Seniors attending the Weirton Senior Center on Thursday received information regarding President Barack Obama's agenda for changes on health care reform.

West Virginia Organizing for America, a grassroots project of the Democratic National Committee committed to supporting the presidents's agenda for change, held a one-day, five-stop bus tour for health insurance reform on Thursday kicking off in Weirton.

Meagan Gardner of the Democratic National Committee stated she and several others stopped at the Weirton Senior Center on Thursday to discuss changes and clear up misinformation concerning the health care reform. She said the new health care reform will encourage those who have insurance to keep it if they like what they receive but other options will be available for the uninsured.

"It's important that seniors know their Medicare is protected," she said.

Gardner said in her experience, seniors are one of the many groups that fall between the cracks of the system. She said it is important to educate them and many others about health insurance reform and help them understand the new changes.

Seniors played "health reform Bingo" before sharing their personal health care stories.

State Sen. Jack Yost, D-Wellsburg, and local residents including Brooke County Democratic Chairman John Martino, Waneta Acker, an 89-year old resident, and Dr. Charn Nandra spoke to those in attendance as well.

Gardner said they are working in the Northern Panhandle at the present moment and will work all over the state speaking with people from all walks of life.

"We are working to keep insurance companies honest and work for the people," said Gardner.

Other stops planned for Thursday included events in Wheeling, Parkersburg and Morgantown.

(Dickson can be contacted at adickson@weirtondailytimes.com)