Memorial Hall Plan Review.

The City Council Public Services Committee met with representatives of the architectural firm of Pellham, Phillips, and Hagerman Tuesday evening in Memorial Hall. The firm has contracted with the City to develope construction plans for renovation of a portion of the Hall.

The detailed review of plans lasted over three hours and resulted in minor changes that will be incorporated.

The discussion ranged from the roofing material and structure to the placement of water fountains and type of counter tops for the kitchen area.

According to City Administrator Tom Short the plans are scheduled to be ready for review in April and the project should be ready for bidding by the end of April. The bid is scheduled to be awarded on June 26 with construction to begin immediately. The project is scheduled to be completed March 26, 2002.

During the renovation, some of the monthly rental space will remain vacant and portions of the basement, lobby, and the American Legion offices will be closed.

‘Bout a week left to register as a candidate for the City Council. January 16 is the last day.

There was some early interest in the five seats up for election, but filings have tapered off.

I was glad to see that Bill Putnam did infact file as was reported erroneously here several weeks ago. That means we weren’t wrong, just bad timing.

As havin’ served for the last two years myself, I can honestly say the job is not overwhelming, but it can be intense now and then.

I would encourage anyone to file that wishes to help the City continue to move into the new century. The two years go by pretty quick and there is no boot camp.

This is some fact, but mostly,

Just Jake Talkin’.

by

McCune- Brooks Hospital

PRIME TIME WITH KIDS

by Donna Erickson

Kids everywhere are on the go. For many young travelers, getting there may mean flying alone.

If you are like many parents, sending a preteen or teen on a solo journey isn’t so easy the first time. A friend of mine recalls sending her 12-year-old daughter on her first unaccompanied flight. When her daughter called to say she had arrived safely, my friend hung up the phone and exclaimed with relief, "The Eagle has landed ... One small step for Erin, one giant leap for her mother!"

Here are some basic tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable flight for your child:

• Request a guide brochure for unaccompanied children and teens from your airline, which outlines rules, regulations and helpful safety tips.

• Call the airline at least 48 hours ahead of the flight to request a kids’ menu.

• Flight attendant Julia Applegate of Northwest Airlines reminds parents to be attentive to every detail of the child’s itinerary, including making sure the child gets on the correct plane. During hectic boardings, it can be confusing, especially if departure gates change at the last minute. Once your child boards, stay in the gate area until the plane is airborne.

The adult meeting your child at the destination should always call to check on the actual time of arrival of the flight. Many flights are early, leaving kids to wait with the gate agent.

• Remind your child that it is okay to ask a flight attendant to review the personal safety demonstration for them. Airplane seat belts may unfasten differently from automobile belts. Your child may also request to be moved if seated beside someone he/she is not comfortable with. Children should never give their address and phone number to another passenger even though they have enjoyed a friendly visit during the flight.

• Pack an activity bag full of diversions. Be sure the bag is lightweight - school backpacks are ideal. We also pack fruit juice and snacks they like. Include change for phone calls and cash for headsets if you feel the on-board film is appropriate for your child.