I was thrilled to get to hear Shirley Mayhew read from her new book, Looking Back: My Long Life on Martha’s Vineyard, at the West Tisbury Library last week. I had heard Shirley read her stories before when we were both in Howes House Writing Group when I first moved to the Island. Although she says she wrote this book for her family, anyone with a love of the Island will appreciate Shirley’s wonderfully written stories. The book is available at both Island bookstores and makes a perfect holiday present.
On December 11 Marianne Goldberg and the Pathways team had their season opener where last year’s awards recipients shared a taste of the fruits of their labors in writing, music and the visual arts. Chilmark residents Nancy Aronie read from the fiction she has been working on, and photographer Peter Simon shared his aerial shots of the Island. A great evening was enjoyed by all with offerings from many new and some familiar local artists and musicians. If you want to be inspired or are looking for a place to write, or just want to check out locally-made jewelry, prints, books, music and art stop by Pathways Living Room Gallery and Bookshelf (Chilmark Tavern), closed on Wednesday and Sundays, and open all other days from noon to 4 pm.
The best “Holiday to-do list” I have seen is on Share’s Facebook page. Share is a non-profit organization that supports girls’ education in Africa. So as life gets a bit more hectic and crazy around the holidays perhaps you can adopt some of the wisdom of their to-do list. And you can continue celebrating at The Chilmark Library’s Holiday Party, today, Thursday, December 18, from 4:30 to 6 pm. Make swags to bring home and lift a glass and celebrate all the joy our library offers our community.
There was a change in the line-up of artists at Santander Bank, so be sure to stop by Candy Shweder’s Up-Island Pottery display through December 26 and pick up some last-minute presents — you cannot go wrong with her timeless work. Also there is a box of non-denominational handmade holiday cards by Jess Bradlee for sale using gorgeous papers.
If you are still looking for presents with a local flavor be sure to stop by Lambert’s Cove Glass and Books in Menemsha, get some gas at the Texaco Station and warm up with hot chowder or lobster bisque at Menemsha Fish Market. Remember Josh Aronie’s Food Truck operates 11 am to 2 pm, Monday–Saturday, in front of Chilmark General Store. I love their breakfast burrito any time of day!
Come to the Town Committee on Squibnocket public information meeting tonight, Thursday, December 18, at 7 pm in the Chilmark Community Center to learn about the latest plan and express your comments. The next Chilmark Planning Board Public Hearing, a continuation from the December 8 meeting about accessory apartments, is scheduled for Monday, December 22, at 4:30 pm.
Come and share in the joy of the season and join in at The Chilmark Community Church on Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24, at 5 pm, sing carols with guest musicians, pass the light to your neighbors and listen to stories of the ages at the informal service where all ages are welcome. Best wishes to all this holiday season.
If you care to make a dish to share with those on duty at United States Coast Guard Station in Menemsha over the holidays, contact Tom Ruimerman or Janet Weidner at 508-645-7830 to offer your seasonal cheer.
