No. 87: Dreaming Of Forts You Did Your Dad Proud

June 20, 2004

Chicago Tribune Challenge 87 asked readers to design a fantasy fort for Dad. Power tools, sports and a comfy chair figured into many design plans. This entry took first place with a fillip that resonated with us, despite the absence of tools:

"Our dad already has the perfect "fort" to get away from us kids. He works in a high-tech security office for a data center with climate control, triple power back-up, weather radio, color closed-circuit TV monitors and security cameras, high-speed Internet access, printers, walkie-talkies, Nextel telephones, cordless and regular telephones, intercom, tools, first aid kit, fire extinguisher and more buttons and switches than you can imagine. He also has a radio and cassette player, refrigerator, microwave, bottled water, coffee machine, takeout menus, comfortable chair and footrest, and plenty of reading materials. It's so cool. The only thing missing is a bed and us kids."