Wednesday evening: Waiting for the heat and humidity to really break . . .

1. Yay for fresh, local strawberries and fresh, local goat cheese!

2. Here's some great news!

Boston Globe

Breaking away from his treatment for brain cancer, Senator Edward Kennedy traveled to Washington today and made an emotion-filled return to the US Senate chamber where he cast the deciding vote to end a filibuster on a long-delayed Medicare bill.

Kennedy's surprise return to the chamber he has served in for nearly 45 years made for high drama. He arrived at a side entrance and went straight into Majority Leader Harry Reid's office. From there, he walked into the Senate chamber alongside Senator Barack Obama and his son, Congressman Patrick Kennedy, to a deafening cheer as the senators and visitors' gallery leapt to their feet.

Kennedy looked well and was smiling broadly. Colleagues from both parties hugged and kissed him as he made his way to his desk, where he waited for the applause to subside so he could vote.

3. So, folks who live near me . . . Does this sound like something cool? I am willing to find out how many of us we need to get together for a private class.

From Steve Barnes "Tablehopping" blog

The eponymous owner of Saso’s Japanese Noodle House in Albany is offering four sushi-making classes this summer. Participants will make a suhi lunch and dine together afterward. All classes run from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the following Saturdays: July 12 (this weekend) and 26, Aug. 9 and 23. The cost is $50 per person. Private classes for groups can also be arranged. Reservations are required. Call 436-7789. Saso’s is located at 218 Central Ave.

4. I am working on Their Highnesses' polls. You will figure that out shortly.

5. I hope everyone who goes to Great Northeastern War has a great time and thanks the autocrat and staff.

6. Can someone please post to the Maunche list that a Maunche medallion was found at Northern Region War Camp? Thanks. Folks can contact me.