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KC Quarterly Q1 2025
Going Above and Beyond Is Always Worth It
How ‘Unreasonable Hospitality’ Inspires Exceptional Client Service
meaningful actions showing you care. Just as Guidara’s team turned an ordinary hot dog into something extraordinary, we strive to turn ordinary interactions into extraordinary experiences for our clients. Every client we work with has unique needs, and we strive to meet those needs and exceed them whenever possible. Whether it’s through a compassionate conversation, a proactive approach to problem-solving, or a comprehensive planning process, our goal is always to deliver more than expected. Ultimately, estate planning is never just about drafting documents or discussing financial strategies. It’s about helping people protect what matters most to them — their families, legacies, or peace of mind. And if we can create moments of connection and trust along the way, then we’re truly fulfilling our mission. So, as I reflect on the lessons from “Unreasonable Hospitality,” I’m more inspired than ever to continue finding ways to serve our clients with care, creativity, and intention. Because when it comes to protecting your future, you deserve nothing less than exceptional.
the principle of exceeding expectations applies just the same.
Lately, I’ve been carving out time to read more, and one book that’s stuck with me is “Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara. It’s not just a great read — it’s a masterclass in what it means to go above and beyond for the people you serve. March 2 is Read Across America Day, a celebration of the power of books to inspire and educate, so I thought I’d share this book that I found deeply inspiring. “Unreasonable Hospitality” aligns perfectly with one of our core values at the firm: delivering exceptional service to our clients. Guidara’s journey in transforming Eleven Madison Park from a struggling restaurant into the best in the world is packed with lessons for every industry. One of my favorite stories from the book involves a group of diners who casually mentioned they wished they had time to try an iconic New York hot dog. Guidara overheard, ran out to get a few hot dogs, and brought them back for his chefs to elevate into something unforgettable. That simple act created a magical, unexpected experience the diners would never forget. What resonated with me most is the idea that every interaction is an opportunity to deliver more than what’s expected. Guidara wasn’t just serving food — he was creating memories, and that’s something we strive for at our firm. While estate planning is a far cry from gourmet cuisine,
We embody this value by taking extra steps to make our clients’ lives easier. For example, if a client is uncertain about resolving an issue with their financial institution, we don’t tell them to handle it alone. We pick up the phone, guide them through the process, and offer reassurance every step of the way. It’s a small gesture, but it builds trust and shows we’re genuinely invested in their peace of mind. We also offer a five-meeting system for estate planning — a much more in-depth approach than the one or two meetings many firms provide. This structure gives us the time to understand our clients’ needs, address their concerns, and ensure every detail of their plan is carefully considered. We don’t believe in doing the bare minimum; we believe in delivering generous value at every turn. This commitment stems from the values that guide everything we do: delivering generous value, embracing challenges, and investing in tomorrow. These principles remind us to put our clients first, find creative solutions even in difficult situations, and continually improve our service. Reading “Unreasonable Hospitality” reinforced that exceptional service isn’t about grand gestures but thoughtful,
–Josh Crawford
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BREW -TALLY HONEST The Perks and Pitfalls of Caffeine
Buzz Kill Caffeine can be a needed pick-me-up, but it can also feed the grind that keeps you up at night or gives you anxiety. Tea and coffee can interfere with essential neurotransmitters like dopamine. This disruption can lead to a lack of motivation, irritability, and restlessness. Drinking too much of these fine brews can make you nervous, impact your sleep, and cause your body to go into flight or fight mode. For people who are already suffering from depression, the drink can cause your symptoms to worsen. So, as you drink your morning java, just remember to find the balance with the beans. Caffeine can be the ultimate mood booster, but too much will make you feel wired instead of wonderful!
Perk up, coffee lovers. We’re about to spill the beans on how the beloved brew can be a friend and foe to our mental health. Caffeine can lift our spirits, energize us, sharpen our focus, and even counteract the effects of depression. But this popular stimulant can also lead to jitters, anxiety, and withdrawal symptoms if we sip too much. Grab a cup of Joe, and let’s explore the perks and pitfalls of this flavorful fuel. Buzz Behind the Boost Studies have found that moderate doses of caffeine can have perks. This naturally occurring stimulant can help with weight loss, alertness, brain function, memory, and physical performance. Caffeine can also guard against certain types of cancer, strokes, and Alzheimer’s disease. There’s even proof that coffee can
reduce depression, thanks to the other acids in the drink that reduce inflamed nerve cells in the brains of people with depression.
Leave a Legacy of Peace, Not Conflict
Consider a Living Trust With Arbitration Clauses Another effective way to reduce the likelihood of family disputes is to establish a living trust. Unlike a will, which typically goes through probate court, a living trust allows you to dictate how your assets are distributed without public scrutiny. To further minimize conflict, arbitration clauses can be included, requiring any disputes over the trust to be resolved privately rather than in court. Consult an Estate Planning Attorney While these steps are essential, consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney is equally important to ensure your plan is legally sound and comprehensive. An estate planning attorney can help you address potential issues and provide tailored strategies to meet your family’s needs. A little effort now can make all the difference for your loved ones in the future.
If you’re hesitant to have these conversations — perhaps because you’ve made a difficult decision like disinheriting someone — there are still ways to maintain transparency. Leave a Letter of Explanation For those who prefer not to discuss their estate plan in person, a letter of explanation is a powerful alternative. While not legally binding, this letter allows you to share the context behind your decisions, such as why certain assets are distributed to specific individuals or why others are excluded. A letter of explanation can also be a heartfelt way to communicate sentiments that legal documents cannot capture. It can preserve family ties by providing understanding and closure to your heirs, helping them see your decisions as fair and thoughtful, even if they don’t agree with every aspect.
When it comes to estate planning, one of the most important goals is ensuring your loved ones are cared for without unnecessary stress or conflict. Unfortunately, family disputes over inheritance can be emotionally draining and tear families apart. But with proactive planning and clear communication, you can take steps to preserve harmony among your heirs and leave a peaceful legacy. Open Communication Is Key One of the best ways to prevent family conflicts is to prioritize open communication while you’re still alive. Holding family meetings to discuss your estate plan can ensure everyone is on the same page and reduce confusion about your intentions. These discussions allow your loved ones to ask questions, voice concerns, and understand your reasoning behind certain decisions.
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How a Special Needs Trust Protects Government Benefits and Ensures Care
An SNT ensures that your loved one’s needs are met without jeopardizing their access to vital assistance while supplementing their care.
Planning for the future of a loved one with special needs requires careful thought and proactive measures to ensure their care and quality of life. One of the most effective tools for achieving this is a Special Needs Trust (SNT). This specialized legal arrangement provides financial support for individuals with disabilities while safeguarding their eligibility for essential government benefits like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Why a Special Needs Trust Is Essential A common misconception is that leaving assets to a loved one with special needs in a will is enough to provide for their future. Unfortunately, this can often result in unintended consequences, such as disqualifying them from vital government programs. A Special Needs Trust avoids this problem by holding assets in a trust that pays for supplemental needs not covered by government benefits. This means the trust can cover important expenses like: • Uncovered medical costs, including therapies, personal care attendants, and medications. • Education or vocational training programs to promote independence. • Recreational activities and hobbies that improve the beneficiary’s quality of life.
Select the Right Trustee Choosing a trustee is one of the most critical steps in creating a Special Needs Trust. The trustee
is responsible for overseeing the trust’s assets and ensuring that disbursements comply with the rules of government benefit programs. This individual should be trustworthy, knowledgeable about the beneficiary’s needs, and capable of navigating the complexities of disability-related programs. Plan Now for Peace of Mind A Special Needs Trust is an effective tool, but it requires cautious planning to ensure it meets your loved one’s needs effectively. Consulting with a skilled estate planning attorney can help you navigate the legal and financial complexities, ensuring that your loved one has the support they need for years to come. When you create a Special Needs Trust, you provide peace of mind and a secure future for your loved one, ensuring they receive the care and quality of life they deserve.
Inspired by EatingWell.com
Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup
Ingredients •
Directions 1. In a large Dutch oven, heat
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 cup peeled and chopped carrots • 1 cup chopped yellow onion • 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic • 3 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth • 1 (15-oz) can (no salt added) diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped • 1/2 tsp ground pepper • 1/4 tsp plus 1/8 tsp salt • 1 (9-oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini • 1 (5-oz) package baby spinach • 1 cup heavy cream
olive oil over medium-high heat. Add carrots and onions and cook for about 5 minutes or until onions are softened.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant. 2. Add broth, tomatoes, fresh
basil, pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
Reduce heat to medium, cover, and let simmer for about 5 minutes or until carrots are slightly tender. 3. Stir in tortellini. Cook until pasta is tender. Reduce heat to medium-low. 4. Add baby spinach and cream. Cook until spinach is wilted. Serve and garnish with additional basil if desired.
Take a Break
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2100 SE Hillmoor Dr., Ste. 105 Port St. Lucie, FL 34952 Also Serving Vero Beach 772-398-0720 • KulasLaw.com
Inside pg. 1
Building Trust by Exceeding Expectations
pg. 2
Is Your Coffee a Friend or Foe?
Preserve Harmony in Your Family With These Estate Planning Tips
pg. 3
Why a Will Isn’t Enough for Loved Ones with Special Needs
Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup
pg. 4
Plunder at the Pulpit
The Salacious Story of Baldassarre Cossa FROM PIRATE TO POPE
eventually reigning as Pope John XXIII from 1410 to 1415. Not surprisingly, controversy marked his time as a living symbol of God’s grace. For one thing, it occurred during the Western Schism, a fractious era in Catholic history when two other men claimed the role of pope and refused to resign. The strife caused by this confusion over papal authority was matched only by Cossa’s fleshly indulgences. He is said to have bedded hundreds of women — including nuns — during his contested reign. Cossa’s one-man sinning spree eventually landed him in prison, yet, remarkably, he was named Cardinal-Bishop of Tusculum shortly after his release! Much to the relief of devoted Catholics the world over — and, presumably, a fair portion of Italy’s female population — he died shortly after assuming the new role, leaving religious scholars and historians to forever marvel at how much this man of nonexistent morality had achieved in life. Considering Cossa’s infamy, it is no surprise that he is now known mainly as “Antipope” John XXIII. The name “Pope John XXIII” was retired for centuries before a man better suited to hold the moniker chose it and ran the Catholic Church from 1958–1963.
History is littered with unsavory souls forever scorned for their foul deeds. Still, few scoundrels reached the depths of depravity with greater aplomb than notorious pirate Baldassarre Cossa (circa 1370–1419) — the man otherwise known as Pope John XXIII. A corrupt criminal whose actions would make Don Corleone blush, Cossa and his brothers built a lucrative business the old-fashioned way — by robbing and pillaging. Although
his siblings were executed for their crimes, he survived long enough to pursue a new career in religion. Unfortunately, a desire for power rather than holy redemption prompted his turn to God.
An opportunist and conman, Cossa lied, betrayed, and manipulated his way to prominence in the Catholic Church,
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