Time to talk baseball. When I mentioned the first game of the Worcester Red Sox on May 11 in last week’s column I did not know that James Taylor and his son Henry did the honors of singing the National Anthem at Polar Park. While the WoSox lost to the Buffalo Bisons, just the fact that fans may attend games again is a welcome sign. Many wins to come.

Speaking of baseball, our MV Sharks are ready for their season opener at our high school field on June 8. It’s a free game and you are all invited. The Sharks are still looking for a few great Island families to host team players during the summer. If you can extend your hospitality please let me know.

Welcome back to one of my favorite seasonal Connecticut couples. Bill and Jan Stokes arrived last weekend and are ensconced in their family home on Lenny’s Loop. Son Wes has been keeping the house in great shape for them. They are here to plant their gardens and catch up with their neighbors. I am hoping to get over there for a visit and cocktail soon.

As Jan is a devoted reader, I am sure she will be glad to hear our library is ready to reopen in person. The library is now offering express delivery. The computers and copy machines will be available for our use. I missed going to the library most of all during the lockdown.

Our roving photographer, Michael Blanchard, has been busy opening his Crossroads Gallery in the arts district of Oak Bluffs. He is also now the winner of the Ben Franklin award. His new calendars have been printed and are available for your pleasure. Please go check them out.

Mary Korba of Martha’s Vineyard Community Services has great news. Our Possible Dreams fundraising auction is scheduled for Sunday, July 25 at 5 p.m. It will be streamed live from the Tilton Farm. This is our 43rd auction, always a good time. Seth Meyers will host. Watch for it.

Our reentry into “normal” has some bumps. The Edgartown Police Department has weighed in on the annual Fourth of July parade and fireworks. Unfortunately, they will not be held this year. Here’s hoping next year will be the charm.

My family is huge and the passing of any of its members is always so sad. My wonderful cousin, Kay Gardella, passed last weekend in Florida. I remember her fondly from my White Plains days.

Some sad passings for my friends who gave their pets a great life and vice versa. Patricia Ann Linn said goodbye to her loyal fifteen year old dog Angel Baby last week. Christine Sherman Todd parted with her devoted feline, Ozzy. And Sharon Rosenfeld Scott mourns the loss of her cat, Casper. Condolences to all.

The birthday bandwagon pulled along my dear friend, Jody Reston, on May 16. Many happy returns.