As I write this month's editor's note, I'm sunburned. Parts of me are glowing in a wholly unnatural way simply because I forgot to use enough sunscreen.

But that is part of the charm of living in Eastern North Carolina. The summers here are hot, and the sun can cook you in a matter of a couple of hours. If you're fair like me, you'd better own at least one can of unexpired SPF 30.

But despite the heat and sometimes overbearing humidity, this is the time of year to be outside, whether it be at the beach, playing golf, being poolside with friends or sitting on the patio of your favorite local restaurant.

For example, our cover model Jayne Cleve was beach bound as soon as we finished clicking a few photos for the magazine.

We decided on a patriotic theme for July and Cleve's cover is just the beginning. She's got those girl-next-door looks that make you think about the music of Bruce Springsteen and John Mellencamp as they sing about small-town America.

In keeping with the July 4th theme, the CD review this month is of "Patriotic Country 3," a collection of songs from Country music artists like Kenny Chesney, Waylon Jennings and LeAnn Rimes.

We also have a list of local and regional Independence Day celebrations that include Raleigh, New Bern and Washington N.C.

In X notes, the AST Dew Tour kicked off the weekend of June 20 with local rider Ryan Nyquist taking the first title in the dirt competition. As the defending dirt champion from last year, he feels this first win will help him with the rest of the tour.

Even though November seems a lifetime away, its time to submit your nominations for the 2008 30 under 30 issue. We're looking for exceptional men and women to spotlight.