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The latest on the Key Bridge collapse, New York puts forth legislation to get clean energy projects on the grid and Wisconsin and other states join a federal summer food program to help feed kids across the country.

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Republicans float conspiracy theories on the collapse of Baltimore's Key Bridge, South Carolina's congressional elections will use a map ruled unconstitutional, and the Senate schedules an impeachment trial for Homeland Secretary Mayorkas.

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Historic wildfires could create housing and health issues for rural Texans, a Kentucky program helps prison parolees start a new life, and descendants of Nicodemus, Kansas celebrate the Black settlers who journeyed across the 1870s plains seeking self-governance.

Unemployed and Over 50 find Self Employment a Positive Option

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Monday, April 29, 2013   

LANSING, Mich. - Older workers who lose their jobs find it increasingly difficult getting noticed in the new economy's highly-competitive job market.

To try to counter that situation, the AARP is helping older unemployed people get back in the work force through entrepreneurship. About 100 people attended a workshop last week aimed at helping people over 50 start their own businesses.

According to Rob Romasco, AARP's national board president, more people over 50 start their own businesses than people under 30.

"So, there is some activity there and people are trying to find ways to make ends meet," he characterized the situation. "Or, frankly, to realize a dream. You had an idea and you always thought about it. Well, let's see if we can put you in touch with a network of resources that will help you, guide you, and support you in that process."

In Romasco's view, older entrepreneurs need to tap into programs that help with business plans, provide capital and offer business counseling. He said the Small Business Administration, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the Small Business Technology and Development Center all have entrepreneur programs for older adults.

Paul Cruz started his own business after he was laid off after having worked for a major retailer for 20 years.

"Usually, people who are laid off or terminated, the writing's on the wall - you're not going to last - but I waited 'til they let me go, and then you're in shock. I'm gone. I no longer go there, I've got to go on unemployment," he described the way things went. "And then you start wondering - what am I going to do? I should have started looking for this before."

He declared that the biggest mistake he made was not going into business for himself sooner.

More information is at AARP.org.




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