Town Column : Edgartown
I had a chance to chat with Paulee Davies, receptionist at the Edgartown School, about her exciting past. When Paulee was five years old, she learned to skate on Island ponds (the ponds iced over more regularly back then). It soon became apparent to those close to Paulee that she had a talent and a passion for skating. But she could not pursue her dream without access to an ice rink, which the Island lacked at the time.
Paulee's dad was a pilot, and he was kind enough to take her off-Island in his four-seater plane at least four afternoons a week so she could skate. Paulee took part in many competitions, and has a box full of metals to show for it. For 18 years, Paulee taught skating at the Martha's Vineyard Arena. For now, she teaches a class in the M.V. Skating Club's Learn to Skate program, and while she spends considerable time at the rink, it is now mainly to cheer on her four sons who play hockey there.
Morning Glory Farm had its Pumpkin Festival last Saturday. While early forecasts predicted rain, the weather turned pleasant, but with a chill in the air that one would expect this time of year. The hay bale maze, pumpkin carving, and hayrides kept the kids happy and engaged. The Morning Glory Farm team was testing its pumpkin catapult, in use for the second year in a row, with reinforcements recently added after the catapult broke last year. The catapult released pumpkins high into the air, hitting a field 150 yards or more away, where they smashed into pieces in a sort of mini-explosion. This was certainly the highlight of the day for many children, and big kids too. Food items made from the farm's fresh vegetables and meats were delightful, as were the samples of freshly-pressed apple cider. The Athearn family was very kind and generous to put on this outstanding event.
The all-Island School Committee meets tonight, October 22, at 7 pm, at the Martha's Vineyard Regional High School. It is my hope, and that of many others I know, that school committee members will vote to keep the string music program budget at its current level. Two hundred children across the Island currently take part in the program, allowing them to learn how to play the violin, viola, cello, or bass in school.
Please mark your calendars for the upcoming Book Fair taking place at the Edgartown School between Friday, Oct. 23, and Wednesday, Nov. 4. On Wednesday, Oct. 28, at 7 pm there will be a book talk, with a discussion of new adult fiction and nonfiction. Refreshments will be served. All members of the community are welcome.
Martha's Vineyard Public Charter School students are making scarecrows for Halloween again this year. Look out for them in Edgartown in front of stores that have made a donation to the school. The young scarecrow builders may win prizes, including gift certificates to Edgartown Books and Summer Shades. The Charter School will use the money raised to upgrade its science lab.
Proud grandparents Kathy and Randy Mercier of Edgartown were visiting their three-week-old granddaughter Maren Mercier in Wyoming this past week. The couple also spent quality time with Maren's four-year-old brother Mason, and parents Rachael and Lucas Mercier.
Make every day special.
