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For the first time in a generation, Social Security recipients won't be receiving a much-needed cost-of-living adjustment.

In this economy especially, many seniors are struggling to get by and trying to keep up with the rising cost of health care, prescription drugs and utility bills. In times like these, seniors rely on the promise of Social Security.

Only Congress has the power to address this problem. Tell your members of Congress to act now to ensure seniors get the relief they deserve.

Click here to make your voice heard!

Added: October 9, 2009
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The Shred 360 truck is coming to Greenville
 
Consumers who want to safely dispose of sensitive material (limit of five boxes or bags) and consist of only paper materials will have that opportunity thanks to Shred 360 and Stone Plaza Pharmacy. Saturday, October 17th from 10 am unitl 1 pm, take your material to the Stone Plaza Pharmacy 1164 Rutherford Rd. in Greenville.
 
Protect yourself from identity theft by placing a FREE credit freeze on your credit history – click here to find out how.

 

 

 

Added: October 8, 2009
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By Paul D. Barnes

Social Security Regional Commissioner in Atlanta

 
It’s that time of year again – when people in many parts of the country feel a new chill in the air each morning, and put an extra quilt or blanket on the bed.  It’s also the time of year when many states offer energy assistance to people who have low income and resources. Under the energy assistance program, your state may help with the cost of heating your home during the winter. But to get it, in most cases, you’ll need to provide proof of your income. If you get Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, you can get proof of the amount of your benefit quickly and easily by going online. Just visit www.socialsecurity.gov .
 
There are a number of reasons you may need written verification of your benefit amount, besides energy assistance programs. Perhaps you’re ready to make a major purchase and you’re trying to get a loan from a bank or financial institution. Or maybe you’re applying for state benefits or moving into a new apartment or home.
 
www.socialsecurity.gov . Just look in the left column under “What you can do online,” expand the “If you get benefits” section, and select the “Request a Proof of Income letter” link. Whatever your reason, Social Security makes it easy for you to get the written verification you need at
 
The letter can be used for any reason that someone requires proof of your income. In addition to offering proof of your income, the letter is an official document that verifies your Medicare coverage, retirement or disability status, and age. The letter does not include your Social Security number.
 
From the time that you complete the online request, it will take about 10 days for you to receive the proof of income letter in the mail. If you need one sooner, you’ll want to call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office.
 
But for most people, simply requesting the proof of income online is the most convenient way to get what you need. Get your benefit verification by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov .
 

 

 

 

Added: October 6, 2009
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Thanks to everyone who came out to Moultrie MS and those who watched the Mt. Pleasant Mayoral Debate on www.live5news.com .  More than 250 people packed the cafeteria to listen to the three candidates running for mayor.  Here is a link to the Post and Courier's report from this morning's paper. Remember you must be registered to vote by tomorrow in order to participate in the November 3rd election.

Added: October 2, 2009
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In this week's U.S. News and World Report, South Carolina's capital city ranks high as one of the most affordable places to retire.  While we all know that Colatown is quite charming and unique, many people are fast discovering our little secret.  From low property taxes, quality health care, great quality of life from lakes to libraries to schools Columbia is great place to live. Today's The State profiles the USN&WR story as well.  Maybe, just maybe, an APPLE store will eventually make it to Columbia. 

Added: September 30, 2009
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AARP East Cooper Chapter Mt. Pleasant Mayor's Candidate Forum

The three candidates vying to be become the next mayor of Mt. Pleasant will participate in a candidate forum sponsored by the East Cooper AARP Chapter. Candidates pictured above L-R Joe Bustos, Gary Santos, and Billy Swails will be questioned about their vision and plans for Mt. Pleasant. The event will be moderated by Bill Sharpe of Live 5 News. WCSC will also provide a live streaming internet feed of the event on its web site www.live5news.com. Questions will not be taken from the floor but audience members will have the opportunity to speak with the candidates after the forum.
 
WHEN: Thursday, October 1, 2009 at 6:30 p.m.
 
WHERE: Moultrie Middle School cafeteria – 645 Coleman Blvd. Mt. Pleasant.
Added: September 29, 2009
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GREAT NEWS HERE! 

United State House passes bi-partisan Medicare Premium Fairness Act

By a vote of 406 to 18 the House of Representatives on Thursday passed the Medicare Premium Fairness Act (H.R. 3631) that will hold Medicare premiums steady for all beneficiaries including more than 714,000 in South Carolina for the next year.  Voting yes from South Carolina were Rep. Henry Brown, Rep. Joe Wilson, Rep. Bob Inglis, Rep. John Spratt, and Rep. Jim Clyburn. Rep. Gresham Barrett did not vote. 

 
“This is a major victory and bipartisan accomplishment for AARP and individuals who rely and depend on Medicare for their health care needs,” said Charles Johnson, AARP SC state president. “By holding Medicare premiums steady for all beneficiaries for the next year—premiums that have doubled since 2000 - this bill will ensure that health care is more affordable for people in Medicare - without burdening taxpayers or future generations with new spending,” he said.”
 
As health care costs continue to soar despite lower inflation throughout the economy, older Americans are hit particularly hard. Retirees have seen their savings wiped away by market losses while their health care bills continue to climb. People in Medicare today spend nearly a third of their income on health care.
Added: September 25, 2009
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Jean Bridges of West Columbia was presented with the AARP Andrus Award at a reception at the Capital Senior Center.  Charles Johnson, AARP SC state president present Jean with one of her many keepsakes from the big day.  Photos are here. Congrats Jean!

Added: September 24, 2009
Views: 43 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

That's right!! AARP SC has hit the big 5-oh-oh mark for followers on Twitter.  So you think you are not made for Twitter? It is an easy way to share information with the world - all in 140 characters or less.  If you have not started to follow AARP SC on Twitter click here to find us.

Added: September 24, 2009
Views: 39 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

AARP's Teresa Arnold has an op-ed piece published regarding health care reform stating that Medicare is a priority for AARP.  Read it here.

Added: September 21, 2009
Views: 46 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0