Deadline for turning this column in to the Hungry Horse News is noon on Monday. Consequently, I usually write it on Sunday afternoon and, rarely, early Monday morning. This week it's Monday morning.

I'm trying to get used to the idea that it's almost the Fourth of July. First it seemed that the snow would never melt in my front yard, and when it did - in late May - it has seemed as if the weather would never warm up.

It hasn't yet. At 7 a.m. today it was 35 degrees Fahrenheit - not exactly summer weather only a week before the Fourth. It has been just what the doctor ordered to avoid major flooding.

The river has been high for weeks, approaching flood stage several times but never quite going over the top. It's still near flood stage today, and the North Fork may not be clear until mid-July, but I am convinced the worst danger is over. The weather will warm up enough to get rid of the whining mosquitoes, and we will have another wonderful summer on the North Fork. In fact, it has already started.

There has been one North Fork Landowners Association business meeting as well as a game night and a dance at Sondreson Hall and even several outdoor activities.

The first community river float was scheduled for last Wednesday, and I intended to go to the launch site to record the names of next of kin but got tied up swatting mosquitoes. Heard later that the float was canceled. A smart move given river conditions.

I suppose the river is navigable if you have good equipment and experience, but not a wise thing if, like me, you are in your 70s. For sure, you should wear your life jacket, not just have it in the boat like many do in late summer.

To add to the feeling of summer, most summer residents are here or will arrive soon. Already we have gathered several Fridays for pizza at the Northern Lights, and I have heard that the prime rib on Saturday is terrific too. In fact, everyone agrees the food is great and the service superb every day of the week.

Same thing at the Merc. Friendly staff, great baked goods and a wide ranging inventory of art, photos, souvenirs and grocery items.

If you haven't visited Polebridge lately, a great time to visit is the Fourth of July. The famous parade starts at noon sharp. As usual, the parade route goes past the Merc, out to the North Fork Road and then back to the Merc. It's a true, old-fashioned community parade, with vintage cars, horses, mules, kids, American flags and maybe a little satire.

Best of all are the people. Be sure and ask Ted Ramon about his nomination as an expert marksman and how he got the nickname Hipshot. See you there.

Don't forget the NFLA meeting at 8 p.m. on Saturday July 2. It's Betsy Holycross' next to last meeting as president and she might already be celebrating.

Finally, the first ecumenical church service will be at 10:30 a.m. on July 3 and every Sunday thereafter.