The meeting, consisting of all new business, will include the discussion of a recommendation for Grant Administration for the Over Sixty Center CDBG project.

Bids on a tractor/loader for parks will also be considered and discussed along with declaring a dump truck as surplus property.

Consideration for bids on a new golf course mower will be discussed and also bids on lease purchase financing.

Other topics to be discussed at Monday night’s meeting will be the proposed change order #4 for the golf course and requisition #17 for the golf course project.

Following the new business will be staff reports and then adjournment.

People with disabilities who will be needing special assistance should call 417-237-7000 (voice) or 1-800-735-2466 (TDD via Relay Missouri) at least twenty-four hours prior to the Public Service meeting.

I came to the conclusion several years ago that the tough part of bein’ a publisher or editor isn’t figurin’ out what to put in a publication, there’s lots a stuff that might be fit ta print. The really tough calls are figurin’ out what not ta put in. That’s why, for instance, we don’t print letters to the editor that aren’t signed. There have been several that have arrived in unmarked envelopes that were well written, and made valid points. I just wish whoever wrote ‘em would stand up and take credit so we could print the things.

We also get suggestions ever now and then of some investigative reportin’ that oughta be done. Most are based on one rumor or another that has been embellished for effect. Some sound like interestin’ stories all right, just aren’t based on much fact.

And, after all, this is at least some fact, but mostly,

Just Jake Talkin’.

by

Carthage Printing

THIS IS A HAMMER

By Samantha Mazzotta

Do-It-Yourself Chimney Repair

Q: I read your article on chimney inspection and cleaning. Is it possible to make repairs to the chimney myself? — Taylor K., Pittsburgh

A: Some parts of the chimney and flue can be repaired by do-it-yourselfers. These parts are almost all external — namely, the masonry, roof seals and flashing. In fact, since the exterior portion of the chimney should be checked three to four times a year — or once every season — being able to do minor repairs can save money.

A common maintenance issue occurs at the part of the chimney where the mortar meets the roof. This is a prime entry point for moisture and a troublesome source of leaks (especially in older homes), so checking the seals and flashing and repairing even the smallest crack or ding is critical.

The chimney bricks (or mortar) should be checked for deterioration, cracks or other damage. Small cracks can be quickly sealed with cement. Chipped or broken bricks should be replaced if possible; if only a small piece is broken off you may be able to cement it back into place. However, if the chimney has a lot of damage, leans several degrees or appears to be on the verge of separating from the roof, call a professional immediately.

Now, back to roof flashing. These strips of aluminum create a secure, yet somewhat flexible, buffer between the chimney and shingles, and effectively seal the gap between the roof and the chimney. However, the metal can be damaged, bent or punctured by years of exposure to the elements, debris and determined critters. Bent flashing creates gaps in the roof seal and an easy entry point for rain and melting snow; it also allows warm (or cool) air to leak out of your home, raising your energy bill.

To repair bent flashing, gently bend it back into place (or tap with a hammer) and seal with roofing cement. Clamp the flashing in place until the cement cures fully (at least two days). Torn or punctured flashing must be removed and replaced — slide a putty knife between the metal and the chimney base to separate the old cement; if the cement is difficult to work with, soften it using a blow dryer or heat gun. Cut replacement flashing to the size and shape of the old metal and cement in place; clamp and cure.