I usually spend Memorial Day Weekend at home, enjoying the relative peace as the city empties for holiday getaways. I prefer a quiet chance to think about a friend who finished high school with me, joined the military, and died in Iraq the same year I graduated college. He was 23.
Associate editor Kyle has written before about how summer feels somber to him. As Philly baked in dangerous heat for multiple days before the start of June this year, I can feel that, especially as the summertime doings I'd normally look forward to—parties, a little travel, or just a cool afternoon at the movie theater—are still a Covid risk.
In her essay this week, Roz Warren reminds us that even when everything feels bleak, we can choose to be prepared when crisis hits home. A first-aid class she took years ago at the library let her save a life, and she urges everyone to take the same opportunity. You never know when someone nearby will need help—or when you might be grateful that someone was ready to help you.
And we're still sending thanks to everyone who donated to BSR and joined us for last week's virtual event with R. Eric Thomas. It was a fun conversation you won't hear anywhere else, and it's not too late to tune in: anyone who donates in the month of June will get access to a recording of the event.
As we sweat our way into summer this week, I'll include another worthy read below, written by a New Jersey native who has advice for everyone in Philly heading down the shore.
