As I sat down to my computer to write it occurred to me that this week marked the 25th anniversary of a dear friend’s death. In 1994 Boston firefighter Steve Minehan responded with Boylston Street’s Ladder 15 to a nine alarm fire in Charlestown. He became trapped while searching for fellow firefighters disoriented in the large, smoky warehouse on Boston’s waterfront. Steve’s family, even though his children are grown and have kids of their own, still comes to visit, and I am thrilled to see them each year when they do. We reminisce, catch up, and this year I look forward to meeting new granddaughter Tabitha. Tabitha’s parents Joe and Kaleena traveled to China a few months ago to welcome her to the family.

Pull out your red, white and blue, your stars and stripes and your patriotism. July 4th is right around the corner. Remember that it’s not just about barbecues, boating and fireworks, although those are high on the list. It’s about celebrating our country, its independence and that historic document, the Declaration of Independence.

Congratulations to Station Menemsha’s Joel Behr who recently earned his Boat Forces Operations insignia.

Hal and Ann Noyes, grandparents to the Keene clan — Lathrop, Ella, Thea and Adelaide — celebrated their sixty year anniversary. These two are quite a pair and set the bar high in regards to love, patience, compassion, fun, laughter and dedication.

Congratulations to Haley Rossi, daughter of Stephanie and Bill, on her recent marriage to Tim Parker. Under a tent at the water’s edge, surrounded by family and friends, the happy couple provided a wonderful excuse for folks to have a little fun and frolic on a picture perfect Vineyard weekend.

Haley’s aunt Patty was doubly thrilled about the weekend festivities because it was yet another excuse for grandson Tommy to visit from Boston with his parents Jeffrey and Lauren Lynch.

Andy Bluestein took a few days from his job in Brookline as firefighter/paramedic to pay a visit to his family at their home on Larsen Lane. Andy brought his camera to capture his adorable and highly photogenic toddling nephew, Finn, in his element. Andy’s sister, Jen, proud and pleased mama to Finn, was also in the mix.

Tucker Simonsen is back at his family’s home on Flanders Lane. His dad Rick was in town also, and their new On the Fly is in the water. The boat was splashed and in typical Tucker fashion he and buddy Quinn Keefe made their way south in search of tuna.

Quinn and siblings Allie and Grady have arrived for the summer from their winter residence in Steamboat Springs, Colo. Mom Lori, last I heard from her, was road tripping her way from the Rockies to the shores of Martha’s Vineyard. We should have a Lori sighting momentarily as she prepares to take on her role as CCC Preschool Summer Program coordinator once again.

Jane Neumann has arrived for the summer joined by her son Cris Neumann, his bride Lesley and their three boys, Auden, Evan and Corin. They are here for the summer to not only keep Jane company but to work on the classic yellow VW van. Both Evan and Corin have taken on summer jobs so keep your eyes peeled and be sure to say hello.

Send Chilmark news to squidrow@vineyard.net.