Martha Washington Questers meet

Eleven members of Martha Washington Questers met at the home of Martha Russell. Guests Sue Basten and Jolene Colthurst were introduced. President Jane Fehr opened the meeting with the invocation. Roll call was answered by telling whether your ID had ever been compromised.

The minutes were then read by Connie Pence and approved as corrected. Treasurer Virginia Reighard reported on the balances and checks issued to date, which was approved.

Correspondence was read from Paws N More animal shelter for the recent donation in honor of a charter member, and Barbara Wehr acknowledged she had sent a thank you card to the Johnny Clock museum for hosting our tour on the field trip last month.

Reminders were given about visiting Terrace Hill in Des Moines and State Day in Boon from April 19-20, 2024. The December meeting will be a cookie exchange and the group will discuss the details, which will be finalized and announced during the November meeting at Marilyn Whitenack’s.

A very interesting program was given by Sue Basten, President and CEO of the Washington State Bank, speaking on the various scams and attempts to get personal information from each of us. The last two years have seen unusually high numbers of new scams, ID theft, and fraudulent inquiries. She provided a folder to each in the group of ways to avoid being caught in the schemes.

Phone numbers of the correct parties to call if you suspect something has taken place that may not be legal, along with information on free credit reports, do not call registry, removing your name from mailing and telephone lists, and some of the common signs to look for when people are calling you on the phone or phishing by use of email or websites were in her presentation. She encouraged anyone with a problem or question to come in and they were more than willing to try and help with the situation. Millions of dollars are being stolen from unsuspecting individuals and the information provided to us will be a step in hopefully avoiding a loss.

Refreshments were served by Martha and co-hostess Linda Newlon.