Roses and hydrangeas are in bloom, sidewalks swept clean, windows flung open to the muggy air. Grocery stores are stocked with hot dogs and lemonade. Farm stands are a painterly study in fresh lettuce, sugar snap peas and sweet strawberries still warm from the field. Bunting is draped across white picket fences and the fashionable colors for the weekend are of course red, white and blue.

The Island celebrates its own unique brand of Independence Day, blending Main Street America with summer resort. It is a happy, easy time, a time for families to spend together with shoes off and hair frizzed by the soft, damp weather.

The Gazette extends its warmest wishes to all Islanders for a safe and happy Fourth of July.