New Year’s Eve was celebrated with our continuing fall-like weather, and it appeared that the restaurants and hotels were the site of many people’s parties. Our party of nine, consisting of our friends of well over 50 years, continued our tradition of eating out, very early, at Edgartown. This year we dined at the Grill in Edgartown, and, as usual, had a great time with friends, trips down memory lane, and of course, a great deal of “what did he or she say.” Something new occurred this year, and you might have called it the trifecta of partying. First was our New Year’s celebration, and then we noticed a young man kneeling in front of the woman at the table next to us holding out a ring, and were witness to her nodding her head and saying yes (see full story about New Year’s Harbor View highlights in the news section). What a happy moment to observe, and, of course, we all applauded after this romantic event. Then at another table, there were about 20 guests, relatives, and friends of Anita Combra who had gathered together to help her celebrate her 95th birthday. This remarkable woman still lives on Vineyard Avenue, well cared for by her family and others. Here’s to another healthy year for you, Anita.
Our town, along with the rest of the Island, mourns the death of Clayton Jerome Healy, infant son of Joseph J. (J.J.) Healy Jr. and Morningstar Healy. Clayton died a few days after Christmas, and we send sincere condolences to his parents and all who loved him.
Early last Saturday morning, a fire at the home of Jerilyn Dube and Ray Rochon resulted in serious burns to Jeri; she was transported by medical helicopter from our Martha’s Vineyard Hospital to Massachusetts General Hospital for treatment. An alert neighbor, Clifford Robinson, hearing cries for help, immediately responded and helped remove Jeri from the home. Prompt response from Oak Bluffs firefighters and EMTs prevented more serious injury, and we now are wishing for a speedy recovery for Jeri.
There will be community suppers served every day of the week at various locations throughout the Island during these sometimes lonely winter nights. The schedule is:
- Mondays at 5:30 at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, North Summer Street, Edgartown, hosted by United Methodist Church of Martha’s Vineyard and St. Andrew’s Church,
- Tuesdays at 5:30 at Chilmark Community Church,
- Wednesdays at 5:30 at the West Tisbury Congregational Church,
- Thursdays at five at Good Shepherd Parish at St. Augustine’s Church, Franklin Street, Vineyard Haven, hosted by Good Shepherd Parish and Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center,
- Fridays at five at Grace Episcopal Church, Vineyard Haven,
- Saturdays at five at Trinity Parish House in the Campgrounds in Oak Bluffs, hosted by United Methodist Church of Martha’s Vineyard,
- Sundays from 12:30 to 2 pm at Federated Church, South Summer Street, Edgartown.
There is no cost, so come and enjoy delicious meals and great company.
Students, teachers, parents, and townsfolk were sorry to learn that the current principal of the Oak Bluffs School, Jackie Rizzo, was retiring and would not be returning to school after the Christmas break. Dr. Megan Farrell, who has a long history with the school, has taken over this position, and we welcome her and wish her well. And news from the high school lets us know that the search for a new high school principal there has been narrowed down to three finalists.
The library will hold a “Star Wars Party” on Saturday, Jan. 9, from 10 am until noon. Participate in a Jedi training camp, pose in a photo booth, make “Star Wars” crafts, snack on treats, and more. This is for kids of all ages. Feel the force at the library.
On Friday, Jan. 15, from 6 to 8 pm, there will be a Super Smash Brothers Brawl. There will be Wii and pizza for all ages.
We send birthday smiles for the month of January to Aidylberg resident Ariane DeLancey and Woodside Village residents Mark Kurth, Joan Hyer, Lyn Thorp, Milli Scott, Ira Yaffee, and Frances Maciel.
Enjoy your week. Peace.
