Eagle & Fein - July/August 2024

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JULY/AUG 2024

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GET READY FOR OUR ANNUAL WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S! Mark your calendars and join us for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s! Gather your friends and family on Saturday, Sept. 28. Your participation means hope for a world without Alzheimer’s. Save the date and walk with us!

Find Joy in the Job HOW SUMMER JOBS SHAPED MY CAREER

Summertime often brings waves of nostalgia, particularly for those who embarked on summer jobs during their teen years. Looking back on those days offers a chuckle or two and the opportunity to remember those valuable life lessons that I still carry into my practice today. I want to share memories from those formative (and maybe not-so-glamorous) summers, working as a busboy at a country club and later leading as a head counselor at a summer camp. One unforgettable summer, I worked at a country club in Armonk, New York, near the IBM corporate headquarters. Situated on a picturesque lake, the job entailed the less luxurious duties you would imagine for a teenage busboy. Despite being at the bottom of the totem pole, my colleagues and I made the most of our experience. If you have read the book “Fish!” which details how the Pike Place Fish Market became an unexpectedly fun work environment, you have an idea of our unique work situation! Though my stint as a busboy preceded the book, the principle of finding joy in one’s work was a pivotal lesson during those days. While the work was not a walk in the park, the country club setting had perks. During slower periods, epic one-on-one basketball games with my high school soccer and baseball coach, who also managed the busboys, became the highlight of the day. He was an old-school basketball player who believed in a game with a few hits and elbows

here and there. Having this extra time with our coach was certainly a silver lining of the job (even if he played rough). I even remember the day the chef was absent, and I had to step up to help in the kitchen. Looking back, that was indeed a test of teamwork and adaptability! My leadership journey began when I became a camp counselor, eventually rising to the head counselor position when I was barely a senior in high school. This role honed my leadership skills and allowed me to experience our young adventurers’ genuine joy and camaraderie as they navigated the world of summer camp. Some of the most memorable times included orchestrating biking trips from the tip of Long Island to Pocantico Hills in New York. Yes, you heard that right! These extended excursions would mean having to camp out at state parks and public beaches, something that seems absolutely ludicrous nowadays. But it led to life lessons and moments of immense personal growth for the kids and us as counselors. The triumphant return to camp, greeted by cheers from campers and fellow counselors, paralleled the excitement of crossing a finish line in the Tour de France. These experiences taught me the importance of leadership, teamwork, and the joy of achieving together — lessons I carried into my later career as an accountant and now as an attorney. Each

Scan to register to join us for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Sept. 28!

summer job, from the country club to leading a camp and later interning at KPMG, contributed to my understanding of responsibility, accountability, and giving back. Reflecting on these summers, I remember how foundational experiences shape us. The laughter, challenges, and triumphs of those days continue to influence my approach to life and practice, reminding me that sometimes, the best lessons come not from a textbook but from living, playing, and working in the real world. – Brian Eagle 317-726-1714 1

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT The Importance of a Vitamin D-Rich Diet

Vitamin D, best known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is uniquely both a nutrient we eat and a hormone our body makes when exposed to sunlight. While our bodies need vitamin D to absorb calcium, allowing us to build and fortify our bones, it does far more than that. The fat-soluble vitamin is also an anti-inflammatory and helps our brains and immune systems function. According to the Mayo Clinic, the daily recommendation for vitamin D intake for the vast majority of the population is around 600 international units or IU. However, unlike many other nutrients, not many foods naturally contain a large amount of vitamin D. Whether natural or fortified, here are the best foods to add to your diet to help you hit the recommended daily vitamin D intake. Natural Sources of Vitamin D If you are searching for a natural vitamin D source, you will likely have to get your feet wet. Some of

the best natural sources of vitamin D are fatty fish like salmon, herring, sardines, and tuna. While a 3.5-ounce serving of farmed salmon contains about 526 IU, a serving of wild-caught salmon may contain significantly more and may even exceed the daily recommendation. A 3.5-ounce serving of herring or sardines will net you around 200 IU, or about a third of your daily recommended vitamin D. You can also obtain trace amounts of vitamin D from foods such as egg yolks, cheese, and beef liver. Artificial Sources of Vitamin D If you do not mind using artificial sources to hit your daily recommended dose of vitamin D, then your best bet is a supplement. A great source is cod liver oil, which contains 450 IU of vitamin D per teaspoon. For those who don’t enjoy seafood, fortified milk is a great way to hit your daily recommended intake.

No matter how you acquire your vitamin D, the benefits are worth the

effort. From helping revitalize cell growth to keeping your bones strong and healthy, vitamin D is a nutrient you should consider incorporating more of into your diet.

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO ESTATE PLANNING FOR BLENDED FAMILIES Protect Your ‘Brady Bunch’ Family’s Future

Why Act Now? Procrastination in estate planning can lead to significant family strife and legal challenges after a parent’s death. It is imperative for parents in blended families to start planning early to ensure their wishes are clearly understood and legally documented. Waiting until it is too late can lead to unintended consequences that could permanently affect familial relationships and financial stability. Seek Professional Guidance Given the complexities involved, consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney is crucial. An expert can offer tailored advice that reflects your family’s unique circumstances and goals, ensuring your estate plan is robust and effective. Take Action Today If you are part of a blended family or know someone who is, now is the time to take action. Protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are honored by establishing a comprehensive estate plan. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you secure your family’s future and provide peace of mind, knowing that your estate will be handled according to your wishes. Don’t wait — plan for tomorrow by taking steps today.

In the tapestry of modern families, blended families or “Brady Bunch” families have become increasingly common. This change in family dynamics presents unique challenges in estate planning, particularly in ensuring assets are distributed according to the parents’ wishes while caring for the needs of a surviving spouse and children from different marriages. The Importance of Bloodline Protection One critical aspect of estate planning for blended families is bloodline protection. This strategy is designed to ensure that your assets pass directly to your biological children and not just your spouse, who may then pass them on to their children or a new partner. Without a clear plan, there’s a risk that a deceased parent’s intentions might not be honored, potentially leaving their biological children without their rightful inheritance. It is a story most of us hear often, but it is entirely preventable. Create a Balanced Estate Plan Crafting an estate plan that addresses the needs of the surviving spouse and the biological children is essential. Tools such as trusts, and specified beneficiary designations can help achieve this balance. These legal instruments can provide for the surviving spouse during their lifetime while preserving the inheritance for biological children. This thoughtful approach ensures that all family members are cared for and minimizes potential conflicts.

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Grill and Chill HOST A SUMMER BARBECUE FOR EVERYONE

Word Search

ALIEN BALLPARK CHERRY FIRECRACKER FLAG INDEPENDENCE ORCHID PADDLEBOARD PATRIOTIC SUNDAE SUNSCREEN TRAMPOLINE

Enjoying your own party can be more complicated than it sounds.

Backyard barbecues are a high point of summer, but hosting one you enjoy with your guests requires planning.

“If swimming is on the agenda, consider protecting new or light-colored indoor furniture with water-resistant covers so guests in wet swimsuits can sit wherever they want without stressing out their host,” says Calla Quinn, a TikTok influencer who recently posted tips on hosting up to 50 friends at your home. Another tip she shares is using portable misting fans in dry climates. These devices create a fine mist to refresh passersby in seconds, and they are especially popular on patios and decks. If attendees offer to bring something, don’t hesitate to accept, and be specific about what you want — from lawn chairs to beach towels. Martha Stewart recommends having a stain remover on hand to manage stains and cloth towels that guests can use to wipe up spills. Expert hosts also recommend a self-serve bar for casual summer gatherings. Consider filling several 3-gallon drink dispensers with popular options. Depending on your guest list, you might offer family fare such as lemonade, iced tea, ice water, or premixed cocktails like strawberry vodka lemonade or passion fruit margaritas. Martha Stewart suggests allowing amateur mixologists to concoct their own beverages by setting out bottled juices, artisanal sodas, and kombucha. A stylish yet simple way to serve hors d’oeuvres and side dishes to complement your grilled entree is to assemble or have catered a charcuterie board. These feature finger foods such as meats, cheeses, olives, spreads, fruits, nuts, chips, and crackers. A fully stocked charcuterie board adds a decorative touch while keeping guests well-fed for hours, adding what Quinn calls “a real wow factor.” And to make sure your day ends well, look for disposable, compostable bamboo or wooden dishes. Searching for “eco-friendly tableware and cutlery” should turn up some good options. This one last detail can go a long way toward supporting sustainable living while ensuring you don’t spend any valuable party time cleaning up broken glass or washing dishes.

This recipe is packed with protein-rich quinoa and a colorful array of vegetables. It’s ideal for a healthy lunch or a quick dinner!

INGREDIENTS

2 tbsp olive oil

1 cup diced mushrooms

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 tsp dried oregano

1 yellow bell pepper, diced

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup diced zucchini

2 cups cooked quinoa

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add oregano, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.

4. Add the cooked quinoa and mix thoroughly.

5. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then serve.

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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The Lasting Impact of Summer Jobs on Professional Growth A Guide to Vitamin D-Rich Foods Why Blended Families Need to Prioritize Estate Planning Now Tips for a Stress-Free Backyard Barbecue Quinoa Veggie Bowl What Happens When Blended Families Do Not Plan?

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The stakes are high when it comes to estate planning for blended families. In the previous article, we discussed the importance of a comprehensive estate plan for blended families. But there are countless downfalls to a missing or incomplete estate plan that echo long after a loved one has passed away that you should know about. We discussed the importance of proactive estate planning, bloodline protection, and creating a balanced estate plan. Now, let us explore what can go wrong if these measures are not taken. Legal Disputes and Family Strife The absence of a clear and legally sound estate plan can result in costly and prolonged legal disputes among family members. These conflicts drain financial resources and cause emotional distress. Family members may find themselves embroiled in disputes over the interpretation of vague or non-existent estate planning documents, which can deepen existing rifts and create new ones. Loss of Control Over Asset Distribution Without specific legal directives, state laws will determine how your assets are distributed upon your death. These default rules rarely align perfectly with a person’s wishes, particularly in the nuanced contexts of blended families. If you do

not actively create a comprehensive estate plan, you essentially leave the distribution of your life’s work to general laws that are not designed to address the unique dynamics of your family.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected For those navigating the complexities of a

blended family, the message is clear: the time to act is now. Procrastination can jeopardize financial assets and the harmony of the family you cherish. Our firm focuses in crafting Purposely Designed Organized PlansSM that reflect the intricacies of modern family dynamics. Our team has the expertise and sensitivity to ensure your wishes are honored and your family is protected. Schedule a Consultation Today Do not wait for a crisis to realize the importance of a well-structured estate plan. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation, a review meeting, or if you have already planned with us, please share this article with a family member or friend. Let us help you build a legacy that respects your wishes and safeguards the interests of all your loved ones. Our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way, providing peace of mind that your family’s future is secure.

AVOID CHAOS AND PROTECT YOUR LEGACY

WHY ESTATE PLANNING CANNOT WAIT IN BLENDED FAMILIES

– Brian Eagle

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