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SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT STRATEGIES

Have you ever thought about or heard about sustainable investing?

If not, here is some information about what it means and how one can approach it. First, sustainable investing refers to socially responsible investing (SRI) as well as environmental, social and governance data investment (ESG).

A sustainable investment strategy considers environmental, social and corporate governance criteria to generate long-term competitive financial returns as well as a positive social impact.

There are two ways to look at these investment strategies. Do you want to eliminate from your portfolio certain industries because of what they do (SRI) or are you more interested in investing in

companies that do good which is called (ESG)?

SRI, or Impact Investing, generally refers to making investments based on one’s values - avoiding companies that don’t fit your morals. Some companies that are often excluded are those that make their profits from tobacco, fossil fuel, firearms, and alcohol but at the end of the day, you are the judge.

ESG investing is focused on how the company operates. Does the company have a positive or negative impact on climate change, what is the company culture, and what is the corporate structure in relation to its stakeholders?

To accomplish your goals, consider an asset manager’s history and whether they have dedicated the

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necessary resources to provide ongoing research and analysis.

To maintain returns while investing sustainably, seek out a fund that is benchmarked to a broad-based index. This shows the manager’s goal is to provide market-like or better than market returns.

Research has shown that companies that best manage their environmental and social impact and follow good governance practices (ESG) are more profitable in the medium and long term. The growth in sustainable investment opportunities has been substantial as individuals choose to find investments that align with their goals.

The Global Sustainable Investment Alliance reports a 34 per cent increase in these investments over the last two years.

HOME LIBRARY

HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT OF CREATING A LIBRARY IN YOUR HOME?

Home libraries are a dedicated space to relax and enjoy reading time. If you love books and have a lot of them, it is a great way to

enjoy your collection. It is also a personal statement about what you’re interested in; books and mementos can serve as a history

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of your life.

It is wonderful if you have a room that can be designated as the library but that really isn’t necessary. What’s most important is to create a cozy space for your collection. A library can be created in many different spaces since a room can be multi-functional. Sometimes there is space under a staircase or in a quiet nook, maybe a wall in the dining room or the hall. A fireplace can often be surrounded by bookshelves to create a library. Even a bedroom can be an interesting place to create your library; it could even be used as a wall unit above your headboard. All it takes is a little imagination.

Your personal library isn’t necessarily just for books. It is a place to show off collections, photos, albums, plants and even art. It can all be incorporated in the design. It is really about your own interests, which is what makes it personal.

You might want to include a desk in your library wall or a hidden space to hide games and other important knick-knacks.

Keep in mind that a library should feel like a cozy retreat for reading. Depending on the space, consider

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the color palette. Deep rich colors are relaxing in a library, but it all depends on the library’s location and the design of your home. Wood paneled libraries are traditional but there are many ways to create a relaxing space, depending on your own individual aesthetic. If you have a window with surrounding bookshelves, a window seat makes the perfect addition. Add a comfortable oversized chair if you have space.

Don’t forget to consider lighting, which depends on the size and location of your library. Use picture lights mounted at the top of the shelves to illuminate books and add a dramatic effect. For a traditional look, use wall sconces.

For actual reading, recessed lighting is appropriate as it can be dimmed by preference. Table lamps are always appropriate as are floor lamps depending on the location and available space in your own library.

Whether your home is large or small, there is always a space for a personal library.

HEALTH & FOOD

Eating healthy and having a holistic approach to wellness focuses on mind, body and soul. Foods that enhance energy, heart health, improve sleep and increase muscle strength are growing in popularity. High protein, low calorie, and low carbohydrate meals are the way to go. The movement towards plant-based items for health and environmental reasons is here to stay.

Sugar intake is a concern for many.

A popular sugar alternative is dates which are very sweet and have been used for thousands of years. They are high in nutrients, antioxidants and fiber. Some say they are good for brain health as well as digestion. Eaten whole or used in baked treats, they provide all the sweetness needed.

To lose weight or simply to eat a little bit healthier, there are several different approaches you can take.

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The Whole Food Diet is probably the most recommended diet. It is about avoiding or limiting processed foods, preservatives or artificial ingredients while sticking to lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, fish, shellfish and eggs. Limiting meat is a part of this diet as well. Not only is this diet healthy for you, but it is healthy for the planet as processed foods require more resources such as water and energy, thus creating more pollution.

The PALEO Diet is based on foods eaten in the Paleolithic period of hunter gatherer societies thousands of years ago, before farming.

The KETO Diet is a low carbohydrate, high fat diet that helps burn fat for energy rather than carbs, thus triggering weight loss. According to Healthline, the foods to eat on this diet are: meat, fatty fish,eggs, butter and cream, cheese, nuts and seeds, olive or avocado oil, avocados, and low carb vegetables and condiments.

The Vegetarian Diet is made up of plant-based foods which include fruits and vegetables, grains, legumes and nuts. No meat or dairy products including eggs and other milk products are consumed. There is a trend to eat more fruits and vegetables and new products are continually coming to the market. Non-dairy milk alternatives like oat, soy and almond are popular replacements for milk. New plantbased pasta alternatives like chickpea or zucchini pasta help us eat more vegetables and additional options are continually being introduced.

BANANA DATE NUT BREAD

• 3 ripe bananas mashed

• 2 eggs

• 1 stick butter

• 1 cup unbleached flour

• 1 cup whole wheat flour

• 1/2 cup shelled walnuts chopped

• 3/4 cup Medjool dates chopped and pitted blitzed with 1/4 cup water in a blender ( or 3/4 cup of sugar without water)

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees

• Grease a 9x5x3 bread pan

• Cream butter and date mixture

• Add eggs one at a time, beating well

• Sift flour, baking soda, and salt and add to creamed mixture

• Fold in mashed bananas, vanilla and walnuts

• Pour mixture into the bread pan

• Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the toothpick comes out clean

• Cool for 10 minutes and then put on a rack

Identity theft is when someone uses your personal or financial information without your permission. They might steal your name and address, credit card or bank account numbers, Social Security number or medical insurance account numbers. The information could then be used to make purchases, get new cards in your name, open a phone, electricity, or gas account, or even steal your tax refund or medical benefits

No one wants to be the subject of identity theft. If it happens to you, there are steps you can take, and the government is there to help at Identitytheft.com.

The important thing is to take all

the necessary steps to prevent it.

✔ Keep your financial records, Social Security and Medicare cards and any other documents that have personal information in a secure place. If getting rid of them, be sure to shred them.

✔ Do not give out your Social Security number other than to the IRS, your bank, and your employer without asking why they need it. If they have a valid reason, try offering just the last 4 digits.

✔ If you are logging in to an on-line account, use a strong password.

✔ Do not give your personal information to someone who calls, emails, or texts you. They could

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be a scammer trying to steal your information.

In addition to taking steps to protect your information, there are things to do to detect identity theft.

✔ Track what bills you owe and when they are due. If you stop getting a bill, that could be a sign someone changed your address or other information.

✔ Review your bills for charges that don’t belong to you.

✔ Check your bank account for withdrawals not made by you.

✔ Get and review your credit reports, as accounts you don’t

recognize could be a sign of identity theft.

Many companies sell identity theft protection services that may include credit monitoring, identity monitoring, identity recovery services, and identity theft insurance. These services may be offered by your bank or credit union, credit card provider, employer’s benefits program, or insurance company. Also, there are credit monitoring services like Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion that offer these services as well.

Identity monitoring services may notify you of a change of address request, court or arrest records, orders for new utility, cable or wire services, application for a payday loan, information on websites that sell stolen identity information.

Most will not notify you if someone uses your information to file a tax return and collect your refund, get Medicare benefits, get Medicaid benefits, get welfare benefits, claim Social Security benefits, claim unemployment benefits.

CHARITY OR PHILANTHROPY

According to the Dictionary, charity and philanthropy are two different things.

CHARITY

Charity is the voluntary giving of help, typically money, to those that are suffering or in need. It tends to address an immediate problem and is a compassionate response to a natural disaster, or a token of support for the victim of crime or violence, for example. Charity can also address immediate needs for food, shelter or medical care. It is a short term response, although one may give frequently to a particular cause.

PHILANTHROPY

Philanthropy is more strategic in that it seeks to root out causes of the problem and to develop long term solutions. Striving for long term solutions to problems such as addiction, housing shortages, or hunger takes time, study, and planning. This is where charity comes in, providing direct relief for people in immediate need.

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Both charity and philanthropy possess the same goals of addressing needs and making the world a better place but with different approaches. One deals with direct relief and the other with root causes and finding solutions.

Is one better than the other? Of course not! They are just two different ways of solving problems and both are essential to the functioning of a decent society.

Recently, there have been changes to the tax code regarding charitable giving.

Three Acts have been passed recently - The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA), the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act (SECURE) and the Corona Virus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES). All have some impact on deductibility of charitable contributions. They also may offer some additional advantages. For example, a qualified charity may receive your IRA with no tax consequences

since charities do not pay taxes. Appreciated assets are also beneficial as a gift to a charity, as capital gains tax can be avoided.

Another way to contribute is through a community foundation, which is a grant making public charity that is dedicated to improving lives in a particular community. Individuals, families, businesses and non-profit groups establish funds within the foundation in which they can contribute assets for charitable purposes. The foundation manages the assets and takes suggestions from those that set up the fund on how and where to distribute the resources. There are over 700 community foundations in the United States.

Whether one chooses charity or philanthropy, the ultimate goal is to help the community by using personal skills and resources to make a difference.

2026 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

DATES TOURNAMENT

* Schedule subject to change + Signature Event # Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

JUN 4 - 7

JUN 11 - 14

JUN 18 - 21

JUN 25 - 28

JUL 2 - 5

JUL 9 - 12

JUL 16 - 19

JUL 23 - 26

JUL 30 - AUG 2

The Memorial Tournament presented by Workday

Muirfield Village Golf Club

Dublin, OH • USA

RBC Canadian Open

TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley (North Course) Caledon, Ontario • Canada

U.S. Open

Shinnecock Hills Golf Club

Southampton, NY • USA

Travelers Championship

TPC River Highlands Cromwell, CT • USA

John Deere Classic

TPC Deere Run Silvis, IL • USA

Genesis Scottish Open

The Renaissance Club North Berwick • Scotland

ISCO Championship

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, CBS, ESPN+, SXM

PEACOCK, NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, CBS, ESPN+, SXM

Hurstbourne Country Club Louisville, KY • USA GOLF

The Open Championship

Royal Birkdale Golf Club

Southport • England

Corales Puntacana Championship

Puntacana Resort & Club (Corales Golf Course)

Punta Cana • Dominican Republic GOLF

3M Open

TPC Twin Cities Blaine, MN • USA

Rocket Classic

Detroit Golf Club

Detroit, MI • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, CBS, ESPN+, SXM

2026 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

DATES TOURNAMENT

AUG 6 - 9

AUG 13 - 16

AUG 20 - 23

AUG 27 - 30

SEP 17 - 20

SEP 24 - 27

OCT 1 - 4

OCT 8 - 11

OCT 22 - 25

OCT 29 - NOV 1

NOV 5 - 8

Wyndham Championship Sedgefield Country Club Greensboro, NC • USA

FedEx St. Jude Championship TPC Southwind Memphis, TN • USA

BMW Championship Bellerive Country Club

St. Louis, MO • USA

TOUR Championship East Lake Golf Club Atlanta, GA • USA

+ Signature Event

* Schedule subject to change

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, CBS, ESPN+, SXM

Biltmore Championship Asheville The Cliffs at Walnut Cove Asheville, NC • USA GOLF

Presidents Cup Medinah CC (No. 3) Chicago, IL • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, NBC

Bank of Utah Championship Black Desert Resort Ivins, UT • USA GOLF

Baycurrent Classic Yokohama Country Club Yokohama • Japan GOLF

Butterfield Bermuda Championship Port Royal Golf Course Southampton • Bermuda GOLF

VidantaWorld Mexico Open Vidanta Vallarta Vallarta • Mexico GOLF

World Wide Technology Championship

El Cardonal at Diamante Los Cabos • Mexico GOLF

# Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

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2026 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

DATES TOURNAMENT

Good Good Championship

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

* Schedule subject to change

NOV 12 - 15

NOV 19 - 22

DEC 3 - 6

DEC 11 - 13

Fazio Canyons Course)

Austin, TX • USA

The RSM Classic

Sea Island Golf Club (Seaside Course)

St. Simons Island, GA • USA GOLF

Hero World Challenge

Albany GC

Albany • PARAMOUNT, GOLF, NBC

Grant Thornton Invitational

Tiburón Golf Club

Naples, FL • USA PARAMOUNT, GOLF, NBC

+ Signature Event

# Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored

^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

2026 LPGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

2026 LPGA TOURNAMENT

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE GULF COAST

PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS ARE UNCERTAIN. DUE TO THE CURRENT SITUATIONS, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.

JUNE

JUNE 25 | SUMMER

FEST

Join US for our annual Summer Fest! Where we kick off Summer with good tunes & good vibes during our Summertime concert with your favorite local vendors all in one place! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/4a6ekvz3

JULY

JULY 4 | INDEPENDENCE DAY

Come celebrate our great nation and town pride as the Fort Myers Beach Fourth of July parade makes its way down Estero Blvd. with its colorful floats and costumed participants! The parade starts at Bay Oaks Recreation Center and continues down the boulevard to Times Square. Don’t miss this Fort Myers Beach tradition! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/ydhspf7v

JULY 25 | MULLET MADNESS

Come down and enjoy all things Mullet with a mullet tossing contest and a Joe Dirt look-alike contest on Fort Myers Beach. For more info visit: thewhalefmb.com

AUGUST

AUG 8 - 9 | FLEA MARKET

The SouthEast Punk Flea Market is an event that focuses on underground art, alternative fashion and anything that surrounds the culture while giving like minded individuals a place to showcase their creations and hopefully make a little extra money selling their goods. If you are a fan of weirdo art, vinyl records, vintage clothes or possibly a collector of strange and unusual things, this event is for you! For more info visit: southeastpfm.com

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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE GULF COAST

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AUG

27 - 30 |

SALSA FESTIVAL

Come enjoy over 40 dance workshops, dance challenges and masterclasses from top of the line instructors, nightly showcases, insane pool parties, top Dj’s, all the Latin dancing your body can handle. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/2fm8at6j

SEPTEMBER

SEPT 6 - 7

| CRAFT FESTIVAL

The tremendous support of the Venice community is one reason why this craft festival is so successful! Located on Florida’s west coast, Venice is a vibrant town on the Gulf of Mexico, filled with historic charm, natural beauty, and independently owned shops and restaurants. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/nh9sk5vc

SEPT 19 | KEY LIME FEST

It’s all about the lime! Key Lime that is! Join us for the Annual Key Lime & Tropical Fest at Fishermen’s Village! Merchants and vendors along the Village promenade will feature key lime and tropical specialties while you enjoy shopping and dining! For more info visit: fishermensvillage.com

OCTOBER

OCT 17 - 19

| ROCKTOBERFEST

Join us in downtown Sarasota for three unforgettable days of free live music, amazing food, and refreshing drinks! Whether you’re here to shop, enjoy the lively atmosphere, or groove to fantastic tunes, there’s something for everyone.Bring your family, friends, and even your furry companions – our event is dog-friendly and family-friendly. With free admission and a shopping area full of local vendors, it’s the perfect way to spend your weekend! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/2znmhhp2

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE GULF COAST

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NOVEMBER

NOV 7 - 30

| MEDIEVAL FAIR

Welcome one and all to the 21st anniversary of the Sarasota Medieval Fair with exciting tournaments, scrumptious feasts & pure family fun! Step back in time & watch full-contact jousting, human combat chess matches & other fantastic shows on 14 stages! Enjoy rides & play games! Enjoy music & shop for the holidays in our artisan marketplace with over 140+ shops! Each festival weekend has a unique theme and a full lineup of unique acts! Come one & all for all-around medieval family fun & merriment. Huzzah! For more info visit: sarasotamedievalfair.com

NOV 13 - 16 | SANDSCULPTING FESTIVAL

The Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sandsculpting Festival is an internationally recognized sand sculpting event held each year on the white sands of Siesta Beach, Florida. Since 2010, this four-day event has brought together talented master sand sculptors from around the world to transform Siesta’s famous sand into stunning, large-scale works of art. For more info visit: siestakeycrystalclassic.com

DECEMBER

DEC 1 - 31 | FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Get into the holiday spirit this year! View over one million traditional Christmas themed lights and decorations throughout Fishermen’s Village. For more info visit: fishermensvillage.com

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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE GULF COAST

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JANUARY

JAN 29 - 31 | SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL

This festival is crafted like a gourmet meal, blending the finest ingredients to create an unforgettable experience. Indulge in a wide selection of dishes including fresh seafood, meats, and vegetarian options, all cooked onsite. Pair your meal with a variety of side dishes, beverages, and delectable desserts. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/yc277thw

FEBRUARY

FEB 5 - 7 | ARTFEST

Embark on an artistic journey amidst the creations of over 200 meticulously chosen artists, savor the melodies of live entertainment, tantalize your taste buds with culinary delights, engage in immersive children’s art activities, and be mesmerized by captivating live art demonstrations. For more info visit: artfestfortmyers.com

FEB

20 |

GRAND PARADE OF LIGHT

Named as the largest night parade in the Southeast, the Grand Parade is a two-hour extravaganza featuring national participants & local marching bands, floats, local government and law enforcement officials, clowns and much more. For more info visit: edisonfestival.org

MARCH

MARCH TBA | SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL

Join us at Largo Central Park for the inaugural Largo Seafood & Music Festival. This exciting new festival promises a weekend filled with delicious seafood, live music, and vibrant community spirit. For more info visit: paragonfestivals.com

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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE GULF COAST

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APRIL

APRIL 9 - 18 | FILM FESTIVAL

The Sarasota Film Festival, founded in 1998, is an international film festival hosted in Sarasota, Florida and viewable from around the world. The festival is typically held each April, in support of its mission: to celebrate the art of filmmaking and the contribution of filmmakers by hosting an international film festival and developing year-long programs for the economic, educational, and cultural benefit of our community. For more info visit: sarasotafilmfestival.com

MAY

- 2 | BLUEBERRY FEST

Come on down for Ft Myers Blueberry Fest! Enjoy fresh blueberries, art & crafts, frisbee dog show, delicious food, beer & wine, live entertainment, & much more! For more info visit: ftmyersfest.com

JUNE

JUNE 7 - 19 | MUSIC FESTIVAL

Every June, classical music superstars from around the globe gather for the Sarasota Music Festival. The Festival is a whirlwind of beauty and inspiration. It charges our community’s atmosphere with the passion and devotion of the rising stars who come here to be part of something extraordinary. For more info visit: sarasotaorchestra.org

2027 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

DATE

2026 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT

SCHEDULE

JUNE 1 - MON 12:00 PM Fourth Round

JUNE 1 - MON 8:15 PM Fourth Round

JUNE 2 - TUE 12:00 PM Quarterfinals

JUNE 2 - TUE 8:15 PM Quarterfinals

JUNE 3 - WED 12:00 PM Quarterfinals

JUNE 3 - WED 8:15 PM Quarterfinals

JUNE 4 - THUR 2:30 PM Ladies Semifinals

JUNE 5 - FRI 2:30 PM Mens Semifinals

JUNE 5 - FRI 8:15 PM Mens Semifinals

* Schedule subject to change

JUNE 6 - SAT 3:00 PM Ladies Singles Final, Mens Double Final

JUNE 7 - SUN 3:00 PM Mens Singles Final, Ladies Doubles Final

DATE

2026 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

JUNE 29 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1st Round

JUNE 30 - TUE 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1st Round

JULY 1 - WED 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round

JULY 2 - THU 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2rd Round

JULY 3 - FRI 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round

JULY 4 - SAT 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round

JULY 5 - SUN 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 4th Round

JULY 6 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies’ 4th Round

JULY 7- TUE 11:00 AM Ladies' and Gentlemen's Quarterfinals

JULY 8 - WED 11:00 AM Ladies’ and Gentlemen’s Quarterfinals

JULY 9 - THU 11:00 AM Ladies’ Semifinals

JULY 9 - THU 11:00 AM Gentlemen’s Semifinals

JULY 10 - FRI 11:00 AM Ladies’ Singles Final & Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles

JULY 11 - SAT 11:00 AM Gentlemen’s Singles Final & Ladies’ Doubles

2026 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

HISTORIC TOWNS IN

Florida

If you happen to be driving through Florida, there are several interesting and historic towns worth visiting. St. Augustine, the oldest town in America, is located on the northeast coast of the state, just south of Jacksonville. Then head south to enjoy the Lake Wales Ridge, which includes the towns of Sebring, Lake Placid and Avon.

First settled in 1565 by the Spanish and predating both Jamestown and Plymouth Rock, St Augustine was first seen by Admiral Pedro Menendez de Aviles. Visit Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th century Spanish stone fortress, and the cobblestoned historic downtown that includes over 30 historic houses. Remember, this is the city known for the Fountain of Youth, so be sure to see the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park where

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visitors can drink from the spring. Next, head south to Lake Wales, which has an ‘old Florida” vibe and is one of the most scenic areas in the state. Known for its cypress trees, citrus groves and abundance of freshwater lakes, Lake Wales can’t be missed! Enjoy the history of these towns and don’t miss Highlands State Park for hiking, biking, birding and a variety of rare and native plants.

Sebring has undergone a major restoration of its historic downtown. There is a lot to see and do, particularly if you are a history buff. Sebring was founded in 1912 by Ohio pottery manufacturer George E. Sebring and is now designated as a 1920’s Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. Known as “The City on the Circle” because of its design

which is based on the ancient Egyptian city of Heliopolis. With a circular park, all roads radiate from there which makes Sebring very distinctive.

Lake Placid was founded in 1927 and has two nicknames: the “Town of Murals” and “The Caladium Capital of the World”. It is known for its art scene with over 50 murals throughout the town, it is a sight to behold. Some of the murals are as large as 175 feet

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ENJOY YOUR

Travels

wide and 30 feet tall and depict the town’s history including the town’s Native American heritage. There is also the Historical Society Depot Museum located in the original railroad depot. And don’t miss the interesting boutiques and restaurants in the downtown area.

Avon Park is known as the “City of Charm” because of its historic downtown and small town feel. It was founded in 1886 and is the oldest town in the region, It was named after Stratford-upon-Avon, England. Visit the Avon Park Depot Museum and the Museum of Florida Arts and Culture. Babe Ruth and Clark Gable stayed at the historic Hotel Jacarinda downtown.

WHAT ARE ANNUITIES?

An annuity is an investment vehicle that can provide a guaranteed income for an individual or their spouse. It is a contract with an insurance company or financial institution where you contribute money upfront and at a specific time receive payments back over the course of your lifetime. There are several advantages to investing in an annuity. First, it is tax deferred which means no taxes until you begin taking the income. Second, you can choose a fixed rate annuity where you will always receive the

same amount regardless of market conditions. Third, you will receive payment even if you receive more than your original investment. Fourth, there are annuities with death benefits for heirs.

There are many different types of annuities, all of which have different features, benefits and costs but they fall into three main categories: fixed, fixed index and variable. There are two types of payout options- deferred and immediate.

FIXED ANNUITY

A fixed annuity is based on a set interest rate and can increase in value over time. It guarantees income payments over your lifetime with the possibility of death benefits for heirs. There are two ways to purchase - either through a lump sum payment or a series of payments that increase the value of your annuity and therefore the total payout.

VARIABLE ANNUITY

A variable annuity’s value will depend on market conditions and will rise and fall with the stock market. This means the possibility of a higher interest rate when the market is strong but in a weak market, the annuity could even lose value.

INDEXED ANNUITY

An indexed annuity is based on the performance of a particular market index and the value of the annuity will be based on that particular index. Interest will be based on the index’s interest rate.

WHY BUY AN ANNUITY?

It is a good opportunity to be sure you have the resources to cover your essential monthly expenses such as mortgage or rent, insurance, utilities , travel, etc. The best thing about an annuity is that it does not run out no matter your age or the value of the investment. Start by analyzing your monthly expenses to figure out how much

income you need to cover basic bills. Don’t forget to consider and plan for inflation. When considering an annuity, the most important thing is to be sure to understand what you are investing in. They are complicated investments. Work with a trusted financial adviser to ensure your understanding of the risks and potential returns.

WELLNESS TRENDS FOR 2026

In 2026, there will be a focus on fitness and AI will be a part of this trend. It will revolutionize the industry through personalization, instant feedback and data tracking. The fitness trend has shifted from short-term goals to long-term lifestyle concerns. People are focused on the number of years lived in good health, not just lifespan. There is an emphasis on fundamentals like strength training, consistent sleep, stress reduction and a nutrient rich diet as well as preventative health care.

Technology plays a part in this shift toward mind and body fitness as real time data becomes available. Wearable technology, artificial intelligence and advanced

analytics give individuals a unique understanding of their body.

Wearables like Apple Watches, WHOOP, and Oura Rings increase our knowledge of how our bodies are functioning. Not only do wearables count steps and steadiness, but they are also capable of tracking sleep quality and recovery, heart rate variations, skin temperature and other variables. With all this information, personalized programs can be developed that incorporate diet, exercise and recovery.

The American College of Sports Medicine ranked wearable technology as the #1 fitness trend because of its ability to integrate

nutrition, sleep, mental health, and physical performance. AI can analyze all the data and recognize patterns. Imagine being informed that your recovery is lagging or your walking isn’t steady. Then it tells you how to correct through exercise or adjustments to sleep routines, nutrition or stress management strategies.

There is also a new emphasis on recovery from a workout. It is now considered a critical component of any fitness program as it enhances performance, longevity and overall

wellness. Gyms today often offer meditation corners, hyperbaric chambers, red light therapy, cold plunge pools, and cryotherapy stations. Additionally, there are somatic healing offerings. These include yoga, Pilates, tai chi, and dance - all of which focus on the mind body connection.

The latest trends in fitness are holistic and recognize that mental and emotional health are inseparable from physical performance.