MV Times July 9, 2026

Every picture tells a story B7

Nothing quite like a day at the farm B9

CELEBRATING 250

Red, white, and blue plastered every corner of

Slave Is the Fourth of July?” at the Tabernacle. See A8 and A9 for coverage of the weekend’s events.

How much more can the Island handle?

BY HAYLEY DUFFY

A1.5-mile drive on Edgartown–Vineyard Haven Road took 40 minutes. It felt impossible to send a text or get a call through. Parking at State Beach was haphazard and unattainable. Want a quick cup of coffee? Forget it. These inconveniences and disruptions didn’t overshadow the patriotic spirit of the annual parades and fireworks, but they did make it much more challenging to enjoy them.

The chaos that came from the big crowds, a heat wave, and torrential rain in the past week also ushered in a tide of concern, forecast by local environmentalists at the Vineyard Conservation Society’s (VCS) annual meeting last Tuesday. They said that at the current rate of development, and based on land still available, the Island could become busier and even see a 50 percent population increase.

That’s how much the land can host, but even now, the water quality in the Island’s coastal ponds is dismal, an exorbitant amount of organic waste is shipped off-

Island, and money is continuously spent to upgrade facilities to meet an ever-increasing demand. And as the tangible geographic limits of the Island remain the same, more yearround residents, despite efforts otherwise, still struggle to find affordable housing.

It all raises the question: How much more can the Island handle, or in more scientific terms, what is the Island’s carrying capacity?

“There are absolutely no easy decisions, no easy answers that lie ahead for our Island community. We are experiencing unprecedented demands on our infrastructure, which has been neglected for generations … We are going to have to make tough decisions,” Ewell Hopkins, board president for VCS, said to the audience at Stillpoint in West Tisbury.

The annual meeting, moderated by host of WCAI’s “The Point” Mindy Todd, titled “Islands Under Pressure: A Conversation About Our Land, Water, and Future” included a panel between Samantha Look, VCS Continued on A15

CHeat, flooding, and mayhem

Fourth of July’s celebrations came with high temperatures and heavy rains.

BY EUNKI SEONWOO

The holiday weekend’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence brought packed parades, booming firework displays, and an unrelenting heat wave.

Days of soaring temperatures, which felt even hotter due to high humidity, were interrupted by torrents of rain and choppy seas that combined to create flooding on Beach Road and Five Corners as traffic jams clogged roads across the Island.

Summer is in full swing on the Island, and a deluge of visitors came on what were some of the hottest days so far this year. Much of the East Coast endured heat waves during the holiday weekend, a situation that experts say will likely be a new normal. Across the country, at least 40 people have reportedly died from heat-related issues. The weather wasn’t as dire on the Island, which was under a heat advisory. But temperatures still reached the low 90s, enough for local emergency managers to warn the community to stay hydrated and to open cooling centers at the Tri-Town Ambulance station, Oak Bluffs library, and West Tisbury library.

It’s not yet clear how many people utilized Tri-Town Ambulance, but Jennelle Gadowski, West Tisbury emergency director, said around 170 people came to her town’s library between Friday and Saturday, including times outside regular business hours. The cooling center, according to a post from the West Tisbury emergency department, provided people a cool respite from “dangerous temperatures,” and

Continued on A7

Hospital president enters first summer at the helm

laire Seguin is stepping into her first summer at the helm of the largest provider of heathcare for Martha’s Vineyard. As new president and chief operating officer, she has been leading it for the past six months. She took on the mantle just before the Island was rocked by winter storms that downed trees and blocked people into their homes, and when the weather warmed, she has seen a staggering increase in hospital visits for one of the busiest and hottest summers in recent memory. In other words, Seguin, nurses, physicians, lab technicians, and hospital administrators have been busy.

Seguin started on the first day of 2026, after predecessor Denise Schepici retired at the end of 2025. Since Seguin took the helm, the Island community and the hospital have faced new and rising challenges in public health. Last Monday, The Times toured the hospital with Seguin to see what has changed, what has remained, and what values Seguin is carrying into the future of the

Claire Seguin reflects on six months in leadership role. BY SARAH SHAW DAWSON

Thursday, July 9, 2026

MARTHA’S VINEYARD TIMES

NICHOLAS VUKOTA

Martha’s Vineyard this weekend as Islanders and visitors celebrated the Fourth of July and 250 years of independence. Weekend events included the annual Fourth of July Parade in Aquinnah and Edgartown, the Edgartown fireworks, and a reading of Frederick Douglass’ speech “What to the

Busy Fourth of July weekend raises questions of capacity.

SARAH SHAW DAWSON

Claire Seguin inside the Martha's Vineyard Hospital.

Yommi and Morning Dew Juice open new storefront

BY SARAH SHAW DAWSON

After the Island’s business landscape shifted over a harsh winter, the summer has ushered in a new set of storefronts. Among them are four Islanders who recently moved from Farmers Market stands to a shop on State Road in Vineyard Haven. The space previously housed Pie Chicks, but now, handpainted white lettering on the front door reads “Yommi and Morning Dew Juice.”

The store is a shared endeavor by Yommi, a superfood popsicle business run by Caroline Harris and her partner Ryan Gussen, and healthy-beverage vendor Morning Dew Juice, founded by Talia Weingarten and Michaela Brown, and provides a home base to once-transient businesses.

Harris and Gussen bought Yommi in 2022. The pair have mainly sold frozen superfood bars, which are primarily made with vegan and local ingredients, out of a small vintage camper at outdoor markets and events. The duo and their staff also keep 14 freezers stocked in local haunts like Nomans in Oak Bluffs and the Mermaid Farm stand in Chilmark, for purchase by purveyors at those establishments.

But having a permanent space, Harris said, “feels absolutely amazing.”

“Previous to this year, we were in a kitchen basement with no windows and no air conditioning. So to be able to be aboveground with fresh air and the ability to share the space is like our dream come true,” Harris said as she and Gussen stood outside the new building on opening day last Monday. On the other side of the new-storefront

Oak Bluffs officials say fireworks caused beach grass fire

A grass fire early Saturday morning in Oak Bluffs is under investigation after fireworks set off by individuals on the beach ignited dry beach grass, officials said.

Oak Bluffs Fire and EMS were dispatched at 1:33 am to a report of a brush fire on the beach in front of 65 Seaview Ave., across from Ocean Park, Oak Bluffs Fire Chief Stephen Foster said. He said that the fire was on beach grass between the roadway and the beach.

“Due to dry conditions and warm temperatures, the fire was rapidly spreading,” Foster said.

Foster said upon the arrival of the first fire crews, which included “three engine units and two command trucks,” the fire had already grown to approximately 100 feet long and 500 feet wide throughout the beach grass, with flames 10 to 15 feet in the air.

Foster said firefighters routed water from the fire hydrant at the Steamship Authority dock using a 600-foot hose.

“We were on scene for well over an hour and a half to make sure the area was completely extinguished,” Foster said.

Oak Bluffs officials confirmed illegal fireworks were involved and shot off by individuals on the beach. Discarded fireworks cartridges were recovered at the scene. The fire is still under investigation.

“This goes to show with the dry weather and holiday season how illegal fireworks should not be used,” Foster told The Times. “We have a high-heat seasonal temperature, and these conditions we have can create rapid fire growth. But all in all, no injuries, everyone was safe, and the fire was completely extinguished.”

The person who reported the fire told first responders it was caused by illegal fireworks set off from a nearby beach, according to Oak

coin is Morning Dew Juice, a rather new venture by Weingarten and Brown, who source fresh vegetables and fruits from Island farms to create colorful and health-conscious juices. They mainly sell their products at the West Tisbury Farmers Market and pop-up events, and they’ll continue to do that moving forward.

Brown echoed Harris’ excitement on the new venture. “It feels like a dream to have this open — one that I didn’t even know was coming,” Brown told The Times outside the new space.

Weingarten agreed, and said that collaboration between the two businesses has been mutually beneficial. Their mission to supply locals and visitors with farm-sourced products is aligned, along with their mutual desire for deeper collaboration and a resurgence of Islander-owned businesses.

“There’s a shared intention to nourish our community and have deep relationships with the people who engage with what we make. It’s really exciting to work with [Yommi],” Weingarten said.

People of all ages gathered on Monday for the opening day of Yommi and Morning Dew Juice. Several milled about the area near blue hydrangeas that line the building outside, while others sat on outdoor patio seating. Inside, a sprawling kitchen was visible behind the counter as the sun streamed in through the windows. The walls had been painted bright, nearly neon green. On the patio were baked goods, live music by Willy Mason and

news in brief

Bluffs Chief of Police Jonathan Searle. By the time firefighters arrived, people who were in the area of the fire had dispersed.

Crews extinguished the fire by 3:10 am.

The incident remained under investigation Saturday morning as police analyzed video evidence in an attempt to identify suspects, Searle said. Anyone with information is asked to contact Oak Bluffs Police.

“This is why fireworks are discouraged,” Searle said.

“I’d like to thank our crews and Oak Bluffs Police for our joint cooperation and strong work during this holiday season,” said Foster.

A video of the fire is available at bit.ly/YT_ OBBeachfire.

Nobody hurt in Chilmark car fire

Chilmark firefighters quickly extinguished an engine fire in a car on Sunday afternoon.

The Chilmark Fire Department received a report of a car fire around 3:40 pm. Chilmark Fire Chief Manuel Rose told The Times that first responders arrived at the Chilmark Post Office six minutes after the call, and the fire was extinguished in eight minutes. JWL Transport was preparing to tow the charred vehicle after 4:30 pm.

“No injuries, so that’s good,” Rose said.

Rose said the driver of the car, a 1988 Jeep Wagoneer, stated that the car overheated while he was driving, and then the engine caught fire.

Rose noted the vehicle was an older model that was rarely used by the driver, who arrived on the Island Friday, so there may have been an underlying issue before the engine caught fire. Rose added that higher temperatures, like those over the weekend, can contribute to vehicle fires for old models that can’t cool down as quickly.

the Alpha Gals — a duo of Lexie Roth and Jessie Pinnick — and “Sun Shots,” a Morning Dew specialty juice made with ginger and turmeric.

Although the building is tucked away off the street, the patio has been a small gathering place for diners for years. Before Pie Chicks moved into the building in 2020, it housed Shepherd’s Provisions, a food store that opened in 2016. This year, the owner of Pie Chicks, Chrissy Kinsman, took a sabbatical from work, the new owners said, and the new businesses were offered the opportunity to take over the lease.

“It feels so exciting to have a physical space in which to gather with the community and to share these things in a more rooted way, and to have a space where more collaborations can happen,” Weingarten said.

This isn’t the first car fire this summer. Last month in West Tisbury, an engine fire engulfed a truck in flames.

Car crashes inside ferry

What appears to be a medical emergency involving the driver of a white vehicle occurred before 10 am Wednesday aboard the MV Island Home, prompting an emergency response from local and state authorities.

According to initial information from Tisbury Police Lt. Bill Brigham, the driver experienced what is believed to be a medical incident. He said it seems the driver entered the boat at high speed and careened into a wall on the vessel. The driver was transported to the hospital.

First responders including emergency personnel from the Tisbury Fire Department, Tisbury Police Department, and the Massachusetts State Police.

At approximately 10 am, the Steamship Authority announced an ongoing emergency aboard the MV Island Home. The vessel’s 9:30 am and 10:45 am departures are canceled, and additional service disruptions may occur as the incident remains under investigation.

This is a developing story. Visit mvtimes.com for more details.

Hospital temporarily locked down for hoax bomb threat

A bomb threat at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital led to a brief lockdown and a coordinated response involving local and state agencies last Thursday afternoon.

Oak Bluffs Chief of Police Jonathan Searle said the threat was deemed to not be highly credible, and normal operations resumed after investigations were carried out.

A store in Vineyard Haven is the next venture for four young business owners.

SARAH SHAW DAWSON

The owners and operators of Yommi and Morning Dew Juice, a new dual business in Vineyard Haven.

RMako shark mascot to make waves next year

High school committee members decide to abide by student wishes.

BY SARAH SHAW DAWSON

egional high school students will officially begin the upcoming school year with a mascot meant to blow the competition out of the water — or into it.

A decisive vote at the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School (MVRHS) committee meeting on Monday night sealed the deal for students to purchase a mako shark mascot costume, although whether or not the shark will be the final and only mascot still needs to be ironed out. Monday’s decision was the culmination of months of student effort and toggling between options by the school committee members after a vote to adopt a mascot was tabled, then split, by members at multiple meetings this summer.

Bryan Lombardi, new principal of the high school, said, “I think that part of our job in this process is: How do we educate and show students how we make effective change in systems and structures?” Monday’s meeting was Lombardi’s first as the principal of the school.

The journey to the resolution on what to adopt as a mascot began with a student-run survey in 2022, when character options were voted on. Years later, the results of that survey inspired rising juniors Madison Curelli and Charlotte Cramer to found the Student Spirit Club this past school session and take up the effort. Curelli and Cramer canvassed across the school with a list of potential mascots, such as the mako shark, the osprey, and the tide. Students, teachers, and administrators all cast their votes this winter, and soon, it was down to two in April: the mako shark and the osprey. Although teachers and administrators were

The threat came in as a call to Oak Bluffs Police. Searle said it “fit the profile of spoof bomb threats that occur on a regular basis [around the state and country],” but added that first responders did their due diligence, locked the hospital down, and still allowed patient access as needed.

The threat claimed a bomb was at the hospital, and the voice, which was described as “robotic” by police, demanded $2,000 be brought to the roof of the hospital but described no plan to pick up the demanded money.

“We did a quick sweep of the perimeter and areas, and we got DOD [Department of Defense] down here on the helicopter with the dogs, and did an in-depth sweep of the building to ensure all things are clear, and now, we are back to normal operations,” Searle said.

Searle further described the voice as having “a delay in between questions, answers, and statements, with a Middle Eastern accent.”

The goal of the hoax emergency call is still under investigation.

“The one thing we don’t want is fake calls distracting us from real attacks,” said Searle. Searle said the response, which included Oak Bluffs Police, Fire, and EMS, and collaboration with hospital administration, security, and Massachusetts State Police, went smoothly.

Searle said the hospital was locked down for about an hour while they waited for the federal Critical Incident Technical Investigation team to helicopter an explosive detection dog in to complete the sweep: “We were also assisted by the Dukes County Sheriff’s Office with a drone to visually inspect the entire building from the exterior.”

Searle added that there was “great coordination by all agencies involved, and thankfully it was confirmed to be a hoax threat, but we err on the side of caution.”

largely in favor of the large raptor, the shark, with its pale blue-gray fins, sharp, jagged teeth, and message of strength and resilience, won it. When that decision made its way to the MVRHS committee members, however, the administrative process began; one that brought up years of history with a previous mascot, concerns about cost, and a final push to rebrand because of a desire to support the student body. Discussion across the meetings also raised flags for some committee members about the ease of administrative processes in general, with some asking for more structure going forward so that student needs are at the forefront.

“It is only at this table that we fail,” Kathryn Shertzer, school committee member, said on Monday. “Where [are] the checks and balances?” Shertzer said she fully supports the student’s initiative, but has spoken out for weeks about the detriments of the drawn-out process administratively. The mako shark mascot adoption, she added, is one of those examples, and she asked that the committee take that seriously and remember it moving forward.

School committee members trod water mainly because of the presence of a previous, largely unused and mysterious mascot of a fisherman, or fisherperson, as members referred to the figure on Monday. While details about this figure were initially scarce, at the most recent meeting on Monday night, a timeline of the fisherperson mascot emerged.

According to Assistant Principal Justine DeOliveira, a discussion to rebrand the school’s sports teams, who are often referred to as “the

Vineyarders,” began in 2019. The classic purple and white colors, which MVRHS is known for, were on the table to be spruced up, and as MVRHS committee members looked into new shades and a more cohesive look, in 2020, they also proposed a new mascot: the fisherperson. But the chosen mascot was not met with fanfare from students and faculty.

In 2021, a Race Equity Committee requested a meeting with district leadership to urge them to reconsid er the fisherperson, saying the mas cot didn’t represent the students. That year, Black Lives Matter pro tests and the Me Too movement were a present part of student life, so some equity committee members didn’t feel that a white, male fisherman with a stonefaced look reflected the diverse student population.

While administrative discussions continued, MVRHS coaches were instructed to ab stain from using the mascot in any of their branding. “That’s where the fisherperson just froze,” DeOliveira said.

Fast-forward to this year, and the mako shark has had its fair share of complications because of the previous mascot. But all of that subsided on Monday night. And in an 8–1 vote, with only Shertzer voting nay on the motion, the funding to purchase a costume for the mako shark mascot and adopt it passed.

“It’s something that the students want,” DeOliveira said. “I’ve been so impressed work-

news in brief

One emergency call dominoes into several at Five Corners

A medical call, an ambulance collision, and a police officer struck by a vehicle created a chaotic scene Monday at Five Corners. Heavy rain and ferry diversions also contributed to traffic jams at the busy intersection.

The string of incidents began with a medical call from Beach Street Extension midday Monday.

At the time of response, Tisbury Fire Chief Patrick Rolston said cars “were not parked in parking spots,” which made it more difficult than usual for ambulances to access the medical call on the street that runs perpendicular to Beach Road.

Martha’s Vineyard Public Safety Radio chatter indicated that the ambulance struck a car during the response, and a police officer was requested to direct traffic to help the ambulance through the busy intersection. Rolston confirmed that an ambulance “bumped a car” on its way to the hospital.

Shortly afterward, an officer directing traffic at the intersection was struck by a gray Prius. The officer was not injured.

Tisbury Police Department confirmed the incident in a Facebook post. “He is okay, and the responsible person has been identified,” the post stated. “Please take extra time to check when walking or driving your car.”

The series of events, which drew a heavy emergency response, created traffic jams and questions among drivers throughout downtown Vineyard Haven.

Officers at the scene of Five Corners said increased congestion was also caused by diversions of Steamship Authority ferries from Oak Bluffs to Vineyard Haven. Sean Driscoll, the ferry line’s communications director, said the diversions were caused by “wind and sea conditions.” The Seastreak, which usually travels

between New Bedford and Oak Bluffs, also diverted trips to Vineyard Haven due to rougher weather.

Later Monday afternoon, it was reported that black smoke began rising from a car’s engine on State Road, near John’s Fish Market in Vineyard Haven. Firefighters responded to reports of an overheating vehicle, and closed a section of State Road as they inspected the vehicle, which they eventually pushed out of the roadway before reopening the road.

Paddleboarders and thrill-seekers keep emergency services busy

Ahead of the busy holiday weekend on the Island, at around 11 am last Thursday, a “PanPan,” an international maritime and aviation signal for an urgent situation, broke through what was an otherwise silent morning on the Martha’s Vineyard Public Safety radio. The call about a woman stranded while paddleboarding near Oak Bluffs Harbor came from bystanders. But first responders found nobody matching the description from the call, after searching the waters for hours.

U.S. Coast Guard Station Menemsha received the call at 10:45 am and last broadcast the Pan-Pan over police radio.

There were additional calls Wednesday from beachgoers, including one about a woman swimming who was “not in distress,” according to the emergency radio operators, and another of a teenage boy who was swept out by the current under Big Bridge, or what’s better known as Jaws Bridge, after jumping off. While none of the incidents resulted in injury, officials continued to encourage the public to report potential emergencies.

Aaron Silva, the Menemsha Coast Guard’s search and rescue coordinator, reported that callers last Wednesday morning became disgruntled when the operator sought more details about the paddleboarder, and hung up

ing with the students through this, because it’s been such a thorough process [and] such a genuine process.”

Lombardi said that the entire process the students went through is a great learning experience about creating effective change on a local level, which often involves town meetings, presentations, and canvassing. “It says a lot that the students are buying in,” Lombardi said.

shortly after making the call.

Coast Guard crews conducted a flyover, patrolled the water, and requested that local boaters keep their eyes peeled. The Oak Bluffs harbormaster sent out search boats as well, but couldn’t locate a woman stranded on a paddleboard.

Nicole Gazaille-Graves, director of the Dukes County Regional Emergency Communications Center, said regardless of the outcome, they treat every call at the center as a potential emergency.

“It’s hard to determine what the status is of the people they are looking at from the shore,” Gazaille-Graves said. “I don’t want to discourage anybody from making that call. We don’t want to send resources somewhere they don’t need, but we encourage the public to make a call if they see somebody in distress.”

Gazaille-Graves added that some of the emergencies came up as false alarms on Wednesday.

“As we saw everything unfold, some things came up as false alarms, not as they predicted,” she said. “We send resources, then let them determine the status.”

Edgartown and Oak Bluffs first responders, including EMTs and several police and fire personnel, responded to the report of a teenage boy caught in a current at about 7 pm last Wednesday. A 911 caller said someone was caught in a current after jumping off the Jaws Bridge, and was being taken offshore. By the time first responders arrived, the boy had returned to shore on his own, according to Edgartown Police Chief Chris Dolby.

No injuries were reported in any of the incidents.

“We always err on the side of caution,” Gazaille-Graves said. “We are going to get everybody that we can to people on the street or the water, to make sure people are safe.”

COURTESY MVRHS SCHOOL COMMITTEE

A mockup of the potential mascot costume.

EDITORIAL

After the chaos of the Fourth, we need to take a breath

This year’s Fourth of July also marked the 250th anniversary of when the country declared independence, and our Island met the moment with fanfare befitting the occasion. Islanders marched through Edgartown and Aquinnah in celebratory parades and watched dazzling fireworks, and there was a collective reflection on what freedom really means today in our country and on our Island.

We met this time of celebration and reflection amid a heat wave that quickly turned into a deluge of rain that brought stress and strain to the whole Island, with long lines of traffic, occasional power outages, spotty internet and cell phone connectivity, and a feeling that this year was just far more chaotic than any other years in memory.

So it feels like an appropriate time to remind our Island community to take a deep breath and find our inner calm before continuing

what promises to be a busy summer with more unpredictable weather and more strains on the infrastructure of an increasingly crowded Island that feels as if it may be reaching a breaking point.

The weather seemed to reflect the tumult of the weekend, with rough seas and high winds that forced Steamship Authority ferries to divert trips from Oak Bluffs to Vineyard Haven. In a cascading effect, those ferry schedule changes contributed to the painfully slow traffic and congestion across the Island, but particularly around Five Corners and down Beach Road.

Congestion also took place on other parts of the Island, like the intersections of Beach Road and Edgartown–Vineyard Haven Road at the Triangle in Edgartown, and various smaller ferry lines suspended all service for weather. We heard of instances of high tension on the road as people desperately tried to get to their appointments or meet the ferries. In the congestion, there was even a point when a Tisbury Police officer was struck by a vehicle while directing traffic. Luckily, nobody was hurt. And on Tuesday, there was the all-too-familiar flooding of Beach Road, which happens several times each year. Some businesses closed early for the day,

waiting out the closed road, and several vehicles broke down in the flooded areas.

The lead-up to the Fourth saw explosive headlines as well. There was a hoax bomb threat at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital that forced a massive police response — a stunt that wasted time and resources — and what seems to have been an irresponsible use of illegal fireworks caused a beach grass blaze to expand to 100 feet long and 500 feet wide in Oak Bluffs. To help visualize that, 100 feet is about the length of an adult blue whale, and 500 feet is around one-and-a-half football fields.

A mishmash of unexpected events, high temperatures, and hard rain is par for the course on the Island during the summer. But there is a need to ponder that this year may in fact be different, and we may collectively be reaching a tipping point that will require us all to put our heads together to find a sustainable path forward. We still have the rest of July and all of August to get through. There is plenty of great things this summer to be excited for, but let’s take a breath before moving onward with the summer, and let’s start thinking more purposefully about how we are going to make the Island more sustainable.

LETTERS

Edgartown Transfer Station’s redesign problem

To the Editor:

Thank you to the Edgartown Transfer Station for its attempt to make resident trash removal and recycling more efficient. However, I do hope that one design flaw can be corrected. Entering the transfer station, residents are directed to the right, onto a one-lane road. Because of new fencing, drivers cannot see if there are no cars in line to pay, or if there are 10. My experience last week was getting stuck for nearly 20 minutes when I could have come back another day. There is no way to turn around. What if there were an emergency? What if someone was dropping off trash on the way to the ferry?

Let’s hope there’s a fix.

Nancy Hoffman West Tisbury

Singing praises to the Steamship Authority’s new Woods Hole ticketing office

To the Editor:

Press reports have generally sung the praises of the Steamship Authority’s (SSA) new ticketing building in Woods Hole, including its remarkable spaciousness and improved bathrooms. The reports emphasize the views from inside the ticketing building of the magnificent vistas that lie beyond, at least when there are no boats in the slips. Unfortunately, some of the press have given little attention to the years

of countless meaningful complaints about a design that is completely inconsistent with the local environment. Its massive size and height block multiple magnificent vistas offered to all who enter Woods Hole — the view from the top of the Water Street Bridge at Crane Street, from the Woods Hole library, from Pie in the Sky, and other locations in Woods Hole village. The articles fail to note that the views could have been maintained by relocating the building or making it smaller.

Despite SSA’s justifications, few of its excuses for the building’s size and location hold up to scrutiny. For example, its location makes pedestrian and vehicle transit across this site complex and dangerous, and requires the continuous presence of SSA personnel to direct traffic. In addition, the building’s design wastes enormous space with a needlessly large ticketing section, given that tickets are increasingly purchased electronically. The entire building has a needlessly high ceiling, despite only about 30 percent of the building being dedicated to the inside waiting area, while the majority of the space is used for corridors, bathrooms, and administrative activities. The latter could have been minimized by moving them to the SSA Falmouth facilities or the newly rebuilt utility building in Woods Hole.

I have concluded that the only rationale for this building was to satisfy the SSA administration’s and architectural firm BIA.studio’s egos.

Damien Kuffler

Woods Hole

Thank you for sustaining the Vineyard’s shellfish legacy

To the Editor:

On Tuesday, June 9, the Martha’s Vineyard Shellfish Group (MVSG) celebrated our 50th clamiversary with a community party at the Grange Hall. It was on that day in 1976 that Rick Karney started his 40-year journey as the shellfish biologist and director of MVSG. In that time, he developed a communitydriven nonprofit with international recognition. While downstairs at the Grange Hall was adorned with posters and food, libations, a raw bar, and a touch tank of bivalves and other sea creatures, upstairs we showcased our new film — celebrating the first 50 years of the Martha’s Vineyard Shellfish Group, produced and filmed by Circuit Films’ Ollie Becker and Tim Persinko. Guests ventured up to watch this eight-minute film as it played on a loop, or shared a story and a cupcake with fellow shellfish warriors: Rick, Emma, the MVSG board, staff, and volunteers downstairs. This film was funded by a NOAA EEBlue Aquaculture Literacy grant awarded to MVSG in 2024, and touches on the importance of shellfish for our Island community over the years. We were honored to dedicate this beautiful film to Roy Scheffer and Trisha Bergeron, whose lives were tragically lost in a fishing accident on Jan. 1, 2026. Their love

for fishing and the Shellfish Group will not be forgotten.

We are so grateful for the community’s support, specifically the Vineyard Preservation Trust, Circuit Arts, the M.V. Seafood Collaborative, Martha’s Roysters, Spearpoint Oysters, and Jim’s Package Store, for their contributions to this event.

Please visit our website (mvshellfishgroup.org) or social media to find more ways to support and connect with MVSG in our 50th year! With your commitment, generosity, and belief in our mission, we will continue to sustain the Vineyard’s shellfish legacy for the economic, ecological and cultural well-being of the Island community for generations to come.

Danielle Ewart, president Martha’s Vineyard Shellfish Group

Harvest the herd

To the Editor:

I’ve been a Chilmark summer resident for 24 years, but this will be my last. It’s not worth the risk.

Deer are the principal host for several serious diseases — one of them without a cure. There’s no reason to have them here.

Some of us can avoid the risk — we just won’t come. But those who live here don’t have that choice.

For both physical and economic health, the community should decide now to eliminate the deer population.

Michael L. Ryan New York, N.Y.

Charles M. Sennott • Publisher

NICHOLAS VUKOTA

To me, freedom is so fundamental that it’s hard to define. I was raised in comfortable surroundings, and never went wanting (except, at times, for the opportunity to intermingle with people of various backgrounds). Freedom didn’t seem like a privilege or an entitlement; it was a fact of life. It took some work to understand that it didn’t come automatically to everyone.

I live by the values I learned early on, and I believe in the intent of the liberal education I received, though it rarely encouraged me to think independently. I could have ridden along safely in a life made easier by an old-boy network that took care of its own. With a little luck and a sense that it wasn’t for me, I followed my own star, confounding some of those I’d been close to.

Still, the expectations that have haunted me at times run deep. They’re part of me. I’m happiest when I can acknowledge them and let them be, which somehow helps me disarm them.

When I was asked to write about freedom, it was as a member of the older generation. At 82, you’d think I’d be used to being identified with that cohort, but it still feels odd to me. Wait a second: I’m old?

Yup. And I’m broken down mechanically, and carrying around three diseases, any one of which could eventually polish me off. I’m unable to do things that have nourished me over the years, and I know

Whit Griswold

the sands of time won’t slow down.

Rather than chafe against the limitations of old age, though, I’ve accepted them, which has freed me from the sea of choices I’ve wallowed in at times. If a terminal illness doesn’t sharpen your focus, what will? Now I devote my energy to what truly matters to me. So much for fools and bullshit. Meanwhile, the world around me has

ESSAY

A grim future for the Island’s undocumented

BY JACK FRUCHTMAN

The Supreme Court concluded its term at the end of June with two major decisions that affect Martha’s Vineyard’s undocumented immigrants.

Their outcomes were different, but they had in common an attempt by President Trump to enhance executive power over immigration. Both cases demanded answers to a single question: Did the Trump administration use its authority to try to rid the country of nonwhite people, as embodied in expressions of racial animus? If so, courts may always review Executive Department decisions under the Constitution’s equal protection clause.

Concrete evidence demonstrates that President Trump used anti-immigrant, anti-Muslim, anti-Black, and anti-Hispanic language to deter migration of anyone other than white people to the U.S.

In the first case, Mullin v. Doe, a majority of conservative justices allowed the president to end a program called Temporary Protective Status (TPS). Since 1990, this has provided relief to 1.3 million refugees living in the U.S. after the government has determined their home countries are under severe threat due to revolutionary violence, unrest, or natural disasters.

Rather than chafe against the limitations of old age, though, I’ve accepted them, which has freed me from the sea of choices I’ve wallowed in at times.

gone crazy. Encouraged to take sides, our tolerance for others has shrunk. Freedom of thought is imperiled, as are basic human rights. When I let these thoughts get a head of steam, they can leave me feeling helpless, even lost.

One sure antidote is to imagine myself out in nature, a large part of why I chose to live here. Since I was a little squirt, this has meant being on the wa-

The president has been clear he wants to end or reduce the program to focus on the immigration of people like white South Africans. A key provision of the law bars courts from reviewing such a decision. Writing for a six–three majority, Justice Samuel Alito held that because the law blocks judicial review, the court may not review President Trump’s expressions of racial hatred.

In an angry dissent, Justice Elena Kagan disagreed. She wrote that there was a clear violation of the 14th Amendment’s equal protection clause when “the president’s statements repeatedly invoked racist tropes of national purity and evinced anti-Black animus.”

Kagan continued, “So here are some of those statements: Haitians are ‘eating the dogs … They’re eating the cats. They’re eating — they’re eating the pets of the people that live in Springfield, Ohio.’ And: Haitians are also eating ‘other things too that they’re not supposed to be.’ And: Haitians in the United States ‘probably have AIDS.’ And: Haiti is a ‘[expletive deleted] country,’ which is ‘filthy, dirty, and disgusting.” And: Haitian immigration is ‘like a death wish for our country.’ And: Haitians, along with some others, are ‘poisoning the blood’ of our country. And: ‘Why is it we only take people from [expletive deleted] countries’ like ‘Haiti and Somalia?’ ‘Why cannot we have some people from Norway and Sweden?’”

Kagan concluded that “it is hard

ter. Here’s how it looks: In my 20-foot center console boat, Vai Via, I idle out through the Menemsha jetties, and I feel released. One hundred yards on, heading northwest, I push the throttle forward. The engine responds with an industrial roar, lifting the bow as the boat accelerates. When she levels off at cruising speed, I let out a joyful roar. I’m free.

Ten minutes later, we skirt Southwest Rocks, a shoal that extends from the southern corner of Gay Head, and we’re in the Atlantic Ocean, one of the Seven Seas that span our planet.

Despite being a visitor in an environment that can turn deadly in minutes, I feel calm, even as my senses are on high alert.

Here, I am free to imagine what lies over the horizon, to dream of far-off lands the way I did when I was a boy. Free indeed.

Whit Griswold is a longtime Martha’s Vineyard writer whose essays and reporting have thoughtfully documented the Island’s history, culture, and literary life for generations.

No single voice can define freedom. VOICES of Freedom, curated by creator of VOICES bySharisse, Sharisse Scott-Rawlins, is a special series commemorating the 250th anniversary of American Independence by inviting Islanders from across our diverse community to share what freedom means to them and the communities they call home. Together, these reflections become part of Martha’s Vineyard’s living history. The Times published six of these essays in a special pullout at the beginning of July, and will continue to do so throughout the summer.

to imagine the statements being made today of any white community … The statements fairly shout, in their racial undertones and overtones alike, that race entered into the president’s resolve.”

To date, Homeland Security has removed TPS designation from 10 of 17 countries. Some 45,000 Massachusetts residents hold TPS status, including 20,000 from Haiti, although just two Haitians reportedly reside in Vineyard Haven. Many more live on the Cape. The ruling will have far-reaching effects on many Island undocumented immigrants, given the administration’s animus toward racial and ethnic minorities.

The second decision, Trump v. Barbara, focused on birthright citizenship, which The MV Times has extensively covered in the past. President Trump signed an executive order on his first day in office last year, declaring that a person born on U.S. soil is not necessarily a citizen, despite what the Constitution provides. By a bare five-to-four majority, the court disagreed. Chief Justice John Roberts ruled in favor of the long-held view that anyone born on U.S. soil is automatically a citizen, as the 1868 14th Amendment declares: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside.”

Roberts wrote that “citizenship, then and now, was the right to have

rights — to freely participate in our political community. The framers of the 14th Amendment extended that promise to ‘every free-born person in this land.’ We keep that promise today.” For 158 years, the amendment has been understood this way. The Supreme Court reiterated this position in 1898 in United States v. Wong Kim Ark.

But birthright citizenship is in a precarious position because of Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s concurring opinion. He wrote that the 14th Amendment does not confer citizenship on anybody. Instead, he cited an obscure 1940 federal law that did. He added that Congress may “amend” that law or pass a new one “establishing exceptions to birthright citizenship for children born to foreign citizens unlawfully or temporarily in the country.”

But a simple congressional act can never override a constitutional provision. Every judge and constitutional scholar has argued that a statute is never superior to the Constitution. So we are left with two cases with different outcomes. One is rooted in racial animus, the other grounded in the Constitution, for now.

Meantime, undocumented residents on Martha’s Vineyard will have to live with the uncertainty and fear that their livelihoods and contributions to the community are in jeopardy.

Jack Fruchtman, who lives in Aquinnah, taught constitutional law and politics for more than 40 years.

Affordable duplexes almost ready for move-in

IHT unveils progress on decade-long 401 State Road housing development. BY

MARIA BARROS

At a construction site in West Tisbury, a cluster of duplexes is almost completed in a project by the nonprofit Island Housing Trust (IHT). Shared front porches are still empty, the grass has yet to be planted, construction dust still hangs in the air, and the four buildings still await finished house siding.

But for the few dozen locals gathered last Thursday for a long-awaited groundbreaking ceremony at Housing Development 401 State Road, the unfinished homes represent one step of many toward additional affordable housing on Martha’s Vineyard.

“Over the past decade, we’ve lost close to 600 year-round homes to investment properties and summer property owners. And right now, we have about 38 percent of our total housing stock [as yearround homes], which is a historic low,” IHT CEO Philippe Jordi said in his speech to the crowd last Thursday. He referenced the around 20,000 yearround Islanders who struggle to find housing, especially in the summer months, when the Vineyard is home to around 100,000 visitors.

“We realize now that this is

not just a social issue, it’s an economic one.”

The 401 State Road project is on a 3.1-acre parcel of land with the surrounding two acres left as conserved woodland. It consists of eight one- and two-bedroom units that will be restricted to year-round housing. Two of the duplexes will be available to locals making 100 percent or below the area median income; for an individual, that income is $114,200, and for a family of four, it’s $163,000 annually, according to the 2026 Dukes County Income Chart. The other two duplexes will be available for locals making up to 80 percent of the area median income, which is an annual income of $74,800 for an individual and $106,800 for a family of four. Tenants are slated for selection through a Dukes County Regional Housing Authority lottery, although that process hasn’t begun yet.

The groundbreaking was a bit unusual for those who attended, as the buildings are already constructed, but the event brought in housing officials from across the Island. The project has been in the works for over

a decade, but IHT, a local nonprofit that develops affordable housing, took on the project only in 2022.

The development was produced through the partnership of multiple local entities, such as West Tisbury voters, the town’s select board and affordable housing committee, and local housing advocates. The duplexes, and the pocket neighborhood that will be built around them, were supported and funded by additional local and state organizations, including MassHousing, the state Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities’ Rural Development and Seasonal Communities Fund, Vineyard Power, MassSave, and Santander Bank; through Community Preservation Act funds from West Tisbury, Aquinnah, Edgartown, and Tisbury; and by private donors.

“We feel that this type of investment is critically important, and that’s why we need, as a community, to step up,” Jordi said to the crowd on Thursday.

The project is on townowned land, and the West Tisbury Select Board origi-

West Tisbury housing officials and Island Housing Trust staff pose with shovels at the groundbreaking for 401 State Road.

nally awarded the building contract to South Mountain Company, a construction and solar energy company, but eventually passed it to IHT after South Mountain cited issues with the West Tisbury Affordable Housing Committee’s oversight.

Island Housing Trust has built a number of projects in West Tisbury over the past 20 years; 401 State Road joins Scott’s Grove, completed in 2018; Elikim’s Way, completed in 2010; Harpoon Lane, completed in 2013, and others. “And of those, we built an equal number of ownership and rentals, 24 each,” Jordi said. “This represents the fourth time that the town has designated a property to be used for affordable housing, and I

think that the town should be commended for that.”

Jordi highlighted the workplace-housing shortage on the Island and pointed to the potential of new affordable units as addressing that gap. “Whether you’re a nonprofit or a business or a municipality, you need to have workers. You need to have a workforce that can sustain your business,” he said.

The project also tackled some sustainability improvements, like wastewater upgrades, that could benefit the surrounding ecosystem, including nearby ponds. “It was surprising to me to find that rainwater that comes in the ground here travels underground to Lake Tashmoo, which is struggling right now,” Keith McGuire,

IHT senior real estate manager, explained. “So this system is a wonderful contribution to make the Island cleaner and healthier.”

The neighborhood is expected to be completed by the end of this year, with tenants moving in in the beginning of 2027. West Tisbury Select Board member and former affordable housing committee chair Jess Miller, who worked closely with the development of the project, reflected on the near conclusion of it, and said: “We look forward to seeing this lovely pocket neighborhood — where I would love to live, actually — occupied, and to see[ing] it take shape as a great addition to our community.”

Civil suit against Aimee Cotton paused

Proceedings continue after her criminal case, which was moved to a different county. BY

Proceedings of a wrongful death lawsuit brought against Aimee Cotton, 42, are on pause after her attorneys filed a motion to stay the case, citing her ongoing criminal charges that stem from the same incident.

The motion submitted by Cotton’s attorney, Marielise Kelly, contended that continuing with discovery in the civil case would violate Cotton’s constitutional rights while her ongoing criminal case for manslaughter continued.

Cotton had a status review for her case with the state Wednesday, July 8, in the Dukes County Superior Courthouse in Edgartown. At the session, another of Cotton’s attorneys, Harrison T. Barrow III, and the district attorney Courtney Scalice agreed with Judge Peter B. Krupp’s decision to relocate the trial, to acquire more frequent court dates and for the purpose of jury selection, to Barnstable County Superior Court. There is a trial assignment conference in Barnstable on August 14, for which Cotton will likely appear via Zoom.

As the criminal case continues off-Island, the civil suit is on hold until after its conclusion. “Defendant’s constitutional right to avoid

potentially self-incriminating testimony will be infringed if discovery in this case proceeds without a stay, and defendant is required to admit facts, answer discovery, and provide deposition testimony,” the motion, approved on June 22, submitted by Kelly stated. “This motion is made pursuant to the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution, the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution, and Article 12 of the Massachusetts Declaration of Rights.”

Cotton’s court proceedings, including her ongoing criminal case for manslaughter, stem from an incident that occurred in March 2025.

Cotton was indicted in September 2025 on charges from the incident on March 13, when she allegedly left 2-year-old Frank (“Frankie”) Edward Rodenbaugh and a 1-year-old girl unattended in her vehicle for more than three hours outside her home. Frankie would die days later at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Cotton remains free on bail.

In civil cases, parties typically engage in a process called “discovery,” which can include depositions, document requests, and other exchanges of information.

Defendants must respond to these requests. The motion from Kelly argues that proceeding with the civil lawsuit while the criminal case is ongoing could force Cotton to provide testimony or evidence that could incriminate her in her separate criminal prosecution, which violates the Fifth Amendment.

The civil complaint, filed by the Rodenbaughs against Cotton on Jan. 28 of this year, is a separate lawsuit from the state’s ongoing criminal case against her. According to the civil complaint, the Rodenbaughs are seeking $260,000 plus additional punitive damages in compensation and justice for the damages and loss they suffered as a result of Frankie’s death.

“Our advocacy for Frankie does not depend on any single court date. It has not stopped, and will not stop,” Matthew Rodenbaugh said in a statement to The Times. “Frankie’s case deserves the fullest measure of accountability the law allows, and we expect the prosecution to pursue exactly that. Deterrence matters. Families across this Island need to know that what happened to Frankie carries real consequences. We will not rest until there is justice for Frankie.”

NICHOLAS VUKOTA

SARAH SHAW DAWSON

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care and specialty services on the Island.

In the well-lit halls that weave through Martha’s Vineyard Hospital’s large campus in Oak Bluffs, there’s an emergency department, a new express care and tick clinic, a maternity ward for budding parents, the primary local laboratory for tests, inpatient care, and primary care offices. The walls are decorated with curated art pieces from local and international painters, photographers, and sculptors; all works were collected by Chilmark couple Edward Miller and Monina von Opel, along with hospital administrators, over a decade ago.

A lot has happened on the Vineyard in the time Seguin has been heading up operations at the hospital. Most immediately, the Island community is reeling from the Fourth of July weekend, which featured a scorching heat wave as well as summer storms in the following days.

Seguin told The Times in an email on Tuesday that more than 300 patients were seen this holiday weekend in the emergency department. Of that total, 32 cases were tick-related, and more than 50 cases were for dehydration, intoxication, shortness of breath, and other health issues that Seguin said were likely exacerbated by the heat.

Tick-borne conditions

have recently attracted national attention, filling the gray-blue chairs in the emergency room with panicked faces and prompting new centers, like the express care and tick clinic, to meet the increased demand.

“All along, even through COVID, and now with alphagal [an allergy to mammalian products from the bite of a lone star tick], you can see that the hospital plays such a vital role in the community,”

Seguin told The Times. Seguin was on the forefront of local health efforts to stop the spread of COVID when a nationwide shutdown began in March 2020.

In the years since Seguin started working at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital as chief nurse officer in 2019, outpatient visits from ambulance rides have surged. Many of those visits this year are tick-related. In the background of glaring health issues, echoes from changes to the state health insurance marketplace have continued to ripple out, along with a seeming uptick in mental health crises in the local community. Islanders are more frequently forgoing insurance due to high costs. Additionally, the hospital relies heavily on commuter nurses and doctors due to an on-Island workplace housing shortage. All of these factors make Martha’s Vineyard

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offered refreshments.

“It was definitely needed,” she said.

The Oak Bluffs library was operating its regular hours, so staff didn’t differentiate between regular patrons and those who were escaping the heat. Allyson Malik, the library director, said the library saw a similar number of visitors on Friday, when the facility operated as a cooling center, as other weeks, which was around 350. Malik noted some people made Friday an “extended beach day” despite the weather being “hot as heck.”

But, Malik said, the library had higher visitation numbers, roughly 550, on Tuesday when the Island saw heavy rain.

“Usually, hot days are quieter, and when it rains, it is when everybody comes,” Malik said. “It’s going to be busy when it’s storming and there’s nothing to do outside.”

Fourth of July weekend is also one of the busiest times for healthcare providers, and Martha’s Vineyard Hospital was no exception. Claire Seguin, president and chief operating officer of the hospital, said in a statement the emergency department “evaluated and treated more

Hospital a cross-section of some of the larger issues the Vineyard community is facing. And reliance on the hospital among locals and seasonal visitors is rising alongside these issues, even as new healthcare centers pop up and the hospital integrates new services.

Seguin said the hospital’s partnership with Mass General Brigham, an integrated healthcare system with headquarters in Boston, has helped it meet the needs of the public as health concerns, such as tick-borne conditions, have skyrocketed.

“Some of these services would be out of our reach, but having that expertise that we can tap into, either remotely through telehealth or in person … I think it has greatly improved the life and quality of life for Islanders, and we’ll continue,” Seguin said. “We want to keep that flexibility to respond to the community demand around some of these significant health issues, while also having that slow drumbeat to make sure we can provide all the things that we need.”

With a background in nursing, Seguin is no stranger to the flexibility necessary in the health field. “This will be my third decade working in healthcare, and then at least two decades in executive leadership,” Seguin said. Her experience as a nurse

was primarily in the oncology department at Mass General Brigham.

After attaining an advanced degree as a nurse practitioner, Seguin moved into frontline nursing management at Mass General Brigham. “That is one of the hardest and most rewarding jobs in healthcare … It’s very humbling,” Seguin said of the experience. She added that it “also shaped who I am.”

Seguin said she’s now accustomed to the decisiveness and team communication that her role as a frontline nurse manager required, and those qualities were a part of her pull toward executive work in hospitals. She was asked by Mass General Brigham to be in a quality leadership role, and eventually associate chief of quality at that hospital.

Seguin also has worked as a chief nursing officer at Nantucket Cottage Hospital, and she travels off-Island to be a clinical lecturer at Harvard Medical School and an associate professor at the MGH Institute of Health Professions and Northeastern University.

“Some of the principles that you learn as a quality leader are: Plan, do, study, act. Don’t just rest on your laurels and say, ‘This is how we do it,’ and stop there. We want to take more input. Is that working? If it’s not, let’s adjust. And I would say that very much plays into the type of leader that I am,” Seguin told The Times.

And the past six months have been an adjustment. One of the challenges facing the hospital is a lack of physicians who live and work on the Island. In the “2025 Community Health Needs Assessment” that the hospital authored after collecting data with Island Health Care, a federally qualified health center in Edgartown, Dukes County was flagged as an area with a shortage of health professionals, meaning there are not enough primary care, dental, and specialist providers for the population. The Island community was found to have one primary care provider for every 1,740 people. The state average is one provider to 970 people.

Commuting and telehealth, and a push to build more workplace housing, have made a dent, but the shortage remains.

“That is one of the biggest challenges, and also, even though we’ve made this big dent on housing, I’m going to be honest, there’s not a single recruitment conversation that doesn’t involve something about housing here on the Island,” Seguin said.

The need for creative solutions to meet the increased strain of housing and affordability on the Vineyard is near-constant, but the hospital has made various efforts. The hospital teamed up with Island Housing Trust, an affordable housing development nonprofit, to build Hanover House at a

former inn in Tisbury. The structure has 16 units that house hospital staff. There are also rental homes across the Island that are contracted for commuter nurses and doctors, and single-family homes for staff at the Navigator Homes campus in Edgartown, a sprawling elderly care facility.

The fact that the hospital is on an Island lends its own complications. Transportation to and from the Vineyard aboard Steamship Authority ferries through ocean waters or emergency MedFlight helicopters that soar through the sky is an already dramatic, costly, and time-consuming addition to a health crisis. Seguin said that makes bolstering care on the Island all the more important. “I want to make this the best place to work, so that people come here, love it here, and want to stay here,” she said.

It’s not all an uphill battle, however. The Island community, Seguin said, is what keeps the wheels turning despite the roadblocks.

When asked to be the chief nursing officer at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, Seguin said, “I came and just fell in love with the hospital. I fell in love with the community. My husband likes it here. We have a dog. Our kids come back all the time. It just seemed like a great fit.”

In her free time, Seguin prefers to be outside. One of her hobbies is birdwatching on Island trails and taking Tilly, her red-haired Australian

than 300 patients” over the holiday weekend. Of these, 50 cases included issues “likely exacerbated by the heat,” such as dehydration, intoxication, and shortness of breath. And in the continued trend of the public’s health concerns about ticks, 32 people showed up for “tick-related concerns.”

Patrick Rolston, Tisbury fire chief, told The Times that preparations were made across the Vineyard’s EMS departments ahead of the anticipated influx of visitors. In Tisbury, there were four heatrelated medical calls, two of which resulted in transporting patients to the hospital, on July 4, but Rolston noted there were more people concentrated in towns with wider beach access, such as Oak Bluffs.

“We were overstaffed, in a good way,” Rolston said. Additionally, high temperatures make drier conditions that can exacerbate conditions for potential fires. Over the weekend, there were two reported fires where Vineyard fire chiefs said weather conditions were likely contributors. In Oak Bluffs, fireworks set off at a beach near Ocean Park led to a large beach grass fire, and in Chilmark, an overheated 1988 Jeep Wagoneer resulted in an engine fire.

would be harbingers of a cooling-off the Island experienced during the rainy days that followed the weekend.

The strain extended beyond a human toll and also taxed the Island’s energy grid. Issues with Eversource’s substation equipment in Edgartown left more than 700 customers temporarily without power in the town and on Chappaquiddick Island on Friday.

“We’re still investigating the cause of the equipment failure, but we do believe the strain on the electric system caused by increased demand for electricity during the heat wave was a factor,” Kaitlyn Woods, an Eversource spokesperson, said.

The heat wave extended beyond just the Island, and Woods said Eversource restored power for 20,000 Massachusetts customers as “extreme heat” and “strong thunderstorms … moved through the state” on July 4.

And the federally authorized regional power grid, operated by the nonprofit ISO New England, also experienced its peak demand for the year on July 2, at 25,351 megawatts.

Mary Cate Colapietro, ISO New England spokesperson, said while various factors can impact energy demands, such as the level of renewable sources, “Weather can be a huge driver of when New Englanders use electricity.” Colapietro pointed out this amount was still in line with what the grid’s meteorologist forecast.

And those thunderstorms

Monday saw increased congestion on the main traffic arteries of Vineyard Haven, Five Corners, and Beach Road. Tisbury Police stated that Steamship Authority boats diverted from Oak Bluffs to Vineyard Haven due to winds and the sea conditions contributed to increased traffic. And an emergency call to Beach Road Extension dominoed into a series of issues, including an officer getting hit by a car while directing traffic.

Tuesday saw an increase of rain, and Tisbury was once again the most impacted. Beach Road experienced heavy flooding, and the road was temporarily closed to traffic. The Steamship Authority diverted boats from Oak Bluffs again because of the weather, and multiple other ferry lines — Island Queen, Seastreak, Falmouth Edgartown Ferry, and the Rhode Island Fast Ferry — canceled trips outright.

Additionally, the heavy rain brought another issue to the Vineyard: Some areas were submerged in four inches of water, according to Danielle Ewart, Tisbury shellfish constable, though flooded Beach Road seemed to have pooled deeper. The state Division of Marine Fisheries issued an emergency order on Tuesday that placed a moratorium on shellfishing at Lagoon Pond, Lake Tashmoo, and Vineyard Haven Harbor. State officials will collect water samples this week to determine when these areas can be reopened to shellfishing, according to Ewart. Although these drastically different weather conditions happened consecutively, it’s not an unusual phenomenon in the region. Bryce Williams, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Norton office, said the swing was a “big juxtaposition,” and may have felt more dramatic as the rain system quickly brought relief to the Island from the heat. Williams said it’s tough to know when more heat spells will happen on the Island, since the forecast is less reliable beyond one-week periods. Still, considering “we’re still in the peak of summer,” Williams said August is also expected to see high temperatures.

COURTESY

GOMV

A Tisbury Police officer was hit by a car Monday.

State Police and Tisbury Police direct traffic through Five Corners during a flood.

A patriotic march down Main Street

The annual parade included historical references and modern political protests. BY

MARIA BARROS

The buzz of excitement and loud chatter from thousands of attendees draped in red, white, and blue echoed throughout Edgartown on Saturday afternoon as the 182nd annual Fourth of July Parade, on the nation’s 250th birthday, marched its way along the town’s narrow streets.

With a heat wave advisory from the National Weather Service, families and friends persevered through the high temperatures and humidity, lining the humming roads and waiting to see this year’s marchers. Carefully designed floats and colorful antique cars made their way through town alongside marchers on foot. Many participants threw candy to onlookers as they passed in a parade that has taken place in Edgartown for generations.

The parade’s organizer, Joseph (“Joe”) Sollitto Jr., has held the role for the past 16 years, but has marched in it since 1972, and said that one of the most enjoyable parts of the tradition comes from the timelessness of it.

“Nothing much has changed,” Sollitto said. “And

I think that’s part of the pleasure of the parade that has been consistent in all the years that I’ve been associated with it.”

Catie Reynal, who watched the parade, said she’s attended the parade for more than two decades, first as a college student and now as a mother. She echoed a similar sentiment to Sollitto’s. “I think there are some floats that are the same every year, and that’s what makes it special. We’ve got Camp Jabberwocky, which is one of our favorites, the Scottish bagpipes, and all the veterans. So the good things haven’t changed, and that’s what we look for,” she said.

But one change did catch the eyes of many spectators this year, and that was the floats celebrating the country’s 250th birthday.

Camp Jabberwocky, a nonprofit camp for people with disabilities, has marched in the parade for more than half a century, and continues to be one of the most cherished spectacles of the event, spreading a message of equality and acceptance. “We

are here on the Fourth of July, celebrating who we are, and … how much fun we can have,” Jabberwocky director Madeline Way said.

Another longtime parade participant is Pond View Farm, located in West Tisbury, which has decorated a float since 1993. To celebrate the 250th anniversary, this year’s float was inspired by Paul Revere’s midnight ride. It displayed a near-black cardboard horse nearly seven feet tall, mounted by a rider with a tall cardboard lantern; the float also featured a live miniature horse named Harry Potter, who has been featured in the parade for more than a decade.

“This year, we reused parts of [last year’s float] and repainted it as a lantern, because we thought it would be great to have a historic reference that also had to do with horses, since it was the celebration of the 250th,” Sarah Doyle, owner of Pond View Farm, said.

Celebrating 250 years of the country made the annual celebration even more special to some attendees. Hans Van Lancker, who’s

watched the parade with his wife Aileen and their three children for the past six years, said this year was a significant one. “I feel like when [the kids] get older, they’re going to look back and think fondly,” Van Lancker said. “Hopefully, we’ll still be coming here and doing the same thing with grandkids.”

For the children who attend, the parade means one thing above all else

— “Candy!” — at least according to 6-year-old Hugo Van Lancker. Every year, floats toss sweet treats to children and families who line Edgartown’s streets for the parade, and young Van Lancker was one of many hurrying to catch and collect the pieces. The parade also tackled some national issues and political protests, predominantly through the local No Kings movement. Marchers included the Vineyard branch of the national democratic organization called Indivisible; they displayed posters protesting actions of the current federal administration.

Carla Cooper, one of the

organizers for Indivisible Martha’s Vineyard, explained what inspired them to register for the parade: “We need to remind people of why they’re actually showing up to a Fourth of July parade. I think many people forget that we are celebrating the Declaration of Independence from a king,” she said. “We see our voting rights being undermined right now. We see voter oppression; we see scare tactics and fearmongering, and these are tactics designed to put a bullet in our democracy. We think that it’s important to

DCSO marches in front of the Edgartown Lighthouse.

The Winnetu in the Fourth of July Parade in Edgartown.

Bagpipes march in Fourth of July Parade in Edgartown.

PHOTOS: NICHOLAS VUKOTA

‘What

are we willing to risk?’

The reading of Frederick Douglass’ speech prompts reflection on the country during its 250th anniversary. BY SARA

CREATO

Amid last weekend’s sweltering heat wave, about 60 people congregated inside the Tabernacle in Oak Bluffs on Saturday afternoon to listen and participate in the 22nd annual community reading of Frederick Douglass’ speech, “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?”

Douglass first delivered his famous speech on July 5, 1852, in Rochester, N.Y., to the Rochester Ladies’ Anti-Slavery Society. The speech, which criticizes the incongruency of American democratic principles and the existence of slavery, is read annually at the Tabernacle and at the Federated Church in Edgartown.

“What, to the American slave, is your Fourth of July? I answer: a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim,” Douglass said in 1852.

Frederick Collins, a law professor at John Jay College, who read Douglass’ speech alone during the tradition’s first year on Inkwell Beach, told The Times that Douglass’ words still ring true today.

“The speech is current. If he were alive, he could read the speech today,” Collins said. “Frederick Douglass was a great human being, not just for white folks and Black

folks, but for women’s rights to vote. I’m glad my mother named me after him.”

The tradition of the Tabernacle reading was launched in 2004 by Abigail and Tony McGrath. Abigail, who died in 2024, founded the Renaissance House, a writer’s retreat in Oak Bluffs. The house formerly belonged to Abigail’s mother, Helene Johnson, a Harlem Renaissance poet. The speechreading is a part of the Renaissance House’s programs.

Jason Rosen, Johnson’s grandson, emphasized Douglass’ bravery when he first delivered the speech.

“In 1852, slavery was at its height. There were slave catchers everywhere. He

ApatrioticmarchdownMainStreet

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present and remind people that this is happening. And we’ll not silently watch our democracy disappear.”

Cooper said that the group’s participation in the parade was mostly met with support, despite backlash from some spectators. “The responses were overwhelmingly supportive and positive, and people have shown their gratitude. People come up to us and high-five us,

tell us thank you for doing this. And a handful of people along the route were booing, giving us the finger,” she said. Despite the negative response from some, Cooper maintained that the parade was a purpose-driven and joyful experience. And that nuance was present in the day as well, embodied primarily through the sweltering heat, and the hundreds who

showed up under the hot sun anyway. From the smiling onlookers to the celebrated veterans, the parade was as vibrant as it was well-attended. Sollitto served in the Marine Corps starting in 1965, and said that the parade gives veterans a stage in the community to be thanked: “As the parade went along, there were many people that were thanking all the veterans as they merged, which

spoke for three and a half hours alone, with no amplification, to hundreds of people,” Rosen said. “This man risked everything. It begs the question, what are we willing to risk?”

During the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding, Rosen underscored the need to remain hopeful about making social progress. “We must be optimistic that the American experiment is not a complete failure,” he said. “We can right the shift, we can progress with civility and decency, no matter how bleak times may seem today.”

He also reflected on the Island’s significance to Johnson and his great-aunt,

Harlem Renaissance novelist Dorothy West.

“The Island was their summer refuge and their place out of a sweltering city,” Rosen said. “It’s where they worked on their craft and had time to become creative.”

Rosen also reminisced about his own experiences with summers on the Vineyard. “Since then, those summers and the time we have here has defined our lives, because it gave us the freedom to be something more than just a cog in the machine,” he said.

This year’s reading included 32 participants, among them Toni Kauffman, former president of the Martha’s Vineyard branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and Elaine Weintraub, co-founder of the Martha’s Vineyard AfricanAmerican Heritage Trail.

At the front of the Tabernacle, a table with an

attached QR code was available for attendees to donate to the Helen Johnson and Dorothy West Foundation for Artists in Need, the nonprofit organization that funds Renaissance House. Currently, the foundation is fundraising to create a garden for literary readings, to fulfill McGrath’s dream.

After the reading concluded, Rosen’s wife, Agnes Peña-Rosen, applauded the participants’ efforts. “What you have done today and what has happened every year for 22 years is uplifting and elevating yourselves, but also everyone around you,” Peña-Rosen said.

Peña-Rosen emphasized the strength of the speechreading tradition throughout the Island. “You do it in your backyard, you do it in your kitchen, you do it in church, you teach your kids,” she said. “Please, everybody, bring your kids … we have to teach, and you teach by example.”

was very encouraging.”

A rising senior at Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, Eliza Belle Carestia, said in her 17 years living on the Island, she’d never missed a single Fourth of July parade. She explained that the tradition is very special to her because it’s an opportunity for her to see familiar faces.

“I always see family and friends that I don’t normally get to see because they don’t live here year-round, and I also like seeing the locals and people I know having a good time.”

Pat Krol and her husband Steve Chiumenti, from Chappaquiddick, have been attending the parade for more than 20 years with their family. Krol said that the “community feel” is what keeps them coming back each year to watch the parade. “It’s all about the community,” she said. “It’s the spirit of watching the people, seeing everybody so joyful. It’s like they’ve forgotten their worries from the world, and here we all are on the Fourth of July.”

Active service members and veterans walk the Fourth of July Parade.

The Fourth of July fireworks in Edgartown.

Fireworks and lighthouse in Edgartown.

Independence Day in Edgartown.

JOSHUA ROBINSON-WHITE

JOSHUA ROBINSON-WHITE

Financial Advisor

Martha’s Vineyard Bank and Martha’s Vineyard Investment Advisors (MVIA) are excited to welcome a Financial Advisor to our investment team. In this role, you will build and nurture meaningful client relationships with tangible support and guidance from the entire MVIA team. You will help families and institutions find investment solutions that solve their unique financial goals. While investment licenses and designations are preferred, MVIA is willing to support individuals who have the desire to obtain them and a proven passion to help others. Join the Martha’s Vineyard Bank Team!

Please visit www.mvbank.com for detailed information and how to apply. We offer an exceptional benefits package, a clear path for advancement, and a competitive compensation package. This package includes an initial base salary ranging from $70,000 to $85,000 plus substantial potential incentive compensation.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled

**NON-CDLDRIVERSAND LABORERS**

Bruno'sRolloff,Inc.iscurrently seekingfull-timeandpart-time NON-CDLDriversandLaborersfor bothyear-roundandseasonal positions.Applicantsmustbe availableforearlymorningshifts andseasonalovertime.Weoffer competitivewages,excellent benefits,andyearlybonuses. Applicationscanbepickedupatour o ceat11EastLineRoad, Edgartown,orrequestedby emailingadmin@brunosmv.com. Forfurtherinquiries,pleasecontact usat(508)693-5454.

BOOKKEEPER WANTED –HIRING ASAP

The Great Put On, a high-end retail clothing boutique in Edgartown, is seeking an experienced Bookkeeper. Responsibilities include accounts payable/receivable, bank reconciliations, payroll assistance, invoicing, and maintaining financial records. Must be organized, detail-oriented, reliable, and experienced with bookkeeping software (QuickBooks preferred). Please send résumé to thegreatputonmv@ gmail.com or call 508-560-9821.

DUKESCOUNTYSHERIFFS'OFFICE PUBLICSAFETYTELE-

COMMUNICATIONSOFFICERS

**$500MonthlyHousingStipend forFullTimeIslandResidentTelecommunicators** Areyoulookingtokick-startyour career,whilehelpingtheIsland Community? Dutiesinclude,butnotlimitedto receiving,processing,transmitting and/ordispatching emergencyandnon-emergencycalls forpolice, fire,emergencymedical, andotherpublicsafetyservicesvia telephoneandothercommunication devices.

Effectiveoralandwritten communicationsskills,sensitivityto workingwithconfidential material; exibilityandwillingnessto adapttochangingenvironmentand priorities;positiveattitude,integrity and,excellentjudgment.

Workscheduleincludes assignmentstotheday,eveningand night,weekend,andholidayshifts. Paidon-sitetraining,aswellas off-islandAcademytrainingupon completionofprobationaryperiod. Full-timepositionwithagenerous benefitpackage,includingpaid leave,insuranceand retirement.Fulltime Tele-Communicator-In-Trainingpay rangeis$71,140.94$78,545.22annually,plus$500 monthlystipend.Applicationsand jobdescription availableatdukescountysheriff.com/ careers

As an integral part of our operation, you’ll play a key role in ensuring smooth sailing for our customers and staff alike.

Responsibilities:

- Creating reservations

- Ensuring all excursions are paid for

- Creating a daily report of profits for each activity

- Assisting customers with filling out all waiver releases

- Providing stellar customer service by answering inquiries over the phone, in person, and via email

- Collaborating with a team to ensure all boating excursions depart punctually

Must-Have Qualities:

- A sunny disposition and a willingness to work hard

- Experience in high-stress situations and exceptional problem-solving skills

- Great customer service skills

- Organizational prowess

Schedule: Full-time or part-time from now h to end of August.

Great pay & bonuses! Preference for candidates who can continue working until Labor Day weekend or as close to it as possible

Call/text the owner, Mark Clarke, at 508-627-2838 or email mhclarke@ comcast.net to express your interest and learn more.

LAW FIRM

Seeks individual for full-time s ecretarial or paralegal position. Will train and promote qualified Island resident. Email info@bfmlegal. com with resume & cover letter.

ROSEWATER MARKET IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR A FULL-TIME YEAR-ROUND FRONT-OF-HOUSE POSITION. For consideration, e-mail jared@ rosewatermv.com with a resumé and availability.

JoinOurTeam–Insurance AccountManagerSterling InsuranceGroupisgrowing! We'rehiringmotivatedindividuals forourMartha'sVineyard&Boston o ces.Noinsuranceexperience required—we'lltraintheright person.Competitivepaystartingat $62,400witharaiseuponlicensure. Full-time.Applyat insurewithsterling.com.

MARTHA’S VINEYARD PUBLIC SCHOOLS Seeks qualified applicants for a 1715 Administrative Support Personnel

Responsibilities include: * Coordinating bi-weekly payroll Maintaining time & attendance records Maintaining payroll & personnel files

* Assisting with other associated duties and all other duties requested by the Superintendent and/or Business Manager Payroll and BudgetSense experience a plus Proficiency in Excel, Word, and other related office software a plus Applications can be submitted by visiting: www.mvyps.org, under Employment; new jobs-corresponding Schoolspring Job Id: 5770135 Deadline: Until Position is Filled No person shall be excluded or discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or dis abil i ty EOE.

TheHumanResourcesGeneralistwillperformthedaily functionsoftheHumanResources(HR)departmentincluding interviewingandhiringstaff,administeringpay,benefits,and leave,andenforcingcompanypoliciesandpractices.

TheHumanResourcesGeneralistwillperformthedaily functionsoftheHumanResources(HR)departmentincluding interviewingandhiringstaff,administeringpay,benefits,and leave,andenforcingcompanypoliciesandpractices.

UndertheDirectionoftheDirectorofHumanResources,key responsibilitiesinclude: HRAdministration&Compliance Onboarding

Onboarding Payroll&Recordkeeping

UndertheDirectionoftheDirectorofHumanResources,key responsibilitiesinclude:

HRAdministration&Compliance Onboarding Payroll&Recordkeeping

Bachelor’sdegreeinHumanResources,Business Administration,orarelatedfieldrequired;equivalentrelated experiencemaybeconsidered.Thispositionisfull-time,40 hours/week,withasalaryrangeof$65,000-$75,000/year. Sign-OnBonusavailabletoemployeesingoodstanding!

Bachelor’sdegreeinHumanResources,Business Administration,orarelatedfieldrequired;equivalentrelated experiencemaybeconsidered.Thispositionisfull-time,40 hours/week,withasalaryrangeof$65,000-$75,000/year. Sign-OnBonusavailabletoemployeesingoodstanding!

Bachelor’sdegreeinHumanResources,Business Administration,orarelatedfieldrequired;equivalentrelated experiencemaybeconsidered.Thispositionisfull-time,40 hours/week,withasalaryrangeof$65,000-$75,000/year. Sign-OnBonusavailabletoemployeesingoodstanding!

Forfulljobresponsibilitiesandtoapplyplease checkourwebsiteorscantheQRcode: mvcommunityservices.org/employment

JOIN OUR TEAM AS AN OFFICE MANAGER FOR THE 2026 SEASON!

Jobs

MVCSDISABILITYSERVICES

EMPLOYMENTOPPORTUNITIES:

FamilySupportCenterService Navigator($23.07-$27.40 perhour)

Doyoulovehelpingfamiliesthrive?

We’reseekingacompassionateand resourcefulServiceNavigatorto supportfamiliesinidentifying resources,solvingproblems,and buildingstrongcommunity connections.Joinateamthat valuesfamilystrengths,diversity, andself-directionacrossthe lifespan.Experiencepreferredbut paidonthejobtrainingmaybe provided.Sign-OnBonusavailable toemployeesingoodstanding! Applyat:mvcommunityservices.org/ employment

StaffGeneralistatDaybreak Clubhouse($23.00-$27.60per hour)

Lovesupportingothersasthey grow,learnandconnect?We’re lookingforadynamicteammember toprovidevocational,educational, andsocialsupporttomembersin ourDaybreakClubhouse.Wevalue livedexperienceandstrongly encourageindividualswithpersonal experienceofmentalhealthillness toapply.Applyat: mvcommunityservices.org/ employment

PART-TIME

CUSTOMER SERVICE/OFFICE ASSISTANT

Friendly, dependable, detail-oriented person to assist our Office Manager for the summer.

Handling customer calls; assisting with office and administrative tasks. Excellent telephone and communication skills; courteous and reliable. Monday - Friday 8:00 - 1:00

Join our friendly team in a busy, customer-focused office.

Island Source Attn: Danielle 508-6938700 or info@island-source.com

SCHOOL RECEPTIONIST & ENGLISH-PORTUGUESE TRANSLATOR

The Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School has an opening for a full-time Front Office Receptionist & Translator to start September 1, 2026. We are seeking a friendly, organized, bilingual individual to fill this combined position, serving as the school’s front desk receptionist while providing translation and interpretation services for students, families, and staff. Competitive salary and full benefits provided. Please email a resume and letter of interest to Chris Nace, Director, atcnace@mvpcs.organd complete an application on our website atwww. MVPCS.org.

VINEYARD SCRIPTS IS HIRING A YEAR-ROUND CERTIFIED PHARMACY TECHNICIAN Pay commensurate with experience. 117 Beach Rd., VH. Please stop by for an application or email your resume to vineyard.scripts@gmail.com.

MVCSISLANDWIDEYOUTH COLLABORATIVEEMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES:

ProgramDirector($73,000$88,000/year).

TheProgramDirectorwillleadthe IWYC,aMassachusettsFamily ResourceCenter.Responsibilities includeprogramoversight, designingandplanningtheIWYC program,supervisingstaff,working withLeadershiptodevelopprogram budgets,managingstateand federalcontractcompliance,and collaboratingwithcommunity partners.Someeveningand weekendhoursarerequired.SignOnBonusavailabletoemployeesin goodstanding! Qualifications:Bachelor’sdegree required(relevant fieldpreferred) and1–3yearsofnonprofitprogram managementorleadership experience.Strongcommunication, leadership,andorganizationalskills required.Passionateabouthelping familiesthrive?Weencourageyou t oapplyat: mvcommunityservices.org/ employment

SchoolLiaison($23.00-$28.50/ hour)

TheSchoolLiaisonwillserveasa resourcetofamilies,schools,and thecommunity,connectingfamilies experiencingCRA-relatedissues withservicesandsupports. Responsibilitiesincludeproviding referrals,helpingdevelopFamily SupportPlans,maintainingfamily servicedata,meetingregularlywith Islandschools,andassistingwith IWYC/FRCprogrammingand events.Someeveningandweekend hoursarerequired. Qualifications:Backgroundinsocial servicesoramentalhealthsetting preferred.Strongcommunication, organization,confidentiality,and collaborationskillsrequired.Valid MassachusettsDriver’sLicenseand reliabletransportationrequired. Applyat:mvcommunityservices.org/ employment

OUTREACH COORDINATOR

UP-ISLAND COUNCIL ON AGING

General Duties: Provide case management; analyze, assess, advise and coordinate programs and services for older adults. Conduct home visits, connect clients to resources, provide education and promote awareness of Council on Aging services. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services or related field: two years of developing and implementing programs for seniors; or any equivalent combinations of education and/or work experience. Hourly rate $34.67 - $38.23per hour. 37.5 hours per week. The Town anticipates hiring at Step 1 ($34.67). The Town may offer a higher starting step, up to Step 3 ($38.23) depending on qualifications and experience. Full job description and required application can be

found on the Town of West Tisbury’s website atwww.westtisbury-ma. gov. Resume & application must be received by July 21 st 2026 at 4p.m. by mailing to Up-Island Council, P.O. Box 3000,PMB 3174, West Tisbury, MA 02575, or hand delivered to the Council on Aging located at 1042A State Rd., West Tisbury, or e-mailing to coa-director@westtisbury-ma. gov. Must have a valid MA driver’s license and complete a Criminal Offender Record Information check. This is a benefited position. The Town of West Tisbury is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

TheCapeandIslandsDistrict Attorney'sOfficeservesallofthe peopleoftheCapeandIslands withofficesinBarnstable,Orleans, Falmouth,Edgartownand Nantucket. Weareseekingafull-timeVictim WitnessAdvocatetoworkMonday throughFriday8:30am-4:30pmin ourEdgartowno ce.Thisisaninpersonpositionandprior experienceispreferredbutnot required.Pleasesendcoverletter andresumetocpihumanresources@mass.govand/or visitourwebsiteformore informationathttps:// capeandislandsda.gov/

MARTHA’S VINEYARD

REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

The Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School District is seeking qualified candidates for the parttime (0.50 FTE) position of School District Treasurer

The school district Treasurer is the chief financial custodian responsible for the receipt, disbursement, investment, and reporting of all funds belonging to the School District ensuring absolute adherence to Massachusetts General Laws, District policies, and established financial practices. For a list of job responsibilities and qualifications, and to apply, please visit www.mvyps.org. under Employment; new jobs corresponding Schoolspring Job Id: 5803060 508-693-2009

Deadline: Until Position is Filled Start date is to be determined

No person shall be excluded or discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. EOE.

TISBURY COMMITTEE

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The Town of Tisbury is seeking Tisbury residents to serve on the Council on Aging and Spring building committee. Please submit letter of interest including address, experience and knowledge that would be beneficial to the committee to the Tisbury Select Board Office attention Jen Gatchell by July 25th. PO Box 1239 Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 or email jgatchell@ tisburyma.gov.

TISBURY SCHOOL

Seeks qualified applicants for a school Custodial position. Daytime hours during the summer and school vacations; evening hours during the school year

Competitive pay based on experience; ($60,070-$91,250 off of the MVEA Custodial agreement) Full benefits including health/dental & retirement

To submit an application visit our website at: www.mvyps.org under Employment; new jobs corresponding Schoolspring Job Id: 5800103 508-693-2009

Deadline: Until Position is Filled No person shall be excluded or discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. EOE.

TOWN OF TISBURY IS LOOKING FOR A RECEPTIONIST AT THE COUNCIL ON AGING. Part time unbenefited position pay rate $21.02-$ 22.23 commensurate with experience. Under supervision of the Council on Aging Director. Some duties include Answering phones, scheduling, using my senior center. For more information contact the Council on Aging 508 696 4205. Please submit application found on the town website www. tisburyma.gov/towndepartments/ humanresources. open until filled. Town of Tisbury is an EOE.

TOWN OF TISBURY IS LOOKING FOR AN ASSISTANT ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER. MUST WORK WEEKENDS.

Part time unbenefited position pay rate $27.17- $28.76 commensurate with experience. Under general supervision of the Animal Control officer. Some duties include Enforcing state and local Animal Control laws, issue warnings and citations, Aide and or transport injured animals, respond to complaints. Please submit application found on the town website www. tisbury.ma.gov/town departments/ human resources. open until filled. Town of Tisbury is an EOE.

UP ISLAND REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Up-Island Regional School District is seeking qualified candidates for the part-time (0.29 FTE) position of School District Treasurer.

The school district Treasurer is the chief financial custodian responsible for the receipt, disbursement, investment, and reporting of all funds belonging to the School District ensuring absolute adherence to Massachusetts General Laws, District policies, and established financial practices For a list of job responsibilities and qualifications, and to apply, please visit www. mvyps.org. under Employment; new jobs corresponding Schoolspring Job Id: 5803074

508-693-2009 Deadline: Until Position is Filled Start date is to be determined No person shall be excluded or discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.

Real Estate

$1,245,000MARILYNMOSES617462-0381OCEANPARKREALTY, OAKBLUFFSCLASSICCAPE

Charmmeetsmoderne ciencyin thismove-in-ready3-bedroom home.Thoughtfullymaintainedand beautifullypresented,thehome featuressun-filledlivingspaces,an updatedkitchen,andcomfortable bedroomsdesignedforeasy everydayliving.Enjoyyear-round comfortwithenergy-e cientminisplitsystemsprovidingbothheating andairconditioning,offeringcosteffectiveclimatecontrolinevery season.The finishedbasement addsvaluablebonusspaceidealfor amediaroom,homeo ceor workoutroomgivingyouthe exibilityto fityourlifestyle. Outside,aprivateyardoffersthe perfectsettingforrelaxingor entertaining.Awonderful opportunityforayear-round residence,vacationgetaway,or investment...thisclassicCape blendstimelessstylewithmodern upgrades.

Vineyard Property Values

CLASSICOAKBLUFFSVICTORIAN

$2,575,000MARILYNMOSES 617-462-0381

OCEANPARKREALTY,INC

Builtin1875byrenownedarchitect SamuelPratt,thisclassic4bedroomVictorianisjustoneblock fromthebeachandmomentstothe harbor,ferries,shops,and restaurants.Enjoywaterviewsfrom themahoganywrap-aroundporch andprivatebalcony.Historiccharm iscomplementedbythoughtful updates,includingmini-splitheating andcooling,Harveyreplacement windows,arebuiltmahoganyporch, newerroof,updatedelectrical, outdoorshower,andtownwaterand sewer.

Establishedrentalhistorywith2026 bookingsinplace.Partially insulated3-seasonhome.

$2,250,000MARILYNMOSES OCEANPARKREALTY 617-462-0381 NEWCONSTRUCTION WelcometoLagoonRidge,Oak Bluffs’newestandmostsoughtafterneighborhood.Buildyour3bedroomdreamhomeinthis elevatedenclave,set95feetabove LagoonPondandcapturing sweepingskyviews,colorful sunsets,andrefreshingsea breezes.Thisexceptionalhomesite representsoneofthe final opportunitiesinthisthrivingnew community.Tobebuilt—The Naushon—features3bedrooms, 3.5bathrooms,andover2,400 squarefeetofthoughtfullydesigned livingspace.Agrandwrap-around coveredporchprovidesawelcoming entryandtheperfectplacetoenjoy morningcoffeeorcoolevening breezes.Inside,theopen-concept oorplanconnectsthechef’s kitchenwithspaciouslivingand diningareas,idealforentertaining familyandfriends.Eachbedroom suiteincludesatileden-suitebath withcustomizable fixturesand finishes,andthesecond- oorsuites mayofferprivatebalconiesfor addedrelaxation.ClassicOakBluffs cottagearchitecturemeetsmodern comfortandenergye ciency, makingTheNaushonanidealyearroundorseasonalretreat.Lagoon Ridgeoffersdirectaccessto conservationlandswithwalkingand bikingtrails,andnearbyLagoon Pondinviteskayaking,sailing,and shell fishing.Allutilities—electric, townwater,andaprivate,state-ofthe-artAmphidromewastewater system—arelocatedatthestreet. Thisinnovativesystemservesthe entireneighborhood,providing convenienceandpeaceofmind. LagoonRidgeisacovenantprotectedcommunitywith architecturalreviewand professionalmanagementbyFirst PropertyManagementCo.This beautifulhomesiteisreadyforthe constructionofyourVineyarddream home.Elevenlotshavesold—only tworemainavailable.Callfor details!

IMPROVEDPRICE:$1,795,000** CONTACTMARILYNMOSESAT 617-462-0381FORMORE DETAILS! OCEANPARKREALTY Discoverthebeautyof**THE PRESERVEatTHEWOODLANDS** inthehighlycovetedOakBluffs community!Thisisyourchanceto ownoneofthelastremaining buildinglotsinthisprimelocation, justmomentsawayfromtown, beaches,harbor,ferryports,andthe FarmNeckGolf&TennisClub. Undergroundutilitiesarealreadyin place,makingthisrareoffering perfectfordevelopingyourdream familycompound.Enjoyapeaceful andprivatesetting,surroundedby conservationlandandtrailsidealfor hiking,walking,andbiking. Don’tmissoutonthisincredible opportunitytoembracetheOak Bluffslifestyle!

$135/sq.ft.(Estimatedpricefor finishedhouse:$550/sq.ft.) Packagesinclude:Customdesign, postandbeams,roofandwalls, doorsandwindows,sidingand trim,insulationand floors.Thepreconstructionwallandroofpanels goupinab out3weeks.Viewmodel inAquinnahbyappointment.(508) 645-3572Brokerparticipation invited Posner@MVPostAndBeam.com

OAKBLUFFSWATERVIEWLOT FORSALE

$1,200,000

CALLORTEXTReneBenDavid's

Cell508-847-4864

OCEANPARKREALTY

PRIVACYMEETSCONVENIENCEIN OAKBLUFFS JAYNEISFORD|203-962-4317

$1,795,000

Welcometo#0TemahiganAve& DoverStreet,OakBluffs.BuildYour Martha’sVineyardDreamHome. Rareopportunitytoownalevel, clearedcornerlotindesirableOak Bluffs,withpavedroadsbordering twosides,readyforconstructionof yourMartha’sVineyarddream home.Approvedforupto6 bedrooms,thisexceptionalproperty includesanapproved6-bedroom septicdesign,withroomfora possiblefuturepool.Locatedinthe sought-afterEastvillearea,where manyhomesenjoybeautifulwater views,thislotoffersthepotentialto capturestunningviewsofVineyard Soundandbeyondfroma thoughtfullydesignedhome.Create a customresidencethatembraces allthebeautyandlifestyleMartha’s Vineyardhastooffer.Enjoyashort walktoEastvilleBeach,whereyou cantakeinspectacularsunsets, watchtheferriescomeandgo,and experiencethecharmofisland living.Justashortdriveaway,you’ll haveaccesstoeverythingthat makesOakBluffssospecial— additionalbeaches,shellfishing, swimming,boating,andthevibrant energyofCircuitAvenue,featuring boutiqueshopping,diverse restaurants,andconvenientferry servicetoandfromtheislandvia theiconicOakBluffsHarborand nearbyports.Thisismorethanjust land—it’sanopportunitytocreate somethingtrulyspecial.Don’tjust dreamit—makeitreality.Owninga pieceofMartha’sVineyardisan investmentinalifestyleyou’llnever regret.Pleaseincludeapreapproval orproofoffundswithoffer.Selleris offeringabuyersbroker consideration.

PRICEIMPROVEMENT

46KENNEBECAVENUE

OAKBLUFFS,MA

$1,395,000

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OCEANPARKREALTY

ThisexquisiteVictorianhome, lovinglypreservedbythesame familyforoverageneration,stands inoutstandingconditionandis perfectlysituatedinthevibrant heartofOakBluffsCenter.Enjoythe convenienceofbeingjuststeps awayfromthePublicBeach, SteamshipAuthority,OakBluffs Harbor,asupermarket,andavariety ofcharmingrestaurantsandshops thatcontributetoOakBluffs'allure asapremiersummerdestinationon Martha'sVineyard.Thisdelightful three-seasoncottagehasbeen carefullymodernizedovertheyears, offeringarareinvestment opportunity.Locatedwithinthe highlysought-afterB1Zone,this residencehasbeencherishedasa familyhomewhilealsoprovidingthe potentialforcommercialendeavors. Thepropertyfeaturesawelldesigned oorplanthatincludes fourbedrooms-oneconveniently locatedonthe first oor-alongwith afullbathroom,twohalfbathrooms, alaundrystoragearea,aneat-in kitchen,andacozylivingroom.The homeisadornedwithstunning wood ooringthroughout,brightand a iryroomswithoriginalwindows,a newhotwaterondemandsystem, andacharmingfrontporch,perfect forleisurelyafternoons.Withits fourbedroomsandprimein-town location,thispropertyoffers substantialrentalpotential,making itanexceptionalopportunityfor bothpersonalenjoymentand investment.

Real Estate

SOLD PRICEADJUSTMENT,NOW

$2,600,000

COMMERCIALB-2OR RESIDENTIAL

Nestledattheendofaquietstreet, thisroomyandspaciousCape-style homeoffersprivacyand conveniencejustashortdistanceto theOakBluffsSchool,towncenter, andwithinwalkingdistancetothe Lagoon. Sun-filledmainlevelwithopen oor plan,largewindows,andagenerous kitchenwithamplecounterspace, openingtothediningarea.Sliders leadtoabackdeck,yard,and bluestonepatio..perfectfor entertainingorrelaxing. Radiantheated oorsintheprimary suiteandlower-levelplayroom.Twocargaragewithbonusspaceabove. Beautifulstoneworkdriveway. Updatedfurnace(2020)andwater heater(2024).

SOLDFULLPRICEIN5DAYS!!

$895,000CALL ORTEXTMARILYNMOSES

617-462-0381

Charmingyear-roundrenovated Victoriancottageinthehistoric Martha’sVineyardCampMeeting Association,locatedintheheartof WesleyanGroveinOakBluffs.This 3-bedroom,1-bathhomefeatures shiplapwalls,knottypineceilings, originalwood ooring,andsun-filled interiorsthroughout.Theupdated kitchenoffersquartzcountertops,a farmhousesink,stylishlighting,and newerenergy-e cientappliances. ImprovementsincludeMarvinwood windows,anewerroof,hotwater tank,andenergy-e cientheat pumpsforACandheat.Enjoya welcomingfrontporchwithcolorful gardensandaslatepatiowith fencedgardenspaceforoutdoor diningandrelaxing.Juststepsto CircuitAvenue,OakBluffsHarbor,

NEWLISTING

INEASTCHOPOAKBLUFFS MARILYNMOSES 617-462-0381

OFFEREDBYRENE’BENDAVID/ REALTOR®,OCEANPARK REALTYINC. 23CircuitAveExtension Cell508-847-4864

3 bedrooms/1bathroom,Rare OpportunitywithEndless Possibilities–UnmatchedHarbor& VineyardSoundViews.Location, Location,Location!Atrulyrare offeringintheheartofOakBluffs, wherepropertieslikethisseldom becomeavailable.Positioned directlyacrossfromtheiconicOak BluffsHarbor,thispropertyboasts unobstructedharborviewsand sweepingvistasofVineyardSound— a settingthatcapturestheverybest ofislandliving.Fromyourfrontyard, watchferriescomeandgo,boats driftthroughtheharbor,andenjoy thestunningbackdropofopen waterstretchingtowardVineyard Sound.Thisisapropertythatputs yourightinthemiddleofeverything, whilestillofferingthecharmand characterofaclassicislandhome. ZonedB-2Commercial,the opportunitiesaretrulyendless. Continuethelegacyofasuccessful tourist-orientedbusinesslikethe longtimeAndersonBikeRentals, createanewcommercialventure,or reimaginethepropertyasyour personaldreamhome.Whetheryou renovatetheexistingstructureor buildfromthegroundup,you’ll benefitfromoneofthemostvisible andvibrantlocationsinOakBluffs. Walktoeverything—ferries,beaches, themarina,restaurants,movies, shopping,OceanParkconcerts,the OB fishingpier,andthebelovedOak BluffsFireworks.Thisisamust-see, legacypropertywithrarepotentialin a locationthatcan’tbebeat.Very easytoshow.Pre-approvalorproof offundsrequiredwithalloffers.

SOLD NEWLISTINGINOAKBLUFFS

$968,750 ALANSCHWEIKERT OCEANPARKREALTY 508-221-1708

OakBluffs:HomeSweetHome Situatedonoveraquarteracreof beautifullylandscaped,level groundswithcolorfulperennial plantingsandmaturetrees,this sun-filledranchoffersaperfect blendofcomfortandcharm.The openkitchen,dining,andliving areasfeaturecathedralceilings, classicverticalknottypinewalls, andacozybrick fireplace.Enjoya convenient first- oorbedroomanda spacioussecond- oorprimary bedroomwithaprivatedeck.The finishedbasementprovides additionallivingorhobbyspace. Updatesincludea2017oilburner andRothoiltank.Aninviting outdoorshowercompletesthiswellmaintainedhome,offeredfurnished andreadyforyourpersonal touches. Locatedinaquietresidential neighborhoodclosetoallthatOak Bluffshastooffer.

$1,199,000.52ACRES 66MunroeAvenueand17Madison AvenueOakBluffsEastChop~Build yourcustomislandretreatin covetedEastChoponthisoveronehalfacreparcel.Offeringthe potentialfora6+bedroom residence,thisexceptionalhomesite includesatopographicmapand featuresexpansivegroundsthat mayaccommodateapool,subject tolocalapprovals.Ideallylocated justminutesfromtheEastChop BeachClub,OakBluffsHarbor, beaches,ferries,restaurants,shops, andvibrantdowntownOakBluffs. Buyersshouldperformtheirown duediligencewiththeappropriate townagenciestoverifyall informationregardingbuilding requirements,approvalsand intendeduse.Alloffersshould includeproofoffunds.

SOLD$2,400,000MarilynMoses 617-462-0381,Michael Schweikert774-563-9112,Alan Schweikert508—221-1708

15MainStreetVineyardHaven

$2,900,000

PrimeCommercialBuilding–Main Street,VineyardHavenExceptional opportunityintheheartof downtownVineyardHaven.This well-maintainedmixed-useproperty offersover3,100sqftofversatile space,featuringtwoground- oor retailstorefrontswithexcellent streetvisibilityandtwoupdated1bedroomapartmentsabove—ideal forstaffhousingorrentalincome.A fullbasementprovides exible storageorutilityspace,anddeeded rearaccessallowsfordeliveriesand logisticalease.Recentupdates includeplumbingimprovementsand a fullyrenovatedapartment. Whetheryou'reaninvestorseeking steadyincome,abusinessowner lookingfora agshiplocation,ora developerexploringmixed-use potential,thispropertydelivers exceptionalvalueinoneofMartha’s Vineyard’smostdesirable commercialcorridors.

WESTTISBURY

NEWLISTING$1,399,000

CallorTextMarilynMoses 617-462-0381

Coastalcontemporaryresidenceis locatedonaprivate1.60-acrelotin WestTisbury,withconvenient accesstoLongPointWildlife Refugeandaccessto"Coveted" Lambert'sCoveBeach.Thehome featuresfourbedroomsandtwofull bathrooms.Onthe first oor,you'll findtwobrightbedrooms,a modernizedbathroom,andsliders fromthelivingareathatleadtoa newAZEKdeckandenclosed fencedgardens,perfectforoutdoor enjoyment.Theopen oorplan includesattractivebeadboard ceilingsthatcreateasenseof spaceandlight.Recentupgrades featurearemodeledkitchenwitha tiledbacksplash,granite countertops,andanLGinduction stovealongwithmatching stainless-steelappliances.The firstoorbathroomhasbeenfully renovatedwithatiledshowerand glassdoor,tiled oor,newtoilet, vanity/mirror,rainfallshowerhead, andallnewhardware.Additional updatesincludeanewerroof,Azek windowtrim,anoutdoorshower enclosure,andgutterswithleaf guards.Thebasementhasa9-foot ceilingwithfourwindows,providing potentialforfurther finishingwith townapproval.Otherimprovements includeupdatedplumbingand electricalsystems,anewwell pressuretank,newCulliganWater FiltrationandConditioningsystem, andaGeneracwhole-house generatorinstalledin2022.

Aquinnah

Purdy Revocable Trust Article IV FBO

June 26, James Feiner sold 834 State Road to Walter G. Ricciardi and Clara F. Ricciardi, trustees of Walter G. Ricciardi 2025 Trust and Clara F. Ricciardi 2025 Trust, for $935,500.

Brian Purdy, sold 9 Fowler Ave. to Isla P. Garraway and David M. Shavelle, trustees of Shavelle/Garraway Living Trust, for $4,583,000.

to Hall Quarry Granite Corp. for $3,100,000.

July 2, Barry D. Blake sold 54 Fuller St. to Douglas Paterson and Kristen Paterson for $7,080,000.

Oak Bluffs

June 26, Rodan Realty LLC sold 2 Cosmos Way to Two Cosmos LLC for $2,600,000.

June 26, Laurie Neveau, formerly known as Laurie J. Maynard, trustee of William H. Maynard Jr. GST Marital Trust, Everyday Spending Trust, Nest Egg Trust, and Marilyn Maynard Revocable Trust, sold 370 Lighthouse Road to Erin McDonnell and David Soergel for $3,350,000.

Chilmark

June 23, Rhys Eppich and the Estate of George S.B. Morgan sold 0 Meetinghouse Road, 192 South Road, and 0 Beach Lot to Prudence Morgan Fitts, also known as Prudence M. Fitts, Prudence M. Eppich, Karen Morgan Leaf, Kristen Andrea Labby, Eric Barton Leaf, and Nils Gustav Leaf for $200,000.

Edgartown

June 23, Brian Purdy and Timothy Peabody, trustees of Winifred M.

June 26, William E. Rice Jr. and Maureen R. Rice sold 27 Knoll Drive to Sherrese M. Smith and Adelaja Heyliger for $4,700,000.

June 26, Adam M. Zeiger, trustee of Tucker Bay Nominee Trust, sold 14 Bayside South to 44 Green Hollow Road LLC for $14,750,000.

June 29, Lucas Brewer sold 10 Baylies Way to Cody Brewer for $500,000.

July 1, Robert D. Moriarty, trustee of Lenssen Realty Trust, sold 63 Eel Pond Lane and 5 Lenssen Way to Michael A. Bass, trustee of 5 Lenssen Way Nominee Trust, for $4,100,000.

July 1, Brian Purdy and Thomas Filomeno, also known as Thomas J. Filomeno, trustees of 10 Fowler Ave Realty Trust, sold 10 Fowler Lane

June 29, Julia Sullivan Keefe and David J. Keefe sold 33 Ocean Ave. to Dolores Smith for $2,775,000. June 29, Cynthia J. Curtis, formerly Cynthia J. Sylvia, sold 12 Wheelhouse Way to Jonelle Saunders and Yusuf T. Yusuf for $1,050,000.

June 30, Ursula Parrish Daniels sold 21 Island Inn Road Unit 39G to

CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION

Docket No. DU26P0086EA

In the matter of: the Estate of Daniel C. Feeney

To all interested persons: A Petition for Formal Probate of Will with Appointment of Personal Representative has been filed by Dona L. Herrmann of Vineyard Haven MA requesting that the Court enter a formal Decree and Order and for such other relief as requested in the Petition. The Petitioner requests that: Dona L. Herrmann of Vineyard Haven MA be appointed as Personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve Without Surety on the bond in unsupervised administration.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the Court. You have a right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance and objection at this Court before: 10:00 a.m. on the return day of 07/28/2026 . This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must file a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail to file a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty (30) days of the return day, action may be taken without further notice to you.

UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION UN-

DER THE MASSACHUSETTS UNIFORM

PROBATE CODE (MUPC)

A Personal Representative appointed under the MUPC in an unsupervised administration is not required to file an inventory or annual accounts with the Court. Persons interested in the estate are entitled to notice regarding the administration directly from the Personal Representative and may petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including the distribution of assets and expenses of administration.

WITNESS, Hon. Susan L Jacobs, First Justice of this Court.

Date: July 07, 2026

Daphne DeVries, Register of Probate COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS

LAND COURT

DEPARTMENT OF THE TRIAL COURT

Docket No. 26 SM 002052

ORDER OF NOTICE

TO: Brooke F. Douglas and to all persons entitled to the benefit of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, 50 U.S.C. c. 50 §3901 (et seq):

U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, not in its individual capacity but solely as trustee on behalf of GCAT 2023-NQM1 Trust claiming to have an interest in a Mortgage covering real property in Tisbury, numbered 39 Mud Puddle Road, given by Brooke F. Douglas to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Quontic Bank, its successors and assigns, dated October 15, 2021, and registered at Dukes County Registry District of the Land Court as Document No. 91227 and noted on Certificate of Title No. 15194, and now held by the Plaintiff by assignment, has/have filed with this court a complaint for determination of Defendant’s/Defendants’ Servicemembers status.

If you now are, or recently have been, in the active military service of the United States of America, then you may be entitled to the benefits of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. If you object to a foreclosure of the above-mentioned property on that basis, then you or your attorney must file a written appearance and answer in this court at Three Pemberton Square, Boston, MA 02108 on or before 08/10/2026 or you

Legal Notices

may lose the opportunity to challenge the foreclosure on the ground of noncompliance with the Act.

Witness, GORDON H. PIPER Chief Justice of this Court on 6/26/2026.

Attest: Deborah J. Patterson, Recorder Public Hearing

Martha’s Vineyard Commission

The public is invited to a public hearing concerning the following Development of Regional Impact #694-

M2 Caleb Prouty House Demolition

Applicant: Stop & Shop Supermarket Company LLC; Geoghan Coogan (Agent)

Location: 15 Cromwell Lane, Vineyard Haven. Map 7-F, Lot 7 (0.171 acres).

Proposal: Demolition of a Greek Revival house built circa 1838 listed in MACRIS with no replacement structure proposed Date & Time: Thursday, July 23, 2023 at 6:35 p.m.

Place: Hybrid Meeting MVC Office - 1 st Floor, 33 New York Ave, Oak Bluffs, MA and Zoom Meeting ID: 874 5304 8704; Password: 545639

The application and plans are available on the MVC website. Written testimony may be submitted prior to or during the hearing. Check for updates on the online calendar.

LEGAL NOTICES W. TISBURY

LEGAL NOTICE

TOWN OF WEST TISBURY

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

WEST TISBURY, MASSACHUSETTS

The Town of West Tisbury, acting through its Owner’s Project Manager, CHA, is soliciting proposals from qualified bidders to retain the services of Mechanical / Electrical Engineering Designer firms to provide HVAC engineering and design services for improvements to the West Tisbury Police Department facility, as governed by the selection of designers for any municipality or local public agency building project subject to the

state designer selection law, M.G.L. c. 7C, §§ 44-57. Copies of the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) document with instructions and requirements are available via email request on July 8 th , 2026, by contacting the Owner’s Project Manager Thomas Downie at tdownie@chasolutions.com and c/c Prajakta Patil at ppatil@chasolutions.com. Interested firms must submit proposals no later than 4:00 PM on Thursday, July 23rd , 2026. Proposals must be submitted electronically via email in pdf format, and firms should request for confirmation of receipt upon submitting the proposals to the Owner’s Project Manager Thomas Downie at tdownie@ chasolutions.com and c/c Prajakta Patil at ppatil@chasolutions.com. All questions should be emailed to Thomas Downie at tdownie@chasolutions.com and c/c Prajakta Patil at ppatil@chasolutions. com no later than 12:00pm Friday July 17th , 2026.

In order to be considered eligible, Prospective Proposers must attend a mandatory site visit on Thursday, July 16 th , 2026, at 10:30am at location 454 State Rd, West Tisbury, Massachusetts 02575. Based on the qualifications and scoring there will be interviews scheduled for August 10th, 2026, and August 11th, 2026. More information will be provided by Interview notices to the designer firms. Proposals received after the time and date established herein for the opening of Proposal shall not be accepted or considered, regardless of the cause for delay in the receipt of such bids.

The fee Designer’s services will be negotiated.

The Town of West Tisbury reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any informality in bidding, and to make the award as may be determined in the

best interests of the Town.

“An Equal Opportunity MunicipalityAA/MBE”

WEST TISBURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

On Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 5:15pm the ZBA will hold a public hearing at the TOWN HALL-2 nd floor meeting room on an application for a Special Permit from Steven Katz and Iris Gold to allow the operation of a seasonal chiropractic and acupuncture home occupation in a 12’x16’ gazebo to be erected and attached to a plywood platform under Section 8.5-1 of the West Tisbury Zoning Bylaw at 46 Buttonwood Farm Rd., Map 8 Lot 14.2, in the RU district. Interested parties are invited to send comments via email to: zba@westtisbury-ma.gov or mail comments to: Zoning Board of Appeals, PO Box 278, West Tisbury, MA 02575. Please call 508-696-0107 for information on the application.

WEST TISBURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

On Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 5:30pm the ZBA will hold a public hearing at the TOWN HALL-2 nd floor meeting room on an application for a Special Permit from Vineyard Land Surveying & Engineering, Inc. on behalf of Everett K. Bramhall to allow the 16’x34.5’ inground swimming pool and hot tub under Section 8.5-4C of the West Tisbury Zoning Bylaw at 35 Forest Rd., Map 14 Lot 6, in the RU district.

Interested parties are invited to send comments via email to: zba@westtisbury-ma.gov or mail comments to: Zoning Board of Appeals, PO Box 278, West Tisbury, MA 02575. Please call 508-696-0107 for information on the application.

EDGARTOWN AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMITTEE

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR INFORMATION

The Town of Edgartown Affordable Housing Committee is seeking responses from qualified developers, nonprofit housing organizations, and development teams regarding the potential development of affordable and attainable housing on Town-owned property at 294 Chappaquiddick Road, Edgartown, MA. The Request for Information (RFI) is available at https://www.edgartown-ma.us/home/showdocument?id =30083&t=639185143011614833 or by contacting affordable@ edgartown-ma.us or P.O. Box 5158, Edgartown, MA 02539. Responses must be received by Monday, August 3, 2026 at 3PM, and must be submitted in accordance with the requirements contained in the RFI.com

PUBLIC NOTICES

** TISBURY PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE**

The Tisbury Board of Health will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, July 14, at 4:15 PM. The purpose of this hearing is to review and consider adoption of the regulation prohibiting the manufacture, sale and distribution of kratom in the Town of Tisbury. The hearing will take place at the Tisbury Town Hall Annex, located at 66 High Point Lane, and will also be accessible virtually via Zoom. To join the meeting online, use Meeting ID 819 3548 8374 and Passcode 796264. Alternatively, you can participate by phone by dialing 1 646 876 9923. Draft copies of the proposed amended regulations are available upon request. Please contact the Tisbury Board of Health at 508-6964290 to obtain a copy.

Call chris 5088898524 COMMERCIAL SPACE IN B1 ZONING OFF HOLMES HOLE ROAD IN VH. 1400-2100 SF available. Drive in access, heated with bathroom. (508)294-4261

FUR NISHED OFFICE SPACE VH

600 SQ FT.Suitable for office use only. Includes conference room, 2 offices & reception area. Utilities not included. Includes 2 parking spaces. 508-221-0858.

APARTMENTS/ROOMS

STUNNING NON TOXIC

(NO CARPET/NO MOLD)

COMPLIMENTARY/MEDICAL/ OR OTHER RETAIL SPACE. 2000 sq.ft. West Tisbury across from Cronigs. Two full baths. laundry. Three offices and huge central space where 10 work spaces could fit. New appliances in Kitchen. Ample

parking (15 cars) Coy pond. Outdoor space. $6,500 per month or share 4500 with single doctor. Text Lisa 310-213-5472.

ROOM FOR RENTGENTLEMEN PREFERRED  $1,500 per person.  1st month + last month.  Washer and dryer.  Shared bath, outside shower W/ kitchen, small room, small refrigerator, outside grill, walking distance to bus . No overnight guests, no alcohol, no drugs. Non-smoking property.  mvhaven@yahoo.com

ARTICLES FOR SALE

DELOREAN FOLDING E-BIKE Brand New. Must sell, lost housing. Run flat tire. $1,100. 323-649-0679. VINTAGE PAINTINGS BY ISLAND ARTISTS MV Vintage Fair Posters, framed/ unframed, some out-of-print; Maritime and other Artifacts, etc.; text for photos: 860-391-1893.

AUTO SALES

2018 SHELBY GT350R Lead Foot Grey (1 of 5 this color produced), 1400 miles, not tracked,

fully documented, showroom condition. (508)294-4261

YARD SALES

CLOTHING YARD SALE!  Saturday, July 11th 10am-2pm  Women’s clothing, sizes XS-M, handbags, and shoes size 6-8. Great brands and condition.  WEST TISBURY, 635 State Road.  Parking onsite ONLY. No early birds.

BOAT SALES

CATBOATFORSALE

198917ftMengerCatboatwith inboardYanmarengineandtrailer. Wellcaredforovertheyears.New sail,sailcoverandcushions. LocatedinVineyardHaven.$8,000. Ifinterestedcall508-560-0497.

FUNINTHESUN(FISH)

14ftsunfishinverygoodcondition, completew.sails,2centerboards,2 rudders.Inaddition,anearlynew trailerw.fattirelaunchingbuggy. Newcoverforall.$3200. 508-693-1039.

SERVICES MY HANDYMAN

SERVICES/PROPERTY PAINT, DUMP RUN, TILE/STONE WORK, CARPENTRY, WINDOWS/ DOORS, SHINGLES, GUTTER CLEANUP, DECK REJUVENATE, POWER WASHER, ROOFS, BASEMENT/ GARAGE CLEAN UP, Certified Mold Inspector & Remediator, TENNIS COURT CLEANING, French Drain Installation. 508-684-0242., RENATO myhandymaninmv@gmail.

2BEDSIDESTANDS $25each,smalldiningtable$25, free2smalltv’s,freetentand campinggear. (617)388-7677

AFFORDABLE SAILING 19 foot O’Day Weekender Sailboat, includes gear for sailing his summer, trailer, 6HP Yamaha 4stroke (separately available)$100. Jerry 508-560-7291 AREA RUG 7 by 8. Green cranberry leafpattern beige background. $15. 860 805 7206.

COOKING MUSTS-NEW Thermos Heat Distribution Plate for Grill, $10. Foley Turn Over Broiler Rack (still in box) $10. Call-508-627-8438.

BargainBox

FREE Eight foot church table. Two 64 inch love seats with pillows and slip covers. A camelback couch needing a seat cover. 508-939-0314

HOOVER: POWER DASH RUG-CLEANER. Needs power switch or pedal; or Steam Vac Spin-Scrub, needs trigger-switch. Handyman needed to repair or, free for-the-taking. csepp@comcast.net

NEW CHEAP SHEERS In box. Brand: GDjob. 550 watts. $60. 508-939-1414 - text.

NEW Men’s rain jacket with hi-vis reflective bands, commercial grade-$40. Rain pants, horizontal reflective bands on legs-$20. Men’s size large. email cmarcmail@gmail.com pictures/to see.

NEW Men’s Work grade hi-vis rain jacket with reflective bands.-$40. Rain pants with reflective bands.-$15. csepp@comcast.net to see/ pictures.

FREE 22 foot hunter sailboat with new roller furling jib, bottom clean painted, 9.9 outboard motor, no trailer. 508-627-2139.

FREE Grey and beige upholstered chair, IKEA child’s bed, child’s hobby horse, grey 30’ runner rug. Take some or all. We can deliver. 202-257-5609.

FREE KAYAK.

8’. Red. Fully functional, with very slow minor leak that is fixable by someone with know how. Text 585-781-0301

NEW Sofa-slipcover. Linen. floral/beige print. 74”;-96”;-$40; 2-matching pillows, good condition-$20. Syracuse China, coffee/tea serving set, Corabell pink/green pattern excellent condition-$80. csepp@ comcast.net pictures/to see. WET SUIT, 6 MM THICK, LIKE NEW, SIZE SMALL. Jacket and overalls. Great shape. $60/pair. 774-563-0050. West Tisbury

JIGSAW PUZZLES SCRABBLE, PARCHEESI, ETC Good/Excellent condition. $3-$12. 508-693-7472 -Call anytime, 7:30am-12:30pm

Elizabeth Hawes Weinstock

Elizabeth Hawes Weinstock (“Betsy”), a writer known for her style both on and off the page, died Monday, June 29, 2026, at her home in Chilmark. Born on Oct. 10, 1940, in Milwaukee, Wis., to an airline executive father and homemaker mother, Betsy grew up along with her younger brother, Gerry, in Shaker Heights, Ohio. Betsy attended Mount Holyoke College on a piano scholarship and graduated with high honors in 1962, having written her thesis on “The Notion of Limit in the Work of Albert Camus.” Upon her graduation, she was awarded a Fulbright scholarship to live and teach in Paris, after which she moved to New York City and secured a job at the New Yorker in the typing pool: the only starting place for women interested in being writers or editors for the magazine at the time.

She was promoted to assistant poetry editor under longtime editor Howard Moss. A further promotion to fiction editor followed; but she soon approached the magazine’s editor, William Shawn, with a request to be granted three months off to return to France and enlarge her college thesis (while translating it from the French) into a book. Shawn, intrigued, not only approved but doubled her leave of absence to enable the endeavor. That work would end up taking 40 years to come to fruition. Soon after returning to New York, Betsy met and married her husband, Davis Weinstock II;

had three sons; and transitioned from full-time editing to a life of freelance journalism and writing while raising a family. She published “Talk of the Town” pieces in the New Yorker and articles in the New York Times Magazine, Vogue, Marie Claire, Elle, Gourmet, Le Monde, and other national and international publications. In 1980, she was asked by the then-budding caterer and entrepreneur Martha Stewart to write a book conveying Martha’s entertaining expertise through Betsy’s prose. That editorial partnership created both the blockbuster cookbook “Entertaining” and its follow-up, “Weddings.”

Betsy, however, maintained her focus on journalism and literature. She turned back to her lifelong love of Camus and his writings, spending the next 15 years crafting and publishing her book on the French philosopher and author, “Camus: A Romance.”

Betsy and Davis first arrived on the Island as summer renters with two baby boys in 1972; their third son was born on the Island in 1974; and they built their family home in Chilmark 36 years ago. Betsy was an active member of the Island community, serving as a board member at the Chilmark Community Center and as a board member of the Martha’s Vineyard Museum for more than 20 years, and a champion of its expansion into its current site.

In addition to her husband, Davis, and her sons, Nicky, Jake, and Luke, she is survived by her brother, Gerry, and her five grandchildren, James, Derek, Evie, Nate, and Lincoln.

In the last months of her life, she continued to write articles and essays for Martha’s Vineyard Magazine and others, while considering a topic for her next book. She published pieces on the artist Stan Murphy, Red Devon oxen, and florist Krishana Collins, and was researching articles on the maintenance of the country’s oldest horse carousel and the evolution of the Manuel F. Correllus State

obituaries

Park when she died. The day before, she had played an hour and a half of tennis with her son, and spent the afternoon in her garden. She was 85 years old.

To read the complete obituary, go to mvtimes.com.

Maurice Robert Dore

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Maurice Robert Dore, affectionately known as Maury, on June 2, 2026, just two days shy of his 94th birthday. Surrounded by the love of his family, Maury left this world at his cherished home in Edgartown.

Born on June 4, 1932, in Skowhegan, Maine, Maury grew up with a passion for sports and nature. His athletic prowess earned him a position as a notable two-sport athlete at the University of Maine, where he excelled in both varsity basketball and football. His senior year saw him as an integral part of the Black Bears varsity basketball team and a formidable end for the football team. Maury graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education.

Maury served his country with honor during the Korean War, achieving the rank of specialist third class in the U.S. Army. His time in the military was marked by camaraderie and a deep sense of duty, qualities that he carried with him throughout his life.

A devoted educator, Maury found his calling as a math, social studies, and physics teacher. His passion for coaching football and basketball was unmatched, and he became legendary for leading teams wherever he taught and coached to undefeated seasons. He led the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School to their first undefeated season in the school’s history in 1963. His influence extended beyond the classroom

and the field, inspiring countless students and athletes with his dedication and genuine care.

Maury’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to Edgartown Marine, where he worked and which he eventually owned. He was a respected member of the Senior Skull Society at the University of Maine, an active participant in the Rotary Club, and a devout member of the Catholic Church Outside of his professional achievements, Maury found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He cherished time with his beloved wife, Susan, and their children, Kaitlin, Anthony, Jonathan, and Khalid, as well as Vickie and Jennifer. His family was the heart of his world, and he was the proud grandfather of four cherished grandchildren.

Maury nurtured a massive vegetable garden every year, and his dedication to farming and livestock was evident in the way he tended to the land and his livestock. He found peace in his vegetable garden, as well as in preparing his wood-burning stoves for winter, a ritual that involved hand-splitting eight cords of wood annually, often with the help of his children stacking it.

Maury will be remembered for his positive energy, kindness, faith, and warm smile. He had a gift for storytelling, always ready with a tale to share and a laugh to offer. A dependable friend and a helping hand, he was there whenever needed, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.

A private funeral ceremony honored Maury’s life, reflecting the quiet dignity with which he lived. Though he has left this earthly realm, his spirit remains alive in the hearts of those who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Maury’s memory to hospice, in the spirit of his lifelong commitment to giving and service.

Maury, your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

James Ronald Shilakes

James Ronald Shilakes, 84, of Port St. Lucie, Fla., and Edgartown, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2026, on Martha’s Vineyard.

Born July 17, 1941, in Detroit, Mich., Ron enjoyed a long and successful career with Warner Lambert/Pfizer, retiring as

vice president in 2000. He played a key role in bringing numerous life-saving drugs to market, a source of great pride throughout his life.

All who knew Ron will remember his sharp wit and humor, his passion for all sports — especially the Detroit Lions and Michigan Wolverines — and his love of golf, which he enjoyed playing with family and friends. An accomplished artist, his paintings adorn the walls of their home and grace the covers of the family’s annual Christmas cards.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Carol H. Shilakes, of Port St. Lucie and Edgartown; his brother, David Shilakes; his son, Christopher Shilakes and wife Kirsten; his daughter, Jessica Reilly and husband Raymond; and his cherished grandchildren, Christian, Jocelyn, Keegan, Isabelle, and Hayden, who knew him as their beloved “Papa.”

The family would like to thank Hospice and Palliative Care of Martha’s Vineyard for their care and support. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice and Palliative Care of M.V., 455 State Road | PMB 244, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.

Graeme L. Flanders

Graeme L. Flanders, 82, passed away at home on June 23, 2026. Born and raised on Martha’s Vineyard, Graeme was one of three sons of Leslie and Florence Flanders. Following his education at Tabor Academy, Princeton University, and Georgetown University, and his service in the U.S. Navy, he pursued a career in finance, and worked guiding charitable organizations.

Graeme then returned to his Island home, where he could be found behind the wheel of a truck, tractor, or boat, in front of his workbench or desk, and building stone walls, often alongside his immediate family and beloved cats and dogs.

Graeme shared his life with his wife, Judith Flanders; and their children, Amy Harris and her husband, Jed, and Nathan Flanders and his wife, Melissa. His last years were enriched by his four granddaughters, Skylar, Margot, Sophie, and Isabelle.

Graeme wished to be remembered simply, and at his request, the burial will be private.

Lillian Anderson

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Lillian Anderson on June 25, 2026, at home in

Edgartown, at the age of 80, surrounded by love.

Lillian was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. She had a lifelong love of rare books, art, and nature, and found joy in collecting treasures, and spending time with the animals she cared so deeply about. She will be remembered for her strength, her creativity, and the many lives she touched throughout her life.

A memorial celebration of Lillian’s life will be held in September on Martha’s Vineyard. In honor of her love for animals, an auction of her original paintings will be held during the gathering, with proceeds benefiting a local animal rescue organization.

A full obituary, including service details, will be shared in a future edition of this paper. The family appreciates your thoughts, prayers, and kindness during this difficult time.

Colin Britt, 40, of West Tisbury, passed away unexpectedly at his home on June 8, 2026.

Colin was a Islander and an accomplished fisherman and carpenter, both lifelong passions. He was admired for his serious and meticulous approach to his crafts.

Colin was predeceased by his father, Tom Britt. He is survived by his mother, Susan; his sister, Hallie; and his beloved daughter, Marguerite. Colin is also mourned by his large extended family, and a circle of friends, colleagues, and boat mates who grew up with him and grieve the loss of a steadfast, fun, and loving friend.

Colin was unassuming, understated, and very funny. Those who loved Colin will miss him deeply, but find solace in knowing that he is at peace now.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Colin Britt

How much more can the Island handle?

Continued from A1

executive director, and Emily Molden, director of the Nantucket Land and Water Council, who compared and contrasted efforts on the two islands to be sustainable.

In 1970, the Dukes County Planning and Economic Development Commission estimated that the seasonal population was 40,000, while only 6,000 people lived on the Island year-round. After 2000, the Martha’s Vineyard Commission (MVC) estimated that between June and August, 75,000 to 89,000 people came to the Island. In 2024, in a report by the MVC, they calculated that the peak seasonal population was 94,650, 4.6 times the year-round population, on a given day in August, and including day-trippers.

While the number of people on the Island has increased, the Island’s boundaries remain fixed. Martha’s Vineyard is about 55,000 acres, and while Look said that 43 percent of the Island is considered in conservation, there remain 13,500 acres, or about a quarter of the Island, that are either developable or potentially developable (i.e., a piece of property that has a home but has extra acreage, and could be further subdivided).

“Think for a minute of what you experience as you drive, hike, swim, experience the Island,” Look said to the audience. “Imagine a quarter more developed.” She added that based on historical trends, 80 percent of that land probably gets developed,

while 20 percent is conserved. There are currently 19,000 homes on the Island, but Look said 10,800 more acres of development would mean 11,000 more homes. And with more homes come more people, and added stress to the Island’s resources, such as the availability of water, an issue that has been scrutinized as sprawling housing projects get approved.

Nantucket, on the other hand, is 50 percent permanently protected, but has less land still able to be conserved, Molden said. Because some of the other island’s zoning districts allow for tertiary dwellings, their most recent build-out analysis estimates that there’s still subdivision potential for 1,500

more lots, and a maximum build-out would allow for 17,000 more units.

“It’s hard for me, honestly, to imagine where they would all go, but it’s remarkable what folks are able to do with very little space and smaller lots, so we still have a lot of work to do, as well as far as trying to figure out and look toward capacity infrastructure, and how we can continue to protect, especially things like our drinking water and resources, as we move forward in the face of the continued pressure,” Molden said.

Molden said Nantucket officials want to fund a study that would look at the various build-out scenarios, analyze how they would impact

the island’s resources and infrastructure, and present options to residents to ask, “Where do you all want to live? What scenario do you want to live under?”

The MVC tried to do what’s called a carrying-capacity study as early as 2020. Look said VCS was both excited and nervous about the results of that study: “Do we have fourlane roads? Do we have threelane or two-lane rotaries? Do we have six more rotaries?”

Ben Robinson, commissioner at the MVC, and chairman of the Tisbury planning board, said carrying capacity is really understood in the natural world — animals and their food supplies and habitat — but in a human-built world, that is much harder, because limitations can be overcome through infrastructure and technology. Limited land can be solved through taller structures, and too much traffic can be aided through additional lanes and traffic lights. But to understand capacity in a rural place, like the Island, where there are self-imposed limits such as height maximums and general aesthetic dislike of traffic lights, that’s even harder. While the MVC initially funded the study, which they worked on with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, through private donors and a state grant, cuts from the current

federal administration dried that well up, and not much has been done in the past two years. And while Robinson said the MVC still tries to do some work on the issue, carrying capacity is hard to calculate, and initial reports told him that “unless you understand what you want as a community, as an Island, you’ll really struggle with what’s the right solution.”

So what is considered the “community” on the Island?

There are different audiences — year-rounders, second-homeowners and seasonal residents, weekend visitors — who hold different perspectives. Thresholds for quality of life and service, and even aesthetics and character, are subjective.

It’s clear for VCS that Martha’s Vineyard is an Island and has limits. “I don’t think that the Vineyard needs to sacrifice its well-being because of some sense we have — which might not even be correct — of what the tourism population wants of this Island,” Look said.

She added that to develop “without respect for the limits of an Island hurts our community, hurts the natural environment, and ultimately, hurts tourism and the economy it drives.”

And even so, should there eventually be a better sense of what the Island could handle, who holds the political backing to make those decisions?

Commissioners, focuses mostly on human services.

But when Hopkins said “we” have to make tough decisions to a crowd of mostly older Islanders, he didn’t really mean elected officials. He meant that as individuals and as a collective, the Island should modify behavior so that municipal systems don’t need to be built to meet peak requirements, which occur in the summer months.

Hopkins is less discouraged by the reality of six governments, though he said even when a law is passed, towns still fight among themselves over aspects like enforcement, and doesn’t think the Island can legislate a way out of these problems: “We’re talking about people looking at the challenge and assuming responsibility like never before. And if we don’t get people to that point of thinking, I don’t care how many laws you create, it’s not going to change people’s carbon footprint.”

“Islands Under Pressure: A Conversation About Our Land, Water, and Future” panel at Vineyard Conservation Society’s annual meeting.

“There are absolutely no easy decisions, no easy answers that lie ahead for our Island community. We are experiencing unprecedented demands on our infrastructure, which has been neglected for generations … We are going to have to make tough decisions.” —EWELL HOPKINS

There’s a desire, Look said, to have the towns remain distinct and preserve their own character, but that does create “a huge speed bump to things happening as efficiently as they could.” It means that one law or regulation needs to be approved by six different governments instead of one.

There are six select boards and six planning boards that make small and large decisions daily that produce outcomes that “as a collective are what we’re experiencing,” she said.

Meanwhile, the MVC can make decisions based on large-scale housing projects, not more frequent, smallscale ones, and Robinson said the other regional authority, the Dukes County

There’s free transportation on the Island, Hopkins said, but people still won’t take the bus to lessen their environmental impact. Water departments constantly chase demand through more supply, Hopkins said. (Oak Bluffs recently passed a 30-year endeavor to upgrade the town’s wastewater capacity, expected to cost $105 million.) But a “wise environmental strategy” is to see, first, if demand can be reduced. He referenced when New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani asked his constituents to set their thermostats to 78° over the holiday weekend to conserve energy. He wanted people to “be willing to be a little warmer inside their houses,” Hopkins said.

“We’re not getting that kind of leadership here locally,” Hopkins said, but he wants VCS to play a bigger role in that, and “flatten out those peak requirements.”

“Someone’s going to be upset; that’s why it’s a tough decision,” Hopkins said. The options are to either build to meet demand, he said, or force people modify their behavior to meet demand, so that supply is sufficient.

Aerial view of the Island.

Travelers at the Steamship Authority’s Woods Hole terminal last summer.

ELLA MUNNELLY

EUNKI SEONWOO

HAYLEY DUFFY

sports

If you’ve seen “Jaws” — and really, who hasn’t seen “Jaws” — you get it when I say, “It’s all psychological. You yell ‘Barracuda,’ everybody says, ‘Huh? What?’ You yell ‘Shark,’ we’ve got a panic on our hands on the Fourth of July.”

I’m not encouraging anyone to yell “Shark” on Chappy or anywhere else, but if you heard someone talking about sharks on Chappy during the last two weeks, it’s most likely because the sharks have arrived, and they’re not the ones playing baseball at the high school.

Two Sundays ago, I was on Chappy with friends. Paula Sullivan and I left the group to take a walk in search of fish. We carried our rods past the Rip and onward a bit toward the breach. We passed a group of seven or eight college-age young men who were swimming and splashing and having a great time.

We cast for a bit, chatted, reeled in nothing, cast more, chatted more. We saw a large seal swim by and used that as our excuse for not catching any fish. A couple of minutes after we spotted the seal, we heard a little commotion down the shore from the guys in the water. They were running out, grabbing phones, and standing on the beach, not even toes in the water. I looked at Paula and said, “I wonder if there was a shark chasing that seal.”

Don’t Yell ‘Shark!’ fishing report

BY LISA BELCASTRO

sharks. There’s so much to it. When you pull in something that weighs as much as you, it’s just cool.”

“Every time Lukey goes fishing, he goes with Bobby,” said Lukey’s mom, Jasmine. “I’ve taken Lukey fishing for years. Started him catching scup. This year, he was big enough to try for a shark,” said Bobby.

Lukey turned 9 only days before his first shark outing. “I had three rods out,” said Bobby. “One with eel, one with mackerel, and one with squid. We had a barbecue and were playing cornhole waiting for the rods to go off. I told the boys, ‘The sharks are as big as you are, so be ready for it.’”

Sure enough, when I walked back past the young men, they asked if I’d seen the shark. I told them we hadn’t but assured them plenty of sharks would be swimming close to shore over the next few months. They didn’t return to the water. Since then, people have been reeling as fast as they could to land a fish before a shark grabbed it off a hook, or caught sharks whether they wanted to or not. Capt. Sandy Fisher was out on a charter with a family from New Hampshire last week, fishing off East Beach looking for bluefish and stripers, when a first-time teenage fisherman got the catch of her lifetime.

“I’d been out on the Friday before, and we were on

schools of blues and bass. The bluefish were decent, six to 10 pounds. [On Wednesday], we weren’t catching much. My friend suggested a deep diver. There was a lot of weed, but we put an X-Rap 30 on. The rod goes off, and the girl is on her first fish. She fought it for 20 minutes. A shark. It was epic!” said Sandy. They brought the shark on the boat through the tuna door, unhooked him, and released it back into the water.

Though Sandy has had nu-

merous sharks take lures, that shark on the boat was a first.

“We hook up all the time on X-Raps when we’re around Nantucket. Normally the shark rips the lure off. This was the first time ever getting one on the boat,” said Sandy. I thought Sandy’s shark story was great, but I was thrilled when I learned that 9-year-old Lukas Thompson had landed his first shark. I’ve known Lukas since he was 5, so seeing a picture of him with a shark brought a shout of joy

World Cup fanfare continues on-Island

El Barco was packed with red, white, and blue on Monday night as U.S. fans watched until the final minute when their team fell to Belgium 4-1. But throughout the past week, spirits were otherwise high at the Tisbury eatery as other local favorites, like Norway and England, cleared the round of 16 on Sunday and Monday night. A loss for the U.S national team ended their tournament run, but the host nation proved their right to be in the knockout rounds with several upset matches. The U.S. beat Paraguay 4–1 on June 12, Australia 2–0 on June 19, and Bosnia and Herzegovina 2–0 on July 1 to make it to the round of 16, where they eventually fell to Belgium. The defeat was preceded by a controversial red card reversal on U.S. forward Folarin Balogun that reportedly stemmed from a call by U.S. President

Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Sunday also delivered plenty of drama at El Barco. Norway stunned Brazil 2–1, with Norwegian supporters erupting early when the score went up to 2–0. Brazilian soccer legend Neymar pulled one back from the penalty spot, but Norway held firm to advance.

Brazil’s exit hit especially hard for fans watching nearby at Vineyard Grill, one of the most popular spots for fans to enjoy the game and authentic Brazilian food.

Vineyard Grill manager Marcus Nascimento noted the team was not only young and inexperienced in some areas, but they also had key players injured.

Nascimento said that Brazil’s Éder Militão, one of the best defenders from Real Madrid, was injured; Rodrygo Silva de Goes, also from Real Madrid, was in-

jured, and Estêvão Willian, a striker for Chelsea and Brazil’s best striker, was also out with an injury.

“I’m glad they can go home to practice. They need it,” said Nascimento about the team.

Despite the tough end of the tournament, Nascimento said that he did see some hunger in the Brazil team’s eyes when

they beat Japan, and when they almost came back in the game against Mexico.

“They didn’t have it in the qualification rounds, but when they beat Japan, they had that hunger,” Nascimento said.

The same evening that U.S. fans at El Barco watched their team fall to Belgium after

from me.

Lukey went out to Chappy with his cousin Bobby Ball, his friend Charlie Huckins, and Charlie’s dad. Bobby works at Mad Martha’s making ice cream, as in 700 buckets of ice cream a week in the summer. When Bobby’s not making our favorite flavors of summer’s No. 1 dessert, he’s out fishing.

“I go out as often as I can, every morning or night that the weather looks good,” said Bobby. “I really like the

advancing through multiple upsets in qualifying rounds, England defeated Mexico in a thriller. They took the win 3-2 in front of a mix of England and Mexico fans, who filled the bar until late night on Sunday.

The results of the game set up quarterfinal matches between Norway and England on Saturday, July 11, at 5 pm, as well as Belgium and Spain on Friday, July 10, at 3 pm.

Lukey was definitely ready when the rod bent. “It was exciting,” said Lukey, who reeled and reeled with his friend Charlie until the shark was almost to shore, and Bobby grabbed the leader. “It was as big as me.”

“They got it in,” said Bobby. “It’s probably the coolest thing they’ve ever seen.” Lukey, Bobby, and friends had a fun night on the beach. “We caught two sharks at the same time. The rods went off for the fourth and fifth sharks at the same time. We would’ve caught eight sharks if they didn’t get away,” said Lukey. “It’s fun to bring someone like Lukey and have him land his first shark. By the third shark, he was out of energy. On the car ride home, he fell asleep. It’s cool to have been part of that. He’ll remember this forever,” said Bobby. I hope to see you on the beach, and I hope we’re creating memories that we’ll remember forever.

El Barco served as a lively World Cup hub throughout the tournament, drawing fans from across the Island and world to celebrate and groan over their teams with friends. On Tuesday this week, Islanders also saw Egypt fall to powerhouse Argentina in a close 3-2 match. Egypt held the lead into the final minutes, but Argentina scored once at 83 minutes, and another at three minutes into extra time to take the win. Across town, a young Egypt supporter, Luke Eldiery, watched with his dad as his team fell to Argentina. The family was emotional after the game. “I was crying, and then my mom asked me who won. Now, I have no teams,” El-diery said. “I had Egypt and the U.S., and now, they’re both gone.”

“It was a really good game. I didn’t expect Egypt to hold up against Argentina,” he added about Egypt’s “tough loss.”

With the World Cup moving onto the quarterfinals matches this weekend, and the U.S. out, fans around the Island are going to be looking ahead to the next chance to gather for soccer and good company.

SANDY FISHER

Luke Thompson, Charlie Huckins, and Bobby Ball with Lukey’s first shark.

Many fans gathered at El Barco to watch elimination matches this past weekend. BY NICHOLAS VUKOTA

England fans stressed after a early Congo goal.Norway fans celebrate a goal against Brazil.

THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

Inaugural event opens Island farms to all.

ELLA MUNNELLY

E.J. Gomez feeding chickens old vegetables from the Morning Glory Farmstand.

If you were to write a book about the Vineyard, what would the title be? I asked that question to the speakers at this summer’s Islanders Write. “Nancy Drew and the Curse of the Edgartown Triangle” was Sarah Kernochan’s reply, and probably the one that made me laugh the hardest. Kernochan, who has been working on a musical about Nancy Drew, will be moderating a panel discussion with two other funny women, best-selling authors Cazzie David and Annabelle Gurwitch, about comic approaches to serious subjects (3 pm).

Brooke Allen, whose reply also made me laugh, wrote back: “I’ve been considering a title for a Vineyard book, but I’m afraid my thoughts are rather flippant — ‘Be My Alpha Gal,’ perhaps, or ‘Crazy Rich Islanders’ … Will continue to think.” Allen, whose new book “Good Bones” is a must-read for anyone interested in the lives of writers, will be part of a panel discussion with best-selling author and prolific reviewer Joshua Hammer. This conversation will be moderated by Bob Drogin, who has also written his fair share of reviews during his career as a reporter and editor, and whose darkly humorous titles for a book about the Vineyard included “Apocalypse Island: The Terrifying True Story of How Tiny Ticks Turned a Bucolic Island into a Hellscape of Vegans, Vegetarians, and Hamburger Haters” and “At Least It’s Not Ebola” (9:30 am).

What’s your title?

Islanders Write is here.

BY KATE FEIFFER

breathing, flawed, and fantastic people — Carole Hopson, Eliza M. Speranza, and Nicole Galland (2 pm).

Kevin Sullivan’s title for his hypothetical Vineyard book was “Exhale.” Sullivan, a Pulitzer prizewinning journalist for the Washington Post, will be part of a discussion with Mary Jordan (his writing partner, wife, and fellow Pulitzer winner), Martha’s Vineyard’s oral historian Linsey Lee, and Bob Drogin, who is currently an obituary writer for New York Times. We’re calling this “Writing about People: Obits, Interviews, and Biographies” (1 pm). Best-selling novelist Martha Hall Kelly didn’t answer the question, probably because she already came up with a title and wrote the book. “The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club” was published last year. Kelly is currently at work on a novel about the 1970s music scene on the Vineyard and in Laurel Canyon, and will be part of a panel discussion about creating credible and complex characters with novelists — all of whom have created characters on the two-dimensional page that feel like three-dimensional living,

To be clear, at the time of this writing I hadn’t received all responses from everyone, and there will be additional answers to this question, as well as to two other questions, in the Islanders Write newsletter this coming Saturday.

This is the first Islanders Write to be held in mid-July. Generally, when we get this close to the date, I begin to worry about the various things that might go wrong. What if nobody shows up? What if too many people show up, and we have to turn people away? I do spend time wondering if there’s a better way to manage this day than our first-come, first-seated policy. Maybe there is, but we haven’t yet figured it out. (Please note: There is no seat-saving for the day.)

I no longer worry about the content of the conversations. I’ve been doing this for long enough now that proof of concept, as they say, has been well-proven. We’ve learned that when you bring together smart, genial, and fascinating wordsmiths who are also engaged in a love affair with the Vineyard, conversations will pop and amuse, surprise and inspire. Ideas will be hatched and friendships will form.

Islanders Write kicks off on Wednesday evening, July 15, at 7:30 pm. The New Yorkers’ Jane Mayer and Nathaniel Horwitz, CEO and co-founder of Hunterbrook, will be in conversation about new models for reporting and the current state of journalism. This discussion will be moderated by MV Times Publisher Charles Sennott. Sennott, whose first job as a professional reporter was in 1984,

We’ve learned that when you bring together smart, genial, and fascinating wordsmiths who are also engaged in a love affair with the Vineyard, conversations will pop and amuse, surprise and inspire. Ideas will be hatched and friendships will form.

knows the importance of this conversation, stating, “The crisis in American journalism has gotten much attention, but we have to also focus on the future and on those willing to push back and fight for journalism and for truth itself. Jane Mayer and Nathaniel Horwitz will deliver keen insights on why investigative reporting and the fight for truth matters now more than ever. In very different ways, they are both offering a call to arms for journalism.” Mayer has extraordinary investigative skills matched with an incredible storytelling ability; in my opinion, her 2016 bestseller “Dark Money: The Hidden History of the Billionaires Behind the Rise of the Radical Right” should be required reading in 2026. Horwitz notably began his journalism career in high school, as an intern at The MV Times. A decade later he co-founded Hunterbrook with Sam Koppelman, in an effort to pioneer a new approach to fund investigative journalism. In addition to the panels already mentioned on Thursday, there will be two panel discussions focused on publishing. The first is the return of the pitch panel, with literary agent Rosemary Stimola, best-selling author Nancy Star, publishing executive Torrey Oberfest, and publisher and editor Gretchen Young, who wrote in that her Vineyard book would be titled “Alpha Gal Meets Beta Boy: A Dystopian Romance” (10:30 am). Following that, editor and publishers Dawn Davis and Gretchen Young, and literary agents Vicky Bijur and Adriana Stimola, will talk and take questions about publishing and the current state of the book business (11:30 am).

Belle Burden, whose memoir is a publishing phenom, and Keisha Lance Bottoms, whom I keep seeing on CNN — not because of her recent memoir, but because in June she became the Democratic nominee for governor of Georgia — will be closing out the day with a discussion on writing memoir. Memorist Sherry Sidoti will be moderating that conversation (4 pm). And now I’ll ask you: If you were to write a book about the Vineyard, what would the title be?

Kate Feiffer is the director of Islanders Write, which will take place at Featherstone Center for the Arts on Wednesday, July 15 (7:30 pm) and all day on Thursday, July 16.

Join The MV Times as a member today and make the pledge to support independent local journalism. Choose any of our three tiers of membership and become a valued part of our community-supported news organization. Each level includes an opt-in to receive the weekly print edition and/or access to our daily online coverage.

any

Writing From The Heart

BY NANCY SLONIM ARONIE

Our tiniest teachers.

We have black ants. The big ones. Well, actually we have the teeny ones too. The teeny ones are all over the maple syrup container, and it's a dilemma as to what to do with them. The big ones, you can just kind of divert their travel plans. It's easy to redirect their trajectory by putting up a barrier,

like the salt shaker or a shoe. They're like water. Nothing stops them. They can get by or over anything. But the teeny ones. I don't know.They're so small you feel their vulnerability, and you almost want to protect them. Plus you can’t really confuse them. They’re a determined lot.

In some weird way you almost want to reward them for just surviving. Actually killing them? I can't do it.

But I don't want them on my pancakes either.

I could wash them off the jug. But they'd think it was a tidal wave as they tumbled and swirled out of control down the drain. And then what? Where do they go? Are they still alive in some intricate plumbing underground tunnel-like affair? Will they pop up in the toilet bowl? Gasping for air?

As for the big ones, in 1977 I read in the Whole Earth Catalog that cucumber peelings would discourage them. So that was my strategy then. Until my kids were embarrassed that when their little friends came over, they asked why we had garbage all over the place. I couldn't blame them. I didn't like the look either. And I'm not sure it even worked.

I once read something interesting that E.O. Wilson, the Harvard etymologist, wrote. He said, “Don’t kill ants, study them.”

That’s the kind of line that’s right up my husband’s alley.

Did you ever see that Twilight Zone where the people are minuscule and the insects are huge? The enormous bugs can fling the mini people out the window. They can step on them. They can smush them between their super-size thumbs and forefingers.They can do everything to the helpless things we do to the big black ants.

I think of that expression: Before you judge a man, walk a mile in his shoes. Nobody I know before swatting a mosquito is thinking of what

that mosquito's kids are going to experience when Daddy doesn't come home tonight. The first whine of a mosquito, and everyone I know grabs a newspaper, rolls it up, and swats until the thing is dead.

OK, I know I’ve gone down the proverbial rabbit hole, but what to do with these invaders is still an issue.

In Buddhism, the first precept of refraining from taking life extends to all sentient beings, including insects. To avoid killing bugs or worms while digging, Buddhists use spoons to gently scoop, and then they relocate the creatures.

My husband is a lifeguard for all spiders. He would never kill a spider. He gets a glass and puts it over it and then slips a card under the guy and carries him to safety. Out. And the ones left in the house he talks to.

He says, You saw what happened to your Uncle Harry. He’s out in the freezing cold. You know you could be next. Keep eating the guys we don't like (silverfish, moths, fruit flies). And no biting. And you can stay. I like to think we have a harmonious relationship with all the life forms in my house.

My husband calls our cabin an elegant tent. When I look at it that way, I'm grateful I have indoor plumbing. I’m also grateful that he models respect for our fellow creatures. He always says, They just want to live, no different from what we want. We had some friends over recently, and it was a particularly big black ant night. It was almost as if the ants wanted to be in our social scene. Because there were more than usual, and they were on the table where the food was.

Someone said, You can get those ant cups, you know. They work.

COMMUNITY NOTES

‘A Revolution Worn’:

Clothing that marked cultural change in America

From Revolutionary-era liberty caps to modern protest fashion, this illustrated talk explores how clothing and etiquette have expressed cultural change across 250 years of American history. Presented by protocol expert Sharon-Frances (“Shances”) Moore, the program reveals how what we wear reflects evolving social values.

Wednesday, July 15, 4 to 5:30 pm. Free/pay what you can. Carnegie Heritage Center, 58 North Water St., Edgartown. Contact thecarnegie@mvpreservation.org.

Vineyard Arts Project:

‘Saturdays at Five’ Vineyard Arts Project announces the launch of “Saturdays at Five,” a summer performance series taking place every Saturday in August. The series will feature works-in-progress and performances from Vineyard Arts Project resident artists. Following Vineyard Arts Project’s return to in-person programming in 2025, “Saturdays at Five” continues its commitment to fostering bold new work and artistic community on Martha’s Vineyard. Each Saturday, audiences can experience an eclectic lineup of new musical theater, plays, dance, and multidisciplinary collaborations. Designed as an

accessible and welcoming gathering space for both artists and audiences, the series celebrates process, experimentation, and creative exchange.

“We’re thrilled to invite audiences back into the room to experience these exciting new works as they evolve,” said Ashley Melone, founder and artistic director of Vineyard Arts. “There’s something uniquely special about witnessing artists share work in process; it creates a direct connection between creators and community.”

Previous residents include Patti LuPone, Bridget Everett, Sarah Bareilles, Bess Wohl, Branden Jacob Jenkins, the Public Theatre, New York Theatre Workshop, Dance Theatre of Harlem, and many more.

Tickets for all performances are pay-what-you-can. Reservations are encouraged due to limited seating. Vineyard Arts Project’s home is 215 Upper Main St. in Edgartown; vineyardarts.org

Summer Institute Speaker and Film Series

The Summer Institute hosts speakers who are deeply and actively involved in politics, economics, science, and the arts. Featured speakers have included Nobel laureates, Pulitzer prizewinning authors and journalists, and political leaders. All events are at the Hebrew Center, 130 Center St., Vineyard Haven.

On July 16, John Harwood, political Substack host, interviewer, journalist, podcaster, and former CNN White House correspondent, joins fearless Miami Herald investigative reporter Julie K. Brown, who broke the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking story, and was just awarded a Pulitzer Prize Special Citation for her work.

And on Sunday, July 12, catch the film “Among Neighbors.” Winner of Best Documentary at the Los Angeles Film Awards (March 2025), and Special Award Winner at the Warsaw Jewish Film Festival, “Among Neighbors” is directed by awardwinning filmmaker Yoav Potash. This powerful documentary plays like a real-life murder mystery, digging up truths of violence, complicity, and silence. In the small Polish town of Gniewoszów, the erased history of neighbors bound by ties of love and betrayal are brought to life through animation, with touches of magical realism. 7:30 pm; runtime: 100 minutes.

Jazz concert at Featherstone Center

Musician Stan Strickland is turning 80 years old this year. In celebration of that, a special concert at Featherstone Arts will take place, Monday, July 13, at 6:30 pm. Strickland has been an active member of the summer jazz community on M.V. for decades.

The theme of the show is Inner Freedom, a different spin on the idea of the country's celebration of its 250th anniversary. Stan and his longtime ally, Joel Harrison, will perform music from two of the most iconic jazz records of all time, “In A Silent Way,” by Miles Davis, and “A Love Supreme,” by John Coltrane. Other musicians joining them are Chico Huff, a virtuoso bassist originally from Martha's Vineyard now based in Philadelphia. His long career has included performances with James Taylor and Kate Taylor, Solas, Dr. John, Terence Blanchard, and more. Robby Ammen is an internationally renowned drummer who played for Paul Simon's “Capetown” musical. Taurus Biskus and Wes Nagy are longstanding Islanders. Admission $20. featherstoneart.org.

‘Tracing Your Family History’

On Wednesday, July 22, at 4:30 pm, the West Tisbury library is hosting a talk, “Tracing Your Family History.” Daniela Gerson, an immigration journalist, professor, and author of “The Wanderers,” will share how she investigated her family history, and share lessons on how to do the same. This event is free and open to the public.

For more information about this event, please email wt_mail@clamsnet.org.

POET’S CORNER

Island Summer By

Cecily Bryant

We were children once running through wide meadows and twisted trees

Our sun browned faces perpetually excited by new days and our solemn pledges of loyalty

Neither of us said anything. We looked at each other, and I know we were both thinking: E.O Wilson. Maybe I'll try the cukes again.

We sought mystery in ancient rituals and found truths in simple signs

Some days I still feel those childhood days

Though there have been times of setbacks and vanquished dreams I still believe in them it seems

Cecily Bryant is a longtime Island resident, former teacher, and community volunteer living in Vineyard Haven.  Poets with a connection to Martha’s Vineyard are encouraged to submit poems of 120 words or fewer to m@mwest. com. Please also include a two- to three-sentence bio at the end of your poem.

In Buddhism, the first precept of refraining from taking life extends to all sentient beings, including insects. To avoid killing bugs or worms while digging, Buddhists use spoons to gently scoop, and then they relocate the creatures. Publishing August 20 Deadline to advertise 8/13 To advertise email adsales@mvtimes.com.

TOWN COLUMNS

Tisbury

By Taylor Stone tisburycolumnist@gmail.com

We made it through the long, humid heat wave, and got some rain to celebrate over the weekend too! I’ve been putting off officially declaring it summertime, but it is time to concede: We are definitely in the throes of it now. We’ve passed the early benchmarks of Memorial Day weekend, the start of summer art and farmer’s markets, and the Taste and the Best of the Vineyard events. We’ve also flown by traditional benchmarks like the summer solstice, the end

of the school year, and finally: Fourth of July weekend and the Tisbury Street Fair. To all you crazy folks who went running last Saturday morning for Mike’s Run the Chop races in Vineyard Haven: Congratu-freakin-lations! There were two races this year: the traditional 5.25-mile loop around West Chop, a.k,a. the “Fireworks” race, and a new, shorter, 3.3-mile loop termed the “Sparklers.” I woke up to cheers outside my window as spectators celebrated the 700-plus brave runners that

Edgartown

By Marnely Murray marnely@gmail.com

Being kind is something we should all strive to be, but the week after a heatwave during Fourth of July weekend on Martha’s Vineyard might be the week to be the kindest ever — to family, friends, and every single person that works in the hospitality industry onIsland. A round of applause to everyone from the VTA bus drivers moving hundreds of people from town to town, to the cooks on the line at your favorite Edgartown restaurants standing side by side with steaminghot ovens, and everyone in between — you all are truly the heroes, surviving while

serving. Here’s what’s coming up this week: Join Thomas Dresser on July 9 for an author talk about his latest book, “Vineyard Vanguards: Historic Trailblazers and Their Legacies,” at the Edgartown library, from 6 to 7 pm. This book chronicles the Islanders, off-Islanders, and immigrants throughout history who have contributed to the unique community of Martha’s

morning. Special shoutout to Vineyard Haven’s own Jonathan Norton and Zachary Utz, who took first and third place in the “Fireworks” race. Have you walked down Main Street recently? The town’s department of public works has been hard at work beautifying our entrance to Martha’s Vineyard with new lampposts, colorful banners, and more flowers than ever! And while on the topic of Main Street: The window at 58 Main St. has been fixed! No more wooden boards and metal barricades, and Blue Fathom Gallery has reopened in

Island Music’s location. Last week marked the grand opening of Yommi MV and Morning Dew Juice in their new retail location at 395 State Road. Stop in 11 am to 5 pm to support two local businesses in their new home next to Cronigs’ Market. There is a new show at the Workshop Gallery by my friend, Tisbury resident and artist Saundra LaBell, showing off her paintings, drawings, and fiber creations. The opening reception is coming up Friday, July 10, from 4 to 6 pm. Also on Friday at 5:30 pm, the Vineyard Haven library is hosting a magic show at the

Katharine Cornell Theater. On Saturday, don’t miss the weekly Fabulists performances at the Tisbury Amphitheater (every Saturday morning starting at 10 am through August 29). I remember going to these ages ago when I was a little nugget myself, and can agree: With a rotating lineup of original plays featuring audience participation, improvisation, and imagination, you never know exactly what to expect. (Suggested donation is $10 for adults, $5 for kids.) I’d like to wish a very happy birthday to Laurel Redington on July 15! You

may know her from MVY Radio or, more recently, the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. Which, speaking of, did you know the museum hosts a “Friday Game Time at the Museum” every Friday from 1 to 4 pm in their First Light Café? Enjoy a free, relaxing afternoon of board games and card games while overlooking the harbor. Do you have an upcoming birthday or something you want shared in a future Tisbury column? Email me at tisburycolumnist@gmail. com with your own stories of our town, or upcoming events you’d like to see spotlighted here.

The town’s department of public works has been hard at work beautifying our entrance to Martha’s Vineyard with new lampposts, colorful banners, and more flowers than ever!

Vineyard. From Wampanoag leaders, whaling captains, and U.S. presidents to writers, farmers, and business owners, generations of Vineyard men and women are recognized for their achievements.

On July 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at the FARM Institute, join Good Pierogi for a delicious lesson in culture and community.This hands-on workshop will explore the art of pierogi making, where you’ll create both sweet and savory fillings from scratch. Each participant will make a dozen handmade pierogi to take home. You’ll culminate the class with a delicious shared meal on the farm porch, rounded out

with fresh produce from the educational garden. Every event I’ve attended at the FARM Institute has always been delicious, so you’ll be in for a treat! Register on its site; price for the class is $64 for members, $80 for nonmembers. On Fridays (4-7 pm) and Sundays (10 am to noon), Slough Farm has a ceramics open studio, designed for makers of all experience levels who want space, tools, and community to work on personal projects, or explore clay at their own pace. Participants will have access to wheels, handbuilding tools, worktables, and shared glazes, with a facilitator on hand for light guidance and sup -

port. It’s $15 per session, and you do have to register on the website.

If you’re looking for dining in Edgartown in July, parking seems to be the biggest issue at times when choosing a location. Here are some delicious options that also have seemingly accessible parking: Bad Martha Farmer’s Brewery, Black Sheep Mercantile, Cozy Corner Cafe, Dunes at the Winnetu, Edgartown Meat and Fish Market, Fish House Market, Indigo Indian Restaurant, Katama Kitchen, Lucky Hank’s, Morning Glory Farm, Town Bar & Grill, Wicked Burger, and Wolf’s Den Pizzeria. I list these as someone who is a passenger princess and is not

Activities are in full swing at the Chappy Community Center. Last two Mondays (July 6 and 13) for Donuts on the Deck from 8 to 9 am. Yoga on Mondays and Wednesdays at 8:30 am.

Oak Bluffs

By Joanne Lambert joannelamber@gmail.com

“The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool.”

– Touchstone the court jester, in “As You Like It” by William Shakespeare

Circuit Arts and the M.V. Playhouse have joined forces, as you probably know. Their calendar is full of shows, concerts, and movies. This year, their annual Shakespeare at the Tisbury Amphitheater presentation will be “As You Like

It,” and it opens on July 15. Shows are at 6 pm, and it only runs through August 8, so get your tickets for another magical evening with the talented troupe of local actors, including Liz Hartford, Paul Padua, Brad Austin, Katherine Reid, Emily Hewson, and more. At the Drive-In this Friday, you can see “The Breakfast Club,” the best movie about being in detention in high school ever! Gates open at 7:45 pm, and the movie starts at 8:30. Pay-what-you-

can at circuitarts.org.

The M.V. Book Festival presents its author series this summer with some exciting guests. On July 12, bestselling author Tayari Jones will discuss her new novel “Kin” with Michele Norris, awardwinning journalist. This will be at the MVRHS Performing Arts Center at 7 pm, tickets at mvbookfestival.org. Save the date of July 16 to see Dr. Jill Biden discuss her new memoir, “View From the East Wing,” with Sunny Hostin from ABC News and “The View.”

Under the tent at the

MVCMA, on Friday, July 10, Kyle Williams of A Long Talk will speak. He brings a powerful message, designed to equip and empower people to actively interrupt ignorance and bigotry. More info at alongtalk.com. Then, later in the day, the Tabernacle Sunset Concert series presents the Mike Benjamin Band from 6 to 7:30 pm. Free concert; bring your lawn chair and picnic. July 11 is the popular Campground Flea Market, from 9 am to 1 pm. I always find some treasures at this one!

Music at Featherstone continues Monday, July 13, with the amazing Stan Strickland and Joel Harrison group. Thanks to Ann Smith and Featherstone staff for sharing their beautiful space for these outdoor concerts! Tickets are available one week ahead at featherstoneart.org. Happy birthday to Tom Hanks on July 9! Happy summer AND Happy birthday to Doreen Marino and Jennifer Bausman on July 10 — they share the day with Mavis Staples. Piano man David

in possession of a driver’s license, so take this advice with that warning, but in general, most of these spots have designated parking areas, and won’t have you looping Main Street 17 times before finding a spot. Either way you choose, may the parking luck be forever in your favor this summer! Last but not least, activities are in full swing at the Chappy Community Center. Last two Mondays (July 6 and 13) for Donuts on the Deck from 8 to 9 am. Yoga on Mondays and Wednesdays at 8:30 am. Mahjong at 1 pm on Mondays. Ice cream window on Wednesdays at 3 pm, and much more! Check out the CCC website at chappycommcenter.org for full details! Birthday shout-outs go out to Adam Darach and Amanda Murtha (July 11); Sarah Banks and Tina Miller (July 14); Margot Datz and Raphael Shai (July 16). Cheers to summer birthdays!

Crohan celebrates on July 11! Nancy Salon also has her day on the 11th, and we remember Dennis daRosa. My grandson Augie Cheney turns 9 on July 13, and on the same day we sing “Happy Birthday” to Serena LaVoie and Buffy Knight Carroll. July 14 is the day to celebrate Mikey Waters, the master of finding lost objects. On July 15, birthday hugs go to the fabulous Laurel Redington. Helene Albert and Ed Monette celebrate on the 15th also.

Send me your news!

Save the date of July 16 to see Dr. Jill Biden discuss her new memoir, “View From the East Wing,” with Sunny Hostin from ABC News and “The View.”

TOWN COLUMNS

Aquinnah

By Kathie Olsen aquinnahcolumn@gmail.com

You may have noticed signs on many businesses throughout the Island that state “All Are Welcome Here.” These are posted thanks to the work of volunteers from the MV 4A group. On Thursday, July 9, you have a chance to learn how to join them in keeping those who live on M.V. safe from unregulated raids. The MV 4A group is sponsoring a free class where you will learn how to invite businesses to know their rights, know how to safely respond if needed, and post that sign. The training takes place at

the West Tisbury library on Thursday, July 9, at 1 pm. You can RSVP to the mv4aproject@proton.me. Also on Thursday, remember that the Aquinnah Flea Market happens from 10 am to 4 pm at the Baptist Church. I dropped by on their first day last week, and while the atmosphere was wonderful,

with good music and picnic tables and a steady stream of customers, there were only a few vendors. If you are interested in displaying and selling goods, you really should contact Pastor Mike at 508-5604726. It’s a great opportunity.

On Saturday, July 11, from 2 to 4 pm, you’re invited to attend the opening of the Aquinnah Cultural Center’s Reading Room. Families, friends, and community members of all ages are invited to explore the Reading Room, get creative, and connect through storytelling, art, and learning. During the event, you’ll also get a chance to create zines,

with all materials provided. Snacks and drinks will also be available. The event is free.

At 7 pm on Wednesday, July 15, two veterans of the Chilmark Community Center camp are coming back to the Chilmark Community Center to share their adult work. The author Daniela Gerson will be in conversation about her debut memoir, “The Wanderers,” with documentary filmmaker David Modigliani. This event is being sponsored by the Martha’s Vineyard Author Series, and you can purchase advance tickets at eventbrite.com.

The Aquinnah Library Book of the month is “Whistler” by Ann Patchett. Go and check the book out, read it, and be ready to come to the Library Book Group discussion later this month.

Chilmark

By Claire Ganz cganz@live.com

The heat wave has broken and the rain is falling. Thank you to Jenelle Gadowski, director of emergency management for West Tisbury, and Jennie Gadowski for offering support, vital-sign checks, advice, drinks, and packets of electrolytes in the air-conditioned West Tisbury library. They are part of the Martha’s Vineyard Community Emergency Response Team (MV CERT), and you can join — training sessions start in the fall.

Thank you to the Chilmark library and the Chilmark Community Center for bringing music and fun. Thursday, July 9, the CCC presents the Chilmark Common Grounds Festival Picnic and Music from 5 to 8 pm. This summer’s theme is “Where Community Comes Together.” This year we’re turning up the heat with more live music, delicious food, hands-on crafts, and fun for all ages. Hear Red Night Delight, a seven-piece Island favorite led by local musician Andy

West Tisbury

By Hermine Hull hermine.hull@gmail.com

I’m settled on my living room sofa to write this column, my notes and Oxford English Dictionary to hand, coffee in my Talley mug on the windowsill, open windows letting in cool, fresh air. A soft rain is soaking into the parched ground. What a relief from last week’s heat.

This Saturday, July 11, three artists are giving a talk at a reception for their monthlong exhibition called “On the Edge of Light” at the West Tisbury library. They are Lynn Hoeft, Tachina RudmanYoung, and David Welch, two painters and a photographer. Their talk will begin at 11:30 am, and the reception will continue till 2 pm.

Lynn Hoeft is a watercolorist, well-known for her detailed representations of feathers, leaves, shells, berries, stones, and other bits foraged on her walks along the Island’s beaches. After 30-plus years, she wanted to try something different. Her new paintings depict atmospheric landscapes and beachscapes, painted wet-into-wet, allowing the

Herr playing a mix of funk, jazz, and blues covers, and Black Brook Singers and Dancers, presenting the dance and drumming of the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe. Food by Chef Deon. Lawn games and more. The M.V. Book Festival brings author Journalist Daniela Gerson to the Community Center on Wednesday, July 15, at 7 pm, speaking about her debut memoir, “The Wanderers” — part family memoir, part political history, part love story moving from the Holocaust to the immigration battles of today. She

and her interviewer, documentary filmmaker David Modigliani, also attended the CCC camp. Two Chilmark kids, coming home. Tickets: mvbookfestival.org. Native Earth Teaching Farm is open Sundays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, 10 am to 6 pm. Its website calendar, nativeearthteachingfarmmv.org, lists Goat Yoga, Weed Walks, and Art Play; the Community Indigo Vat starts July 12.

Valerie Sonenthal’s Peaked Hill Studio classes continue in Chilmark, and the next restorative sound journey will be July 26.

I’ll remind you of this again next week, but you should save the date for the annual Native Artisan Market and Festival on Saturday, July 18. Held from 11 am until 4 pm at the Aquinnah Circle, the event is free and open to all. Aquila will be the food vendor for the day, and the Wampanoag Nations Singers and Dancers will lead everyone in social songs and dance. The invited native artists will have wonderful items on display and for sale. It’s a terrific day that promises to be good for your eyes and your soul. Thanks to the Aquinnah Cultural Center for making it possible.

The Aquinnah Library Book of the month is “Whistler” by Ann Patchett. Go and check the book out, read it, and be ready to come to the Library Book Group discussion later this month.

Sign up at peakedhillstudio.com/class-schedule. Lobster rolls at the Chilmark Church on Menemsha Crossroads are on Tuesdays from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. The Flea Market is Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9 am to 2 pm. On Wednesday, Marie Wise hosts the church table, offering donated treasures and cool drinks.

Sig Van Raan writes, “A drizzly early morning did not dampen an enthusiastic crowd of 30 or so who showed up to play. During the break between two games, a rousing ‘Happy

Valerie Sonenthal’s Peaked Hill Studio classes continue in Chilmark, and the next restorative sound journey will be July 26.

water to diffuse colors and mix them together in serendipitous combinations. She is able to work quickly and freely, a departure from her earlier practice.

Tachina Rudman-Young works in acrylic and mixedmedia. She uses color and texture in swirling combinations that evoke roiling, watery depths and stormy skies.

In contrast, David Welch’s pinhole photographs use that technique to produce images of beaches with softened edges. They are silent, empty of swimmers, walkers, birders, or boaters. Just the elements unencumbered, spreading toward a distant place.

All three of these artists

are dedicated explorers of their media and their craft. I am always interested to hear artists speak about what they do, so look forward to an interesting conversation.

West Tisbury’s gallery season is in full swing now that July and summer visitors have arrived. It’s always interesting to see paintings by artists familiar and newly discovered displayed on outside gallery walls as one drives by, offering a tempting view as to what awaits inside.

Mitch Gordon’s Turpentine Gallery opened on Friday, his opening exhibition called, ”Kayak Dreams at Sea Level.” The online invitation featured a lovely

All three of these artists are dedicated explorers of their media and their craft. I am always interested to hear artists speak about what they do, so look forward to an interesting conversation.

Also, be sure to bring your children by the library to sign up for the Summer Reading Program. FYI, the Aquinnah library is looking for a program coordinator/library associate. It’s a part-time job that offers a great opportunity for a computer-savvy someone who loves libraries and our town. If you’re interested, go by the library and talk about it with the staff, or visit this link for more information: aquinnahlibrary.org/ employment-opportunities. Birthday greetings this week go on July 15 to the silver-voiced, gentle, and brilliantly minded Tobias Vanderhoop.

PS: If you’re wondering who won the trophy for best entry in the Fourth of July parade, it went to Isaac Taylor with his beautiful Matador Red, ’56 Chevy 6400 truck.

Birthday’ to Jason Balaban was sung by the players and fans. Then Jim Feiner officially opened up the season with his trombone version of ‘Take Me Out to the Ballgame.’ Everyone sang along. Clearing skies and occasional sunshine shone down on the second game, filled with great plays and resounding hits by the sluggers, including the first Kerouac of the season, hit by Junior, and then again later in the game. Word has it the ball landed on Cuttyhunk. Of course, Ed Eger had his first Kerouac of the season in the usual right field, ON the Road. A great morning of old friends greeting each other — the usual assortment of kids and dogs and fans of the game. We’re definitely in midseason form.”

painting I am eager to see.

A visit this coming week, for sure. The gallery will be open Tuesdays through Sundays, 10 am to 5 pm.

Allen Whiting opened the Davis House Gallery on Sunday afternoon. It is always a treat to see the rooms hung with Allen’s work, one after another of his lyrical landscapes of familiar, beloved spots, of the Whiting farm, of Quansoo and Quenames, in all the seasons of the year.

A treat, too, to visit with Allen and Lynn. This year, an added attraction is their new dog named Tess, who was spread across the seat of a wing chair, sound asleep.

The Field Gallery has been open since May. Lots of new paintings and sculptures, a welcome by Jhenn and her assistants. Currently, they are showing new work by Rachael Cassiani, Susie White, James Carter, and Kenneth Pillsworth.

The Granary is our only year-round gallery, open

every day 10-5, and 11-4 on Sundays. Their new show will open on July 10, featuring Alison Shaw, Dan VanLandingham, Anne Besse-Shepherd, and Anne Bell Robb.

M.V. Democrats will meet on Zoom this Saturday, July 11, at 9:30 am. Guests will be DA Rob Galibois, who is running for re-election, and Peter Enrich, who will review the ballot questions on the November ballot.

West Tisbury Church members are preparing for next Saturday’s Berry Festival, an anticipated annual event. More info next week. Thanks to Jennelle Gadowski of emergency management and our library for opening up as a cooling station during the worst days of 90°-plus weather. Gadowski’s grandmother, Jenny, shared the duties handing out cold drinks and snacks. Cool air was the biggest, and most necessary, attraction. Keep cool.

About the art, craft, and business of writing.

At Featherstone Center for The Arts

Wednesday, July 15, at 7:30 pm

Writing on the Edge: New models for reporting and the current state of journalism

Jane Mayer ~ Nathaniel Horwitz ~ Charles Sennott

Thursday, July 16, all day

8 am: Wake Up and Write!

An hour-long writing workshop with Judith Hannan

9:30 am: Book Reviews and the Art and Business of Reviewing

Brooke Allen ~ Bob Drogin ~ Joshua Hammer

10:30 am: The Pitch Panel

Five writers will pitch their book projects to publishing professionals

Torrey Oberfest ~ Nancy Star ~ Rosemary Stimola ~ Gretchen Young

11:30 am: The Gatekeepers: Editors, Agents, and Publishers on How They Think about Books

Vicky Bijur (literary agent) ~ Dawn Davis (editor and publisher) ~ Adriana Stimola (literary agent) Gretchen Young (editor and publisher) ~ Kate Fei er (moderator)

1 pm: Writing about People: Obits, Interviews, and Biographies

Bob Drogin ~ Mary Jordan ~ Linsey Lee ~ Kevin Sullivan

2 pm: Creating Credible and Complex Characters

Carole Hopson ~ Elisa M. Speranza ~ Nicole Galland ~ Martha Hall Kelly

3 pm: Comic Approaches to Serious Subjects

Cazzie David ~ Annabelle Gurwitch ~ Sarah Kernochan (moderator)

4 pm: Memoirists in Conversation

Keisha Lance Bottoms ~ Belle Burden ~ Sherry Sidoti (moderator)

Coffee, pastries, and food from the Scottish Bakehouse on Thursday - CASH ONLY

Author signings and book sales at the Edgartown Books Pop-up

Free to attend. No advance registration needed. First come, first seated.

*Please note there is no seat saving permitted.

islanderswrite.com

For more information see the Islanders Write special section in this weeks’ paper.

With thanks for the support of:

Every picture tells a story

“Photographers Salon” with guest curator Michael Johnson.

BY ABBY REMER

For 15 years, fabulous photographers have graced Featherstone Center for the Arts’ Photographers Salon. Works by 28 of the 61 artists who have presented during the last decade and a half shine in the Francine Kelly Gallery.

The germ of the salon began in 2010 with photographer Michael Johnson, who was attending informal artistic gatherings on-Island at the time. One was run by Stephen DiRado, a notable photographer and professor. He hosted an informal daily morning gathering at a café in Vineyard Haven for students and friends. Up-Island, Johnson’s friend Richard Skidmore, who was a keeper at the Gay Head Lighthouse, also regularly had Island artists at his house. Johnson recalls, “I was driving home from Richard’s, and I thought it would be wonderful if we had something like this to bring photographers together and have people present their art, and make it a networking and sharing space. I went to Ann [Smith] and told her I had this idea, and of course she said, in her inimitable fashion, ‘Do it!’” And Johnson has been “doing it” ever since.

The salon format is straightforward. An invited photographer presents their work and, most important, tells their story: “I pick people for their art, but also I want them to bring their personal narrative of how they’ve come to do what they’re doing the way they are, and why.”

One of Johnson’s favorite memories involves Bob Avakian, who had been attending nearly every salon. When asked, Avakian admitted he did “a little photography.” Johnson insisted that Avakian give a minipresentation, and Johnson recalls, “When he lined the works up, everybody’s mouths dropped open, and eyes popped to see his lowlight photography.” In the show, we see Avakian’s signature style in his photographs of the Grange and Ag Hall. He captures the iconic build-

ings in all their magnificent historic splendor, set against a moody, cloud-filled sky, at that singular moment when night dances on the edge of daylight.

The Vineyard is the subject of other photographers’ works, though each has a distinctive twist.

Luke DiOrio captures one of the beach cabanas, coated in snow, in “Season’s End at Cow Bay.” We look straight through the central rectangular cutout at the back of the building. Beyond lies the cool blue ocean, ending at the horizon line where the icy water meets a cold winter sky,

ville, the young pals are completely at ease, stopping just long enough to have their photo taken. Patrick Cashin conveys the essence of a time far earlier in “Ellis Island.” We stand on the threshold of a completely dilapidated, long-abandoned room — a single broken cane chair the only echo of human life. Behind is an open window, poignantly framing the Statue of Liberty in the distance, a sign of welcome, or perhaps freedom just out of reach.

We travel further with Gwen Adams Norton’s “Hokkaido Couple,” taken in Japan. The pair refers to the two tall, lacy, bare trees standing like proud parents in the snow on either side of smaller “baby” vegetation, barely emerging from the white-covered ground. Joshua Eli Plaut shares a poignant moment in Turkey in which an older man and woman gingerly hold up a desecrated family Torah scroll between them, allowing us to fill in the story of what it cost to save the heirloom from total destruction. And the arresting visage of the man seemingly sitting inches from us, cigar held to his lips, in John Rosenmiller’s “Leonora: Trinidad, Cuba,” holds a million stories. Equally as intimate is Jeremy

whose light illuminates the snowy foreground as if from within.

Michael Cohen’s black-and-white “Leap of Faith” catches the jumpers and onlookers at Jaws Bridge. Shot from below, the figures appear in dark silhouette, drawing our attention to the action rather than the details of their appearance. Larry Glick also shoots looking up in his breathtaking “Northern Lights,” so that Jay Lagemann’s “Harpoon Fisherman” appears above us, caught in the dramatic moment of spearing the great swordfish with the spectacular, moody colors of the Northern lights roiling behind him.

In Denys Wortman’s black-andwhite drone photograph, “Lucy Vincent,” sunlight shimmers on the water, gently rolling along the entire stretch of the treasured Island shoreline. Tiny figures dot the beach, dwarfed by the large rock formations that have long since crumbled back into the sea.

In Elizabeth Luce’s large color photograph “3 Amigos,” juvenile ospreys, so beloved on the Vineyard, perch at the edge of their nest, staring straight at us with their penetrating orange eyes, clearly perturbed by our intrusion. Many of the artists take us far and wide. Photojournalist Leo Frame’s “Popsicle & 4 Guys” transports us back to a summer in the mid-’60s. Amid the projects in North Nash-

Driesen’s “Man Tango,” in which we seem to have interrupted a private moment in which two fashionably dressed men are so deeply engrossed in moving smoothly together to the music that they are unaware of our gaze. Teresa Kruszewski captures the sensuous quality of her model in “Grace 2/25.” With her back toward us and hair drawn off to the side, we become lost in the sensuous play of light on Grace’s bare shoulders and upper back. Dena Porter takes us into the inner sanctum of the chic cocktail lounge at Grand Central Terminal in New York City, which was formerly the office and private reception hall of Jazz Age financier John W. Campbell in the 1920s. Interestingly, in “The Campbell II,” Porter focuses not on the bartender as her subject, but rather on the back-lit liquor bottles that reflect seductively off the highly polished bar at which we sit.

Near or far, black-and-white or color, figurative or abstract, the plethora of images in the 15th anniversary Photographers Salon show reflect the vast talent of our Island photographers.

The 15th anniversary “Photographers Salon” with guest curator Michael Johnson is on view at Featherstone through July 19, daily from noon to 4 pm.

Guest curator Michael Johnson with his photography work on exhibit at Featherstone Center for the Arts.

John Rosenmiller's "Leonora: Trinidad, Cuba."

Larry Glick's "Northern Lights" photo.

Elizabeth Luce's "3 Amigos."

Gwen Norton's "Hokkaido Couple" fine art print.

Joshua Eli Plaut's "Desecrated Family Torah Scroll, Mersin, Turkey, 1987."

PHOTOS: DENA PORTER

Inaugural event opens Island Farms to all.

Inaugural event opens Island farms to all.

BY ELLA MUNNELLY

This past Friday, the Martha's Vineyard Agricultural Society (MVAS) hosted its first annual Farm Day, inviting guests of all ages to go backstage and see how the Island's local food is grown. The daylong celebration of Island agriculture was held onsite at seven Island farms — Beetlebung Farm, Island Grown Initiative Regenerative Farm, Native Earth Teaching Farm, North Tabor Farm, Morning Glory Livestock and Morning Glory Vegetable farms, and Whippoorwill Farm.

Lucy Grinnan, program and outreach manager for the Ag Society, was at five of the seven tours. While this is its first annual Farm Day, Grinnan is hoping that there will be many more in upcoming years.

“Farming is really hard work, and it's a really specialized skill set that co-exists with running your own business,” said Grinnan. “I was hoping that being able to show people what they do would allow farmers to really take in that this is impressive work, for them to feel proud of what they do, because I think it is really special.”

Grinnan said interest in farming extends well beyond those who work the land. “Like a lot of different industries, the closer that you get to it, the more that you understand how they're making choices and how they are building their businesses, and building their soil, and you know — the more you see, the more impressive it becomes,” Grinnan said.

MVAS hopes that Farm Day will shine a

light on the dedication that goes behind farming on-Island. Whether that be growing flowers and produce or harvesting meats, dairy, and eggs, they hope that summer visitors and locals alike can appreciate the unique opportunity Island farms offer to eat local.

“I think it's an incredible service to our community that we have so many farms on the Island, and those farmers are making a lot of sacrifices in order to do that work, so it's definitely important to me for them to feel appreciated,” Grinnan said.

w“We're really lucky to have all the farms that we do on the Island, and we're really lucky to have a summer population that is able to pay what a lot of produce and meat that's grown here is worth. I definitely think that's important for our farm economy,” said Grinnan. “I do think people can kind of take for granted the fact that those farms exist, and assume that because this is a wealthy place, farmers on the Island must be making

a lot of money, which in my experience is not always true, and often not true.”

At North Tabor Farm in Chilmark, about 20 visitors gathered in a small parking lot before setting off on a walking tour led by farm manager Ruby Dix. Dix runs the six-acre family farm with her parents, Rebecca Miller and Matthew Dix, growing everything from heirloom tomatoes and shiitake mushrooms to eggs, greens, and flowers.

“Our farm is pretty private. We don’t offer a lot of tours, so I think it’s nice to show people what’s going on behind the doors. We grow a lot of diverse things, so I think it’s helpful to see how a lot of different food is grown,” said Dix.

North Tabor Farm features an onsite farmstand that carries fresh produce from the property as well as meals made in its commercial kitchen space from the pork, poultry, and vegetables it farms.

As the group moved through rows of sugar snap peas, summer squash, corn, bok choy,

Cow and calf at Morning Glory Livestock Farm.

Flock of chickens at Morning Glory Livestock Farm.

Simon Athearn leads a crowd through the Morning Glory Vegetable Farm.

Freshly picked carrots at the Morning Glory Vegetable Farm.

ELLA MUNNELLY

ELLA MUNNELLY

Farms.

strawberries, and more, Dix pointed out that much of what customers buy at the farmstand was harvested within days, sometimes hours.

The tour passed solar panels that offset most of the farm’s energy use, and tomatoes and basil that are companion planted, which is a mutually beneficial gardening method in which plants not only grow well alongside each other but also taste well when eaten together.

After the tour weaved through 100-footlong rows of strawberries, carrots, and cabbage, we came across 400 chickens whose eggs are sold at the farmers market and keep the farmstand fully stocked; once their egg laying days are over, they are processed and sold for $10 a pound.

It's an incredible service to our community that we have so many farms on the Island, and those farmers are making a lot of sacrifices in order to do that work.”

–LUCY GRINNAN

“The things that I’m selling were picked maximum 36 hours ago. Some things you’re buying in the grocery store for less money — who knows, they could be up to 3 months old,” said Dix. “The quality you're getting and the fact that you’re consuming food that was grown less than 20 minutes from you is really unique.”

Towards the end of the tour, Ruby’s father, Matthew Dix, joined us to talk about the mushroom-growing process, bringing guests under a mesh net where the spores bloom into mushrooms aided by both the sun and the runoff water from washing the greens.

A couple of hours later, and a few miles down-Island, guests gathered at the Morning Glory Livestock field at Katama Farm. Kris Ivory, office and events coordinator with the Ag Society, was excited to be in the small crowd.

“I think it’s important that everybody knows about Island farms and what's going on,” Ivory said. “It’s important to support your local community, and if you have the choice and the means to do so, it’s wonderful.”

E.J. Gomez, livestock assistant at Morning Glory Farm, led the tour, walking guests through the fields toward the cattle pasture, which was home to 60 cattle as well as a dozen or so calves, with one still on the way.

Morning Glory uses a farming method of regenerative grazing, which is different from conventional farming. Regenerative grazing uses livestock to actively pull carbon from the atmosphere and store it in the ground. By mimicking natural herd migrations through frequent rotations, farmers prune grass and trample organic matter into the soil. “The goal is to sequester carbon from the soil,” said Gomez. “We use the cows as a tool.”

Guests walked past chickens and pigs fed with leftover produce from the farmstand before reaching the herd of cattle and calves. The animals rotate through pastures, mimicking natural grazing patterns that help rebuild soil structure.

“It’s been an honor to give back to the food system,” said Gomez the restaurant industry, and now works in a, who used to work in very different part of the system. “The cattle changed the trajectory of my career and my life.”

Back in Chilmark, Beetlebung Farm manager Ethan Buchanan-Valenti showed visitors how a no-till, regenerative system works in practice. Instead of turning over the soil, the farm relies on compost, cover crops, and mulch to maintain soil health.“Structure is key to happy soil,” he said.

Walking through rows of greens and handplanted lettuce, Buchanan-Valenti described the labor behind each crop. “Every Monday, you’ll see a couple of us out here crawling around, plugging in lettuce,” he said.

This is Buchanan-Valenti’s third year at Beetlebung. Previously he spent 13 years at Morning Glory, where he fell in love with farming. Beetlebung recently got a six-acre lease in West Tisbury, which almost quadrupled its growth. Although the workload will increase, Buchanan-Valenti is excited about the new opportunities that come with the land. “The future is looking bright for Beetlebung,” he added. While farmstands often serve as picturesque stops for locals and visitors alike, Farm Day aimed to shift the focus from the finished product to the love and labor behind it. By opening their fields, barns, and pastures, Island farmers offered a clearer picture of the process, care, and complexity that goes into every harvest.

Rows of greens at Beetlebung

Ruby Dix leads farm tour at At North Tabor Farm in Chilmark.

Produce on display in the Morning Glory Farmstand.

Pigs at Morning Glory Livestock Farm.

Ethan Buchanan-Valenti describing how the tomatoes grow straight up.

Event spotlight for the week of 7•10 — 7•15

SAT 7/11 FRI 7/10 SUN 7/12

Chilmark Community Trust: Wampanoag Traditions

Join Wampanoag Tribal Education Leader Brad Lopes as he teaches the art of pinch pots and corn dolls, using natural materials. Participants will learn about the cultural significance of these traditions and the stories they carry from generation to generation. This engaging experience offers a unique oppor-

tunity to connect with indigenous knowledge, creativity, and living history. Free and open to all ages. 1:30 to 3:30 pm. The Yard, 1 The Yard, Chilmark, bit.ly/ZT_WampanoagTraditions.

Variety Show for Island Elderly Housing

Island Elderly Housing will hold its annual musical benefit and variety show. Proceeds support Island Elderly Housing and its Power to Care Generator campaign.The show will feature Johnny Hoy, Willy Mason, Delanie Pickering, Jessie Pinnick, Lexie Roth, Caroline Sky, Kate Taylor, Isaac Taylor, Nina Violet, Jemima James, and other special

guests. Bring your own bites, beverage, blanket, or chairs. Food from Goldie's Food Truck will also be available. $125. 6 to 8 pm, Featherstone Center, 30 Featherstone Lane, Oak Bluffs, bit.ly/ EB_IEHBenefit.

Museum Open House and Family Samba

Play a collection of drums from around the world. Explore the museum from 3 to 5 pm, and stick around to participate in Family Samba at 5 pm. All drums

provided. Feel free to bring your own if you want. $15, $50 for a family of 4-plus. Milokan Cultural Center and Drum Museum at Native Earth Teaching Farm, 94 North Road, Chilmark.

TUES 7/14 MON 7/13 WED 7/15

Pierogi Class and Dinner: Good Pierogi

Good Pierogi will hold a delicious, hands-on workshop exploring the art

of pierogi making. Participants will create both sweet and savory fillings from scratch, and learn the fundamentals of handmixing dough, shaping pierogi, and balancing flavors using seasonal ingredients. Please alert the farminstitute@thetrustees.org to any food allergies or restrictions you may have. $64 per member, $80 per nonmember, FARM Institute, 14 Aero Ave., Edgartown, thetrustees.org/event/447053.

Nomans Night Artisans Market

Witness the talent of Island local artisans in a space where you can meet the makers, shop local, and listen to live music. Cottage City Oysters will be available on the patio in the Raw Bar Trailer. Shop local: 4 to 8 pm. Music by Mike Benjamin & Co., 6 to 9 pm| Oysters 12 to 9 pm. Food and beverages charged upon consumption. Nomans, 15 Island Inn Road, Oak Bluffs.

Events

Islanders Write

Islanders Write kickoff: “Writing on the Edge: New Models for Reporting and the Current State of Journalism,” with investigative reporter and author Jane Mayer, co-founder of Hunterbrook Nathaniel Horwitz, and MV Times publisher and veteran journalist Charles Sennott. Free. First come, first seated. No advance registration. 7:30 to 9 pm.

And on Thursday, July 16, Islanders Write will offer numerous panel discussions with agents, publishers, writers and editors. Featherstone Center for the Arts, 30 Featherstone Lane, Oak Bluffs, mvtimes.com/ islanders-write.

THURSDAY, JULY 9

Dance Fitness and Strength

Training with Kris Martin

7-8 am, Airport Fitness, West Tisbury. A creative blend of rhythmic resistance, cardio conditioning, manageable mobility and core strength exercises all set to crazy-FUN music. 508-696-8000, workout568@aol.com.

Polar Bears MV Celebrate Their 80th Season on 4th July

7:30-8:30 am, Inkwell Beach Oak Bluffs. The Polar Bears of MV, a historic African American swim/ water aerobics club, open their 80th Birthday Season on 4th July at 7:30 AM at Inkwell Beach. 617-710-9312, jazzze3@aol.com.

Virtual Kripalu Flow Yoga

7:30 am, West Tisbury Library. On Zoom with Yogijay. Sign up for free by emailing wt_mail@clamsnet.org. 508-693-3366.

Early Birders Walk

8-10 am, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Edgartown. The early bird gets the worm, and early birders, the binoculars. Walk with our birders to listen to and observe the sanctuary’s avian residents. 508-6274850, felixneck@massaudubon.org.

Morning Pages Mornings 8-9 am, West Tisbury Library. Meets on the library porch. Writing prompts and inspiration with Kate Feiffer. No sign up required. 508-693-3366, wt_mail@clamsnet.org. Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Board Quest

9 am-3:30 pm, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Edgartown. Enjoy Sengekontacket on this self-guided kayak tour. Clues lead you through the pond. Call to reserve for up to 3 hours; returning the boats by 3:30. 508-6274850, felixneck@massaudubon.org. Active Arts Preschool Camp

9 am-1 pm, Island Children’s School, West Tisbury. We know that chidlren learn best while having fun... and what better way to do that than outside with your friends! 586-943-5559, activeartsmvy@gmail.com. ACE MV presents a Latin Dance Class with Lorena Crespo 9-10 am, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. This Latin dance class is a fun and inclusive space where everyone is welcome to learn rhythms like salsa, bachata, merengue, pop, and more info@stillpointmv.org.

Free Fairy Sculpture Trail at Island Folk Pottery

9 am-6 pm, Island Folk Pottery, Chilmark. The enchanting Island Folk Pottery Fairy Sculpture Trail meanders 1/4 mile through a magical wooded landscape populated with whimsical sculptures. 508-9559944, islandfolkpottery@gmail.com. Balletics

9-10 am, Up Island Council on Aging, West Tisbury. Total body conditioning, learning body’s strengths & weaknesses, how to prevent injury. coa-staff@ westtisbury-ma.gov, 508-693-2896.

Art Exhibition: Joseph, Glick, Grandin, Bernstein, and Brown 9 am-6 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. Art Exhibition: Joseph, Glick, Grandin, Bernstein, and Brown 508939-4092, art@oldsculpingallery.org. Docent-Led Arboretum Tours

9:30-10:30 am, The Polly Hill Arboretum, West Tisbury. Learn about the incredible history, people, and plants that make the Polly Hill Arboretum a local and global landmark. Free with admission! 508-6939426, info@pollyhillarboretum.org.

26th Annual MVCMA Gingerbread Cottage Tour

10 am-3 pm, MVCMA Tabernacle Oak Bluffs. The only day each year that six privately-owned gingerbread cottages are open to the public. 100% of ticket sales support MVCMA’s calendar of programs 508-693-0525, office@mvcma.org. Origins -Drum Circle with Roots 10-11 am, Milokan Cultural Center and Drum Museum, Chilmark. More than just a jam.... 774-563-0870, rick@drumrol.org. Rachael Cassiani, Susie White, James Carter & Kenneth Pillsworth 10 am-5 pm, Field Gallery, West Tisbury. Artists’s Premiere: Rachael Cassiani, Susie White, James Carter & Kenneth Pillsworth 508-693-5595, info@fieldgallery.com.

Goat Yoga MV 10-11 am, Native Earth Teaching Farm, Chilmark. Slow Flow Yoga with baby pygmy goats. goatyogamv@gmail.com. Kayak Dreams at Sea Level 10 am-5 pm, Turpentine Gallery, West Tisbury. Kayak Dreams at Sea Level oil paintings show takes you on a meditative journey along the costal plains 508-6935963, mitch@turpentinegallery.art.

Exhibit: Margot Datz: Recreator 10 am-3 pm, THE CARNEGIE HERITAGE CENTER, Edgartown. This exhibition highlights the creative process of muralist Margot Datz, whose work transformed the Old Whaling Church and Flying Horses Carousel. 774-549-9107, THECARNEGIE@mvpreservation.org.

Carnegie Heritage Center 10 am-3 pm, the carnegie heritage center, Edgartown. Carnegie Heritage Center reopens Easter weekend, Friday and Saturday, 10 AM – 4 PM. Admission: $5 (ages 12+). vineyardtrust.org/events/ 774-549-9107, thecarnegie@mvpreservation.org.

Artists’s Premiere: Elise Phillips, Carol Maguire, Brandon Newton 10 am-5 pm, North Water Gallery, Edgartown. 4-6 PM - Artists’s premiere of new work by Elise Phillips, Carol Maguire, Brandon Newton. 508-6276002, info@northwatergallery.com.

Art Class for Kids 10:30 am-11:30 pm, Chilmark Library. Kids story and craft activity 508-6453360, chilmarklibrarykids@gmail.com.

Summer Show

11 am-5 pm, Louisa Gould Gallery, Vineyard Haven. New works by: Carol Caradimos, Wooley Dutton, Nadia Mahfuz, Joseph McCarthy, Donna Nyzio and Nick Paciorek. 508-693-7373, louisa.gould@gmail.com. Pokemon Club

11 am-12 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Bring your Pokémon cards to show to others! This is a club to talk about Pokémon, look at cards, and draw! No trading allowed. Ages 5-11. 508-693-9433, mlynch@clamsnet.org. Loïs Mailou Jones: Sphere of Influence

11 am-5 pm, Center of Knowhere, Oak Bluffs. Group Exhibition - Lois Mailou Jones: Sphere of Influence 917-9609344, info@knowhereart.com.

Fault Lines

11 am-5 pm, Knowhere Art Gallery, Oak Bluffs. Group Exhibition: Fault Lines 917-960-9344, info@knowhereart.com. Seaweed art

11 am-5 pm, Aquinnah Seaweed Art Gallery, Aquinnah. Colorful, natural seaweed art

Aggressive storms approaching Normandy

BY ABBY REMER

Knowing the importance of D-Day will not spoil Anthony Maras’ suspenseful film “Pressure,” which centers on brainy science and the stress of leadership rather than traditional combat. Playing at the M.V. Film Center starting on July 10, “Pressure” is based on true events, and begins with a backstory.

Shot from above, we look down on a potentially lethally wounded soldier lying in shallow, bloodsoaked water on a beach. Words appear on screen, setting the scene: “Allies just attempted a large-scale rehearsal for D-Day, known as Exercise Tiger. It was a catastrophe.” To train the men as realistically as possible, Eisenhower had ordered the use of live ammunition. When the camera pulls back, we see hundreds of dead, wounded, and dying soldiers on the beach.

Six weeks later, just 61 hours before the planned date for the Allied invasion of Normandy, a surly, uptight Group Captain James Stagg (Andrew Scott) is summoned to Southwick House

Continued from B10

made on handmade paper by local artist Corinna Kaufman. Victorian art form. Open till 7/15. Private showings available. ken@newlivingexpo.com. Works by Anna Fitch, Banker White, and Neva Goldstein

11 am-4 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, Vineyard Haven. Works by Anna Fitch, Banker White, and Neva Goldstein 508696-6300, boxoffice@circuitarts.org. Tech help

11 am-1 pm, Up Island Council on Aging, West Tisbury. Free tach help 508-6932896, coa-staff@westtisbury-ma.gov. Family Yoga Play

11-11:30 am, West Tisbury Library. Playful, fun yoga for littles & their caregivers. Rec. for ages 0-5! Free and no registration needed. Thursdays 11:00-11:30 WT Library 508-693-3366, hburbidge@clamsnet.org.

Children’s Afternoon Art: Printmaking (ages 9+)

1-3 pm, Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs. These classes will introduce young artists to some printmaking techniques, while encouraging them to find their artistic voice. 508-693-1850, featherstone@featherstoneart.org.

Join the MV 4A Project

1-2 pm, West Tisbury Library. Join the MV 4A Project and educate Island workplaces about the Fourth Amendment and what to do if federal agents come to the door. MV4AProject@proton.me.

Zero Waste Project –

Kumihimo Braiding

1-3 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Zero Waste Project – Kumihimo Braiding 508-693-9433, cphelan@clamsnet.org. Farmer for a Day – Child Drop-Off Program

1-3 pm, The FARM Institute, Edgartown. Spend the afternoon on the farm with this hands-on program. 508-627-7007, thefarminstitute@thetrustees.org.

in England, the headquarters where Gen. Eisenhower (Brendan Fraser) and his top staff are making plans for the crucial operation for the war in Europe against the Nazis. Upon learning that Stagg is a master meteorologist, it dawns on us how crucial a role this element could play in the invasion’s success — or defeat.

Eisenhower orders Stagg to bring him a definitive long-term weather forecast for what is planned to be the largest seaborne invasion force in history. It’s impossible, Stagg responds, because current equipment can’t provide enough information beyond 24 hours. Eisenhower is unimpressed and demands results. The film then counts down as the fateful decisions are made.

Before his arrival, under the direction of American Colonel Irving Krick (Chris Messina), the meteorology team had been relying on data gathered since 1900, trying to cull patterns to make predictions. Stagg is unimpressed by their methods, preferring instead to gather up-to-the-minute weather intelligence from countries in the surrounding area.

The tension between the two scientists rises throughout the

Dinosaur Day 2-4:30 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Drop in from 2-4:30 for dinosaur themed games and activities. Great for kids ages 3-8. 508-693-9433, mlynch@clamsnet.org.

Adult Cow Connection at The Farm Institute

2:15-3 pm, The FARM Institute, Edgartown. Come meet, cuddle, brush, and walk with our cows at The Farm Institute! 508-6277007, thefarminstitute@thetrustees.org.

Chair Yoga

2:30-3:30 pm, Up Island Council on Aging, West Tisbury. Chair Yoga 508-693-2896, coa-staff@westtisbury-ma.gov. Community Knitting Circle 3-4:45 pm, Chilmark Library, Chilmark. Join us for a relaxed afternoon of knitting. Our knitters love to share their knowledge and beginners are welcome! 508-645-3360, chil.programs@gmail.com. Opera Appreciation Lecture Series with Susan Grunthal

3-4:30 pm, Edgartown Library. Susan Grunthal will delve into the fascinating history and music of four operas 508-6274221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org.

Naptime with David Stanwood

3:30-4:30 pm, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. Experience the calming effect of harmonic vibration, with pianistand acclaimed piano technician David Stanwood. info@stillpointmv.org. Andrew Sue Wing Concert 4 pm, West Tisbury Library. featuring Boston-based guitarist, singer and songwriter. 508-6933366, wt_mail@clamsnet.org.

Chillin’ In Chilmark: Common Ground Festival 5-8 pm, Chilmark Community Center, Chilmark. Chilmark Common Grounds Festival Picnic and Music, feat. music by Red Night Delight, Black Brook Singers, food by Chef Deon, games and more! 508560-2622, chilmarkcommunitycenter.org.

film as Krick assuredly predicts sunny weather for the planned D-Day attacks. Stagg, on the other hand, is adamant that the aggressive storms approaching Normandy will bring unprecedented, disastrous weather for this time of year. There will be eight- to 12-foot waves making landing impossible, low clouds hampering the planes’ ability to fly, and visibility of less than a mile, hurting all involved.

As the film progresses, we are caught up in the intense “pressure” of what will happen as the two men work on their predictions, which could affect the outcome of the war. At one point, Field Marshal Montgomery, one of Britain's most successful and prominent commanders of World War II, tries to intimidate Stagg, saying, “If D-Day is canceled, we’ll lose this war. Do you want to be responsible for losing the war?”

Despite the enormity of the topic, there is an intimacy to Maras’ film, which he wrote along with David Haig, based on the latter’s 2014 stage play. Most of the action unfolds in several rooms at Southwick House. But

Events

Table Tennis 5 pm, Tisbury Senior Center, Vineyard Haven. Table tennis for all ages and skill levels. 508-728-5898, raeobmv@gmail.com.

Community Sound Bath

5:30-6:30 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Community Sound Bath 508-6939433, cphelan@clamsnet.org.

Author Talk: “Vineyard Vanguards” by Thomas Dresser 6-7 pm, Edgartown Library. Join us for an author talk with Thomas Dresser about his latest book 508-627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org. Music in the Square - Tauras Biskis & Co 6-8 pm, Eisenhauer Gallery, Edgartown. Eisenhauer Gallery presents “Music in the Square” with Tauras Biskis & Co 508-6277003, eisenhauergallery@gmail.com.

UNREAL: New Paintings by Adam Guy

7:30-8:45 pm, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. Join us for an evening with artist Adam Guy as he presents a new collection of oil paintings info@stillpointmv.org. Summer Institute Speaker Series Opens

7:30-9 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center, Vineyard Haven. Protecting Human Rights by Protecting Democracy: a view from the front lines with Laleh Ispahani of the Open Society Foundations. 508-6930745, niskildegaard@gmail.com.

FRIDAY, JULY 10

Barre Fusion with Kris Martin

7-8 am, Airport Fitness, West Tisbury. Ballet styled flows, barre work, balance and weights incorporating disks, loop bands and Bender balls. Come with sneakers, barre sox, or bare feet. 508-696-8000, workout568@aol.com.

Polar Bears MV Celebrate Their 80th Season on 4th July

7:30-8:30 am, Inkwell Beach , Oak Bluffs. The Polar Bears of MV, a historic African American swim/ water aerobics club, open their 80th Birthday Season on 4th July at 7:30 AM at Inkwell Beach. 617-710-9312, jazzze3@aol.com.

“Pressure” screens at the M.V. Film Center starting on July 10. For tickets and more information, visit mvfilmsociety.com.

Maras skillfully splices in brief glimpses of battlefield footage to keep us grounded in the reality of the consequences of decisions that were made by the men at headquarters, far from the frontlines.

The music by Academy awardwinning composer Volker Bertelmann likewise keeps the pressure building, augmenting this wellcrafted, high-stakes, clock-ticking war-room narrative.

Pumped Up Intervals with Maria McFarland

8:30-9:30 am, Airport Fitness, West Tisbury. A class alternating cardio intervals and weight work intervals using heavier weights, body bars, loops bands, and weighted balls. 508-696-8000, workout568@aol.com.

Art Exhibition: Joseph, Glick, Grandin, Bernstein, and Brown 9 am-6 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. Art Exhibition: Joseph, Glick, Grandin, Bernstein, and Brown 508-9394092, art@oldsculpingallery.org. EFF’n Move Series with Tuni 9-10 am, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. EFF’n Move is a mindful, low-impact training approach focused onwhy you move, not just what you do. info@stillpointmv.org. Free Fairy Sculpture Trail at Island Folk Pottery

9 am-6 pm, Island Folk Pottery, Chilmark. The enchanting Island Folk Pottery Fairy Sculpture Trail meanders 1/4 mile through a magical wooded landscape populated with whimsical sculptures. 508-955-9944, islandfolkpottery@gmail.com.

Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Board Quest

9 am-3:30 pm, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Edgartown. Enjoy Sengekontacket on this self-guided kayak tour. Clues lead you through the pond. Call to reserve for up to 3 hours; returning the boats by 3:30. 508-627-4850, felixneck@massaudubon.org.

Kayak Dreams at Sea Level

10 am-5 pm, Turpentine Gallery, West Tisbury. Kayak Dreams at Sea Level oil paintings show takes you on a meditative journey along the costal plains 508-6935963, mitch@turpentinegallery.art. Carnegie Heritage Center

10 am-3 pm, the carnegie heritage center, Edgartown. Carnegie Heritage Center reopens Easter weekend, Friday and Saturday, 10 AM – 4 PM. Admission: $5 (ages 12+). vineyardtrust.org/events/ 774-549-9107, thecarnegie@mvpreservation.org.

Exhibit: Margot Datz: Recreator

10 am-3 pm, THE CARNEGIE HERITAGE CENTER, Edgartown. This exhibition highlights the creative process of muralist Margot Datz, whose work transformed the Old Whaling Church and Flying Horses Carousel. 774-5499107, THECARNEGIE@mvpreservation.org Seashore Discovery 10-11:30 am, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Edgartown. Head to the edge of Sengekontacket Pond to net, catch, and release marine life and discover the coastal creatures that live in local waters. 508-627-4850, felixneck@massaudubon.org

Artists’s Premiere: Elise Phillips, Carol Maguire, Brandon Newton 10 am-5 pm, North Water Gallery, Edgartown. 4-6 PM - Artists’s premiere of new work by Elise Phillips, Carol Maguire, Brandon Newton. 508-627-6002, info@northwatergallery.com Rachael Cassiani, Susie White, James Carter & Kenneth Pillsworth 10 am-5 pm, Field Gallery, West Tisbury. Artists’s Premiere: Rachael Cassiani, Susie White, James Carter & Kenneth Pillsworth 508-693-5595, info@fieldgallery.com

Continued on B12

Polly Hill Arboretum Staff-Led Botanical Spotlight Tour

10-11 am, The Polly Hill Arboretum, West Tisbury. Learn more about the Arboretum and its plant collections on guided walks led by PHA collections staff. Free with admission. 508-693-9426, info@pollyhillarboretum.org.

Kid’s Music Class

10:30-11 am, West Tisbury Library, West Tisbury. Sing fun songs and play instruments with friends! Ages 0-5 508-6933366, hburbidge@clamsnet.org.

Works by Anna Fitch, Banker White, and Neva Goldstein

11 am-4 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, Vineyard Haven. Works by Anna Fitch, Banker White, and Neva Goldstein 508696-6300, boxoffice@circuitarts.org. Fault Lines

11 am-5 pm, Knowhere Art Gallery, Oak Bluffs. Group Exhibition: Fault Lines 917-960-9344, info@knowhereart.com. Summer Show

11 am-5 pm, Louisa Gould Gallery, Vineyard Haven. New works by: Carol Caradimos, Wooley Dutton, Nadia Mahfuz, Joseph McCarthy, Donna Nyzio and Nick Paciorek. 508-693-7373, louisa.gould@gmail.com.

Loïs Mailou Jones: Sphere of Influence

11 am-5 pm, Center of Knowhere, Oak Bluffs. Group Exhibition - Lois Mailou Jones: Sphere of Influence 917-960-9344, info@knowhereart.com.

Seaweed art

11 am-5 pm, Aquinnah Seaweed Art Gallery, Aquinnah. Colorful, natural seaweed art made on handmade paper by local artist Corinna Kaufman. Victorian art form. Open till 7/15. Private showings available. ken@newlivingexpo.com.

Online Balance with Kanta Lipsky 11:30 am-12:30 pm, West Tisbury Library. To strengthen our connection to Earth and maintain balance. To sign up, email wt_mail@clamsnet.org. 508-693-3366.

Drop-in Tech Help at the Anchors 12-1 pm, Edgartown Council on Aging (The Anchors), Edgartown. To help with your laptop, smartphone, iPad, or other devices. Tech help is also available at the library. programs@ edgartownlibrary.org, 508-627-4221.

Seasonal Crafting

12-4 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Craft projects for ages 3-11. New craft each week! Drop in. 508-693-9433, mlynch@clamsnet.org. Book Donations Welcome!

Friend of the WT Library

1-2 pm, Friends Book Donation Shed at West Tisbury School, West Tisbury. Book Donations accepted for the annual Friends of the West Tisbury Library summer book sale. 617-543-7898, kjskin@comcast.net. Children’s Afternoon Art: Ceramics (ages 7+)

1-3 pm, Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs. From decorative planters to dragons to mugs, students will learn and experiment with multiple techniques in construction and decoration. 508-693-1850, featherstone@featherstoneart.org.

Chilmark Community Trust: Wampanoag Traditions with Brad Lopes

1:30-3:30 pm, The Yard, Chilmark. Create pinch pots and corn dolls using natural materials while learning about the significance of these enduring traditions. Open to all ages. info@chilmarkcommunitytrust.org.

Grace Church Lobster Rolls

3-6 pm, Grace Episcopal Church, Vineyard Haven. Grace Church Lobster Roll Fundraiser 508-693-0332, rector@graceepiscopalmv.org.

Tabletop Roleplay Group: MonsterSized Summer Road Trip

3-6 pm, Edgartown Library. Throughout the campaign, you’ll experience highs and lows as you roadtrip across the country 508-6274221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org.

Artist Reception: Saundra LaBell

4-6 pm, The Workshop Gallery, Vineyard Haven. MV artist, Saundra LaBell, showcases her paintings and textile art at The Workshop Gallery.

Show runs through July 25, 10-2pm most days-closed Tu&W 617-816-4445, SaundraLaBellDesigns@gmail.com.

From Africa to Aquinnah: Photographs by Robin Gottesman

5:30-7 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Bank, Chilmark, Chilmark. A selection of black and white as well as color photographs from Africa, Martha’s Vineyard and other venues. 508-627-4266, Rig2656@aol.com. Friday Nights with Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish

6:30-8 pm, Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs. Join us and Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish this summer for Friday night musical performances on our outdoor stage under the trees! 508-693-1850, featherstone@featherstoneart.org.

Drive-In Movie: The Breakfast Club

8:30 pm, The Vineyard’s Drive-In at the YMCA, Oak Bluffs. Drive-In Movie: The Breakfast Club 508-696-6300, boxoffice@circuitarts.org. Crochet a Chicken with Sarah Vail Chilmark Library, Chilmark. Sarah Vail will teach the art of crocheting a chicken in this three-week class. Registration required. Space is limited. 401-649-2180, chil.programs@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, JULY 11

Polar Bears MV Celebrate Their 80th Season on 4th July

7:30-8:30 am, Inkwell Beach Oak Bluffs. The Polar Bears of MV, a historic African American swim/ water aerobics club, open their 80th Birthday Season on 4th July at 7:30 AM at Inkwell Beach. 617-710-9312, jazzze3@aol.com.

Morning Brews & Yoga

8:30-10 am, Island Autism Group, Hub House Porch, Vineyard Haven. Support mental differences, get your yoga on, connect with community and enjoy your favorite morning beverages all in one! 860-682-3753, info@wholesomemv.com. Dance Fitness with Kris Martin

8:30-9:30 am, Airport Fitness, West Tisbury. A creative blend of rhythmic resistance, cardio conditioning, manageable mobility and core strength exercises all set to crazy-FUN music. 508-696-8000, workout568@aol.com. Free Fairy Sculpture Trail at Island Folk Pottery

9 am-6 pm, Island Folk Pottery, Chilmark. The enchanting Island Folk Pottery Fairy Sculpture Trail meanders 1/4 mile through a magical wooded landscape populated with whimsical sculptures. 508-9559944, islandfolkpottery@gmail.com. Brazilian Portuguese for Beginners 9-11 am, Haven, Vineyard Haven. Learn the basics of the language and about Brazilian culture. 508-693-9222, info@acemv.org. Kaiut Yoga

9-10 am, Peaked Hill Studio, Chilmark. Kaiut Yoga is works through chronic pain and injuries, general aches andstiffness, and is good for the inflexible, hyper flexible and the aging body. 774-5638282, vsonnenthal@gmail.com. Greenhouse Soil Therapy!

9-11 am, Community Greenhouse of MV, Oak Bluffs. Get your hands in the soil and help the community greenhouse. Seeding, transplanting, and harvesting; gardening chats and advice are a bonus! 774-563-8417, smiller8690@gmail.com. Lagoon Pond Association Annual Meeting

9-11 am, Sailing Camp Park, Oak Bluffs. Annual review of LPA activities and health of Lagoon Pond. Q&A with town officials. Open to all. Refreshments provided. info@lagoonpondassoc.org. Chilmark Flea Market

9 am-2 pm, Flea Market Field. 508645-3100, chilmarkflea@gmail.com.

Vinyasa Power Yoga

9-10 am, Edgartown Library. Free and open to the public. Registration is required. Sign up at edgartownlibrary.org. 508-627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org.

MV Dems Monthly Meeting

9:30-10:30 am, Democratic Council of MV, West Tisbury. Guest speakers, discussion, outreach for national, state and local Democratic leaders and issues. Email demsmv@gmail.com for Zoom link. 774-563-0467, demsmv@gmail.com.

Events

Barnyard Buddies

9:30-10:30 am, Farm Institute, Edgartown. Spend your Saturday morning exploring the farm and meeting our friendly animals in this program for families! For ages 2-5, pre-registration required. 508-627-7007, thefarminstitute@thetrustees.org.

Annual Seine Net Event

10-11:30 am, State Beach, Little Bridge, Oak Bluffs. Annual Seine Net Event 508-6277222, science@greatpondfoundation.org.

The Fabulists

10 am, Tisbury Amphitheater, Vineyard Haven. The Fabulists 508-696-6300, boxoffice@circuitarts.org.

Artists’s Premiere: Elise Phillips, Carol Maguire, Brandon Newton

10 am-5 pm, North Water Gallery, Edgartown. 4-6 PM - Artists’s premiere of new work by Elise Phillips, Carol Maguire, Brandon Newton. 508-627-6002, info@northwatergallery.com.

Mini-Maker Craft Club

10 am-3 pm, Edgartown Library. A differentthemed craft will be offered every week, drop in and get creative! 508-627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org.

Decoupage Mixed Media with Jenn Sherr

10 am-12 pm, Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs. Join us for a creative, handson mixed media workshop where you’ll reimagine a piece of furniture or a household item into a unique work of art! 508-6931850, featherstone@featherstoneart.org.

Rachael Cassiani, Susie White, James Carter & Kenneth Pillsworth

10 am-5 pm, Field Gallery, West Tisbury. Artists’s Premiere: Rachael Cassiani, Susie White, James Carter & Kenneth Pillsworth 508-693-5595, info@fieldgallery.com.

Kayak Dreams at Sea Level

10 am-5 pm, Turpentine Gallery, West Tisbury. Kayak Dreams at Sea Level oil paintings show takes you on a meditative journey along the costal plains 508-6935963, mitch@turpentinegallery.art.

Cloisonne Enameling Workshops with Lucinda Sheldon

10 am-1 pm, Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs. Learn to sift, stencil, stamp and appliqué enamel to create a one-of-a-kind piece. This class is suitable for beginners as well as advanced students. 508-6931850, featherstone@featherstoneart.org.

Art Exhibition: Cincotta, Howells, Dowlin, Ledesma, Clough, and Rodney 10 am-6 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. Art Exhibition: Cincotta, Howells, Dowlin, Ledesma, Clough, and Rodney 508-9394092, art@oldsculpingallery.org.

Carnegie Heritage Center

10 am-3 pm, the carnegie heritage center, Edgartown. Carnegie Heritage Center reopens Easter weekend, Friday and Saturday, 10 AM – 4 PM. Admission: $5 (ages 12+). vineyardtrust.org/events/ 774-549-9107, thecarnegie@mvpreservation.org. Misty Meadows Saturday Pony Rides

10 am-12 pm, Misty Meadows Equine Learning Center, West Tisbury. Enjoy a 15 minute Pony Ride on our beautiful property! Each child must be booked into a separate time slot for a ride, and our weight limit is 150lbs. 508-338-7198, info@mistymeadowsmv.org. How to Hügelkultur with Ian Jochems

10 am-12 pm, The Polly Hill Arboretum, West Tisbury. In this class, attendees will learn how to use the horticultural practice of hügelkultur. Learn more and register online. 508-693-9426, info@pollyhillarboretum.org. Exhibit: Margot Datz: Recreator 10 am-3 pm, THE CARNEGIE HERITAGE CENTER, Edgartown. This exhibition highlights the creative process of muralist Margot Datz, whose work transformed the Old Whaling Church and Flying Horses Carousel. 774-5499107, THECARNEGIE@mvpreservation.org. Family Kayak Adventure 10-11:30 am, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Edgartown. Fun for families and friends, paddle on Sengekontacket Pond for an active investigation of the Pond’s history, culture, and wild residents. 508627-4850, felixneck@massaudubon.org.

Saturday Storytime 10:15-10:45 am, Oak Bluffs Library. Join us for a fun-filled storytime with stories, songs, scarves, shakers and a parachute. Stories are geared toward kids ages 1.5 to 5 years old. 508-693-9433, mlynch@clamsnet.org. Pilates Flow with Camille Beauzile 10:30-11:45 am, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. This upbeat Pilates class blends preventative medicine, mind-over-matter focus, and joyful movement info@stillpointmv.org. Works by Anna Fitch, Banker White, and Neva Goldstein 11 am-4 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, Vineyard Haven. Works by Anna Fitch, Banker White, and Neva Goldstein 508696-6300, boxoffice@circuitarts.org. Creative Drama w/Phyllis Vecchia 11 am-12 pm, Chilmark Library. Creative storytelling with Phyllis Vecchia 508-6453360, chilmarklibrarykids@gmail.com.

Summer Show

11 am-5 pm, Louisa Gould Gallery, Vineyard Haven. New works by: Carol Caradimos, Wooley Dutton, Nadia Mahfuz, Joseph McCarthy, Donna Nyzio and Nick Paciorek. 508-693-7373, louisa.gould@gmail.com. Sensory-Friendly Barnyard Buddies

11 am-12 pm, Farm Institute, Edgartown. Spend your Saturday exploring the farm and meeting our friendly animals in this dedicated hour with a reduced number of guests & quieter environment. 508-6277007, thefarminstitute@thetrustees.org.

Loïs Mailou Jones: Sphere of Influence

11 am-5 pm, Center of Knowhere, Oak Bluffs. Group Exhibition - Lois Mailou Jones: Sphere of Influence 917-9609344, info@knowhereart.com. Goat Yoga MV

11 am-12 pm, Native Earth Teaching Farm, Chilmark. Slow Flow Yoga with baby pygmy goats. goatyogamv@gmail.com. Fault Lines

11 am-5 pm, Knowhere Art Gallery, Oak Bluffs. Group Exhibition: Fault Lines 917-960-9344, info@knowhereart.com. Seaweed art

11 am-5 pm, Aquinnah Seaweed Art Gallery, Aquinnah. Colorful, natural seaweed art made on handmade paper by local artist Corinna Kaufman. Victorian art form. Open till 7/15. Private showings available. ken@newlivingexpo.com. SIMON GALLERY

11 am-3 pm, SIMON GALLERY, Chilmark. Peter Simon Photo & Ronni Simon Designs. Open Sat. & Sun., 11-3. Open by appointment - 508 325-2242. In Chilmark, Tabor House Rd. Follow Simon signs. ronnisimondesigns@gmail.com. Reception and Artist Talk 11:30 am-2 pm, West Tisbury Library. Featuring the work of Lynn Hoeft, David Welch, and Tachina Rudman-Young. 508-693-3366, wt_mail@clamsnet.org. Presidents for Kids at The Carnegie: Exploring Leadership & History 12-4 pm, CARNEGIE HERITAGE CENTER, Edgartown. A free, family-friendly interactive program introducing children to presidential history with Presidents For Kids founder, Dan Scudder. 774-549-9107, THECARNEGIE@mvpreservation.org. An Introduction to Nôepe History – What is the Wampanoag history of MV? 12-2 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. An Introduction to Nôepe History – What is the Wampanoag history of Martha’s Vineyard? 508-693-9433, cphelan@clamsnet.org. Puzzle Palooza 1-3:30 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Our Children’s Room will be filled with great puzzle options for all ages. One puzzle will be for families to work on together. 508-693-9433, mlynch@clamsnet.org. All Ages Chess Club 2-3:30 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Join us in a fun and welcoming environment. oakb_mail@clamsnet.org, 508-693-9433.

Book Signing: ‘Worse Than Strangers’ by Kyleigh Leddy 2-4 pm, Edgartown Books. AuthorKyleigh Leddy will be signing copies of her debut novel, ‘Worse Than Strangers’, a beachy retelling of Jane Austen’s Persuasion. 508-627-8463, info@edgartownbooks.com.

Model Railroad Group 3 pm, West Tisbury Library. Share ideas, tips, projects and more! This group is led by long time model railroad enthusiast Rick Fischer. 508-693-3366, wt_mail@clamsnet.org.

One Book, One Island: Discussion of David McCullough’s 1776 3-4 pm, West Tisbury Library. Join the AllIsland Book Discussion led by retired constitutional scholar and author, Jack Fruchtman. 508-693-3366, wt_mail@clamsnet.org.

Teresa Yuan Art Exhibit Reception

3-4 pm, Edgartown Library. Local artist Teresa Yuan will exhibit her art in the library’s Program Room for the month of July 508627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org.

Nôepe: A Wôpanâak

History of the Island

5-6 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Museum, Vineyard Haven. Island history of Nôepe told through enduring Wampanoag homelands and stories 508-627-4441, events@mvmuseum.org.

Meals in the Meadow 5 pm, The FARM Institute, Edgartown. The Trustees annual Meals in the Meadow events@thetrustees.org.

The Variety Show for Island Elderly Housing

6-8 pm, Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs. Music from Johnny Hoy, Willy Mason, Kate Taylor and more. 508-693-1850, office.admin@iehmv.org.

Paleface + Space Invaders

Live in Oak Bluffs

7-10 pm, Portuguese American Club, Oak Bluffs. An evening of fun-lovin live music featuring, Paleface & Mo and local favorites, Space Invaders 508-693-9875, Palefaceonline@gmail.com.

Drive-In Movie: Project Hail Mary 8:30 pm, The Vineyard’s Drive-In at the YMCA, Oak Bluffs. Drive-In Movie: Project Hail Mary 508-696-6300, boxoffice@circuitarts.org.

SUNDAY, JULY 12

Polar Bears MV Celebrate Their 80th Season on 4th July

7:30-8:30 am, Inkwell Beach Oak Bluffs. The Polar Bears of MV, a historic African American swim/ water aerobics club, open their 80th Birthday Season on 4th July at 7:30 AM at Inkwell Beach. 617-710-9312, jazzze3@aol.com. Free Fairy Sculpture Trail at Island Folk Pottery

9 am-6 pm, Island Folk Pottery, Chilmark. The enchanting Island Folk Pottery Fairy Sculpture Trail meanders 1/4 mile through a magical wooded landscape populated with whimsical sculptures. 508-955-9944, islandfolkpottery@gmail.com. The Rev. Canon Preston B. Hannibal 9-10 am, Trinity Episcopal Church on Ocean Park, Oak Bluffs. The former Associate for Pastoral Care, Washington National Cathedral. 508-566-9755, trinityoceanpark@yahoo.com.

Kayak Dreams at Sea Level

10 am-5 pm, Turpentine Gallery, West Tisbury. Kayak Dreams at Sea Level oil paintings show takes you on a meditative journey along the costal plains 508-6935963, mitch@turpentinegallery.art.

29th Annual Vineyard Artisans

Summer Festival

10 am-2 pm, The Grange Hall, West Tisbury. Meet island artisans and browse a multitude of mediums, all handmade on Marthas Vineyard. For more information visit our website- vineyardartisans. com artisan02557@yahoo.com.

Union Chapel Sunday Service

Featuring Rev. Shannon Kershner

10 am, Union Chapel, Oak Bluffs. 7/12 Union Chapel Sunday Service Featuring Rev. Shannon Kershner events@hoverflymedia.com.

Meditation

10-11 am, Bodhi Path Buddhist Center, West Tisbury. Group meditation, both in person at Bodhi Path in West Tisbury and online via Zoom. marthasvineyard@bodhipath.org.

Carnegie Heritage Center

10 am-3 pm, the carnegie heritage center, Edgartown. Carnegie Heritage Center reopens Easter weekend, Friday and Saturday, 10 AM – 4 PM. Admission: $5 (ages 12+). vineyardtrust.org/events/ 774549-9107, thecarnegie@mvpreservation.org.

Artists’s Premiere: Elise Phillips, Carol Maguire, Brandon Newton

11 am-4 pm, North Water Gallery, Edgartown. 4-6 PM - Artists’s premiere of new work by Elise Phillips, Carol Maguire, Brandon Newton. 508-627-6002, info@northwatergallery.com. Seaweed art

11 am-5 pm, Aquinnah Seaweed Art Gallery, Aquinnah. Colorful, natural seaweed art made on handmade paper by local artist Corinna Kaufman. Victorian art form. Open till 7/15. Private showings available. ken@newlivingexpo.com. SIMON GALLERY

11 am-3 pm, SIMON GALLERY, Chilmark. Peter Simon Photo & Ronni Simon Designs. Open Sat. & Sun., 11-3. Open by appointment - 508 325-2242. In Chilmark, Tabor House Rd. Follow Simon signs. 508325-2242, ronnisimondesigns@gmail.com. Rachael Cassiani, Susie White, James Carter & Kenneth Pillsworth 11 am-4 pm, Field Gallery, West Tisbury. Artists’s Premiere: Rachael Cassiani, Susie White, James Carter & Kenneth Pillsworth 508-693-5595, info@fieldgallery.com. Summer Show

11 am-5 pm, Louisa Gould Gallery, Vineyard Haven. New works by: Carol Caradimos, Wooley Dutton, Nadia Mahfuz, Joseph McCarthy, Donna Nyzio and Nick Paciorek. 508-693-7373, louisa.gould@gmail.com. Sewing Seeds for Hope: Afghan Artisans Summer Sale 11:30 am-1:30 pm, First Congregational Church of West Tisbury. Sewing Seeds for Hope is a collaboration of talented artisans using their creativity, skill and determination to help their families thrive in the USA 508-6932842, wtiscong@comcast.net. Art Exhibition: Cincotta, Howells, Dowlin, Ledesma, Clough, and Rodney 12-6 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. Art Exhibition: Cincotta, Howells, Dowlin, Ledesma, Clough, and Rodney 508-939-4092, art@oldsculpingallery.org. Loïs Mailou Jones: Sphere of Influence 12-5 pm, Center of Knowhere, Oak Bluffs. Group Exhibition - Lois Mailou Jones: Sphere of Influence 917-9609344, info@knowhereart.com. Fault Lines 12-5 pm, Knowhere Art Gallery, Oak Bluffs. Group Exhibition: Fault Lines 917-960-9344, info@knowhereart.com. Opera Club: Bizet’s “Carmen” 1-4 pm, Edgartown Library. director Richard Eyre’s stunning production of Bizet’sCarmen 508-627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org. Weekly Museum Open House and Family Samba 3-3 pm, Milokan Cultural Center and Drum Museum, Chilmark. Come explore the world of percussion! 774-563-0870, rick@drumrol.org. MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG with James Lapine 4-7 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Film Center, Vineyard Haven. MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG with James Lapine at the Martha’s Vineyard Film Center 774-392-2972, rich@mvfilmsociety.com.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

A LITTLE HUMOR

The eighth wonder of the world

July is National Ice Cream Month.

BY ALLISON ROBERTS

In dictionary.com, ice cream is defined as “a frozen food containing cream or milk and butterfat, sugar, flavoring, and sometimes eggs.” Yawn. Though this is factually correct, it simply doesn’t capture the sheer glory of ice cream. I looked up “who creates definitions for dictionaries,” so I could write them a letter suggesting they step it up a notch, and learned that lexi-

cographers take on this task. Now, before any lexicographers send me an angry email, I acknowledge that being factual is very important in certain instances, like when you’re writing a paper on, say, the lack of genetic variability among cheetahs, but in regard to ice cream, would it have been so bad to add a little flair — a little gratitude? Personally, I think the definition of ice cream should be “godly.”

Ice cream is legendary — one of the best things in the world — yet there simply isn’t enough hoopla made over it. Yes, July is National Ice Cream Month, which is a good start, but we could do better. For instance, we could name shopping centers and colleges after different flavors of ice cream: Cherry Garcia Square, Nutty Butty Court, Death by Chocolate Dormitory, or Heavenly Hash Hall. Strategically placing bronze sculptures of hot fudge sundaes and ice cream sandwiches around the country would be really cool. And since Mount Rushmore could use a facelift anyway, what if an ice cream cone with sprinkles were chiseled in between Teddy Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln? Seriously, I can’t believe ice cream hasn’t been named the eighth wonder of the world.

By the way, I’m not alone in my stalker-level love for ice cream. The average American eats 45.8 pints of ice cream a year. According to NASA, ice cream is one of the top three foods astronauts miss most while floating around in space. And in Alabama, it is illegal to carry an ice cream cone in your back pocket. Now, there’s a state taking ice cream’s welfare into account.

I thought lexicographers might take me more seriously if I provided some facts about ice cream in my letter, so I spent a little time digging, and found some pretty interesting information. Waffle cones were invented by accident at the 1904 World’s Fair when an ice cream vendor ran out of bowls and a waffle vendor saved his butt by folding his waffles in half to hold the ice cream.

In the 16th century, ice cream was so rare that it was served only to royalty. No wonder the peasants were pissed off. They probably had to eat rainbow sherbet.

During World War II, the U.S. Navy converted a concrete barge into a vessel that made ice cream for sailors,

producing 10 gallons every seven minutes. The tallest ice cream cone ever created was in Italy. It stood nine feet tall. And the average number of licks it takes to finish one scoop of ice cream is 50, unless you’re stoned, then it’s like five.

If, after reading this, you find yourself craving ice cream, the first thing to do is write a letter to some lexicographers, and demand that they come up with a more provocative and respectful definition for ice cream. After finishing that task, go indulge in a banana split, a triple scoop on a waffle cone, or a Turtle Pecan Cluster

Ice cream is legendary — one of the best things in the world — yet there simply isn’t enough hoopla made over it. Yes, July is National Ice Cream Month, which is a good start, but we could do better.

Blizzard. Here are a few ice cream places on the Island to get your fix: Mad Martha’s in Vineyard Haven and Edgartown; Ice Cream and Candy Bazaar in Edgartown; Vineyard Scoops in Edgartown; Ben and Bill’s in Oak Bluffs; Scoop Snack in Edgartown; Dairy Queen in Edgartown; Carousel Ice Cream Factory in Oak Bluffs; Nauti Ice Cream in Oak Bluffs; Big Dipper Ice Cream in Oak Bluffs; Bobby B’s Restaurant & Bakery in Vineyard Haven; and Menemsha Gallery in Aquinnah.

COMMUNITY NOTES

Flutie 5K Race for Autism on Martha's Vineyard

Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are invited to join in for Island Autism’s 5K Trail Race on Saturday, July 25. The race is sponsored in collaboration with the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism, a national nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals and families with autism live life to the fullest.

"This event is about bringing our community together while raising critical funds and awareness for autism support services on the Island," said Kate DeVane, executive director. "We're thrilled to partner with the Flutie Foundation, and look forward to

welcoming people of all ages and abilities."

The race will begin at the West Tisbury School and wind through the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest before looping back to the finish line. The community is encouraged to run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines.

Following the race, participants and supporters are invited to gather on the porch of the Island Autism Hub House at 515 Lambert’s Cove Road for a community celebration featuring yoga with Wholesome M.V., coffee from Andrea’s Brew, and breakfast treats from Morning Glory Farm.

Registration is now open at bit. ly/RSU_Flutie5KMV. Com-

munity members who would like to volunteer, donate, or sponsor the event can email Lena Hanschka at lena@islandautism.org

‘Feed Us with Trees: Nuts and the Future of Food’

The Chilmark and Vineyard Haven libraries will host Cape Cod author and journalist Elspeth Hay for a discussion about her new book, “Feed Us with Trees: Nuts and the Future of Food.” Gold winner of the 2026 Nautilus Book Award for Restorative Earth Practices, “Feed Us with Trees” is a new and ancient story about perennial nut trees, our ecological role as humans, and the

MARTHA’S VINEYARD DISTRICT COURT REPORT

May 18

Jonathan C. Peres, 30, Oak Bluffs; operating motor vehicle with license suspended, electronic device use while operating motor vehicle, no inspection sticker, speeding in violation of special regulation, arraigned and held, bail set at $100 with potential for bail revocation, continued to pretrial hearing.

May 22

Brian T. Lemos, 21, East Falmouth; operating motor vehicle with license suspended, arraigned and released, continued to pretrial hearing.

Jefferson Granados-Esobar, 18, Oak Bluffs; failed to stop for police, negligent operation of motor vehicle, unlicensed operation of motor vehicle, speeding in violation of special regulation, uninsured motor vehicle, arraigned and released, continued to pretrial hearing.

May 26

Rafael M. Da Silva, 36, Vineyard Haven; operating under the influence of liquor, arraigned and released on personal recognizance, continued to pretrial hearing.

Rachel R. Wild, 44, Vineyard Haven; operating under the influence, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, arraigned and released on personal recognizance, continued to pretrial hearing.

Ronildo X. Ferreira, 38, West Tisbury; operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of motor vehicle, arraigned and released on personal recognizance, continued to pretrial hearing.

Joseph J. Ragosta III, 55, Vineyard Haven; violated abuse prevention order, arraigned and released on personal recognizance, condition to stay away and have no contact with alleged victim, continued to pretrial hearing.

Jean Karlo L. Milbratz, 38, Oak Bluffs; second offense operating under the influence of liquor , possession of open container of alcohol in motor vehicle, unlicensed operation of motor vehicle, arraigned and held, bail set at $800 with potential for revocation, continued to pretrial hearing.

gent operation of motor vehicle, operating under the influence of liquor, fail to stop/yield, disorderly conduct, arraigned and released on personal recognizance, continued to pretrial hearing.

Sigmar Dos Reis, 46, Edgartown; operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of motor vehicle, speeding in violation of special regulation, arraigned and released on personal recognizance, continued to pretrial hearing.

David M. Dasilva, 38, Edgartown; operating motor vehicle with license suspended, electronic device use while operating motor vehicle, arraigned and released, continued to pretrial hearing.

June 8

Savio D. Menegazzo, 31, Edgartown; operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, fail to stop/yield, unregistered motor vehicle, no inspection/sticker, arraigned and held, bail set at $1,000 with potential for bail revocation, continued to discovery compliance jury selection.

Ronaldo D. Paula, 47, Vineyard Haven; operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of motor vehicle, arraigned and released on personal recognizance, continued to pretrial hearing.

Edvaldo D. Souza, 42, Oak Bluffs; open and gross lewdness, arraigned and held, bail set at $100 with potential for bail revocation, continued to pretrial hearing.

June 9

Sadikie A. Bowen, 35, Oak Bluffs; assault and battery on family/ household member, strangulation or suffocation, arraigned and held, bail set at $400 with potential for bail revocation, condition to stay away and not contact alleged victim, continued to pretrial hearing.

June 18

Brian T. Lemos, 21, Falmouth; operating motor vehicle with license suspended, subsequent offense, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, failing to stop for police, speeding rate exceeding posted limit, arraigned and held, bail set at $1,700 with potential for bail revocation, continued to pretrial hearing.

future of food. In “Feed Us with Trees,” Hay brings readers along as she gets to know dozens of nut growers, scientists, indigenous knowledgekeepers, researchers, and food professionals — and discovers that in tending these staple trees, we once played a vital environmental role as one of Earth’s keystone species. Thursday, July 16, noon, at the Chilmark library, 522 State Road in Chilmark. Free and open to the public. No registration required, but space is limited. For more information, please contact the Chilmark library at chil.programs@ gmail.com or 508-645-3360, or the Vineyard Haven library at vhpl_programs@clamsnet. org or 508-696-4211.

Deborah A. Hills, 76, Edgartown; operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of motor vehicle, leaving scene of property damage, marked lanes violation, arraigned and released on personal recognizance, continued to pretrial hearing.

Elias A. Ingraham, 46, Vineyard Haven; assault and battery with dangerous weapon, assault with dangerous weapon, arraigned and held, bail set at $1,500 with potential for bail revocation, continued to pretrial hearing.

Kai L. Bryan, 22, Andover; negli-

June 22

Gabriel Grasing, 50, Vineyard Haven; assault and battery on family/ household member, arraigned and held, bail set at $200 with potential for bail revocation, continued to pretrial hearing.

June 22

Eric W. Bendavid, 63, Oak Bluffs; uninsured motor vehicle, unlicensed operation of motor vehicle, no inspection/sticker, unregistered motor vehicle, arraigned and released on personal recognizance, continued to pretrial hearing.

Sometimes getting a haircut is just what the doctor ordered. Creating a new look can boost our confidence and symbolize a fresh start. Seniel Hannagan knows a thing or two about the psychology of hair. Her mobile salon helps her get to folks who can’t get to her, or in some cases, afford that fresh start.

Hannagan has been a stylist for 16 years. “I started working at Circuit Style on Circuit Avenue in 2009. I had just graduated hair school, and Maggie Mae, who owns Maggie's Salon in Vineyard Haven, had decided to open a second location with a different vibe,” she says. And Circuit Style was born. “I spent a year and a half finding my way running the salon on Circuit Avenue before she asked if I would like to purchase it in 2011. It really became part of the identity of Circuit Avenue for me. I grew up professionally there.”

Hannagan leaped in and took over the business. At one point it got so busy that they could no longer accept walk-in appointments. Her landlord approached her, said he wanted to sell the building, and offered it to her first. “I went backand-forth on purchasing versus not purchasing, and

The community chair

ultimately decided to take a risk and venture out into the unknown with my mobile salon idea.”

During COVID, she began exploring how to own a mobile business, but at the time, mobile salons weren't allowed in the state of Massachusetts. “From what I understand, the changes were part of a bigger effort to modernize the industry, and there was also a growing demand for more flexible service options, especially after COVID changed the way people thought about personal services and accessibility,” she explains.

“In 2021, the state updated cosmetology and barbering regulations to officially allow licensed mobile salon businesses.”

This was the green light she needed, and she closed the Circuit Style doors on Circuit Ave. at the end of May 2025, walking away with a “Best Salon” win in Best of the Vineyard. Her next step was to search for used mobile businesses for sale: “I found a van on a website. It was sitting there

just waiting for me. It was already built out to perfection, and barely used. All I had to do was add my pink throne, and Vineyard Screenprinting did a wonderful job with my iconic scissorhands decals on the sides.”

Seniel Style, the first mobile and home-based salon rooted in accessibility and community care, was born.

Her boys aren’t the only ones benefiting from her mobile business. “My mobile unit provides an intimate space for people of all different walks of life. I’ve discovered many people prefer one-on-one rather than the bustling salon environment,” she continues.

“Instead of other stylists chitchatting, you hear birds

that’s when I go mobile. Offering my services just felt like a simple but meaningful way to give back, and use my skills to help people feel cared for and seen. Sometimes a haircut is about so much more than hair. It can help someone feel confident, alive, and like themselves again.”

"A haircut may seem simple, but it can be meaningful for someone rebuilding their life. It is a chance to feel cared for, seen, and a little more confident stepping back into the world."

- STACY WISE

Hannagan has had her mobile unit up and running for almost a year now.

“It’s been incredible. One of the biggest creative and professional challenges I’ve ever taken on, but also, as a mom of three boys, it’s given me flexibility that’s incredibly valuable. They also love that we can have hair-color parties anytime in our driveway,” she says.

outside, or rain hitting the top of the van as you get your haircut. It’s a much more soothing experience.”

The bulk of her business is done on her property, but she also engages in community service work. “When I do haircutting events, like for the Red House, or the free kids’ haircuts through Community Services and the West Tisbury library,

“I’m very grateful that Seniel has been willing to give her time and talents to the recovery community. I have gotten so many compliments on my cuts. Feel very blessed to have this opportunity from Red House,” says Red House member Robin Bolles. Program director for the Red House Peer Recovery Support Center Stacy Wise says that the idea for the

hair-cutting events came very organically. ”I brought my daughter for a haircut in Seniel’s mobile salon, when she mentioned she had recently done an event at the hospital. I immediately thought it would be a perfect fit for the Red House. A haircut may seem simple, but it can be meaningful for someone rebuilding their life. It is a chance to feel cared for, seen, and a little more confident stepping back into the world. We’re so grateful to Seniel for bringing her talent and generosity into this space.” Taking a leap of faith seems to have paid off in numerous ways for Hannagan: “Building something unconventional from the ground up taught me that it’s OK to take risks and create a business that fits your life instead of trying to fit your life around the business. I absolutely love what I do. And for anyone who wants to possibly work with me on providing haircuts for people in need, or any type of community service events, I’m willing to chat.”

To learn more about Seniel Style and/or to inquire about community collaborations, reach out to: senielstylesalon@ gmail.com, or text or call 508-560-4874. To book an appointment, go to vagaro.com/ senielstyle. Social media: instagram.com/senielstylesalon, and facebook.com/p/SenielStyle-Salon.

On the move with Seniel Style mobile salon. BY ALLISON ROBERTS

1. Seniel Hannagan has a tricked-out van that's ready to serve her clients. 2. Hannagan's mobile salon visits clients in a number of locations on the Island. 3. Deb Davies came to Hannagan’s salon to get a short(er) haircut, as Red House Program Director Stacy Wise looked on. 4. Talulah Powers, a junior at the Charter School, came in for a haircolor retouching.

PHOTOS: DENA PORTER

Wild Side

BY MATT PELIKAN

Ispent the middle of June on a long-anticipated trip to France, visiting briefly in Burgundy, longer near the southern city of Avignon, and then briefly again in Paris before returning home. This was mainly a social and cultural trip with my wife, visiting friends, museums, and historical sites. But naturally I managed some time for naturalizing, and also naturally, I found myself viewing the places I visited through the lens of Vineyard ecology.

If there was one overall impression left by my bugsearching in France, it’s that the numbers and diversity of insects in the French countryside can be remarkable, even under conditions that you might think would make insects scarce. To be sure, my few field observations are far too meager to support meaningful generalizations about a roughly quarter-million-square-mile country. But where I went, I found bugs galore.

My first such impression came on our first day in France, driving a sleek rented Peugeot to a tiny village in Burgundy. The landscape on the way was flat, dry, agricultural (with mostly wheat and barley growing), and sparsely populated; it resembled parts of the American

Midwest. I experienced something I haven’t seen for many decades: a windshield densely spattered with squashed insects. The absence of such incidental slaughter has often been cited as anecdotal evidence for the “insect apocalypse”; their populations reduced dramatically from historical levels, flying insects simply often aren’t common enough anymore to encounter windshields in significant numbers. But for whatever reason, on this drive, the good old days were back again.

Once in Burgundy, sadly just for a single night, I photographed bugs on flowers, mostly lavender and elderberry, on a roadside adjacent to a famous vineyard. The

tion turned to a habitat known locally as “Garrigue” (pronounced something like “ga-REEG-ga,” with a guttural, Gallic roll to the “R”). The term refers to arid, thin-soiled areas on the steep limestone hills that rise above plains and valleys of Provence. Droughty and fireprone, Garrigue reminded me somewhat of the Vineyard’s sandplain. Both sites are harsh, dry environments

experience was remarkable: The flowers attracted mobs of butterflies, bees, wasps, and beetles, while a halfdozen species of grasshoppers and crickets were thick in the grass below. This was just a site picked at random, yet its productivity exceeded all but my best moments of Massachusetts bug-hunting. In Avignon, my atten-

standards. I have two hypotheses to explain this, neither of which feels particularly compelling or has any real evidence to support it.

But the French are notoriously proud of their wine and cuisine, and this pride may extend to being very careful about what chemicals end up in food as it’s being produced. So perhaps agrarian portions of France are simply less toxic than

If there was one overall impression left by my bug-searching in France, it’s that the numbers and diversity of insects in the French countryside can be remarkable, even under conditions that you might think would make insects scarce.

dominated by scrubby oaks (with small, tough leaves, in the case of the French habitat) and drought-resistant grasses and wildflowers.

Many of our familiar culinary herbs, notably thyme, grow wild and abundantly in the Garrigue.

Even in June, this habitat was hot and dry, with most of the vegetation desiccated.

But the bugs? Holy cow! Undeterred by the dryness, a wealth of bees and butterflies flocked to the few flowers that were in bloom, while grasshoppers and bush-crickets abounded in the low grass and even on bare soil. Despite the conditions, this was superlative bugging. As soon as I finished photographing one subject, another was available, seemingly walking or flying right into my sights. I don’t think I’ve ever experienced such numbers.

Again, my point is certainly not that insect populations in France are doing just fine. I doubt they are, overall. But in certain areas that I was lucky enough to visit, local populations were simply unbelievable relative to Southern New England

portions of the U.S. that I’m familiar with, sustaining higher insect numbers and greater diversity.

Or perhaps, patterns of land use in portions of France have remained stable for very long periods of time, allowing a productive, half-natural, half-artificial ecosystem to evolve. Those Burgundy vineyards, for ex-

ample, may well have been producing grapes since Roman times, with land unsuitable for grapes left largely on its own. And certainly the Garrigue, hostile and inaccessible, must have trundled on essentially unchanged since before there was human culture.

In contrast, consider Martha’s Vineyard, where a complete cycle of deforestation and reforestation, followed by exploding development, has all taken place within little more than a couple of centuries. Our diversity is high here, but I expect it would be higher if nature had had a longer time to respond to the changes humans have wrought.

In any case, the abundance and diversity I found were as enjoyable as they were surprising. And the experience of exploring new areas and habitats was, as it invariably is, incredibly rewarding. But as always, I find myself with a little knowledge gained, dwarfed by a pile of unanswered questions.

1. A female bee in the genus Tetraloniella, photographed in Garrigue near Avignon, France. 2. Iberian marbled white, Melanargia lachesis, photographed in Garrigue near Avignon. 3. A female great green bush-cricket, Tettigonia viridissima, photographed in Burgundy. 4. Vineyards in Burgundy, France.

PHOTOS: MATTHEW PELIKAN