by Bob Shamo –

With a few interesting units finishing up but none quite ready for stories, this is a good time to pass on some suggestions.

Most of our residents appear to be using cell and internet phones nowadays. And AT&T is petitioning state and federal governments to be relieved of the responsibility for maintaining those copper lines. But until further notice, Park Tower will require that wired phone connectivity be preserved in all units. Keep this in mind when remodeling, and make sure your contractor knows.

A similar requirement goes for the intercoms located in our hallways. True, they haven’t worked for years and, if you wish, you can remove the original wall plate. But leave the wiring behind the wall plate in place. The office can fill you in on details regarding phone and intercom requirements.

If you’re remodeling your bathroom, think twice before discarding the original heat lamp. Replacements must be flush-mounted, and they’re hard to find. Instead, remove three screws, spray paint the six ‘donut’ rings, and reassemble. Good as new.

Waterbeds are certainly allowed in Park Tower units, but be sure your condo insurance policy covers damage to your unit and surrounding ones in the truly awful event it springs a leak.

Will you be replacing your original floor-to-ceiling bifold closet doors? Before delegating them to the dumpster, offer the metal parts (hinges, springs, rollers and door guides) to our maintenance crew. Some parts are no longer available and can be used to repair other original doors. Unscrew the hardware,  put it in a clear plastic baggie, and drop it off at the office.