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All About Investment
Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things, such as our community, our relationships, our finances and our health, with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations.
On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets longterm financial goals and secures our retirement.
On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.
While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives is done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we’ve shared some of the ways that we can invest in our finances, our home and those that we love.
Until next month,
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Joe Violi | joe.violi@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Shea-Owen | emily.shea@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Martha Doyle | martha.doyle@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Erin Baka, Shannon Campo, B.A. Schrock Financial Group, Angela Nicholson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
B.A. Schrock Financial Group, Wallace Home Furnishings
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
THE IMPORTANCE OF FINANCIAL LITERACY
Financial literacy equips us with skills like effective personal finance management. It allows us to budget, save, invest, and align financial decisions with goals.
Being financially literate helps us make informed choices, decipher product implications, understand investment risks, and evaluate loan terms.
A lack of literacy can lead to costly mistakes, from high-interest debt to overspending, that may impact your long-term financial well-being.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA NICHOLSON
Investing in Your Future: Don’t Set It And Forget It
Hi, Angela Nicholson here. I’m a dedicated loan officer with Conrad Mortgage Group, proudly serving the Northeast Ohio community. With years of experience in the mortgage industry, my passion lies in helping individuals and families navigate the often-complex process of securing the right loan for their needs.
Homeownership can be such a dichotomous journey. What starts as an ephemeral idea, possibly as vague as a price point and number of bedrooms, quickly intensifies with more and more exacting criteria. We immerse ourselves in floor plans, neighborhoods, finishes and finances. Anxiety intermingles with relief, there are so many details to take care of but also things that are out of our hands. Terms like earnest money and escrow pepper our speech, appreciation and depreciation enter the chat. The closing date approaches, then it’s done, and the biggest purchase most of us ever make becomes just another milestone. Moving in, settling in, filling the space, making the house a home — all of the doing replaces most of the researching and strategizing. There is a shift from thinking in terms of thousands of dollars to cost savings and buying paint in gallons or switching to LED light bulbs.
It’s exciting to be a homeowner. And it’s not. At first, it’s all you talk about. And then it’s not. It’s one of the biggest factors in building wealth but also one of the largest debts you may ever take on. Building equity is an easy thing to set and forget, but that same equity can be an enigma until explored.
It’s a known fact that homeowners are wealthier than renters at every income level. For middle and higher income level households, housing accounts
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF REFINANCING YOUR HOME FROM LOCAL EXPERT
ANGELA NICHOLSON
for at least a third, and sometimes up to sixty-five percent, of total assets. Homeowners’ net worth has increased nearly 40 times higher than renters in recent years, contributing to one of the widest wealth gaps in history.
At the same time, credit card debt has been on the uptick and emergency savings have reached uncomfortably low levels for most Americans. Many are struggling with historically higher costs of utilities, food and gas. All of this is putting a strain on budgets and goals of financial freedom. Uncertainty leads to analysis paralysis, maybe procrastination too, but sometimes it leads to enlisting help.
One of the most invaluable services I offer is guiding clients through proactive loan consultations. My approach is collaborative and transparent. We will talk about goals and long term plans. This way, we prepare for opportunities, rather than react hastily or haphazardly to changes in a fast-moving market. These preliminary applications rely on a soft credit pull, with no impact on credit score. Having an application on file gives my clients peace of mind and a competitive edge.
THE HOMEOWNERS CLIFFSNOTES OF REFINANCING
Many homeowners hesitate to refinance because they believe rates must be significantly lower or that costs will be too high. The reality is, regardless of where rates stand today, the cost of waiting can outweigh the cost of borrowing — especially as home values continue to rise. And in Medina County, they are outpacing the rest of the nation.
Refinancing allows you to:
• Lower Your Monthly Debt Payments — Use your home equity to pay down high-interest credit cards and personal loans.
• Free Up Cash for Investments — Reallocate your savings into high-yield investment portfolios or other wealth-building opportunities.
• Shorten Your Loan Term — Pay off your home faster and save thousands in interest over time.
• Take a Financial Breather — Many refinances come with a break in payments, an escrow refund and access to extra funds that can provide muchneeded flexibility.
Refinancing can also be timed up for a gap of two mortgage payments between an old and new loan. This gap, coupled with any funds refunded from the existing loan’s escrow account, can give an additional cushion and help rebuild savings. It’s these details and opportunities that I take the time to explain, without pigeonholing anyone into cookie cutter solutions, ensuring my clients are fully equipped to make the best financial decisions.
My mission is simple: to provide compassionate, knowledgeable and professional loan assistance. If you’re navigating the complexities of today’s market, I’m here to guide you — one decision at a time. Contact me at 330.962.2713, or email me at anicholson@conradmortgage.com, to get started today.
overcoming longevity risk
Learn About Strategies for Making Your Retirement Savings Last
As lifespans continue to rise due to advancements in healthcare and improved living conditions, addressing longevity risk has become a critical aspect of retirement planning. Longevity risk refers to the challenge of outliving your retirement savings, which poses a significant concern for those seeking financial stability in their later years. In this article, we’ll explore effective strategies for overcoming longevity risk and making your retirement savings last so that your financial resources remain sufficient throughout your retirement, and you can feel more confident about the future.
UNDERSTANDING LONGEVITY RISK
Longevity risk is the possibility that retirees may outlive their retirement savings, a growing concern as life expectancies continue to rise. With many individuals facing retirements lasting 20, 30 or even more years, it’s more important than ever to develop a solid retirement plan. Making your retirement savings last requires a careful balance between spending and saving, emphasizing the importance of strategies for overcoming longevity risk. By planning wisely, retirees can work toward financial stability and a comfortable quality of life throughout their retirement years.
Potential strategies for mitigating longevity risk involve a combination of investment planning, income strategies and flexible spending adjustments to ensure that retirees can confidently manage their financial resources throughout their retirement years. In the next section of this article, we’ll explore specific strategies for mitigating longevity risk, including diversification of the investment portfolio, the role of annuities, the benefits of delaying Social Security, and the importance of flexible spending plans.
PRACTICAL STRATEGIES FOR MITIGATING LONGEVITY RISK
While every retiree’s needs are unique, the strategies below are useful for many:
Investment Portfolio Diversification
Diversification is a foundational principle in investing, and it can be particularly helpful for retirees facing longevity risk. By spreading investments across various asset classes, such as stocks, bonds and real estate, retirees can mitigate the risk of significant retirement savings losses from any single investment. Diversification aims to balance the portfolio, reducing volatility and providing more stable returns over the long term.
Considering Annuities
Annuities may play a critical role in a retirement income strategy by pro viding a guaranteed income stream to directly address longevity risk. Purchasing an annuity from an insur ance company involves exchanging a lump sum of money for a promise to receive payments over a set period or for life. Annuities come in several forms, such as immediate, deferred, fixed and variable, each offering distinct features and advantages. While annuities can provide financial stability through a steady income stream, it is crucial to
understand the specific terms, associated fees and options to make certain they align well with your retirement savings and planning needs.
Delayed Social Security Filing
A frequently underutilized approach to managing longevity risk is postponing the initiation of Social Security benefits. Although individuals are eligible to begin receiving benefits at age 62, delaying benefits until age 70 can significantly increase your monthly payment amount. This increase provides a higher base of guaranteed income later in retirement, which can be particularly beneficial as other retirement savings begin to deplete. Of course, every individual is different, and the decision to delay Social Security should consider personal health, financial needs and overall retirement income planning.
Flexible Spending Plans (FSAs)
Utilizing a flexible approach to retirement spending may also impact the longevity of your retirement savings. Instead of adhering to a fixed withdrawal rate, adjusting spending based on current market conditions and personal savings can help preserve capital during down markets — which are inevitable from time to time. For instance, reducing non-essential expenses in years of poor market performance can prevent the erosion of principal, allowing your portfolio more opportunity to recover. This strategy requires regular monitoring and adjustment, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about your financial situation and being adaptable to changes (and possibly working alongside a financial advisor).
REMEMBER TO REVIEW YOUR RETIREMENT PLAN FREQUENTLY
If you’re using strategies to mitigate longevity risk, it’s important to frequently reassess. As life circumstances, financial
markets and personal goals evolve, so should retirement plans. Regular reviews with a financial advisor you trust can help you stay on track, make more informed decisions and adjust your strategies to meet changing needs and conditions. This proactive approach can contribute significantly to achieving the retirement you dream of, prepared to withstand the challenges of longevity risk.
HAVE YOU IMPLEMENTED STRATEGIES FOR OVERCOMING LONGEVITY RISK?
Managing longevity risk is a key aspect of today’s retirement planning, with many people facing retirements that can last 30 years or longer. To make your retirement savings last, consider strategies such as diversifying investments, utilizing annuities, delaying Social Security benefits and adopting flexible spending plans. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your retirement strategies means they stay aligned with your evolving financial needs. While addressing longevity risk may seem daunting, these approaches provide a practical way to strengthen your financial future and maintain stability throughout your retirement.
Every journey feels like opening day when
At B.A. Schrock Financial Group, we help our clients with these planning processes and more, and we can help you personalize a retirement plan suited to your unique needs. Contact us at 330.473.1060 or info@ baschrock-fg.com to learn more about how we can help you unlock your financial future! We’re located at 131 College St., Wadsworth.
Investment Advisor Representatives offer advisory services through BA Schrock Wealth Management, Inc. (BASWM), a registered investment advisor. Insurance is offered through BA Schrock Financial Group, Inc. (BASFG), an insurance company. BASWM and BASFG are affiliated and share common ownership.
Information presented is for educational purposes only and is not intended to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principle. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.
Information expressed does not consider your specific situation or objectives and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for any individual. Readers are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified tax, legal, or investment advisor to determine whether any information presented may be suitable for their specific situation.
Neither the firm nor its agents are affiliated with the Social Security Administration, or any other governmental agency.
Neuro Sympathetic Reset (NSR)
Insomnia
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Long COVID
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Our experience and a deep understanding of the current market provides expert guidance and personalized attention to ensure your real estate journey is seamless and rewarding. As part of the prestigious Howard Hanna network, we offer global reach and access to a vast network of luxury properties, providing our clients with unparalleled opportunities to find their dream home, wherever it may be.
A Plan For Your Family
NEPTUNE SOCIETY CLEVELAND PROVIDES COMPASSIONATE AND PROFESSIONAL END-OF-LIFE SERVICES
ARTICLE BY SHANNON CAMPO
When it comes to end-of-life decisions, planning is a task that many people put off. However, pre-planning funeral services is one of the most thoughtful and considerate choices one can make — not only for oneself but also for loved ones who will be left behind. Neptune Society Cleveland provides a compassionate, professional, and customizable approach to pre-arranged cremation services, ensuring peace of mind during an emotionally charged time.
WHY PRE-PLANNING MATTERS
1. Easing Emotional Burdens: Death is an inevitable part of life, yet the grief associated with it can often make decision making extremely difficult. Pre-planning relieves loved ones from the stressful task of making decisions during an emotional period. It allows family members to focus on their grief and healing rather than navigating the complexities of end-of-life arrangements.
2. Financial Relief: Planning ahead gives families financial clarity and can even save money in the long run. Funeral and cremation costs often surprise those left behind. By locking in the costs through pre-arranged services with Neptune Society, families avoid inflation and unpredictable price hikes. Neptune Society offers affordable, transparent pricing with the flexibility of payment plans, making it an accessible option for many.
3. Personalized Services: Cremation is often viewed as a more simplified option, but that doesn’t mean it has to lack meaning. Neptune Society offers a range of personalized services, including memorialization options that align with a person’s wishes, whether they prefer a quiet, intimate ceremony or a larger celebration of life. National scattering services are
“When planning something as intimate as end-of-life services, it’s important to feel understood. Society’s team is not just professional; they’re deeply compassionate.”
also available and are fully coor dinated by their licensed funeral directors. Pre-planning ensures these preferences are respected and carried out as intended.
4. Ensuring Peace of Mind: planning with Neptune Society provides assurance that every thing will be handled with care and professionalism. Their staff are experienced and well-versed in navigating the complexities of cremation services, ensuring that all legal, logistical and personal details are taken care of long before the need arises. This means that when the time comes, your loved ones are left with nothing but the comfort of knowing that everything was already arranged with their best interests in mind.
WHY CHOOSE NEPTUNE SOCIETY?
1. Local Expertise with Nationwide Reach: As part of a respected national organization, Cleveland Neptune Society offers both local expertise and a broad network of services. Their team has an in-depth understanding of Ohio’s legal and cultural context, making them particularly adept at
“Pre-planning a cremation isn’t just a practical decision; it’s a profound gift of love, care and foresight. It shows that you value the peace of mind of your family and want to protect them from unnecessary financial or emotional strain during an already difficult time.”
guiding families through the pre-planning process. Whether you live in Ohio or beyond, they are equipped to handle your needs with care and precision.
2. No Hidden Fees: Transparency is one of Neptune Society’s hallmark qualities. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying for and why. There are no surprise fees, hidden costs, or unnecessary upselling — just straightforward pricing and a dedication to serving your needs.
3. Compassionate, Personalized Support: When planning something as intimate as end-of-life services, it’s important to feel understood. Neptune Society’s team is not just professional; they’re deeply compassionate. They understand that pre-planning a cremation isn’t just about logistics; it’s about creating a legacy and providing closure for both the individual and their loved ones. Their staff works with each family to ensure the process is as seamless and personalized as possible.
THE GIFT
OF PRE-PLANNING
Pre-planning a cremation isn’t just a practical decision; it’s a profound gift of love, care and foresight. It shows that you value the peace of mind of your family and want to protect them from unnecessary financial or emotional strain during an already difficult time. Neptune Society makes this process simple, affordable and respectful.
By choosing Neptune Society for your pre-planned cremation, you are ensuring that your final wishes are honored with dignity, compassion and professionalism. With their services and support, you can rest easy knowing that you’ve made a thoughtful decision that will bring comfort to both you and your family for years to come.
In a world where unpredictability is inevitable, pre-planning your cremation with the Neptune Society Cleveland is a step toward clarity, control and peace. It’s an investment in both your future and your family’s well-being, one that will pay dividends when it matters most. Learn more about how you can plan ahead and invest now in end-of-life pre-planning at NeptuneSociety.com
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ARTICLE BY ERIN BAKA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WALLACE HOME FURNISHINGS
FURNITURE FROM WALLACE HOME FURNISHINGS IS A LONG-TERM INVESTMENT IN YOUR HOME’S COMFORT AND AESTHETIC
INVEST IN YOUR HOME
Nestled in the heart of Medina, Wallace Home Furnishings has been redefining home interiors with high-quality furniture and mat-
“CHOOSING
superior craftsmanship while supporting local artisans and woodworkers. By sourcing handcrafted pieces from talented local artists, Wallace
THE RIGHT FURNITURE IS MORE THAN JUST A PURCHASE — IT’S AN INVESTMENT IN YOUR HOME.”
tresses since 2020. As a family-owned business, they bring a level of personalized service and attention to detail that sets them apart from big-box retailers. Whether you’re eager to invest in a stylish sectional, a high-quality mattress or elegant dining room pieces, Wallace Home Furnishings ensures every item meets the highest standards of craftsmanship, durability, and comfort.
A COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP
Owner Rick Wallace is passionate about providing furniture that isn’t just visually appealing but is built to last. Unlike mass-produced furniture that often sacrifices durability for cost, Wallace Home Furnishings prioritizes premium materials like steel and wood frames for maximum durability, high-density foam coils for superior comfort and luxurious Italian leather for timeless elegance. What truly distinguishes Wallace Home Furnishings is their commitment to American-made furniture. An impressive 90% of their inventory is manufactured in the US, ensuring
Home Furnishings blends quality with a personal touch that makes each piece special.
STYLISH SELECTIONS FOR EVERY HOME
“At Wallace Home Furnishings, we believe that everyone deserves beautiful, well-crafted furniture, regardless of their style or budget,” says Rick Wallace. That philosophy is reflected in their diverse inventory, catering to every design preference — from traditional to contemporary and everything in between. Their extensive collection includes living room sets and sectionals that are crafted with comfort and style in mind, elegant dining room furniture that is perfect for family gatherings or upscale entertaining, premium mattresses that are designed for restful sleep with high-quality materials and bedroom furniture that blends timeless design and lasting durability.
By staying ahead of the latest home styling trends while maintaining a focus on quality, Wallace Home Furnishings helps customers create spaces that feel both comfortable and sophisticated.
CONTINUED >
PREMIUM BRANDS, UNMATCHED VALUE
Unlike many furniture stores that cut corners with lower-end materials, Wallace Home Furnishings partners directly with trusted manufacturers to provide high-quality, stylish pieces at competitive prices. They offer products from top brands like Ashley Furniture, Beautyrest, American Furniture and American Leather, ensuring that every purchase is a long-term investment in your home’s comfort and aesthetic.
This commitment to value and durability means customers can shop with confidence, knowing they are getting exceptional furniture at unbeatable prices. Plus, with free delivery on purchases over $299 within a 20-mile radius, investing in the right furniture for your home has never been easier.
ELEVATE YOUR HOME WITH WALLACE HOME FURNISHINGS
Choosing the right furniture is more than just a purchase — it’s an investment in your home, comfort and lifestyle. Wallace Home Furnishings offers an unparalleled selection of top-of-theline furniture, exceptional customer service and a dedication to Americanmade craftsmanship. Whether you’re redesigning your living space or simply looking for a statement piece, they have something for every taste and budget.
Learn more at WallaceHomeFurnishings. com or by visiting Rick and his team at 883 N. Court St.
Estate
APRIL 5TH
Birding Basics
Oenslager Nature Center | 10:00 AM
Whether you’re new to birding or need a refresher before joining a friend at a spring bird walk, this class is for you. Review the basics from binoculars to basic identification indoors, then take your skills out for a spin on a short hike. Learn more and register to attend at MedinaCountyParks.com.
APRIL 6TH
Idle Twittering: A Flock of Flutes
Wadsworth Public Library | 2:00 PM
Ohio Regional Music Arts and Cultural Outreach (ORMACO) and the Wadsworth Public Library continue their Live at the Library concert series with a tuneful and tootful performance on flutes of all shapes and sizes. The event is free to attend. Register to save your seat at ORMACO.org
APRIL 10TH
Author Visit with Kim Mager
Medina County District Library | 6:30 PM
Detective Kim Mager is a 30-year law enforcement officer who retired from Ashland City Police in 2022. Her book, “A Hunger to Kill,” is the riveting chronicle of her case-breaking interviews with Ohio’s “Lady Killer,” Shawn Grate. Kim will have raffle prizes and will sell and sign her books. Register to attend for free at MCDL.info.
APRIL 17TH
Soaking, Sprouting and Fermenting
Highland Library | 6:30 PM
Join Jeanne with Purposeful Eats to learn how to use techniques of soaking, sprouting and fermenting to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your food. Register to attend at MCDL.info. The program is free to attend.
APRIL 18TH
Vernal Pool Hike
Carolyn Ludwig Mugrage Park | 1:00 PM
The Medina County Parks District (MCPD) will lead this hike into the woods in search of the elusive vernal pool, a place where spring magic often goes unnoticed. Once you’ve arrived, take some time to search with a naturalist for critters like frogs and salamanders. This event is free.
APRIL 27TH
Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Spring Wildflowers
Princess Ledges Nature Preserve | 3:00 PM
Join the MCPD for a hike to discover what delicate beauties are blooming on the forest floor. Prepare for muddy trails and bring your wildflower guide if you have one. Registration is not required and the program is free to attend.
