Letter From The Editor
“Summer afternoon - summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.” - Henry James, writer
Dear Readers,
I’m sure Henry James was not a young pupil when he uttered that saying, but I know as a child anticipating summer vacation, I would have completely agreed with his words.
My summertime fun in the sun began with the ringing of the last bell of the last school day. Finally, it was time to put away the books, stash the backpack and forget about anything to do with academics… at least for the next three months.
I remember anticipating just how I was going to spend my next 90 days… sleepovers, sprinklers, picnics, beach vacations, amusement parks, fireworks, lazy days at the pool, ice cream every night… the possibilities were endless. I had almost three glorious months to fit it all in. Fast forward nearly 30 years. I still find myself anticipating the beginning of summer for all the same reasons, well, except for the sleepovers.
So, if you are like me and love a cold treat on a hot summer night, check out “Scoops & Smoothies” on page 46. Mary Beth Schwartz tells us about some local dairies serving up fresh treats that are sure to cool you down. And, speaking of homegrown, there is nothing like fresh-picked corn at a backyard barbeque. Angela Bristow takes us on a tour of some of the Valley’s finest farmers’ and outdoor markets in “The Fresh Outdoors,” on page 68.
From flower-like fountains to fancy rockets that explode into heart shapes and smiley faces, fireworks are bigger and brighter than ever. But there is much more to pyrotechnics than meet the eyes (and ears). Frederick Jerant takes us through a history lesson and fills us in on just what makes those flashes of light so breathtaking.
But before you head out for all that fun in the sun, take heed and read “Summer Bummers” by Kathryn D’Imperio. She clues us in on some of the most common summer health woes and gives us tips on how to prevent, detect and treat them. Follow her advice and you’ll be sure to stay safe.
Have a great summer,
Amy Hines – Editor
[email protected]