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Resolutions in full swing [UPDATED]
Published 11:50am Wednesday, January 2, 2013 Updated 11:50am Wednesday, January 2, 2013With a fresh new year comes a fresh new start, and for many, this means resolutions. Getting in shape, kicking the cigarettes and managing money better often land atop the list of new year’s resolutions.
For those in Fergus Falls looking to slim down and get fit, the YMCA waives all joiner fees throughout the month of January, and members can receive 20 percent off personal training sessions.
Anytime Fitness also waives its $99 enrollment fee, and new members can receive free personal training sessions.
“We offer three free personal training sessions to get you set up with a good routine,” said Angie Saurer with Anytime Fitness. “We want you to have some great success while you’re here.”
The area also has resources to help tobacco users kick the habit. According to Otter Tail County public health nurse Kristin Erickson, the best first step is to call Quitplan Services at 1-888-354-7526.
With just a phone call, representatives can put together a plan that could include patches, lozenges, phone counseling and even supportive text messages.
Erickson said that by calling the number, it doesn’t mean it is necessary to quit that day. It can take several attempts, and even those who have tried a few times are encouraged to give it another shot.
“I have a friend who had to call it three times before she finally quit,” Erickson said.
This might be an especially important time for local residents to toss the smokes as Otter Tail County grounds are now smoke free for employees and visitors. This includes the Courthouse grounds, county vehicles and Phelps Mill Park.
Spending smarter and saving more is never bad advice, but at the start of a new year, many are looking for ways to better manage finances.
“This is a good time to sit down with family members and plan ahead for the next year,” said financial advisor Bonnie Denzel. “Sometimes it seems overwhelming, so it might be better to just plan out the next month at first.”
The Public Library, banks and local financial firms are great local resources to help develop personal programs, Denzel said.
“People can also look for courses offered through Community Ed.,” she said. “Sometimes they have courses on financial planning and saving.”
