Dear friends and neighbors,

Despite our dubious weather, I have seen and heard some new arrivals at the bird feeder recently. The squirrels are excitedly chasing each other about, and the snow is slowly melting. Our first purple crocus popped up its head! Easter arrives on Sunday. Spring is just around the corner!

The Westport Community Association (WCA) has been busy planning this year’s events, soliciting sponsors, and preparing the annual “refrigerator cards” which serve to remind us of all the fun, free activities planned for Westport Island this year. I hope you will write these events on your calendar and plan to attend as many as you can in 2018.

After this very long winter, the WCA invites us to shake off the doldrums on Saturday, April 21. Say hello to friends and re-connect with neighbors at an old fashioned Pancake Breakfast. Watch for more details to follow soon!

Everybody has some kind of talent, whether musical, theatrical, acrobatic, or humorous. Maybe you have a good story to tell or joke to share. Maybe you and a friend can hold a tune in harmony. Or maybe you can pat your head while rubbing your tummy and chewing gum! Be creative and have fun! Bring a dish to share at the Island’s Potluck Supper and Talent Show on Saturday, May 19.  Sounds like lots of fun!

The WCA will hold a short annual meeting during the Meet and Greet planned for Saturday afternoon, June 16. This popular event features wine tasting and food sampling while catching up with friends, old and new. Don’t miss it!

Everyone looks forward to the Fire Department’s Benefit Barbecue, which will be held this year on Saturday, July 7. (And the Fire Department can use your help that day; please contact them to volunteer!) After filling up on chicken and fixings, enjoy some homemade desserts and tap your feet to the tunes of Back to Basics blue grass band! Always a good time for both young and old.

Mark your calendars for Sunday, Aug. 12, when last year’s successful Ice Cream Social will be reprised with loads of ice cream and toppings. Outdoor games and activities will also be available for all ages. What a great way to celebrate community in summer!

Once again an Island Concert will be held with Maine talent either in or near the Historic Church on Sunday afternoon, Sept. 23. Stay tuned for more details.

The always fun Halloween Costume Party and Dance is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 27. Look forward to contests, prizes, sweet treats and great dancing for both kids and adults.

This year the annual Christmas Holiday Program is set for Sunday, Dec. 9 in the Historic Community Church under the kerosene lamps. Join the Island Choir in singing holiday songs and then retire to the Old Town Hall for hot drinks and holiday treats. Thanks to the WCA for all their efforts! Looks like a great year ahead.

Finally, the Regional School Unit #12 Budget Meeting has been re-scheduled for Monday, April 2, at 5:30 p.m. in the Town Office ahead of the Selectmen’s Meeting. This time the school superintendent and business manager plan to be there to answer questions!

Contact your newshound pat-dick@midcoast.com or call 231-4049. Think spring!