Financial Architects - April 2022

Financial Architects - April 2022

APRIL 2022

www.financialarch.com

888-466-5453

To Better Serve Your Financial Needs THE EVOLUTIONOFMIKE’S TEAM

Hello FAI Nation! I’m Mike, and I’ve been with Financial Architects since 2004. My primary focus is serving individuals and families with retirement and income investing planning as part of our Financial Architects Experience. I’ve been working in this field since 1992, and this year marks my 30th anniversary in the financial industry. I’ve enjoyed serving my clients while building great personal relationships with them and their families. During my time here at Financial Architects, several things have changed — like the team I work with on a daily basis. About two years ago, both I and our leadership at FAI agreed that there was an opportunity to add a team member beyond the role of administrative support. To better help our clients, we thought it would be best if we added a financial designer to assist me. I turned to one of my advisor colleagues, Chris Ball, for assistance to begin this journey. In early 2020, I asked him if he would work with me, and after some discussion, Chris became our client relationship coordinator (CRC). He filled the roll of administrative

My favorite thing about this team is that we are able to support other advisors in different ways. Now that the responsibilities are divided among the three of us, I can primarily focus on managing client portfolios for both long term growth and income now, as needed. Chris’ main focus as a designer is to review insurance protection and help support the overall financial architecture model. As our new CRC, Carson does everything from setting up appointments, updating our client relationship software, tracking reviews and appointments, and overall client care. This team has helped all of us as we can focus on our strengths and use our time efficiently to help improve our client’s experience with Financial Architects. Working with this team has been awesome, and I love our commitment to help each other. This team has enabled me to share a closer relationship with my clients and my family. I can’t thank them enough for their hard work and dedication. A special thanks to my wife, Lynda, and our three beautiful daughters, Helena, Caroline, and Keely, for supporting me on my journey. I also want to give a special thanks to my parents Judy and Jerry. My dad recently passed away last October, and if it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t be in my present position. My dad introduced me to his friend while in high school. This inspired me to pursue my career path. I am grateful for my parent’s guidance.

support while also assisting me during our client meetings. I am forever grateful for Chris and his help during that first year!

“My dad introduced me to his friend while in high school. This inspired me to pursue my career path. I am grateful for my parent’s guidance.”

In early 2021, we agreed Chris wanted less administrative work and more time helping with client review meetings. When Chris expanded into a co-advisor role, we turned to Carson Mamo, my friend Brian Mamo’s son. Carson has been a special project intern since 2018, and Chris and I thought Carson would be the perfect fit to take on the CRC role. Carson formally took that position in July, 2021. This evolution of our team has benefited Financial Architects and our clients. We were able to define roles and responsibilities, create better processes, and improve our communication with our clients. Carson has soared in his new position and has made great changes to help our clients and our team.

–Mike Kucera

1

888-466-5453

Egg-splore Different Ways to Celebrate Easter

EYE ON THE BALL Book Reviews With Chris Ball

‘THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO’ BY ALEXANDRE DUMAS

Easter is approaching, and there are tons of activities you and your family can do to celebrate the holiday. These activities will let your children or grandchildren unlock their imaginations, all from the comfort of your own home. FUN HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES THE WHOLE FAMILY WILL ENJOY

While I do not read as many novels as I used to, I wanted to make sure to also highlight some of my favorite works of fiction. So many fundamental and universal themes are explored in the great works of literature. I first read “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas in my 10th-grade English class. It immediately became my favorite work of fiction and still is to this day. When I first met my wife, we clicked right away when I discovered it was also her favorite novel! The book tells the story of Edmond Dantes, a 19-year-old man who seems to have it all. He is about to become the captain of a ship and marry the woman of his dreams. Although well-liked by most, his success also stirs up jealousy among some of his so-called friends. Together, they draft a letter accusing Dantes of treason. Although he has no political leanings, Dantes is accused of being sympathetic to Napoleon Bonaparte, who had recently abdicated the throne as emperor. Although clearly innocent, he is sent to prison by a prosecutor with a dangerous secret to hide. While in prison, Dantes meets Abbe Faria, an intellectual Italian priest who has been jailed for his political views. Faria not only gives Dantes an education on many topics, but he also talks of escaping prison and claiming his stake to a large hidden treasure. Years later, Dantes emerges in Rome, calling himself the Count of Monte Cristo. His charm, intellect, and wealth appear to be unmatched. None of his old cohorts recognize him, allowing him to hatch an elaborate scheme of revenge. The book is full of important themes and symbols. The imperfection and limits of human justice are woven throughout the book. We also get a glimpse into human nature, exploring why some are happy and others are miserable. The likable characters in the book appreciate the good things they have, while the bad are people who constantly focus on what they do not have. Dumas gave us many literary treasures — “The Three Musketeers,” “Twenty Years After,” and “The Man in the Iron Mask.” He is one of the great creative forces in the history of literature. However, I still maintain that “The Count of Monte Cristo” is his greatest work and a masterpiece of Western literature.

KIWICO EGGSPERIMENTS Cost: $26.95 KiwiCo.com

These experiments bundle creativity, science, and education in one fun, family-friendly package! Instead of having your kids decorate eggs with paint, you can use this kit to conduct scientific experiments. Your child will be able to color eggs and create crystalized shells by using chemistry, physics, and biology.

EGGED ON Cost: $24.50 Amazon.com

You’ve heard of casino roulette, but have you heard of egg roulette? Well, now you have with Egged On, a Hasbro board game that will have you and your children laughing in no time. You first spin the wheel to see how many eggs you will crack over your head or someone else’s. Some of these eggs are filled with water, which are the eggs you don’t want. Try your luck with this fun-filled game.

EASTER COOKIE KIT Cost: $29.99 ThePopcornFactory.com

Did somebody say cookies? Yes, we did! With this cookie kit, you and your kids will be creating edible bunnies, flowers, and eggs! The kit provides all the ingredients you need to bake delicious cookies, which is a perfect time to teach your child about the fundamentals of baking while having fun at the same time. This activity satisfies your creative needs and your cravings for a sweet treat. The traditional activities around Easter are fun, and now you have even more options to choose from — but these items will go fast so pick one up ASAP. These activities are enjoyable for the entire family, and you can create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy Easter!

The information contained in this newsletter is derived from sources believed to be accurate. You should discuss any legal, tax, or financial matters with the appropriate professional. Neither the information presented nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Registered Representatives offer Securities through The O.N. Equity Sales Company, Member FINRA/SIPC (www.FINRA.org/ and www.SIPC.org). Investment Advisory Services offered through O.N. Investment Management Company and FAI Advisors, Inc., Financial Architects, Inc., FAI Advisors, Inc. is not a subsidiary or affiliate of The O.N. Equity Sales Company or O.N. Investment Management Company. We have representatives currently registered in the following states: AL, AZ, CA, CO, DC, FL, GA, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NH, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, SC, TX, VA, WA, and WI.

www.financialarch.com 2

Chat With a Client Michelle Mullen and Aleta Sill

Take a Break

Solution on Page 4

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH FINANCIAL ARCHITECTS? We have been connected with FAI since the 1990s after being introduced to Chris Cousins. Aleta was talking with her best friend about getting a financial planner for us, and her sister had a friend who knew Chris. We have been working with him, Mike Kucera, and Chris Ball ever since. We are grateful for that introduction years ago!

This recipe from TikTok user @violet.cooks almost broke the internet — and you’ll see why! The fried tortillas make it out-of-this-world delicious. One-Pan Chicken Tacos Inspired by TasteOfHome.com

INGREDIENTS • 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced into 1-inch pieces • 2 tbsp garlic powder • 2 tbsp cumin • 2 tbsp chipotle powder

WHAT HAS THE SPORT OF BOWLING MEANT TO THE TWO OF YOU? Oh my goodness, where do we start? Bowling has been everything to us going back decades. The two of us were both professional bowlers and have combined for 35 pro titles. Michelle also has coached for Team USA, while Aleta was the first million-dollar woman’s bowler and a two-time triple crown winner. We now run Your Bowling Coach (YourBowlingCoach.com) and Aleta’s Bowling World Pro Shop in Farmington Hills. We offer lessons, coaching, bowling camps, and much more. It is our passion! WE KNOW YOU ALSO HAVE A PASSION FOR ANIMALS AS WELL, CORRECT? Yes, we absolutely do. Michelle is the president of the Michigan Animal Welfare Foundation. We are very passionate about supporting animals in need and finding them a home. The foundation raises funds, resources, and awareness for life-saving animal organizations in our community. We also run an annual Bowl-4-Animal Rescue Charity Event and have done this for the past 15 years. Financial Architects was one of the elite sponsors in 2021, and we really appreciated their support. This year’s event is going to be on Aug. 13 and we cannot wait! For more info, go to www.miawf.org.

• Canola oil (for frying) • Corn tortillas • Grated cheddar cheese • Pico de gallo and guacamole salsa (to taste)

DIRECTIONS

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces, garlic powder, cumin, and chipotle powder. Mix until the chicken is coated. 2. In a frying pan, heat the oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken mixture. Cook on medium heat for 5–8 minutes. 3. Remove the chicken from the pan, and add the corn tortillas (avoid overlapping) so they soak up the juices. Flip the tortillas and repeat. Then, add chicken and grated cheddar to each tortilla and fold it over the filling — in the pan. 4. Cook the tacos for 3 minutes per side until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. 5. Top with pico and guacamole salsa, and serve!

3 888-466-5453

39395 W. 12 Mile Road Suite 102 Farmington Hills, MI 48331

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

888-466-5453 www.financialarch.com

Inside This Issue 1 | Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

2 | Try Your Luck With This Eggtastic Game!

2 | Eye on the Ball Book Review

3 | Chat With a Client: Michelle Mullen and Aleta Sill

3 | One-Pan Chicken Tacos

4 | Secret, Beautiful Vacation Spots in the US

Hidden Vacation Getaway Gems in the US Shh! This Is Our Little Secret …

BEST FOR QUIET PARADISE SEEKERS: SILVER FALLS STATE PARK, OREGON Travel Distance: 1.25 hours by car from Portland, OR Best Time to Visit: Summer Oregon is already known for its spectacular waterfalls, but if you want to find a quiet oasis of cascading waterfalls and lush scenery, look no further than Silver Falls State Park. Set off on a 9-mile hiking trail loop named Trail of Ten Falls to see all 10 waterfalls. If you choose to stay overnight, the campgrounds include a gorgeous forested setting with spacious sites, nice bathrooms, and options for tent or RV camping. These sites often require a little over an hour’s drive, but that’s why they are perfect for quiet and enjoyabwle vacations. Consider giving them a try!

Who says you need to travel abroad for a glamorous or exciting vacation? We have so many incredible spots within the U.S.! From coast to coast, here are three underrated domestic, family-friendly vacation spots you just might be missing out on. BEST FOR FAMILIES: BROKEN BOW, OKLAHOMA Travel Distance: 3 hours by car from Dallas, TX, or Tulsa, OK Best Time to Visit: Late spring or fall

kid-friendly geology center to learn about rocks, minerals, and the area’s mining history) are great attractions on top of the awesome hiking and lakeside outdoor activities available. BEST FOR BEACH VACATIONERS: JEKYLL ISLAND, GEORGIA Travel Distance: 1.5 hours by car from Savannah, GA, or 1.25 hours by car from Jacksonville, FL Best Time to Visit: Fall This island used to be a private escape for wealthy families in the 1880s — and it shows. It’s a unique vacation spot on the East Coast for anyone looking for serenity and adventure. With over 10 miles of white sand beaches, and much of it undeveloped, you’ll get a very natural, tranquil experience with excellent seafood and Southern- style dining options.

Thanks to its location by Broken Bow Lake, you’ll be surrounded by forest and wildlife in almost any cabin or Airbnb you book in the area. The Wildlife Museum, BigFoot Speedway (a go-kart racing track), and Beaver’s Bend Mining Company (a

www.financialarch.com 4