AARP Chapter 632 met Feb. 27 at the James B. Allen Generations Center with 23 members and guests present. President Elizabeth Gay presided.

After the pledge to the flag, Bill Burton gave the invocation. Colista Ledford was recognized for having a February birthday.

Following a potluck meal, Scott Wegenast, AARP’s associate state director for advocacy and outreach for the 5^th and 6^th districts, spoke about scammers and how to avoid being a victim of them.

He emphasized scammers often target seniors and veterans, stealing IDs and credit card information.

Lori Farris, 31 year veteran of the Attorney General’s office, followed Wegenast, advising scam victims to contact their bank, credit card issuer, local law officials (police) and the Attorney General’s office. It is often possible to track down the perpetrators and recover ill-gotten money. She gave several instances where her office has been successful in this regard.

Scammers often attempt to represent valid and sometimes nonexistent charities. Don Rose noted he has a list of charities and how they allocate their funds.

Farris also reminded everyone to clean out medicine cabinets and dispose of unused opioids. She distributed brochures along with specialized bags that could be used to deactivate drugs, thereby preventing drug misuse and protecting the environment.

Wegenast closed the discussion stating there was a Lobby Day at the state capitol Feb. 28. At this function, AARP advanced ways to protect Medicare and Social Security benefits, help seniors save money on utility bills, support family caregivers and ensure financial security during retirement. He is also working on plans to hold a luncheon in Lexington for AARP leaders from Lexington, Richmond and Winchester. More details will follow.

The next AARP meeting will be at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 27, at the James B. Allen Generations Center, 32 Meadow St.

Charlotte Whitaker, AARP Kentucky president, will speak.

Everyone 50 years of age or older is invited.