RUMFORD – The second annual Winter Fest celebration sponsored by the River Valley Healthy Communities and Rumford Parks and Recreation will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 21, at the DARE Park ice skating rink, across from Aubuchon’s.

This year will feature a new warming hut recently installed at the rink, hot chocolate, music, prizes and beginner skates for preschool children to use. Teen Center students will be participating in this celebration, and there will be a special appearance by Giggles the Panda. More information may be obtained by calling Kim Sequoia at 364-7408.

Septic grants

PERU – The municipal officers of the town of Peru have been notified that the state Department of Environmental Protection Small Community Grant Program may provide grants to municipalities to help low- to moderate-income property owners with failing septic systems causing water pollution or public nuisance conditions.

Typically, funding is provided through environmental bond issues approved by the voters. There was no bond issue on the November 2004 ballot, but there may be one in June or November 2005.

More information may be obtained before Jan. 26 at the town office.