I’m bored.

It’s the timeless catchphrase that makes summer summer for countless parents everywhere.

But parents and children in the Miss-Lou had little excuse for allowing the boredom to persist for too long this summer.

Thanks to the efforts of several non-profit entities in town, children have had the chance to explore, play, learn and grow at little or no cost to mom and dad.

Among those offering frequent programs for youngsters are Historic Jefferson College and the Natchez National Historical Park.

From Civil War camp to slime, Historic Jefferson College has done it all this summer.

The National Park Service had a series of Junior Ranger programs teaching children about the nature and culture of Natchez.

The local libraries are always full of summer events, and Alcorn State University, Copiah-Lincoln Community College, Natchez Little Theatre and the Boys & Girls Club have offerings as well.

As summer begins to wind down the agencies and volunteers who put on these summer programs deserve a thank you.

Every minute that children are off the couch and in the world is a minute they are learning. The ability to do so for free is important for many families.

The Miss-Lou is lucky to have programs that make that summer fun, not boring.