“I say from time to time that the vote is precious. It’s almost sacred. It is the most nonviolent tool or instrument that we have in a democratic society. And we must use it.” –John Lewis, Feb. 21, 1940–July 17, 2020
John Lewis was a hero of the U.S. civil rights movement who championed the right to vote for every American. He was also a very nice man, who let me get a photo with him when I met him at Inkwell Beach! I hope we can continue his work and protect the vote.
Congratulations to Jaime Curley, who has been appointed the new Martha’s Vineyard Public Schools Superintendent! She will be following Richie Smith, who is retiring in June, leaving big shoes to fill. Jaime brings enormous skills and strengths to the job, she has strong family ties on the Vineyard –– and she will be our first female superintendent!
School vacation is next week, Feb. 23 to 27. I wish our amazing teachers, administrators, building staff, and students a fun and restful break!
Parents of young children, if you are looking for things to do next week, check out the Martha’s Vineyard Family Center calendar. Monday mornings, it’s “Move with Me” at Rock Solid Fitness from 10 to 11 am. On Wednesday mornings, they go to the Martha’s Vineyard Museum to explore. There are play groups and story times throughout the week at the center, on Greenwood Avenue in Vineyard Haven. These are free programs for all Island families. Email mvfamilycenter@gmail for more information, or check out the Martha’s Vineyard Family Center on Facebook and Instagram.
Friday, Feb. 20, is Clean Out Your Bookcase Day! I only know this because Alison Cohen let me know that the Oak Bluffs library is holding a book drive on Saturday, Feb. 21, from 11 am to 3 pm. This is a great opportunity for book lovers to share your favorite reads, and make room for more books! They are seeking books in good to excellent condition, of all types EXCEPT textbooks, encyclopedias, etc. Books must be brought into the library –– please do not leave them outside OR in the return box.
On Saturday, Feb. 21, our own Sarah Shaw Dawson is performing at the West Tisbury library at 3 pm. Sarah is a singer-songwriter with her own distinct style. Her songs are rooted in nature, her home, and the Island community that she loves. See you there!
Happy birthday on Feb. 19 to Brian Packish and Griffin Kuhn!
Maynard Silva was born on Feb. 20, 1951 –– happy heavenly birthday, Maynard; you are so missed. Feb. 21 is the birthday of two heroes of the civil rights movement: John Lewis and Nina Simone. Caitlyn Clark celebrates on the 21st also!
On Feb.22, we remember Deidre Diodati.
Happy birthday to the wonderful Sarah Omer on Feb. 23! She shares the day with Jeannie Wright, and we also honor and remember Gloria Wong. Judy Cronig celebrates her day on Feb. 24. Shout-out to my daughter-in-law Natalie Feliciano on the 25th!
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