Even for the hardiest New Englanders, February is often the longest, shortest month. It’s cold. It’s gray. It’s windy. When days warm up above freezing, there is mud. When the sun pokes itself through the gray, it shines a white light. Yet, when the wind isn’t howling there’s an opportunity to take advantage of mind-clearing desolate beach walks. 2025’s February may linger a bit longer with Punxsutawney Phil’s shadowy prediction, but nevertheless, February is the month of getaways, hope upon return, contemplating crocuses and welcoming lambs.

Speaking of getaways, the Chilmark School fifth graders made their annual pilgrimage to Maine’s Sugarloaf Mountain. At the time of my writing, they had just arrived at their slope-side accommodations with a little time to read, journal and hit the pool before a reasonable bedtime in anticipation of morning lessons. Tune back in next week for more of the inside scoop on their adventure. This trip provides a memorable opportunity for the fifth graders to challenge themselves physically and have some time as a class to reflect on their final year at the Chilmark School.

Tegan Fenner and Brooks Carroll were on walkabout this past week. The two made their way to Florida’s Siesta Key to surprise their buddy, Will Dolan, for his birthday. Saying “they went skydiving” to mark the occasion didn’t bother me at all unless I thought about the words that were crossing my lips. I chose not to think about it until I knew all of their feet were safely planted back on the ground. Yes, these 20-somethings, have used descriptive words such as: awesome, phenomenal, amazing, incredible, super cool, super fun, and the age appropriate slang words “sick” and “epic.” They have pictures and videos to document their thrill-seeking and bonding adventure.

Guests were wowed by talent, basked in light and wrapped in community love at Offerings of Music and Light this past Sunday at the Church. Performers included Mark Lovewell and Molly Conole, Sean McMahon, Georgia Halliday, Adele Dreyer, Violet Southwick, Daniel Waters and half of the Loon Lane Players with Warren Doty and Jack Cushman who were joined by Nan Doty. In addition to volunteering some words about being good friends and neighbors, Claire Ganz shared some kind words about outgoing minister Charlotte Wright.

Charlotte and husband Don have decided the time is right for them to relocate to western Massachusetts to be closer to her elderly parents. They will be around for the next few weeks so be sure to wish them well before they make the move. They have made strong ties in town so I’d be willing to wager they will be back for visits.

In the meantime, a search committee comprised of Pam Goff, Sarah Carr, Kathie Carroll, Sam Hart and Ann Noyes did their due diligence and warmly welcome incoming Rev. Janet Stoddard. She will make the parsonage home with her pup Toby.

Jane Slater was busy both entertaining and being entertained by dear friend Diane Smith Poole. The duo shopped, dined, putted around and giggled like school girls. It’s always fun having a kindred spirit visit.

A happy birthday shout out goes to Latham Kurth who celebrated his first double digits birthday with, among other things, a trip to see the Celtics at the Garden. Ten only happens but once.

Sharon Bialy checked in from the West Coast. Fortunately, she and her family are fine after having to evacuate their homes as a result of the horrific LA fires. She is feeling very lucky to be safe and is paying it forward by helping neighbors to the best of her ability. She greatly looks forward to May when she opens the door to her Chowder Kettle home again.

Finance committee members, the select board, other town staff and a revolving door of boards and committees are in the thick of town budget hearings. Many volunteer roles in town politics are thankless. Now is the time to shout out a few words of appreciation to Marshall Carroll, Linda Coutinho, Vicki Divoll, Bruce Golden, Deborah Hancock, Don Leopold and, of course, Keith Fenner who is graciously filling a vacancy until annual town meeting. I appreciate you all for attempting to keep town finances in check.