The Sunwest Life - August 2023

Lifestyle + Home + More

04

The Belly of the Dragon in Utah is a free, familyfriendly hike featuring a man-made tunnel resembling the belly of a dragon making it a must-visit attraction.

06 WATER EXERCISING

Dive into the world of water exercise classes and experience fitness that’s easy on your joints, tones your muscles, and boosts your cardiovascular health.

11 HISTORY OF UTAH TECH

BELLY OF THE DRAGON KEEP

Formerly known as Dixie State University, Utah Tech University (UTU) has a rich history dating back to the early 20th centuy. Learn all about our local University.

16

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

Learn about Glacier National Park, where beneath the towering peaks and turquoise lakes lie captivating glacier ice caves and natural beauty.

18 EXCLUSIVE!

ANNUITES AND RETIREMENT PLANNING

IMPORTANCE

Regular maintenance is crucial for the community center to save costs and creating a thriving community.

Discover essential tips and techniques to protect your garden from the scorching summer heat.

(435) 773-6456

www.swmlife.com

Living in one of SunWest Management’s communities is more than just having a place to rest your head — it’s where you call home. At SunWest Management, we know it’s a privilege to say, “Welcome home!”

In our wide variety of communities that meet virtually every need, the perfect fit for your lifestyle is just through the front door of your next dream home in one of our Southern Utah communities.

By Emma Shakespear

The Belly of the Dragon is a fun family friendly hike everyone loves! This attraction is a man made tunnel between Orderville and Kanab, here in our beautiful state, Utah. This is a free adventure, a short 1.8 mile round trip, taking an average of 40 minutes to complete. There is no elevation gain, so it is accessible for all types of adventurers! This is the perfect place to explore when visiting Kanab, Orderville, Bryce Canyon, or Zion.

The Belly of the Dragon was originally constructed to divert water under Highway 89. Years of rainfall have carved the tunnel’s sandstone walls into stunning ripples for the whole family to explore, making it look as if you were truly inside the belly of an enormous dragon. You’ll be surprised at how long the belly is! The tunnel never grows entirely dark because there is light at both ends. But, depending on the time of day you may need some extra light in the tunnel, so you don’t stumble on the rocky floor. Many say they like exploring this attraction during the spring, due to the great weather and natural sunlight.

After venturing throughout the big belly, you will take a short left and find a narrow wash open to nature. This is where the majority of people turn around, but if you follow the wash for another few miles, you discover a beautiful slot canyon! This unique attraction is definitely worth visiting. It is fun for all groups big or small, but especially large families. Adventure awaits!

Summer fruit cobbler with

Vanilla-Mascarpone Biscuits

DIRECTIONS INGREDIENTS

» 2.5 lbs prepared fresh or thawed frozen fruit

» 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar, divided

» 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, divided

» 3 tbsp aged sherry vinegar or white balsamic vinegar

» 2 tsp grated lemon zest 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

» 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt

» 1 (8-ounce) container mascarpone cheese, crème fraîche, or sour cream

» 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

» 6 tbsp heavy cream, divided

» 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste

» 1/2 cup fine semolina flour

» 2 1/2 tsp baking powder

» 2 tbsp turbinado sugar

» Vanilla ice cream

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Toss together fruit, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, vinegar, lemon zest and juice, and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Transfer fruit mixture to a 3-quart baking dish (such as a 13- x 9-inch dish), and spread in an even layer. Set aside.

2. Whisk together mascarpone, butter, 1/4 cup cream, and vanilla bean paste in a medium bowl until mostly smooth; set aside. Whisk together semolina flour, baking powder, remaining 1 cup all-purpose flour, remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Add mascarpone mixture to flour mixture; stir with a fork until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Using a 2 1/4-inch scoop, divide dough into 9 mounds (about 1/4 cup each), and arrange on top of fruit filling. Brush dough mounds with remaining 2 tablespoons cream; sprinkle with turbinado sugar.

4. Bake in preheated oven until biscuits are golden brown and cobbler is bubbly and thickened in center, 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack 30 minutes. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

water exercising

By Casey Ritter

Water exercise classes are a fantastic way to stay healthy and improve overall fitness. Not only do they provide a low-impact workout, but they also offer a variety of benefits. This makes them a great choice for people of all ages and fitness levels.

The television fitness professional Jack Lalanne first invented water aerobics in America in the 1950s. Water classes became widely popular during the 1970s and 1980s. Fast forward to modern-day water exercises, where you can find a plethora of classes such as aquarobics, water Zumba, hydronastics, waterobics, aqua aerobics, water ballet, and aqua yoga.

One of the most significant benefits of water exercise classes is they are easy on joints. This makes them an excellent choice for people who suffer from

arthritis or other joint-related issues. Additionally, the resistance provided by the water helps to build strength and tone muscles, making it an effective form of resistance training.

Water exercise classes are also a great way to improve cardiovascular health. The buoyancy of the water allows for a more intense workout without putting stress on the heart and lungs. This makes it an ideal option for people who want to improve their cardiovascular health without putting undue strain on their body.

Another advantage of water exercise classes is that they are a fun and social way to stay active. Many classes are designed to be engaging and enjoyable, with music and group activities to keep participants motivated and engaged.

Here are some examples of some fun ways to practice water exercizing:

1. water aerobics

A group exercise class held in the water, typically led by an instructor. It combines various aerobic movements, such as jumping jacks, kicks, and arm movements, with the resistance of the water.

2. aqua Zumba

A water-based dance fitness class that incorporates Zumba movements and music. It adds a fun and energetic element to the workout while taking advantage of the water’s buoyancy and resistance.

3. aqua Yoga

Performing yoga poses and stretches in the water, utilizing the water’s support and resistance to enhance flexibility, balance, and relaxation.

4. water Polo

A team sport played in water, combining swimming and ball handling skills. It is a high-intensity workout that improves cardiovascular endurance and builds strength and agility.

5. laP swimming

Swimming laps in a pool at your own pace is an excellent full-body workout that improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles, and enhances endurance.

Overall, water exercise classes are a great way to improve health and fitness while also having fun. Whether you are looking to improve joint health, build strength and tone muscles, or improve cardiovascular health, a water exercise class can help you achieve your goals. Give

By Brian Webster

KEEPING YOUR COMMUNITY CENTER IN GREAT SHAPE The Importance of Regular Maintenance and Care

Maintaining the community center and grounds in your HOA is no small feat, but with a little TLC, the goal is to keep the facilities and amenities in tip-top shape for all guests. The key is performing routine maintenance and taking preventive measures to ensure everything stays in good condition. Not only does this keep your community center running smoothly, but it also saves you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements. Let’s dive into some specific practices for maintaining different equipment and systems, tailored to the unique climate of the southwest desert with its dry weather, moderate winters, and scorching summers.

HVAC System Maintenance

We all know how important it is to stay cool during these hot desert summers, right? That’s why it’s crucial to take care of your community center’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to ensure the comfort of visitors and protect sensitive equipment from extreme temperatures. Here are a couple of things we do and how you can benefit:

Regular Filter Replacement

Just like you change the oil in your car, regularly cleaning or replacing the HVAC filters is essential. Dirty filters can impede airflow and strain the system. Fresh filters keep the system running efficiently and maintain better air quality. You can apply the same principle at home by cleaning or replacing your own HVAC filters. Breathe in that fresh air!

Coil Cleaning

Dust and debris accumulation on HVAC coils can restrict heat exchange. Regular coil cleaning in the community center helps to prevent this issue. Don’t forget to do the same behind your refrigerator or air conditioning unit at home. It’ll save you some energy and money!

Plumbing and Irrigation System Maintenance

Water is precious, especially in the desert. Efficient plumbing and irrigation systems are vital for water conservation and preventing costly leaks or water damage in the community center. Here’s how we maintain them and how you can benefit too:

Proactive Leak Detection

We regularly inspect faucets, toilets, and irrigation lines in the community center to identify and fix leaks promptly. By doing the same in your own home, you can save water, prevent damage, and keep your utility bills in check.

Water Heater Flushing

Maintaining the community center’s water heaters ensures optimal performance and longevity. Regular flushing of the water heaters helps remove sediment buildup, which can affect efficiency and potentially lead to costly repairs. As homeowners, you can benefit from this practice too. Flushing your own water heater annually or as recommended by the manufacturer helps improve its efficiency, extends its lifespan, and ensures you have a reliable supply of hot water.

Winterization Precautions

Even in our moderate winters, we take steps to protect the pipes from freezing. Insulating exposed pipes and shutting off outdoor faucets are crucial practices that you can also do at home to prevent costly bursts and water damage.

Building Exterior and Landscaping Maintenance

Curb appeal matters, even for your community center! A well-maintained exterior and beautiful landscaping make a lasting impression, creating a welcoming environment and helping to maintain values. Here are some of the common practices:

Roof Inspections

We regularly inspect the roof for any signs of damage, such as loose or missing tiles, or possible leaks in the flat roof or roof drains. By doing the same for your home, you can prevent leaks, prolong the lifespan of your roof, and avoid costly repairs.

Smart Watering

We diligently check and adjust the community irrigation system to ensure efficient watering. You can apply the same practice to your backyard landscaping. The goal is to both conserve water and keep your plants healthy and thriving!

Tree and Shrub Pruning

Your community boasts beautiful landscaping, and part of our maintenance routine includes regular tree and shrub pruning. Proper pruning promotes healthy growth, enhances the aesthetics, and prevents potential hazards. Similarly, as homeowners, it’s important to prioritize tree and shrub care in your own yards, especially backyards. Regularly trimming branches away from your home can prevent damage to your roof and stucco/ siding during storms. Additionally, proper pruning encourages healthy growth and can improve the overall appearance of your landscape.

Electrical System Maintenance

Safety first, my friend! Taking care of the electrical system in your community center ensures a secure environment for everyone. Here’s what we do and how you can prioritize electrical maintenance in your home:

Professional Inspections

We schedule regular inspections by licensed electricians to identify and address potential hazards. By doing the same in your own home, you can ensure a safe environment for your family and protect your valuable electronic devices. Catching problems early on will prevent any shocking surprises down the line.

Surge Protection

Like your homes, the community center’s electrical panels are equipped with breakers which act as surge protectors to safeguard against power surges. Additionally, we protect individual devices, as needed, with individual plug-in protectors. Consider doing the same at home to keep your appliances and gadgets out of harm’s way.

Our priority is to ensure the well-being of the community center and its amenities. By implementing regular maintenance practices, we work to keep the facilities in excellent condition for everyone to enjoy. And remember, the benefits of maintenance extend beyond the community center!

The practices we follow here can also benefit you in maintaining your own homes. So, let’s work together to prioritize maintenance, save costs in the long run, and create a thriving community that we can all be proud of.

By Ally Thompson

Utah Tech University, located here in St. George has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The school was originally founded as St. George Stake Academy in 1911 by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The academy was established to provide higher education opportunities for residents of the area and was initially housed in a small building in downtown St. George.

In 1913, the school was renamed Dixie College, in honor of the region’s nickname “Dixie” which was given by early Mormon settlers who were reminded of the warm southern climate of their homeland. The college continued to grow over the next several decades, adding new programs and facilities, including a new campus in the 1950s.

In the 1970s, Dixie College began offering four-year degrees, and in 2000, it was granted university status and was renamed Dixie State College of Utah. In 2013, the school was renamed again

to Dixie State University, reflecting its growing reputation as a comprehensive regional university.

In 2020, Dixie State was rebranded as Utah Tech University. They did this to highlight their wide range of STEM programs such as computer science, design, mechanical engineering, and other technology degrees. Utah Tech is a comprehensive regional university, offering over 150 programs including associate, bachelors, and graduate degrees. The university has a student enrollment of more than 12,000 students and continues to serve the educational and cultural needs of the St. George area and the surrounding regions.

The University offers many different programs in fields such as business, healthcare, education, and the arts. UTU prides itself on providing students with resources for personal and professional growth. It’s also known for unique outdoor recreational opportunities and for being a place that fosters a strong sense of community.

paw-tection

Keep Your Dog’s Paws Cool & Safe

By Ally Thompson

As summer temperatures soar, it’s crucial to remember that your dog’s paws are sensitive and vulnerable to the heat. Hot pavement, sand, and other surfaces can cause discomfort, burns, and even permanent damage to your furry friend’s paws. Lets explore essential tips on how to protect your dog’s paws during hot weather, ensuring their safety and well-being during summer adventures.

Opt for THE SHADE

Whenever possible, choose shaded walking routes that offer protection from direct sunlight. Walking on grass or dirt paths can be cooler for your dog’s paws compared to hot pavement or concrete. Consider exploring nature trails, parks with shaded paths, or walking near bodies of water to keep your pup’s paws more comfortable. Shaded areas also minimize the risk of your dog overheating.

Protect with Paw Wax

Applying a protective paw wax or balm before heading out can provide a barrier between your dog’s paws and hot surfaces. These products create a protective layer that can minimize the risk of burns and offer additional moisture for dry or cracked paws. Look for products specifically formulated for dogs, as human products may contain ingredients that are toxic to pets. Massage the wax or balm into your dog’s paw pads, ensuring full coverage.

Time Your Walks

During the dog days of summer, schedule your walks during the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or late evenings. This way, you can avoid the peak heat when surfaces like pavement are scorching hot. Test the ground with your hand to ensure it’s comfortable for your dog to walk on before venturing out. If the ground is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

Invest in Dog Booties

Dog booties are an excellent investment for paw protection in extreme heat. They provide a physical barrier between your dog’s paws and hot surfaces, shielding them from burns and discomfort. Look for booties made of breathable materials with non-slip soles for optimal comfort and grip. Introduce booties gradually and ensure a proper fit before using them on longer walks or hikes. Some dogs may take time to get used to wearing booties, so be patient and encourage positive associations with treats and praise.

Keep Paws Hydrated

Maintaining proper paw hydration is crucial during hot weather. Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times, both during walks and at home. Hydrated paws are less prone to cracking and can withstand heat better. Additionally, moisturizing your dog’s paw pads with a petsafe moisturizer can help prevent dryness and cracks, which can make them more susceptible to heat-related injuries. Look for paw balms or moisturizers that contain natural ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil.

Regular Paw Checks

After each outdoor adventure, examine your dog’s paws for any signs of redness, blisters, cuts, or discomfort. If you notice any issues, consult your veterinarian for appropriate care and treatment. Regular paw checks allow you to catch potential problems early and ensure your dog’s paws stay healthy. Gently clean your dog’s paws with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated during outdoor activities.

LESS WATER AND MORE GREEN.

WHY L AWN DOC TOR?

pproach gi ves you the lawn you want alis t s treat your lawn ’s unique needs

Locall y owned, nationall y k nown. A personal touch from a local e

We have the highes t cus tomer retention rate in the indus tr y

Lawn

We have 50 years of experience

NE WS*

IN CUSTOMER LOYALTY*

Why Lawn Doctor?

We have the highes t Trus tPilot score in the indus tr y.

A lush, green lawn free of weeds and pests is a thing of beauty. Call Lawn Doctor for achieve.

We the bes t guarantee in the business:

Mosquito Control

Mosquitoes, ticks, ants, spiders... outdoor pests can give you the creepy-crawlies. Protect your family with our pest protection barrier

OUR TREE & SHRUB

L AWN C ARE

A lush, green lawn free of weeds and pes t s is a thing of beaut y Call L awn only exper t at tention can achieve.

AND STILL GROWING

and other lawn care providers boils down to one simple premise: we care more. It’s the kind of caring that can only come from being the business owner One that lives, works, and is a part of the community they serve.

-Our local specialists treat your lawn’s unique needs.

-The highest customer retention rate in the industry

-We have 50 years of experience.

-We have the highest TrustPilot score in the industy

-If you ’re not 100% satisfied, we ’ ll make it right.

MOSQUITO CONTROL

Tree & Shrub Care

Maintainer Care aimed at protecting trees (under 20 feet tall) and foundation plantings to give you the best tree and shrub care.

PROGR AM WILL SUIT YOU TO A TREE.

Mosquitoes, tick s, ant s, spiders...outdoor pes t s can give you the creepy- crawlies. Protec t your family with our pes t protec tion barrier.

Lawn Aeration

TREE & SHRUB C ARE

Maint ainer Care aimed at protec ting trees (under 20 feet t all) and foundation plantings to giv bes t in tree an care.

L AWN AER ATION

Core aeration let s ox ygen, water and nutrient s reach the root s, generating a root s ys tem and ing your lawn’s health.

CONTAC

Landscaping are susceptible to a number of soil moisture related issues that may affect their health, color and quality. Hydra Guard is designed to address these issues.

Core aeration lets oxygen, water and nutrients reach the roots, generating a stronger root system and improving your lawn’s health.

US TODAY

By Ally Thompson

Glacier National Park is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. With its towering peaks, shimmering turquoise lakes, and vast expanses of ancient glaciers, this national park is a true gem of the American landscape. However, beneath its surface lies a story of urgency and change.

Deep within the frozen heart of the park’s majestic glaciers lie the captivating glacier ice caves. These remarkable natural formations, carved by the relentless forces of nature, offer a surreal and enchanting experience for adventurous explorers.

A GEOLOGICAL SYMPHONY

Glacier National Park is a testament to the power and beauty of natural forces. As glacial ice slowly moves and shifts, it sculpts a labyrinth of intricate passages and ethereal chambers. The ice within these caves possesses a mesmerizing clarity, giving visitors a rare opportunity to witness the stunning blue hues and mesmerizing formations that make glacier ice truly remarkable. From translucent ice curtains to delicate icicle formations, each cave reveals a unique geological symphony, shaped by millennia of freezing temperatures and glacial movements.

MAGICAL SUNLIGHT

As sunlight pierces through the icy walls, Glacier National Park transforms into a magical world of light and shadow. The interplay between natural light and the translucent ice creates a breathtaking display, casting an ethereal glow upon the cave walls. Inside these caves, visitors are treated to an otherworldly experience, as beams of light dance across the crystalline surfaces, illuminating the hidden corners and revealing the full grandeur of these icy marvels. The ever-changing play of light creates an ambiance that is both tranquil and surreal, leaving a lasting impression on all who venture into this subterranean wonderland.

PRESERVING NATURE’S FROZEN GEMS

Glacier National Park is not only a place of extraordinary beauty but also an important ecosystem. These caves provide a unique habitat for a variety of organisms, from ice-dwelling bacteria to specialized cavedwelling invertebrates. It is crucial to approach these caves with respect and a commitment to preservation. Visitors are encouraged to follow park guidelines, ensuring that the fragile environment remains intact for future generations to marvel at.

THE CALL OF ADVENTURE

Exploring Glacier National Park is an adventure like no other. It requires a sense of wonder, a spirit of exploration, and a readiness to embrace the unknown. As you venture into the depths of these frozen chambers, be prepared for a sensory journey that will awaken your senses and ignite your imagination. Remember to dress appropriately for the cold, and be mindful of safety precautions as you navigate the icy terrain. It is recommended to join guided tours led by experienced professionals who can provide valuable insights into the caves’ geology, ecology, and history while ensuring visitor safety.

With its delicate formations, mesmerizing colors, and breathtaking play of light, Glacier National Park offers a truly unforgettable adventure. So, answer the call of exploration and immerse yourself in the subterranean spectacle of Glacier Ice Caves National Park, where nature’s frozen gems await discovery.

ANNUITIES AND RETIREMENT PLANNING

By JC Hallman

You may have heard that IRAs and employer-sponsored plans [e.g., 401(k)s] are the best ways to invest for retirement. That’s true for many people, but what if you’ve maxed out your contributions to those accounts and want to save more? An annuity may be an appropriate investment to look into.

GET THE LAY OF THE LAND

An annuity is a tax-deferred insurance contract. The details on how it works vary, but here’s the general idea. You invest your money (either a lump sum or a series of contributions) with a life insurance company that sells annuities (the annuity issuer). The period when you are funding the annuity is known as the accumulation phase. In exchange for your investment, the annuity issuer promises to make payments to you or a named beneficiary at some point in the future. The period when you are receiving payments from the annuity is known as the distribution phase. Chances are, you’ll start receiving payments after you retire. Annuities may be subject to certain charges and expenses, including mortality charges, surrender charges, administrative fees, and other charges.

UNDERSTAND YOUR PAYOUT OPTIONS

Understanding your annuity payout options is very important. Keep in mind that payments are based on the claims-paying ability of the issuer. You want to be sure that the payments you receive will meet your income needs during retirement. Here are some of the most common payout options:

• YOU SURRENDER THE ANNUITY AND RECEIVE A LUMP-SUM PAYMENT OF ALL OF THE MONEY YOU HAVE ACCUMULATED.

• YOU RECEIVE PAYMENTS FROM THE ANNUITY OVER A SPECIFIC NUMBER OF YEARS, TYPICALLY BETWEEN 5 AND 20. IF YOU DIE BEFORE THIS “PERIOD CERTAIN” IS UP, YOUR BENEFICIARY WILL RECEIVE THE REMAINING PAYMENTS.

• YOU RECEIVE PAYMENTS FROM THE ANNUITY FOR YOUR ENTIRE LIFETIME. YOU CAN’T OUTLIVE THE PAYMENTS (NO MATTER HOW LONG YOU LIVE), BUT THERE WILL TYPICALLY BE NO SURVIVOR PAYMENTS AFTER YOU DIE.

• YOU COMBINE A LIFETIME ANNUITY WITH A PERIOD CERTAIN ANNUITY. THIS MEANS THAT YOU RECEIVE PAYMENTS FOR THE LONGER OF YOUR LIFETIME OR THE TIME PERIOD CHOSEN. AGAIN, IF YOU DIE BEFORE THE PERIOD CERTAIN IS UP, YOUR BENEFICIARY WILL RECEIVE THE REMAINING PAYMENTS.

• YOU ELECT A JOINT AND SURVIVOR ANNUITY SO THAT PAYMENTS LAST FOR THE COMBINED LIFE OF YOU AND ANOTHER PERSON, USUALLY YOUR SPOUSE. WHEN ONE OF YOU DIES, THE SURVIVOR RECEIVES PAYMENTS FOR THE REST OF HIS OR HER LIFE.

When you surrender the annuity for a lump sum, your tax bill on the investment earnings will be due all in one year. The other options on this list provide you with a guaranteed stream of income (subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuer). They’re known as annuitization options because you’ve elected to spread payments over a period of years. Part of each payment is a return of your principal investment. The other part is taxable investment earnings. You typically receive payments at regular intervals throughout the year (usually monthly, but sometimes quarterly or yearly). The amount of each payment depends on the amount of your principal investment, the particular type of annuity, your selected payout option, the length of the payout period, and your age if payments are to be made over your lifetime.

CONSIDER THE PROS AND CONS

An annuity can often be a great addition to your retirement portfolio. Here are some reasons to consider investing in an annuity:

• YOUR INVESTMENT EARNINGS ARE TAX DEFERRED AS LONG AS THEY REMAIN IN THE ANNUITY. YOU DON’T PAY INCOME TAX ON THOSE EARNINGS UNTIL THEY ARE PAID OUT TO YOU.

• AN ANNUITY MAY BE FREE FROM THE CLAIMS OF YOUR CREDITORS IN SOME STATES.

• IF YOU DIE WITH AN ANNUITY, THE ANNUITY’S DEATH BENEFIT WILL PASS TO YOUR BENEFICIARY WITHOUT HAVING TO GO THROUGH PROBATE.

• YOUR ANNUITY CAN BE A RELIABLE SOURCE OF RETIREMENT INCOME, AND YOU HAVE SOME FREEDOM TO DECIDE HOW YOU’LL RECEIVE THAT INCOME.

• YOU DON’T HAVE TO MEET INCOME TESTS OR OTHER CRITERIA TO INVEST IN AN ANNUITY.

• YOU’RE NOT SUBJECT TO AN ANNUAL CONTRIBUTION LIMIT, UNLIKE IRAS AND EMPLOYER-SPONSORED PLANS. YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE AS MUCH OR AS LITTLE AS YOU LIKE IN ANY GIVEN YEAR.

• YOU’RE NOT REQUIRED TO START TAKING DISTRIBUTIONS FROM AN ANNUITY AT AGE 72 (THE REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTION AGE FOR IRAS AND EMPLOYER-SPONSORED PLANS). YOU CAN TYPICALLY POSTPONE PAYMENTS UNTIL YOU NEED THE INCOME.

But annuities aren’t for everyone. Here are some potential drawbacks:

• CONTRIBUTIONS TO NONQUALIFIED ANNUITIES ARE MADE WITH AFTER-TAX DOLLARS AND ARE NOT TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

• ONCE YOU’VE ELECTED TO ANNUITIZE PAYMENTS, YOU USUALLY CAN’T CHANGE THEM, BUT THERE ARE SOME EXCEPTIONS.

• YOU CAN TAKE YOUR MONEY FROM AN ANNUITY BEFORE YOU START RECEIVING PAYMENTS, BUT YOUR ANNUITY ISSUER MAY IMPOSE A SURRENDER CHARGE IF YOU WITHDRAW YOUR MONEY WITHIN A CERTAIN NUMBER OF YEARS (E.G., SEVEN) AFTER YOUR ORIGINAL INVESTMENT.

• YOU MAY HAVE TO PAY OTHER COSTS WHEN YOU INVEST IN AN ANNUITY (E.G., ANNUAL FEES, INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT FEES, INSURANCE EXPENSES).

• YOU MAY BE SUBJECT TO A 10% FEDERAL PENALTY TAX (IN ADDITION TO ANY REGULAR INCOME TAX) IF YOU WITHDRAW EARNINGS FROM AN ANNUITY BEFORE AGE 59½, UNLESS YOU MEET ONE OF THE EXCEPTIONS TO THIS RULE.

• INVESTMENT GAINS ARE TAXED AT ORDINARY INCOME TAX RATES, NOT AT THE LOWER CAPITAL GAINS RATE.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT TYPE OF ANNUITY

If you think that an annuity is right for you, your next step is to decide which type of annuity. Overwhelmed by all of the annuity products on the market today? Don’t be. In fact, most annuities fit into a small handful of categories. Your choices basically revolve around two key questions.

FIRST, HOW SOON WOULD YOU LIKE ANNUITY PAYMENTS TO BEGIN?

That probably depends on how close you are to retiring. If you’re near retirement or already retired, an immediate annuity may be your best bet. This type of annuity starts making payments to you shortly after you buy the annuity, typically within a year or less. But what if you’re younger, and retirement is still a long-term goal? Then you’re probably better off with a deferred annuity. Deferred annuities can offer the advantage of potential growth and accumulation over time, allowing you to maximize the benefits when retirement eventually comes. As the name suggests, this type of annuity lets you postpone payments until a later time, even if that’s many years down the road.

SECOND, HOW WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR MONEY INVESTED?

With a fixed annuity, the annuity issuer determines an interest rate to credit to your investment account. An immediate fixed annuity guarantees a particular rate, and your payment amount never varies. A deferred fixed annuity guarantees your rate for a certain number of years; your rate then fluctuates from year to year as market interest rates change. A variable annuity, whether immediate or deferred, gives you more control and the chance to earn a better rate of return (although with a greater potential for gain comes a greater potential for loss of principal). You select your own investments from the subaccounts that the annuity issuer offers. Your payment amount will vary based on how your investments perform.

Note: A variable annuity is a long-term investment vehicle designed for retirement purposes. Generally, annuity contracts have limitations, exclusions, holding periods, termination provisions, terms for keeping the annuity in force, and fees and charges which can include mortality and expense charges, account fees, sales and surrender charges, investment management fees, administrative fees, and charges for optional benefits. Withdrawals reduce annuity contract (living and death) benefits and values. Variable annuities are not guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency; they are not deposits of, nor are they guaranteed or endorsed by, any bank or savings association. Any guarantees are contingent on the claims-paying ability and financial strength of the issuing company. The investment return and principal value of an investment option are not guaranteed. Because variable annuity investment options fluctuate with changes in market conditions, the principal may be worth more or less than the original amount invested when the annuity is surrendered.

Variable annuities are sold by prospectus. You should consider the investment objectives, risk, charges and expenses, and underlying investment options carefully before investing. The prospectus, which contains this and other information about the variable annuity, can be obtained from the insurance company issuing the variable annuity or from your financial professional. You should read the prospectus carefully before you invest.

SHOP AROUND

It pays to shop around for the right annuity. In fact, doing a little homework could save you hundreds of dollars a year or more. Why? Rates of return and costs can vary widely between different annuities. You’ll also want to shop around for a reputable, financially sound annuity issuer. There are firms that make a business of rating insurance companies based on their financial strength, investment performance, and other factors. Consider checking out these ratings.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. does not provide investment, tax, legal, or retirement advice or recommendations. The information presented here is not specific to any individual’s personal circumstances.

To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances.

These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable — we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2023.

keeping your

garden cool

By Nick Boulton

stress or kill plants. If you want to keep your garden productive well into fall, then even the late summer is a busy season that must be embraced. Here are few techniques you can use to help you and your plants deal with it. The sweat you invest now, will only make it worth it when you harvest all your vegetables and fruits in the end.

At this point during the summer, you may be thinking what else can I do to nurse my tomatoes and other crops through another horrific summer. I know your heartache and pain! Trust me, I hate the heat. You really can only take off so many clothes before getting a sunburn everywhere! This time of year is always hard to know how to help your garden or yard with the Summer heat. Heat can really be hard on plants if they aren’t getting all the necessary water, food or shade that is recommended for them and in turn can really

Think about adding mulch to a garden bed or planter. Adding mulch can not only save on water, but it will help keep the soil cool for plants. Radiant heat from gravel or dirt can be quite a bit hotter than the ambient air around the plant and in turn can really hurt the plant. You can do this by adding a 1- to 3-inch layer of mulch around your plants, vegetable, fruits and flower gardens to slow water evaporation by as much as 70 percent. Less evaporation means less watering and it

will help keep the soil cooler. Think of mulch as shade for your soil. Because of less exposure to sunlight, the soil stays cool, holds in moisture and keeps plant roots hydrated and moist longer.

Farmers often use sprinkling to cool plants down. So a late afternoon sprinkling may be an excellent idea, but strategically placed shading devices are often a better idea and can be more water efficient and much less time-consuming. One way to do this is to tie up shade cloth that you can get at your local nursery. This will help block sun during the hottest times of the day and allow the plants to survive the heat of the day. Keep in mind when doing this, they must be held several inches above the plants to keep them from retaining too much heat. Another way is when building your garden, consider installing wooden slats that will shade similar to an awning over a patio. This will help to shade during those hotter times of the day. Just make sure to check your community rules so you know what is allowed.

Unfortunately, even if you keep the soil evenly moist by using lots of soakers or drip irrigation hoses covered with a thick mulch, many vegetables will abort their blossoms rather than grow fruit or vegetables in extreme heat. Temperatures in the 90s cause many plants to hold back on flowering such as tomatoes, peppers and eggplants. These plants and others similar to them, start having trouble completing the pollination process when temperatures rise above only 86 degrees Fahrenheit. This is simply a way they conserve energy to survive during adverse climates and stress.

I know that caring for a garden and a yard can at times be very frustrating, but it can also be very rewarding. So anything that you can do to help make a bit of a difference for your plants throughout your garden or your yard will in the end help make all the difference.

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