Summer is fleeting, the parking lot has thinned out, boats have gone off to winter storage, the leaves are turning on the huckleberry bushes, and the juvenile osprey are cruising above getting ready for trips south. Now it’s time to think about heading home for winter.

Aug. 10 was Penny Party weekend. Saturday commenced with the Kids Work Party led by Jim Morrell. Fifteen workers showed up to remove litter/storm detritus from the beaches. At the end of that Party, each worker was treated to ice cream and free tickets to the Penny Party. By 7 p.m. that evening, all tables and seats were taken in the Casino with folks eagerly cutting out tickets and stubs for chances on prizes. Matt Bogart, first time at the helm since the retirement of Patsy Mackenzie, did a fabulous job keeping the momentum up, aptly describing each item, and ending the party by 10 p.m. The party yielded a hefty deposit to the coffers of the Tennis Club. 

Sunday the 11th, Brenda Bowen, with assistance from Emma Morehouse Hulbert, coordinated the annual Children’s Service. Participants were Emma and Graham Aeschliman, and cousins Brody, Owen, Will, Charlie and Maisie Reece. On the piano Owen Reece played the prelude, “Pachelbel’s Canon.” On guitar, Brenda led everyone  in singing Pete Seeger’s, “If I had a Hammer.” Interspersed with the hymns were creative island-themed Knock, knock jokes. 

Aug.16, the Niven family hosted the third IOS Oyster Tasting on the Pier where they served both fresh and grilled delicious Mere Point Oysters. Concurrently Mattie Daughtry and Phil Welsh of Moderation Brewing Co. of Brunswick, hosted a beer tasting. We are all grateful for that special evening and its contribution toward the new IOS Pier. 

Sunday Aug. 18. Susan Reece shared vintage photos and recollections of islanders within the context of two formerly existing island buildings, the NeKrangan Hotel (1888 - 1934) and Hiram Swett’s “New” Farmhouse” (c1830s - 1936). Written memories of islanders and hotel patrons captured portions of island life during the steamship era and later after the depression. Recollections of two of the island caretakers of the early 20th century and their families living year-round in the old farmhouse provided contrast. The last in the farmhouse was Erastus Jewett and family (three adults and nine children) who resided there for 30 years. In 1936 after he was no longer caretaker, the farmhouse, considered unsuitable for habitation, was taken down.

Sunday Aug. 23, Carl Pierce discussed chapters of much earlier eras of the history of our region around Sheepscot and Kennebec rivers. He described some of what is known of the early indigenous people especially those of the Ceramic period, who have left evidence of time spent on the Island. Carl’s narrative highlighted the subsequent arrival and several of the interactions and outcomes between the native people and the Europeans that ensued. 

Aug. 31 was the annual Farmhouse Picnic. According to Betsy Morrell, the Farmhouse picnic held the Saturday of Labor Day weekend may be 50 years old or more! As always, the picnic provided an end-of-season opportunity to catch up with and say good-bye to friends. Folks brought food to cook on a large hot grill and delicious items from garden tomatoes, salads, and delicious desserts were shared. According to the Morrells, rain has never interfered with this traditional event. Many thanks to them for hosting once again!

At the final Sunday Service, Sept 1, Ian Ridlon spoke about the importance of being thoughtful and pausing to listen when communicating with others. These suggestions arise from concerns about the amount of divisiveness and lack of civility during current times. Important points as we move into the upcoming fall.

Edna Stoddard celebrated her century-plus three-year birthday on the island with family, daughter, Linda Harper, son-in-law Tony Harper. son, David, granddaughter, Sarah, and great granddaughter, Lila. all who helped celebrate Edna’s natal day. 

Kudos to Ella Pierce! She placed sixth in a Maine Regional Dressage competition in Etna, Maine. Ella has been horseback riding since the age of three. 

Congratulations to Max Widbiller and Brittany Moody! They were married in a Sept. 7 ceremony held at Deep Cove on a beautiful September day! Max’s aunt Angeliks Rossmy, her younger son, Beat with girlfriend, Vera came all the way from Munich for the occasion. The Casino, beautifully decorated, was the reception venue. The couple is headed to Iceland for their honeymoon.

Lest you feel sad in leaving the Island, there is much to look forward to in 2025. In addition to another beer and oyster tasting (July 11) there will be an all-island social event and silent auction (July 19). Watch for opportunities to donate items and services and to volunteer for the effort. Both events are delicious and fun occasions for socialization and for helping to fund our new Pier. Two other items of note, the NeKrangan II will be turning 25 in 2025! To help to mark its quarter century, Betsy Morrell will begin the creation of the second “Island Families” album (first one is dated 2000). The first step will be collecting family photos taken next summer on Island. Get ready to say, “Cheese!”