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Bridging the gap between saving money and investing

Amanda Blankenship

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor Review Update: Stock Market Changes

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the motley fool stock advisor review

If you have been following my journey with The Motley Fool stock advisor review, you know that I reported some pretty sizable returns last month. In fact, I was at about 49% annual return and counting by taking The Motley Fool stock advisor’s advice. However, things have changed more recently. As the stock market changes in preparation for a new president of the United States, my previous investments haven’t been fairing as well overall.

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor Review: Down a Bit

That’s not to say I’ve been losing money. Not at all. In fact, I am still up more than $1,600 in total. The return is less than it was a month ago though, by nearly 10%.

the motley fool stock advisor review

At the time of my last update, I was at 49.81% annual return. While I have lost some of that, I am still ahead overall by $1,694.47. It should also be noted that by the end of the trading day my return was closer to 45%. If you are interested in higher returns, your stock picks may have differed from mine slightly. No matter what, you should still research each stock and its market history before putting any money into it.

Will I Change My Investments?

It is important to note that if you are interested in using The Motley Fool stock advisor service that you should be willing to make regular changes to your portfolio. Although many of these stocks have been suggested in previous weeks, the picks are always changing. For example, today some of the top picks included Coupa Software, Amazon, and Disney. These three have never been mentioned in picks in the past.

the motley fool stock advisor review

There are a few others mentioned here as well that haven’t been listed before. Because there has been such a change, I will be changing my investments slightly. I decided to get rid of Square and ASML Holdings, which are no longer among The Motley Fool’s stock advisor suggestions. I will replace these two investments with shares of Fiverr International and Disney. Here is a look at my portfolio now…

the motley fool stock advisor review

Other investors may have decided to hold onto ASML Holidays and Square because they have been top performers in my portfolio since investing in them. My thinking here, however, is to test The Motley Fool stock advisor’s picks specifically. Because they are no longer mentioned in the top picks for today, they are going to be removed from my portfolio, for now. It will be interesting to see how Fiverr and Disney both perform in comparison.

Conclusion

I believe I will continue to stick with my overall conclusion of The Motley Fool stock advisor in that it is a good tool for novice investors, like myself. If you are considering getting into the stock market and are unsure of how to pick stocks according to your financial goals, The Motley Fool’s service can really be of assistance.

However, if you are a more seasoned investor looking for stock advice, you likely don’t need a picking service. Instead, you would be looking for a financial or investment advisor to help guide your portfolio. In some cases, investors work directly with stockbrokers.

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Is the Post Office Open on MLK Day 2021?

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post office open mlk day

The hustle and bustle of the new year can make it difficult to stay on top of upcoming holidays and events. Because of this, Martin Luther King Jr. Day often creeps up on people and finds them unprepared for the closings associated with a federal holiday. This year, MLK Day falls on January 18. If you’re thinking about using the day off to run errands, you may want to know, is the post office open on MLK Day?

Is the Post Office Open on MLK Day?

No, the post office is closed on MLK Day. United States Postal Service employees are given every federal holiday off. This includes Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Is the Post Office Open The Weekend Before MLK Day?

As usual, some post offices will be open on Saturday but all will be closed on Sunday. If your local post office branch is not typically open on Saturdays, it won’t be open the Saturday before MLK Day. Call USPS or visit their website to see the weekend hours for locations near you.

Even if the post office is closed, you can still take advantage of other services available to the public 365 days a year. You will still be able to drop off packages and letters to be mailed. Most post offices also have a machine where you can buy stamps and other postage as well. If you’re unsure of what services are available at your post office, give them a call.

Anything that needs to be sent on Sunday or a federal holiday may need to be taken to FedEx or UPS.  Even these services aren’t available 365 days a year though.

Is UPS Open on Martin Luther King Jr. Day?

Yes, the United Parcel Service is open on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. UPS recognizes Martin Luther King Jr. Day, but the company doesn’t observe the holiday. All UPS services are available and the company will run as if it were any other typical Monday.

Is Federal Express Open on MLK Day?

Yes, Federal Express is open on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. FedEx treats Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a regular Monday and provides their normal pickup and delivery service on January 18.

If there is another local delivery service or parcel pick up that you’re wondering is open or not, give them a call to see if they are open on MLK Day.

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2021 MLK Day Deals and Freebies

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MLK Day deals

The second federal holiday of the year celebrates the iconic civil rights hero, Martin Luther King Jr., who was sadly assassinated on April 4, 1968. Since 1983, we’ve been celebrating his legacy on the third Monday in January each year. Those who plan to be out and about on this day may be interested to know what MLK Day deals and freebies will be available. Here are some deals you can snag on Monday.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Deals and Freebies

This year, we celebrate MLK Day on Monday, January 18, and because it is a federal holiday, non-essential federal employees will have the day off and most schools will be closed. Because many people will be out of work, retailers and other businesses will be holding sales. If you’ve been looking to treat yourself after the holidays, the following discounts might interest you.

MLK Day Deals on Mattresses

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is another odd mattress holiday. This year, there are a lot of new mattress sales going on that will help you keep that resolution of getting a better night’s sleep.

  • Allswell: Use the code NEWYEAR15 to get 15% off everything sitewide until January 18.
  • Birch: Get $200 off your mattress and Birch will throw in two pillows with your order too.
  • Brooklyn Bedding: Take 25% off sitewide when you order between January 13 and January 18.
  • Casper: Get up to $450 off mattresses through January 2021.
  • Helix: This company is offering up to $200 off mattresses. Plus, you will get two free pillows with your purchase.
  • Layla: Layla mattresses are also offering $200 off mattresses and up to $300 in free accessories.
  • Leesa: Get up to $400 off mattresses.
  • Nectar: Through January 17, get up to $399 in free accessories when you purchase a mattress.
  • Purple: Purchase a Purple mattress and get a free set of sheets ($183 value).
  • Tempur-Pedic: Get up to 40% off select mattresses and mattress toppers from January 14 until January 18.
  • Wayfair: Take up to 70% off all home goods and mattresses from January 15 through January 19.

Retails Deals and Freebies

Mattress companies aren’t the only retailers putting on a sale for MLK Day though. Many retailers will be offering discounts during the holiday weekend. Here are just a few of the best.

  • Academy Sports and Outdoors: Get up to 65% off clearance items at Academy Sports from January 15 through 18. Also, get 25% off select athletic fleece and YETI drinkware.
  • Bass Pro Shops: Get up to 50% off hunting, camping, fishing, and hiking gear through January 20.
  • Bath & Body Works: Bath & Body put on a huge sale every January. This year will be no different. Some prices will be as low as $3.37 for shower gel and under $5 for essential oil mists.
  • Bed Bath and Beyond: When you order online and use curbside pickup over the holiday weekend, you’ll get an extra 20% off.
  • Crate and Barrel: Get up to 30% off sheets, towels, and other linens through January 18.
  • Home Depot: Home Depot has a large sale over the holiday weekend. You can get 40% off bath fixtures, 30% off select mattresses and mattress toppers, and 30% off select furniture items.
  • JCPenny: Through January 18, shoppers can use promo code SPECIAL8 online at JCPenny to get an extra 25% off select items. You can also use the code HOME23 to get 40% off your mattress purchase of $750 or more.
  • MAC Cosmetics: When you spend $75 or more, get $20 off ($30 off $100, $50 off $150) until Jan. 18 at 3 a.m. EST.
  • Macy’s: Use the promo code HOME to get an additional 10% off furniture and other home essentials throughout the month of January.
  • Nordstrom Rack: Get 25% off clothing items through January 25.
  • Ulta: Ulta is offering different deals every day through January 23 as a part of the Love Your Skin campaign. Brands on sale and deals will differ day-to-day.

Homeschool MLK Day Crafts

Many parents were faced with homeschooling their children for the first time in their lives in 2020. While it doesn’t make it any easier, there are some free MLK Day educational materials available online.

Of course, there are a plethora of MLK Day deals and freebies that may be available to you through local businesses well. As always, if you plan on taking advantage of some of these deals on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, be sure to remember why we celebrate this day.

Will you be utilizing any of these discounts? Do you have any to add to the list?

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Is the Stock Market Open on MLK Day 2021?

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is the stock market open on MLK Day

Federal holidays impact the day-to-day business of many institutions in the United States. Typically, banks close, and U.S. Postal Service employees have the day off. However, the stock market follows a different holiday schedule. With the year’s second federal holiday approaching, many people are wondering if the stock market is open on MLK Day?

Is the Stock Market Open on MLK Day?

The stock market will be closed on MLK Day. Investors will not be able to trade or sell on Monday, January 18. Any business that needs to be done will need to be completed before the close of business Friday. All other business will need to wait to be taken care of until Tuesday.

Will NASDAQ be open on MLK Day?

NASDAQ will be closed on Monday, January 18. Because the NASDAQ and NYSE have the same holiday schedule, they are closed the same days, including MLK Day. To be sure you are prepared, take time to review your stock market investments on Friday or be sure any business you wish to do can wait until January 19.

Bond Market MLK Day

The bond market will be closed on MLK Day. The SIMFA or bond market runs on a different schedule than the NYSE or NASDAQ. This means that there are days throughout the year that the SIMFA market is closed that the NYSE or NASDAQ is open. However, the bond market will still be closed on Monday. Any urgent business needs to be taken care of before 5 p.m. EST Friday.

The Stock Market Holiday Schedule

The stock market (NYSE and NASDAQ) is closed each year in observance of the following federal holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Washington’s Birthday, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

It is important to note that the market closes at 5 p.m. EST on regular business days. There are two days during the year in which the market closes early (1 p.m. EST). Those days are Christmas Eve and Black Friday. No dates around MLK Day are impacted this way.

Because the stock market holiday schedule varies slightly from the federal holiday schedule, active traders should note holidays and days the market closes early and plan accordingly.

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Free Things To Do in Topeka

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free things to do in topeka

If you have been considering a trip to the Kansas state capital, you’re in luck! Visiting the city is actually a fairly budget-friendly vacation. Below are some seriously cheap and free things to do in Topeka, Kansas.

Free Things To Do in Topeka

When you begin planning a vacation or trip of any sort, it is a good idea to have an itinerary in mind. To save money, add some of these free things to do in Topeka to your plans.

Lake Shawnee

Lake Shawnee is often cited as one of the top tourist destinations in the state of Kansas. Each year, more than 1 million people visit the park for festivals, camping, and other activities. There are a number of trails to hike and gardens to visit as well. Admission to the park is free, however, campsites and other attractions will come at a cost.

Gage Park

Gage Park is another outdoor attraction you can visit while you are in Topeka. It is a 160-acre park filled with walking paths. There is also a dog park here if you are traveling with your furry friend. Gage Park is also conveniently located near many other attractions, including the Topeka Zoo, the Children’s Discovery Center, and more.

Ward-Meade Park

Ward-Meade Park is a popular place for many people to stay when they visit Topeka. The park is close to a lot of hotels and other accommodations. Additionally, you can tour botanical gardens, visit the Ward-Meade mansion, and see an 1800s village replica.

free things to do in topeka

Brown vs. Board of Education Historic Site

Currently, due to COVID-19, there are no visitors allowed to the Brown vs. Board of Education Historic Site. However, you can take a virtual tour on the government website. When the historic site opens back up though, admission is free. It is recommended that you call ahead and make a reservation if you have a group of 10 or more.

Mulvane Art Museum

Art lovers should add the Mulvane Art Museum to the list of things to do in Topeka. It is a free art gallery (though donations are recommended) and you can get a look at some of the unique pieces of artwork that have come from the Topeka area. Right now, there are only self-guided tours being allowed.

Ted Ensley Gardens

Ted Ensley Gardens are another beautiful one of the free things to do in Topeka. While donations are accepted, it doesn’t cost a dime to tour the gardens to see roses, perennials, water and rock gardens, and so much more.

Museum of the Kansas National Guard

You can also visit the Museum of the Kansas National Guard in Topeka free-of-charge. There are a number of exhibits displaying historical information about the state airmen and soldiers. The museum was completely constructed and is kept going with volunteer hours and donations.

Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library

As always, I like to add the local public library to the list of free things to do any time you visit a new place. Oftentimes, the library will have local authors and artists on display. At the very least, you’ll get to poke around the local library.

Cheap Things To Do (Under $25)


Of course, not everything on your trip to Topeka can be free. That doesn’t mean you have to spend a ton of money either though. Here are a few more budget-friendly activities you may consider.

The Great Overland Station

This railroad station is a historic landmark and has been home to a number of weddings over the years. You can take a look around the station, and if you want to take a seat, you’ll see more than 100 freight trains pass through over the span of a day. There are some hands-on exhibits there as well, including a virtual exhibit that allows you to “drive” the train. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and military, and $2 for children.

Kansas Children’s Discovery Center

Families traveling with kids may want to add the Discovery Center to their itinerary. Admission for kids and adults is $9 and seniors get $1 off. However, the center is filled with activities that you could easily spend the better part of the day exploring, so you definitely get your money’s worth!

Kansas Museum of History

If you want to learn more about the state’s history while you’re there, consider adding the Kansas Museum of History to your plans as well. Admission is only $9 for a self-guided tour ($12 for guided tours). Children are admitted to the museum for just $3 ($6 for guided tours).

Combat Air Museum

The Topeka Combat Air Museum is a wonderful thing to visit while you are in the state capital. There are guided tours available upon request, but you will need to call ahead of time. Admission for children is $5 and adults are $7. Active duty military members can receive a discounted $5 admission as well.

free things to do in topeka

Evil Knievil Museum

Next up on the list is the Evil Knievil Museum. If you are a fan of the daredevil or his stunts, it is a must-see! General admission prices start at $15. Depending on what you want to include in your visit, ticket prices can be more expensive. However, it is a great stop if you’re traveling to Topeka.

Topeka Zoological Park

Topeka Zoo is actually home to the first indoor rainforest in the United States. It houses more than 250 animals and a number of interactive exhibits as well. Admission is fairly priced too with children two and under free, adults $7.75, seniors $6.75, and children (ages 3 to 12) $6.25.

Norseman Brewing Company

If you’re into scoping out the local brews, consider visiting Norseman Brewing Company. They have a number of brews available on tap. You can get beer tasters from their menu for just $2 apiece. They also have a full food menu with prices hovering between $8 and $11. There may also be a local BBQ truck outside (which visitors often rave about).

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New Year’s Deals and Freebies

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new year's deals

Ring in 2021 financially healthy with these New Year’s deals and freebies. Just when you thought the holidays could not get any more expensive, New Year’s comes around. Many individuals will plan parties, and whether lavish or not, they can still be costly. From food to drinks or even just going out for your New Year’s Eve plans, the holiday costs can really add up. The good news is you can still start 2020 off in a positive way without overspending. Save money by taking advantage of these New Year’s deals and freebies:

New Year’s Freebies

  • Danone’s: You can get a month’s supply of water for free during Dry January. All you need to do to enter the giveaway is share new habits you are adopting in the new year or healthy recipes you plan to use on Instagram. Use the hashtag #VolvicStrongJan and tag the page @Volvic_USA.
  • Heineken Alchol-Free Beer: Heineken will be bringing back the “Dry January Pack.” By visiting BeerForJanuary.com, you can get a pack of 31 alcohol-free cans for $0. Keep in mind, this is only while supplies last, so you’ll want to get it as soon as possible.
  • Mattress Firm: Through January 20, Mattress Firm is offering a free adjustable base with the purchase of any queen mattress ($699 and up). To cash in on this freebie, use the code ELEVATE at checkout.
  • Smoothie King: Share your health and fitness goals with Smoothie King between December 29 and January 2 and get a free 12 oz. Metabolism Boost Smoothie.

New Year’s Deals

  • Bath & Body Works: Bath & Body Works is holding its infamous end-of-year sale. It started on December 26 and runs through January. You can get up to 75% off storewide. You may also find some throwback scents that aren’t typically sold throughout the rest of the year.
  • Crate & Barrel: If you’re in the market for some home goods in the new year, Crate & Barrel has a great sale going on. They have 30% off holiday decor and a plethora of furniture items marked down by hundreds of dollars.
  • Dillard’s: Dillard’s department store  is known for its holiday sales. This year, they are offering 60% off clearance items starting at midnight on January 1.
  • Drizzly: New users can get $5 off alcohol delivery with Drizzly for New Year’s by using the promo code HELLO. You can also use the code HOLIDAYS through December 31 to get $5 as well. This means you’ll be able to stay in and stay safe while still getting to celebrate saying goodbye to 2020.
  • Express: The clothing brand is offering 40% to 60% off everything in their store (yes, everything, not just clearance items).
  • Kate Spade: Using the code BIGGESTSALE on Kate Spade’s online store will help you get an additional 50% off at checkout now through January 5.
  • Overstock.com: Overstock is another company offering some great New Year’s deals. You can get up to 70% off their products online or through their app. Not to mention, they offer free shipping too.

Where to Find More Deals

It is always nice to find more deals even after the holiday season. Check these brands out and sign-up for a membership in all these so that you’ll get more deals in the coming days.

Platform:Fees and Minimum:Deals Best for:
CostcoGold Star Membership
$60.00
The biggest deals and discounts if you are a member
WalmartFree sign-upHouseware, etc
TargetFree sign-upClothing and low-cost home accessories
AmazonFree sign-upDifferent options to choose from

 

These are just a few of the many deals happening to celebrate another year. You may find even more deals and freebies locally. With a little digging and patience, you can snag some awesome discounts and start the New Year with savings.

Do you have any deals or freebies to add to the list?

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