Mayor's Column



Mayor Michael R. Mignogna


"BACK TO SCHOOL!"


This is a phrase that catches the attention of people of all ages from all walks of life. For some, it is an advertising slogan. One popular commercial calls it &qout;… the most wonderful time of the year!" For others, it marks the end of summer fun or the opportunity for a new beginning.

Returning to school after a relaxing summer can be a trying experience for both children and parents. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers help and safety tips to ease back into the school year.

The first few days are always emotional, especially for younger children. Point out the positive aspects of starting school. Remind them of the fun of seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Find another child in the neighborhood with whom your youngster can walk to school or ride with on the bus.

Backpacks have become fashion statements but should be chosen carefully. Pick a backpack with wide, padded shoulders and a padded back. Organize it to use all of its compartments and pack light. Always use both shoulder straps since slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain the muscles. Consider a rolling backpack.

Too often, we hear of tragic accidents involving school buses. Children should wait for the bus to completely stop before approaching it from the curb. Never move around the bus, always check to see that no other traffic is coming before crossing. Make sure to always remain in clear view of the bus driver.

When traveling to and from school in a car, all passengers should wear a seatbelt or use an age and size-appropriate car safety seat or booster seat. All children under 13 years of age should ride in the rear of the vehicle. If your child walks to school, make sure it is a safe route with well-trained adult crossing guards along the way. Consider whether or not your child is ready to walk to school without adult supervision. Bright colored clothing will make your child more visible to drivers.

AAP further stresses the importance of developing good homework and study habits. Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework. Youngsters need a permanent workspace in a bedroom or a part of the home that offers privacy. Set aside ample time for homework. Establish a household rule that the TV set stays off during homework time. Always be available to answer questions and offer assistance. To help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fatigue and brain fatigue while studying, children should take a ten-minute break every hour of study. If your child is struggling with a particular subject, a tutor can be useful. Talk it over with your child's teacher first.

Have a safe and happy school year!

**Voorhees Summer Twilight Series will conclude with the annual "Movie Night in the Park" on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 7 p.m. (Rain date is Saturday, Oct. 4.) The students in the Voorhees Elementary Schools and Middle School will vote on their favorite movie to be shown on the "big screen." Come out with your chairs, blankets or just sit on the "great lawn" and enjoy the free show.

**The Fifth Annual John Connolly Memorial Golf Tournament will be held on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2008 at Valleybrook Country Club, 200 Golf View Drive, Blackwood, New Jersey. The proceeds help maintain and beautify John Connolly Memorial Park. Prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third place teams along with a hole-in-one contest. Door prizes will be awarded at the luncheon. The cost for golf and the luncheon is $125. If you prefer not to golf, you can attend the luncheon for $35. Contributions would also be appreciated and you would be listed as a sponsor. All contributions are tax deductible. For further information, contact Maureen Connolly at (856) 232-2295 or at jcmgolf@verizon.net.