This hot and so very humid weather has lasted for such a long stretch it makes us wonder if we have been suddenly transported to a place somewhere in the tropics. Now, instead of a rarity, air conditioners have become commonplace and thank goodness for the dry, cool air they provide. It is not without a loss however, as with the windows being closed, I do so miss the sounds of the birds singing that draws me to the window to watch them eating at the feeders. And I no longer hear the sweet sound of the wind chimes outside the bedroom windows that lull me to sleep. I guess, while this heat wave persists, I will have to make the choice between comfort and pleasure.
I have received many comments about the item in last weeks column regarding the beach rubbish incident. I am starting to feel like the rubbish police as one reader wanted me to know that there is someone who “smuggles” rubbish into the public bathrooms by the bulkhead via her large beach bag, where she leaves her trash in the containers there. If everyone played fairly, it would cost everyone a lot less for town services.
On Friday, July 16, the guest speaker at the Friday Conversations program at the Oak Bluffs Senior Center will be Peter Martell, Emergency Management Director for Oak Bluffs. Peter will talk about the dangers related to, and preparations for, the hurricane season, which is now upon us. Peter has many years of experience as emergency management director and will share his knowledge and insights.
Follow the crowd to the Oak Bluffs library for their annual book sale. On Friday, July 23 from 10 am to 5 pm, and on Saturday July 24 from 10 am until 3 pm you may find the best bargains on used and interesting books. Sunday from 12 noon to 2 pm is the giveaway day when you may get a book at no charge. Please remember that this event will be at the Oak Bluffs library this year.
Congratulations to my friend of more than 50 years, Ruthie Metell, who was honored as the volunteer of the year at the Oak Bluffs senior center. Ruthie has always been one of the first to volunteer to help out with any charity event, never complaining, always smiling.
The Martha’s Vineyard Garden Club will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 20 at 1 pm at The Old Mill in West Tisbury. The topic for this month’s program is hydrangeas. Paul Mahoney, the guru of plant disease diagnoses and the owner of Mahoney’s Garden Center, will present the program.
Another free class is being offered by the Mansion House on July 18. A new piece of strength training equipment called the kettlebell will be featured. Master kettlebell trainer Mathea Morais will guide you through a series of powerful and dynamic moves that will work all the muscles in your body including the heart. This class begins at 5:30 pm.
On Friday evening, July 23, from 7 to 8 pm, the story of Captain Levi Jackson and the rescue of 14 people from the Mertie B. Crowley, which wrecked off Wasque on January 23, 1910, will be told by his great-grandson Herb Ward. The talk will take place at the Parish House of the Federated Church, on the corner of Cooke and South Water Streets in Edgartown. A suggested donation of $10 will go to the Minister’s Discretionary Fund, to help Island families in need.
Maureen and Bill Anderson, daughters Kristen Anderson, Kathy Farrissey, Gretchen Anderson, and son Bill hosted a graduation party for Kristen’s son Ian Thompson last week. Ian graduated from the high school at St. Pete’s Beach in Florida so this get-together enabled his New England relatives to offer their congratulations.
The annual Campground Flea Market takes place on Saturday, July 17 from 9 am to 1 pm, rain or shine.
Livingston Taylor, with special guest Kate Taylor, will be in concert that night at 8 pm. Tickets are $20 and $35. This will be a rare opportunity to have both Livingston and Kate together for a wonderful evening at the Tabernacle. Then on Sunday, at 8 pm there will be a concert with Ed Kilbourne, singer, song-writer, story-teller. A free-will offering will be taken.
There will be two shows at The Yard this weekend. The Bridgman/Packer Dance, on Friday, July 16 at 8 pm and on Sunday, July 18 at 6 pm. Then there will be an evening with dance photographer Lois Greenfield, Sunday, July 17 at 5:30 pm. Please feel free to contact Yard Artistic Director Wendy Taucher at 508-645-9662 or wendytaucher@mindspring.com if you would like further info.
Deborah Colter will meet and greet visitors to the Cousen Rose Gallery on Saturday, July 17 for a Meet-the-Artist Reception from 7 to 9 pm. While you are enjoying the art, the reception music will be provided by Peter MacLean.
Don’t forget the P.A. Feast starting this Saturday followed by the parade and more feasting on Sunday.
Our deepest condolences to the family of Linda Francis. We know she was loved by her sister Susan, daughter Felicia, and her granddaughter Ariana, all of whom will miss her dearly.
We send birthday smiles to Sophie Combra on July 16, Russell Rogers and Summer Clements the next day, Suzanne Metell on July 18, Lynn Webster on July 19 and Charlene Alley on the 22.
Enjoy your week.
Peace
