Women make the world go round
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OUR PHYSICIANS SPECIALIZE IN:
Upper Extremity | Lower Extremity | Joint Replacement | Sports Medicine General Orthopaedics | Spine | Trauma | Orthobiologics
ANN BEADLE, RN, ACNP
JOHN R. BURLESON, MD
JONATHAN P. CORNELIUS, MD
WILLIAM N. MELTON, MD
KRISTINA MOORE, PA-C
SHAWN P. MOUNTAIN, DO LUCAS B, RICHIE, MD
ASHELY N. SCOTT, PA-C
MICHEL A. TAYLOR, MD
(615) 547-6700 | tn.hughston.com
I don’t know about you but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and beautiful. Our mothers, daughters and best friends are some of the most influential women in our lives. Speaking of best friends, Kourtney and I have been friends for over 10 years. Our husbands connected years ago and worked alongside each other in the music industry. They became quickly, our Nashville family and our friend ship means the world to me. This publication is better because of her! I wanted to personally thank her for everything she does in mine and my families life and everything you read monthly, is touched by her talent!
And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms… But it’s not just the biological mothers but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.
I have shared this before, but I am blessed with so many incredible women in my life who make a true impact on not just me but mine and my husband's daughters.
This month, you will find so many incredible women who make our community work the way it does. Without each of them, Mount Juliet would be a different place to live. Women are caretakers and when they open a business, they welcome entire communities to be a part of what they do. While those that we shared this month make up only a small amount of all the incredible women we have here in the City, we cannot wait to share more about them with you! We have an overwhelming amount of ground to cover and after 4 years of serving you (our readers), we are still just getting started!
KIMBERLY THOMAS, PUBLISHER @MOUNTJULIETLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Kimberly Thomas | kimberly.thomas@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kourtney McComb | kourtney.mccomb@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Lindsey Conder
STAFF WRITER
Courtney Stockton
COPY EDITOR
Summer Thomas
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Karly Thomas
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kourtney McComb, Kimberly Thomas, Paige Turner, Courtney Stockton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lindsey Conder, Mikasha Clark, Kimberlee Brooke & Co, News Channel 5
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Each year, 25,000 people gather at the Iroquois Steeplechase racecourse at Percy Warner Park for an unforgettable day of thrilling horse racing, vibrant celebrations, and stunning fashion. Purchase your tickets now and join us on May 10, 2025 in the Royal 615 Lounge, Hunt Club or Tailgating areas!
Lindsey Conder Photography is offering a fun lineup of seasonal mini-sessions perfect for families this summer. Options include Father’s Day Minis, Creek Minis, Sunflower Minis, and Pop of Color Painting Minis — where kids create their own canvas to take home! Spots are limited and available on select dates only. Early booking is encouraged at www.lindseyconderphotography.com
The Cumberland University women’s volleyball team recently returned from a milestone trip to Costa Rica — the program’s first international adventure. Over seven days, the team competed against local clubs, led youth clinics, volunteered at disability centers, and participated in a reforestation project. The experience blended sport, service, and culture, creating unforgettable memories and fostering growth both on and off the court.
Principal Architect, Sam Anderson and his wife Leigh Ann Anderson, represented Anderson Architects at the St. Patrick’s Gala hosted by Everyone’s Wilson. The event celebrated the impactful work God is doing in the community, as churches, businesses, and nonprofits collaborate to ensure every neighbor lives the life they were created to live.
Wilson County Motors recently hosted the Leadership Middle Tennessee (LMT) Breakfast, welcoming attendees with a catered meal from Wildberry and a presentation on the dealership’s rich history. This year’s discussion focused on electric vehicles (EVs), featuring insights from Mitchel, Paine, and W.P. Will. Guests explored EV models, including Hyundai Ioniqs, and engaged in a Q&A before touring the dealership.
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Local musician Tracy Lawrence paid a visit to our very own Honky Tonk, Honky Tonk Creamery in April! Owners, Matt and Sheana Harville have worked diligently on creating an incredible community who rallies around our local talent.
Trupti Patel acquires two more locations
Blo Blow Dry Bar
Trupti Patel acquired two existing Blo Blow Dry Bars, Franklin and Nashville, in addition to her location in Mount Juliet, last month. Working to grow the Nashville Market, Trupti hopes to offer the same level of service she has provided here in Mount Juliet.
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By all accounts, Emma Ryleigh Dixon was a light in every room. Full of life, laughter, and an undeniable love for shopping, dancing, and traveling, the Lebanon teen lived with a joy that defied her circumstances. Even as she bravely battled osteosarcoma — a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer — Emma inspired all who knew her with her strength, grace, and signature radiant smile.
Today, Emma’s spirit lives on through The ERDie Project, a non-profit founded in her honor by her parents, Jeni and Charlie Dixon, following Emma’s passing in April 2022 at just 14 years old.
“We moved to Five Oaks in Lebanon in 2020 as a fresh start after what we thought was Emma’s last round of chemotherapy,” shares Jeni, President of The ERDie Project. “Unfortunately, her cancer journey wasn’t over — but the love and support we found in this community have meant everything to us.”
The ERDie Project — lovingly named after Emma’s nickname, “ERDie,” a playful twist on her initials — is driven by a mission both heartfelt and bold: to fund research for pediatric bone sarcomas and to offer financial assistance to families facing similar childhood cancer battles.
ARTICLE BY KOURTNEY MCCOMB
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Emma’s own journey began in January 2020, when a knee ache after dance class led to a life-changing diagnosis of osteosarcoma. Over the next 27 months, Emma endured aggressive chemotherapy, leg surgery, lung surgeries, a clinical trial, and radiation — all amidst the added challenges of a global pandemic. Through every hurdle, Emma remained determined to simply live life.
“She handled every day with such positivity,” Jeni remembers. “Shopping trips, school days, family vacations — she made the most of every moment.”
Since its founding, The ERDie Project has channeled that same spirit of hope and determination into its work. In September 2024, the organization raised an incredible $130,000 at its second annual Golf Scramble and Gala held at The Club at Five Oaks. This success enabled Jeni and Charlie to present a $100,000 check to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, establishing The Emma Ryleigh Dixon (ERDie Project) Endowment Fund for pediatric bone
cancer research. Their ultimate goal? Raising $1 million to fund new, innovative treatments and — one day — a cure.
Adding to Emma’s enduring legacy, the Dixons have most recently pledged an additional $50,000 to the Endowment Fund, bringing their total contribution to $150,000. In a touching tribute, an exam room at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital will soon bear Emma’s name — a lasting reminder of her courage and love.
“Emma was a patient at Vanderbilt for 27 months, and their team — especially Dr. Scott Borinstein and Nurse
Practitioner Lauren Harrison — became like family to us,” Jeni shares. “They made Emma feel seen, heard, and in control of her care.”
Looking ahead, The ERDie Project continues to dream big. Their cornerstone fundraiser — The ERDie Project Charity Golf Scramble and Gala — returns in September 2025, with tentative dates set for September 21-22. Donations are always welcome year-round at www.theerdieproject.org , with funds directly supporting pediatric bone cancer research and helping families in need.
For Jeni and Charlie, this work is deeply personal. “Our outcome with pediatric osteosarcoma is every parent’s worst fear,” says Jeni. “But we don’t want Emma’s fight to be in vain. Through The ERDie Project, we hope to change the future for other kids like Emma.”
The ERDie Project welcomes anyone to join “ERDie’s Squad” — whether as a donor, volunteer, sponsor, or supporter — in continuing Emma’s beautiful legacy of strength, love, and unbreakable hope.
A DAY TO ELEVATE YOUR HEALTH, A DAY TO ELEVATE YOUR HEALTH, HAPPINESS, AND COMMUNITY HAPPINESS, AND COMMUNITY SATURDAY, MAY 10 SATURDAY, MAY 10 TH TH 9AM-12PM
ARTICLE BY KOURTNEY MCCOMB & KIMBERLY THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Kim Thomas, Publisher and Kourtney McComb, Publication Director.
Kim Thomas, Publisher and Kourtney McComb, Publication Director. We work monthly to bring you the most interesting stories of Mount Juliet. With our combined talents (Kourtney - Wife, Mother, Dog mom and Actress Kim - Wife, Mother, Dog Mom Publisher and Photographer) We create a force of passion to bring you the best of MJ.
INTRO,
It’s a given that these women are a true example of strength and perseverance and absolutely mirror the community in the efforts they put forth to bring opportunity and support to our community of Mount Juliet. These women and the small businesses that they have implemented in the community are invaluable. Kourtney and I are overwhelmed daily with the amazing women we get to work alongside in the community and are so honored to share them and their individual talents with you. They truly make an impact in so many ways throughout this community.
“Kourtney and I are overwhelmed daily with the amazing women we get to work alongside in the community and are so honored to share them and their individual talents with you. They truly make an impact in so many ways throughout this community.”
-Kim Thomas, Publisher and Kourtney McComb, Publication Director.
With 23 years in real estate, Michele blends connection, creativity, and care to guide clients through one of life’s biggest decisions. She loves the freedom of running her own business and thrives in her many roles—from designer to advisor. Outside of work, you’ll find her traveling, attending races and concerts, or staging beautiful homes.
Lindsey turned a lifelong love for photography into a career that lets her capture joy while being present for her children. Since officially launching in January 2024, she’s embraced the creative freedom of entrepreneurship. She values her flexible lifestyle, new friendships, and meaningful work. A fantasy book lover, she also enjoys outdoor adventures with her daughters.
KATRINA BAHR OWNER OF NIDO
Katrina is the visionary behind NIDO, Wilson County’s first coworking space with childcare. In just two years, she’s built a vibrant community where parents connect while their kids play. Her favorite part? Watching isolated moms find friendship and support. In her downtime, Katrina enjoys gardening, camping, and creating peaceful moments with loved ones.
DR. SAMANTHA KELLY & DR. BLERTA SELDON PEARL PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Dr. Sam and Dr. Blerta bring compassionate, family-centered care to Mt. Juliet through Pearl Pediatric Dentistry. In two years, they’ve built a practice grounded in trust, fun, and empowerment—especially for young girls dreaming of dental careers. Outside the office, they enjoy travel, floral design, fine wine, and time with family (including office pup, Biscuit!).
Kristina combines her roles as a mom and ISR instructor to teach life-saving swim skills to infants and children. Since launching Lakeside ISR in 2023, she’s focused on water safety and community impact. Her greatest joy is watching kids gain confidence in the water. She loves staying active and boating on Old Hickory Lake with family and friends.
With three businesses under her belt, Cathy credits her success to faith and gratitude. For 14 years, she’s led a thriving PR firm while also launching a clothing line and podcast. Her favorite part of entrepreneurship? Owning her time and building what she loves. Cathy unwinds with live music, hiking, volunteering, and the occasional beach trip.
OLIVIA RUSSELL OWNER OF RUSSELL CRAFTED CABINETRY & STONE
After five years in the industry, Olivia launched her own cabinetry and stone business to bring transparency and transformation to home design. She thrives in a male-dominated field and leads a powerhouse team to craft functional, beautiful spaces. When she’s not on-site, Olivia enjoys gardening and helping manage her family’s cattle farm.
NISHANN LANATA OWNER OF CRAFT WEALTH SERVICES
Nishann launched her financial advising business to align work with her values—faith, family, and community. Now six years in, she focuses on values-based planning to help clients live intentionally. She loves choosing clients who inspire her. In her free time, she enjoys porch moments with her family and leading local women’s groups.
MARQUITA FILSON CO-OWNER OF SISTER’S WHIMZY
Marquita has spent nearly 13 years spreading joy through customer service at Sister’s WhimZy. Her favorite part of running the boutique is meeting new people daily and making someone’s day a little brighter. Outside the shop, she loves live country music, horseback riding, and time with her family.
JULIE RUESEWALD OWNER OF THE BASEMENT MARKETPLACE
For nearly nine years, Julie’s shop has been a community hub, supporting local makers and creating meaningful experiences. The Basement Marketplace offers a space for connection, creativity, and unique finds. Julie treasures seeing friendships bloom in her store. She enjoys traveling, family time, and recharging at the beach.
CO-OWNER OF SISTER’S WHIMZY
Carmelita co-founded Sister’s WhimZy with her friend Marquita to be closer to home and family. Nearly 13 years later, she still finds fulfillment in community involvement and setting an example for her children. Her greatest joys come from simple moments—spending time with friends and family and being present in her local community.
KATIE JORGE & SHAUNA BOWER
OWNERS
OF GLOW WILCO
Katie and Shauna created Glow Wilco to offer high-quality aesthetic care in their hometown. Nearly three years in, they’ve built a thriving client-centered space rooted in comfort, confidence, and community. Tennis partners turned business partners, they love connecting with Mt. Juliet locals and spending time with their families outside of work.
LAUREN MOSS OWNER OF MOSS’ FLOWER SHOP
When her family’s beloved shop was on the verge of closing, Lauren and her husband stepped in to preserve its 70-year legacy. Moss’ is more than a florist—it’s a cornerstone of Mt. Juliet. Lauren thrives on the challenges and community connections that come with ownership. She enjoys family dinners and cheering on the Vols.
RACHELLE REIGARD OWNER OF GRADE A CONSTRUCTION
Rachelle founded Grade A Construction in 2013 to build a business rooted in support, opportunity, and belonging. From humble beginnings, she’s grown the company to over 200 employees and a new office on the horizon. Rachelle finds purpose in nurturing her team and enjoys discovering new places and local eats with her family.
“Guided by her parents’ principle to leave the world better, Courtney advances Cumberland University’s mission to transform lives through education.”
- Courtney Wheeler Biggs VP of Advancement, Cumberland University
COURTNEY WHEELER BIGGS VP OF ADVANCEMENT, CUMBERLAND UNIVERSITY
Guided by her parents’ principle to leave the world better, Courtney advances Cumberland University’s mission to transform lives through education. Since 2021, she’s helped remove barriers for students through scholarships and community support. For fun, she hikes with her husband and dog, travels, and reads voraciously.
AMANDA OAKS OWNER OF WALK YOUR PLANS NASHVILLE
Amanda’s business journey began eight years ago with a mission to serve others and be present for her family. She’s passionate about empowering clients personally and professionally, creating relationships built on trust and support. Amanda enjoys quality family time, community collaboration, and cheering on her kids from the sidelines.
Crust:
1 lb Russet Potatoe Hash Brown / Starchy Potatoes shredded
2 Tbsp Melted Butter
Oil Spray or Olive Oil 1tsp Salt
Egg Mixture:
2 eggs
2 egg yolks
1 cup milk
¾ Cup of Cream
½ tsp salt Black pepper (to taste)
Filling: 8oz Bacon
1 tbsp Butter
1 Small Onion Chopped
1 Clove of Garlic
¾ Cup of Grated Gruyere
¼ Cup of Grated Cheddar
Preheat oven to 400 F | Grease a 9” Pie Dish Crust:
1. If unthawed, Place Shredded Potatoes into the strainer and rinse. Then place potatoes
2. Into large bowl (after making sure they are dry) into a large bowl.
3. Add melted butter and salt and mix to combine.
4. Pour the shredded potato into the pie dish. Spread the hash browns evenly into the
5. Base and sides to create crust and be sure it is packed.
6. Spray the Hash Brown crust with oil spray
7. Bake the crust for 30 minutes
Filling & Egg Mixture:
1. Add ½ tbsp of butter, onion garlic, and bacon into a pan and saute over medium heat until the onion is soft and the bacon is starting to brown.
2. Remove from stove and set aside.
3. Place egg mixture and cheese mixture into the bowl and combine.
Fill Quiche / Bake:
1. When the crust is golden brown remove from oven.
2. Pour the bacon and onion mixture into the crust and add the egg mixture after evenly distributed.
3. Place the filled quiche back in the oven and lower the temperature to 350F.
4. Bake for 25 minutes or until the filling is set.
5. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before enjoying!
ARTICLE BY KIMBERLEE BROOKE & CO.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings.
As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions
associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.
In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between long-stemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact. No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
ARTICLE BY PAIGE TURNER
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED A BENEFIT CONCERT SUPPORTING LIFE OPTION’S NETWORK FREE STORE IN MOUNT JULIET
Nestled in the heart of Mount Juliet, Tennessee, the Life Options Network store stands as a beacon of hope and support for mothers and families in need. As part of the broader Life Options Network—a Christ-centered organization dedicated to assisting mothers facing unplanned pregnancies—the Mount Juliet store embodies the organization's mission by providing essential resources and fostering a nurturing community.
Life Options Network was founded by women who intimately understand the challenges of balancing work and family life. Their primary goal is to create opportunities for women and families to raise children in a healthy and stable environment. By offering real-time options and resources, they aim to prevent families from making negative, life-altering decisions due to financial constraints. The organization focuses on building community programs that connect individuals with similar values, promoting opportunities for many. Their heart lies in ensuring that families can avoid poverty and have access to the necessary resources for their children, both born and unborn.
The Mount Juliet store serves as a tangible extension of this mission. Here, mothers can find essential items such as clothing, baby supplies, and other necessities—all provided free of charge. This initiative not only alleviates the financial burden on families but also fosters a sense of community and support among local residents.
In an effort to further their outreach and support, Life Options Network is excited to announce HopeFest 2025. Scheduled for Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Charlie Daniels Park in Mount Juliet, this family-friendly event promises a day filled with joy, community, and hope. Attendees can look forward to live music performances, engaging activities for children, local food vendors, and inspiring testimonials from mothers who have benefited from the organization's services. HopeFest 2025 aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by mothers in need and to garner support for Life Options Network's ongoing initiatives.
Volunteers and donors play a crucial role in the success of both the Mount Juliet store and events like HopeFest. Community members are encouraged to get involved by donating gently used baby items, volunteering their time at the store, or contributing financially to support the organization's programs.
HopeFest 2025 aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by mothers in need and to garner support for Life Options Network’s ongoing initiatives
Such collective efforts ensure that Life Options Network can continue to provide invaluable assistance to mothers and families in the community.
For those interested in learning more about the Mount Juliet store, participating in HopeFest 2025, or exploring ways to support Life Options Network, please visit their official website at lifeoptionsnetwork.org. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of mothers and families, offering them hope and tangible support when they need it most.
Whether Mom prefers to dine reclining pillow-side in pajamas or beside a beautifully dressed table, she’ll appreciate an elegant, elevated cocktail to make her brunch menu extra special. So while she’s indulging in a few extra pieces of bacon, savoring bites of flaky quiche and luxuriating over berry and whipped creamtopped pancakes, impress her with this morning-friendly mix.
A simple ingredient drink unites the botanical complexity of gin with the rich sweetness of your favorite jam.
• 2 ounces gin
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• 1 teaspoon raspberry (or your favorite) jam
• Spoonful of jam for garnish
1. Add the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and jam to your mixing glass.
2. Add ice and shake for 10 seconds.
3. Strain into a double old-fashioned glass over crushed ice.
4. Top with a spoonful of jam and stir it in while you sip.
SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN MOUNT JULIET.
This data is a sampling of sold properties from March 2025. Source: IRES MLS system.
We are in the heart of severe weather season, and it is important for your family to feel comfortable and confident in your safety plan! Technology has come a long way and we are now able as meteorologists to give people 15 minutes, sometimes longer, lead time ahead of a tornado potentially being in their area. During those 15 minutes, you don’t want to be questioning where your safe place is in your home or what you need to bring with you in your safe place!
First the safest place inside of your home if you don’t have a basement is the lowest level of your house and the most interior room. You want to surround yourself with as many walls protecting you from the outside winds of a tornado. If you don’t have an interior room, I always tell people a bathroom is preferred because the pipes inside the bathroom walls can act to reinforce the walls and it can be a little more secure. ARTICLE
Next, you need to have a storm shelter kit, ready all storm season long and just keep it in your safe place. Inside of your safety kit, you’ll want to have things like a flashlight and fresh batteries, charging bricks that you can plug your phone into in case the power goes out, water and snacks for your kids.
A NOAA weather radio that operates on battery power is also preferred just in case the power is out and you need to stay up-to-date on weather information.
You never want to think about your home receiving damage from a tornado, but it’s better to prepare ahead of time. Having a first aid kit handy in your safety kit, along with a folder of your important documents. In the event of damage you want documents like your insurance information nearby!
I also recommend you have helmets and tennis shoes for every member of your house. Tornadoes aren’t necessarily harmful because of the wind that they pack themselves, it’s what that wind picks up. Any debris inside a tornado can act as projectiles that could lead to injury.
If you’re like me and have a little one at home, I always put some of her favorite stuffed animals or books inside of her safe place to also help her feel more comfortable if we do have to shelter.
News Channel 5 has recently started a Safe Places program, where we list open churches and nonprofits on our website that open during severe weather as a safe place to go. I am so happy that my hometown in Wilson County now has one safe location in our system that recently opened during April storms at the Lebanon first United Methodist Church. These shelters are crucial to help our friends and neighbors who live in mobile homes or vulnerable housing who don’t have a safe place to go and we need more of them! If you know of any church or nonprofit that would like to help in the fight to keep people safe during storms, please have them reach out to me safeplaces@newschannel5.com.
“Having a first aid kit handy in your safety kit, along with a folder of your important documents. In the event of damage you want documents like your insurance information nearby! ”
mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 5/31/25. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
