Financial Planning is NOT just a focus on investments- though
that is how it is normally practiced. And while/if the market soars, that's
all that many people think about- or like to think about. But
the problems of illiteracy, child abuse, divorce, etc. and, quite obviously,
dying and death are the real factors to an understanding of life and
how we may make it better- or to just try and cope when something is wrong.
The issues below represent some of the areas I have identified over the years
that I feel are important to yourself, your family, friends, business, etc.
I would also recommend my Directory in that
it has listings to over 1,300 national agencies that can help you with various
problems. Also check other headings- long term care, retirement, investments,
etc. for specific links in those areas.
Click to Buy it now!
Sample
Pages
No
Nonsense Finance eBook
The list below includes all articles and specific links in alphabetical order
with accompanying description. The listings in the column to the right are
separate sections for articles and links
ADOPTION LINK brings you
to a site that has information for adoption in each state.
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED PERSONS (AARP)
LINK: You don't have to agree with all their philosophies, just recognize
that they have many invaluable resources you should review.
AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION LINK:
Information, articles on all types of diseases and medical problems.
ANOREXIA: What are the signs
ANXIETY DISORDERS LINK: The
National Institute of Mental Health provides some valuable information on
panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive, port traumatic stress, phobias and
a lot more. Extremely valuable when a loved one has problems. See also
Moody's Directory for over 1,200 listings to
many of life's problems.
ATTENTION DISORDERS: What are the signs.
AUTO LEASING LINK: Most of the time,
buying is better. But if you are going to lease, this site has a wealth of
info to review- pricing comparisons, new laws, residual values, interest
rates, etc.
AUTOMOBILE LINK: This site has
access to the Kelley Blue Book, classified on cars for sale, calculator
for what you can afford, reliability ratings and more.
Also see Used Car Link below
BABY LINK: This site offers a wealth
of information from on line support groups, medical advice, tips on baby
supplies, nutrition, naming a baby, fertility and more. Just wish they could
find a way to get rid of that awful smell.
BACKACHES: These cause a lot of physical and
emotional pain. Here are some basic comments on what you should do. Why the
comment? Because if you are disabled, you can't work, so you don't have enough
money to pay me and I get very upset. Actually, staying physically and mentally
active is the key to a long life, so I try to include any tips that may help.
BANK LENDING
PRACTICES LINK: FED Survey of approximately sixty large domestic
banks and twenty-four U.S. branches and agencies of foreign banks.
BANK LOAN LINK: A good site on bank rates,
types and sizes of mortgages and much more.
BARTERING: Bartering clubs nationally. While
you are not paying for services in cash, remember they still are taxable
events and have to be recorded as such.
BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU LINK: This
goes to the BBB but the reason for the inclusion is that it has a HUGE number
of reports on all sorts of subject matter that you MUST look at. You must
keep their page as a bookmark.
BIO-OPTIC ORGANIZED KNOWLEDGE DEVICE AND THE ERASABLE
NIB CRYPTIC INTERCOMMUNICATION LANGUAGE SYLUS: Buy one today! Be the
first in your neighborhood!
BRAIN LINK: Shows the brain with
stroke, Alzheimers, brain tumors and more.
BUILDING LINK: This site by a
syndicated columnist provides all sorts of home improvement information so
you can fix things so your wife and kids will be proud, your neighbors envious
and all the rest of that stuff.
BUREAU OF LABOR LINK: Statistics on labor,
market hours, earnings, productivity and on and on. Another great government
site that might provide some great info for whatever ails you.
BUSINESS AND DISABILITIES
LINK: The "National Business & Disability Council (NBDC) is the leading
national corporate resource on all issues related to the successful employment
and integration of individuals with disabilities into America's workforce."
A resource for corporations that are hiring, working with and marketing
to people with disabilities. Information, seminars, more.
BUSINESS LINKS- See also Small Business and U.S. Business Advisor links below
BUSINESS TRANSFERS: Real life examples
of business transfer and valuations problems. Minority and illiquidity discounts
CANCER: Don't want to die from cancer?? Well, it's
mostly up to you, not your genes.
CAR GUIDE LINK: A good overview of important
issues to consider when buying a car with links to other sites like
AUTOWEB and
CARSMART that help you buy a car
by looking at dealerships nationally. Some may suggest that this is a bit
esoteric, but I think not. Research on this item- as with any other- means
better purchases overall and more money left in the kitty for the rest of
your life.
CAREGUIDE LINK: The internet's "Most
Comprehensive Child Care and Elder Care Resource".
CENSUS BUREAU LINK: Lots of information
that is invaluable for research in many areas.
CENSUS DATA LINK: CensusScope is
an easy-to-use tool for investigating U.S. demographic trends, brought to
you by the Social Science Data Analysis Network (SSDAN) at the University
of Michigan. Lots of info for age, race, population growth and much much
more.
CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION
LINK: This site has a wealth of information on what ails you. The CDC
publishes pamphlets on adult immunization, health, nutrition, dental health,
health resources utilization, contraception, etc.
CERTIFIED DOCTOR CHECKUP LINK:
This American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) site provides a
Verification Service and a Search Service. "The Verification Service
allows you to verify free of charge the board certification status of any
physician certified by one or more of the 24 member boards of the ABMS. The
Search Service allows you to search, by specialty and geographic (zip code)
location, for a physician certified by a Member Board of the ABMS."
CHILD ABUSE: What you should do
CHILD ABUSE LINK 1 ;
CHILD ABUSE LINK 2: Couldn't make
up my mind as to which site was better, but since children are our future,
I decided to put both in. Remember, if you see a child being abused, get
involved and report the incident to the authorities. I get sick and tired
of people complaining about an issue but do nothing to educate themselves
or protect others.
CHILD CARE AGENCIES: Simple tips on how to check
one out. Also click on CAREGUIDE LINK
for additional information. Well worth it!
CHILD AND FAMILY STATISTICS LINK:
The Federal Interagency Forum on Child and Family Statistics provides
access to federal and state statistics and reports on children and their
families, including: population and family characteristics, economic
security, health, behavior and social environment,and education.
CHILD and FAMILY SUPPORT
LINK: Children are our future- though I personally can't stand them.
Nonetheless, here is a link to the Administration for Children and Families
that has some excellent info on many issues.
CHILDHOOD
PROGRAMS LINK: This site provides a state by state search of accredited
centers by the The National Academy of Early Childhood Programs who administers
a national, voluntary, professionally sponsored accreditation system for
all types of preschools, kindergartens, child care centers, and school-age
child care programs. This list includes the names, address and contact
information for all early childhood programs currently accredited by NAEYC.
CHILD SUICIDE: The American Academy of Child
and Psychiatry notes these warning signs.
CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT
LINK: This goes to the site for the Federal Office of Child Support
Enforcement.
CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME: Basic warning
signs. It really exists. I have had bouts of this in the past and it can
really do a number on you.
CLIMATE PREDICTION CENTER LINK: Not
quite as esoteric as you may think. If you are thinking of moving to or from
any area of the U.S.- even the world- this information might help.
Temperature and precipitation predictions, global data display system, National
Drought Mitigation Center, National Climatic Data Center, more.
CLINICAL TRIALS LINK: This site-
CenterWatch Clinical Trials Listing Service- is designed to be a resource
both for patients interested in participating in clinical trials and for
research professionals. A wealth of links and info on cardiology, oncology,
neurology, pediatrics, AIDS, Alzheimers, Migraine Headaches and much, much
more. Highly recommended.
CLINICAL TRIAL INFORMATION LINK:
Access to many sites on what is happening.
CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATION
LINK: Information about the Federal Register, Privacy Act, Public
Laws, U.S. Congress Information, powerful search tools, online edition of
the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents and more. A little esoteric
in terms of finances, but the ability to get information may be valuable.
COMMERCE LINK: This is the site for the
U.S. Department of Commerce with international trade and patent info, statistics
and much more to keep you and your children occupied for hours.
CONGRESSIONAL E MAIL/WEB PAGE
LINK: E Mail and Web Page Page addresses to literally every legislator
in every state with other info about Congress, laws, schedules and
much more. Never let it be said again that you can't get a hold of your
representative and tell them what you don't (or do) like. Good knowledge
CONSUMERS LINK: A new government site
crammed with info on health, food, product safety, money, transportation,
children and more. The government may spend money frivolously elsewhere but
their sites really show what they can do right.
CONSUMER CREDIT PROTECTION
LINK: Numerous articles from the FTC covering ways to save money,
automatic debit scams, avoiding credit card and charge card fraud, home equity
lines, mortgage refinancing, reverse mortgages and much more.
CONSUMER INFORMATION CENTER LINK: This
"MUST" site for hundreds of various federal publications is presented by
the U.S. General Services Administration's Consumer Information Center and
is highly recommended.
CONSUMER LAW LINK: Extensive listings
for all sorts of consumer problems. Includes tips on how to write an effective
letter of complaint.
CONSUMER WORLD LINK: This site
has information on over 1,700 consumer issues- Better Business Bureau, where
to file company complaints, money issues and much, much more.
COPYRIGHT LINK: This site-
to the U.S. Copyright Office- might be a slightly esoteric link due to its
limited scope in finances, but I might need it because of all the stuff I
write.
CREDIT INFO LINK: This extensive
site has all sorts of information about bankruptcies, credit reports, credit
repair and is recommended. See below for what you may have to do if you have
too many cards.
CREDIT PROBLEMS LINK 1: Debt Counselors
of America is a non profit group that offers help on credit debt and repair.
CREDIT PROBLEMS LINK 2: This goes to the
National Foundation for Consumer Credit. They won't repair your credit but
can refer you to a local Consumer Credit Counseling Service.
CURRENCY CONVERTER LINK: If
you are travelling overseas, you will find this invaluable in determining
how far your money will travel. But it's most apropos with an understanding
of foreign currency devaluations and/or dollar appreciation.You can see the
after affects on foreign investments. The site offers lots of other interesting
links as well.
DEBT PROBLEMS: A simple guide to see if you
are having problems
DEMOGRAPHICS LINK: This site
allows you to get a VAST amount of information on literally any zip code
in the U.S. You can get great statistical info of all types and its applicability
might be for homeowners/retirees who want critical information on a community
where they may wish to move/retire. Pretty good stuff.
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION LINK: Information
on grants, newsletters, list of all government programs, "Funding your Education
in 1997/1998" and links to other statistics and sites. There is even
an on line application to the Free Application
for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Link and here is the
US Department of
Education 1997- 1998 Student Guide to Financial Aid Link .
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR LINK: The United States
Department of Labor offers information on minimum wage, pensions, family
and medical leave act as well as the ERISA regulations and all sorts of other
goodies.
DIABETES: Half the people who have diabetes don't
know it. Here is a short quiz to check your risk along with other commentary.
DIET ANALYZER LINK: You enter the food
you eat during the day and it provides a complete nutritional review based
on the Recommended Daily Allowances. So what is this doing in a Financial
Planning page? Because the number of Americans that are overweight is escalating
and it will only cause more and more medical hardships (financial and retirement
planning) and early death (estate planning).
DISABLED STATISTICS: Do you have any idea of the
percentage of Americans that are disabled. You'll be surprised.
DISABLED PERSON'S INTERNATIONAL LINK:
Information on all types of disabilities with links all over the world.
DISABILITY LINK 1: This is the site for
the National Organization on Disability that provides info on all aspect
of helping the disabled lead productive lives. Also has great national and
international programs for the disabled.
DISABILITY LINK: Extensive government
site covering Children and Youth, Choice and Self-Determination, Civil Rights
and Protections ,College and Adult Education, Disability Statistics, Emergency
Preparedness, Employment, Health, Housing, Income, Support ,Recreation and
Travel, Self-Employment, Tax Credits and Deductions, Technology ,Transportation
and more
DISEASE RISK LINK:
you can find out your risk of four other important diseases (CANCER,
DIABETES, HEART, STROKE) and get personalized tips for preventing them.
DIVORCE: Basic issues you need to consider when
divorcing or for a new marriage
DIVORCE LINK: Direct link to
extensive commentary on all areas of divorce and includes chat room, state
resource directory and much more.
DEATH AND DYING: Extensive commentary on all issues
of dying , including Compassion for Dying, Euthanasia, more
DEPRESSION: The World Health
Organization has identified Clinical Depression as the fourth leading cause
of premature death and disability- and moving up to number 2 by 2005. Don't
pass this off as just having a bad week. Understand the problem and get treated.
See also suicide direct link below.
DEPRESSION 2 The site for the
National Depressive and Manic Depressive Association that provides information
and resources for the problem of depression. Highly Recommended
DMV
LOCATOR LINK: Click on any state and find a location
DOCTOR BACKGROUND CHECK LINK: In
the states of AZ, CA, MA, NC and TX, you can check the background of your
doctor for any past records. More states to follow.
See also Certified Doctor Checkup link above
DRINKING: Some do's and don't for the families
of alcoholics.
DRUGS, DRINKING, DISEASES LINK:
Information on many problems that might affect you or a loved one.
DRUG LINK 2: The site by the National
Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information . A huge resource of info,
referrals, research, statistics, publications and much, much more.
DRUG LINK 3: A completely
independent site providing info on psychiatric drugs.
EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE LINK: The
site offers hundreds of Internet-based education resources supported
by agencies across the U.S. Federal government easier to find.
ELDERLY ABUSE: A lot more common then you
expect and it will get worse as there are more and more elderly.
ELDERLY ABUSE LINK: Much
of the abuse is caused by family members. Here is the page for the National
Center of Elder Abuse that takes the subject even further.
EMOTIONAL
ABUSE LINK: Emotional abuse of children can lead, in adulthood, to addiction,
rage, a severely damaged sense of self and an inability to truly bond with
others. (Andrew Vachss)
ETHNICITY: The U.S. is changing its population
breakdown.
EXERCISE: Want to live longer, healthier and
smarter?
EXPORTS: The U.S. is having big problems with
our declining exports. WRONG!
FAT: The U.S. is getting fatter every day. Put down
that remote!!
FDIC HOME PAGE LINK: Great info on money.
Send
me some.
FEDERAL BUDGET LINK Everything
you wanted to know (or maybe didn't) about the Federal Budget including a
citizen's guide, documents, charts and more. Read this and impress your dog.
FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY (FEMA)
LINK: Home page for all sorts of information on the services by this
agency, including flood certification forms.
FEDERAL RESERVE ACT
LINK: "An Act To provide for the establishment of Federal reserve banks,
to furnish an elastic currency, to afford means of rediscounting commercial
paper, to establish a more effective supervision of banking in the United
States, and for other purposes."
FEDERAL RESERVE BOARDS LINK: Direct
link to some of the most comprehensive pages on money. Further, if you are
attempting to understand money and investments, the material offered by the
various boards is absolutely essential. I'll repeat- absolutely essential
for anyone dealing with investments. It's almost like the
HP12C page. If an adviser is not using this "stuff",
then they probably do not understand money and there is no sense in working
with them. Note that I am not stating that someone viewing the data will
make a correct interpretation of the statistics and know the absolute direction
of the market. Just that they need the info in order to make rational decisions.
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION LINK: Has
some good educational material on telemarketing scams, viatical settlements,
links to other governmental sites.
FEDERAL WEB LOCATOR LINK: is a service
provided by the Villanova Center for Information Law and Policy and is a
"one stop shopping point" for federal government information on the World
Wide Web. It has all the sites you would normally expect- IRS, Congressional
sites, National Park Service, etc.- but what makes it stand out are the others
services that might be almost impossible to locate- rural utilities service,
American battle monument commission, Well worth the look.
FEDWORLD LINK: is a huge database
of government documents and information of any and all types. Highly recommended.
FITNESS LINK: The site does
not provide fitness information per se. But it links to hundreds
of other WEB sites where you can get information on all types of sports,
nutrition, equipment and much more. Why is it relevant to financial planning?
Most planners focus on the money. But if you are not healthy to enjoy it,
you may have wasted your life's efforts. And as one who has been running
for 33 years, I can tell you that there is NO amount of money that I would
have traded for the level of health and physical ability I still have at
age 54. So maybe this site will provide you the necessary impetus to get
on a physical regimen- or help you with the ones you currently enjoy. You
may not live longer- but you will live better.
FOMC: Basic comments on the Federal Open Market Committee
FRAUD LINK: This is a consumer page by
the National Consumer League that's called the National Fraud Information
center.
FREE ADVICE LINK: Lots of legal
descriptions and info on all areas of securities, real estate, bankruptcy,
insurance, family law and much more. The focus is to get a referral to an
attorney, but the site's knowledge on a wide range of subjects is definitely
worthwhile.
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT
LINK: The site by the The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press
provides a form to help you create a simple FOI letter. It asks you for all
pertinent information, guides you through the options available, and even
lists a number of federal agencies and their addresses.
FUNERALS: Extensive commentary on all types of
funerals, regulations, costs and
organizations
FUNERALS LINK: Excellent source of
additional information on all the areas affecting the death of a loved one-
grief , living wills, body donations, etc. Highly recommended.
GAMBLING: Do you have a problem with gambling?
Here is a short questionnaire from
GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS LINK to
see if you have a problem. If so, get treated. I simply cannot allow you
to spend my adviser's fees on some dumb game.
GEMSTONES LINK: Info
on Burma ruby and sapphire, Colombian emerald, Burma spinel, tsavorite, Mandarin
orange garnet, collector gems and fancy colored diamonds. I don't use nor
recommend these as investments but this is possibly a good place to get more
knowledge on value, grading, etc.
GLOBAL SURGERY LINK:
Go outside the U.S. for your surgery. Much cheaper. Quality of care is the
concern. But here is a site you might find interesting.
GOVERNMENT GATEWAYS LINK: Once again
the government puts out great sites loaded with info. Use this as your starting
point.
GRIEVING: What you can do to help someone who
has lost a loved one.
GRIEVING LINK: Direct access to a
major "collection of resources of value to those experiencing loss and grief."
Highly recommended
GROWING UP: Seek your potential
HEALTH CARE: Articles and Commentary
HEALTH LINK: Articles and
info on choosing a hospital, statistics on organ transplants, cesarean section
reports and more. Worth looking at.
HEALTHFINDER LINK: This
government site that helps you find literally all sorts of information on
health issues- aids, substance abuse, depression etc. and includes access
to national libraries, medical journals. Highly recommended.
HEALTH MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATIONS (HMO): Here
are statistics on the percentage that California HMO's spent on medical care
for premium dollar received and other articles and commentary. Also see
the Managed Care material and questionnaire below.
HEALTH RISK LINK: Fill out this online
form with 38 questions and it gives you an instant reply on your health
condition, things you can do to improve, statistical probability of dying
and more. Worthwhile to check out and use.
HEART DISEASE: Information and statistics.
Remember- most heart disease is preventable.
HIGHWAY SAFETY LINK: "The Insurance
Institute for Highway Safety is dedicated to reducing highway crash deaths,
injuries, and property damage losses." Info on crashworthiness, airbags,
state laws, fatality facts and more.
HIV LINK: This extensive site provides
state by state rules and regulations, discussion of medical issues, prevention,
social issues and much more. While the spread of AIDS in the U.S. has diminished
somewhat, it is in the sub-Sahara Africa and other third world countries
where this is reaching epidemic proportions. Unfortunately like other diseases
that might kill in a relatively short period of time, AID's can take years
to develop and the emotional and financial tolls are far greater.
HOSPITAL
LINK: US News review 6,247 by specialty and area
HOSPITAL
REPORT CARD LINK: How does your hospital stack up for various procedures.
This national "report card" might give you the valuable info you need in
order to select a facility.
ILLITERACY: The greatest gift anyone can bestow
is the ability to read and understand. The power of the written word can
do more to shape an individual or nation than any weapon. Unfortunately,
a great number of people in the world, including the United States, do not
have the ability to read. What is at least as bad, and that I see quite
frequently, are those that can read but DON'T. The TV, and now the computer,
have limited our interest in reading and will foster untold inequities in
our daily lives and economic system.
INJURY PREVENTION LINK: The National
Center for Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC) works to reduce morbidity,
disability, mortality, and costs associated with injuries.
IRS EXAMINATION LINK: An
independent site that reviews the IRS's enforcement activities, offers maps,
graphs and more than 35,000 tables
IRS TAX LINK: Get's you directly
to the forms you might need. You can get to their other sites from there.
JOB ACCOMMODATION NETWORK LINK:
A slightly esoteric link but perhaps a vital one to businesses involved with
disabled workers. JAN is "not a job placement service, but an international
toll-free consulting service that provides information about job accommodations
and the employability of people with disabilities. JAN also provides information
regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)"
KNOWLEDGE LINK:
Lots of valid health information.
LAW ANSWERS LINK: This private site
provides over 4,000 questions and answers in its database and indicates that
you can ask other questions that an expert will answer.
LAWNCARE LINK: Good info in all about
keeping your yard in good shape. So why have I put this site on my list (or
many others you may ask)? Because if you are taking care of your lawn, you
may be taking care of yourself. Couple this with an active mind and it may
mean you will live longer and, particularly, healthier. That's what I want
my clients to focus on.
LAWYERS LINK: This brings you to
a page for links to the State and National bar associations.
LAWYERS MAGAZINE LINK: Though somewhat
esoteric regarding finances per se, I have seen articles in the Lawyers
Weekly regarding social security and other similar commentary that some
might find useful
LEGAL CONSUMER LINK:
"The National Consumer Law Center is a nonprofit corporation founded
over 25 years ago at Boston College School of Law. Includes info on such
things as credit reports, telemarketing scams and avoiding second-mortgage
frauds."
LEGAL DOCUMENT LINK: Here is a wealth
of free legal documents and detailed articles of all types covering estates,
money, immigration, auto, business and much, much more. I do not suggest
you use these without additional review, but they should give you a great
start on what to watch out for, include, etc. Highly recommended
LEGISLATIVE LINK: This site provides
all the new and proposed legislation. Also includes historical documents,
information on how laws are made and much more.
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS LINK: The most important
element to life (outside of basic good health) is to be able to read and
write intelligently. Once that ability is had, one can increase one's knowledge
base enormously and live a more productive life. READ!!!!!
LIBRARY LINK: Since almost everything
I know is from extensive and intensive reading, I have a love affair with
books (though not really developed till I was in my late 20's). In any case,
this site focuses on an advocacy for public access to information; developing
innovative programs; supporting libraries, etc. And their commentary is true-
since only one in eight households has a computer, the disparities between
the haves and have nots will grow larger unless society can provide the avenues
for learning- and libraries have the computers to help young minds grow
faster. Has also picked the best internet sites for children.
LIFE EXPECTANCY
2000 RANKING LINK : (WHO) The top ten were Japan, at 74.5 years; Australia,
73.2 years; France, 73.1; Sweden, 73.0; Spain, 72.8; Italy, 72.7; Greece,
72.5; Switzerland, 72.5; Monaco, 72.4; and Andorra, 72.3. The U.S. was 24th
at 70 years- a pretty poor showing given all our "wealth". Why is that? In
the United States, some groups, such as Native Americans, rural African Americans
and the inner city poor, have extremely poor health, more characteristic
of a poor developing country rather than a rich industrialized one.
LITERACY SOURCES LINK:Direct
link to some excellent commentary, statistics and resources.
See also National
Adult Literacy Survey below
LONELINESS: This will have a significant impact
on the health and lifetime of the elderly- mostly men.
MANAGED CARE: The best questionnaire I have seen
so far on what you should ask. Paraphrased from Kate Kincaid, California
Broker.
MANAGED CARE LINK: Tons
of insightful articles and statistics on managed care. But I would still
recommend the questionnaire by Kate Kincaid for more in depth review.
MEDICAL CONSULT LINK: There are
times when you may wish a specialist's opinion on a condition but are are
unable or unwilling to visit a doctor since the visit and the subsequent
advice could be detrimental if included on reports that an insurance company
may later get and base coverage upon. This site supposedly has at least 30
specialists that will review a patient's medical information and provide
confidential consultations for $195. While I try to use only sites that are
free, this may have value. But like with all other internet sites, proceed
with caution.
MEDICAL DICTIONARY LINK: Thousands
of definitions and links for whatever ails you.
MEDICAL LINK: Dr. C. Everett Koop, past
U.S. Surgeon General has a site that lists all sorts of medical issues form
allergies to travel health, recent medical news and more. Certainly I have
other sites that contain similar material and info, but I have always felt
he was a driving force to get people to engage in better health activities.
MEDICAL MALPRACTICE
LINK: Information About Physicians Including Education, Training, Specialty,
Malpractice and Disciplinary Proceedings.
MEDICAL TEXTBOOK LINK An online medical
textbook that some call "one of the best online medical resources available.
Their first textbook is Emergency Medicine, 8,000 pages written by 400 doctors
in various specialties focused on what doctors on medicine's front lines
see most.
MEDICARE AND MEDICAID LINK: This site is
administrated by the HCFA- Health Care Financing Administration- and lets
consumers and professionals retrieve information about literally every aspect
of these two explosive issues. Highly recommended.
MEDLINE LINK1: The "most
comprehensive and widely consulted medical reference in the world."
MEDLINE LINK 2:
This is the site for the National Library of Medicine's MEDLINE. Between
the two links, you should be able to find info on just about any medical
problem.
M-1,2,3: Basic definitions on money supply
MEN AND LIVING LONGER: Do you know why
some men live longer??? Great insight from Gail Sheehy. Further, if you are
old, expect on getting old or even just know someone that is old, you should
read her books and articles. Very good info.
MENTAL HEALTH LAW LINK: The site
promotes legal advocacy for the civil rights and human dignity of people
with mental disabilities.
MENTAL HEALTH NET LINK: Access to information
on all types of problems with over 6,200 mental health resources. Extremely
comprehensive. Perhaps it can help you or a loved one.
MIT FREE COURSE LINK:
You cannot get a degree this way but you can effectively get the
same content.
MONEY PRIMER: Commentary on the movement of money
and interest rates. The economists keep changing their mind about what works
and why, but this is good food for thought.
MOODY'S DIRECTORY: Information on over 1,300
organizations nationally that may help you with all sorts of personal and
family problems.
MOVING COSTS
LINK: You can get an estimate of how much a house move might cost.
MOVING SALARY
ADJUSTMENT LINK: This is linked to the "Homefair" site as that above.
This page shows how much you should make in one area of the U.S. (or even
within a state) versus another area based on the different wage/CPI
adjustments.
NATIONAL ADULT LITERACY SURVEY: I took
the summary of their 1992 survey of literacy and the subsequent commentary
about the literacy of the elderly and focused on an individual's ability
to make rational judgments in investing. You should find it interesting reading
if not for yourself, then for your parents and grandparents.
NATIONAL CENTER FOR HEALTH
STATISTICS LINK: This is part of the CDC (Center for Disease Control)
but I have separated it out due to the vast amount of numbers that one can
use for lifetime expectancies, what people die from and a host of other valuable
statistics for retirement, estate planning and more.
NATIONAL COMMITTEE FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE
LINK: Direct link to the NCQA- the independent organization responsible
for the report cards on many HMO's. Excellent additional information and
highly recommended.
NATIONAL LIBRARY OF MEDICINE LINK: "Every
significant program of the Library is represented, from medical history to
biotechnology." Although other links cover medicine a well, this is an
exceptionally comprehensive site that allows you "second opinions" on literally
every medical issue that exists.
NELLIE MAE LINK: Along with Sallie
Mae below, they are one of the largest providers of college loans. They also
provide vast college information of all types. Check them both out.
NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE LINK: Sure,
some of this material is covered in other areas or links, but this direct
site- like the American Medical Association- offers new insights that might
help you or your family.
OBESITY
LINK: 103 ARTICLES
OBESITY
LINK: My software does not like the code. But obesity is a major
problem so here it is : http://www.mib.com/kd/html/Obesity%20Special%20Focus.htm
OFFICE OF THE COMPTROLLER
OF THE CURRENCY LINK: The OCC "charters, regulates, and supervises national
banks to ensure a safe, sound and competitive national banking system that
supports the citizens, communities and economy of the United States."
Statistics, articles for the consumer regarding investments and more.
OPERATION COSTS LINK:
An interesting site that gives you the cost for certain medical procedures-
birth of a baby, hip replacement, broken leg, heart bypass, more.
OVERSEAS TRAVEL: See State
Department Link
PAIN: What should you do about it?
PANIC ATTACKS: Very debilitating problem and here
is a little insight. Do you know what might be the best
treatment???
PARENT LINK: Advice for all
with children of any age- or about to be parents. Subject matters include
teenagers, divorce, adoption, curfews, single parenthood and much more. If
you are a breeder, you'll like this page.
PERSONALITY TEST LINK:
Want to get a decent idea
of what type of personality you or a loved one is? Take these short tests
by Dr. David Keirsey- they seem to be fairly reliable. Why is this here?
The more you know about yourself (and a loved one), the better off you can
plan for today and tomorrow.
PETS: Short commentary about the death of a pet and
what you might do to feel better. Wish I had done it.
PET LINKS: Pets have a wonderful ability
to keep people happy and healthy. They have been shown to keep the elderly
alive longer. Here is another site for the
AMERICAN VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION LINK
and the site for the
AMERICAN ANIMAL HOSPITAL
ASSOCIATION LINK.
PET LINK: Early detection,
home health screening kit for dogs and cats. This innovative urinalysis kit
helps pet owners get medical attention at an early stage -- when treatment
is often most effective, simpler and least expensive
PET INSURANCE LINK: Here are
three different insurance plans offered online by Premier Pet Insurance.
People have far more pets than before and are taking far more measures to
keep them alive and healthy. Therefore insurance may be viable.
POPULATION GROWTH LINK: There
are over 6 billion human beings on Earth (you are probably one of them).
Every second five people are born and two people die, a net gain of three
people. The site has interesting statistics and even allows you to determine
how many people were living when you were born.
PRECIOUS METAL LINK: This
is a calculator link where you enter the weight of gold, silver, platinum,
palladium or rhodium and it will give you the the current value in all types
of currency.
PRESCRIPTIONS INFORMATION
ONLINE LINK: Find information about more than 7,000 prescription
and over-the-counter medications, including common uses of a drug, the proper
ways to use the medicine, possible side effects. more.
PRODUCT SAFETY LINK: This is the page for
the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and, among other issues, keeps
tabs on product recalls.
PROPERTY INSURANCE: Code upgrades, use
of Public Adjuster, more
PROSTATE CANCER: Simple questionnaire to see
if you have problems. There are a lot more men diagnosed with prostate cancer
than there are with women and breast cancer and end up with greater problems.
Why? Because men don't like going to the doctor and admitting they have a
problem down there. But being dead really sucks so review the list.
PSYCHOLOGY TESTS LINK: Covers
everything with Relationships, Intelligence, Career, Emotional Health and
more. You may not like the answers but it is necessary to do these every
so often to see if you are ahead or behind a curve- and whether you should
be.
PUBLIC INFORMATION LINK: This site is
a search engine of public records of foreclosures, stock ownership, law suits
and judgments, corporate records and much more across almost all states for
free and for a fee. It might be very useful when you need to find out needed-
but normally difficult to obtain- information about an individual or company.
REHABILITATION: Here is an article by Sherry Crerie,
P.T. on whether a physical, occupational or speech therapist may be needed
SALLIE MAE LINK: You may not be familiar
with the name, but they are the largest providers of loans for college students.
This site contains innumerable information and has a free Online Scholarship
Service that gives consumers access to a database of scholarships, fellowships
and workstudy programs from the College Aid Sources for Higher Education.
Also see college listings above.
SAVINGS: Is the U.S. savings rate too low?
SCHOOL MATCH LINK: School Match
has organized comparative information to help families a home buyers select
those school districts which most closely match their interests.
SECURITIES REGULATORS LINK:
This provides information to each states' department that controls securities
regulation.
SENIOR DRIVERS: Many children are concerned
about the ability of their parents to continue to drive once they get old.
Here are some issues to address
BILL SHARPE LINK: He
won a Nobel award for his work on economics/securities analysis. Great
statistical info as well as commentary. If you don't know at least about
his work, standard deviation and the Sharpe Ratio, you will never do investments
correctly. There's a lovely picture of him as well.
SLEEP
SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
LINK: This U.S. site provides a plethora (you may want to look
that up) of information for starting, financing and expanding your business,
finding local resources and much, much more.
SMALL BUSINESS ADVISOR LINK: The independent
site has lots of info to help the small business from financing to marketing,
a monthly newsletter and more.
SMALL BUSINESS INFO LINK: SCORE,
"Counselor's to America's Small Businesses" now has an Email service where
you can get answers to all sorts of questions about starting/expanding your
business no matter where you live. These are experienced members that can
provide all sorts of insight at no cost. Page also has links to many other
business related sites. If you are starting a small business, use this.
SMALL BUSINESS TAX REVIEW LINK: This has
continually updated information on tax laws affecting the small business-
depreciation, S corporations, maximizing pension contributions, casualty
losses, etc
SOCIAL SECURITY: Do you know how many workers
it takes to finance a social security recipient? International info as well.
SOCIAL SECURITY DEATH
INDEX LINK: This site allows you to see if a loved one you may
have lost track of has died. Can, obviously, also be used to check out the
date of a person's death so you can send cards, make a phone call, etc.
SOCIAL SECURITY LINK: This is the site for
the Social Security Administration and provides solid info on an everchanging
topic. Links to Medicare and more
SPENDING
PERSONALITY ASSESSMENT LINK: This site say that all spending mistakes
fall into one of only seven subconscious patterns . It has short on line
tests that determine where you fit in the hierarchy of spending and what
you might need to do to correct imbalances.
STATE DEPARTMENT LINK: This
excellent site has passport and visa info, international adoptions, overseas
travel advisories, travel health and a lot more. If you intend on going overseas,
you must review this site
STATE ECONOMY LINK: Click on the individual
state and find a vast array of economic numbers from the Bureau of Labor
Statistics.
STATE HEALTH WEBSITE
LINK: A wealth of information that varies from state to state but
can include health warnings, legislation, services, organizations, health
planning, records and much more. Not only valuable for yourself, but for
contacting those agencies in other states where you elderly parents may reside.
STATE AND COUNTY QUICK FACTS LINK:
provides frequently requested Census Bureau information at the national,
state and county level. For example, the U.S. contains 3,536,278 square miles.
It had 77.1 persons per square mile, 1999
STATISTICAL
INFORMATION LINK: Another government site that provides an unbelievable
amount of statistics on crime, education, health, economics (output, income
employment, CPI, PPI, more) and a host of other numbers for personal or business
use. Being able to quote numbers on the Domestic Airline Revenue Passenger
Miles from quarter to quarter should unquestionably increase your status
at parties and bar mitzvahs (but please do NOT invite me).
STRESS: Some simple guidelines for review. Hurry
up and click it for Chris' Sake!
STRESS REDUCTION LINK: Stress kills-
as if you didn't know that. Researchers say that brokers at the New York
Stock Exchange experience a 60% greater chance of a heart attack. This site
provides all types of information to reduce stress, ability to ask a psychologist
a question and more.
SUICIDE/ EUTHANASIA: Commentary including Final
Exit, Kervorkian, more
SUICIDE LINK: Direct link to extensive
information on suicide- the major cause of which is depression.
SUICIDE
PREVENTION LINK:
SURGERY LINK: "A
multimedia database of operative procedures designed to educate the average
individual about their surgery. This site will explain the most commonly
performed surgeries, using simple diagrams and cutting edge animations"
TELEMARKETING FRAUD
LINK: Admittedly if you are viewing this page you are "smarter than the
average bear" and the odds of your losing money to scam artists is probably
low. But many people- particularly the elderly- lose millions each year to
con men and women over the phone. Maybe you can print out some of the FTC's
material and give it to your mother, grandfather, etc.
TELEPHONE RATE LINK 1: This is a consumer
site that lets you independently analyze your phone bill to see which service
might be the best. Sure beats those annoying ads and calls telling you that
they have "something better and cheaper". It's definitely worth a "look see".
THYROID: General comments to see if you might
have thyroid problems
TOO THIN: Are you too thin? A short formula
to figure it out.
TOP
HOSPITAL LINK: A U.S. News feature that lets you put in your
ailment and then provides the best rated hospitals for the procedure
TRAFFIC SAFETY LINK: This site is
The National Traffic Safety Administration and has databases on vehicle defects
and car customer complaints
TRAVELLING LINK: Many retirees travel the
United States (as well as other countries) and this site has information
on innumerable cities internationally. Might make your trip a little easier.
See also State Department above
UGMA: Putting money away into Uniform Gifts to Minors
or UTMA (Uniform Trusts to Minors) may be exactly the wrong thing you want
to do- especially if you are saving for college.
U.S. BUSINESS ADVISOR LINK: Another
government site designed "to provide business with one stop access to the
federal government's information, services and transactions". Has statistics
on exports, OSHA, postal services, federal jobs and more.
US CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LINK: America's
principal advocate for the American business community.
U.S.
MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY UPDATE LINK: Notifiable Diseases and Reported
Deaths . Great for parties- impress your dog.
USED CAR LINK: A very descriptive
site with information to help purchasers of used cars- Reasons to buy a used
car; selecting and budgeting; warranties; where, when, how; inspections;
maintenance and repairs and more. Looks like it could be very helpful.
U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY LINK: The
site provides info on how to minimize loss of life and property from natural
disasters, more.
VETERINARY MEDICINE LINK: Veterinary
medical information and services.
VICTIM LINK: Have you been the victim of
a crime? This is the home page for the non profit National Victim Center
and its info might help you.
VITAMINS: Lots of new research relate the major
benefits of taking various vitamins as you get older. I have done so for
over 30 years and personally think it is one of the least expensive ways
to maintain a modicum of health
WAIST/HIP RATIO LINK: Women
with waist-to-hip ratios of more than 0.8 or men with waist-to-hip ratios
of more than 1.0 are "apples." They are at increased health risk because
of their fat distribution.
WELFARE LINK:Not
normally an issue for financial planning, it is nonetheless an economic problem
that requires review by us all. This goes directly to a page for state welfare
agencies.
WIDOWNET LINK: A support
page for all the issues effecting someone recently widowed. Highly
recommended
WORLD ENERGY LINK:
From British Petroleum
WORLD
FACTBOOK LINK: A CIA government site and this one is jammed packed with
all sorts of worldwide information of all types- population, infrastructure,
GDP's. Essential for looking at foreign economies.
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