Local View: ‘Be as generous as you can as often as you can’

As an attorney who does estate planning, I work with clients who are thinking about how to best spend their money. Some of the things we discuss are caring for family members, caring for beloved pets, and supporting organizations in the community.
One phrase that often comes to mind is, “You can’t take it with you.”
If you have a good plan to cover your expenses as you age, you might want to consider giving money earlier. Trust me, there is no greater enjoyment than seeing the benefit of your hard work going to an organization you love while you are alive and can enjoy it.
Fern Pachel was the founder of the Pachel Foundation. She lived a very modest life (no cellphone, no cable TV, and drove an older car). Fortunately for Fern, her sister Elsie encouraged her to invest in the stock market. Approximately 15 years ago, I helped Fern set up a small family foundation. She had a great life with many friends and lived to be 97 years old. We started the foundation with $1.4 million and since its inception have granted out $1 million to local charitable and arts organizations. We have done this without depleting the principal; Fern’s money will benefit the community in perpetuity.
Currently, I serve as treasurer of the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra, or DSSO. Like many arts organizations, the orchestra cannot sustain operations through ticket sales alone. We rely on corporate sponsors and individual giving. One of the trends we have seen post-pandemic is a decline in giving that threatens operations. The DSSO is in its 93rd year, and I can’t imagine our community without it. One thing you can do to support us is to buy tickets and attend concerts. If your circumstances allow, please consider making a gift at the end of the year or on Give to the Max Day.
Duluth has a lot going for it. Lake Superior provides scenic beauty that is almost unmatched. We are starting to embrace our status as a climate-change haven. Add to that the Duluth Playhouse, Loon Opera, the Depot, Minnesota Ballet, Matinee Musicale, and the DSSO, all of which are fantastic cultural amenities.
Please be as generous as you can as often as you can as we finish up 2024 and get ready for a healthy and prosperous 2025. Your community appreciates and needs your support.
Kay Biga of Duluth is an attorney at the Spott Law Office. She is also president of the Pachel Foundation and treasurer for the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra.