Dear Reader,

School’s out for summer and I’m not sure who is more excited, me or the kids!  I think we are all enjoying the change of routine and the chance to relax a bit from the day-to-day stresses that the regular school year brings.

I’ve always felt like Stillwater is more relaxed during the summer too. There is still a lot to do and enjoy, though. The arts are alive and well in Stillwater during the summer. The Community Band kicks off its summer concert series on Thursday, June 9. The concerts are held at the Community Center’s Winfrey Houston Theater at 7pm each Thursday in June. Town and Gown Theatre will present the final production of its 65th season in June, “Into the Woods.”

Summer on the Plaza is another great family event. Held at the OSU Student Union Plaza, festivities start at 6pm and feature everything from live music to Zumba to water slides and free movie showings.

Don’t miss the Farmers’ Market at Strickland Park to get the very best that local growers and producers have to offer. The market is open Wednesdays and Saturdays 8am-1pm.  Perhaps you want to learn more about gardening for your own benefit and pleasure? The Botanic Garden at OSU will host two open houses in June and they also host programs for kids as well as a Master Gardening series.  We have an article in this issue with more about what’s new at TBG at OSU.

This month, the Stillwater Public Library kicks off their summer reading events with programs for children, teens, and adults. Visit their website at http://library.stillwater.org/ to learn more about summer at your library–or better yet, stop by!  I can never say enough about our local library and all they offer to Stillwater citizens. I’m a huge fan.

Don’t forget the great outdoors either! Be sure to check out the newly opened Boomer Lake splash pad and visit all the great parks found throughout Stillwater. We’ve got a couple of articles this month that will help you plan out a day or two of activities. For more ideas, the team at Visit Stillwater are a great resource.

As for me and my family? I’m looking forward to slowing down, spending more time with our friends and family, and maybe hopping in Jefferson’s ‘71 Buick GS convertible to take a drive around town. After all, summer evenings are the best time for a cruise around Stillwater with the top down.

Welcome Summer!