So much to say about Linda Marinelli. I have an autographed copy of her book Never Say Die, subtitled “the private life and political thunder of a dying breed,” and I treasure it and re-read it frequently.

Linda’s life spanned over decades, with all kinds of work, family and friendships. “Some of the experiences of my political life taught me the importance of honesty, dedication and the law,” I quote from her book.

Born on Feb. 27, 1931 in Berkley, a small town close to Taunton, Linda grew up on a working farm. It was all hard work, and no amenities like regular heat, running water or electricity. Linda was the youngest of 12 children. I cannot describe the hardships (and joys) she experienced. The book has a wealth of information and family photos. I think it should be required reading for all Island residents. The last sentence says, ”should God allow me to live to 100 years old, I will continue to call a spade a spade with an honest assessment of any given situation.” Although Linda died last week at age 83, I can say that she packed at least 100 years into her life and experiences. “I’ll never say never because I’ll NEVER say die!” she said. It was an honor to know her and to follow her incredible life. Our Island has lost another one of a kind.

If you want to attend the best Mardi Gras party on-Island you are welcome to amble up to the West Tisbury Congregational Church from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 12. Shrove Tuesday will be celebrated in style with the usual shrove pancakes, sausages, fruit salads and juices — you get the picture. Not only will you see your friends and neighbors, but the Rick Bausman Band will entertain you. There will be beads, beads, more beads and masks available. Admission is a mere $5 per person, a family gets in for $15. Any questions? Call my delightful contact Karen Achille at 508-693-0165.

Confidential to Lynne K: Yes, of course I know who you are. Thank you for your message. I unfortunately deleted your message AND phone number, so call me back or e-mail me. Barry Eisler’s books are about a Japanese-American assassin, but - and I know this is oxymoronic - a good assassin. These books, as well as the Harlan Coben books, cause insomnia. Red eyes for reading!

Our library has free coffee on Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. I’m giving you a heads-up that the library will be closed on Sunday, Feb. 17 and Monday, Feb. 18 for the Presidents’ Day weekend. Stop in tomorrow from 10 a.m. to noon to get help with CLAMS eBooks and downloading audio books.

If you or a loved one has suffered from Lyme disease, as so many of my friends have, you will want to attend the free lectures by Dr. Lena Prisco, director of the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital lab, for the next two Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the library. Part one is on Tuesday, Feb. 12 and part two is on Tuesday, Feb. 19. Learn how to deal with this nasty disease.

The birthday bandwagon pulls along Dianne McDonough and Jeff Masi Sr. today. Feb. 9 is for Justin Smith and Jamie Orlowsky. Feb. 10 shines on James Johnson, Jainaba Burton-Sundman and Ian Ridgeway. Feb. 11 is a party for Zadoc Moreis, Katie Weisman, Judy Pachico, Sabrina Leuning and Joao Prata. Feb. 12 honors Sukhi Bahal, Sandy Pratt, Nat Benjamin and Hannah Holmes Shiverick Van Osten. Feb. 13 is claimed by Brenda Campbell, Linda Amaral Dickson, Fiona Catherine Mayhew, Kristen Daly and Tom Buchert. And on Feb. 14, Ray Whitaker, Gayle Stiller, Linda O’Leary and Sam Bungey take the cake. Many happy returns.