Columnist Muriel Stevens: Don’t cheapen Sept. 11

Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2002 | 8:27 a.m.

Finding the right way to memorialize Sept. 11 is still a matter of discussion, but one woman who was widowed on that dark day recently told an interviewer for National Public Radio that she does not want a special day to become a national remembrance. She's concerned that it would become just another day to shop mall sales.

Meanwhile the debate continues in New York about a permanent tribute on the site of the World Trade Center. More issues for discussion:

Airlines consider more fees: Major airlines continue to look for ways to increase revenue as they struggle to survive in these not-so-friendly skies. National travel commentators are saying that some airlines are ready to impose strong penalties if nonrefundable ticket holders miss a flight. Miss the flight and the ticket is void. A new ticket at a much higher cost will have to be purchased.

The only way to beat this ploy is to buy a much more expensive refundable ticket. The price difference between the two tickets can be considerable, but at least the ticket maintains its value and can be used on another flight. Whether or not a penalty will be imposed for the flight change was not clear.

E-tickets will become a way of life. If consumers want a hard ticket, which is easier to use if travelers are forced to change to another airline, a fee of $20 to $25 will be charged.

I don't know how much money could be raised by the airlines through these new tactics, but the loss of consumer confidence, already at an all-time low, could be significant.

Pumpkins and Christmas trees: Is rushing the holidays the answer to increasing sales? Not for me it isn't. What's the rush? Halloween costumes and fully lighted faux Christmas trees already fill the aisles at Costco. I didn't notice any shopping carts filled with ribbons and wrapping paper.

Costco isn't the only one jumping the holiday season. Everywhere I shop there are holiday displays. As the shelves fill with seasonal merchandise the space for everyday items diminishes.

Catalogs proliferate: Oh, have I got mail-order catalogs! As my mail-order shopping increases, so do the catalogs. I rarely buy anything that I know is available at local stores, but I can't resist such hard-to-find temptations as a handsome three-step mahogany ladder that folds.

And there are so many new catalogs; at least they're new to me.

Here are a few of my favorites, old and new: Land's End has a separate catalog for every member of the household -- men, women and children -- plus sizes and more. Prices are moderate, quality and service are super. Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's send catalogs throughout the year. These catalogs come to charge customers who shop regularly.

Scully & Scully Park Avenue (where I found the library ladder) is a new source. Featured are upscale, traditional home furnishings and gifts. My home is mostly contemporary with some traditional, yet I like this catalog -- call (800) 223-3717.

Design Within Reach pleases me with its outstanding modern designs from a host of renowned artisans. Sleek, wonderful designs that have withstood the test of time -- call (800) 846-0411.