Free estate planning workshop

By Elna Seabrooks
Staff Writer
    HOULTON — Experts in estate planning will present a free workshop on Thursday, Oct. 28 from 7-8 p.m. at the Houlton Higher Education Center.
    Jon McLaughlin is co-chair of fundraising for the Houlton High School Alumni Association, a co-sponsor of the event. He said the workshop will give participants a first-hand working knowledge of the process to facilitate decisions in preparing for the future and what options might be available.
    “Most people don’t like to discuss these issues,” he said. “But, it is time to be thinking about how to make best use of your assets after you pass on. The time is never better as it is certain that tax laws will be changing and when they do, your attorney or estate planner will know your wishes.”
    Although some people may not think they have enough assets to be worried about, McLaughlin pointed out that everyone has possessions to some degree or another and without a clear directive, the courts will have to decide how to administer a person’s estate.
    One of the presenters for the evening is Sarah McPartland-Good, director of planned giving for the University of Maine Foundation. McPartland-Good is a Houlton native. Jennifer Southard, director of philanthropic services with the Maine Community Foundation will also make a presentation to participants.
    The Houlton High School Alumni Association and Maine Community Foundation are hosting the event which is open to the public. For more information, contact Jon McLaughlin, 521-0157.