DNB First shared a link to an article today about “why you should make an extra mortgage payment” and it made me wonder, how many people have been able to pay off their mortgage early? Continue reading “Early Mortgage Payoff?”
Get Ready for Tax Season!
If you haven’t done so already, taxes will be due before you know it! Here are some helpful resources to assist you in preparing:
1) Bonnie Lee of Fox Business outlines 5 tips for preparing for taxes this year.
2) Need help preparing your taxes? If you qualify, the IRS has Free Tax Preparation by volunteers.
3) H&R Block put together this helpful checklist of everything you should put together in order to file your taxes.
4) Finally, know anyone filing for the first time? Teenagers with their first job? This is a very simple to understand video that lays out the basics of filing.
If you have more questions, consider seeing a personal finance expert to talk you through. Happy Filing!
Research Funded by the Alliance for Lupus Research
A complex autoimmune disease, lupus proves difficult not just to treat, but even to diagnose. The Alliance for Lupus Research (ALR) maintains a dedication to funding research efforts conducted by the brightest minds in science in the hope of a better future. ALR focuses on a multi-pronged strategy that involves a better understanding of the disease and how it functions, rather than simply investing in better therapies.
Since its inception, ALR has allocated more than $72 million to research on lupus and potential treatment options for it. This funding has translated into more than 150 studies that have made several major breakthroughs. Studies funded by ALR have identified the genes responsible for the disease, produced new treatment drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration, and created important new technologies, such as ImmunoChip, that will fuel further research.
Individuals can learn more about lupus and the fight against the disease online at LupusResearch.org. The website also outlines ways in which individuals can contribute to ALR’s efforts.
Thinking of a refinance – what’s holding you back?
Since 2012, many consumers across the United States took advantage of low rates and refinanced their high rate mortgages, lowering monthly payments and freeing up cash for other purposes. If you happen to be one of the approximately 20 million households who have never refinanced, and are paying 6% or more on your mortgage, you may want to take advantage of the current environment and refinance now, but hurry – time’s a wastin!
Continue reading “Thinking of a refinance – what’s holding you back?”
Celebrating President’s Day
Today we are celebrating President’s Day, though it is known to be George Washington’s birthday, we can celebrate all our presidents and their guiding wisdom throughout the years.
So, if you have the day off and are looking for something “presidential” to do, check out some of these free in Philly museums. Around the country there are other various museums and presidential libraries also opening free to the public. Check them out and celebrate our presidents.
Campbell: Broth Sales Get A Boost From More Cooking
Seems like the cold weather makes a warm cup of soup more appetizing. Pass the Chicken Noodle!
Every Life Has a Story
A few years ago, this YouTube video was shared with me for the very first time. It had quite an impact on me back then, just as it does today.
Take the time to watch this short 3 minute video – it could change your perspective on how we perceive others.
Be a leader in your community and in life – take the time to understand the story of the people you interact with.
Vince Liuzzi – Executive Leader
The Salvation Army Responds to Rare Southern Winter Conditions
As the American South struggles with unusually cold weather, the Salvation Army has teamed with other organizations to deliver comfort to people in need. Many of the cities that have received snow this winter do not even have snowplows because snow is so unusual, meaning that only an inch has caused major gridlock. In Atlanta, Georgia, and Jackson, Mississippi, the Salvation Army has offered hot meals and coffee to drivers stranded on the Interstate. In Atlanta, some drivers were trapped on the road for more than 16 hours. In Jackson, about 50 trucks became stuck when icy weather prevented them from climbing the slight inclines around the city.
The terrible conditions in Jackson also stranded individuals at bus stations as trips were continuously postponed or even canceled. To provide a bit of comfort to these individuals, the Jackson Salvation Army emergency team offered food, beverages, and a sleeping bag to the people, many of whom stayed at the station for multiple days.
The Salvation Army has a long history of responding to natural disasters like hurricanes. Its immediate and effectual response to the cold weather demonstrates the organization’s adaptability and dedication to meeting people’s needs.
Do it today….
And don’t be afraid to fail.
Retire Early?
Although it may not always be a possibility for everyone, preparation is key. Remember, its’ never to early to plan for retirement. As this couple found out early retirement was achievable by making some quick drastic changes. In her article, Andrea Coombes lays out 8 tips for success from early retirees.

