The Martha’s Vineyard Center for the Visual Arts sits tucked away in the arts district at 99 Dukes County Road, but what a jewel. As you leave the parking lot heading for the courtyard entrance, you are struck by the welcome art in the form of china plates, shattered teacups and chiseled saucers that are sprinkled into the walkway.

This visual art sets the table, pun intended, for what is to follow. I am greeted by Bill O’Callaghan. Coming from Cork, Ireland, Mr. O’Callaghan began his work as a carpenter but soon found his hands were not only good for pounding nails but could also form ceramic tile, sea stones and shells into magical pieces of art. Returning to his first love of wood, Mr. O’Callaghan now collects driftwood and uses it as a frame for aluminum and other media.

Come out this weekend and meet Bill and artist Heather Goff, who has a long history of working with functional, decorative works in clay. Their collective portfolio of independent works combine for a nice afternoon in the Oak Bluffs arts district.

Speaking of art, if you missed last Sunday’s opening of Suesan Stovall’s Groovy Sue’s Gallery, you can stop by in the afternoon to explore her mixed medium art, at 9 Spruce street from 2 to 7 p.m.

Beth Kramer advises that the Martha’s Vineyard Cultural Council is looking for a representative for each of the Island towns to help plan and identify town events and programs that grow and expand the arts on the Vineyard. Interested parties should reach out to Rob Hauck at hauckr@gmail.com.

Some 30 years ago, Sullivan family friend, Carol Dargan, suggested that Ginger and Lou think about managing a 5K run/walk event on the Vineyard similar to the events that Lou held in other parts of the country when he served as federal cabinet secretary. Well, she unleashed a wonderful event enjoyed by the thousands over the years.

This past Saturday after the run, the Sullivans invited new Vineyard Hospital CEO, Denise Schepici, to come for brunch and meet event sponsors and colleagues. As the primary beneficiary of the resources from the run, the hospital wanted to say thank you. She was candid about some of the previous year’s challenges but she was clearly focused on the task at hand.

Rev. Julian Cook, formerly of St. Mark Congregational Church in Boston, was showered by affection after his amazing sermon this past Sunday at Union Chapel. His message of creating something out of chaos reminded many of Rev. Dr. Charles Adams of Detroit who graced the pulpit many years ago. The operatic voice of his wife, Sigourney Cook, combined to make this gifted couple a treasure for all to hear.

Well-wishers came from the Grooms, Carroll, Welburn and Anglin families hosting the Cooks as they head off to

new territory. Next week Rev. Cook begins his doctoral program at the famed Drew Theological School in Madison, N.J.

Julieanna Richardson, founder and president of the History Makers, had a busy and productive several weeks on the Island in August. She and staff set up their oral history studios and interviewed many from Oak Bluffs and the surrounding towns. Judith Batty, Harry Seymour, Dr. Ron Childs, Almeta Cooper, Hon. Pamela Dashiell, Hon. Edward Redd, George Russell, Vivian Male, Kathleen McGhee-Anderson, Brent Henry, Clarence Otis Jr., L.Duane Jackson, Genelle Trader, Richard Walker 3rd, Craig and Diane Welburn among others are now on the record with their amazing oral histories. Can’t wait for next year for them to return!

As the nation mourns the passing of Sen. John Sidney McCain, his love of country and patriotism is especially remembered here on the Vineyard. For all of the fun and frivolity that we celebrate on the Island, we deeply cherish the greatness of America. Our fireworks, parades and flags, our Veteran celebrations and marches, our July Fourth kids promenade in the Camp Ground all reinforce love of God and country, deeply shared by this war hero from Arizona.

Former President Obama had this to say: “Few of us have been tested the way John once was or required to show the kind of courage that he did. But all of us can aspire to the courage to put greater good above our own.” May he rest in peace.

Paradise on earth is the Vineyard experience. Enjoy it as life is fleeting!

Oak Bluffs news can be sent to rtaylor@mvgazette.com.