The Bayville social scene is finally (and some say thankfully) winding down. All survived - some better than others - another fun filled weekend.

It all began Friday night at the village multiplex as The Rock made a surprise visit to show his movie, Jumanji. The whole thing was a shock as the intended version starred Robin Williams, but despite the Hollywood mix-up, all had a ball. There were lots of laughs, a few gasps and many entertaining comments from the crowd. Lemonade and popcorn were on the house (and the BIA) as all enjoyed a beautiful, bug free evening under the stars. Even a vole stopped by to say hello.

The next day, some kids tried to act out the movie but in the words of one young star, things blew up. Not sure what that means, but I’m guessing the attempt came up a bit short of what was hoped for.

At 9 a.m. Saturday, the highlight of any summer kicked off when chairman Greg Merrill lowered the ceremonial gavel and brought the 111th consecutive Bayville Village Corporation meeting to order. There was a massive turnout of over 30 cottages, as item after item was motioned, seconded and passed. The comedy duo of Phil and Al traded the usual good-natured barbs. On a sad note, Phil did become visibly upset when informed that he could no longer use the rope swing as it was being removed at the insurance companies recommendation. Sewer guy Dave did announce that there will be a 9% increase in rates next year as there has been a deficit for the past two years. Thomas Hultin wisely questioned a number or two, but in the end, all items on the warrant were passed unanimously. The new board for the BVC was also sworn in. It consists of existing members Andrea Nielsen and Jeff Allison and new members Matt Frascella and Mark Spencer. The spots became available after Joe Rosenbloom and Greg Merrill decided to step down. Treasurer Chuck Wolfram also vacated his spot and all received a well deserved standing ovation that almost broke the applause-o-meter. They have given countless hours in helping Bayville, so thank you for all the great work you have all done! Greg isn’t quite through though as he is thankfully stepping into the treasurers role.

Despite the high temps outside, all remained cool and collected inside as three of the Community House skylights were sheathed in cardboard. Decisions are being made as to whether to just keep two skylights on the north side or keep the additional 3 on the south side when the roof is reshingled to match the Post Office. The first step in bringing a coherent look to Post Office Square was putting some red paint on the Community House door trim. When the painter returned a few hours after beginning, any evidence of paint was gone. Turns out the first coat was so bad that a good Samaritan thought the door had been vandalized and cleaned everything off. The now completed job will hopefully pass as intentional.

Saturday, the chair and table brigade was mobilized to transform our own waterfront park to an alfresco potluck paradise. This year the usual motley crew was thankful to have the young bloods of JJ Allison, Brian and Liam McNamara handle the brunt of the heavy lifting, thus sparing the elder folk from the usual aches and pains.

Around 90 distinguished Bayvillians came to enjoy the evening. Lasagna and eggplant parmigiana were on the menu instead of lobster and everyone headed home with smiles, full bellies and without butter stains. Thank you Diana Frascella and Laura Allison! Rock Cottage, Hardscrabble, Valhalla and Bayville Inn all came with pitchers of their interpretation of the Bayville Buzz cocktail. The various concoctions were enjoyed by all, but no clear winner was declared. In the end, it was apparent the mixologists and imbibers were all winners. Stay tuned as there will be a repeat performance with even more choices.

After the potluck palooza, many stuck around to clean and organize chairs and tables, which made for much easier work the next day. There was also a series of impromptu, spirited ping pong matches before the night was over.

Jon Jordan has been seen cruising around on his one wheel and trying to keep up with his dog while Stephanie continues to mend from the psychological and physical injuries incurred during musical chairs.

The Nielsen house is becoming a bit quieter as Daniel is soon headed off to The Royal College of Art in London for grad school and as previously reported, Lucy is headed to Austin to continue her schooling.

The green smoke rising from the fire pit signified that the new chairman of the BVC had been selected. Yes, the fact is yours truly did choose the short straw. In reality, I’m excited to work with the board - and everyone else - in helping keep Bayville the special place it is and continuing the wonderful work of those before us.

Send any news of yours - or comments too - to thejeffallison@gmail.com