Now that we’re in the midst of the Triple H’s–hazy, hot, and humid, it’s time to thank the various associations that have figured out ways for us to celebrate their existence. What would summer be like without ice cream, blueberries, and hot dogs? Here are a few month-long excuses:
–National Ice Cream Month. You have President Reagan to thank for this luxury of edible delights. In 1984 he decided the country needed a sweet focus. Don’t worry if you can’t celebrate the whole month, there’s even a special day, the third Sunday of the month, is National Ice Cream Day or what true aficionados would call a double scoop: A Month and a Day! Can’t go wrong with this sundae! OK, this year July 17th is the day. Here’s a few factoids: Vanilla is the most popular flavor, and chocolate syrup is the favorite topping.
–National Hot Dog Month. With all the effort we are making to keep the kitchen cool, the grill is in overtime mode. So many dog choices and different city traditions (Chicago, Coney Island), it’s no wonder that the hot dog is the summer cause cé·lè·bre. Now you can find turkey dogs, tofu dogs, and just about any other kind if you are trying to talk about a healthier food. Just think what would baseball stadiums do without the hot dog stand! Here’s your dog factoids: LA residents eat more hot dogs than any other city, but Chicago’s O’Hare Airport wins the airport battle. Big time win with 6 times more hot dogs consumed there than LA and La Guardia combined! They know their red hots!
–National Blueberry Month. If you’re missing the grocery or farm market cues about the blueberry, it just means you haven’t been out of the house! Those little blues have met their big city cousins as the local crop has finally arrived and has plenty to demonstrate. Sure Maine takes credit for the wild, little pearls, but North Carolina and New Jersey do a mid-coast dance demonstrating their size and juiciness. They’re here. No better time to consider freezing a few as fresh frozen from your stash tastes fabulous on cereals during those less fortunate winter months. Factoids: The blueberry muffin is the most popular choice (also the official muffin of Minnesota) and the blueberry is the state fruit of New Jersey, easy one to guess! If you follow the fruit/pesticide list, blueberries rank near the top (or at the bottom, depending on how you list a list), and should convince you to consider the organic path!
That’s probably enough to digest after a rollicking Independence Day celebration that continues for many into today. Know I’ve whet your whistle!
