Damon Lichtenberger, CLTC

07/20/2026

Sometimes getting ahead can be as simple as using the options that you may not know are at your disposal!

For example: if you feel like you’re lost on how to save for retirement, make sure you know what options are available through your employer! If you’re offered a matching system, make sure to make contributions so that you can get the most out of your employee benefits.

If you aren’t sure what’s available in the first place, reach out to me! We can additionally explore things like high-yield savings accounts or other options available through your bank that can help you manage your money with greater efficiency.
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All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

07/17/2026

Do the rising costs of everyday living and complexities of managing your finances all by yourself have you feeling like an ice cream cone on a hot summer day? Don’t let yourself melt away – you don’t have to do all the work yourself.

A financial advisor can help shoulder some of the load and guide you on a feasible path towards financial confidence. Let’s get started together on a plan that can make your financial goals feel within reach.

07/17/2026

As we reflect on the second quarter of 2026, Steven Vacinek, CIMA®, Director of Investments, shares perspective on the markets and economy.

At North Star, we believe that staying informed is key to navigating any market environment.

Watch the full update here:



Required Disclosures: Steven Vacinek is a registered administrative assistant of Cetera Wealth Services, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC.

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

07/13/2026

Debt of any kind is one of the largest roadblocks that most Americans face in their finances. It can wreck your plans and weigh you down for years if you don’t take measures to deal with it efficiently, but that is obviously easier said than done when you have other financial responsibilities to tend to.

If you’re feeling like you have no path out of your debt, whether it be student loans or otherwise, don’t hesitate to reach out! We can create a payment plan that doesn’t ignore the other facets of your finances and your life.

07/10/2026

We’re in the throes of Summer, and that means warm weather! But you may not fully realize that warm weather can also mean extra strain on your finances. Confused? Here are a few extra costs that pop up during summer that you may not have thought about:

-Patio season is in full swing – you may have found yourself eating out more often than usual.
-On the flip side, if you like to host outdoor gatherings in the summer, you might notice some extra numbers in the grocery store receipts.
-Outdoor concerts are a blast at this time of year, but how much are you spending on those?

Of course, this isn’t a wake-up call to stop doing these things altogether, but rather to simply be mindful of where your money is going towards and whether you need to rein some of your spending in. As always, contact a financial advisor if you’re concerned about your spending and feel like you need to get a better handle on your finances to reach your financial goals.

07/06/2026

When it comes to investing, it might seem like your only options are the same old cookie-cutter portfolios – ones that might allegedly be the most “profitable” choices, but choices that may or may not be aligned with your values. Why settle for something that your heart isn’t in?

If you want to discuss how to make your portfolio align closer with your inner values or if you want to refresh your goals, let me know! I would love to connect with you and create a personalized investment plan that meshes with your personality and ethics.
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All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

07/04/2026

Today is the Fourth of July! This federal holiday commemorates the establishment of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, marking the birth of the United States of America. This year’s celebration marks an important milestone: 2026 is the 250th anniversary of the foundation of the nation. Celebrate this momentous occasion by enjoying the summer weather with your friends and family.

06/29/2026

As you change and evolve over the years, is your strategy staying stagnant? Or is it moving with you? Frequent check-ins and upkeep on your financial plan can help you stay on your toes as economic developments and life changes pop up. If you’re not sure how your plan needs to change in order to account for changing tides, reach out today, and we can work on a new-and-improved version of your plan to keep in step with the fast pace of today’s world.

06/26/2026

Are you prioritizing retirement in your financial plan? While it may seem far off, saving for those golden years now can help you get a step ahead.

Even a little bit helps! Reach out today if you need help kickstarting your path to retirement. We can work with you to determine how much you want to contribute so that you can start saving the money that you need to have to reach your goals.

06/21/2026

Happy Father’s Day from North Star to all of the fathers who helped us become who we are today. For many of us, our fathers were role models that taught us how to navigate the world, whether it be in ways big or small. Take some time today to tell your father that you appreciate everything they have done in your life or give them a visit!