Opinion

For many years, Americans provided for their retirement needs through three sources: employer-sponsored pension plans, Social Security income, and savings and investments accumulated through employer plans or individual accounts – the so-called “three-legged stool.” But today, that stool is shakier than it used to be. What can you do to strengthen it?

When exactly did we, as a nation, start to sell our freedoms for the perception of safety? Did it start in 1984 when New York mandated that drivers must wear seatbelts? Forty-eight states over the next 11 years followed New York’s lead, just another reason to hate them dang Yankees. It’s possible that was the beginning of the government to intercede on the safety of the populace.

Whew! Oppressive heat in our small town has gardens wilting away and flowers swooning for a drink. When temps get close to the 110 mark, everything and everyone is in danger. Hydration is a key word to remember: drink lots of water, but don’t forget to get those electrolytes ingested also. If you feel weak or a bit dizzy, get to a cool place and drink some Gatorade or something equivalent. Seek help if you don’t feel better pretty soon.