In a late summer reflection, Irish poet Seamus Heaney writes, “Late August, given heavy rain and sun/For a full week, the blackberries would ripen”. The poem eventually takes a darker turn, but for the moment, I’d like to linger on the image of those sweet, sun-ripened blackberries as a metaphor for August - where there’s so much sweetness to enjoy. Let’s enjoy it while it’s here.

For this month’s “Meet Your Neighbor” article, I had the pleasure of visiting Jack Gilbert’s studio barn on Dorset West Road. Surrounded by oil paintings of landscapes, sunsets, and seasonal changes was a very tangible reminder to appreciate the abundance of natural beauty surrounding us. I hope that you enjoy reading about Jack’s family roots in Dorset, his journey from New York back to Vermont, and how he came to establish Gringo Jacks!

As we head deeper into summer, there’s a lot happening around town. Be sure to check out events at the Dorset Village Library and the Dorset Theatre Festival  -  great opportunities to get out, spend time with neighbors, and enjoy everything this season of ripeness brings. 

I’d also like to welcome our newest partners: Same Day Fascia Soffit Gutter, Family Movers of Vermont, and Marcell Oil Co. We are grateful to have them as part of the Stroll Dorset community. Their support - and the backing of all our partners - is what makes this publication possible. I encourage you to support them whenever you can. 

Happy reading!

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