Garden report: The tomatoes have been hit with the blight that causes the leaves to turn yellow then brown. The tops are still green and blossoming but it cuts the output.
The beans are still producing and the onions are ready to be picked. I will do another planting of lettuce.
I have cut mint, lemon verbena and dill to dry. I also have flowers in my house from my garden. That is the best part of summer, to have fresh flowers in bloom.
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Condolences to the family and friends of Lucy Wilson Benson, who was a local treasure. For many area women, she was a role model for her League of Women involvement. She was a regular at many Amherst League functions and I met her often, including at her home.
Decades ago, there was a local League meeting at the home of Janet Dakin, which is now the Renaissance Center. The topic was allowing men to join the League. I was opposed. At that time with co-ed organizations, men were presidents and women were secretaries. I didn’t want that to happen. However, Lucy made the point it would be discriminatory to exclude a group. You can’t argue with that.
The League is still making that point with its focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.
I am in charge of membership and all are welcome, the only limitation is age — you have to be 16.
We will be having our membership drive in September, if interested call or email me or see me at one of the upcoming outdoor concerts.
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The homes of Amherst literary figures are now identified with posted signs to celebrate their accomplishments and connection to our community. The ones I have seen so far are on Amity Street for the Field house, on Lincoln Avenue for the Juster house and Sunset Avenue for the Frost House. It’s part of the Literary Walk developed by the Cultural Council. Take a walk and look.
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Save the date: The Amherst Rotary Club will hold the traditional community fair Aug. 28 on the Town Common. The fair was usually held in May, but the pandemic has altered many events and schedules. The fair is usually several days, but I could find no listing of dates on the Rotary website or the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce website. It could begin Thursday or Friday and end Saturday or Sunday.
I know Aug. 28 is definite since the Farmers Market will be back on the Spring Street parking lot that date, according to the market manager.
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