TOP 10 WAYS TO PREPARE FOR RETIREMENT
Saving Matters! Remember
Financial security in retirement doesn’t just happen. It takes planning and commitment and, yes, money.
FACTS
✔ Only about half of Americans have calculated how much they need to save for retirement.
✔ The average American spends roughly 20 years in retirement.
Putting money away for retirement is a habit we can all live with.
1. START SAVING, KEEP SAVING, & STICK TO YOUR GOALS!
If you are already saving, whether for retirement or another goal, keep going! You know that saving is a rewarding habit. If you’re not saving, it’s time to get started.
Start small if you have to and try to increase the amount you save each month. The sooner you start saving, the more time your money has to grow. Devise a plan, stick to it, and set goals. Remember, it’s never too early or too late to start saving.
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2. KNOW YOUR RETIREMENT NEEDS!
Retirement is expensive. Experts estimate that you will need 70 to 90 percent of your preretirement income to maintain your standard of living when you stop working. Take charge of your financial future. The key to a secure retirement is to plan ahead.
3. CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR EMPLOYER’S RETIREMENT SAVINGS PLAN!
If your employer offers a retirement savings plan, such as a 401(k) plan, sign up and contribute all you can. Your taxes will be lower, your company may kick in more, and automatic deductions make it easy. Over time, compound interest and tax deferrals make a
big difference in the amount you will accumulate. Find out about your plan. For example, how much would you need to contribute to get the full employer contribution and how long would you need to stay in the plan to get the money.
4. LEARN ABOUT YOUR EMPLOYER’S PENSION PLAN!
If your employer has a traditional pension plan, check to see if you are covered by the plan and understand how it works. Ask for an individual benefit statement to see what your benefit is worth. Before you change jobs, find out what will happen to your pension benefit. Learn what benefits you may have from a previous employer. Find out if you will be entitled to benefits from your spouse’s plan.
5. CONSIDER BASIC INVESTMENT PRINCIPLES!
How you save can be as important as how much you save. Inflation and the type of investments you make play important roles in how much you’ll have saved at retirement. Know how your savings or pension plan is invested. Learn about your plan’s investment options and ask questions. Put your savings in different types of investments. By diversifying this way, you are more likely to reduce risk and improve return. Your investment mix may change over time depending on a number of factors such as your age, goals, and financial circumstances. Financial security and knowledge go hand in hand.
6. DON’T TOUCH YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS!
If you withdraw your retirement savings now, you’ll lose principal and interest and you may lose tax benefits or have to pay withdrawal penalties. If you change jobs, leave your savings invested in your current retirement plan, or roll them over to an IRA or your new employer’s plan.
7. ASK YOUR EMPLOYER TO START A PLAN!
If your employer doesn’t offer a retirement plan, suggest that it start one. There are a number of retirement saving plan options available. Your employer may be able to set up a simplified plan that can help both you and your employer.
8. PUT MONEY INTO AN INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNT!
You can put up to $6,500 a year into an individual Retirement Account (IRA); you can contribute even more if you are 50 or older. You can also start with much less. IRAs also provide tax advantages. When you open an IRA, you have two options – a traditional IRA or Roth IRA. The tax treatment of your contributions and withdrawals will depend on which option you select. Also, the after-tax value of your withdrawal will depend on
inflation and the type of IRA you choose. IRAs can provide an easy way to save. You can set it up so that an amount is automatically deducted from your checking or savings account and deposited in the IRA.
9. FIND OUT ABOUT YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS!
On average, Social Security retirement benefits replace 40 percent of pre-retirement income for retirement beneficiaries. The amount of your wages that Social Security retirement benefits replace varies depending on your earnings and the age you choose to start receiving benefits. You may be able to estimate your benefit by using the retirement estimator on the Social Security Administration’s website.
10. ASK QUESTIONS!
While these tips are meant to point you in the right direction, you’ll need more information. Talk to your employer, your bank, your union, or a financial adviser. Ask questions and make sure you understand the answers. Get practical advice and act now.
Courtesy of US Dept. of Labor
2025 DESIGN TRENDS
EACH YEAR BRINGS NEW TRENDS IN INTERIOR DESIGN & 2025 IS NO DIFFERENT.
As the world changes, needs and desires change. Interior design can enhance your home environment with new ideas. We want our homes to appeal to all our sensesSensorial design. Vivid colors, environmentally friendly materials and luxury comfort are a few of the current trends.
Colors such as reds, oranges, purples, and maroons will be popular. These are called lucky colors in some cultures.
Accordingly they attract wealth and business success. No more plain walls - wallpapered and colored ceilings as well as textured walls are back. In addition, bold patterns and textures add drama, depth and visual interest to your room. Ceiling treatments also create visual interest. Beams or a coffered ceiling bring texture, depth and character to plain surfaces. They also reduce noise and add a bit of elegance.
Earth tones such as terracotta, ochre, rust and sage are always popular as they reflect nature and create a calm environment that makes a space feel warm and welcoming. To add a little luxury to any space, use gold, bronze, copper or silver finishes with small touches.
Furniture tends to be comfortable and relaxed without sacrificing style. Oversized sofas, comfortable chairs, lounge chairs and even daybeds are popular again. Curved and rounded furniture as well as accent pieces will be popular. They work with either traditional or modern design.
Dark warmer wood tones are back after years of light wood. To change the look of a piece of furniture or cabinet, stain it a walnut hue. Mix in modern with traditional. Darker
tones bring a warm, grounded feeling.
Lighting is an important part of any design project. Consider a layered lighting scheme that incorporates a mixture of overhead lighting, floor and table lamps and sconces. Think of fixtures as art and jewelry for your home. Lighting helps create a functional and welcoming home. Be sure to use dimmable lights as that enhances the mood in any room.
Small changes can reinvigorate your home in keeping with the 2025 design. Paint a wall, wallpaper a bathroom ceiling, add a colorful rug to a neutral room. It’s all about enjoying your home and feeling comfortable.
2025 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
* Schedule subject to change + Signature Event # Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour
MAY 1 - 4
MAY 8 - 11
MAY 8 - 11
MAY 15 - 18
THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson TPC Craig Ranch •McKinney, TX • USA
Truist Championship + The Philadelphia Cricket Club (Wissahickon Course) • Philadelphia, PA • USA
Myrtle Beach Classic Dunes Golf and Beach Club • Myrtle Beach, SC • USA
Championship
Hollow Club • Charlotte, NC • USA
MAY 22 - 25 Charles Schwab Challenge Colonial Country Club • Fort Worth, TX • USA
MAY 29 - JUN 1 The Memorial Tournament presented by Workday + Muirfield Village Golf Club • Dublin, OH • USA
JUN 5 - 8
RBC Canadian Open TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley (North Course) • Caledon, Ontario • CAN
JUN 12 - 15 U.S. Open Oakmont Country Club • Oakmont, PA • USA
JUN 19 - 22 Travelers Championship + TPC River Highlands • Cromwell, CT • USA
JUN 26 - 29
JUL 3 - 6
Mortgage Classic Detroit Golf Club • Detroit, MI • USA
John Deere Classic TPC Deere Run • Silvis, IL • USA
DECHAMBEAU $4,300,000
2025 LPGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
PHOENIX
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
JUNE
JUNE 1 - 30 | JUNE DAYS
June is an exceptional month to explore Old Town Scottsdale. The Valley has yet to heat up to a hot griddle, and the temperatures are mild enough – especially at night –for daily outdoor activities such as yoga classes, poolside sunbathing, patio eating, and a whole lot more. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/5azy2xst
JULY
JULY 4 | INDEPENDENCE DAY
The Greater Phoenix area is famous for its massive Fourth of July celebrations with spectacular fireworks, tasty barbecues and thousands of people on the streets enjoying their festive family outing. Let’s celebrate America’s birthday with a bang this year! For more info visit: https://bit.ly/35FTcPX
AUGUST
AUG 28 - 30 | CRAFT FESTIVAL
Come join us at our Festival in Scottsdale - At the Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival you will find a wide variety of Sewing, Quilting, Needle-Art and Craft supply exhibits from many quality companies. For more info visit: quiltcraftsew.com
SEPTEMBER
SEPT 19 - 28 | RESTAURANT WEEK
This statewide affair offers foodies a wealth of dining opportunities and the chance to get outside their own neighborhood and try something new. From sizzling Southwestern and soothing comfort foods to five-star dining and international fare – it’s all on the table during Arizona Restaurant Week. So prepare your taste buds and dig in.For more info visit: arizonarestaurantweek.com
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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
PHOENIX
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
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SEPT 19 - 28 | STATE FAIR
For more than a century, the Arizona State Fair has been a gathering place for residents from the far corners of the state. Filled with cute animals, blue ribbons, fried food, and all the fun carnival rides you can imagine. For more info visit: azstatefair.com
OCTOBER
OCT 10 - 12 | GREEK FESTIVAL
We are pleased to provide you with an opportunity to share in the rich history, culture, and culinary delights of Greece. Enjoy Greek food, music, dancing, jewelry, art, grocery items and activities for children. For more info visit: phoenixgreekfestival.org
OCT 10 - 12 | OKTOBERFEST
Four Peaks & Tempe Sister Cities invite you to Oktoberfest! A weekend full of entertainment for all ages, German food & beers and plenty of Oom Pah Pah! This event is a long standing Tempe tradition celebrating 50 years and
benefitting the work of Tempe Sister Cities. For more info visit: fourpeaksoktoberfest.com
NOVEMBER
NOV 1 | TEQUILA FEST
Come join us for Over 50 Tequilas, Food Trucks, Souvenir Flask & Live Music! For more info visit: tequilafestphoenix.com
NOV 7 - 9 | JAZZ FESTIVAL
Come enjoy this weekend long Jazz Festival. Along with great music, there’s so much more to enjoy at the event. From food vendors to delicious drinks, check out what’s on the menu! For more info visit: azjazzfest.com
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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE PHOENIX
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
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NOV
15
- 16 | PIZZA FESTIVAL
At the annual Phoenix Pizza Festival, local pizza makers sell all types of pizza slices, full pies and other unique pizza inspired creations. Other foods will also be available like pasta, meatballs, french fries and a variety of desserts. The event also features performances by some of Phoenix’s best local bands, vendor market, kid’s zone, and more! For more info visit: phoenix.pizza
DECEMBER
DEC 14 | HOT CHOCOLATE 5K
We’re back for another LIVE Hot Chocolate season! Join the movement that’s taken over the racing world, the Hot Chocolate 15k/5k is headed to Phoenix! Start and finish amongst Phoenix’s biggest chocolate aficionados. Train, race, and celebrate with us all the way to the finish line. For more info visit: hotchocolate15k.com
DEC 14 - 15 | PHOENIX FESTIVAL
Presented by Phoenix Center for the Arts, this Phoenix favorite community event draws in 12,000+ attendees annually for the holidays, featuring 150+ art vendors, local music, & food trucks all weekend! For more info visit: phoenixfestivalofthearts.org
JANUARY
JAN
16 -
18 | BALLOON CLASSIC
Balloons will lift off into the beautiful desert sky. One of Arizona’s most popular outdoor signature events and the only hot air balloon race in the state. A field full of illuminated hot air balloons will glow in time to music. Come bring your appetite, as there will be an amazing variety of festival foods! For more info visit: abcfest.com
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE PHOENIX
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
FEBRUARY
FEB TBA | CULINARY CLASSIC
The most anticipated culinary event in the region, Devour Culinary Classic brings together the culinary and beverage leaders that are establishing Arizona as a sought-after destination. Enjoy Arizona’s best food and beverage amidst the beautiful backdrop of the largest botanical garden in the Southwest. In addition to tastings, the event will offer multiple opportunities for all attendees to learn skills and tips from some of their favorite local chefs and food producers. For more info visit: devourphoenix.com
FEB 14 - 15 | HOOP DANCE FEST
The art of hoop dance honors cultural traditions shared by multiple Indigenous communities. Through stunning performances of those women and men competing to be named the next World Champion Hoop Dancer, the event combines artistry, athleticism, tradition and suspense for an unforgettable weekend of fellowship and
competition. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/sbypfvvn
MARCH
MARCH 1 - 30 | RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
Don’t miss Raucous Revelry at the Annual Arizona Renaissance Festival! This unique outdoor event combines entertainment and wares reminiscent of what may have been found in a 16th Century European village market celebrating the arrival of the King and Queen to their shire. Walk through the gates to be transported back in time. For more info visit: arizona.renfestinfo.com
MARCH 15 | ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
The Phoenix St. Patrick’s Day Parade began in 1984. Its purpose is to preserve and enhance the heritage and traditions of Irish Culture as well as share that culture with the citizens of Arizona. The Parade has marching bands, Irish step dancers, bagpipers, police and fire
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE PHOENIX
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
vehicles, government dignitaries, floats and a whole lot more! For more info visit: stpatricksdayphoenix.org
APRIL
APRIL 3 - 12 | COUNTY FAIR
The Maricopa County Fair is held annually at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. The Fair features the largest county fair carnival in Phoenix with over 35 rides. Foodies will appreciate the wide selection of fair food. Like to shop? The shopping pavilion is filled with over 60 vendors plus there are over 25 more vendors outside. Agriculture and livestock are a part of the fair’s history and tradition and is a mainstay at the fair. For more info visit: maricopacountyfair.org
APRIL 9 - 19 | FILM FESTIVAL
Our mission is to support and develop the artistic appreciation, educational opportunities and growth of independent film within Arizona. So grab your popcorn and enjoy these amazingly curated independent films! For more info visit: phoenixfilmfestival.com
MAY
MAY 5 | CINCO DE MAYO
Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival is a historic staple of the City of Phoenix. Cinco de Mayo signifies the victory of the Mexican army over the French in 1862. Enjoy music, lucha libre, baile folklorico, great food and drink and activities for the entire family. For more info visit: cincophx.com
2026 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT
SCHEDULE
* Schedule subject to change
MAY 25 - SUN 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 26 - MON 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 26 - MON 8:15 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 27 - TUE 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 27 - TUE 8:15 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 28 - WED 12:00 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 28 - WED 8:15 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 29 - THU 12:00 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 29 - THU 8:15 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 30 - FRI 12:00 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 30 - FRI 8:15 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 31 - SAT 12:00 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 31 - SAT 8:15 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 01 - SUN 11:00 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 01 - SUN 8:15 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 02 - MON 11:00 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 02 - MON 8:15 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 03 - TUE 11:00 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 03 - TUE 8:15 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 04 - WED 11:00 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 04 - WED 8:15 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 05 - THU 3:00 PM 1/2 Finals Singles Ladies’
JUN 06 - FRI 2:30 PM 1/2 Final Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 06 - FRI 5:30 PM 1/2 Final Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 07 - SAT 3:00 PM Final Women’s Single
JUN 08 - SUN 3:00 PM Final Gentlemen’s Single
DATE
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
* Schedule subject to change
JUNE 30 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1nd Round
JULY 1 - TUE 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1nd Round
JULY 2 - WED 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round
JULY 3 - THUR 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round
JULY 4 - FRI 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round
JULY 5 - SAT 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round
JULY 6 - SUN 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 4th Round
JULY 7 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 4th Round
JULY 8 - TUE 11:00 AM
JULY 9- WED 11:00 AM
JULY 10 - THU 1:00 PM
Men's Singles Quarterfinals & Ladies’ Singles Quarterfinals
Men's Singles Quarterfinals & Ladies’ Singles Quarterfinals
Ladies' Singles Semifinals & Mixed Doubles Final
JULY 11 - FRI 1:00 PM Men's Singles Semifinals
JULY 12 - SAT 2:00 PM
JULY 13 - SUN 2:00 PM
Ladies' Singles Final & Men's Doubles Final
Men's Singles Final & Ladies’ Doubles Final
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
TRAVELING TO ICELAND.
Iceland is a small Nordic country in Europe known for its dramatic landscape with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, lava fields and massive glaciers. It is also known for its distinct Nordic culture based on folklore and mythology, dating back to the Vikings who were first to colonize the land. Later, it was
under Danish rule and gained its independence in 1944 and is a founding member of NATO. Despite having its own distinct language and being a country of only 384,000 people, English is spoken widely as it is taught in school as a second language.
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The capital city is Reykjavik which is known for its lively nightlife, modern museums, excellent dining, galleries and shopping. It is the base from which to explore all that Iceland has to offer.
The best time to visit is May through October but those are also the busiest times. Iceland is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. There are so many adventures to choose from whether it is the natural wonders under the summer’s midnight sun or seeking the aurora borealis in winter months.
Spend a day touring the Golden Circle and see three incredible natural events. Starting in the capital, Reykjavik, drive into the southern uplands to Pingvellir National Park, onto the Geysir geothermal area and then the Gullfoss waterfall and end back in the city.
Pingvellir is a UNESCO world heritage site and the first place settled in south Iceland. See Iceland’s largest lake, the Langjokull glacier, hike the North American plate and see Game of Thrones scenery at Almannagja gorge and then view the amazing Oxarafoss waterfalls. If you are
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really adventurous, snorkel at Silfra, one of the world’s top 10 dive sites.
Drive on to the Geysir Geothermal area in the Haukadalur Valley. See the volcanic landscape and arrive at Strokkur which is the geyser that erupts every 6-10 minutes shooting hot water as high as 130 feet into the air. Walking through the valley, view many hot springs, smaller geysers and bubbling mud spots.
The last stop is Gullfoss Waterfall which is famous for its 2 drops, falling 100 feet and view the rainbows that shoot from the spray. Finish the day with a leisurely drive back to Reykjavik allowing time for stops along the way.
The cold waters off the coast attract an abundance of sea life including over 20 species of whales, including dolphins and porpoises. Tours can be found all over the country but the best spot is in the seaside village of Dalvick in the north.
Caving is a popular and extraordinary experience. Because Iceland is one of the most active
and inactive volcanic regions. It has incredible rock formations above and below the earth’s surface. Tube caves inside glaciers form after magma flows underneath the earth’s surface and lava solidifies overhead. Tours operate safely year-round with geologists as guides. Be prepared with proper clothing and footwear as caves are chilly and there is often dripping water. Floors are
rugged, so sturdy boots are necessary. The caves are unexpectedly large and many have staircases and walkways for safe exploration. The most unique is Prihnukargigur (3 Peaks Crater) which takes you across lava fields to the cable car down 400 feet into a volcano that has been extinct for over 4500 years. The crater is the size of 3 basketball courts and as tall as the Statue of Liberty.
- a place like no other!
