“August is the border between summer and autumn; it is the most beautiful month I know. Twilight is the border between day and night, the shore is the border between sea and land.” –Tove Jansson
We are somehow always astonished when August arrives. It is such a mix of feelings here — it is truly a beautiful month, filled with garden and sea abundance, long summer days, and beautiful sunsets. But for us, the pace of life accelerates, the traffic gets worse, and it is easy to find it annoying. I observed two reactions when the bridge was up the other day as I tried to get to Vineyard Haven: Some people sat back and relaxed for a few minutes to enjoy the view, while others got nervous, moving their cars closer or turning around. Best thing we can do is stay calm, and don’t let the little annoyances take away from the beauty around us.
There will be a benefit to welcome Chef Newton Waite back from 10 months in ICE detention, and to support his family as they rebuild their life and business, Vineyard Caribbean Cuisine. On Friday, July 31, at the Strand Theateer, the community will come together with local artists and vendors, live performances, and speakers. This is from 6 to 10 pm. Every ticket, donation, and purchase will support this Island family and favorite Oak Bluffs business.
The Tabernacle will host the annual Craft and Artisan Fair on Saturday, August 1, from 9 am to 2 pm. Then, come back on Monday, August 3, for the popular All-Island Art Show, from 9 am to 1 pm. This show provides a venue for amateur and emerging artists to display and sell their art, and for the public to see amazing and unique artwork. Additional information may be found at allislandartshow.org. On the 6th, there will be a family dance party at the Tabernacle, put on by WMVY and the Cottagers. It’s free, it’s fun and it starts at 6 pm!
Monday, August 3, brings Island favorite Entrain back to the stage at Featherstone. And note: The music will start at 6 pm through August and September.
Get excited! Built on Stilts, the island’s homegrown, free, community dance festival is coming back! Mark your calendars for August 6–9 and 14–17. Remember, every night is different, every night begins with a drum circle, and every night is magic. This is the 30th year for Built on Stilts, and the linup looks amazing. Check it out at builtonstilts.org.
Happy Birthday to you, Bob Laskowski, on August 1! You share the day with Maureen Farrissey and Kim Wadleigh – and birthday hugs being sent to Edgartown to Alison Convery on the 1st. Seniel Hannigan celebrates on the 2nd – hope all those boys celebrate you in style! Sing a birthday song to music man Brian Weiland on Aug. 3rd.
Barack Obama, Freedom Cartwright and Zak Martellucci all have their day on the 4th. Happy Birthday to James Franklin Blue and Melanie Rankow Prescott on the 5th.
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