Patriot Wealth - May 2022

Patriot Wealth - May 2022

MAY 2022

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PATRIOT WEALTH

Is the World Better or Worse? Reflections on a Complicated Time

fairly small bubble. And that bubble is easily influenced by daily hassles, media filters, and our own outlook on the world. So, how do we combat existential dread and pessimism? (I think this is a serious and important question, by the way.) I believe we need to know how to put things into perspective, for ourselves, for the children and young people who look to us for guidance, and for our loved ones who might need a boost.

Let’s face it. The news, complete with its negative headlines, is enough to make anyone think the world is going off the rails. Tune in to the news on any given day recently, and you may become inundated with increased crime rates, worrisome inflation, atrocities in Ukraine, and “unprecedented” events across every industry and political spectrum. Somehow, despite the best efforts of those who promise change and improvement, it all feels as though it’s getting worse. We are filled with fear, and if you worry if you are the only one who is exhausted and fearful, know that you’re not alone. A lot of people feel that way. We’re all thinking the same thing: Is the world getting worse? Or, is it actually getting better?

that’s not really helpful when you’re getting gouged at the gas pump and you’re seeing images of ruined lives on the news. Thanks to technology, you may be hearing about said ruined lives while you feel guilt mixed with anger over increased inflation and prices at home. Let’s pause to think about the era we live in for a moment; it has a great impact on this feeling. In recent decades, for the first time in human history, we can instantly communicate with folks thousands of miles away and see what they’re doing. We have access to real-time news from everywhere in the world, and most of us spend hours each day consuming media of one kind or another. And because of how the news is constructed, it’s nearly always the bad stuff that gets our attention. We see everything and experience the world in ways we never have before — both good and bad. As such, the question we ask when we see an old friend or meet with our colleagues has changed from, “How are things in your neck of the woods?” to “Have you heard about [fill in the most recent crisis here]?”

I have a few ideas:

• Invest time in relationships with the people you love. • Be selective with the news and media you consume. You do have a choice!

• •

Stay connected to and follow a faith. Look for the beautiful moments in life, and appreciate them. Spend time within those moments. Make art, make music, and build something beautiful. Bring that beauty into the world by volunteering or donating. Be the change you want to see.

•

•

Honestly, I’m not sure that question can really be answered.

Let’s focus inwardly for a moment. Let’s find the beauty in connection and not the dread that comes with it. Let’s start asking, again, “How are things in your neck of the woods?”

I imagine you have heard the statistics of how far the world has come in terms of measurable progress. It is pretty amazing. However, though it might be nice to know that global poverty is trending down and opportunities are abundant,

So, with that, how are things in your neck of the woods?

We’re human. We live our lives one day at a time, most often inside a

–Wes White

These articles are designed to provide general information on the subjects covered. They are not, however, intended to provide specific legal or tax advice and cannot be used to avoid tax penalties or to promote, market, or recommend any tax plan or arrangement. Please note that Patriot Wealth and its affiliates do not give legal or tax advice. You are encouraged to consult your tax advisor or attorney. Investment Advisory Services is offered through Retirement Wealth Advisors (RWA), a Registered Investment Advisor. Patriot Wealth and RWA are not affiliated. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

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Retire and Go to Yale — For Free IVY LEAGUE CLASSES ARE FOR ANYONE!

Ah, retirement! These golden years only come with one rule: Do what you want to do! However, there’s a retirement secret many people don’t understand until they get there. You have many possibilities, but you may feel unsure where to start. Maybe the big plans you had aren’t living up to expectations, or you worry about depleting your retirement savings. Maybe you’re just … bored. It’s easy to feel rudderless or lost in retirement, but you don’t have to sit in that feeling for long. Among the many other resources available to retirees, Yale University has a catalog of pre-recorded classes that any user can take for free . Participants can be as active as they wish to be. Some students choose to do the readings, homework, and tests, while others simply

listen to lectures. Best of all, you can learn something new or discover a new hobby thanks to some of the world’s brightest minds, without spending a penny. Here are some of our favorites among the dozens of prerecorded courses you can choose from. France Since 1871 — This is the perfect course for the history buff and traveler. It provides a modern glimpse into the devastation and growth of France as it battled in world wars, contended with its own previous revolution, and grappled with the impacts history has on the culture today. Be sure to check out this class before booking that trip to Paris! Modern Poetry — Get in touch with your emotional side and impress your friends at your next party by learning

about prominent poets in the Modern Era. Students will engage with texts that give life to the social landscape during pivotal, historical moments. Professor Langdon Hammer provides his expert critiques to The New York Times Book Review magazine, so you know you’re learning from an expert. The Psychology, Biology and Politics of Food — If you’re looking to improve your well-being in retirement, this just might be the course for you. Professor Kelly D. Brownell is a distinguished expert of food science. His course is an overview of the political implications of food science and the way food impacts our mental well-being.

You can download these courses or find others online at OYC.Yale.edu/courses.

3 NC VETERANS GROUPS TO HELP THIS MEMORIAL DAY Let’s Support Local Heroes

This Memorial Day, Patriot Wealth would like to recognize the men, women, and families who selflessly give of themselves for our freedom. We will never forget those who died in the line of duty, as this holiday calls on us to do, nor will we forget the sacrifice of those who do come home. In honor of this commitment, we hope you will join us in supporting veterans by donating your time or money to the following North Carolina veterans groups. PURPLE HEART HOMES Where: Statesville, North Carolina Website: PurpleHeartHomes.org Founded and operated by veterans, Purple Heart Homes is committed to creating affordable and disability- friendly housing opportunities for veterans. The organization relies on donations to help fund some of the necessary components designed into

these homes, such as the $5,000 it costs to build and install a wheelchair ramp or the $20,000 it costs to remodel an existing home to fit a veteran’s needs. Through donations, volunteer builders, and a commitment to those who served their country, Purple Heart Homes shelters those who deserve it most. Learn more and donate online.

family and caregiver support, mobility opportunities, and home repairs to veterans and families in need. You can support the cause by donating online. VETERANS HEALING FARM Where: Hendersonville, North Carolina Website: VeteransHealingFarm.org Veterans Healing Farm has multiple goals. The organization grows fresh produce and donates most of it to veterans and local food banks, but the organization doesn’t just provide healthy food options. It also teaches veterans homesteading techniques, gardening, holistic health, and sustainability habits. The goal is to teach veterans how to “cultivate” a life outside of serving their country while providing them with skills for a healthy body and the mind. Learn more and donate online!

THE INDEPENDENCE FUND Where: Charlotte, North Carolina Website: IndependenceFund.org

When a military member is injured in the line of duty, the ripples of that injury can be felt in their family. Those ripples are what The Independence Fund addresses. The organization is committed to providing support to “catastrophically wounded, injured, or ill veterans” and their families in an effort to help them overcome the obstacles in their new life. The fund provides

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Treat Mom This May! 3 LOCAL BRUNCH SPOTS YOU HAVE TO TRY

Did you forget about Mother’s Day? Don’t panic — we have you covered. Make a reservation at one of these top Triangle spots for brunch, and Mom will feel extra special.

Note: Hours for each location are specific for brunch.

PARKSIDE Where: 301 W. Martin St., Raleigh When: Open at 11 a.m. Wednesday–Friday, 10 a.m. on Saturdays, and 9 a.m. on Sundays Website: ParksideRaleigh.com With enough seating for the whole extended family, Parkside is a great spot to satisfy a brunch craving and gather with all the moms in your life. The brunch menu includes decadent and unique flavors, complete with jalapeño and bacon deviled eggs, banana challah French toast, prime rib scramble bowl, and — a Southern classic — shrimp and grits. Parkside also offers lunch-inspired bites, like the Parkside burger and its famous chicken and waffle sandwich. Make your reservation online or order delivery through DoorDash!

TAKE A BREAK

Banana Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting Inspired by TasteOfHome.com

MANDOLIN Where: 2519 Fairview Road, Raleigh When: Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Website: MandolinRaleigh.com

INGREDIENTS • 1 cup butter, softened and divided • 1 1/2 cups sugar • 2 large eggs, room temperature • 1 cup sour cream • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 2 cups all- purpose flour • 1 tsp baking soda • 1/4 tsp salt • 2 ripe bananas, mashed • 8 oz cream cheese, softened • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 4 cups powdered sugar

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup butter and the sugar for 5–7 minutes with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla and beat until smooth. 3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually combine with the wet mixture. Stir in bananas. 4. In a greased pan, spread the mixture evenly and bake for 20–25 minutes. Remove from oven to cool. 5. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, remaining 1/2 cup butter, and vanilla until the mixture is fluffy for frosting. Gradually beat in enough powdered sugar to achieve desired consistency. 6. When bars are completely cool, frost and cut into squares. Store in the refrigerator.

One of the most well-liked brunch spots in town, Mandolin has a sweet location connection, too. Owner Sean Fowler is a Raleigh native who used to enjoy grilled cheese lunches at Johnson’s Pharmacy — the very same location as his locally famous Mandolin restaurant. Mom will enjoy a five-star meal, complete with classics like the country breakfast, the omelet of the day, or a sandwich stuffed with local ingredients. Make your reservations online and don’t miss out!

ACADEMY STREET BISTRO Where: 200 S. Academy St., Cary When: Open Monday–Saturday at 11 a.m. Website: AcademyStreetBistro.com

Enjoy the gorgeous outdoor seating available at Academy Street Bistro. Spring is in the air, and we know Mom would love to sit outside, sip a brunch cocktail, and enjoy delicious food at the bistro. Split some tasty Brussels sprouts or Jumbo-Lump crab cakes, then choose from favorites like eggs Benedict or a wide variety of salads and sandwiches. You can view the menu online and call 919.377.0509 to reserve your spot!

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PATRIOT WEALTH 4350 Lassiter at North Hills Ave. #330 Raleigh, NC 27609 INSIDE THIS ISSUE What Makes for a Better Existence? PAGE 1 Need a Retirement Plan? Go to Yale! PAGE 2 Support Veterans This Memorial Day PAGE 2 Take a Break PAGE 3 Banana Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting PAGE 3 3 Brunch Spots Mom Will Love! PAGE 3 Moms, Treat Yourselves This Mother’s Day PAGE 4

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HOW MOMS SHOULD CELEBRATE THIS MOTHER’S DAY Do It Your Way Let’s face it: The kids probably aren’t going to get you what you really want for Mother’s Day. We know it’s the thought that counts, but you’ve still earned some pampering. It might be time to take matters into your own hands by celebrating yourself this year — no matter what your children and/or partner have planned. Here are some ideas to get you started. Take the day off. It might be the greatest gift any mother can give herself. Let your partner, the grandparents, or a babysitter take care of the kids for the day and spend time doing what you want to do. Maybe that’s sleeping in late, finally going to see a grown-up movie in a theater, reading a juicy novel, or going on a shopping spree. It doesn’t matter what you choose — not having to worry about temper tantrums, meals, or bedtime is the true gift here. Enjoy a girls’ day out. You probably don’t get to see your friends as much as you’d like, so take the time to get together for some kid-free fun. You can treat yourself to brunch,

manicures, or just a bottle of wine and a good laugh. Having the opportunity to catch up with the gals you love the most can be a great way to rejuvenate. Create a group text and get the party planning started! Have a date night — with the person of your choosing. With whom would you most like to spend some alone time? If it’s your partner, arrange a romantic evening for adults only. If it’s your best friend, schedule a fun outing. Maybe your ideal Mother’s Day involves the kids after all! If so, plan some one- on-one time with each of them, doing something special you know they’ll love. Whomever you choose as your date, you’ll feel more connected (and appreciated) than ever. If your special Sunday is already booked with family activities, remember you can always pick another weekend to treat yourself. That way, you can still get your ideal day — and enjoy the kid-prepared breakfast you’ve come to expect and love.

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