Cranberry Day celebration was grand this year. There was a more than abundant harvest of cranberries, the last berry of the season in Aquinnah. The potluck was a wonderful evening of socializing with friends and neighbors. Traditional dance and drum was enjoyed by all. We were graced by the presence of the eldest tribal member attendee, Gladys Widdiss, who was photographed with the youngest tribal member, Amos Sauer.
Get well wishes to Nancy Delaney who was admitted to the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital this past week. Nancy is improving and anticipates returning to her home by this weekend.
Barry and Grace Reeves graciously opened their Totem Pole Inn on Christmas Eve to host an evening of fellowship following the Candlelight Service at Community Baptist Church. Delicious delicacies and hot beverages were served as people gathered and participated in singing Christmas carols. Thank you to Barry and Grace for their generous hospitality.
Aquinnah police chief Randhi P. Belain is creating a list of names of people who are interested in obtaining deer over the winter that are killed by vehicles. If you are interested in being called when a deer is available, please call Chief Belain at 508-645-2313.
Longtime family friend Linda Maury BenDavid has been undergoing medical care each week at Massachusetts General Hospital. Please send get well cards to her at Box 415. Oak Bluffs, MA 02557.
Condolences to the family of Eileen Blake. Those of us who live up-Island especially have had the pleasure of enjoying her famous pies for several decades. It was testament to Eileen’s baking skills when even a tour bus was spotted in her parking area earlier this summer.
August 12 is Native American Day in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, as proclaimed on numerous occasions by sitting governors.
All the best to Jim Kinsella as he moves on to his new position at Cape Cod Today. He has been an inspiration in assisting me with editing my column for the past two years. We will undoubtedly continue to work together as Cape Cod Today on occasion quotes some of my work.
Welcome home to Capt. Ron Mac-Laren of the U.S. Naval Reserves who has served in Kuwait since September. Ron is director of health for the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) and it is anticipated that he will return to his duties within the week. We are proud of his service to our country as we are proud of each and every one who serves at present or has served in the past. Please be mindful of all as we observe Memorial Day.
