The Down East Seniors Club held its Jan. 25 meeting at the Blind Center of North Carolina in Washington. President Stewart Rumley led the meeting. Chip Ide led the singing of “God Bless America,” and Ed Bolen gave the invocation. Dick Paul provided humor.

Two guests were recognized.

Bob Diefendorf introduced Tommy Swanner, CPA, as the speaker. Swanner presented information about state and federal income taxes. He said there are very few changes in federal tax this year. State tax rates are decreasing and some deductions are being eliminated. There are increasing numbers of scammers getting people’s financial data (Social Security number, place of employment, date of birth, etc.) and using this to file false tax returns seeking refunds. He suggested filing as soon as possible to get ahead of the scammers. Some tax refunds will be delayed because the IRS will be screening them closer to try to prevent scamming. Electronic filing is more secure than paper filing. Many questions were answered.

Chip Ide won the 50/50 drawing.