A dearth of birds at the feeders these past few weeks, a few chickadees, a lone junco, some woodpeckers and a fleeting goldfinch. Not sure where all the rest have gone, but it is odd. There are, however, six very small red squirrels, a scurry, in constant pursuit of one another while yelling what must be a slew of insults; they are quite entertaining.

In the dark, the amorous sounds of porcupines and the still-constant cricket song. There is, however, a distinct change in the feel of the air, the breezes have a nip to them, the damp feels cool, not only that, a quiet is settling in after a very busy summer.

Those coming to the beach set up simply now, a chair, towel, book, no more of the tents, umbrellas, outdoor rugs, multiple bags of food, beach games, chairs of various sizes, coolers; the list went on, a production. Currently just simplicity and appreciation for the calming sights and sounds of that wondrous meeting spot of land and sea. There is more ease to life now as well, fewer events, and more time to focus on the community that makes this place unique.

Community can certainly be found at the Southport Memorial Library with the Coffee Table open to all on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. You can choose to come for the free coffee or tea, the sweet treat, the lively conversation, or all of it. While there during regular hours, Tuesday 9-4, Thursday 9-4, 6-8, and Saturday 9-4, you can answer this question: How does seaweed become a work of art? The current exhibit of work by artist Suzanne Stokes will show you. Suzanne is a professor of art in New Paltz, New York. She experiments with new techniques and has adorned the walls of the library with many pieces using seaweed in her creations. For more information call the library at 207-633-2741. The Southport Library is located at the southern tip of Southport Island, 1032 Hendricks Hill Road.

The history of the community is well captured within the walls of the Hendricks Head Museum and its Boat House. You have this coming Saturday, the 19th to visit from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is the last day of this season which has been very successful. Admission is free, donations are welcomed. 

Exciting news from the Southport General Store, they have been named a finalist for Down East Magazine’s Best of 2026 for Best General Store. They couldn’t have gotten there without supporters, and they would like to say thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate them and show support. For more than 144 years, Southport General Store has been part of the fabric of island life. They believe a general store is about more than groceries, coffee, sandwiches, and daily essentials. It’s a place where neighbors gather, visitors feel welcome, stories are shared, and generations create memories together, a true reflection of our incredible community. New hours are: Monday-closed, Tuesday-Saturday 8-6, Sunday 9-3. The Barn also has new hours, Wednesday-Saturday 10-5 and Sunday 10-3.

Lynn Schafer’s Possibilities Antique Shop remains open until Indigenous Peoples Day with the hours of 12:30-5. Many of you might have been hesitant to cross the road while it was all dug up, but the trucks, heavy equipment and traffic lights have moved well beyond her shop which is marked by a large OPEN banner held down by a blue and yellow buoy, 476 Hendricks Hill Road. Take the opportunity to meet Lynn and see the hand made quilts, rag rugs, cottage furniture, kitchenalia, and many other possibilities for your home, cottage, or as a gift to someone. Feel free to call for further information at 207-208-7981.

Live music in the Pub at Newagen Seaside Inn with Dave Gagne on Thursday and with Shannan Smith on Sunday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The Pub will be closed for dinner on Friday the 18th for a private event.

The last item is a big one, in fact it is 38.5 feet of big. The Southport Fire Department will be auctioning off a 1973 EGG Harbor Flybridge Sedan Cruiser on Saturday, Sept/19 at 10 a.m. at the Southport Town Hall. You can contact them by phone or FB to get more information, or arrange to see the boat before the event. Think about yourself enjoying this vessel and supporting the department. If you can envision it, be there.

If there is something you would like to have in the column you can leave me something in the mailbox at the steps of the General Store, or a note at the library, or e-mail or call, I will get them and do my best to share your news.

The hum of the water is strong this evening after a much needed steady all day rain, a Scrabble afternoon leads into a comfort food dinner with the hopes of a serene night with pets and family. May you too find strength in community and May Peace Be With You All.