Oak Bluffs: Baseball, of course

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Crowds gathered on Circuit Avenue on Thursday last, and it seemed as if everyone was there except the news photographers. No, it wasn’t a presidential visit, but the reopening of Linda Jean’s Restaurant after being closed since the first of the year. Inside was a scene of pure smiles and celebration as patrons and staff alike shared hugs and welcoming words with one another. Delicious food, as always, was served, with numerous breaks being taken as everyone shared the latest news and the delight of once again being in their happy breakfast spot. Scenes like this and similar ones at Reliable Market and other local stores in town are what make Oak Bluffs special.

So sad for the loss of David Knauf, also known as Gibby, who died at his home in Idaho this week. He was well-known throughout the Island for his construction work and many friendships; we will miss him and his smile.

Are you curious about the qualifications of candidates running for election in Oak Bluffs, and where they stand on certain issues? The League of Women Voters is sponsoring a forum for candidates for local office in Oak Bluffs on Thursday, March 28, at 7 pm in the Oak Bluffs library. The public and all candidates are invited to attend. This is an opportunity to hear statements from those running for office, and to ask questions on topics of special importance to the town and the Island. Be sure to attend, and bring your friends.

Abe Seiman, who has served on many town committees, is running as a write-in candidate for the finance committee in the spring election. He would like to remind everyone that if you wish to support him as a candidate, you can only vote for one candidate printed on the ballot, as there are only two positions available.

Further discussion on the Oak Bluffs Master Plan will be held on Monday, March 25, at 5 pm. The meeting will take place at the Nelson W. Amaral Fire Station, upper level training room, at 6 Firehouse Lane. This will be your opportunity to offer suggestions and ideas.

From seasoned politicians to school students, it is encouraging to see such a broad range of people wanting to make a change on our earth for the better. To gain awareness of the worldwide water crisis, Oak Bluffs students have participated in Ryan’s Well Foundation’s School Challenge for the past three years. This year their donations will support the construction of deep wells and rainwater-harvesting tanks at nine schools in Amach sub-county, Uganda. Students raise money, with the help of parents, by collecting donations, doing extra chores, or selling used items. Donations will directly impact the lives of 2,350 people in Kenya. Please bring in donations to the school by Friday, March 22, making checks out to Ryan’s Well Foundation.

The first day of spring was on Wednesday, and what is one of the first signs of spring? Baseball, of course. Martha’s Vineyard Little League hopefuls can register online at mvlittleleague.org, or sign up on March 23 from 9 to 12 noon at the MVRHS gym.

The Federated Church in Edgartown would like to remind everyone that there are only two Sundays left for the free Lasagna Luncheons, March 24 and 31. Lunch is served from 12:30 to 2 pm.

Tech Help with the Technology Librarian at the Oak Bluffs library takes place on March 30 from 10 am to noon. Call Nina at 508-693-9433 to sign up for a 30-minute session, remembering to bring any passwords you will need to access your accounts.

Also at the library on March 30 from 1 to 4 pm, Abe Seiman will be the presenter for the program “Coping with Alzheimer’s Disease as a Family Member, Caregiver, or Friend.”

We send birthday smiles to Ross Peters on March 22, Marcelle BenDavid and Eugene Defelice Sr. on the 23rd, Hunter Ponte on the 25th, June Manning on the 26th, James Rebello and Hannah Gibb on the 27th, and Kailyn Hart on the 28th.

Enjoy your week. Peace.