I don’t want you seasonal residents and summer tourists to think time stands still here in the off-season, waiting for your return. While moss grows on the Vineyard, no moss grows on us. This is what we’ve been doing:

The high school students have midterms so you will see more of them around town at different times. Please do not turn them in as truant; they are observing the schedule changes.

Ticket sales have commenced for Beach Road Weekend, resulting in lines not seen until Dairy Queen opens in the spring.

The Stan Murphy art show at the Louisa Gould Gallery is extended through Feb. 18. Stop in.

Arnie’s Poetry Cafe at the Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse was standing room only last Wednesday, a tribute to the fans and friends of Arnie Reisman. His wife Paula Lyons spoke. Different members of the Cleaveland House Poets read many of his new works from his posthumously published book Stages of Cages. Some readers also read from his earlier works.

After five years at MVY Radio Jess Phaneuf announces making a change. Jess compliments the wonderful staff working at the station and thanks friends and fans alike.

Sad news. Jyl Manning, one of the stalwarts of the Island, has passed. I cannot adequately explain how much Jyl has meant to me and doubtless many of you. Her sister June Manning, our Aquinnah columnist, died in November 2021. Our condolences to their sister Jackie and all family and friends.

Jeffrey Masi of Northampton passed in Bridgeport, Conn. Jeffrey worked on the Island for many years. His fine workmanship in carpentry was renowned. He was the father of five children, many of whom live here now. May he rest in peace.

The birthday bandwagon pulled along Janet Messineo-Israel on Jan. 19. Juli Blackwell and Megan Vasconcelos observed Jan. 24. Holly Nadler celebrated on Jan. 25. Who can forget that is also Peter Simon’s birthday? Another dear friend who has left us is Katie Nevin. I always remember her Jan. 29 birthday. And on Feb. 1, dear Carolyn Connors of West Chop takes the cake. Many happy returns.