I suspect that many of us have some empathy for the folks who have lost everything in the California fires as we wonder what we would do in their situation. Let’s hope we never find out! But we can help, so I am sharing some news and a suggestion from Nick Hurd. He writes that “the Kiefers rented our Dogfish Head home for a number of years, and they now have a home on Samoset Road. They came to Boothbay when Dale was offered a role as a guest researcher at Bigelow back in the ‘80s and have had ties here ever since.

Joan and I were very concerned about them, and Jennifer contacted their daughter, Ingrid, with whom she’s remained friends over the years. We see Katherine at All Saints each summer so I’m sure they have many friends here.

The thoughts of the Kiefers losing absolutely everything at a time when Katherine is waging a battle of her own is almost impossible to imagine.” Nick goes on to suggest that one way to donate money to the Kiefers is through ‘Go Fund Me.” One more personal way to help!

A reminder of the hot dog and baked beans supper coming up this Friday, Jan. 24, at the Southport General Store from 4 until 6 p.m. Along with the baked casserole will be biscuits, brown bread, and coleslaw. Do come join in the good eating and fun.

Note a lovely picture and obituary describing the life of long time Southport resident, Mollie Moore, who died at home on Jan. 13.

Monday’s snow limited my usual cruising around the island to gather news, but since it is also a holiday, many of the places I might stop are probably closed. The outside scenery is beautiful with about four inches of snow on the ground and decorating the trees, the sun shinning though the temperature is only 19 degrees and predicted to fall further, and, at the moment, little wind. Having shoveled my porch and steps, I think I shall now just enjoy the view from inside.

Thoughts of summer are popping up. An email from Newagen Inn invites people to enter the “state of unwind” and offers special rates for four nights on certain dates. Nice to think of the days when the leaves will be back on the trees.

A reminder that if you are interested, the Town of Southport is hiring a part-time administrative assistant! Strong communication skills are essential. Familiarity with bookkeeping, being organized, and proficiency with basic office equipment and software are among other qualities needed to fulfill the duties of the position. A notice of the availability of this job is published elsewhere in this paper, and a full job description and applications are available at the Southport Town Office. They will be accepted until the right candidate is found!