November 27, 2007
Tuesday AM

Ketchikan, Alaska - It's that time of year again - do you hear that sound? No it's not the jingle jangle of sleigh bells, it's the sound of cash registers and credit card machines adding up our holiday purchases.

During the holidays, advertisers would like us to believe that unless we buy the latest electronic gadget or hottest new toy for our children and loved ones; we will be remembered as the Grinch who stole Christmas. If you are like me, I'm sure you have memories of planning months in advance to find the "perfect gift" for your son or daughter only to discover them having more fun with the wrapping paper and the box the gift came in.

Holiday shopping doesn't have to break the bank and put you in debt. Everyone likes to see shiny boxes and pretty gift-wrapped presents under the tree. However, there are other gifts we can give that although perhaps not as stimulating as Guitar Hero® I, II, III or a new Wii®, could be the gift with the potential for providing lasting memories long after the holidays are over.

We are inundated with information about investing for our futures. Have you ever considered an investment for your children, niece, nephew, grandchild or godchild? Establishing an investment account doesn't have to be difficult or scary and you don't have to have a lot of cash to get started - remember the story of the tortoise and the hare? There are a variety of options available - some with tax advantaged strategies and by adding to it regularly, there is potential to have the funds necessary for continuing educational opportunities. Depending on the type of investment, the time frame and market conditions, there could potentially be enough funds available that continuing that education doesn't have to break the bank - or if further educational or school options are not in their future, perhaps the funds could be utilized for a first home, business, wedding, honeymoon or for their own children's future.

So - where do you start? There are bank savings accounts all the way to stock brokerage accounts - this is one of those gifts where "one size fits all" does not apply. What is important is to find the type that best fits your investment risk profile and family plans. To find information about the various options available you can always do a Google search and scroll through the million hits that pop up or you can simply consult the various professionals at your local bank, credit union or investment professional's office.

What should you look for in an investment? Probably two of the most important issues to be considered would be the time frame the funds will be needed as well as if you want to utilize a tax advantaged account. The answers to those questions will help define what your options are.

So, when the Christmas spirit comes knocking at your door, look over your holiday gift-giving budget. If there is something special on the list you feel you can't bypass, that's certainly your choice. However, if it is possible to spend less and utilize the remaining funds for an investment in your child's or loved one's future - that could be the one gift that truly does keep on giving. It's never too late to start!

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Ketchikan, Alaska