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JESSICA FINCH Associate Editor

• SAVE THE APPLAUSE FOR SHEA'S - A parent told me on Monday that his son had chosen to attend the Amherst Town Board meeting for a class because "That's where the entertainment is." The student doesn't even attend an Amherst school. I'm usually quick to scold the actions of the Town Board for creating the infamous entertainment but during Monday's meeting I realized it's also to the fault of the audience members. When applause erupted for the 100th time (I'm exaggerating) I found myself asking aloud, "Is this a play or a meeting?" Clapping for a soapbox speech, from a board member or a resident, is not appropriate - especially as often as it occurs during a single meeting. It should be reserved for the first minutes of the meeting when the board honors residents. Or in the rare case the board adjourns in less than four hours - I'll even join in for a round of applause.

• 26 OR 6? - Just when I thought I was turning the corner to becoming an official adult I was asked a question that stopped me in my tracks. During an interview last week I met a woman who asked me, "Are you the little girl who writes that column every week?" After a moment of shock, I replied that, no, I was the young adult who did.

Later, when I left the office, I was still in shock. I got into my car, which I paid for, and drove back to the office, playing the scenario over in my head. Later that day I went home to my apartment, for which I pay the rent, and wondered what part of me conveys "little girl."

My niece will turn 6 years old this month and celebrate at Chuck E. Cheese - she is a little girl. I will creep one year closer to 30 in a few short months and not do so over a game of Skee-Ball or in a pit of plastic balls.

I'm always careful to address everyone with respect. I know the woman didn't mean to offend me, but I am still confused as to why she addressed me that way.

• VOLUNTEERS NEED - The Girl Scout Council of Buffalo and Erie County is seeking adult volunteers to assist in carrying out its mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place.

The Girl Scout Council has been operating for more than 90 years, providing programming that builds leadership and confidence, offers career exploration and develops and enhances skills in today's girls.

Training and support is provided to support volunteers. For those interested but with limited time available to volunteer, short-term opportunities are also available. For information, visit www.bflogirlscouts.org or call 837-6400, ext. 256.

• TREE PICKUP - Christmas trees will be picked up by the Highway Department through Friday, Jan. 18. Call 631-5770 with questions.

The Village of Williamsville will once again sponsor Christmas Tree recycling. The drop-off point for the trees is the Department of Public Works lot on South Long Street next to the Train Depot. The lot is marked with a sign at the lot, as well as one on Main Street directing residents to the drop-off area. Used trees will be collected now through the second week of January. For more information about the program, call Lowther at Village Hall at 632-4120, ext. 3006.