Thumbs column

Before we "fast forward" into June and its myriad of family fun and comings and goings, let's pause to give a "Thumbs-up" and respectful salute this June 6 (Thursday), the 75th anniversary of D-Day, the largest seaborne operation in history.

The landings on Normandy Beach were a decisive victory for America and the Allied forces and we should never forget the heroic service and individual sacrifices made that day and continuing even now in trouble spots around the world.

Here is another "Thumbs-up" that recognizes the selfless service of an individual who has given so much to our community during a broadcasting career that spanned 31 years.

Radio personality Dick Antoine, who hosted the daily show, "Talk of the Town," on KZNG, reminded us of the importance of being an informed citizen and working with others in projects that are in the general best interest of the city and county.

"Thank you, Dick, for allowing so many persons to speak their minds and also for your friendship and good humor. Best wishes to you, Becky, and the family."

Meanwhile, this "Thumbs-up" to Terry at Hot Springs Tire and Auto is from Jessica Ekey, a Floridian who recently stopped over in the Spa City.

Concerned that her auto had run over something during a heavy rainstorm, Ekey stopped to have an undercarriage noise checked before continuing her trip.

When only a loose guard could be identified and then was resecured, she was able to continue her trip worry free. Terry declined payment for the service, just wishing her a safe trip to Kansas.

By the same token, here's a "Thumbs-up" to the staff and customers at Jason's Restaurant who last Wednesday evening offered to help shield me and two friends with their umbrellas ( and ours) as we attempted to get to our car during a downpour.

We had purposefully gone there early so as to avoid the rain that had been forecast but it started in earnest just as we got up to leave so we delayed our exit a bit.

We appreciated the courteous offers of assistance.

Meanwhile, here's a "Thumbs-up" and a "Thank you" to the readers who say they enjoy mentions of new books and interesting quotations passed along in this column.

Here are two of my recent favorites -- both found in author Jacqueline Winspear's new Maisie Dobbs novel, "The American Agent." The first is, "I do my job as though the soul were looking on."

The second is, "Coincidence is a messenger sent by truth."

Here is a "Thumbs-up" and some well-deserved cheers to National Park College athletic director Jason Hudnell for bringing a new sport to the campus.

Jessica Taylor, a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas at Conway and former starting catcher for the Bears, has been named the college's first softball head coach.

Taylor earned All-Southland Conference honors in 2014-2016 and was Female Student Athlete of the Year in 2014 and 2015. She also served two years as a graduate assistant coach for the Bears' softball program while studying for a master's degree in business administration.

The announcement about Taylor and the new sports program could not have come at a better time -- on Thursday, May 30, the beginning of the 2019 Division 1 Women's College World Series in Oklahoma City.

"We wish you all the best, Coach Taylor."

The Thumbs Column appears in The Sentinel-Record the first and third Wednesday of each month. The newspaper welcomes readers' comments and suggestions, which should be submitted with a name, telephone number and home address, for verification and contact purposes. This information is kept confidential.