The blast of heat has continued from the July 4 weekend and throughout these five weeks. Locating a cool spot outside of a dip in the ocean has been a challenge. Regardless, July was a fun and full month.

On the 13th the Millers hosted a well-attended Bingo game at the Casino. Those with the right cards won a bill or two or one lucky kid, the grand prize, a gift certificate at Sweet Scops. Less than a week later and on the West Shore beach, Betsy and Brad Hastings hosted a S’mores party. The weather and tides cooperated; by the time it was to leave, the high tide washed over and extinguished the fire. The 21st was the perfect day for the annual Memorial Swim off the pier. On July 27, Jon and Robin Woolson and their daughters, Lydia, and Georgia and Erika Woolson and Annmarie Hewitt hosted a gathering to remember and celebrate Sue and Monty Woolson. The deck and garden provided the perfect shaded place to join in remembrances of the two islanders.

The July islanders packed up July 31st, and on Aug. 1 the August crowd come ashore. Annual Meeting weekend began on Thursday, Aug. 1 with an all-Island Zoom question and answer session about next steps and plans for the pier. Saturday PM,, almost all 100 Casino seats were taken at the annual meeting. All motions passed smoothly, and we were adjourned in record time.

What a shame! The annual Mixed Up Doubles tennis tournament scheduled for Sunday was rained out with torrential downpours just as the first sets were finishing up. By the time the rain ended, the courts were too wet to continue. Despite the rain, the bake sale to benefit the Tennis Club was successful, and by evening Sunday Service, other baked goods showed up at the Casino and were sold.

Sunday Services were conducted by Brenda Bowen (7/14), John Ridlon (7/21), Mike Potts (7/28) and Alan Polackwich (8/4). After taking a hiking trip out West, Brenda reminded us that we should attempt to visit as many of our diverse and fabulous national parks as possible. John Ridlon, our IOS historian, reminded us of some of the similarities and differences between then (late 19th and early 20th century) and now, especially in reference to island life on the Sabbath. Mike Potts in deference to the Olympics in France, talked about Victor Hugo and his time on the island of Guernsey. Mike and Glen McCandless did a fabulous singing and guitar duet to which we all sang, Simon and Garfunkel’s “Sounds of Silence.” Finally, Alan Polackwich, referencing John Ridlon’s book, “A Centennial History of the Isle of Springs Maine; 1887 – 1987” reminded us of many of the interesting people, events and details over the first 50-year time span of the island. He used prerecorded folk/country music to accompany our voices.

On the waterfront some of our passionate fishermen have been catching! Brody Saunders caught a large striper off the IOS Pier (of all places)! Then about a week later the ‘R Pieces’ whaler filled with five Reece boys, Gavin, Brody, Charlie, Barrett and Porter, set out and as a novice fishermen team caught a large striper. Catchers all! What a thrill for that team.

Today was the August Work Party. Brush was cut on the sides of the roads and hauled, water lines became visible once they were trimmed of brush, trees were trimmed and limbed, dodder (remember that?) was removed. Fortunately a breeze came up by the end of the two hour session. If you were unable to attend today, there’s a posted list at the library of solo work projects.

Reminders: LIS, Friday, Aug. 9 at 10:30 a.m. at the Miller cottage. Saturday AM Kids’ Work Party – Meet at 10 at the Pier. And, of course, the long-awaited Penny Party to benefit the Tennis Club, Saturday 7 p.m. at the Casino. Donations due by 3 p.m. Sunday, 9:30 a.m. rehearsal for the Children’s Service to be held on Sunday PM. Friday, Aug. 16, the Oyster Tasting hosted by Mere Point Oysters and the Niven Family.

Silent Auction to raise money for the Pier, Saturday, July 19, 2025. Although not taking place for 11 months, we are requesting donations now for an online catalog of items. For all tangible items, please send a photo. For others, send a description. Postings and sign ups are on the island bulletin board at the Library. For questions or donations when signing up is not possible, please email Susan Reece, Patty Ridlon, or Betsy Hastings.