The Buzz Book

The Buzz Book Magazine

19 hours ago

Paddle Peacefully
By Pop Up Paddle Adventures

A peaceful paddle along the shoreline is a fabulous mental reprieve, allowing one to focus on peace and nature. With a little extra speed and distance, it can also be a powerful, low impact workout. If you are looking for even more challenge, paddleboarding is the way to go. Visit www.popuppaddleadventures.com to learn more. ... See MoreSee Less

The Buzz Book Magazine

6 days ago

Melt-proof Make-up Tips
Color Her Confident

Ohio heat doesn’t stand a chance against these melt-proof make-up tips from Color Her Confident. Start with a mattifying primer and use long-wear or waterproof formulas. Swap heavy foundations for tinted moisturizer or powder. Cream blush and bronzer set with a light dusting of powder stay put longer. Finish with a setting spray to lock it all in and humidity doesn’t stand a chance! ... See MoreSee Less

The Buzz Book Magazine

1 week ago

Visit Wood County Park District
Locations are open 365 days a year from 8:00am until sunset.
More than 1,125-acres of park land to explore. From cycling to fishing —there is so much to discover! We host tons of free programs for young and old to enjoy! Learn more on our website at www.wcparks.org ... See MoreSee Less

The Buzz Book Magazine

3 weeks ago

The Passage of the Social Security Fairness Aat (H.R. 82)
By Dylan J. Krendl, Attorney, RCO Law

On January 5, 2025, (then) President Biden signed into law the Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82), marking a significant change in the benefits landscape for teachers, police, firefighters and other public service workers. This landmark legislation repeals both the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), two provisions that had long reduced Social Security benefits for individuals who also received a pension from non-Social Security covered employment.

The WEP reduced social security benefits for workers who had also contributed to any type of public employee retirement plans. The most common of these plans in Ohio are the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS) and the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS). The GPO reduced social security payments to surviving spouses covered under public employee pensions.

Key Changes:
• Retroactive Payments: The repeal is retroactive to December 2023, ensuring that eligible recipients will receive backdated payments. This immediate financial boost is expected to benefit millions of public service workers, including state employees who were previously affected by the WEP and GPO.

• Increased Retirement Income: With the elimination of WEP and GPO, public employees and their spouses can now receive their full Social Security benefits in addition to their state pensions. This change translates to a significant increase in retirement income, offering greater financial stability and security.

Estate and Financial Planning Implications:
• Enhanced Retirement Planning: The increase in retirement income allows public employees to more effectively plan for their future. With higher expected Social Security benefits, individuals can allocate additional resources towards healthcare costs, long-term care, and other essential expenses, allowing for a more comfortable
retirement.

• Estate Planning Adjustments: The changes in benefits may necessitate updates to estate planning documents. State employees should review their wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations to ensure their estate plans align with their new financial situation. Consulting with an estate planning attorney can help individuals navigate these changes and ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes.

• Charitable Giving and Legacy Planning: With increased financial security, some state employees might choose to incorporate charitable giving into their estate plans. Establishing charitable trusts or making bequests to favorite causes can create a lasting legacy and provide tax benefits. ... See MoreSee Less