VACCINE PARTIES are all the rage here! I’ve been invited to four such gatherings of people who are fully vaccinated. Following CDC guidelines, 10 people who have been vaccinated can get together inside without masks. Even the Methodist church in town hosted a vaccine party. I’ve been to two gatherings so far and have two more to go. Of course the parties are fun after a year in isolation. But the emotional impact of human interaction is extraordinary. Everyone is in a celebratory mood. So far there is no shaking hands, hugging, or contact of any kind. People are still keeping their distance. The emphasis is on conversation. Here’s what people are talking about . . .

My cousin Jeffrey is a wonderful cook and during a recent visit, fixed this dish—his wife’s favorite—for us. I am hooked. It was easy to prepare and absolutely delicious! Even better the following day. I know because I had it for breakfast and lunch…

Terrill Bartlett, President of Bartlett Enterprises (photo at right), presented a report to Rotary Club members last week on how COVID-19 affected the cost and availability of building material in 2020.

HELLO, SPRING! We are seeing an uptick in visitors, and that’s a wonderful thing! Last spring was so depressing with so many unknowns. We still have a lot of unknowns, but it doesn’t feel nearly as depressing, especially with the beautiful photographs from Alan Hale on display in the gallery room.