Who would have ever predicted our community would feel the effects of a storm unlike any hurricane or norheaster that has passed along our shores and through our fields laying a wake of dismay in its path. But, like weathering any storm, our community bands together, rises up and cares for one another.

With the schools, town halls, libraries, many eateries, the YMCA and more shuttered for the next few weeks, I, as a member of the Chilmark Board of Health, can assure you that we, along with various emergency management agencies are working tirelessly to be informed, spread updated information and coordinate efforts on behalf of our townspeople and our Island as a whole.

In order to help “flatten the curve” we ask that you please do your best to practice social distancing. Many have asked what exactly is social distancing. In very simple terms, it means lay low.

If you would like to volunteer to pick up groceries, medications and other essentials for our community members please call, Marina Lent, at the Chilmark Board of Health, 508-645-2105. Leave a message and your call will be returned as promptly as possible. Additionally, if you are in need or assistance, please call. Your friends and neighbors are here for you.

Although the library is closed, Ebba Hierta, along with her superior staff, has expanded online services as opportunity for you to continue your enjoyment of many titles — ebooks, music, video streaming and more are accessible. Please call 508-645-3360 and leave a message or email  Chil_mail@clamsnet.org. Someone will get back to you as quickly as possible. Share a phone number if you prefer a call. 

Although Covid-19 has certainly taken the spotlight, there are a few things that shouldn’t go unnoticed. March 19 was a very special day. Gewndolyn Oskan turned four years old and celebrated surrounded by her sisters Piper and Ella and parents George and Katie. The big celebration has been postponed to a later date, but despite the social distancing required at this time, she blew out her candles, opened some goodies and felt an immeasurable amount of love from those near and dear to her. Happy 16th birthday to big sister, Ella, who celebrated a few short days ago as well.

March 17 was Owen Singer’s birthday. He celebrated by catching a huge fish in Central America. He also had the opportunity to connect with Larsen Lane friends, Chris Jones and Dianne Lucy. Happy day of birth to Claire Ganz who brought Owen into the world and shared his wit, laughter and good spirit with us all.

Also celebrating quietly on March 19 were Marshall Carroll and Patrick Jenkinson. Born on the same day of the same year in the same hospital, these two spent many of their years side by side as both friends and classmates. After 51 years (can you believe these youngsters are over half a century old now?) these two still share a bond and, inevitably, try to outdo one another with that wish. I’ll report back next week with who got the birthday call in first. Happy day of birth to Kathie and Emmett Carroll and Joannie and Pat Jenkinson. The four of you earned the right to celebrate as well.

On March 20 Sean Slavin celebrates. I’m not sure what his boys, Corrick and Quinlan, will plan from their newly established High Meadow Preparatory School for Boys, but I am certain it will be memorable.

On March 25 one of my favorite guys, Carl Leaf, will celebrate his 92nd birthday. He always greets me with a “Well hello, Katie!” which immediately grows my smile from ear to ear. His genuine interest in how I am, always picks my spirits up. Once we realized we both grew up in Waltham (yes, we are city kids) the conversations got even longer with a lot of “Do you remember...?”

Happy birthday, Carl, I’m sorry there aren’t any sports to watch on TV and I’m sorry I can’t stop by for a birthday hug. I, along with many, are wishing you a joy filled day down on the Cove.

If you have an Instagram account and would like a little guided stretching each day, be sure to follow Caitlin Cook. Just type body.snack into the search bar.

Sending love to you all. If you need anything, I am here.