Summer isn't over yet — looking at you, PSL, as you plan an early return this week. As a Scorpio, fall has my heart, but let me keep my time near the water while the sun is still out. The New York Times compiled six wild swimming spots on state and national park land, and I’m planning a trek upstate before school starts. (For those up for a journey, Jackie O’s private beach on Martha’s Vineyard is also open to all.) The timing is right: The National Park Service celebrates its 110th birthday on Tuesday with waived entrance fees nationwide. To keep the summer joy going, these end-of-season ideas are on my list — especially the last one, because you can never have enough strawberry ice cream. Finally, if you fell in love with Jimothy this summer, meet Meemers. Yes, I'm allergic, but I can obsess from afar. Now, let's get to the news…
— Marina Carver / Senior Editor / Brooklyn, NY
A Rare Plan
Beefing Up Supply
What’s going on: On Friday, President Donald Trump said up to 300,000 metric tons of imported beef will get a tariff break over the next 90 days. On top of that, Trump says it will be sold 25% below the market price (currently averaging $6.89 per pound). Why the special treatment? The US — one of the world's top two beef producers and its largest consumer — is facing its smallest herd in 75 years due to prolonged drought and rising food costs for the animals. A yearlong ban on Mexican cattle after a screwworm outbreak squeezed supply further. While the US already imports record amounts of beef from Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and Australia, the administration says this new move — expected in an executive order within two weeks — will give shoppers some relief as the domestic herd rebuilds.
What’s at steak: Your backyard BBQ may not cost or taste the same. Details on the imported beef remain scarce. Trump hasn’t said which countries will supply the beef, only that it will be the “highest quality.” The White House and USDA say most of the meat will be beef trimmings used to make ground beef. It’s also unclear who would absorb the proposed 25% discount — whether it applies during export or import, or if a government or private company is subsidizing it. Savings may also stay with retailers rather than reach consumers. Then there’s the long-term impact on American cattle producers: Ranchers, along with some Republican lawmakers, worry cheaper imported beef will depress domestic prices, hurting an already wounded industry that needs time and resources to rebuild.
