The Sunwest Life - May 2023

Celebrating the special bond between a mother and daughter, the value of quality time spent together, reminiscing on memories and creating new ones.

The benefits of a revocable living trust, different types of trusts, and the importance of seeking professional advice in the estate planning process.

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The importance of estate planning and the various estate planning needs that individuals of different age groups and situations someone may have.

13 EXCLUSIVE!

MAY FLOWERS: BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS EMBRACE THE MAY SHOWERS

Exploring the beauty and diversity of May flowers, like tulips, lilacs, and rhododendrons.

With the crazy amount of rain we have been recieving, it is time to embrace some rainy day activities.

14 TULIP FESTIVAL - NETHERLANDS

The Netherlands host an Annual celebration of the tulip flower. Explore the country’s vast tulip fields and learn about Dutch culture and heritage.

20 SCIENCE BEHIND SPRING RAIN

What is the science behind spring showers? Learn about how and why it happens and the impacts it has on the environment and agriculture.

21 CELEBRATING CINCO DE MAYO

Cinco de Mayo is a time to get with your friends to celebrate. Read some of Diana’s top tips to embrace the Mexican culture.

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The bond between

Mother + Daughter

By Ally Thompson

Mothers are truly remarkable. They are the ones who nurture us from the moment we are born, providing us with warmth, comfort, and unconditional love. They are the ones who stay up late with us when we are sick, who celebrate our successes, and who support us through our failures. They are the ones who always seem to know exactly what we need, even when we don’t know ourselves.

There is something truly special about a mother’s love. It is a bond that can never be broken, and it lasts a lifetime. Even when we are grown and have families of our own, our mothers are still there for us, offering their guidance and support.

As we grow older, our mothers continue to be a constant source of support and inspiration. They are always there to offer a listening ear, a comforting hug, or a word of advice. They are our role models, our mentors, and our guiding lights.

One of the most precious gifts a mother can give to her children is the gift of time. In our busy lives, it can be easy to forget to slow down and spend quality time with our loved ones. But mothers know the value of spending time with their children, and they make it a priority.

Growing up, I was the only girl with two brothers. This meant that I got my mom all to myself when it came down to all of the girly things. When I was a little girl, I was my moms little princess. She would dress me up in princess gowns, she would take me to get my nails, go shopping, and everything in between.

I have always loved traveling with my mom. Whether it was up to Salt Lake, or to Florida, it was always such a fun time. In December of 2020 we took a family vacation to Texas. While my brothers made their way to a football game, my mom and I decided to drive two hours to Waco, Texas. It was always a dream of ours to go and see Chip and Joanna Gaines, Magnolia Market.

As we walked around the small streets of Waco, both, me and my mom, were in awe of the marketplace. The weather was beautiful and it was an overcast day. As we made our way to the shops, my mom turned into a kid in a candy store, full excitement at every turn. We went over to the Silos Bakery and had their yummy Lemon Lavender Cupcakes, sipped on our Chai Lattes, and took in the sights and sounds of this vibrant town.

One of my favorite moments was visiting the Magnolia Market, a beautiful store filled with home

decor, gifts, and more. My mom carefully examined every item on display and imagined how she could use it to decorate our home. She was also trying to figure out how she would fit all of her cute new decor items in her bag for the plane ride home without my dad noticing!

What made the trip truly special was the quality time my mom and I got to spend together. We chatted about our favorite things, reminiscing about old memories and creating new ones. It was a reminder that no matter where we go or what we do, the bond between a mother and daughter is unbreakable.

So, to all the mothers out there, thank you for all that you do. Your love, your strength, and your unwavering commitment to your children are truly awe-inspiring. You are the backbone of our families, and we are so grateful for everything that you do.

A mother’s love is like a ray of sunshine on a rainy day, bringing warmth, comfort, and joy to our lives.

REVOCABLE LIVING TRUSTS THE

SWISS ARMY KNIFE OF ESTATE PLANNING

By Ben E. Connor

A trust may seem like an advanced tool only for the wealthiest among us. Such an incorrect view ignores some of the most important benefits of a revocable living trust and has nothing to do with financial worth. The reality is that trusts are a foundational estate planning tool which can greatly impact a person’s well-being in both wealth and health. Indeed, a revocable living trust has a solid history for being highly effective in ensuring a person’s wishes are carried out during life and after they pass. Those wishes cover a broad field of important planning options available to you -- i.e., avoidance of court ordered probate; avoidance of a court ordered conservatorship; ensuring that your assets do not wind up in the hands of a sly spousal predator rather than your surviving spouse; ensuring that your assets go to the loved ones that you desire rather than to those relatives who are the most cunning; ensure that any bequest intended for your children do not wind up in the hands of an ex in-law due to divorce; ensuring that your assets intended for your loved ones do not end up in the hands of the wrong person due to a court ordered judgment or creditor lien; ensuring that your health care wishes are respected and ensuring that your end of life desires are followed. You can protect yourself from all of these scenarios with good planning which must be completed while you are still living and have the capacity to sign the necessary legal documents.

What action must you take? First, find an experienced estate planning attorney and begin creating your estate plan now. The better thought-out plans likely take a few weeks to perfect. The process begins with the maker of a trust – commonly referred to as the trust maker, grantor, settlor, or trustor – transferring his or her ownership of certain assets to the trust. A trustee is then appointed and given proper legal authority to manage the assets for the beneficiary (or beneficiaries) of the trust. In a “standard” revocable living trust, you are the trust maker, the trustee, and the beneficiary while you are alive. If you become incapacitated or die, your designated successor trustee and beneficiaries take over.

TYPES OF TRUSTS

There are a broad variety of trusts and options available to you to fit your estate planning needs.

REVOCABLE LIVING TRUSTS

Revocable Living Trusts are the foundation of almost all estate plans and are by far the most commonly used trusts. Revocable Living Trusts along with their accompanying documents (Financial Powers of Attorney, Health Care Powers of Attorney, HIPAA Authority, Living Will, plus several other legal documents.) are the most common and powerful estate planning tools used today. They contain your instructions for how your health care desires and assets will be handled upon your incapacity or passing. Since these trusts and their accompanying health care documents are revocable, you can change or cancel provisions at any time during your life.

BENEFICIARY CONTROLLED TRUSTS

In this scenario, the beneficiary – typically the grantor’s child or grandchild - is also the trustee. He or she has the discretion to distribute assets to him or her for health, maintenance, education, or support. There is a

co-trustee, who can be removed by the beneficiary/ trustee, with the authority to access the trust for the benefit of the beneficiary beyond his or her health, maintenance, education, or support.

INCENTIVE TRUSTS

These trusts typically contain provisions to encourage or discourage certain behavior and promote family values. In order for the beneficiary to receive funds from the trust, he or she must adhere to the particular requirements set forth by the grantor.

ASSET PROTECTION TRUSTS

These trusts offer perhaps the strongest financial protection against creditors, lawsuits, and judgments. In some types of asset protection trusts, the trust maker can also be a beneficiary, allowing him or her to still receive the benefits of the assets. Protective legal language and proper management of the trust are critical when you use these trusts. Utah has one of the most effective asset protection trusts in the country which is referred to as the Utah Domestic Asset Protection Trust.

LIFE INSURANCE TRUSTS

This is an irrevocable trust that is set up specifically to own a life insurance policy. Ownership in an existing life insurance policy may be transferred to the trust or the trust can purchase the policy directly. The settlor cannot serve as the trustee and he or she relinquishes any right to dissolve the trust or make any changes to it. These can be a great

fit for anyone with a large life insurance policy and whose estate is subject to estate taxes.

TESTAMENTARY TRUSTS

This trust does not become effective until the grantor passes away. Testamentary trusts are generally made within a will. The will becomes effective immediately, but the trust is not created until the maker of the will dies. Unlike living trusts, testamentary trusts do not avoid probate – the legal process by which a court oversees the distribution of assets from a deceased’s estate.

SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE

Estate planning may feel complicated, but it can be an enlightening and easy process when you have the right attorney to guide you. It’s critical that your attorney take time to ensure you are educated about the options that are available to you. There are many decisions to be made by you. It’s important that your knowledge level is enhanced to a higher level of understanding.

It is very important for you to take an active part in deciding which options you wish to incorporate in your estate plan. After all, your choices will have a life-changing impact on those you love for the remainder of their lives and the lives of your grandchildren. Good luck in your planning! We’d love to connect with you to answer questions and help you meet your goals.

Ben E. Connor Attorney The Connor Law Firm, PLC 20 North Main Street, Suite 301, St. George, Utah 84770 (435) 359-1414

A Guide to A BeAutiful Bloom mAy flowers

By Ally Thompson

May flowers are a beautiful sign of the arrival of spring. As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, the buds of various flowers begin to bloom in May. May is a month of renewal and growth, and nowhere is this more evident than in the profusion of flowers that bloom during this time. From delicate wildflowers to grand, showy blooms, the diversity of May flowers is truly something to behold.

May flowers not only add a pop of color to gardens and landscapes, but they also provide important nourishment for bees and other pollinators. With their delicate petals and sweet fragrances, May flowers bring joy and beauty to those who behold them.

One of the most iconic May flowers is the tulip. These vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers come in a wide range of colors, from classic red and yellow to more unusual shades of pink, purple, and even black. Tulips are a popular choice for gardens and parks, and they can also be found in many wildflower meadows.

Another popular May flower is the lilac. These fragrant, delicate flowers come in shades of pink, purple, and white and are often used in floral arrangements. Lilacs are often grown as shrubs or small trees, and they are a popular choice for home gardens.

For something a little more exotic, the rhododendron is a great choice. These large, showy blooms come in a wide range of colors, from pale pink to deep red, and they are often used in landscaping. The Rhododendron is an evergreen shrub and it is often found in cooler climates.

May is also a great time to see wildflowers in bloom. Common wildflowers that can be found in many areas include daisies, buttercups, and wild poppies. These flowers are often found in meadows, fields, and along roadsides, and they can add a splash of color to any outdoor space.

For those interested in gardening, May is an excellent time to plant annuals and perennials. Annuals, like marigolds and zinnias, will bloom throughout the summer, while perennials, like daisies and black-eyed susan’s, will come back year after year.

May is a wonderful time to enjoy the beauty of flowers. Whether you’re looking for showy, exotic blooms or delicate wildflowers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, take some time to explore the many different types of May flowers and discover the beauty that awaits you.

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ESTATE PLANNING: AN INTRODUCTION

By: JC Hallman

By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you’ll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you’ll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.

To help you understand what estate planning means to you, the following sections address some estate planning needs that are common among some very broad groups of individuals. Think of these suggestions as simply a point in the right direction, and then seek professional advice to implement the right plan for you.

OVER 18

Since incapacity can strike anyone at anytime, all adults over 18 should consider having:

• A durable power of attorney: This document lets you name someone to manage your property for you in case you become incapacitated and cannot do so.

• An advance medical directive: The three main types of advance medical directives are (1) a living will, (2) durable power of attorney for health care (also known as a health-care proxy), and (3) a Do Not Resuscitate order. Be aware that not all states allow each kind of medical directive, so make sure you execute one that will be effective for you.

YOUNG AND SINGLE

If you’re young and single, you may not need much estate planning. But if you have some material possessions, you should at least write a will. If you don’t, the wealth you leave behind if you die will likely go to your parents, and that might not be what you would want. A will lets you leave your possessions to anyone you choose (e.g., your significant other, siblings, other relatives, or favorite charity).

UNMARRIED COUPLES

You’ve committed to a life partner but aren’t legally married. For you, a will is essential if you want your property to pass to your partner at your death. Without a will, state law directs that only your closest relatives will inherit your property, and your partner may get nothing. If you share certain property, such as a house or car, you may consider owning the property as joint tenants with rights of survivorship. That way, when one of you dies, the jointly held property will pass to the surviving partner automatically.

MARRIED COUPLES

For many years, married couples had to do careful estate planning, such as the creation of a credit shelter trust, in order to take advantage of their combined federal estate tax exclusions. For decedents dying in 2011 and later years, the executor of a deceased spouse’s estate can transfer any unused estate tax exclusion amount to the surviving spouse without such planning.

You may be inclined to rely on these portability rules for estate tax avoidance, using outright bequests to your spouse instead of traditional trust planning. However, portability should not be relied upon solely for utilization of the first to die’s estate tax exclusion, and a credit shelter trust created at the first spouse’s death may still be advantageous for several reasons:

• Portability may be lost if the surviving spouse remarries and is later widowed again

• The trust can protect any appreciation of assets from estate tax at the second spouse’s death

• The trust can provide protection of assets from the reach of the surviving spouse’s creditors

• Portability does not apply to the generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax, so the trust may be needed to fully leverage the GST exemptions of both spouses

Married couples where one spouse is not a U.S. citizen have special planning concerns. The marital deduction is not allowed if the recipient spouse is a non-citizen spouse (but a $175,000 annual exclusion, for 2023 ($164,000 for 2022), is allowed). If certain requirements are met, however, a transfer to a qualified domestic trust (QDOT) will qualify for the marital deduction.

MARRIED WITH CHILDREN

If you’re married and have children, you and your spouse should each have your own will. For you, wills are vital because you can name a guardian for your minor children in case both of you die simultaneously. If you fail to name a guardian in your will, a court may appoint someone you might not have chosen. Furthermore, without a will, some states dictate that at your death some of your property goes to your children and not to your spouse. If minor children inherit directly, the surviving parent will need court permission to manage the money for them.

You may also want to consult an attorney about establishing a trust to manage your children’s assets in the event that both you and your spouse die at the same time.

You may also need life insurance. Your surviving spouse may not be able to support the family on his or her own and may need to replace your earnings to maintain the family.

COMFORTABLE AND LOOKING FORWARD TO RETIREMENT

If you’re in your 30s, you may be feeling comfortable. You’ve accumulated some wealth and you’re thinking about retirement. Here’s where estate planning overlaps with retirement planning. It’s just as important to plan to care for yourself during your retirement as it is to plan to provide for your beneficiaries after your death. You should keep in mind that even though Social Security may be around when you retire, those benefits alone may not provide enough income for your retirement years. Consider saving some of your accumulated wealth using other retirement and deferred vehicles, such as an individual retirement account (IRA).

WEALTHY AND WORRIED

Depending on the size of your estate, you may need to be concerned about estate taxes.

For 2023, $12,920,000 ($12,060,000 for 2022) is effectively excluded from the federal gift and estate tax. Estates over that amount may be subject to the tax at a top rate of 40 percent.

Similarly, there is another tax, called the generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax, that is imposed on transfers of wealth made to grandchildren (and lower generations). For 2023, the GST tax exemption is also $12,920,000 ($12,060,000 for 2022), and the top tax rate is 40 percent.

Whether your estate will be subject to state death taxes depends on the size of your estate and the tax laws in effect in the state in which you are domiciled.

Note: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, signed into law in December 2017, doubled the gift and estate tax basic exclusion amount and the GST tax exemption to $11,180,000 in 2018. After 2025, they are scheduled to revert to their pre-2018 levels and cut by about one-half.

ELDERLY OR ILL

If you’re elderly or ill, you’ll want to write a will or update your existing one, consider a revocable living trust, and make sure you have a durable power of attorney and a health-care directive. Talk with your family about your wishes, and make sure they have copies of your important papers or know where to locate them.

Refer

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.

Annual Members Meeting

By Joseph Brimer

For most Associations the Annual Members Meeting is just a box to check, or just another boring meeting to hold since state law requires it. For others, such as the SunRiver Villas, it’s a time to celebrate the community and all the benefits it has to offer. The annual meeting is treated as somewhat of a birthday for all the residents living there as they often have food and entertainment to enjoy. In years past, The Villas have enjoyed the experience provided by Siva Pasefika’s dancing & Nuestras Racies mariachi music.

This year was no different with Christian Ford, a comedic magician, putting on the performance of a lifetime! His charming humor and magical tricks left everyone enjoying both the good weather and the company of neighbors. It was a reminder that meeting requirements of governing documents don’t always have to be boring or simply checking a box. It can be a celebration of the community. If something like this interests you in your community, let your Board and Community Manager know.

LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR FINANCIAL NEEDS

tulip festival

in the netherlands

By Ally Thompson

yellows. The tulips are grown in fields across the country, from the province of Flevoland to the Keukenhof Gardens, the world-famous flower park located near the town of Lisse.

Spring has arrived in the Netherlands, and with it comes one of the most colorful and iconic festivals in the world - the Netherlands Tulip Festival. This annual event takes place throughout the country, celebrating the country’s famous tulips and the arrival of spring.

The Tulip Festival, also known as Tulip Time, is an annual celebration of the tulip flower in the Netherlands.

The festival takes place from mid-April to May, when the tulips are in full bloom. Visitors from all over the world flock to the Netherlands to witness the stunning display of tulips in vibrant colors, from deep purples to bright pinks and

The history of the tulip in the Netherlands dates back to the 16th century when tulips were first brought to the country from the Ottoman Empire. The flower quickly became a popular status symbol and a symbol of wealth, with prices soaring to astronomical levels during the 17th century. Today, the Netherlands is the world’s largest producer of tulips, exporting millions of bulbs each year.

The festival offers visitors the opportunity to explore the country’s vast tulip fields and gardens, with various events and activities taking place throughout the month-long celebration. Visitors can take guided tours of the fields and gardens, attend workshops on flower arranging, and enjoy live music performances and food vendors.

One of the highlights of the festival is the famous flower parade, known as the Bloemencorso, which takes place in various cities across the Netherlands. The parade features elaborately

decorated floats made entirely out of flowers, including tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils. The floats are designed and constructed by local communities, and the parade attracts thousands of spectators each year.

Another popular attraction during the festival is the Keukenhof Gardens, which is open exclusively during the festival period. The park features over 7 million tulips, as well as other flowers, spread across 32 hectares of land. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the stunning displays of flowers, or take a boat tour of the nearby tulip fields.

The Netherlands Tulip Festival is not just a celebration of flowers, but also a celebration of Dutch culture and heritage. Visitors can explore traditional Dutch villages and towns, sample local cuisine, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Dutch people.

The Netherlands Tulip Festival is a must-visit event for anyone who loves flowers, nature, and culture. The festival is a celebration of the arrival of spring and the beauty of nature, and it offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the Netherlands Tulip Festival is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

embracing may showers The Best Rainy Day Activities

By Ally Thompson

As the saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers.” But what about May showers? Rainy days in the summertime can put a damper on plans, but they don’t have to ruin your day. In fact, there are plenty of fun activities to do in the rain that can make for a memorable summer experience. So, let’s embrace the May showers and discover the best activities for summer rain.

Cozy Reading

There is nothing better than snuggling up with a good book and a cup of tea on a rainy day. Whether it’s a classic novel or a new release, reading is the perfect way to escape into another world and forget about the dreary weather outside.

Cooking

Rainy days are the perfect opportunity to spend some time in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes and flavors. Whether it’s baking a cake or trying out a new soup recipe, the warmth and aromas of the kitchen are sure to lift your spirits on a rainy day.

Movie Marathon

A rainy day is the perfect excuse to catch up on all the movies you’ve been meaning to watch. Whether it’s a classic film or a new release, curling up on the couch with some popcorn and your favorite movie is a great way to spend a rainy day.

Take a Walk in the Rain

While most people might opt to stay indoors on a rainy day, taking a walk in the rain can be a refreshing and invigorating experience. Just make sure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear. A light rain jacket, waterproof boots, and an umbrella are a must. Walking in the rain can also provide a unique perspective of your surroundings. The rain can make colors appear more vibrant and the air smell fresh.

Board Games

Rainy days are the perfect time to break out the board games and spend some quality time with family or friends. From classic games like Monopoly and Scrabble to newer games like Settlers of Catan, there’s something for everyone.

Art Projects

Rainy days are the perfect time to get creative with art projects. Whether it’s painting, drawing, or making crafts, the grey skies outside can provide inspiration for colorful and imaginative creations.

Exercise

Rainy days don’t have to be a reason to stay home all day. While it may not be ideal for a run or bike ride, there are plenty of indoor exercise options such as yoga, Pilates, or a home workout routine. You could even try a new, indoor sport like bowling or mini golf.

Explore Rainy Parks and Gardens

While it may be tempting to stay indoors on a rainy day, there is a certain beauty to be found in nature during the rain. Put on a raincoat and take a walk through a nearby park or botanical garden, admiring the raindrops on the flowers and leaves.

Visit a Museum

A rainy day is a great time to visit a museum or art gallery. Not only will you stay dry, but you can also learn something new and appreciate some of the world’s most beautiful art and artifacts. Many museums also offer special events and exhibits during the summer months, so be sure to check their schedule ahead of time.

Go to a spa

A rainy day is the perfect excuse to indulge in some self-care. Book a spa appointment and enjoy a relaxing massage or facial. You can also visit a hot spring or sauna and enjoy the soothing effects of the water and steam.

There are plenty of ways to embrace the May showers and turn a rainy day into an enjoyable experience. From cozy reading to cooking and art projects, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So next time the rain starts to fall, don’t despair – embrace the opportunity to try out a new activity or spend some quality time with loved ones.

reservoirs in southern utah

By Christian Gates

Reservoirs can take several years to fill up depending on the size and rainfall in the area

One of my favorite attractions in the southern Utah area are the numerous reservoirs located near St. George, offering visitors a variety of activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, and camping. Growing up in the area, I have spent many Summer hours enjoying the beach-like water. Here are some of my favorite reservoirs near St. George:

Sand Hollow Reservoir

Sand Hollow Reservoir is a big body of water located just a few miles southeast of St. George. The reservoir is known for its clear blue waters, red sandy beaches, and red rock cliffs. Visitors at Sand Hollow can enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, and

Reservoirs are used for a variety of purposes including: drinking water storage, irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation.

paddleboarding. Sand Hollow State Park even offers a variety of camping options, including tent and RV.

Quail Creek Reservoir

Quail Creek Reservoir is found 12 miles northeast of St. George and covers 600 acres of water. The reservoir is surrounded by red and black rock cliffs and is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and bluegill, making it a great destination for fishing! Quail Creek State Park also offers campsites, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

Gunlock Reservoir

Gunlock Reservoir is a small but scenic reservoir found 15 miles northwest of St. George, past the Shivwits Indian reservation. The reservoir covers 240 acres and is surrounded by red rock cliffs and juniper trees. The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout, bluegill, and largemouth bass, making it a great spot for fishing. Visitors can also enjoy cliff jumping, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, and swimming. Gunlock State Park offers campsites, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

Kolob Reservoir

Kolob Reservoir is the most remote lake on this list found in the high country of the Pine Valley Mountains. The reservoir covers 250 acres and is surrounded by a forest of aspen and fir trees. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and camping. The area around the reservoir offers several hiking trails, including the popular Kolob Arch Trail.

The reservoirs near St. George, Utah, offer a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. From fishing and boating to camping and hiking, there is something for everyone. Whether you are a local or a visitor to the area, be sure to explore these beautiful reservoirs and take advantage of all they have to offer!

THE SCIENCE BEHIND SPRING RAIN

By Ally Thompson

May is a month that is often associated with rain and showers. While April showers bring May flowers, the increased rainfall in May is due to a number of meteorological phenomena that occur during this time of year.

One of the main factors that contribute to increased rainfall in May is the change in atmospheric circulation patterns. As the weather begins to warm up, the jet stream moves further north, bringing with it warmer, moister air from the Gulf of Mexico. This warm air collides with cooler air masses moving in from the north, leading to increased instability in the atmosphere and a greater likelihood of rain.

Another factor that contributes to increased rainfall in May is the transition from winter to spring. As snow and ice begin to melt, this water enters rivers and streams, leading to higher levels of moisture in the atmosphere. The combination of this moisture and warmer air temperatures creates the ideal conditions for rain.

The increased rainfall in May has a number of impacts on the environment, agriculture, and people. One of the main benefits of the rain is that it helps to replenish water supplies, which are often depleted during the

winter months. This is particularly important for farmers and those who rely on agriculture for their livelihoods, as it allows them to begin planting crops for the upcoming growing season.

However, too much rain can also have negative impacts on agriculture and the environment. Excessive rainfall can lead to flooding and erosion, which can damage crops and lead to soil depletion. It can also cause water pollution, as runoff from fields and other sources can carry harmful chemicals and nutrients into streams and rivers.

The increased rainfall in May can be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it can provide much-needed relief from dry weather conditions and help to clean the air of pollutants. On the other hand, it can also lead to traffic disruptions, flooding, and other inconveniences.

Overall, the increased rainfall in May is a natural occurrence that is influenced by a number of meteorological factors. While it can have both positive and negative impacts on the environment, agriculture, and people, it is ultimately an important part of the seasonal cycle that helps to sustain life on our planet.

By Diana Juarez

Ok, I gotta clear the air before I write anything else. No, Cinco de Mayo is not The Mexican Independence Day. But it is, still notable. We celebrate a poorly equipped Mexican army of only 4,000 men claiming victory against the French forces of 8,000. Sadly the victory was short, the French later captured Mexico City and took over the country. Moral of the story really that is, the fifth of May stood for victory. A symbol of unity and pride for the Mexican people who were supposed to lose a battle. Though Puebla, Mexico is the only place that celebrates Cinco De Mayo, thankfully they have us here in the United States to celebrate with them. Celebrate how? Let me just spill all the fun on how to embrace some of the Mexican culture.

TACOS, TACOS, MAYBE SOME GUACAMOLE TOO

Make some yummy tacos at home. Birria tacos are super easy and all the rage right now. Carnitas are a tasty style if you love pork and carne asada is a classic you can’t go wrong with.

LISTEN TO SOME CORRIDOS

This is ballad music that typically narrates a historical event. Spotify has a great playlist ¡Viva Mexico! Or make your own playlist with Santana, Ritchie Valens, and some Jay and the Americans.

UNO MAS POR FAVOR

Cerveza is not always a must, but this is a time to make some fresh margaritas. Heck, shoot some Mexican tequila like El Jimador, Don Julio, Tequila Ocho. Party on!

SUNWEST MANAGEMENT?

SunWest Management specializes in helping you develop a strong sense of community and promote harmony in your community. Prudent financial management, the best governance practices and maintenance strategies, yeah, we’re good at that too! We work with you to keep your property values high and your community thriving.

Our digital magazine is another way we share our passion and commitment to serve community associations everywhere. Read on for best practices, tips and offers to enhance your home and community.