I can imagine what you’re thinking when reading our cover. Are they crazy? Back-to- School Preview in July? Unfortunately, that’s not a typo. Mid-August will be here before we know it and we need to start preparing for it now. How can you plan ahead? For starters, look at pages 2-38 for businesses that offer school-related services or products. It may be after-school activities, school physicals, clothing, hair cuts, tutoring, child care or schools but we’ve kept them all together for quick reference. We’ll have even more to share in our BIG August Back-to-School Issue!
Last month I traveled with my oldest daughter to New York City with the University of Arkansas Children’s Choir for their final concert tour of the year. We planned, talked and saved for it nearly all year and it seems impossible that it’s already a thing of the past. We saw and did more in five days than most would see in over a week there. What an amazing experience with my girl!
I didn’t value or appreciate studying history as a kid, but as an adult I find it fascinating. I’m especially grateful for our country’s history and had time to reflect upon the importance of it on this trip. I visited NYC a couple of times about 20 years ago but obviously the landscape has changed greatly since September 11, 2001. After visiting the United Nations, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and while standing at the 9/11 Memorial looking at the name of one of our relatives, I have a deeper understanding of how blessed we are to live in the United States of America.
No doubt our freedom is paid with a high price and living here isn’t always the easiest. Just read stories of immigrants who came to Ellis Island or look at the number of people who lost their lives on 9/11. But so many have fought to keep us free and fought to build or rebuild their lives here and make a better life for their families. It makes me proud. And I want to honor their sacrifices by doing what I can to continue their legacy.
It seems fitting that we visited so many historical sites and now we get to celebrate our independence this month. Makes we wonder how much sweeter it will be this year. I hope you have a fun, memorable and safe 4th of July with your family and friends and that you’ll remember why we celebrate. Please check our community calendar in the middle pages for lots of fireworks’ events throughout NWA.
Happy 4th!
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