First day of summer

(June 20, 2013) Summer officially begins here tomorrow morning at 1:04 with the summer solstice. The timing of the solstice depends on when the Sun reaches its farthest point north of the equator. The day has the most hours of sunlight during the entire year.

The word solstice is from the Latin "solstitium," "sol" (sun) and "stitium" (to stop), reflecting the fact that the Sun appears to stop at this time (and again at the winter solstice). In temperate regions, the Sun is higher in the sky throughout the day, and its rays strike Earth at a more direct angle, causing the efficient warming of summer.

In our area most schools close for the summer. Living is more laid back and families plan vacations during this time. Outdoor events, including farmers' markets, are plentiful.

Keep abreast of what's happening in your town and more by reading Recorder Community Newspapers and their blogs online at newjerseyhills.com. Anyone interested in joining the growing group of Recorder bloggers is invited to call me at (908) 832-7420 or e-mail me at panderson@recordernewspapers.com to find out about blogging, a free, simple communication tool.

June is bustin' out all over

(June 11, 2013) June is a month of celebrations from end-of-school events, to graduations, weddings, plus start of summer celebrations. Flag Day is Friday, June 14, and Father's Day is Sunday, June 16. Everyone seems to be in a happy mood with the beautiful weather of moderate temperatures, blue skies and flowering gardens.

Keep abreast of what's happening in your town and more by reading Recorder Community Newspapers and their blogs online at newjerseyhills.com. Anyone interested in joining the growing group of Recorder bloggers is invited to call me at (908) 832-7420 or e-mail me at panderson@recordernewspapers.com to find out about blogging, a free, simple communication tool.