"I practice geriatrics in CT for three decades and watched several “ assisted living” facilities come and go. The biggest issues are financial, or long term viability of the organization. Many of the for profit ones go bankrupt as they start with low fees, care needs increase and so do the fees. Non Profit or church affiliated places are usually a better bet. I would look at staff longevity ( a good employer retains employees and usually runs things well), physical plant ( avoid places that put a lot of money into walnut paneling etc), resident retention ( ask people you meet at the place how long they have lived there). None of them are reliably excellent"

"Wherever I am, I try to follow local tipping culture. We spend a good amount of time in the UK (including now) and yet I still feel slightly uncomfortable about tipping. Since a server knows we’re North American, I hope they don’t see what would be normal tipping behavior from a Brit as an indicator that we didn’t appreciate them.  Knowing full well that British tipping culture is as you describe, I squirm a bit at being presented with an option to tip 10, 15 or 20 percent. I must say I’ve also been in establishments where the employee scrolls right past the tip screen before presenting the machine for payment.  Back to the original post - whatever country we’re in, if I see something labeled a service charge and it’s not clear if it’s a gratuity or not, I ask. If it is, that’s the gratuity they get. "

"Agree 100% David. I just thought it was an interesting read, but I wouldn't act on the information."

"I use Fidelity, but i never paid attention to a check book. I just transfer money where i want it to my bank accounts which is rare."

"I don't think the credit will have any effect on your state taxes. If you live in a state that participates, that will have to be dealt with on your state tax return. In Ohio, you can direct the tax credit to the school of your choice."

"Here is another Jonathan quote he gave me for my chapter in My Money Journey I think it captures the essence of everything we talk about on HD. “We can’t control what others do and we can’t stop misfortune from striking. But we can control our own actions. Those who are financially prudent will most likely enjoy success, even if events don’t always go their way.” "

"Mark, congratulations to your grandson! What a wonderful achievement. Your post reminded me that academic success isn't always a reliable predictor of success in life. I struggled academically as a child, particularly during my seven years at boarding school in England. Yet I eventually found my footing, built a successful business with my twin brother, and retired at 55. I've become an avid reader over the years, and I believe reading enriches our lives in ways that go well beyond financial rewards. Perhaps the greatest return on your grandson's million words won't be measured in dollars, but in curiosity, understanding, and the opportunities those words open up for him."

"Helping, even indirectly, people make decisions is good. Sometimes that isn’t saying what to do, but demonstrating what a person may not want to do."

"Elaine, thank you for the update. What a wonderful way to remember an exceptional man."