Town Column : Oak Bluffs
By Megan Alley
Published: November 12, 2009
They always come this time of year and they are seen everywhere. You know what they are, the annual fall invasion of the leaves. Everyone seems to be repeating the same phrase: "There are twice as many this year as last." So grab your rakes and get busy but you know there are bushels more ready to drift off the trees in the weeks ahead.
The vanishing SSA terminal at the Oak Bluffs wharf has given many people something to talk about. Didn't anyone notice? Hopefully the new terminal will be more attractive and be completed soon.
The Friends of Oak Bluffs had their annual Christmas decoration meeting at Judy Williamson's on Wednesday night to make the bows for the Circuit Avenue lanterns and the tree on Healey Square. The highway employees are so helpful putting them in place before the tree lighting every year. Present besides Judy, were Priscilla Sylvia, Renee Balter, Duncan and Ann Ross, Nancy Billings, and guest workers Ann Cummings, Sharon Coogan, Amy Billings, and Laurie Jacobs. Everyone worked as fast as they talked, so the job was finished in record time. The current effort for the Friends is to sell lanterns to match those on Circuit Avenue and the harbor to go along the beautiful new pathway in Nashawena and around Dennis Alley (formerly Waban) park. Families are getting together to purchase a lantern with a memorial plaque to honor or memorialize someone. It's a wonderful tribute while creating much needed lighting.
The Oak Bluffs School's drama department has their fall production of "Aladdin" this weekend. The play is directed by Shelagh Smilie with musical direction by Brian Weiland and assistant direction from Larissa Bernat. Shows begin at 7:30 pm on Friday and Saturday and 2 pm for Sunday's matinee. Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and $25 for families.
The school spent the week making cards for veterans, with the plan to deliver them directly to those serving in the armed forces by David Berube, husband of second grade teacher Ellen Berube, who is currently deployed to the -Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. They recognized several veterans at Friday morning's Community Meeting, including Island veterans agent Sgt. U.S. Army Joanne Murphy, Senior Master Sgt. USAF David Kann, U.S. Army Sgt. (WW ll) Mev Good, Major, U.S. Army (Vietnam) Jim Dorsey, and U.S. Army Sgt. (Korea) Donald Billings.
There will be a fundraising opportunity for members of the class of 2011 and their parents or guardians at the Holiday Bazaar on Sunday, Nov. 22. Students and parents or guardians can earn points by working the bazaar. If interested, any and all suggestions welcome. Please contact Gina Patti at the school at 508-693-0951 or email ideas to gpatti@mvyps.org. Thanks you.
Chris Murphy and Jim Newman are organizing a returned Peace Corps get together potluck this Saturday, Nov. 14. If anyone's interested, contact Chris at 508-693-6610. All are welcome. Spread the word to volunteers as well as staff.
We joined old friends Maureen and Bill Anderson on Saturday for dinner out at the Ocean View to celebrate the 49th wedding anniversary of Nelson and Sandra deBettencourt. The night was filled with teasing, laughing, and good-natured conversation among friends who have gathered together for many occasions for more than 50 years.
Our Magical Undersea World, a slideshow presentation, will be held at our library on Thursday Nov. 19, at 6 until 7:45 pm. Michael Wooley narrates this free slide show and short film presentation showing the mysteries and fascinating undersea life of Earth's two largest barrier reefs.
There will be a free class on Saturday, Nov. 21. Learn how to download audio books using the library's free download service. Practice using the download station, and learn how to download from home. Sign up is required. Please call the library for information on times at 508-693-9433.
The Martha's Vineyard Garden Club holds its final general meeting of the year on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at 1 pm at the Wakeman Center. The program scheduled is titled Holiday Creations. Members of the Garden Club presenting a brief workshop focusing on techniques, materials and tips for making holiday decorations are Wiet Bacheller, Mary Lou Perr, and Kristin Henriksen. Following the program, the members host a hospitality hour with refreshments. Everyone interested in learning more about gardening (or sharing your knowledge), flower arranging, the preservation of the Island's natural beauty and eco-friendly living is welcome to join. There is no charge for members. The charge for guests is $5.
Reminder to come by and say farewell to Linda Marinelli at the Portuguese-American Club this Friday evening. Bring your good wishes and a dish for the potluck supper, which starts at 5:30 pm.
We send birthday smiles to Kati Davey on November 13, Pat Alley and Barbara Humber on November 15, and Barbara Dugan and Yvonne Ponte on the 18th.
Enjoy your week.
Peace.
