Veterans Home beginning Conservation Contest for staff

Missouri Veterans Home employees have a vested interest in conserving energy on-site, as saving money can ultimately save jobs, said Ken Lipps, a spokesman for the home.

And now they could win a few dollars in prize money too.

The veterans home in Cape Girardeau is holding a Conservation Contest in which staff members are invited to submit their suggestions for conserving energy.

"With this year's budget already very tight and the potential for more cuts next year, we are trying to identify ways to conserve money and reduce costs," said Lana Goodin, staff development coordinator.

The idea of a Conservation Contest came from Dennis Todd, the home's supplies and purchasing department head. The Employee Relations Committee will pay $10 for each of the top 10 money-saving ideas.

Suggestion forms can be obtained at the front office or department supervisors. Staff members may submit more than one idea on each form, and they are eligible to win more than one award.

The $100 in prize money will be provided by the staff development fund. Money for this fund comes from soda and candy machine profits, which are mostly used by staff personnel. Half of memorial donations generally go to the staff fund as well.

Resident families are not allowed to give individual employees gifts or tips, but are invited to make donations to the staff development fund so that all employees can benefit. Money from this fund pays for the home's annual Recognition Dinner/Bingo Bash hosted by the management team.

All forms must be submitted to the veterans home front office or a supervisor by noon Monday, Dec. 16.

In an effort to keep costs down, the home is already turning off its Christmas lights outlining the roof of the facility an hour earlier each evening during the holiday season.

jgosche@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133