The Sunwest Life - October 2023

OCTOBER 2023 ISSUE

Get Spooked

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Events

Oktoberfest

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

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History Exploring Utah’s Ghost Towns

Financial Understanding the Stock Market

CONTENTS Lifestyle + Home + More

07 SPOOKY TALE OF LA LLORNA Explore the chilling tale of La Llorona, a haunting figure whose legend embodies grief, regret, and the eerie presence of the past.

08 HALLOWEEN COSTUME IDEAS Looking for Halloween costume inspo? We’ve got you covered. Make a statement at your next Halloween party or event.

10 TRACING THE ORIGINS

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This article delves into the fascinating history of Halloween, tracing its origins from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain to its modern-day celebrations.

SNOWBIRD OKTOBERFEST

12 EXCLUSIVE!

YOUR GUIDE TO MEDICARE

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EXPLORING UTAH’S GHOST TOWNS

UNDERSTANDING THE STOCK MARKET

Discover the spine-chilling allure of ghost towns around Utah. Grafton, for example, wher pioneer history collides with eerie legends.

Learn about the stock market, explaining its fundamental workings, the role of stock indexes, trading hours, and essential tips for beginners.

(435) 773-6456

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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.

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Snowbird Oktoberfest

By Rylee Christensen

Nestled high in the majestic Wasatch Mountains of Utah, Snowbird Resort comes alive every fall with a vibrant celebration of Bavarian culture known as Snowbird Oktoberfest.

This annual event has become a beloved tradition for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique opportunity to experience the rich traditions, delicious cuisine, and lively music of Germany right in the heart of the American West.

Oktoberfest is a two month long celebration every Saturday and Sunday starting August 12th and ending October 15th, 12pm-6pm.

Admission is FREE, just pay for your parking!

The Bavarian Spirit Snowbird Oktoberfest captures the essence of Bavaria with its authentic decor and enthusiastic embrace of German culture.

As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted by colorful Bavarian flags, lively oompah bands, and traditionally dressed staff as well as attendees. It’s like stepping into a Bavarian village!

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Delicious German Cuisine One of the main draws of Snowbird Oktoberfest is undoubtedly the mouthwatering German cuisine. From pretzels the size of your head to bratwurst, sauerkraut, schnitzel, and roasted chicken, there’s no shortage of hearty and savory dishes to satisfy your taste buds. Pair your meal with an authentic German beer, served in a commemorative stein, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to Munich.

Entertainment for All Ages Snowbird Oktoberfest is a family-friendly event, and there’s no shortage of entertainment for all ages. In addition to the lively oompah bands and dance troupes, there are a ton of fun activities for kids! These include face painting, games, and even a carousel. It’s the perfect opportunity for families to create lasting memories together.

Shopping and Souvenirs The festival features a marketplace with vendors offering a wide array of Bavarian goods and souvenirs. From handcrafted wooden toys and jewelry to traditional clothing and Alpine hats, you can take home a piece of the festival and remember your experience for years to come.

Scenic Alpine Setting What sets Snowbird Oktoberfest apart from other Oktoberfest celebrations is its breathtaking alpine setting. Surrounded by the stunning Wasatch Mountains, visitors are treated to panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular. You can even take a ride on the resort’s tram for an even more breathtaking perspective of the landscape.

Snowbird Oktoberfest is a delightful celebration of Bavarian culture and a fantastic way to welcome the fall season. With its authentic atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, family-friendly entertainment, and picturesque surroundings, it’s no wonder this event has become a cherished tradition in the heart of Utah’s mountains. Whether you’re a local looking for a fun weekend getaway or a tourist seeking a unique cultural experience, Snowbird Oktoberfest is an event not to be missed. Prost!

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Spooky Tale of

La Llorona

By Diana Juarez

For some, La Llorona can symbolize grief of the past and present.

For my family, it’s our anxiety origin story and the scariest story ever told to me— The Weeping Woman. Central America and Mexico have their own versions of La Llorona, and like most ghost stories, there is always someone who swears they saw her, heard her cries, or knows someone who did.

Now with no peace, she is known to be walking up and down the rivers, dressed in a long white dress crying for her children. “Miiiiiiiissss niiiiiiiññoooooosss” my children! She cries. So as a child, we would get told not to play at the river without an adult because La Llorona could be looking for her children and she may grab you instead. If you hear her cries, just run the other way.

The story goes during the colonial era and the Spanish conquistadores; a beautiful woman with long black hair named Maria lived in a small town only hoping to get out. One day, a good-looking rich caballero came in and fell in love with Maria and asked her to go away with him. Though her family warned her about him, she didn’t listen and ran away to marry him. They had two children, and life was good for a while. Then his wild ways came back, and he would leave Maria for long periods of time, only coming back to visit the children.

One evening Maria and her children were on a walk when her husband came riding by in a carriage with a woman. Though he acknowledged the children, he didn’t to Maria and just drove by. Something just snapped with anger and jealousy she grabbed her children and took them to the wild river that ran nearby and threw them in. Realizing what she had done, she ran down the river bank to try and find them, but she herself tripped, fell in, and drowned.

The townspeople found her and laid her to rest by the river.

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HALLOWEEN COSTUME IDEAS

Dressing up as Mario and Peach for Halloween is a classic and iconic choice that can be a lot of fun.

Whether you’re a couple looking for a cute costume idea or just a fan of the Super Mario franchise, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to dress as Mario and Peach:

Marios Look: • • • • •

Red Hat and “M” Emblem: Start with a red baseball cap. You can either find one with an “M” emblem already on it or create your own “M” emblem using white fabric or felt.

Red Shirt and Blue Overalls: Wear a long-sleeve red shirt. Put on a pair of blue overalls. If you can find a pair with big yellow buttons, that’s perfect.

White Gloves: Mario always wears white gloves, so find a pair to complete the look.

Brown Shoes: Mario’s footwear consists of brown shoes or boots. You can use brown shoes or paint a pair of white shoes brown.

Mustache: Create or purchase a fake black mustache. You can use spirit gum or double-sided tape to attach it securely to your upper lip.

Peachs Look: • • • • •

Pink Dress: Peach’s signature look includes a pink dress. Find a pink dress that is similar in style to Princess Peach’s, preferably one with puffy sleeves.

Crown: Princess Peach always wears a golden crown. You can find costume crowns at costume stores or make one yourself using cardboard and gold paint.

Blonde Wig: If you don’t have long, blonde hair like Princess Peach, consider wearing a blonde wig that matches her hairstyle.

Gloves: Put on a pair of long, white gloves that reach up to your elbows.

Shoes: Wear pink or red high-heeled shoes or boots, as Princess Peach often does.

To complete the Mario and Peach couple costume, coordinate with your partner. Mario can escort Peach with chivalry, making for a cute and authentic duo.

Optional Accessories: • • •

Mario can carry a prop Super Mario Bros. toy, like a plush toy or a toy mushroom.

Peach can carry a plush toy of her loyal companion, Toad.

For added fun, consider carrying a cardboard or foam board Mario Kart as a prop.

With these steps, you’ll be ready to embark on a Super Mario-themed adventure and bring the beloved characters to life for Halloween. Remember to embrace the spirit of the characters, strike iconic poses, and enjoy the festivities as Mario and Peach!

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Dressing up as Barbie and Ken from the 2023 Barbie movie is a fun and fashionable costume idea. In the 2023 Barbie movie, Barbie’s character goes on various adventures and dons different outfits, so you have some creative freedom when choosing which Barbie look to replicate. Recreating the iconic Barbie and Ken looks from the 2023 Barbie movie, will have heads turning and impressing fellow Hallowen partygoers with your stylish and playful costumes.

Barbies Look: • • • • •

Choose Barbie’s Outfit: Start by selecting a specific outfit or look that Barbie wears in the 2023 movie.

Options might include a glamorous ball gown, a stylish everyday outfit, or even a superhero costume if Barbie takes on that role in the film.

Wig and Makeup: Barbie typically has long, blonde hair. You can either use a long, blonde wig or style your own hair to match her look. Apply Barbie-inspired makeup, focusing on a flawless complexion, bright eyes, and glossy lips. Barbie often has a polished and glamorous makeup style.

Accessories: Barbie is known for her extensive collection of accessories. Choose statement jewelry, like oversized earrings or a necklace, and add a bracelet or two. Don’t forget a handbag or clutch that complements her outfit.

Footwear: Barbie often wears high heels. Select a pair of fashionable heels that match her chosen outfit.

Confidence and Poise: Barbie is confident and poised, so carry yourself with elegance and grace throughout the evening. Barbie’s signature confidence is a crucial part of the character.

Kens Look: •

• • • •

Choose Ken’s Outfit: Ken’s wardrobe is diverse in the Barbie movie. You can choose from casual Ken outfits, beachwear, or even outfits for special occasions. Coordinate with your Barbie to ensure your outfits complement each other (My favorite is the faux coat with wrapped bandana as seen in the picture).

Hair: Ken typically has short, styled hair. Style your hair to match Ken’s look or use a wig if necessary.

Accessories: Ken might wear accessories like sunglasses, a watch, or a belt, depending on his outfit. Add these for authenticity.

Footwear: Select shoes that match Ken’s chosen outfit. Ken often wears stylish, casual sneakers.

Attitude: Ken is confident and charming. Emulate his personality by being friendly, sociable, and engaging with others at the Halloween party.

Coordinate with your partner to ensure that Barbie and Ken’s outfits match or complement each other. If Barbie wears a glamorous evening gown, Ken could opt for a sharp tuxedo. If Barbie goes for a casual look, Ken could wear a casual ensemble that matches.

Optional Accessories: Consider carrying Barbie and Ken dolls as props to complete your look. These dolls can be used as accessories or for fun photo opportunities.

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Tracing the Origins of

halloween

By Ally Thompson

H

alloween, also known as All Hallows’ Eve, is a holiday celebrated annually on October 31st.

The origins of Halloween can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which was celebrated by the Celts of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The festival marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the dark, cold winter.

The Celts believed that on the night of Samhain, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred, and the spirits of the dead could return to the world of the living.

As part of the celebrations, the Celts would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off evil spirits.

They also believed that by leaving food and drink out for the spirits, they could appease them and prevent them from causing harm. In addition, the Celts would tell fortunes, play games, and tell stories.

When the Roman Empire conquered the Celts in 43 AD, they incorporated many of the Samhain customs into their own festival of Feralia, which was held in honor of the dead. The Roman festival of

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Pomona, which celebrated the goddess of fruit and trees, was also incorporated into the celebrations.

In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1st as a time to honor all saints and martyrs, and the night before was known as All Hallows’ Eve. The name was eventually shortened to Halloween.

As Christianity spread throughout Europe, the customs and beliefs of the Celts and Romans were combined with the Christian beliefs of honoring the dead. The tradition of carving pumpkins, which originated from the Celts, was also incorporated into Halloween.

Today, Halloween is celebrated in many countries around the world and is a time for dressing up in costumes, trick-or-treating, and telling spooky stories. It has also become a popular holiday for parties and other celebrations. While the holiday has changed over time, its roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain continue to be an important part of its history and tradition.

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MEDICARE

By JC Hallman

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance to retired individuals, regardless of their medical condition, and certain younger people with disabilities or end-stage renal disease. Here are some basic facts about Medicare that you should know.

WHAT DOES MEDICARE COVER? Medicare coverage consists of two main parts: Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Medicare Part B (medical insurance). These parts together are known as Original Medicare. A third part, Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage), covers all Part A and Part B services, and may provide additional services. A fourth part, Medicare Part D, offers prescription drug coverage that can help you handle the rising costs of prescriptions.

MEDICARE PART A (HOSPITAL INSURANCE) Generally known as hospital insurance, Part A covers services associated with inpatient hospital care. These are the costs associated with an overnight stay in a hospital, skilled nursing facility, or psychiatric hospital, including charges for the hospital room, meals, and nursing services. Part A also covers hospice care and home health care.

MEDICARE PART B (MEDICAL INSURANCE) Generally known as medical insurance, Part B covers other medical care. Physician care — whether you received it as an inpatient at a hospital, as an outpatient at a hospital or other health-care facility, or at a doctor’s office — is covered under Part B. Laboratory tests, physical therapy or rehabilitation services, and ambulance service are also covered. Medicare Part B also covers 100% of the cost of many preventative services and an annual wellness visit.

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MEDICARE PART C (MEDICARE ADVANTAGE) A Medicare Advantage plan is a private health-care plan that contracts with Medicare to provide Part A and Part B benefits. A Medicare Advantage plan covers all of the services that Original Medicare covers except hospice care. Some plans offer extra coverage for expenses not covered by Original Medicare such as vision, hearing, dental, and other health expenses. Most also offer prescription drug (Part D) coverage.

Several types of Medicare Advantage plans may be available, including health maintenance organization (HMO) plans, preferred provider organization (PPO) plans, private fee-for-service (PFFS) plans, and special needs plans (SNPs). You can choose to enroll in either Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan. If you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll generally pay a monthly premium for it, in addition to your Part B premium.

MEDICARE PART D (PRESCRIPTION DRUG COVERAGE) All Medicare beneficiaries are eligible to join a Medicare prescription drug plan offered by private companies or insurers that have been approved by Medicare. Although these plans vary in price and benefits, they all cover a broad number of brand name and generic drugs available at local pharmacies or through the mail. Medicare prescription drug coverage is voluntary, but if you decide to join a plan, keep in mind that some plans cover more drugs or offer a wider selection of pharmacies (for a higher premium) than others.

You can get information and help with comparing plans on the Medicare website, medicare.gov, or by calling a Medicare counselor at 1-800-Medicare.

WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY MEDICARE PARTS A AND B? Some medical expenses are not covered by either Part A or B. These expenses include: • • • • • • •

Your Part B premium Deductibles, coinsurance, or co-payments that apply Most prescription drugs Dental care Hearing aids Eye care Custodial care at home or in a nursing home

Medicare Part C may cover some of these expenses, or if you’re enrolled in Original Medicare you can purchase a supplemental Medigap insurance policy that will help cover what Medicare does not.

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR MEDICARE? Most people age 65 or older who are citizens or permanent residents of the United States are eligible for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) without paying a monthly premium. You are eligible at age 65 if: • •

You receive or are eligible to receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits based on your own work record or on someone else’s work record (as a spouse, divorced spouse, widow, widower, divorced widow, divorced widower, or parent) You or your spouse worked long enough in a government job where Medicare taxes were paid

In addition, if you are under age 65, you can get Part A without paying a monthly premium if you have received Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board disability benefits for 24 months, or if you are on kidney dialysis or are a kidney transplant patient.

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Even if you’re not eligible for free Part A coverage, you may still be able to purchase it by paying a premium. Call the Social Security Administration (SSA) at (800) 772-1213 for more information.

Although Medicare Part B (medical insurance) is optional, most people sign up for it. If you want to join a Medicare managed care plan or a Medicare private fee-for-service plan, you’ll need to enroll in both Parts A and B. And Medicare Part B is never free — you’ll pay a monthly premium for it, even if you are eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A.

HOW MUCH DOES MEDICARE COST? Medicare deductible amounts and premiums change annually. Here’s what you’ll pay in 2023 if you’re enrolled in Original Medicare:

PREMIUM

PART A (HOSPITAL)

None for most people, but noneligible individuals pay up to $506 per month (if they have 39 or fewer quarters of Medicare-covered employment)

PART B (MEDICAL)

The standard Part B premium amount is $164.90. However, some people who get Social Security benefits will pay more than this amount. See below for more information.

DEDUCTIBLE

COINSURANCE

$1,600 per benefit period

$400 a day for the 61st to 90th day each benefit period; $800 a day for the 91st to 150th day for each lifetime reserve day (total of 60 lifetime reserve days); $200 a day for the 21st to 100th day each benefit period for skilled nursing facility care

$226 per year

After satisfying a deductible if one applies, you normally pay 20% of the approved amount for medical expenses (20 to 40% for outpatient mental health services, 20% for hospital charges for outpatient hospital services, nothing for laboratory services)

Most people pay the standard Part B premium. But if your modified adjusted gross income as reported on your federal income tax return from two years ago is above a certain amount, you’ll pay the standard premium plus an extra charge called the Income Related Monthly Adjusted Amount (IRMAA).

To determine if you’re subject to income-related premiums, the SSA uses the most recent federal tax return provided by the IRS. Generally, the tax return you filed in 2022 (based on 2021 income) will be used to determine if you will pay an income-related premium in 2023. You can contact the SSA at (800) 772-1213 if you have new information to report that might change the determination and lower your premium.

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The table below shows what you’ll pay if you’re in this group.

If you file an individual income tax return with income that is:

If you file a joint income tax return with income that is:

If you file income tax return as married filing separately with income that is:

Monthly premium

$97,000 or less

$194,000 or less

$97,000 or less

$164.90

Above $97,000 up to $123,000

Above $246,000 up to $306,000

N/A

$230.80

Above $123,000 up to $153,000

Above $194,000 up to $246,000

N/A

$329.70

Above $153,000 up to $183,000

Above $306,000 up to $366,000

N/A

$428.60

Above $183,000 and less than $500,000

Above $366,000 and less than $750,000

Above $97,000 and less than $403,000

$527.50

$500,000 and above

$750,000 and above

$403,000 and above

$560.50

in 2023:

Since Original Medicare doesn’t cover every type of medical care, and you’ll have to pay deductibles and coinsurance, you may want to buy a Medicare supplemental insurance (Medigap) policy.

If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll generally pay one monthly premium for that plan in addition to your Medicare Part B premium. Each Medicare Advantage plan has different premiums and costs for services, and coverage varies, so what you’ll pay depends on the plan you have.

WHO ADMINISTERS THE MEDICARE PROGRAM? The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has overall responsibility for administering the Medicare program and sets standards and policies. The CMS also manages the official government website for Medicare, medicare.gov. But it’s the SSA that processes Medicare applications and answers Medicare eligibility questions.

HOW DO YOU SIGN UP FOR MEDICARE? You’ll generally be automatically enrolled in Medicare when you turn 65 if you’re already been receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits for at least four months before you turn 65. The SSA will notify you that you’re being enrolled. If you’re not automatically enrolled and are eligible for Medicare at age 65, you have a 7-month initial enrollment period to sign up for Part A and/or Part B. Although there’s no cost to enroll in Medicare Part A, you’ll pay a premium to enroll in Medicare Part B. If you’ve been automatically enrolled in Part B, you’ll be notified that you have a certain amount of time after 14 I www.swmlife.com

your enrollment date to decline coverage. Even if you decide not to enroll in Medicare Part B during the initial enrollment period, you can enroll later during the annual general enrollment period that runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. However, you may pay a slightly higher premium as a result, depending on the circumstances.

If you decide to postpone applying for Social Security past your 65th birthday, you can still enroll in Medicare when you turn 65. The SSA suggests that you call (800) 772-1213 three months before you turn 65 to discuss your options. The easiest way to apply for Medicare is online at socialsecurity.gov.

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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.

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Exploring Utah’s

Ghost Towns

By Ally Thompson

Utah is home to several ghost towns, remnants of the state’s rich mining and settlement history. These abandoned towns offer a glimpse into the past and are popular destinations for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

One of the most well-known ghost towns in Utah is Silver Reef, located in the southwestern part of the state. This former mining town was established in 1877 and was once home to over 5,000 people. The town was built around the silver mines that were discovered in the area and had a thriving business district with stores, saloons, and even a theater. Today, the town is a popular spot for visitors to explore the abandoned buildings and learn about the history of the area.

Another ghost town to explore is Frisco, located on the edge of the San Rafael Swell. The town was once a bustling mining town, but it was abandoned in the 1920s. Today, the town is a popular spot for visitors to explore the abandoned buildings and learn about the history of the area. Other ghost towns in Utah include Scofield, a former coal-mining town, and Tintic, a former gold and silver mining town.

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Visiting ghost towns can be a unique and interesting way to explore the history of Utah and gain a deeper understanding of the state’s past. It’s a great way to explore the history and culture of Utah. These towns are usually in remote areas and visitors should be prepared for rough roads and rugged terrain. But it is always a great opportunity to experience something new, exciting and different.

One ghost town I want to highlight on is located right outside Zion, Utah and its name is Grafton.

In the shadow of Utah’s majestic Zion National Park, an eerie silence descends upon a place frozen in time - Grafton, the ghost town that beckons to the supernatural. While Grafton’s history is steeped in the pioneer spirit of the American West, it is also shrouded in unsettling tales of paranormal encounters. Explore with us as we delve into the spectral mysteries and eerie legends that haunt this forsaken frontier.

Founded in 1859 by Mormon pioneers, Grafton was built in the heart of a harsh and unforgiving wilderness. From the very beginning, strange and unsettling occurrences plagued the town.

Local legends claim that the Virgin River, which flows nearby, is haunted by the spirits of Native Americans who once fiercely defended their territory against the encroaching settlers.

Life in Grafton was a constant struggle against the elements and the unknown. Mysterious disappearances and unexplained deaths were not uncommon in this forsaken town. Some believe that the unsettled spirits of those who perished here still wander the town’s desolate streets, seeking to finish what they started in life.

Grafton’s fate seemed sealed when a series of devastating floods ravaged the town in the late 1800s. Residents, who had already endured unimaginable hardships, were forced to flee in terror. Some say that the ghosts of the settlers who perished in these floods still wail in agony, their voices carried on the wind through the ghostly town.

Though Grafton was abandoned, it was not forgotten. In a twist of fate, the town’s eerie ruins were recognized for their historical significance.

Efforts were made to preserve the remnants of Grafton, but this only seemed to anger the restless spirits that remained. Visitors have reported hearing Click the links for more content!

disembodied voices, seeing ghostly apparitions, and feeling a chilling presence when wandering through the town’s desolate streets.

Today, Grafton is not just a historical site; it’s a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts and thrillseekers. The lingering energy of the past is palpable, and many claim to have experienced otherworldly encounters while exploring the town’s haunting remains.

Grafton, Utah, is a place where history and the supernatural intertwine. Its ghostly legacy serves as a chilling reminder of the town’s turbulent past and the restless spirits that remain. Whether you believe in the paranormal or not, Grafton’s eerie atmosphere and unsettling legends make it a destination that is sure to send shivers down your spine. Visit if you dare, but beware of the otherworldly entities that may be lurking in the shadows, for Grafton is a place where the past and the beyond are forever entwined. www.swmlife.com I 17

UNDERSTANDING THE

STOCK MARKET

By Brian Webster

T

he stock market is a complex yet integral component of the global economy, playing a vital role in the financial well-being of individuals and businesses. While it may seem daunting, grasping the fundamentals of how the stock market operates and learning how to invest in it can be empowering and financially rewarding. In this article, we will scratch the surface of the stock market, explain how it works and provide insights into how you can start investing.

What is the Stock Market?

At its core, the stock market is a marketplace where individuals and institutions buy and sell ownership shares in publicly traded companies. These shares represent a fractional ownership stake in the 18 I www.swmlife.com

company, and owning them grants investors certain rights, such as the ability to vote on important company decisions and receive a portion of the company’s profits in the form of dividends.

How Does the Stock Market Work?

STOCK EXCHANGES The stock market operates through stock exchanges, which are platforms that facilitate the buying and selling of stocks. The most famous stock exchange in the United States is the New York Stock Exchange also known as NYSE. NASDAQ is another major exchange. Companies list their shares on these exchanges to raise capital for various purposes, such as expansion and research.

STOCK PRICES

CHOOSE YOUR INVESTMENTS

The prices of stocks are determined by the forces of supply and demand. When more people want to buy a stock than sell it, the price tends to rise, and when more people want to sell than buy, the price falls.

This constant fluctuation creates opportunities for investors to profit.

Decide whether you want to invest in individual stocks or use mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) for a more diversified approach.

Individual stocks offer the potential for higher returns, but come with more risk, while funds provide diversification.

STOCK INDEXES

OPEN AN INVESTMENT ACCOUNT

To gauge the overall performance of the stock market, various stock indexes are used. Examples include the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average. These indexes track the performance of a basket of stocks and are often used as benchmarks for the broader market.

You’ll need a brokerage account to buy and sell stocks. Research and compare different brokerage firms to find one that suits your needs, considering factors like fees, research tools, and customer support.

TRADING HOURS Stock exchanges have specific trading hours during which stocks can be bought and sold. In the United States, these hours are typically from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM (Eastern Time) on regular trading days.

START INVESTING Transfer funds to your brokerage account and start making investments according to your chosen strategy. It’s essential to monitor your investments regularly and make adjustments as needed.

How to Invest in the Stock Market?

PRACTICE PATIENCE

Investing in the stock market can be a rewarding way to grow your wealth over time, but it also involves risk. Here are some tips to help you get started:

The stock market can be volatile, and short-term fluctuations are common. Avoid making impulsive decisions based on daily or weekly market movements. Focus on your long-term goals.

EDUCATE YOURSELF

STAY INFORMED

Before you begin investing, take the time to learn about the basics of stocks, how markets work, and different investment strategies. There are numerous books, online courses, and financial websites that offer valuable resources for beginners.

Keep up with financial news and stay informed about the companies you’ve invested in. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions about when to buy, sell, or hold your investments.

SET FINANCIAL GOALS Define your investment objectives, whether it’s saving for retirement, buying a home, or funding your children’s education. Having clear goals will help you make informed investment decisions.

BUILD A DIVERSIFIED PORTFOLIO Diversification is a key strategy to reduce risk.

Spread your investments across different asset classes, industries, and geographic regions. This can help mitigate losses in case one area of the market underperforms.

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SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE If you’re unsure about how to proceed or have a significant amount of wealth to manage, consider consulting a financial advisor for personalized guidance.

The stock market is a powerful tool for building wealth, but it requires a solid understanding of how it works and a disciplined approach to investing.

By educating yourself and setting clear goals, you can navigate the stock market with confidence and achieve your financial goals. Remember that investing involves risk, so do your research and approach it with a long-term perspective. www.swmlife.com I 19

SUNWEST MANAGEMENT? WHO ARE WE & WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL? 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.

Contact us and discover how your community can start living the SunWest life! We can’t wait to hear from you!

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