Southern New Jersey

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.

FENG SHUI

IN

COLOR & DESIGN

Feng Shui, which literally means wind and water, is an ancient Chinese practice rooted in the theory of Yin and Yang. It is the ancient Chinese practice of using energy forces to harmonize individuals with their surrounding environment by organizing furniture, art, plants, and other objects within any given space or room to create peace and harmony.

It has been used for centuries to determine building sites such as the Forbidden City in Beijing, which is built on a north-south axis with the main entrance facing south. It was believed to be the most propitious direction according to the feng shui masters. Additionally, the pyramid addition to the Louvre in Paris, Trump Tower in Manhattan, and the Sydney Opera House in Sydney have all been influenced by feng shui principles.

In interior design, feng shui is a tool to help design a room that makes you feel good and enhances health, prosperity, harmony and balance for a joyful life.

Chinese philosophy is all about opposites - masculine and feminine, dark and light, warm and cold. Additionally, there is a focus on the 5 elements which are wood, fire, earth, metal and water. These symbolize qualities such as stability, wisdom, growth and creativity. Decorating with the five elements is meant to bring joy and balance to your life.

According to Better Homes and Gardens, you can feng shui your home with a few simple tips:

Clear your home of clutter and open up the flow of traffic. This will create an atmosphere of calm by creating a welcoming entryway. Adding feng shui plants and positioning furniture in relation to the door will give a feeling of

control and empowerment, creating balance. And don’t forget to use feng shui with your color selections.

The bedroom is the most important room for applying the principles of feng shui since we all spend so much time there. It is important to have the bed face the door but not straight-on. It is preferable to have a wall behind the bed so that you are aware if anyone is entering your space. This is referred to as command position. Use soft and muted pastel colors or earthen tones that you’d find in nature. Plants are not recommended for the bedroom as they are active and produce energy which is not conducive to the calm environment required in the bedroom. However, they are desirable throughout the rest of the home. Some of the best plants include lucky bamboo, orchids, jade, snake or rubber plants.

Although there is no scientific basis for the use of feng shui in design, it is about making your environment a healthy and happy one for your family, so why not give it a try.

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

2024 LPGA

2024 LPGA TOURNAMENT

Schedule subject to change

Purse subject to change

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

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.

AUGUST

AUG 19

- 28 | RESTAURANT WEEK

Discover deliciously prepared meals from a host of restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines all over Jersey City—from Greenville to Grove Street. For more info visit: jerseyshorerestaurantweek.com

SEPTEMBER

SEPT 7 | STREET FAIR

Wood Street Fair is a much anticipated annual event which takes place in the midst of the Historic City of Burlington, New Jersey. Brought to you by the Colonial Burlington Foundation, this popular event draws over 25,000 visitors and is comprised of more then 175 of the areas finest artisans and crafters. For more info visit: woodstreetfair.com

SEPT 14 - 15 | SEAFOOD FESTIVAL

The Downbeach Seafood Festival will be highlighting all the fantastic dining options this coastal area has to offer. Whether it’s trying the

vast selection of local restaurants, sipping Jersey made craft beers, cooking with local chefs, shopping for unique exhibitors, or playing in the sand, you will find yourself immersed in the festival and all it has to offer. For more info visit: downbeachseafoodfest.com

SEPT 19 - 22 | IRISH FESTIVAL

The largest Irish Festival on the East Coast celebrating Irish heritage with dancing, music, food and craft vendors and participating pubs along Olde New Jersey Ave. For more info visit: cmcaoh.com

OCTOBER

OCT 5 - 6 | CHOWDERFEST

This family fun festival features live music, activities and unlimited Chowder tasting with the opportunity for to vote for their favorite chowder. It has become a tradition for family and friends to gather together to say good bye to summer and welcome in the fall. For more info visit: chowderfest.com

(. . .continued on page 24)

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

(. . .continued from 22)

OCT 19 - 20 | CRANBERRY FEST

The Cranberry Festival is a celebration of New Jersey’s cranberry harvest. Enjoy live entertainment Cranberry Cafe and Bakery, Pine Barrens photography, quilt blocking, cranberry floral arrangement, the cranberry display and the best cranberry recipe. For more info visit: cranfest.info

OCT 25 - 27 | JAZZ FESTIVAL

The Exit Zero Jazz Festival debuted in November 2012 in the national historic landmark city of Cape May, a picturesque beach town. You might find yourself one minute second-lining to a New Orleans brass band, and, in the next, snaking through town behind a 22-piece Brazilian drum bloco. The joy of the Exit Zero Jazz Festival is in the discovery of incredible music and musicians you may never have known existed. For more info visit: exitzerojazzfestival.com

NOVEMBER

NOV 9 | TACO & EMPANADA FEST

Taco & Empanada ! The Best of both worlds come together for this delicious event! Enjoy gourmet Food Trucks, music, beer, margarita & sangria garden, vendors, kids activities, pony rides, rock wall, petting zoo, face painting, sand art, inflatables, bungee trampoline, and more. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/ms784wnc

DECEMBER

DEC 1 - 30 | LIGHT SHOW

This year’s holiday light show you won’t want to miss! Experience a light show like no other. Drive a course through America’s only construction theme & water park to witness lights, holiday displays, tunnels, and our very own radio station to fill your car with holiday spirit! For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3e8mmNH

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE

DEC 7 | DICKENS FESTIVAL

Main Street in Medford has become an old-fashioned winter wonderland at the start of the holiday season. The official tree lighting begins when a town crier transports Santa and Mrs. Claus to the center of downtown. Upon Santa’s arrival, the town gets busy with tons of activities, plus magic, comedy, and juggling shows.

For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3SAWs63

JANUARY

JAN

- 26 | FLY FISHING SHOW

An entertaining and informative consumer show dedicated to connecting customers with business owners, manufacturers and other fly fishing professionals.

For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/57jr8rc8

FEBRUARY

FEB 13 - 16 |

BOAT SHOW

This show has something for every age and interest with hundreds of new boats on sale from the top

dealers in the state representing boating’s most popular brands. Attendees will be able to board and shop all the top boat brands and models of all sizes. The show also has a Boater’s Marketplace, FREE Seminars and Boating Safety Classes and the Kids Cove.

For more info visit: jerseyboatexpo.com

FEB 15 - 16 | FILM FESTIVAL

All the works that we are screening are part of the New Jersey Film Festival Competition and were selected by a panel of judges including media professionals, journalists, students, and academics. These judges selected the 43 finalists which will be publicly screened at our Festival. The finalists were selected from over 636 works submitted by filmmakers from around the world.

For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/3z7nhbu9

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE

SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

MARCH

MARCH 1 - 2 | HOME & GARDEN SHOW

New Jersey’s premier home & garden event features over 200 exhibitors with the area’s top services & products. Attend expert presentations, meet kitchen and bath designers, improve your home’s curb appeal, find outdoor furniture for spring, shop home decor, attend a painting class, enjoy the kid’s activity area and more! For more info visit: newjerseyhomeshow.com

MARCH 27 - 30 | FILM FESTIVAL

The Garden State film festival is held together by the philosophy of promoting an engendering independent films and new and inspiring filmmakers, and they have garnered support from Hollywood heavyweights like Glenn Close, Frank Vincent, Michael Uslan and James Gandolfini. For more info visit: gsff.org

APRIL

APRIL 1 - 30 | TULIP FESTIVAL

Holland Ridge Farms is a family-owned flower grower and flower farm in New Jersey. Our U-Pick Tulip season opens when the millions of bulbs we planted in the fall burst into bloom. Rows and rows of colorful tulips as far as the eye can see! For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3iYfOl8

MAY

MAY 16 - 18 | JAZZ FESTIVAL

(. . .continued on page 28)

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE

SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

(. . .continued from 28)

JUNE

JUNE TBA | FOOD FESTIVAL

Come and experience some of the hottest restaurants and food trucks in New Jersey while also sipping cocktails, and listening to live music all day. Take a line dancing class, visit the Red Bank Exotic Car Club show, or play carnival games. For more info visit: boujee-foodie.com

JUNE 12 - 15 | TRI COUNTY FAIR

Come out and enjoy heart-pounding rides such as the Polar Express or the Sky Hawk; classic rides like the Ferris wheel, kiddie rides, games of chance and pony rides; and fun fair foods such as Cold Stone ice cream, handmade zeppoles, fried Oreos, tacos, empanadas, sausage and peppers, delicious homemade lemonade and much more! For more info visit: tricountyfair.org

JULY

JULY TBA | FESTIVAL OF BALLOONING

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No! It’s a balloon! The family friendly festival will feature mass ascensions, balloon rides, sunrise yoga, non-stop family entertainment, headlining concerts, crafters, vendors, balloon glow, food, fireworks, and much more. Experience a weekend of family friendly fun! For more info visit: balloonfestival.com

2025 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

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

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

2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

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.

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.

TRAIN EXPERIENCES Wonderful

If you haven’t traveled by train, you might like to try it. There are so many fantastic train trips available across the world. They offer opportunities not available any other way. There’s never the hassle of driving and missing the beautiful and scenic countryside. They are eco-friendly,

comfortable, relaxing and also offer refreshments. Trains start and end their journeys in cities and will transport you through diverse and incredible landscapes.

Here are a few amazing train trip options:

JACOBITE TRAIN BERNINA EXPRESS

If you are traveling in Scotland, be sure to check out the Jacobite. This journey is often described as the greatest rail journey in the world. It takes you 84 miles in total from Fort Williams in the highlands of Scotland to the most westerly stop in Arisaig. It passes by lakes and rivers including Lake Nevis, the deepest in Europe and through charming villages. There is a stop in Glenfinnan which was made famous as the site of the Harry Potter films. Then it is on to Mallaig which was founded in 1840 and is now a busy fishing port. It is a great spot for a walk or some shopping and dining. Try the fish and chips! Then take the return trip or consider taking the ferry to Skye and the Small Isles.

In Switzerland, be sure to check out the Bernina Express which is a 90 mile journey from Tirano in northern Italy to Chur in southeastern Switzerland. Highlights include unparalleled panoramic views of the steep peaks of the Swiss Alps, charming villages and shimmering lakes. With 55 tunnels through the mountains and numerous bridges and viaducts, the vistas are stunning. Chur is the oldest city in Switzerland and the old town is actually car-free. The train has earned UNESCO World Heritage Designation due to its architectural features and long history.

SKAGWAY RAILROAD RAILROAD MUSEUM

In Alaska, don’t miss the Bennett Lake Scenic Journey. A trip through history that began with the gold rush of 1898 when men sought routes to the Klondike and the White Pass. It began in Skagway and continued to British Columbia and the Yukon Territory. The train climbs from sea level to 3,00ft - a true marvel of engineering. Travel in a vintage train from Skagway to Carcass in the Yukon Territory. See snow capped peaks, forests, sparkling lakes, and amazing waterfalls. Visit Bennett Station and the White Pass Museum. You can do a walk through an old gold rush town. Then ride through remote sections of the lake that are otherwise only available by hiking the Chilkoot Trail.

In Parrish, Florida, visit the Museum and see the historic trains of the old South. Or take the 6-mile ride on an early 1900s train from Parrish to Willow to see a rail collection and exhibition. Also they host special train events including a train robbery experience.