Mary Oliver
The wind wags its many tails. And in the evening the piled firewood shifts a little, longing to be on its way. —Mary Oliver
May 9, 2014
Mars by the Dashboard Light
The bright red planet Mars is a special guest in our evening skies. For nearly two years, the planet has been fairly faint, but right now it shines brightly on center stage.
Please Adopt Us
Hurray, hurray, the month of May! Looking out at the strip of blooming tulips and daffodils in front of the Animal Shelter, we are enjoying a bit of warmth. Our kittens are now on their feet and will soon be roaming around learning how to use a litter box and eat solid food. Mama cat…
Pink and Green Weekend is Here
Let there be shopping. Let there be open houses. Let there be dancing and dog shows, walking tours, fudge tastings and wine sipping, brunches by the score, and let it all be done dressed head to toe in pink and green. Lily Pulitzer will live again this weekend as the town of Edgartown celebrates its…
Lawsuits Fuel Airport, County Tensions
Longstanding tensions between the Dukes County Commission and the Martha’s Vineyard Airport Commission over who really runs the airport wound up in superior court this week, when airport commissioners filed a complaint against the very body that appoints them.
Stop & Shop Withdraws Expansion Plan
Stop & Shop withdrew plans Thursday to expand its Water street store in Vineyard Haven, abruptly ending a 10-month Martha’s Vineyard Commission review of the project that was closely followed and debated.
Aquinnah Takes Up Lighthouse Funding
A level-funded budget, a possible name change for State Road and a major spending request for the relocation of the Gay Head Light will come before Aquinnah voters at their annual town meeting Tuesday night. It will mark the last annual town meeting on the Vineyard this year.
Vineyard Roots Help Grow New Tony Nominated Play
James Lapine’s new play Act One, incubated at the Vineyard Arts Project, was recently nominated for five Tony awards including Best Play. Tony Shalhoub was nominated for Best Actor.
Sandy Fisher Was Island’s Oldest Living Commercial Fisherman
There are many ways to measure the length, toughness and ultimate reward of the life of Francis E. (Sandy) Fisher Jr., the oldest known commercial fisherman on Martha’s Vineyard, who died on May 1 at the age of 98.
Tisbury Police Issue Arrest Warrant for Tool Theft
Tisbury police issued an arrest warrant Monday for a man they believe stole tools and electronics from a Vineyard Haven job site.
Stop & Think
We applaud Stop & Shop’s decision this week to withdraw its proposal to expand the Vineyard Haven store. In a statement delivered to the Martha’s Vineyard Commission on Thursday, Stop & Shop pledged to step back, take another look at community reaction and evaluate alternatives. Their local representative, attorney Geoghan Coogan, added that it was…
Bad Science
It took the town of Oak Bluffs forty years to accept what the Centers for Disease Control calls one of the ten great health achievements of the twentieth century — community fluoridation of water.
Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation Seeks Accreditation
Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation is applying this year for accreditation from the The Land Trust Accreditation Commission, a lengthy process involving information gathering and documentation.
Weighing Anchor, But Much More to the Story
There are many iconic skylines, but few as proud and cherished as the stabilizer arms that reach above the fish markets from Menemsha’s sister draggers, the Unicorn and the Quitsa Strider II.
Warm Embrace of Coming Home
Spring brings out the osprey lover in me. Some might even call it an obsession.
Washashore Chronicles: Making Waves After Washing Ashore
Okay, my wife and I have been living here full-time for more than three years. I know we can never lose the label of washashore, but is it conceivable we might be at least recognized with a label that advances our status?
Better Plan Needed
It’s hard to imagine anyone who cares more about Tisbury than planning board co-chairman Henry Stephenson. He thinks deeply about the town and he has a nuanced and practical sense of design.
Ship Shape
Old Vineyard boatmen have said that if any man can operate a craft of any sort around the Island of Martha’s Vineyard and keep out of trouble, he can get by as a boatman anywhere.
Poor Treatment, Chairman Kristal
If the town is democratic, it hardly seems just to dismiss an agenda item with virtually no warning or explanation, no matter what the opinion of the chairman.
Finding a Better Approach
We are led to believe that we either have to live with the existing shabby Stop & Shop store, or accept a new building which most Vineyarders feel is inappropriate for that site.
Move It Out of Town
I recall how much fun it was to see the sights at Five Corners with my grandmother. There was no congestion, just the slow pace, friendly laid-back people and a village setting.
Questions, No Answers
What happens when the Martha’s Vineyard Commission orders of conditions are ignored by an approved applicant’s project? How are those conditions enforced?
No Rooms for Rent
In the next few weeks, almost a dozen families are being displaced. Kids out of college are finding nowhere to go; elderly people and adults alike are stumbling over the housing deficiency.
Healing Begins
Our family and the family of Ellie Hanjian have had a very emotionally and physically trying go of it since the morning of Sunday, April 27, when we were involved in a violent automobile accident.
It’s Always Sunny-Side Up at Linda Jean’s
People are happy to wait in line for a spot in a booth or at the counter. That’s because for many, Linda Jean’s restaurant in Oak Bluffs is a home away from home. Doors open at 6 a.m., and in the summer months there are already people outside waiting.
Parents Organize Party After Prom
High school juniors and their prom dates, as well as juniors who aren’t going to the event, are welcome to attend the after prom party at the YMCA.
Rallying Around Families Hurt in Virginia Accident
Fundraisers are underway to help two Island families that were injured in a serious car accident in Virginia on April 27.
Land Bank Revenues: May 2
The Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank reported revenues of $137,816.94 for the business week ending on Friday, May 2, 2014.
VCS Student Art Exhibit Opens
A reception for student artists will be held on Saturday, May 10, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Martha’s Vineyard Film Center. The reception will also include a free 5 p.m. showing of the award-winning film Inocenti, about a homeless high school student pursuing her art against all odds.
Memorial Dedication Honors Two Students
On Saturday, May 10, a black granite bench outdoors at the regional high school will be dedicated to Kevin Johnson and David Furino, two students killed in a car crash on May 7, 2004.
Candidates Present United Front Against Casino in Aquinnah
Incumbent selectman Beverly Wright stressed her experience over the past three years while challenger Julianne Vanderhoop emphasized helping the younger generation during a candidates forum in the old town hall Wednesday night. The town election is May 14.
Real Estate Transactions: April 28 – May 4
99 School Street LLC purchased 99 School street in Edgartown from Edwin B. Gentle Jr. and Frances M. Gentle for $1,200,000 on May 1.
Oak Bluffs Town Column: May 9
Of 52 Island beaches only the Inkwell has been the subject and title of a movie, even though none of it was shot on the Island. Historical reports indicate that Martin Luther King Jr. swam there, along with countless other celebrities, film and television personalities
Aquinnah Town Column: May 9
Welcome to our newest family member, Kylee Rose Todd, who was born in Saginaw, Mich., on April 29, a few weeks earlier than expected. Kylee weighed in at 3 pounds 15 ounces and is 16.5 inches long
Chilmark Town Column: May 9
The leaves are about three weeks late this year and it does affect some. I saw a large skunk trying to catch a meal just before sunset today and he was scooting around in an area that usually hides any critters in the underbrush. I wonder if he knew how exposed he was?
West Tisbury Town Column: May 9
The orioles (birds that is) have returned to town. The late Emma Whiting kept records to prove that they always return by May 12, and bird watchers will keep a sharp eye out for them on Monday.
Edgartown Town Column: May 9
The pear trees and apple trees are in full bloom and all of a sudden everything is green. I think that is worth a smile.
On Chappy: May 9
Do you know that song from years ago, the one that once was enjoyable but became tiresome upon repetition? That song that plays once again on the radio after being long forgotten? I am that song — back to haunt your collective Chappy memory. Enjoy!
Override, Town Clerk Race Top Tisbury Town Election
A new selectman and a contested town clerk race await Tisbury voters when they head to the polls next Tuesday. The town will also vote on its first general budget override in more than 20 years.
Vineyard Haven Town Column: May 9
Sandy Whitworth at the Tisbury Senior Center sent me a glowing report of the free April walk in Tisbury led by Susie Bowman of Felix Neck.
Behold Beautiful Spring
The Darwins are the tulip of choice for you. They are blooming right now and will do so for years to come depending, of course, on Bambi and his family.
Dandelions Make a Better Brew
Dandelions are the secret ingredient to creating a satisfying stout, but these little yellow flowers that everyone can easily identify are quite controversial.
Spring Migration Takes Flight
Spring migration is initiated when bird hormones begin to rage and the desire to reproduce causes metabolic changes.
Mad Martha’s, Skinny’s Fat Sandwiches Coming to Former Cafe Moxie
Michael Ryan has sold his Main street Vineyard Haven restaurant to the owners of Mad Martha’s Ice Cream and Skinny’s Fat Sandwiches for $1.2 million. The new owners plan to reopen in time for Memorial Day.
New Ink Flows in Edgartown
Tattoo artist Mark Kito Fuentes prefers to stay away from names of boyfriends and girlfriends. The tattoo may last a lot longer than the relationship. But he won’t say no to a sister or an artichoke, or both. Sisters Terri Lee and Katie received matching artichoke tattoos on their shoulders a few years back from…
As Economy Improves, Year-Round Rentals Grow More Scarce
Using social media, a group of people are working to shed light on the Vineyard shuffle, the annual problem they say is afflicting the community even more severely this year.
Tisbury School Announces Honor Roll
Tisbury School has announced its honor roll for the third quarter of the 2013-2014 academic year.
Last Run for Menemsha’s Quitsa Strider II
The Quitsa Strider II, an iconic fishing dragger that has long been synonymous with the working waterfront in Menemsha, has been sold to a New Bedford dealer. Matthew Mayhew and his father, Jonathan Mayhew, made their final run on the 72-foot dragger to New Bedford last Friday.
Video Marketing Expert Comes to Speaker Series
Chamber of Commerce and Vineyard Square Hotel host video marketing expert Randy Barth as part of an ongoing speaker series on Friday, May 9, at 5 p.m. at the hotel.
Speaking Comes Easy at State Road Restaurant
Ward Just and Paul Schneider will be the featured speakers at a Speakeasy evening held at State Road Restaurant on May 14 to benefit the West Tisbury Library Foundation.
Tennis, Anyone? Mature Players Invited
Learn to play tennis at beginners tennis clinic designed for men and women over 18 at Farm Neck on May 17.
Book Launch For Vineyard Life in Pictures
New book titled Martha’s Vineyard features collection of photographs covering 1840s to 1970s donated by Islanders and visitors .
Mom’s Morning Out
The Family Center offers a relaxing morning of shopping for moms on Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its new location at 35 Greenwood avenue in Vineyard Haven.
Fashion Under the Tent at Featherstone
A spring explosion of color and flowers comes to Featherstone Center for the Arts during its fifth annual Garden Party and Fashion Show under the tent.
Nominations Open for Creative Living Award
Nominations for the 2014 Creative Living Award are open. The award recognizes members of the Vineyard community who have contributed significantly to the quality of life on the Vineyard.
Charter School to Begin Construction Project
The school is embarking on an ambitious building project that includes construction of two new science classrooms to house modern equipment funded by $200,000 grant.
Landlord and Tenant Law Workshop
A free workshop with an overview of current Massachusetts laws governing landlord-tenant seasonal and year-round residential rentals is on Friday, May 16, at Edgartown town hall.
Island Update on Healthy Aging
The Healthy Aging Task Force presents an update on its progress in addressing key issues for baby boomers at a community meeting on May 22.
Legal Fight Ends on Bright Note With Four Affordable Housing Lots in Chilmark
Twelve years in the making, the complicated deal with the town, the land bank and the Howard B. Hillman family will create affordable housing, add conservation land and save a historic home in Chilmark.
Oak Bluffs Mulls Ending Fluoridation, Reigniting Debate Over Benefits, Risks
The Oak Bluffs water district has been fluoridating the public water supply since April of 1992, and is the only town on the Island to do so. But the board of health is considering ending the practice as soon as this summer. A public hearing will be held next month to discuss the issue.
Oak Bluffs School Honor Roll for Third Quarter
The Oak Bluffs School has announced its honor roll for the third quarter of the 2013-2014 academic year.
Edgartown School Honor Roll for Third Quarter
The Edgartown School has announced its honor roll for the third quarter of the 2013-2014 academic year.
Mytoi Makeover
Help the Trustees of Reservations get Mytoi Japanese Garden on Chappaquiddick ready for the season on Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. to noon.
Minnesingers Bring On the British Invasion
The British invade the Performing Arts Center at the regional high school as the Minnesingers present their English-inspired spring concert on Mother’s Day weekend.
Backyard Gardeners
Middletown Nursery in West Tisbury hosts a series of Saturday afternoon lectures on bettering your backyard garden from 1 to 2 p.m. on Saturdays through June 14.
Faith and Fiction
Rabbi Caryn Broitman and the Rev. Cathlin Baker lead two noontime interfaith classes on literature and religion on May 15 and May 22.
Lola’s Returns to Add Cajun Spice to Oak Bluffs
Lola’s Southern Seafood re-opened turned on Friday – for the third time in 20 years. Old favorites like Mussels ala Lola will still be offered, and so will a late night dancing scene, but this time mainly with DJs spinning the tunes.
Hello, Sierra
Joellen Meuse and Mark Meuse of Edgartown announce the birth of a daughter, Sierra Ruby Meuse, born on April 29 at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital.
Welcome, Lorenzo
Josiane Ferreira Paiva De Souza and Ronei Julio De Souza of Vineyard Haven announce the birth of a son, Lorenzo Paiva De Souza, born on May 2 at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital.
Announcing Christopher
Ashley Cimeno and Christopher Hathaway of Oak Bluffs announce the birth of a son, Christopher Scott Hathaway, born on May 1 at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital.
Carter Arrives
Melissa Braillard and Scott Braillard of Oak Bluffs announce the birth of a son, Carter Louis Braillard, born on April 30 at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital.
Tower Near Nobska Point Light to Come Down
The U.S. Coast Guard plans to eventually sell the scenic lighthouse in Woods Hole that dates to 1828 and is familiar to Islanders and sailors. Today the Coast Guard will take down a steel tower that sits nearby and is no longer in use.
Quick Response Quells Sunday Afternoon Brush Fire in West Tisbury
Volunteer firefighters from four towns responded quickly and effectively Sunday afternoon to extinguish a fast-moving brush fire near the West Tisbury School on a blustery day. The fire burned between an acre and a half to two acres of forested land between the Island Children’s School on Halcyon Way and the West Tisbury School, West…
High School Students Cook Up a Feast to Help Grow the Next One
On Thursday morning, Martha’s Vineyard Regional high school juniors Nichole Wilson and Matt Davies cleaned heaps of local garlic shoots in the culinary arts classroom in preparation for A Spring Garden Feast on Saturday night at the Sweet Life Cafe.
