Dear reader,

June gloom.

It’s what I’ve been experiencing over the last 30 days. Between the tragedy that struck Seattle and the Eastside a few weeks ago, and the crummy weather that’s been keeping me indoors, I’ve been a bit down.

Yet, as I sit here in the dim of the newsroom, watching the rain pour down, I can’t help but believe (hope) that the worst is behind us. Any day now the sun is going to come out and everything is just going to get better.

But maybe that’s just the optimist in me.

As we embark on the lovely month of July, we’ve got a lot to look forward to: Bellevue Arts Week, the Bellwether sculpture exhibition, a slew of tasty summer treats (think kabobs and cocktails in the backyard). We’ve also got a lot to celebrate: America’s birthday, my birthday (if you so please) and a community chock-full of some of the most creative people in the world.

This month’s cover story gives you a peek into the genius that is Mike Lull. Who, you might ask? The world-renowned bass maker – and long time Eastsider – whose clientele includes some of the biggest names in rock and roll.

We’ve also got the scoop on up-and-coming hip hop act, Kung Foo Grip, and a look at “The Conviction,” the newest release from Eastside-based author Robert Dugoni.

Need to keep busy? You’ll also find a number events going on around the Eastside this month. Concerts, movies in the park – the works. It’s time to brush the gloom away and play in the sun.

Rather, let’s dance in the rain.

- Keegan Prosser