Thursday, March 31, 2022
How we view our finances plays a key role in our lives. Being generous with others and not letting our finances have a hold on us frees us to walk in joy as we walk through life with a generous mindset fixed on God's purposes and hope.
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Friday, February 25, 2022
The deteriorating situation in Eastern Europe right now impacts everyone. But how we respond to these events will determine the level of that impact.
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Tuesday, February 8, 2022
When it comes to planning for the future and protecting your retirement from one of the greatest financial risks you will face, there are a multitude of options in 2022. Find out what the pros and cons are of traditional insurance.
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Saturday, January 29, 2022
We start the year setting resolutions hoping this time we will meet them. Little by little our big lofty goals for the new year start to fray at the edges. Why is it that our resolutions falter shortly after we set them? Life happens. But s
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The last few weeks and months have had a lot of stress and uncertainty. So, instead of writing to you about politics, or the economy, or the supply chain, I figured I'd change the script and write about something completely different....
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Friday, November 5, 2021
When you are sick, healthcare insurance is there to partner in your care. If you need care, you're going to get care. But what about the future care you will need? No one plans to need long-term care, but life circumstances can change...
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Friday, October 22, 2021
Capitol Hill is producing more drama than Hollywood. We've got bold statements, ultimatums, cliff-hangers, and confusing sequels. We've even got folks paddling up to Senators' party boats to discuss tax reform. Let's recap what we...
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Monday, October 18, 2021
Originally published on Discovering Truth Ministries and written by Jamie Wood As I was walking along the beach one day, I came upon an oyster shell. It was cracked in half, and its contents had been removed, probably from a predator...
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Friday, September 17, 2021
Summer is behind us now, though the warm sunny days still invite us to soak in the last fleeting summery moments remaining. But fall is upon us and reminds us that we are looking toward winter, symbolic of our lives. Have you prepared...
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Friday, August 6, 2021
Summertime is winding down and the desire to return back to the daily grind might be waning. Ruminations of retirement visit you often. But perhaps the thought of retirement is a daunting one for you. Are you on track to retire...
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Monday, July 26, 2021
Everyone enjoys a splurge or pampering every now and then. In this often stress-filled world, it feels like an escape. But consistent spending can become an addiction. We grow accustomed to acquiring things when we feel the urge. Now I...
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Yesterday was the first Father’s Day… without my Dad. I’ve been reflecting as the day approached and wanted to share some of the thoughts that have been running through my mind. As you would expect…I miss my...
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Wednesday, May 26, 2021
Memorial Day is a day of remembrance that can quickly lose its purpose unless we are intentional. Rather than being a day of honoring fallen heroes, it can become just another holiday. So it is with our special memories in our own...
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Tuesday, April 27, 2021
"Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised."...
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Friday, March 26, 2021
Spring has sprung! Whether or not the weather is cooperating with that truth, we have made it out of the winter! This season is marked with getting back outside, renewing our mindset, and spring cleaning! But spring cleaning is about...
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"Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar" (Mark 12:17). These words spoken by our Savior reveal that there is a tax responsibility as we seek to be citizens who are under governmental authority. This said, how we structure our tax...
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Thursday, January 28, 2021
The first month of the new year is almost over. Any new year's resolutions are either well underway or busted by this point, but it is not too late to put together a financial plan for the year. Don't Fail to Plan. It's been said that...
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Wednesday, December 23, 2020
Christmas time is here. Gifts have been bought. Budgets *might* be blown. And perhaps we wonder if we should have counted the costs a little better. We tell ourselves that we will do better next year. But perhaps we are calculating the...
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Tuesday, November 24, 2020
Chances are that Thanksgiving looks different this year for some of us. Some loved ones are separated from one another due to COVID, while others might be facing other difficult challenges. But even if life does not look much...
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Wednesday, October 28, 2020
October is Financial Planning month. And while having a month dedicated to this purpose might seem like overkill, the statistics on the preparation of U.S. families' preparedness for their financial future are staggering. With nearly...
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Monday, August 17, 2020
Grace Relations Every race on the earth will likely relate with other races at some point unless they are extremely isolated. And when our race relations are grace relations—relating to one another with the same grace we have...
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Wednesday, July 29, 2020
Steward Your Children's Education School doesn't look the same as it used to. Many are adapting to the new way of life of virtual education during a pandemic. And while we are grateful that an education can still take place, wise...
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Tuesday, July 21, 2020
Bad news can wear us down and it is easy to come by. But good news sparks hope and reminds us that bad news does not win in the end. But we can have resilient hope and faith's triumph in the hard places. In a recent article, Focus on...
Read MoreIf your stress and anxiety levels are reaching a breaking point, you’re not alone. A recent Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) poll found 45 percent of adults in the United States are feeling worry and stress related to the coronavirus....
Read More2020 is destined to become an indelible chapter in American history. In just six months, we have suffered a pandemic, encountered economic and financial disruption, and tackled civil justice issues. After all that, we deserve a...
Read MoreAs coronavirus restrictions ease and businesses reopen, the American economy should gain steam. Data released in May and June, including employment, payroll, and manufacturing numbers, suggested the economy may have hit bottom in April...
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Thursday, June 18, 2020
Dads can get a bad rap for always being the one to have to say no, whether it was for a purchase being considered or for a privilege. Do phrases like, "You're such a tightwad!" or "All you care about is money!" ring a bell? Sadly, it...
Read MoreBreak out the socks and neckties! It’s time to celebrate your dad. See what you know about Father’s Day by taking this quick trivia quiz: 1. When is Father’s Day in the United States? a. Second Sunday in Mayb. Third Sunday in Junec....
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Thursday, June 11, 2020
Watching a volatile market fluctuate each day can create a sense of apprehension. But an uncertain market situation can also be a golden opportunity to make lemonade out of the lemons the COVID-19 and Market are dealing us. Below are 7...
Read MoreLife as we know it has changed dramatically during 2020. As the coronavirus spread across the United States, cities and states issued shelter-in-place orders to slow the spread of the coronavirus and prevent healthcare facilities from...
Read MoreAt 3:00 p.m. local time on Monday, May 25, 2020, the National Moment of Remembrance takes place by silently thanking the men and women of the United States military who gave their lives for our country.1 Originally, Memorial Day was...
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Monday, May 18, 2020
Congratulations to Nick Ellison and his wife, Audrey, for getting debt-free from college debt in 5 months. Watch as they share their testimony on the Dave Ramsey show and let out their "debt free scream".
Read MoreWhether they stay at home or work for a company, moms rarely have just one job. They’re event planners, coaches, interior designers, chefs, art directors, judges (and juries), housekeepers, maintenance supervisors, network...
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Thursday, April 30, 2020
The tension of waiting to see the outcome after over a month of being quarantined is palpable, but God's people are used to waiting . . . In the Old Testament, God's people waited for the promised Messiah, and now as partakers of the...
Read MoreIf you have ever been flattened by a rogue wave while fishing or sunbathing on the shore, you probably recognize the emotional responses that have accompanied the pandemic wave crashing across the United States – shock, anxiety, and...
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Empty shelves and countless faces with masks concealing a worried expression pervade the media. Churches no longer meet in person and students are now educated in their homes. The highest unemployment rate since the early eighties and...
Read MoreSt. Patrick’s Day is a day of unity. In the past, St. Patrick was celebrated by Irish Protestants and Irish Catholics. As it has been said, everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. See what you know about this celebration of Irish...
Read MoreIn late February, concern that efforts to contain Coronavirus Disease 2019 (a.k.a. COVID-19) might result in slower global economic growth disrupted global markets. Share prices fell as economists and financial analysts revised growth...
Read MoreThe coronavirus, which is now officially called Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), has received a lot of attention. Since the outbreak began in China, late in 2019, the disease and efforts to understand and manage it have made...
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Sunday, March 1, 2020
Transitioning from a Work Identity to a Retirement Identity The jobs we do for 40 hours every week – and the life that job provides for our families over decades – has a significant influence on how we view ourselves....
Read MoreThere was a little something for everyone in the ‘Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement’ (SECURE) Act, a piece of bipartisan legislation that was attached to the United States federal spending bill and signed into law...
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Tuesday, February 25, 2020
In a recent article I read, the thought was shared that Christians should never retire. Now before you scroll right on past this, the purpose of that article was to say that we should always be about the work of the LORD. The...
Read MoreValentine’s Day and love songs go hand-in-hand. If you’re looking for a way to show love and appreciation, consider sharing some of the most popular love songs of all time. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Billboard...
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Saturday, February 1, 2020
Using a Legacy Letter to Preserve Your Life's Lessons for Future Generations Your legacy isn’t just about your assets. Of course, as part of our Life-Centered Planning process, we will help you coordinate with attorneys and tax...
Read MoreThe best place to retire in the United States is in dispute. There’s no formal debate, but a review of reliable publications showed surveys have named different states and cities as the “best” place to retire. For instance: • Iowa was...
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Friday, January 17, 2020
It's mid-January and perhaps by now resolutions formed with a desire for change have dissolved as fast as they were resolved. On the first day of every year, people make resolutions about how things are going to be different this time...
Read MoreIn 2019, a Pew Research Center survey reported many Americans were pessimistic about the future. Their worries included the national debt, the gap between the rich and the poor, and automation.1 Martin Luther King was sometimes...
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Amid 2020 Predictions and New Laws, Focus on What You Can Control to Improve Your Financial Well-Being The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act that was signed into law on December 20th might be adding...
Read MoreSince 2011, the number of Americans owning smartphones has increased from 35 percent to 81 percent, although there remains a significant digital divide, demographically. A Pew Research survey found the vast majority of younger...
Read MoreNot everyone is financially prepared for retirement. Earlier this year, the Employee Benefit Research Institute estimated almost 41 percent of American households will run short of money in retirement. That’s an improvement over 2014...
Read MoreIf you’re not fond of New Year’s resolutions, then start or adopt new traditions that help get the year off to a positive start. Your new tradition should be something you can repeat each year with family and friends. Here are a few...
Read MoreNo matter what holiday you celebrate, we hope it’s filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt happiness. That said, we know holiday cheer can be overwhelmed by the pursuit of perfection and opinions of relatives. Just in case your...
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Friday, December 20, 2019
The gifts are bought (well almost!). The stockings are hung. The meal is planned except for that last little thing you need to pick up from the grocery store . . .The details of celebrating Christmas can become quite all-encompassing....
Read MoreYou’ve probably never asked your adult children and younger relatives whether they have security software on their computers and devices. Why would you? They’re digital natives, born with keyboards under their fingertips.It may be time...
Read MoreThanksgiving is all about gratitude. In 1621, the Plymouth colonists shared an autumn feast with the Wampanoag Indians. They were celebrating survival and friendship. It’s also a poignant story.1About one-half of the passengers who...
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Monday, November 25, 2019
Everyone is assembled and spirits are high. The delicious aroma from the oven beckons all to the table. Typical family jokes and memories can entertain for a while, along with platitudes over the wonderful meal, but being gathered...
Read MoreAfter World War I, many nations celebrated the end of “The Great War” by establishing Armistice Day. Eventually, the holiday was broadened to celebrate those who served in all wars. In the United States after World War II and the...
Read MoreOne of the most discussed topics in the United States is retirement security. Few Americans have set aside enough savings to live comfortably throughout retirement. In fact, the most recent National Retirement Risk Index (NRRI)*...
Read MoreAmericans expect to spend $8.8 billion on costumes, decorations, candy, and other Halloween purchases, according to the National Retail Federation.1That’s enough money to purchase the New England Patriots ($3.8 billion), the Los...
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Wednesday, October 23, 2019
You've planned your life carefully. Worked your whole life to make the second half of your life go well, with 401k and retirement plans in place. You've arrived at the golden years and anticipate peace as you age gracefully with your...
Read MoreWhat data about you is most important?The data that identity thieves are after – social security, credit card, and bank account numbers – is important, as well as more basic data which is being collected by companies whose devices you...
Read MoreThe simple answer is probably.Historically, the American economy has grown in fits and starts, otherwise known as recessions and expansions. As a result, it is likely there will be another recession in the United States.What are...
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Friday, September 27, 2019
Have you ever been tempted by envy or jealousy? I have. Have you ever experienced when others (even other Believers) were envious or jealous of you? I have, too. Envy and jealousy combat the spirit of contentment and gratitude that God...
Read MoreWould you give up a share of $62 billion?Would you give up a share of $62 billion?If your answer is no, then you may be a member of the relatively small group of Americans (36 percent) that takes all of the vacation days available to...
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Friday, August 30, 2019
Living out our faith is often reflected in our investments. Many seek to steward their budget well, tithe for the work of God in their church, and help those in need, but they might be missing a key opportunity to have a big impact...
Read MoreJust over 100 years ago, Americans typically worked physically demanding jobs. Adults toiled 12 hours a day, seven days a week for low wages. Americans did not take lunch breaks. They did not get sick days or vacations. They were not...
Read MoreThe world is becoming smarter and more connected all the time – and that has serious implications for people who want to protect their personal data and their privacy. If you’ve been enjoying the convenience of smart utilities and...
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Tuesday, July 23, 2019
Kids learn the basics in school–reading, writing and arithmetic. But schools avoid almost any instruction about money. If they do offer a class, it may be an elective in high school, long after habits have been formed.I believe...
Read MoreA Prescription for Dementia Prevention If you’ve ever played a party game that asks you to make difficult decisions, you may have run into a question like this one: Would you rather enjoy good physical health all of your life or good...
Read MoreLife, Liberty, and Tax-Advantaged InvestingAmericans are passionate about taxes. We have reason to be. In recent years, Americans have spent more on taxes than on food, clothing, and housing combined.1 The Tax Foundation estimates...
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Thursday, June 27, 2019
Ah . . . the crisp salty air brushes across your cheeks inviting you to rest in a paradise you have worked so hard to get to. As you see the perfect spot for you to rest and you lie down to read your favorite book, suddenly the bugs...
Read MoreMost dads have at least one recipe they like to cook for family and friends. Some have dozens. This year, celebrate Father’s Day by collecting the recipes from the men in your family. Bring a notebook to your next family celebration...
Read MoreThroughout history people have made inheritance choices that are inexplicable to others. In 1926, Harry Houdini left his magical equipment to his brother, his pulled-from-the-hat rabbits to the children of friends, and a series of...
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Monday, May 27, 2019
Happy Memorial Day! “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for...
Read MoreMemorial Day is a day of remembrance. It’s the time when we pay our respects to the men and women who died fighting for our country. See what you know about this important holiday by taking our Memorial Day quiz.1. What did the...
Read MoreMoms are like snowflakes. No two are exactly alike. So, when you’re thinking about what to give your mom for Mother’s Day, consider a gift that is as unique as she is -- share your memories with her. Here are some prompts to get you...
Read MoreWhere do you set aside the money you’re saving for retirement? If you’re like many Americans, you save for retirement primarily through an employer’s retirement plan, according to Pew Research.1Unfortunately, less than one-half of...
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Monday, April 29, 2019
"Honor your father and mother.” This is the first commandment with a promise: If you honor your father and mother, 'things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.'" — Ephesians 6:2-3 (NIV) In...
Read MoreIf someone tells you older people need less sleep than younger people do, don’t believe it. Older Americans need about eight hours of sleep, just like everybody else. What’s different is quality sleep is harder to come by as you age....
Read MoreIt’s no secret healthcare costs are going up. Medical expenses have been steadily increasing for years. In 2007, costs were up almost 12 percent. However, the rate of increase slowed to 6 percent during the past five years and that...
Read MoreOn St. Patrick’s Day, it’s okay to celebrate even if you’re not Irish. St. Patrick himself wasn’t Irish. As we celebrate, we would like to share some of our favorite facts and tidbits about St. Patrick’s Day:1 • St. Patrick’s Day is an...
Read MoreHow many password-protected accounts do you have?If you keep mental inventory, use a password manager, or have a written record of your passwords (which is not recommended by anyone), take a quick count. You’re likely to find you may...
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Tuesday, February 26, 2019
"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness,...
Read MoreValentine’s Day means different things to different people. Some welcome Valentine’s Day as a time for romance, while others see it as an opportunity to cherish friends and family. No matter how it’s celebrated, Valentine’s Day...
Read MoreWhether you own a house or rent an apartment, building a smart home is easier than it has ever been. Homeowners and renters can purchase kits that integrate specific smart items or they can select smart home products, such as light...
Read MoreIn 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed legislation establishing the third Monday of January as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.1 Dr. King, who is remembered for his powerful oratory and transformative ideas, once said, “Life’s most...
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Wednesday, January 16, 2019
Happy New Year! The year is off to a roaring start and it is my prayer that as you reflect on 2018 that you have some fond memories and as you look forward to 2019 it will be your most joyful, blessed year yet. Each year we marvel at...
Read MoreBella. Coco. Charlie. Lucy. Max. No matter the name, many pets are considered to be members of the family, providing companionship, protection, and unconditional love. The pet-owner relationship has some powerful benefits, which may...
Read MoreIt’s only January, but you may want to jumpstart your 2018 taxes since there are a slew of new regulations that may affect you. The Tax Cut and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 goes into effect this year so make sure you understand how tax...
Read MoreEat healthier. Get more exercise. Save more money. Those were the top New Year's resolutions for 2018, according to Statista.1 Few people achieved them. One of the reasons so few resolutions become reality is because people tend to...
Read MoreHolidays can be joyful and a little stressful. Here are a few ways to bring a moment of happiness into your life and the lives of those around you:1 • Take time to call an old friend.• Buy coffee for a stranger.• Briefly chat with your...
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Christmas is almost here and with each passing day, we scramble to make sure we have not forgotten a detail so our Christmas will be perfect. But perhaps the biggest detail has been forgotten: just "being" with family. Really being...
Read MoreWhen the ups and downs of stock markets leave you stressed and wondering whether stocks really will help you pursue your long-term financial goals, there are two things to remember:1. Historically, over long periods, stocks have tended...
Read MoreWhen the ups and downs of stock markets leave you stressed and wondering whether stocks really will help you pursue your long-term financial goals, there are two things to remember:1. Historically, over long periods, stocks have tended...
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Wednesday, November 21, 2018
True gratitude is formed in the oddest of places. Sure, we are thrilled when something we ached for finally comes to pass, but had we not gone through the waiting room first, we might have a more lackluster response when we are blessed...
Read MoreThanksgiving is a true American holiday. It celebrates generosity and gratitude, and it recognizes the relationships that helped colonists who arrived on the Mayflower in 1620 survive beyond their first winter. History.com explained:1...
Read MoreThere are more than 20 million veterans living across the United States. These men and women fought in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, the Iraq War, the War in Afghanistan, which continues today, and many...
Read MoreIt’s a pricey question.It’s a pricey question.College Board estimated the average cost for full-time, in-state students who live on campus at four-year public colleges or universities during the 2017-18 school year is $25,290...
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Tuesday, October 30, 2018
Each generation passes the baton to the one behind it, hoping that they will carry that baton to the next one and then the next one, never ending. With each subsequent generation that comes and goes, will the original vision...
Read MoreIf trick-or-treating in your neighborhood requires a trick to get a treat, your little ghosts and goblins will need some short and easy-to-remember options. Here are a few that were recommended by Reader’s Digest:1• What has hundreds...
Read MoreRemember the television classic, Green Acres? Eddie Albert, who portrayed a New York City lawyer, and Eva Gabor, who portrayed his sophisticated spouse, move from the big city to the country – and it’s not quite what they expected...
Read MoreHere’s a number that will knock your socks off: $400 trillion.1By 2050, the retirement savings shortfall in eight of the world’s largest economies is expected to reach $400 trillion, according to estimates from the World Economic Forum...
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Friday, September 28, 2018
The earth and everything in it, the world and its inhabitants, belong to the Lord. – Psalm 24:1 School is in full swing again and our schedules are once again defined by the "machine" that the fall brings our way. Those with...
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Friday, August 31, 2018
"He who loves his work never labors." ~ Jim Stovall, The Ultimate Gift The weekend is here and we look forward to a long weekend where we get to celebrate Labor Day. For some, it is simple gratitude for a reprieve from our labor...
Read MoreLabor Day is set aside to celebrate the social and economic achievements of American workers. It was proposed as a holiday by Matthew Maguire in 1882 while he served as secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York, NY. The labor...
Read MoreHow long will you live? How long will you live? It’s not a question anyone can answer with any certainty, and that creates a significant risk when planning for retirement. Your retirement may last for a long time, and you will need to...
Read MoreIn recent years, investors have largely ignored geopolitical risks. Russia’s invasion of the Crimean Peninsula, the Brits’ vote to leave the European Union (EU), unrest in the Middle East, and other global events have not affected...
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Monday, July 23, 2018
Living month-to-month financially can become a tedious task. It would seem there is a higher purpose than just trying to provide, but still we can strive to make ends meet and miss out on a key understanding behind all we own....
Read MoreIn the olden days, the word ‘subscription’ typically was applied to just magazines and newspapers. Today, that’s not the case. Americans are buying everything from meal kits to baby products to vitamins by subscription. A McKinsey &...
Read MoreOn July 4, 1776, the American colonies banded together and declared independence from Great Britain. The countries had been at war for more than a year due to a number of issues, particularly in regards to harsh taxation and a lack of...
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Thursday, June 28, 2018
I see it frequently in my office. Parents who have worked their entire life to ensure their children are well taken care of are now realizing the success of wealth transfer is not merely dependent on the allocation of funds.Desperate...
Read MoreTo the relief of many South Africans, Day Zero has been pushed back to 2019. Day Zero is the date on which Cape Town will run out of water, and its four million residents will begin to collect daily water rations of about seven gallons...
Read MoreThere are many perceived requirements of being a dad. “One of the jobs of a good dad is to help kids become a little tougher, a little more resilient, a little more separate…dads push kids to leave the nest; they brush off the dirt...
Read MoreThe words ‘bear market’ have been bandied about a lot lately. When you read or hear them, remember to respond the same way you would if you saw an actual bear in the woods – by staying calm and keeping your wits about you. A changing...
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Friday, May 25, 2018
God's people have been forgetful from the beginning and we can be, too. Life just gets so busy it is hard to stay focused long enough to remember what matters most. If we are not careful, we can live our life without much thought of...
Read MoreIf you’ve ever composed a grocery list in your head while driving carpool and listening to your children discuss who got in trouble at school and why, then you know what it’s like to have your attention divided. If you’ve ever worked...
Read MoreMother’s Day is almost here! We all have moms and, whether they gave birth to us or not, they have helped us become the people we are today. Here are 10 reasons moms are so important, adapted from Psychology Today:11. She gave birth to...
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Monday, April 30, 2018
It seems the market continues to get our attention as it rises and falls in a random rhythm. Seasoned investors rise the waves with confidence - this territory is not unfamiliar. But still sometimes it can be unnerving to see such...
Read MoreUnderstanding family attitudes towards money may improve financial decisions and reduce financial stress. Understanding family attitudes towards money may improve financial decisions and reduce financial stress. People inherit more...
Read MoreTechnology is a life changer. GPS has improved interpersonal relations by eliminating arguments about asking for directions. Apps for car services, food delivery, video streaming, news media, and social media have changed the way we...
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Thursday, March 29, 2018
Looking toward Calvary, our Savior knew the costs of His sacrifice. He felt it deeply. Every pain, every step He took, was agonizing, but He also knew what He was achieving with such a high cost - the salvation of the world.Sometimes...
Read More“There’s no place like home.”1Conjuring an image of ‘home’ was a lot easier for Dorothy than it is for people who are on the cusp of retirement. After all, isn’t retirement supposed to be a new start? Aren’t retirees supposed to wave...
Read MoreIt’s almost time to don green and gold. That’s right, March 17 is upon us. There’s more to the holiday, however, than eating corned beef and cabbage and celebrating the Irish. For instance, St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland,...
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Tuesday, February 27, 2018
She wants to buy new dinnerware to replace the old, chipped, mismatched set worn from many years of use. He wants a new lawn mower to replace the one he has to keep fixing. And the kids "need" new clothes. Who gets their way? How do we...
Read MoreHere’s a number most people would like to see on an annual statement: 21.6 percent. That was the annual return for the Standard & Poor (S&P) 500 Index during 2017. In general, U.S. stock indices did quite well last year – and the year...
Read MoreIf you’re looking for a gift that will express your love better than chocolates or a bouquet of flowers, don’t fret. Trendhunter.com has some innovative and unconventional suggestions:• Literary love tattoos. Perhaps, you’d like Rainer...
Read MoreHere’s a riddle for you: Some people are reluctant to start me, unless I’m automatic. I’m frequently exhausted when I don’t roll over. I’m sometimes left behind. Retirees devour me. What am I? Answer: A retirement savings plan.New jobs...
Read MoreMost Americans know Martin Luther King, Jr. was a Baptist minister and the leader of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States until he was assassinated in 1968. Test your knowledge with this quiz about Dr. King.1. Before...
Read MoreFifteen years ago, a Health Services Research report described the challenges ahead for the United States as the Baby Boom generation aged into retirement. Four issues were paramount: 1) improving payment and insurance systems for...
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Friday, December 29, 2017
The holidays have come and gone and now we lie in the chasm between the former year and the new. Embracing ourselves for whatever the new year brings, we slowly convince ourselves to take a look behind us to see what we can glean....
Read MoreThe last bear market in bonds began in the middle of the last century and lasted for about 31 years. Some investors who bought bonds in 1950 locked in relatively low rates of return for a very long time. On January 1, 1950, 10-year U.S...
Read MoreNew years bring new adventures, and 2018 is no different. To paraphrase Ed Sullivan: 2018 could be a really big year. Here are a few of the events we can look forward to:• Men’s World Cup in Russia. CBS’s power rankings put Brazil at...
Read More“The holidays are often seen as a time of joy: ruddy cheeks, festive parties, and twinkling laughter, all wrapped in a warm, tinsel-framed glow. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! It may be the ‘season to be jolly,’ but not...
Read MoreThere is a simple and unsettling reality in the United States. Most Americans are not financially prepared for retirement. There is a simple and unsettling reality in the United States. Most Americans are not financially prepared for...
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Wednesday, November 22, 2017
Thanksgiving - pleasant memories of feasts held in years gone by and loved ones held dear - can be strained by fears of the looming famine after all that eating and shopping is done.As recipes and plans fill our minds and we make our...
Read MoreThanksgiving is the mother of all family dinners. It’s a celebration of our great nation and the many blessings that occur when people unite together in the spirit of communication. As you’re gathered around the table this year, here’s...
Read MoreAll too often, we assume the men and women who fought for our country can take care of themselves. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. There are some important ways ordinary Americans can help those who are returning from battle...
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Monday, October 30, 2017
The future is coming, ready or not. Will you be financially ready? Time will tell. But while we are waiting, we can do our part. Diversifying The old adage of not having all of our eggs in the same basket rings true and helps to...
Read MoreRetirement and Social Security are inextricably linked. Not only did Social Security help establish the official U.S. retirement age at 65, it also provides a significant portion of today’s retirees’ incomes. Retirement and Social...
Read MoreHalloween is almost upon us! Whether you’re wearing a costume, decorating your yard/house, or handing out treats, you won’t be alone. More than 179 million Americans are expected to participate in 2017’s Halloween festivities – and...
Read MoreSmartphones are incredibly handy. That may be why about three of every four Americans own them.1 On average, smartphone users spend almost three hours a day – 86 hours every month – using their phones. They send texts and email,...
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Thursday, September 28, 2017
Business ownership is increasing rapidly as more families depend on themselves as entrepreneurs of their own company as their lifelong mission and to provide for their family. According to an article from Forbes, 16 Surprising...
Read MoreHow times change! In 1940, half of Americans finished their education in eighth grade. College degrees were relatively rare. Just 6 percent of men and 4 percent of women had one.1During the past 80 years, college has become far more...
Read MoreLabor Day is about a lot more than the end of summer and the start of a new school year. The holiday, which celebrates American workers, became a federal holiday in 1894 and was created to recognize the contributions and achievements...
Read MoreIn a 2002 interview with Mike Wallace, former First Lady Nancy Reagan said she often reread the love letters written by her husband, former President Ronald Reagan. The letters, which had sustained and enriched their relationship,...
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Wednesday, August 30, 2017
Ah . . . routines are back in full force as school is back in session. College students everywhere begin the mantra of complaining about their education while parents scramble to finance it. An excellent education is beyond defining...
Read MoreWhile some may be concerned about the iconic American meat that arrives in a rectangular 12-ounce tin (and is inexplicably popular in certain island states and American territories), more should be wary of its namesake – the spam that...
Read MoreThe idea of Artificial Intelligence (AI) may bring to mind movies like Terminator, Wall-E, and Transcendence, but the reality of AI is expected to help people find answers to some significant issues. For example, a PwC survey found:1 •...
Read MoreOn July 4, 1776, the American colonies claimed independence from Britain. This declaration eventually led to the formation of the United States. As we celebrate the birth of our great nation, test your knowledge with this brief quiz.1...
Read MoreThe bull market in U.S. stocks has been charging ahead for more than eight years.1 While that’s young in people years, it’s ancient in bull market terms. Since World War II, the longest bull market in U.S. stocks lasted for almost...
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Thursday, June 15, 2017
Father knows best, but sometimes the demands on his time can throw confusion into his priorities. He needs to balance all of the responsibilities at work, at home, at church and any other opportunities he is juggling. Can he really do...
Read MoreYou’re probably familiar with ‘20 Questions.’ It’s a classic long-distance-car-trip game that encourages creativity and deductive reasoning. On this Father’s Day, try playing a version that can help you learn a lot more about your...
Read MoreWouldn’t it be something if you could plump up your retirement savings as easily as you can put on a few pounds eating fast food? Here’s one way to do it: Open a health savings account (HSA). It offers a triple tax advantage and you...
Read MoreMemorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have given their lives in the service of our country. See what you know about Memorial Day by answering a few questions from an AARP quiz.1 1. Memorial Day was created to honor...
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"Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it." ~ George Santayana It has often been said that when we study the past, we don't repeat mistakes in the future. But the past can instruct us both positively and negatively....
Read MoreChanging diapers, arranging play dates, driving car pools, calming squabbling siblings, attending musicals and sporting events, chaperoning proms, coaching teams, helping with college applications…moms have a lot of responsibilities....
Read MoreWe are all, inexorably, marching toward old age. By 2030, 72 million Americans will be age 65 or older.1 The good news is longevity has been improving, and people are remaining healthy and vibrant at older ages. The bad news is...
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Monday, April 24, 2017
Spring is in the air . . . a new season brimming with new life. If only a new season could mean a fresh start financially. It can. Different seasons of our lives bring different financial challenges, but these challenges do not have to...
Read MoreSome people may name a medical device or implant, such as a hearing aid, an artificial joint, or a pacemaker. Others may say they couldn't live without their electric bikes, GPS devices, tablets, or food processors. A surprisingly...
Read MoreIt’s tax season! Every year, around this time, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) publishes its dirty dozen – a list of scams criminals use to try and ferret out personal information and/or steal money.1 For example, if you received an...
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It’s coming up to that time of year again – where we are all inundated with paperwork and calculating the taxes we owe. While a dread of the taxes owed haunts some, others cannot wait to spend their tax return. Viewing the...
Read MoreIt has been said everyone in America is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you have Irish ancestry or merely enjoy a good celebration, test your knowledge of the old country by taking this quiz. 1. What is Gaeltacht?1a. A region of...
Read MoreMore than one-half of working Americans know little or nothing about Medicare costs.1 Not knowing can be expensive. On average, people who haven’t yet retired estimate they’ll spend approximately $50,000 on health care after retirement...
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All this talk about love in February can be quickly shut down when finances go awry. Couples can be blindsided by the sudden creep of credit card or other sdebt that suddenly affects their feelings for their partner. But finances need...
Read MoreThe celebration of Valentine’s Day is attributed to Geoffrey Chaucer who wrote a poem about love and St. Valentine in the 1300s. Although this poem did not mention chocolate, the tasty treats have since become a Valentine’s Day...
Read MoreHow many times did you login to a digital account today? It probably was more than once. Some people access digital sites via computer or tablet, but many others rely on their phones. Deloitte recently reported the essentials of life...
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Friday, January 13, 2017
We made it through 2016, though there might still be some lingering bills from Christmas. What can we take away from 2016 and apply to our financial goals in 2017? Sometimes we just want to look ahead, but looking in the rearview...
Read MoreIn 1964, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. received the Nobel Peace Prize. He accepted the award and took the opportunity to articulate his hope the civil rights movement would be successful, as well as his hope for all mankind:1 “…I must...
Read More…And, it may have some thorns. There’s something you should know about retirement. It’s not as easy as everyone makes it seem. Remember what life was like when you tied the knot? How about once you had children? Or, when you accepted a...
Read MoreHoliday Greeting - The Way You Eat in 2017 What can we expect in the New Year? If international food consultancy Baum + Whiteman is correct, we may find ourselves embracing new food trends including:1 • Restaurants without seats. We...
Read MoreRetirement IncomeHere’s a million dollar question: How will you transform your savings into income that will last throughout your retirement?1There are probably as many answers to that question as there are retirees. However, all...
Read MoreWe hope your holidays will be filled with family, friends, merry-making, and good cheer. One way to ensure a happy holiday season is to stay safe online. Here are a few tips that may help. 1. When using public Wi-Fi at a hotel, coffee...
Read MoreFor about 35 years, investors have enjoyed a bull market in bonds. At the start of 1982, the interest rate on 10-year U.S. Treasury bonds was 14.2 percent. By November 1, 2016, interest rates had fallen to 1.8 percent.1 Since bond...
Read MoreThanksgiving is America’s second favorite holiday,1 and it offers something for everyone. You can enjoy family togetherness, feasting, football, school plays, parades, gratitude, and, of course, shopping. If you’re a traditionalist,...
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Friday, November 18, 2016
The lingering smell of turkey invites us to the Thanksgiving feast with loved ones around, oohing and ahhing over their favorite food. It's Thanksgiving again, with a hint of pumpkin spice and cinnamon filling the air, we are comforted...
Read More“American soldiers in battle don’t fight for what some president says on TV. They don’t fight for Mom, apple pie, the American flag. They fight for one another. ”1 Stars and Stripes used the words of Lieutenant Colonel Harold “Hal”...
Read MoreIn the 1970s, a TV episode of The Odd Couple taught viewers never to assume.1 It’s a lesson we appear to have forgotten. Many Americans assume Medicare will provide financial assistance to help with long-term care costs in retirement....
Read MoreIn the 1970s, a TV episode of The Odd Couple taught viewers never to assume.1 It’s a lesson we appear to have forgotten. Many Americans assume Medicare will provide financial assistance to help with long-term care costs in retirement....
Read MorePeople of a certain age will remember ‘It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.’ The animated television special debuted in 1966,1 way back when there were only a few channels and you had to get out of your seat to change them from one...
Read MoreThat’s how much Americans had spent on pain relief medications and treatments when the Institute of Medicine (IOM) completed its report in 2011. If you factor in lost productivity, the economic cost of pain rose to more than $560...
Read MoreIf you ask people what creates stress in their lives, money is often at the top of the list. Stress in America: Paying With Our Health found money was a somewhat or a very significant source of stress in the lives of 64 percent of...
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Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Credit cards provide a lot of benefits - convenience, safety of not carrying as much cash, tracking of expenditures and sometimes even reward points – but at what cost?
Read MoreLabor Day weekend — the three days dedicated to celebrating American workers — marks the end of summer and, for some, the start of a new school year. It’s a good time to relax and ponder thoughts about work and play: “No work is...
Read MoreYou may not have heard of the Longevity Market but, if you’re older than 50, you’re one of its 74.9 million members.1 It may be easiest to think of the Longevity Market as another way of describing the Baby Boom and preceding...
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Wednesday, August 24, 2016
“There is nothing wrong with this country that proper leadership cannot cure.” – Bob McEwen Bob McEwen, a lobbyist and American politician of the Republican Party, was a member of the United States House of...
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Thursday, August 11, 2016
Psalm 37:21 “The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously.” August 7th was International Forgiveness Day. We all know that forgiveness is a paramount character trait of believers, but what about...
Read MoreMost investors are familiar with the maxim ‘buy low and sell high.’ The unfortunate reality is that it’s a difficult principle to follow. Buying low often means investing in a company when its shares are priced below full value.Of...
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Thursday, July 28, 2016
The celebration of Independence Day for our nation has passed, but freedom’s bell continues to ring on in many areas of our lives. There are many freedoms we can enjoy, but freedom is not always available depending on political...
Read MoreWould you accompany a group of high school students studying photojournalism and social change in Argentina? How about a group learning about language and culinary traditions in France? Does working for a season or two in a great place...
Read MoreOur Founding Fathers structured American democracy and left a legacy that has greatly influenced the world. This Fourth of July, see what you know about the Founding Fathers by taking this brief quiz. 1. Who were America’s Founding...
Read MoreYou may be asking yourself whether that’s a trick question. After all, almost one-third of 18- to 34-year-olds are still living at home with their parents. It is, in fact, the most common living arrangement for this age group and a...
Read MoreFor several years, researchers at Boston College have been studying the experiences and expectations of fathers. As you might suspect, the way in which men understand the role of ‘Dad’ has been changing. While some still believe their...
Read MoreIn medieval times, alchemists sought methods for transforming ordinary metals into gold. Today, just about every adult searches for a means of transforming savings into a retirement’s worth of income. Recently, they received help from...
Read MoreBefore the big barbecue, take time this Memorial Day weekend to honor the men and women who gave their lives fighting for our country. If you’re looking for a way to remember those brave Americans, here are a few suggestions:1 • Raise...
Read MoreScientists have been mapping our mothers’ brains! They haven’t found eyes in the back of her head, or a way to help her worry less, but they are beginning to understand the mother-child bond better:1 “After centuries of observing...
Read MoreSuper Bowl winners, the length of hemlines, and Sports Illustrated covers – all of these have been used to develop theories about the direction in which stock markets may be headed. Presidential elections and terms have also inspired a...
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Thursday, April 14, 2016
One of the best ways to determine if a financial advisor is right for you is to do your research. To help you with yours, we've outlined a few ways we're different from other advisors. 1. Other advisors’ financial counsel may not...
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Thursday, April 14, 2016
tranˈsendənt/ : beyond or above the range of normal or merely physical human experience; surpassing the ordinary; exceptional, of God, existing apart from and not subject to the limitations of the material universe. Our friends at...
Read MoreIf you receive a voice or email message from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), or you field a phone call from an IRS agent informing you “you owe back taxes” and “you better pay now or be arrested (or deported)...
Read MoreCollege students have steep learning curves. In high school, they were tasked with doing well academically, participating in extracurricular activities, complying with the rules of their parents’ homes and, possibly, having a job...
Read MoreIf wars were fought with words, Ireland would be ruling the world. --Irish proverb1 The wit and humor of the Irish is legendary, as is their ability to weave words into poems, prose, folk tales, and song. On this St. Patrick’s...
Read MoreIt’s almost tax time. During April, many people take advantage of the opportunity to reduce taxes by funding a Traditional IRA. While that makes sense for some Americans, others may benefit by contributing to a Roth IRA that...
Read MoreAre you looking for just the right Valentine’s Day message for someone you love? Here are a few suggestions that have a decidedly financial twist from 14 Ways an Economist Says I Love You by Liz Fosslien. The messages are...
Read MoreThe world’s first central bank offered unprecedented convenience. It gave 17th century Swedes the option to pay with paper notes rather than 40-pound copper plates, which were the currency units of the Swedish empire at the time....
Read MoreDr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a complex man who took an unconventional approach to a difficult problem. He used non-violent protests to focus attention on civil rights in the United States. While he fought the status quo, he...
Read MoreUnderstanding 2016’s Higher Medicare Part B PremiumsOne-in-seven Medicare enrollees will pay higher Medicare Part B monthly premiums during 2016. Their premiums will be $121.80 each month, an increase of 16 percent. While...
Read MoreFrom early Babylonians to present-day Americans, people have been celebrating the beginning of every new year for almost four thousand years!1 Here are a few ways people celebrate the holiday in the United States:2 61 percent of...
Read MoreDecember is full of high spirits and good cheer. If you browse online, you’ll find some surprising holidays amidst more well-known celebrations. Just in case you need more reasons to celebrate the season, here is a list of major...
Read MoreThanksgiving traditions aren’t quite as straightforward as the elementary school plays about Pilgrims and Native Americans sharing a feast would have us believe. History.com suggests that’s because Thanksgiving is,...
Read MoreVeterans are skilled leaders and problem solvers who have a lot to offer in and out of the service. Got Your 6, a campaign to empower veterans in America, offered some interesting insights about the men and women who have chosen to...
Read MoreYou may have heard of tax loss harvesting. Some people harvest losses every year, while others do so only when they have taken significant capital gains or have received more income than expected during a given year (perhaps they sold...
Read MoreYou may have heard of tax loss harvesting. Some people harvest losses every year, while others do so only when they have taken significant capital gains or have received more income than expected during a given year (perhaps they sold...
Read MoreYou may have heard of tax loss harvesting. Some people harvest losses every year, while others do so only when they have taken significant capital gains or have received more income than expected during a given year (perhaps they sold...
Read MoreA number you’re probably not looking for is 1.5 billion. That’s the number of pounds of pumpkins grown every year. History.com said that’s more than twice the weight of the Empire State Building. Here are a few other interesting...
Read MoreIf you’re 57 or older, it’s a pretty good bet you take at least one prescription medication. If you take more than one, it’s really important to understand how the drugs may interact with one another in your system – particularly, if...
Read MoreTwenty-five years ago, the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law, guaranteeing disabled Americans – people with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities – equal opportunity in employment, transportation, government...
Read MoreWorkers are essential to innovation and success. According to the London School of Economics (LSE), they’re a source of ideas for new products, new services, new approaches to work, and new business models.1Worker-led innovation must...
Read MoreWorkers are essential to innovation and success. According to the London School of Economics (LSE), they’re a source of ideas for new products, new services, new approaches to work, and new business models.1Worker-led innovation must...
Read MoreHealthcare. Retirement. Those may be two of the most stressful words in the English language today. Especially when you include them both in the same sentence. For instance, a married couple that saves $326,000 has a 90 percent chance...
Read MoreHow Do You Make Money in Stocks?Have you ever watched Family Feud? Perhaps you were a child when Richard Dawson hosted the game show or maybe you enjoy the current version. No matter, take a moment and:• Name a three-letter word that...
Read MorePeople think about character in many different ways. You have probably heard or may have commented on someone else’s character by saying:• She is a woman of good character.• What a character!• That was really out of character.• He has...
Read MoreAchieving U.S. citizenship can be life changing, but it is not easy. Those who aspire to become American citizens must pass a 100-question naturalization test and answer six of 10 questions correctly during their naturalization...
Read MoreWhile your high school student is taking standardized tests, parsing college choices, and raring for graduation, you’ll probably find yourself spending some time with net income calculators on college websites. Whether your family’s...
Read MoreModern dads are a diverse bunch. They may go to work or stay at home with the kids. They may be single, married, or dating. They may be birth parents, adoptive parents, or step-parents.1 They may be expected to teach children morals...
Read MoreThere are many ways to show gratitude for the sacrifices made by the men and women who have died while fighting for our freedom. In 1868, General John Logan issued a Memorial Day Order that said:1“Let us, then, at the time appointed,...
Read MoreWhen you think “Mom,” it’s likely your brain conjures up a scent or a story or a song that feels like home. Here are a few inspiring and heartfelt words that have been written about the value and importance of mothers:“A mother enables...
Read MoreIt all depends on you. Thanks to the Baby Boom generation, pre-retirees and retirees have a lot more options than did previous generations of Americans. There is a lot to consider before you decide where to live during retirement: your...
Read MoreBefore you know it – thanks to smart phones, tablets, and wireless technology – your home will be connected to the Internet of Things. Sure, home automation costs a few shekels, but just imagine it! You could be the envy of Jane Jetson...
Read MoreSt. Patrick, the apostle of Ireland, is one of the most well known and popular Catholic saints. Of course, he wasn’t actually Irish and his birth name wasn’t Patrick! Maewyn Succat was born to Calpurnius and Conchessa, a Roman couple...
Read MoreRomantics welcome Valentine’s Day and having the opportunity to lavish loved ones with attention. Economists appreciate Valentine’s Day, too. Sure, the $13 billion spent on Valentine’s Day is just a drop in the $17 trillion bucket of...
Read MoreYou have probably heard the term ‘planned obsolescence.’ It’s also known as ‘shortening the replacement cycle.’ No matter what you call it, the strategy was developed by manufacturers to ensure consumers would buy products more than...
Read MoreSome people have a gift when it comes to gifts. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, baby shower, Christmas, Hanukah, or some other occasion, they always seem to find just the right thing for each person. If you’re not an insightful gift...
Read MoreSitting is bad for your health. Whether you’re sitting at a desk doing work, in a classroom listening to a lecture, or on a ship sailing the ocean, research suggests extended periods of sedentary behavior may increase the likelihood of...
Read MoreHistory is full with examples of parents taking actions they believe will improve the lives of future generations. In 1780, then President of the United States John Adams wrote to his wife:[1]“I must study Politicks and War that my...
Read MoreUse Your Brain!If you’ve been “feeling your age” lately, you may want to pick up a copy of molecular biologist John Medina’s newly updated and expanded book Brain Rules (or download it onto your mobile device). In the book, he marvels...
Read MoreCredit and Payment Security: A Cycle of Good News and Bad NewsIt was good news. In July 2013, federal prosecutors in the United States brought indictments against members of a sophisticated Russian syndicate. The gang members were...
Read MoreJust Breathe: The Benefits of MeditationThere is a reason why many people try meditation and few stick with it: Mastering meditation is difficult. It requires you to focus 100 percent of your attention for an extended period of time....
Read MoreIf you’re not a technology wonk, you may not realize the Internet and the Worldwide Web are actually two different things. The Internet is a global system of interconnected computer networks. The Worldwide Web is a system of...
Read MoreWhether you’re retired or working, do you really know where you spend your money? These are increasingly important questions today as more people are helping not only their children, but also their grandchildren. This may also be at...
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