02 Sep 2015

With costs rising in the U.S., more retirees are looking overseas to find a comfortable lifestyle with lower costs, good healthcare, and better weather.

By C. Barron

A growing number of the 8,000 baby boomers who turn 65 each year are looking overseas in search of a better retirement. They're looking to havens where costs are lower, the climate is often better, the healthcare is top-notch, and property prices deliver good value, report the retire-overseas experts at InternationalLiving.com.

"The traditional age for retirement in the U.S. is 65, but many Americans feel they'll have to keep working into their 70s before they can retire comfortably... if they ever can," says Executive Editor of InternationalLiving.com, Jennifer Stevens.

"As many as 92% of working American households aren't meeting recommended savings targets. But you can't just tell people to save more. For many folks, it's not possible. So retirees face a choice: 1. toil on?perhaps indefinitely, 2. significantly scale back plans for a 'comfortable' retirement, or 3. consider better options overseas. In some of the countries we recommend, a couple could cut their monthly costs to as little as $1,000 and still enjoy a great lifestyle. That would be nearly impossible to do in the States these days."

Expats Duane and Judy Allen, for instance, originally from Tampa, Florida, were able to trade up in retirement by going abroad. They always wanted to live by the beach, and for years, they say, they scoured Florida's coasts looking for an affordable property. But everything was out of reach. Today, though, they're living their dream on a good-value Caribbean island where they live comfortably, right on the water, on a budget of $1,300 a month.

"Our view is breathtaking, no matter what time of day it is," says Judy. "Sitting on our porch watching the sun rise is a daily pleasure."

Expats report that when things cost less, they can do more?thus improving their quality of life. Amanda Walkins, a writer for InternationalLiving.com based in Roatan, says, "My two-bedroom, beachfront apartment runs me about $750 per month with all utilities included. I go out to eat several nights per week, share drinks with friends, and I regularly host barbecues at my house?all without flinching at the cost."

InternationalLiving.com report increasing interest in their products and services among Americans and Canadians looking to maximize their retirements overseas. The number of attendees at International Living's live events, for instance, has increased significantly over the past few years.

The organization's annual Fast Track Your Retirement Overseas Conference, held in Las Vegas every September, has seen the attendee number rise to 650 in 2014. And International Living expects that number to rise again for this year's conference, set for September 25-27, 2015.

For those considering a similar move overseas, International Living's annual Fast Track Your Retirement Overseas Conference covers more than a dozen beautiful places in the world where retirees can live a great lifestyle on a low budget and turn their dreams of a comfortable retirement into reality?for a small fraction of what it would cost at home.

Registration remains open for International Living's Fast Track Your Retirement Overseas Conference 2015. For details about this event, see here: Fast Track Your Retirement Overseas Conference.

(US), CBarron@InternationalLiving.

For 35 years, InternationalLiving.com has been the leading authority for anyone looking for global retirement or relocation opportunities. Through its monthly magazine and related e-letters, extensive website, podcasts, online bookstore, and events held around the world, InternationalLiving.com provides information and services to help its readers live better, travel farther, have more fun, save more money, and find better business opportunities when they expand their world beyond their own shores. InternationalLiving.com has more than 200 correspondents traveling the globe, investigating the best opportunities for travel, retirement, real estate, and investment.

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01 Sep 2015

State Treasurer Fitzgerald brings "Treasure" and "Savings" to the Clay County Fair

By Karen Austin

DES MOINES, IA (08/27/2015)(readMedia)-- State Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald announced today that a stop at the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt and College Savings Iowa booth during the 2015 Clay County Fair may be worthwhile. Fairgoers could find their name - over one million accounts are currently being held as unclaimed property in the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt. Visitors to the booth will also be able to learn more about 529 college savings plans through the College Savings Iowa InFocus tutorial. "Computers will be available for visitors to search for their names," Fitzgerald said. "Staff members will also be on hand to assist and answer questions for both programs."

The Great Iowa Treasure Hunt program has returned over $198 million in unclaimed property to more than 468,000 individuals since Fitzgerald started it in 1983. Unclaimed property refers to money and other assets held by financial institutions or companies that have lost contact with the property's owner for a specific period of time. State law requires these institutions and companies to annually report unclaimed property to the state treasurer's office. The assets are then held until the owner or heir of the property is found. Common forms of unclaimed property include savings or checking accounts, stocks, uncashed checks, life insurance policies, utility security deposits and safe deposit box contents. Go to GreatIowaTreasureHunt.gov to search for your treasure today.

College Savings Iowa is an affordable, tax-advantaged option for families who are saving for their children's higher education. It takes just $25 to open a College Savings Iowa account, and anyone - parents, grandparents, friends and relatives - can invest on behalf of a child. Participants who are Iowa taxpayers can deduct contributions up to $3,163 per beneficiary account from their adjusted gross income in 2015 and there are no income or residency restrictions.* To learn more about College Savings Iowa, go to CollegeSavingsIowa.com or call 1-888-672-9116.

Visit the Great Iowa Treasure Hunt and College Savings Iowa booth during the Clay County Fair in the Varied Industries building. The building will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. September 12 through September 19 and 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on September 20. Be sure to like Great Iowa Treasure Hunt and College Savings Iowa 529 Plan on Facebook and follow the programs on Twitter (@GreatIATreasure and @Iowa529Plan) to keep up to date.

*Adjusted annually for inflation. If withdrawals are not qualified, the deductions must be added back to Iowa taxable income. The availability of tax or other benefits may be contingent on meeting other requirements.

**Earnings on non-qualified withdrawals may be subject to federal income tax and a 10% federal penalty tax, as well as state income taxes. The availability of tax or other benefits may be contingent on meeting other requirements.

 

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Investment returns are not guaranteed and you could lose money by investing in the plan. Participants assume all investment risks as well as responsibility for any federal and state tax consequences. If you are not an Iowa taxpayer, consider before investing whether your or the designated beneficiary's home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investments in such state's qualified tuition program.

For more information about the College Savings Iowa 529 Plan, call 888-672-9116 or visit www.CollegeSavingsIowa.com to obtain a Program Description. Investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information are included in the Program Description; read and consider it carefully before investing. Vanguard Marketing Corporation, Distributor.

29 Aug 2015

NONPROFIT, SOCIAL SERVICE PAYMENTS REMAIN PRIORITY

By Rich Carter
Comptroller continues to aid most vulnerable
CHICAGO - Comptroller Leslie Geissler Munger released the following statement Wednesday in response to a Federal Court order involving the Ligas Consent Decree impacting services for people with developmental disabilities:
"I appreciate the Court's recognition of the difficult challenge we face in making necessary payments in light of Illinois' continued failure to pass a balanced budget.
"My priority remains to ensure that organizations serving our elderly, children and other most vulnerable residents take precedence when it comes to state payments. As a longtime volunteer and former Board member for an organization serving the intellectually and developmentally disabled, I know firsthand the hardship that is caused when payments don't arrive as scheduled, and I will do everything in my power to lead the state in keeping its promises to those most in need.
"In the absence of a balanced budget for this fiscal year, my office will continue to work to meet the payment timelines set by the Courts despite the state's limited resources.
"To be clear: taxpayers deserve better than government by Court Order. Ultimately, we can best serve Illinois families, businesses and organizations by passing a balanced budget that includes reforms that will allow us to become more competitive and grow our economy so we can put people back to work and fund critical services."
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28 Aug 2015

PR Network of the Quad Cities announces 2015-2016 officers

By Rick Martin

Davenport, Iowa (August 24, 2015) - PR Network of the Quad Cities, a local organization for communications professionals in the Quad Cities, has announced its officers for the 2015-2016 year.

Five new faces join the board of 14 communications and marketing professionals from across the Quad Cities. The 2015-2016 officers include :

  • President ? Diane Koster
  • Past President - Monica Wolfe
  • Vice President - Lindsay Thul, Hotel Blackhawk
  • Secretary ? Lindsey Lobur, iWireless Center
  • Treasurer ? Tiffany Stott, Edwards Creative
  • Membership Director ? Erin Wyant, Russell Construction
  • Student Membership Director - Hannah McInerney, Saint Ambrose University Student
  • Communication Director - Stephanie Carmichael, Hy-Vee
  • Publicity Director ? Joscelyn Stone, Bethany for Children and Families
  • Programming Director ? Ronna Walker-Johnson, Media Link, Inc.
  • Half-Day Workshop Director ? Amy Kolner, Integrity Integrated
  • Webmaster ? Doug Tschopp, Augustana College
  • At-Large - Amy Simler, Bush Construction
  • At-Large - Susan Flansburg, Benedictine Sisters of St. Mary Monastery

"PR Network has a long history in the Quad Cities as the premiere organization for communications professionals functioning at all levels," said Diane Koster, who is entering her first year as president. "Whether you are new to the field, a communications student, or a seasoned professional, PR Network has something for you. I personally invite you to check out our monthly program offerings and see what value we can bring to you. Join us today and enjoy a reduced price membership when coupled with registration to our September event. I guarantee you will find many educational and networking opportunities throughout the year for a minimal investment. I hope to see you soon at an upcoming event!"

PR Network of the Quad Cities holds monthly educational luncheons, a Half Day Workshop in April, and other networking opportunities throughout the year.

The first luncheon of the year will take place on Thursday, September 17. Hear about the process of landing Uber, the ride-sharing service, in the Quad Cities metro area from Young Professionals of the Quad Cities Director, Aiden Landman.

There will be a special first event registration membership deal available. New members may register for this event along with a yearly PR Network membership for $45. Current members may register for the event along with renewing their PR Network membership for $40. This special will only be available until September 14.

The event will take place at The Establishment, 220 19th Street, Rock Island, Ill., from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. RSVPs are required, which can be completed at http://www.prnetworkqc.org/events.php.

For more information about PR Network of the Quad Cities and to learn about membership opportunities, visit http://www.prnetworkqc.org/.

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About PR Network of the Quad Cities

PR Network of the Quad Cities, Inc. provides professional development, networking, and educational opportunities to individuals interested in the marketing/public relations/communications field.

27 Aug 2015

Money Prep for Prospective Parents

By Steve Burke

By Nathaniel Sillin

It costs parents an average of $245,340 to raise a child from birth to age 18.

That figure from the U.S. Agriculture Department is just one reason why prospective parents are advised to consider parallel financial planning for child-based expenses and retirement. The key is to start doing it as early as possible - in a December 2012 article in The New Republic, adults are starting families later than previous generations. In short, savings needs for childcare, college and retirement seem on a tighter collision course than ever.

For prospective couples or single parents, any discussion of family should begin with the pros and cons of starting a family in terms of personal, lifestyle and career success. In short, the question "Do we want kids?" should come before "Can we afford kids?"

Once family goals are settled, it's wise to evaluate where current finances stand. While many couples have a thorough money talk (http://www.practicalmoneyskills.com/moneyquestions) before they wed, it works for family planning, too. Couples and single parents will benefit from complete financial transparency before pregnancy, adoption proceedings or fertility treatment starts.

Utilize qualified financial and tax advice to fit specific circumstances. Consult trusted family and friends for referrals to qualified financial planning and tax experts. Also check current tax rules for how to handle and potentially deduct certain costs related to adoption or fertility treatments.

Research thoroughly and bookmark resources online. The IRS website (http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/Parents) continually updates its summary of tax issues for parents which can guide overall planning. New authors and bloggers emerge daily on virtually every aspect of parenting; friends, relatives and colleagues can also provide resources.

For prospective parents who are employed, it is a good idea to evaluate benefits well ahead of a pregnancy, fertilization procedures or adoption. Depending on specific circumstances, employees should review health and general benefits for routine and emergency medical coverage, medical leave policy and extras like child care benefits. Couples should compare their coverage to determine who has the best family coverage overall.

Start planning for childcare expenses as soon as possible. Full- or part-time childcare services for working parents can be surprisingly expensive and difficult to obtain depending on location. In 2015, the White House reported that the average cost of full-time care for an infant was about $10,000 a year, and a 2014 Boston Globe (https://www.bostonglobe.com) report noted state-by-state estimates that were significantly higher. For peace of mind and affordability, it is advisable to tackle the childcare issue as early as possible. Prospective parents might also speak with a qualified tax advisor about whether it is more advantageous to claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit on their taxes or pay childcare expenses from a Flexible Spending Account at work.

Loved ones can also lend financial assistance to a new family in a variety of ways. Affordable basics include general parenting advice, as-needed babysitting services and sharing coupons and hand-me-downs like clothing, toys and unneeded child-related equipment in good condition. For those willing to lend financial support, such options might include a Coverdell Education Savings Account, 529 college savings plan or a gift of cash or assets to the child subject to IRS rules. Also, anyone can directly pay medical expenses in full for someone they do not claim as a dependent under certain circumstances. If friends or family members offer financial help, encourage them to evaluate options with qualified financial and tax experts.

Finally, prospective parents should become dedicated bargain hunters and savers with an equal focus on handling childcare expenses and supporting retirement goals. Both financial goals are equally important.

Bottom line: It pays to plan early for a family. Evaluate your finances, reach out to friends and family for advice and get help from qualified experts if you need it
24 Aug 2015

AmeriHealth Caritas Announces New Business In Iowa

By Joshua Brett

Philadelphia, Pa. – AmeriHealth Caritas, a national leader in Medicaid managed care and other integrated health care solutions, announced that its Iowa affiliate, AmeriHealth Caritas Iowa, has been notified by Iowa's Department of Human Services (DHS) of its intent to contract with AmeriHealth Caritas Iowa to be one of four health plans to administer the state's Medicaid managed care program, the Iowa High Quality Health Care Initiative. The contract will begin January 1, 2016.

"We commend the Iowa DHS for its commitment to creating and implementing an innovative Medicaid managed care program for its enrollees," said Paul Tufano, chairman and chief executive officer of AmeriHealth Caritas. "We are proud of the selection to administer Iowa's Medicaid managed care program and look forward to serving the people of this great state with our innovative services and programs."

AmeriHealth Caritas provides a comprehensive, compassionate and outcomes-driven approach to care through its integrated managed care products, behavioral health services, full-service pharmaceutical benefit manager, specialty pharmacy and other administrative services. Iowa members will benefit from the company's more than 30 years of experience in caring for diverse populations with complex health conditions, as well as its focus on caring for the whole person through its integrated model of care.

AmeriHealth Caritas Iowa expects to hire approximately 400 associates to support the health plan, more than half of whom will work throughout the state of Iowa. This team, working in partnership with providers, advocacy groups and community organizations across the state, will aim to help Iowans get care, stay well and build healthy communities.

"Core to AmeriHealth Caritas' mission is that every individual should have access to quality health care and services," said Tufano. "It is a privilege for us to bring our experience and expertise to Iowa and continue our work with our partners across the state in removing barriers to health care and improving services for those who are most in need."

About AmeriHealth Caritas

AmeriHealth Caritas is part of the Independence Health Group in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. AmeriHealth Caritas is one of the nation's leaders in health care solutions for those most in need. Operating in 16 states and the District of Columbia, AmeriHealth Caritas serves more than 6.8 million Medicaid, Medicare and CHIP members through its integrated managed care products, pharmaceutical benefit management and specialty pharmacy services, behavioral health services and other administrative services. Headquartered in Philadelphia, AmeriHealth Caritas is a mission-driven organization with more than 30 years of experience serving low-income and chronically ill populations. For more information, visit www.amerihealthcaritas.com.

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24 Aug 2015

Smiddy, Verschoore Stand with Local Families to Show Steep Cost of Rauner's Shutdown

By Rick Martin
ROCK ISLAND, Ill. - Gov. Bruce Rauner's government shutdown is taking a steep toll on middle-class families, the elderly, and sick and disabled residents said local families who joined with state Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, and Pat Verschoore, D-Milan, to urge a more balanced solution to the state's budget crisis.
"Illinois simply cannot halt basic services for middle-class families and seniors, withhold life-sustaining care for seniors and the disabled, and pretend it's fiscally responsible," Smiddy said. "The governor's decision to shut down basic services isn't making Illinois more competitive, and it certainly isn't compassionate."
Rauner's veto of the state budget eliminated funding for a number of critical services, including the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program, which an estimated 27,000 women rely on the every year to access free mammograms and cervical cancer screenings. Rauner's veto has also stopped funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps over 8,000 Rock Island County residents cover the home heating and cooling during winter and summer months.
Local families and service providers stood with Smiddy and Verschoore at the Western Illinois Area Agency on Aging in Rock Island to discuss how Rauner's government shutdown has put meals on wheels for seniors, therapy for children with autism and services for victims of domestic violence at risk. Residents called for a more balanced approach that makes responsible spending cuts while protecting critical services for middle-class families, the elderly and those in great need.
"We can't afford more of the governor's games and we can't afford to balance the budget on the backs of people who are already struggling to make ends meet," Verschoore said. "These men and women work hard to provide for their families. They didn't create the mess in Springfield. It's not fair to make them pay for it."
24 Aug 2015

Governor Signs Federal Funds Pass Through Bill

By Catherine Kelly

SPRINGFIELD - Governor Bruce Rauner signed SB 2042 today, which appropriates money for the pass through of federal dollars without adding to the state's budget deficit. The clean bill allows the state to provide some services to the state's most vulnerable citizens.

"Governor Rauner supported and signed this clean pass through bill because it will help those in need without adding to the state's budget deficit," Director of Communications Lance Trover said. "While the Governor continues to work on passing a balanced budget with structural reforms to maximize how much we can invest in our schools and important social services, some of the state's most vulnerable citizens will be able receive additional support."

Bill No.: SB 2042

An Act Concerning Appropriations

Action: Signed

Effective: Immediate

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18 Aug 2015

Getting Your Home Ready to Sell

By Steve Burke

By Nathaniel Sillin

As the economy improves, today's sellers are facing a very different environment than they were before the housing market stumbled in 2006.

Today's housing market features new procedures and standards, not the least of which are continuing borrowing hurdles for prospective buyers. If you are thinking about a home sale in the coming months, it pays to do a thorough overview of your personal finances and local real estate environment before you put up the "for sale" sign. Here are some general issues to consider:

Make sure you're not underwater. You may want to buy a new home, but can you afford to sell? The term "underwater" refers to the amount of money a seller owes on a house in excess of final sales proceeds. If what you owe on the home - including all selling costs due at closing - exceeds the agreed-upon sale price, then you will have to pay the difference out of pocket. If you're not in a situation where you absolutely have to sell now, you may want to wait until your financial circumstances and the real estate market improves.

Evaluate your finances. Before you sell, make sure you are ready to buy or rent. Making sure all three of your credit reports (https://www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action) are accurate is an important part of that process.

Consider "for sale by owner" vs. "for sale by broker." "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO) signs were a common sight in many neighborhoods during the housing crisis. Shrunken home values convinced many sellers to sell their property themselves rather than pay 5-6 percent of profit in broker commission. However, consider what a licensed real estate broker could accomplish in your specific situation. Many experienced brokers have market knowledge and negotiating skills that could potentially get a better price for your property. Deciding which route to take shouldn't be an overnight decision. Check leading FSBO and broker sites and talk with knowledgeable friends, attorneys and real estate professionals to learn as much as you can.

Think twice before spending on improvements. Not every home construction project pays off at sale time. Remodeling magazine's annual Cost vs. Value Report (http://www.remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/2015/) tracks both pricing and cost recovery for leading remodeling projects. Before fixing up a bathroom, kitchen or any other area of your home, research whether the work will actually pay for itself at sale. For many sellers, it might be advantageous to hire a licensed home inspector to identify any structural, mechanical or major appliance repair issues that could delay or compromise a sale.

Don't forget moving costs. According to the American Moving and Storage Association, a leading industry trade group, the average professional interstate move of 1,220 miles costs an average of $5,630; in state, the average moving cost is $1,170. After all the costs involved in selling a home, don't forget how much it costs to relocate.

Bottom line: Selling your home requires planning. Before putting it on the market, get solid, qualified advice on how to sell smart in a still-recovering housing market.

14 Aug 2015

September MRA Training Events

By Kathy Riley

MRA - The Management Association, 3800 Avenue of the Cities, Suite 100 in Moline, Illinois has several training events planned in September.

September 3 & September 17: 8 AM - 4 PM, Principles of Leadership Excellence Series: Module 3 - Culture, Motivation, and Aligning Goals with Strategies. The goal of the Principles of Leadership Excellence Certificate Series (PLX) is to provide you with opportunities to learn the skills, behaviors, and knowledge needed for effective, successful leadership.  Cost is MRA Members: $495  Nonmembers:$655 (Pricing also available if you sign up for the entire 6 module series).

September 10 & September 11: 8 AM - 3:30 PM, FMLA Administration in the Real World - A Method to the Madness.  This is the premier course for those responsible for FMLA Administration and teaches the full leave life cycle from when an employer learns of the need for leave through the employee's return to work.  Cost is MRA Members: $460  Nonmembers: $665.

September 10: 8 AM - 4 PM, Administrative Professionals Certificate Series: Leadership Skills for the Administrative Professional.  Learning professional skills to be more effective in the workplace.  Participants explore their individual communication style and ways to improve their communication, problem solving and interpersonal skills.  Cost is MRA members: $250 Nonmembers: $340 (Pricing is also available if you sign up for the entire 4 module series).

September 18: 8 AM - 3:30 PM, Meeting Facilitation Skills.  A good meeting facilitator has the skills to make ordinary group meetings dynamic and productive.  In this program participants practice using skills and tools that help keep meetings on track and groups moving forward.  Cost is MRA members: $250  Nonmembers: $340.

September 22: 8 AM - 4 PM, Frontline Leadership Certificate Series: Motivation and Trust Building.  Group leaders learn how to meet the demands of leading work, while doing work.  This program gives participants a practical understanding of basic leadership skills, work values, organizational responsibility, and trust building.  Cost is MRA Members: $250  Nonmembers: $340 (Pricing is also available if you sign up for the entire 5 module series).

September 24: 8 AM - 4 PM, Emotionally Intelligent Leader.  Participants in this program learn critical skills necessary to effectively understand and use emotion constructively in the workplace.  Cost is MRA Members: $275  Nonmembers: $360.

September 24: 8 AM - 4 PM, Administrative Professionals Certificate Series: Juggling Multiple Priorities for Administrative Professionals.  Time cannot be managed. Time is uncontrollable; therefore, you can only manage yourself and your use of the time you have.  Identify time stealers and learn how to pinpoint where you need to take control by dealing with procrastination, interruptions, and stress.  Cost is MRA members: $250 Nonmembers: $340 (Pricing is also available if you sign up for the entire 4 module series).

September 29: 8 AM - 4 PM, Frontline Leadership Certificate Series: Communication Skills.  This workshop helps group leaders become more effective communicators with both their workers and their supervisors.  Participants gain effective listening skills and the ability to give and receive feedback.  Cost is MRA Members: $250  Nonmembers: $340 (Pricing is also available if you sign up for the entire 5 module series).

To register for any of these courses, or for more details, contact Kathy Riley at 309.277.4186 or at Kathy.riley@mranet.org.  You can also find training information on our website at www.mranet.org/Training-Events.


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