Mill's workers should consider NIC classes

To all the workers who were laid off from JD Lumber:

I also was laid off in Priest River at 45 years old. Like you, I worried what to do. I decided on NIC. Financial demand seemed overwhelming. If Department of Labor has not offered, (ask) I can run seminars at a computer lab in town, to walk you through how to apply to NIC and how to fill out the forms for federal student aid. Never touched a computer? You can do this.

FSA must be applied for by February for next fall. To be awarded scholarships you must be registered somewhere. I got $375 in 45 minutes once. I was the only applicant, like a free lottery ticket, 100 percent odds. Many scholarships don't depend on age, IQ, or grades. NIC has wonderful teachers, counselors and financial aid people who want you to succeed, offering free psychological counseling and almost-free medical on campus. Often aid and scholarships exceed tuition. Surplus can be used for gas, tools, books or living expenses.

There is an incredible need for welders, electricians, CNC operators, mechanics, and machinists across the country. I took welding. Every student who wanted a job got one: entry level wages $10 to $16 often with 401(k)s and insurance in 90 days. The American Welding Society offers five scholarships a year. I got three. You could have a new career by spring 2009, decent wages with chance of raises.

To any organization in the area who offers scholarships even art, (I'm a metal artist) why not offer a scholarship this year even if it is only $100 to JD mill workers? JD guys, play if forward. When you are back on your feet, help some one else go to school. If I could get through the welding program, (only older person, only woman) you can, too.

Good luck. If my offer interests your group let me know. In the phone book.

BETTY GARDNER

Sandpoint