who had embraced American football with passion and grit.

What makes #45s story especially remarkable is the speed of his transformation. In a single season, Kober went from having no football experience to becoming an award-winning athlete competing at a high level. His international background, farm upbringing, and willingness to step into unfamiliar territory created a story that feels uniquely American in spirit, even though it began halfway across the world.

Kober’s journey reflects courage, adaptability, and the power of opportunity. “Playing high school football in the United States was a dream come true and an unforgettable time in my life,” he said. “I formed lifelong friendships and gained experiences that will forever stay with me.” From tending chickens and harvesting pumpkins to celebrating victories under Friday night lights, he proved that dreams could grow in the most unexpected places.

At the end of May, Kober will return to his hometown in Austria. As his exchange time concludes, his experience serves as a reminder that sometimes the bravest step is simply saying yes to something unknown and having faith that hard work and heart will carry you the rest of the way. n

Kober’s exchange year was hosted by EF High School Exchange, which has been promoting global awareness through student exchange for more than 45 years. For information on hosting an exchange student, contact Ryan Gustin at ryan.gustin@efexchangeyear.org or visit efexchangeyear.org

Never a Bad Day in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

BY TOM ADKINSON

Hotels and medium-rise condos overlooking Banderas Bay allow visitors a home base for long-term exploration.

Never a Bad Day. That is Puerto Vallarta’s promotional slogan, which is more than hype. It’s a mindset, especially in the Zona Romantica, a bustling part of the city that caters heavily to visitors while also remaining a place where locals live and work. Staying in the Zona Romantica and exploring the area is a cultural baptism, somewhere between a Methodist sprinkling and a Baptist immersion.

Puerto Vallarta was a Pacific Coast fishing village that evolved into a major metropolis (population 4,800 in 1950 and 588,000 today) and resort destination. High-end properties abound, but even visitors who choose insular resorts schedule walks and food tours in the Zona Romantica and adjacent neighborhoods such as El Centro and 5 de Diciembre. The city’s LGBTQ+ welcomeness adds another dimension.

Hotels and medium-rise condos overlooking Banderas Bay allow visitors a home base for long-term exploration. They offer an experience far different from Cancun, Key West, or 30A. From those accommodations, you can enjoy sand and spectacular sunsets and also wander cobblestone streets to ease into sidewalk taco stands, watch a fishmonger expertly filet marlin or red snapper, smell the leather in a working cobbler’s shop, chat with a server (sometimes with Google translator’s help) in an open-air breakfast joint where $10 buys more than you can eat, laugh with an ambling pastry vendor, trade smiles with a fruit seller sorting limes destined for your mojito or chance upon a mural of Elizabeth Taylor more on Liz in a moment.

Puerto Vallarta is hugely popular with Canadians, many of whom follow the lead of humpback whales to spend the entire winter, and Americans, particularly those from the western U.S. It is fertile territory for exploring Mexican culture firsthand. Here are five great ways to soak it all in.

Stroll the Malecón

The show never ends on the Malecón, a 1.25-mile-long seaside promenade. On one side is Banderas Bay, with squadrons of pelicans overhead, jet skis through the waves, and cruise ships gliding in and out of port. Opposite that beauty is an eye-popping conglomeration of restaurants, bars (two-for-one margaritas everywhere), handicraft and souvenir shops, vendors, and tour agents. In the middle are buskers, walkers, gawkers, joggers, cyclists, public statuary that amuses and confuses, and a team of acrobats called the Voladores de Papantla, who stage a dizzying spectacle off a 100-foot-tall pole. Fireworks from a faux pirate ship brighten every evening. It’s all a visual blast.

Go to the mountaintop

Mountains rise from the ocean south of town. Jungle canopy tours and ATV rides appeal to some visitors, but others gravitate to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, 64 acres of tranquility 1,300 feet up a mountainside. Attractions include an orchid conservatory with 300 of Mexico’s 1,000 orchid varieties, 50 butterfly species, and 200 bird species. Hummingbirds are abundant from May through November. A trail system and a wadable river add more diversions, as does the open-air two-level Hacienda de Oro restaurant.

Thar she blows!

Massive Banderas Bay, boasting 65 miles of coastline and 500 square miles of water, is the winter home for humpback whales that come south to birth babies and mate for more. Perhaps 700 of the massive mammals, up to 40 tons and 60 feet long, spout, roll, and sometimes leap from the water. It is common to see them from the Malecón. Whale watching excursions are popular, and anglers on charter trips often see whales. Also in the bay are dolphins, sea turtles, rays, shrimp, tuna, mahi, and pulpo (octopus), which is excellent in tacos or grilled as an entrée.

Say hi to Liz and Richard

John Huston’s 1964 movie The Night of the Iguana created quite a stir about Puerto Vallarta. However, the buzz wasn’t about the movie. Instead, the spotlight was on the lead actor, Richard Burton, and his companion, Elizabeth Taylor, who wasn’t in the film. Fifty years later, reminders of the lovebirds are numerous. You will find murals, statues, and a mash-up painting that combines their roles in Cleopatra with an iguana and a depiction of a young boy on a seahorse, an iconic local image. On that note is the Casa Kimberly, a boutique hotel in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, where Liz and Richard, well ...

Hit the beach

Beaches, of course, are a magnet. Playa Los Muertos is in the Romantic Zone and is lined with restaurants, some of which have your feet in the sand, and the waves might roll under your table. Dozens more beaches are around the bay, and several are small and less crowded than those in the main city. Nearby examples include Conchas Chinas Beach, just a quick taxi ride away; Mismaloya Beach, famous for its Night of the Iguana ties; and Yelapa Beach, easily reached by a short boat ride. n

Nashvillian TOM ADKINSON is a Marco Polo member of the Society of American Travel Writers and author of 100 Things To Do in Nashville Before You Die. He enjoys Puerto Vallarta every January, strolling the beaches and enjoying the sunsets with a margarita in hand!

The Silent Impact of STRESS on Your Oral Health

BY KATHY FOX

In today’s always-on world, stress seems to have become an accepted part of modern life. Between professional demands, family life, and the constant digital distractions, stress bombards us every day. Though it is most commonly linked to negatively impacting mental and cardiovascular health, stress’s effect on oral health is frequently overlooked yet significant.

Dr. Cone, with OMS Nashville, is Dual-Board Certified, a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and the National Board of Dental Anesthesiology, and is very familiar with the effects of stress on oral health.

Stress can quietly manifest in the mouth long before patients realize anything is wrong. “Oral health is deeply connected to what’s happening elsewhere in the body,” Dr. Cone explained. “When stress becomes chronic, it doesn’t just alter sleep or mood it shows up in jaw tension, inflammation, decreased immunity, and even infection.”

One of the most common stress-related conditions dentists and oral surgeons encounter is bruxism, or teeth grinding. Often occurring during sleep, bruxism can wear down enamel, fracture teeth and restorations, and place excessive strain on the jaw joint. Patients may wake up with headaches, facial soreness, or stiffness without immediately connecting those symptoms to stress.

One of the best ways to prevent grinding teeth at night is to wear a mouthguard while sleeping. Without treatment for teeth grinding, one can break or crack teeth or wear them down, which may ultimately lead to damage that cannot be repaired. Teeth may require surgical removal or dental implants to replace them.

Beyond grinding, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can also be exacerbated by stress. TMJ disorders include a variety of conditions affecting the joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull, as well as the muscles responsible for chewing. Symptoms may include jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking and popping sounds during movement. These issues arise when the jaw joints and the muscles of mastication (chewing muscles) are not functioning correctly together.

Advances in diagnostic techniques and treatment options have made TMJ disorders more readily identifiable and manageable. It should be noted that certain TMJ conditions can progress if left untreated, making early evaluation and appropriate care an essential role in preventing more serious complications. “The jaw is a natural place where people hold tension,” Dr. Cone noted. “When stress isn’t addressed, the constant muscle tension can lead to headaches, facial pain, and joint discomfort.”

The jaw is a natural place where people hold tension. When stress isn’t addressed, the constant muscle tension can lead to headaches, facial pain, and joint discomfort. “ ”

Even though occasional periods of stress occur every day, prolonged daily stress can gradually undermine the body’s immune defenses. Cortisol plays an essential role in regulating the body’s inflammation, but when chronic stress disrupts that normal function, inflammatory responses can become out of control.

Over time, this imbalance may affect overall health and the condition of the mouth and gums, making the gums more susceptible to infection and slower to heal after dental procedures. This can increase the risk of periodontal disease, which has been linked not only to tooth loss but also to broader systemic conditions such as high blood pressure, gastrointestinal issues, or back pain, to mention a few.

A warning sign that is regularly overlooked is dry mouth, which can be caused by stress or by medications used to manage anxiety. With less saliva to naturally protect teeth and gums, bacteria can multiply more easily, increasing the risk of cavities and leaving the mouth feeling uncomfortable and dry.

At OMS Nashville, Dr. Cone takes a comprehensive approach one that looks beyond isolated symptoms. “We encourage patients to see oral health as part of their overall wellness,” he said. “Sometimes treating the physical issue also means addressing the lifestyle factors contributing to it.”

That approach may include custom oral appliances to protect teeth from grinding, minimally invasive surgical procedures when necessary, and close coordination with general dentists and other healthcare providers. Equally important is patient education. Helping patients understand the connection between stress and oral health equips people to make life changes and adopt habits that go far beyond the dental chair.

Simple strategies like improving sleep quality, managing daily stress, and maintaining consistent oral hygiene — can have a meaningful impact. Routine dental checkups are also an integral part, enabling early detection of potential issues before they become more serious.

In a time when holistic wellness is gaining more attention, oral health deserves a seat at the table. With proper oral care and awareness, it can lead to improved habits, lasting comfort, and a stronger foundation for overall well-being and oral health. As Dr. Cone emphasized, “The mouth is not isolated from the rest of the body — it is an integral part of overall health. When we listen carefully to the signs it provides, we often identify conditions that extend well beyond the teeth and gums. Routine dental care is critical to detect and manage oral disease early, often preventing the need for more invasive surgical intervention and reducing the risk of systemic health consequences.” n

Dr. Cone joined OMS Nashville in 2020 and enjoys practicing a full scope of oral surgery, including wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, orthognathic surgery, facial cosmetics, TMJ, and oral pathology. To make an appointment, call (931) 208-0216 or visit omsnashville.com.

Expert care you can for each milestone

Our pediatricians and family medicine providers o er more than just check-ups; we provide a medical home where your child is known, cared for and supported.

And when you select a Maury Regional Medical Group pediatrician, you’re connecting your child to a vast network of clinical excellence. Our providers coordinate seamlessly with Maury Regional Health’s specialized services — including pediatric physical, speech and occupational therapy — ensuring your child receives comprehensive care without the long drive.

With locations throughout southern Middle Tennessee, led by an experienced team of physicians, expert pediatric care is always close to home.