It is always a masterclass in unintentional comedy when a corporate representative is less culturally aware than the demographic they are trying to target. This was perfectly illustrated when an enthusiastic Culture Pop soda rep stopped by the Texaco to drop the niche news that their black cherry flavor was rebranded for a collaboration with Noah Kahan.
Leaning in with an air of conspiratorial secrecy, he added, “I don’t know if you’ve ever heard of him” — a phrase so absurd it transformed the pitch into a sitcom scene. I instantly burst into laughter and replied, “Who hasn’t?”, completely blindsiding the rep, who had treated a multi-platinum, Grammy nominated musician like a well kept indie secret. Needless to say, the flavor is taking up some prime refrigerator space.
I’ll admit I’m still a tad envious of everyone who got to see Noah Kahan live including Ellie Harrison, Ronin Parsons and Story Taylor, but I am surprisingly content with my own private concerts. His voice keeps me company while I run errands in my car. It is the perfect venue for his lyrics — especially with a cold can of that Culture Pop Black Cherry soda in the cup holder to keep the vibe going.
A treasured community tradition is jumping out of hibernation for a spectacular summer potluck jam. Grab your family and join your neighbors for an evening of pure musical magic with, among others: Ben Taylor, Ryan Montbleau and Isaac Taylor. Save the date for Sunday, July 26, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the CCC. Please bring a favorite dish to share along with incredible community vibes.
Malin Hansen gladly traded her home in Norway for the salt air of Martha’s Vineyard, eagerly chasing the sun to spend much of the summer with her beau, Tegan Fenner. She was fully prepared to make the pilgrimage solo, and has done so before, but she convinced her dear friend RK to tag along, knowing she would love the adventure just as much. RK was already a fixture within their circle of friends — having proven her travel buddy status during a past trip to Bali — so her addition to the crew was a seamless win.
Fynn Monahan pulled off the ultimate plot twist by showing up as a complete surprise. After insisting he wouldn’t be able to make the trip from Colorado this year, he threw his original plans out the window and surprised his friends. His unexpected arrival shifted the energy of the summer into celebration mode. It was a classic move that proved no matter how far away Colorado feels it’s never actually that far.
Another one who just wandered through the door and announced herself with a classic “hi mom,” is Katie Loveluck. She and her bride Sarah spent a few days at their family’s Pepperbush Lane home and have made promises to come back for a longer visit in August. I look forward to a proper catch up.
San Francisco residents Jameson and Mackenzie O’Connor filled their home with a whole new level of love on June 24 with the arrival of their son, Dalton. Although their usual summer travels to the family home in Chilmark had to be paused this year to cherish these newborn days, baby Dalton is already preparing for a very special milestone. This October, the family will journey to Colorado to celebrate Uncle Griffin’s wedding. Grandparents Michelle and Greg O’Connor have made the trip to California to be within arms reach of Dalton and to lend a helping hand whenever his parents request it. Much love to all.
While driving down North Road, a quiet afternoon turned into a rescue mission when my son, Brooks, spotted a box turtle attempting a perilous crossing. He stopped and gently moved the little wanderer out of the travel lane and into the safety of the grass. He made sure to face it in the exact direction it was already heading so it wouldn’t lose its way. There is always time to protect the smallest among us.
This article appears in July 17, 2026.