Dear Sammy supporters,

I’m sorry to start with a little sad news. While Sammy continues to have good health, her little friend Philippa, who often joined her in the window box to enjoy a well-deserved snooze, lost her battle with cancer this month. The loss of this sweet little girl will leave a big void in the Community Room.

As the heat, humidity and rain continue to pummel us here in New Jersey, Sammy continues to remain — well, this is how I see her — a bit oblivious to the uncomfortable weather outside. I envy her. Lately, when I’ve entered into the Community Room, she’s either been ensconced in her usual new place — the cat tree in the corner to the right of the door — all snuggled and sleepy-eyed, or occasionally in the window box, looking at the outside, and luckily not having to experience it. I’m so used to seeing her in one of those two places that I was totally shocked and amazed to find her in a rather daring new place recently.

The cat tree that Sammy likes to cuddle in has a top section that is totally open. I would call it an eagle’s nest. About two weeks ago, I went to visit her and found her fast asleep in that very spot.

Usually, shy Sammy seems to curl into herself when I come over to pet her. She likes to be petted, but she seems nervous, too. So what would possess her to fall asleep in a space that was open like that?

I never found the answer, and the next time I saw her, she was back in her usual spot. Such is the mystery of cats!

Sammy and I thank you, as always, for your continued support and generosity. We both wish you cool spaces to endure the heat of the summer.