LFO has a really great song about summer. So do Mungo Jerry and DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince. Why I am I telling you this? Well, because IT’S SUMMER! And I think this summer we should turn to some absolute classic hits for guidance on how to enjoy these sunny days in Champaign-Urbana. So without further ado here is JSM’s Ultimate Summer Guide Vol. 1.

“There was a good man/Named Paul Revere/I feel much better baby/When you’re near” – Summer Girls by LFO

I know what you are thinking - that I only chose this line because it’s ridiculous and makes no sense and I’ve made it my personal mission to ensure people are aware that in 1999 we all agreed to make this song our summer anthem. Well, you are partly right. But, and now get ready for the leap of the century, sometimes when you stay on campus for the summer, a loved one is not near. Perhaps you’d like to feel better by changing that fact. Have them come for a visit and stay in the Townplace Suites by Marriott located on Green Street right in the heart of campus. That’s right! Bring a friend, a group of friends, heck bring your whole family to Champaign for a Campustown visit. Forget the British, Paul Revere will riding down Green Street yelling “Your guests are coming! Your guests are coming!” See? I made it work.

“We love everybody but we do as we please/When the weather’s fine/We go fishin’ or go swimmin’ in the sea” – In The Summertime by Mungo Jerry

Does Champaign have a sea? No, we sure don’t. But we definitely have some amazing fishing holes. Take a quick 10 minute drive to Mahomet’s Lake of the Woods and enjoy their multiple lakes and ponds filled to the gills with fish. Not into fishing? Who cares! Fine weather should be enjoyed as you please. Lake of the Woods offers boat rentals, hiking trails, and beautiful places to just relax. Getting out and enjoying the sun is what warm weather is all about. If you are looking around your apartment right now and seeing nothing but sweaters and jeans, it might be time to update the summer wardrobe. Visit some of our amazing retailers like Fira, Apricot Lane, Urbana Outfitters, or Ragstock for swimsuits, swim covers, shorts, tees, and other warm weather necessities.  

“Everybody come lookin’ real fine/Fresh from the barber shop or fly from the beauty salon” – Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince

By now, I think you know where this is headed. I am going to inform you about the amazing salons in Champaign-Urbana that you should definitely visit to look real fine. I was originally going to do so in a Fresh Prince-style verse, but I care about you having a good summer too much to ruin it with that mess. So here are non-rhyming, regular recommendations:  No. 7 Salon and Spa and The Beach Sun and Spa offer services to help you achieve your summer-look dreams. Get a fresh haircut, maybe add a little color to your locks, build up your base tan, or tidy up your brows. Whatever you are feeling, they have got your covered. Also, be sure to check out the JSM VIP Program as they both offer deals on the very services you are looking for.

Wow, amazing songs AND amazing recommendations for things to do on campus this summer?! The JSM’s Ultimate Summer Guide Vol. 1 sure is a banger. Keep your peepers peeled for Vol. 2 later in the summer. Thanks for reading/listening. Make sure you are following JSM on Facebook and Twitter for updates on all of our excellent apartments and commercial tenants.