Technology no substitute for talking with kids
The nerve called "reader response" was hit last week when mentioning that parents of young kids appear to spend too much time on cell phones when out with kids at parks.
One reader added another peeve, saying her biggest complaint has been cell phone use in a grocery store, with the child sitting in the cart. The reader felt this is a good time to talk to kids about what you are buying, and what foods are good for you, etc., rather than gabbing on the phone.
Another said cell phones can be prolific at pools and youth sporting events.
A place you don't see it too often, but could: When a family is bicycling together.
Syndicated columnist Froma Harrop made a good point in a recent Daily Herald column, saying that modern technology like cell phones and laptop computers has actually allowed parents to spend more time with their kids. That technology has been a double-edged sword - it has allowed more parents to work from home, but it can also make one feel as if they are working around the clock on a regular basis.
But Harrop's column had a main point that shouldn't be overlooked - don't overdo technology to the point it becomes a habit to ignore your kids.
It's excellent art: Once again, the promo poster for Batavia's Art in Your Eye Festival is an eye-catcher.
You'll see "Bellevue," a poster from the talented hands of artist Greta Bell, displayed prominently around town.
The original painting was purchased by the festival planners for permanent display as part of the art collection at Batavia City Hall.
"Bellevue" depicts Batavia's historic Bellevue Place, where Mary Todd Lincoln once lived.
Most importantly, of course, the poster reminds onlookers that the fine arts festival on the city's riverwalk will take place Aug. 14 and 15.
Those who really enjoy the poster can support the festival by purchasing one for $10 at various Batavia locations.
Working on 'Stars' again: Not many people would be thinking about Geneva's Feb. 5, 2011 "Dancing with the Stars" fundraiser for the cultural arts and schools - except the committee members who plan the event.
And the committee has already hit on a winning idea for next year's event at Eagle Brook Country Club.
The one drawback of the first two "Stars" events has been how crowded the venue gets that night. A new arrangement with rectangular tables promises to fit more people and create a less-crowded atmosphere.
Joe Stanton, president of Fagans Incorporated and a supporter of the event, is getting credit for this idea.
Planners were happy to keep the event in Geneva, after considering other locations as the demand for tickets kept increasing.
That was a workout: I haven't been that tired in a long time. And it was just from sitting and watching the Libido Funk Circus perform at Swedish Days last week.
The members of the band were jumping and dancing all over the stage nonstop for nearly two hours with the hot spotlights all over them.
It was exhausting. Who knows how many calories I shed just watching.
dheun@sbcglobal.net