Just like the Energizer Bunny, Oak Bluffs seems to keep on running, with constant projects going on all over town. Although I realize the change must have been difficult for nearby residents, the new bowling alley/bistro has been completed, and looks like it has always been there with its design and color. I have heard so many good comments from people who are enjoying recreation that will be available year-round, and also have been told that the food is excellent.
How nice to have a place that is family-friendly and attractive also. And can you believe the big changes that the Community Park Build has brought to Niantic Park? Take time to drive by and see the great new playground built by the community. For five days people and businesses gave their time and themselves to create a playground that reflects the true Island community. Look on Facebook under Niantic Park Project, and you will see some absolutely amazing pictures of this project, which not only created a brand-new playground but showed what Island-wide hard work and cooperation can result in. The committee members, town, and Island send endless appreciation to everyone who supported and continues to support this playground. They are still short of funds to complete this project, so if you would like to donate, please send a check to Friends of Oak Bluffs, with “Niantic Park playground project” in the memo, and mail to P.O. Box 1281, Oak Bluffs MA 02557.
The Minnesingers Homecoming annual silent and live auction takes place this Friday, Oct. 23, at Atria in Edgartown. There will be live entertainment by Minnesingers past and present, a choral singalong, and hearty hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Beside the silent and live auction, there will also be a cash raffle drawing for $750, $500 or $250. Tickets may be brought from your favorite Minnesinger or at the door for $30. Oak Bluffs students who are part of the Minnesingers are Liam Weiland, Jesse Dawson, Curtis Fisher, Belle Dinning, Angela Hayes, Dustin McCord, and Penelope Dutton.
Residents 65 years of age and older, please be on the lookout for an envelope with a large yellow Island pictured on the front. This is not junk mail, but contains a survey sent to you by the Martha’s Vineyard Healthy Aging Task Force. The committee, in cooperation with all Island organizations that serve elders, is working to assess the needs of elders in areas of health, mental health, transportation, housing, and caregiving support, among other needs. The survey, which was mailed out this week, is strictly confidential, and the results will be an important tool in planning for the needs of elders. In 2010 the population of 65 and older residents was one in six of us, but within 15 years it is predicted to be one in three.
Of course our Oak Bluffs School is always a center of activity, and today, students and staff are excited about a special visitor. Author James Howe will be at school today. Mr. Howe has written over 80 children’s books, and is well known for his middle-school series of books, “The Misfits.” How lucky are these students?
Another Electronic Disposal Day takes place at the Community Services Building area across from MVRHS this Saturday, Oct. 24, from 9 am to 2 pm. Here is your opportunity to get rid of all those non-working electronic goods at a most reasonable cost.
Please be aware that along with beautiful fall colors, October and the next two months also bring hunters to the woods. The archery deer-hunting season has already begun, so it might be best to wear some fluorescent orange and be aware while venturing into wooded areas.
Just a reminder to send along your news to Meganislandmegan@comcast.net. Or by phone.
We send birthday smiles to Judy Williamson on the 22nd, Liz Field on the 23rd, and Chris Look III the next day. Ann Baird and Addison Blake share the 25th. Smiles to Ashley DePriest on the 27th, Simone McCarthy on the 28th, and Felicia Taylor and Eleanore Tompkins on the 29th.
Enjoy your week. Peace.