School starts; be safe and help those kiddos

It's the second day of school for most in our area, so the kids' shoes are still creaking with newness, the hallways still smell of fresh paint, and parents' wallets continue to smart from all the recent shopping.

The transition to the school year means changes for everyone, whether you have children in school or not. We encourage everyone to be cautious in traffic during drop-off and pick-up times. With new bus routes and some students attending new schools, the possibility of fender-benders is always there. Be sure to observe reduced speeds in school zones and to watch out for pedestrians at crossings.

For parents, it's time to get back in the early-to-bed, early-to-rise routine. That can be rough when children have grown used to sleeping in after staying up past their bedtimes -- and when moms and dads have become accustomed to having more time in the morning because they're not prodding their kids into action as much.

Adequate rest is an important component of academic achievement, and so are healthy breakfasts and regular meals. Making sure kids are well fed and hydrated is a sure way to help keep their concentration going all through the school day.

Have a safe and productive school year. Warm wishes and thoughts go to all the teachers as they get to know their students and find just the right ways to teach and motivate them.

Tunes at Twilight

On another note, the Tunes at Twilight outdoor music series resumes tonight at the Common Pleas Courthouse gazebo on Lorimier Street, kicking off with a special ice cream social.

Old Town Cape organized the event to celebrate the downtown area's recent designation as a Great American Main Street Community. The first 300 attendees will receive free ice cream from Port Cape Girardeau beginning at 6 p.m.

Jack Williams will perform tonight, followed by Jimmy Davis on Aug. 21; Bottle Rocket Cabaret on Aug. 28; The Babbas on Sept. 4; Chad Elliott on Sept. 11; and Rod Picott on Sept. 18.

Come out and enjoy the free entertainment.