Goodness gracious, another summer, another Summery summarizing the slumbering sundries that summon Saltaire from the somnambulance of the winter solstice. If you can figure that one out, give me a call.
Belated welcome, too, to 2025, the 25th year of the 21st century of the latest millennium. Only 75 years more! Seems like a long time? If so, think back 75 years to 1950. You don’t have to have been around back then, as most of us weren’t, to note that that’s how long it’s been since the Village began its association with Fire Island Ferries, and here we still are. So, see? What could happen in 75 years? Even the names of the presidents then and now begin with the same four letters. But since we’re not allowed to use four-letter names, on to this year’s edition of temporary contemporary matters.
An in-depth glance at the calendar reveals that, while we have an early Memorial Day this year, we also have the earliest possible Labor Day, which somewhat squeezes the schedule for this summer, that is, if you prefer your jam out of a squeeze jar.
We’ll start with the formal grand opening of the long-awaited, heavily publicized, and well-funded brand-spanking-new playground. (Well, you’re not allowed to spank anybody in it; there are one or two laws about that.) The place has already been in use for the past few weeks, and we’ve received positive feedback. Still, the formal dedication ceremonies, a joint venture by the SCA and VOS, will be held Saturday, May 24, at a time which at this writing remains unconfirmed — but emails will alert you well in advance, so you’ll know when to advance for the ribbon-cutting, brief speeches of welcome and thanks (great Vaudeville team, that), and, the traditional Saltaire staple and guarantor of a healthy attendance: free food, carefully selected and catered to ensure the healthy attendees stay healthy. Please keep an eye out for full details from the Village and SCA, and we look forward to seeing you at the festivities.
Meanwhile, the Market is up and running in the lead-up to the entire season, the SYC is cautiously open on weekends, and the various activities in our vast world of sports are picking up steam. The SVFC confirms it’ll hold its never-to-be-missed Memorial Day Weekend Pancake Breakfast, Sunday, May 25, from 8 to 11 a.m. at the firehouse.
Pleased to report that the Northwell Clinic is back in operation, boasting improved services from its dedicated staff. Regarding dedicated staff preserving life and limb, lifeguarding begins at Bay and Broadway beaches this weekend. As always, it’ll be weekends-only protection until late June, when full coverage of all beaches commences. Lastly, twice-weekly refuse collection starts June 2, giving you twice as many opportunities to dispose of this column. Hey, don’t mention it.
