s ’ y a d To
Vol. 5 No. 3
Brazil Booming for Boomers: 2016 Olympics Preview Healthy Eating: Latin Coachmen’s Rice
20 Smart Old Enough Retirement for Sex: Moves You 10 Things That Turn Can Make Right NOW Men Off
Boomer Consumer Watch: Why You Need Financial Cheat Days
The Upside of Retirement Leisure: The Freedom Zone
F– Being Old: “SOSS” Save Our Social Security Today’s BoomeR Featuring The Only B2B -Business 2 BoomeR Marketplace!
Up Coming CruisesBook Now! Bordeaux, Vineyards & Chateaux Credit Union Success Forum River Educruise June 19-June 26, 2016 Alaska—Voyage of the Glaciers Credit Union Growth Strategies Forum 2016 July 23-July 30, 2016 African Safari Adventure 2016 The Credit Union Survival To Thrival Experience August 1-August 10, 2016 French Riviera & Adriatic Educruise Credit Union Futuretrends Symposium August 18-August 28, 2016
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This Issue May / June 2016 Volume 5, Number 3
Boomer Travel
5
Founders: John Vardallas & Alexandra Maragha
Brazil Booming for Boomers
20 Smart Retirement Moves 10 You Can Make right Now Social Security
12
The Upside of Retirement 13 Leisure: The Freedom Zone 16
10 Things That Turn Men Off
Boomer Consumer Watch
18
Why You Need Financial Cheat Days
Booming Into “Work-Tirement”
19
Boomer Healthy Eating
20
Arroz de Carreteiro – Coachmen’s Rice
New Blog: F-Being Old
22
“SOSS”-Save Our Social Security
B2B Marketplace
Editor-In-Chief: Alexandra Maragha Contributing Writers : Bob Trotter: Social Security Chef Eben Atwater: Healthy Eating Advertising: Team
Men’s Health and Social Security
Old Enough For Sex
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For Letters to the Editor, articles and feedback as well as advertising inquiries email Alexandra@TheAmericanBoomeR.com
TheAmericanBoomeR.com John Vardallas CEO/Founder Professional Speaker Business/Lifestyle Strategist Boomer Sage and Blogger JohnVardallas@TheAmericanBoomeR.com (608) 577-8707 Alexandra Maragha Founder & Editor-In-Chief Today’s BoomeR Alexandra@TheAmericanBoomeR.com Today’s BoomeR Vol.5 No.3 Today’s BoomeR is published six times (Jan/Feb, Mar/Apr, May/ June, July/Aug, Sept/Oct, Nov/Dec) a year by The American BoomeR.com 769 North Star Drive (Suite 207) Madison, WI 53718 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
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Business 2 Boomers Marketplace
The American Boomer @American_Boomer Today’s BoomeR 3
EDITOR’S LETTER
’s
Today
Leisure; A New Luxury At any stage of life, leisure is a concept that is explored in many different ways. At a young age, leisure could embrace lack of responsibility and time spent among friends any day of the week or especially when school was over to just enjoys days of nothing. As a single adult before families and kids came along, a planned vacation or a more sophisticated time spent from money earned, matched a greater leisure experience to be had. No matter the time or situation, the fact is as more responsibility becomes realized and faced, the more the simplicities found in leisure time, becomes less.
(feature)
This issue is to embrace the precious element of leisure time that can and should be spent and remembered for Boomers now and into the future. p. 10 Examine the study of leisure bringing the time spent by Boomers and their trends of relaxation and retirement to create “The Freedom Zone”. Take a trip to Brazil to enjoy the pleasures of international sport with the 2016 Olympics, with venues and hot spots tailored to tourists for years to come. Working in the kitchen can also be considered leisure time spent with great food, as chef Eben brings a great Latin dish to your table. Retirement and spending can bring leisure to enjoy the fruits of your labor, with rewarding your everyday financial balance with a day of earned spending while also giving your mind some leisure into retirement with 20 smart moves to make now for future planning. No matter the way it is spent or means the most, consider that leisure time spent is considered, now more than ever, a new luxury among a chaotic and time consuming busy world.
p. 12
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Alexandra Maragha Editor-In-Chief Send Letters and Feedback to: Alexandra@theamericanboomer.com
BOOMER TRAVEL
Rio and the 2016 Olympic Games TravelChannel.com
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you travel, and for information on traveling with minors (especially if you have sole legal custody of your child), see this link on the U.S. Department of State website. It tells you about Brasilian currency, purchasing tickets through CoSport (the only legitimate source for those in the U.S. to buy tickets for the Olympics
The countdown is on! Torchbearers are on the way to Rio de Janeiro, where the 2016 Olympics will run from August 5-21. The Paralympics follow, from Sept. 7-18.
or Paralympics), and much, much more.
There’s still time to plan to attend, and we’ve got tips on where to stay, what to do and even what to eat. Thanks to a waiver, tourists coming from the U.S., Japan, Australia or Canada between June 1 and Sept. 18, 2016 don't need a Brasilian visa. You won’t need to show proof that you’ve bought event tickets, either.
Finally-- in case you’re wondering-“Brasil” is how Brasilians spell their country’s name. In America, we use “Brazil.”
However, you'll need a valid U.S. passport, which will allow you to stay up to 90 days. It's recommended that your passport remains valid for at least six months after the date you plan to return. If it will expire before or during your trip, renew as soon as possible. And if you're not going solely for tourism, or you're entering Brasil before or after the dates of the Games, you will need a Brasilian visa. Apply through your nearest Brasilian consulate as soon as you can; processing times are expected to get longer as the Games approach. The current fee is $160 for a visa that will be valid for 10 years.
What to Do With 42 Olympic sports and 306 events going on, you’ll stay busy. Some are open air, which means you can watch them free from various locations. Live sites will also let fans watch the action on big screens in public places: Madureira Park, in the Madureira Neighborhood; at the seafront in the Port area; and the Sports Center Miécimo da Silva, in Campo Grande.
It's also wise to sign up for STEP, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Sample Brasil’s music, performing arts, and more, when the Program, which will help the U.S. Embassy and Consulates reach 2016 Culture Festival takes to the streets. you with vital security and safety announcements. When you’re not at the Games, take time to explore Brasil’s For more essential information about staying safe and well as 6 Today’s BoomeR
famous landmarks, lush rainforests, exotic foods, and electric nightlife. Start with beautiful beaches like these: Rio’s nickname is “Wonderful City,” and tourists from around the world come for its beaches. Ipanema Beach is a popular hangout, so arrive early to get the best spot for your towel or lounge chair. Take the subway or a bus to Copacabana Beach. Then visit a beach bar for a cold beer or some coconut water straight from the coconut. Beach sports are popular here, so look for government-provided volleyball nets, football courts and even sites with training equipment. You can bike, jog, or skate along the promenade, with its striking black-and-white wave design. It parallels the beach for over 2 miles. Catch a wave at Arpoador Beach, the birthplace of Brasilian surfing. It’s a small stretch of sand and rock between Ipanema and Copacabana beaches. Leme Beach, on the northern side of
iCopacabana Beach, is more family-oriented and less crowded. Watch the cable cars climb nearby Sugar Loaf Mountain (or take a day tour to explore it.) In the evening, catch a spectacular sunset.
Where to Drink and Dance Rio comes alive in the evenings, with jazz bars, dance halls, pubs, nightclubs and samba clubs. Party at Rio Scenarium, where patrons dance and sing into the wee hours, powered by imported beers and salted snacks. Trapiche Gamboa, voted Rio’s best live music club in 2010, serves up specialties like harumaki chicken curry and cheese balls. Check out Carioca da Gema for tapas and fish dishes and lively Samba music. Rio is known for “Comida de Buteco,” informal bars where you can mingle, drink and eat. Have an iced chope (draft beer, pronounced like SHOW-pea) with appetizers like cassava and jerked beef, fried cassava, or chicken fritters. Or head over to Lapa, a bohemian neighborhood, to hear samba and other
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Brasilian rhythms.
Where to Dine Street vendors with charcoal braziers are all over Rio. Before you sample any foods, look around to be sure the cooking equipment and preparation surfaces are clean and sanitary. A line of customers waiting to order is usually a sign that the food is good. For restaurant service, head over to Rua Dias Ferreira. This street, located in Leblon, offers vegetarian dishes at Celeiro; seafood and sushi at Sushi Leblon; and Italian cuisine at Quadrucci. While you’re in Rio, order feijoada, Brasil’s national dish. It’s a heavy, somewhat salty stew made with
include:
Where to Stay Copacabana Beach:
Copacabana Palace
Hotel Miramar
Marriott
Porto Bay Rio
Leblon Beach: Sheraton Ipanema Beach: Hotel Fasano
black beans and pork or beef products, usually served with sautéed kale, oranges, rice and farofa (cassava flour). Wash it down with beer, cachaça (Brasilian rum made from sugar cane) or pair it with a Caipirinha (a cocktail made with cachaça, lime, sugar and ice). Rio is also famous for its churrascaria, meats that are barbecued and typically brought to your table on skewers, where they’re carved onto your plate. Try Churrascaria Palace, Fogo de Chao or Porcao. Rio has hotels to fit most budgets, or book with Airbnb, which is partnering with Rio in 2016 to offer a variety of accommodations. Some top hotels in Rio 8 Today’s BoomeR
Santa Teresa Neighborhood:
Hotel Santa Teresa
Barra da Tijuca, site of many of the 2016 competitions:
Windsor Hotel
Sheraton Barra
Hilton Hotel
There’s much more to see and do. Soccer fan will find
malaria, rabies and yellow fever vaccines for some travelers. Again, ask your doctor what you need. The Zika virus, spread by mosquitoes, has been reported in Brasil. For tips on protecting yourself, and to learn if you're at special risk, check the CDC website and re-visit it periodically forupdates. Visit Brasil.com and Rio.com for more travel tips and essential info on health, security, and other issues.
games in five different cities: Salvador, Sao Paulo, Brasilia, Belo Horizonte and Manaus. If you’re an art lover, make time to visit Praca Maua, in Centro, where you’ll find a mix of science and art at the futuristic-looking Museum of Tomorrow. The Rio Museum of Art is also here. Before you travel to Brasil, ask your doctor if you need any routine vaccines or medicines. The CDC recommends Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines for most travelers, and Hepatitis B, Today’s BoomeR 9
20 Smart Retirement Moves You Can Make Right Now By Selena Maranjian
We would all do well to give serious and regular thought to our retirement, whether it's three or 30 years away. The more you know and the more steps you've taken to make sure it's a comfortable one, the better off you'll be. Here are 20 smart retirement moves you can make right now.
? of $8,000, you'd have almost $1.1 million in 26 years. Aim to increase your saving each year, perhaps by applying some or all of any raises toward your future.
5. Spend less. In order to save more, you'll need to spend less. It can help to spend a few months 1. Get out of debt. This is vital, at least in regard to tracking all your spending, to see where your high-interest rate debt such as you'll get with credit money goes. Then draft a budget and stick to it. card balances. It's not unusual to be charged annual Live below your means, saving money perhaps by interest rates of 25% or more, and on $20,000 of using coupons, comparing prices before buying, debt, that can cost you around $5,000 each year! bypassing some luxuries, and brown-bagging some No matter how much debt you have, you can lunches. probably pay it off if you're determined and persistent. 6. Catch up, if you can. If your retirement savings are 2. Have an emergency fund. You may have thousands socked away in retirement accounts, but if a job loss or major health setback causes you to liquidate such an account, that's going to hurt your financial future. Have an emergency fund available with three to nine months' worth of living expenses.
well below where they should be, consider taking some drastic steps to beef them up. The earlier you do this, the more your money can grow for you. You might take on a second job for a while, or regularly do some extra work on the side, such as tutoring. You might take in a boarder for a while or rent out a room on Airbnb now and then. Have several cars in your household? You might get rid of one for a while, to save money.
3. Appreciate the power of compounding. If you don't already appreciate the power of compounding, consider this: Sock $8,000 away each year for 25 years and if it grows by 10% each year, you'll end 7. Invest smarter. Is your portfolio full of lots of stocks you bought and forgot about, including would-be up with about $865,000. If it grows for 26 years, it highfliers that never flew? Aim to hold only stocks will total more than $960,000! That's a difference of in which you have great knowledge and confidence. more than $95,000 and it shows how powerfully Consider dividend payers. If you're just not great at money can grow when given a lot of time. The choosing which stocks to buy and when to sell, you lesson is to start saving and investing as early as would do well to just opt for one or more possible, and aggressively, too, as your most inexpensive broad-market index funds. The more powerful dollars are your oldest ones. smart moves you make now, the better your 4. Save more. The more you can sock away, the better retirement is likely to be. off you'll be in retirement. In the example above, if you could save and invest $9,000 each year instead 8. Reduce fees. Take a look at the fees you're paying in your investment accounts, bank accounts, 10 Today’s BoomeR
mutual funds, retirement accounts, and so on. Very often, you'll be able to switch to lower-cost options. If you can pay one percentage point less on $100,000, you'll save $1,000 -- per year.
old couple might be able to secure $1,000 per month for as long as at least one of them is alive. That can provide much peace of mind.
16. Consider dropping your life insurance. If you're 9. Simplify financial accounts. Many of us have paying for life insurance and you still have people accumulated lots of financial accounts, from depending on your income, keep it. But if your various jobs and points in our lives. Consider kids are grown and your spouse will have enough consolidating some of them, so that they're easier financial resources to carry on should you die, you to stay on top of. might save money by dropping the policy. 10. Rebalance your portfolio now and then. If you haven't rebalanced your portfolio in a long time, you may be far from your desired allocation of, say, 10% in international stocks or 20% in bonds. One big winner might now make up 35% of your portfolio, resulting in a lot of eggs in that one basket.
17. Look into long-term care insurance. Long-term care can be very costly -- which is why insurance for it is costly, too. It won't make sense for everyone, but it's worth investigating how much it would cost you and if it seems worthwhile. The earlier you buy it, the less it will cost.
18. Get the paperwork done. No matter your age 11. Take advantage of retirement accounts such as right now, be sure you have all your legal the Roth IRA. Remember that you can contribute paperwork in order. All of us should have a will, a up to $5,500 to an IRA for 2016, plus an additional durable power of attorney for finances, a living $1,000 if you're 50 or older. Follow the Roth IRA will, and a healthcare power of attorney rules and you'll be able to withdraw all your (sometimes called a healthcare proxy). You might contributions and earnings tax-free! also look into setting up an estate plan and a trust, among other things. 12. Make the most of your 401(k). 401(k)s have much higher contribution limits, so aim to contrib- 19. Imagine and think about retirement. As ute generously to them, at least enough to take retirement approaches, start thinking about it in full advantage of any available matching funds. some detail. Think about where you want to live That's free money, after all. or where it makes most sense to live, financially or socially. Think about what you will do in 13. Get your spouse on board, too. Be sure that you retirement and see whether there any steps you and your spouse are on the same page, might take now to prepare, such as visiting areas financially, working together to save and invest. If where you might move or reading up on late-life only one is doing so while the other is spending or investing strategies. racking up debt, you're headed for trouble. 14. Pay off your mortgage before retiring. Consider 20. Have a plan. A critical thing to do is to have a plan, and not leave your retirement up to chance. paying off your home before retiring to free No matter your age now, give some thought to yourself from mortgage payments. That can make how much income you'll need in retirement and the rest of your money go further. how you'll build up enough of a nest egg to supply 15. Consider an annuity. Consider buying into an that. It can be smart to consult a professional, annuity to provide some retirement income. With too. a $200,000 investment, for example, a 70-yearToday’s BoomeR 11
Social Security: Men’s Health and Social Security By Bob Trotter, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist
This year, we observe National Men’s Health Week from June 13 to 19. It so happens that Father’s Day falls on the last
Get a replacement SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S for tax season.
day of Men’s Health Week, a perfect time for focusing on
In some states, you can even request a replacement Social
health education and awareness, disease prevention, and
Security card online using my Social Security. Currently
family.
available in the District of Columbia, Iowa, Kentucky, Social Security
Michigan, Nebraska, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Washington,
encourages you to
and Wisconsin, It’s an easy, convenient, and secure way to
support fathers
request a replacement card online. We continue to add more
and friends
states, so we encourage you to check
everywhere in
www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber to see where the service
their efforts to stay is available. healthy. The right
Tell dad to check out the healthy amount of features we
balance of diet,
have to offer at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.
exercise, regular
In addition to using my Social Security, there are a number of
visits to doctors
other things you can do online with Social Security. For
and health care
example, you can use the Retirement Estimator to plug in
providers, and overall healthy living can go a long way to
different numbers, retirement dates, and scenarios to help
help everyone remain a part of your daily life for years to
you decide the best time for you to retire. It’s available at
come. Part of staying healthy and happy is reducing the
www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator.
amount of stress in your life. That’s where opening a my
And when that time comes, you can apply for retirement
Social Security online account can help. Our online services
benefits online at www.socialsecurity.gov/planners/
make doing business with us fast and easy. At my Social
about.htm. It can take as little as 15 minutes from start to
Security, you can:
finish. In most cases, once you submit your electronic
Keep track of your earnings and verify them every year;
application, that’s it, you’re done—no papers to sign or
Get an estimate of your future benefits, if you are still
documents to submit.
working;
Learn more about Social Security retirement benefits by
Get a letter with proof of your benefits, if you currently
reading our publication on the subject at
receive them; and
www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.
Manage your benefits:
When you’re ready to retire, the best place to apply is from
Change your address;
the comfort of your home computer, with some of your
Start or change your direct deposit;
favorite music playing in the background. Now that’s a great
Request a replacement Medicare card; and
start to a healthy retirement!
12 Today’s BoomeR
New Study Uncovers The Upside Of Retirement Leisure: The Freedom Zone By Ken Dychtwald Ph.D. Part One of a Two-Part Series With nearly 10,000 boomers retiring each day, a profoundly different portrait of retirement leisure is beginning to emerge — which many retirees tell us is the most liberating and enjoyable time of their lives. And, as I’ll explain, money doesn’t seem to be the primary key to enjoying leisure in retirement. My firm, Age Wave, recently partnered with Bank of America Merrill Lynch on a landmark research study, “Leisure in Retirement: Beyond the Bucket List“, to deeply explore the depth and breadth of the new model of leisure that is emerging. We surveyed a representative sample of 3,712 adults age 25+ from all socio-economic backgrounds and walks of life with the goal of creating a multi-dimensional portrait of leisure in retirement. Some of the results may surprise you. You can download the full report here: www.ml.com/retirementstudy
From “Time Constrained” to “Time Affluent” Retirees have one thing head-and-shoulders above the rest of us: free time. Lots more free time. Collectively, retirees will enjoy 126 billion — yes, BILLION — hours of leisure time this year alone. And as tens of millions of boomers move from being “time constrained” to “time affluent” over the next 20 years, they will collectively amass 2.5 trillion hours of leisure time (FIG 1). Learning how to shift out of a high-pressure, time-constrained, workaholic lifestyle is one of the great challenges and opportunities of our newfound longevity. In fact, with longer lifespans and the rejection of yesterday’s model of old age, leisure in retirement has evolved into far more than “winding down.” It has become an extended period of new freedoms and flexibility truly unlike any other time in life. As one focus group participant told us, “Suddenly what you want to do trumps what you have to do. It’s exhilarating to have this kind of freedom.”
The “No-Vacation Nation” In order to fully appreciate the freedom of retirement leisure, people have to break their addiction to work, which can be a hard thing to do. Let’s take a quick look at where we’re coming from. Americans often define ourselves by how hard we work, our job Today’s BoomeR 13
title, or our career path. For many of us, workaholism has become a way of life. In fact, compared to other industrialized countries, Americans are the most vacation deprived (FIG 2).
We have, on average, the fewest paid vacation days of any developed nation, and 41 percent of employed Americans don’t even use all of their vacation time. Like it or not, we have become a no vacation nation.
what we have to do, and more by the leisure activities and interests we choose to pursue. Rather than having to punch a clock, please a boss, impress your parents or your kids (or both!) or meet a deadline, people find that they can now do a lot more of what they want to do, when they want to do it, and often on their own terms. The transition can be exhilarating. As one focus group participant explained, “Before retirement, I defined myself almost completely by my work. Now, I define myself by what I do with my leisure — I’m now a grandmother, a French student, a cook, and a volunteer. I’m becoming who I want to be. It’s a feeling of liberation!” Our study also revealed that despite how it’s portrayed by popular media, fun is not primarily the domain of youth. In fact, for most people, fun actually rises in midlife and peaks in retirement. This is due to LESS stress, obligation, and pressure from work and MORE freedom to engage in leisure activities retirees genuinely enjoy (FIG 4).
Even when we do take vacations, we still work! While boomers are definitely a workaholic generation, with 76 percent saying they work while on vacation, younger generations report having an even harder time tuning out, with a whopping 81 percent of generation Xers and 89 percent of millennials telling us they work while on vacation. As you can see in the chart below, when we transition from the time-constrained pressures of workaholic lives to the time affluence of retirement, our approach to leisure changes dramatically. Seventy-nine percent of today’s retirees report that they finally have the amount of free time they desire. And Perhaps even more interesting, our study showed that money when we asked what they thought the ideal length of retirement isn’t the key to happiness in retirement. In fact, as you’ll see in should be, “20 years” was the average answer (FIG 3). the next chart, retirees at all financial levels really enjoy their leisure time and feel that retirement gives them greater freedom to do what they want. It seems that with the currency of “discretionary time,” people generally pursue the kind of leisure they can afford — and are willing to make adjustments to have a good time. For example, one focus group participant said, “I always wanted to play the great golf courses of Europe. But now I realize if I can play the great courses of Northern New Jersey, that would be just fine (FIG 5).” What about other measures of emotional wellbeing? Contrary to cultural stereotypes that portray youth as the height of psycho-social vitality and maturity as a period of emotional decline, our study revealed that Surprise! Freedom, Fun, and Emotional Wellbeing Soar in emotional wellbeing actually peaks in retirement. Feelings of Life Beyond Work happiness, contentment, and relaxation soar, while anxiety seems to plummet. As Andy Sieg, head of Global Wealth and When we move into retirement, our identity is less defined by 14 Today’s BoomeR
from commonplace events and give them special lifetime memories.
Planning Can Maximize Your Leisure Enjoyment
Retirement Solutions for Bank of America Merrill Lynch, points out “Given the opportunities that come with more leisure time to be enjoyed in new and different ways, America is heading toward a happiness dividend.” We’ve labeled this the Retirement Freedom Zone (FIG 6).
As you make financial preparations for your own retirement, remember to save not just for the expenses of daily living, but to envision and plan for what you want to do with this new chapter of your life. How will you use your leisure to redefine your relationships with your family, your friends, and yourself? What’s the thing you most want to do that you’ve never had the time and freedom to try? Leisure — and the feeling of freedom — is the part of retirement that people look most forward to. Pre-retirees dream
Experiences Over Things - and Who Over What Ninety-five percent of retirees tell us they greatly prefer having enjoyable experiences over buying more things. One focus group participant summed it up nicely: “When I was younger, I was focused on having a nice house and a great car. Now that I’m older, I realize it’s all about the experiences in life — not the things — that matter most.” Retirees also place a premium on their relationships, telling us who they spend time with is far more important than what they do. Our study taught us that there are two general types of retirement leisure — each with its own set of priorities and preferred activities. In “everyday leisure” (FIG 7), most retirees want to de-stress and improve their health. In “special occasion leisure” such as travel (FIG 8), peak experiences, adventure, and fun top the list. While only 15 percent of retirees related to the idea of a “bucket list” of things to do before you die, more than 80 percent say they want to fill their retirement with “peak experiences,” moments that are unique or rare and stand out
about the new adventures they will have, the trips they will go on with their children and grandchildren, the new hobbies they will start. Yet it is one of the least planned for aspects of retirement. So, notwithstanding all of the potent upsides to retirement leisure, we all could probably be doing a better job of envisioning and planning for how we’re going to fund our dreams for the years ahead. Stay tuned for part two of this series, posting tomorrow. I’ll describe the four distinct stages of retirement leisure that were uncovered in our study, and what makes each one tick.
Today’s BoomeR 15
Old Enough For Sex: 10 Things That Actually Turn Men Off By Noelia Trujillo Tantalizing texts and revealing outfits may drive guys wild in movies and books, but in real life? "Men are but including a time to get busy pressures him to perform. Messages like, "Waiting for you to come home, big shot," or "I'm yours after yoga tonight" make sex predictable, which can floor a man's excitement, says Jane Greer, PhD, a relationship expert, radio host and author of never satisfied by women who try to keep their attention What About Me? Stop Selfishness From Ruining Your by wearing sexy clothes and spending a lot of time in the Relationship. While making time for sex ups the chances mirror," for instance, says Cammi Balleck, PhD, author of you'll have it, set the appointment in your mind only. Happy, the New Sexy. Even subtle signals you'd expect And keep your texts less specific, like "Looking forward him to find sexy can lower his libido. Click to discover to spending time with you soon," or "Let's get a what things don't get him going, and how to transform babysitter sometime." them into effective turn-ons. 3. Turning Off the Lights 1. Wearing A lot of Makeup There's a reason guys love watching football games in Men like women who look polished and presentable. It's high definition: Men are highly visual beings, says Dr. the Marilyn Monroe lips paired with smoky eyes and Greer. So they'd love to see as much as possible during layers of foundation that may have your guy asking, sex too. Insisting on doing the deed in the dark makes "Where are you under there?" Simply put, "men like him think you're more interested in how you look than natural," says Dr. Balleck. "Good taste will attract men, how he makes you feel. And your insecurity can rain on and exaggeration will turn them away." his parade. If you're not comfortable in the spotlight, head to a room with a dimmer switch, or light a few 2. Scheduling Sex candles. Suggestive texts can get your partner's heart pumping, 4. Raking His Back With Your Nails 16 Today’s BoomeR
What looks passionate in movies can be a true pain in the back, says Pepper Schwartz, PhD, professor of sociology at the University of Washington and author of The Normal Bar: Surprising Secrets of Happy Couples. The heat of the moment may prompt you to grab him and dig in; just be careful not to tear his skin. Instead of clawing, press your fingertips and hands all over his body. Grasp tighter when he's getting it right to encourage him to keep up the good work. 5. Faking It It's true. Reaching orgasm isn't easy for women. In fact, the average gal takes about 20 minutes to climax. And who has that much time? Many women think they have to get there for their mates to believe they've done a good job, but "men take it as you not being real," says Dr. Greer. If a guy feels you're lying to him during an intimate moment, he may doubt he means much to you. So let him know when he turns you on, but don't fake a grand finale if it doesn't happen.
There's nothing sexy about your man scraping you off the floor or begging you not to leave your boss an expletive-laced voicemail at 2 a.m. Keep your limit in mind if you go out for drinks, and stop a few sips short to play it safe. 8. Playing the Damsel in Distress Some women think acting clueless makes men feel needed, but your love may view you as dependent or unintelligent. That can drive him away because no guy wants to feel like he's babysitting his partner. "Men find a smart woman much sexier," says Dr. Balleck. Allow him to help when you need him, be it for diffusing a tricky work situation or fixing the sink, because men like solving problems, says Dr. Balleck. If you can fix something yourself, though, you should, she says. 9. Directing the Scene
There's a difference between being assertive and taking over the production in the bedroom. "Give hints about where you find pleasure," says Dr. Schwartz, "but you don't want him to feel inept or controlled by nonstop directions." Bossiness doesn't rank high on the 6. Going Commando sexy scale. No panties on an occasional date? Sexy! No underwear Instead of at work, the gym and the doctor's office? Not so much. mandating your man's moves, speak up when he hits the Most husbands don't feel comfortable with their wives perfect spot or remind him how good it felt when he pulling this scandalous move around others. Dr. Greer explored a certain part of your body before. He'd rather says it makes you seem "too loose and available." Use discover he's pushed the right buttons than be told this trick sparsely on dates to get your intended target in exactly where to find them. the mood, but go about your daily life in undergarments, 10. Having Sex on the First Date please. Nothing screams promiscuous like being too quick to rip 7. Getting Drunk off your clothes. Getting intimate on day one may make Advertisers often pair images of alcohol with gooda guy think you're a one night stand and nothing more, looking women, which sends the message that drinking says Dr. Greer. Consider leaving him with a passionate is sexy, says Dr. Balleck. While liquor can loosen you up, goodnight kiss if you're feeling the connection. Not only beware of abusing its power. "When a woman gets out will you get your perfect parting but you'll also leave him of control, it becomes unattractive and embarrassing." wanting more. Today’s BoomeR 17
BoomeR ConsumeR Watch:
Why You Need Financial Cheat Days : Reward your good saving h By Josh Felber
When we think of "cheat days," we tend to think of a sweet treat or indulgent meal that breaks a cycle of strict dieting. A cheat day is meant to satisfy cravings, and it's a great way to incorporate foods you normally wouldn't include in your diet without ruining your metabolism. Similarly, a financial cheat day can help you budget better and prevent an overindulgent, perhaps impulsive, shopping spree.
every month but just occasionally, making it so most months they continue to build up their cash reserves." Culprits of Overspending and Indulging
It's difficult to live a frugal lifestyle when we're surrounded by messages telling us to buy, buy, buy. We're pressured by our peers to spend money in order to keep up with our social lives; fashion trends encourage us to always be on the hunt for the latest styles so we can fit in with our friends. Shopping is a sport that requires time There are plenty of financial resolutions that can help and mental energy. Last year, the National Association for fatten your wallet this year. You can check your credit Professional Organizers found that 54 percent of card history, increase your savings or adjust your lifestyle Americans feel overwhelmed by all the stuff they have, to live well below your means. The Internet and mobile and 78 percent don't even want to deal with it. This habit apps make it easy to monitor spending, and even blogs of overspending has led to roughly $712 billion in credit like this one provide helpful tips on how to maximize your debt owed by U.S. consumers, according to a NerdWallet savings. But sticking to a strict money diet can be mentally analysis, and is why many financial advisors recommend exhausting, and even the most diligent saver can suffer planning and sticking to a monthly budget. the occasional slip up here and there. Triggers such as stress or a bad day at work can also lead The discipline and patience needed to stick to your to trigger-happy spending habits that may leave you with financial resolutions can be taxing, just like how following buyer's remorse the next day. Extreme emotions like a strict diet can drive you crazy. Just like a cheat day when depression or sadness can encourage people to shop or you diet, allowing yourself the occasional financial make purchases as an easy way to cure their emotional celebration can help you feel indulgent without going overboard. "Overspending and not showing cash available to support your debts can make it hard to get home mortgage financing or get a commercial or business loan," says Brad Hettich, founder of the finance and loan company Commercial Lending X. "But that does not mean you have to reserve all of your cash. I usually tell my clients they can still make a purchase here and there, but the key is not to overindulge 18 Today’s BoomeR
Booming into “Work-Tirement”
habits with a financial treat. state. Have you ever gone out and impulsively ordered something from Amazon when you were upset? Or how about dropping Benjamin's at a club to celebrate a bonus you received at work? Instead of waiting for a moment of overindulgence though, make it a point to reward yourself every now and then for your hard work. Small, semi-regular treats are a welcomed break from your regulated money diet and can provide an additional incentive to help you stay on track with your financial milestones. Moderation Is the Name of the Game A financial treat doesn't have to be a large purchase; it could be something as simple as buying a grande mocha from Starbucks or buying lunch instead of bringing leftovers to work. Or a financial indulgence can be an investment toward a more expensive reward, like a piece of clothing or a new bag. Giving yourself a specific reward or goal to work toward can help you to avoid temptation and keep you from spending your paycheck on a single item. It also helps to keep some sort of schedule in order to keep track of your financial rewards. Consider creating a calendar with an end goal so you can always keep your eye on the prize. For example, mark in your planner when you want to treat yourself with a trip to your favorite coffee shop. It's important to remember that financial cheat day's only work when they're incorporated into your regular saving habits. If you find you're overspending monthly, try holding on to your pay stubs and calculating how much you spend in one week. Consider switching to cash and leaving your debit and credit cards at home to avoid spending on a whim. Sometimes all it takes is bringing your lunch to work everyday to help you reach your financial goals and free up cash so you can reward yourself.
Why Part-Time Work May Be The Healthiest Option For Those Over 40 By Ann Brenoff Never mind “use it or lose it.” When it comes to working in middle age, it’s more like “use it too much and lose it,” according to a just-released Australian study. Researchers at the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research found that when work for people 40 and older exceeds 25 hours per week, there is a negative impact on cognition. “Work can be a double-edged sword, in that it can stimulate brain activity, but at the same time, long working hours ... can cause fatigue and stress which potentially damage cognitive functions,” wrote the study’s authors. The researchers tested the memory span and cerebral dysfunction of the subjects and found a positive impact with about 25 hours of work a week. After that, things headed south. The report, which was published in the Melbourne Institute Worker Paper series, asked 3,000 men and 3,500 women to complete a series of cognitive tests while their work habits were analyzed. Many countries, including the U.S., are poised to raise their retirement ages by delaying the age at which people can start to collect pension benefits. This means that more people will continue to work in the later stages of their lives. This study indicates that this may not be a good thing for everyone. But other studies have indicated that early retirement may not be the best thing either. A report from the Institute of Economic Affairs found that after an initial boost in health, retirement increases your risk of clinical depression by 40 percent while raising your chances of being diagnosed with a physical condition by 60 percent. And a study at Shell Oil company found that people who retired at age 55 had almost twice the risk of death compared to people who retired at age 60. The Melbourne study seems to be offering a viable middle ground: If full retirement causes health detriments and the stress of full employment diminishes cognitive functions, the middle ground is: Work part-time!
Today’s BoomeR 19
BOOMER HEALTHY EATING: Arroz de Carreteiro – Coachmen’s Rice
Recipes and Photos from Chef Eben Atwater
www.urbanmonique.com Ever since humans have been a thing, we’ve taken steps to make our sustenance portable. Being natural omnivore, it’s a safe bet that we’ve always been grabbing a handful of berries here, a hunk of grain there, maybe a little hunk of meat, and stuffing it all into a leaf so that we could take it with us. Some of the most iconic snacks and meals that remain to this very day are perfect examples of this – Pemmican comes to mind – a high calorie mix of meat, fat and fruit
designed to be portable and supply a serious dose of power on the road. Go farther back and you get the Mongols, who depended on meat and dairy from their animals to power their travels – And from there came yoghurt, and meat for soups and stews. Virtually anywhere you look, our ancestors were drying, (or salting), and then combining the stuff they liked to eat so that it would be easier to take it out on the road – Doing so significantly reduced the consequences of not being lucky on a forage or hunt far from home, a situation that could be quite dire, indeed. From that legacy comes a world of one pot meals designed to efficiently use what’s available, and make it good. From jambalaya and gumbo, to paella and bouillabaisse, the manifestations are as broad as our appetites. 20 Today’s BoomeR
In the southwestern United States of the 19th Century, that history manifested in chili, a one pot meal of dried meat and chilies reconstituted with water and heated through. It packed calories, spiritual heat, and kept many a cowboy content during cold nights on the range. Farther south, all the way down to southern Brazil, there’s an analogous food history. There, men driving ox carts across what is now known as the State of Rio Grande do Sul, were known as Carreteiros, or coachmen. They too had a signature, portable staple – Arroz de Carreteiro – Coachmen’s Rice. Where Tex-Mex chili in its pure form simply blends meat with heat, arroz de carreteiro was initially just jerked beef, rice, and water, heated in an iron pot over an open fire. It was fast, easy, and filling, everything a gaúcho needed. The dried meat was known as Charque, a local specialty from the coastal part of the region. Today, a Gaúcho is what folks from Rio Grande do Sul are known as, and their signature dish has, like chili, grown to something more than its humble origins. Arroz de Carreteiro is made with other cuts of beef, even leftovers, for which the dish is ideal. It’s still a hearty, savory, delicious meal, even way up here in Los Estados Unidos. This is, in fact, a fabulous dish to make camping, over coals from a real fire – that combination of cast iron and wood-fired heat is pretty unbeatable. If you go that road, you’ll want 75% of your coals under the ditch oven, and 25% on top. Finally, this can also be made with wild rice, and that makes things a whole ‘nuther level of amazing – The complex, smoky nature of really good wild rice makes an unforgettable meal. Ingredients: Serves 4 to 6 8 ounces Beef, (trimmed Chuck is my choice) 8 Ounces Long Grain Rice (or wild rice) 2 Roma Tomatoes 1 each Green, Red, and Yellow Bell Peppers 1 small, sweet Onion 2 Spring Onions 2 cloves Garlic
2 Tablespoons Avocado Oil, (Peanut oil works well, too) 2 Tablespoons fresh chopped Parsley 1 Tablespoon Black Pepper Corns, (fresh ground is fine) 2 teaspoons Sea Salt 1 teaspoon Sweet Smoked Paprika
Optional: 1 teaspoon dried, hot chile flakes or powder Smash the garlic cloves under the flat side of a chef’s knife. Remove the peels and nibs. In a molcajete, (or mortar and pestle), grind together the garlic, salt, and pepper, then set aside for flavors to marry. Trim excess fat from the beef, and dice it into larger bite sized pieces, about 1/2″ square.
Rinse all produce. Stem and seed the peppers, peel the onion. Dice the peppers, onion, and tomatoes, (about 1/3″ pieces). Peel and trim the spring onions, then cut them into thin wheels. Chiffonade the parsley.
In a cast iron Dutch oven, (or sauté pan with a tight fitting lid), over medium high heat, heat the oil until very hot. Add the onions and sauté for about one to two minutes, until they begin to brown. Add the seasoned garlic paste and stir to incorporate. Add the beef and paprika; continue to sauté over high heat for two to three minutes more, stirring steadily, until the meat is evenly browned. Add the peppers and tomatoes and stir to incorporate. Now add the dry rice to the mix, and stir well to incorporate. Add water until all ingredients are coved by about 1″ of water. Allow to mixture to come to a boil, stirring sparingly. Cover the oven or pan and reduce heat to low, just enough to maintain a simmer. Simmer for about 20 minutes, or until almost all the water has been absorbed. If the dish seems dry, or the rice a bit too chewy, add more water. Once the rice is nice and tender, serve piping hot, garnished with parsley and spring onions. Today’s BoomeR 21
F– Being Old By John A. Vardallas Founder/CEO, TheAmericanBoomeR.com
Make Your Voice Heard to Ensure The Retirement YOU Paid For! SINCE 2016 IS THE YEAR OF THE MONKEY-- HELP ME GET THE MESSAGE TO OUR POLITICAL LEADERS NOT TO MONKEY AROUND WITH OUR SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM.
CALLING ALL BOOMERS TO SEND A MESSAGE TO WASHINGTON
“SOSS” “SAVE OUR SOCIAL SECURITY” I WANT YOU!
URGE YOUR CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS AND PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES TO PRESERVE THE SOCIAL SECURITY TRUST FUND! BECAUSE TO US BOOMERS/SENIORS,
“ITS NOT AN ENTITLEMENT—ITS EARNED!” DON’T MESS WITH SS! YOUR NEVER TOO OLD TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Show Your Support & Take the Poll at www.TheAmericanBoomeR.com 22 Today’s BoomeR
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