Dear Friends and Readers,

We live in a thirsty world. Every day, it’s vital that each of us—along with every plant and animal on the planet—gets plenty of clean, fresh water. It’s so cheap and simple that we often take water for granted. Scientific research data, recent droughts, and climate predictions are causing some concern about the future of fresh water supplies and the health of oceans, lakes, and streams. Population growth, industrial pollution, Mother Nature and human wastefulness all have an impact on our natural resources. Most of these variables are beyond our control, but we can manage our individual choices. Awareness and appreciation are key.

Last year, our first water issue debuted, and it was so popular that we decided to continue it annually. I hope you find that learning more about the water that sustains you—both fresh water and the salty waters of our amazing Bay—heightens your sense of wonder at the gifts they give. And inspires you to be more conscious with water usage and conservation.

Do-it-yourself rainwater harvesting; rethinking bottled water choices; the future of fresh water supplies; the health of Galveston Bay; “water time” reading for kids; environmental toxins in our water; and a variety of other topics are featured in this issue.

If your favorite water is the kind that’s turned to wine, be sure and check out our spread on Clear Creek Winery and their new farm-to-table restaurant, Tabella. Both are getting rave reviews for their award-winning wine (produced on-site in Kemah) and their fresh dishes created from locally sourced food.

Join our online conversations! Our monthly op-ed articles create quite a bit of reader response on our website. We welcome your comments on these, and all of our articles at www.ChangeMediaOnline.com. Our website makes reading Change online easy!

Whether fishing, boating, swimming, or relaxing on the pier at Armand Bayou watching a gorgeous sunset, I hope your summer includes lots of water fun—and gratitude for its life-giving qualities.

Have a wet and wonderful summer!

Thanks for reading,

Carla