Neighbors, The Delta variant continues to remind us COVID is still alive in our communities. COVID -19 vaccinations are still widely available and the latest guidance from the CDC outlines eligibility for a booster shot if you received the Pfizer vaccine at least six months ago and: Free vaccines are available at pharmacies, community clinics, from health care providers, and more. Use the state’s Vaccine Locator Map to find a provider near you. Booster shots aren’t yet authorized for people who received the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. You are also encouraged to get a flu shot this year. Influenza could ramp up the needs of our care facilities and health care workers and getting a flu shot is a step we can take to protect ourselves and be good neighbors to each other. Energy Assistance Program Expands Autumn has arrived! I’m happy for the warm days this week but we all know colder days are not too far away. I hope you are enjoying the sunshine and warm temperatures. The Minnesota Department of Commerce has announced the expansion of the Energy Assistance Program (EAP), ensuring Minnesotans can stay warm and lights will stay on during the cold months ahead. More Minnesotans will now qualify for the EAP, and the Cold Weather Rule goes into effect earlier, on October 1, and lasts through April 30. You can learn more by going to the Department of Commerce website.  High School Page Program Applications Now Being Accepted Now is the time for those in their junior year to apply for the High School Page Program for the legislative session beginning January 31. Participants can learn about various aspects of the state legislature in this weeklong program. They will have a front row seat to the legislative process and be involved in policy and public service. You can learn about the application process and more here and apply before the deadline of November 23. Military service members can claim their 2017 military tax credit The Minnesota Department of Revenue reminds the state’s military service members to take advantage of a refundable military tax credit before it expires. The 2017 Credit for Military Service in a Combat Zone will expire October 15, 2021, for qualifying service members. More than 2,300 service members were eligible for the 2017 Form M99, Credit for Service in a Military Combat zone, but about 1,100 service members still have not applied. The credit is $120 per month or partial month served. To claim the credit electronically, visit www.revenue.state.mn.us and enter M99 into the Search box. Complete the online form to apply for the credit. To claim the credit by mail: Complete the 2017 Form M99, Credit for Military Service in a Combat Zone . Fall Color Finder Leaves are changing all around our region and now is the perfect time to discover all Minnesota has to offer. The Minnesota DNR Fall Color Finder, will tell you where you can go to enjoy the changing leaves. Explore Minnesota! |