VUE Long Island

D E A R R E A D E R , is cover felt right from the moment the idea came to me. Flashback to 1996. You're playing in the yard while your mom packs the car for a family vacation. e cooler is loaded, beach chairs are somehow squeezed into every available space, and there's a certain excitement in the air that only summer can bring. en you hear it: "Kids, let's go, we're ready!" And just like that, you're off to the Hamptons. Of course, not before stopping at the iconic Big Duck. at feeling is what I wanted this issue to capture. As we celebrate America's 250th year, I find myself thinking about the things that stand the test of time: e traditions, the places, the symbols, and the memories that stay with us long aer summer ends. I've always had a creative vintage side that I love expressing through art and imagery, and this cover became my way of bringing those feelings to life. at idea of evolution became the inspiration for much of this issue. Inside these pages, we explore the evolution of America as we celebrate this historic milestone. We take a look at the bikini as it marks its 80th year, a fashion icon that has become synonymous with summer. We also revisit the Porsche, a timeless classic that remains a staple on Hamptons roads season aer season. While each story is unique, they all share something in common: they've evolved through the years while never losing what made them special in the first place. Bringing these stories to life visually was made even more meaningful thanks to my dear friend omas J. Louie, whose illustrations appear throughout this issue. His artwork brought these ideas to life in a way I could only hope for, and I hope you love them as much as I do. JAMIE-RAE L AWRENCE Ed i to r - i n - C h i ef My dear friend Thomas J Louie & I a few years back celebrating the 4th of July! Fun fact: omas's birthday is actually on the Fourth of July, which feels pretty fitting for an issue celebrating America's 250th birthday. Some things just have a way of coming together. One of my favorite parts of launching VUE Hamptons has been getting to know the incredible local businesses and people who make this community so unique. I can't wait to spend the summer walking through town, popping into shops, saying hello, and continuing to build relationships with the people who give the Hamptons its character and charm. If you're new here, hi. Welcome. I'm so happy you're here. My hope is that this issue brings you a sense of nostalgia, that it reminds you of summers past while inspiring you to create new memories this season. Most of all, I hope it makes you feel something. Because the best stories, the best photographs, and the best summers always do. Wishing you a beautiful summer,

• Cover