With Memorial Day weekend comes so many things. It ushers in the official summer spirit, it gives us a long weekend to spend with family and friends, and it boosts our weekend event list.
For me, there’s an added perk of a birthday thrown in the mix.
But this year, I hope no matter how you decide to spend your weekend, that you take a moment to reflect on the men and women who have sacrificed for us to live like we do.
Veterans Day and Memorial Day are special to me because I’ve talked to veterans face to face about their stories and their struggles, many of which continue even after they’re back on home soil.
The South Arkansas Symphony Orchestra plays a concert each year on the steps of the Union County Courthouse that would be a great event to check out with great entertainment, but it will also offer that moment of reflection I so hope you don’t miss.
The concert will start at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Union County Courthouse.
Shows around downtown this weekend include Vic Allen tonight at Pandora’s for the club’s Blues and R&B Night, and Fat Pimp on Saturday.
With the holiday weekend also comes an extra party day, with some clubs open on Sunday.
The Brickhouse is going to be open tonight, Saturday and Sunday, with a DJ on hand each night.
The Gusher Elks Lodge will also be open on Sunday, with DJ Mooney Man from Farmerville, La., on hand for the Sunday Kickback Party, which will begin at 8 p.m.
During the week, we’ll have our regular karaoke nights at Marilyn’s on the Square and at the Long Branch, and I’ve heard it won’t be long and the Long Branch Karaoke Contest will kick back up.
Have a fantastic long weekend, everyone, and if you get the chance, be sure to thank (and hug) a veteran.
They’ve certainly earned it.
Happy Memorial Day!
Lauren Martin is weekend editor at the News-Times. Email her at [email protected].