2003 Press Coverage / Media Interest

Kiplinger’s Personal Finance – Safe Investing, Winter 2003 – This special publication contains an article called Good Guidance, which explains how to find, evaluate and deal with financial advisors. Eileen Freiberger, CFP®, and Warren McIntyre, CFP®, members of The Garrett Planning Network, offer tips for investors who are confused and need help. “Getting referrals from family and friends should always be your first stop, but you may not be successful,” says McIntyre. “So many people have had unpleasant experiences with a planner who sold them something and was never heard from again.” The author recommends Fee-Only planners because they don’t rely on sales for their livelihood. You can find Fee-Only planners at websites such as http://www.napfa.org and http://www.garrettplanningnetwork.com.

Business Week, December 30, 2003 – In “Your Retirement,” Bonnie Hughes, CFP®, a financial planner in Rome, GA, says that you should ask your employer the amount of the fees being paid to the funds in your plan before deciding which funds to keep or which new ones to buy. She suggests you voice your preference that the company offer investments "including low-cost index funds from reputable firms with transparent costs and for financial education" to help you make investment decisions. “And regardless of what happens in the market, if you're lucky enough to get a pay raise in 2004, put the money into your savings instead of spending it,” advises Hughes. The 401(k) contribution limits will rise by $1,000 – to $13,000 – in 2004, and people 50 and older can add an additional $3,000 "catch-up" contribution.

Baltimore Sun, December 29, 2003 – Jim Ludwick, CFP®, President of MainStreet Financial Planning, has been honored by the Financial Planning Association of Maryland with the 2003 Leadership Award. Jeffrey Lang, president of the association, praised Ludwick for his vision and energy in stimulating the creation of Financial Education Week in Maryland.

The Bernardsville News, December 4, 2003 – Jim Christie, CFP®, Principal of Freedom Financial Planning in New Jersey, was featured on the front page of The Bernardsville Newspaper as a volunteer for Angel Flight Northeast, an organization that provides free airplane transportation to people in need of medical care. Once a month on average, Christie fuels up his six-seat Piper Saratoga, takes a day off from his work as a Certified Financial Planner™ professional, and takes to the skies to help others get medical treatment far from home. "There are a lot of people who need to get to specialized care and they can't afford the cost of commercial flights," explained Christie. "I love to fly, and here's a great way to do it and help other people at the same time.”

Long Island Business News, December 4, 2003 –Jason Morley, CPA, of Morley Financial Planning in New York was featured as a financial planner who works for the best interest of his clients. Morley doesn’t sell products or receive commissions, nor does he impose a minimum income or net worth requirement on his clients. Morley joined The Garrett Planning Network to gain the support and resources he needed to build a successful practice where he can serve middle-income Americans. In a 3-day training session, Morley picked up key essentials for serving his clients such as communication skills, marketing, time management, and more.

The Detroit News, December 1, 2003 – Warren McIntyre, CFP®, of VisionQuest Financial Planning in Troy, Michigan provides a Money Makeover for a young engineer looking to return to school full time and then change careers. McIntyre suggests that the 28-year old man contribute the maximum to his retirement accounts while still employed and use student loans rather than deplete his cash hoard to pay for tuition. He also offers other specific suggestions for managing his resources efficiently during the transition. Although most people would not undertake such a dramatic change in lifestyle, McIntyre provides encouragement, “This is your vision and I encourage you to go for it.”

Walton Sun, November 22, 2003 – Buz Livingston of Livingston Financial Network in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida wrote and published an article in the Walton Sun titled, “Rules for the Good Life.” Livingston demonstrated his financial planning expertise by raising awareness to some of the most important aspects to a financial plan. “People often equate financial planning with stocks, annuities or life insurance,” writes Livingston. “While insurance and investments are important parts of a financial plan sometimes the best advice has little to do with either.” Livingston goes on to list important tips and aspects of a financial plan.

Financial Advisor Magazine, October 2003 – David J. Drucker looks at the debate within the financial planning business over the question of whether it’s appropriate to use annuities in IRAs and other qualified accounts. Not too surprisingly, those who find favor with this practice are often the ones selling annuities. Warren McIntyre, a Certified Financial Planner™ professional in Troy, Michigan argues, “Annuities are sold because the ‘advisor’ makes the most money on this product.” In which case, adds McIntyre, “is the seller really going to avoid the huge IRA market just because it’s the right thing to do? Of course not,” he says.

San Diego Union Tribune, October 15, 2003 – In “Some Advisors Charge by the Hour,” Terry Green, CFP®, Ronald Heath, CFP®, and Glenda Moehlenpah, CFP®, all of San Diego, CA, and members of The Garrett Planning Network, are noted as a logical choice for consumers looking for financial planners who do not accept commissions or have high account minimums. The Garrett Planning Network and its Members are “the leading proponent of a movement to make financial planning available to the vast middle market, not just the affluent,” says the writer.

Forth Worth Star Telegram, October 10, 2003 – A new breed of financial advisor is available to assist the middle-income market with spot planning and hourly, as-needed advice. One such planner is Bryan Clintsman, CFP®, Principal of Clintsman Financial Planning in Southlake, Texas. A member of The Garrett Planning Network, Bryan says, “I think everybody needs financial planning, and it has nothing to do with level of income. It has to do with circumstances of need.”

Reader’s Digest, October 2003 – Bryan Totri, CFP®, Principal of WellSpring Planning in Roswell, GA was featured in a cover story titled “12 Ways to Keep More of your Money - Top Financial Planners Give their Best Advice – Free of Charge.” When asked for advice on investing in mutual funds, Totri made the case for investing in no-load funds with low expenses. He provided an example of the typical charges incurred by investors in mutual funds and how even a small difference in lower fund expenses adds up to significantly higher growth in the value of the fund over time.

Financial Advisor, October 2003 – Kathy Dollard, CFP®, principal of Nashoba Financial Planning in Boxborough, MA, knows first-hand about the need to save more and spend less from both sides of the advisory fence. When her husband was laid off during the recession, she and her family embarked on a moderated spending plan to help keep retirement and education savings goals on track. Given the circumstances, she implemented a needed change in lifestyle, just as she recommends to some of her clients. “One of the hardest things I have to do as a financial planner,” she says, “is to convince people of the need to change their lifestyles.” Dollard helps her clients to do an honest assessment of what they really need and what they can live without in order to get them on track to meet their financial planning goals.

Financial Advisor, October 2003 – Suzanne Fails, CFP®, of Roberts & Fails, P.C. in Houston, Texas, and Bryan Clintsman, CFP®, of Clintsman Financial Planning in Southlake, Texas, were profiled in “Profits in the Middle-Income Market” in the October 2003 Issue of Financial Advisor magazine. Fails and Clintsman were interviewed as experts in tailoring their businesses to serve the needs of middle-income Americans. Middle-income households are growing faster than any other. These planners have figured out how to cater to the needs of this untapped market efficiently. Individuals and families in their communities have flocked to their financial planning businesses, proving that hourly as-needed advice – without long-term commitments, account minimums and commissions – is something that Americans need and want.

New York Times, October 5, 2003 – In “Investing; A Land of Market Timing (and Broken Watches),” Rich Chambers, CFP®, founding principal of Investor’s Capital Management of Menlo Park, California, said that in 1999, few clients would listen when he advised them to diversify their assets and adopt a long-term buy-and-hold strategy. Chambers’ experience in investing tells him that you will be far more successful if you purchase investments that you can hold on to rather than reacting every time there is a change in the market. “It’s still not an easy sell today, “ Chambers said.

MorningstarAdvisor.com, October 1, 2003 – In “Mission Statements – Who’s Kidding Who,” Mary Gibson, CFP®, of San Juan Bautista, California, is featured as a financial planner who is also a business planning expert. Gibson, who owns a financial planning practice as well as teaches a class for her local small-business development center on how to start a business, spends much time helping students develop their mission statement. When asked how she facilitates her own mission statement, Gibson states, “I work in the fee-only, hourly advisory model. This allows me to spend time in education. I help clients explore the motivations and beliefs they hold about money. I have them examine core values, set goals and write investment policy statements."

TIAA’s Teacher Talk Magazine, September 2003 – Scott Dauenhauer, CFP®, founder of Meridian Wealth Management in California, was profiled in “Missionary Man.” Dauenhauer’s unofficial mission has become to fight for the financial interests of K-12 educators. Dauenhauer speaks, writes and lobbies districts, employees and legislators — all while trying to build a financial planning business that, not surprisingly, offers teachers a discount for his services. “He truly puts his clients’ interests first, “ says Dan Otter, co-author of 403(b) Wise Guide with Dauenhauer. “A lot of people say that. Scott does it.”

The Detroit News, September 15, 2003 – In the Money & Life section, Warren McIntyre of VisionQuest Financial Planning in Troy, Michigan, appears again as the Guest Expert to provide a Money Makeover for a 55-year old autoworker hoping to retire in five to seven years. McIntyre offers suggestions to achieve his goal, including restructuring his portfolio to reduce exposure to the stock market and increase the return on other investments. “We want to improve the yield on the conservative things and reduce the risk of the aggressive things.”

CBS MarketWatch, August 27, 2003 – Dave Ressner, a financial planner in St. Louis says: “It's good to like your planner, but it's not the most important thing. I don't necessarily like my plumber, but he fixes my toilets, and I like him for that." As for his own relationships with clients, Ressner says, "I need to be a sobering influence. Players who win the World Series don't hit the ball out of the park every time they step up to the plate. They get on base. And get across home plate. It's not always flashy. If you want to get your family across home plate, send your kids to college and protect them, it's not exciting. Investing and financial planning shouldn't be exciting.”

AARP, August 2003 – Bruce Brinkman, CFP®, of Brinkman Financial Partners in Rockford, Illinois, addressed a powerful financial tool – delaying retirement – in “It Pays to Delay Retirement.” The article discusses that if you are currently struggling to save for retirement, by staying in the work force for a few more years or by continuing to work part-time in retirement, you can make your golden years more comfortable. At the same time, people may also decide they don't want to give up the work so early in life. "You could have 20 years to live," Brinkman notes. "What are you going to do with this time? Maybe you could work 20 hours a week. That would help you psychologically and it would help financially."

The Detroit News, August 11, 2003 – In the Money & Life section, Warren McIntyre, CFP®, principal of VisionQuest Financial Planning in Troy, Michigan, provides a Money Makeover to help a hard working college student get an early start toward financial freedom. This feature highlights some important financial planning concepts for young people. “It’s extremely unusual that you are starting this young,” McIntyre said to the 20-year old. “A lot of people with $10,000 would be using it for cars and stereos. But when it comes to money, time is everything.”

Pioneer Press, August 10, 2003 – Just because the government wants you to spend that $400 child tax credit to help revive the economy doesn't mean you have to head for the malls. Instead, do what's best for your family: pay bills, set up an emergency fund or consider investing and saving the money for your retirement or your child's college education. If you put the money to work as an investment, the impact may be greater than you think. Phil Dyer, a Timonium, Md., financial planner and Member of The Garrett Planning Network, had one of his clients invest the rebate in a Roth IRA for a 13-year-old child. When the child retires in 52 years, that $400 alone should be worth about $21,900. Plus, none of that money will ever be taxed because Roth IRAs are tax-free if they stay invested until age 59½. Bonnie Hughes, a Rome, Ga., financial planner and Member of The Garrett Planning Network, says taxpayers should be especially careful this year to review their W-4 and make sure the government isn't withholding too much tax money given the tax changes. While people like getting refunds at the end of the year, she says it's silly to give that money to the government instead of investing it.

Financial Planning Interactive, August 5, 2003 – Jim Blankenship, ChFC, CCPS, principal of Blankenship Financial Planning in Illinois, provided insight and advice on the problems consumers face when relying on a pension plan to fund their retirement. Because of declines in the market, many have found their plans to be under funded. Some planners are already adjusting portfolios as well as bringing down client expectations about the actual amounts that clients will receive from their pensions. "We made some assumptions that there would be less money there, so now [my client’s] kind of adjusted his thinking," said Jim Blankenship. "We’re not throwing in the towel, [but] he’s actually planning on working a little bit longer now as a result of that." Read the rest of “Defined Benefit Plans May Be at Risk.”

All Woman, Money Talks, Summer 2003 – Bonnie Hughes, CFP®, principal of A&H Financial Planning and Education in Rome, Georgia, provided advice to women in transition in this special publication. On some level, women have to say, “Me first,” says Bonnie. Sure, you should do all you can to save for your kids' college costs, but they can take out a loan, get jobs or both, she says. As for elderly parents: "Start researching community resources and begin to think about housing arrangements and other related issues before your parents need them.” This way, you're not forced to make important decisions while you're under the stress of a difficult time. And yes, you should take a vacation. But if you're short on cash, consider creative alternatives. "Visit a local spa, so you don't have to pay for lodging and travel," says Hughes.

Accounting Today, July 2003 – The Garrett Planning Network financial planners are reaching out to what has often been an ignored or overlooked market: middle-income families. In “Managing the Money of Middle-Income Americans,” Bonnie Hughes, CFP®, principal of A&H Financial Planning and Education in Georgia, speaks of her services to these middle-income families. She says, “I’m not doing heavy-duty tax planning, or estate planning. I do cash flow, investment policy statement, and asset allocation. I give clients instructions on how to do those themselves. It’s an affordable way for regular folks to get expertise and planning.”

San Diego Union-Tribune, Personal Finance, July 27, 2003 – Glenda Moehlenpah, CFP®, CPA, principal of Financial Bridges in Mission Valley, San Diego, says the new law lacks any new savings incentives and adds layers of complexities. Many aspects, such as the child tax credit limits and marriage penalty relief, phase in and out. "What's left," she says, "is this hodge-podge that doesn't make sense at all." Because of its complexities, the effects of the tax act on the average American household might not be known for some time. Read the rest of New Tax Law Offers Little in Long-Term Relief for additional insights.

Daily Record, Business Headline, July 25, 2003 – Sheri Iannetta Cupo, CFP®, was profiled in the Business Headline section. In the article, Morristown New Jersey Financial Adviser Charges Hourly Rate the writer talks about the financial planning process and why Sheri’s hourly, Fee-Only practice is different from 99% of all other financial services firms out there. Says Sheri, “my clients prefer not to sign up for a year with somebody. They don't want to give that person a percentage of their net worth or their assets. They just want to buy some time, and some advice, and then go on and come back when they feel the need. That’s why I’m different and how I can help."

Daily Record, Dollars & Sense, July 17, 2003 – James H. Christie, CFP®, principal of Freedom Financial Planning in Bridgewater, New Jersey, provided expert advice to a reader’s question. Which made more sense for the reader: funding a 401(k) plan or a Roth IRA? “Because his employer does not match any employee contributions (shame on them - go work for someone who does!), the only significant benefit of this particular employer's 401(k) is the periodic forced savings of payroll deduction,” says Jim. “If this person is disciplined enough to contribute money to a Roth IRA (either in a lump sum or at regular intervals), this may be much better in the long run. In fact, many employees are able to direct a fixed amount per paycheck via direct deposit to an outside account, such as a Roth IRA. If he can save more than the $3,000 contribution limit, then the 401(k) would be a good second choice (after he has put the $3,000 into the Roth).”

All Woman, Money Talks, Summer 2003 – Bonnie Hughes, CFP®, principal of A&H Financial Planning and Education in Rome, Georgia, provided advice to women in transition in this special publication. On some level, women have to say, “Me first,” says Bonnie. Sure, you should do all you can to save for your kids' college costs, but they can take out a loan, get jobs or both, she says. As for elderly parents: "Start researching community resources and begin to think about housing arrangements and other related issues before your parents need them.” This way, you're not forced to make important decisions while you're under the stress of a difficult time. And yes, you should take a vacation. But if you're short on cash, consider creative alternatives. "Visit a local spa, so you don't have to pay for lodging and travel," says Hughes.

San Diego Union-Tribune, Personal Finance, July 27, 2003 – Glenda Moehlenpah, CFP®, CPA, principal of Financial Bridges in Mission Valley, San Diego, says the new law lacks any new savings incentives and adds layers of complexities. Many aspects, such as the child tax credit limits and marriage penalty relief, phase in and out. "What's left," she says, "is this hodge-podge that doesn't make sense at all." Because of its complexities, the effects of the tax act on the average American household might not be known for some time.

Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, June 2003 – Warren McIntyre, CFP®, principal of VisionQuest Financial Planning in Troy, Michigan, is quoted in a piece on wedding insurance. In his article, “The Big Hitch”, Mark K. Solheim writes that you should give the cold shoulder to this new product peddled by the insurance industry. “Although wedding insurance may give you peace of mind,” says McIntyre, “it’s a way for insurance companies to profit by creating a need that doesn’t exist.”

Business Week Online, June 26, 2003 – Ellen Hoffman, in her article “A Lesson in Saving for College,” addresses the squeeze some people feel as they try to save for their golden years and also put children through college. Warren McIntyre, a financial planner in Troy, Michigan provided input and strategies for helping people deal with this difficult planning issue. The article makes the case that retirement funding should take precedent over college funding. McIntyre says to keep this in mind: “There are many ways to pay for college. However, with retirement, you get just one chance. If you have neglected retirement funding, you could be out of luck in the future.”

Daily Record, Dollars & Sense, July 17, 2003 – James H. Christie, CFP®, principal of Freedom Financial Planning in Bridgewater, New Jersey, provided expert advice to a reader’s question. Which made more sense for the reader: funding a 401(k) plan or a Roth IRA? “Because his employer does not match any employee contributions (shame on them - go work for someone who does!), the only significant benefit of this particular employer's 401(k) is the periodic forced savings of payroll deduction,” says Jim. “If this person is disciplined enough to contribute money to a Roth IRA (either in a lump sum or at regular intervals), this may be much better in the long run. In fact, many employees are able to direct a fixed amount per paycheck via direct deposit to an outside account, such as a Roth IRA. If he can save more than the $3,000 contribution limit, then the 401(k) would be a good second choice (after he has put the $3,000 into the Roth).”

Detroit News, June 30, 2003 – Karen Norman, CFP®, founder of Norman Financial Planning Inc. in Troy, MI, provided advice for a single mother earning a modest income while raising 2 sons in an article entitled Mother Can Manage Future Budget Crisis. The knack for thrift has helped the family to stay free of credit card debt, but there are other problems to address. “There is no magic way out of this," said Norman. "But if you set some goals and work hard to meet them, there could be an end point."

Financial Planning interactive, June 15, 2003 – Financial advisors need to pay more attention to Generation X Investors. So says an article on Financial Planning magazine’s e-publication. Economic factors have adversely affected Gen X investing habits, leaving this group unclear on goals and desires. GPN Members Mahlon Edwards, a planner in Las Vegas, and Sherill St. Germain, principal of New Means Financial Planning in Hollis, N.H. were quoted in the article. "I find them very willing to listen to advice and once they see the data for time horizons and that they have the capacity to take some risk, they are willing to do that. But it has to with the fact that it’s unbiased advice. The way that GenXers have been bombarded with marketing messages, they know a sales pitch when they see it."

Morningstar Advisor, June 11, 2003 – Eric Rabbanian, principal of Rabbanian Financial Planning in Austin, Texas, was the subject of a success profile by respected industry journalist David Drucker. “Armed with a law degree in addition to his MBA, 36-year-old Rabbanian provides ongoing clients with comprehensive financial planning and investment-management services, but also does hourly project planning, as called for.”

Wall Street Journal, June 4, 2003 – Rich Chambers, CFP®, principal of Investors Capital Management in Menlo Park, CA, was quoted in Jonathan Clement’s weekly column. The article, “Imagine There's No Children: Assessing the Cost of Your Kids,” discussed the financial realities and joys of raising children. “Kids are a real expense," Chambers says. But, he adds, "having kids is a privilege. You can't really put a price on that."

Boston Glove, May 27, 2003 – Kathy Dollard, CFP®, principal of Nashoba Financial Planning in Boxborough, MA , provided professional opinions and advice in an article on student loans and college planning.

The Star Ledger, May 25, 2003 – Sheri Iannetta Cupo, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional with Sage Advisory Group in Morristown, NJ, provided financial planning advice in a “Get with the Plan” money makeover.

Protecting your Wealth in Good Times and Bad, May 2003 – Written by Rick Ferri and published by McGraw-Hill, this book is a solid guide for consumers seeking to discover the best plan of action that fits their needs. Karen Norman, CFP®, principal of Norman Financial Planning in Troy, MI, is acknowledged in the book as having provided expertise on several financial planning issues. A great gift or addition to your library.

Kiplinger Personal Finance, June, 2003 – Warren McIntyre, CFP®, principal of VisionQuest Financial Planning in Troy, MI, is quoted in “The Big Hitch,” an article about wedding insurance (should you incur unforeseen losses due to needing to cancel the wedding as a result of inclement weather or illness). Although wedding insurance may give you peace of mind, “it’s a way for insurance companies to profit by creating a need that doesn’t exist,” he says.

Wall Street Journal, May 11, 2003 – In “How Would You Like to Pay For Advice on Your Finances?” Jonathan Clements provides advice on hiring a financial planner. After commenting on the 4 primary compensation methods (commissions, percentage of assets under management, retainers and hourly fee-only), he lands on the side of “billable hours” saying “… I like the idea of paying by the hour. It eliminates virtually all conflicts of interest, while providing a relatively inexpensive way for less-wealthy investors to get advice.” Bryan Totri, CFP®, principal of Well Spring Financial Planning in Roswell, GA is quoted in the article. Many hourly clients are "do-it-yourselfers who are looking for validation," he says. "They want a checkup. They want a little coaching." Mr. Clements concludes the article saying that, all-in-all, “…an hourly fee may prove cheaper than other ways of paying for advice.”

Dallas Morning News, May 8, 2003 – Bob Stowe, CFP®, principal of Stowe Financial Planning in Plano, TX, and Bryan Clintsman CFP®, principal of Clintsman Financial Planning in Southlake, TX contributed to an article on how parents can meet rising college costs. Two of Clintsman’s clients, a couple with their baby in tow, were pictured prominently.

Business Week Online, May 5, 2003 – “If your proposed retirement budget doesn't include at least several hundred thousand dollars for medical care, you need a new plan,” says Ellen Hoffman in her article, The Sickening Rise of Health Costs. Steven "Shags" Shagrin, CFP®, principal of Planning for Life in Youngstown, Ohio, was profiled in the article.

Morningstar Advisor, May 2, 2003 – C. Bradley Bond, a Murrysville, PA. advisor commented on the high level of continuing-education requirements that CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ™ practitioners must meet to maintain the right to use their CFP® marks. Continuing education is intended to increase the technical knowledge a planner should have to ensure professional competency in the face of changing methodologies, products and regulations. Ethics courses are now also the part of the CFP Board’s continuing-education requirements. Napfa (www.napfa.org) has even more stringent continuing ed requirements, that include coursework in Counseling and Communications. “This is an important area, particularly considering current trends in the industry toward advice and away from transactions,” he says. Brad, like many Members of The Garrett Planning Network, is also a CFP® and a member of Napfa.

Financial Advisor magazine, May 2003 – Deb Haas, principal of Plan to Prosper LLC in Brevard, NC, commented on the advice given to the masses by Suze Orman via broadcast media. “I agree with her that most financial advisors should have fires lit under them,” says Deb. “I just don’t like the way she uses that information to position herself as the ‘rescuer’ when some of her advice is just as bad. OK, I don’t like her rude, in-our-face style either. Recently a new client inquired if GPN Members had to take a ‘nice test’ before being allowed to join. She’d met several GPN Members at a Personal Finance Conference and felt them all to be concerned and caring.”

Kiplinger Personal Finance, April 2003 – Rick Epple, CFP®, principal of Epple Financial Planning in Minnesota, and Tim Hayes, CFP®, principal of in New York both provided information for Kiplinger's annual College Savings issue. How to balance your desire to help your kids with college and your need to save for retirement? Retirement savings should come first, Epple says. A Roth IRA gives a family ample flexibility to decide later how much to tap for college expenses. You can fully fund a Roth if your adjusted gross income is less than $95,000 if you're a single taxpayer or $150,000 if you're married.

Dallas Morning News, April 21, 2003 – Bob Stowe, CFP®, Principal of Stowe Financial Planning in Plano, TX, was quoted in an article in which the writer said: “We hope that after reading our Money Makeovers you'll have a better idea of what to look for if you want to seek out your own planner. If you do, the experts say you'd better shop around.” “If they don't shop around, they're going to end up in a place where they're being sold a product," said Bob. “You should be shopping for good advice on what to do about some aspect of your financial life. You didn't go out to buy a product."

Forbes.com, April 16, 2003 – Although the chances of being audited are small (fewer than 1% of the 132 million tax returns filed each year are typically audited), the Internal Revenue Service is getting better at analyzing returns for accuracy. This year more people will be scrutinized by the Internal Revenue Service simply because it has instituted a study on tax compliance in which it will randomly audit nearly 50,000 additional individual returns. The IRS will use this study to build a better mousetrap with which to catch tax cheaters. Learn the Eight Things To Do If You Are Audited. Glenda Moehlenpah, CPA, CFP®, principal of Financial Bridges in San Diego, CA provided advice and was quoted in the article.

Sound Money, April 12, 2003 –”If you're not wealthy, it can be tough to find a financial planner who will give you the time of day,” says this national public radio website. “Join Stephanie Curtis and Chris Farrell for Sound Money, to learn how to find a professional who will work within your budget.” GPN Member, Percy Bolton, CFP®, principal of Los Angeles-based Percy Bolton and Associates was the featured guest.

Wall Street Journal online, April 11, 2003 –”What is the rate used to compute the tax on an asset – in my case, a condominium unit – held for more than five years and sold in 2002?” asks a reader. The tax rate on an asset such as a condo depends on many different factors, says Alan M. Schapire, a principal at Libra Financial Planning in Media, PA, who provided additional advice.

Wall Street Journal online, April 10, 2003 – Steven Shagrin, CFP®, president of Planning For Life in Youngstown, OH, provided advice on switching from one state’s 529 to another state’s 529 plan at mid-year. “Do I have to send in any type of form to the IRS with my 2002 tax return?” asks the individual.

Wall Street Journal online, April 9, 2003 – Suzanne Fails, CPA, CFP®, a principal with Roberts & Fails, P.C. in Houston, TX, provided advice on whether or not distributions that you take from your IRA are taxed as ordinary income.

Detroit News, April 7, 2003 – Seek Advisers Who Charge Hourly Fees heralds the Detroit News. “You may have to search, but some planners specialize in middle-income clients,” says the article, which goes on to profile Members of The Garrett Planning Network. “Ask the advisers you contact if they will help you for an hourly fee. If you buy four or five hours of a planner's time, at maybe $150 an hour, you should be able to get a suggested portfolio of no-load funds, plus some pointers on how much to save, what to do with your kid's college savings, how to handle your debts and whether you have adequate insurance. The great thing about the hourly model is that clients can buy as much or as little help as they need or can afford.”

Florida Business Today, April 5, 2003 – The Garrett Planning Network and New Jersey-based member Sheri Cupo, CFP®, were profiled in an article provided by the Associated Press to newspapers across the country. Read Financial Planners Available by the Hour to learn how hourly, as-needed planners are helping “average Americans” and other self-directed investors nationwide.

Wall Street Journal online, April 2, 2003 – Glenda Moehlenpah, CPA, CFP®, principal of Financial Bridges in San Diego, CA provided advice on whether or not refinancing costs from rental property are tax-deductible.

Wall Street Journal online, April 1, 2003 – Theresa Leister of Financial Advisory Services in New York City provided tax planning advice to a consumer who’d heard that the U.S. government was giving a tax break to people who traveled to New York City for pleasure after the Sept. 11 attacks. While that is not the case, Ms. Leister points out that if you travel to New York on a business trip, costs from that trip (just as they would be for a business trip to any U.S. city) would be deductible.

Kiplinger Personal Finance, April 2003 – Timothy Hayes, MBA, CCPS, CMFC, RFC, principal of Pittsford, NY-based Landmark Financial Advisors was profiled in an article on how to work with a financial planner. This articled titled Advice for Sale explains why clients choose Hayes over other local advisors.

The Detroit News, March 31, 2003 – Karen Norman, CFP®, Principal of Norman Financial Planning in Troy, MI., provided some much-needed advice to a young couple struggle to balance old debts and future goals. “Financial planning isn't an event, it's really a process," Norman said. "As you evolve through life, time lines change, situations change, jobs and salaries change. Do the things you can do now and don't overwhelm yourself with what you can't do right now." Norman also suggested that the couple might find inspiration in personal finance books such as "Your Money or Your Life" by Joe Dominguez and Vicki Robin, or "The Richest Man in Babylon" by George S. Clason. "We all need encouragement, and we need to know this is not just our problem," Norman said. "And you two have done some very positive things here. You've taken huge steps."

Gannett/Daily Record, March 30, 2003 – ”You desperately need a financial planner – but you're young and poor. In fact, thanks to credit cards and student loans, you may even have a negative net worth,” says Gannett writer, Warren Boroson. “Or (like me) you're fairly long in the tooth and fairly well to do but you much prefer to manage your investments. You don't want a financial planner taking over your job and charging you an arm and a leg besides. Today, there's a neat solution to these predicaments: a financial planner who charges by the hour. So if you just want to learn how to extricate yourself from debt or you just would love someone to give your investment portfolio a once-over, you can hire a financial planner for just a few hours of work. You don't have to buy an entire automobile; you can lease a car for the weekend and save a lot of money.” Sheri Cupo, CFP®, Jim Christie, CFP®, Mark Barrish, CFP®, CFA®, and Don Webb, MBA, all of whom practice on an hourly, as-needed basis in the New Jersey area are featured in this article titled, "Fee-Only Planners Increase Nest Eggs."

Kansas City Star, March 30, 2003 – Brenda Sherbine, CPA/PFS, principal of Sherbine Tax & Financial Planning Services in Overland Park, KS, was quoted in “Can’t Save? Readers’ Advice Pulls No Punches” by Tribune Media Services syndicated columnist, Humberto Cruz. “More often than not, the first thing someone says is, ‘I can’t afford to do that.’ After reviewing their income and spending and helping them with a budget, the truth is, they can, but only if they want to.” It’s a matter of paying yourself first and making that a priority, she says.

Wall Street Journal online, March 27, 2003 – Dean Knepper, CFP®, CPA, principal of Lifetime Financial Planning in Leesburg, VA, provided advice on whether or not certain earnings were taxable on an account that was converted from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA.

Wall Street Journal online, March 26, 2003 – Nancy Lange, CPA, principal of Hartland Tax and Financial Advisors in the Detroit, MI, area provided advice on whether or not long-term care insurance premiums and/or Medicare supplemental insurance premiums are deductible on form 1040A if the filer itemizes.

Nashville City Paper, March 26, 2003 – Andy Claybrook CPA/PFS, CFP®, president of Fee-Only Financial Solutions, in Franklin, TN was featured as a Guest Columnist. His article, Holding On to an Even Keel offered advice regarding what shell-shocked investors might do now.

Kansas City Star, March 23, 2003 – Brenda Sherbine, CPA/PFS, principal of Sherbine Tax & Financial Planning Services in Overland Park, KS, provided answers to pressing tax questions in the newspaper’s Ask the Expert column.

Morningstar Advisor, March 19, 2003 – Brenda Sherbine, CPA/PFS, is profiled exclusively as "One CPA Who Is Cut Out to Be a Financial Advisor," in this article by respected industry journalist, David Drucker. “Sherbine and others like her are ‘people persons’ and can assume the financial advisor's most critical role,” says the writer, “that of building a personal and lasting client relationship.”

The Physicians’ Personal Advisor, January 2003 – New Jersey-based advisor, Jim Christie, CFP®, was profiled in an article by Lou Pilla titled “Should you Pay for Financial Planning by the Hour?” Hourly compensation makes sense for do-it-yourselfers and/or individuals seeking a second opinion and/or validation of their financial decisions, says the writer. Clients who need assistance with plan implementation may engage the planner’s services on either an hourly or a flat rate basis, says planner Jim Christie.

Financial Advisor magazine, March 2003 – Do Consumers Lose with Suze Orman? asks the article. Scott Dauenhauer, an independent financial advisor in Laguna Hills, CA, chimes in on the Suze Orman phenomenon.

TV CHANNEL 58, Los Angeles - Pasadena-based advisor, Percy Bolton , CFP®, appeared as a guest on the an episode of "Right on the Money.” Percy was interviewed by the show’s host, Chris Feller, regarding the financial planning issues one should consider when starting a business.

Wall Street Journal online, March 4, 2003 – Suzanne Fails, a certified public accountant and certified financial planner with Roberts & Fails, P.C. in Houston, TX provided advice about claiming expenses or business mileage to offset compensation from your employment.

Investment News, March 2003 – The CFP Board of Standards has issued a new advisory opinion on the definition of "Fee Only." Compensation is an area of deep interest and importance to the public, and the term “Fee Only” is one that has passed into general usage by the media and the public. The CFP Board wants to be sure that the term is being applied by financial planners consistently. In essence, the CFP Board says that the definition “Fee Only” should exclude advisors who accept commissions. Scott Dauenhauer, CFP®, Principal of Meridian Wealth in Laguna Hills, CA. says more definition is needed from the CFP Board.

Twin Cities Pioneer Press, March 2, 2003 – Stuart Coats, MBA, an advisor in Louisville, Ky., and Glenda Moehlenpah, CPA, CFP®, a financial planner in San Diego, CA, provided advice on the "saver's credit."

American Way magazine, March 1, 2003 – Bonnie Hughes, CFP®, Principal of Ashy & Hughes Financial Planning and Education in Rome, GA was quoted in this publication of American Airways on laddering a bond portfolio.

Wall Street Journal, February 24, 2003 – Nancy Lange, CPA, a financial planner in Hartland, MI, and Tim Vaughn, a financial planner in Bel Air, MD, provide insights on how to save for your financial future in this article by Jonathan Clements, Learn How Much to Spend and Where to Spend It. Nancy and Tim are members of The Garrett Planning Network.

Journal of Financial Planning, February 2003 – Randy Gardner, LLM, CPA, CFP®, co-authored an article on a new IRS Ruling that may change the structure of employer health plans. In addition to serving individual clients through his Lawrence, KS-based financial planning practice, Randy is a professor of taxation and director of the Financial Planning Certificate Program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He is coauthor of the book 101 Tax Saving Ideas.

San Diego Union Tribune, February 23, 2003 – Glenda Moehlenpah, CPA, CFP®, a financial planning practitioner in San Diego, CA, was quoted along with Gary Gensler, ex-Clinton administration Treasury official, in this article about how various new savings accounts being proposed by President Bush might affect Americans’ saving and spending habits.

Washingtonian, January 2003 – Steve Thalheimer, CFP®, Principal of Thalheimer Financial Planning in Silver Springs, MD was named one of the best financial planners in the Washington DC area. “Good financial help does not have to be hard to find,” says the writer. “Here are 156 people you can trust with your money.”

The Physicians’ Personal Advisor, January 2003 – Philadelphia-area advisor, Alan Shapire, CFP®, CPA/PFS, provided thought on market-indexed CDs in an article by Lou Pilla.

Wall Street Journal, February 19, 2003 – Bryan Totri, CFP®, Principal of WellSpring Planning in Roswell, GA, and Rich Chambers, CFP®, Principal of Investors Capital Management in Menlo Park, CA, were profiled in Jonathan Clement's "Get Going" column. In Finding the Right Advisor for Your Little Nest Egg, Mr. Clements said consumers should look for an advisor who does not charge commissions. In addition, if you do not want to turn over your assets for management (for which you would pay the advisor an annual fee), he suggests you engage the services of an hourly, fee-only planner like Rich Chambers or Bryan Totri. The article provides the website address for The Garrett Planning Network.

Investment Advisor, February 2003 – Percy Bolton, CFP®, president of Percy E. Bolton Associates in Pasadena, CA, was profiled in an exclusive article titled My Way. "Percy Bolton combines the courage of his convictions and his openness to change to build a thriving practice," says the writer, who provides an in-depth look at Percy's personal and professional life. Percy is no stranger to media attention: he's been named six times to Worth magazine's list of Best Financial Advisors, as well as being quoted and/or profiled in a number of other prestigious publications.

Forbes.com, February 19, 2003 – Glenda Moehlenpah, CPA, CFP®, Principal of Financial Bridges in San Diego, CA, was quoted in Seven Ways to Avoid a Tax Audit. It isn't too early to think about simple things you can do to minimize the possibility that you will be audited, she says. "Pay attention to details. Even if you pay someone else to prepare your return, you are still responsible for its accuracy."

AARP Bulletin, February 2003 – Andy Claybrook, CFP®, Principal of Fee-Only Financial Solutions, P.C. in Franklin, TN, says more people have sought his professional assistance this year. "Most of the increase is do-it-yourselfers, who have done a fairly good job positioning themselves for financial security, but have reached a point where they just feel they need to get a second opinion." A fee-only planner, Claybrook, and all members of The Garrett Planning Network, charge by the hour for their advice. They do not accept commissions for selling stocks, insurance or other financial products.

Parade Magazine, January 19, 2003 – John "Jay" Hurford, Jr. CFP® of Hurford Financial Planning, Inc. in Westlake Village, CA, was quoted in "A Budget You Can Live With" by veteran financial writer, Lynn Brenner.

NAPFA Advisor, January 2003 – Timothy Hayes of Rochester, NY was profiled in an article called "Timothy Hayes on Ethics." A CFP® who teaches "Morality in Business" at St John Fisher College, Tim believes that an hourly, as-needed service model is the most pro-consumer way to deliver financial planning and advice.

Financial Planning, January 2003 – Reach Lower: The high-net-worth client doesn't have to be the only target for planners. There's success to be found tending to the lower branches of wealth. Sheryl Garrett and Jamie Milne, two nationally recognized CFP® practitioners, are quoted.

Money magazine, January 2003 – Dean Knepper, CPA, CFP® is quoted in an article on paying for college (page 103). The article is also online.

Wall Street Journal, January 6, 2003 – Scott Dauenhauer, CFP®, President of Meriden Wealth Management in Irvine, CA, says that in many school districts a lot, if not all, of the approved 403(b) options are high-cost annuities sold by agents or brokers. Less common are lower-cost options sold directly to investors, such as annuities from TIAA-CREF or mutual funds from companies such as Vanguard or Fidelity. The problem for self-directed investors: "Most districts don't have a good selection of no-load options" that would have lower expenses. His website www.403bwise.com offers a suggested letter to send to employers seeking additional 403(b) options, along with other useful information on these plans.