The landmark date of Nov. 15, 2005 for Medicare Part D has arrived. Advertisements in newspapers and on TV have been running for a few months urging seniors to sign up if eligible for Part D. The Minnesota Senior Federation cautions seniors to look at all options offered before making a final decision. If an option sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Make sure the plan you decide on fits your needs. The Minnesota Senior Federation has hired and trained people in each region to present workshops on Part D. These workshops are very informative. Remember, do not be in a rush to sign up as you have until May 15, 2006 to choose your plan. Call your regional office to set up a workshop in your community or to find out whom to contact if help is needed.

As of last month, notice has been given of a new committee called the pension rights committee. Joe Moran, North Star Region, has been asked to be a member of this committee. Joe is a retired teacher who is very active in the Retired Teachers Association. Joe has been a member of the Minnesota Senior Federation for several years and has recently become more involved. He feels all retirement organizations need to help each other out to benefit all seniors.

Joe is from the Iron Range and has witnessed how pension and health care benefits have deteriorated for retired seniors on the Range. He will bring first-hand information to the committee, which meets for the first time on Nov. 17. The pension rights committee is a fine example of how diverse the Minnesota Senior Federation is in working for all seniors of Minnesota.

Recently I attended a Part D workshop with 60 seniors in attendance. In talking with everyone there it was apparent that only a few knew about the Senior Federation or other programs available for seniors. About 60 percent said they receive all their news from television. They are not reading papers or other print materials. I have spent hours trying to think of ways to reach these seniors. It is troubling to think so many seniors have become so passive to the needs of all only to become active when an issue affects them personally. A better job needs to be done by all in letting seniors know that what may affect their neighbor may someday affect them. Seniors can be a powerful group by helping each other, by becoming more informed and by becoming involved in organizations. Any ideas and solutions on how to inform seniors better about programs for them are welcome.

The next delegate assembly meeting will be held in St. Cloud on Nov. 22. I am looking forward to seeing many Senior Federation members there.