Spring has truly arrived with the blossoming of daffodils along the byways, the return of osprey to their nests, and the full chorus of pinkletinks. The weather is warming up little by little and seasonal residents are tending to their summer homes in advance of the season. The crocus are in bloom as well.

Welcome to Madeline Leilani Bradshaw, daughter of Marguerite Smith and Maximillian Bradshaw, who was born at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital on March 15. Madeline is the first grandchild of Hollis Smith and Robin Robinson of Aquinnah and the late Wendy Weisman Jenkinson. She is the grand-daughter of Hugh and Suzanne Weisman of Chilmark as well as Jeremy and Ann Bradshaw of West Tisbury. Madeline is the great granddaughter of Donald Smith of Menemsha and the late Patricia Flanders Smith. She is welcomed by numerous aunts and uncles and extended family.

Congratulations to Eloise Moreis Boales who was surprised by a parade of emergency vehicles with their lights and sirens as she directed traffic after the arrival of the 3:45 p.m. ferry during her last shift on March 24.

Sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Marshall Emmett Carroll who passed away on March 24. Emmett was a longtime family friend of many generations. Such a gentle man, never raising his voice but getting his point across often with a smile. Emmett will be greatly missed especially on Thursday nights with his family and extended family at Cliffhangers. During the winter, our family would join the Carrolls at their family homes for holidays as well as other gatherings. Most of all, I will miss the knowledge of Vineyard history that we enjoyed sharing. My thoughts and prayers go out to the extended family. Fair winds Emmett. You will be greatly missed.

Sincerest condolences to the family and friends of William Gamson who passed away on March 23. On a bright sunny day a few years ago, Bill and his wife Zee and their puppy traveled to Boston for a day of medical care. Since that time we have remained friends while they resided in Chilmark. They moved to Brookline a few years ago to be closer to the city for Bill’s medical care but looked forward to returning to spend their summer vacation in Chilmark with their children and grandchildren. Rest in peace Bill.

Sincere condolences to the family and friends of Hans Stibolt who passed away at his Oak Bluffs home on March 4. Hans and his late wife Alma were seasonal residents of Aquinnah where they owned a home on Old South Road. Hans and I served together on the Oak Bluffs personnel board in the 70s and 80s.

Sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Mary Tucker who passed away on March 14.

Happy Easter.