Energy assistance seminar planned at Senior Center

By Dolores Saurer | The Daily Journal

Published Saturday, December 1, 2007

There is no denying it. It is Dec. 1 and winter, along with cold weather, is definitely on the way.

As with everything else, the cost of heating our homes is rising. Unfortunately, it is too often a real problem trying to juggle the budget to cover all of the essentials — food, rent, medicine and, of course, heat. Unfortunately, in an effort to save on heating costs, some people resort to unsafe methods such as the use of fireplaces, stoves, or improperly vented heaters, all of which can result in fire hazards and the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. But energy assistance is available to low income people.

On Wednesday, Dec. 5, Peggy Meissner, Otter Tail County, is presenting a seminar at 11:30 a.m. at the Senior Center. She will offer information on the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) which is available through Otter Tail County Social Services.

On Saturday, Dec. 8, the Red Hat ladies are meeting for coffee at Debbie's Restaurant at 2 p.m. There will be bingo along with prizes. Register in the Senior office if you plan to attend.

In the following week, there will be an opportunity to have your hearing aids checked and cleaned by John Armstrong on Wednesday, the 12th, at 10:30 a.m. There is no charge but call 736-6842 for an appointment.

Special entertainment for the Christmas season is scheduled for Dec. 11 and Dec. 14 before the noon meal. The Sons of Norway Chorus sings at 11 a.m. on the 11th, and Trinity Lutheran students will sing for us at 11:15 a.m. on the 14th.

The only Drivers Improvement Class for December is the four-hour Refresher on Dec. 4 from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Area Learning Center. Register and pay the $18 fee in the Community Education office. For additional information call 998-0544, Ext. 1600.

I met with our Adopt-a-Class at Cleveland School this past week in preparation for their writing for the January issue of the Golden Page. I think we can all look forward to some very interesting stories from these third graders.

Adopt-a-Class students will be visiting with the Seniors at the Center on Tuesday, the 18th, at 12:45 p.m. The plan is to make a Christmas craft together and then sing some Christmas carols. Please register in the office if you plan to attend.

We thank everyone who has contributed to our annual giving endowment fund campaign. This fund-drive continues throughout the month until Dec. 31. Your generosity is most appreciated. All donationsare fully tax deductible.

Dolores Saurer is a member of the Fergus Falls Senior Citizen Program.