I begin my column this week with some very sad news. Our dear friend Dickie Green passed away last week. Dickie was a man who would do anything for you, and do it with a smile. He was a wonderful person with the kindest heart I ever knew. I first met him when he and my mom worked together at the telephone company, and I knew then I had a friend for life. To Dickie’s family and friends, my love to each and everyone.

My friend would not like us to dwell on unhappiness, so – local tomatoes are here! They can be found at our local farm stands, get it? Off to the farm stands with you. Eat some great stuff.

The Baiting Hollow congregational Church’s annual chicken barbecue will take place on Saturday, Aug. 6, with a rain date the next day. This is the best, tastiest event of the year, and for a small price to pay: $18 in advance, $20 at the door; kids under 12, $12 in advance, $14 at the door. You can enjoy half a barbecued chicken, corn on the cob, baked beans, rolls, watermelon and so much more. Please call Sandy at 369-4318 for info or to purchase your tickets. Takeout is available or you may stay on the church’s grounds and maybe go home with something from the chinese auction.

A very happy birthday to Steven Bekiesz, who turned 27 on July 17, from your mom, who wants you to know how much she loves and misses you (Steven is in the army stationed at Fort Drum) and from your wife and 10-month-old son. We all hope you had a great birthday Steven, and thank you for all you do to keep us safe.

To a special buddy of mine, Harry Jackson: your wonderful wife, Barbara, and all your family and friends hope you had a very happy birthday on July 15. We love you dearly!

River Road has a newly engaged couple. Miesje Renier – who walks her beautiful husky, Dixie, past the farm stand and drives my little Yorkie, Brooklyn, crazy – is engaged to Dylan Governale, who proposed in May on top of a mountain during a hike. We wish you both much happiness, and many congratulations from all your family and friends. We are looking forward to the next chapter in your lives. Stay tuned.

I have been doing a lot of work on the tractor this year, and sometimes it gets boring, but now I have a few friends along for the ride: a mockingbird’s nest built quite nicely into the engine of the Oliver tractor, complete with three eggs, and merrily we go along. After I park the tractor, Mom mockingbird gives me nasty looks, but she gets over it. I shall keep you all up to date on this event. It’s never dull.

And that is all for this week, take care, be safe and I shall talk to you next time. Bye.