IF YOU ALL HAVE ANYTHING TO SAY ABOUT IT...THE HOT DOG WILL SURVIVE! Your response to my views on the push to abolish hot dogs in America's ball fields was amazing and I thank each of you for your support. I have read each email, enjoyed all of them. Special interest groups may not be as successful and powerful as they think they are!

It sounds like we are in for some stifling weather next week. I think shopping at one of the many farmer's markets around Kansas City to stock up on homegrown tomatoes is a good way to ensure some delicious hot weather foods.

Tomatoes are finally here, it seems like it took forever for them to show up in the markets. I usually count on them by the 4th of July. They are available in dozens of types, dozens of colors, and dozens of sizes. There will be a perfect tomato waiting for you! When you are at the market, check to see if they are selling blemished/damaged tomatoes at a reduced price. Homemade tomato sauce and salsa are wondeful made with fresh tomatoes, but why pay a premium price for tomatoes you are going to cut up and /or cook? Just remember to buy those that are very ripe.

But when you find those perfect tomatoes, don't cook them! Enjoy them just as they are. One of my favorite sandwiches is 2 slices toasted Pepperidge Farm Extra Thin Sliced White bread, buttered, then covered with mayonnaise. Slice the tomato into medium thick slices, place on toast, salt and pepper, place 2nd piece of toasted bread on top. Absolutely delicious!

My favorite salad is sliced tomatoes, sliced Vidalia onion, cubed cheddar cheese, all tossed with a homemade vinaigrette. So simple, so perfect.


Basil Vinaigrette

1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt
3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1/3 cup white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

In a small bowl combine basil, mustard, seasoned salt, pepper, oil, vinegar and lemon juice. Stir just before using.

Yep, as simple as they come, and it tastes wonderful!

I am the proud owner of a Jack LaLanne Juicer. Have you ever had a Bloody mary made with fresh tomato juice? This is a great way to use those less than perfect tomatoes! All you do is wash the tomatoes, put them in the juicer and voila! Perfect tomato juice! Cleanup is not quite that easy, but the juice makes it worth it!

Oh! And fresh organic carrots! OMG! Best juice in the world! And watermelon! Heavenly, as is cantaloupe juice! In the fall, apple juice is a snap! Did I mention peach?

I love my juicer!