I want to thank all of you who have been so kind to me while my dogs were sick. Roger Williams at the Vineyard Vet Clinic came to Silvio’s rescue, as did Vicki BenDavid White who has worked there for years. My neighbor, Keith Laslovitch, helped in so many ways. Greetings, suggestions and love poured in from California, Canada, France and every empathetic friend who knew what I was going through. Silvio and Lil’Bit had a nasty intestinal infection that really looked terminal to me. They are on the road to recovery. Thank you, Tamma Cimeno and Bobbie Jo Sears, for your caring and concern. Nothing like the community of dog lovers.

Speaking of Tamma— her sister, Nancy Stanley, arrived from Georgia last weekend to visit with mom Anita Cimeno at Windemere. The family got together and celebrated as the Cimenos do so well. Next time I want to meet this other Nancy.

I finally made it to First Friday on our Main street. Unfortunately, it was the last Friday for the season. It was a lovely stroll in our town with friends and vendors and kids and dogs perusing jewelry and handmade art. I met a wonderful young lady talking with Marketa Morgnerova out in front of Stella Rose. She makes the most enticing scarves and clothing. Unfortunately, I misplaced her name and contact number. But she is here working through the winter. Marketa, can you help me out?

Wes Stokes is completely involved in the fishing derby. Nevertheless, he stopped by to inquire about my Silvio’s health. Wes also had the great news that Jim Hart will be returning to his Lenny’s Loop home this weekend. Jim was scheduled for surgery but turns out it wasn’t necessary. Great news for all of us. On Sunday, Sept. 23 at 5 p.m. at the P.A. Club, we Islanders will do what we do best: help a friend. There will be a fundraiser and auction for Eric Voshell and his family. Paul was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident in July. Our thoughts, prayers and efforts go out to Paul, his wife and daughters. I’ll see you there. Sofia Anthony informed me that on Tuesday, Oct. 2 at 11 a.m. at our First Baptist church, the 124th session of the Neighborhood Convention commences. The talk will be about our new Island Food Pantry. I always remember the twinkle in Alice Burt’s beautiful blue eyes when she informed me of the next meeting.

Ahoy there, mateys! Eric Jay Dolin has written a book about one of my favorite subjects: pirates. Black Flags, Blue Waters is out now. Eric will be at the Oak Bluffs library for a talk and signing on Saturday, Sept. 29 at 2 p.m. Grab your eye patch and parrot and meet me there.

Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Ed Jerome. Ed was just the greatest. I always enjoyed him. His love for children— and fishing!— were well known. Rest in peace, dear friend.

The birthday bandwagon pulled along Jack Ryan on Sept. 11. Sept. 13 was a party for JB Blau, Fred Mascolo, Tootie Kieffer and Bill Brady. And on Sept. 25 Daniel Gardella takes the cake. Many happy returns.

Vineyard Haven town news can be sent to iklean@yahoo.com.