West Nile Fever can be a very serious disease which is generally transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. Residents of our city know we always have an abundant supply of these insects. The Pioneer Post advised us of the signs and symptoms of the viral disease, ranging from a mild illness to what can be a life-threatening one with encephalitis or meningitis. Prevention suggestions included reducing or eliminating mosquito breeding grounds (stagnant or standing water) and protecting oneself. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, use of insect repellent containing DEET, and being extra vigilant from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active were advised. Proper use of sprays was also included in the message. The Mosquito Abatement Office should be called to report a problem. Because of the number of mosquitoes in our city each year, the abatement program is very valuable. President Illum reported that the Perry Ditch overflows consistently in BDO, causing standing water, providing a breeding area for mosquitoes. The insects are bad in the area although it is being sprayed by the mosquito abatement people. In March and July 2008, Councilman Kim Slater said that no West Nile Virus had been reported in Weber County as yet. He recommended noting in the newsletter that mosquitos in standing water in residents' yards is a problem which owners should address. In October he reported that a young male resident of the city, Ryan Butler, contracted West Nile Virus, and reminded the residents to take extra precaution when mosquitoes are present. February is National Heart Month, and Jennifer Keyes of the McKay-Dee Senior Health Connection, visited our Senior Center on February 12, 2008, with valuable advice on heart health. A Cholesterol/Glucose screening was held on June 10, 2008, at the Senior Center, with the monthly visit by Jennifer Keyes of the McKay-Dee Senior Health Connection. It was also suggested that we eat more color. Fruits and vegetables contribute to flavorful, colorful meals, which can improve your general well-being, both physical and mental. The colors green, orange, red, blue/purple and white each contribute to our health in many ways. The Senior Health Connection Newsletter distributed on August 26, 2008, at the Senior Center, by Jennifer Keyes, McKay-Dee Senior Health Connection, encouraged us to be sure we get 30 minutes of physical activity a day. This means movement of the body that uses energy, increasing your heart rate. Examples given included walking briskly, hiking, yard work, dancing, bicycling and weight training. Golf can be counted if you walk and carry your clubs. The Senior Health Connection newsletter for September focused on "What you need to know about Prostate Cancer." The American Cancer Society recommends screening annually, beginning at age 50, for this second most common cancer among men. Jennifer Keyes, McKay-Dee Senior Health Connection, was at the Senior Center on September 9, 2008, for her monthly visit. She also held an audio screening there on September 16. Costco Hearing and Optical, gave a presentation to seniors on September 9. Flu shots, administered by Applegate Home Care, were given on Tuesday, October 21, 2008, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the city building. Seniors with Medicare B received them free, with Medicare card and identification. Cost without Medicare was $25.00. This was a great opportunity close at hand to receive protection from what can be a deadly illness. SEWER DEVELOPMENT The Central Weber Sewer Company will be increasing the cost of sewer service to all residents on the sewer system. The increase will help build a new plant to accommodate sewage needs for the next 50 years. The Central Weber Sewer plant hosted a barbecue for residents on December 6. The Sewer District held a public hearing on December 15, 2008, at 6:00 p.m. at 2618 West Pioneer Road, to propose a rate increase for sewer treatment and explain the need for the increase. Treatment fees for our residents are proposed to increase from $7.50 to $15.00 per month, starting in January 2009. 20