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Routine, Complacency, and You SHIFT HAPPENS
Recently, I was on a flight that was headed to Utah. Before takeoff, a flight attendant stood in front of all the passengers and went through the preflight safety checklist, as one expects. Hours later, as we approached our destination, we were treated to another, though much shorter, checklist: Seats and tray tables up. You know the routine. But there was one part of this announcement that stood out to me. The passengers were reminded to be careful when opening the overhead bins, as some bags may have shifted during the flight, or as it came over the intercom: “Shift happens.” In that moment, they had my attention. It’s something many airlines now do. Some airlines produce humorous videos to entertain passengers as they go through the safety checklist. Other airlines crack jokes in between each checklist item. They’re going beyond the plain and simple checklist many people have heard many times. They do it because of just that. After you’ve heard it so many times, you tend to tune it out. It’s the same every time. It’s boring. But they don’t want us to tune it out. In the event of an emergency, this information could save lives. Airlines now make these kinds of announcements entertaining and funny because they grab your attention. I bring this up for a very important reason: market complacency. When the markets do well for a long period of time, people forget to pay attention. They become complacent and assume things will continue accordingly. Then, when something does happen — like the volatility this past February when the market fell about 10 percent — they are caught off guard. MarkWagner, Campbell Wealth’s Director of Investment Management, and our investment teamwere not caught off guard. I want to take a moment to recognize howwell they’ve been doing. They did a great job last year, and now almost halfway through 2018, they’ve continued to excel.
The team is backed up by systems and processes we’ve put in place — systems that work, regardless of market conditions. We can always watch your portfolio and make adjustments as the market grows or pulls back. It’s all about adaptability. Mark has put in a lot of hard work to ensure continued adaptability. I’m proud of the work he’s done for our clients. You can know that your best interests are in mind. To wrap up, I want you to think about what you do every day that you might not give much thought to. Think about the people who make your life easier in small (or large) ways. We all have routines and are complacent in different areas of our lives. It’s not a bad thing, but sometimes we do forget to take notice. How many people help make your life easier behind the scenes? Thank them. Recognize their efforts and let them know you appreciate them. As they say, “shift happens,” but you are surrounded by people making sure wayward bags don’t fall on you when you open the proverbial overhead bin. Kelly Campbell
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Traveling With the Grandkids? 3 THINGS TO DO BEFORE THE TRIP
PACK NECESSARY DOCUMENTS You need to have some form of ID for your grandkids. Older kids can use a driver’s license, but if you’re traveling with little ones, find a copy of their birth certificates. You also need copies of insurance and prescription cards and a notarized letter from the parents granting you permission to authorize medical care in case of an emergency. It’s also a good idea to have a letter of permission for your grandkids to travel with you. Make sure the letter is signed by all legal guardians, especially if your grandchild’s parents are divorced. You don’t want to accidentally cause a custody dispute. PLAN A TRIP YOU’LL BOTH LOVE When planning your itinerary, ask yourself if your grandkids will have fun, too. You might be excited to visit an art museum, but a younger child might not appreciate it as much. This doesn't mean you shouldn’t visit museums or historical sites! In fact, most of these places offer kid- centric activities, like scavenger hunts, that can help a younger audience engage with the environment. Just be sure to think of your grandchild first when planning. There’s nothing like the adventure of travel to bring generations closer together and create lasting memories. These tips will help you ensure those memories are good ones. Happy travels!
We could all use a vacation, and if you’re looking to bond with your grandkids, a trip might be the perfect answer. It’s fun for you, and getting away fromMom and Dad for a while is thrilling for any kid. But before you board a plane to Italy with your granddaughter or rent an RV for a trip to Yellowstone with your grandsons, there are a few things you need to check off your to-do list. DON’T LET THE PARENTS WORRY Letting their kids go on a trip without them can be nerve-wracking for parents. Don’t view parental worries as an implication that you are an irresponsible grandparent. Instead, think about how you felt when your own children were young, and take steps to alleviate the parents’ concerns. If your daughter asks you not to be on your phone while in crowded public places because she’s concerned you might lose sight of her child, promise to keep the phone in your pocket. If your son-in- law wants regular updates, make time before bed for your grandchild to call home and tell her father about all the fun she’s having. A little compromise can lead to less stress and more fun for everyone. Do you have a charity you want to feature in our newsletter? At Campbell Wealth, we want to hear about the ways our clients are giving back to the community. We want to learn about the charities that are near and dear to your heart. Tell us all about the organizations and causes you volunteer with, donate to, or want to share with other Campbell Wealth clients and friends. What makes the charity/organization important to you, and how can others get involved? Let us know by reaching out to Mirela Tsai, our Marketing Associate, at mirela@campbellwealth.com. Or, you can give us a call at (571) 800-6371 to share your story. Then, in the coming months, look for your story right here in the Campbell Wealth newsletter. –Mirela Tsai Marketing Associate
ACommitment to Giving Back What Are Your Favorite Charities?
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Tax Planning Doesn’t End in April
The 2017 tax season may have ended on Tuesday, April 17, for most people, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to stop thinking about taxes. Before you know it, the 2018 tax season will be in full swing, and with new tax regulations in play, you may need to pay even closer attention so you know what to expect before you file. The planning continues. What can you do to plan for next year’s taxes now? Here are a few ideas you can put to work this year to have an even better tax season next year: TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ‘GREEN’ TAX INCENTIVES If you are planning on installing certain green technologies in your home, such as solar panels and solar electricity systems, you can take advantage of a tax credit. According to Energy.gov, the solar energy generation credit is currently offered through 2021. Through 2019, this tax credit is equal to 30 percent of what you spend on technology and labor, and there is no cap. In 2020, the credit decreases to 26 percent. Then, in 2021, it falls again to 21 percent before expiring at the end of that year. STRATEGIZE COLLEGE PLANNING If you have kids or grandkids (or grandkids on the way), you can turn to a 529 college savings plan to give them a strong financial foundation before they enroll in college. This type of savings plan is tax-free, and
you maintain control over the account from day one. Even better, should the account beneficiary not attend college, you can easily swap beneficiaries or close the account and use the money at your discretion. Alternatively, you can utilize a Roth IRA to help save for college and as tax-deferred college-savings plan. CONTRIBUTE MORE TO YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS If you’re still working, one effective way to reduce your yearly tax burden is to shrink your taxable income. Essentially, you max out your total 401(k) contributions ($18,500 per year). If you are 50 or older, you can make catch-up contributions. For 2018, the limit is an additional $6,000, raising your maximum contribution level to $24,500 per year. –Tyler Frech, Client Relationship Manager Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. The withdrawal of earnings from a Roth IRA may subject to taxation when under the age of 59.5. Roth IRA withdrawals may reduce the eligibility of future needs based financial aid. Prior to investing in a 529 Plan investors should consider whether the investor's or designated beneficiary's home state offers any state tax or other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in such state's qualified tuition program. Withdrawals used for qualified expenses are federally tax free. Tax treatment at the state level may vary. Please consult with your tax advisor before investing.
Upcoming Events
Sautéed Zucchini and Squash With Feta
RIGHT ON RETIREMENT DINNER SEMINAR (INVITE A FRIEND) Ruth's Chris - Tyson's Corner Thursday, May 31 or Tuesday, June 5 To register for any of the upcoming events, please email us at seminars@campbellwealth.com or call Carol at (571) 800-6373. Make sure to check out our website to see more upcoming events: www.campbellwealth.com/educational-resources/upcoming-events/
Ingredients • 1 zucchini • 1 summer squash • 1/2 medium red onion • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese • Salt and pepper to taste
Directions 1. Cut zucchini into 1/4-inch-thick semicircles. Dice onion. 2. Heat a large skillet to medium high. Add olive oil, onion, and thyme. 3. Once onion is soft (about 2 minutes), add zucchini and squash. Season with salt and pepper; cook 4–5 minutes until squash barely begins to caramelize. 4. Place in serving bowl and top with feta.
Inspired by thekitchn.com
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When Shift Happens, Are You Ready? Secrets to a Great Family Vacation Have a Favorite Charity? Tell Us About It! Tax Planning: A Continuing Journey Sautéed Zucchini and Squash With Feta The Key to a Memorable Vacation
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Buy Local When You’re Abroad ENRICH YOUR VACATION
Art Just as your town probably has local artisans who produce unique and interesting work, the same is true for your vacation destination. Anyone can get a gift shop bauble that was mass-produced somewhere else. Take the time to peruse market stalls and craft fairs while you travel. It can lead you to some truly special souvenirs, and you’ll support the arts and traditions of the region! People While you’re out sampling local restaurants and exploring local markets, you’ll meet plenty of local people. Don’t be afraid to strike up a friendly conversation. You can make new friends around the globe and learn about their unique experiences. One of the most enriching experiences in life is meeting new people and gaining new perspectives. Memories Treasured memories are the best souvenir you can bring home from any vacation. So you owe it to yourself to get out and explore!
The virtues of buying locally sourced food and supporting small businesses have been widely extolled. But we rarely think to apply the same practices when we travel. Many Americans spring for all- inclusive packages when planning their next summer vacation, but doing so means they’ll miss out on some of the best aspects of the culture they’re visiting. Part of the joy of traveling is having new experiences you can’t have at home. Whether you’re in another state or another country, you owe it to yourself to seek out the unique aspects of that location. But to find the character and quirks of your destination, you’ll have to explore beyond the hotel lobby. Food Why have a cheeseburger from a fast-food chain when you can try a local favorite? A great way to start is by asking your taxi driver or hotel concierge about their favorite place to eat. You’ll discover new foods and flavor combinations, and the locally owned restaurant is sure to appreciate your business!
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