From the editor.

When I lived in New York, I was surprised to find that many of my friends and coworkers had never visited the Statue of Liberty, never peered off the observation deck at the Empire State Building, never watched the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons float down Broadway. There seems to be a feeling among native New Yorkers that these cultural icons will always be there, so there's no rush to take advantage of them, even though millions of tourists travel to the city to enjoy these sights each year.

Though maybe not to the same degree, I think Mississippians have some of that same complacency about our own cultural resources. Without the fresh perspective of a visitor from out of state, it can be difficult to appreciate the historic landmarks and natural beauty in our own backyard. We strive to remind you of these great places in each issue, but this summer, we're going a step further by making it impossible for you to resist visiting Mississippi's top attractions.

Inside this issue, you'll find a special "Passport to Summer Fun," for which we've pulled together exclusive discounts on admission and souvenirs at 25 of the state's most outstanding destinations. What better excuse for a summer road trip? Just carry our passport booklet along as you do everything from eating hot dogs at a Minor League baseball game to standing under the old trees at William Faulkner's Rowan Oak. These are truly unique experiences and adventures that we're sure you won't want to miss.

In the course of five years as editor of Mississippi Magazine, I have had my own opportunities to explore just about every corner of this state. My adventures have taken me on a bumpy boat ride to Horn Island, to the birthplace of the fried pickle in Hollywood, to the riverside bluffs of Natchez, and to the restored splendor of Meridian's Grand Opera House. I've dined on slugburgers in Corinth, eaten fried grits in Clarksdale, sampled Leatha's heavenly barbecued ribs in Hattiesburg, and spun the lazy Susan at the Dinner Bell in McComb. I've visited towns with names like Soso, Whynot, Red Lick, and Hot Coffee, and encountered some of the most interesting and genuinely caring people I have ever known.

Now I prepare to embark on another life adventure outside of the state, but among all of the moving boxes and bubble wrap, I'll be taking along all of the great memories I've collected during my time here. It has been exciting to crisscross the state's highways and winding country roads, seeing places and things I couldn't have discovered anywhere else. But more importantly, it has been an honor and a blessing to be able to share these discoveries with you.

Dear readers, friends, and all whom I have worked with and laughed with here at Mississippi Magazine, I wish each of you a summer--and a lifetime--filled with happy adventures.

Kelli L. Bozeman