"Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain
security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one'
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)

Weather Watch: hot, humid and storms (1,2,3). Showers, cooler (4,5) turning fair and rather warm (6,7,8,9). Storms, warmer (10,11,12); hazy, hot, and humid (13,14,15). Showers, storms (16,17,18) returning to hazy, hot and humid weather again (19,20,21,22). More showers and storms (23,24) turning fair and not so hot (25,26,27). Yet more showers and storms (28,29) ending the month fair and very warm.

Full Moon: Native Americans named July’s Full Moon the Thunder Moon because of the many severe thunderstorms occurring during this time of year. It has also been referred to as the Buck Moon because of the rapid growth of antlers in young bucks during this period and Ripe Corn Moon because young corn begins to appear on the stalks. It is also July’s Full Moon rises on the 25th at 8:37 PM.

Special Notes: The Dog Days of Summer begin on Saturday, July 3rd. In this month, General George Washington took command of the Continental Army in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1775. 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 our Day of Independence on Sunday, July 4th safely. When planning to be outdoors, always take along plenty of sunscreen with a rating of SPF 15 or higher and remember to apply it frequently to yourself and to children, especially if swimming. If your fun includes boating this holiday, remember that alcohol and "boater’s hypnosis", which can effect you after long periods exposed to the sun, glare, noise, and vibration can be deadly. Practice good sense when having fun on the water with family and friends.

The Garden: Expect plants to do well with all of the extra rain in July.

If you have to divide plants, give them a chance to recover from having their roots disturbed by keeping them in the shade for at least a week. 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.

If working outside in hot sun, be sure to talk salt tablets and drink plenty of water. Take frequent breaks in the shade.

John Gruber’s Thought for Today’s Living:

"Do not regard liberty and freedom so lightly that you forget their value and take them for granted"