Lori Bitter

 Lori Bitter, president and CEO of Continuum Crew, a San Francisco-based think tank, recently developed a “Boomer Outlook List” to commemorate the aging population of Baby Boomers — 10,000 of whom celebrate their 60th birthdays each day!  Here are several excerpts:

• In 2010, 2 out of every 3 people over the age of 50 in the U.S. are Baby Boomers.
• In the U.S., there are more people over 65 years old than there are teenagers.
• Being a generation famously characterized by having mobilized for social and political change, today 70 percent of Baby Boomers say they still feel a sense of responsibility to make the world a better place.
• Grew up with a solution to the lost TV remote control: they didn’t have one.  They remember their first television — and their first one in color, too.
• Sun-dried tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, ginger root, multi-grain bread and tortillas were exotic foods.
• Driving through a fast food establishment had much more costly implications.

Among the eldest Baby Boomers, born in 1946: Candice Bergen, Cher, Donald Trump, Steven Spielberg, and Sylvester Stallone.  And, representing the youngest Baby Boomer set, born in 1964: Barry Bonds, Courtney Love, Diana Krall, Jose Conseco and Lenny Kravitz.

For the complete “Boomer Outlook List,” log on to Lori’s blog at http://tinyurl.com/38zwofc

“To make a small difference in the world matters to all of us.” – Cyndi Lesher

 The crisis in Haiti reminds us all of the powerful human needs in this world.  And, in our own communities, non-profit organizations are challenged to meet the needs of so many affected by homelessness, unemployment and abuse.  

Cyndi Lesher

Cyndi Lesher, retired president and CEO of Northern States Power Company– Minnesota, an Xcel Energy company, is passionate about volunteering. She serves on the board of several non-profits, including the Twin Cities Area Red Cross, the Animal Humane Society and Opportunity Partners. She blogs:

From the time I was a little girl, my father always told me, “To whom has been given, much is expected.” Obviously, this was the foundation for my rich history of volunteering and civic engagement. My parents led by example and were active in school, church and community projects, so it was natural for me to do the same. 

There is a huge need for volunteers in the non-profit sector as economic issues continue to impact these organizations and the important work they do. I volunteer and serve organizations I’m passionate about and that are mission driven. The personal rewards are extraordinary.  

Volunteer.  Give of your time, talent and resources. If not you, then who?  May all the good you do come back to you.

These are challenging times for everyone, especially Baby Boomers.  The continuing recession, uncertainty in the workplace and financial arena and rising healthcare costs are just a few of the issues to ponder.  On the much brighter side, we’ll explore the benefits of keeping active, eating well and enjoying life to its fullest.  Finally, we will offer special seminars and events, informal gatherings and extend money-saving opportunities at the local level.

Thank you for joining us as we embark on this New Year and New Beginning.   We are excited to have you aboard!