MT. VERNON — This week is National Senior Citizens Week and Ameren will be hosting on Thursday to recognize the area’s senior citizens. The Power Hour Luncheon will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at the Double Tree in Mt. Vernon. There will be free food, entertainment, and gifts at the event.

Tina Gibbs is the community relations coordinator with Ameren Illinois. She says while she hopes the free perks bring people to the door, what’s most important is educating seniors about how to be as energy efficient as they can.

Gibbs asks those who plan to attend to RSVP to the event so there is enough food for everyone. To RSVP, call 309-677-5515.