Two Day Sidewalk Sale.

Merchants are being encouraged to stay open into the evening this Friday to kick off the annual sidewalk sale promoted by the Chamber of Commerce. Main Street Carthage is sponsoring a "Cruise Night" on Friday beginning at 6 P.M. The Square will remain open to traffic for the evening. Merchants are being reminded to not leave any merchandise out overnight as there will be no security provided.

The Square will be closed to traffic at 4:30 A.M. on Saturday morning in preparation for the sidewalk sale.

The Farmers Market will operate as usual on the outside of the East side of the Square for the day.

The inside of the Square will be used by the Greater Ozarks British Motoring Club. Over 70 cars are expected for the auto show.

The public is expected to begin arriving for the sale at 6 A.M. Breakfast cinnamon rolls and biscuits and gravy will be available for purchase in front of Poor Richards at that time, furnished by All Occasions Bakery.

For more information contact the Chamber at 358-2373.

The talk for the last couple a years has been for cooperation among those who are interested in tourism and retail in general. The focus of the Lodgin’ Tax Committee has been a similar theme.

With all the talk, folks might get the idea that none a these groups ever talk to each other. I’m thinkin’ it’s more that ya just don’t see all the times there is a cooperative effort. The Sidewalk Sale is a prime example. Several different organizations all workin’ to put on a good show for the community.

‘Course there are some of the retailers that don’t belong to any organized group gettin’ involved also. Ever’one workin’ together at some level to draw attention and customers to the Square and other businesses in town. Sometimes all the effort just makes it look too easy.

This is some fact, but mostly,

Just Jake Talkin’.

by

Carthage Printing Services

PRIME TIME WITH KIDS

by Donna Erickson

Kids everywhere are on the go this summer. 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 their child’s itinerary, including making sure the child gets on the correct plane. During hectic summertime 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 than 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.