If you happened to go by Sailing Camp on Sunday night, you might have thought there was some sort of a disaster because of EMS vehicles and cars in the parking lot. But fear not, it was the OBFD dinner and program to honor recently retired Oak Bluffs fire chiefs and deputies. After a delicious dinner, prepared by Chef Max Moreis, the ceremony began. Among those retirees so honored were: Pete Forend, Allan “Buddy” deBettencourt, Bruce O’Donnell, James Moreis, and Tony Ferreira. Officers gave a brief history of each person’s years of service to the town, and their years of devotion totaled well over 125 years. Many hugs all around, humorous remarks and words of appreciation were given to all and it was obvious to everyone that the years of comradery was the core of the closeness of the personnel. There were also a few tugs at the heartstrings of those present and I must admit, I felt a few tugs myself before the evening was over.
Electronic Disposal day is this Saturday, October 25, from 9 am to 2 pm on the campus of MVCS, 111 Edgartown Road, Oak Bluffs (across from the high school). Fees range between $2 and $30. There is a 10 percent discount for car loads. This is sponsored by Brunos and all proceeds benefit MVCS.
The Rural Scholars Committee of the Dukes County Health Council is once again sponsoring Rural Scholars from UMASS School of Medicine and the Graduate School of Nursing; the team arrived on October 19 and will stay until October 30. This year’s project, designed by Martha’s Vineyard Community Service’ CONNECT To End Violence program, will consider Elder Abuse Prevention on the Vineyard, taking a closer look at elder abuse and neglect, prevention strategies, and current services. The scholars will review statistics and literature, and they will interview community members and professionals who interact with and provide services for Island elders. The scholars will present their findings and recommendations at a meeting at the West Tisbury Public Library on Thursday, October 30, 4:30–6 pm. The public is invited and encouraged to join them.
John Hough Jr. will participate in a Speakeasy series evening on Tuesday, October 28, at State Road Restaurant to benefit the West Tisbury Library Foundation.
The Artist Ball will happen again this year at Dreamland. The hours are 7 to 10 pm on Sunday, October 26. Marla Blakey will be the mistress of ceremonies and the Natural Wonders will provide the great dance music. This event is the culmination of the Fall for the Arts month on the Vineyard. There will be an art installation called Whatever the Outcome created by Craig Miner. Sales of art will benefit the MVCVA’s grant writing for artists and other local non-profit art organizations. For more information, call Holly Alaimo, 508-693-5444.
Just in time for Halloween our library will be the site of a creepy book reading. On Thursday, October 30 from 6 to 7:30 pm, Holly Nadler will read from the 20th anniversary edition of her book Haunted Island.
It’s parent teacher conference time at the Oak Bluffs School. School will be dismissed at 12 noon on those days. Conference dates and times are: October 23, 5–8 pm; October 27, 1–5 pm and October 29, 3–6 pm.
Cancer awareness day at the school is Friday, October 24. Wear lots of pink and pay $1 to wear a hat. The student council sponsors this event, and all proceeds go to St. Jude’s Hospital for Cancer Research.
Once again Good Shepherd Parish will host its annual Halloween celebration at St. Augustine’s Hall in Vineyard Haven. The party will take place on Friday, Oct. 31, from 4 to 9 pm. All are invited to attend this free event. Prizes and surprises will be awarded for best costumes and themes There will be snacks and a light supper of hot dogs and soup as well as other refreshments for revelers of all ages. Movies will be shown continuously and games will be available till 9 pm. This celebration provides a safe and warm environment for all trick or treaters and it is supported by many Island businesses. If you would like to assist in any way, your participation would be appreciated. For more information or to volunteer you help, please contact Joe Capobianco at 508-274-1170.
We send birthday smiles to Chris Look III on the 24th, Ann Baird and Addison Blake on the 25th, Ashley DePriest on the 27th, Simone McCarthy on the 28th, Felicia Taylor and Eleanor Tompkins on the 29th, and Sally Leslie Mitchell on the 30th.
Enjoy your week. Peace