Monday

08-04-2025 Vol 2042

Reflecting on Summer: A Midseason Check-In

As summer reaches its midpoint, the clock is ticking on the warmer months we cherish.

The transition toward autumn can bring a sense of urgency, but this is also a moment to relish the remaining days of summer, making sure we fully embrace the season’s spirit.

In light of this, we’ve gathered a selection of stories that capture the essence of summer, inspiring you to dive into activities that celebrate this vibrant time of year.

Katie McInerney, a sports editor, highlights a pressing issue in Boston: the lack of venues that air women’s sports.

In response to this, a group of eight friends plans to open a local version of The Sports Bra, an Oregon-based bar focused exclusively on women’s sports.

Although no specific opening date has been announced, they are starting to engage the community with events, including a game-watching party for the New York Liberty versus Minnesota Lynx match.

As McInerney notes, the best way to show support for women’s sports is to participate and show up at these events.

The Globe Magazine recently featured an inspiring story about the New England Breakers, an exceptional women’s soccer team that traveled to South Africa for the Grannies International Football Tournament.

With a lineup that includes players over 70 and none younger than 50, the Breakers prove that age is no barrier to athleticism.

As Stacey Myers, a web producer, expresses, the remarkable stories of these athletes motivate readers to get moving themselves.

As the summer heats up, the search for the perfect watermelon becomes a delightful mission.

In this humorous piece, Beth Teitell dives into the watermelon selection process, providing valuable insights while keeping readers entertained.

For residents and businesses affected by a protracted strike involving waste collection workers, the overflowing trash bins pose a significant problem during the summer.

Stella Tannenbaum reports that this situation has created a surge in rat populations, taking advantage of the excess waste—a stark reminder of summer’s less glamorous aspects.

In the food scene, Globe writer Devra First suggests a delicious alternative to pricey European travels: local dining experiences that evoke flavors from abroad.

In her June article, she highlights Boston-area eateries that can transport your palate to various international destinations without the hassle of airfare.

Recommendations include delectable French desserts at Bernadette in Salem and Basque-style tapas at Zurito in Beacon Hill.

These culinary adventures provide an escape, perfect for those looking to enjoy summer without straying too far from home.

If coastal camaraderie and breathtaking views are your ideal summer pursuits, look no further than Rhode Island.

Globe reporter Alexa Gagosz recommends a variety of activities in the area, including surfing at Narragansett Town Beach and hiking the scenic seaside cliffs in Newport.

Lylah Alphonse, the editor for Globe Rhode Island, emphasizes that amidst constant news cycles, opportunities for leisure allow us to recharge and rediscover joy.

This summer has also been filled with opportunities for celebration.

The Fourth of July festivities in the Boston area were particularly pronounced this year, marking the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.

In addition to Independence Day, various local events, such as the Juneteenth parade in Roxbury and the Festival Betances celebrating Latino culture, have brought communities together.

However, the summer’s events have had their share of controversy, as illustrated by the St. Mary of Carmen Society’s Italian American festival in Newton, which faced backlash over a local resident’s actions regarding street line colors.

As the summer progresses, there is much to be celebrated, whether it’s a beautiful Friday evening or the upcoming peak of the Perseid meteor shower next month.

Even as a heatwave surrounds us, it’s important to cherish the experiences summer offers, as we all know how quickly this season can come to an end.

As we close out this reflection on summer, let us consider the unique stories that have shaped our experiences and perhaps motivate us to find joy in the few weeks still ahead.

Whether looking for inspiration in sports, food, community events, or nature, each aspect of summer carries its charm and potential for memorable moments.

Let’s make the most of what remains, engaging in activities and celebrations that define the spirit of summer.

image source from:bostonglobe

Abigail Harper