"White Christmas"
Buell Theater - Denver
December 1, 2007

  ~ CLUB 50 COORDINATORS ~

Lois Rose ~ Brule ~ (308) 287-2344
Nancy Powell ~ Colorado Springs ~ (719) 448-0707
Nicole Villani-Skaggs ~ Firestone ~ (303) 833-3575
Sharon Talich ~ Grant ~ (308) 352-2114
Janette Carmin ~ Imperial ~ (308) 882-4286
Joy Marquardt ~ Indianola ~ (308) 364-2215
Sharon Talich ~ Madrid ~ (308) 326-4223
Gail Schreiter ~ Ogallala ~ (308) 284-4071

~ NEWS YOU CAN USE ~

Source: Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services

Many of us get together with friends and family to celebrate the holidays and the new year. It is a time to reflect and give thanks. It is also a time to take care of yourself and your loved ones. The Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services encourages us to stay safe and healthy this holiday season by following these 12-holiday tips.

1. Wash your hands often. Frequent hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs

2. Stay warm. Exposure to cold temperatures can cause serious or life-threatening health problems, especially for babies and older adults.

3. Manage stress. The holidays don't need to take a toll on your health, so keep an eye out for over-spending and over-commitment.

4. Don't Drink and Drive. If you choose to drink while attending parties, designate a driver who will get you home to your family safely.

5. Buckle up. Wear a seat belt every time you drive or ride in a car and always put your children in a safety seat.

6. Be smoke free. Live a healthier life and lower your risk for disease by not smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke.

7. Get a check up. Exams and screening help find problems early when they might be easier to treat.

8. Get vaccinated. Vaccinations help prevent disease and save lives. Don't forget to get your flu shot; it's never too late!

9. Watch the kids. Keep an eye on the kiddos when they're eating and playing. Children are at high risk for injuries that can lead to tragedies.

10. Prevent injuries. Injuries from falls and fires often happen around the holidays. Practice fire safety and use ladders safely.

11. Handle and prepare food safely. Wash hands often, keep raw meat separate, cook foods to the proper temperature, and put those leftover in the fridge right away.

12. Eat healthy. We tend to eat more during the holiday season. Try to limit your portion sizes and substitute fresh fruit for some of those sweets.

Reprinted from The Older Nebraskan's Voice - Volume 37, No. 6

Are you confused???  If so, you are in good company!!  Here are just a few basic items that everyone needs to be aware of:

• Everyone over age 65 is eligible for Medicare Part D plan (unless you opt to continue other coverage such as benefits through an employer or union, VA, TRICARE, or FEHBP, etc.)

• Many prescription drugs are NOT covered under every plan. Be sure that the plan you sign up for does cover your existing prescriptions.

• By signing up with a plan prior to January 1st, your benefits will begin January 1, 2006.  However you have until May 15th to choose a plan without incurring future penalties.
  

• Each November 15 thru December 31, a person can change plans if you are dissatisfied with your current plan.

• People marketing Medicare Prescription drug plans can't come to your home uninvited.  Door-to-door marketing is prohibited.

• Any telemarketing of Medicare prescription drug plans must comply with the Do-Not-Call Registry.

• Be informed and resist pressure tactics. Only sign up for a plan when you feel that you are comfortable with the decision, not because someone is pressuring you to do so.

Be sure to read the fine print before cashing those surprise checks that can arrive in the mail. By simply endorsing and cashing the checks, you may be authorizing charges to your credit card or a draft from your checking acount.

"Many checks will have a space to fill in your credit card or bank account number," said Nebraska Attorney General Don Stenberg. "if you give that information, you may find a charge placed on your credit card or discover money withdrawn from your bank account for a service you may not have been aware you were accepting."

These suggestions can help protect you from surprise charges:

• Don't assume that checks in the mail are free gifts. Read the accompanying material and the back of the check to see if cashing it will result in any charges to you.

• Don't put your credit card or bank account number on the back of the check - even if there's a line for recording those numbers.

• Mark your calendar when you send for a product refund and will be expecting a legitimate refund check.

Reprinted from The Older Nebraskan's Voice

Equal Opportunity Lender
Member F.D.I.C.

Home page

|

Branch locations