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Special needs trust could ease families’ stress
If you have a family member with special needs, you might face emotional and physical issues, but you also may be concerned about maximizing the financial support your loved one requires. Consequently, you may want to consider establishing a special needs trust. This...
Field Notes: The immorality of immortality
The author, John Marek, is a writer and CEO of the Anson Economic Development Partnership. Mary Shelly's novel “Frankenstein” is frequently cited as one of the earliest examples of modern horror fiction, but contemporary readers may be missing a significant aspect of...
Should you consider 401(k) loans or withdrawals?
At some point, you may have more money in your 401(k) than in any other investment. And even though your 401(k) is intended for your retirement, you may one day think you have to tap into your account early — but should you? And if you do, how should you go about it?...
Field Notes: But why yellow?
The author, John Marek, is a writer and CEO of the Anson Economic Development Partnership. The days and weeks leading up to my high school graduation exist in my memory as an indistinct blur. Prom. Class trip. Locker clean-out. Senior luncheon. Snakebite. Drowning....
What should you expect from your investments?
To help achieve your financial goals, you may need to invest in the financial markets throughout your life. However, at times your investment expectations may differ from actual returns, triggering a variety of emotions. So, what are reasonable expectations to have...
Field Notes: That one summer …
The author, John Marek, is a writer and CEO of the Anson Economic Development Partnership. This summer, Pepsico is releasing a limited edition flavor of MTN DEW called "Summer Freeze." The label claims it is "MTN DEW with the taste of Americana," while the DEW website...
Are your goals ‘must have’ or ‘nice to have’?
Like everyone, you may have a lot of financial goals. But are they all of equal importance? Probably not. And do they share a similar timeline? Again, it’s unlikely. So, your first step may be to prioritize your goals — and then follow a process that can help you...
Field Notes: The legend lives on from the Chippewa on down
The author, John Marek, is a writer and CEO of the Anson Economic Development Partnership. Singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot passed away a couple of weeks ago at age 84. Younger audiences, if they've heard of him at all, likely know him for one iconic song, but he...
Four ways to use cash wisely
There has been a lot of talk about a “cashless” society, but it’s not here yet. In fact, cash can still be a valuable element of your overall financial picture – if you employ it wisely. But how? Consider these four key uses of cash: Everyday spending – Of...
Field Notes: You can go home again, and be a big jerk
The author, John Marek, is a writer and CEO of the Anson Economic Development Partnership. In June 2006, Paramount Parks, where my wife worked as corporate controller, was acquired by Cedar Fair. As part of the buyout, she was given the option of taking a modest ...
Are you protected from disability risk?
Like many people, you may try to stay healthy by exercising regularly, following a good diet and avoiding dangerous activities. But as we all know, life is unpredictable, and despite your best efforts, you may encounter an injury or illness that can leave you unable...
Field Notes: In defense of banned books
The author, John Marek, is a writer and CEO of the Anson Economic Development Partnership. When I was 8 years old, my father took me to see the movie "Patton," a biographical war film about the life of Gen. George S. Patton, who played a significant role in World War...