JUNE D. MANNING

508-645-2574

(lthslnks@gis.net)

The second annual American Heroes Saltwater Challenge was held at the Beach Plum Inn, hosted by the Nixon family. Eleven wounded soldiers participated in the 65th annual Martha’s Vineyard Bass and Bluefish Derby. I had the pleasure of meeting U.S. Army veteran Zachary Osborne and his dedicated assistant from Roanoke, Va. who were extremely pleased with their fishing trip with Capt. Buddy Vanderhoop. Thank you to the Nixon family, the fishing captains who donated their time and boats, the derby committee, and all the community members who have made this week very special for the veterans. If you would like to donate to this cause, send donations to “Wings Over America,” Box 38, Menemsha, MA 02552, a family run charity.

At the Aquinnah Cultural Center today, Randy Jardin will present his display of stone artifacts from across the Island. The discussion is free with paid admission to the museum. On Saturday, Sept. 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Janette Vanderhoop will present Sailor’s Valentines. There will be a $10 fee for supplies. On Wednesday, Sept. 29 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Linda Jeffers Coombs will present Native American Beadwork. Linda will demonstrate several styles of beadwork including applique, loom work, peyote stitch and bead weaving. She will also have a display of beaded earrings, bracelets, barrettes, medallions, necklaces and more.

Aquinnah Public Library will sponsor story time and crafts on Tuesdays, Oct. 5 and 19 at 4 p.m.

Congratulations to Christopher Belain for his 27.84-pound shore bass in the derby this week.

Get well wishes to Edward Fantasia, who was transferred to Children’s Hospital from the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital this past week. Eddie is now home recuperating.

Nancy Hare and several family members returned to Rochester, N.Y., after spending several days at the Hare home.

William Kistner 3rd and his friend Emily Lyons returned to their homes in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., on Thursday morning after spending several days on the Vineyard. They were the guests of his cousin, Noah James Manning, and Noah’s parents, Paul and Theresa Manning.

Jeffrey Kurth is having a wonderful sale at the Up-Island Paint and Tool in North Tisbury, a great place to shop for your autumn home projects.

Get well wishes to Kristina Leslie, who was admitted to the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital this past week and is now home resting comfortably.

Sage Surner returned to his home in New Hampshire on Monday after spending the week with Gladys Widdiss and assisting her with her many activities.

Captain Brian F. Vanderhoop was surprised on his 50th birthday with a large party at the Aquinnah Shop on Sept. 15.

Faith Vanderhoop returned from her visit to Manhattan with her sister Naushon Vanderhoop for a few days.

Dawn Widdiss returned to her home in Framingham on Monday after spending the week with her mother, Gladys Widdiss, and a visit with her brothers, Carl and Don.

Happy sixth anniversary wishes to Kevin Sheehan and Jennifer “Jeffie” Butler as they celebrate on Sept. 25.

Happy 19th anniversary wishes to Derrill Bazzy and Joanne Eccher as they celebrate their special day on Sept. 27.

Happy 25th anniversary wishes to Joseph Hobbs and his wife Linda as they celebrate on Sept. 28.

Happy 71st anniversary wishes to Garth W. and Ollie N. Edwards as they celebrate their special day on Sept. 30.

Happy birthday wishes this week to Christopher Henry as he parties today. Dustin Shaw will party on Sept. 25, as will Jim Sanfilippo. Anne Weingarner of Aquinnah and Albuquerque will party on Sept. 25. Eleonora Plamenova Duncheva, daughter of Ena Thulin and Plamen Duncheva and granddaughter of Dennis and Sarah Thulin, will celebrate her first birthday on Sept. 25. Sarah Thulin will celebrate on Sept. 26 and shares the day with Gretchen Webber Gebb and Hillary Smith. Spa Tharpe will find some incredible way to celebrate on Sept. 26. Kathy Ivory celebrates on Sept. 27 and will share the day with Dr. Jason Lew, Paul O‘Donnell, and Dennis Rose.

Kathleen Smith will observe a major milestone on Sept. 30. Edwin J. Vanderhoop parties on the 30th while here fishing in the derby.