Financial Expert Offers Tips to Avoid
a Hefty Bill from Uncle Sam

Uncle Sam wants you! That is, he wants you to spend your Individual Retirement Account in a manner that he finds appropriate, says independent retirement advisor Gary Marriage, Jr.

"Millions of Americans have put away money into their IRA throughout their professional life, which the government encourages with tax-deferred growth throughout the working years, allowing employees to accumulate more money faster - but there's a catch," says Marriage, CEO of Nature Coast Financial Advisors (www.naturecoastfinancial.com), which specializes in maximizing retirees' finances. He is also responsible for Operation Veteran Aid, which benefits wartime veterans and their families.

"The government's Required Minimum Distribution, RMDs including 401(k)s, 403(b)s or 457 plans, paint retirees and their employer-sponsored retirement plans into a corner."

That's because by the time retirees reach the age of 70½, RMDs require individuals to make withdrawals, which are heavily taxed, he says. Marriage explains the process further with the theoretical example of John and Mary Smith:

• Smooth sailing ... at first: By age 65, the couple has saved $500,000 in their IRA, and because they have been taking no income from it, they're averaging a 6 percent return each year. They sail along smoothly, compounding the growth in the account and earn a return of $40,147 by age 70. But halfway through that year ...

• Compounded tax liability: At 70½, John's IRA has an accumulated value of $669,113. Therefore, his RMD - the amount he's required to withdraw - is  $24,420.  John and Mary weren't expecting the tax bill this creates, which, in their 25 percent tax bracket, is a staggering $6,105! More upsetting to the couple, however, is that this scenario will continue for the rest of their lives.

• Down the road: Fast forward to age 90 and the total withdrawals the couple have been forced to take reaches $908,005. The total taxes owed are a staggering $227,001 - which goes straight to Uncle Sam! Worse still, when John and Mary pass away, their children will pay taxes on the remaining money - likely at a much higher tax rate.

• The solution: Rather than wait for the inevitable RMD, John and Mary can convert to a Roth IRA. This entails taking their distributions early, at age 65, even though they are not required to do so. Each year for 10 years they withdraw $67,934, pay a tax bill of $16,983 from that sum and return the balance to the account. The net effect throughout the 10-year period is a total taxable distribution of $679,340 for a total tax bill of $169,835. The good news for John and Mary, however, is that they are now done paying taxes on this account, forever. They went from taxable distributions of $1.6 million to just $679,000, thus reducing the amount they owe on taxes by almost $1 million dollars! And the money that their beneficiaries receive will be tax-free.

"This scenario considers a number of variables, all of which are different for every client we work with," Marriage says. "As a general rule, however, the sooner you begin the conversion process, the more you stand to gain."

About Gary Marriage

Gary Marriage, Jr. is the founder and CEO of Nature Coast Financial Advisors, which educates retirees on how to protect their assets, increase their income, and reduce their taxes. Marriage is a national speaker, delivering solutions for pre-retirees, business owners and seniors on the areas affecting their retirement and estates. He is an approved member of the National Ethics Bureau, and is featured in "America's Top Hometown Financial Advisors 2011." Marriage is also the founder of Operation Veteran Aid, an advocate for war-time veterans and their families.

Coal Valley Student Excels on Campus

MADISON, WI (06/13/2013)(readMedia)-- Monet Neal of Coal Valley has been named to the Dean's List for the Spring 2013 Semester at Edgewood College. Monet is the daughter of Megan and Darin Neal.

Fulltime students who maintain a 3.75 grade point average at the College are eligible for this honor.

About Edgewood College

Located in Madison, WI, Edgewood College is a liberal arts Catholic college in the Dominican tradition, with 2,500 undergraduate and graduate students. It offers more than 40 academic and professional programs, including master's degrees in business, education, nursing, and other fields, and a doctoral degree in educational leadership. For more information about Edgewood College, please visit www.edgewood.edu.

CALENDAR

June 15th- Faithful Pilot Cafe & Spirits Open for Lunch 11am-2pm- 3 different sandwiches and chips for $5 www.faithfulpilot.com

June 15th - First Presbyterian Church, LeClaire - Active Christians Hot Dog Roast and Potluck Picnic. 5:30 p.m. We will provide the hot dogs, buns, ketchup and mustard. Bring something to share and your own drink. We will play Corn Hole and other outdoor games. No cost.

June 15th- 16th Annual Golf Outing Benefiting the Buffalo Bill Museum of LeClaire - Olathea Golf Course Matt Boesch, head golf pro from Hawk's View Golf Club in Lake Geneva, WI, will host a golf clinic at 9:00 am before the 10:00 a.m. shotgun start. The cost is $50 per person and includes 9 holes golf with cart and a pizza lunch with beverage. If you don't golf, come anyway to place a bid on all the wonderful silent auction items and enjoy the pizza lunch for $7. To make a reservation for yourself or a foursome call Olathea at 289-4653, Packy Huettman at 289-5971, Steve Suiter at 289-2724 or Barry Long at 949-6969. www.buffalobillmuseumleclaire.com

June 16th - Asbury Methodist Church "WORSHIP IN THE PARK" and Potluck Service The Worship Committee of Asbury United Methodist Church, Bettendorf, is planning a Praise Worship Service in the Park on Sunday, June 16 at 10:30 a.m.  The service will be held at Veterans Memorial Park Bandshell, 1645 23^rd St., Bettendorf. Following the service there will be a potluck picnic with sliced ham provided.  Please bring a dish to share and your own table service, drink & lawn chair.

June 17^th-21^st - Kingdom Rock Vacation Bible School - Asbury United Methodist Church 9 a.m. to noon, 1809 Mississippi Blvd., Bettendorf - 563-355-5218 Register on-line www.asbury-bett.org.  VBS is offered for participants ages Kindergarten through 5th grade (completed), and to volunteers 6th grade and up.  If you have any questions, please contact Michelle Swinney at 563-505-0060 or mswinney@mchsi.com.

June 17th-20^th - First Presbyterian Church, LeClaire - Bible School Monday, June 17 thru Thursday, June 20: 5:30 pm to 8 pm - dinner, crafts, worship, music and recreation; ages 4 years to 11 years; cost $10; please call 563-381-7777 to pre-register; Theme: Living Waters

June 17^th - Economic Development Meeting postponed at this time.

June 21^st - 22^nd - THE LeCLAIRE GIRLS' GET AWAY WEEKEND! On the evening of Friday, June 21, and all day Saturday, June 22, 2013, TUGFEST hosts the Girls's Getaway Weekend in LeClaire, Iowa! Sign up today for this amazing event featuring give aways, coupons, music, games and delicious food. MEET Anthony Ryan Auld the Winner of this year's "Project Runway All Stars" at the Girls Get Away Fashion Show & Cocktail Party on Saturday evening. No other contestant has had more wins beating the best designers in a single season of the show. Anthony Ryan will be speaking about his journey to becoming a top fashion designer and winning Project Runway All Stars. KWQC's anchor and on-air reporter Bailey Deitz will be the mistress of ceremonies for this special event. The LeClaire Girls' Get Away will start on Friday evening, June 21, at the Wide River Winery, where you will taste award-winning wines, enjoy the music of Pieces of Candy in the Wine Garden, and pick up your GIRLS GET AWAY passport to LeClaire with your goody bags.

On Saturday, June 22, LECLAIRE GIRLS GET AWAY events include :

* Grasshoppers will host music and wine tasting on their beautiful lawn.

* Win Prizes every hour on the hour at Aunt Hattie's Fanciful Emporium.

* Dwellings will be hosting Margarita Man.

* Robert Day of the Faithful Pilot, and the winner of the Quad Cities Top Chef competition, will demonstrate some of his secret cooking techniques.

* Zaruba's will host mini make overs.

* Free Tours at the Mississippi River Distilling Company.

* Expert Tammy Allen will teach a FREE Class in "Punch Needle" at Primitive Cottage.

* The Buffalo Bill Museum will offer a Quilt Making Class.

Cost to participate in the LeClaire Girls Get Away are $65 per person. Go to Leclairegirlgetaway.com

June 25^th - First Presbyterian Church, LeClaire - Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia What to do and say, what to not to do and say, living with and helping family and friends, with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's or Dementia. Dessert and coffee at 1:30, program and discussion to follow. No cost; please call 563-381-7777 to pre-register.

June 27th - Mississippi River Distilling Company Takes Over the Faithful Pilot Cafe & Spirits Bar 5:30-7:30 P.M. The men from MRDC take over the Faithful Pilot with signature drinks and Pilot appetizers for $25 per person www.faithfulpilot.com

June 29^th - Faithful Pilot Cafe & Spirits Open for Lunch 11am-2pm 3 different sandwiches and chips for $5 www.faithfulpilot.com

June 30th- Wine Tasting at the Faithful Pilot Cafe & Spirits 3:00-5:00 P.M.  $15 per person Taste 14 wines and heavy appetizers from The Faithful Pilot www.faithfulpilot.com

Save the Date

July 1st - Friends of the LeClaire Community Library is planning an Open House to celebrate our 9th anniversary! Details are forthcoming!

 

July 5^th - First Friday in LeClaire

July 13^th - Trivia Night - LeClaire Civic Center hosted by LeFirst Presbyterian Church of LeClaire. Doors open at 6:30; game starts at 7 pm. Cost $10 per person; call 563-381-7777 to pre-register individuals or a table. We are raising money for the Hurricane Sandy Victims. Bring your own snacks and drinks or purchase something there. 

 

July 15^th-19^th - LeClaire Baptist Church - "Colossal Coaster World" VBX Week For kids age 4 up through kids going INTO 6^th grade! Cost: FREE! Time:  9:00 AM - Noon Location:  1326 Wisconsin Street LeClaire, Iowa  52753 Family program:  SUNDAY, July 21 at 10:30 a.m. followed by our "Burger Bash" lunch! For more information or registration: phone:  (563) 289-4191 e-mail:  leclairebaptist@leclairebaptist.org or REGISTER ONLINE at www.leclairebaptist.org (under ministries and kids vbx link)

 

July 18^th - First Presbyterian Church of LeClaire - Funeral Planning At the time of death, decisions can be difficult. This program will help you plan your own funeral or help you think about decisions when planning another's funeral. Lunch at 11:30, program and discussion to follow. No cost; please call 563-381-7777 to pre-register.

 

FYI

First Presbyterian Church of LeClaire FREE LUNCH at the Civic Center, 11:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Third Tuesday of the month: June 18, July 16, August 20: Come to eat and stay for the conversation! 

LeClaire Antiques is hosting an on going Plant Sale benefiting LeClaire Parks. Go by and see the beautiful plants for sale - great prices!

Programs, performers & activities for all ages. Registration materials for Children (B-5th G) available at the library starting May 20th.Program information & Activity Calendar available at the library & online @

Please volunteer or help recruit volunteers for the LeClaire Information Center! We get a lot of great comments about the LIC, and we help promote all of LeClaire:

1. Through telling visitors about our great attractions, shops, restaurants, parks, schools, housing developments, etc.,

2. By mailing out information to individuals, small groups and bus tours who want to come find out what LeClaire is all about, and

3. Through providing nice, convenient public restrooms to shoppers, diners, people checking out our attractions, families, LeClaire residents who are just out for a walk - everyone appreciates the restrooms!

Almost everyone knows at least one person who loves to talk and meet new people - a retired neighbor or stay-at-home mom, a relative, a friend, a person from church, a person from your civic club, a person from exercise class... Please contact Cindy at 563-650-7963 or info@visitleclaire.com Volunteers are trained and there is lots of brochures and information to share with visitors.

Let's make downtown LeClaire and the LeClaire Information Center the best it can possibly be!

 

Buffalo Bill Museum is now open until 5pm daily. As of April 1st, the museum is open 9am to 5pm Monday through Saturday, and on Sundays 12noon to 5pm. A reminder: group discounts are available for tour groups, clubs/reunions, and school groups. Call the museum at 563-289-5580 for details!

Reusable Usables - Planet Green recycled art after school classes on Tuesday and Thursdays.RSVP 563-289-3946 or angie@reusableusables.org

"LIKE" the LeClaire Chamber of Commerce on FaceBook Visit the chamber's Face Book page and discover a great source of news, business announcements, events, and other information that is updated frequently. It's a useful source of updated information for all members and non-members!

 

Chamber 2013 Networking Events - Everyone welcome to attend!

July 9 - Blue Iguana - Lunch -noon

August 13 - Big Dave and Holly's - lunch -noon

September 10 - Steventon's - after hours - 5-8pm

October 8 - Hungry Hobo - lunch - noon

November 12 - tbd

December 10 - Happy Joes - lunch -noon

 

SERVING THE COMMUNITY AND BEYOND

 

Meet and greet Pastor Melody any Wednesday from 1-3 pm at Happy Joe's. Pastor Melody from First Presbyterian Church of LeClaire, will be at Happy Joe's in LeClaire, every Wednesday, from 1-3 pm, sipping on a soda, reading and waiting to visit with you and your friends. Stop by and say hi. Or, if you have a prayer request or a question, just let her know. Meals for Seniors at the church every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 12 noon. Good food and a time to visit with others. Please call 563-289-3646 and make a reservation 2 days in

advance.

Asbury United Methodist Church is hosting a "Partnering to EmPOWER" fundraising event for Winnie's Place on Tuesday, October 15th.  The team putting together the event is looking for vendors who would be interested in participating in this worthy cause. Booth fees are $15 for sales people and $25 for those providing a service (ALL booth fees will go to Winnie's Place). Vendors will also agree to donate 9% of their sales to Winnies Place, which corresponds to the statistic that every 9 seconds, a woman is abused. Interested vendors are asked to contact Heidi Lubben at hjlubben@aol.com for more details. Marketing packets for vendors will be available June 15th. The deadline for returning a signed vendor agreement is August 20th.

Trivia Nights in LeClaire at the LeClaire Civic Center -

2013 Trivia Nights:

July 13 - Hosted by First Presbyterian Church - Hurricane Sandy Victims

LeClaire Trivia Nights have raised over $95,000 for local non-profit organizations! Thank you for your continued support!

 

LeClaire 2013 Events Calendar:

First Fridays each month 5:00-8:00 P.M.

June 21st-22nd - Girls' Getaway Weekend

Summer 2013 - City-Wide Water Explosion (Hollyhock Park)

Summer 2013 - Bike Parade & Decorating

August 8th-10th Tugfest

October 6th - Dogtoberfest at Bier Stube

October 13th - AppleFest

October 24th - HalloWine

October 26th - Witches Walk Costume Contest and Parade

December 6-8, 2013: Christmas in LeClaire

Family Nights at the LeClaire Rec Center: Details at www.leclairereccenter.com

www.LeClaireChamber.com and visit the Chamber on FaceBook!

After 300 years, get Ussher's masterpiece, 'Annals of the World'

---

It has been called "the best ancient history book after the Bible."

For generations, the only way to read it was in Latin.

But, in one of the most significant publishing events of the 21st century, James Ussher's colossal history of the world, titled "Annals of the World" is now available from the WND Superstore- in English - after over 300 years of being accessible only to scholars.

"Annals of the World" Ships FREE today! Read more here!

In this masterful and legendary volume, commissioned by Master Books to be updated from the 17th-century original Latin manuscript to modern English and made available to the general public, is the fascinating history of the ancient world from the Genesis creation precisely dated through the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple.

Find out:

Why was Julius Caesar kidnapped in 75 B.C.?

Why did Alexander the Great burn his ships in 326 B.C.?

What really happened when the sun "went backward" as a sign to Hezekiah?

What does secular history say about the darkness at the Crucifixion?

In the years 1650-1654, James Ussher set out to write a history of the world from creation to A.D. 70. The result was published in 1658 as the literary classic "The Annals of the World." This famous comprehensive history of the world, originally published in Latin, offers a look at history rarely seen. Ussher traveled throughout Europe, gathering much information from the actual historical documents. Many of these documents are no longer available, having been destroyed since the time of his research.

Integrating biblical history (around 15 percent of the text is from the Bible) with secular sources, Ussher wrote this masterpiece. Considered not only a literary classic, but also an accurate reference, "The Annals of the World" was so highly regarded for its preciseness that the timeline from it was included in the margins of many King James Version Bibles throughout the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.

"The Annals of the World" is a necessary addition to any church library, pastor's library, or any library - public or personal. The entire text has been updated from 17th-century English to present-day vernacular in a five-year project commissioned by Master Books. Containing many human-interest stories from the original historical documents collected by Ussher, this is more than just a history book - it's a work of history.

"Annals of the World" Ships FREE today! Read more here!

Special features:

Includes CD of Ussher's Chronology of the World - full of colored charts, graphs, timelines, and much, much more

Important literary work that has been inaccessible in book form for over 300 years

Translated into modern English for the first time

Traces world history from creation through A.D. 70

Over 10,000 footnotes from the original text have been updated to references from works in the Loeb Classical Library by Harvard Press

Over 2,500 citations from the Bible and the Apocrypha

Ussher's original citations have been checked against the latest textual scholarship

One of history's most famous and well-respected historians

Spent over five years researching and writing this book

Entered college at age 13

Received his master's degree at age 18

Was an expert in Semitic languages

Buried in Westminster Abbey

About the book:

Made of the highest quality material: Smyth sewn, gold-gilded edges, foil embossing on front, back, and spine

Cover presented in the style of classic literary works

Packaged in a beautiful box for display purposes and durability

8 appendixes

Fully indexed

Paragraphs numbered

Chronological presentation of material

This is one of the most important literary, historical and Christian works you'll ever own, a treasure for any home library. It's a must for your homeschool library.

For generations, this classic work was considered part of the essential reading for educated people. Now you can read it - in English.

As a very special added bonus, when you purchase "The Annals of the World" from the WND Superstore, you can also receive - FREE - three issues of our acclaimed monthly Whistleblower magazine, which many have called the best news magazine in the world. That's a $22.50 free value! (Offer good in the U.S. only.) Watch for the free offer during checkout.

Order your copy of James Ussher's extraordinary "Annals of the World" in softcover or hardcover from the WND Superstore.
The perfect companion to "Annals" is this one - "Adams Chart of History."

This well-known illustrated timeline of earth history was first published in 1871. A vintage reproduction of that acclaimed timeline, this well-known illustrated timeline of earth history was first published in 1871. "Adams Chart of History" is an amazing 27 1/2 inches tall, and the foldout chart features detailed, full-color drawings of various stages of history, from Adam and Eve to the late 19th century. There is handwritten commentary throughout.

Perfect for educational settings or Sunday school walls, it includes the explanatory booklet that was originally published with the chart. The chart follows James Ussher's timeline from "The Annals of the World," the inspiration for Adams' monumental work.

It includes:

• 5,882 years of historic time represented in this map.
• 3,607 years of Bible history.
• Rulers, their years in power, date of accession, and when they were succeeded; the rise, fall, and division of nations, and much more.
• Intricate symbols, such as the 10 red crosses on the purple Roman empire, which represent the "10 persecutions" of the Christians.
• Hundreds of beautiful illustrations with explanations throughout the chart - there truly is no other chart quite like this.

Like "Annals," there is a softcover version of this book at lower price.