Emergency planning and food storage program to be held Sept. 24

Several months ago, Greg Lassen was contemplating a Westlake Bicentennial program tentatively titled, Then and Now. Since he has created and follows his own food storage plan and has experience in gardening, it was a natural consideration to look at the differences of 1811 and 2011.

How similar yesteryear is to today in many respects – from growing and harvesting vegetables, fruits and grains with storage in cellars and spring houses to the same growing season, albeit refined with modernized tools. But the spirit of provident living remains the same – using the earth’s resources wisely and not wastefully and preparing for emergencies.

In 1811, early Dover/Westlake settlers planned for 1812 and beyond with food and resources to sustain them and their families. Fast forward to 2011 and the natural disasters that developed after Greg Lassen’s program plan…tornadoes in the Midwest, especially Joplin, Mo., Hurricane Irene hitting the heavily populated East Coast and an earthquake in Virginia that was felt in a community 200 years old. In interviews, many victims of these natural disasters lamented the lack of emergency food, clothing and a plan.

The presentation planned some months ago remains the same, but the urgency of community members to learn more may be heightened. Interestingly enough, September is National Preparedness Month.

Then and Now will be held on Saturday, Sept. 24, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 25000 Westwood Rd. in Westlake from 1-4 p.m.

“Then” will capture the essence of food canning and preparation, food storage everyone will eat and general emergency preparedness (including the 72-hour kit). The “Now” portion of the program will include information, displays and counseling in education, finances and education.

Westlake Boy Scout Troop 536 has enlisted the American Red Cross for a blood drive and the Westlake Police Department will also be on-site. Offered without cost; no reservations are necessary. For information call Greg Lassen, 440-915-6453.