Saluting National Park Week

This is National Park Week. President Bush signed a proclamation designating this week to honor of all of our nation’s 391 National Parks. He also noted that the theme of this years observance is “Kids in Parks.” Certainly, the President is correct that our youth can benefit from visiting parks where they can learn about our natural and historic heritage as Americans. They can also enjoy the outdoors and the physical advantages of exercise that comes with recreation in our parks. There is plenty to see at www.nps.gov about what you can do in one of our National Parks.

In our area, we are fortunate to have two National Historic Sites. These special places are magnets for thousands of visitors from all over the world. The benefits to our region are obvious: visitors to Plains and Andersonville help to fill our hotels, motels and restaurants and leave behind dollars that multiply throughout our community. But more importantly, visitors are drawn here to learn about the most compelling stories of our past. The story of a young boy growing up in the Depression, rising to the Presidency and becoming a Nobel Peace Prize recipient is an inspiration to all. Few Americans can help but be deeply moved by the story of extreme sacrifice for our freedom by prisoners of war, from the American Revolution to today’s wars as told at Andersonville.

— From Staff Reports

The professional staffs of our two Historic Sites are dedicated to preserving the resources of these sites and giving the best service to visitors. Support groups like the Friends of Andersonville are also dedicated to supporting the work of our parks. As National Park Week begins, all residents of Sumter County are encouraged to visit one of these two wonderful places right here in our midst.

Paper announces books discovered

AMERICUS — Today Dan Sutton, publisher of the Americus Times-Recorder, announced the printer has found a few copies of the book, “Sumter County — A Pictorial History.”

This book was originally published in 2004. The book features 128 pages of vintage photos and text.

We have had requests for copies in the past, and now a few have been found and are available. They will be sold on a first come basis.

We feel where we live is such a charming place, so rich in history, that people who did not receive the book at the first printing would like a historical keepsake such as this.

If you would like a copy, they will be available at our office soon. You may pre-order by sending or bringing in your payment now. The price is $34.95 plus $2.45 tax per copy for the Standard Edition and $75.00 plus $5.25 tax per copy for the Leather Bound Special Edition. There are only 49 Standard Editions and 7 Leather Bound Special Editions available, so please place your order today to ensure that you will receive a copy.

— From Staff Reports