Scammers excel during pandemic

To the Editor:

The pandemic has forced everyone into a new normal. It has changed the way we do things and has negatively impacted numerous businesses and organizations. However, one business that seems to be thriving, sadly, is scammers.

As we began to shift to a working from home model, sending the kids home to complete distant learning, and older adults began to shelter in place; some people ramped up their efforts to cash in by completing more unsolicited phone calls. According to a recent AARP and US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau study, the average financial loss to a victim of a scam was approximately $34,200. To avoid being a victim of a scam, the Minnesota Attorney General’s office has some good information (www.ag.state.mn.us), which includes:

– Don’t be afraid to say no;

– Ask a friend, family member or neighbor (trusted) for their opinion;

– Don’t be rushed;

– When in doubt, don’t give it out; and

– Research the offer

A couple of other reminders out there, government entities do not cold call you. They will contact you via letter or return a call to you. If you receive a letter from a government entity, you can call them to validate or talk with a trusted individual. Finally, if you receive a letter in the mail that is a scam, please report it. You can report this to your local Adult Protection Services or the Office of Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison at 1-800-657-3787. The Senior LinkAge Line is also available to assist if you have questions at 1-800-333-2433. Stay safe.

Jason W. Swanson, HSE

Executive Director, Minnesota River Agency on Aging

Mankato

Borchardt excelled at service

To the Editor:

Recently there was a retirement in the Fairmont community by a person who excelled in his field.

Rick Borchardt served the tire needs of countless people over the 47 plus years he worked. He was always courteous, timely, and willing to propose tire solutions that fit the particular customer’s needs. I purchased many sets of tires from Rick over the years and always felt good after the sale.

While I am sad to see him leave, I know the many people he served join me in thanking him for all the great service he provided.

James Eberhard

Fairmont

Not in favor of changing clocks

To the Editor:

Why can’t we be like Arizona? Can you believe it? All those people don’t have to change their clocks twice a year. How does changing your clock change the amount of shine we get from the sun? I’m pretty sure what we do with our clocks here on earth doesn’t affect the sun 93 million miles away. In my house changing clocks is a big deal and I’m pretty sure it is in your house too. If I count correctly I have 16 things to be adjusted every six months. It’s enough to make an old man really regret “falling back” and “spring ahead.” I’m really not in favor of changing clocks. Isn’t it time to get our politicians to put an end to changing clocks? I recommend staying with either daylight savings time or standard time. After all, daylight savings time doesn’t really save day light.

Michael Lundgreen

Fairmont