On July 4th, 1916, four immigrants on Coney Island were having an argument debating who was the most patriotic. They decided to settle the argument by having an eating competition at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs stand. That eating competition became a yearly tradition that has continued to grow in popularity over the past 96 years. It developed into what is recognized today as one Independence Day’s favorite pastimes – The Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Competition. Three days ago, world-renowned competitive eater, Joey Chestnut, won his fifth consecutive Nathan’s Hot Dog Competition, eating 62 hot dogs in 12 minutes. That 62 spot was enough to win the 2011 mustard-colored champion belt. However, it was not enough to break his all-time personal best of 68 hot dogs, which is also the world record for most hot dogs in 12 minutes.
Watching those competitive eaters scarf down two or three hot dogs down at a time can certainly be gut wrenching. But as I watched, my stomach turned knowing that most likely, at least one of those competitive eaters on stage had not adequately planned their estate. You would think in a career like competitive eating, where individuals shove as much food into their systems as possible; there is a concern for choking, stomach or esophagus rupture, or some other freak accident that could result in a tragic death. For example, Chestnut has won countless eating competitions for prize money, aside from the five consecutive Nathan’s competition victories, which earned him a total of $50,000. Does he have that prize money and other valuable assets protected in a irrevocable trust in case of a deadly choking fit?
You may not be able to eat 68 hot dogs in 12 minutes. You may not eat competitively. But do not think just because you are a “low risk” eater that choking on your food is an implausible occurrence. A freak accident can happen to anyone. It is best to plan for the future of your estate as soon as possible to assure that your loved ones are taken care of. Speak to a qualified estate attorney today to discuss an estate plan that is right for you and your family.
For more information on successful Florida estate planning and probate, please contact the South Florida law firm of Wild Felice & Pardo, P.A. at 954-944-2855 or via email at info@wfplaw.com to schedule your free consultation.
It’s a Wild world. Are you protected?
