Since next week is the big day, here is my Thanksgiving story. Many years ago when I began acknowledging and greeting the 20 to 30 neighborhood turkeys that crossed my yard every day, I realized I could not eat them anymore. I even named them. My neighbors had invited me for T-day dinner. I went over to join them and only ate the side dishes but they were great.

Returning to my home at 3 p.m. on this sunny day I witnessed the most amazing sight. Seventeen turkeys were roosting in my tree branches safely off the ground. I am convinced that my house in the neighborhood was the only one that did not have the scent of turkey wafting out of the house. What do you think? They were safe for another year.

As you know the Island is on high fire alert because it has been so dry here. Therefore, the annual bonfire rally at our high school before the Whomp the Whalers annual Island Cup game against Nantucket has been canceled. Instead, we are having a rally at the high school parking lot with a potluck tailgating party on Nov. 24 with car decorating, sharing food and cheering. Then the MV Touchdown Club will be escorted through the down-Island towns for a pre-victory parade by our loyal police departments and fire trucks. The game is Nov. 26 at Fenway.

In more football news, Ashley McCarthy who grew up on Island is so proud of her three children. They all live with Ashley in Barnstable now. Son Eric Lovell, now a freshman at Westfield State University, Number 31 defensive linebacker, has been named rookie of the week. Great job, Eric.

Our Vineyard Haven library will have a pop-up book sale at 15 Church street on Nov. 29 and Nov. 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day. Please park on the street and not in the parking lot at 15 Church street, This is a fundraiser for our building campaign at the library. It is a fine opportunity to get gifts for the holiday season. I shall see you there.

I know I am missing birthday announcements but I am sure you are all busy preparing for your Thanksgiving guests or you travel plans next week. So I shall simply remind you we need to Harpoon the Whalers!