Check out the first edition of our newsletter!
JAN/FEB/MAR 2023
QUARTERLY
ESTATE OF THINGS
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HELPING PEOPLE IS MY CALLING
Now I Get to Assist Others Daily!
in the Arizona Attorney General’s Office in the Civil Rights division for several semesters. I was also Rule 38 certified to try cases for the Juvenile Public Defender’s Office. I loved the experiences I gained at both offices — they gave me insight into different practice areas and forms of advocacy. But everything changed when I clerked with Morris Hall — this is when I found my passion for estate planning. I found estate planning and administration rewarding because I was helping people get affairs in order and assisted during some of the darkest times of their lives. Helping clients’ families as they grieve the death of a loved one is never easy; however, being able to address issues and alleviate stress is rewarding and motivating. A proper estate plan allows families to grieve without worrying that their loved one’s assets and wishes will be fought about in court. Having the ability to mend some of their wounds by assuring them that everything is in order is something I value greatly. After experiencing the impact I had on individuals and families through estate planning, I knew I had found my calling.
Today, I am the managing partner of Morris Hall, and find my role stimulating and fulfilling. Being able to work with an amazing team that prides itself on client service is a great feeling — I can honestly say, without hesitation, we have the best attorneys, paralegals, and administrative staff around. Most importantly, I love working with my clients. I want to tell you that having the opportunity to assist you as you outline your wishes, your powers of attorney, and everything in between, is something that will never get old. I love answering questions, easing concerns, and ensuring your family is protected. You and your loved ones are my top priority, and I will do everything I can to ensure that your wishes are carried out and your loved ones have peace. Thank you for allowing me and my team to assist you during this time. It’s an honor to have you as a client, and we appreciate your trust and support.
“But everything changed when I clerked with Morris Hall — this is when I found my passion for estate planning.”
For as long as I can remember, I’ve felt fulfilled when serving or helping others. I’ve participated in community service and contributed what I could, when I could, for many years. I am passionate about domestic violence prevention and victim services, the effort to eradicate homelessness, and animal welfare and have been lucky enough to participate in organizations that address these issues. Being able to help others during difficult times was always something that spoke to me — so becoming a lawyer seemed like the perfect fit. Lawyers are advocates — no matter the type of law, you’re advocating for what’s best for your client and their interests. After receiving my undergraduate degree at Arizona State, I attended law school at Phoenix School of Law. During law school, I had the honor of working
Andrea L. Claus Managing Partner
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DURING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH EXPLORE THESE POWERFUL FEMALE-DRIVEN MOVIES
Throughout history, there have been countless women who have performed awe-inspiring feats. From Joan of Arc to Amelia Earhart, there are many women you can research that helped change the world for the better. And there’s no better way to teach your children about these amazing women than watching a movie about their accomplishments. Here’s a list of movies worth watching to recognize Women’s History Month. ‘HIDDEN FIGURES’ Movies about astronauts and space travel usually do well at the box office, but they often don’t focus on the efforts made behind the scenes. “Hidden Figures” flips the script and tells the story of Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan, three Black women who helped turn the tide of the space race in America’s favor. These women crossed numerous barriers to play
fundamental roles in the effort to send John Glenn into space. It’s an inspirational watch that will help your children realize they can accomplish anything. ‘SUFFRAGETTE’ In today’s society, many of us take our rights for granted, but there was a time when many didn’t even have the right to vote. “Suffragette” tells the story of the British women who sacrificed everything to help all women gain the ability to vote over 100 years ago. They used art, debate, propaganda, and even vandalism in their protests. Their efforts led to the passing of the Representation of the People Act, which granted some women the right to vote. American women gained their right to vote shortly after. This movie is rated PG-13 due to some intense violence, so viewer discretion is advised.
‘HARRIET’ Harriet Tubman is one of the most well- known individuals from the Underground Railroad and the Civil War era. Most of us know she was instrumental in helping hundreds escape slavery, but how much more do you know about the woman behind the actions? “Harriet” takes a deep dive into Tubman’s life by exploring her early life and showing how she became a leader in the Underground Railroad.
HAVE YOU UPDATED YOUR ESTATE PLAN?
NOW IS THE TIME TO DO SO!
Most of our clients are women, and they all have similar values. Some of these areas include maintaining their lifestyles, aging gracefully, not becoming a physical or financial burden to their loved ones, and ensuring their family continues to be cared for — even when they are gone. Because of these values and the vital role they play in everyday life, it’s crucial that women have an estate plan. While you may already have a plan in place, when was the last time you reviewed or updated it? There may be various major changes occurring in your life that aren’t outlined in your estate plan. In order for your family and assets to remain protected, it’s vital that you review your documents often. In honor of March 8 being International Women’s Day, here are some reasons why your estate plan may need a refresh. YOU EXPERIENCED AN ILLNESS OR OTHER HEALTH CONDITIONS. While we may think we’re invincible, unfortunately, we’re not. Perhaps you are recovering from an illness or were diagnosed with a health condition — did you outline your desired treatment in your estate plan? Are your medical and financial powers of attorney
updated? It’s best to outline what medications and other treatment options you want in your estate plan so your powers of attorney and health care professionals understand and follow your wishes. Even if you’re ill or become incapacitated, your estate plan still allows you to remain in control! YOUR FAMILY IS GROWING! If your adult children recently added a little one to the group, now is the perfect time to add your grandkids to your estate plan. Perhaps you want to leave them some of your assets, property, or money. You can only ensure they receive their share by incorporating them into the documents you already have in place. You may have adult grandchildren you forgot to plan for, or maybe you want to make them your beneficiaries — now is the time to do so! Many other factors play a considerable role in why you may need to update your estate plan. If it’s been a while since you reviewed your documents, or if you’re wondering if a recent change requires you to update anything, please don’t hesitate to contact your friends at Morris Hall. We will be happy to assist you in any way we can.
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IT’S TIME FOR A REFRESH SPRING-CLEANING — FINANCE EDITION
WHY ARE YOU RECEIVING THIS NEWSLETTER? As this newsletter hits your mailbox, you may be surprised to hear from us! While we mainly see you in our office, we wanted to give you another resource as you venture through the world of estate planning. As a Premiere Legacy Plan member, you get access to content that will help you as you create or update your estate plan. From answering frequently asked questions and highlighting common misconceptions to detailing the ways you can reap all the benefits your estate plan offers, this newsletter is a must-read! You will also learn more about different people on our team and what motivates them to deliver the best service possible every day. Thank you for joining us and reading our first edition newsletter! We’re so excited for what’s to come!
As we quickly approach spring, you may want to refresh your home, clean and organize your vehicles, or donate unwanted items. But as you begin to pull out your cleaning products and outline what you want to clean first, consider tidying your finances as well. So grab a pen and some paper; it’s time to spring-clean your finances! REVIEW YOUR BUDGET. One of the best ways to refresh your finances is by reviewing your budget. Look over your spending habits these past few months — do you notice any patterns? Are there areas where most of your money goes? Can you reduce any of these expenses? Once you understand your spending habits, you can then modify your spending patterns to stay on top of your financial goals. Furthermore, springtime is when some will begin to outline their summer plans. You can also use this season to adjust your budget and create steps to ensure you can cross off everything on your summer bucket list. PREPARE YOUR TAXES. If you haven’t filed your taxes yet, now is the time to do so. But before you meet with your tax advisor, ensure you have all the required forms before your meeting. It’s also beneficial to review any changes for the 2023 tax season. In October 2022, the IRS released several adjustments due to inflation. Before or during your tax filing appointment, ask your tax advisor if any of these changes apply to you and how they will affect your filing process. INFORM LOVED ONES ABOUT WHERE IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS ARE KEPT. When tragedy strikes, your loved ones may need access to important information. Do they know where it’s stored? Additionally, it’s best to organize those documents and shred old bank statements and life insurance policies that were closed years ago — you only want current documents stored in a secured location. This will save your loved ones time as they try to track down your assets and ensure that they aren’t trying to find assets that no longer exist. If you have financial questions, we’ve got you covered! When you work with Morris Hall for all of your estate planning needs, you also get a complimentary consultation with Clark Street Financial. They can help with finances in your estate, retirement accounts, taxes, insurance, and more. Don’t hesitate to contact us or our friends at Clark Street Financial with any questions or concerns.
Feta Chicken Burgers
Try these delicious chicken burgers with a Mediterranean spin on the classic sandwich we all love. Featuring Greek-style toppings and seasonings, this recipe is refreshing and super healthy, too.
INGREDIENTS • 1/4 cup finely chopped cucumber • 1/4 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise BURGERS: • 1/2 cup chopped roasted sweet red pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder • 1/2 tsp Greek seasoning • 1/4 tsp black pepper • 1 1/2 lbs lean ground chicken • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese • 6 whole wheat hamburger buns, split and toasted
1. Preheat broiler and mix chopped cucumber and mayonnaise. 2. For the burgers, mix the red pepper, garlic powder, Greek seasoning, and black pepper. Add chicken and cheese; mix lightly but thoroughly (the mixture will be sticky). Shape into 6 patties about 1/2-inch thick. 3. Broil burgers, remembering to cook both sides thoroughly. Serve on buns with cucumber sauce. If desired, top with lettuce and tomato. Enjoy! DIRECTIONS
Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Meet Our Managing Partner, Andrea! PAGE 1
Movies Featuring Prominent Women in History PAGE 2
Have You Updated Your Estate Plan? PAGE 2
Feta Chicken Burgers PAGE 3
3 Ways to Spring-Clean Your Finances PAGE 3
Make Your Own Foaming Hand and Dish Soap! PAGE 4
Instead of Purchasing Foaming Soaps Create Your Own With Just 3 Ingredients
We’ve all seen the foaming hand and dish soaps at our local supermarkets — some of you may have one by your sink or in a cabinet. But when you run out of soap, what do you do? Do you throw out the bottle and purchase a new one? Or do you buy a new bottle and attach it to the dispenser? Buying soap replacements all the time is costly, but you can save money and soap by creating your own foaming dish and hand
soap! You only need three things: a foaming dispenser, liquid soap, and water.
supermarket, you will notice they are mostly water. So, less is more in this instance.
IS MAKING YOUR OWN FOAMING SOAP THAT EASY? Yes! The entire process may take you only five minutes to complete. The most important item you need is a foam dispenser. You can reuse a foaming soap container or purchase one online. After rinsing your bottle, add one part liquid soap and three parts water. Avoid shaking the bottle after screwing the cap back on. The suds and bubbles in the container will affect the dispenser and produce less foam when you pump the device. And that’s it! You just created foaming hand or dish soap in seconds. You don’t need to add lots of liquid soap to your concoction. If you look at foaming soaps in the
Once you begin making these, you’ll notice you use less soap, making the product last longer and keeping more money in your pocket. Not only does this foaming method work for hand and dish soaps, but you can also make your shampoo, body wash, and other cleansers foam — it’s all about the dispenser. If you decide to convert other products, avoid creamy soaps because they have moisturizers that can clog the foaming dispenser. Once you start making your own foaming soap, you will never go back to purchasing it. This DIY method is easy, quick, and inexpensive. Happy cleaning!
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