Last week I asked whether anyone could tell me more about the beautiful Bradford pear trees along Clough Lane. Each spring they give us a wonderful display. This year the blossoms created a glorious tunnel of blooms. Then in the fall they are the prettiest of our colorful autumn trees. I wondered who was responsible for these delights. Thanks to Kathy Ivory and Lynne Irons, I learned that these lovely trees were planted by the Friends of Tisbury around 1968.
These ornamental pear trees are unfortunately prone to damage from high winds — and young boys. You may have seen the huge branch that broke off the big tree at the First Baptist Church two weeks ago. Perhaps we should begin planting some new Bradford pear trees so we can still admire them in the years to come.
Give a little back to our Vineyard Haven Library this Saturday by taking part in the mini book sale from 1 to 3 pm. You can buy books and, through your purchases, support our children’s programs. There are even some free items and bargain bags as well.
Next Saturday you can learn how to play mahjong with the traditional Chinese version, using Henry Snyder’s rules. I didn’t even know there were versions of mahjong. Beginners are welcome. It is free and it’s fun. The program runs from 2 to 4 pm at the library.
Sunday evening you are invited to consider the idea that there could be an end to war on our planet. An organization called Beyond War has been working for 25 years to bring about this possible dream. Winslow Myers, an art history teacher for 40 years, has been volunteering for Beyond War.org since it began in 1984. He is the author of “Living Beyond War,” to bring the ideas of Beyond War to the post-9/11 world. He will share his beliefs on Sunday at 5 pm at the Unitarian-Universalist Society.
Mr. Myers says our world was in a similar position regarding slavery. Few could envision the end of slavery, but a process began that made slavery unacceptable. Nuclear war would not be manageable nor would it be a victory for anyone.
Even should there be an end to war, there should never be an end to our giving thanks to our veterans and to those who gave their lives on our behalf.
Start planning now. Mark your calendar for a meaningful Memorial Day weekend. One of the most moving ceremonies is the children’s March to the Sea. This parade by the children of our Tisbury School begins at 12:30 pm on Friday, May 27, at the school. Students will walk from the school to Owen Park by way of Spring Street and Main Street. They carry flowers that they will toss into the harbor, commemorating those who have given their lives for our country. The student band will be playing and flags will be waving and you should plan to be a witness.
Then on Monday everyone on the Vineyard is invited to enjoy Tisbury’s annual Memorial Day picnic at the Tashmoo spring pumping station. Well, you do have to leave your dog at home. Anyone else is welcome, so bring your lunch and hot dogs and potato salad. I think potato salad is required on Memorial Day. Grill chefs will cook your hot dogs and hamburgers as you wait. Just don’t forget your buns and condiments. There is ice cream and also live music provided by Tristan Israel and the Flying Elbows. That’s Monday, May 30, from noon to 4 pm.
Even better, the Vineyard Transit Authority buses on regular routes will stop at the Tashmoo overlook on State Road to drop off and pick up passengers. Rain date for the picnic is the following Sunday, June 5th.
Food Safety Sanitation courses are offered at the MVRHS in May and June. Online pre-registration is required: www.acemv.org. For more call 508-693-1033 x 240 or e-mail lynn@acemv.org.
You can sign up for space at the Down-Island Farmers Market. The market opens June 28. For an application call Noreen Baker at 508-693-9300 or go online at www.tisburywharf.com. Click on the farmers’ market poster.
Congratulations to Judy and Allan Davey who celebrate their anniversary on Saturday. Their son, Allan, and his wife, Ann, will mark their anniversary on Monday.
Big bunches of birthday balloon wishes go out today to Craig Mayhew. Best wishes go out tomorrow to Lillian Hammond and Maura Ziemian. Wish the best on Sunday to Elaine Ciancio. Monday belongs to Olyvia Houston. Happy birthday to Shawn Townes, Leah Ellis, and Shawn Willoughby who party on Tuesday.
Heard on Main Street: Don’t you wonder? Why is it called the Department of the Interior when they are in charge of everything outdoors?
