INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
INVESTING
RECOMMENDED SERVICE DIRECTORY FEATURED ARTICLES
VACATION
TRAVEL • LIVING • HEALTH • DINING
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.
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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.
2024 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
DATES TOURNAMENT
SEPT 26 - 29
OCT 3 - 6
OCT 10 - 13
OCT 17 - 20
OCT 24 - 27
NOV 7 - 10
NOV 14 - 17
NOV 21 - 24
DEC 5 - 8
DEC 12 - 15
DEC 12 - 15
Presidents Cup
* Schedule subject to change
The Royal Montreal GC • Montreal, Quebec • CAN
Sanderson Farms Championship
GOLF, PEACOCK, SXM
The Country Club of Jackson • Jackson, MS • USA GOLF, SXM
Black Desert Championship
Black Desert Resort Golf Course • Ivins, UT • USA GOLF, SXM
Shriners Children’s Open
TPC Summerlin • Las Vegas, NV • USA
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP
ACCORDIA GOLF • Chiba • JPN
World Wide Technology Championship
SXM
El Cardonal at Diamante • Los Cabos • MEX GOLF, SXM
Butterfield Bermuda Championship
Port Royal Golf Course • Southampton • BER GOLF, SXM
The RSM Classic
Sea Island Golf Club • St. Simons Island, GA • USA GOLF, SXM
Hero World Challenge
Albany GC • Albany • BAH
Grant Thornton Invitational
Tiburón Golf Club • Naples, FL • USA
PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry
Dye’s Valley Course • Ponte Vedra Beach, FL • USA
GOLF
GOLF
+ Signature Event
# Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored
^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour
2024 LPGA
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
NORTHERN VIRGINIA
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.
SEPTEMBER
Sept 27 - 30 | State Fair
The Virginia State Fair features dozens of food vendors offering all-time favorites like funnel cakes, cotton candy, and barbecue chicken. Vendors offer souvenirs, clothing, belt buckles, and various unusual designs.The beautiful Meadow Park is a great outdoor setting for exciting rides, games, shows, concerts, and other family fun. For more info visit: statefairva.org
OCTOBER
OCT 1 - 31
| HARVEST FESTIVAL
Come celebrate with us and create an unforgettable experience picking pumpkins, getting lost in our corn maze and roasting marshmallows at the bonfire. Don’t forget those freshly made Cider Donuts! For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3rKGaKc
OCT 18 - 19 | OKTOBERFEST
The Annual Richmond Oktoberfest is changing dates to the first weekend of October. Come celebrate at the only authentic Oktoberfest in central Virginia. The entertainment will be highlighted with the traditional march of the regional German Societies, the crowning of the Oktoberfest Queen, and the popular Beer Stein Hoisting Contest. For more info visit: richmondoktoberfestinc.com
NOVEMBER
NOV 1 - 2 | OYSTER FESTIVAL
As you walk through the festival you will find many food & craft vendors, as well as wine tasting, beer tasting, and educational experiences. There is something for everyone at this popular festival & the Urbanna Oyster Festival invites individuals from all over to what has long been known as the Official Oyster Festival of the Commonwealth. For more info visit: urbannaoysterfestival.com
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
NORTHERN VIRGINIA
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. (. . .continued from 20)
NOV 16 | RICHMOND MARATHON
Each of our scenic courses showcases some of our city’s favorite attributes. With street art and river views, historic architecture and beautiful parks, our race routes treat runners to a unique and unforgettable tour of RVA that ends with our renowned downhill finish and post-race party on the riverfront! During your race, you’ll also encounter live bands, DJs, spirit groups, and Party Zones that will offer plenty of encouragement and motivation. For more info visit: https://bit.ly/2SaqCDp
DECEMBER
DEC 5 - 8 | BIZARRE BAZAAR
The Bizarre Bazaar’s Christmas Collection features more than 500 juried exhibitors in four contiguous buildings. The 45th Christmas Collection will feature talented artisans of varied media, unique new shops, boutiques, small businesses, exciting new gift lines, holiday decorations, gourmet foods, jewelry, clothing, accessories, toys, quality crafts, fine art and much
more! For more info visit: thebizarrebazaar.com
DEC 7 | CHRISTMAS PARADE
Kick off the holiday season with the annual Dominion Energy Christmas Parade. You do not want to miss an exciting parade line-up full of colorful floats, giant helium balloons, high school and college marching bands, princesses, superheroes, and Legendary Santa himself! For more info visit: richmondparade.org
JANUARY
JAN 10 - 11 | FLY FISHING FEST
The Virginia Fly Fishing Festival is the largest event of its kind in the country and attracts fly anglers from across the United States and the Mid-Atlantic in particular. Nowhere else can anglers learn about the quiet sport in such a beginner-friendly environment. Our unique event combines fine wine tasting, microbrewery beer, and everything you ever wanted to know about fly fishing but were
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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
NORTHERN VIRGINIA
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. (. . .continued from 22)
afraid to ask. For more info visit: vaflyfishingfestival.com
JAN 24 - 26 | BOAT SHOW
The Downtown Richmond Boat Show will feature over 150,000 square feet of boats all under one roof. See boats shine under the first class lighting only found at the Richmond Convention Center. This show will be the largest show Richmond has ever seen! For more info visit: downtownrichmondboatshow.com
FEBRUARY
FEB TBA | GEORGE WASHINGTON PARADE
The George Washington Birthday Parade winds through a one-mile route along the historic streets of Old Town. It is the oldest and largest parade celebrating the birth of George Washington in the USA, thanks to thousands of participants and spectators. For more info visit: washingtonbirthday.com
FEB 8 | CHOCOLATE, WINE & WHISKEY FESTIVAL
Enjoy Chocolate in a multitude of decadent presentations – an amazing selection of bean-to-bar artisan chocolates. Quench your thirst with Champagne, Prosecco and premium wines and a sip of fine whiskies! Hey, and buy some to take home – why not, you deserve it! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/cy2n5vjv
MARCH
MARCH 16 - 17 | IRISH FESTIVAL
Enjoy great entertainment, there will be plenty of family fun, including children’s games, face painting, and Irish-themed crafts. Food and refreshments will also be available.Enjoy wonderful “Irish Surprise” (corned beef, cabbage & mashed potatoes) prepared by the Ladies of St. Patrick’s, the St. Patrick’s Grill, and many more. For more info visit: churchhillirishfestival.com
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
NORTHERN VIRGINIA
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.
APRIL
APRIL 11 - 13 | SPRING MARKET
Two Exhibition Buildings featuring unique gifts, gourmet foods, boutiques, fine artists and crafters and exciting decorative accessories for the home and garden. For more info visit: thebizarrebazaar.com
MAY
MAY 16 - 18 | RIVERROCK
The nation’s largest outdoor sports and music festival is Dominion Energy Riverrock, a three-day riverside experience in an urban setting with great food, craft beer and wine nearby. This isn’t your typical festival, and we’re not your typical town. For more info visit: riverrockrva.com
JUNE
JUNE TBA | GREEK FESTIVAL
In Ancient Greece, the Agora was traditionally a city center or meeting place for a town. It transformed into a marketplace for local vendors to sell goods and items. At the Richmond Greek Festival, we pay tribute to this ancient tradition and bring in many local and international vendors for the public to browse. For more info visit: greekfestival.com
JUNE TBA | SOUL MUSIC & FOOD FESTIVAL
Enjoy a beautiful summer day on the island while listening to your favorite songs and sampling the best vendors that Central Virginia
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
NORTHERN VIRGINIA
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.
has to offer, truly a day dedicated to a feel good time! You don’t want to miss the Stone Soul Music and Food festival! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/z4cs9kz6
JULY
JULY TBA | TOMATO FESTIVAL
A huge festival located at Pole Green Park in Mechanicsville, the Hanover Tomato Festival has just about every variation of tomatoes you can think of: fried green tomatoes, tomato pie, tomato Po’ boy, tomato tacos, tomato burger, fried tomato chips, tomato wraps, salsa, and on and on and on – all, of course, of the Hanover tomato variety. For more info visit: hanovertomatofestival.com
JULY 25 - 30 | HIGHLANDS FEST
75 years ago, Robert Porterfield began a cultural experience unparalleled to our region. The Virginia Highlands Festival has continued to grow in size and scope to become a destination for tourists and a beloved regional
cultural resource for the arts, history and culture of Virginia. For more info visit: vahighlandsfestival.com
AUGUST
AUG TBA | COUNTY FAIR
Well, there is no shortage of great things to do and see – whether you are young or old – or some place in between. With your family, friends, and friends you are about to meet. But the real reason everyone loves the County Fair is because of the singular focus to make the fair fun for you! For more info visit: pwcfair.com
SEPTEMBER
SEPT TBA | FILM FEST
We are an arts organization that supports storytellers with diverse points of view from all countries. We will not discriminate based on race, gender, or country of origin. We support freedom of speech, respectful dialogue, and meaningful engagement. For more info visit: rvafilmfestival.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
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
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
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.
BERNINA EXPRESS
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.
