By: Shayla Terry

First Citizens Bank President William Petrey dropped in on the Crenshaw County Educational Retirees Association to inform the group on consumer protection and financial affairs.

“It was a good warning on what to do, and how to verify things,” CCERA President Linda Sexton said.

“When you get older, sometimes people take advantage of you. They can think you’re gullible.”

Petrey informed the group on the differences between credit card and debit card transactions. Petrey also stressed the need of the audience to protect themselves against fraudulent activity with cards.

He also educated the group on the progression of banking cards outdating check, and how the evolution comes with more precautions.

In being precautious, Petrey says you should monitor bank statements as much as possible.

“You have to pay attention with what is going on with your accounts to catch wrong doings,” Petrey said.

The CCERA has a list of subjects to educate its members on throughout the year.

“We have seven meetings a year, and we have to go by the subjects made available to us,” Sexton said.

“Mr. Petrey has spoken to our group before, and he is always very nice and informational.”

The CCERA is an open enrollment group. Membership is available to people who are retirees from educational backgrounds.

“You could’ve been a teacher, bus driver or a cook,” Sexton said.

“You just need to show up, and pay dues.”

The CCERA is apart of the statewide organization of the Alabama Educational Retiree Association. The organization has over 20 chapters statewide.