Guess who won the third annual cops versus firefighters hockey game last weekend? The Island Autism Group won!

The fundraiser was well attended and certainly well presented. The players had their own sports cards. Fans could meet them ahead of the game and pick up information on the players. The game was exciting. The firetrucks were out front to be examined and climbed on before the puck drop. All in all it was a fabulous party. Same time, next year.

Thoughts turn to spring and the sighting of daffodils. You can get your blooms this weekend. Every $10 bouquet is earmarked for the Martha’s Vineyard Cancer Support Group. The lobby at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital will present the first bouquets from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 14. Stop & Shop in Edgartown, Reliable Market and Cronig’s will have bunches available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, March 15. I always think of Dorothy Bangs, and I always smile.

The Martha’s Vineyard Museum opened officially this week. Members had a preview on Tuesday evening. The general public was welcome on Wednesday. There is a cafe and, of course, a stunning view. I think Barbara St. Pierre would be pleased to see the new incarnation of the old marine hospital. I did have so much fun driving my young son there for summer camp and the St. Pierre’s School of Sport. Who can forget Llamas Night or the ghost in the basement bathroom? This is a fine opportunity to thank all the St. Pierre family that had such a hand in keeping our kids safe and playing for so many years. I expect to see a lot of happy campers return with their families this summer and check out Katy Fuller’s great work.

I will see you this Friday night at the P.A. Club from 7 to 10 p.m. Erica Ponte passed on March 2, but we now celebrate Erica and her beautiful family. The medical bills are still there. The aftermath of husband Kenny’s double transplant also looms large and three growing kids command our attention. Meet for appetizers, silent auction, friendship, music and dancing. Tickets are $25 and available at the door. We always have our families to look after.

My neighbor, Jill Jupin, moved to the Island 19 years ago and hasn’t slowed her momentum. She has just been chosen as our Island poet laureate. Her appointment is for two years. She is the first woman appointed. Congratulations, neighbor! There will be a reception on April 6 in her honor at the West Tisbury Library. All are welcome and refreshments will be served.

I hope you have had a chance to drop Billy Dias a line at the Royal Falmouth Nursing Home. I miss seeing Billy around town.

Get well wishes go out today to Kristie Noyes Mayhew. Kristie was sorry to miss her daughter Emma’s rowing competition off-Island last Saturday but husband Jon recorded it with his wonderful photographs.

Two Island stalwarts took the cake on March 12: James Taylor and Eileen Maley. So much talent born on the same day! Many happy returns.

Send Vineyard Haven news to iklean@yahoo.com.