One of the last things I saw on the Fourth were Parker and Haven headed towards the dock with paint scrapers in hand. Parker said they had been “voluntold” (look for it in next year’s urban dictionary) by their granddad, Greg Merrill, to scrape the ladder at the town dock as barnacles have decided it’s a nice place to grow. I haven’t tested the ladder yet, but the feet of Bayville thank you two. This just in - voluntold is already listed. This is yet another example of the in-depth investigative reporting the Buzz has become known for.

Some other news from the Fourth. There was a large contingent of Bayvillians enjoying food, drink and fireworks from the Lobster Deck. Supposedly, everyone behaved and had a great time.

The first ever Waterfront Festival shirts are ordered. Fortunately, they are made here in the USA so Chinese tariffs have had no impact on pricing, but production schedules may mean a late delivery.

Breaking news on the bench - there isn’t any - yet.

Now that the date of the Pickleball Tournament has been set, Will Allison was safely able to book his tickets to conveniently miss the festivities. As some may recall, Will suffered one of the great agony of defeat moments in athletic history when reluctantly pressed into action. The Wide World of Sports ski jump failure pales in comparison. Go to YouTube to see for yourself. I’m happy to report Will is back to running his 32-mile races but he has vowed to no longer even walk across a pickleball court.

We always say to be on the watch for bikers around our roads. That has taken on a new meaning as Mark and Barbara Spencer have joined Chris Nielsen in riding their hogs around town, so be aware, motorcycles are everywhere. The three have been hard at work putting their plans together to attend Bike Week in Laconia next year. In all seriousness though, there are lots of young kids playing all around, so please drive as though one of them will suddenly appear at any moment.

Don’t forget, pickleball and scavanger hunt at 9 a.m. on July 27. Opening ceremonies are at 1 p.m. and games begin at 1:04. Yes, opening ceremonies are brief, but they are spectacular. In fact, our entire budget is used in those few minutes. As always, the first event will be blind folded rowing. Sign-up sheets are at the post office. The events will be capped off with the awards ceremony and ice cream social.

This year, the NFL is sending one of their finest (i.e. not one from the Saints-Rams playoff game ) to oversee the competition. No overly aggressive acts such as pushing, shoving, low blows or knocking people off chairs will be tolerated. This is going to be a kinder, gentler competition.

As seen on news channels around the world, there have been a few egregious incidents the past couple of years. Luckily, none required medical attention. However, as in the past, we will have two ambulances standing by — just in case.

Construction has begun on the viewing stands throughout the triathlon course. I am very excited to report that this year a VIP barge will be anchored near the finish line. Tickets are going fast! Who will be this years Ruler of the Sea? Real time betting odds can be viewed on the big screen at the community house.

Enjoy the beautiful weather and hope to see everyone on the 27th, starting at 9 a.m. Send any news to thejeffallison@gmail.com