Once again, the weather gods delivered the goods for Bayville’s big day of Pickleball Palooza and the Waterfront Festival. Whether you were watching or competing, how could you not feel like a winner?

At 7 a.m., the familiar thunk, thwup (or whatever sound you want to use for pickleball) rang thru the village as everyone looked to get in some last minute practice. At 8, the courts were cleared and the brackets drawn. Tournament Director Nicki LaPointe made sure everything ran smoothly and that there were no rule infractions.

When the dust settled four hours later, Neil Wiltshire and Mark Spencer stood atop the podium. The prize money isn’t quite enough to get Neil back to Leeds (England that is), but 3-year-old son Conrad seemed some what impressed. Teams were made up of a multitude of combinations; siblings, couples, friends, cousins, multi-generations. The wily veterans were able to thwart a great effort by the young team of cousins Connor Robitaille and Trajan Thompson. They look like a force to be reckoned with for years to come. Will and JJ Allison, not so much. Julie Merrill opened the door for everyone when she said her knee hurt and sat this one out. The Buzz is going thru medical records to determine if the pain was real or if she was just tired of defending the crown.

A huge shout-out to Lauren Albaum who led a large contingent of future Bayville movers and shakers as they solved riddles and scavenged throughout Bayville in search of miniature flamingos. All were rewarded with prizes at the end.

Then the set-up staff worked their magic and got the waterfront ready for the afternoon events. The Weiner Crew was there fueling the hungry masses and once everyone was satiated, the cry of let the games begin was heard.

Rock-skipping led off the competition. There were lots of impressive tosses by the gathered “epeirophiliacs,” but video replay couldn't determine a winner. Next up was the kids musical chairs. The music was thumping as the competitors made their way round and round. Cora Coleman put on a masterful performance and the females continued their musical chair dominance when Alexandra Robitaille was the last one standing, err, sitting, deftly beating out Oliver Cain (he of Dog250 fame). Water balloon toss then took center stage and in the end, old timers John Merrill and Mark Spencer beat back the young duo of Connor and Trajan.

Everyone was rewarded in the end as the Super Scoopers dished out a great selection of ice creams and toppings. I found a scoop of chocolate and a scoop of Bayville Blues, topped with M&M’s and Heath Bar pieces my prize.

When it was all over the winner of the holy grail was Austin Cain, who proudly hoisted the Ruler of the Sea award. Until next year's winner is crowned, Austin will be making all the appearances required of him. As previous winners can attest, with this victory comes great responsibility. Congratulations Austin!

On July 31, the Waterfront Cinema will be showing “Back to the Future.” No further details available at press time.

Aug. 1 will be a very busy day. The BVC Annual Meeting may or may not be a boring affair, but come see for yourself.

Then there is the celebration of life for Barry Gilchrist, followed by the Betty LaPointe Lobster Bake.

Thank you to everyone who made this past Saturday so much fun for everyone! Of course no thanks would be complete without mentioning the Bayville Improvement Association and all the great social events they provide! Email thejeffallison@gmail to have your story heard.