Sicily is currently at the height of its orange producing season, when many different varieties of this beloved citrus fruit are sweet, juicy, and ready to be eaten right from the millions of trees throughout the island. In addition, importantly, Sicilians have reason to celebrate. Today the region moved from being designated a “Red Zone,” having to abide by severe restrictions to help their post-Christmas COVID-19 numbers drop, to a “Zona Aracione,” or Orange Zone. Despite the fact that, like here in the United States, there still is much time before social distancing will be a thing of the past, it’s a great relief and a point of hope.

(Photo of me with the orange juice vendor by Sergio Vasta at the Antico Mercato of Ortigia/Siracusa)