Saskia Vanderhoop reminded me that the Vernal Equinox is Tuesday, March 20, at 1:15 pm. Which means spring will officially be here next week. Although in all honesty, it feels like it’s been here all winter. There have been some signs of “real” spring happening, though: Cathy Thompson says she heard a pinkletink and there are crocuses coming up in my yard. And Dairy Queen in Edgartown reopened yesterday. I spent part of Sunday on Lobsterville Beach and it was gorgeous! Why don’t I go to the beach every day, no matter what time of year?
By the way, Saskia is planning a ceremony for the evening of the Equinox; if you are interested give her a call at 508-645-2008. You can also stop by the library that day with your kids and plant some seeds.
Today (Thursday) at the library will be a book discussion group of Ann Patchett’s “State of Wonder” at 5 pm. The next kid’s movie night will be Thursday, March 22, at 5 pm.
Chilmark Chocolates reopens today!
Of course the MV Film Festival is this weekend at the Chilmark Community Center, it kicks off Friday night at 6 pm. Opening night is usually a sell-out, so get your tickets now. There are some great films this year, one that’s getting a lot of buzz right now is “Bully” a documentary about bullying that’s being described as a must-see for all high school students (they can get in free to the screening on Sunday, teachers half price). Other films to check out include, “Pina”, “The Imposter” and of course the beloved shorts program. There will be amazing food and coffee being served by a crew of Up-Islanders, so even if you don’t want to catch a movie, come by to eat and visit with your neighbors.
Jo-Ann Eccher and Derrill Bazzy are actively recruiting new volunteers for their 11-year-old son Jacob’s home-based autism program, Jacob’s Ladder to Son-Rise. Requirements are: energy, enthusiasm, excitement, creativity, love, acceptance, and non-judgment of your self and Jacob. The commitment is four hours a week plus one team meeting a month. No experience needed —training provided. For more information, call Jo-Ann at 508-645-3245 or email at jeccher@earthlink.net. For more information on Son-Rise and the Autism Treatment Center of America you can visit autismtreatmentcenter.org.
Want to garden but don’t have the space? Want to experiment with growing something new? Through a grant from the Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education, The FARM Institute is making 1 acre farm plots available to Vineyarders interested in trying new crops or new growing processes. Water, tillable ground, assistance with planning and expenses will be available. Download the application at farminstitute.org.
The five-year-old birthday bash last weekend was a great success. There were no tears, blood or fights and there was plenty of food.