The annual celebration of the birthday of Tisbury drew a large, hungry crowd. Among the party goers at the street fair were Dale Ferry and Donald Childs, who caught up with Dale’s nephew, Oliver Montanile. The weather was beautiful. The busing from the high school to our small Main street worked out well. Same time next year.

This Sunday, July 14, our Vineyard Haven Public Library will honor James Norton, dedicated community member and scholar of Asian studies. Jim is also the hardworking farmer of Norton Farm. The festivities begin at 1:30 p.m. at the library. Speaking of scholars and writers, Suellen Lazarus is preparing for our annual Martha’s Vineyard Book Festival in Chilmark, the weekend of August 3 and 4. There is a great lineup of authors that will be speaking on panels or individually.

Just some of those speaking are: Chelsea Handler, Seth Myers, Valerie Jarrett, Richard Russo and John Grisham. There will also be a special tribute to Tony Horwitz. If you are interested in the lineup, the times, or donating for sponsorship, head to mvbookfestival.com or send your check to M.V. Book Festival, P.O. Box 484, Chilmark, MA 02535. I will see you there.

I will not see you at home plate at Fenway. But our own Chris Kennedy will be crossing home base for the annual fundraiser to benefit our veterans. Chris is raising money for his goal. Cheer him on.

The Martha’s Vineyard Chamber Music Society will hold its annual fundraiser at the Old Whaling Church on the last weekend in July. The concert is always a blast, with your favorite Island neighbors putting on a great show.

Tisbury painter Anne D. Grandin will exhibit at the Old Sculpin Gallery from July 13 to July 20. Anne will meet and greet you.

How about our women’s soccer team? Glory days.

Get well wishes go out to Tedy Bruschi. Our own Islanders are devastated by the medical issues Joe Andrade is experiencing now. Mikey Waters keeps us well informed. Hugs to you, Joe, now at Mass General.

Belated birthday bouquets to Cathy Dille Burdick who celebrated on July 7.

The birthday bandwagon pulls along Christopher Leigh Clark and Daniel Van Landingham on July 17. Fred Benton and Carol Slocum party on July 18. And on July 24, Lilly Clark takes the cake. Many happy returns.

Send Vineyard Haven news to iklean@yahoo.com.