A bright light has left our lives. Everett Poole passed this week at age 91. No one ever had a bad word to say about this great man. Everett had been town moderator in Chilmark for 45 years. He will live on in legend. Our condolences to his family and many friends.

Jack Ryan, a popular postal worker in West Tisbury, will have his amazing artwork on display at the West Tisbury Library for the month of March. We are all invited to the exhibit and to the opening reception. The reception is on March 7 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. This is a free show and party. Masks are required. I’ll see you there.

A reminder that Feb. 28 is the last day for high school students to submit their entries to the NAACP of Martha’s Vineyard contest, What Black History Month Means to Me. I know you students will have many ideas for this.

Speaking of students, my former one, Alex Schilcher, is touring eastern Europe and is currently in Poland He sends fabulous photos. He is also a very good travel writer. I see a future in this for him

Crispin Nathaniel Haskins has come out with a new book, the Jawsfest Murders. I always enjoy his work and the Island references. Be on the lookout for this.

Many thanks to Nancy Gardella, who directed our Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce so expertly for 15 years. Nancy has returned to the Boston area. I hope we still see her occasionally on the Island. I trust the mail and phone call mix-ups will now end between us. And, no, we are not related.

So sad when we lose a furry companion. James O’Donnell said goodbye to his buddy Duke. Sharon Duncan Sylvia said goodbye to her dear Julia. May their memories keep you warm.

Patty McNamara passed last weekend in Mashpee. She was a wonderful friend to many and will be greatly missed.

Get well wishes continue for Lori Robinson Fisher. My sister in law, the third Nancy Gardella, had to return to the hospital for more surgery but is out again and improving. Keep them in your prayers.

Mark and Susan Shea are celebrating 48 years of wedded bliss on Feb. 23. Congratulations!

The birthday bandwagon pulled along Octavia Essie and Laura Artru on Feb. 20. Myles Ward turned two on Feb. 22. Carol Borselle claims Feb. 23. And on Feb. 25, Jeff Petre, Tony Alosso and Karen Howe take the cake. Many happy returns.