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AUGUST 2023
PATRIOTWEALTHNC.COM PHONE | 919.322.4113
PATRIOT WEALTH
A BIRTHDAY LESSON It’s Better to Give Than to Receive
My boys are summer babies. Noah recently celebrated his fourth birthday in June, and we mark Isaac’s second trip around the sun on Aug. 5. We throw a birthday party for each of them every year. Shout out to Rachel here ... she is an absolute rockstar party planner! She had an excellent idea about how to make the experience slightly different. As Noah’s first birthday approached in 2020, she suggested we include a special message on the party invitations. “In lieu of gifts,” she wrote, “please consider donating to Note in the Pocket.” It’s a local organization supporting children here in Raleigh. Note in the Pocket began about 10 years ago when a young woman got her first teaching job at a school with a high rate of student poverty. She noticed the children in her kindergarten class often didn’t have the resources they needed to be successful. They frequently arrived hungry, lacked school supplies, and wore old, worn, or seasonally inappropriate clothing. The teacher and her mother decided to make a difference by meeting one specific need. Since many children came to school without coats or jackets on cold days, the pair began stocking up
at thrift stores and clearance sales. They collected enough jackets to provide one to each student in the teacher’s class. But to the teacher’s surprise, the parents returned some coats the next day. They assumed there must have been a mistake and their child had accidentally taken someone else’s jacket. So, the school’s social worker wrote notes explaining the items were gifts. She stuck one in each jacket pocket before returning them home with the children, and Note in the Pocket was born. As others learned about what the teacher had done, they wanted to pitch in. The following year, every kindergarten child in the school received a coat. In the third year, the effort was extended to every child in the school. Now, the organization supports children in need throughout Raleigh with all types of clothing. Noah and Isaac already have plenty of toys, and we want them to grow up knowing they’re blessed and to feel responsible for blessing others as much as possible. Isaac, of course, is much too young to fully grasp the concept. Noah is starting to understand the idea of generosity when we talk about donating toys he doesn’t use anymore. We hope they’ll grow up with a sense of
perspective and a desire to give back by instilling the lesson early.
At the same time, we’re helping to bring awareness to an incredible organization. My family and Patriot Wealth directly support Note in the Pocket, and promoting the charity on our sons’ birthdays is one way to help further its mission. Our family and friends have responded positively and have been happy to participate. They still get to show their love for Noah and Issac while meeting a real need in our community. If you’ve been touched by Note in the Pocket’s story, like my family and the team at Patriot Wealth were, there are plenty of ways to give back. Learn more about the organization’s mission and how you can help by visiting NoteInThePocket.org .
–Wes White
These articles are designed to provide general information on the subjects covered. They are not, however, intended to provide specific legal or tax advice and cannot be used to avoid tax penalties or to promote, market, or recommend any tax plan or arrangement. Please note that Patriot Wealth and its affiliates do not give legal or tax advice. You are encouraged to consult your tax advisor or attorney. Investment Advisory Services is offered through Retirement Wealth Advisors (RWA), a Registered Investment Advisor. Patriot Wealth and RWA are not affiliated. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.
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A Passwordless Future? WHY PASSKEYS ARE SET TO TAKE OVER
Everyone hates passwords. They are complicated, easy to forget, likely to be leaked, and difficult to change. Fortunately, the next generation of online security is already here. Google has introduced passkeys on its accounts, and other companies are set to follow. But what is a passkey, and why is it superior to a password? While passwords rely on a user creating a unique string of characters to access their account, passkeys tie a user’s identity to a device. Once you create a passkey, the device you signed up with will prompt you with a security message. You then use a preset face scan, fingerprint, or PIN to confirm it’s you trying to access the account.
do. Your device’s encrypted message to Google (or another service) only confirms that you proved your identity. Google does not store your passkey; it remains securely on your device. There are several security advantages to enabling passkeys and deleting your password. Since Google does not store your passkey, there’s no risk of losing your login credentials in a data breach. Further, without a password to enter, a phishing attempt can’t fool you, and no one can access your account by guessing your password. Of course, there are downsides to passkeys. If you lose your device, you must use a backup key to update your accounts. Cross-device compatibility is also tricky. You can use your cellphone to verify your identity on your laptop,
but you must enable Bluetooth on both devices and have them nearby. Otherwise, a separate passkey for each device is required. Finally, people who use shared devices should avoid passkeys. Most security experts believe the pros are worth the cons. While Google passkeys will remain optional for the foreseeable future, those who want to improve their security should consider switching now. It’s wise to become familiar with using your passkey across all devices before deleting your password. Technology experts expect more services and platforms to begin offering passkeys soon, and they may become widespread. So, is this the beginning of the end of passwords as we know them? We can’t say for sure, but there’s reason to believe it could be.
Passkeys don’t transmit a secure code through the internet like passwords
THE BEST WAY TO SPEND YOUR SPARE TIME CELEBRATE NATIONAL BOWLING DAY ON AUG. 12
BOWLERO This isn’t the bowling alley you remember from your youth. Bowlero is updated with comfortable, plush lounge seating and black lights illuminating the lanes. HD televisions also provide constant entertainment, though good company and conversation will likely keep you busy. Find out more about what’s on offer at Bowlero.com . STARS AND STRIKES Kids and adults will both love a visit to Stars and Strikes. The augmented-reality bowling lanes light up with fun and surprising graphics that will keep you laughing and on your toes. And this venue is much more than a bowling alley. During your visit, You can also try ax throwing, bumper cars, and laser tag. Learn more at StarsAndStrikes.com . KINGS DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT You can expect more than your average snack bar nachos when you spend an evening bowling here. Kings Dining and Entertainment serves burgers, pizza, and salads in addition to the standard shareable appetizers. And if the 18 bowling lanes aren’t enough for you, billiard tables and an arcade are also available. Check out the menu and plan your trip by visiting Kings-DE.com .
When did you and your friends or family last go to the local bowling alley? If it has been a while, consider lacing up some rental shoes and selecting a ball. Aug. 12 is National Bowling Day, and while the pastime isn’t as popular as it once was, there are plenty of things to like. How many other sports tend to come with snacks? Also, bowling is a fun physical activity suitable for diverse groups with various fitness levels and competitive streaks. With the lightest balls weighing only 6 pounds, children can start early, and older adults can continue playing well into their golden years. It’s a game that rewards skill over strength. At the same time, it’s also a great workout. Your heart will beat faster than usual, and every roll will work muscles in your arms and legs. There’s also something incredibly satisfying about a ball striking the pins — it does wonders for stress relief.
If we’ve got you itching to try the sport for the first time in a while, there are several great places to go in Raleigh. Here are some of the best locations you might consider checking out soon.
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Data breaches, telephone scams, and phishing emails are all facts of modern life. Even the most well-educated and careful citizens can fall victim to identity theft, and the stories that make the news are frightening. With some people losing tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars to identity thieves, a new industry has cropped up to shield consumers. But is identity theft protection worth your money? It’s no secret that identity theft is stressful, expensive, and time- consuming. The worst cases result in significant financial losses and many hours of phone calls and paperwork. Some people even lose working hours trying to resolve the problem. Identity theft protection helps guard you by offering several services. Credit monitoring and alerts notify you of changes to your credit report or score and detect new accounts, loans, or credit increases. Identity monitoring and alerts do the same for your personal information. When fraudulent actors post your information on the dark web, or someone tries to change your mailing address, you’ll know about it. Identity theft protection also usually offers insurance to reimburse you for some out-of-pocket costs. However, most identity theft protection will not cover direct monetary losses. While many plans offer impressive-sounding coverage levels, they refer only to the expenses associated with resecuring your accounts and identity. In other words, if an identity thief steals $50,000 from your bank account, there’s very little chance identity theft insurance will give you your $50,000 back. Instead, it’ll cover indirect losses like notarization or certified mail fees. With most fee-based plans ranging in cost from $15–$30 a month, experts argue it’s rarely worth paying for coverage. Even if your identity is stolen, you’re very unlikely to receive a payout worth the premiums. Further, you can perform or receive many of the same services for free. You may already have access to credit or identity monitoring services through your bank account, homeowner’s insurance policy, or credit card company. Further, everyone has the right to freeze their credit to prevent anyone from opening new accounts in their name. You can also access your credit reports for free, and IdentityTheft.gov provides free resources to help victims. Identity theft is a serious problem worth your caution and attention, but the benefits of most identity theft protection products are not worth the cost. Consider other ways to educate and protect yourself from the continuing rise of scams. WHAT IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION DOES SHOULD YOU PAY FOR PEACE OF MIND?
TAKE A BREAK
RASPBERRY AND FIG OAT BARS
Inspired by Delicious.com.au
INGREDIENTS • 1 1/2 cups all- purpose flour
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
Grease and line an 8x12-inch pan with parchment paper. 2. In a medium bowl, combine
• 1/4 cup cornstarch • 1 tsp baking powder • 1 cup and 1 tbsp rolled oats, divided • 2 sticks chilled unsalted butter, diced • 2/3 cup caster sugar (superfine granulated) • 2 eggs, beaten • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1/4 cup raspberry jam • 1 1/3 cups raspberries • 3 figs, quartered • 1 tbsp turbinado or brown sugar
flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and 1 cup oats.
Using your fingertips, rub in butter until crumbly. Stir in caster sugar, then add egg and vanilla. Stir until clumpy. 3. In the pan, smooth three- quarters of the mixture evenly. Spread jam over the top, then add fruit. Mix leftover oat mixture with turbinado sugar and remaining oats, then sprinkle over the fruit. 4. Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
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PATRIOT WEALTH 4350 Lassiter at North Hills Ave. #330 Raleigh, NC 27609 INSIDE THIS ISSUE Wes and Rachel Teach Their Boys About Giving Back PAGE 1
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
PATRIOTWEALTHNC.COM PHONE | 919.322.4113
Kiss Your Passwords Goodbye PAGE 2
Bowling Is Right Up Our Alley PAGE 2
Raspberry and Fig Oat Bars PAGE 3
The Truth About Identity Theft Protection PAGE 3
End Summer on a High Note PAGE 4
Summer Isn’t Over Yet! 3 MEMORABLE WAYS TO CLOSE THE SEASON
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As much as many of us wish we could have an endless summer, all good things must come to an end. But why let the season close with a whimper when you can go out with a bang? Strive for a memorable last few days of the season with one of these family-friendly ideas. Take a family road trip. What says “summer” more than piling in the car and driving somewhere? You don’t necessarily have to go far. A new town a few hours away can still be an adventure. Check out a local state park or nearby museum you’ve always meant to visit and let your children enjoy the novelty of sleeping in a hotel room or camper. Even a weekend away will feel like an occasion and stick out in everyone’s memories. Spend a day on the water. Enjoying the water is one of the summer’s greatest pleasures, so make the most of it one last time. Depending on where you live, you might incorporate this idea into your road trip. Head to the nearest beach, lake,
or river and pack in as much summer fun as possible with a favorite summer activity or something new! You could help your kids build a sandcastle, rent a kayak or paddleboat, or try water skiing. You might even surf or snorkel. Have a late night. Bedtime routines are about to make a return for school kids, much to their possible dismay, but you can indulge them with one last hurrah. Plan a special late night the family can enjoy together. You might go to a drive-in theater or host a movie marathon at home with plenty of popcorn. Camping on your lawn will also allow staying up late together doing something exciting. No tent? No problem — build a pillow fort in the living room instead! Summer only comes once a year, so don’t let its final days go to waste. A special celebration to mark the season’s end will leave you with lasting memories and even more reasons to look forward to next year.
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