When you are a dog lover you have a companion that takes on the role of both friend and family member. Munson Canyon Larsen was a lover of car rides, boating adventures, couch cuddles, slow meandering walks on the dock and by the shore, behind the ear scratches and the unwavering love of his humans Karsten Larsen and Katie Thompson along with his doggie pals that include Stewie, Precious, Squibby and many more. He had perfected many skills over the years like sit, stay and come. These skills made him a truly good boy.

Although he was only part of our community from July 4, 2007 to November 23, 2019 he will never be forgotten.

Lia Littlefield Kahler is, once again, coordinating Offerings of Music and Light at the Chilmark Church. Her desire to bring friendship, comfort and brightness to the dark days of December came together a few short years ago and has blossomed into a program of musicians, dancers, singers, storytellers and more. This years program will run on Sundays Dec. 1, 8, and 15 at 5 p.m.

Jennifer Burkin has some of her handiwork for sale at this year’s Vineyard Holiday Gift Shop. Her items, which would make fabulous gifts or just little a treat to yourself, include fish prints and coasters. The shop has moved this year to 68 Lagoon Pond Road in Vineyard Haven. It’s a location with plenty of parking so stop in between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily.

Pam Goff shares that pizza nights have come to an end at the Chilmark Church, but that community suppers kick off on Tuesday, Dec. 3. The meals begin at 5:30 p.m. and all are welcome to stop in for a bite. Sides and desserts are always welcome as are all ages and lingerers who may want to partake in a few board games.

Peter Ruimerman, son of Janet Weidner and Tom, checked in between classes a the London School of Economics. He shared that classes, although challenging, are going well and are truly interesting. He has made a number of international friends and is enjoying sharing new experiences with them. He also shares that he will be home for Christmas so put your request in now for a little bit of time to catch up with him.

With Walter Greene along as first mate and pups Bella and Deja as moral support, Captain Mike Hamilton of F/V Sinful bid farewell and headed north to make port in Gloucester just in time for the general category re-opening of bluefin tuna on Dec. 1. His soft spoken, friendly nature allowed him to ease right in to the fabric of Menemsha. After a couple of weeks on the north shore, captain and crew will head south to North Carolina. Catch ‘em up Captain.

Jane Slater traveled to Attleboro to give thanks with daughter Sarah and her husband Aaron Bennett and grandsons Scott and Jack. They will be joined by Caleb, Chris and Celia Slater. After a boatload of fun was had, Caleb accompanied Jane back to town to partake in opening day of shotgun season. Here in Zone 13, shotgun runs from Dec. 2 to 14. Be sure to take a moment to put on some blaze orange as you wander trails and byways around town.

Gabe Ambulos, much to his mother Mary’s delight, traveled back to town from Gettysburg College. His father, Perry, was I am sure, equally as excited to have him home under their roof for nearly a week.

The newly reconstructed Dana avenue bridge in Hyde Park was recently dedicated in honor of activist sisters Sarah and Angelina Grimke. Although known for many things, one of the most noteworthy moments was in 1870 when they led of a group of women to the ballot box some 50 years before the 19th Amendment granted women the right to vote. David Damroth shared that, with both honor and excitement, Barbara Lee had the honor of speaking at this historic dedication.

If you find yourself with the opportunity to chat with any of our K/1 students be sure to ask them about the creation of the town of Chilmark. Under the guidance of their teacher, Ellen Rossi, and likely a little help from family and friends, our youngest students created miniature versions of and laid out the town buildings in the school foyer last week. Primarily constructed from cardboard, these well proportioned likenesses were excellently executed (say that 10 times fast) by Willie, Asa, Tillie, Penny, Finn, Maeve, Emily, Luca, Hudson, Juniper, Ezra, Eleanor and more.