Harmony Life Magazine-February 2026

Letter From the Publisher

Hello Harmony!

Welcome to the February 2026 issue of Harmony Life Magazine!

February arrives with a special kind of energy-days growing longer, hearts turning toward love and connection , and a gentle reminder to pause and appreciate the people who make life meaningful. Whether you're celebrating Valentine 's Day, an anniversary, or simply enjoying time with family and friends , this month invites us to reflect on the relationships that truly matter.

Harmony continues to prove that community is built on those connections. We are especially honored to feature Bill and Millie Murray on our cover as they celebrate 61 years of marriage. Their story is a beautiful reminder that lasting love is built on faith , patience, laughter, and grace.

We are excited to welcome and sincerely thank our six new sponsors for February. Without the support of our sponsors, Harmony Life Magazine would not be possible-thank you to all our new and continuing partners.

Harmony Children's Theater brings creativity and opportunity to our local youth. In-Harmony Wellness offers in-home infusions and IV treatments to help you look and feel your best. Huff's Quality Air Conditioning keeps our homes comfortable year-round , and Premier Painting and Home Services LLC delivers quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Jameson Home Inspections LLC provides thorough , reliable inspections homeowners can trust, while Kenton Scott with Edward Jones helps residents plan confidently for their financial future.

As always, you ' ll find engaging community features , resident highlights, and local voices. Be sure to check out our Love Thy Neighbor feature , where residents recognize neighbors who have gone above and beyond.

Follow the Harmony Life Magazine Facebook group to stay connected with events, stories, and community news. If you have a story idea, milestone, or neighbor to highlight, I'd love to hear from you at flharmonylife@gmail.com.

Wishing you a February filled with love, warmth , and meaningful moments.

With gratitude,

Brady Evans

FEBRUARY 2026

A Publi cation of Harmony Neighborhood Magazine LLC

Contact Info for Residents

cddmaintenance@bermancor12.com Website: www.harmonY.cdd.org

Dan Leet

boardmember1@harmonycdd.org

Jo Phillips boardmember2 @harmonycdd.org

Brittany Coronel boardmember3 @harmonycdd.org

Lucas Chokanis boardmember4@harmonycdd.org

Julie Williams boardmember5 @harmonycdd.org

SHERIFF, NON-EMERGENCY 407-348-2222

HROA Association Solutions 811 Mabette St. , Kissimmee 407-847-2280, www.MyHOASolution.com

CONDOS HOA

Association Solutions, 407-847-2280

TOWNHOMES HOA

Association Solutions, 811 Mabette St. , Kissimmee, 407-847-2280 , www.MyHOASolution.com

SPECTRUM CABLE/ INTERNET 877-892-3279

CENTURY LINK CABLE/ INTERNET 866-314-4148

OUC ELECTRIC 407-957-7373

ADVANCED DISPOSAL - OSCEOLA 407-605-3892

3501 Pug Mill Rd. , Kissimmee, FL 34741 OsceolaFL@advanceddisposal.com

OSCEOLA COUNTY Osceola.erg - "Citizen Action Center" COUNTY COMMISSIONER RICKY BOOTH ricky. booth @osceola.org

WHERE HAPPINESS GROWS, AND PESTS DON'T GO.

Most pests hitch a ride right through your front door in packages. This season, stop the roaches and silverfish before they settle in.

Harmony High School Marching Band Selected for the London New Year's Day Parade

The Harmony High School Marching Band is heading to the world stage This New Year 's Day, students will march through the streets of London in the iconic London New Year 's Day Parade-representing not only their school , but the entire Harmony community.

This prestigious, invitation-only parade is the largest of its kind in the world , drawing more than half a million spectators and hundreds of millions of viewers globally. For Harmony High School , the invitation marks the band program 's first major international performance and a historic milestone

Director of Bands Will Vizoso says the opportunity is about more than music. " Experiences like this create lifelong memories," he shared . " I want students to leave Harmony with positive, lasting experiences from band-no matter where life takes them ."

Selection for the parade is highly competitive Beginning last summer, Vizoso submitted multiple performance recordings and completed several interviews as part of an extensive review process Parade officials ultimately selected Harmony for its consistent sound quality and high level of achievement-reflecting the students' dedication , discipline, and talent.

In addition to performing, students will enjoy a once-in-alifetime cultural experience, including visits to Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle, Oxford University, and other historic landmarks, along with a private New Year's Eve celebration and opportunities to attend prestigious concerts

Behind this honor are countless hours of rehearsal , summer band camps, football games, and competitions Marching band builds far more than musical skill-it develops resilience , teamwork, leadership, and confidence Many Harmony band students have gone on to earn scholarships, pursue careers in music and education , and return to give back to the program

The trip cost is $4,350 per student, making community support essential. Fundraising and sponsorships will help ensure every student has the opportunity to participate in this unforgettable experience.

To support the Harmony High School Marching Band 's journey to London , donations can be made at: htt12s://a12.12.boosterhub.com/fundraising/371/main

As the band prepares to take Harmony to one of the world 's biggest stages, this journey is more than a trip-it is a celebration of dedication , discipline, and the power of a community that believes in its students.

MEET THE Oertel. Family

Eric and Justine Oertel, along with their three children-Kaiyah (8), Judah (4), and Torah (1)-are a family "fueled by our sense of humor and love for adventure." In August 2025, they made a cross-country move from Wisconsin to Harmony, embracing a new chapter and quickly discovering they had found the right place to put down roots.

Family time is at the heart of the Oertels' life. They enjoy Disney trips, family walks, swimming, hiking, movie nights, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers-"Go Pack Go!" "Coming from a place where you're stuck indoors for several months of the year, being able to enjoy the outdoors year round has meant so much to our family," they shared.

Their journey to Harmony began with visits to family in the Melbourne area. "Every time we came down, we would jokingly, not so jokingly, talk about making this a permanent trip," Justine said. Eventually, those conversations turned into action. "We finally talked about it enough, we decided to take a leap of faith and go for it!"

That leap felt instantly affirmed. "As soon as we pulled into Harmony, we knew it was home," Justine recalled. "I literally cried." The tree-lined streets, homes full of character, children playing outside, and the sense of life everywhere made the decision feel undeniable.

What they love most about Harmony is the community itself. "Neighbors are truly willing to lend a hand and support one another," they shared, noting how intentional events make "such a large neighborhood feel small and connected." The amenities offer something for everyone, from lake walks and splash pad days to time at the community pool.

Weekends are typically spent outdoors-playing in the yard, walking the paths, or enjoying the park and pool-often followed by a family meal at the neighborhood restaurant, El Tenampa. When asked what advice they would give newcomers, their answer was simple and sincere: "Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and build relationships you truly won't regret it." And one final tip: "Make sure you watch the sunrise on Buck Lakeit's one of our favorite things to do."

JAMESON HOME INSPECTIONS LLC

-lbat Lmd to the Big Ones

BY: KIM STRAUCH

First things first. Parenting is hard. A kind of hard that no amount of education, training, or advice from experts can prepare you for. Even when you 've studied parenting and psychology theories for years, those theories are void of human emotion, making them nearly impossible to utilize when your child loses their mind because their blueberry muffin has blueberries in it. If you know, you know! So if no one has told you recently, you ' re doing great!

Throughout my career as a counselor, it's clear that parents and children want the same thing-to feel connected to one another. Everyone wants to be listened to and understood. It's the foundation of connection and trust. That doesn't mean you will always like, agree, or have answers to what your kids have to say. What it does mean is that you have to be present for the conversations. And while our kids might be " mini " versions of us on the outside, they are their own person on the inside.

Modeling healthy communication from a young, "easy " age is key to having healthy, open lines of communication when life starts getting " real. " This means being fully present while listening to our little Ross Gellars tell us everything there is to know about every dinosaur that ever existed for the 100th time and engaging them in conversation. Why? Because dinosaurs soon turn into conversations about religion, mortality, mental health, integrity, and many other topics that we want our kids coming to us to discuss-not some random friend or social media. If we want our kids to come to us with the " big stuff, " then we have to be there to listen to "all of the stuff. "

As parents, it's natural to be reactive and have big emotions when our kids do something dangerous or flat out stupid. The important follow up to those outbursts needs to be a calm conversation of the " why" behind the emotion because sometimes our kids really don't know.

Some of the most eye opening experiences I've had as a counselor are with children who don't tell their parents "the big stuff " because they ' re afraid of how they will react. It's heartbreaking for the parent to learn that their own child didn't feel comfortable coming to them.

Something I tell students, parents, my own kids, and myself is to give each other and yourself grace. Whether you have 6 kids or one, both parent and child are experiencing each part of life with that person for the first time. Mistakes will be made-that's how we all learn. Acknowledging your mistakes doesn't give you less power as a parent. It models to our kids that we' re all human and makes them less afraid to make mistakes of their own. When we give grace and learn, we grow and connect.

ABBEY EVANS

Fairytale Cleall"'

Right Here in Harmony

x x "{ Meet the Argenti Family of Happily Ever After Cleaning

With spring just around the corner, many Harmony residents are starting to think about fresh starts, open windows, and that much-needed spring deep clean. For Glenn and Jillian Argenti, helping families reset their homes is more than just a service-it's a passion rooted in family, faith, and community.

The Argenti family recently relocated to Harmony from Rochester, New York, bringing with them their three children-AJ, Grayson, and Jessa-and four cats aptly named Goose, Maverick, Iceman, and Slider (Top Gun fans will appreciate the theme). Like many busy families, their days begin early and move quickly. Jillian starts the morning before sunrise with coffee, prayer, and preparing lunches, while the rest of the household gets moving soon after. Once the kids are off to school, Glenn and Jillian head out together to serve their cleaning clients across the area.

At the heart of everything they do is family. "Time is one thing you can never get back;' the Argentis share. After years of working for others, they made the intentional decision to build a business that allowed them to create a schedule around their children, not the other way around. While owning a business comes with challenges, the flexibility to be present for school activities, sports, and community events has made it worthwhile.

Their journey to Harmony wasn't something they planned-it was something they believe was meant to be. After exploring neighborhoods throughout Central Florida, an open house in Harmony happened to align perfectly with one of their visits. From that moment on, they knew they had found home. Since moving in, they've embraced everything Harmony has to offer: friendly neighbors, active community events, strong communication, and of course, the beloved golf cart lifestyle.

Starting Happily Ever After Cleaning was a natural extension of who they are. The idea came from their desire to work for themselves, meet a real community need, and incorporate something they love-Disney. The fairytale-inspired name reflects their mission: providing a clean that transforms a house into a home. What truly sets them apart is their attention to detail. Both Glenn and Jillian take pride in the work itself-Jillian loves crisp vacuum lines and deep carpet cleans, while Glenn specializes in bathrooms, tackling grout, glass, and stubborn buildup with precision. Their meticulous approach, paired with personalized service, has earned them a reputation for five-star results throughout Harmony.

HAPPILY EVER AFTER CLEANING

Customer service is deeply influenced by their family values. Having spent much of their lives in service-oriented careers, the Argentis believe in the Golden Rule, honesty, and follow-through. They listen closely to their clients-sometimes even to what isn't said-and go above and beyond whenever possible. When a request falls outside their scope, they are quick to recommend other trusted Harmony-based businesses, further strengthening community connections.

For the Argentis, one of the most rewarding parts of owning their business has been meeting neighbors and building friendships along the way. Whether through client relationships, local collaborations, or community events, they've found Harmony to be a place where businesses-and families-truly support one another.

Happily Ever After Cleaning offers tailor-made services for residential and short-term rental properties, including move-in and move-out cleans, home refreshes, deep cleans, and recurring service schedules. As spring approaches, it's the perfect time to schedule a reset and enjoy the feeling of a fresh, beautifully cleaned home.

THATLASTS

In a world that moves quickly and often feels fleeting , Bill and Millie Mmrny are a beautiful reminder that love-rooted in faith, commitment, and humor-can truly stand the test of time. Known affectionately as Mr. Bill and Miss Millie , the Murrays are celebrating an extraordinaiy milestone: 61 years of marriage.

Their st01y began unexpectedly at a going-away party for Millie ' s future sister-in-law, held at an Isaly Dai1y Store. It was a simple meeting , but one that would eventually grow into a lifetime together. At the time, neither could have imagined just how long that lifetime would be. In fact, both Bill and Millie had already experienced loss and heartbreak. Millie ' s first husband was tragically killed in an automobile accident just eight months into their marriage, leaving her six months pregnant and devastated. Bill , with his trademark humor, often jokes that Millie is his third wife-" I kept tiying until I got it right," he laughs. But beneath the laughter is a deep truth: both entered their relationship knowing the value of love and the pain of loss.

Millie says she truly knew Bill was " the one " after the bi1th of their daughter. Having already experienced profound loss, she was determined to love her new sweetheait fully and without reservation. That commitment would become the cornerstone of their life together. Looking back, neither expected to reach 61 years of marriage. Bill is nearly ten years older than Millie , and early on, they joked about whether they ' d even make it to 25 years. Yet here they are-still laughing, still loving , and still deeply committed.

The foundation of their marriage , they both agree, has always been faith. In 1975, their entire family accepted the Lord, and their lives were forever changed. Since then, serving God and one another has been at the heart of their relationship. "I don ' t know how people get through trials and tribulations without the Lord," Millie shares.

Like any marriage , theirs hasn ' t been without challenges. Disagreements were handled a bit differently in the early years -especially if Millie inte1rnpted Bill while the Cleveland Browns were playing. But time , faith, and a good sense of humor smoothed those rough edges.

Bill would often say, "No sense getting mad, because you ' re just going to get glad again," and laughter would follow. Today, both agree-it's much easier when your faith leads the way.

Their greatest heartbreak came with the loss of their youngest daughter, Missy, to breast cancer. The grief was ove1whelming , and there were seasons of anger and deep sorrow. Yet through it all , their faith, family, and close friends became their source of strength. "No matter how sick someone is, losing them is still shocking ," Millie reflects.

Family has always been central to Mmrnys ' lives. Holidays are loud, joyful , and full-often with nearly 30 people gathered around the table , children running eve1ywhere, and food at the center of it all. From Easter egg hunts organized by their granddaughter Kyli to singing "Happy Birthday" to eve1y family member without fail , traditions are cherished. New Year ' s Day wouldn ' t be complete without pork, kielbasa, and sauerkraut, and eve1y celebration is made better with good food and shared laughter. But their greatest tradition of all has been passing down their faith and valuesto their children, grandchildren, and now great-grandchildren. Bill credits his parents for laying that foundation , a legacy that continues to ripple through generations.

To Bill and Millie, commitment means staying true-to God, to each other, and to their word. Their vows were taken seriously, and they still are. Staying faithful , showing respect, and choosing each other eve1y day has been key. Their advice to young couples is simple but profound: stay committed, learn to say ' Tm sony" and truly mean it, and treat your spouse the same way you did when you first fell in love. Respect, they admit with a smile , is something they ' re still learning-even after 61 years. Marriage has taught them about sacrifice , teamwork, and care. Bill worked multiple jobs while still helping Millie clean homes. Finances were tight, but they always made it work-supporting their children, sending them to Christian school , staying active in church, and showing up for one another in eve1y season.

Today, Valentine ' s Day still holds magic. Millie wakes up to roses , a beautiful card, and as many kisses as she can get-but really, she says, eve1y day feels like Valentine ' s Day because they truly love and value each other. When asked to sum up a lasting marriage in one sentence, their answer is both heartfelt and wise: " Love one another with all your heart, soul , and mind. Talk things over, don ' t assume your sweetheart knows what you want. Be kind-and thank God for eve1ything. " After 61 years, Bill and Millie Murray are living proof that love doesn ' t fade-it deepens, strengthens, and becomes something truly beautiful.

OWNER-BRAD HOGAN

Here's what our customers say-

"Hogan Roofing is the only choice for a new roof. Brad Hogan treated me like family, making sure I was educated and comfortable every step of the way. His persistence-even hiring a lawyer on contingency to handle the insurance company - turned a stressful process into a smooth one. The team's professionalism and craftsmanship left my home looking beautiful. Highly recommend!"

-Farah Lalani

BY APRIL COX

Professional Dog Walker & Pet Sitter, Founder of Harmony Pet Nanny

Why Healthy Teeth Matter More Than You Think-

February is Pet Dental Health Month , and while dental care may not be the first thing that comes to mind when we think about our pets ' health , it plays a much bigger role than many pet parents realize.

Just like people, dogs and cats can develop plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth. If left untreated , this buildup can lead to gum disease, tooth loss , and painful infections. But dental problems don ' t stop at the mouth - bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect major organs like the heart , liver , and kidneys. In other words, a healthy mouth supports a healthy body.

One of the most common signs of dental issues in pets is bad breath - and while " dog breath " is often joked about, persistent odor can be a red flag. Other signs include red or swollen gums , difficulty chewing , pawing at the mouth , or decreased appetite.

The good news is that pet dental care doesn ' t have to be complicated. Simple habits can make a big difference. Regular tooth brushing with pet-safe toothpaste, dental chews approved by your veterinarian , and routine veterinary dental checkups all help keep teeth and gums healthy. Even daily chewing on appropriate toys can support dental health by reducing plaque buildup.

As a pet sitter and dog walker, I often remind clients that oral health is part of overall wellness - just like proper nutrition, exercise, and mental stimulation. February is a great time to check in on your pet's dental routine and talk with your veterinarian if you have concerns.

For pet parents who want to learn more, I' ll be sharing a full blog on pet dental care - including tips, product suggestions , and signs to watch for - on the Harmony Pet Nanny website. It's a great next step if you ' re looking to build (or refresh) your pet 's dental routine at home.

Healthy teeth mean less pain , more energy , and happier pets - and that's something worth smiling about all year long.

april@harmonypetnanny.com

Understanding the Role of the HROA: What We Do , Why It Matters , and How It Serves Harmony. The Harmony Residential Owners Association (HROA) exists for a focused purpose: to preserve the character, appearance , and long-term value of our residential neighborhoods by managing and upholding community standards that apply to individual homes and lots.

Harmony benefits from a Community Development District (CDD) that owns , operates , and maintains all common areas , including parks , sidewalks , trails , roadways , and other shared amenities. As a result , the HROA does not manage or fund any common spaces. Our responsibility is intentionally limited to residential standards that apply directly to privately owned homes and lots.

What the HROA Oversees

The primary role of the HROA is to manage and enforce established community standards related to the appearance and upkeep of residential properties. These standards are designed to ensure consistency, cleanliness , and curb appeal throughout the neighborhood , with the shared goal of protecting property values.

Examples of these standards include:

• General home and lot maintenance

• Exterior appearance and aesthetics

• Lawn care and landscaping upkeep

• Proper storage of trash and recycling containers

• Cleanliness and order of visible areas

• Items required to be stored out of sight

These guidelines are not intended to be punitive. Rather, they establish a shared baseline that benefits the entire community by maintaining a well-kept and visually appealing neighborhood.

Why HROA Fees Remain Low

Because the HROA does not own buildings , facilities , or common property-and does not maintain infrastructure-our operating costs are significantly lower than many homeowners ' associations. Your Board of Directors remains committed to fiscal responsibility to ensure association fees stay as low as possible while meeting all legal and operational obligations.

HROA dues primarily fund:

-Front office and administrative management

-Legal compliance and required filings

-Community standard inspections and ,, ,,~-• notices

-Updates to governing documents when required

Every dollar is evaluated with the understanding that it is contributed by residents for the benefit of residents.

Community Events and Resident Involvement

In addition to core operations , a meaningful portion of the HROA budget supports Harmony 's social events. As of last spring , responsibility for planning and executing all community events transitioned back to residents through a volunteer-led Social Committee.

This change reflects a broader guiding principle of the current Board: returning control of our community from the management company to the residents themselves. Neighbors are now leading the creation of events and traditions that reflect Harmony 's unique character.

How Enforcement and Appeals Work

The management company is required to enforce the written community standards exactly as they appear in the governing documents and does not have discretion to interpret intent beyond the text. However, every homeowner has the right to appeal a decision or request relief from the strict application of a standard. Your elected Board of Directors has the authority to review appeals , grant variances , and approve special exceptions when appropriate. The Board may consider circumstances , fairness , and intent when making these determinations.

Your Board Is Made Up of Your Neighbors

The HROA Board of Directors is composed entirely of your friends , neighbors , and fellow Harmony residents-homeowners who live in the community and care deeply about its success.

Unlike the COD Board , whose members receive a paid stipend , the HROA Board is completely volunteer. Board members serve limited terms and receive no compensation of any kind for their time and effort. They serve because they care about Harmony, its standards , and its future. Because Board members rotate and serve on a volunteer basis , the most reliable way to contact the Board is through the association 's management company. Association Solutions serves as the official point of contact and ensures that all communications are properly documented and routed. Residents may contact Association Solutions at info@myhoasolution.com.

The goal of the HROA is not simply enforcement , but stewardshipmaintaining Harmony as a place we are proud to call home , today and for years to come.

CRUISE VIBES.

Brandon Garrett also shared an inspirin!! story

"I want to give a shoutout to Mr. Glen Gooden on Feathergrass in Harmony. When I first moved here , he immediately walked down not only to give me a warm welcome and introduce me to other neighbors, but to offer a helping hand in any way possible - without expecting anything in return. On top of always being on the run to help out co-workers in other neighborhoods, this man mows probably seven or eight neighboring lawns, trims hedges when needed, pressure washes sidewalks, and fixes sprinkler heads - often using his own parts while refusing any s01t of repayment. As a Pennsylvania native, I knew nothing about sprinklers, so I asked Mr. Glen if he could give me a quick rnndown on the programming box. He ended up spending two hours in the mid-July sun, in his work clothes, getting soaked while replacing and digging out faulty sprinkler heads. Being such a genuinely nice and humble person, I'm sure Mr. Glen will be slightly emban-assed by any recognition, but this man deserves it more than anyone I've met so far. " Brandon went on to say, " In addition to all of the above, he not only knows the names of eve1y single child (and there are a ton!) on Feathergrasshe looks out for them all as if they were his own. Mr. Glen and his awesome wife Rachel immediately welcomed my children into their home as if they were famil ."

BY: KERUL KASSEL

PRESIDENT, FIRST NATURE RANCH/ FIRST NATURE FOUNDATION

Harmony, Florida, isn't just a charming master-planned community near St. Cloud - it's also a shining example of how thoughtful design and resident engagement can make sustainable living a reality. As one of the few early Florida Green Building Coalition-certified communities in the state, Harmony has blended environmental stewardship with everyday life, making it easier for residents to live in harmony with nature and reduce their ecological footprint.

At the heart of Harmony's green ethos is the idea that sustainability isn't just about infrastructure - it's also about daily choices. The community's design encourages walking and biking by placing shops, schools, parks, and homes within easy reach, reducing reliance on cars and cutting down on emissions. Harmony's extensive network of trails and sidewalks invites residents to enjoy outdoor exercise, fresh air, and connection with local wildlife, while also promoting low-impact transportation like zeroemissions golf carts.

Water and Energy Conservation

Conserving water and energy are key pillars of green living in Harmony. Florida's climate can be hot and dry at times, so using water wisely not only preserves a precious resource but also keeps utility bills down Homeowners are encouraged to install efficient irrigation systems, use native or drought-tolerant landscaping, and collect rainwater for garden use. Inside the home, simple upgrades like low-flow faucets and efficient appliances can significantly reduce water usage. Similarly, energy efficiency is essential in the Sunshine State. Planting shade trees strategically around homes can lower indoor temperatures and ease the load on air conditioning systems, while choosing Energy Star-rated appliances and LED lighting helps cut electricity consumption

Residents can also explore solar panels to harness Florida's abundant sun for renewable energy production.

Waste Reduction and Sustainable Food

Reducing household waste is another practical way to live green. Residents can compost kitchen scraps and yard waste, which enriches soil and cuts down on garbage sent to landfills. You can use your compost for planting shrubs and flowers or bring finished compost to the Community Garden Reusing and recycling items whenever possible helps reduce waste streams and we have a weekly recycling pick up. Harmony also supports sustainable food choices: our Harmony Community Garden offers space to grow fresh produce, fostering healthy eating, saving money, and strengthening community bonds at the same time. Farmers markets or locally grown food options help reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transport.

Engaging with the Local Environment

Living green in Harmony also means appreciating and protecting the natural environment. The community's open spaces, lakes, and preserved habitats offer abundant opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and learning about Florida's diverse ecosystems. Residents are encouraged to minimize light pollution with dark-sky practices and to participate in local conservation efforts or community trail maintenance with the Harmony Nature and Animal Committee.

In Harmony, sustainable living isn't an abstract ideal - it's practical, everyday lifestyle supported by thoughtful planning and community spirit. Whether through energysaving measures at home, choosing to walk or bike more often, or growing your own food, every small step contributes to a healthier, greener future for both people and the planet.

Financial Focus

.. .. ..New.tax laws. for .2026.that you.should.know .. .. .. .

The new year brings more than resolutions and fresh starts; it also ushers in several tax changes that could affect your wallet. Whether you're saving for retirement, funding your child's education or supporting your favorite charity, here's are a few things you need to know about the tax landscape in 2026.

More room to save for retirement and healthcare. There's good news for savers: Contribution limits for retirement accounts are going up. If you're under 50, you can now contribute up to $7,500 to an IRA, which is up from $7,000 in 2025. Those 50 and older can contribute an additional $1,100, for a total of $8,600.

The limits for 401(k), 403(b) and governmental 457(b) plans are also increasing, with workers younger than 50 able to defer up to $24,500. Visit IRS.gov and search "401k limit increases" for an article outlining the details.

Health savings account limits are rising too. In 2026, individual coverage increased to $4,400 and family coverage to $8,750. If you are age 55 or older and are not enrolled in Medicare, you can contribute an additional $1,000 as a catch-up contribution.

The start of the year is an ideal time to review your contributions and consider increasing them, even by small amounts which can add up over time.

A catch-up rule for high earners. If you're 50 or older and earned more than $150,000 last year, there's a new wrinkle in your retirement planning. You can still make catch-up contributions to your workplace retirement plan, but they must now be Roth contributions rather than traditional pre-tax contributions. This includes 401(k), 403(b) and 457(b) plans.

While you won't get an immediate tax break, Roth contributions offer tax-free income in retirement and can provide a tax-free legacy for your heirs.

Expanded benefits for 529 education plans. Families using 529 plans to cover K-12 expenses will see the annual federal distribution limit double from $10,000 to $20,000 per student. The definition of qualifying expenses has also expanded to include curriculum, books, certain tutoring expenses and testing fees.

This change provides more flexibility for families with overfunded plans and increases options for managing education costs across multiple children or beneficiaries.

New charitable giving provisions. The rules around charitable deductions are shifting in two directions. Taxpayers who take the standard deduction can now deduct up to $1,000 in cash donations ($2,000 for joint filers) to qualified organizations.

However, those who itemize deductions face a new threshold: only charitable contributions exceeding 0.5 % of adjusted gross income are now deductible. Donors may want to consider bunching strategies or using donor-advised funds to maximize their tax benefits. Getting help. Navigating these tax changes can be challenging, but you don't have to go it them alone. A qualified financial advisor and tax professional can help you understand how these and other changes affect your specific situation. Together, you can develop strategies to make the most of new opportunities while minimizing your tax burden.

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