Yours truly was not in town this past weekend and it appears my well paid staff was having way too much fun to pass any news along. Luckily, an embedded correspondent at the Merrill’s was able to report the following before their activities began:

Lawn Cottage is full to capacity with the count at 20 this weekend. It's a good thing that aunts, uncles and cousins all enjoy a big party and that there are beds aplenty. It is Friendship Sloop week in Rockland so lots of sailors head down for the races. Too bad there is no trophy for most crew. When we don't win we blame it on a heavy boat and too much ballast.

Check out next week’s column for an update on how everything went.

For those of you with something of a sweet tooth, Bayville has a few connections to help keep you satisfied. Lucy Neilsen works the counter at Orne’s Candy Store, Liam McNamara helps out at the Daffy Taffy Factory and somehow, our own Karen Roberts has inspired the Ice Cream Factory to start selling their newest, and I’m assuming best, flavor. It’s called Bayville Treasure Chest. Make a day of it and stop by all three. Can you say Sugar Triathlon?

While we are on the subject food, for those looking for a real meal, stop in and see Pat McNamara, dining room manager at Brown Brothers. I believe Pat told me that if anyone can come in and do the Bayville Cheer, there may be something in it for them. I can’t quite recall if he said you will receive something good or an escort from the premises. Perhaps you should just mention Bayville.

If I missed any other local business connections that our residents are involved with, let me know. Until next week, happy eating — and send me some news!