During the heat wave our Water Department was watchful to assure that we were able to meet demands for water. During the four-day peak in temperature we pumped 10 million gallons per day, which is 25 percent more than an average day's pumpage in July and August.

The village's water supply is more than capable to meet these demands. The problem areas arise when electric power becomes less reliable during periods of high heat, which causes mechanical equipment to fail. Fortunately the village has emergency back up power via generators when it is required.

Curb, sidewalk and base repair construction is currently underway in Parking Field 7S. The contractor has started work at the westerly end of the field and will progress in an easterly direction this week. The work necessitates temporarily closing entrances to the parking field and detouring pedestrian and vehicular traffic to other entrances to the field. Drainage construction will continue throughout the week.

We regret the inconvenience that this work is causing and are doing our best to accommodate residents and businesses.

Beginning Sept. 11, 2006, the village will begin issuing railroad parking permits for the year 2006/07. The annual fee is $75.

Permits may be obtained at the Village Business Office, 351 Stewart Avenue. Residents who already possess a 2005/06 permit will receive a renewal application by mail, which may be returned to the village either by mail or in person. A photocopy of your registration must accompany your application and check. Current permits will be valid through Sept. 30.

Residents are encouraged to make our business districts both safe and pedestrian friendly.

Early one morning last week while I was seated at one of the alfresco dining tables on Seventh Street I was distressed to observe a number of vehicles fail to stop for pedestrians who were waiting in the crosswalk to cross the street. Please become aware that under state law motorists are required to stop for pedestrians who are in their side of the crosswalk.

A reminder to parents that New York State law now requires that all bikers under the age of 14 are to wear helmets. Learning to ride a bicycle is a source of pride for most kids. Unfortunately, as bicycling becomes more popular, the number of bicycle-related injuries has also increased. Statistics show that over 300,000 children are treated in hospital emergency rooms for bicycle-related injuries each year - a third of those suffering from head-related injuries.

Parents can make a difference: act as a role model and wear your helmet when you ride a bicycle; make sure your child wears a helmet every time he/she rides; make sure his/her bike is in good condition and has the right safety accessories; and make sure he/she has mastered bike safety rules. Don't let your child become a statistic. Start practicing bicycle safety today!

This week's program is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 17, and will feature Frankie Lymon's Legendary Teenagers (Why Do Fools Fall in Love?).

The program will begin at 7:15 and admission is free. Please bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a very pleasant evening. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be held at the Cultural and Performing Arts Center at Cluett Hall at the St. Paul's School. Please contact the Recreation Department (465-4075) with questions pertaining to the concert.