The Moore County Department of Social Services (DSS) wants to become more energy efficient.

A report from the county administration says the DSS is making changes this month at the front entrance to bring the doors up to safety standards, improve client confidentiality and conserve energy.

DSS Director John Benton said the entrance, as presently designed, allows for a direct flow of air in and out of the building because both sets of doors open simultaneously.

"We have worked closely with engineer Vic Walk from Public Works to find a solution that will decrease the likelihood of both sets of doors opening at the same time," Benton said.

Plans also call for upgrading sensors that control the doors. This will eliminate the risk of the doors closing while an individual might be caught by them.

Benton said the new configuration will provide more space between the interior doors and the receptionists and should greatly improve confidentiality.

During the remodeling, signs will direct visitors to an alternate entrance. DSS offices are in the Carriage Oaks complex off Monroe Street in Carthage.

DEM WOMEN -- Swede Boreen, a military veteran, will be guest speaker for the September meeting of the Democratic Women of Moore county.

Boreen will talk about his experiences during the bombing of Pearl Harbor. He served on the USS Oklahoma.

The meeting will be held at 10 a.m. this Saturday Democratic headquarters, 104-A North McNeill St., Carthage. The meeting is open without charge to all interested persons.

DEMOCRATS -- The Moore County Democratic Party will hold its executive committee meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 15, at party headquarters, 104-A North McNeill St., Carthage.

Party Chairman Brian Deaton said the meeting will focus on get-out-the-vote plans for the general election.

Deaton said all registered Democrats and interested Independents are invited to attend and anyone interested in volunteering for get-out-the-vote activities is particularly urged to attend. Questions may be directed to Deaton at 295-9111.

PET PANEL -- After a summer hiatus, the Moore County Citizens' Pet Responsi-bility Committee is cranking up operations again tonight.

The committee is resuming its meetings on a new schedule, shifting from the fourth Wednesday to the second Wednesday.

The meeting tonight will be held at Homewood Suites in Olmsted Village, beginning at 7 o'clock.

AAMC -- Animal Advocates of Moore County Inc. has called its yearly meeting for Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. in the Pinehurst Member's Club activity room downstairs.

The board of directors will present the new budget for viewing and will show a short video. The meeting is open to the general public as well as members. More information is available by calling 944-5098 (Patty).

Contact Florence Gilkeson at 947-4962 or by e-mail at florence@thepilot.com.