We voted today - Bill and Diane Rossi picked us up and we went together. When we were there at about 10:30, there were only a few people, but the folks working there, justices of the peace, town clerk and assistant town clerk, told us there was a flurry of activity as the polls opened.

We went by way of Brickett's Crossing Road to see how much damage had been done to the house where Barbara and Cecil "Buggy" Morse lived and had their tree farm. The house had been sold by auction, I believe to a person named Tom Cogger, who has a computer business in Newport and commutes. We think there may have been no one at home when the fire started last night. Someone driving by saw the flames coming out a window on the north side of the house and, because there was no cell signal, drove to a house down the road to call in the fire. Fire companies from at least Cabot and Walden responded and were able to put out the fire quickly. There is a pond and dry hydrant nearby, but the pond has been drained for repairs. Bad time to have a fire in that neighborhood.

On our way home we drove up to the Sousa farm to see if the "box" is in place yet, which would indicate cell service is imminent. This photo shows the cement base where the "box" will sit - so no news about cell service yet.

We have had a few people indicate they've been able to make calls on their cell phones along West Shore Road, but the signal is sketchy at best and most of the time non-existent. We're keeping track of the progress and will let you know when cell service is available from the Sousa tower.