Two weeks ago in this column I described an intriguing mystery concerning Ramona Gaudette and a lovely bouquet of dahlias left on a table in her home. Ramona was at home when the bouquet was delivered, but apparently did not hear whomever entered and called her name. When she related finding this surprise to the Tuesday library group and asked if I would help solve the mystery by telling this little story in the Southport column, she added, “I hope it was a man.”

Well, Ramona, it was a man, but also his wife. The mystery has been solved by Holly and Phil Smith. Their granddaughter, Evie Sprague, and her husband, Eric, were up from Portland to help Holly and Phil celebrate their anniversary, picking a bouquet of dahlias from Evie’s mother’s garden for that occasion and another bouquet for Ramona. Since Evie is named for Ramona as Evelyn Ramona, the two have had a special bond, honored on that day with the flowers.

For those readers who do not know Ramona, for many decades she was in charge of the kitchen at our island school. Although Evie and her husband did not attend this school, all the children there knew and loved her as she provided not only lunch, but also snacks for any child who was hungry. She lives across the cove from the Smiths, so their son, Ted, Evie’s father, grew up with many fond memories of this special lady.

Leaving our island will now be safer. As I drove home today, Tuesday, I saw workmen removing the large rock and another protuberance we always had to watch out for shortly after we crossed the Southport bridge going into town. Good riddance, I’d say.

Our bridge again has large signs at each end advertising the job of bridge tender. I am not sure whether people have taken the job and quit or perhaps the state has been filling in with retired or about to be retired workers, but the job is open again. It would be great if a Southporter would like the position. We have been spoiled over the years with “at home” bridge tenders. Call the State Transportation Department at 624-8200 if you are interested.

With Columbus Day behind us, we look forward to Veterans’ Day on Nov. 11 (but first, be sure to vote on Nov. 6). Southport will celebrate Veterans’ Day at the Southport Memorial Library with an event hosted by the library aides. Beginning at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 11, you are invited to gather to honor those who have served our country. Bob Eaton and Ron Orchard will be our speakers. The Southport Central School students will provide an art exhibit, and Jim Singer will present his slide show of area veterans. As always the library aides will provide excellent refreshments.

The Southport School will also honor Southport veterans and/or their families by inviting them to a breakfast on Friday, Nov. 9, from 8:30 a.m. to approximately 9:30 a.m. A light breakfast and beverages will be served by the students. As well, students will be sharing pieces of writing to honor the veterans and/or remaining family members. Those planning to attend are asked to call the school (633-3132) to let us know you'll be able to attend and to ask any questions you may have.

Among the summer businesses now closed is the Seiferts’ B&B on Cozy Harbor Road. Sandra said she had a good season of visitors, whom, I am sure, enjoyed the special view over Cozy Harbor. Also, on the east side of the island, Gray’s Campground is closed, with all campers either back in their home beds or on to other adventures. I received information that Gray’s will be open only for full-season campers next year, not for occasional campers. Since this is only second hand information to me, I will go to the source for find out for sure, but we have plenty of time for that.