There is sad news to report this week. Cathy Havinga died Jan. 25 of multiple organ failure at Maine Medical Center. Her mother Mimi, her sister Anne, and friend Dan Fayen were all with her when she died. The Havinga family has been long-time summer residents on Dogfish Head, and in recent years, Cathy lived in the area year-round. Those wishing to write a note to the family may send it to Mrs. Jan Havinga, 25 Thornton Way, #214, Brunswick, ME 04011. The family will plan a service in remembrance of Cathy later this year.

Another longtime Southport resident passed away on Jan. 19. Bob McCarthy, husband of Carole, was at the Rockland Hospice, and was with family, as well as his beloved dog. Our sympathy goes out to Carole and their children, Kevin, Michael and Kathy. Carole’s address is P.O. Box 380, Southport, ME 04576, for those who would like to send a note.

There is also happy news to share. Bill and Janet McLaughlin are new grandparents to Olivia and Lucas, born Nov. 9 to daughter Liz and her partner John. The babies came early but are growing fast, and Bill and Janet enjoyed their month with them in London, where Liz is the principal of a private school and John is a computer software engineer. They hope to bring the babies to Southport next summer, where they will be, along with cousin Cole, the fifth generation in the McLaughlin family to visit the Southport family cottage. Congratulations to all!

Kathy Barter continues in her recovery and is now doing well in rehab and enjoying her get-well cards. Her address is New England Rehabilitation, Room 202A, 335 Brighton Ave, Portland, ME 04102.

Maria and Peter Doelp have returned from a warm month visiting family in Coronado, California. We welcome them back!

The Southport Library aides will be meeting Tuesday, Feb. 6, and they encourage new people to join them.

Southport School news includes a school spelling bee this week. The two qualifiers will go to the Bristol Consolidated School on Wednesday, Feb. 7 to compete for the Lincoln County spelling contest. Good luck, Students! The birthday of Dr. Seuss will be celebrated at school with local residents coming in to read to the students on March 2 from 1-2 p.m. Also coming up is the annual talent show on March 23. The evening fun will also include a bake sale and silent auction.

The Southport Island Association will hold its Winter Walk on Saturday, Feb. 10 from 3-5 p.m. Friends and neighbors will start at the Southport Library for a short walk through our island winter wonderland. All are welcome, whether or not you are a member of SIA. The event will begin with a casual walk with route TBD, depending on conditions, and will culminate at the library with refreshments and friendly conversation. Or just come to the library for the refreshments and conversation part! Please bring a sweet or savory to share. We’ll see you there! Snow date will be the following Saturday, Feb. 17.