You know there is nothing I like better than a writing contest. The Boston Globe has announced a contest for 14 to 18 year olds. The deadline is May 31. You are welcome to submit a local news story you have written for a chance to win full admission to Boston University’s pre-college summer journalism academy. The article must be under 1,000 words long. It must have been written in 2020 or 2021. They are searching for the next generation of journalists. You may download the rules online. Good luck.

Crowds at the supermarkets indicate more fans of the Vineyard are already here. Governor Baker’s lifting of many Covid restrictions has already loosened the atmosphere. Looks like we are back on track for another Vineyard summer.

There have been many complaints about the bump at Five Corners. Some drivers report damage to their vehicles. We need to get this worked out soon. In other road news, I see line painting is having its usual spring resurrection.

Be sure to welcome our new Tisbury animal control officer. Kate Hoffman comes with a fine resume and a great smile.

Annette Sandrock, one of our great Island poets, reports that her books are selling very well in Portugal, where she often resides when not on the Island. And poet laureate, Jill Jupen, has kindly signed one of her own books for me. I am ecstatic to be living on the same street with such talent.

In other news of writing achievements, our own Lauren Martin, my editor at the Gazette for many years, has received recognition for her work in Australia. Lauren and her husband Mike Seccombe, who also wrote for the Gazette, relocated to their home in Australia with their two children. I last saw those kids when they were very young. No doubt they are taller than their parents now.

In sports news, the WoSox had their opening game at their new stadium in Worcester on Tuesday. This is a family-friendly facility. I hope to get there for a game this season. Our own Sharks summer is upon us. The team is still looking for some host families to house some players. Doesn’t this sound like we are almost back to normal?

Our condolences go out to Caroline Donovan on the passing of her loyal ginger feline, Charlie. Julia Gomez-Blanco and her family gave sad notice that their cat, Luna, also crossed the Rainbow Bridge. And Susan Davy informed us that her beloved canine companion, Marcie McKillop, has passed. So much sadness about such great friends.

Be well. Stay safe. And don’t bottom out on the yellow bump at Five Corners!