Seth and Joanne Wakeman spent decades in Chilmark dedicated to the community and building strong bonds of friendship that spanned generations, even after retiring to Connecticut in 2002. And so it is with great sadness that I share the couple was killed by a drunk driver while crossing the street after enjoying a dinner out. News of the tragedy has slowly made its way around town and, as a loss often does, has prompted many to share stories and memories.

here will be a Vineyard memorial sometime, likely this summer, so be sure to jot your recollections down to share with their family. Although I did not know Joanne well, Seth was a regular at the Texaco until his retirement. He would tell tales of his time running the place, often referring to adventures with Everett Poole, David Flanders and Richard Burt, among others. Over the past few days I’ve heard accounts of Hurricane Carol’s devastation including how Seth’s boat ended up sitting on top of a piling. I was also reminded of their adventure touring Mystic Seaport while enjoying a visit from Peter and Sally Cook and George Morgan.

The loss of these two has been felt far and wide. I’d like to extend my condolences to their family and friends.

Helen and Arne de Keijzer were at their Larsen Lane home last week. I was lucky enough to have a quick chat with them as they awaited their Food Truck lunch. It was a glistening winter afternoon, perfect to get outside, stroll and breathe in the fresh air.

When Gabriel’s college spring break plans fizzled at the last minute, parents Mary and Perry Ambulos rallied. They set off on a remarkable family adventure to the Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba off the Venezuelan coast. Trade winds and powdery sand beaches make this tropical destination worthy of the simple three letter word: Wow.

Adelaide Keene, eldest daughter of John and Hillary, traveled home for spring break from her sophomore year at Denver’s Regis University. John beamed from ear to ear when mentioning spending some quality time with his first born. Adelaide celebrated her 20th birthday just a few short weeks ago — no longer a teenager.

Billie Hancock ventured north from her him in Ponte Vedre Beach, Fla. One simple reason brought her to Chilmark for a few short days and that was to deliver a hug to her daughter Buffy and grandson, Christian.

I am thrilled to share that Chilmark police officer Liz Rogers and husband Jeremie welcomed to the world on March 8, Greyson Johnathan Rogers. Their sweet baby boy arrived weighing in at 8 pounds, 11 ounces and measuring 20 3/4 inches long. He is happily settling in at home with Mom, Dad and pups, Daisy and Bo.

Congratulations to Ryan Rossi who was offered and accepted the position of Menemsha Harbormaster. There were several well qualified candidates but, ultimately, Ryan made the cut. He and bride Ellen and children Sloane and Jack will be wonderful additions to Menemsha Harbor.

I’m not sure how I forgot to mention Valentine who was born to Vegan and is granddaughter to Viola, the lovely Red Devon cattle who call the Beach Plum home. Devons are a highly adaptable grass fed breed with lovely demeanors.

I rarely mention birthdays but when two of my favorite guys celebrate the half century mark it’s worth mentioning. On March 19, 1969, Emmett and Kathie Carroll and Pat and Joannie Jenkinson were at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. That is the day they welcomed Marshall Carroll III and Patrick Jenkinson into the world. Sharing a birthday bonds them together in a really lovely way. I’m grateful to know both of them and wish them a happy day.

Some nibbles will be served and drinks will be flowing on Friday, March 22 at the long awaited opening of Abe Pieciak and Brandon Newton’s Chilmark Gallery. The reception is from 5 to 10 p.m. at 9 State Road (the former location of the Martha’s Vineyard Bank alongside Chilmark Tavern). The artists will have their fabulous work on display along with pieces by Brad Tucker, Liz Ragone, Wil Sideman, Russell Carson, Laurie Robertson, Gary Demers and Merv Rubiano.

Send Chilmark news to squidrow@vineyard.net.