We’ve finally reached and are basking in Western New York’s most glorious season. There is so much to do and so much to enjoy that it’s hard to choose, so the only advice I have for myself and others is pick something, anything, and get outside!

Summer is a great time to enjoy garden walks, flea markets, the zoo, aquarium, botanical gardens, craft shows, festivals, and food trucks. Canalside and RiverWorks are great destinations — and who doesn’t enjoy an evening at Shakespeare in the Park? Best of all, most of our summer events don’t cost anything!

July is also blueberry time. We had many requests for Dr. Healey’s previous article on the health of blueberries, so we decided to include it again. Blueberries are healthy, and incredibly easy to eat without having to peel, core, or cut them up, making them the perfect choice for recipes. There is also a special blueberry farmer in Clarence this year who is excited to bring the community his pesticide-free blueberries for picking or simply picking up.

On a more serious note, I learned a lot about the efforts of Millennium Collaborative Care and the Million Hearts Initiative. I met with organization leaders and local pastors who are working diligently to create healthier communities through various partnerships and initiatives. And we are proud to have them help us reach more readers in underserved areas to reduce health care disparities.

The goal of good health is something that affects us all – the rich, the poor, and everyone in between. It is so important that we invite you to see page 14 and help by responding to a survey that has a goal of making your voice heard regarding how you think we can improve health care. So do tell us, and enjoy this amazing weather!

Sincerely,

Annette