The Sunwest Life - September 2023

HUNTSMAN SENIOR GAMES

Lifestyle + Home + More

04 SPRUCE UP YOUR FALL DECOR

Transform your home into a cozy fall haven by incorporating a variety of seasonal elements, such as pumpkins. Check out all of the fall decor trends now.

06 MERGING YOUR MONEY

Navigating the financial challenges of marriage involves prioritizing shared goals and preparing a joint accounts. Build a solid financial foundation together.

10 PEACH DAYS

Commemorate the rich heritage of Hurricane City at the annual Peach Days event, offering a variety of activities, food, and entertainment for all ages.

13 CREAMY CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP

Fall is the perfect time for soup and this is by far one of the best homemade soups you could make. If you’re looking for an easy recipe, then try it out!

17 EXCLUSIVE! REMEMBERING A 9/11 HERO

HUNTING SEASON SAFETY EMBRACING THE EQUINOX

Prepare responsibly for hunting by, informing others of your plans, being weather-aware, and prioritizing firearm safety.

Learn about the equinox and its significance as the sun crosses the equator, leading to the autumn.

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WAYS TO spruce up your fall home decor

• FRONT PORCH DISPLAY

Place a collection of pumpkins, gourds, or get a seasonal doormat for your front porch. You can also hang a fall-themed wreath on your door to add more of that fall-feel.

• WARM TEXTILES

Fall is all about that warm-fuzzy feelings so, swap out light summer textiles for cozy ones. Plaid or warm-toned tablecloths, throw blankets, and cushions are good alternatives.

• HARVEST CENTERPIECES

Arrange a centerpiece for your dining table using a rustic wooden tray, candles, and seasonal fruits like apples and pears. You could even throw acorns in the mix.

• FALL FLORALS

Although Spring is known for it’s beautiful bouquets, you can still display vases or arrangements of dried flowers, wheat stalks, and chrysanthemums for a rustic touch.

• SEASONAL GARLAND

Making a seasonal garland is a perfect fall DIY project. String together leaves, acorns, and other autumnal elements to create a decorative garland for walls or mantels.

• PUMPKIN EVERYTHING

Pumpkin is a fall essential and makes for the perfect addition to your fall decor. Stack different sizes and colors on your porch, entry way, or anywhere else you desire.

• CANDLE DISPLAY

Set up candles in fall-inspired colors and scents, placing them on windowsills, tables, and mantels. Bonus points if your candles smell like apple cider or pumpkin spice.

Remember that your fall decor should be a reflection of your personal style and preferences. Mix and match these ideas to create a warm and inviting space that captures the essence of the season.

Here are a few stores with some fantastic Autumn decor options that will help you get the pieces your looking for:

• TJ Maxx

• Target

• Michaels

• Crate and Barrel

• Anthropologie

MERGING YOUR MONEY WHEN YOU MARRY

By JC Hallman

Getting married is exciting, but it brings many challenges. One such challenge that you and your spouse will have to face is how to merge your finances. Planning carefully and communicating clearly are important, because the financial decisions that you make now can have a lasting impact on your future.

DISCUSS YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS

The first step in mapping out your financial future together is to discuss your financial goals. Start by making a list of your short-term goals (e.g., paying off wedding debt, new car, vacation) and long-term goals (e.g., having children, your children’s college education, retirement). Then, determine which goals are most important to you. Once you’ve identified the goals that are a priority, you can focus your energy on achieving them.

PREPARE A BUDGET

Next, you should prepare a budget that lists all of your income and expenses over a certain time period (e.g., monthly, annually). You can designate one spouse to be in charge of managing the budget, or you can take turns keeping records and paying the bills. If both you and your spouse are going to be involved, make sure that you develop a record-keeping system that both of you understand. And remember to keep your records in a joint filing system so that both of you can easily locate important documents.

Begin by listing your sources of income (e.g., salaries and wages, interest, dividends). Then, list your expenses (it may be helpful to review several months of entries in your checkbook and credit card bills). Add them up and compare the two totals. Hopefully, you get a positive number, meaning that you spend less than you earn. If not, review your expenses and see where you can cut down on your spending.

BANK ACCOUNTS- SEPARATE OR JOINT?

At some point, you and your spouse will have to decide whether to combine your bank accounts or keep them separate. Maintaining a joint account does have advantages, such as easier record keeping and lower maintenance fees. However, it’s sometimes more difficult to keep track of how much money is in a joint account when two individuals have access to it. Of course, you could avoid this problem by making sure that you tell each other every time you write a check or withdraw funds from the account. Or, you could always decide to maintain separate accounts.

CREDIT CARDS

If you’re thinking about adding your name to your spouse’s credit card accounts, think again. When you and your spouse have joint credit, both of you will become responsible for 100 percent of the credit card debt. In addition, if one of you has poor credit, it will negatively impact the credit rating of the other.

If you or your spouse does not qualify for a card because of poor credit, and you are willing to give your spouse account privileges anyway, you can make your spouse an authorized user of your credit card. An authorized user is not a joint cardholder and is therefore not liable for any amounts charged to the account. Also, the account activity won’t show up on the authorized user’s credit record. But remember, you remain responsible for the account.

INSURANCE

If you and your spouse have separate health insurance coverage, you’ll want to do a cost/benefit analysis of each plan to see if you should continue to keep your health coverage separate. For example, if your spouse’s health plan has a higher deductible and/or co-payments or fewer benefits than those offered by your plan, he or she may want to join your health plan instead. You’ll also want to compare the rate for one family plan against the cost of two single plans.

It’s a good idea to examine your auto insurance coverage, too. If you and your spouse own separate cars, you may have different auto insurance carriers. Consider pooling your auto insurance policies with one company; many insurance companies will give you a discount if you insure more than one car with them. If one of you has a poor driving record, however, make sure that changing companies won’t mean paying a higher premium.

EMPLOYER-SPONSORED RETIREMENT PLANS

If both you and your spouse participate in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, you should be aware of each plan’s characteristics. Review each plan together carefully and determine which plan provides the best benefits. If you can afford it, you should each participate to the maximum in your own plan. If your current cash flow is limited, you can make one plan the focus of your retirement strategy. Here are some helpful tips:

• IF BOTH PLANS MATCH CONTRIBUTIONS, DETERMINE WHICH PLAN OFFERS THE BEST MATCH AND TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF IT

• COMPARE THE VESTING SCHEDULES FOR THE EMPLOYER’S MATCHING CONTRIBUTIONS

• COMPARE THE INVESTMENT OPTIONS OFFERED BY EACH PLAN--THE MORE OPTIONS YOU HAVE, THE MORE LIKELY YOU ARE TO FIND AN INVESTMENT MIX THAT SUITS YOUR NEEDS

• FIND OUT WHETHER THE PLANS OFFER LOANS--IF YOU PLAN TO USE ANY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS FOR CERTAIN EXPENSES (E.G., YOUR CHILDREN’S COLLEGE EDUCATION, A DOWN PAYMENT ON A HOUSE), YOU MAY WANT TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PLAN THAT HAS A LOAN PROVISION

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.

Hurricane

Peach Days

By Joseph Brimer

“Peach days” is back! Every year I look forward to taking my boys to the community celebration of Hurricane City’s heritage. Peach Days has something to offer to everyone, whether it’s the food, entertainment, or activities you’re interested in. This Labor Day weekend long event has not just become a staple in my home, but many Washington County homes.

Originally, the Peach Days celebration started out as a valley fruit festival. It has been rebranded several times throughout the years as the type of events and celebrations evolved. By 1950, it had essentially become a county fair. At the same time, Peach Days had severe financial troubles and sought county officials for help to maintain the festivities. Officials agreed, but on the condition that the name of the event become the Washington County Fair.

Yes, it’s true; the same county fair that we’ve known and come to love was once the original Peach days! The fair eventually outgrew Hurricane city

and was moved to the present-day county fairgrounds. By 1999, Peach days was reintroduced by a group of local residents who sought to bring back the famed city event.

Today, the Peach Days span 5 days and holds a range of events. It all starts off with a free golf tournament held at Sky Mountain Golf course on August 29th. Numerous performances are done by local musicians, artists, and theatre performers. My kids love the carnival games and the seemingly never-ending games to participate in. For me, it’s the food! We never have to eat at the same food truck twice and get to experience all sorts of local tastes. Some local favorites include the rodeos, parade and the movies in the park. As any good festival would end, the Peach Days end in dramatic fashion with a fireworks display being on the last night. We hope you had the opportunity to check it out this year!

Fun Fact: Boxing matches were added as entertainment in 1923!

huntsman

senior games

By Brian Webster

multi-sport event for individuals aged 50 and above. With a mission to inspire, motivate, and promote worldwide health through sports and communion, they provide a platform for seniors to showcase their athletic prowess, regardless of their skill level.

The Huntsman World Senior Games, launched in 1987, is evidence of the enduring spirit of senior athletes from around the globe. Created by Daisy and John Morgan, the Games were born out of a desire to promote active and healthy lifestyles among seniors, fostering camaraderie and competition beyond retirement. And now? In 2022, the Games showcased more than 11,000 athletes, representing 33 countries, participating in 50 sporting events.

The Games, held annually right here in St. George, have evolved into a prestigious

The event lineup spans a wide range of popular sports, from track and field, swimming, and cycling to basketball, tennis, and golf. Over the years, the Huntsman World Senior Games have also introduced innovative events to cater to a diverse array of interests. These fresh additions have included activities like pickleball, mountain biking, and even square dancing, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

Among the inspiring stories emerging from these games, athletes like Jane Simmons come to the forefront. At the age of 72, Jane, a cancer survivor, defied odds by participating in the cycling events. Her

determination to overcome health challenges and embrace life’s opportunities is emblematic of the spirit that permeates the Games. Another notable story is that of George Miller, who, at the age of 65, discovered his passion for tennis. Through rigorous training, he achieved remarkable success, winning multiple medals, and in the process, forming close friendships with fellow athletes who share his enthusiasm.

The journey of these athletes is marked by both victories and challenges. Many have faced setbacks, be it health issues or the natural aging process. However, their participation is driven by a shared resolve to prove that age is no barrier to achieving one’s dreams. The Games not only celebrate victories on the field but also the triumphs of the human spirit.

Central to the Huntsman World Senior Games is the power of forging connections. Athletes often form lasting friendships with competitors from different corners of the world. The shared dedication to training, the exhilaration of competition, and the joy of achievement, create bonds that extend beyond the sporting arena. These relationships become a driving force, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.

In essence, the Huntsman World Senior Games encapsulate a remarkable narrative of resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of vitality in the later stages of life. With a rich history, a diverse range of events, and stories of athletes overcoming challenges and forming lifelong connections, the only thing left to decide is: What events are you participating in? Bring on the Games!

ingredients

» 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter

» 3/4 cup chopped yellow onion

» 1 cup sliced or diced carrots

» 1 cup sliced or diced celery

» 2 garlic cloves, minced

» 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

» 1/2 teaspoon salt

» 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

» 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

» 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

» 8 cups chicken broth

» 1 medium potato, peeled and diced

» 2 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken

» 1 cup half-and-half

» 3–4 cups uncooked wide egg noodles

creamy chicken noodle soup

Fall is the perfect time for soup. This is by far my favorite homemade soup recipe. It is easy to make, wholesome, and very satisfying. It’s creamy yet light, and the perfect blend of potato, thyme, oregano, and convenient pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. If you’re looking for an easy yet incredibly delicious homemade creamy chicken noodle soup recipe, then try it out!

directions

1. Melt the butter in a large pot or dutch oven (4 quart or larger) over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until vegetables have softened. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano and cook for 2 minutes.

2. Next, add the chicken broth and potato. Give everything a quick stir, then increase the heat to medium-high. Bring the soup to a boil, without stirring, and boil for 3 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low, partially cover the pot, and allow to simmer for 25 minutes or until the potatoes have softened. Taste the soup, and add more seasonings to taste, if desired.

3. Add the chicken, half-and-half/milk, and noodles. Cook for 10 minutes until the noodles are tender and the soup has thickened. Once again, taste the soup and add more seasoning as desired. Serve warm.

4. Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To reheat, simply pour into a pot over medium heat and cook until warm. Feel free to add more chicken broth to the leftovers if it’s too thick. (Soup thickens in the refrigerator as the noodles and potatoes soak up the liquid.)

By Ally Thompson

HUNTING SEASON SAFETY tips and tricks for a successful and safe hunt

As hunting season approaches, enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers eagerly prepare to embark on their hunting journeys. Whether it’s the thrill of the chase, the connection to nature, or the satisfaction of providing for oneself, hunting remains a popular activity. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety to ensure a successful and incidentfree hunting experience. This article provides a comprehensive guide to hunting season safety, offering valuable tips and tricks for hunters of all levels.

1. Educate and Prepare

Before heading into the wilderness, take the time to educate yourself about the local hunting regulations, seasons, and licensing requirements. Different game species have specific seasons, bag limits, and hunting methods. Complying with these regulations not only ensures ethical hunting but also prevents legal complications. Additionally, refresh your knowledge of firearm safety, including proper handling, storage, and transport.

2. Plan and Communicate

Inform a trusted friend or family member about your hunting plans, including your intended location and estimated return time. This precautionary step can be crucial in case of unexpected events, such as accidents or getting lost. Carry a reliable means of communication, like a fully charged cell phone, a satellite communication device, or a two-way radio, to stay connected with others.

3. Gear and Equipment

Ensure that your hunting equipment, including firearms, ammunition, and optics, are in good working condition. Regular maintenance and cleaning not only improve performance but also prevent accidents caused by malfunctioning gear. Dress appropriately for the weather and environment, wearing layers that can be added or removed as needed. Don’t forget essential items like a hunting knife, first aid kit, water, and energy-rich snacks.

4. Familiarize the Area

Whether hunting in familiar territory or exploring a new location, make an effort to understand the lay of the land. Study maps, use GPS devices, and mark landmarks to avoid getting lost. Familiarity with the terrain can also help you identify potential hazards, wildlife behavior patterns, and hunting spots.

5. Hunter Orange

Wearing hunter orange clothing or accessories is crucial for visibility and safety. This bright color helps distinguish hunters from animals and reduces the risk of accidental shootings. Even if you’re hunting alone, always have at least one piece of hunter orange clothing, such as a vest or cap, to increase your visibility.

6. Respect Other Life

Maintain ethical hunting practices by treating wildlife with respect. Practice responsible game management by adhering to bag limits and targeting specific species. Additionally, be considerate of fellow hunters by maintaining a safe distance and not interfering with their hunting areas.

7. Practice Firearm Safety

Firearm safety cannot be overstated. Always assume that a firearm is loaded and keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Only load and unload firearms when you’re ready to use them, and avoid any distractions that might compromise your focus on safe handling. When crossing obstacles or rough terrain, keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot.

8. Weather Awareness

Stay updated on weather forecasts before heading out. Unpredictable weather conditions can impact your safety and success. Dress appropriately for the conditions and be prepared for changes in temperature, wind, and precipitation.

9. Hunting in Groups

If hunting in a group, establish clear communication and signaling methods to avoid confusion and potential accidents. Designate a hunting area for each individual to prevent accidental crossfire and maintain a safe distance between hunters.

10. Leave No Trace

Respect the environment by following the principles of “Leave No Trace.” Pack out all trash, respect wildlife habitats, and minimize your impact on the ecosystem. By maintaining the natural beauty of the area, you contribute to the sustainability of hunting grounds for future generations.

Hunting season can be a rewarding and exhilarating time for outdoor enthusiasts, but safety should always be a top priority. By embracing these tips and tricks, hunters can enjoy successful and incident-free experiences while fostering a culture of responsible hunting. Remember that responsible hunting not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the conservation and preservation of our natural resources.

REMEMBERING A 9/11 HERO

By Ally Thompson

The tragic events of September 11, 2001, left an indelible mark on the world, etching stories of both devastation and heroism into the collective memory. Among those who stood as a shining beacon of courage and selflessness was firefighter Stephen Siller. His unwavering commitment to saving lives in the face of unimaginable danger serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless capacity for heroism.

Born on November 18, 1966, in Brooklyn, New York, Stephen Gerard Siller was raised in a family that instilled in him the values of service and community. As a young man, he joined the United States Army and served as a firefighter with the Brooklyn-based Squad 1. After the army, Stephen followed in the footsteps of his family members and became a firefighter, embracing the noble duty of protecting his fellow citizens.

On the morning of September 11, 2001, the world witnessed a series of coordinated terrorist attacks that forever changed the landscape of history. As the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center were struck by hijacked planes, chaos and devastation ensued. Stephen Siller was off-duty that day, enjoying a game of golf with his brothers, when he received the distressing news.

Without hesitation, Stephen rushed to Squad 1’s firehouse to join his colleagues in responding to the emergency. However, the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel, his usual route to Manhattan, was closed due to the attacks. Undeterred by the roadblock, Stephen made the decision that would immortalize his bravery. He left his vehicle behind and, weighed down by 60 pounds of firefighting gear,

ran through the tunnel on foot, covering the approximately three miles to reach Ground Zero.

The image of Stephen Siller’s determination, running through the tunnel, gear on his back, has become an enduring symbol of sacrifice. He reached the World Trade Center just as the towers collapsed, and the scene that awaited him was one of unimaginable destruction. Despite the danger, Stephen continued his mission, aiding in rescue efforts alongside his fellow firefighters and first responders.

Stephen Siller’s actions that day embodied the very essence of heroism. His selflessness and willingness to put the lives of others before his own served as a shining example of the values that make first responders the true guardians of society.

Tragically, Stephen Siller did not survive the events of September 11. He perished along with nearly 3,000 others, leaving behind a grieving family, including five children. In his honor, the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation was established. This organization, dedicated to supporting first responders and the military, provides assistance to families affected by tragedy and aids in building mortgage-free homes for injured service members.

Stephen’s legacy continues to inspire people around the world. Every year, on the last Sunday of September, the Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk is held to honor his memory. Participants trace his footsteps through the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel, reenacting his run of courage. As we remember the events of that fateful day, let us also remember and celebrate the legacy of Stephen Siller, a true 9/11 hero whose courage continues to inspire us.

equinox embracing the

By Diana Juarez

During the fall equinox, the length of Day anD night is almost equal arounD the worlD.

the equinox occurs when the suns center passes through the ‘celestial equator’- an imaginary extension of Earth’s equator line into space. So think of a ring around us, like Jupiter, but it’s imaginary, like my boyfriend. When the sun crosses the equator going from north to south, for those in the Northern Hemisphere this is the autumnal equinox. When it crosses from south to north, this is the vernal equinox. Now think the reverse for that of the Southern Hemisphere. For us in the Northern Hemisphere Autumn equinox starts on September 22nd or 23rd, this year it will be on September 23rd.

Now some of the best places to be during this autumnal equinox are right here in Southern Utah. This area is so much more than just a desert landscape. With places like Cedar Breaks, Pine Valley, Duck Creek, and Zion National Park. Going to any one of these sites during the fall foliage will surely be an amazing autumn experience. But just in case you wanna head out of town because you know everyone is all summer vacation burnt out and the kids are back in school so you know you will see fewer crowds here are some suggestions.

Jackson hole, wyoming

Surrounded by the Grand Teton National Parks, mountains, and lake galore this is the place to take those scenic drives to get that outdoorsy fall feel.

the berkshires, massachusetts

Google to look it up, then book this place quickly! You can stay in any of the nearest towns and then drive around from town to town while enjoying the view of all the changing colors. Or just a three-hour drive away would be Portland, Maine where you can spot whales as they migrate.

flagstaff, arizona

During the September and October months, consider glamping in this gorgeous area where you can learn more about the Native American history and culture at Wupatki National Monument. The beauty of the fall and the pueblos that were occupied in the 12th century is a site to see.

mexico city, mexico

With tourists not as active in these months and the weather is dryer. Towards the end of October and beginning of November is when the streets come alive for the Dia de Muertos. Not a lot of fall colors but the streets will be covered in colors from the parades.

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