The recent Power Partners USA virtual meeting delivered an energizing mix of networking, knowledge sharing, and business development. Hosted by Alan Armijo, the meeting provided an invaluable platform for members to introduce their services, discuss business challenges, and explore collaborative opportunities that drive long-term growth.

Empowering Connections and Referral Opportunities
Alan Armijo kicked off the meeting by emphasizing the importance of education and connection among members. In a business model that intentionally minimizes regular in-person meetings, Alan reminded everyone that each member's unique specialty is the key to uncovering accurate and beneficial referral opportunities. To bridge potential gaps:

• Member Education: Sharing detailed insights about individual services is essential for generating referrals.
• Proactive Introductions: Power Partners USA is committed to following up with members to ensure that every connection leads to meaningful conversations.
• AI-Powered Networking: Alan unveiled plans to leverage the new Power Partners AI by Entelligage platform, designed to streamline cross-referencing member interests and facilitate personalized introduction and referral emails.

For a closer look at the platform in action, members are encouraged to visit www.PowerPartners-AI.com.

Leveraging AI for Enhanced Collaboration
The introduction of the Power Partners AI by Entelligage is set to be a game changer. This innovative tool helps:

• Identify Key Connections: The AI cross-references member interests to quickly generate tailored, accurate emails that outline collaboration opportunities.
• Facilitate Organic Referrals: It captures key information from conversations to trigger referrals and introductions without the need for constant in-person meetings.
• Enhance Efficiency: As the group continues to grow, the AI platform ensures that each member’s strengths are communicated effectively, saving time and maximizing productivity.

Members are invited to provide content—whether blog articles, videos, or podcast segments—to further support these connection efforts.

Welcoming New Talent: Jordan Opre from New York Life
A highlight of the meeting was the warm welcome extended to new member Jordan Opre, a dedicated financial services professional from New York Life. Jordan’s client-first approach focuses on protection-oriented financial planning, avoiding ongoing asset management fees through a commission-based structure. He shared insights on:

• Business Development: Leveraging referrals as a core component of his success.
• Target Audience: Serving a diverse range from young families to individuals nearing retirement.
• Ideal Collaborations: Seeking partnerships with CPAs, real estate agents, mortgage lenders, and estate attorneys to enhance his clients’ experience.

Jordan’s commitment to building trust and providing essential financial protection underscores the value he brings to the Power Partners community.

Member Speak & Business Updates
Several members shared their business updates and collaborative ideas:

• Guy Shurki – Shur-Net Solutions, Inc.:
  Guy introduced his company’s 25 years of expertise in MSP and cybersecurity solutions for businesses across Orange and Los Angeles Counties. He’s eager to partner with AI experts and other MSPs for broader service offerings. More details will be shared in the March meeting.
• Jack Senske – Churchill Mortgage:
  With over 45 years in the mortgage industry, Jack emphasized trust and relationship-building, particularly in both traditional and non-QM loans, and looks forward to collaborating with financial planners like Jordan.
• Marc Forsythe – Bankruptcy Attorney:
  Marc offered his seasoned perspective on assisting businesses and individuals in financial distress, providing a reliable referral source for CPAs, real estate professionals, and other financial experts during Chapter 11 cases.
• Miguel Bravo – Comerica Bank:
  As the branch manager in Long Beach, Miguel discussed Comerica Bank’s comprehensive financial services, including HELOCs and business banking solutions, while noting the discontinuation of personal loans.
• Vincent Attardo – A1 Best Plumbing & Restoration:
  Vince updated the group on his busy season with a focus on water damage restoration, plumbing, and environmental remediation, and invited members to the upcoming Sea Scouts fundraising golf tournament on February 22.
• Johnny Garcia & Kelvin Nham – Entelligage AI Solutions:
  The dynamic duo shared developments in custom AI implementation services, including enhancements to the Power Partners USA AI platform, underscoring their commitment to integrating AI technology to streamline operations and boost lead generation.
• Alan and Debra Armijo – iTrust Marketing:
  Debra provided an insightful overview of iTrust Marketing’s design-first approach to branding, website development, and integrated marketing services. Their comprehensive support helps businesses focus on their core operations while managing effective marketing strategies. Explore their work at www.iTrustMarketing.biz.

Key Discussions & Collaborative Opportunities
During the meeting, several strategic opportunities emerged:

• Mortgage Referrals: Transitioning mortgage clients to trusted partners such as Churchill Mortgage.
• IT & AI Synergy: Exploring collaboration between IT services from Shur-Net Solutions and AI expertise from Entelligage.
• Bankruptcy & Financial Planning: Recognizing natural referral pathways among financial planners, mortgage professionals, and bankruptcy attorneys.

Announcements & Upcoming Events
The meeting also featured important announcements and event updates:

• Podcast Interviews: Alan Armijo will be coordinating a series of podcast interviews featuring members like Jordan and others.
  

Final Thoughts
The Power Partners USA virtual meeting exemplified the strength of professional networking. By sharing expertise, fostering referrals, and embracing innovative technology like the Power Partners AI by Entelligage, members are building a foundation for sustainable business growth. If you know professionals who would benefit from joining this dynamic network or wish to learn more about our unique approach to business connections, please visit www.PowerPartners.us or contact us today.

Stay connected, and here's to your success!
 

Written by Power Partner USA member Pauline Field.

Check out her YouTube channel Wit, Wisdom & Wrinkles: Candid Chats on Aging at this link.

Introduction
Retirement is a time for relaxation, enjoyment, and making the most of your golden years. However, many retirees find themselves on a limited budget. Fortunately, with smart financial strategies, you can stretch your money without sacrificing fun and happiness. In this guide, Pauline Field shares valuable tips on maximizing your retirement income and cutting unnecessary expenses.

The Key to Financial Happiness: Joy per Dollar
One of the best ways to make the most of your retirement budget is to assess your "joy per dollar." Ask yourself:

• What expenses truly bring me happiness?
• Are there things I’m spending money on that don’t add much value to my life?

By prioritizing joyful expenses and eliminating unnecessary ones, you can free up more funds for meaningful experiences.

Smart Grocery and Dining Hacks
Dining Out for Less

• AARP offers discounts at various restaurants—usually around 10% off your bill.
• If you’re not an AARP member, now is the time to join and take advantage of these savings.

Grocery Shopping Savings

• Compare grocery stores to find the best prices.
• Consider buying store brands or looking for discount supermarkets.
• Avoid purchasing expensive foods that don’t bring significant joy.

Travel More, Spend Less

• Sign up for travel deal websites to receive notifications on discounts up to 80% off on cruises and flights.
• Travel during the off-season for cheaper airfare and accommodations.
• Consider house-sitting or home swaps to save on lodging costs.
• As a senior, apply for a National Parks pass to get free or discounted entry to parks and attractions.

Affordable Entertainment

• Check out sites like Theater Extras or Sold Out Crowd for deeply discounted tickets to plays, concerts, and symphonies.
• Many cities offer free or low-cost events—check your local newspaper or city website for listings.
• Take advantage of your public library for free access to books, audiobooks, movies, and even online learning resources via Libby.

Housing and Utility Savings
Downsizing

• If you're still living in the house where you raised your kids, consider downsizing to a smaller home or condo.
• Selling a larger home can free up extra money and reduce maintenance costs.

Property Tax Exemptions

• Many states offer tax exemptions for retirees—check if you qualify for discounts.

Energy Efficiency

• Switch to LED bulbs and install a smart thermostat to lower your utility bills.
• Look into senior discounts from utility providers.

Healthcare and Insurance Savings

• Many retirees qualify for Medicare Savings Programs—check your eligibility.
• Reevaluate your life insurance needs. If you no longer require extensive coverage, consider reducing or switching policies.
• Use services like GoodRx to compare prescription prices and save on medications.

Cut Unnecessary Subscriptions
Many retirees unknowingly spend money on unused subscriptions. Consider:

• Reviewing streaming services—do you really watch them all?
• Cancelling gym memberships you don’t use.
• Checking for hidden subscriptions in your credit card statements.

Take Advantage of Senior Discounts and Cashback Offers

• Retail stores, gyms, auto services, and even grocery stores often offer senior discounts—ask before making a purchase.
• Use loyalty programs and cashback apps to maximize savings on everyday expenses.

Tax Credits and Retirement Savings

• Explore tax credits for retirees, such as the Credit for the Elderly or Disabled, which is often overlooked.
• If you're still earning, take advantage of higher retirement savings limits available after age 50.
  
• Qualified Charitable Distributions from an IRA can reduce your taxable income if you're over 70 ½.

Final Thoughts: Retirement Should Be Fun, Not Stressful
By reviewing your expenses, cutting unnecessary costs, and taking advantage of discounts, you can make your retirement money go further—allowing you to enjoy life to the fullest.
Take some time to assess your budget and see where you can save, so you can focus on what truly brings you happiness!

Contact Pauline Field for More Retirement Tips
Contact Information:

• Phone: (818) 694-0588
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Retire-Happily.com
  
• Power Partners USA Account Page: Click Here
  
• Explained Here Page: Click Here

Start your journey to a happier, more financially secure retirement today!
 

On Saturday, February 1, 2025, Power Partners USA participated in the Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce Pop-Up Tent event at the Seal Beach Pier. The event, which began at 11 AM, was bustling with activity as visitors strolled along the pier, exploring the various booths set up by member organizations. As a dedicated supporter of its members, Power Partners USA was there to actively promote and connect businesses with potential clients and partners.

Showcasing Our Members
This marks the third time Power Partners USA has attended the pop-up event at the pier, and each time, our mission remains the same: to promote our Power Partner members. Our booth was set up with a variety of marketing materials, including business cards, brochures, and promotional items representing our members. As visitors stopped by, we had the opportunity to share information about their businesses and services, ensuring they reached the right audience.
One of the highlights of the event was engaging with both business owners and local residents. The pier attracts a diverse crowd, from entrepreneurs looking to network to retirees searching for valuable services. This allowed us to cater to both groups—introducing business owners to Power Partners USA for networking opportunities while also providing helpful resources to community members in need of specific PPUSA members’ services.

Meaningful Connections and Lead Generation
We distributed brochures from several of our members, ensuring their services were represented to the right audience. A few key moments included:

• Jim Better’s Long Term Care Insurance services attracted interest from retirees looking for coverage options.
• Pauline Fields Retirement Consulting attracted interest from retirees looking for ideas about what to do in retirement.
• Tom De Lio’s reverse mortgage services resonated with many visitors seeking financial solutions for their later years.
• Valerie Condon’s real estate expertise proved valuable when a visitor shared that her daughter was considering selling her home to move to Hawaii. We ensured that lead would be passed directly to Valerie.

One of the challenges with distributing marketing materials at public events is tracking their direct impact. However, this time, we witnessed the success of our efforts in real-time. We facilitated a direct connection between Jim Better of Essential Plans of Insurance and Rabih Harfouche from BlueSea Care Services. Recognizing their complementary services, we introduced them, and they have already scheduled a follow-up meeting to discuss potential collaboration.

The Power Tie Giveaway: A Standout Attraction
One of the most engaging elements at our booth was our Power Tie Giveaway Table Banner. This initiative always draws attention, as it serves both a practical and mentorship purpose. At our events, we demonstrate how to properly knot a necktie, using this as a moment to mentor students and provide them with valuable life skills. Many attendees appreciate the program’s mission and outcomes, making it a great way to spark conversations and build meaningful relationships.

Promoting Members Through Action
Events like these are a testament to the hands-on approach Power Partners USA takes in promoting its members. By distributing brochures, making direct introductions, and facilitating networking opportunities, we actively work to increase the visibility and success of our members. Our presence at the Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce Pop-Up Tent event was not just about showcasing businesses—it was about creating valuable connections that lead to real business growth.

As we continue to attend these community events, we remain committed to our mission: ensuring our Power Partners gain exposure, generate leads, and build strong professional relationships. If you’re looking to expand your network and enhance your business visibility, Power Partners USA is here to help! Contact Alan at [email protected] or (562) 843-7801for any questions about membership.

At Power Partners USA, we believe in fostering confidence, professionalism, and community engagement. One of our standout initiatives, the Power Tie Giveaway, recently took us to John Glenn High School in Norwalk, CA, thanks to a referral from Long Beach City College. The event was part of an exciting collaboration with the Early College Initiative, which provides students with college credit while still in high school.

A Unique Learning Experience
The students we worked with were freshmen and sophomores enrolled in an Urban Agricultural Pathway—a dual-enrollment program that earns them college credit in horticulture at Long Beach City College. These young minds were preparing to showcase their innovative landscape design projects at the John Glenn High School Landscape Design Symposium.

Their designs focused on transforming large blank spaces on campus into community gardens and outdoor learning areas—spaces that would encourage interaction, education, and sustainability. These students were taking their ideas from concept to execution, mirroring real-world project development.

Building Confidence with the Power Tie Giveaway
In preparation for their poster symposium presentations, Power Partners USA stepped in with our Power Tie Giveaway program. We provided ties for both the boys and girls, along with a hands-on lesson on how to properly tie them
.
Though many of these students work in horticulture and outdoor environments, they quickly recognized the value of presenting themselves professionally. Wearing a tie gave them a new sense of confidence, reinforcing the importance of dressing professionally in any field—whether it's pitching a design, conducting a business meeting, or preparing for a job interview.

The Transformation on Presentation Day
Two days later, we returned to attend their presentations, and the transformation was incredible. The students who had been shy and reserved were now smiling, standing tall, and delivering their ideas with newfound confidence. Their instructor shared how something as simple as a tie had made a significant impact—helping the students feel more self-assured and ready to engage with their audience. 

Alan Armijo, owner of Power Partners USA commented, "What impressed me was this girl who gave a very visually impressive presentation. I didn’t recognize her, so I asked if she had been in the class where we taught students how to tie a tie. She said, 'Yes, I was there—I just wasn’t dressed up that day.' I asked if she had learned how to tie the tie, and she said, 'Yes,' and that she had even gone home and taught her brother how to tie a tie. That moment really captured what we aim to do—help young people transform and help each other in a peer-to-peer manner."

The event itself was structured as individual presentations, where students explained their designs to attendees in an interactive format. The enthusiasm and professionalism they displayed were inspiring, proving that the right tools and encouragement can help shape young leaders.

Strengthening Community Connections
Beyond working with the students, this event allowed Power Partners USA to build valuable relationships with Long Beach City College administrators like Lupe Pasillas  and the Early College Initiative coordinator Citlaly Orozco as well as Brian Jones and Miss Vaughn at John Glenn High School. We’re excited about the potential for future collaborations, ensuring that more students benefit from mentorship, leadership training, and professional development opportunities.

The Power of Presentation
At Power Partners USA, we believe that confidence and preparation are key to success. Whether it’s a high school symposium, a business pitch, or a sales presentation, how you present yourself matters. Through the Power Tie Giveaway, we’re not just providing neckties—we’re equipping young individuals with a mindset of professionalism, readiness, and self-assurance that will serve them well in any career path. We’re honored to have been a part of this event at John Glenn High School and look forward to continuing to support the next generation of leaders.

Want to Get Involved?
If you’d like to support the Power Tie Giveaway or learn more about Power Partners USA, reach out to us today! Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future professionals and entrepreneurs of tomorrow. 

Alan Armijo
[email protected]
(562) 843-7801