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PARENTAL GUIDANCE

Join the discussion on School Shootings at the Parents’ Council blog at www.spokesmanreview.com/ blogs/parents/

Here’s an excerpt: “I agree that causes of school violence are as different as the individuals involved, and that no blanket cause covers every situation. But ‘society’ tends to moan, wring hands and spend a lot of time and money examining causes with committees, agencies and reports. Meanwhile, some obvious problems stare parents in the face. … Children need their parents. … I believe many parents need to do a better job of raising their children. Most love them enough; they just need to be more available. Advocates beg families to eat dinner together at least once or twice a week! There are day cares for sick children! And let’s talk about day care. Many day-care standards in this country are shockingly low, putting babies and children at risk of injury or neglect. What are the consequences down the road for these children? And yes, I think security in schools could and should be tighter. … There are real dangers in public schools that were not there when I was a child. Let’s face that reality and deal with it.”

KIDS’ CALENDAR

Find more kid-friendly activities at www.spokane7.com.

FRIDAY

After-school Party – Celebrate the arrival of “The End,” the final book in the Lemony Snicket series, at 3 p.m. at Hastings, 15312 E. Sprague Ave. Prizes, games and suspicious people lurking everywhere. (509) 924-0667.

SATURDAY

Kids Day – Value Village thrift stores will have free Halloween activities including face painting, costume ideas, carnival games, prizes, trick-or-treat safety tips and kids identification kits. Contact your local Value Village for details.

Harvest Party – Wagon rides, games, fresh-pressed apple cider, U-pick pumpkins and more at the Washington State University Organic Farm in Pullman. Activities take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. (509) 432-3716.

Family MACFest – Pet Roundup at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture features animal-related activities and a visit by the Spokane Humane Society’s mobile pet adoption center. Noon to 3 p.m. at the MAC, 2316 W. First Ave. Cost is $10 per family. (509) 456-3931.

SUNDAY

Author Lola Schaefer – Winner of the 2006 Washington Children’s Choice Picture Book award will discuss and sign copies of her book, “Arrowhawk” at 2 p.m. at the Children’s Corner Books & Toys on the second level of River Park Square. (509) 624-4820.

Spokane Railroad Show – Operating models, railroad art, toy trains and more from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Spokane Community College, 1810 N. Greene St. Cost is $5/adults; $1/ages 12 to 16; free for 12 and under accompanied by an adult. (509) 535-7186.