Federal retirees host Lt. Gov. Hall-Long as luncheon speaker

"The Delaware state government has put a lot of energy into improving state services for seniors," Delaware Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long said to federal retirees."We want to make Delaware a shining beacon that is attractive to seniors by using our resources wisely but without raising taxes."

Hall-Long was the speaker at the November luncheon meeting of Coastal Sussex Chapter 1690 of NARFE, National Active and Retired Federal Employees, held at 1776 Steakhouse, Rehoboth Beach.

The chapter is part of a national organization that represents federal employees, retirees and annuitants, promotes their general welfare, and provides advice and advocacy services with respect to their rights and benefits under federal and state retirement laws and regulations. For more information for any federal retirees interested in joining the Coastal Sussex chapter, email Ron Weber at rjw98@mchsi.com.

"Our state has a sound tax system, good resources, and active services that help seniors and make the state a good place for retirees," said Hall-Long. She also said the state had good health resources. "But we need to take further initiatives to improve health facilities and training of health providers." She cited growing numbers of people with Alzheimer's disease, dementia and Parkinson's disease as healthcare areas that need attention, and said there were interesting developments being undertaken in providing telehealth services.

In response to a question on traffic gridlock problems in Sussex County, she suggested a meeting of state, DelDOT, county and elected officials could be useful. She said, "We also need to have systems in place where developers pay for the roads in their developments."

Hall-Long said the Delaware budget outlook was looking good. She said, "We need to work to maintain our strong LLC, agriculture and tourist sectors."

She urged NARFE members to take advantage of the many opportunities to volunteer in Delaware. She said, "Retirees bring many skills and experience to the state and can make an impact in their communities through volunteer activities." Hall-Long said that everywhere she travels in the state, she gets helpful ideas and suggestions for officials to consider. "Every good idea comes from individual citizens," she said.