Absolute Waste Removal will observe the Thanksgiving Day holiday on Thursday, November 26, 2009.
     The Thanksgiving Day holiday will result in a one-day delay in collection of residential garbage and recycling for the week of November 23 for Thursday and Friday only.  THURSDAY'S ROUTES WILL BE COMPLETED FRIDAY and FRIDAY'S ROUTES WILL BE COMPLETED SATURDAY.  Collections for the three days prior to the holiday will be completed on the usual scheduled days.
     Absolute Waste Removal observes the following holidays:  New Years, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
     It is necessary to delay collections a day for the remainder of the week following a holiday because it is not possible to do two days' worth of collections, the day after a holiday, to catch up.

Hopefully you had a great summer.  Colder weather is coming and now is the time to begin thinking about winter energy use.  According to the Department of Energy, many homes in Iowa have the potential to cut their heating bills by as much as 50%.  This can be accomplished with a logical, well-planned approach and does not have to cost a lot of money.  Here are some things to think about:

• Windows:   Efficient windows can save up to 30% of the energy lost through your old windows.
  
• Tightening:  Air leakage can amount to 30% - 40% of your heating bill.  The largest sources of air leakage in a home are the rim joist area at the top of the foundation, and holes into the attic.  Caulking and weather stripping are the only sure ways to significantly reduce air leakage.
  
• Temperature Setting:  you always save by turning down your thermostat no matter how long you will be gone.
  

The annual holiday occasion of shooting free throws to attempt to win a free turkey is scheduled for Sunday, November 8th, at 12:00 p.m., at Clear Creek gym (enter through west doors).  Teams must consist of an adult and child who are related.  Each team attempts 20 free throws.  The competition is divided by the age of the child.  Ages 6-9 move in 4 feet from the free throw line and shoot at an 8-foot high basket.  Ages 10-11 move in 2 feet and shoot at a regular basket.  12-14 year olds and adults shoot regulation free throws.  All winning teams will receive a free turkey for their holiday cooking.  Start warming-up today!!!  For more information contact our Parks & Recreation Department at 357-7010.