Lois Williams

Medicare Part D has been a focus of the Federation for the last year. We hired people in the regions to help seniors understand the new program and to help place them in the right plan to meet their needs.

Karen Carlson of North Star Region asked if I or the Senior Federation were aware of limits placed on physical and speech therapy under Medicare. Karen's question is a great example of how our members can help us stay on top of all matters concerning the well being of seniors. Click here and you'll find out more about this "therapy cap" and possible exceptions.

We had our first 2006 person-to-person meeting in St. Cloud Feb. 28. It was a pleasure to talk face to face with members from around the state instead of by teleconference. A board of directors meeting was held and Lee Graczyk was hired as our state interim director. Lee will serve for one to one-and-a-half years, which will give the Federation time to find a permanent director. We wish Lee well in this new endeavor.

Metro Region has formed a strategic planning team for the future of their region. As a state organization we also have to develop a committee on planning for our future. Metro Region has graciously allowed me to take part in their meetings. They are doing great groundwork  and the Minnesota Senior Federation will benefit from their hard work in developing plans for our future.