It seems hard to believe, but we are getting ready to round the corner to the second half of the year. We always do that with celebrations of our country’s independence, with days off from work, gatherings of friends and family and, of course, fireworks. This year the fireworks will begin at dusk on Sunday, July 3 with a rain date of July 9. Fireworks seem to elicit childhood feelings as we respond to the pop and glitter with oos and ahs…. so much fun.

Next is July 4th and the tradition continues as the Narrowsburg Fire Department will have its annual parade at 3 p.m., followed by its take-out chicken barbeque from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Come out and show your support for these important men and women volunteers in our community.

Have you been down to the park on the Flats lately? The basketball court has been refurbished and ornamental grasses are being planted around the perimeter of the playground to prevent small children from darting into the street. In keeping with Narrowsburg landscaping found throughout town, stacked stone planters will adorn the entranceway to the playground. We are pleased to have been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Sullivan County Plans and Progress program to continue to implement many of the aspects of the Multi-Generational Plan. Watch this summer as new equipment arrives.

The Narrowsburg Beautification Group (NBG) continues to prepare for the America in Bloom judges’ arrival on July 14. Plants and trees with multi-season appeal have been planted on Kirk Road and at the Route 97/Bridge Street fork. The NBG always welcomes new volunteers. Why not join this award winning group? There are small jobs needing attention, and you may be the right person for the job. For more information call 845/252-3864. In the meantime, enjoy the summer.