Okay, we’ve got Taste of the Vineyard tonight, the Boogies on a boat this weekend, and Neil Flynn holding down the back bar at Atlantic for the foreseeable future. And the Wharf and Shanty are crawling with nightlife. The sidewalks are filled with camera-toting ice cream connoisseurs, the bike paths are filled with beach cruisers and baskets, the harbor is filled with boats. That’s right, folks. It’s summer. Yippee!
Bobby and Kerry Branca and her big sister, Laila, happily welcomed Allie Claire Branca into the world on June 8. Proud grandparents are Betty Branca of Canton, Mike and Sandy Joyce, and Ray and Annie Long, all of Edgartown. Also welcoming Allie are many uncles and aunts.
Veteran Hollywood comedy writer Marty Nadler will perform his one-man show, Very Vineyard 2011, at Grace Episcopal Church in Vineyard Haven on Saturday, July 9 at 7 pm. Marty’s writing/producing and performing career spans more than three decades. In television, he served as script consultant for “The Odd Couple,” story editor and head writer for “Happy Days,” contributing writer for “Sesame Street,” and guest writer for “Saturday Night Live.” Recently, Mr. Nadler has turned to script-doctoring feature films, working with Director Garry Marshall. Nadler has worked on “The Other Sister,” “Runaway Bride,” “Princess Diaries 1&2,” “Raising Helen,” and “Valentine’s Day.” Marty has just finished work on Marshall’s latest film, “New Year’s Eve,” due out for Christmas 2011. This MV Center for Living benefit will be Nadler’s only July appearance. Enjoy an evening of wine and cheese and comedy with the Vineyard’s beloved raconteur, Marty Nadler. For reservations, call Leslie at 508-939-9440.
The MV Center for Living, a nonprofit organization for Island seniors, is holding its Second Annual “Summer Welcome” dinner/dancing fundraiser on Friday, June 24, from 5:30 to 10 pm at the P-A Club in Oak Bluffs. The bash begins with appetizers and drinks (cash bar) from 5:30 to 6:30 with dinner at 6:30-7:30 after which some tables will be cleared for dancing, with music provided by DJ Steve McCullough. There will be a silent auction with winners announced at 8 pm. Ellen O’Brien’s lovely table centerpieces will be given away as door prizes at the end of the party. Call MVC4L director Leslie Clapp for tickets: 508-939-9440. This organization provides services for seniors, such as social programs for individuals who may be at risk if left alone, transportation for Islanders to doctor appointments on the mainland, emergency food cupboards, monthly lunches, fuel and utility assistance, and more. Those of us who don’t already benefit from their services may someday. A worthy cause, if you ask me.
I am thrilled to wish a very happy birthday today to Kevin Searle, who’s had a tough run of it this year. Many, many happy returns, friend. Birthday wishes also go out to Michael Valenti on June 18 and to Ed Gargan and Kelly Boccia, who both celebrate June 19. Hope it’s a good one.
Time to go polish up my dancin’ shoes. Taste of the Vineyard, the gourmet stroll to benefit the Historical Society, only comes once a year, and oh what a night it will be.
