I had the most wonderful surprise in the mail from my dear friend Frances Down and her daughter, Angel Naphtalie Aiguier. You might remember Angel growing up here with the name of Nancy.

Frances, Angel and several grandchildren and great-grands arrived for a rainy stay at the Campgrounds. They still packed in some beach time, visiting and seeing the old familiar places. They left before I could catch up with them.

I received a beautiful lap blanket made by Frances. Lovely colors. Nancy, also known as Angel of the Airwaves, sent one of her CDs. Both gifts were very thoughtful.

All the coming and goings and traffic problems! So sorry the Ag Fair could not open on the last day. So grateful the Patriots won Sunday night. We are off to a good start. By now you know Cam is out and Mac Jones is in, right?

Music man Stephen Hart celebrated his birthday by having a picnic with friends on Eastville Beach last Saturday. Best to him in his new year. He has done a beautiful job on building his new house.

Our Vineyard Haven Public Library continues its 5K run/walk tradition with a twist. Suggested donation is $25 but anyone may sign up, donation or not. Register at their website any time between Sept. 1 and Sept. 30. Your name will be entered for a chance to win a Bunch of Grapes gift certificate. You have 30 days to do your run/walk. The Friends of the Library uses the funds collected for their many programs.

Amy Ryan has a long, enticing list of new books acquired by the library. Check it out.

The Martha’s Vineyard Book Festival was a great success. Thanks to the Martha’s Vineyard Museum for hosting activities there. The Chilmark Community Center also pitched in. They always help out.

The United Methodist Church of Martha’s Vineyard is pleased to announce the nation’s newest Eagle Scout of Troop 93, Michael Noel. Congratulations to this dedicated Boy Scout.

Remember gracious photographer Michael Johnson? I found him at his new gallery at 34A Main street, just behind Claudia’s jewelry store. We chatted, examined his work, and I was able to introduce him to Tac, my friend and assistant. What a great time we had!

The High Holidays are upon us. All services will be held at the Tabernacle. You may register for in-person or Zoom services on the website of the Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center. The new year is 5782.

Rosemary Gambino, my friend of many, many years, passed last week. Rosemary is famous for her Rosecuts Salon, her eye for and love of antiques, her wit, gardening, cooking, and sense of style. Loving her dogs came easy to her.

Our condolences to her son, Seth Gambino, his wife, Sarah Hebb and Rose’s mom, who has been living here for the past five years. I cannot imagine the island without Rose.

The birthday bandwagon pulled along Laura Weigle Honey and, yesterday, Amy Giammasi took the cake. Many happy returns.