"The flames kindled on the 4 of July 1776, have spread over too much of
the globe to be extinguished by the feeble engines of despotism; on the contrary,
 they will consume these engines and all who work them"
                Thomas Jefferson (1762-1826)

Weather Watch: Showers and warm (1,2,3) turning fair and cooler (4,5,6). Warmer, humid weather with Storms (7,8,9,10) with hazy, hot and humid temperatures (11,12,13). Watch out for a Tropical Storm (14,15,16,17); warm, humid weather returns with more threat of Storms (18,19,20,21). Very warm with scattered showers (22,23,24,25) with fair skies (26,27,28). The month ends hazy, hot, and humid with possibility of more scattered showers (29,30,21).

Tornado Watch: The Almanack foresees tornado activity along the Mid-Atlantic coast from July 13th to the 15th.

Full Moon: Some Native Americans referred to July's Full Moon as Ripe Corn Moon because young corn began to appear on the stalks. It is also known as the Buck Moon because of the rapid growth of antlers in young bucks during July. Another popular reference was Thunder Moon because of the many severe thunderstorms that occurred at this time of the year. July's Full Moon rises on the 29th at 7:48PM EDST.

Special Notes: Those ol' Dog Days of Summer begin on Monday, July 3rd! On July 4th in 1776, the Continental Congress passed a resolution saying, "these United Colonies are, and of right, ought to be, free and independent states".

Holidays: Celebrate the 4th with safety in mind. If boating, remember that alcohol and "boater's hypnosis", which can effect you after long periods exposed to the sun, glare, noise, and vibration can be equally deadly. Practice good sense when having fun on the water and be sure to use plenty of sunblock, SPF 15 or higher.

The Garden: During dry weather, continue to keep the garden adequately watered. Remember, a deep, thorough soaking once a week is more beneficial than a daily light sprinkling. Be sure that all tall annuals and perennials are securely staked so that they will remain upright during the afternoon thunderstorms that are so common for this time of year. Allow roses to rest in July and August. Do not fertilize, but continue spraying, and give them a light pruning in July to encourage new fall growth.

The Grubers' Thought for Today's Living:

"It is a wise man who knows his limitations but makes the most of his abilities"