6/23 Fort Campbell Life

A look inside...

Hey everyone

I hope you are having a wonderful summer so far.

This month we are bringing you some fun summer activities, yummy, recipes, and so much more. We also share some tips and tricks on landing that perfect remote job.

I hope this issue is helpful for you and I can’t wait to see you next month.

There are hours of fun just waiting for you in your backyard. It is truly full of endless possibilities. Getting outside and playing some outdoor games will not only cure your boredom, but it will help you get some vitamin D as well. So, lace up your favorite sneakers and get out into that nice sunshine. It is time to have some fun.

Cornhole

This is a yard game classic, and for good reason. People of all ages can understand and enjoy this game. You only need two things for this activity. A set of cornhole boards and two different colored bean bags. Cornhole boards can easily be made or purchased online.

Horse

If you have a basketball and a hoop, then you are ready to play a game of horse. To play, a person finds the perfect spot to shoot from. If they miss, it is the next person’s turn to make up their own unique shot. Whoever successfully lands the shot, everyone else must replicate it. If you miss the hoop, you get a letter, beginning with H until you spell out horse. The last person standing without making it to horse wins.

Slip and Slide

Slip and slides are loads of fun and can be bought at almost any large retail store. If you are unable to find one, you can easily create your own with a long tarp and water hose. To make things extra slippery, add a little dish soap to the tarp.

Freeze Tag

Who remembers this childhood favorite? If the “it” person tags you, then you are frozen. You can only be unfrozen if another non “it” player tags you. In order to win, everyone must be frozen.

Cup to Cup

Divide your family into two teams. Place one large bucket full of water at the starting point of your game. Make sure both teams can reach it. Have your family sit in a straight line. Then, place an empty bucket at the end of each team. Hand the first player of both teams an empty cup. They must dip the cup in the full bucket of water and pass it backwards over their head to the next player. The second player will then pass it over to the third person, etc. Pass the cup down until the last player on the team dumps the water in the cup into an empty bucket. The team will then pass the empty cup of water back up to the front. The first team to fill their bucket wins.

Horseshoes

Horseshoes is another yard game classic that is a fan favorite. The concept is super easy to understand for all age groups. There are now safer alternatives to the game that are made from rubber instead of heavy iron. They can be found online for $19 on Amazon.

Red Light, Green Light

One selected player is the traffic cop. The rest of the players stand on a starting line and the traffic cop has their back turned on them. When the traffic cop says, “green light,” all other players try to run to the finish line. When the traffic cop says “red light,” they turn around and the other players have to stop. If you are caught moving, you are out. The player to pass the finish line wins and becomes the traffic cop.

Giant Water Slide

Have a large backyard? Take advantage of it by creating a giant water slide. It is very simple to do. Just lay out a large plastic tarp from a nearby hardware store and slather it in dish soap and water. You and your guests will be slipping and sliding all day long.

Sponge Toss

Have everyone in your group split up into teams of two. Each team gets a sponge and two buckets. One player gets to stand beside a full bucket, and the other gets an empty bucket. Soak the sponge, and then toss it to your teammate. The teams must pass back and forth the sponge until the empty bucket is halfway full. Whoever reaches that point first, wins.

DIY Sprinkler

Little kids love sprinklers, and that is a fact. But a sprinkler is not a tool that every family has in their backyard. A simple fix to this problem is to tape your water hose to an old large soda bottle. Make a few small holes around the bottle, and there you have it. A cheap and fun sprinkler for your kids to enjoy.

Duck Duck Goose

The game that is taught in preschool that is still loads of fun no matter your age. The more people you have, the more challenging it gets. To begin, everyone sits in a circle. One person is the picker. They stroll around the circle, tapping each person’s head and either saying “duck” or “goose.”If assigned “duck,”you continue to stay seated. If they say “goose” the person tagged must try to catch the picker before they can get back to their spot. If the picker gets caught, they have to sit in the middle of the circle until someone else gets caught.

Water Gun Fight 2.0

A good old fashioned water gun fight is fun for the entire family. Water guns have been around for decades, and every family typically has a few laying around. To give this classic battle a little revamp, add some skin safe paint to the water gun, and grab a few white shirts. It will be a colorful and fun day!

Double Dutch

To start, grab either one or two jump ropes. Two people stand on either side of the rope and swing it. The jumper stands in the middle and jumps until they mess up.

Shark & Minnows

If you are needing to get out some energy, then this is the game for you. One player is “the shark.” The rest of the players are “minnows.” The minnows try to get from one side of the yard to the other or “designated finishing point” without getting grabbed by the shark.

Water Balloon Baseball

This activity is any sports lover’s summer dream. You will begin by filling a bucket with water balloons and plastic balls, then set them beside the pitcher’s mound. Grab some plastic bats, some friends, and have a good all-American game of baseball. Best part of this game? The batter will never know if you are about to throw a ball or a balloon.

Water Balloon Hot Potato

All of the players except one will sit in a large circle. One player will control the music while blindfolded. The other players will then pass around a water balloon until the blindfolded player stops the music. Whoever has the water balloon in their hand when the music stops must pop the balloon over their head and is out of the game.

Water Balloon Pinatas

To begin, hang a few balloons from two different trees. Make sure they are even in number, then select the two players, Have the players battle it out to see who can pop all their balloons the fastest with their sticks or plastic bats. The winner gets a prize.

Tanning is a key activity during the sunny summer months. Everyone wants that sunkissed glow. But, sun tanning can be dangerous if not properly done. Sunburn and skin cancer? No, thank you. Here are some tips to tan safely this summer.

1. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30. Yes, even with tanning, you need to wear sunscreen. Be sure to apply sunscreen within 20 minutes of being outside. Don’t worry, a SPF of 30 is strong enough to block UVA and UVB rays. You will still get that tan without all of the damage.

2. Switch positions frequently. You want an equal tan, and you don’t want to damage one side of your body from too much sun exposure.

3. Eat certain foods. Did you know that some foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and kale can help you tan without burning?

4. Research sSpecial oils. Skip those harmful tanning oils, and reach for oils that contain avocado or coconut for an extra dose of hydration and SPF protection.

5. Don’t stay outside too long. Did you know that after 2 to 3 hours your skin will not get darker on a certain day? If you tan past that point, you’ll be putting your skin in danger and wasting your time.

6. Choose your tanning time wisely. Want a quick tan? If so, the sun is typically strongest between noon and 3pm. This can be the best time to get your tan on.

7. Think about tan lines. Reach for low-cut swimsuit bottoms and strapless tops to avoid some harsh tan lines.

8. Prep before you tan. Try exfoliating your skin before tanning. Skin that hasn't been exfoliated is more likely to flake off.

9. Sooth the skin after tanning. Reach for an aloe vera gel after tanning to help your tan last longer.

On June 19th of every year, we celebrate a new federal holiday referred to as Juneteenth. Juneteenth is a day in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Today, it is celebrated on the anniversary of General Order No. 3, issued by Major General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865. This act is known for proclaiming freedom for slaves in Texas.

Beginning in Galveston, Juneteenth has since been observed annually in various parts of the United States. The day was first recognized as a federal holiday in 2021 when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law after the efforts of Lula Briggs Galloway, Opal Lee, and others.

To honor and celebrate this day, traditions often include public readings of the Emancipation Proclamation, singing traditional songs such as "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" and "Lift Every Voice and Sing", and reading works by noted African-American writers, such as Ralph Ellison and Maya Angelou.

Juneteenth celebrations may also include fun family things such as cookouts, family reunions, parties, Miss Juneteenth contests, and more.

Clarksville has 3 events planed for the day.

The 3rd annual Clarksville Juneteenth Festival and Parade is a time to honor African American freedom and achievement. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and tastes of our culture as we come together to commemorate this historic day. From soulful music and delicious food to an exciting parade that showcases our community's vibrant spirit, there's something for everyone at our Juneteenth Celebration. The parade starts at 10am at the Burt Cobb Community Center. The Juneteenth Celebration starts at 2pm at the Emerald Event Center 2631 Hwy 41-A Bypass. Visit: facebook.com/officialclarksvillejuneteenth/

The Clarksville Juneteenth Block Party is a cultural celebration of Freedom Day. The block party takes place at the Downtown Commons starting at 12pm. This year we are going back to our original format and housing the event strictly in the Downtown Commons. Join us for music, vendors, performances, and so much more! Visit: clarksvillejuneteenth.com

Nashville has 2 events planed for the day.

If you are looking for fun local ways to celebrate, Nashville will be holding its annual Music City Freedom Fest on June 17th-18th at Hadley Park. There will be food, vendors, live music, inflatables, and so much more. For more information on this event, Visit musiccityfreedomfest.com/

There will also be a Music City Juneteenth Freedom Day Dance/Walk/Run 5k on June 19th in Nashville for all of our runners out there. It is $35 to run. For more information and to sign up, Visit runsignup.com/Race/TN/Nashville/NashvilleJuneteenthFreedomDayDanceWalkRun5k

Looking for a way to get involved in your community and make a difference? Consider volunteering for the Fort Campbell Spouses' Club Board!

As a board member, you’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of our club and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around you. You’ll work alongside a group of dedicated volunteers who share your passion for giving back while building connections and friendships.

Plus, you'll have the chance to develop valuable skills and gain experience that will benefit you both personally and professionally.

Whether you're interested in event planning, fundraising, community outreach, or simply want to get more involved in the military spouse community, there's a role for you on the board.

So why wait? Join us today and start making a difference in the lives of military families.

To learn more about volunteering for the Fort Campbell Spouses Club Board, scan the QR code or visit us at www.fortcampbellspousesclub.org/board-application.

For more information about the FCSC, you can visit their website at https://www.fortcampbellspousesclub.org

400 Mile Sale

Highway 68 thru Kentucky

400mile.com

Explore historic highway 68 to discover fabulous finds at rummage sales, barn sales, antique stores and boutiques. Eat at the many hidden gems along the highway 68 route throughout Kentucky. Make it a trip to remember with the rich hospitality of bed and breakfasts, quality hotels, or campgrounds.

The Music Strikes Back for Veterans Lake Barkely State Resort Park’s Beach 4pm Fri • 11am Sat • parks.ky.gov

Strawberry Row Live Moo6 Festival

4663 St Paul Rd, Woodlawn • eventbrite.com

Fresh grown strawberries, Music, food trucks and vendors. Come and enjoy a relaxing day party on Eldridge Farms. Family friendly (rain/sun)

CMA Music Festival

Various Downtown Nashville Locations

cmafest.com

CMA Fest is the longest-running country music festival in the world.

3 1-4 2-3 8-11

A free concert on the shores of Lake Barkley. The bands performing Car Crash Liver, Past Nine, Blackberry Moon , Carl Woodall Band, Tim Lynch Band , Nova Kind, Barley Blue and The Hass Holiday Band . This event is for the Veterans and many groups will be in attendance with information for support. There will also be food trucks .

3 17

Cooling at the Cave

Dunbar Cave State Park Clarksville • 6:30pm visitclarksvilletn.com/event/cooling-at-the-cave/1736

Country fans can choose from a variety of ticketing options, from the complete CMA Fest four-day pass to attending the free outdoor, daytime stages without any ticket. Don’t forget the very popular fan fair that provides the ultimate country music fan experience. Headline performers include Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town and much more.

15-18

Bonnaroo

Manchester TN bonnaroo.com

Thousands of music fans, festival-goers, and even white-collar Roovians are already daydreaming about their weekend on the Manchester farm. Bonnaroo is taking place June 15-18, 2023. Attendees can expect four days and nights packed with music, comedy, art, food, camping, activities, and good times.

Clarksville Juneteenth Events

Block Party

Downtown Commons • clarksvillejuneteenth.com • 12pm

The block party jam-packed with culture, art, blackowned businesses, food trucks, live performances, kids & family activities, and more. Bring your family and your friends for a celebration they won’t want to miss.

Festival and Parade

Parade • starts at Burt Cobb Center 9am Festival at The Emerald 41-A ByPass 2pm

The annual festival and parade is a time to honor African American freedom and achievement. Enjoy soulful music and delicious food, a parade that showcases our community’s vibrant spirit, andmore. The festival will feature a variety of food trucks, live music, Kids Zone with ArtLink activities, Girl Code mobile kids spa, Rolling Arcade and more. Adult visitors can enjoy a bar,and other activities.

Hopkinsville Juneteenth Event

Boys & Girls Club Walnut St • 10am https://allevents.in/hopkinsville/200024549159444

The Divine 9 of Hopkinsville is hosting Hopkinsville’s Inaugural Juneteenth Celebration. Come join us in celebrating with music, dancing, food vendors, art, face painting, bands, skits, cornhole tournament, and family fun. Guest speaker

Qurayish Ali Lansana will kick off the celebration at 1pm.

George Clinton & Parliment

Funkadelic

Oak Grove Gaming 8pm oakgrovegaming.com

17

George Clinton is an American treasure. As one of the foremost innovators of Funk, Clinton is the mastermind behind the legendary Parliament/Funkadelic, creating a uniquely identifiable and timeless art that has lifted Funk, from what was once considered a simple style to an internationally recognized and respected musical genre. Minors are welcome to attend but must be accompanied by parent or guardian at all times.

Reptile and Exotics Show

The Bruce Convention Center • 10am allevents.in/camden-tn/dog-shows#

The Reptile and Exotics Show is a very family friendly event. The amazing vendors will be bring an wide variety of animals for you to see, learn about, and/or even get as a pet.

22-25

Butterfly Weekend Woodlands Nature Station

LBL • 10am

facebook.com/Woodlands

NatureStation

Hey families! This weekend is all about butterflies and their bug buddies! Learn how to spot butterflies, make a caterpillar, and catch some cool insects while you’re at it!

Drink recipes and photos courtesy of mixthatdrink.com and Donna Harris

Bad Girl Martini

A very refreshing drink perfectly enjoyed on a deck looking at the ocean after a day in the sun. It doesn’t help with sunburn but will make it easier to endure.

1 1⁄2 oz. Absolut Mandarin Vodka

1⁄4 oz. Peach Schnapps

1 oz. Sweet and Sour Mix

1⁄2 oz. Cranberry Juice

Mix in a shaker with ice. Serve straight up in a martini glass with a lightly sugared rim(optional) and a slice of lemon.

Bushwacker

The Bushwacker is a Gulf of Mexico classic made famous at the famous Florabama. Tastes like a milkshake, but comes with a punch...more than 2 can be dangerous.

Sex on the Beach

The Sex on the Beach cocktail is a classic drink recipe. It features vodka, peach schnapps with orange and cranberry juice. The taste is fruity with just enough tartness to keep it from being too sweet. The alcohol flavor isn’t very noticeable.

2 ounces of vodka

1 ounce of peach schnapps

2 ounces of orange juice

2 ounces of cranberry juice

Optional: teaspoon of lemon juice

Build the ingredients in a hurricane glass with ice. Stir. Garnish with orange slices and some cherries.

(for 4 servings)

3 cups crushed ice

½ cup cream of coconut

¼ cup coffee liqueur

¼ cup Irish cream liqueur

¼ cup dark crème de cacao liqueur

¼ cup black or dark rum

2 Tbsp chocolate sauce or syrup

4 cups vanilla ice cream

Garnishes: whipped cream, maraschino cherries

Combine first 7 ingredients in a blender, cover with lid, process until finely chopped. Add ice cream, and process until smooth.

Garnish with whipped cream and cherries. Best served with a wide straw.

Fort Campbell Independence Day Celebration 2023

by CynDe Clack

The Fort Campbell Division Parade Field will ring with laughter, music and fireworks for the July 4th Independence Day Celebration. Patrons are welcome to bring blankets, folding chairs, and safe light-up toys to enhance the event for you and your Family. Sunscreen, hats, and bug spray are recommended. NO personal fireworks, outside alcohol, glass bottles, pets, or grills are allowed. Umbrellas can be used for shade until 5:30pm when they must be put away. Please check: facebook.com/FortCampbellMWR for additional details and updates.

Fort Campbell’s Independence Day Celebration is open to the public. Non-DoD ID card holders will need to enter post through TC Freeman Gate (Gate 4) or Gate 7. Follow signs and directions at the gates for DoD and Non-DoD ID card holders. Be prepared with your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a valid photo ID for each person in the vehicle age 16 and over. All vehicles entering the installation are subject to be searched.

Independence Day Celebration Timeline

3pm: Kids Zone* and Food Trucks Open

5pm: Division Ceremony

5:50pm: Command Remarks

6pm: Concert Begins

10pm: Fireworks Show

*The Kids Zone will include inflatables of varying sizes and styles, a mobile climbing wall, archery tag, an arts & crafts area, a party photo booth with props, and games with prizes including an inflatable axe throwing booth and soccer darts. You can keep the children entertained at the Kids Zone while waiting for the concert to begin for only $5 per child.

Check the MWR Facebook page for announcement of the concert performers!

If you are reading this, chances are you understand the struggles of being a military spouse. There are many things that come with being a military spouse and they are a lot more difficult than one might think. Thankfully, there are veteran spouses out there that are open to sharing tips and tricks on how to navigate this crazy life.

Military spouses battle many things throughout their partner’s time in the service. We have been highlighting a few of them every month, and this month we would like to discuss issues that are faced in the workforce. When you are constantly moving and the sole care provider for children, it can be difficult to find a standard office job. Luckily, work-from-home jobs are taking the workforce by storm.

They are an excellent way to have a more adaptable schedule and avoid the stress of a daily commute. Additionally, it can be an ideal option for those who have family obligations, frequent moving, or health issues that make working in a traditional office setting challenging. Working from home can also increase productivity and job satisfaction, as employees are often more comfortable and relaxed in their own environment. Did I mention that you are still able to work when your kids are sick, again?

If you are on the hunt for a work-from-home job, be sure to use safe and legitimate sites when applying. Unfortunately, there are many scams out there that are fishing for your personal information.

There are a few websites that post verified work-from-home jobs, which is a great place to start.

Flexjobs.com

There is a fantastic virtual job board called FlexJobs that has an extensive list of over 50 remote work categories. You can find pre-screened positions that range from freelance gigs to part-time work, and even full-time jobs. The remote careers available through FlexJobs vary from entry-level to executive, so there’s something for everyone. Currently, there are more than 20,000 job postings for those working from home or as digital nomads.

Remote.co

If you’re on the lookout for remote work opportunities, Remote.co is an excellent resource to explore. This platform provides a hand-picked list of remote jobs that you can easily search or browse based on job type. Whether you're interested in customer service, design, development, HR, sales, or other online jobs like writing or marketing, you’re sure to find something that fits your skills and interests.

JustRemote.co

JustRemote offers a wide range of job verticals to choose from, including Development, Marketing and Design, HR, and Customer Success positions. One of the best features of their virtual job board is the ability to filter roles by location, making it easy to find positions that suit your needs. Additionally, JustRemote clearly highlights whether positions have specific country or time overlap requirements, giving you all the information you need to make an informed decision.

RatRaceRebellion.com

Rat Race Rebellion posts everything from side gigs to part-time jobs and full-time careers. No matter your availability, this website shares opportunities every day.

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors and live music, you won’t want to miss out on the Downtown @ Sundown Concert Series! This exciting event takes place on the first and third Fridays of every month from May to October. The best part? Each event is completely free and includes a night of amazing music and entertainment. There will also be a variety of independent food trucks available for hungry concert-goers, as well as drinks for purchase. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets, but please note that pets, coolers, smoking/vaping, and outside alcohol are not permitted on site. Visit the Downtown Commons’ Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on all events.

Schedule:

May 5 - Matt Stell

May 19 - Local Night

June 2 - Ace Party Band

June 16 - World Turning (Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band)

July 7 - Highway to Hell & Ultimate Def Leppard (AC/DC & Def Leppard Tribute Band)

July 21 - Shining Star (Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute Band)

August 4 - Hollywood Swingin’ (Kool & the Gang Tribute Band)

August 18 - Rubik’s Groove

September 1 - Ashley Cooke & Kylie Morgan

September 15 - Night Train (Guns N Roses Tribute Band)

October 6 - American Floyd (Pink Floyd Tribute Band)

October 20 - The Wildflowers (Tom Petty Tribute Band)

Father’s Day is a special occasion to celebrate the important role that fathers play in our lives. It's a day to honor and show appreciation for all the love, support, and guidance that they provide. Whether it's a simple card or a thoughtful gift, taking the time to acknowledge the fathers in our lives can make a big difference. If you are hoping to find some amazing Father's Day gifts to express your appreciation, here are a few ideas.

12” Screen Magnifier for Smartphone

The screen magnifier works just like a phone projector screen, effectively doubling the size of your screen so you can enjoy movies and videos on your smartphone to the fullest in HD.

Sold on Amazon by Dizaul

Cleaning Gel for Your Car

This cleaning gel is designed to clean car air vents, steering wheels, console panels, storage bins, cup holders, door handles, dashboards, and other hard-to-reach spaces.

Sold on Amazon by Pulidiki

Vibration Massage Seat Cushion

This massage cushion with 6 powerful vibrating massage motors targets the upper back, mid back, lower back, and thighs to help relax muscle tension and stress. You can even select all 4 zones at once or individually to your liking.

Sold on Amazon by Snailax

16-Color Toilet Night Light

Superior motion detection sensor detects movements within 5 feet and the nightlight glowing inside the toilet bowl in the dark, automatically turns off after 2 minutes if no motion is detected prolonging battery life.

Sold on Amazon by Chunace

Best BBQ Grill Mat

The one and only 600 DEGREE Peak Temperature PFOA-free BBQ grill and smoke mat. It is perfect for your next BBQ.

Sold on Amazon by KONA

Men’s Lightweight Waffle Robe

What is better than gifting your loved one with a super cozy robe that he can wear around the house? This one has amazing reviews about its quality and texture.

Sold on Amazon by Amazon Essentials

Legacy Tool Bag

This is a rugged and roomy tool bag that features a molded, load-bearing, abrasionresistant base. It has a large, zippered main compartment, 23 exterior pockets and loops, and 11 interior pockets.

Sold on Amazon by Carhartt

Magnetic Wireless Power Bank

This fast wireless portable charger supports 7.5W iPhone 14/13/12 for fast wireless charging. It also supports a USB-C 18W PD input and output.

Sold on Amazon by IWalk

Ranger 2.0 with Stand, Smokeless Fire Pit

This camping stove features a Signature 360° Airflow and double wall design with bottom vent holes for oxygen to feed the fire from below, creating a burst of hot air over the fire and reducing the smoke without the use of batteries and fans in your fireplaces. Enjoy a fire without the post-fire smell in your hair and clothes.

Sold on Amazon by the Solo Stove Store

Mystery Tackle Box

Each Mystery Tackle Box PRO Multi-Species fishing kit contains about $40 retail value of the best quality fishing lures targeting freshwater Bass, Panfish, and Catfish. This includes a variety of hard baits, soft plastics, and terminal tackle (6-7 items).

Sold on Amazon by Catch Co

Are you looking forward to reading some great books this summer? It always enjoyable finding a good novel to get lost in while lounging at the beach or by the pool. Summer is the perfect time to dive into a new book and let your imagination run wild. The hottest books of Summer 2023 are listed here.

Bad Summer People

by Emma Rosenblum

“Jen Weinstein and Lauren Parker rule the town of Salcombe, Fire Island every summer. They hold sway on the beach and the tennis court, and are adept at manipulating people to get what they want. Their husbands, Sam and Jason, have summered together on the island since childhood, despite lifelong grudges and numerous secrets. Their one single friend, Rachel Woolf, is looking to meet her match, whether he's the tennis pro—or someone else's husband. But even with plenty to gossip about, this season starts out as quietly as any other. Until a body is discovered, face down, off the side of the boardwalk.”

Small Mercies

by Dennis Lehane

“In the summer of 1974 a heatwave blankets Boston and Mary Pat Fennessy is trying to stay one step ahead of the bill collectors. Mary Pat has lived her entire life in the housing projects of “Southie,” the Irish American enclave that stubbornly adheres to old tradition and stands proudly apart. One night Mary Pat’s teenage daughter Jules stays out late and doesn't come home. That same evening, a young Black man is found dead, struck by a subway train under mysterious circumstances.”

Happy Place

by Emily Henry

“Harriet and Wyn have been the perfect couple since they met in college—they go together like salt and pepper, honey and tea, lobster and rolls. Except, now—for reasons they’re still not discussing—they don’t. They broke up five months ago. And still haven’t told their best friends. Which is how they find themselves sharing a bedroom at the Maine cottage that has been their friend group's yearly getaway for the last decade. Their annual respite from the world, where for one vibrant, blissful week they leave behind their daily lives; have copious amounts of cheese, wine, and seafood; and soak up the salty coastal air with the people who understand them most.”

The Half Moon

by Mary Beth Keane

“Malcolm Gephardt, handsome and gregarious longtime bartender at the Half Moon, has always dreamed of owning a bar. When his boss finally retires, Malcolm stretches to buy the place. He sees unquantifiable magic and potential in the Half Moon and hopes to transform it into a bigger success, but struggles to stay afloat.”

The Guest

by Emma Cline

“Summer is coming to a close on the East End of Long Island, and Alex is no longer welcome. A misstep at a dinner party, and the older man she's been staying with dismisses her with a ride to the train station and a ticket back to the city. With few resources and a waterlogged phone, but gifted with an ability to navigate the desires of others, Alex stays on Long Island and drifts like a ghost through the hedged lanes, gated driveways, and sun-blasted dunes of a rarefied world that is, at first, closed to her. Propelled by desperation and a mutable sense of morality, she spends the week leading up to Labor Day moving from one place to the next, a cipher leaving destruction in her wake.”

You Have to Be Prepared to Die Before You Can Begin to Live: Ten Weeks in Birmingham That Changed America

by Paul Kix

“It’s one of the iconic photographs of American history: a Black teenager, a policeman and his lunging German Shepherd. Birmingham, Alabama, May of 1963. In May of 2020, as reporter Paul Kix stared at a different photo–that of a Minneapolis police officer suffocating George Floyd–he kept returning to the other photo taken half a century earlier, haunted by its echoes. What, Kix wondered, was the full legacy of the Birmingham photo? And of the campaign it stemmed from?”

Yellowface

by R. F. Kuang

“Authors June Hayward and Athena Liu were supposed to be twin rising stars. But Athena’s a literary darling. June Hayward is literally nobody. Who wants stories about basic white girls, June thinks. So when June witnesses Athena's death in a freak accident, she acts on impulse: she steals Athena's just-finished masterpiece, an experimental novel about the unsung contributions of Chinese laborers during World War I.”

You Look Beautiful Tonight

by L. R. Jones

“Mia Anderson is an invisible woman. An unremarkable thirty-two-year-old Tennessee librarian, she's accustomed to disappearing in a crowd, unseen and unheard. Then she receives an anonymous note: You look beautiful today.”

Charcuterie boards are quickly becoming a popular choice for entertaining guests. They typically consist of a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and crackers. Charcuterie boards are a great way to impress guests and offer a delicious and visually appealing spread for any occasion. Below are a few ideas to add to your next board.

Ingredient Ideas

Prosciutto

Salami

Chorizo

Brie

Gouda

Cheddar

Grapes

Apples

Blueberries

Honey

Jam

Almonds

Pistachios

Crackers

Pretzels

Bread

Rosemary

Hummus

Thyme

Olive Oil

Carrots

Broccoli

Celery

Tips:

Be sure to have 2 ounces of food for each guest

• Use pre-sliced ingredients

• Pair with a nice wine.

• Use bright-colored fruits and ingredients

• The 3,3,3,3 rule: 3 meats, 3 cheeses, 3 starches, and 3 accompaniments

Join us for Warrior Summer—all summer long!

Warrior Summer is a USO program for military families to participate in to stay connected during the summer months. Activities include recreational activities in the community. It’s a chance to get outdoors and explore with the USO. More information will be available at https://fortcampbell.uso.org/

For the most up to date information on USO programs, visit our website: https://fortcampbell.uso.org/events

Does the date of June 14, 1775, ring a bell to you? It is the day that the United States Army was born. The U.S. Army was founded when the Congress of the United States established the First Continental Army.

It was created due to the crucial need for professionally trained soldiers to fight the British forces. Before the Army was created, most fighting was done by untrained farmers who soldiered on a part-time basis.

Today, the U.S. Army is the largest branch of the military with over 1,018,000 soldiers.

The holiday is a day that is celebrated by soldiers, dependents, families, and veterans. To celebrate, there are usually balls and parties in the Washington, DC area for members of the Army.

Other celebrations include the laying of a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Virginia, as well as cakecuttings, sporting events, and other local celebrations.

It is also a great day to host a small bbq with a few of your closest Army-affiliated friends. Break out some black and gold decorations and celebrate the Army turning 248.