The New York Times Wordle grid is supposed to be a place of logic, order and respectable vocabulary. For many, it is a morning ritual built on trust. Players trust that if they spend their guesses wisely on normal, functioning elements of the English language, they will be rewarded. But on July 15, 2026 that trust was obliterated. The answer was “PSHAW” — a word that didn’t just ruin thousands of streaks, but quite possibly shattered the collective faith in the puzzle itself. The irony, of course, is that the word itself means to dismiss something as utter nonsense. If I didn’t already know that it was a genuine word popularized by 19th-century cartoon villains, I too would be in an uproar. Now that I’ve commiserated, let’s get on with it.

I was away for a few days and remiss on touching base with many of you. Bradley and I ventured to New Hampshire for Seek the Peak weekend — a fundraising event of the Mount Washington Observatory. Since the afternoon forecast was not terrific for the summit, we never intended to stand on the roof of New England. Our plan was humble: hike to the Hermit Lake shelters and turn back.

But we got an early start and by the time we reached the shelters we were ahead of schedule. The forecasted storm was still hours away, idling on the horizon. The window of opportunity was open and after a little debate and encouragement from others, we made a calculated decision to go for the peak. Pushing past the shelters, the trail transforms into a vertical amphitheatre of stone. Scrambling up the steep headwall required concentration, but as we crested the lip and entered the alpine zone, the summit building was finally in sight. There is nothing quite like a slice of cheese pizza, a cold Coke and the hiker shuttle back to our car at the Pinkham Notch visitor center.

The perfect evening to celebrate is defined not by its scale, but by its atmosphere, connection and harmony of sensory details. On a pristine stretch of the north shore, Claire Ganz’s birthday gathering captured this balance, turning a simple milestone into an unforgettable evening. The celebration blended the warmth of shared family bonds and deep friendships. Happy birthday, Claire.

July is the ultimate birthday month in town. Bob Zeltzer turned 94 on July 15, Allan Keith celebrates 89 on July 26, Ed Barrett, Betsy Cornwall, Joannie Jenkinson, Shakti Reynolds, Kristen Brown, Karen Davis, David Norton, Bob Nixon, Roger Cook, Chioke Morais, Dan Athearn, Diane Morgan, Dyan Demers, Fynn Monahan, Barrett Oliver, Solon Oliver, Kendra Buresch and Oona Carroll all celebrate on July 31, wrapping up with Emily Broderick and Liz Lewenberg who become octogenarians on that day.

The secret is out and hearts are bursting. Haven Huck and Hugh Singer are officially engaged. While Hugh asked and Haven said “Yes!” amidst the breathtaking beauty of Kauai, their hearts are right here at home with family and friends. Please join me in showering them with all the love, hugs and happiness in the world.

This Sunday, July 26, the town center will be buzzing with excitement and family fun. From 4 to 6 p.m., the Chilmark Preschool will host its Family Festival. There will be bubbles, glitter tattoos, games, activities and music by Wolftrap — the always fabulous Bailey and Miguel. Bring your tiny humans and your inner child to this fun and free event.

The joy, spirit and excitement continues at the 72nd potluck jam from 7 to 10 p.m. While these community jams typically happen only in the off-season, some of our favorite local musicians are coming out this summer for the pure love of music. An incredible lineup featuring Lydia Fischer, cousins Ben Taylor and Isaac Taylor, the Woods School Singers, and more will wow you throughout the evening. Be sure to bring a favorite labeled dish to share and your toe-tapping sense of community.