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.
2024 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
DATES TOURNAMENT
JULY 1 - 7
JULY 8 - 14
John Deere Classic TPC Deere Run, Silvis, Illinois
* Schedule subject to change
Genesis Scottish Open ^ The Renaissance Club, North Berwick, Scotland
CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM
CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM
JULY 8 - 14 TBA Event TBA, TBA GOLF
JULY 15 - 21
JULY 22 - 28
JUNE 29 - AUG 4
AUG 5 - 11
Barracuda Championship
Tahoe Mountain Club (Old Greenwood), Truckee, California GOLF
3M Open TPC Twin Cities, Blaine, Minnesota
CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM
Olympic Men’s Golf Competition # Le Golf National, Paris, France GOLF
Wyndham Championship Sedgefield Country Club, Greensboro, North Carolina
CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM
AUG 12 - 18
AUG 19 - 25
AUG 26 - SEP 1
EDEX CUP PLAYOFFS
FedEx St. Jude Championship TPC Southwind, Memphis, Tennessee
BMW Championship Castle Pines Golf Club, Castle Rock, Colorado
TOUR Championship East Lake Golf Club, Atlanta, Georgia
NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM
NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM
NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM
+ Signature Event
# Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored
^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour
2024 LPGA
2024 LPGA TOURNAMENT
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE LONG ISLAND
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.
JULY
JULY 1 - 14 |
STATE FAIR
The Empire State Fair is returning! The all-new fair features amazing entertainment such as the Royal Hanneford Big Top Circus, Kid Bucks Game Show, an educational experience at the Exotic Animal Zoo, and brand-new amusement rides and attractions. See you at the fair!For more info visit: empirestatefair.com
JULY 4 | INDEPENDENCE DAY
A Fireworks extravaganza above the shores of Jones Beach State Park simulcast to a musical array of patriotic songs. Celebrate America’s birthday with a bang! For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3awd3mZ
AUGUST
AUG 1 - 11 | FILM
FESTIVAL
The Asian American International Film Festival features independent films by both local artists of Asian descent and international
filmmakers, whose original works shed light on the Asian community. Grab your popcorn and enjoy new films by amazing artists! Screenings take place in Midtown, Chelsea, and the Upper East Side. For more info visit: aaiff.org
AUG 10 -11 | MUSIC FESTIVAL
The festival features well-known musicians from Long Island, New England and the UK. Once a year we take over the stage to bring you these wonderful songs of the sea at the perfect place to sing, in the scenic harbor of Port Jefferson, New York. For more info visit: portjeffersonseamusicfestival.com
AUG 10 - 11 | I LOVE BACON, BUTTER, BEER & BOURBON FEST
A celebration of bacon prepared every way imaginable, buttery goodness, ice cold beer, and delicious NY bourbon! The I Love Bacon, Butter, Beer & Bourbon Fest is the event of the summer and you don’t want to miss it! For more info visit: lovebaconfest.com
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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE LONG ISLAND
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 18)
SEPTEMBER
SEPT
13
- 15 | FAIR
Step back into the days of old at the annual Long Island Fair. Thousands of exhibits are entered and compete for blue ribbons in areas including culinary, horticulture, livestock, needlework, and even agricultural skills. Fun includes a wild west show, butterfly encounters, puppet and magic shows, and tons of carnival eats. We can’t wait to see you there! For more info visit: lifair.org
SEPT
21
- 22 | WINE & FOOD FEST
Sample ciders, spirits or wines from New York’s and beyond most renowned producers. And, if you like what you taste, purchase by the bottle to go or buy a case to enjoy your favorites all year long. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs and enjoy savory foods while rocking to the rhythmic sounds of live music. There will be arts and crafts, exhibits, and two full days of live entertainment! For more info visit: putnamcountywinefest.com
OCTOBER
OCT
11
- 14 | FALL FESTIVAL
The largest of its kind in the Northeast, the Long Island Fall Festival at Huntington has become the premiere event for family fun. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/mpnypfw9
Oct
19
- 20 | OYSTER FESTIVAL
The Oyster Festival has a long tradition as the East Coast’s largest waterfront festival. The Festival is known throughout the region for its live entertainment, ships, topnotch artisans, pirate shows, rides, and the iconic oyster eating and shucking contest. And of course... the Food Court! Where culinary pros are cooking and serving dozens of unique oyster, clam and other seafood concoctions along with traditional festival fare. For more info visit: theoysterfestival.org
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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE LONG ISLAND
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)
NOVEMBER
NOV 1 | FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS
This weekly family friendly event hosts 8 - 10 of the best food trucks & local vendors around! Just like the good old block party days come down, hang out on our lawn, eat amazing foods, bring your chairs & tables or picnic blankets and enjoy. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/459mcswy
NOV
8 - 17 | COMEDY
FESTIVAL
Created in 2004, the New York Comedy Festival is a seven-day festival featuring more than 200 comedians performing in more than 100 shows at over 20 venues throughout the City. Enjoy this week full of laughter and joy! For more info visit: nycomedyfestival.com
DECEMBER
DEC TBA | DICKENS FESTIVAL
Celebrate through cherished traditions and spectacular new additions that will add a sparkle and a smile to this magical week-
end. The Artisan Square, showing how handcrafted works were made during Victorian England, and the spectacular Tiny Tim’s Train Station at the Harbormaster’s building, round out the big attractions. The Village will be rich with a troupe of Dickens’ Street Characters and alive with a host of musical, magical and theatrical presentations sure to delight the Scroogies of curmudgeons. For more info visit: portjeff.com
JANUARY
JAN 9 - 15 | JAZZ FEST
Winter Jazzfest features a dazzling array of musical talent and is both a bustling forum of discovery and a guaranteed blast. For more info visit: winterjazzfest.com
FEBRUARY
FEB 19 - 23 | FILM FESTIVAL
Winter Film Festival showcases creative fresh voices from emerging filmmakers worldwide in all genres and lengths – feature length and shorts, narrative
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE LONG ISLAND
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.
fiction, documentary, animation, horror, web series and music videos. Our mission is to promote diversity, bridge the opportunity divide and provide a platform for under-represented artists and a variety of genres, viewpoints and approaches. For more info visit: winterfilmawards.com
MARCH
MARCH TBA | ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
The Montauk St. Patrick’s Day Parade has become a part of the fabric of the community over it’s many years, and while the faces in the crowds lining the streets have changed, what has not changed are the smiles on those faces, young and old alike, and the fun all are welcome to join in at this community event. For more info visit: montaukfriendsoferin.org
APRIL
APRIL 5 | MUSIC FESTIVAL
New York International Music Festival | World ProjectsNew York International Music FestivalWe are grateful that you chose the New York International Music Festival to be your music performance.. It is our mission to present young musicians with an experience that offers the opportunity for musical growth while creating lasting memories. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/4w2hx9y4
APRIL 18 - 27 | AUTO SHOW
There is no better place to research your next new car than the New York Auto Show. For more than a century New Yorker’s have visited the show in the millions to experience everything that the automobile industry has to offer and to get a glimpse into the future. It’s the one place where the information is comprehensive and engaging and where new technology can be explained and explored freely. For more info visit: autoshowny.com
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE LONG ISLAND
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.
MAY
MAY TBA | MAY DAY
As New York State’s largest independent labor union, the Suffolk Association of Municipal Employees organizes the May Day “Mayday” Festival each year in the spirit of singer activists like Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger and modern rock artists who have carried on their tradition, successfully capturing the voice of the working class hero. For more info visit: maydaymusicfestival.com
JUNE
JUNE 8 | STREET FAIR
Come enjoy the Annual Farmingville Street Fair where hundreds of vendors offering a variety of crafts, toys, jewelry, clothing, accessories and other wares have filled Portion Road making the Street Fair the greatest event in Farmingville. Since the first year we scheduled live music, classic cars, bounce structures, beer garden, food, and more providing an all around great time for the entire family to enjoy.For more info visit: farmingvillestreetfair.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 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
2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
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.
