BROWSING:  Columns

New Year’s Eve, also known as Old Year’s Day or St. Sylvester’s Day in other countries, is always celebrated on December 31. (This year the date reads numerically as 123123! I found that to be an interesting tidbit of information.) The last day of the year is celebrated many different ways – from elegant parties with plenty of dancing, good food and champagne toasts – to a cozy evening at home with family and friends playing board games and waiting for the ball to drop.

In recent years, the world has witnessed a notable shift away from globalization and heading toward a new era of deglobalization. This trend, marked by the retreat from international cooperation, trade tensions and increasing protectionism has significant implications for global investments. This is very different from the past 30 years when production of goods was intertwined between different countries with minor conflicts worldwide. In this article, we will explore how deglobalization is affecting investments and what investors should consider in this evolving landscape.

In early November we found ourselves, once again, in the car on our way toward another mini-adventure. Because my fiancé is a recent transplant to Texas from Michigan, I feel a tremendous duty to familiarize him with his new home. The only problem is that Texas is gigantic and there are lots of places to see. Add in a five-year-old boy who doesn’t like all of the same vacation activities that two adults prefer … and you have a scheduling nightmare that is almost guaranteed to leave someone less than enthused.

Investing is often hailed as the key to financial success and independence. However, the age-old debate between passive and active investing strategies continues to baffle many aspiring investors. In this article, we’ll demystify the difference between passive and active investing, shedding light on the pros and cons of each approach to help you make informed decisions about your financial future.

Sometimes, the best kind of adventures are the ones you didn’t even know existed. A little off the beaten path, a little unfamiliar, but so worthwhile once you get there.

Veterans Day is observed on November 11 and honors all members of the Armed Forces who have valiantly served, fighting to protect us and keep our country safe. Veterans gave their time and risked their lives for you and me. Originally known as Armistice Day, it was first celebrated in 1921. In 1954, on November 11 at 11:11am, the U.S., France and England each buried an “unknown soldier” in honor of those who died in World War I. The time and day were picked because fighting ceased in World War I in 1918 on November 11 at 11:11.

Hopefully, the UAW strike will be settled by the time this column goes to print. It is worth taking a step back and asking why General Motors, Ford and Stellantis did not just give the UAW what it wanted to avoid the strike.

Behind Champ’s deep, soulful eyes lies a story, one only he will ever know. That is because whoever had him before he arrived at the Humane Society of Genesee County dumped him in one of the dog runs behind the shelter after hours. That was more than 600 days ago.

Tis the season  for sweaters, sparkles, good cheer and, of course, gift-giving! Welcome to our Holiday Shopping Guide for gifts everyone is sure to love!

Mushroom soup is full of “fall cozy” and it’s a definite favorite in my home when the weather turns cold and rainy. Pair it with some crusty bread and an apple dessert … there’s no need to leave the house all day!

Since before many of us can remember, the cornucopia has been a symbol of autumn and has adorned many tables in celebration of our Thanksgiving holiday. From the Latin Cornu Copiae meaning “horn of abundance” the item is traditionally pictured or modeled as a horn-shaped wicker basket overflowing with produce, flowers, fruits or nuts. In centuries past, baskets of this form were used in Asia and Central Europe by workers during harvest season, worn strapped and slung around the shoulder and then filled with picked bounty.

Every November, casual conversations with friends include inquiries about their plans for Thanksgiving. The answers go one of two ways: they are looking forward to it, or they dread the upcoming day.