Category: Wisdoms
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Phone Scam Comebacks
Telemarketing scams have in some cases become more profitable than drug trafficking. Scammers have made millions of dollars by perpetrating over-the-phone schemes. Scammers use technology to disguise their locations, telling victims they are calling from federal or state agencies and providing phone numbers with local and United States area codes. The con artists hold out…
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Uplifting Choices
A Gift of Remembrance Have you ever owned something that became a prized possession? One of our donor’s fathers, a retired truck driver named John, purchased a new Lincoln Town Car years ago. For John, the Town Car was a special vehicle, a possession he delighted in maintaining as well as driving. For his daughter,…
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The Future of Estate Tax
You have spent a lifetime of earning, saving and investing — and paying income and capital gains taxes all the way along. So you may wonder why our government feels entitled to tax the value of everything that’s left when you die. The sad fact is, however, that the IRS and the State of Hawai‘i…
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What is Fair in Coins & Collectibles?
So, what’s your money worth? Well, after 40 years of participating in coin & collectibles conventions, I’ve learned that the answer lies with whom you ask. Recently, buyers have offered a few hundred dollars for exceptional items worth $10,000. What happens when buyers are unaware of the rarity and value of an item? And, what…
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How to Invest Amid Downgrades, Downturns & Slowdowns
In this economic and political environment, investors are being forced to cope with unprecedented circumstances. At the same time that our economic recovery appears to be slowing, the S&P downgrades the U.S. credit rating for the first time. Confidence that government policymakers can do anything significant to help improve the environment is low. Here are…
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Knock-Knock. Whoʻs There? Scam Artist—Thatʻs Who!
Wouldn’t it be so easy if you knew right away who was going to take advantage of you? Sadly this is not the case, and con artists have perfected the art of scamming for generations. We can protect our friends and family by knowing our consumer rights. If someone comes knocking on your door to…
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Maximize Your Income with a Charitable Gift Annuity
Each year thousands of caring individuals use the Charitable Gift Annuity to secure a lifetime income and provide critical financial support for Salvation Army programs and services in their communities. This time-tested technique has resulted in many gifts that otherwise might not have been made. What is a Charitable Gift Annuity? The name says it…
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Looking for a Retirement Career? Maybe Being a Landlord is For You.
In today’s economy, it seems that everything old is new again … albeit with a bit of a twist. Years ago, it was common for older couples – and frequently widows – to rent out rooms for extra income. Taking in boarders was a viable way to supplement income. Well, the idea is back, with…
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Friends & Family Fighting Fraud
The best protection against fraud is information and communication. Being open and aware of what’s going on in our friends’ and family’s lives; taking the time to talk about day-to-day events and even watching over each other is vital for many reasons. As much as we’d like to believe in the spirit of human kindness,…
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At Home With Parents
As parents age, it often becomes more difficult for them to live independently and manage their own affairs without outside help. The thought of mom or dad leaving the comfort of the family home can be a painful and challenging proposition for everyone, but when it’s no longer safe or practical for them to live…