Dear Readers,

The Summer Knows…” has been one of my favorite pieces of music since I was a teenager. I remember hearing an instrumental version and asking an elder relative for its title. It won an Academy Award in 1971 for Best Original Dramatic Score (from the movie, The Summer of ‘42) and if you listen, I am sure you will hear why. The melody touches your soul and transports you somewhere back in time, to a stately historical resort of days gone by. The song also won a Grammy for Best Instrumental Composition and was recorded by a variety of artists including Barbra Streisand, Frank Sinatra and Andy Williams. While the lyrics are also beautiful, it is really the melody that will linger with you.

One of the first times I remember visiting the Poconos (I’m sure I was not even in Kindergarten) was to an allblack resort in the 70s near Mt. Airy called Butte’s Lodge. Our family’s friend, who was a native of the island of St. Vincent and lived in Brooklyn, would summer there and invited us to a Sunday dinner. Although the lodge and its premise have long gone, my sisters recall the lovely formal atmosphere (gloved dinner service) and a day spent seeing the Pocono sights.

Depicted on this month’s cover is a painting of Skytop, painted by artist Austin Burke. Skytop is enjoying its 95th year in 2023. My family and I love our quiet escapes to the Pocono Mountains surrounding us, even if it is just for a few hours. A lovely Sunday afternoon drive is just what the doctor ordered and will leave you feeling refreshed and

And speaking of inspiration, this is one issue of may take a little longer to read. Included are several features of Inspiring Men who are making their mark on the region. The idea to shed a spotlight on inspirational men came three years ago from our account manager, Linette Manley. Linette is tasked with the most important and challenging role of finding support for this little staple of the region. When she first brought her idea of featuring men to my attention (citing all of the focus that the world now places on celebrating women’s history and achievements), I was skeptical. “Linette,” I said, “highlighting men won’t work. The reason that the world has so many recognition and awards programs for women is that we were ignored for so long. Men always had the spotlight; I think solely highlighting them is a bit odd, but go ahead and try it if you want,” I told her. A part of me did feel guilty about all the attention given to women. I actually do feel that men may now be left out a bit. So here we are. Perhaps, like many trends throughout history, the pendulum is swinging back.

We are confident you will enjoy reading about each of the inspiring gentlemen in this issue, and look for many more in upcoming months.

Our very best Father’s Day wishes to all the dads reading as well.

With Love, Paula Paula Mackarey Publisher 1994-Present