Summer is officially here and there’s so much to celebrate this month. For many, June means hitting the pool. Every summer my kids (now teenagers who are over it all) would be gifted a brand-new pair of swim trunks for Easter and look forward to the day when the school year would end. Summer days were all about hitting the family pool, practicing new somersaults from the diving board, and usually ended with them turning blue from the coldness of the water and suddenly starving for a poolside sandwich and some well-earned Chee Wees. In our main feature, we map out the top pools not only for kids and families, but for grown-ups that might want to revisit their own salad days. From chic pool clubs and bars to water park fun, there are lots of ways to stay cool and enjoy the first taste of summer. This month also marks the second anniversary of the Juneteenth Day Proclamation making June 19 a national holiday. The date marks the time when the enslaved people of Galveston, Texas were finally informed, later than most, that President Lincoln had signed and enacted the Emancipation Proclamation. Locally, New Orleans now celebrates the occasion with an official Juneteenth Festival held in Congo Square, although, as our feature writer explains, the traditions and observations of the date have a long and historic significance to the city. It is a celebration of culture and community, with (this being New Orleans, of course) plenty of culinary importance. Plus, we celebrate Pride Month by highlighting the work of fabulous drag/cabaret/burlesque/what-can-they-not do performers and owners of the always amazing Chance in Hell Snoballs in the Bywater, Kitten N’ Lou, in this month’s Persona. The two take us through their on- and off-stage adventures, with the promise of even bigger and better things to come. Finally, each June, we highlight dental professionals across the area providing top-notch care. And we get the inside information on anything and everything you might want to know about getting braces or aligners, with plenty of tips and tricks for the best care. And, of course, we have all the best things to do, places to eat and drink, recipes and more for the month ahead. June celebrations are a great way to connect with family and friends. For New Orleanians, it’s a great time to enjoy summer before the dog days descend, to embrace our history and to share in the community that brings us all together. Here’s to summer! Ashley McLellan, Editor
Ashley McLellan, Editor