Monsoon season continued But as I write this on Wednesday I think we are coming out of it. Sunny, warmer, and windy. School’s out, many of our gang are in Florida, California, overseas. Many of our terrific kids are taking a stay-cation on Island. The libraries, film center, and several businesses have joined in presenting family-friendly activities this week.

One of the highlights of my year is the annual update from Jim and Carol Osborn. It arrived full of hope and brimming with news on what this ever-active family is up to. Michael visited Norway in January and February. He and his brother Chris took a train ride to visit Bergen on the Atlantic coast.

Meanwhile, back in the states, Jeremy and Whitney added Everett Alexander to the Osborn family. And when Michael returned from Norway he soon made a move to Indianapolis. Stay tuned.

Lori Robinson Fisher has spread word that the Islanders Talk Benevolent Fund had a busy winter helping Island families. The fund needs an infusion. A benefit will be held at the P.A. Club on March 27. If you can contribute a gift or company prize to be auctioned please contact Lori or me.

Jakob Burton-Sundman is working hard at learning to walk again. Right now he is still at Spaulding but we hope to have him back on Island soon. I had Jakob as a student when I subbed. You could not meet a better man. I am pleased to announce there will be a party and benefit for Jakob at the P.A. Club on Friday, March 23. You may also help out at gofundme.com/ help-us-help-jakob-relearn-to-walk. I’ll see you there.

Paul F. Doherty has his wonderful exhibit up at Art in the Stacks at our library. His show runs through March 30. Meanwhile, he will speak on his collection of Reflexive Abstractions in the program room of the library at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 13. Our programs are free and open to everyone. I’ll see you there.

We had a lovely gathering to celebrate Ross Swiriduk’s birthday yesterday. Ross turned a young-looking 60 so it was a major accomplishment. Steve Doyle, Billy Maciel, Bobbie Jo Sears and I were happy to hang out with Ross, discuss a myriad of events, eat pizza and cannoli cake. Thank you all for coming over. It was delightful. Thanks Stop & Shop in Edgartown for the cannoli cake. That is the only kind of cake allowed in my house now.

The birthday bandwagon pulled along Ross Swiriduk and Rafaela Souza on Feb. 27. Sydney Jasny turned 18 on Feb. 28. The sun was also shining on Elizabeth Toomey on Wednesday. Leide De Paula parties March 2. Glen Andrews ages gracefully on March 4. David and Doug Seward take the cannoli cake on March 5. Many happy returns.

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