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Senior Scribes meet at Heartland
Senior Scribes enjoyed a great breakfast courtesy of Heartland of
Greenville and its admissions director, Amy Farmer, Thursday morning.
Farmer told the group she’d completed, so far, 22 hours of education in
Medicare at the state level, with more coming, and offered her services
as an advisor to the group, plus any other senior citizens in need of
advice on the program.
Bob Robinson told the group that his experience with Medicare convinced
him that any new person entering the program needs the advice of
someone who knows how to navigate the system.
For instance, he said he hadn’t been aware – and no one told him – that
there is a penalty for every month you are eligible for a certain
coverage that you don’t participate. The open enrollment period is well
publicized, but nothing is said about the increased cost if you miss
that enrollment period.
Farmer extended an invitation to future meetings at Heartland, noting
that the Senior Scribes provided a needed link to the senior community
for those who may need the information she can provide.
Scribes were advised of Darrel Biddlestone’s annual Memorial
Scholarship in memory of his business mentor, Fred Wright.
The Scribes were told that anyone wanting to take out a scholarship
contribution from an IRA must have the bank send it directly to the
Senior Scribes Scholarship Fund treasurer. It cannot pass through
the contributor’s hands. A spouse may contribute also, each up to
$100,000. This would count toward your required distribution and would
not be considered income for tax purposes. However, it may not be
included in deductions for charitable giving.
Al Bliss reported that Darke County schools have been contacted
regarding scholarship information for Darke County seniors seeking a
college degree in a communications related field.
Bill Stevens reported he is working on an auction fundraising project
for the Scribes. He said the best date would likely be in April or May
and hopes to confirm a time for the group to use the Brick Room at
Brethren Retirement Community.
Ryan Berry of the Early Bird complimented the group on its story
contributions and noted that the first edition of the Teen Scribes page
was published last weekend. He said he was impressed with the quality
of writing from the youth.
Robinson thanked the group for moving the meeting date to Thursday. His
class schedule had prohibited participation on Tuesdays. He noted that
County News Online is growing in readership and he was always looking
for news stories from the group and the community. He added that CNO
accepts letters to the editor from all readers.
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