The wreath is hung, the tree is trimmed, I’m making my list and checking it twice. Any Grinches out there best take a break from this column, because the spirit of the season has arrived and I’m feelin’ it.
Highlights on the Christmas light tour this week include Kevin Searle’s ever-growing display on Chase Road. I also saw a couple of houses lit up on Jernegan Ave. Keep me posted if you see or create anything I should mention.
Karen Walsh reports that son Andy is back at the University of Hartford after spending a week of Thanksgiving break with his family in Island Grove. Andy celebrated his 22nd birthday this past Saturday, Dec. 4. Hope you had a fun time.
I had the pleasure of meeting the newest addition to the O’Hanlon family this week. Jen and Tom have welcomed a puppy into the fold. Jerry is a sweet little guy, already busy chasing the cats around and herding the chickens.
Christmas in Edgartown is here, and the event lineup is plentiful. From bake sales and lighthouse lightings to a parade that culminates with jolly old St. Nick, there is something for everyone.
Saturday, Dec. 11, the Dr. Daniel Fisher House will play host to the Handmade From the Heart sale from 10 am to 4 pm. Offerings include beautiful hand-knitted items, as well as baked good, jams, jellies, mustards, and chutneys. There will also be many handmade items from greens including miniature trees, centerpieces, and wreaths. All proceeds benefit Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard.
The Edgartown School will hold their annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair Saturday, Dec. 11, at 10 am in the school gym. Among the myriad gifts and delights, Steve and Mary Edwards will be selling jewelry and purses/bags made by two women’s groups with which daughter Lizzie works in Oyugis, Kenya, where she has served in the Peace Corps since June 2009. One of her projects is working with this women’s group. The women with whom LIzzie works range in age from 17 to 70 years old, and many of them are widows who care for orphans in addition to their families.
There are so many opportunities this weekend to finish your holiday shopping while supporting worthy causes and keeping your shopping local. What a great way to share the spirit of the season.
On Saturday, Dec. 11, state senator-elect Dan Wolf, will attend the Martha’s Vineyard Democratic Council meeting to hear from Vineyard Democrats and Independents about their priorities for action in the next two years of the Massachusetts Legislature, and to talk about his own ideas and plans for the future. The Council welcomes all interested Islanders to attend. The meeting is at the Howes House in West Tisbury, across from Alleys Store, at 9 am.
The Christmas parade takes place Saturday at 11 am. Pets are invited to join in the fun this year. You and your furry friends can meet at the Edgartown School at 10 am. Costumes and bows are encouraged.
Edgartown high school senior Bryan MacKenty will be one of the many talented students performing at the Minnesingers’ Winter Concerts at the Old Whaling Church December 10 and 11. For concert times and a schedule of other Christmas in Edgartown events, visit edgartownboardoftrade.com.
Shelly O’Neil wishes a very happy birthday for K9 companion and best friend, Frankie who turned seven on November 30. Shelly’s father, John Reveruzzi, will be turning 70 on December 13. Swing by David Ryan’s to wish him a Happy Birthday.
Additional birthday wishes go out to Tom Smith, who celebrates December 13, and Jennifer Freemen December 14.