Already

Yes, it is already time to turn our summer-spoiled brains back to the subject of school. In our part of the country, public schools and their private counterparts will swing into action before you know it. By mid-August the traffic patterns will change and the lines at checkout counters and restaurants will grow longer as thousands of Murray State students rejoin the local economy.

Moms and dads are wrestling with critical questions about new backpacks, lunchboxes, pencil sets and, for the older student, laptops, new clothes and membership fees. At Murray Life, we’re preparing to help everyone become a student again. This issue’s articles will help you learn about everything from the effect of the sun on your body to the favorite trees of some of our favorite animals. There is no statute of limitations on our ability – or the necessity – to learn and keep learning.

Logan Abbitt joins us again to expand your horizons in our “Day Trips” department. You’ll be amazed at the wonders that await within a few hours of Murray. Ben Taylor joins our writing staff for this issue with a look at the ins and outs of dumping that old car that you nursed through the recession. “To buy, or not to buy,” that is the question, and Ben gives us complete answers on every hand. Our own Rita Oldham gets out her “Woman’s Toolbelt” again, and takes us to the kitchen for something new.

When it comes to personalities, radio journalist Bec Feldhaus takes us on campus to meet young summer visitors to MSU’s Commonwealth Honors Academy. These outstanding Kentucky scholars may come back to Murray, but whether they return or not, they will never forget it. And Logan Abbitt makes sure you will not forget TRM Howard, Murray’s own flamboyant, pioneering civil rights advocate who changed the society in which we live.

Of course, we will, as usual, give you a quick reference for events in our calendar, and for dining, eating or snacking with our Dining Guide. Both are always available on the Web site at www.mymurraylife.com, but you can carry them around in the magazine, too.

From humor to little-known tidbits of knowledge, we’re helping you stay abreast of the times. Enjoy the final days of summer and get excited about fall! We hope your life in Murray is just a bit friendlier with your Murray Life.