EDITOR’S LETTER Tortilla time
HUNGRY? I bet you will be after reading Ann Christenson’s ode to tacos (starting on page 40). These tasty treasures may have originated in Mexico, but they belong to the world now, with chefs of all heritages putting their own spin on the tradition. Ann ate her way through dozens of tacos in order to determine the true standouts for this list of the top 25. When she returned to the office after her reconnaissance missions, we invariably asked, “Are you sick of tacos yet?” The answer was always no. Ann’s dedication and inquisitive palette are truly an asset to the magazine!
When I moved here last year, I planned to keep a swimsuit in my car’s trunk at all times during the summer months so that I could take a dip in Lake Michigan anytime the mood struck. Then reality set in. I’d hoped that the water wasn’t quite as cold as it seemed when I was a kid, but alas, it is. Still, I kept my eye on the temperature, vowing to take the plunge as soon as the water hit 70 degrees. Just as the conditions were approaching what I deemed if not optimal, then at least acceptable, people started offering unsolicited warnings. There was talk of flesh-eating diseases and rashes, not to mention stomach irritation. I was torn between my desire to commune with this body of water that I so love looking at, and a fear of emerging from my swim with a face full of unsightly bumps. While I was still deliberating, the moment of opportunity passed. A storm blew in and the water cooled, never to hit 70 again that season.
It was during that time that I came across a blog, LakeMichiganSwimmers.blogspot.com. The entries recounted the exploits of a loose-knit group that swims on a regular basis off of Klode Beach in Whitefish Bay. They took on mythical proportions to me, particularly after my fears prevented me from enjoying a swim myself. I’m thrilled with Kristine Hansen’s story about them, which starts on page 23.
If the magazine seems a bit heavier than usual this month, it’s because it’s our biggest issue ever, in terms of the number of pages. We’ve packed those pages with plenty of great stories, so be sure to take this issue with you when you head out to your preferred spot for summertime reading.
In the meantime, look for me at the beach. I’ll be the person standing knee deep in the water, looking conflicted.