We started off the work week with an emergency alert issued by the National Weather Service which read, “Tornado warning in this area until 10:15 am EDT. Take shelter now.” If that wasn’t enough to get the adrenaline pumping, I’m not sure what would have been. Oftentimes we take watches and warnings with a grain of salt but, when the clouds took over the sky in a form reminiscent of the spaceship in the 1977 sci-fi flick Close Encounters of the Third Kind, folks took things seriously. All of this excitement followed a huge Red Sox win in the World Series. What will be next?

The Chilmark School is looking for a few community members to join the school advisory council. The council is a collective of parents, teachers, principals, staff and community representatives that support, enhance and advise the school board on education matters. Meetings are usually held once a month. If you would like more information, please contact Susan Stevens, head of school, at 508-645-2562, extension 102.

Last year’s Offerings of Music & Light, the brainchild of Lia Kahler, was such a success that she is excited to be organizing the event again this year. Block off 5 p.m. on the first three Sundays in December because you won’t want to miss this free program featuring Island musicians, singers, dancers and readers held at the Chilmark Community Church.

Owen Singer, support staff on the 60-foot Hatteras sportfisher Miss Wilder, made an overnight pit stop in Menemsha with owner/captain Scott Clay on their meander south to Florida. They ducked out of the weather rather than make a run to Montauk, which was the intended first layover on their southbound journey.

Katy (Maciel) and Ryan Kurth along with their two adorable little people, Latham and Gryphon, enjoyed their weekend of adventure in Peacham, Vt. with the Maciel side of life.

Shout out a big hello to Susan and Bill Shanok who traveled back to their Big Apple home a few weeks ago. I could set my clock to Bill’s morning and evening walks with their pup, Bo. Now, I must consider wearing a watch.

Claire Ganz has returned from a New York city adventure. I look forward to hearing the details.

Congratulations to Kelly Klaren, high school senior and daughter of Jonathan and Kim, who has just committed to play Division I tennis at Merrimack College. She is a bright and spirited Chilmark School alum.

Allen, Caitlin, Everett and Kent’s Mermaid Farm stand continues to have an abundance of goodies to choose from. Lassis, eggs, meats, salad greens, cheeses and more. Everett worked at Larsen’s Fish Market this past summer. It was a pleasure to have a quick chat when he was out and about on his break from behind the case.

Speaking of Larsen’s Fish Market, I spotted Betsy on the water this past week headed up the pond with cousin Karsten in search of scallops. Reports are they scratched up a few just in time for the dinner bell.

Although Katy Smith’s main purpose for venturing south from Boston was to enjoy the wedding of family friends she, of course, managed to spend a little quality time with her folks who always enjoy her pleasant company.

They may be living in the fun and sun of the west coast but they still have ties to town. Alysse (Fischer) Doty, daughter of Doug and Bari, husband, Dan, and big brother, Duke, warmly welcomed Jude Charles Doty to the world on Oct. 13. Proud and pleased extended family members include Susie Bunker, Josh, Lindsey, Tristan and Charlotte Scott, Albert, Linda, Lydia, Molly, Andrew and Chris Fischer and many many more.

Bret Stearns and son, Graham, had their own version of Planes, Trains and Automobiles as they ventured to and from Fenway Park where they reveled in the excitement of a Red Sox vs. Dodgers game. The father-son team give the experience two thumbs up.

Stay tuned next week for a summary of costumes proudly displayed at the Chilmark Firefighter’s Association’s annual Halloween party.

Chilamrk town news can be sent to squidrow@vineyard.net.