We do have a most welcoming town, don’t we? The downtown area, the beautiful parks, and the flower beds that are seen everywhere in front of stores, homes, and offices increase this beauty. If you haven’t done so, be sure to view, from the end of Circuit Avenue, the trees lining the left-hand side of the avenue. Their russet-colored leaves at this time of year just add to the charm of the street, which looks like an entirely different street from this end. Does anyone remember when they were first planted?
The annual Christmas Fair at the Methodist Parish House by the Tabernacle in the Campgrounds takes place this Saturday, Dec. 5, from 9 am to 2 pm. There will be many tables where you will be able to find some great Christmas gifts. These include baked goods, jewelry, knitted items, personalized ornaments, and gifts. And while you are browsing, you will be able to take a break at the café, which will be offering clam chowder, homemade chili, hot dogs, and meatball subs.
Jeremy Alley-Tarter returned to his studies at Assumption College in Worcester on Sunday last after spending the Thanksgiving break with high school friends in London. Everyone managed to do a great deal of sightseeing, and the group celebrated Thanksgiving in a typical American fashion. Nonetheless, his family, especially his grandmother, was glad when he arrived back in the States.
An educational program is being offered by the Healthy Aging Task Force, which is designed to help family caregivers cope with the demands of caregiving. If you are caring for a relative or friend, someone who lives at home, in a nursing home, or across the country, this program will help you care for yourself. This program has been offered before, and a new session is running Mondays, Jan. 4 to Feb. 8, from 2 to 4:30 pm at the Windemere Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. There is no cost to attendees. To register, contact Mary Holmes at 508-862-1933 or mholmes2@partners.org.
Our library continues to offer weekly programs that will interest all ages. On Dec. 5, OBPL’s program coordinator, Nate, is hosting a poetry and songwriting workshop for first through eighth graders. The following weekend, children can showcase their creations at the Friends of the Library’s Holiday Party on Dec. 12.
Starting Dec. 4, the library will be hosting a weekly Teen Coloring program, upstairs in the Teen Lounge. All Fridays, 3 to 4 in the lounge.
The Oak Bluffs Writer’s Group meets monthly from 10 am to 12 noon. Today, Dec. 3, this group meets in the conference room.
Here is your chance to view Kathy Glodis Poeler’s seaweed collages. Kathy will be displaying her artwork at the Oak Bluffs Library meeting room from now until the end of December.
Books and Bites program is also meeting today from 12:30 to 2:30 pm. This is a monthly book club with a twist, as the selections are chosen by the group and often include a video or surprise guest. Lunch is provided courtesy of the Library Friends of Oak Bluffs. The current selection may be picked up at the circulation desk. Please let them know if you will be joining them for lunch.
When is the right time to refinance your small business loan? This program is sponsored by the Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce; it’s Thursday from 4 to 5:30 pm at the library.
The Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School is holding its first Family Fun Reading Night on Tuesday, Dec. 8, from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. All Island preschool students through fourth graders and their families are invited. There will be free books, a free book swap, snacks and beverages, tips for reading with kids, and a special guest reader. A Portuguese translator will also be present. If you would like more information, or to RSVP, email ddunn@mvpcs.org or call the school at 508-693-9900.
We send birthday smiles to “Cousin” John Alley on the 3rd; Brittney Jardin, Kate Collins, Carol Testerman, and Gail Barmakian share the 4th, and Bill Anderson Sr. marks a milestone birthday on the same day. Smiles to James Moreis Hakenson on the 6th; Mary MacDonald, Lynn Rebello, Francis Bernard, and Rose Cogliano on the 7th; Vamp Campbell the next day; Tyler Araujo on the 9th; and Tony Maseda and Patrick Parker on the 10th. Enjoy your week. Peace.