Chilmark is strangely quiet as I write early this week. It has been a long gray day with rain threatening but not falling yet. The traffic pattern is very different than that of August. However, it is just temporary. Our harbor master tells me that the Point Independence Yacht Club is headed here for their annual end of summer cruise and he expects about 14 boats to come to Menemsha.
Chilmark had a busy week. The Monday night special town meeting, although not heavily attended, gave those present a good opportunity to explore the various opinions of their fellow voters and the majority approved the plan for changing the Menemsha docks presented by town boards. It is a step into the future, always a time to depend on leadership and technical expertise. Chilmark seems to have its share of both.
Chilmark has enjoyed soaking up the heavy rains of the past week. I can almost hear the sighs of relief from every plant in view. It was a great treat and a good start to August. No one can doubt that it is August. Somehow, the volume of cars, visitors, needs and chores all hit over the past weekend. Seems like August is going to be longer this year!
Chilmark is holding on tight as we whip around the corner into August. Before I bring you up to date on all the social activities available to you in the coming week, I am taking time out for some old-fashioned chat. I hope you read two essays that I enjoyed in last Friday’s Gazette.
Many Chilmarkers took advantage of the all-Island flu shot clinic this past Monday even though the present weather pattern shows little signs of the flu season arriving any time soon. Let’s hope we are all set for a sniffle-free winter. The event went very smoothly, at least when we were there midday. Thanks to all the volunteers.
Chilmark survived the big blow on Saturday. Our roadsides still have trees with colorful fall foliage although there are fewer trees in some places. A number of trees and limbs of trees blew down, mostly, along North Road. Work crews cleaned everything up quickly and no routes were blocked.
The storm was a long one with blowing sand at Menemsha and torn leaves were everywhere. Most Chilmark folk took it all in stride.
Chilmark still boasts mild weather and sunshine into November. In our hearts, however, we know this is the month that always changes things. Better get the last of those bulbs in and any outside chores done soon. The changing leaves were pretty on all the roadsides but there seem to be many trees still green.
This week has been the peak for viewing the fall leaf colors. All our roads are pleasant to drive as they have many red and yellow trees along the roadsides. Wednesday’s rain showers and strong wind reduced some of the colorful display but the show should last another week or so.
The Women’s Symposium will meet tomorrow at 9 a.m. at the community center for their 10th year.
The mild weather continues, as Chilmark settles into its quiet pace for the next few months. The sunset crowds at Menemsha are mostly gone but I must say the sunrise on Wednesday morning was one not to miss. I shared it with the crows who were trying to outshout the seagulls, maybe they wanted us all to wake up and enjoy the beautiful sky.
Chilmark enjoyed a clear Christmas Eve with a full moon outshining all of the holiday lights around town. A brisk wind made the annual Christmas Day beach walks an invigorating experience. The coming week promises to be uneventful as the children enjoy their vacation and family reunions continue throughout the New Year’s celebration.
