Oak Bluffs

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Those crackling sounds we have been hearing lately are not paper being crinkled. They are the dried leaves falling from the trees by the wheelbarrow load, due to this extended dry spell we have been experiencing. The few showers on Monday, although welcome and heavy at times, did not last long enough to do much good. Most of the lawns, gardens, and shrubs look parched and thirsty. The acorns are jumping so fast from the trees that I sometimes feel that I am under attack, especially when they fall through the open windows of my car as I am driving along. Here’s hoping the rest of the week brings more significant rain. Meantime many of us are looking forward to this long Columbus Day weekend. Don’t forget that school will be closed Monday.

The second Saturday Breakfast at First Baptist Church in Vineyard Haven will take place on October 12 , 9–11 am. There is a great menu, including pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, oatmeal, juice and coffee for $8. Family of four for $25, and $5 for each additional family member. For more information, call 508-693-1539.

Our town is going to be bubbling over with activities this weekend. The 2013 Martha’s Vineyard Wind Festival will take place at Ocean Park on Saturday, October 12, with a rain date of Sunday, October 13. There will be free kite making for children starting at 10:30 am until 12:30 pm. Children’s flying competitions will begin at noon. Teens can compete at 1 to 2 pm, and adult competition will be held from 2 to 4 pm. Frisbee games will also be scheduled for the afternoon. Model sailboat races for children will take place as well. There will be music by the Flying Elbows from 1 to 3 pm. Come Fly a Kite. Prizes and family fun for all ages. Visit the web site www.mvwindfestival.com or contact Holly Alaimo at 508-693-5444 or hollyalaimo@gmail.com.

This Saturday, October12, is the first winter Farmer’s Market at the Agricultural Hall, from 10 am to 1 pm. Stay a little longer and chat with friends you haven’t seen since last fall. Live music and hot lunch served by Little Rock Farm.

On Sunday, October 27, the Artist Ball will take place at Dreamland in Oak Bluffs, from 7 to 10 pm. It’s time to celebrate the many wonderful Vineyard artists and art organizations on the Island. Come for a great party to wrap up the Fall for the Arts month of October. Costumes are optional, but prizes will be awarded to the people who have the best mask, makeup, and costume. Marla Blakey will introduce the Frank Wilkins Band and preside over the evening. Art installation “Whatever the Outcome,” organized by Craig Minor and featuring the artwork of Walker Roman will take place during the evening. Tickets can be purchased at the door or reserve your spot by calling Holly Alaimo at 508-693-5444. Tickets are $20.

Here is some exciting news for all you Foxwoods fans. Due to popular demand, Seastreak is going to offer one final 2013 Foxwoods Trip. The final trip is scheduled for Columbus Day, October 14. All the details are the same as the last trip. Call 1-800-BOATRIDE to make a reservation and for info or do so in person at either SSA Terminal.

We send birthday smiles to Zach Sweeney, Joe deBettencourt, Kristen Mathias, and my sister, Joyce Wadsworth, on October 11, Marty Nadler and Alexis Moreis on October 13, Jen Combra the next day, Diane Claussen on the 15th, followed by Renee Balter the next day, Richard Mello Sr., Janice Duart, and my great granddaughter, Kayla Bryn deBettencourt, on the 17th. Smiles to those I might have missed and get well wishes to those in need of a healing smile.

Enjoy your week. Peace.