*** Does the city still let you slide on your electric bill when it gets too cold? Asking for a friend.

Does anyone know if any of the animal shelters are taking cats right now we have had a female here in (earle) for while and she is ready to pop she is NOT our cat and not sure who she belongs to or how to find that out but we cannot keep her dont want to have to deal with someone elses babies thanks! [ Editor’s Note: I’m pretty sure that both local animal shelters would at the very least help you find someone to foster the mama cat and her forthcoming babies. If you aren’t comfortable with calling and asking, you can message them on Facebook or if you want to text me your information, I can put them on your case. I have a soft spot for cats and kittens. It’s too bad they haven’t already been born.

In October 2012, our cat had kittens in October and of the six kittens, four ended up being Christmas presents for various folks around town. One of those kittens is now a very bigeyed 10- year- old black cat whose owner is one of my wife’s Facebook friends so I get updates on him from time to time. Good luck with your “ not my” cat]

[ Editor’s Note: Well, “ friend,” I am pretty sure that there is a law ( or at least a very stronglyenforced regulation of some kind that says that the utility company can’t or won’t turn off your electricity for non- payment when the daily average temperature is above or below a certain temperature.

According to the Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office, that “ magic number” is 32 degrees during any 24- hour period. Also, if you qualify as low- income, gas and electric services may not be suspended for non- payment at all between Nov. 1 and March 31. In order to be considered low- income, you have to be on some sort of assistance ( WIC, SNAP, TEA, or LIHEAP).

It’s also worth noting that this does not mean you get to “ slide” forever. It’s basically like an extension or a deferment with the idea that you will pay later. You ( or your friend) might want to check on utility assistance from an organization like the Delta Neighborhood Action Council or the Good Neighbor Love Center.

They often have funds for just this sort of thing this time of year. Stay warm!]

*** I know this is beating a dead horse at this point but something… either a light or something else… has to be done by the Marion Walmart… another crash this morning! [ Editor’s Note: I think that the “ something” is going to have to be just paying more attention and not getting in such a big hurry to pull out onto Highway 77. If not the solution, it’s at least a start]