This month is Life Insurance Awareness Month. It’s a time to learn how to make the most of a financial tool that’s been providing protection in its modern form since at least the early 1700s and is believed to have roots in ancient Roman times. ⁽¹⁾

Seniors use Permanent Insurance to provide lifetime protection, Term Insurance to get coverage for as long as they want it, Graded Benefits (insurance with slightly delayed benefits) to specifically prepare for “final expenses,” even Universal Life Insurance to deliver a stream of income during retirement.

How can you use Life Insurance to your greatest advantage? Let’s get together during this Life Insurance Awareness Month and find out.

1. Corey Dahl, “A Brief History of Life Insurance,” Think Advisor,thinkadvisor.com (accessed August 6, 2019)

Student loans: Forbes magazine says right now over 44 million borrowers owe more than $1.5 Billion. You might assume the current problems with too much student loan debt affect mostly young people.

But it’s not just young graduates. Reports says that older Americans are the fastest growing group of student loan borrowers! ⁽²⁾

Why? How? Seniors can have long-standing loans or choose to go back to school to improve job prospects and take out student loans.

Plus, in many cases parents cosign private loans for children or take our parents PLUS loans and, unfortunately, end up “holding the bag.”

Solutions are available. These can include debt consolidation, getting a disability waiver or financial hardship consideration, working out a payment plan with the federal government, and more. The National Consumer Law Center’s Student Loan Borrower Assistance may help those burdened with these debts.

2. Mark Strassmann, Seniors owe billions in student loan debt: “This will follow me to the grave,” CBS News, cbsnews.com (May 1, 2019

Chicken Sausages with Polenta

Start the fall season off right with this fun, healthy dish.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

In large nonstick skillet, heat 2 tsp oil over medium heat. Add polenta. Cook 9-11 minutes on each side. Keep warm.

In another large skillet, heat remaining oil over medium-high heat. Add peppers and onion. Cook and stir until tender. Remove from pan.

Add sausages to same pan. Cook and stir 4-5 minutes. Return pepper mixture to pan. Heat through. Serve with polenta. Sprinkle with cheese and basil. 212 calories per serving.

Source: Taste of Home/ Angela Spengler

Many people of all ages seek out chiropractors for pain relief. Good news for seniors is that Medicare will cover some chiropractic services.

Medicare Part B covers manual manipulation of the spine by a chiropractor if Medically necessary to correct a Subluxation (a bone partially out of joint). Medicare will not cover other services ordered by a chiropractor, such as x-rays.

Chiropractors are trained and licensed professionals but not medical doctors.

Soft Money: Soft money is cash donated to political parties where the purpose is not to promote a specific candidate. Soft money is largely unregulated.

Soft Patch: This is a “down” period occurring within generally good financial times.

Solvency Ratio: This is a measure to determine a person’s ability to take on financial obligations.

Spark Spread: The Spark Spread is the difference between the wholesale market price of electricity and its cost of production using natural gas.

Source: Investopedia

The U.S. Constitution was signed September 17, 1787. (That day is now called “Constitution Day.”)

September 2, 1945, when Japan formally surrendered to end World War 2, is called V-J (Victory over Japan) Day. (August 15, when Japan announced their surrender, is also often referred to as V-J Day.)

Fall 2019 begins September 23.

Labor Day, always the first Monday in September, became a legal holiday in 1894.

Birthdays: Salma Hayek (September 2), Yao Ming (12), Jada Pinkett Smith (18), George Gershwin (26)

Source: Famous Birthdays

“If you think it’s going to rain, it will.” – Clint Eastwood

The origins of the modern concept of “Wellness” are relatively recent, dating only to the 1950’s and 60’s. (There has been some idea of wellness for centuries.) (1)

In recent years Wellness has become a concept most everybody knows about … and many practice.

In fact this month of August is National Wellness Month, a time to think about, learn, and put into action Wellness strategies.

This observance, like the Wellness concept itself, emphasizes self-care, stress management, and building routines for good health. Wellness has gained a place in Medicare (Free Annual Wellness visit!) as well as in other insurance plans, too. Walking, Yoga, Pilates, and more have become part of the wellness vocabulary.

What today’s Wellness tries to do is make healthy activities into normal activities. Please consider some of the things National Wellness Month is trying to achieve and add wellness to your life.

1. “History of Wellness,” Global Wellness Institute, GlobalWellnessInstitute.org (accessed July 3, 2019)

It’s estimated that one in 10 Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. Alzheimer’s, in fact, is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S.

Dementia is devastating and costly. Alzheimer’s cost the U.S. $259 Billion in a recent year. Within 30 years, it’s estimated that costs associated with dementia could be $1.1 trillion. (2)

Early diagnosis of dementia is important because treatment is possible. Here are some possible signs to look for. (3)

• Memory problems
• Increasing confusion
• Reduced concentration
• Personality or behavior changes
• Apathy and withdrawal or depression

2. “2017 Alzheimer’s statistics,” Alzheimer’s.net, Alzheimers.net (accessed July 2, 2019)

3.”Dementia — early signs,” BetterHealth Channel, BetterHealth.vic.gov.au (accessed July 5, 2019)

Unbelievable Chicken

There’s still some good grilling time left this season. Here’s something call “unbelievable” – and that could be a pretty accurate description.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

In a large glass bowl, mix cider vinegar, mustard, garlic, lime juice, lemon juice, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk in the olive oil. Place chicken in the mixture. Cover, and marinate 8 hours, or overnight.

Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat. Lightly oil the grill grate. Place chicken on the prepared grill, and cook 6 to 8 minutes per side until juices run clear. Discard marinade.

Source: AllRecipes, LETTSGGGO

At American Senior Benefits, we believe that when it comes to retirement and estate planning, it pays to look at all the options available – especially those that can help people of special importance to you.

A Stretch IRA may be such a tool.

The Stretch IRA extends the tax-deferred status of an inherited IRA when it is passes to a beneficiary who is not your spouse. So, if your spouse is otherwise provided for, the Stretch IRA can continue to grow even after you’re gone (maybe for decades).

Many have found this to be useful as a strategy for future growth. We offer Stretch IRS’s and would be glad to explain them in full to you.

Spot Loan: A spot loan is a type of mortgage loan issued to a borrower to purchase a single unit in a multi-unit building, such as a condominium complex.

Spread: This is the price difference tween two stock prices.

Spring loading: Here’s a somewhat controversial practice in which stock options are issued to employees prior to the release positive financial news.

Stable Value Fund: This portfolio of bonds is insured to protect the investor against a decline in yield or a loss of capital.

Source: Investopedia

On August 3, 1492, Christopher Columbus set sail from Spain looking for a new route to the east.

August is National Spinal Atrophy Awareness Month, a time to learn more about a condition that causes people to lose the ability to walk and even breathe.

President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act on August 14, 1935.

Hawaii became the 50th state of the union on August 21, 1959.

Birthdays: President Barack Obama (August 4), Antonio Banderas (17), Princess Margaret (21), Warren Buffett (30)

“The greatest accomplishment is not in never falling, but in rising again after you fall.” – Vince Lombardi

Your body core is made up of a complex of muscles, including everything besides your arms and legs.

These muscles are involved in just about every move your body makes. It’s a key stabilizer and involved in the transfer of physical force. A weak core puts you at greater risk of falls and injuries due to poor balance.

So as you get older, it makes sense to keep your core in the best shape possible. A simple core exercise is called “The Bridge.” It works like this. (1)

Lying on your back, bend your knees and keep your feet flat against the floor.

Breathe steadily and tighten your core by raising your hips until a straight line is formed between your knees and your chest. Don’t arch your back. Hold for a count of three breaths, then back to the starting returning to the starting position. Repeat five times.

1. “Best Core Exercises for Older Adults,” Just Fitness Hub, JustFitnessHub.com (accessed June 6, 2019)

One thing is clear about one of the most popular retirement tools, annuities. One size does not fit all. Instead, there are of different types of annuities to fit differing needs and goals.

Simply put, annuities are either deferred or immediate. If you want your benefits right away, an immediate annuity may be for you.

If you want tax-deferred growth now and your benefits, later on, a plan selected from the array of deferred annuities might work for you.

The biggest thing we suggest is that you determine your goals and let us help you learn how different annuities can fuel your plans. Find out how and why annuities grow. Learn why your needs may be different from your neighbor’s.

Just contact me today and I’ll have all the no-obligation information you need to get started.

Grilled Summer Squash and Red Onion and Feta (2)

Here’s a new, delicious way to enjoy a summer staple — squash.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare grill for medium-high heat. Lightly oil grate. Whisk garlic, vinegar, and 1/2 cup oil in small bowl. Set marinade aside. Toss squash, onion, and bay leaves on rimmed baking sheet with remaining 3 tsp oil to coat. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Arrange squash and onion on grate. Grill squash, undisturbed, until grill marks appear. Turn over and grill on second side until tender and starting to release liquid.

Transfer squash to baking sheet. Grill onion, turning occasionally, until tender and charred around the edges. Transfer back to baking sheet. Arrange squash, onion, bay leaves, and feta on rimmed platter. Pour reserved marinade over. Scatter banana peppers on top and sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Let sit at least 15 minutes (and up to 1 hour) before serving.

1. Carolyn Malcoun, “Chipotle-lime cauliflower tacos,” EatingWell, (accessed April 2, 2019).EatingWell.com

Starting February 1, 2019, the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) stopped deducting premium payments from members who opted to pay their premiums by Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board checks. It was termed a systems issue that has been corrected. But the SSA and RRB report they can’t deduct premium payments retroactively. This problem affects Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D (prescription drug) members.

All carriers and plans are affected, but you may not be. If you are, you should receive a notice from your insurance company about any past-due premiums. As your American Senior Benefits agent, I expect to receive communications from the various insurance companies on how to resolve the issue.

Each of the carriers will have their own method to remedy the past-due premium issue. I’ll keep you advised of ways to proceed (or contact me if you wish).

In our opinion, monthly Electronic Funds Transfers from a checking or savings account are the most secure and consistent methods of payment, and we continue to recommend that you use them.

Special Needs Trust: This is a trust set up to allow a physically challenged or chronically ill person to access funds without affecting their eligibility for other forms of support.

Special Power of Attorney: This authorizes a person to act on behalf of another person.

Specific Risk: Specific risk is a risk that affects a minimal amount of a company’s assets.

Speculative bubble: The “bubble” is an increase in asset values caused by –– as opposed to real financial fundamentals.

5. Dictionary, Investopedia, accessed February 3, 2019, Investopedia.com

It’s time to increase your awareness of how to have SAFE fun in the sun this summer. July is UV Safety Awareness Month!

Did you know this about July?

July 2, 1788: It was announced that the U.S. Constitution had been ratified.

July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month.

The first public reading of the Declaration of Independence occurred July 8, 1776.

On July 16, 1945, an experimental “A Bomb” (atomic bomb) was set off in New Mexico in anticipation of attacks on Japan.

Birthdays: Tom Cruise (July 3) Ringo Starr (7), Nelson Mandela (18), Jennifer Lopez (24)

“You should run your life not by the calendar but how you feel, and what your interests are and ambitions.” (5) – John Glenn

Men’s Health Month is designed to promote smart health practices for you, your father … all the important men in your life. A major topic here (and globally) is that men tend to live considerably shorter lives than women. There is even some thinking that men have lower resistance to illness than women. ⁽¹⁾

Some relevant facts:

• Recent U.S. statistics show men’s life expectancy at 76 years and women’s life expectancy at 81.1. ⁽²⁾
• When it comes to cancer mortality, the National Cancer Institute says men are more likely to die from the disease than women.

In light of this special month, here are some suggestion to help boost men’s health: see your doctor (which men seem to do less than woman⁽³⁾) and be straightforward about how you feel when you do. Maybe, above all, don’t smoke!

1. Gemma Tarlach, Why Women’s Immune Systems Are Stronger than Men’s, Discover, DiscoverMagazine.com (accessed April 30, 2019)

2. U.S. Life Expectancy Falls for Third Year in a Row, The BMJ, BMJ.com (December 2018)

3. Why Don’t Men Go to the Doctor as Often as Women, Insight (Dana- Farber Cancer Institute), Dana-Farber.org (October 26, 2018)

At American Senior Benefits, we’re proud to be your source for quality annuities.

One question we’re frequently asked is are annuities safe? We see the answer as “yes.” We feel these are products that you can count on and feel good about.

Remember, we offer only annuities from highly rated companies. And your annuity can be structured to provide you with income for the rest of your life. Plus … we can help you decide whether an annuity is right for you and choose the annuity that fits your needs.

Let’s talk and explore a wide range of annuity products.

Asparagus and Tomato Skewers with Honey mustard and Horseradish Sauce (1)

It’s grilling time. Here’s a quick and healthy recipe.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the grill. Whisk together the mustard, honey, horseradish and mint in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Let sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Thread the tomatoes onto skewers and put into a large bowl. Add the asparagus and drizzle with some oil. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Put tomatoes on the grill and cook until charred on both sides. Grill the asparagus for about 2 minutes per side. Put the vegetables on a platter and drizzle them with the mustard sauce. Serve hot or at room temperature. Just 141 calories per serving!

Source: Food Network, Bobby Flay

You never know when an emergency will strike –– an accident or natural disaster can literally come out of the blue.

The best thing you can do is be ready for anything.

Here are some things you can do now to be prepared ⁽⁴⁾:

• Make sure you keep an emergency contact list handy.
• Decide where you will go in case of an evacuation.
• Consider a wearing a medical ID.

4. Emergency Preparedness for Older Adults, HealthinAging.com, HealthInAging.org (accessed May 1, 2019)

Medicare doesn’t usually cover you outside the country. Medicare Part B may cover you in some cases. And your Medicare Supplement Insurance may provide coverage. Contact us for information.

Special Needs Trust: This is a trust set up to allow a physically challenged or chronically ill person to access funds without affecting their eligibility for other forms of support.

Special Power of Attorney: This authorizes a person to act on behalf of another person.

Specific Risk: Specific risk is a risk that affects a minimal amount of a company’s assets.

Speculative bubble: The “bubble” is an increase in asset values caused by –– as opposed to real financial fundamentals.

5. Dictionary, Investopedia, accessed February 3, 2019, Investopedia.com

The 2019 Summer Solstice (official start of summer) is June 21.

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month; Cataract Awareness Month; and National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month.

Occurring on June 6, 1944, World War II’s “D Day” was the largest amphibious military landing in history.

On June 18, 1983, Sally Ride became the first American woman in space.

Birthdays: Marilyn Monroe (June 1), Johnny Depp (9), President Donald Trump (14), Mindy Kaling (24)

“Neither a wise man nor a brave man lies down on the tracks of history to wait for the train of the future to run over him.” ⁽⁵⁾

– President Dwight D. Eisenhower

Maybe you’ve had doubts about a medical diagnosis or strategy and wondered if you could ask for another doctor’s opinion. Will Medicare help?

The answer is “yes.” Medicare tells us Medicare Part B will cover second opinions before non-emergency surgery.

Remember, you may have to pay deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

This month is National High Blood Pressure Education Month, a good time to become more aware of this condition.

The Mayo Clinic explains that the more blood your heart pumps and the narrower your arteries are, the higher your blood pressure climbs. About half the people with untreated high blood pressure (“hypertension”) die of heart disease related to poor blood flow (ischemic heart disease) and another third die of stroke.

If you’re found to have high blood pressure, Medicare will cover medically necessary tests and treatments. The guidelines for having high blood pressure was recently re-set at 130 for the upper reading and 80 for the lower.

Chipotles-lime Cauliflower Tacos (1)

Here’s something right for spring. It’s bursting with fresh ingredients and lively seasoning.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 450°. Line large rimmed baking sheet with foil. Combine lime juice, chipotles to taste, honey, garlic and salt in blender. Process until mostly smooth. Place cauliflower in large bowl. Add the sauce and stir to coat. Transfer to prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle onion on top. Roast, stirring once, until the cauliflower is tender and browned in spots (18-20 minutes). Serve vegetables and beans in tortillas, topped with cheese and garnished with cabbage, cilantro, guacamole, jalapeños and/or lime wedges. Just 288 calories per serving.

1. Carolyn Malcoun, “Chipotle-lime cauliflower tacos,” EatingWell, (accessed April 2, 2019).EatingWell.com

Many of us can agree: Long-Term Care Insurance is a good idea for the protection it provides against having to pay too much of your retirement money to nursing homes or other facilities. But, there are also possible tax advantages for those having this coverage.

Depending on your age, the IRS lets you deduct premium payments if you have enough related medical deductions, are self-employed, or own certain types of corporations.

To give an example (from LTC News ) of 2019 tax deductions, people age 60 to 70 can deduct up to a limit of $4,220 from their premium (up from $4160 in 2018). Unfortunately, many of us will need Long-Term Care. Contact me to see what Long-Term Care Insurance can do for you.

Social Networking: This is using internet media (e.g., Twitter or Facebook) to keep in touch with family, friends, and others.

Social Security Trust Fund: This is made up of accounts used to contain and manage funds not currently needed by Social Security.

‘Soft’ Commissions: Also referred to as trading commissions, this involves asset managers and dealers trading services (rather than hard cash) to cover expenses.

Soft Currency: This is usually money from developing countries whose actual value can be volatile.

5. Dictionary, Investopedia, accessed February 3, 2019, Investopedia.com

If someone calls asking about your Social Security, hang up! Social Security will not call you. Report fraud to the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271.

The Empire State Building opened May 1, 1931.

The first U.S. manned space flight occurred on May 5, 1961 (Alan Shepard, astronaut).

Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day (May 27 this year).

May is Better Speech and Hearing Month, Healthy Vision Month, Arthritis Awareness Month, and National Physical Fitness and Sports Month.

Birthdays: Dwayne (The Rock) Johnson (May 2), Eva Peron (7), Tina Fey (18), Hank Williams, Jr. (26)

6. April birthdays, Famous Birthdays, accessed March 10, 2019, Web, FamousBirthdays.com

“Aging can be fun if you lay back and enjoy it.” ⁽³⁾ – Clint Eastwood

3.Clint Eastwood Quotes, BrainyQuote®, accessed April 2, 2019, Web, Brainy Quotes

No doubt, many of the health care advances in recent years have come in pharmaceutical labs. But all this work (and expense) is only useful if patients take their prescribed medications and take them properly. (And many do not).

In fact, not taking medications have been found to lead to unnecessary hospital admissions, illness, and even deaths.

But you can do it right. Here are some suggestions:

• Make taking your medications part of your everyday routine, with or after breakfast, for instance.
• Set a timer or alarm clock to tell you when to take your “meds.”
• Use a pill container.
• If traveling, be sure to bring enough medication.

Of course read any instructions that some with your medications and talk to your doctor (or pharmacist) if you have questions.

1. “Why You Need to Take Your Medications as Prescribed or Instructed,” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, accessed March 10, 2019, Web, MedBroadcast.com

A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease can be frightening, with visions of tremors and dementia.

As many as a million Americans live with Parkinson’s. But an army of experts are seeking new treatments – and even a cure – with every tool at their disposal. During this National Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month let’s learn a bit about this condition.

Parkinson’s is the second most common degenerative neurological disorder. Symptoms include loss of movement, rigidity in limbs, loss of intellectual ability, sleep and mood disorders, balance problems, and more. While the disease does strike younger people, on occasion – actor Michal J. Fox, for instance, who started a respected foundation to fight Parkinson’s, it’s mainly seen as a condition that strikes the elderly.

The disease strikes about 50% more men than women.(2) The good news is that treatments can help. The drug levodopa has long been seen as the “gold standard” in treating Parkinson’s symptoms and is seen as effective. Other treatments are used as well.

2. Parkinson’s Disease, National Institute on Aging, accessed March 9, 2019, web, NIA.NIH.GOV

Snap pea and quinoa salad (3)

Here’s a refreshing salad just right for the spring season.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Combine water and quinoa in medium saucepan and bring to boil. Reduce to simmer, cover, and cook 15 minutes

Fluff with fork and set aside to cook.

Combine peas, mushrooms, onion, and dill in a medium bowl. Whisk vinegar, oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a small bowl. Stir dressing in the cooled quinoa until evenly disbursed. Add the quinoa to the vegetable mixture. Toss and serve. Just 223 calories per serving!

3. EatingWell Test Kitchen, EatingWell, accessed March 9, 2019, Web, EatingWell.com

While many seniors struggle with their physical health, their financial health in retirement can be a challenge as well. Some examples: (4)

Debt: Stuck with a lot of debt? Maybe check with your lending institution to see if adjustments are possible.

Managing money after death of spouse. For example, problems can occur if your home mortgage is in your deceased spouse’s name. Expert help might be useful here.

If you’re traveling out of the country, talk to us about international health insurance.

Also – insurance. Do you have enough life insurance? The right kind? Speak with us!

4. Marte J, “5 common financial struggles faced by people over 60,” The Washington Post, June 2, 2017, Web, WashingtonPost.com

Social audit: This is a review of a company’s efforts in social responsibility. It could involve the environment, fair pay, helping children, any number of things.

Soft currency: A soft currency fluctuates in value, mostly lower, as a result of the country’s political or economic uncertainty.

Solvency ratio: Here is a measure to determine a company’s ability to meet its debt obligations.

Special finance: This is a way to provide financing to auto purchasers who may not otherwise qualify.

5. Dictionary, Investopedia, accessed March 9, 2019, Web, Investopedia.com

On April 3, 1948, President Truman signed the “Marshall Plan,” a European recovery plan after World War II.

Remember, this year’s federal tax deadline is April 15. State and local taxes may be due on the same day.

April is African-American Women’s Fitness Month and Alcohol Awareness Month.

The “Midnight ride of Paul Revere and William Dawes” occurred April 18, 1775.

Birthdays: (6)
Alec Guinness (April 2), David Letterman (12), Queen Elizabeth II (21), Coretta Scott King (27)

6. April birthdays, Famous Birthdays, accessed March 10, 2019, Web, FamousBirthdays.com

“The first of April is the day we remember what we are the other 364 days of the year.” ⁽⁷⁾

– Mark Twain

7. “Mark Twain quotes,” BrainyQuote®, accessed March 8, 2019, Brainy Quotes

We all love the beauty of springtime weather, but springtime allergies … not so much. They can mean coughing, sneezing, and all-around misery. A common trouble-maker in the spring is pollen.

Pollen is an allergen released by trees and plans. Trees that most commonly release allergens include ash, birch, elm and more.(1)

Treatments include antihistamines and steroid sprays. If you have symptoms, see your doctor. A visit to an allergist (allergy specialist) could be called for.

1. Bass P, Best ways to treat and prevent springtime allergies, VeryWellHeath, April 30, 2018, Web, VeryWellHealth.com

Some of us ask the question of whether Social Security benefits are subject to income taxes.

The answer is a solid “maybe.” For Federal Income Tax, it depends on your income, the higher it is, the better your chance of having to pay the IRS.

The presence of state income tax depends on where you live. The good news is most states do not tax Social Security; 13 do.

Some suggestions for reducing tax on your Social Security: Stay below the taxable thresholds and carefully manage your other retirement income sources .(2)

2. Brandon E, How to minimize Social Security Taxes, U.S. News and World Report, January 16, 2019, Web, USANews.com

Tuscan Lamb with Tomatoes and Polenta (3)

Here’s an old-world delight featuring polenta —a good source of fiber and vitamins.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 400°. Heat oil in large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Season chops with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper. Cook chops until browned. Transfer to a plate. Discard all but 1 tbsp of drippings.

Add garlic to the drippings and cook. Stir until fragrant — 30 seconds. Add tomatoes, wine, rosemary, and ¼ tsp each salt and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the sauce begins to thicken.

Nestle the chops in the tomatoes. Transfer the skillet to oven, and cook, 10-12 minutes for medium-rare. In medium saucepan, bring 3 cups water to boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta. Cook, whisking frequently, until thickened, 3-4 minutes. Whisk in butter, ½ tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp pepper. Serve with the chops and tomato sauce. 385 calories per serving.

3. Bacon Q, Tuscan lamb with tomatoes and Polenta, REALSIMPLE, accessed February 4, 2019, Web, RealSimple.com

Thinking about traveling as the weather warms? Here are some tips that might help: (4)

If you’re traveling by air and have special needs, let the airline know well in advance. Wheelchairs and other transportation can be provided and assistants can help you get around the airport.

Pack medications in carry-on luggage so they’re easy to get to. Bring prescription info. Drinks lots of water to avoid dehydration.

If you’re traveling out of the country, talk to us about international health insurance.

4. Karim S, Travel tips for the elderly, USA Today, accessed February 1, 2019, USAToday.com

See your doctor to update your prevention plan. Medicare provides it at no cost to you!

(Note: this is also a great time to review your insurance and financial health at no cost or obligation. Call me at American Senior Benefits).

Sluggish economy: The economy is considered sluggish when growth is slow, flat, or actually declining.

Slush fund: This is money set aside in reserve.

Small cap: A small cap company has relatively small value for its available shares of stock. Usually between $300 million and $2 billion.

Smart Money: This is capital controlled by financial professionals.

5. Dictionary, Investopedia, accessed February 3, 2019, Investopedia.com

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

• On March 1,1961, President Kennedy establishes the Peace Corps.
• On March 17, 1776, during the Revolutionary War, the British evacuate Boston. The Day becomes known as “Evacuation Day.”
• More than 150% more beer than usual is sold on St. Patrick’s Day (March 17).

Birthdays:
Alexander Graham Bell (March 3), Bryan Cranston (7), Stephen Curry (14), Maria Carey (27)

6. March birthdays, Famous Birthdays, accessed February 1, 2019, Web, FamousBirthdays.com

“When you fight for a desperate cause and have good reasons to fight, you usually win.” (7)

– Edward Teller

7. Edward Teller quotes, BrainyQuote®, accessed February 3, 2019, Web, Brainy Quotes

One of the biggest challenges of the holiday season is keeping your weight under control. Without being a Scrooge about food, and despite all the delicacies within reach, you can do it!

Here are some useful tips. (1)  …

• Weigh yourself a couple of times a week; stay aware of your situation.
• Start your day with some exercise.
• Select the food you really want and let the rest go.
• Don’t try to cut back on food all day (it may result in over-indulgence later on).

1. 15 ways to avoid holiday weight gain, Health.com, accessed November 6, 2018, Web

As always, the New Year will bring new changes to both Medicare and Social Security. Here are some key changes to these programs.

Social Security

More Money for you. Starting in January 2019, your Social Security payment will be higher than it has been. In fact, the 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will be the highest since 2012.

The Social Security tax cap is rising. The maximum earnings subject to Social Security Tax will increase by $4,500 to $132,900 next year (meaning higher earners could see a rise in their tax burden).

There will be higher earnings limits. You’ll be able to earn $600 more in 2019 before some of your Social Security payments are withheld.

2. Brandon E, Social Security changes coming in 2019, U.S. News & World Report, October 15, 2018, Web, USANews.com

Medicare

Some costs are going up slightly. (3)

The current standard monthly Medicare Part B premium of $134 is rising by $1.50 a month next year to a total of $135.50 (possibly more if you’re a higher earner).

The annual Part B Deductible is going up by $2 to $185. The Part A inpatient deductible for hospital admittance will be $1,364 in 2019: up by $24.

Remember that Medicare Supplement Insurance is designed to help costs like deductibles. Let’s talk about it!

Also, Medicare Advantage plans (offered by private companies) are getting their own Open Enrollment Period, from January 1 to March 31.

3. Backman M, 5 Medicare changes for 2019 you should know about, The Motley Fool, October 28, 2018, Web, MotleyFool

Almond Snowballs (4)

Holiday cookies are always fun. Here’s a recipe that’s tasty, heathy, and fantastic for holiday gatherings!

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350º F. Beat egg whites and salt to soft peaks. Add sugar and beat again until peaks are stiff. Beat in almond flavoring. Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, stir in half of the coconut. Sprinkle in nutmeg and flour. Stir, then fold in the remaining coconut.

Using a small scoop, or working with 2 spoons, form 9 “snowballs” a couple of inches apart on each of 2 cookie sheets. Bake 12 -15 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove from oven and garnish each snowball with half a cherry and a couple of slivered almonds. Transfer to a rack or serving plate to cool. Just 64 calories each.

4. Ray R, Almond Snowballs, Food Network, accessed November 6, 2018, Web, FoodNetwork.com

For many of us, there’s no better holiday gift than cold, hard, cash. But you may also be concerned that the cash you give might create a tax obligation for you or the recipient.

There is a federal gift tax, but for most cash gift givers it shouldn’t be an issue. 5

In 2018 the IRS lets you give up to $15,000 to any number of people without you or the recipient(s) owing any gift tax.

This takes away a tax risk for most and makes the money an especially appreciated gift.

5. Frequently asked questions on gift taxes, IRS, August 20, 2018, Web, IRS.gov

Now — at the end of this year or the beginning of 2019 — is a smart time to make sure all your policies and accounts are working for you. Contact me today to set up a Free Policy Review.

Silent Partner: This is a person whose involvement in a partnership is limited to providing capital (money) to the business.

Silent Bank Run: This occurs when withdrawals are made by a bank’s customers (a lot of them) in the form of electronic fund or wire transfers rather than going into the bank and withdrawing money.

“Silver Parachute”: A clause in an employee’s hiring contract promising special compensation if he or she is terminated is sometimes called a Silver Parachute.

Simple Interest: You can find simple interest by multiplying the daily interest rate on the principal of a loan by the number of days between payments.

6. Dictionary, Investopedia, accessed November 6, Web, Investopedia

• Surveys say nine-in-ten Americans celebrate Christmas.
• The Jewish holiday of Hanukkah is from December 2 to December 10.
• On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery, AL bus and the modern civil rights movement began.
• The Winter Solstice arrives on Friday, December 21, at 5:23 pm ET.

Birthdays: (7) Jay-Z (December 4), Kirk Douglas (9), Brad Pitt (18), Mary Tyler Moore (29)

7. December birthdays, Famous Birthdays, accessed November 5, 2018, Web, Famous Birthdays

The best holiday season ever to you and yours!

“Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.” (8)

– President Calvin Coolage

8. Christmas quotes, BrainyQuote®, accessed November 5, 2018, Web, Brainy Quotes

Maybe it was hard to notice, but when the clock struck 12 a.m. on January 1, your health care dollars gained some new buying power. That moment marked a big step away from the so-called Donut Hole in Medicare Part D (prescription drugs) which caused enrollees to pay a bigger share for drugs once they reached a certain coverage limit.

After the Affordable Care Act began, the Donut Hole began closing and was due to close completely in 2020. Then, thanks to the signing of last year’s bipartisan budget deal, the Donut Hole for brand name drugs — generally seen as a particular hardship for seniors — was set to end with the coming of 2019; the Donut Hole’s increased costs for generic drugs will end in 2020.

The “early” ending of the coverage gap for brand names was made possible by stipulations requiring pharmaceutical manufacturers to pay more of the costs for those stuck in the coverage gap.

Make sure these beliefs held by some concerning health care in retirement don’t cost you money 1:

Medicare Supplement Insurance is unnecessary. Medicare does not pay all of your heath are bills. A Medicare Supplement can help cover costs Medicare would otherwise leave to you. Talk to us!

Talking to a financial advisor abut health care is a waste of time. Someone with expertise (like folks at American Senior Benefits) can, in fact, help you develop a comprehensive plan to meet all eventualities.

Being healthy now means lower expenses later. Not necessarily so. Problems can happen to anyone at any time. So it makes sense to be financially prepared.

1. Hartman R, 8 Misconceptions About Health Care Costs in Retirement, US News & World Report, September 12, 2018, Web, USANews.com

Good Taste, Good Health

Marmalade-Horseradish-Rosemary Glazed Ham (2)

Try this delightful low-fat dish — featuring a delicious glaze — on a winter’s evening.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 325°. Score ham in diamond pattern by making shallow diagonal cuts at 1″ intervals. Place ham (cut side down) on a flat rack in a roasting pan. Pour water into the bottom of the roasting pan around ham. Tent ham with foil. Roast for 1 hour. For glaze, combine marmalade, brown sugar, mustard, horseradish, and chopped or dried rosemary in small saucepan. Cook and stir over medium-low heat until marmalade melts.

After ham roasts for 1 hour, brush with glaze. Roast — uncovered —for 30-60 minutes more or until a thermometer inserted into center of ham registers 140°, brushing ham with glaze every 15 minutes. Let stand for 15 minutes before carving. Garnish platter with rosemary sprigs and orange wedges, if desired. Just 121 calories per serving.

2. Diabetic Living magazine, Marmalade-Horseradish-Rosemary glazed ham, EatingWell, accessed December 4, 2018, Web, EatingWell.com

Do you have the life insurance you need? Might an annuity make your future more secure? Let’s get together before too much of 2019 goes by… let’s plan and review. Let’s compare what you have to what you need. Contact me today to set up a Free Policy Review

In many parts of the country we’re getting into the coldest part of the year. (3) For seniors living in or traveling to chilly spots, dropping temperatures can be hazardous.

Hypothermia happens when a person’s body temperature goes below 95º. Older people are more susceptible to his because they lose body heat faster and may have other conditions. (4) The result can be serious physical issues such as liver damage.

Answers can be wearing layered clothing, blocking drafts inside, and just checking on older friends and loved ones during cold weather blasts.

3. Haby J, Which Months of the year are typically coldest, the weather prediction.com, accessed December 5, 2018, Web, TheWeatherPrediction.com
4. Cold weather tips for seniors, Sage Minder, accessed December 5, 2018, Web, SageMinder.com

Significant Order: This is a stock order so big that it could affect the price of the stock on the market.

Single interest insurance: Insurance that covers one of two partners jointly owning a property.

Single Life Payout: In this retirement benefits option, the employee receives payments for life, but the payments stop upon his/her death.

“Skimming.”: This occurs when identity thieves capture information from a cardholder and use it for fraudulent transactions

5. Dictionary, Investopedia, accessed January 7, 2019, Web, Investopedia

• The Ellis Island Immigration Center opened January 1, 1892.
• According to reports, there are more separations and divorces in January than any other month.
• Martin Luther King Jr.’s actual birthday is January 15, but celebrated on the third Monday of January.
• On January 20, 1945, Franklin D. Roosevelt was inaugurated for a fourth term as president.
• February is named for the Latin word meaning purification. (6)

Birthdays: (6) Elvis Presley (January 8), Howard Stern (12), Sam Cooke (22), Oprah Winfrey (29)

6. January birthdays, Famous Birthdays, accessed January 3, 2018, Web, Famous Birthdays

“The new year stands before us, like a chapter in a book, waiting to be written. We can help write that story by setting goals.” (7)

– Melody Beattie

7. Melanie Beattie Quotes, BrainyQuote®, accessed December 3, 2018, Web, Brainy Quotes

During this American Heart Month, it’s great to know that real progress is being made to make heart disease less of a threat to lives worldwide.

Some of the most promising include (1)  …

New cholesterol medication has been found to lower “bad” cholesterol (“LDL”) levels and lower risks for heart attack and stroke.

A new anti-inflammation treatment may help lower rates of recurring heart attacks, non-fatal strokes, and more.

A rise in available donor hearts has made it possible for more patients on waiting lists to receive transplants.

While heart disease the Number One killer in the U.S.,2 there is hope for lessening its impact. During this American Heart Month ask your doctor or cardiologist about new ways to fight heart disease. Medicare may cover a variety of tests and treatments for heart disease.

1. Esposito L, 10 Heart health breakthroughs, U.S. News & World Report, February 18, 2018, Web, USANews.com

2. Heart disease and stroke statistics 2018 at-a-glance, American Heart Association, accessed January 8, 2019, Web, Heart.org

The short answer to the question above is “no.”

Sure many people do worry — even to an extreme. It’s also a fact that in the markets, like life itself, nothing is guaranteed, and there is reason to be cautious.

But history says market changes, ups and downs, are inevitable. They even have a name, “corrections.”

Some of the products we offer have market connections, annuities for instance.

So we’ll be your market eyes and ears, to keep track of how things are going to make sure you’re getting the most value possible. If you have any questions, contact me for answers about how the markets can contribute to your retirement under most any financial conditions.

Mushroom and goat cheese torta (sandwich) (3)

It’s vegetarian and delicious – try a sandwich that’s a Mexican delight filled with mushrooms and goat cheese.

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 325°. Put garlic in a small, deep baking dish and toss with olive oil, lime juice, and 1 tsp of salt. Cover/bake for about 30 min, until the garlic is soft and golden. Increase oven temperature to 400°. Combine mushrooms in 9-by-13-inch baking dish and toss with the roasted garlic and 1 tsp salt. Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Uncover and bake for about 35 minutes, until mushrooms are tender and golden. Stir in chopped cilantro. Scrape some of the bread out of the center of the rolls and set the rolls on a large baking sheet, cut sides up. Spread mushrooms over the rolls and bake for about 5 minutes. Spread the arugula and salsa on one half of the rolls and the goat cheese on the other. Close the sandwiches and bake for about 5 minutes, until hot and crisp. Cut the sandwiches in half.

3. Bayless R, Mushroom and goat cheese tortas, myrecipes, accessed January 5, 2019, Web, MyRecipes.com

Vitamin D is important in building bones and helping them stay strong and healthy. It’s been found to help prevent certain kinds of cancer. 4

On the other hand, Vitamin D deficiencies can be dangerous for seniors.

Frequent illness can be a sign of Vitamin D deficiency — which can cause brittle bones even contribute to pneumonia. Medicare may cover testing for Vitamin D deficiency.

You can get Vitamin D from orange juice, sunshine (although seniors must practice precaution), and salmon.

4. Vitamin D and Vitamin D deficiency, Cleveland Clinic, accessed January 6, 2019, Web, ClevelandClinic.org

Skilled nursing facility: Here’s a center or other facility offering services from nurses, therapists, and other professionals. Medicare generally pays the cost of 20 days in skilled nursing facility and some of the cost of another 80 days (for which Medicare Supplement Insurance — which we can help with — might come in handy).

“Skin in the game”: This is when company executives use their own money to buy stock in the company they run.

“Skyscraper effect”: This suggests there is some correlation between building the world’s highest skyscrapers and a coming economic recession.

Slippage: Sometimes there is a difference been the expected price of a trade and the actual (lower) price at which it is executed — slippage.

5. Dictionary, Investopedia, accessed January 7, 2019, Web, Investopedia

• Leap years — According to the Gregorian calendar, nearly every fourth year an extra day (29th) is added to February. The next one is 2020.
• On February 3, 1913, Congress received the right to collect income taxes (16th Amendment).
• Four presidents were born in February: George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Ronald Reagan and William Henry Harrison.
• The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre occurred in Chicago on February 14, 1929.
• February is named for the Latin word meaning purification. (6)

Birthdays: (7) Bob Marley (February 2), Babe Ruth (6), Nina Simone (21), Dakota Fanning (23)

6. February in history, Ducksters, accessed January 6, 2019, Web, Ducksters

7. February birthdays, Famous Birthdays, accessed January 5, 2019, Web, Famous Birthdays

“It is far better to be alone than to be in bad company.” (8)

– President George Washington

8. George Washington Quotes, BrainyQuote®, accessed January 7, 2019, Web Brainy Quotes