Neighbors Briefs October 7, 2009

A pasture workshop, covering topics such as soil testing, timing of nitrogen fertilization, appropriate amendments, and pasture mixes for the coast, will be offered by Del Norte Resource Conservation District, and University of California and Oregon State University Cooperative Extension. The 4-hour workshop will be held Thursday at the Smith River Community Hall beginning at 10 a.m. Cost is $10 and includes lunch. To register call 487-7630.

Income tax assistance needed

Volunteers are needed to help people prepare their tax returns in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program sponsored by RICHES Coalition and Redwood Community Action Agency (RCAA) in Eureka. Sites will be located throughout Humboldt and Del Norte counties.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistors (VITA) provides free basic income tax preparation services to community members with low-to-moderate incomes. These families typically qualify for tax credits that are many times overlooked.

Informational dates: Oct. 27, 12:30-1:30 p.m. and Oct. 29 from 6-7 p.m., Eureka Main Library at 1313 Third St.; and Nov. 4, noon-1 p.m., Del Norte Family Resource Center, 494 Pacific Ave.

Free volunteer classroom and online training will begin in December 2009. College of the Redwoods will be offering a VITA class for college credit starting January 2010.

There are many ways to help without being a volunteer tax preparer. If you have a skill and would like to help, the RCAA-RICHES partnership can find a way to involve you in the program. For questions call Amy at 269-2016.

Senior legal services offered

On the Second Thursday of each month, people age 60 or better can set a private appointment with a licensed attorney regarding simple wills, powers of attorney, or advance health care directives. The appointments will be held at the Del Norte Senior Center, 1765 Northcrest Drive.

Senior Legal Services is a program of Legal Services of Northern California, a nonprofit public service organization with funds from grants, the Area 1 Agency on Aging and voluntary donations.

To schedule an appointment call the Del Norte Senior Center at 464-3069.

Safeway recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month

For the fourth year, Safeway Foundation has awarded Humboldt Community Breast Health Project (HCBHP) a grant for $10,000 in recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The HCBHP is an important information and support resource for women and families dealing with breast and gynecologic cancer and cancer concerns.

HCBHP services include consultations with registered nurses, library and information specialists, support groups and other services.

In 2008 Safeway, Inc. donated more than $248 million to causes such as cancer research, education, hunger relief and programs focused on people with disabilities.