Crisp days and nights as we head into autumn. Definitely the best time of year on the Vineyard as we enjoy the remnants of summer. Did summer actually even happen around here this year, other than the weather. It certainly was a much different summer for us all.

The 75th Martha’s Vineyard Fishing Derby is in full swing. William Haoa Vanderhoop is on the leader board with a 5.68-pound bluefish, most likely caught with his grandfather Capt. Buddy Vanderhoop aboard the Tomahawk. Gregory W. Clark caught a 10.81-pound bonito. His father Gregory C. Clark was one of the finalists in the 2019 derby. And, Andrew Jacobs has weighed in a 7.5 pound bonito.

All the best to Gina Barboza as she retires from the Steamship Authority after a 46-year career. She has assisted many of us along the way s the director of reservations for 31 of those years. Enjoy your well-deserved rest Gina—you will be greatly missed.

Eric and Sheryl Burke returned to their home in Toronto over the weekend after enjoying their summer at Lobsterville. Their son Jeremy will remain at the family home.

Howard and Sandra Klebanoff and their little canine Bella will return to their winter home in Connecticut over the weekend after spending the best part of the summer in Aquinnah. Wef enjoyed great conversation and delightful dinner parties at the home of their daughter Amy Macey, her husband Jon, and their family.

Sincerest condolences to the family and friends of John Early who passed away on Friday night following a long illness. One could write a book about John and his quiet activism. We certainly shared fond memories of his overwhelming kindness and concern for many along the way. Rest in peace John.

I had the pleasure of meeting Bill Ross the other day, a long time friend of many in Aquinnah while he worked with John Early and his crew for 14 years. There were fond memories of working with the late Marc Widdiss and Gordon Otis, as well as many others. On Friday evening Bill enjoyed dinner down-Island with Capt. Buddy Vanderhoop and their conversation was all about John Early.

Sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Will Holtham who passed away suddenly at his home in Kingfield, Me. on Sept. 10. Will was the former owner of the Homeport where he taught many young adults his culinary and business skills. He mentored them all along the way. Will is survived by his spouse Madeline, his children Jessica Bradlee, Michael Holtham and Megan Bliss and their young families.

Sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Ted Howes of East Pasture who passed away this week. Ted was the son of the late Theodore Howes and Ann (Mathewson). He was the spouse of Sarah Shafer. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Jessica Shafer and her daughter Isabelle Lumb.

Happy 14th anniversary to Ken Wentworth and Liz Witham on Sept. 23.

Happy 42nd anniversary to David and Diane Jensen on Sept. 23.

Happy anniversary to Ted and Judy Mayhew on Sept. 23.

Happy Birthday wishes to Diana Lees, Nicole Ferguson and Nadia Aiguier who celebrate on Sept. 18. Keith Devine will party on Sept. 19. Amos Sauer will be 12 on Sept. 20. Bill Murray will celebrate a milestone on Sept. 21. Trip Barnes will party on Sept. 21. Janet Foley celebrates her special day on Sept. 22. Leslie Clapp parties on Sept. 23. Jeffrey Madison will party on Sept. 24. James Sanfilippo parties on Sept. 25, as will Lewis Emmett Moore.