Port St. Lucie, FL April 2024

The Investment Issue

Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets longterm financial goals and secures our retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.

While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share about some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances and with those that we love. (Elaborate here if you want to name a few specifcs)

Capturing Essence Of Pregnancy

In Creative Ways

Maternity photography accentuates how women glow and bloom. Capturing those special journeys is all about embracing the beauty of pregnancy  and creating timeless memories, proclaims Genevieve Castro, owner of NextGen Photography in Port St. Lucie.

Through luxury, all-inclusive studio sessions in the comfort and privacy of clients’ homes, Gen says her photography is meant to be artwork as well as elegant portrayals of authenticity. As a travel studio photographer, she specializes in maternity, newborn and family portraits.

“My photo editing style is artistic yet portrait-like, much like a comparison to court painters for Royal families. That’s me, just in photography form,” Gen quips. “Within that niche, I handle a spectrum of minimalistic simplicity to high-fashion glamor like seen in vogue consumer magazines. Sometimes, it’s about clean lines and neutral tones, while other times our focus is on the creative vision and style.”

Gen furnishes all lighting, props, backdrops and wardrobes, including designer gowns, dresses, newborn wraps and clothing for children up to 1 year of age. Once a session is slated, she provides clients with a link to her photography clothes closet so they can select their favorite items and colors. She also provides accessories, such as jewelry. Her backdrops consist of seamless papers or hand-painted canvasses for individualistic touches.

CONTINUED >

“My photography sessions are very convenient and less stressful for my clients. I get to pamper mothers, and young kids, if involved, typically remain in better moods because they’re in their own environment with their own toys. They can take bathroom breaks or eat snacks when they want to,” Gen explains. “It’s all handy while still achieving the goal of resulting in quality images with a studio feel.”

Collaborating with local hair and makeup professionals, some of the NextGen Photography packages include assistance with that personal aspect as well. “The makeup professional contacts and works with my clients before scheduled photo sessions, and then arrives about 2 hours to a client’s home before I do,” Gen says.

She recalls once she had her son in 2018, she realized how special the moments of motherhood are and what an incredible experience it can be. So, she launched her photography business during 2020 while also working in bio-pharmaceutical operations. However, her commitment to securing visual narratives quickly took root and became her full-time focus.

“I always liked photography. But maternity photography is my passion, not just a business. It really speaks to me. I love capturing these milestones for others. And I care about clients’ experiences and their investment in images. I want them to have an amazing time from start to finish,” Gen assures.

Gen’s cheerful, bubbly persona is known for helping clients feel beautiful and confident. “Women often ask me if they have to be like a model who knows how to pose. While I want them to feel like a model for the day, I guide everyone through poses and coach them about how to appear assured in their images,” she says.

“Maternity photography is my passion, not just a business.”

Because Gen books up about two months in advance, she recommends that clients set up their appointment as soon as they can. She says she intentionally schedules mothers between 29 to 34 weeks of pregnancy. She offers customized payment plans, and her on-site time is built into the overall fee.

Couple maternity sessions also are possible, and Gen says her multiple packages include immediate family members and pets. She says add-ons are other relatives for multiple generations or extra prints.

Maternity photos are a magnificent way to capture the love, anticipation and shared excitement before little ones arrive. Gen promises that she dedicates her skills to producing images that also stand the test of time.

772.607.1401

NextGen.photography20@gmail.com

HOW TO DESIGN A RELAXING SPACE

INVESTING IN HOME DESIGN CAN GIVE YOU A PEACEFUL SANCTUARY WHERE YOU CAN ESCAPE FROM THE STRESSES OF DAILY LIFE. SO GO AHEAD, TAKE THE PLUNGE AND REVAMP YOUR LIVING SPACES – IT’S WORTH EVERY PENNY!

There are many things that can help a room feel relaxing, but let’s keep it simple and focus on my top three. I would say that one must incorporate good lighting, great textures, and a decluttered space to truly get the cozy vibes. Let’s tackle each.

GOOD LIGHTING

It is imperative that there are multiple sources of light in a space. A room needs a soft warm light, so I always like to use a light bulb between 2,700k and 3,000k. Also, and I see this so many times, all lights should have the same temperature light bulb to avoid clashing. It’s not enough to just have recessed or pendant lighting. I always add a table or floor lamp to a space to truly have ambient light.  Also, candles are a must for me. They can be scented candles (an extra way to add relaxation) or I like to use remote control tapered candles, so I don’t have to worry about cleaning up wax later.

GREAT TEXTURES

Textures are seen in toss pillows, rugs, draperies, throw blankets and furniture upholstery. Textures add color, pattern and visual interest. I like to use at least three different textures to help a room feel lived-in and welcoming.

DECLUTTERING

So many times, a person thinks that every nook and cranny and every wall need to have something, and this is not the case. A decluttered space is actually more relaxing because overcrowding of items doesn’t quiet the mind. Decluttering a space can be overwhelming, I get it, so just do it in stages.  You’ll love the outcome when the room is tidy, organized and you are only surrounded with what brings you joy.

invest inyour living space

eat kind

EMBRACING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR BODY

Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving. Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way.

Work in partnership with your body. Listen to it, support it, give to it, forgive it — and I promise it’ll give back. Repeat after me: I love myself as the most important and committed partner I will ever have

Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness, fuel your body in a way that is sustainable for both you and the planet, practice gratitude and empathy, give yourself grace when you lose routine, don’t try to make changes overnight, ditch the guilt, and always always be kind to yourself.

simple roasted salmon with dill coconut cream

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 6 oz. filets of wild caught salmon

• 1 Tbsp. avocado oil

• 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos

• Zest and juice from one lemon

• 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard

• 1 4 oz. container coconut yogurt, unsweetened

• 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, minced

• 2 Tbsp. capers, drained and minced

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours.

2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.

3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.

4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!

INDOOR PLANT GUIDE

Investing in indoor plants can not only spruce up your living space, but also bring numerous health and well-being benefits

Bringing the outdoors in with the use of house plants is a great way to add color and dimension to your space. We sat down with Jesse Nelson at Family Tree Nursery, based in Kansas, and discussed the benefits of incorporating plant life into your home.“There are plenty of studies on the health benefits of plants, and the evidence suggests that being around plants and caring for plant life increases overall wellness,” explains Nelson. “Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of  purifying the air.” There are a wide variety of indoor plants that work for any space and light situation that you may have. Regardless if you have a green thumb or a black thumb, there are plant varieties that fit your lifestyle. Here are a few of our favorite indoor plants to incorporate into your home.

SNAKE PLANT:

This plant goes by many names such as Snake Plant and Mother-in-Law’s Tongue and is one of the most popular indoor plants. The Snake Plant is for anyone from a green thumb to a black thumb because anyone can grow it. These hardy plants can adapt to any environment and can live in both high light and low light. Snake Plants are great for countertops and tabletops because they grow tall, not

wide. They are great bedside plants because they help purify the air as they go through photosynthesis at night. They only need to be watered about once a month. These plants can also be outdoor plants and can acclimate during the summer months. Be sure to spray the plants three to five times before bringing them back indoors to get rid of any bugs that could have made the plant their home.

Anthurium has gorgeous, colorful flowers and is the easiest indoor flowering plant to care for. It comes in a variety of colors including red, white, orange and purple. Anthurium likes to be dry, so let it go bone dry before watering. Fertilize every so often, especially when blooming. These plants do not like direct sunlight and can be repotted every three to five years.

HOPE PEPEROMIA:

This cascading plant is gaining popularity due to its succulent-like leaves and also because it is fairly easy to care for. The Hope Peperomia likes medium to bright direct sunlight. It does well as a tabletop plant or a hanging plant. Watering is only needed one time a month regardless of plant size.

“Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of  purifying the air.”

This is a slow-growing variety that is architectural and compact. This plant is a great statement piece and looks great in an entryway or by a chair. There are a lot of varieties and colors of the Dracaena. They are very resilient in low light and are great for an office space with little or no light. They like to stay on the dry side, so they like to be watered when they are about ½ to ¾ of the way dry. When watering, give it a good soak. Protip: A moisture meter can be purchased and used to determine how dry your plant is to help determine when it is time to water again.

ZZ PLANT:

The ZZ plant, which its formal name is Zamioculas Zamiifolia, is a very easy plant to care for. They like anything from low light to bright light. These plants are hard to kill and can go a long time without being watered. Their bulbs hold a lot of moisture, so they only

need to be watered once a month. This is a great plant to give as a gift due to its ease of care and versatility. They are slow-growing and are great for counters and tabletops. There are new varieties coming out such as Lucky which has round leaves and Raven which is black.

YOU ONLY GET ONE RETIREMENT

Retirement marks the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance and sound financial choices. It's often envisioned as a period of relaxation, exploration and deep connection with family and friends. However, this dream doesn't just manifest. It necessitates forward-thinking and detailed planning, regardless of one's financial status. Amid global economic changes, evolving life expectancies and intricate tax systems, an all-encompassing and strategic retirement plan is more crucial than ever.

A key element of effective retirement planning is diversifying your income sources. While staples like 401(k)s or IRAs are foundational, it's equally important to branch out. Dividend-bearing stocks can provide regular dividends, bonds offer both periodic interest and principal return and real estate, whether directly or indirectly owned, has potential for both rental income and value growth. Private investments can also yield passive income and impressive returns.

Tax considerations significantly influence retirement strategies. Each financial action, from asset sales to account withdrawals, can carry tax consequences. Knowing these details can greatly influence one's overall retirement income. Tactics such as Roth IRA conversions can help distribute tax liabilities over time, allowing for tax-free withdrawals later on. Using strategies like tax-loss harvesting can balance out capital gains, ensuring proactive steps to reduce tax impact.

SOURCES OF INCOME DURING RETIREMENT

Annuities have long been recognized as a popular retirement income source. An annuity is essentially a financial contract that can

offer a steady and predictable income, with options that might even extend to lifetime payouts. Available in varieties like fixed, variable and indexed, they often come with tax advantages. However, retirees should also be aware of certain drawbacks. These might include fees and expenses, issues around liquidity, and potential concerns related to inflation.

Delving into the world of Alternative Investments, retirees can consider assets such as hedge funds, private equity and real assets, among others. These investments may promise higher returns and provide diversification away from traditional stocks and bonds. However, the complexities of these investments mean they often come with challenges like illiquidity, higher fees and the need for a thorough understanding of the investment itself.

Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs), while not familiar to everyone, can be a potential retirement income source. Historically rooted, DSTs offer a form of passive real estate investment, which can lead to regular distributions. They also open doors to 1031 exchange possibilities, offering tax deferral benefits. But, just like any other investment, DSTs have their limitations, notably the lack of liquidity and the heavy reliance on trust management.

Introduced by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs) were designed to spur economic development. Investing in these zones can lead to deferral, reduction and even the potential elimination of certain capital gains taxes. However, they often require a long-term investment horizon, and retirees must be well-versed with the specifics of the chosen opportunity zone.

“USING STRATEGIES LIKE TAX-LOSS HARVESTING CAN BALANCE OUT CAPITAL GAINS, ENSURING PROACTIVE STEPS TO REDUCE TAX IMPACT.”

Rental Income remains a favorite for many looking for consistent returns. Whether through direct property ownership or Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), real estate can offer passive income, tax benefits and appreciation. Yet, the responsibilities tied to property management, the uncertainties of market fluctuations and other associated costs must not be ignored.

The backbone of many retirement plans, Social Security Income, provides a safety net for millions. Established with the intent of financial assistance, the amount one receives depends on various factors. There are also strategies retirees can employ to maximize these benefits, such as deciding on the optimal time to claim or considering the implications of working while receiving benefits.

ESTATE PLANNING AND PHILANTHROPY

Beyond the immediate realm of retirement, estate planning emerges. This encompasses not just post-retirement arrangements but also asset distribution for future generations or charitable endeavors. Regularly reviewing wills, trusts and beneficiary designations ensures alignment with changing circumstances.

Philanthropy seamlessly integrates with retirement plans. Beyond fulfilling a personal mission to give back, it also carries financial benefits. Using instruments like donor-advised funds or charitable trusts lets individuals make impactful societal contributions while enjoying tax advantages.

You only get one retirement. In the ever-evolving world of finance, staying updated and flexible is essential to ensure the continued relevance and efficiency of one's retirement strategy.

Disclosures

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals of Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (MAS), member FINRA/ SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals of Csenge Advisory Group, LLC. MAS, Csenge Advisory Group, LLC and Impact Wealth, LLC are not affiliated entities.   Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer and no statement made during this presentation shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency.

Every retirement journey is distinct, and each vision merits expert guidance. Impact Wealth is based in Boulder Colorado. You can contact them at Impact@ImpactWealth.com.

Planting Spring Flowers

Helpful tips for planting spring flowers

Sun-Loving Plants:

Spring is here! We compiled a list of flowers that - depending on your planting zone - can be planted in the season.

Plumbago

Has beautiful dark blue or white flowers on a large shrub of 3 to 5 feet. This tends to freeze down in winter and comes back from roots in the spring.

Hibiscus

The tropical variety will not survive the winters so move those pots inside. The plant can get up to 5 feet tall and there are many different colors and varieties. The perennial varieties will freeze to the ground but come back in the spring. The variety Moy Grande is known as the dinner plate hibiscus. The Texas star hibiscus has beautiful flowers in red or white.

Bougainvillea

These colorful plants can be planted in baskets and pots, not in water-logged or low areas where water might collect. They will grow best when given enough space to spread out, and should be planted in an area that will allow them a minimum of 5-6 hours of sunlight every day. Colors include orange, pink, purple, white, red, tangerine and fuschia to name a few.

Purslane

This is great in baskets for trailing leaves with lots of colors. The bees love it!

Butterfly Weed

This 3 to 4-foot bush is a must for monarch lovers. Monarchs feed on the leaves before making their cocoons. It has beautiful orange and yellow flowers.

Shade-Loving Plants:

Lantana

This is a great hot weather plant that comes in many colors and varieties. Trailing varieties only get about 1 foot tall but can get 3 to 4 feet wide. There are bush varieties that get 4 feet tall and dwarf bushes only get about 2 feet tall. It comes in yellows, purples, reds, oranges, pinks, fuschia, and many others.

Greggs Blue Mist

This fuzzy light blue flower is a butterfly favorite.

Pentas

This is another bee and butterfly favorite that grows about 10 to 12 inches tall. There is a graffiti variety in different colors that works in beds or pots.

Vinca/Periwinkle

This plant comes in upright or trailing varieties. There are many colors to choose from: lavender, white with a red center, peach, white and red pink to strawberry.

Sages

There are many varieties of sage. The Texas sage is a shrub that has beautiful lavender flowers - a favorite for bees. They usually bloom around the time it rains. Henry Duelberg variety is a smaller bush 18 to 20 inches tall with blue stalks of blooms. Russian Sage is a tall silver lacey foliage with light blue flower spikes and grows to 4 feet tall. Deer tend to stay away from most of the sages.

Turk’s Cap

This plant makes a large bush of red or pink flowers. It has low water needs once established and can tolerate drought conditions and hot temperatures. Prune back plant in winter if it gets too leggy.

Impatiens

These need more water than most other plants and come in many colors. They are valued for their vibrant colors, abundant blooms, and tolerance for shade.

Caladiums

With lush multicolored leaves, many larger than the palm of your hand, caladiums have become one of the most popular foliage plants for shady or semi-shady gardens—with many recent introductions being sun tolerant.

RECHARGING YOUR SOUL IN

Travel is no longer just a luxury, it’s an investment that has the power to enrich our lives in ways that traditional financial investments cannot. It broadens our horizons, enhances personal and professional growth, and allows you to recharge your mind and body.

Crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

Cancún is known around the world as one of Mexico’s finest tourist destinations. Steeped in the rich history of the Mexican Caribbean, Cancún offers visitors the best that the Yucatán Peninsula has to offer. Whether you are coming for the all-inclusive resort experience or are looking to enjoy the seemingly never-ending gorgeous beaches, Cancún has it all. Unbelievably fresh and delicious seasonal cuisine, great weather, a rich cultural history, exquisitely clear turquoise blue Caribbean waters, and vibrant coral reefs are all waiting for you to explore when you arrive.

Nature lovers, environmentalists, thrill seekers, and luxury destination travel enthusiasts all have a place to call home in Cancún. Boulevard Kukulkan, more commonly known as the Hotel Zone, is home to Cancún’s most luxurious all-inclusive hotels and boasts some of the city’s finest restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping centers. This fifteen-mile-long sand bar separates the Caribbean Sea from the Laguna Inchoate. The brackish waters of

the lagoon’s nature reserve and Mangrove ecosystem offer an exciting, ecologically friendly look into the rich natural history of Cancún. On the other side of the boulevard, crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

The JW Marriott Resort and Spa is the place to stay while in Cancún. You'll be met by the most gracious of staff and a high level of service is standard across the property. This impeccably designed resort features multiple pools, an incredible spa, countless delicious restaurants, and a delightful lobby bar featuring over 150 signature margaritas.

Caring for the mind and body should be an essential part of everyone’s travel. A little physical exercise is a necessary element of any vacation for me. Puerto Maya Cancún combines a look into the historical Mayan culture of the Yucatán followed by an amazing speed boat tour of both the lagoon and the sea. And, just when you think it can’t get any better, it’s time to jump in and swim around. Snorkeling on the vibrant coral reefs and visiting MUSA, the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art, absolutely recharges the mind, body, and soul. It is an incredible workout!

If you care to go a little further out of the city, Cenotes Zapote Eco-Tour awaits. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that expose cool, refreshing, groundwater

that is both invigorating and spiritually refreshing at the same time. There are over 6000 cenotes on the Yucatán, each one is unique and otherworldly. Floating or frolicking in the cool waters inside the earth is the ultimate spa experience. There are zip lines or diving platforms at most cenotes and they are well worth experiencing.

While it is nice to explore the “Hotel Zone”,  you don't have to leave the hotel to experience fine international dining at its best!

Sacbé Beach Shack, located in the adjoining Marriott property was beyond belief. Situated directly on the sandy beaches beneath the hotel, the "beach shack" is a whimsically designed bar and dining room offering a perfect oceanside culinary experience. The freshest local ingredients were artfully combined to create a scrumptious offering that highlights regional Mexican cuisines. The mezcal lab experience with famed Master Mezcalier, Chef Benjamín Nava Vargas was an unexpected treat and opened a door to a delicious understanding and appreciation of small-batch mezcals.

Other JW Marriott Resort and Spa culinary treasures include Hana Polynesian Grill’s themed dining room. Perfectly crafty cocktails paired wonderfully with the authentic Polynesian Islands menu. The evening’s festivities were highlighted by a completely themed costumed troupe of singers and dancers performing time-honored Polynesian fire dances. While visiting, be sure to explore Kasai Izakaya, Club 91, and Bravo, a very fresh take on modern Spanish cuisine.

And, when it feels like it’s time to leave the hotel again, check out Chambao Cancún. Just think of it as an interactive curated dinner theatre experience with pop-up music, dance, fashion, and acrobatic activations staged throughout the evening.

Cancún should be at the top of everyone’s travel list in 2024. Trust me, you can thank me later.

JW-Marriott.marriott.com

PuertoMayaCancun.com

CenotesZapote.com

ChambaoRestaurant.com

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