Embrace the charm and community spirit of Lancaster, New York by diving into a world of exclusive membership benefits that elevate your local experience. From cultural events to recreational activities, Lancaster offers something for everyone, creating a thriving hub of engagement and connection for its cherished members.
Membership in this
vibrant town means tapping into special events and programs you won’t find anywhere else. Whether it’s early access to captivating art exhibits or discounted tickets to local theater performances at the beloved Lancaster Opera House, members are afforded unique privileges that enhance their cultural palate. For those with a taste for nature, membership opens access to serene parks and guided nature walks, encouraging
4 | HelloLancaster, New York • Fall Issue
Hello Lancaster, New York • Fall Issue |5
Unlock the Hidden Gems of Lancaster,
exploration and relaxation in beautiful, well-maintained green spaces.
Families can delight in activities tailored for all ages, from engaging workshops to special family nights held at local community centers. Not to be overlooked, business members benefit from networking opportunities and partnerships that strengthen and support Lancaster’s thriving local economy.
In Lancaster, New York, membership is more than just joining; it’s about enriching your life with memorable experiences and creating lasting connections within a community that truly cares. Discover Lancaster’s endless offerings and enjoy...
Unlock the Hidden Gems of Lancaster, New York with Exclusive Membership Benefits
Embrace the charm and community spirit of Lancaster, New York by diving into a world of exclusive membership benefits that elevate your local experience. From cultural events to recreational activities, Lancaster offers something for everyone, creating a thriving hub of engagement and connection for its cherished members.
Membership in this vibrant town means tapping into special events and programs you won’t find anywhere else. Whether it’s early access to captivating art exhibits or discounted tickets to local theater performances at the beloved Lancaster Opera House, members are afforded unique privileges that enhance their cultural palate. For those with a taste for nature, membership opens access to serene parks and guided nature walks, encouraging exploration and relaxation in beautiful, well-maintained green spaces.
Families can delight in activities tailored for all ages, from engaging workshops to special family nights held at local community centers. Not to be overlooked, business members benefit from networking opportunities and partnerships that strengthen and support Lancaster’s thriving local economy.
In Lancaster, New York, membership is more than just joining; it’s about enriching your life with memorable experiences and creating lasting connections within a community that truly cares. Discover Lancaster’s endless offerings and enjoy the warm sense of belonging that comes with being an active member of this vibrant town.
Why It's Never Too Early to Begin Estate Planning
Estate planning is often viewed as something reserved for retirement age or individuals with significant wealth. But that mindset can leave people unprepared when life changes suddenly. In truth, the best time to start planning is earlier than most assume.People often think estate planning is for
later in life, but starting early is a smart move. It’s not about how much you own or how old you are; it’s about having clear legal tools in place to protect your wishes and your loved ones when unexpected events happen.Even young adults with limited assets can benefit greatly from basic planning
6 | HelloLancaster, New York • Fall Issue
Why It's Never Too Early to Begin Estate Planning
Estate planning is often viewed as something reserved for retirement age or individuals with significant wealth. But that mindset can leave people unprepared when life changes suddenly. In truth, the best time to start planning is earlier than most assume. People often think estate planning is for later in life, but starting early is a smart move. It’s not about how much you own or how old you are; it’s about having clear legal tools in place to protect your wishes and your loved ones when unexpected events happen. Even young adults with limited assets can benefit greatly from basic planning documents. Having a healthcare directive or power of attorney can make a big difference in an emergency. These documents allow someone you trust to make medical or financial decisions on your behalf if you're unable to speak for yourself — an essential safeguard in case of illness or accident. Life moves quickly, and major milestones often come without warning. Marriage, kids, property — all of it affects your plan. Each new chapter introduces new responsibilities and potential risks. Whether it’s naming a guardian for a child or ensuring a partner can access joint accounts, early estate planning builds a legal foundation that adapts as your life evolves. Importantly, estate planning isn't a one-time task. It’s a living process that should be updated over time to reflect your current circumstances and goals. By beginning early, you give yourself the advantage of control, clarity, and peace of mind, long before any issues arise. Early planning gives you control and protects your loved ones before problems arise. It ensures your wishes are honored, reduces confusion during difficult times, and avoids putting family members in the position of guessing your intentions during emergencies. Ultimately, estate planning is not about anticipating the worst. It’s about being prepared, informed, and thoughtful about the future, no matter what stage of life you're in.
Nicole Fenz
major milestones often come without warning. Marriage, kids, property — all of it affects your plan. Each new chapter introduces new responsibilities and potential risks. Whether it’s naming a guardian for a child or ensuring a partner can access joint accounts, early estate planning builds a legal foundation that adapts as your life evolves.Importantly, estate planning isn't a one-time task. It’s a living process that should be updated over time to reflect your current circumstances and goals. By beginning early, you give yourself the advantage of control, clarity, and peace of mind, long before any issues arise....
documents. Having a healthcare directive or power of attorney can make a big difference in an emergency. These documents allow someone you trust to make medical or financial decisions on your behalf if you're unable to speak for yourself — an essential safeguard in case of illness or accident.Life moves quickly, and
Having a healthcare directive or power of attorney can make a big difference in an emergency.
About the Author
Nicole Fenz is an attorney based in Lancaster, NY. Her services include Real Estate, Wills, and Estate. With years of experience, Nicole takes pride in helping her clients on a professional and personal level.
HelloLancaster, New York • Fall Issue |7
What Is a Health Care Proxy and Why Every Adult Needs One
When it comes to preparing for the unexpected, few documents are as important, or as overlooked, as a health care proxy. While many people associate medical planning with aging or illness, the reality is that life-altering emergencies can happen at any age.A health care proxy lets someone you trust
make medical decisions if you can’t speak for yourself. It is a legal document that authorizes a person, your chosen proxy, to communicate with doctors and guide your care based on your preferences if you become incapacitated.This is not just an issue for older adults. Emergencies don’t wait for
8 | HelloLancaster, New York • Fall Issue
What Is a Health Care Proxy and Why Every Adult Needs One
When it comes to preparing for the unexpected, few documents are as important, or as overlooked, as a health care proxy. While many people associate medical planning with aging or illness, the reality is that life-altering emergencies can happen at any age.
A health care proxy lets someone you trust make medical decisions if you can’t speak for yourself. It is a legal document that authorizes a person, your chosen proxy, to communicate with doctors and guide your care based on your preferences if you become incapacitated.
This is not just an issue for older adults. Emergencies don’t wait for old age, and without this document, your loved ones could face confusion or legal roadblocks. In a crisis, hospitals may be limited in what they can disclose, and family members may disagree on the best course of action. A health care proxy avoids those complications by clearly identifying who has the authority to make decisions.
Whether you're young, single, in a long-term relationship, or have a growing family, having a health care proxy ensures that your wishes will be honored if you're unable to express them. It offers peace of mind to you and to your loved ones, who won’t be left to guess during already stressful circumstances.
Creating a health care proxy is straightforward, but its value is immense. It is typically part of a larger set of advance directives, which may include a living will or do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order. Together, these documents form a clear plan for your medical care when you can’t speak for yourself.
It’s a simple step that brings real peace of mind when it matters most. Naming a health care proxy now means your voice is still heard, no matter the circumstances. It’s one of the most responsible decisions any adult can make, regardless of age or health status.
Nicole Fenz
Whether you're young, single, in a long-term relationship, or have a growing family, having a health care proxy ensures that your wishes will be honored if you're unable to express them. It offers peace of mind to you and to your loved ones, who won’t be left to guess during already stressful circumstances.Creating a health care proxy is straightforward, but its value is immense. It is typically part of a larger set of advance directives, which may include a living will or do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order. Together, these documents form a clear plan for your medical care when you can’t speak for yourself.It’s a simple step that...
old age, and without this document, your loved ones could face confusion or legal roadblocks. In a crisis, hospitals may be limited in what they can disclose, and family members may disagree on the best course of action. A health care proxy avoids those complications by clearly identifying who has the authority to make decisions.
Emergencies don’t wait for old age, and without this document, your loved ones could face confusion or legal roadblocks.
About the Author
Nicole Fenz is an attorney based in Lancaster, NY. Her services include Real Estate, Wills, and Estate. With years of experience, Nicole takes pride in helping her clients on a professional and personal level.
