Returning to Menemsha harbor is the ultimate “old home week” for Clifford Moniz, a joyful homecoming rooted in years of cherished childhood memories. Raised on the waterfront by his grandparents Chris and Chic Lee, he learned the ways of the docks from his grandfather who once served as Menemsha harbor master. Today, Clifford and his gal, Bethany, keep that legacy alive by returning each summer, instantly reconnecting with old friends community and calling the harbor home for a magical week.
When I spotted the historic SSV Ernestina-Morrissey in Vineyard Sound, I quickly messaged Clem Littleton so he wouldn’t miss her passing Menemsha Beach. This legendary schooner holds a deeply personal connection for Clem. His late father, Fred Littleton, was one of the famous young “Bartlett Boys” who sailed her into the Arctic during a historic 1940 Greenland expedition. That grueling voyage shaped Fred’s life, forging navigation skills he used as Menemsha’s beloved harbor master. His devotion to the vessel was so profound that he even built an 18-foot sailing replica of her, and, years ago, his memorial service was fittingly held right on her deck. The family bond came beautifully full-circle just last year when Clem got to step on board and sail on the Ernestina-Morrissey himself. Standing on the beach with him, watching her catch the wind off the Vineyard felt like a poetic tribute.
And yes, Clem and Diana are passing a little time at their Pondmark home soaking up as much New England summer as they can before traveling back to the steamy heat of North Carolina.
It is always such a treat to be on the periphery of childhood magic. Seeing Karyn (Pietruska) Robinson and Christina Cioffi bring their kids back to the dock this past week was full-circle magic. They missed having Vicki (Smith) and her two beautiful children there to complete the trio, but timing just wasn’t on their side. Still, there was an incredible magic in watching the next generation laugh and play in the exact place where their moms’ own lifelong friendship began.
New Jersey’s Dan Ryan was back in town for his annual week-long visit. It’s been a number of years now that we find an opportunity to swap stories of our year as he finds a few moments to sit on Squid Row passing the time with his dear friend Wayne Iacono. Dan had the pleasure of his buddy Rob’s company and the two managed to squeeze in an impressive amount of sightseeing. Until next year.
Jill and Ted Bernhard, with a tear in their eye, are on the verge of being empty nesters. They traveled to Burlington, Vt. with their youngest, Kat, in tow to release her to the wild of her freshman year at UVM. Before embarking on the adventure, Ted had an opportunity to summarize yet another Sunday of Chilmark softball represented by a hardy band of regulars.
With Caleb pitching for both sides due to a short roster, the matchup was divided into Mark’s team and Keith’s team. Though Keith’s team fought back with two final runs in their walk-off attempt, Mark’s squad secured the victory in an uncontentious, well-played game. A second game was called off as players left for incoming guests and departing ferries.
There is a tangible sense of pride in seeing a hometown artisan breathe new life into a beloved community centerpiece. Master craftsman, Cameron Parry, is in the process of building new doors for the former Menemsha School. As a member of the Chilmark historical commission, I am thrilled he is at the helm of bridging our town’s rich history with modern restoration and artistry. The building, which is home to the Chilmark police, will have a beautifully revitalized facade that reflects its deep 19th-century roots and weather-resilient focal point for generations to come.
Every year on August 28, I pause to remember the 1999 Jus Chillin’ boat explosion in Menemsha. While the sudden chaos of the blast remains unforgettable, it is forever balanced by the immediate, selfless rescue efforts of Kristine Scheffer, Karsten Larsen, Danny Bryant, Lev Wlodyka, Lynn Murphy and many others. I will always be grateful for the true community resilience and spirit shown that day.
This article appears in August 28, 2026.