Friday, June 28, 2013

Team for the AHA Heart Walk

Once again I will be participating in the annual American Heart Walk.  This year the event for Southwestern Wisconsin will be held the morning of October 5th at the lovely Warner Park.  My hope is not to walk alone, but with a team formed through my law office.  Those interested in walking with us, or making a donation, can visit our team page on the AHA.

Why walk?  Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the United States.  It nearly claimed the life of my mother in 1991, when she was 47 years old.  Thanks to medications, treatments, and a pacemaker her two decade struggle continues.  And every year it seems someone else in my circle of family and friends falls victim to heart disease and or stroke, with this past year bringing my father-in-law near the brink with congestive heart failure.  He is still here, stronger than ever, thanks to outstanding cardiac care.

So for my family, friends, clients, and myself.....I pledge to walk and fundraise once again.

Have a lovely weekend!

Thursday, June 27, 2013

Settlement Proposed - Wisconsin Funeral Trust

News broke last fall that Wisconsin's Funeral Trust was broke.  Risky investments brought the fund down, way down, down past the point to ensure 100% payment on monies deposited by consumers.  In raw numbers, it had $48 million, but $70.7 million in obligations.

Since an investigation has commenced as well as a court appointed receiver.  News this week indicates that in a proposed settlement in the funeral trust, consumers will receive the full services they paid for.  Funeral homes are not required to sign on to the agreement, and have until September 30, 2013 to do so.

While all of this sounds favorable, one glaring question rings in my ears -- what options are there for those who had not yet created a funeral trust, but want or need one?  Answer is unknown to me, so I'll email John Wirth, the attorney appointed by the court to be the receiver.  Check back for an update!

Author's note: my posts here have been sporadic because I have been devoting substantial writing time to a book that will be released Fall 2013.  Watch for details on my first publication, Middle Class Philanthropist: How Anyone Can Leave a Legacy.