March topics: Census, Do Not Call list, and Scams
March: In like a lion out like a lamb… I remember writing “in like a lion and out like a lion” last year. We have been pretty lucky this year with the winter weather. Let’s hope it stays this nice! Here’s what’s going on in March:
Sunday March 8 is daylight savings time. Don’t forget to turn your clocks ahead one hour on Saturday! Monday March 9 is the Monthly Council Board meeting at 9 a.m. at the Center. As always anyone with an interest is welcome to attend! Tuesday March 17 is St Patrick ’s Day. Wear green, don’t get pinched! Weds March 18 the Center will be closed for an all-day training. And March 19 is the first day of spring! (Whew! What a week!) Tuesday March 24 is the monthly senior cheese box drop at the center from 10-11 a.m. If you have not signed up for that you may do so that day.
I have a few very important things to talk about this month: First of all, please, please, PLEASE take the 2020 Census this year. It is VERY important that everyone turn one in so the powers that be can finally understand how overlooked and neglected the population of Oscoda County is. I got my flyer in the mail last week and you have the option of submitting on-line or they will send you a paper form. I did mine on-line. It was very extensive and took about 45 min. But it was thorough – I don’t think I have ever seen a census survey this extensive and that is GREAT! If you need help filling it out please contact me at the Center and I will be happy to help.
That being said, next I want to discuss scams. There are scams out there right now about the census. I am not sure how they operate but you need to beware. If you suspect any kind of fraud or scam please call the Center or the police and make a report. We have placemats at the Center that the State Police force was kind enough to bring in to us for free. It is literally covered with information on scams and abuse. It is very informative and they are free. Either you can pick one up at the center or give me a call and I will send you one.
THAT being said… the last topic I would like to discuss is the “Do not call” registry. I get numerous calls daily from telemarketers. At the Center we KNOW it’s a scam because the number always rings in on the second line. We don’t even know that number! But I am sure all of you do not have that kind of screening process. If you are being bothered by numerous solicitors and scam calls give me a call at the Center and I will register you on the “Do not call list.” It is a quick easy, simple process and I will help you for free. Just be aware that it takes about a week for your number to stop receiving calls.
See you next month!
Merianne Tappan is the Director/Medicare Counselor of the Oscoda County Council on Aging. To contact her please call 989-826-3025.
