Is it the lingering spring cold or allergies to the increasing pollen? Who knows? We all sound the same. Take good care.

A plethora of opening restaurants, stores, galleries and events has retaken the Island for the high season. Michael Blanchard’s Crossroads Gallery will be open on May 24. Go to the arts district in Oak Bluffs to say hello. His new annual calendar will be available. Michael has added some of his metal prints. Always wondrous exhibits at the Crossroads.

If you are off-Island on Saturday, May 10, please stop at the Fall River Arts Festival where our town’s great sculptor and artist, Barney Zeitz, will be greeting you at his fabulous sculpture. You deserve to see this.

The hummingbirds have returned to every town. I have reports from all of our six towns now and it is verified. Enjoy them but there is a protocol on feeding and watering them. Check it out.

Our fearless DPW leader, Kirk Metell reports the road work is almost completed. Kirk thanks you for your patience.

Mikey Waters responded by asking if the town would be passing out doughnuts to the many of us idling in line. Mikey always has a quick joke for us. Or, perhaps not a joke? After all, Backdoor Doughnuts has reopened for the season.

I shall always remember seeing Denny Jason’s boat, the Little Lady for the first time in 1968 in Menemsha. I was entranced. Well, the Little Lady is now in for much needed repairs but will be back on the waters as soon as possible.

Sadly, a minke whale has washed up on Black Point Beach. As of now we have no cause of death. The autopsy is not complete. The rise in whale deaths is very concerning.

I shall check in with you in my next column. Have a wonderful week. I recommend we all stop sneezing.