Colin Ruel and Nettie Kent. — Photo courtesy of Colin Ruel

Last Thursday, my husband and I beat the rain to the Island, making our way home from NYC through awful bouts of thunderstorms. So just a reminder to be safe in the bad weather — we passed close to 20 accidents, adding two hours to the drive!

When I went to the bank on Friday and saw all the doors open to the CCC, I wandered over to peek in at the preparations for the wedding of Barbara and John Armstrong’s son, artist Colin Ruel, to native West Tisbury jeweler Nettie Kent, daughter of artist Doug Kent. I do not know any of the family, but had seen Barbara’s offer for free tulle on MV Stuff for Sale. The bride and groom were doing everything themselves, with the help of those nearest and dearest, putting finishing touches on transforming the CCC into a tulle-festive hall, while the entrance area was set up with tables for a buffet using an assortment of unique antique plates borrowed from friends. “Oh my, only 24 hours until the wedding,” the bride sighed, and then returned to her to-do list. I hope grandparents Jim and Roberta Morgan, all 200 family and guests, and bride and groom had a fantastic wedding outside in Menemsha, followed by a joyous evening of dancing and celebration.

So glad to be able to continue swimming, seeing the leaves change and still have the sun warming my face when I wonder whether it will be the last swim of the season.

Have you ever thought about those ads that seem to follow you around the Internet and wondered who else is keeping track of your online activities? Come to the Chilmark Public Library on Saturday, October 25, at 1 pm to hear the explanation, when Internet security expert Greg Page presents “Who’s Tracking You Online? The Quiet ‘Big Data Revolution.’” During this interactive presentation, Page will talk about the positive, negative, and uncertain implications of the era of Big Data, including critical issues surrounding individual privacy and security. He will also discuss ways that individual web users can minimize their online footprint.

Support the MVRHS Minnesingers Silent and Live Auction Benefit, Saturday, October 25, 6–9 pm, at Dreamland in Oak Bluffs. Tickets available at the door are $25 and include hors d’oeuvres, chowder bar, desserts and cash bar.

If you have an Island Club Card, you can get a discount on any activity at the Farm Field Sea, Island Culinary Adventure taking place Saturday and Sunday, October 25 and 26, in Menemsha and Chilmark. Be sure to check out Sunday’s cheese making class with Jacqueline Foster, head cheese maker at Grey Barn Farm and explore the history and process of cheese making. Demonstrations and hands-on class will include Ricotta Salata, Farmers’ Cheese, and how to build your own cheese cave. For more information or to reserve your spot, go to ffsmv.com or email eat@ffsmv.com.

The Farmer’s Market has moved indoors to the Ag Hall and will continue every Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm through December 27, except for Thanksgiving weekend. I am happy to report Josh Aronie and The Food Truck should appear beginning in November; I’ll keep you posted or you can follow them on Facebook.

The Rural Scholars from from UMass School of Medicine and the Graduate School of Nursing will be on the Island from October 19 through 30 taking a closer look at elder abuse and neglect, prevention strategies, and current services. They will present their findings and  recommendations at a meeting at the West Tisbury Public Library on Thursday, October 30, from 4:30 to 6 pm. The public is invited and encouraged to join in.

Middeltown Nursery will have a free garlic planting demo on Saturday, October 25 from 10 -11am.  Bring your garlic, questions and curiosity. A free family fun day including scarecrow making will follow from 11am – 2 pm.