The Herald-Zeitung

Energy savings better investment right now than low yield CDs

I’m writing just to say “well done” to Charles Agar on his piece appearing on Saturday, Oct. 17, regarding the two wind turbines we installed here on our Purgatory Road property.

I did want to mention, however, that making such a big investment wasn't an easy decision. As Charlie said, we're on fixed income, more or less, and considering the interest rate that one can earn on a Certificate of Deposit is between 1 and 2 percent right now, it made sense to “go green.” Retired folks like us are hurting because of these low interest rates.

Figuring that a Skystream on a 45-foot tower costs between $15,000 and $16,000, that amount in a CD at 2 percent would earn you between $25 and $30 a month. Reducing your electric bill by about $100 a month is certainly a better return on your investment (actually we expect a lot more than that with two turbines), and in five to seven years, the system will pay for itself. Then, maybe interest rates will be back to a decent rate for seniors who depend on it.

To us, saving money (on electric bill) is better than earning money (on a CD) right now. And don't forget the 30 percent Federal Tax Credit that is available right now.

Here’s hoping this will be helpful to other retired folks out there.

Charles Bracewell

Canyon Lake

Heritage Society event went well thanks for hours of volunteer time

Congratulations to the Heritage Society of New Braunfels. We have just celebrated 25 years of existence. The celebration was a huge success for many reasons. However, at this time, I would like to thank the Planning Committee for their hour of service in making the celebration properly say, “Thank you to those who have believed in preserving our heritage through years of dedication to that endeavor.”

Now, I would like to name that committee. Sarah Reeves was in charge of the food and drink. Cora Jane Welsch handled the very successful Sponsorship Committee. She had a sub-committee of Caroll Hoffmann, Michael Meek, Anne Miller, Bob Knoll, Bob Goebel, Nolan Dietert, Joe Tays and Helgard Suhr-Hollis. The Ticket Sales Committee was successfully chaired by Bobbie Purdum and Helen Hoffmann and Patsy Vann ably handled the group’s publicity, presenting a PowerPoint presentation that everning that included pictures and names that served as the evening’s program form.

The live auction was handled b Carolyn Reed and Society President Mike Dietert. Their plan to have former Representative Carter Casteel and State Representative Doug Miller act as auctioneers proved to be outstanding entertainment for the evening, as well as clever handling in the sales of six beautifully handcrafted items.

The last committee was that of Decorating. Nancy Ford, Gayle Hampel and Sandra Booth made the plans in this area. They were assisted on the day of celebration by Barbara Upper and Maggie Black. Jackie Unger had furnished the tablecloths.

The results of their plan showed off the McKenna Center as an elegant room of candelabras, greenery and candles. It set the mood for the evening and produced much friendly chatter as the group listened to Paul Schaffenberger on the piano and enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres and dinner served by caterer, Cathy Muerin.

Chere Stratemann, Heritage Society director, handled the many hours of paperwork. She was assisted by Sande Herbelin.

Roxolin Krueger

Chairman, 25th Anniversary

Planning Committee

Smears cost Limbaugh his dreams, not his own words

In regard to the title of the Forum Opinion column on Saturday, Oct. 17, Limbaugh's words keep him from dream.

Lies, misquotes and smears from racists about Limbaugh's words keep him from dream. There, I fixed it for you.

Just doing the job the Associated Press won't do.

Marie Vasek

New Braunfels