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February/March 2024
February Birthdays Lead to Endless Inspiration Leave a Positive Legacy Like Lincoln, Parks, Washington, and Anthony
Take Abraham Lincoln, for instance. His integrity shaped not only his presidency but the entire nation.
While the holiday season may be over officially, the month of February brings us plenty of remarkable dates to celebrate. February marks a month of birthdays for many notable Americans — Abraham Lincoln, Rosa Parks, George Washington, and Susan B. Anthony. This second month of the year also includes the celebration of Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, Presidents Day, and of course, my sister Norma’s birthday! The numerous celebrations with themes of love, history, pride, and birthdays of historical figures in February yield lots of inspiration. One thing I am inspired by is that each of the historical figures born in February had their own set of exemplary characteristics and features. Lincoln’s honesty, Parks’ courage, Washington’s boldness, and Anthony’s perseverance are all traits we can all try to channel in our daily lives. Looking
Likewise, in estate planning, transparency is equally vital.
Communicate your wishes, ensure your loved ones understand your intentions, and avoid leaving any room for misinterpretation. Doing so creates a foundation of trust and honesty within your family. Rosa Parks’ bravery in the face of adversity is a lesson we can all learn from. Likewise, facing the sometimes- uncomfortable conversations around end-of-life decisions can be a courageous act. Clearly expressing your preferences and making those tough decisions in your estate plan can spare your family unnecessary stress and conflict when the time comes.
George Washington’s leadership laid the groundwork for a new nation. Your estate plan should be your guiding document, boldly outlining your wishes and ensuring they are carried out. By being straightforward, you provide clarity for your family and prevent potential disputes. Susan B. Anthony’s perseverance in advocating for women’s rights serves as a reminder of the importance of persistence. When it comes to estate planning, this translates to reviewing and updating your plan regularly. Life circumstances change, and your plan should adapt to reflect these changes. Perseverance in maintaining an up-to-date estate plan ensures it will continue to represent your intentions accurately. As we celebrate milestones and birthdays in February, let it serve as a reminder to approach estate planning with the same thoughtful consideration. Your legacy is not just about the assets you leave behind but the impact you’ve made on the lives of your loved ones. Make February a month of reflection, celebration, and intentional planning for the lasting legacy you want to leave behind.
back at these figures, we often picture them as far-off role models, but they were human, just like us! They show us that we, too, are capable of greatness. February is the shortest month of the year, but we can make it even more impactful if we carry out these figures’ extraordinary strengths throughout the month and the rest of the year. These heroes didn’t just live incredible lives; they also left unforgettable legacies. Estate planning is about leaving behind your strengths, impact, and unique story. You don’t want your family to remember you by unnecessary court hassles, lengthy probate issues, and messy family disputes. Instead, you want your legacy to mirror the strength of Lincoln, Parks, Washington, and Anthony. Like these historical figures, your impact should be a positive force, guiding and inspiring those who come after you. In estate planning, we often emphasize the importance of not just distributing assets but leaving behind a legacy that reflects your values and principles. Much like the celebration of birthdays and historical events in February, your estate plan should celebrate your life, values, and the influence you’ve had on those around you.
–Melanie M. Lee
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Celebrate Love With Your Pet VALENTINE’S DAY IDEAS FOR FURRY FRIENDS
Heartfelt Homemade Delights Homemade and health-focused treats are the way to go for pets on this day of love. Bake heart-shaped biscuits for your dogs with nutrient-rich ingredients like pumpkin, peanut butter, or oats. Making little tuna or salmon treats into tiny heart- shaped cakes will be irresistible for cats. These treats are not just delicious but also healthy, ensuring your pets enjoy Valentine’s Day safely. Personalized Gifts and Quality Time Adding a personalized touch to your pet’s Valentine’s Day can make it even more special. Consider a new collar with a personalized name tag or a new fluffy bed or blanket for dogs! Are their toys ratty and chewed up? A new ball or squeaky toy will make their day! If you live in a colder region, a warm sweater for smaller furry friends is a way to show your love. For cats, a new scratching
post (or an upgrade) rubbed with catnip will be a hit. Cats also love laser lights, so this gift will not disappoint, providing hours of entertainment. And after all the activity? Try a new pet brush and a gentle grooming session to help your furry friends relax and feel loved. But above all, the most cherished gift you can offer is your time. Dedicate this day to enjoy a long walk, an extended play session, or simply some quiet cuddle time. These moments of undivided attention and affection are invaluable, reinforcing the loving bond you share with your pet. This Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate all family members, including the furry ones, in our expressions of love. Our pets, always there for us with unconditional affection, certainly deserve a place in this day of love and joy. Happy Valentine’s Day to all pet lovers and their beloved companions!
As Valentine’s Day approaches, we feel love in the air, not just for humans but also for our cherished pets. It’s the perfect opportunity to show our four- legged family members how much they mean to us. Imagine the excitement and anticipation in their eyes (and the wagging tails) as they receive a special treat made with pure love. Here are a few fun ideas to get you thinking.
In the competitive world of high school athletics, where every second counts and victories are often measured in milliseconds, an incident at the Neenah Cross Country Invitational in Wisconsin reminds us of a fundamental but often forgotten aspect of sports: good sportsmanship. On this race day, amid the blur of sprinting figures and cheering crowds, a moment of true sportsmanship unfolded. Two runners from Stevens Point Area Senior High, Cooper Erickson and Ethan Olds, encountered a fellow competitor, Seppi Camilli, in distress. Camilli had collapsed, his strength waning just shy of the finish line. Erickson and Olds chose empathy over rivalry in a split-second decision that would resonate far beyond the race track. They paused their own race to help Camilli cross the finish line. This act, simple in its execution but profound in its implication, speaks volumes about the values ingrained in these young athletes. It’s a vivid reminder that the essence of sports isn’t solely found in the glory of winning but also in the moments of shared humanity. In extending their hands to a competitor in need, Erickson and Olds demonstrated that real victory lies in lifting each other up, even amidst fierce competition. Beyond the Finish Line Compassion at the Neenah Invitational
This incident is a beacon for young athletes and a reminder for coaches, parents, and spectators alike. It underscores the importance of nurturing not only physical strength and skill in our young athletes but also the values of kindness, teamwork, and respect for others. As Erickson and Olds demonstrated, sometimes the most enduring triumphs on the sports field are those of the heart. The coaches and spectators at the Neenah Invitational witnessed more than a race that day; they witnessed a powerful lesson in character and humanity. In a world where headlines often speak of division and conflict, stories like this inspire us to look beyond the finish line and see the broader horizon of human kindness and fellowship. The spirit of sportsmanship, as shown by these young athletes, is a testament to the true essence of competitive sports — a celebration of shared humanity alongside physical prowess.
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TAKE A BREAK
AQUARIUS CANDY CUPID GROUNDHOG HEART LINCOLN CHOCOLATE PENNSYLVANIA PHIL
History of Pregnancy Testing
PRESIDENTS VALENTINE WINTER
FROM SEEDS TO SCIENCE
From ancient times, human ingenuity has been pivotal in unraveling medical mysteries, and pregnancy testing is a particularly fascinating example. In Egypt, around 1350 BCE, pregnancy testing blended mysticism and early science. Women would urinate on wheat and barley seeds, an intriguing method that modern research has shown to be surprisingly accurate, with a 70% success rate. If barley grew, it indicated a male child; wheat signified a female. Across different cultures, unique approaches emerged. The Greeks, influenced by Hippocrates, developed diagnostic theories based on the four bodily humors. In India, ancient Ayurvedic texts detailed pulse examination techniques for various conditions, including pregnancy, showcasing remarkable observational abilities and a deep understanding of the human body. The Middle Ages saw a curious amalgamation of superstition and the beginnings of scientific inquiry. “Piss prophets” examined urine for its color and clarity, practices that were precursors to today’s urinalysis. A significant advancement came in the 20th century with the discovery of the hormone hCG. This breakthrough led to the first reliable home pregnancy tests in the 1960s, marking a dramatic shift from rudimentary ancient methods and offering greater accuracy and privacy. This journey from ancient seed tests to sophisticated modern diagnostics illustrates the evolution in our understanding of the human body. Those early tests laid the groundwork for the reliable techniques we use today, inspiring us to continue improving our medical knowledge and practices.
Marry Me Chicken Inspired by HealthyLittlePeach.com
Ingredients
• 1/2 cup heavy cream • 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes • 1 tsp dried oregano • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 3 boneless chicken breasts • 1 tsp salt and pepper • 1 tbsp olive oil • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 cup chicken broth
Directions 1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet over high heat, add olive oil and allow it to heat up. Then add chicken. 2. Let cook for 6 minutes or until golden brown. Repeat on the other side. Remove cooked chicken to a plate and set aside. 3. Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir sauce for 1 minute. 4. Add sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the mixture. 5. Bring sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Add chicken back to the skillet, coating each side. Cook until chicken reaches 165 F.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
A Month of Birthday Celebrations and Historical Milestones
1
Valentine’s Day Pet Pampering
2
When Compassion Trumps Competition
Marry Me Chicken
3
Seeds, Science, and Surprises in Medicine
Lessons From Hoffman’s Estate
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Beyond the Stage PHILIP SEYMOUR HOFFMAN’S ESTATE OVERSIGHT
The situation raised significant questions about how Hoffman’s daughters figured into the estate since they were born after the will’s creation. Thankfully, New York law, like many other states, offers protection for children in this situation, provided there’s no explicit intent to exclude them. Hoffman’s choice not to marry O’Donnell further complicated matters, leading to a substantial estate tax burden. Unmarried, Hoffman’s estate faced a staggering tax rate of up to 40% federally and 16% in New York State, culminating in a potential $14 million tax bill from his $35 million estate. Marital status plays a crucial role in estate tax liabilities, something entrepreneurs with significant assets should note.
The unexpected demise of actor Philip Seymour Hoffman at just 46 shocked the world and brought to light the intricacies of estate planning. His passing left behind a substantial estate worth over $35 million, primarily bequeathed to his long-term partner, Marianne O’Donnell. A glaring issue with Hoffman’s will was its outdated status, failing to encompass his entire family. Drafted in 2004, it only acknowledged his son, Cooper, with daughters Tallulah and Willa, born after that, absent from the document. This oversight necessitated a complex navigation through New York’s probate system, showcasing the need for everyone to update their will regularly.
Photo: Georges Biard
Hoffman’s case exemplifies why proactive and continuous estate planning matters. Regular updates to one’s estate plan can significantly ease the burden on your loved ones during times of grief. It’s a stark reminder to meticulously manage and regularly revise your estate plans, especially for entrepreneurs overseeing considerable assets. It ensures your final wishes are honored, and your loved ones are provided for.
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