We urge everyone to be aware of the unique position Maine is in. It has the highest median age (we’re the oldest) of any state in the country and one in three retired Mainers have no source of income except for Social Security. For these reasons, it is important to be aware of what is going on in Augusta, as it relates to all of us who are in the “senior citizen” category. Keep in touch with your legislators and ask about proposed legislation that may affect you or someone you know.
In other news:
• We’ve all become aware that spring is not next week, and regardless of the late start, winter is here and with it, icy roads, walkways and sidewalks. You may be able to get free sand from your town’s Public Works – don’t hesitate to call and find out. The Gorham, Westbrook, Windham TRIAD has a Sand for Seniors program. To date the department has provided more than a dozen buckets of sand for seniors in need in our communities. Thanks to Lowe’s for providing the buckets and our Public Works Department for providing sand. If you or a senior you know needs a bucket of sand for their walk way, contact the Police Department at 892-1919 ext. 4214.
• Stop in at Lakes Region Senior Center at Little Falls Activity Center in Gorham, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Monday through Friday, and see what’s going on. On Monday, Feb. 15, the center will be closed for Presidents Day. At 10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 22, a program about Windham’s town poor farm will be presented by Linda Griffin, president of the Windham Historical Society. This is a fascinating look at what life was like without Social Security or any governmental assistance. Refreshments will be served and this is a free program. All are welcome.
In April, at the Senior Center, Southern Maine Agency on Aging will present “A Matter of Balance,” which will run weekly from April 16-June 3. Cost is $10 for the eight-week course and payment is required in advance. Sign up at the Senior Center. This is open to all and you can call Blanche at 892-5604 for additional details.
• The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free tax help in every state. Since 1968, this volunteer-based program has helped nearly 50 million low- to moderate-income taxpayers prepare and file most returns. For more information about the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide and to find a location near you, call 888-OUR-AARP (888-687-2277) or visit the organization’s website, http://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/.
Kay Soldier welcomes reader ideas for column topics of interest to seniors. She can be reached by email at kso48@aol.com, or write to 114 Tandberg Trail, Windham, ME 04062.
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