The local chapter of AARP met June 9 at the Spencer Area Activity Center with 16 members attending.

The featured speaker was Rep. Mike May the 5th District Congressman from Spirit Lake. He has been a representative for two terms and expects to run for a third term. The House of Representatives consists of 100 members, most of whom (including himself) are what he termed "citizen legislatures". He explained that this means they have other jobs or businesses and therefore are more in tune with the problems businesses and employees are facing. He is the ranking member of the Education Committee, a member of the Economic and Transportation Committee, and the Educational Funding Committee. He feels the Iowa House of Representatives is run by urban liberals and therefore it is difficult to get some legislation to come before congress. He has been trying to get property tax relief for seniors or a cap on property tax for seniors but so far has not had any success but will try again.

It was announced that AARP will have Arnie Walker's antique car in the Flagfest parade. The members were reminded to bring food for Upper Des Moines. The July meeting (July 14) will be a picnic at East Leach Park at 10 a.m. Mary Ann Hardin will be the speaker. We will eat at noon. Hot dogs and buns as well as drinks will be furnished. Anyone attending should bring their own table service as well as a hot dish or salad or dessert to pass.

The August meeting will be Aug. 11 with Anita Zarr from Social Security as the speaker.