The Island’s official start of summer is Memorial Day, and we are so looking forward to the great weather that is being predicted. But let us not be caught up in the hoopla of beach, parties, picnics, and holiday events without remembering why this day is set aside each year and called Memorial Day. Thank the veterans for their past service and also those who are now serving their country in many ways and in foreign lands.
The Legion in Vineyard Haven is once again requesting your help in setting up the Avenue of Flags at Oak Grove Cemetery. Assistance is needed at 7:30 am to put all the flags in place and then again at 3 pm when they have to be put away. This would be a great way to honor our servicemen. The parade starts Monday morning at 10 am, leaving the Legion hall and marching to the entrance of the cemetery. After the ceremonies, the parade returns to the Legion Hall where the marchers are invited to partake of some refreshments. Thank you to all who work so hard every year to make the remembrance of this day possible.
The Legion’s Tuesday summer lobster roll program begins on June 4. Rolls will be served from 4 to 7 at the bargain price of $15. There is plenty of parking and you may eat in or out.
Speaking of good food, the P-A Club will be holding a fish fry tonight, starting at 5 pm. Not only fish will be served but many tempting sides also. And of course you can stay and eat in or do a take out.
So sad to hear of the death of James Alley, a cousin of my husband’s. We didn’t get together too often but when we did there was a definite connection. Jim was our go-to person when we needed a car, and those sessions could go on for days. It was hard to tell who was enjoying them the most, the seller or the buyer. Whenever we met we would always be greeted with an enthusiastic “Hi Cuz.” Our sympathies to his wife Ann, his family, and many friends.
The Martha’s Vineyard Museum will hold an opening reception, “A Taste For The Exotic,” on May 24 from 5 to 7 pm. This will showcase collections brought back from around the world.
My sister Joyce is here from Paso Robles, California, catching up on news with her daughter, Lynn Rebello, and myself and our other sister, Ann Hearn. While here, she is staying with longtime family friend and Tisbury School classmate Cynthia Schilling.
Kenny Ponte has let me know that his wife, Erica, is back home after having hip replacement surgery on May 6 at Newton/Wesley hospital in Boston. She is now home recovering and looking forward to being completely healed and pain-free with both of her hips now brand-new. Glad you are doing well, Erica.
Come to the Oak Bluffs Library on Thursday, May 23 at 6 pm, for a free, fun, informative lecture by Herb Foster: “Dating Again at 83: Learning the New Rules.”On Tuesday, June 4, at 6:30pm.Tom Dresser will speak on his new book “Women of Martha’s Vineyard,” a biographical compilation of 15 prominent Vineyard women.
Thursday, June 6, at 6 pm. Come and meet Author Spencer Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of the Chet and Bernie mystery series.
The Lagoon Pond Association is accepting orders for low-cost rain barrels through May 23. They will be available for pickup at the M.V. Garden Club Annual Plant Sale, Old Mill, West Tisbury on Saturday, May 25, from 10 am to 3 pm and can be ordered at www.rainbarrelprogram.org/lagoonpond.
Society theater comes to the M.V. Film Society in Vineyard Haven, when a dazzling white grand piano will be put to the test on Friday, May 24, when pianist Delores Stevens, the artistic director of the Martha’s Vineyard Chamber Music Society, and violist Lila Brown will present a 30-minute “salon” program at 6 pm. The piano is on loan from the society. Although the pre-film concert will be admission-free, admission to the film later that evening will be required. Information on the event may be obtained by contacting rich@mvfilmsociety.com or calling 508-696-9369.
Birthday Smiles to neighbor Kay Manning on May 24, Jack Garrett will be 14 on May 25, smiles to James Trip and Connie DeFelice on the 26th, and Cheryl King on the 28th.Smiles to those I might have missed and get well wishes to those in need of a healing smile.Enjoy your week.Peace.