Happy May Day!

Like many of you, I’ve been taking leisurely strolls down Memory Lane. Two weeks ago, after learning about the death of Lee Fierro, I scrolled through some photos of May Day at the Chilmark School. The celebration has stood the test of time. It’s hard to believe the children in the 4/5, which includes my niece Emme Carroll, will not be twirling with ribbons around the May Pole. Although the tradition evolved over the years, May Day continues to be about showing community pride and spirit.

For those not in the know, on a typical May Day, after the children hide from their teachers for the traditional game of “find the children” the May Pole is the centerpiece of the morning. The dance around the May Pole is typically followed by games organized by the fifth grade students and delivering of May baskets filled with sweets and flowers. In years past, the school children would run across town to hang a basket on a Chilmarker’s door. The children would knock, run and hide awaiting for the recipient to emerge from their home to seek the playful basket hangers. Eventually the tradition evolved into teachers driving the eldest students around town to hang baskets and later then it progressed into parents driving students to keep up with tradition. I, for one, appreciate the sentiment of tradition and wholeheartedly enjoy the simplicity of a kind gesture unmarred by the fast paced 21st century.

Sadly, there will be no May Pole dance at the school this year so I ask you to find a few moments to spread some May Day cheer in any format you find fitting. In some small way, keep the tradition alive in this time of sheltering.

After losing a number of my hens a few months ago (the story is gruesome so I won’t share the details) a couple of friends, Chris and Otto Osmers, were kind enough to offer me a few chicks when their order came in. Needless to say, I was excited for my family to become mother hens again.

Sunday morning was one of the many dreary days we’ve had this week, but mine had a little blast of excitement and happiness injected right in it’s middle. We’ve been doing window service at the Texaco for about a month now so when Otto walked up I expected him to ask for an Arizona Iced Tea, his 99-cent go to drink. Margaret Maida was in her car at the time chatting with me from a distance. She witnessed my maternal chick instincts kick in with a great big smile as Otto passed the babies to me. Seven of the eight little Rhode Island Reds are awaiting names. One is, of course, named Otto. I’m looking at my chicks as this year’s May basket.

Phase 1 of the construction return to work has been underway for a few days now. The guidelines are strict and clearly posted on the town website. According to our temporary safety inspection officers, Forrest Filler and Brian Kennedy, folks are taking the rules seriously. If you have questions, are seeking guidance or are looking for a site inspection, please contact Forrest at 508-560-4210 or assthealthinspechilmark@gmail.com.

I’d like to send a quick shout out to Amy Cody and John Furst who have chosen to remain at their home in Newton. I received a really nice email update from them assuring me that their extended family, including adorable toddling August, are doing well.

Also, a big shout out to Lori Keefe and her clan (Craig, Quinn, Allie and Grady) who are taking things one day at a time in Steamboat Springs, Colo. They are thankful as the glorious snow covered slopes call to them daily.

One more quick shout out to Hal and Ann Noyes, also of Steamboat Springs. Hal composed a glorious email to me and I’m lagging on the response. Sorry Hal, I’m hopeful that by the time you read this you’ll have heard from me personally.