Town Column : Chilmark

By Katie Carroll
Published: November 19, 2009

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Congratulations to the 4/5 class at the Chilmark School. With the assistance of their families, friends, and educators, they had a well-run UNICEF fair. The students created games and, for a $.25 cent donation, the children in attendance could play and win a fun prize. Not only did the Chilmark School students attend, but the first and second graders from the West Tisbury School also attended. The final tally is in and the 4/5, along with the rest of the student body, earned a total of $619.23 to send to UNICEF this year, surpassing last year's total of $586.20. UNICEF provides long-term humanitarian and developmental assistance to children and mothers in developing countries.The 4/5 class and Ms. Jackie shout out a big thank you to all the families who contributed treats and drinks for the sale table as well as for helping set up and clean up.

Selected works from the Martha's Vineyard Arts Association Permanent Collection of art made on the Vineyard will be on display at the Chilmark branch of Sovereign Bank through November 20. These works have never been shown outside of the Old Sculpin Gallery in Edgartown. Included are early works by Vaclav Vytlacil, Francis Chapin, Gilberta Goodwin, Renne O'Sullivan, and Marion Wakeman. This exhibition was partially funded by the Martha's Vineyard Cultural Council.

The Chilmark Church is having a Community Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, Nov. 22, at 9 am. It will be an interfaith experience with the doors wide open and the entire community is welcome to attend and give thanks. Pam Goff reminded me that an offering will be taken for the Island Food Pantry in addition to their continued collection of non-perishable groceries in the church vestibule. The Reverend Arlene Bodge will lead the gathering.

Also, don't forget Tuesday night soup suppers are in full swing starting at 5:30 pm. I hear they are running a bit longer than an hour as once dinner is over the room fills with music: drums, harmonicas, and any other instrument that makes its way into the room. The church certainly is the Tuesday night hot spot in town.

The Chilmark Library continues to host stories and songs for children Tuesday and Saturday mornings from 10:30 to 11:15 am. You can find Kristen Maloney surrounded by inquisitive children absorbed in her stories and belting out the words of whatever fun song follows along to the beat of the drums and shakers. Tuesday morning is always filled with the spirited Chilmark Preschool students. The Wednesday after-school program, which is held from 3 to 4 pm and led by Irene, is open to those age six and older. Saturday afternoons starting at 3 pm is teen time. It's a nice way for our young adults to get together, work on a group project, and catch up after a busy week at school. For more information about anything mentioned, please call the Chilmark Public Library at 508-645-3360.

I almost forgot. I was so excited when I borrowed movies the other day and realized they've extended their loan time on DVDs. Three nights now is the norm and if you rent on Tuesday you get a fourth night as a bonus as the library is not open on Friday. Also, if you are running late on your trip back up-Island you can return your movies after hours in the outdoor return without being penalized. I can't tell you how many times I've returned movies 10 minutes after closing and felt obligated to tuck that dollar bill inside the case. Thank you library folks.

Coco Adams shares a reminder with us all. There will be a flea market at the Community Center on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 9 am to 2:30 pm. Please mark your calendars and remember that this may be a sweet spot to pick up a few holiday gifts. Lyn Daniels will be serving up some tasty treats so stop by, chat with Coco and the gang, and as she said to me, "just come and be social." Please call her with any questions or if you are perhaps interested in renting some space. Her number is 508-645-3414.

Wednesday, Nov. 25, at 10 am, consider taking your young friends to Native Earth Teaching Farm where Rebecca and Randy will welcome you to enjoy animal visits, flower picking, and climbing the woodchip pile. This really fun activity runs year-round weather permitting.

Lordy, lordy look who's 40. Yes, she may not look it but Sandy Mincone celebrates a decade-changing birthday today.

Happy belated 14th birthday wishes go out to Mariah and Jessica Campbell who celebrated over this past weekend. Phyllis Conway and Valerie Murphy both celebrate on the 21st.

This week's fire safety tip is check your smoke detectors and replace batteries if you know it's been a while.

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