MV Times June 11, 2026 by marthasvineyardtimes

Allen Whiting through the years B9

Thursday, June 11, 2026

Celebrating Island graduates C1

THE MARTHA’S VINEYARD TIMES

Volume 43, Issue No. 23

3 Sections

Feds cut global oceanobserving network

Price $1.00

Amid future data loss, two Menemsha fishermen join national effort to collect bottom-water temperature. HAYLEY DUFFY

HARRIS ALLEN

Price tag: $49,000,000!

he federal government’s new plans to dismantle a deep-sea system worth hundreds of millions of dollars means weather forecasts, which any New Englander knows are already unpredictable, may become even more so. As the scientific world reels from the loss of years of future data on the goings-ons of the ocean, two Menemsha fishermen joined an effort last week that could provide an alternative for at least some of the data that have evaporated as a result of deep cuts to the federal program and the literal disassembling of the infrastructure that supported it. The disbanded network of more than 900 instruments at five arrays from around the world collected data for scientists to monitor and catalog the world’s oceans — from temperature to acidity to oxygen content to currents. It also allowed scientists for the past decade to freely study the public data to understand how the ocean absorbs greenhouse gases, acknowledge larger climate shifts, and make weather forecasts. Jim Edson, principal investigator of the system called the Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI) and a senior scientist at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), made the announcement in a letter on May 22. He said that as the infrastructure is recovered over the next 15 months from each array — the Pioneer Array in the Mid-Atlantic Bight, two arrays off the West Coast, one in the Irminger Sea, and another in the Gulf of Alaska Continued on A9

Edgartown property hits global market for a record asking price. BY EUNKI SEONWOO

coastal compound in Edgartown with sweeping views and a cluster of parcels for possible multigenerational living is making waves in the real estate industry this week, and if it goes for asking price, another real estate record for

the state would be set by the Vineyard. The property is named Great Point and located off 15 Forever Wild Way, facing the south coast of the Island in Edgartown. The 8,994-square-foot property has 12 bedrooms on a 31.59-acre lot near Edgartown

Great Pond, and is for sale at $49 million. Properties at the highest end of the market on Martha’s Vineyard are continuing to draw global interest, according to real estate experts, a reality that defies the Continued on A8

Lots to celebrate Unstoppable girls’ tennis is headed to the finals With the World Cup and the nation’s 250th birthday, a new state law could extend drinking hours. BY SARAH SHAW DAWSON

ars and restaurants across the Island are gearing up for big summer crowds that may be made even bigger by the World Cup and America’s 250th birthday party. This Friday, Team USA will play its opener in the World Cup against Paraguay at Boston’s Gillette Stadium, and Brazil will face off against Morocco on Saturday, a game that is expected to have heavy viewership at bars and outdoor grills among the Brazilian community. With the national celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, larger crowds than usual are expected to land here on the Island. All of these events will bring out patrons to bars, and a new opt-in legislation that was signed into law Monday by Gov. Maura Healey could allow down-Island towns to enact a later last call. The legislative move Continued on A8

The Vineyarders have a chance to avenge last year’s championship loss against Dover-Sherborn. BY NICHOLAS VUKOTA

eavy winds and a hot sun were the backdrop of the semifinals match between the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School girls’ varsity tennis team and Weston High School on Tuesday. The game gathered a large assemblage of Vineyard families and fans, on the boat, across the Vineyard Sound, and to Falmouth High School, where the first serve started at 3:30 pm — and it didn’t take long for that 45-minute ferry to be worth it, as two Vineyard athletes secured quick wins and put third singles player Josie Smith only a few points away from advancing the Vineyarders to the state finals. Smith secured the win 7–5, 6–1, and the Island’s girls’ tennis program defeated Weston High School 5–0 in the semifinals of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) Division 3 state tournament. The team got there by defeating Wilmington High School, 4–1, in the Continued on A1

Charlotte Marshard looks back at a desperate return.

08805 93096

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bout 600 people converged onto the Tabernacle for the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School’s (MVRHS) 67th Commencement Ceremony on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Donning white regalia and an array of stoles ranging from the school’s traditional purple to U.S. and Brazilian flags, the graduating seniors took in speeches by their classmates and school officials and the robust harmonies of the Minnesingers and the MVRHS Choral Union. The previous Friday at Class Night, students’ achievements were recognized in more than $1.3 million in scholarships. Some students also received awards for their positive impact on the school community. Class vice president Nora Motahari opened the graduation as the master of ceremony. She expressed her strong faith in her classmates’ future success. “While none of us can really know what happens next, I think this class is strong enough to take on the load, because if the past four years taught us anything, it’s that we are capable of more than we think,” Motahari said. Motahari also received the Principal’s Leadership Award for her active involvement in school organizations like student government and Stand with Everyone Against Rape (SWEAR), an initiative that advocates against gender-based violence. Salutorian Teagan D’Arcy, who will be attending Duke University in the fall, encouraged her classmates to take pride in the Island community and its inhabitants. “Whether you are a born-and-bred Islander, like me, or what people refer to as a ‘wash-ashore,’ you’ve had the unique opportunity to experience what it means to live here,” D’Arcy said. “Whenever you are asked that question next — Where are you from? — I hope you answer proudly. Not because of the Island itself but because of the people. The people who have taught you and prepared you to build strong, meaningful relationships wherever you go,” she said at the end of her speech. Co-valedictorian Katherine Becker, who will attend the University of Wisconsin– Madison, applauded the Island community’s compassion and inclusivity, such as in the MVRHS chapter of Best Buddies, a club that seeks to build friendships between students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. “From observations and time in clubs like Best Buddies, I’ve personally been inspired by the love and support this community has for everyone, including those of all backgrounds and abilities,” Becker said. “We all will take what we learned here and should push ourselves to inspire others.” Co-valedictorian Penelope Rose Haddad, who will attend Dartmouth College, invoked the words of Japanese writer Haruki Murakami to emphasize her classmates’

June 11, 2026

The class of 2026 takes a bow Almost 200 seniors graduated from the high school. BY SARA CREATO

Everyone waited to see the toss of the mortar boards!

DENA PORTER

everlasting connection to the Vineyard regardless of distance. “Let’s embrace what lies ahead, knowing that we always have the Island to come home to,” Haddad said. “As writer Haruki Murakami says, ‘People leave traces of themselves where they feel most comfortable, most worthwhile.’” Becker and Haddad also received the Superintendent’s Award for Academic Excellence. Seniors Ruby Dello Russo and Xeandre Miller received the Vineyarder Award for embodying the character and values of Martha’s Vineyard. Retiring and departing faculty were also recognized for their service to the school community, including retiring superintendent Richard (“Richie”) Smith. In his speech to the senior class, Smith praised the students for their participation in a walkout in support of freshman Nycolas de Al Varenga Lima. Last month, Lima and his father were transferred into Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody by the U.S. Coast Guard during a fishing trip in Menemsha. Their detainment sparked protests throughout the Island. Both Lima and his father were recently released from ICE detainment. “Our students experienced Nycolas’ pain, his fear, and you helped to bring him home. I am so impressed by you,” Smith said. After students received their diplomas, MVRHS principal Sean Mulvey officially presented the graduated class. White graduation caps soared through the air as “Where’d All the Time Go” by Dr. Dog played, heralding the beginning of a new chapter.

Two days prior to graduation, seniors from MVRHS received nearly $1.3 million in scholarships from Island organizations at Class Night, also at the Tabernacle in Oak Bluffs. Many of the awards honored the legacies of deceased community members. There was $1.52 million also awarded in postgrad scholarships, totaling $2.8 million in scholarships awarded to current and former Island students. Mulvey encouraged seniors at the ceremony to give back to their communities on and off the Island. “Tonight is all about people helping other people,” he said. “As you go out into the world and settle into your communities, whether it’s here on M.V. or somewhere else, my hope is that you will remember and appreciate these people, and in turn you find a way to give back to your community.” New scholarship funds were announced, such as a $250,000 donation by the estate of Raphael Fusco, a longtime custodian at MVRHS who died in April 2025. Each year, one male and female student will each receive a $10,000 need-based scholarship. This year’s recipients were Danielle Meyer and Bryan Fernandes. The Portuguese-American Club also awarded three of its scholarships in memory of Patricia (“Tricia”) Bergeron, including a joint fund for her partner, Roy Scheffer. Bergeron, the club’s longtime former president, and Scheffer, an Island aquaculture pioneer, died in a tragic boating accident on New Year’s Day. Bergeron, whose teenage son, Eric McLean, died in a car accident in 2001, had presented the Eric Bergeron MacLean Memorial Boys Varsity Hockey Scholarship for over 20 years.

news in brief Vision Fellowship appoints Rebekah Thomson as new executive director The Martha’s Vineyard Vision Fellowship appointed Rebekah Thomson, president of the Chilmark Preschool board of directors and a pediatric sleep coach, as its new executive director. Thomson will assume the role on June 22, replacing retiring executive director Melissa Hackney. Thomson said that her appointment as executive director was “surreal.” “I was extremely honored,” Thomson said. “The Vision Fellowship is just such a profoundly important organization and force for good on the Island. It was really humbling and exciting to get that call.” Established in 2006, the M.V. Vision Fellowship is a nonprofit organization that provides financial support and professional development opportunities for Islanders working in various fields, such as affordable housing, conservation, and education.

She would advise the seniors to always wear their seatbelts. This year’s recipients were Grace BennettRock, Leah deBettencourt, and Grady Stalgren. Current P.A. Club President Gina deBettencourt presented the awards alongside club members Corinne Alton and Pam Sylvia. DeBettencourt gave the seniors her own safety warning. “The biggest plea every year for Tricia was to wear your seatbelt,” deBettencourt said. “You do not want families up here in your memory, and I am asking you tonight, if you are on the water, please wear the life jacket.” On his way into Class Night, senior Xeandre Miller, who will study aviation mechanics at Cape Cod Community College in Barnstable, said he was excited about his father attending Class Night. “I’m very happy my father’s here, and for him to be here to see me go onstage and maybe get some awards,” Miller said. “I’m very happy to graduate and start moving forward to the next part of my life.”

In a press release, M.V. Vision Fellowship board of directors chair Karen Davis praised Thomson’s leadership experience and love for the Island community. “Rebekah’s passion for the Island, combined with her proven leadership and collaborative spirit, makes her the ideal person to guide the Fellowship into its next chapter,” Davis said in the release. “She understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing our community and is deeply invested in nurturing the local talent that addresses them.” Thomson, who spent summers on the Vineyard during her childhood, moved to the Island full-time in 2010 after her parents encouraged her to give birth to her second child at the then–newly renovated Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. It was during this pregnancy that Thomson enrolled in an online pediatric sleep course to fix her childrens’ sleep challenges. After receiving her Gentle Sleep Coach certification, Thomson started coaching her friends on the Vineyard, before launching

her own sleep coaching business, Counting Sheep, in 2011, Thomson said in an interview with The Times. In 2022, Thomson expanded her services by becoming the program facilitator of Baby’s First Year, an open discussion group for parents with infants at Martha’s Vineyard Community Services’ Family Center. “It was an intention of mine to really help the Island become a well-rested Island and help young families support their children, so Continued on A3

corrections In the story “A new school for the next generation” published June 2, Amy Houghton is the chair of the All-Island school committee. In the essay “A roof of her own” published June 5, the correct link to the Island Housing Trust site is ihtmv.org.

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news A3

June 11, 2026

New beginnings and farewells at the Charter School The Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School celebrated its largest graduating class since 2022. BY EUNKI SEONWOO

here are a lot of changes at Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School. Summer’s finally arrived, top leadership is changing at the school, and a longtime teacher is retiring. And in West Tisbury on Saturday, the Charter School’s class of 2026 turned the page to the next chapter in their lives. The Charter School community gathered this weekend under a white tent set up on the campus to celebrate the 15 seniors who make up the class of 2026. It’s the largest graduating class since 2022, when the same number of students graduated, and the celebration was full of cheer, camaraderie, and emotional moments. “Welcome to the class of 2026!” Pete Steedman, director of the Charter School, exclaimed, as the seniors walked across the grass while “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac played on the speakers. Applause erupted from family, friends, and peers as the seniors took to the stage and donned their flower crowns. The graduating class included the following students: Amanda Martins Silva, Angel M. Walker, Aubriel V. Tomkins, Bangii-Kai Albert Bettencourt, Gabriela C. Lino, Ian Patricio, Jack S.H. Baer, Kali Spain, Karyn Winter Muric, Landen W. Elderkin, Nicola Josephine Capece, Phoebe Suzannah Nichols, Reid Kerns, Rosemary Hackett Smilie, and Wyatt McCarthy. Sheila McHugh Hazell, Charter School board president, said the aspect she loves most about the school is that “there’s no single path to it or through it,” and students develop into young adults through various experiences, from the classrooms to the farms on the Island. “Some of these graduates sitting before us started here in kindergarten, just beyond the playground,” Hazell said. “Others joined along the way from different schools, communities, and different parts of the world.” Steedman chose “fortitude” as the word to define the class of 2026, highlighting the rigor of the students’ studies, facing new experiences and fears, “no matter how large the obstacle they created in their minds,” and being able “to be true to themselves, to embrace who they really are.” And where did this fortitude come from? Steedman said

while it could’ve come from family, teachers, or various experiences, the exit interviews with the seniors revealed how much they gained from one another. “It appears that the fortitude … they learned from being around their fellow classmates,” Steedman said. Commencement speaker Victoria Dryfoos, a Spanish teacher and college and career counselor at the Charter School, said she thinks of the ocean when asked what makes the class of 2026 special, calling them “energetic, powerful, unforgettable” waves that leave an impact. Students received scholarships from various organizations, including the Portuguese-American Club and the NAACP of Martha’s Vineyard, to support their goals, whether that be aspirations as an artist, video game designer, chef, pharmacist, or journalist. Faculty and younger students also provided personalized gifts to each graduating senior based on their interests. But the class didn’t just receive. The class of 2026 also gave a gift to the school: two silks, one indigo, yellow, and white, and another pink, to be a part of future graduation tents. The seniors weren’t the only ones who are departing the school this year. Kim Komarinetz, who joined the Charter School 27 years ago to help establish the first- and second-grade programs, is retiring as a teacher. Steedman and Scott Goldin, assistant director, are each departing to different employers the next school year, Sturgis Charter Public School in Hyannis and Edgartown School respectively. They partnered to develop programming at the Vineyard Charter School over the years, including bringing in the International Baccalaureate program and leading the school through the COVID-19 pandemic. They’ll be replaced by incoming Director Christopher Nace and Assistant Director Danielle Charbonneau. Steedman highlighted the individualized approach of the Vineyard Charter School, which helped produce a talented cohort of young adults. But Steedman said he’s also received a lot from the school as a leader and as a person. And while there have been dif-

ficulties over the years, he called the school a special place. “It’s been so rewarding to be a part of this community, and to go through those challenges, but also on a day like today when we can celebrate the incredible accomplishments of this group of people together,” Steedman said, referring to the graduates. “I will never, ever have this kind of community in my life again. It’s truly unique.” Before receiving their diplomas, each student was given the opportunity to give a graduation address, some emotional as they highlighted the importance of their peers and experiences at the Charter School toward their personal development. “Something has all brought us here, from the warm [area] of Goiania, Brazil, to those who called these cold coasts home all of their lives,” Bellecourt said. “There is

something so unique and special about our individual experiences,” he added. “All of our paths have joined together for the past four years.” The graduates stepped out of the tent to Joan Baez’s cover of “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right,” playing, hugging their parents and friends and beaming as they thought of the future. Schools on the Island aren’t the only places where students from the Vineyard graduated. Across the Vineyard Sound, five Vineyarders graduated from Falmouth Academy: Cian Kalannu Davis of Chilmark, Hannah Evealoe Flanders of Oak Bluffs, Maverick Christopher Pil of Vineyard Haven, and Ameila Russell Schaeffer and Wyatt Alexander Thornton of Edgartown. It was the largest academy class in its history, at 44 graduates.

SUSAN MOFFAT

Class of 2026 graduates of Falmouth Academy.

news in brief

Continued from A2 they could get the sleep they needed and be their best selves,” Thomson said. Thomson has also been involved in education on the Island, and served as president of the Chilmark Preschool board of directors for 14 years. Thomson, whose three children all attended the preschool, considers their early education at the school “the best investment we could have made.” “It was magical. It was an incredibly important time for [my children], and they got exactly what they needed from the preschool,” Thomson said. After learning about proposed plans to install turf athletic fields at the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, Thomson cofounded the Field Fund in 2017, an advocacy group dedicated to maintaining and improving the Island’s grass recreational fields. “As an environmentalist and as someone who loves sports and being outside, it just hit a nerve,” Thomson said. “I felt like there had to be a better solution than going in that direction [of turf fields] when we’re doing so much to avoid plastics in our society.” In her role as executive director, Thomson hopes to continue the strong leadership of her predecessors.

JOSHUA ROBINSON-WHITE

The class of 2026 consisted of 15 students.

“It’s an extremely well-structured and highly impactful organization, and that’s the result of many years of really careful stewardship and thoughtful leadership by Melissa Hackney and the board [of directors],” Thomson said. “I’m really committed to upholding that and ensuring that everything that they’ve worked hard to build is sustained moving forward.”

State deems hunter shooting to be accidental The Massachusetts Environmental Police deemed the shooting of a hunter on the Island over the winter as an accident. State officials say the victim is still recovering at home. In December, a man was shot in the abdomen while hunting in Manuel F. Correllus State Forest, a day before shotgun season ended. According to a spokesperson from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, which environmental police is a part of, two hunters were “actively targeting a deer when the victim was shot.” The spokesperson said environmental police determined the hunters had “not acted negligently or without care” following an investigation and didn’t charge anyone.

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs didn’t release the names of the hunters involved in the case. A MassWildlife spokesperson previously told The Times that incidents in which a hunter is shot are rare. Usually, injuries or deaths while hunting are caused by a fall.

Oak Bluffs Police quell fire before it spreads What could have been a devastating fire was quickly quelled by Oak Bluffs first responders early Friday morning. Oak Bluffs Police officers discovered a fire under the front porch of 43 Circuit Ave., a three-story, multifamily home, at around 3 am. Oak Bluffs Police Chief Jonathan Searle said two of his officers, Andrew Nicholson and Connor Bettencourt, discovered the fire while patrolling the town on a night shift, and hit the flames with extinguishers as Oak Bluffs firefighters were en route to the scene. “In all seriousness, it could’ve been a disaster if it got blazing,” said Searle in a message to The Times. Oak Bluffs Fire Chief Stephen Foster said that the house is located in a densely packed

section of Circuit Avenue, and the woodframe building where the fire started, like many of the surrounding buildings, is old and easily ignitable. Foster commended the Oak Bluffs Police officers for holding the fire at bay and successfully evacuating tenants from the building while firefighters were on the way. “They knocked the main body [of the fire] down. They also successfully evacuated tenants from the three-story, woodframe building,” said Foster. “Everybody was accounted for, Fire arrived, and we immediately extinguished the fire and checked for fire extensions into the main interior.” Foster said no smoke or fire made its way inside the building, and the fire did not extend past the front porch. “O.B. building officials and inspectors were notified, the building owner was on location, and occupants were allowed back into the building,” said Foster. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. “Kudos to O.B. Fire, EMS, and Police for working so strongly together. We were on scene for close to an hour, no injuries,” said Foster.

news

June 11, 2026

EDITORIAL The sun was shining down on high school seniors this weekend as Vineyarders graduated from the regional high school, Charter School, and Falmouth Academy. It’s always an exciting time for families as young adults take the next, big step in their lives, whether that means jumping into the workforce, going to college, traveling to see the world, or learning a trade. Amid the ceremony and celebration of the graduating seniors, it is worth noting that they are not the only ones who will officially move on. School administrators will also be leaving their posts next fall, including the principal of Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School

An homage to Richie Smith

(MVRHS) and the director of the Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School. And at the helm of the Island’s public school system is Richie Smith, who is retiring as superintendent. We don’t have any official diplomas to offer or any fancy scholarships to award, but we do feel a commendation is in order for an educator who served Island families for many years. Superintendent Richie Smith was promoted to his current post in 2022, but he’s been with the Island school system as an educator for over two decades, including as assistant superintendent and as principal in the Tisbury School and Oak Bluffs School. During his time at the top of the school administrative system, Smith has consistently advocated for the well-being of Island students, from making

school a space children can feel safe to pushing for better educational standards. Notably, Smith applauded the student walkout in May in solidarity with a Brazilian immigrant who was a sophomore at MVRHS and had been arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while out fishing with his father. Smith had challenges to meet as superintendent: dealing with threats to the high school budget over a potential synthetic playing field, assuring the school community of their children’s safety after ICE detained 20 people last May. Perhaps Smith’s most lasting legacy may be guiding the Island to the final stretch to approval for funding of over $330 million to renovate and construct a new high school campus for future generations.

ESSAY The Constitution requires a national census BY JACK FRUCHTMAN every 10 years to ensure that congressional districts are approximately equal in population. Today, each district contains about 710,000 people. Massachusetts has nine congressional districts. The Cape and Islands are in the ninth district, represented since 2013 by William Keating. The Trump administration has sought ways to undermine voting in three ways, two of which would directly affect voters on Martha’s Vineyard. The first is to restrict or terminate voting by mail. In the 2024 election, approximately onethird of all registered voters in the U.S. voted by mail, a figure matched by Vineyard voters, which reached 34.2 percent. In addition, according to the Massachusetts secretary of state’s office, in the September primary that year, 62 percent of the voters mailed in their ballots. Although President Trump himself votes by mail, he wants to end the practice, claiming without evidence that it encourages voter fraud. Second, an effort by the Trump administration to require strict voter-identification standards would directly affect Island voters. While most Americans favor voter ID, many Island residents may not meet the strict requirements outlined in the so-called SAVE America Act

Who votes?

that Congress is now debating. Voters must possess either a birth certificate, a passport, or a military or tribal ID. A driver’s license would not qualify unless it shows U.S. citizenship. Only five states include this type of identification, and Massachusetts is not among them. Third and most damaging to equal voting rights is something called gerrymandering. It originated in1812 when Massachusetts Gov. Elbridge Gerry wanted to guarantee the victory of members of his party, the Democratic Republicans, in the state legislature. The result was a district that the Boston Gazette complained was shaped like a salamander. Accompanying the story was an image called the “Gerrymander, a new species of monster.” Thus was born partisan redistricting known as the gerrymander. Redrawing congressional districts typically occurs every 10 years when the U.S. Census is taken. President Trump encouraged Republican-controlled legislatures to reconfigure their boundaries well before the November elections to preserve Republican control of the House of Representatives. Massachusetts is not involved because as a heavily Democratic state, all representatives in Congress are Democrats. But in Florida, which has 28 congressional districts, Democrats have only four seats, even though they generally receive about 45 percent of the vote.

The 1965 Voting Rights Act (VRA) was supposed to protect voter rights, especially for minority groups. After the Supreme Court decided Louisiana v. Callais in late April this year, the court ruled that states did not have to do so anymore because of increased participation by minority voters and the election of representatives to local, state, and federal offices. After Texas officials then redivided their congressional districts to ensure Republican victories, several states followed suit, including California, Florida, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Louisiana, and Tennessee (Alabama’s redistricting map is currently under judicial scrutiny). Democrats control only the California legislature. The weakening of the VRA began in 2013 with Shelby County v. Holder, when the Supreme Court overturned its sections 4 and 5. Section 4 identified several jurisdictions, including nine states, 12 municipalities, and 57 counties, that had a long history of voter discrimination against people of color and other minorities. Congress never updated its list of jurisdictions after 1975. Section 5 required these jurisdictions to obtain permission from the U.S. Attorney General or a federal court before they made any changes in their voting procedures. The court, by a bare majority, ruled that the list of jurisdictions was outdated (thus, the end of Section 4). Therefore, they no longer had to

appeal to the government to change their voting procedures (thus, the end of Section 5). In 2019, the court ruled, again by a bare majority, in Rucho v. Common Sense, that while partisan gerrymandering threatened American democratic norms, only elected politicians, not unelected federal judges, should deal with it. Finally, the Callais decision ended Section 2 of the VRA, prohibiting racial gerrymandering, historically meaning to dilute or eliminate Black voting. The court ruled that when Louisiana created two minority-Black congressional districts, it intentionally discriminated against white voters, stating that “the State’s attempt … was an unconstitutional racial gerrymander.” Nearly 65 years ago, in Baker v. Carr, Justice Felix Frankfurter wrote that when it comes to voting, “appeal must be to an informed, civically militant electorate. In a democratic society like ours, relief must come through an aroused popular conscience that sears the conscience of the people’s representatives.” The VRA may be dead, but the right to vote remains in our hands on the Vineyard and throughout the nation, to exercise in a meaningful and powerful way, despite the efforts of the Trump administration to undermine those rights.

Indigenous, People of Color and Immigrants Elders Oral History Project, one of the many initiatives that Richie supported. We are inviting the community to send greetings to Richie — a farewell note, a thank-you card, a shared memory, etc., and we will present him with all greetings received — at the Truth and Joy event. Please email your message to monahennessy1@gmail.com, or mail letters and cards to: Mona Hennessy, 125 Daggett Ave., Vineyard Haven, MA 02568. Please send them by June 23. Thank you, and see you at Truth and Joy!

“VOTE for the HIGH SCHOOL” signs and held them aloft beneath the shade of two maple trees at Five Corners on Tuesday, June 2. The sun was shining, the 1 pm traffic was mindfully pulling around corners, the mammoth trucks from the ferry maneuvering to carry their weighty burdens without uplifting the traffic police, the pedestrians, and sidewalks. We waved to the faithful fellow on his pushcart to the Steamship Authority, said hello to the taxi drivers grabbing a Cumbie’s lunch, to the few brave bikers headed to the Black Dog and the Art Cliff Diner. In the cars, always a different dog poking out a friendly head from the back window. Former teachers, former students, moms and dads with young children yet to go to school, even some visitors who said they would vote if they could, all gave thumbs up. The drivers of small trucks

imprinted with signs for every possible household and property need, all waved and called out “Thank you,” many saying they were glad for the reminder to drive to the polling stations to vote. We three have attended protests at Five Corners for decades. Soon we will be pushing our own walkers, expressing our hopes for a morally sound and healthy country. This time more than 3,448 Island residents marked “Yes” on their ballot to support the new high school. Thanks to your affirmative votes, the future high school will continue to embrace talented, capable teachers and engage students to broaden their academic and vocational goals. A positive vote for our future. Thank you!

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

LETTERS Celebrating Superintendent Richie Smith C

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Charles M. Sennott • Publisher

Note to Readers The Times welcomes Letters to the Editor on subjects of interest to Islanders. Each letter must include the name, address, and phone number of the writer. No exceptions, no anonymous letters, no pen names. All letters are subject to editing for style, taste, sense, and conciseness. A thousand words is the outer limit. We publish most letters, but not all. The editor chooses. Letters will normally be published in the week they are received, but not always. The Times accepts letters by mail, e-mail, and posted online at mvtimes.com (click on Submissions link).

To the Editor: Martha’s Vineyard Superintendent of Schools Dr. Richard (“Richie”) Smith is retiring at the end of this school year. Richie has had an amazing career on the Vineyard as a teacher, principal, and superintendent. His contributions as a school and community leader are immeasurable. To honor Richie for all his support and accomplishments, the Martha’s Vineyard Diversity Coalition (MVDC) will present him with the first annual Friend and Leader Award at this year’s free Truth and Joy event, Saturday, June 27, from 5 to 7 pm at the MVPAC. All are welcome at the celebration, which will also premiere a 30-minute video from the Martha’s Vineyard Living Legends (MVLL): Black,

Mona Hennessy Member, MVDC

Thank you for voting yes To the Editor: We could have held up “POPE LEO SAVES” posters, but we put together our

Dolly Campbell, Liza Coogan, and Jean Hay Vineyard Haven

news A5

June 11, 2026

ESSAY MVC’s role of protecting the Island under threat

For more than 50 years, the Martha’s Vineyard Commission (MVC) has been the Island’s first line of defense against overdevelopment. Created by the Legislature in 1974, the MVC was given broad BY PETER WHARTON authority to ensure that growth on Martha’s Vineyard occurs responsibly, balancing economic development with the protection of the Island’s unique environmental, cultural, and community resources. Today, that authority is under direct attack. A Chapter 40B developer is arguing that the MVC is merely a “local board” and therefore should have no meaningful role in reviewing large housing developments that include a few affordable units. If successful, that argument would not simply alter a permitting process, it would fundamentally undermine the Legislature’s vision for Martha’s Vineyard and weaken one of the commonwealth’s most successful regional planning institutions. The stakes extend far beyond a single project. They involve the future of the Island itself. Martha’s Vineyard is not just another community. It is a place of extraordinary natural, historical, ecological, and cultural significance. Its great ponds, coastal ecosystems, sand plains, and rare species are resources of statewide importance. Recognizing that unchecked development

threatened those resources, the Legislature created the MVC and charged it with reviewing projects that have regional impacts. For decades, that system worked. Development continued, but it occurred in a way that preserved the Vineyard’s rural character, protected sensitive environmental resources, and respected the Island’s limited infrastructure. Today, however, the pressures facing the Vineyard are greater than ever. Nitrogen pollution threatens the great ponds. Summer traffic strains roads and ferries. Workforce housing remains in short supply. Homes once occupied by year-round residents are increasingly converted into seasonal residences, investment properties, and short-term rentals. The Island is approaching a crossroads. In response, the MVC has done exactly what the Legislature intended it to do: carefully scrutinize large developments and ensure that their benefits outweigh their impacts. Most projects have been approved with conditions. A very small number have been denied when their impacts were simply too great. Not surprisingly, some developers have pushed back. Most recently, the developers of the Green Villa and Edgartown Gardens projects argued that the MVC should be treated as a local board under Chapter 40B and therefore be stripped of its authority to review major housing developments that include predominantly market-rate units with a limited number of affordable units. Unfortunately, the

state Housing Appeals Committee (HAC) accepted that argument in the Edgartown Gardens case, prompting ongoing litigation by both the MVC and the town of Edgartown. This is not a technical dispute over permitting authority. It is an existential challenge to the MVC itself. If the MVC is reduced to localboard status, its ability to protect water quality, preserve open space, manage traffic impacts, and encourage workforce housing will be dramatically diminished. Towns operating under the constraints of 40B cannot impose conditions on 40B projects to protect these key Island interests in the way the MVC does. Developers will have every incentive to bypass the regional review process that has protected the Vineyard for half a century. Nor is this a debate about whether affordable housing should be built. The MVC has consistently supported affordable housing development and has helped create hundreds of income-restricted units while securing millions of dollars for affordable housing initiatives across the Island. The commission has approved nearly every Chapter 40B project that has come before it. The issue is not whether housing should be built; it is whether large developments should be required to account for their impacts on the broader community. If the HAC decision stands, developers will increasingly submit projects that ignore traffic, water-quality, open-space, and infrastructure concerns because they will know the MVC no longer has the authority to protect the Island from the

regional impacts of their projects. That is precisely the outcome the Legislature sought to avoid when it created the MVC in 1974. Martha’s Vineyard is different. Its environmental resources are fragile. Its infrastructure is limited. Its character is irreplaceable. The Legislature recognized those realities more than 50 years ago and created a regional commission with the authority necessary to protect them. In light of the recent HAC decision, the question now is simple: Will the commonwealth honor that vision, or will it allow decades of thoughtful regional planning to be swept aside? The future character of Martha’s Vineyard may depend on the answer. Importantly, the MVC is not fighting this battle alone. The Island is fortunate to have Sen. Julian Cyr and Rep. Thomas Moakley as strong advocates in the Legislature who recognize that protecting the Vineyard’s natural resources, infrastructure, and quality of life is not inconsistent with creating housing opportunities for Islanders, but rather, it is essential to ensuring that the Island remains a viable place for year-round residents to live and work. Island residents who care about the future of Martha’s Vineyard, the protection of its unique character, and the creation of responsible affordable housing should take a moment to thank Sen. Cyr and Rep. Moakley for their commitment to these issues.

other areas of the state, unrestricted market-rate units under 40B can and do meet the needs of their host municipality’s year-round community — working families, seniors, young professionals looking for a foothold. In seasonal communities like Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, however, we know that unrestricted market-rate units simply do not serve our year-round community housing needs. Thus, in exchange for a relatively small number of affordable units, a 40B developer can develop a significant number of luxury units that fail to deliver housing solutions for our residents. This kind of development also worsens our housing challenges: Increasing luxury inventory drives up the cost of property Island-wide and expands population in a way that demands the support of more municipal and other services, requiring more workers, who in turn require more housing. In its 50-year history, the MVC has approved all but two 40B developments of regional impact — Edgartown Gardens and Southern Woodlands — at least in part because those projects proposed predominantly unrestricted marketrate units. The numerous 40B projects approved by the MVC have provided significantly more affordable units than the bare statutory minimum required by Chapter 40B;

indeed, every single locally generated 40B project and every single town-sponsored 40B project has been approved because it specifically addressed the housing needs of this Island by providing predominantly — and frequently 100 percent — deed-restricted, year-round affordable and community housing. It is important to also note that outside of the Chapter 40B context, the MVC consistently works toward the creation of housing for Island residents. Through conditions on developments of regional impact, the MVC has created at least 500 income-restricted units and other affordable and workforce housing opportunities and required payment of more than $4.8 million for affordable housing entities, including the Dukes County Regional Housing Authority, Habitat for Humanity, and town affordable housing communities. MVC staff worked at state level to research, draft, and advance the tools that form the “seasonal communities designation” toolkit for the Island towns, and continue to secure millions of dollars in state funding and technical support for local housing efforts. Notably, the MVC recently approved the 116-unit Green Villa 40B project, which shares a common developer with Edgartown Gardens. However, 100 percent of the units in Green Villa are re-

stricted to year-round residency; 90 percent are income-restricted at affordable and attainable levels; nine provide public sector employee preference as allowable under the new seasonal communities designation, offering desperately needed housing opportunities for essential municipal and school district staff. In contrast, Edgartown Gardens offered only 11 affordable units to 44 market-rate units, refusing to consent to the MVC’s request that the market-rate units be restricted to year-round occupancy, refusing to heed the town of Edgartown’s repeated pleas that the project include units for public sector employees, and digging in on its initial proposal to meet only the bare minimum affordable-unit requirements necessary for 40B eligibility. If this developer were truly serious about addressing the affordability crisis on the Island, it would spend less time criticizing the MVC’s process and more time working with the town of Edgartown and the MVC to deliver a project that actually delivers needed housing solutions for Island residents.

Peter Wharton is the chair of the Martha’s Vineyard Commission and a representative from Oak Bluffs.

ESSAY As the Island housing planner for the Martha’s Vineyard Commission (MVC), serving the six Island towns and Gosnold, I write in response to published comBY LAURA SILBER ments made recently by counsel to Edgartown Gardens suggesting that the MVC’s regulatory review of 40B developments of regional impact contributes to the affordable and community housing shortage on the Island. The reality is that, on Martha’s Vineyard and in other seasonal communities, Chapter 40B is often used by private developers in a way that exacerbates the affordability crisis. Under Chapter 40B, in exchange for providing 20 to 25 percent of housing units as deed-restricted affordable units, developers are entitled to expedited permitting and waivers from any local regulations — including zoning, wetlands, and water-quality requirements — that may reduce developer profit. The remaining 75 to 80 percent of units in a private 40B development are allowed to be unrestricted marketrate units, which on the Vineyard means high-cost investment properties and vacation rentals for which there is inexhaustible demand. In

Caution is necessary over 40B projects

Laura Silber is the Martha’s Vineyard Commission’s Island housing planner and the regional planning representative to the Massachusetts Seasonal Communities Advisory Council.

news

June 11, 2026

The scoop on change In a shifting Island business landscape, the Ice Box is one of many stores to change hands. BY EUNKI SEONWOO

o the long list of changes in ownership of Island businesses that includes the legendary Linda Jean’s in Oak Bluffs and even stalwart enterprises like the Chappy Ferry in Edgartown, add the Ice Box, a seasonal ice-cream shop in the Tisbury Marketplace. The Ice Box transaction deed shows that Salopia LLC sold the Ice Box property to Santoro Seafood Inc., which is owned by Island restaurateur Michael Santoro, for $871,250 on May 18. Santoro’s plans for the business remain uncertain, and he was not immediately available for comment. “We’re sad that we ultimately didn’t make it,” Alex Salop, co-owner of Salopia LLC and the ice-cream shop, said. The Ice Box is not alone in its struggles and shifting fate. In Tisbury, the former Mocha Mott’s location on Main Street, a longtime gathering spot for locals, was acquired by the owners of Toccopuro in February, and the Wave Restaurant and Bar, owned by a Nantucket restaurant group, took over the Garde East location on Beach Road. The new Highlands General café and marketplace took over the spot where Linda Jean’s, a longtime Oak Bluffs favorite, once stood. Santoro had planned to open a restaurant called Michael’s there before those plans fell through. For generations, businesses on the Vineyard have had to adapt to different challenges of operating on a location seven miles off of the mainland, which raises expenses and makes it difficult to find housing for workers. So change is inevitable in such a business environment, giving way to new opportunities to revive empty storefronts by

enterprising entrepreneurs or to the next generation to preserve what Islanders are familiar with. In particular, it seems there have been changes of ownership at restaurants across the Island in the past year, including the ownership change at the Plane View, located at the Martha’s Vineyard Airport, over the winter. And there are various new eateries to breathe new life into downtown Oak Bluffs, with approval given by the town’s select board since April: The operators of the Black Dog have plans to open a full-service restaurant called Coastwise Pub where the Oak Bluffs Mikado restaurant once operated on Circuit Ave. (the original Mikado is in Vineyard Haven); the former Oak Bluffs Avenue location of the Martha’s Vineyard Chowder Company (now on Kennebec Avenue) is planned to become an events and restaurant venue called Inkwell Beach House, run by AJ Calloway, a television personality and seasonal Islander, and Gerry Garvin, better known by his celebrity chef name of G. Garvin; the former Lobsterville Bar and Grille on Circuit Avenue became the Jetty Beach House under Jordan Wallace, owner of the popular Midnight Taco; and the owners of Dos Mas changed the Mexican eatery into ESH, an upscale American cuisine restaurant. Erica Ashton, executive director of the Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce, said it can be difficult to see longtime businesses close or change hands. Some of these transitions, Ashton said, can also reflect the challenges of doing business on the Island, from housing constraints,

worker shortages, rising operational costs, and the seasonal nature of the Island’s economy. A high-cost location, the Vineyard can be a difficult place for anyone to run a business. Still, she said, new operators can bring fresh life to the business scene. “While we never like to see challenges force difficult decisions, new ownership and investment can also create exciting opportunities for innovation, job creation, and economic vitality,” Ashton said. “A healthy business community needs both continuity and fresh ideas, and we’re encouraged to see entrepreneurs continuing to invest in the Island’s future.” Beyond eateries, there have been other services that have changed hands or shuttered. The Martha’s Vineyard Family Campground in Tisbury was purchased last month by Northgate Resorts, a Michigan-based company that owns resort sites across the country. And the Edgartown Select Board approved the transfer of the Chappy Ferry license on May 25 for the first time in nearly two decades. For parts of the community, these changes were cultural as well. Island Music in Tisbury wasn’t able to recover from the damages caused by a car that crashed into the building; it was the only onIsland shop that sold and serviced instruments, and the loss was a gut punch for local musicians. Meanwhile, Oak Bluffs lost a nearly centuryold downtown staple with the closure of Phillips Hardware in the fall, and the building has since been demolished. Benito’s Hair Styling, once

EUNKI SEONWOO

The property that housed the Ice Box was sold recently.

a popular business in Oak Bluffs, moved to Edgartown in November after the property that housed it was sold. Ashton said change is a “natural and healthy” part of any business community, especially seasonal destinations like the Vineyard. “Martha’s Vineyard has always evolved while maintaining the character that makes it so special. Business transitions are part of that evolution,” Ashton said. Jordan Wallace agreed that the recent spate of changes to Island businesses is “largely a healthy and natural part of a seasonal economy.” “While it’s always bittersweet to see longtime institutions change hands or close, I think fresh investment and new ideas help keep the Vineyard vibrant and relevant,” he said. The challenge, Wallace added, is “finding the right balance between honoring the Island’s character and embracing thoughtful evolution.” When an opportunity arose to convert “one of the most beautiful waterfront settings on Martha’s Vineyard” into a new restaurant, Wallace and his business partner, Mike Tierney, saw it as a chance to serve wine, local seafood, and be a locale where customers could meet creative people,

from artists to musicians, throughout the summer. For outside investors, the Vineyard can be an attractive venture. Milan Basnet, a Nantucket restaurateur who opened the Wave, said he saw his new location as a “double win” as a spot near the water on the Vineyard. As someone who owns restaurants on both the Vineyard and Nantucket, Basnet has seen the similar ways in which businesses are impacted by operational constraints, like housing and the finding workers. Still, he said the process of setting up the Wave has been eased by a good community of people willing to help, and by being able to bring a resident chef from Easy Street, one of his Nantucket restaurants, to the Vineyard. While the Wave is currently a summer business, Basnet told The Times he wants to explore ways to

open the space for the yearround community. “We don’t want to serve just to tourists,” he said. “We want to serve the local community as well.” Salop told The Times the Ice Box was opened in 2023 and operated for three summers. He said while the ice-cream shop had a great group of customers, it wasn’t enough for long-term viability, especially when the store needed to make all of its money in two and a half months. “Ultimately, you can have a base of reliable customers who come all the time … it’s all about foot traffic,” Salop said. Salop will still be operating the Toy Box in the same market center. But, Salop said, he also plans to work on his new consultancy called Island Analytics, which helps small businesses get more information and utilize artificial intelligence to take on repetitive processes, like payrolls and invoices.

STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP SHOW F E AT U R I N G Grazina Biskis, Ian Patricio, Adriana Young + MVAA Members Reception: June 14 Exhibition Dates: June 13 - 19 / Open Daily 58 Dock Street, Edgartown 508.939.4092 art@oldsculpingallery.org OLDSCULPINGALLERY.org

Across from the Chappy Ferry

news A7

June 11, 2026

A rising tide and the fate of two boats The 115-year-old Violet launched looking like new, and a modern powerboat almost sank. BY HAYLEY DUFFY AND NICHOLAS VUKOTA

hey say a rising tide lifts all boats. But in Vineyard Haven Harbor on Monday, there was one historic wooden sailboat rising triumphantly after being restored, and there was another modern fiberglass powerboat that was taking on water amid lashing Northeast winds near the jetty at Owen Park. At midday, the beloved 115-year-old Scots Zulu fishing vessel, the Violet, was set to be launched into the harbor. Built in 1911 and once owned by Capt. Bob Douglas, founder of the Black Dog Tavern, who also built the tall ship Shenandoah, the Violet was put back where she belongs, in the waters of Vineyard Haven Harbor, after several months of work through the winter. Current owners Kristi and Gary Maynard, who rebuilt the boat in the late 1980s after the vessel sat derelict for years, oversaw the launch Monday afternoon, alongside their son,

Kinsman Maynard. Kristi and Gary are the founders of Holmes Hole Builders, a construction company in Tisbury. At the Martha’s Vineyard Shipyard, a tender of Gannon & Benjamin Marine Railway workers were on hand to escort the Violet as the crew successfully guided her back in the water, and were at the ready to usher her from the shipyard to the Black Dog Wharf. Zulu’s vessels once powered the Scottish fishing fleet, and used aerodynamic lug sails built for speed to go after herring. But the much-anticipated relaunch of the renovated Violet was delayed several hours because of what Michael Gately, Tisbury harbormaster, called a “pretty strong Northeast wind” coming into the harbor. On a day of a great deal of commotion, shipyard employees were diverted from the Violet launch to help out with a sinking 40-foot powerboat near the jetty.

Gately said he received a call from a Steamship Authority captain who said he saw a boat “sitting low on its water line.” From his own binoculars, he said that was pretty apparent. Gately said he got in touch with the M.V. Shipyard, and James Hale from the fullservice boatyard was the first on the scene. “They managed to get the boat under tow, and started to try to pump it and tow it to get some of the water out from it,” Gately added. Eventually, they towed the powerboat behind the breakwater to shelter it from the weather. Between the shipyard’s pumps and Tisbury’s new pump-out boat, they managed to save the vessel and keep it afloat on a mooring. “We were probably about a minute away from that thing going underwater,” Gately said as he commended Hale and the shipyard employees for their efforts. Gately said they plan to do an investigation into the cause of the near-sinking.

PHOTOS: NICHOLAS VUKOTA

The Violet after launch.

Around 1:30 pm, the majestic Violet was lowered into the water. A garland, which is sometimes used to symbolize good fortune, rebirth, and respect from the sea gods, was strung across the bow by the Maynards. As the boat settled into the sea, the unmistakable bobbing of a righted ship and vocal humming of the engine caused the Maynards, as well as surrounding M.V. Shipyard and Gannon & Benjamin workers, to rejoice in a light cheer. By the end of the day Monday, the Violet was tied up at the Black Dog Wharf, where waterfront workers and all who

A 40-foot power boat was found sinking in V.H. Harbor Monday morning.

loved the Violet gathered to see the restored boat and reflect on its storied history over four generations. Just after 7 pm, as the har-

bor reached high tide, the Violet was glistening in the setting sun, and onlookers observed that she looked awfully well-cared-for at age 115.

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news

June 11, 2026

What $49 million can buy you Continued from A1

administrator, said in Lots to celebrate town an email to The Times. Continued from A1

was met with a mixed reaction. For some local restaurants and bar owners it would mean increased revenue, especially as last call in Oak Bluffs was pushed 30 minutes earlier, to 12:30 am, two years ago to align with Edgartown. However, the prospect of later nights for bartenders and servers as well as neighborhoods near downtown is raising concerns. A few bar owners said the risk is not worth the trouble, and that transportation, like buses and Ubers, would have to adjust in order to minimize drunk driving. Meanwhile, town representatives in both Edgartown and Oak Bluffs said they’re not considering joining ranks with big cities in the commonwealth to let people party later. Called “an act authorizing municipalities to opt in to a temporary pilot to extend the hours of liquor licenses and to allow for public consumption in designated districts in summer 2026,” the law is an emergency preamble that would go into effect for this summer alone, with an expiration at the end of July, if municipalities choose to take it on. On the Island, officials don’t want to. “At this stage, there has been no discussion regarding later opening hours. With the summer season upon us, any consideration of expanded hours would require a review of public safety needs, including staffing, operational impacts, and associated budget considerations, to determine whether such a change would be feasible,” Wendy Brough, Oak Bluffs

Over in Edgartown, town administrator James Hagerty said that the 12:30 am last call was working for customers in the town and that pushing it later would be moot. “I don’t see Edgartown really having an appetite to have a [later] last call,” he told The Times. “It’s just not the brand we’re trying to present moving forward.” The option to extend last call was spearheaded by Cape and Islands Sen. Julian Cyr and is twofold. It would allow Massachusetts municipali-

An aerial view of Great Point. HARRIS ALLEN

high-profile individuals like David Letterman. It’s also near Katama Airpark for those who come by small plane. Real estate industry insiders say it is an old trick to put a property at a very high listing price to draw global attention to the market. And if that was the intention, it seems to be working, as the news has spread far and wide about this property. Seelig said that considering

the possibility of changing the parcels, she considered it an “accurate price.” But Tom Wallace, the principal broker of Wallace & Co. Sotheby’s International Realty, which has been marketing and selling properties — including the Point Inner Way property — at the highest price points for nearly a half a century, said the market is reflecting a solid trend in the billionaire class.

“This property reflects a movement toward a desire for not just a home, but a family compound. And it is an appetite for this kind of property that is ever increasing, and very appealing,” said Wallace. Real estate agents at the high end of the market are aware of the many news stories highlighting concerns about ticks, including a recent feature on CNN, a piece

on the front page of the Boston Globe, and a particularly shrill report in the Daily Mail in the U.K. When asked about this, Wallace calmly replied, “The Vineyard has always been a place that has erosion, oceans rising, and tick issues that date back to the surge of Lyme disease that goes back decades. But it seems the desire to be here continues to win out over those concerns.”

from such an option. But legislators say the Island towns could use the option as a short-term pilot to test a later last call and see how the public responds to it. “None of the last calls on the Island are at the statewide max of 2 am,” Cyr told The Times. “So perhaps towns may want to use this as a pilot to figure out, ‘Hey, does this actually help? Does it make it worse?’” Only two towns on the Island, Edgartown and Oak Bluffs, have bars that typically utilize a late-night last call, and when The Times went

owner, Petey Berndt, said they even collaborated with Martha’s Vineyard Brewery to create two World Cup–themed beers. One, called “World Coop,” is a summer ale, and the other, called “Coop de Mundo,” a twist on a translation of “World Cup” in Portuguese, is a pilsner. But due to landlord restrictions where Coop is located, combined with little interest in staying open extremely late, Berndt said they would “never do it,” when asked about a later last call. Even now, they are usually only open until 10 or 11 pm in the summer

are working late anyway, so a later call wouldn’t change a lot. “It doesn’t change our operational abilities or status,” Wirtz told The Times. But he added that if downtown is particularly busy, emergency workers “do anticipate after last call, once everyone is cleared out, that our call volume might go down a bit.” Restaurants and bars in Oak Bluffs were largely for the late last call, with some saying the economic benefit and draw for customers would be worth it. Setting Oak Bluffs apart with a later last call than Edgartown, some said, could benefit every storefront, food locale, and convenience store in the area, if people shop and eat where they plan to party later on. And sports fans could flock to Oak Bluffs bars on nights when games run long. “I think it’s a fantastic idea to get people excited about the World Cup,” said Jordan Wallace, the owner of Midnight Taco, a downtown bar and restaurant. “I think that it’s a special occasion. And I think that it’s a small enough amount of time that we can balance the needs of the town with having some fun and creating a celebratory atmosphere.” Larkin Stallings, owner of the Ritz Café, said he has been pushing for a later last call for a while, and thought it would be a great idea for patrons. He said for yearround and seasonal bars, staying open longer could make or break a business. At the Ritz, Stallings said that he had lost about $70,000 in profit each year since the 12:30 am call was enacted. “This is not for everybody. It’s for people who can really get serious about what we’re doing and do it as safely as

possible, and we continually understand that we have to make a profit to stay in business,” Stallings said. Red Cat Kitchen owner Ben deForest had a nuanced take on the issue. He said he missed a time when Oak Bluffs had a vibrant nightlife, but also spoke about the importance of safety for customers, especially when “most damage is done in that last hour.” “Like anything, there are pros and cons to this, and there’s certainly people that are gonna benefit from it,” deForest told The Times on Tuesday night. But in Edgartown, town administrator Hagerty said his town is too “familyfriendly” for a later last call to work. He also didn’t think the economic benefit would necessarily be worth it. Many operators of sports and nightlife bars in Edgartown agreed. Management at the Town, a location where many sports fans may watch the World Cup over the next five weeks, said if the law was enacted, they might utilize it a few times, but they wouldn’t extend their hours every night. “If we had a game on, and we had enough people here watching it, we would stay open longer,” bar manager Casey Storey said as she leaned over the bar Tuesday evening. But she added that she didn’t think that would happen very often past 1 am, which is the current time people have to leave the building; 12:30 am is their last call. Regardless of the bartenders’ and managers’ disparate opinions on the topic, the decision is up to the towns and would need to be decided by the select boards in Oak Bluffs and Edgartown.

Locals packed the Wharf Pub in Edgartown in 2024 to watch the Celtics.

ties to extend the last call at local bars and restaurants by an hour, or up to 3 am. Here, that would be an extension from 12:30 to 1:30 am. It also allows an option for creating “open carry,” or outdoor drinking, areas in municipalities during special events, such as street fairs or July Fourth celebrations. In cities like Boston, the act is a legislative effort to meet tourism demand and bolster the economy for what could be one of the busiest summers in years. On the Vineyard, there’s debate among bar management about whether customers would benefit

The new summer ale for World Cup season at Coop de Ville, called “World Coop.”

out to see what management and bartenders thought about the potential of a later end to the night, the most commonly used phrase in Edgartown on Tuesday was: “Nothing good happens after 12:30 [am].” In Oak Bluffs, however, several bar owners lamented to The Times about missing the era when nightlife was “happening” in the early 2000s and noted that the Island is host to many international tourists and workers who are invested in an event like the World Cup. There’s a buzz of excitement about the upcoming games at the local sports bars. At Coop de Ville by the harbor, the

COURTESY PETEY BERNDT

located within Herring Creek Farm and has access to over 2,500 feet of private shoreline and a “private walking path to the South Shore’s miles of unspoiled sandy beaches.” The listing also touts the natural landscape and residences that were recently completed, with the potential to “create up to three additional homes and complementary structures.” The Wall Street Journal first reported and The Times has confirmed that the seller is Michael Bronner, a Boston tech entrepreneur and investor who built the property over several years. Maggie Gold Seelig, the MGS agent overseeing the listing, said the property consists of five parcels that were strategically assembled to give the buyer options on how to use the land, whether that be developing homes for families or leaving a portion as open space. As a part of Herring Creek Farm, the property also neighbors homes owned by

HAYLEY DUFFY

risks of Island living at a time of rising ocean levels, steady coastal erosion, and a recent rash of tick-borne conditions. Residential properties on the Island are regularly sold for millions of dollars, but several sales over the years exceeding $30 million attract attention. A mansion in Katama said to be inspired by “The Great Gatsby” set a residential property record on the Vineyard after being sold for $37.5 million in November. A property at 18 Point Inner Way in Chilmark is now listed for $45 million and is the site of the infamous “One Big Home” documentary, considered a driving force behind Chilmark’s controversial “Big House Bylaw,” which limits a house’s size depending on the parcel’s size. The Great Point property was officially listed on June 2 by MGS Group Real Estate, a firm with offices in Boston and Wellesley. According to the listing, the property is

season, much earlier than the 1 am town-wide closing time. He added that Oak Bluffs has changed a lot in the 40 years he’s owned Coop de Ville, and what upsets him is the lack of year-round businesses. There’s a change in attitude looming in Oak Bluffs for business owners, like Berndt, who have been on the scene for a while. Business owners in the town largely protested the earlier last call in 2023 when the Oak Bluffs Select Board passed it. Although the last call was pushed earlier because of public health concerns, retired Oak Bluffs Fire Chief Nelson Wirtz said emergency workers

news A9

June 11, 2026

Feds cut global ocean-observing network Continued from A1 — “the associated real-time data streams and observing capabilities at those locations will come to an end.” The Pioneer Array, which previously sat 75 miles south of Martha’s Vineyard on the New England shelf, was moved to gather data from another region in 2024. “Over more than a decade, OOI has delivered the world’s most advanced continuously operating ocean-observing systems, supporting science, engineering, education, and workforce development across the ocean sciences community,” Edson wrote. “We are profoundly grateful for the extraordinary efforts of the scientists, engineers, operators, educators, students, and partners who made this facility possible and who continue to advance its legacy through the use of its data.” A spokesperson from the National Science Foundation (NSF), which funded the project, said that the federal agency told WHOI on May 8 the plan “to adjust the scope” of the project. It isn’t a cancellation, the spokesperson said. “All previously collected OOI data will remain accessible through the OOI Data Center. The decision to de-scope aligns with NSF’s wider strategy of a nimbler approach to prioritize support for evolving scientific priorities and emerging technologies.” The spokesperson said this decision was based in part on recommendations from a 2025 National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics report. A statement from the National Academies on June 9, however, said that its report was “inaccurately cited” and that “without ocean-observing assets such as OOI, we risk not having the data needed to address such crucial issues.” Meanwhile, on the Island, and although the effort can’t be a complete replacement of what was there before, two fishermen out of Menemsha, Matt Mayhew and Nick Wilbur, joined a 30year program that uses their consistent and frequent trips out to sea to collect water temperatures at the bottom of the ocean, an otherwise scarce data set and one that was a part of OOI’s mission. That program is called the Environmental Monitors on Lobster Traps and Large Trawlers, or eMOLT, and is administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service. It was started in 1995 by Jim Manning, an oceanographer at the center, who started to wonder whether fishermen, on their vessels, had the same questions he had, on a research cruise. While he was curious about bottom-water temperatures for science, fishermen, who would put thermometers in mason jars lodged in a trap,

Nick Wilbur next to his new temperaturemonitoring system. PHOTOS: ELLA MUNNELLY

were interested for the sake of their haul. That was how the eMOLT program started, though, back in the day, Manning and fishermen would send temperature sensors back and forth via mail, and fishermen would maybe never actually see the data. Now, the technology for this program is much more advanced and efficient. Duct tape and mail delivery are now Bluetooth and instant gratification. From the outside, the sensor is unassuming, slightly larger than a hand. It’s hardly visible anyway, wedged inside a PVC pipe and strapped to the inside of the trawl door on Matt Mayhew’s 51-foot vessel. It really just looks like a miscellaneous or superfluous object on an already crowded boat covered in brightly colored nets, rusted sheets of metal, pulleys and wires, orange buoys, and so much rope. But that sensor, part of the largest collaborative program in the world between fishermen and science, is able to catalog data on one of the mysteries of the sea. Mayhew and Wilbur are now part of a cohort of more than 100 vessels that help gather data directly from the source. The bottom-water data they collect, from the sensor on Mayhew’s trawl door and one in Wilbur’s trap, comes at no cost to them. The data is used to inform two types of models, hindcast and forecast. A hindcast model is used in stock assessments. Assessors can look at bottomwater temperatures however many years ago and judge how they influence biological rates, like the survival of juvenile lobster or sea bass. The data also informs forecast models, much the same as done on land, for subsurface temperatures. Not only can the data inform scientists and fishermen, when and where they may haul, but the Coast Guard also sets up search patterns based on the movement of cold and hot water masses. The opportunity to join the program came to Shelley Edmundson, executive director of the Martha’s Vineyard Fishermen’s Preservation Trust, through Chris McGuire, the ocean program director for the Nature Conservancy in Massachusetts. “We’re so accustomed to

The sensor on the trawl door of Matt Mayhew’s boat.

and now, he’ll transition to mostly fluke in the summer months. He takes three-day trips every week and brings back local seafood to sell to the Martha’s Vineyard Seafood Collaborative, right on the Menemsha docks, and other off-Island vendors. He wanted to be a part of the program because not only is the data useful for science but also for him and his trawls. Mayhew said the surface temperature doesn’t really depict what’s going on down at the bottom. Wilbur agreed. He said he’s even shifted his operations 40 miles to chase colder bottom temperature to haul sea bass. “There’s a big disconnect,” he said between surface and bottom temperature; he even has a surface reader. Wilbur’s boat was in Chilmark at the Sandpit, an area used by some fishermen to work on their boats, when Pelletier and Xu came to install his new technology. The Little Feat stood up on jack stands and keel blocks in the sandy bowl that baked in the sun on the 80-degree day. Jonathan Mayhew, Matt’s father, was also there to work

on his vessel, the Skille. Wilbur’s hope was to get his boat out this week and start to use the sensor. This program “is one of one of a handful of these kinds of programs around the world that empowers fishermen with their own sensors to collect these types of data,” Maynard said, but this technology won’t ever be a replacement for traditional oceanography, like the OOI program, he said. Fishermen may go back to an area again and again, but there’s a handful of sites where repeated measurements and observed trends aren’t possible through this program. The eMOLT program is good for a broad geographic coverage of data, but the OOI program collected numbers at fixed points over time. “At least we’ll have two data points,” Edmundson said down at the docks Friday. The hope is for more Island fishermen to eventually be involved, though there’s a waitlist for the program currently. “All the fishermen I’ve talked to want to take part in it. They want the data,” she said.

The bottom-water temperature sensor.

the world on land,” McGuire said, where information comes from remote sensing, satellites, and observations. “You go online, and you want to know what the temperature is somewhere, and there are 100 people on the Vineyard who are broadcasting the temperature at their house to some weather website.” That obviously doesn’t exist in the ocean. The program provides valuable information to the fishermen, who can use the data to more efficiently catch fish, as well as “this incredibly valuable and super-expensive piece of data to researchers across the research spectrum,” McGuire said. He called this a “kind of magic” and a “total Goldilocks scenario.” Manning’s successor, George Maynard, a marine resources management specialist at NOAA, said the program is in a period of rapid growth and won’t be hampered by federal cuts seen in other research projects because, though run through NOAA, the program is actually funded by other groups. Most recently, the Nature Conservancy through McGuire raised enough money to spend on the technology for 50 boats, two of which are Mayhew’s and Wilbur’s vessels. There were 145 vessels from mostly New England in the program last year, and

Maynard said this year, they’ll probably be closer to 200. The program’s main partner is the Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation, and last Friday, executive director Erin Pelletier and lead technician Huanxin Xu from the nonprofit were down at the Menemsha docks. They got on an early boat and were picked up by Edmundson around 9 am to install the sensors on the boats. The sensors are put in a fisherman’s gear, like a lobster pot, trawl door, or dredge, and when that gear goes in the water, the sensor takes a profile and collects temperature on the way down, then on the bottom, and back on the way up to the surface. At the surface, the sensor talks via Bluetooth to a little computer called a data hub (manufactured by Lowell Instruments) in the wheelhouse, which downloads data on coordinates, depth, and average temperature. It’s on the screen for fishermen, and once they get back into cell phone range, a SIM card in the computer pushes the data back to the eMOLT program researchers. The computers can even show the fishermen forecasted bottom temperatures for the next 72 hours. It’s a “two-way street,” Maynard said. Mayhew of the Lady M catches squid, fluke, scup, and sea bass in the Nantucket Sound through May,

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A10 classifieds

June 11, 2026

CLASSIFIEDS To browse new ads online or to place yours, visit mvtimes.com/classifieds.

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For assistance, advertising rates or to find out more, email mvtclassifieds@mvtimes.com or call 508-693-6100 ext. CLASSIFIED LINER AND DISPLAY ADS MUST BE PLACED BY NOON TUESDAY PRIOR TO THE THURSDAY PRINT PUBLICATION.

Join the Martha’s Vineyard Bank Team! Martha’s Vineyard Bank, a local community bank, has an exciting opportunity available for an Office Coordinator. This role facilitates HR administrative processes, assists with MV Bank Charitable Foundation initiatives, coordinates internal/external events, and handles general clerical operations. Please visit www.mvbank.com for detailed information or to apply. We offer an exceptional benefits package, growth opportunities and a competitive compensation package based on experience. Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled

Jobs JOB OPPORTUNITIES Administrative Assistant Island Elderly Housing is looking for a full time administrative assistant for our Property Management team. This position provides administrative support for all rental and tenant-related activities. This position requires working with tenants. Candidate should have strong organizational and time management skills and strong written and verbal communication skills. Experience/ pro ciency with computer entry and database systems. For more information about Island Elderly Housing, visit our website, www.iehmv.org. Please send resume to leller@iehmv.org

ART TEACHER, ELEMENTARY GRADES MVPCS The Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School has an opening for a 3 daysper-week (.60 FTE) Art Teacher for grades K to 6 to start September 1, 2026. Must hold a BA/BS; teaching experience preferred. Competitive salary and full beneﬁts provided. Please email a resume and letter of interest to Peter Steedman, School Director, at psteedman@mvpcs.org and complete an application on our website, www.MVPCS.org.

E.C. COTTLE, INC. IS HIRING FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: • FRONT DESK • YARD HAND • CDL & DELIVERY DRIVERS

WILLING TO TRAIN THE RIGHT CANDIDATE $2,500 SIGN ON BONUS • Positions are full-time, year-round. • Monday thru Friday hours with immediate start. • Competitive pay. Plus, E.C. Cottle offers full benefits including, Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, matched 401k, paid time off and paid holidays. All benefits earned after completion of probationary period.

Stop by a branch and ask for an application, or email resume to ecottle3@yahoo.com.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

AIRPORT GROUNDS AND FACILITIES SUMMER 2026 TEMPORARY, SEASONAL, FULL AND PART-TIME Maintain airport premises – providing a clean and safe environment for employees and customers. Groundskeeper: grounds keeping, mowing, some landscaping. Airport Custodian: Janitorial duties, primarily indoors, multiple buildings. Starting rate $29.59/hr. Schedule may include weekends, evenings and some holidays. Applications available at Airport Administration Oﬃce, 71 Airport Road, West Tisbury, MA 02575 or at https://mvyairport.com/ employment-opportunities/ The Martha’s Vineyard Airport is an Equal Opportunity Employer and an Alcohol and Drug Free Workplace. Positions open until ﬁlled.

CONSTRUCTION FINANCE MANAGER Support the nancial coordination of construction projects at South Mountain Company. You'll ensure project nances are accurate, organized, and aligned from early estimating through billing and closeout. Working closely with our Director of Construction, Director of Finance and Project Leads, you'll maintain clear records, support decisionmaking, and keep projects nancially on track. We offer an exceptional, family-friendly compensation package, including medical/dental/ vision insurance (SMCo covers the full deductible), pro t sharing, 401k, and the potential for ownership. Learn more about this position, how to apply, our compensation policy, and our culture at https:// southmountain.com/meet/

DUKES COUNTY SHERIFFS' OFFICE PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATIONS OFFICERS ** $500 Monthly Housing Stipend for Full Time Island Resident Telecommunicators** Are you looking to kick-start your career, while helping the Island Community? Duties include, but not limited to receiving, processing, transmitting and/or dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls for police, re, emergency medical, and other public safety services via telephone and other communication devices. Effective oral and written communications skills, sensitivity to working with con dential material; ﬂexibility and willingness to adapt to changing environment and priorities; positive attitude, integrity and, excellent judgment. Work schedule includes assignments to the day, evening and night, weekend, and holiday shifts. Paid on -site training, as well as off-island Academy training upon completion of probationary period. Full-time position with a generous bene t package, including paid leave, insurance and retirement. Full time Tele-Communicator-In-Training pay range is $71,140.94$78,545.22 annually, plus $500 monthly stipend. Applications and job description available at dukescountysheriff.com/ careers

BRUNO’S ROLLOFF INC. IS LOOKING FOR A RELIABLE, SAFETY-CONSCIOUS INDIVIDUAL TO JOIN OUR TEAM AS A TRANSFER STATION LABORER. This role is essential to maintaining an organized, clean, and e cient facility. This job requires the ability to work outdoors on your feet for extended hours each day. This is a seasonal position spring thru midNovember. Pay rate $40-50 per hour. Requests for applications can be sent to job@brunosmv.com CHRISTMAS COTTAGE THE ISLANDS ONLY CHRISTMAS SHOP Santa is looking for a couple of part time elves to help out this Summer. We’re celebrating our 54 Anniversary of spreading Christmas cheer to islanders and visitors alike. If you would like to join us this summer we’d love to talk with you. Add something a little different to your week and make some $ at the same time. Perfect for retirees and anyone else who loves Christmas. We’re located overlooking Oak Bluffs harbor (best view in town). If you’re interested please give us a call at 508 693-6731 or 800 227-8444 DRIVERS WANTED: We are looking for people for full time/ part time. All shifts available. Applicants must possess a Massachusetts Driver’s License and have at least 2 years driving experience. Any questions please call BOB @ HARBOR TAXI 508-693-0037.

STILL LOOKING FOR HELP WITH RUNNING ERRANDS, POST OFFICE, FOOD PREP/COOKING. Janice (508) 696-8976 DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT VINEYARD CONSERVATION SOCIETY VCS seeks an entrepreneurial fundraising leader to build a dynamic development program on Martha’s Vineyard. Major gifts, annual giving, grants, events & campaigns. 10+ years’ experience required. Full description & application: vineyardconservation.org/career-opportunities MARTHA’S VINEYARD REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL seeking applicants for the following: Varsity Girls Head Coach- Ice Hockey Assistant Girls Coach- Ice Hockey Application of Support Staff can be found on our website at www.mvyps. org under Employment; forms or at the Office of the Superintendent of Schools, 4 Pine Street, Vineyard Haven, 02568 508-693-2009 Return completed application to the Superintendent’s Office 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 NOW HIRING MEDIA ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Join our award-winning team! We are seeking a driven, community-minded Account Executive to support our ad sales and marketing efforts. Help local businesses grow while supporting exceptional local journalism. Part-time (20 hrs/wk) with potential for full-time advancement. Primarily in-person with remote fle ibility. 25/hr ( 26k/yr) plus bonus and commission potential. 1-2 years of sales or marketing experience preferred. To apply, email your resume to sean@mvtimes.com.

HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR The Town of Oak Bluffs seeks an experienced and collaborative professional as its Human Resources Director. Reporting to the Town Administrator, this position is responsible for all municipal human resources administration, including recruitment and retention, employee and labor relations, collective bargaining support, personnel policy development, contract administration, workers’ compensation, and compliance with employment laws. Qualified candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree in human resources, public administration, or a related field and a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible human resources management experience. Municipal and union labor relations experience is strongly preferred. Thorough knowledge of employment law, personnel administration, labor relations, and HR best practices required. Salary Range: $47.72–$57.60/hour, DOQ, plus an excellent municipal benefits package. For a complete job description and application instructions, visit oakbluffsma.gov/jobs or contact Human Resources at wbrough@ oakbluffsma.gov. Application deadline is July 2, 2026, at 4:00pm. Oak Bluffs is an EO/ AA Employer.

TO PLACE YOUR JOB LISTING, EMAIL VALERIE@MVTIMES.COM.

classifieds A11

June 11, 2026

Jobs JOB OPPORTUNITIES

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

LAWN MAINTENANCE Established Landscape Design and Build Company has an opening in our Lawn Maintenance Dept. Knowledge of machines helpful. Must have legal working papers, speak ﬂuent English, and have a valid driver’s license. Please email info@indigofarm.com MARTHA’S VINEYARD TRANSIT AUTHORITY (VTA) EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Mobility Manager / Transportation Coordinator – Full Time Salary Negotiable The Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) is seeking a motivated, community-focused individual to assist with transportation education and outreach services for the island community, older adults, and people with disabilities. The ideal candidate must enjoy talking to people and have strong problem-solving skills. Applicants should be comfortable with technology and Microsoft Oﬃce, able to work both independently and collaboratively, and demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills. Experience in training, travel training, outreach, customer service, education, or human services is preferred. VTA is willing to consider splitting the role into two part-time positions if a full-time candidate cannot be secured. Please send resume and cover letter to: Lauren Thomas, Deputy Administrator, info@vineyardtransit.com MILKWEED FARM IS HIRING SEASONAL FARM CREW MEMBERS IN CHILMARK. Full and part-time positions available now through October. Outdoor physical work including harvesting, planting, weeding, and washing produce. Positive attitude and strong work ethic required. Competitive pay based on experience. Email mallory@milkweedfarm-chilmark. com to apply. MVPCS LEARNING FACILITATOR The Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School has an opening for a Learning Facilitator in our special education department starting September 1, 2026. Please email resume, letter of interest, and completed application to Peter Steedman, Director, psteedman@mvpcs.org. Applications can be found on the school website: mvpcs.org MVPCS SCHOOL ADJUSTMENT COUNSELOR The Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School has an opening for a parttime School Adjustment Counselor (LCSW, LICSW or LMHC) for the 2026-2027 school year. Please email resume, letter of interest, and completed application to Peter Steedman, Director, psteedman@mvpcs. org. Applications can be found on the school website: mvpcs.org

MVPCS SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER The Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School has a part-time opening for a Special Education Teacher. Applicants should hold a MA teaching license in Moderate Disabilities or have a degree in special education. Please email resume, letter of interest, and completed application to Peter Steedman, Director, psteedman@mvpcs.org. Applications can be found on the school website at MVPCS.org. NORTH TISBURY FARM HIRING ASSISTANT PRODUCE MANAGER Duties include receiving and inspecting orders, maintaining displays, training and leading staff, and assisting customers. Candidates will be organized, friendly, multitaskers, and communicate well. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. This is a highly active position. Experience preferred but will train the right person. Respond to info@northtisburyfarm.com OFFICE MANAGER Adam T. Incorporated is seeking an O ce Manager for a thriving residential construction rm. This is an opportunity to grow within the company with a good wage and increasing bene ts. Flexible hours 30 to 40 hrs/wk. Must have strong organizational skills, computer savvy, and pro ciency in QuickBooks & Excel. Position requires: processing payroll, invoicing, handling insurances, answering phone, processing building permits, various additional documentation, and have communications w/staff. Training is available. Email resume to adam@adamtinc.com or text to 508-958-4041.

OFFICE STAFF POSITION John Keene Excavation, Inc. is looking for a motivated individual to join our o ce staff. The role includes clerical work, assisting customers, and other o ce-related tasks. This is a year-round position with excellent bene ts. Please stop by our o ce or email us at o ce@johnkeene.com for an application.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

PROJECT ARCHITECT Join a talented, collaborative team creating spaces that combine beauty, function, and sustainability. Guide residential projects through the design/build process, bringing your ideas to life both on-site and in our woodshop. Collaborate with experts across disciplines— woodworkers, timber framers, building scientists, landscape engineers, interior designers, and more—to craft places that inspire and endure for generations. We offer an exceptional, familyfriendly compensation package, including medical/dental/vision insurance (SMCo covers the full deductible), pro t sharing, 401k, and the potential for ownership. Learn more about this position, how to apply, our compensation policy, and our culture at https:// southmountain.com/meet/ 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.

SEEKING ACCOUNTANT to manage accounts payable, cash controls, reconciliations, budget reporting, and month-end close activities. Requires E cel proﬁciency, organization, communication skills, integrity, and independent work. Apply Now https://harborviewhotel. com/careers/ Or contact hr@harborviewhotel.com TEACHER’S ASSISTANT MVPCS The Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School has an opening for a full-time Elementary Teacher’s Assistant to start September 1, 2026. We are looking for a creative, enthusiastic individual wishing to explore or advance a career in education within our project-based learning curriculum. Competitive salary and full beneﬁts provided. Please email a resume and letter of interest to Peter Steedman, School Director, at psteedman@ mvpcs.org and complete an application on our website, www.MVPCS.org.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES TOWN OF TISBURY EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE POLICE CHIEF The Town of Tisbury is looking to fill the position of Executive Assistant to the Police Chief. This is a Management and Professional Position, Grade M-1, step 1 $39.02 or commensurate with experience. Generous benefits package including retirement. Provides administrative support to the Police Chief, Some duties include but are not limited to; Payroll, Answering phones, assisting the public, Invoicing , Turnover, and Assisting with the budget processes. For full job description please visit the town website https://www. tisburyma.gov/human-resource/ pages/employment-opportunities. Town of Tisbury is EOE. Applicants should submit online application found on the Town website www. tisburyma.gov under Human Resources Department employment application, resume and cover letter. Position open until filled. TOWN OF TISBURY IS LOOKING FOR AN ASSISTANT ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER. Must be able to work weekends. Part time unbenefited position pay rate $26.33- $27.87 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 an application found on the town website https://www.tisburyma.gov/ human-resource. open until filled. Town of Tisbury is an EOE. TOWN OF TISBURY SHARED FIRE DEPARTMENT, EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services Department – Administrative Secretary. Town of Tisbury seeks individual to perform secretarial and administrative duties. Administrative support for the activities and operations of the Fire Department including Emergency Management and Emergency Medical Services Department. Specific examples of work include answering phones, budget expenditures, correspondence, payroll and data entry. Full-time (40 hrs/ weekly) year-round, Grade 3 step 1 $33.67 per hour or commensurate with experience, generous benefits package under union contract including retirement. Application available on website under Human Resources. Qualified applicants should submit an application and resume.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

VINEYARD GARDENS IS SEEKING ENERGETIC, MOTIVATED INDIVIDUALS FOR OUR NURSERY AND LANDSCAPE CREW. Openings: Cashier, Landscape Foreman, Garden Designer, Irrigation Specialist, Stone Mason, and Groundskeeper. Eligible positions include health/pension bene ts. Apply online at www.vineyardgardens.net or email your resume to mv@vineyardgardens.net today!

WEST TISBURY POLICE DEPARTMENT FULL TIME POLICE SERGEANT IMMEDIATE OPENING The West Tisbury Police Department is currently accepting applications for the position of Full Time Police Sergeant. Full time M.P.T.C. Academy trained preferred and the ability to be certi ed as a Massachusetts police o cer as de ned by the Peace O cer Standards and Training (POST). Three (3) years minimum prior police experience as a sworn o cer. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, able to obtain a valid MA driver’s license, and able to obtain a license to carry rearms. Applicants must be free of any physical disability that would prevent them from performing all the essential job functions of a police o cer. The West Tisbury Police Department is also accepting lateral transfers, education and experience will be considered in determining the starting step on the current wage scale. Present salary range is $105,999.27 - $149,151.61 with a full bene t package including education incentive and shift differential. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Associates degree or higher is preferred or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Essential Functions: Enforce all Massachusetts laws, local laws and bylaws within the police area of responsibility. Applications and full job description can be obtained by mail, picked up in person, town website, or by email at WTPD@WESTTISBURYMA.GOV during business hours M-F 9am-5pm. If you have any questions regarding the application please contact Lieutenant Gebo, 508-6930020. The application submission process will remain open until the position is lled. Police O cer Recruitment West Tisbury Police Department PO Box 520 454 State Road West Tisbury, MA 02575 (508) 693-0020 WTPD@WESTTISBURY-MA.GOV The Town of West Tisbury is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

VINEYARD HAVEN YACHT CLUB TAKEOUT KITCHEN HELP Fun work with the best view of VH Harbor! Breakfast/Lunch takeout counter kitchen help needed. Experience in food prep preferable, but not required. Competitive pay. Contact galley@vhyc.com. VINEYARD SCRIPTS IS HIRING! WE ARE LOOKING FOR A PARTTIME/FULL-TIME PHARMACY CASHIER. PLEASE STOP BY FOR AN APPLICATION OR SEND YOUR RESUME TO VINEYARD.SCRIPTS@GMAIL.COM. 117 BEACH RD., VH

WE ARE LOOKING TO ADD TO OUR TEAM! The following three positions available are: * Site Supervisor / Experienced Machine Operator – CDL license a plus * * Laborer * * CDL Class A or B Truck Driver * These positions are year-round and include excellent bene ts! Please call our o ce at (508)6935975 or email us at o ce@johnkeene.com

BargainBox 10FT FLAGPOLE. ALUMINUM .May need repainting. Free. Allan 617-676-8160 FREE 2 WOODEN UNDERBED DRAWERS W WHEELS 48”w x 8”h x 25”d. Allan 617-676-8160 FREE 22 FOOT HUNTER SAILBOAT Clean painted bottom, clean cabin,new roller furling sail, 9.9 outboard motor, ready for water, no trailer. 508-627-2139.

MATCHING LEATHER SOFA AND LOVESEAT, FABRIC RECLINER AND SMALL TV STAND Low price negotiable. Please call 267-614-0203. FREE FRIGIDAIRE MICROWAVE 1.1 cubic ft 12” h x 20”w x 15”d. Clean. Allan 617-676-8160 FREE KAYAK. 8’. Red. Fully functional, with very slow minor leak that is ﬁ able by someone with know how. Text 585-781-0301

FREE LIGHTWEIGHT PLASTIC BADMINTON NET. Good for beach. Free. Allan 617-676-8160 NEW AUTOMATIC 4 QUART CORN POPPER With butter ring (a Sears product) $5.00 Call 508-627-8438 THREE SMALL, USED WINDOW AIR CONDITIONERS WITH REMOTES FOR FREE Call Lee at (781) 322-1866,

FOR FREE: GE ELECTRIC STOVE/DOUBLE OVEN IN EXCELLENT SHAPE Small chip in glass top; doesn’t affect the use. Driveway pickup, Chilmark. www.geappliances.com/appliance/ GE-30-Free-Standing-Electric-DoubleOven-Range-JB850DFWW ATOSA 24” Commercial grade undercounter ice maker New, never opened. $1000. 508-627-3744. SEVERAL AIR CONDITIONERS FOR SALE You pick up. 401-480-6194.

Bargain Box ads are free; call and renew after 2 weeks • 24 words maximum Maximum sale price is $100 • Prices must be listed with each item. BUSINESSES MAY LIST FREE ITEMS ONLY. NO LISTINGS FOR ANIMALS. LISTED FLOWERS, GARDEN PLANTS, FIREWOOD, AND MANURE MUST BE FREE.

A Monthly Newsletter from your local Councils on Aging and the Martha’s Vineyard Center for Living Find helpful information on Veterans Services, Travel News, Activities, Individual Town Councils on Aging and more! To place your ad, adsales@mvtimes.com or call 508-693-6100.

A12 classifieds

June 11, 2026

Real Estate

HOUSES-OAK BLUFFS

$1,245,000 MARILYN MOSES 617462-0381 OCEAN PARK REALTY, OAK BLUFFS CLASSIC CAPE Charm meets modern e ciency in this move-in-ready 3-bedroom home. Thoughtfully maintained and beautifully presented, the home features sun- lled living spaces, an updated kitchen, and comfortable bedrooms designed for easy everyday living. Enjoy year-round comfort with energy-e cient minisplit systems providing both heating and air conditioning, offering costeffective climate control in every season. The nished basement adds valuable bonus space ideal for a media room, home o ce or workout room giving you the ﬂexibility to t your lifestyle. Outside, a private yard offers the perfect setting for relaxing or entertaining. A wonderful opportunity for a year-round residence, vacation getaway, or investment...thi s classic Cape blends timeless style with modern upgrades.

$2,250,000 MARILYN MOSES OCEAN PARK REALTY 617-462-0381 NEW CONSTRUCTION Welcome to Lagoon Ridge, Oak Bluffs’ newest and most soughtafter neighborhood. Build your 3bedroom dream home in this elevated enclave, set 95 feet above Lagoon Pond and capturing sweeping sky views, colorful sunsets, and refreshing sea breezes. This exceptional home site represents one of the nal opportunities in this thriving new community.To be built — The Naushon — features 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and over 2,400 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. A grand wrap-around covered porch provides a welcoming entry and the perfect place to enjoy morning coffee or cool evening breezes. Inside, the open-concept ﬂoor plan connects the chef’s kitchen with spacious living and dining areas, ideal for enter taining family and friends. Each bedroom suite includes a tiled en-suite bath with customizable xtures and nishes, and the second-ﬂoor suites may offer private balconies for added relaxation. Classic Oak Bluffs cottage architecture meets modern comfort and energy e ciency, making The Naushon an ideal yearround or seasonal retreat. Lagoon Ridge offers direct access to conservation lands with wal king and biking trails, and nearby Lagoon Pond invites kayaking, sailing, and shell shing. All utilities—electric, town water, and a private, state-ofthe-art Amphidrome wastewater system—are located at the street. This innovative system serves the entire neighborhood, providing convenience and peace of mind. Lagoon Ridge is a covenantprotected community with architectural review and professiona l management by First Property Management Co. This beautiful home site is ready for the construction of your Vineyard dream home. Eleven lots have sold—only two remain available. Call for details!

IMPROVED PRICE: $1,795,000** CONTACT MARILYN MOSES AT 617-462-0381 FOR MORE DETAILS! OCEAN PARK REALTY Discover the beauty of **THE PRESERVE at THE WOODLANDS** in the highly coveted Oak Bluffs community! This is your chance to own one of the last remaining building lots in this prime location, just moments away from town, beaches, harbor, ferry ports, and the Farm Neck Golf & Tennis Club. Underground utilities are already in place, making this rare offering perfect for developing your dream family compound. Enjoy a peaceful and private setting, surrounded by conservation land and trails ideal for hiking, walking, and biking. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to embrace the Oak Bluffs lifestyle!

OAK BLUFFS WATERVIEW LOT FOR SALE $1,200,000 CALL OR TEXT Rene Ben David's Cell 508-847-4864 OCEAN PARK REALTY Welcome to # 0 Temahigan Ave & Dover Street, Oak Bluffs. Build Your Martha’s Vineyard Dream Home. Rare opportunity to own a level, cleared corner lot in desirable Oak Bluffs, with paved roads bordering two sides, ready for construction of your Martha’s Vineyard dream home. Approved for up to 6 bedrooms, this exceptional property includes an approved 6-bedroom septic design, with room for a possible future pool. Located in the sought-after Eastville area, where many homes enjoy beautiful water views, this lot offers the potential to capture stunning views of Vineyard Sound and beyond from a thoughtfully designed home. Create a custom residence that embraces all the beauty and lifestyl e Martha’s Vineyard has to offer. Enjoy a short walk to Eastville Beach, where you can take in spectacular sunsets, watch the ferries come and go, and experience the charm of island living. Just a short drive away, you’ll have access to everything that makes Oak Bluffs so special — additional beaches, shell shing, swimming, boating, and the vibrant energy of Circuit Avenue, featuring boutique shop ping, diverse restaurants, and convenient ferry service to and from the island via the iconic Oak Bluffs Harbor and nearby ports. This is more than just land — it’s an opportunity to create something truly special. Don’t just dream it — make it reality. Owning a piece of Martha’s Vineyard is an investment in a lifestyle you’ll never regret. Please include a preapproval or proof of funds with offer. Seller is offering a buyers broker consideration.

SALE PENDING NEW LISTING IN OAK BLUFFS $999,000 ALAN SCHWEIKERT OCEAN PARK REALTY 508-221-1708 Oak Bluffs: Home Sweet Home Situated on over a quarter acre of beautifully landscaped, level grounds with colorful perennial plantings and mature trees, this sun- lled ranch offers a perfect blend of comfort and charm. The open kitchen, dining, and living areas feature cathedral ceilings, classic vertical knotty pine walls, and a cozy brick replace. Enjoy a convenient rst-ﬂoor bedroom and a spacious second-ﬂoor primary bedroom with a private deck. The nished basement provides additional living or hobby space. Updates include a 2017 oil burner and Roth oil tank. An inviting outdoor shower completes this wellmaintained home, offered furnished and ready for your personal touches. Located in a quie t residential neighborhood close to all that Oak Bluffs has to offer.

SOLD BEING OFFERED BY RENE BEN DAVID/OCEAN PARK REALTY INC. CELL 508-847-4864 $1,250,000 11 ONONDAGA AVE, OAK BLUFFS OPEN HOUSE Comfortable Island Home on a Quiet Dead-End Road in Oak Bluffs: Welcome to 11 Onondaga Avenue, the second home on the left on a short, quiet dead-end road in a wellestablished Oak Bluffs neighborhood enjoyed by both yearround and seasonal residents. This well-cared-for 3-bedroom, 2.5bathroom home offers space, comfort, and a truly inviting island lifestyle—just a short walk to the Oak Bluffs Sailing Camp Park and beach, where beautiful sunsets over the water await. Inside, the openconcept layout connects the kitchen and dining area to the living room, creating a bright and functional space perfect for both entertaining and relaxed daily living. An inviting deck off the dining room extends your living space outdoors into a serene landscaped setting ideal for enjoying meals in the fresh Vineyard air. The home is set on a peaceful lot with both front and back yards offering a sense of seclusion and space to enjoy. Upstairs, the primary bedroom features an en suite with a shower, providing a comfortable and quiet retreat. Two additional bedrooms and a full bath complete the upper level, and a half bath with washer /dryer is conveniently located on the main floor. The full basement includes both indoor and outdoor access, offering flexibility and additional potential. A nished room in the basement is ready for your creative touch—whether as a media room, home o ce, playroom, or guest overflow. The property also includes a spacious storage shed and a driveway that easily ts three to four cars. A new roof installed in 2023 adds peace of mind and value. Located minutes from downtown Oak Bluffs, local beaches, ferries, and all the charm the Vineyard has to offer, this home is ready to be your island getaway, year-round residence, or next investment.

YOU CAN AFFORD TO BUILD ON MARTHA'S VINEYARD Save 1/3 off convention building methods. New homes and additions. High-end home shells are custom designed, constructed in a controlled environment, and delivered to your MV site for about $135/sq.ft. (Estimated price for ﬁnished house: $550/sq.ft.) Packages include: Custom design, post and beams, roof and walls, doors and windows, siding and trim, insulation and ﬂoors. The preconstruction wall and roof panels go up in about 3 weeks. View model in Aquinnah by appointment. (508) 645-3572 Broker participation invited Posner@MVPostAndBeam.com

Real Estate Transactions June 1 – 5, 2026

Aquinnah June 5, Jeffrey Singer and Susan Galford, trustees of Zachary Singer Irrevocable Trust and Emily Singer Irrevocable Trust, sold 0 Goff Beach and property off 0 Moshup Trail to IMHBeachMV LLC for $395,000.

Chilmark June 3, Kay Rentschler, trustee of Kay Rentschler Revocable Trust, sold 31 North Road to Jeanette De Jesus and Jamey Bell for $1,000,000.

Edgartown June 1, Mary Kaye Leonard and John Leonard sold 0 Harborside Inn Unit 502 Week 17 to Rhonda Steele for $780.21. June 4, Paul F. Reilly, also known as Paul Francis Reilly, sold 0 Harborside Inn Condo Unit 453 Week 27 to Sharen Clugston and Thomas Clugston for $20,000. June 5, Sharen Clugston and Thomas Clugston sold 0 Harborside Inn Condo Unit 312 Week 27 to James McCann III and Paige McCann for $10,000.

Oak Bluffs June 2, William M. Anderson, trustee of Anderson Family Investment Trust, sold 23 Circuit Ave. Extension to George Bianchi and Jack Bianchi for $2,450,000.

June 2, Halcott G. Grant, trustee of 16 Atlantic Avenue Realty Trust, sold 16 Atlantic Ave. to 16 Atlantic LLC for $2,450,000. June 5, Christopher J. Priore and Daniel Sidman, trustees of 27 East Side Realty Trust, sold 27 East Side Road to Gail E. Alexander-Howe for $1,175,000. June 5, Joseph D. Lyons sold 28 Barling Ave. to James H. Ray and Elise Ray for $968,750.

Tisbury June 1, Blair J. Emin and Glenda Emin Briggs sold 73 Old Country Road and 0 Country Road to Tekomah Goggins and Kseniia Goggins for $1,000,000. June 4, William F. Binzen and Nancy G. Binzen, trustee of F. William Binzen & Nancy G. Binzen Revocable Trust, sold 57 Hines Point Road to Alison L. Baird and Patricia R. Mintmire, trustee of Alison Baird Revocable Trust, for $5,000,000. June 4, the Estate of Martha M. Child and Amy R. Goodwin, as an individual and trustee of the Martha M. Child Trust Agreement of 2009, sold 17 Mariner Road to Charles T. Felder for $800,000.

PRIVACY MEETS CONVENIENCE IN OAK BLUFFS JAYNE ISFORD | 203-962-4317 $1,795,000 Nestled at the end of a quiet street, this roomy and spacious Cape-style home offers privacy and convenience just a short distance to the Oak Bluffs School, town center, and within walking distance to the Lagoon. Sun- lled main level with open ﬂoor plan, large windows, and a generous kitchen with ample counter space, opening to the dining area. Sliders lead to a back deck, yard, and bluestone patio ..perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Radiant heated ﬂoors in the primary suite and lower-level playroom. Twocar garage with bonus space above. Beautiful stonework driveway. Updated furnace (2020) and water heater (2024).

LAND BANK

WEEKLY INCOME FY 2026, Year to Date:

$17,819,900.75

$900,000 $999,986.00

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Weekly Registrar’s Report: June 5, 2026

PRICE IMPROVEMENT 46 KENNEBEC AVENUE OAK BLUFFS, MA $$1,495,000 CALL OR TEXT ALAN SCHWEIKERT 508-221-1708 OR MICHAEL SCHWEIKERT 774-563-9112 OCEAN PARK REALTY This exquisite Victorian home, lovingly preserved by the same family for over a generation, stands in outstanding condition and is perfectly situated in the vibrant heart of Oak Bluffs Center. Enjoy the convenience of being just steps away from the Public Beach, Steamship Authority, Oak Bluffs Harbor, a supermarket, and a variety of charming restaurants and shops that contribute to Oak Bluffs' allure as a premier summer destination on Martha's Vineyard. This delightful three-season cottage has been carefully modernized over the years, offering a rare investment opportunity. Located within the highly sought-after B1 Zone, this residence has been cherished as a family home while also providing the potential for commercial endeavors. The property features a welldesigned floor plan that includes four bedrooms-one conveniently located on the rst floor-along with a full bathroom, two half bathrooms, a laundry storage area, an eat-in kitchen, and a cozy living room. The home is adorned with stunning wood flooring throughout, bright and airy rooms with original windows, a new hot water on demand system, and a charming front porch, perfect for leisurely afternoons. With its four bedrooms and prime in-town location, this property offers substantial rental potential, making it an exceptional opportunity for both personal enjoyment and investment.

SOLD & CLOSED IN 30 DAYS $1,995,000 CALL OR TEXT MARILYN MOSES 617-462-0381 HOUSE & STUDIO ABOVE GARAGE~ Welcome to 26 Tia Anna Lane! This exquisite residence is immaculate, stylish, and fully renovated, ready to welcome its new owners! Situated on a beautifully landscaped 0.30acre lot adorned with vibrant plantings, the home boasts pristine conditions both inside and out, featuring newer Hardi Plank siding. The inviting farmer's porch, complete with Mahogany decking, sets the tone for this charming property, while a lovely pergola graces the back of the house. Upon entering, you are welcomed by a whitewashed wood with high ceiling that enhances the warm ambiance. The ﬂooring throughout the home is rst-growth Southern Pine, meticulously crafted with pegged and bunged details. The expansive entrance leads into the living and kitchen areas, which are bathed in natural light, creating an airy atmosphere. Uncover the charm of the wood-burning stove nestled in the family room, equipped with a circulating fan adds warmth, e ciency and focal point for gatherings. Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate the kitchen, which is out tted with stainless steel GE Cafe Series appliances, attractive quartz countertops, walk in pantry and ample cabinet space to store all your cooking essentials. The screened porch offers an ideal setting for entertaining guests or enjoying a peaceful morning coffee amidst the lush surroundings. All bathrooms in the home have been meticulously renovated, ensuring modern elegance and functionality, while custom window treatments elevate the aesthetic. Additional updates include, a hot water heater (installed in 2020), pull-down stairs to a fully insulated attic (upgraded in 2021), energy-e cient heat and air conditioning with mini-splits, in ground sprinkler system for easy maintenance and a forced hot water boiler for optimal comfort throughout the year. The beautifully landscaped yard provides ample space for outdoor enjoyment, and deeded access to the Lagoon from Gull Landing opens up opportunities for kayaking, swimming, shing, boating, clamming or simply savoring the picturesque waterfront scenery. Call now for your private tour!

SOLD COASTAL CHIC CONDO PRICE IMPROVEMENT $1,149,000 SENGEKONTACKET WATERFRONT COMMUNITY | MARTHA’S VINEYARD Stylish, sunlit, and superbly located — this architecturally designed endunit townhouse offers 2 bedrooms, a flexible third-floor loft, and 1.5 baths across 1,323 sq. ft. Enjoy a sleek chef’s kitchen with stone countertops, custom built-ins, and a 288 sq. ft. private deck ideal for entertaining. With upgraded flooring, windows, systems, and a successful rental history, this property is perfect for year-round living or as a strong investment. Community amenities include: • Access to fresh & saltwater ponds • Ocean access dock + boat ramp • Clubhouse, tennis/pickleball court s • Kayak storage + potential mooring • Minutes to Farm Neck, bike paths & beaches Offered $1,149,000 Exclusively by: Marilyn Moses | REALTOR® 617-462-0381 | marilyn@oceanparkmv.com

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June 11, 2026

HOUSES-OAK BLUFFS

SOLD PRICE ADJUSTMENT,NOW $2,600,000 COMMERCIAL B-2 OR RESIDENTIAL OFFERED BY RENE’ BEN DAVID/ REALTOR ®, OCEAN PARK REALTY INC. 23 Circuit Ave Extension Cell 508-847-4864 3 bedrooms/1 bathroom, Rare Opportunity with Endless Possibilities – Unmatched Harbor & Vineyard Sound Views. Location, Location, Location! A truly rare offering in the heart of Oak Bluffs, where properties like this seldom become available. Positioned directly across from the iconic Oak Bluffs Harbor, this property boasts unobstructed harbor views and sweeping vistas of Vineyard Sound— a setting that captures the very best of island living. From your front yard, watch ferries come and go, boats drift through the harbor, and enjoy the stunning backdrop of open water stretching toward Vineyard Sound. This is a property that puts you right in the middle of everything, while still offering the charm and character of a classic island home. Zoned B-2 Commercial, the op portunities are truly endless. Continue the legacy of a successful tourist-oriented business like the longtime Anderson Bike Rentals, create a new commercial venture, or reimagine the property as your personal dream home. Whether you renovate the existing structure or build from the ground up, you’ll bene t from one of the most visible and vibrant locations in Oak Bluffs. Walk to everything—ferries, beaches, the marina, restaurants, movies, shopping, Ocean Park con certs, the OB shing pier, and the beloved Oak Bluffs Fireworks. This is a must-see, legacy property with rare potential in a location that can’t be beat. Very easy to show. Pre-approval or proof of funds required with all offers.

Classifieds

Real Estate HOUSES-OAK BLUFFS

SOLD FULL PRICE IN 5 DAYS !! $895,000 CALL OR TEXT MARILYN MOSES 617-462-0381 Charming year-round renovated Victorian cottage in the historic Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, located in the heart of Wesleyan Grove in Oak Bluffs. This 3-bedroom, 1-bath home features shiplap walls, knotty pine ceilings, original wood ﬂooring, and sun- lled interiors throughout. The updated kitchen offers quartz countertops, a farmhouse sink, stylish lighting, and newer energy-e cient appliances. Improvements include Marvin wood windows, a newer roof, hot water tank, and energy-e cient heat pumps for AC and heat. Enjoy a welcoming front porch with colorful gardens and a slate patio with fenced garden space for outdoor dining and relaxing. Just steps to Circuit Avenue, Oak Bluffs Harbor, and nearby be aches.

COMMERCIAL-VINEYARD HAVEN OFFICE FOR RENT IN VINEYARD HAVEN. 1,200 sqft Beach Road location for oﬃce use only. Call 508-627-2750.

Island news daily

HOUSES-VINEYARD HAVEN

SOLD $2,400,000 Marilyn Moses 617-462-0381, Michael Schweikert 774-563-9112, Alan Schweikert 508—221-1708 15 Main Street Vineyard Haven $2,900,000 Prime Commercial Building – Main Street, Vineyard Haven Exceptional opportunity in the heart of downtown Vineyard Haven. This well-maintained mixed-use property offers over 3,100 sq ft of versatile space, featuring two ground-floor retail storefronts with excellent street visibility and two updated 1bedroom apartments above—ideal for staff housing or rental income. A full basement provides flexible storage or utility space, and deeded rear access allows for deliveries and logistical ease. Recent updates include plumbing improvements and a fully renovated apartment. Whether you're an investor seeking steady income, a business owner looking for a fla gship location, or a developer exploring mixed-use potential, this property delivers exceptional value in one of Martha’s Vineyard’s most desirable commercial corridors.

HOUSES-WEST TISBURY WALK TO LAMBERT’S COVE BEACH From the lush setting of this 3-bdrm main house with a delightful 2-story guest house. Rinse off at nearby Seth’s Pond before dinner at the Inn...treasures of the island a short stroll away. $1,400,000. Tashmoo Realty 508-364-5061 hollyalaimo@gmail.com

COMMERCIAL RENTALS

1300+SF OF PRIME RETAIL SPACE! Rare opportunity to rent this high visibility location on bustling Main St in Vineyard Haven. Beautiful high ceilings and large picture window invite customers in. Available 8/1. Possiblity exists for 7/1. Y/R preferred, pop-up may be considered. Call Amy (510) 559-0222 FURNISHED 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.

SUMMER RENTALS

SUMMER RENTAL 3 bedroom 2 bath, outside deck, grill, outside shower, big yard, across from bike path. In Katama. $2,000-$4,000/week, June to middle of August. 774-563-2806.

HOUSES FOR RENT

YEAR ROUND OB 1BR SHARED HOUSE LEASE. Available 6/15. First, last, security. No smoking. No vaping. No pets. Clean, quiet roommate sought. Text 508-645-6247.

APARTMENTS/ROOMS

ROOM SHARE BEDS Available $250 per person per week. 3 weeks = $750 upfront to move in. Must be kind, clean and quiet. Email story/details to pacnwest1@ yahoo.com 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.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

Dressage/jumper- famous sire in Olympics! Indoor arena and out door ring. Also his friend Diamond. For trails and light ring work much less expensive. Text Lisa 310-2135472.

BOAT SALES

YARD SALES

ESTATE SALE Sat. June 13, 9am-2pm 47 Ice Pond Rd, Oak Bluffs. Quality dining & living room furniture, other small furnishings. Cash Only. No early birds please.

ARTICLES FOR SALE

EXTERIOR/INTERIOR AUTOMATED STAIRLIFT. 200” (16’8”) long, can be shortened. Gray. Brand new, unused. Built by Staying Home Corp. Legacy II Stairlift Model SL19. Can be seen at www.stayinghome.com. $500 or best offer. Allan 617-676-8160 SKIP THE SPA. BRING IT HOME Premium Platinum Spas hot tubs and cold plunges, now available on MV. Relax. Recover. Recharge. Quality construction, premium components, delivery included, and local support from Vineyard Pool & Spa. 508-693-6636 Your best vacation might be in your own backyard.

BOAT SALES

2007 SNARK SUNFLOWER SAILBOAT FOR SALE! It's in excellent condition and ready to sail. Cost $990. Call Shep to learn more and get sailing! (508) 693-8900.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

HORSES FOR HALF LEASE TO GOOD RIDERS ONLY. Stunning ﬂoating gaits. Lovable and gorgeous chestnuts both. Enzo:

MARSHALL SANDERLING 18’ SAILBOAT – CLASSIC CENTERBOARD CATBOAT WITH TILLER. Sails beautifully in shallow water and can be beached — the quintessential Cape Cod/Martha’s Vineyard boat. Includes trailer, sail, cushions, life vests, bronze step — fully equipped and ready to enjoy. Stored under tarp; needs wash and fresh bottom/cockpit paint. $6,400 OBO. Vineyard sale preferred. Must pick up; seller cannot transport. Text for details (407) 625-1475 SUNFISH SAILBOAT Excellent condition. Not used much at all. One owner and no trailer. $2,500.00 Call 401-578-9827.

LOST & FOUND

LOST SMALL SQUARE WHITE VINYL BOAT CUSHION BETWEEN VH AND AQUINNAH. 508-645-3667. LOST. Key fob for a Subaru. May 24th. Either at MV Film Society back lot or MVCMA area. Please call 860-460-3868. TOOL WITH BATTERY FOUND In the road near the Old County and Edgartown/West Tis Road on Saturday May 30th. Text (508) 221-3262 to identify

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, French Drain Installation. 508-684-0242., RENATO myhandymaninmv@gmail.com

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Legal Notices LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES TISBURY

PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE OF SALE, NOTICE OF MORTGAGEE’S SALE OF REAL ESTATE, Premises: 42 Kaeka Lane, West Tisbury, Massachusetts 02575, By virtue and in execution of the Power of Sale contained in a certain mortgage given by Dwight K. Kaeka, Elizabeth M. Kaeka, Shirley G. Kaeka and Daniel Kaeka to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Capital One Home Loans, LLC, dated July 10, 2007, and recorded with the Dukes County of Deeds in Book 1128, Page 757, of which mortgage the undersigned is the present holder by assignment of mortgage from Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. to Bank of America, NA, successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing LP FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing LP, dated December 11, 2012, and recorded with said Registry in Book 1301, Page 540, and by assignment of mortgage from Bank of America, NA to GreenTree Servicing LLC, dated June 20, 2013, and recorded with said Registry in Book 1322, Page 546, and by assignment of mortgage from Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc as nominee for Capital One Home Loans, LLC to Bank of America, NA, Successor by Merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing LP FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing LP, dated October 12, 2018, and recorded with said Registry in Book 1479, Page 794, and by assignment of mortgage from Ditech Financial, LLC FKA GreenTree Servicing LLC to US Bank Trust, NA as Trustee for

LSF10 Master Participation Trust, dated October 12, 2018, and recorded with said Registry in Book 1479, Page 796, and by assignment by Judgment to US Bank Trust N.A., as Trustee for LSF10 Master Participation Trust, dated April 8, 2025, and recorded with said Registry in Book 1709, Page 61, for breach of the conditions of said mortgage and for the purpose of foreclosing the same will be sold by Public Auction at 12:00 o’clock P.M. on the 8th day of July, 2026 at the mortgaged premises located at 42 Kaeka Lane, West Tisbury, Dukes County, Massachusetts, all and singular the premises described in said mortgage, To wit: THE LAND SITUATED IN WEST TISBURY, COUNTY OF DUKES COUNTY, COMMONWELTH OF MASSACHUSETTS, BOUNDED AND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEING LOT NO. 3 AS SHOWN ON “A PLAN OF LAND IN WEST TISBURY, MASS., PREPARED FOR DANIEL K. KAEKA III, SCALE: 1” = 100”, APRIL 15, 1981, SMITH & DOWLING, ENGINEERS, SURVEYORS, PLANNSERS, STATE ROAD, POST OFFICE BOX 1087, VINEYARD HAVEN, MASS. 02568” RECORDED WITH DUKES COUNTY REGISTRY OF DEEDS IN WEST TISBURY CASE FILE NO. 207A, TO WHICH PLAN REFERENCE IS HEREBY MADE FOR A MORE PARTICULARL DESCRIBED AND CONTAINING 1.67 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, ACCORDING TO SAID PLAN. TAX ID#: 30 14 BY FEE SIMPLE DEED FROM DANIEL K. KAEKA, III AND

SHIRLEY G. KAEKA AS SET FORTH IN DEED BOOK 558. PAGE 717 AND RECORDED ON 6/6/1991, DUKES COUNTY RECORDS. THE SOURCE DEED AS STATED ABOVE IS THE LAST RECORD OF VESTING FILED FOR THIS PROPERTY THERE HAVE BEEN NO VESTING CHANGES SINCE THE DATE OF THE ABOVE REFERENCED SOURCE. Premises to be sold and conveyed subject to and with the benefit of all rights, rights of way, restrictions, easements, covenants, liens or claims in the nature of liens, improvements, public assessments, any and all unpaid taxes, tax titles, tax liens, water and sewer liens and any other municipal assessments or liens or existing encumbrances of record which are in force and are applicable, having priority over said mortgage, whether or not reference to such restrictions, easements, improvements, liens or encumbrances is made in the deed. TERMS OF SALE: A deposit of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) by certified or bank check will be required to be paid by the purchaser at the time and place of sale. High bidder to sign written memorandum of sale upon acceptance of the high bid. The balance of the purchase price is to be paid by certified or bank check at Friedman Vartolo LLP, 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160, Garden City, New York 11530, within thirty (30) days from the date of the sale. Deed will be provided to purchaser for recording upon receipt in full of the purchase

price. In the event of an error in this publication, the description of the premises contained in said mortgage shall control. Other terms, if any, to be announced at the sale. U.S. Bank Trust National Association, not in its individual capacity, but solely as Trustee of LSF10 Master Participation Trust, Present holder of said mortgage by its Attorneys, Friedman Vartolo LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160, Garden City, New York 11530 THE BOARD OF THE FRIENDS OF THE UP ISLAND COUNCIL ON AGING Will hold their Annual Meeting on Thursday, July 8, 2026, at 10 am at the Howes House, 1042 State Road, West Tisbury. Members of the Friends of the Up Island Council on Aging and interested members of the public are welcome to attend.

located at 86 Beach Rd. Locus: 52 Beach Rd., Tisbury, Ma Assessor’s Parcel 09-C-11 Property Owner: Packer RM CO Inc Applicant: Richard Mast Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom. us/j/81300569131 Meeting ID: 813 0056 9131 Passcode: 108998 A copy of the application and plans are available to review. Please send an email to tisburyplanningboard@tisburyma. gov with your request. Interested parties are invited to send comments and/or attend the virtual meeting.

Transportation Program Manager Martha’s Vineyard Commission P.O. Box 1447 Oak Bluffs, MA 02557 Serve on the Up-Island Regional School Committee The Up-Island Regional School District is currently seeking candidates to serve on the school committee. If you believe you can make a meaningful impact on the future of our schools, this is your chance. School committee members play an important role in the oversight of the island’s schools. As a member, you would: •Set the district’s vision and policy, establishing long-term educational goals in alignment with state law, while leaving day-to-day operations to the superintendent •Oversee the Up-Island Regional School District and other budgets, reviewing and voting on annual spending, allocating resources, and approving payroll and accounts payable •Hire and evaluate the superintendent, including participation in collective bargaining with teachers and staff •Represent the community, advocating for the district’s needs, with a primary obligation to the students we serve Nomination papers are available at the Superintendent’s Office at 4 Pine Street in Vineyard Haven, and must be submitted for certification no later than 5:00 PM on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. If you have any questions about the role or time commitment, please contact the Superintendent’s office at (508) 693-2007.

LEGAL NOTICES TISBURY

TOWN OF TISBURY Oﬃce of PLANNING BOARD PO BOX 602 VINEYARD HAVEN, MASSACHUSETTS WWW.TISBURYMA.GOV NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Pursuant to MGL Ch. 40A, s. 9; and section 06.06.03, 06.06.08 of the Tisbury Zoning Bylaw, the Tisbury Planning Board will hold a hybrid (zoom link below) public hearing on July 1st, 2026 at 5pm at the Town Hall Annex at 66 Highpoint Lane and via zoom at a regularly scheduled meeting to consider a change of operator for the food establishment

PUBLIC NOTICES

DRAFT FFY 2027 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) The Martha’s Vineyard Commission (MVC) Joint Transportation Committee (JTC) has released the Draft FFY 2027 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) for 21-day public review and comment period at its May 26th , 2026, JTC meeting. UPWP SUMMARY: The FFY 2027 UPWP describes and provides budgetary information for the transportation planning tasks and activities, which are to be conducted in the region during the coming year. The UPWP is a federally required certification document, which must be prepared and endorsed by the Martha’s Vineyard JTC, prior to the start of the planning program. Please send written comments to Michael Mauro by June 16 th , via email at: mauro@mvcommission.org Michael Mauro

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD TODAY! EMAIL VALERIE@MVTIMES.COM, OR CALL 508-693-6100.

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news

June 11, 2026

obituaries Maurice Robert Dore

Maurice Robert Dore

(“Maury”), 93, died on Tuesday afternoon, June 2, 2026, at his home in Edgartown, surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Susan Dore. A private burial will be held in the New Westside Cemetery. A complete obituary will appear in a future edition of this paper.

Marie-Louise Jeanne Rouff Marie-Louise Jeanne Rouff

Marie-Louise Jeanne Rouff died on May 13, 2026, at the age of 96, after a long and full life marked by resilience, creativity, and devotion to the arts. Born on Jan. 18, 1930, in Redange-sur-Attert, Luxembourg, Marie-Louise was the daughter of Louis and Katherine Rouff.

She came of age during World War II, alongside her three sisters, Margrette, Jeanne, and Marie-Anne, and her brother, Franz. During the German occupation of Luxembourg, her father refused to collaborate, resulting in the loss of his government post and his children being removed from school. Her parents sheltered American soldiers in their attic during the war, and kept packed suitcases by the front door, in case the Nazis came for the family in the middle of the night. In 1951 Marie-Louise married David Henderson and moved to northern India, where David managed a tea plantation. She was immediately struck by the colors, flavors, and smells of India, so different from Luxembourg. After her marriage to David proved unsuccessful, she spent time exploring India. After concluding her diploma at the Sorbonne, she met Peter Pastreich, who was studying French literature during his junior year abroad. Marie-Louise eventually joined Peter in the U.S., and received her masters of arts in French literature from Middlebury College in 1962. In 1963, she married Peter and moved with him to Nashville, Tenn., where she taught French at Vanderbilt University. In 1964, she gave birth to her son Emanuel. After a brief stint in Kansas City, where MarieLouise taught French at the

Dukes County Regional Housing Authority 21 Mechanic St., Vineyard Haven

University of Missouri, she and Peter settled in St. Louis, Mo., where her son Michael was born in 1966. Inspired by her father’s pencil drawings, Marie-Louise pursued formal training in painting at Washington University’s School of Fine Arts, and received a BFA in 1974. In the following years, her painting shifted from a focus on semirepresentational still life to highly rendered watercolor. In 1992, Marie-Louise married Robert Paul Levine, and together they moved to Carmel Valley, Calif. There she continued to produce landscape and still life paintings, and branched out to large canvas abstract painting. In 2009, Marie-Louise and Paul moved to Martha’s Vineyard, and quickly joined a vibrant community. MarieLouise continued developing her abstract and landscape painting. She was profiled as a painter and gardener in The Martha’s Vineyard Times, the Vineyard Gazette, and Martha’s Vineyard Arts & Ideas. Throughout her career, Marie-Louise was represented by art galleries in Luxembourg, Carmel and Carmel Valley, San Francisco, and Tokyo, among other cities. Her work is to be found in the permanent collections of Luxembourg’s Mudam Museum of Modern Art and the St. Louis Art Museum. Marie-Louise was exception-

habitatforhumanitymv.org

ally active into her 90s while continuing to live at her home. While she struggled at times losing her mobility and her memory, she approached the challenges with humility and humor, often saying it was her mission to become friends with death. She was laid to rest in a green burial at Vineyard Haven Cemetery. She is survived by her brother, Franz (Annette); sons Emanuel (spouse Yo) and Michael (Stephanie), stepsons Greg (Jennifer) and Jason (Brigitte), and stepdaughter Mathea; as well as her grandchildren, Benjamin, Rachel, Meghan, Karina, Erik, Oliver, Lola, Isabella, Delilah, and Zora. Her joy was irresistible, her spirit and wisdom touched by many. “There’s no such thing as an easy, smooth path,” she remarked, “you just live your life.” “Basically we as artists are incredibly lucky. To see the world the way we do, can you imagine if you didn’t have that?”

Eugene W. Bergeron

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Eugene Bergeron Jr., known to most as Gene, Geno, Dad, Grandpa, and friend. On June 2, surrounded by the love of his family, Gene left this world and entered into the presence of the Lord. Gene was a man defined by unwavering faith, quiet strength, and a heart bigger than anyone could describe. Diagnosed with cancer at just 19 years old, he spent much of his life facing health challenges that would have broken most people. Yet time and time again, he fought his way through them. His beloved wife Beverly often joked that he was like Houdini — always finding a way to come out the other side. Above all else, Gene loved God, his family, and this Island. He shared a beautiful love story with his wife Beverly, who had been by his side since they were 15 years old. Through every season of life, they were inseparable. If you saw one, you knew the other wasn’t far behind. Gene was the most incredible father, grandfather, husband, and friend. His love for his children was unmatched, and his family was always his greatest source of pride and joy. He showed that love not only through words but through sacrifice, hard work, and unwavering support. For more than 40 years, Gene dedicated himself to Cranberry Acres, and spent a lifetime

caring for the land he loved. As a gifted landscaper, woodsman, and builder, his work can be seen throughout Martha’s Vineyard — from Blue Heron Farm to the Agricultural Hall, and countless homes, farms, and fields in between. His legacy will continue through his son, who now carries on the landscaping business Gene built with his own hands. His presence can still be felt everywhere on this Island — in every freshly cut lawn, every sunflower and dahlia blooming, every field he cared for, every tree he trimmed, and every life he touched. Everywhere you go, you can see the mark Gene left behind. Gene loved life’s simple pleasures: time on the water, cheering on his grandchildren from the stands, tending flowers with Bev, helping a neighbor in need, and sharing stories with friends. His home and heart were always open. Above all, Gene will be remembered for his faith, generosity, resilience, humility, and enormous heart. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, hard work, and devotion to family that will continue for generations. Gene is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly; his children, Mary, Gene, and Sarah; his cherished grandchildren, Joseph and Ava; his extended family members, Ashley, Jon, and Tim; and countless friends and loved ones who were blessed to know him and will carry his memory in their hearts forever. A burial was held on June 8 at the New Westside Cemetery in Edgartown. He was laid to rest beside his mother-in-law, Mary Jackson. In honor of Gene, we ask that you spread a little kindness, lend a helping hand, tell a good story, and take a moment to appreciate the simple things in life — because that’s exactly how he lived. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” –Matthew 25:23

Jane Kentnor Dean

Jane Kentnor Dean of

Edgartown died peacefully at home, surrounded by her loved ones, on May 31, 2026. She was 91. Born in Bridgeport, Conn., on Dec. 16, 1934, she grew up in Southport, Conn., and was the daughter of Charles and Jeanette Kentnor. Jane was board president of the Fairfield Villages Wellesley Club, the Junior League of

Bridgeport, and Pequot Library in Southport. She was the first director of development at Greens Farms Academy from 1974 to 1984, and went on to become a senior executive at the Advertising Council in New York City, and later a consultant in development at the U.N. International School in New York, and at other nonprofits. She graduated from the Bolton School (now Greens Farms Academy [GFA]) in 1952, and Wellesley College with the class of ’56. She was proud to be the recipient of the Hoyt O. Perry award for her long service to the Pequot Library in Southport, and the GFA Distinguished Alumni Award. A separate award, the Jane Kentnor Dean ’52 Award, is presented annually to a GFA student recognized for outstanding service to the school. In 2015, Jane’s work and passion for Wellesley was recognized when she was chosen to receive the Sed Ministrare Volunteer Award. The award recognized the joy Jane experienced for more than six decades serving both her class and her Wellesley clubs in leadership roles, including president, 50th reunion co-chair, and 60th reunion special gifts chair. Jane’s large, intergenerational network of friends gave her many opportunities to pursue her favorite hobby — mentoring younger friends as they pursued nonprofit ventures and careers in service of others. She always attributed her long and healthy life to these friends, who enriched her and supported her in joy and in challenging times. Jane’s motto was “Connect, connect connect!” She never missed an opportunity to plug her latest favorite book, person, or project. She and her husband George had a home in Edgartown for 35 years, where they summered with a house full of friends, family, and colleagues, with most days spent entertaining on their front porch. Their home was well known for the Deans’ Fourth of July parties, which grew every year. She was preceded in death by her husband, George Alden Dean, Princeton ’52 (2003); and her son, Jeffrey Pratt (2018). Jane’s beloved family members who survive her include her daughter, Susan Pratt (Fernando), of Edgartown, and Susan’s son, Harlin; brother, Charlie (Elen) Kentnor, of Delaware; stepchildren, George (Marianne) Dean Jr. and children Charlotte and Mac, of California, and Diane (John) Dean Stocks, and children, Matt, Drew, Nick, and Kate of Massachusetts. A funeral in celebration of Jane’s life will be held at Trinity Church in Southport, Conn., on Saturday, June 27 at 11 am, and live-streamed on YouTube. A burial will take place at St. Andrew’s Church in Edgartown on Saturday, July 4, at 11 am. Gifts in her memory may be sent to Trinity Church, at 651 Pequot Ave., Southport, CT 06890, which served as the foundation of her faith, or to

Continued on A15

news A15

June 11, 2026

fishing report

The tug on the line BY LISA BELCASTRO beach, time on the boat, time with family, time soaking up the sunshine after a very long winter. Simply put, time on the water is time well spent. At the end of the day, if there hasn’t been a tug on the line, it’s still been a great day. At the end of the day, if I’ve felt the tug, listened to my line peel, finessed a fish to shore, released it or put one in the cooler, a great day has become a fin-tastic day.

Anna McLaughlin landed the biggest fish of the day, a beautiful 37-inch striper.

Russell E. Swartz Visiting hours for Russell E. Swartz of Edgartown and Bonita Springs, Fla., will be held at Chapman Funerals and Cremations in Oak Bluffs on Friday, June 19, from 5 until 7 pm. A graveside service will be held the following day, Saturday, June 20, at 11:30 am at Oak Grove Cemetery in Vineyard Haven.

2026. We invite all who knew and loved her to join us on Friday, June 26, from 2 to 5 pm, at the Grange Hall in West Tisbury.

Grace Ann Collins

Hilary A. Blocksom Hilary A. Blocksom of West

Tisbury died on March 7, 2026. She was being cared for at Bridges by Epoch in Mashpee, after a fall in March 2025. There will be a celebration of life for Hilary on June 20, at the Agricultural Hall, details to be announced, and a full obituary will follow in another edition of this paper.

Linda Rose Tilton Linda Rose Tilton died peacefully at her home, surrounded by her children, on Feb. 4,

Lisa Belcastro with a keeper striper. After a thank-you kiss, the fish was released.

didn’t have a scale with him — he did weigh in the first and only May bluefish for the MVSA In-House Derby. Congratulations, Ralph! Our plans for kayaking Friday morning changed the minute my buddy Capt. Ed Smith texted and said he was putting Tenacious in the water for the first time on Friday and asked if we wanted to go out. Hello? Forget the kayaks. We met Capt. Ed, Donnie Benefit, and our friend Anna McLaughlin, who’s going to spend the summer as the first mate aboard Tenacious, at the slip in Edgartown. We motored out, took a ride over toward Oak Bluffs, didn’t see any big fish, then doubled back and cruised toward Wasque and the breach. The day was near perfect for May, and plenty of boats were on the water near us. Dave and Anna put the first lines in the water. Within minutes, Dave was on. We all cheered and shouted “Dave on!” or the shortened version, “Davon.” Not only did Dave have a fish on the line, but he was using a lure that he’d reeled in last fall. Capt. Ed had saved it, put new hooks on, and put two words on the lure: “DAVE ON.” You better believe Dave will be using that lure this fall during the Derby. Dave’s black sea bass lived to see another day, and it was my turn on the rod. I let the line out, watching colors unspool until I saw the second flash of dark pink, my fingers itching to feel the slam of fish hitting the plug.

We saw people hooking up around us. My turn was coming. It was going to happen. Bam! Adrenaline shot through my veins. The fish tugged. I reeled. I got him to the boat, and the striper was a keeper. No one, and I do mean no one on the boat, said they wanted a fish for dinner. Dave took a couple of quick pictures, and we released him. Capt. Ed maneuvered the boat back around to the same location I hooked up. When Anna’s fish hit, her rod bent over like a gymnast doing backflips. We knew she had a decent fish. She brought the fish in like a pro. Her striper was over 37 inches and went back into the ocean. Suddenly, Capt. Ed starts in on not having anything for dinner. Mumbling something about having to eat hot dogs since Anna’s fish was too big and I released my keeper. We saw lots of other folks reeling in stripers. It wasn’t nonstop fish, but the bass were there. We never saw a bluefish, but those stripers were gorgeous. It was a fintastic morning! I’ll never hear the end of the hot dogs. You can probably guess what I’m bringing on the boat next time! I’m gearing up my truck to be back out on Chappy this weekend, and I’m hoping to snag some squid and live-line for bass one night this week. Anyone out there finding bluefish? I hope to see you on the beach, and I hope no one is eating hot dogs for dinner that night.

ter, Courtney; her son-in-law, Donny; her sister, Mary; and many extended family members, friends, and members of the recovery community whose lives she touched deeply. Her family will remember her for her strength, humor, resilience, generosity, enormous heart, and for the way she made people feel cared for, seen, and at home. A celebration of life will be announced soon. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Grace’s favorite organization supporting those in recovery, the Vineyard House, online at vineyardhouse.org/donate-now.

2026. He was a lifelong visitor to Martha’s Vineyard, and a year-round resident for 10 years, before moving to Revere. Peter is survived by his brother, Chad Crumm; his sister, Nina Davis; his nephew, Sam Crumm, and niece, Olivia Crumm. He was predeceased by his brother, Nicholas Crumm. In a private family gathering, Peter will be buried next to his parents in the Lambert’s Cove Cemetery. Any charitable donation in his memory to Harbor Homes of Martha’s Vineyard, P.O. Box 4795, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568, would be welcome and most appreciated.

obituaries

Continued from A14 Pequot Library, 720 Pequot Ave., Southport, CT 06890, or to Wellesley College, online at bit. ly/WC_donate.

My teammate Dave has the most organized fishing truck in the history of fishing vehicles. We had everything we needed in that truck. Dave had opted not to bring the big fish cooler, and we still had everything we needed. Hours of casting and chatting with friends, and not so much as a hit. Time didn’t wait for the fish to arrive, and before we knew it, we had to leave the beach. Ralph Peck-

PHOTOS: DAVE BALON

’d done some fishing this spring. I’d caught fish, even landed my first red drum, or red fish, on a quick two-day trip to the Chesapeake. But when Dave Balon suggested he was gonna take a couple of days off to fish, I was sorting my gear before we finished our phone call. Dave and I strategized all week. We really wanted to be on Chappy. The weather looked decent, and we’d be fishing a falling tide until around 3, then have 30 to 45 minutes to fish the change until we had to head out for meetings. Yes, evening meetings that were, somehow, slightly more important than fishing in May. Fishing reports were hit or miss: hits for bass, and lots of misses for bluefish. We planned Thursday on Chappy for blues, Friday sunrise in the kayaks for bass; Friday afternoon and Saturday were more Chappy time for whatever swam our way. Driving onto the Chappy Ferry is one of life’s special gifts. It’s the moment you know you’re only a few minutes from the beach, from toes in the sand, from lines in the water, and maybe, just maybe, from a tug on the line. It’s not all about the tug. Most fishermen I know enjoy time on the water simply because it’s time outside, time with friends, time on the

ham pulled up just as we were gearing down. Ralph is a bluefish magnet, but even he hadn’t hooked one yet. As Ralph walked toward the water, I looked at Dave and, with a mix of awe and envy, said, “As soon as we leave, he’s going to land the first blue for the MVSA board.” Sometimes I hate being right. We hadn’t even made it to the Chappy Ferry before Dave’s phone pinged with a text from Ralph. A photo of Ralph with a 6.63-pound bluefish. While Ralph didn’t land the first bluefish of the season — that credit goes to our friend Joseph, who

Grace Ann (Martinelli) Collins, 77, passed away

peacefully on May 22, 2026 after an extended illness, surrounded by her loving family. Grace was the youngest of five children. She met the love of her life, John (“Jack”) Collins, while he was a student at Holy Cross. They married 54 years ago, and began building a life together, grounded in love, resilience, family, and community, in Shrewsbury, where they raised their daughter Kimberly and son Michael.

They all quickly fell in love with Martha’s Vineyard when friends from Chappaquiddick invited them to come house-sit for the summer. They eventually moved to Menemsha for nearly 20 years, and finally to Aquinnah, where the family remains. Grace spent much of her life working in human services and caring for others. In later years, she became deeply devoted to the recovery community through AA and Al-Anon. Sponsoring and mentoring others became one of the great purposes and joys of her life. What made Grace truly unique was her remarkable character — her integrity. She was compassionate yet strong, and her heart overflowed with empathy for others. Through her honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom, she helped many people find hope and healing. Even during her final years and illness, Grace remained committed to supporting others in recovery. Grace found joy in simple things: the ocean, cooking, family gatherings, friendship, and caring for the people she loved. She especially loved Martha’s Vineyard. She delighted in giving her own

unofficial up-Island tour, leading family and friends to small beaches, historic inns, art galleries, farmstands, and other beloved hidden gems. Grace became a beloved presence at the Menemsha Market, where she was known and loved by locals and visitors alike. Some of her happiest moments were spent with her granddaughter Courtney, taking her to Menemsha Beach to collect shells, swim in the ocean, and watch the sunset. She could often be found swimming far out between the buoys in Menemsha in her wetsuit, much to the nervous concern of her children, who joked she looked like a seal. Grace bravely took up scuba diving in her 50s because of her deep love for the sea. She spent decades diving throughout the Caribbean with Jack, his siblings, in-laws, and other family and friends. Food was Grace’s love language. She created a home where everyone felt welcomed and nourished. For family and friends alike, Grace’s table was a place of warmth, laughter, generosity, and belonging. Grace is survived by her loving husband, Jack Collins; her daughter, Kimberly; her son, Michael; her granddaugh-

Peter Crumm

OBITUARIES The Martha’s Vineyard Times publishes obituary information and photos at no charge for current and former residents of Martha’s Vineyard and for persons with significant ties to the Island community. The submission deadline for full obituaries is 5 pm Tuesday, for publication on the following Thursday. The Times reserves the right to edit as needed. If you have questions or need assistance writing an obituary, please call (508) 693-6100 and ask to speak to the Community editor. Obituary information may be submitted by

Peter Crumm, 77, of Revere, died unexpectedly on May 3,

e-mail: editor@mvtimes.com mail: PO Box 518 Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 by hand: The Times office on Beach Road in Vineyard Haven (opposite the ArtCliff Diner).

A16

news

sports

June 11, 2026

sports@mvtimes.com

Sharks fall to Schooners in opener; defeat Blues and Gulls The Sharks take on the North Adams SteepleCats on Wednesday at the Shark Tank. BY NICHOLAS VUKOTA

he Martha’s Vineyard Sharks wasted no time opening their 2026 season, playing three official games over the weekend that left the team with a 2–1 record. The Sharks play in the New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL). At the Sharks’ first practice last Tuesday, players and coaches told The Times they shared the same ambition: to win a championship. But for many, summer ball on Martha’s Vineyard also creates a unique opportunity for players: playing the sport they love with new friends on a beautiful island. The Sharks fell to the Mystic Schooners 3–2 in a close home opener Friday night at the Shark Tank in Oak Bluffs, but they bounced back with a 5–3 win over the Newport Gulls on Saturday at home. They closed the weekend by defeating the Bristol Blues 7–4 on Sunday in Bristol. They also played an exhibition game against the Yankees scout team last Thursday, which they won 5–4. The home opener on Friday against Mystic was a close battle. The Sharks last played the Mystic Schooners in the semifinals of the NECBL playoffs last season and defeated them 5–2 at the Shark Tank.

In the first inning on Friday, the Schooners put runners on first and third with one out, but the Sharks’ Madux Iovinelli (No. 32) made a jumping catch at the outfield fence, getting the team out of the early inning. Mystic took a 2–0 lead in the second inning. Jamie Zee hit a home run for the Schooners, and Troy Reader singled for a run batted in. The Sharks responded in the bottom of the second, when Jackson Taylor singled and drove in the Sharks’ Adam Torch, but the Schooners got another run in the top of the eighth to widen the gap. Casey Wensley for the Schooners drove in Bryce Detwiler to bring the score to 3–1. The Sharks almost came back in the bottom of the ninth, netting a single run when Jaylen Hernandez grounded out to second base. The play drove in Taylor, but they couldn’t find the equalizer. The Sharks returned to the Shark Tank for their next official league game on Wednesday, after our print deadline, against the North Adams SteepleCats. First pitch was scheduled for 6:30 pm.

Unstoppable girls’ tennis is headed to the finals Continued from A1

the quarterfinals last Friday. The girls earned the semifinal win on Tuesday after second singles Charlotte Marshard took an early 6–1, 6–1 win over Weston’s Kaya Kasaan, followed by second doubles Tessa Schulz and Bella Schilling earning a 6–1, 6–4 win over Weston’s Sajani Brown and Vivienne Kvaratskhelia. Smith finished her match third to secure the win for the Vineyarders over Weston’s third singles, Grace Feingold.

PHOTOS: NICHOLAS VUKOTA

Sharks pitcher Callen Powers, senior from University of Umass Amherst, started on the mound against the Mystic Schooners.

Schulz and Schilling’s second doubles match put the Vineyarders up 2–0 early in the semifinals, giving the remaining matches some breathing room. The windy day made for tough playing Schilling said even if they had lost doubles, conditions, but the Vineyarders persevered. she would have been confident in her Schulz and Schilling, second doubles partners teammates to secure the wins. for MVRHS, said while the wind was bad, they “I know they won’t crack under the were used to it after playing on the Island. pressure,” she said. “But I’m glad we won. We “We’re very confident in playing in the wind,” did our best.” said Schilling after the match. “Most of our “See you at the finals,” Schulz added. practices involve a lot of wind.” Shortly after Smith secured the team’s “We don’t put everything into our shot when advancement into the finals, the Vineyarders’ we know that the conditions might affect us as Laina Dubin defeated Sophie Sima 6–3, well,” Schulz added. 6–2, and first doubles Leah Thomson and

Griffin Crain makes contact for the Martha’s VIneyard Sharks.

Zoe Treitmen for the Vineyarders took down Weston’s Grace Colsman and Victoria Rosenthal, after three sets. The Vineyarders played the winner of a match between Dover-Sherborn High School and Swampscott High School on Wednesday, June 10, at 2 pm, after our print deadline. If Dover-Sherborn also advances, it will be the second year in a row the Vineyarders face that team in the state championship. Last year, the Vineyarders fell 5–0 in the final matchup, but they beat Dover-Sherborn this season 3–2 during league play.

NICHOLAS VUKOTA

The MVRHS girls’ varsity tennis team was presented a MIAA Final Four trophy and banner.

T H E P EO P L E , TOW N S, A N D STO R I E S O F I S L A N D L I F E + R E STAU RA N TS, GA L L E R I E S & E N T E RTA I N M E N T

T H U R S D AY, J U N E 1 1 , 2026

DENA PORTER

The evocative, enduring art of

community & calendar

June 11, 2026

KATE FEIFFER

e are delighted to announce the schedule for this summer’s Islanders Write. Since 2014, the MV Times has been bringing together Vineyard-connected writers and publishing professionals to engage in conversations focused on the art, craft, and business of writing. Since we are a community newspaper, we often kick off this event by focusing on journalism. This year, we welcome New Yorker staff writer and best-selling author Jane Mayer to Islanders Write for the first time. And we welcome back Hunterbrook Media’s co-founder and CEO, Nathaniel Horwitz. For those of you unfamiliar with Hunterbrook, it has an unconventional business model and a mission “to bring visibility to undercovered areas and accountability to underscrutinized sectors.” (Horwitz also interviewed David McCullough at Islanders Write in 2019.) MV Times Publisher and Ground Truth founder Charles Sennott will be talking with them about “new models for reporting and the current state of journalism” on Wednesday, July 15, at 7:30 pm. Thursday morning, July 16, begins at 8 am with Judith Hannan’s “Wake up and Write!” workshop. Following that, there will be a full day of panel discussions and the return of the Pitch Panel. Islanders Write takes place at Featherstone Center for the Arts in Oak Bluffs. The event is free to attend. We invite you to come for

ISLANDERS WRITE 2026

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

From premise to passion to publishing.

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

BY KATE FEIFFER

Bob Drogin, Mary Jordan, Linsey Lee, Kevin Sullivan the day or to stay for a panel discussion or two. We do not — note that the emphasis is on the NOT — offer advanced registration. Aside from a number of reserved seats for our event sponsors, seating is on a firstcome, first-seated basis. We recognize that sometimes that gets complicated, and occasionally we’ve had to turn people away. If this happens, we apologize. (We also do not allow daylong seat saving.) Edgartown Books will be at Featherstone with a pop-up store selling books written by Islanders Write speakers and hosting author signings. Please do not bring preowned books for the authors to sign. For your food and caffeine needs, Scottish Bakehouse will be selling coffee, baked goods, and lunch items. They will be cash only. This means, that no, they will not — once again emphasis on the NOT — be accepting credit cards.

CONGRATULATIONS, JAMES LAPINE! Writer, director, and longtime Vineyard seasonal resident James Lapine received a lifetime achievement award at Sunday night’s Tony Awards. Lapine’s impressive contribution to the world of theater dates back to when he was a photography and graphic design student and got a gig designing a poster

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

for the Yale School of Drama, which was founded by another longtime Vineyarder, the late Robert Brustein. Lapine received Tony awards for “Into the Woods,” “Falsettos,” and “Passion,” and won the Pulitzer Prize for “Sunday in the Park with George.” Lapine has workshopped several of his plays on the

Vineyard, including “Act One,” which premiered on Broadway in 2014 and got five Tony nominations — one of them was for actor Tony Shalhoub, another seasonal Vineyard resident. In 2021, Lapine published the book “Putting It Together: How Stephen Sondheim and I Created ‘Sunday

Below is the schedule for Thursday, July 16 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

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

3 pm, Comic Approaches to Serious Subjects Annabelle Gurwitch, Cazzie David, Sarah Kernochan

4 pm, Memoirists in conversation

10:30 am, The Pitch Panel Five writers will pitch their book projects to publishing professionals. Torrey Oberfest (publishing executive) Nancy Star (best-selling author) Rosemary Stimola (literary agent) Gretchen Young (publisher and editor)

in the Park with George,’” which became a N.Y. Times bestseller. He also made the 2022 documentary film “In the Company of Rose,” about Rose Styron. Given his successes, Lapine remains endearingly modest, and during the acceptance speech for his award, he talked about the importance of failure. “It's not about how successful you are, it's about how

2 pm, Creating Credible and Complex Characters

Belle Burden, Keisha Lance Bottoms, Sherry Sidoti For more information, please go to islanderswrite.com. If you are interested in becoming an event sponsor, please contact Islanders Write Director Kate Feiffer at kate@mvtimes.com.

much heart you put into what you do,” he said. He recalled a seasoned producer telling him, “Kid, you won't be in the theater until you have your first flop.” He went on to say, “We have to be willing to fail, as much as we want to succeed, and we probably learn more from our failures than our successes, so to stand here today it's not like, you know, I haven't had my heartfelt disappointments,

but I've never regretted them. I've never regretted anything I've done. I've learned from everything I've done.” Before signing off, Lapine paid tribute to his wife Sarah Kernochan, who is an awardwinning writer as well. “The greatest honor is being able to thank you,” he said. Congratulations to James Lapine from all of us at The MV Times and Islanders Write.

community & calendar B3

June 11, 2026

Naomi Shihab Nye

Pathways began videotaping the event, the sold-out audience in the Francine Kelly Gallery seemed eager for things to begin. You could feel the anticipation. Featherstone’s Ann Smith opened the event by calling out Nye’s well-known love for the San Antonio Spurs,

who are in the NBA Finals and would be playing later that night. Ann Smith also thanked Fan Ogilvie (who could not attend) and Justen Ahren for bringing Nye and literary arts to Featherstone. Poet and novelist Jennifer Smith Turner introduced the poet and spoke about the

role of poetry to help us see each other more fully — and the way poetry is feared by the politically powerful. When Nye took the microphone, she began by talking about the Spurs, but soon turned her remarks to the natural kinship she has known all her life between the Palestinian and Jewish people. “What can we all do together?” she said. “I feel I’m still writing out of that hope.” She began with the poem “Double Peace,” dedicated to the Israeli poet Yehuda Amichai. Nye went on to read others, including a new poem “still in handwriting” called “Bridging,” which she’d written for the 28th Poetry Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge on June 1. Recent personal losses in her family, including her parents and son, had moved her to write the poem. Nye recalled that her dear friend W.S. Merwin, or “William,” advised her to keep talking to them (her parents): “No reason you should lose both sides of the conversation.” She went on to read poems from “Grace Notes,” dedicated to her mother. One interesting side note was Nye’s reference to Ashley Bryan, author and illustrator of 70plus children’s books told from the African American experience. Ashley Bryan was, it seems, a very close friend of her mother’s, as she amusingly recounted it. Nye continued to entertain the audience with a

hour psychedelic journey. My interest in psychedelics began in the early Seventies, when my teacher, Ram Dass, shared his spiritual odyssey in his landmark book “Be Here Now.” But as interested as I was, I was also terrified that I would never come back from such an intense experience. However, everyone was experimenting, and they seemed to survive, so when I turned 32, I finally smoked my first joint. But I did it with great care and caution. In the past four decades, things have drastically evolved: Medical marijuana is legal in many states. Recreational drugs are legal in many states. Plus the stigma is not what it was. Plus I threw caution to the wind. So with Michael Pollan's most recent book, “How to Change Your Mind” (a scientific exploration of the therapeutic potential of psychedelic drugs), my desire to investigate deeper levels of consciousness has reawakened. A few of my close friends who have done mushroom trips keep raving about their experiences. They all say similar things. They say they now understand that everything is connected, that we are all one. They were able to go back in time and see their young selves. They watched, literally watched, as their egos melted away.

So here I am, finally not afraid to try something so radical, and because of my new medical conditions, I am barred. I’m obviously not going to go against the advice of my good doctors. So the other night (and without the help of any alternative substances), I pretended I had taken the mushrooms. I lit a votive candle and put on music at 396 hertz (which I heard was the right frequency for best results while meditating). My imagination must be operating

made powerful sense to me: Most people are asleep, living the conventional dream, the collective trance, the agreedupon fiction. When you are wronged, you fight back. But waking up, you realize that every time you act from compassion for yourself and for others, you let go of negativity and become more of your authentic self, with no axe to grind, just love to give. And what is that fiction? That human beings are accidental flukes, that human nature is fundamentally flawed and untrustworthy.

or nearly five decades, Naomi Shihab Nye has been entertaining poetry audiences through her moving, insightful poems, both in performance and in print. Nye is as much a poet in performance as she is on the page. Her spoken-word command of audiences holds them in thrall and invites their applause. It’s really not so much command as intimate engagement, felt partly through her personal warmth and partly through the profound humanity she expresses in her poems. Nye has published more than 30 books for adults and children, and has won countless awards, among them four Pushcart Prizes, the Isabella Gardner Poetry Award, the Robert Creeley Prize, and the 2024 Wallace Stevens Award. She has also been a Guggenheim Fellow. At Featherstone Center for the Arts on the evening of June 3, Nye worked her po-

etry magic once again. The occasion was a joint fundraiser for Pathways Arts and Featherstone in which Nye read her poems, interspersed with entertaining commentary and, toward the end, a Q and A session, followed by a book signing. This is the third time Nye has visited the Vineyard to read her poetry at Featherstone, but this time, she said, it feels different. She was referring to the air of uncertainty and bewilderment many people feel in the political moment. On the Vineyard, Nye said, she could feel a kind of peace, and a reverence not just for the beauty of nature, but for life in all its shapes and forms. As she sat in the Tabernacle in Oak Bluffs earlier in the day and looked about her or walked by the water, observing people sitting on benches and talking, the spirit of this place brought to her a special feeling. That’s something Vineyarders recognize so well. As Keren Tonnenson of

Writing From The Heart BY NANCY SLONIM ARONIE

A good trip at home.

When mushrooms aren’t an option

've grown impatient with how long it's been taking me to heal from my open-heart surgery. In the first two months after I came home, when people asked how I was doing, my answer was, “Amazing.” And that’s genuinely how I felt. Amazing. No more pain pills. No more pain. I could make my own breakfast, do everything I always have done. Just not as much. And not as quickly. But now four months out

when people ask how I'm doing, I answer, “I’m fragile.” I'm not used to being fragile. I'm tired. I'm frustrated that I haven't been able to do that much. Shouldn't I be able to be back to “normal” by now? I wanted to do a mushroom trip for part of my healing, but my doctor says it’s too dangerous after such serious surgery. Plus, I have the added issue of atrial fibrillation. Apparently one can experience heart palpitations during the seven-

NAOMI SHABIB NYE

Palestinian-American poet returns to Featherstone. BY MICHAEL WEST

“What can we all do together? I feel I’m still writing out of that hope.” –NAOMI SHIHAB NYE

My imagination must be operating on all eight cylinders (if you think I know how many cylinders there are, you give me more credit than I deserve). on all eight cylinders (if you think I know how many cylinders there are, you give me more credit than I deserve). I actually, in my head, was able to travel back in time. Don’t ask me how in the world this happened, but maybe it was because I had been listening to Alan Watts, the British writer and selfstyled philosophical visionary. The night I reconnected with my younger self, I had googled an old tape of his on YouTube. And what he said

Maybe because I had just heard an extra dollop of woowoo, I was somehow able to reach back to Little Nancy. (Yes, I was little once.) And what happened is still blowing my mind. I suddenly had a vivid memory of being about 5 on a seesaw. I was at the top, and the little friend I was with got off and walked away. I plummeted to the ground and lost my breath. I knew I was dying. My mother was nearby with my sister, but because I

reference to the blue dress she was wearing, a new dress as it turns out, the first new dress she’d bought in years. After the Bridge reading in New York, a friend told her, “You cannot go to Martha’s Vineyard in those old clothes.” And so she bought the cheery, bright blue dress she was wearing. Nye’s hilariously absurd poem “Medicare Wellness Test” brought the house down, and then after a story about viewing Walt Whitman manuscripts, she read “Walt Whitman’s Revisions,” showing her love for the good, gray poet and father of free verse. Finally, after a very funny poem about her early children’s book writing, Nye invited questions from the audience. Nye closed the reading with a requested poem, the widely acclaimed “Gate A4.” Thunderous applause in a standing ovation gave the audience the chance it needed to show its appreciation, love, and respect for the poet. As she left the microphone, Nye shouted back at the audience, “I carry your spirits with me. Go look up Ashley Bryan!”

had no voice, no sound came out. I must not have cried, and I must not have ever told her. That memory triggered another. I was 7. My older cousin Nate lifted me up in the air by my ears, with all the relatives laughing and cheering him on as he yelled, “Bullet head!” I don't know which was worse, the physical pain or the humiliation, but I remember laughing too. What a good kid to play along. Where do traumas go when they are not acknowledged? I continued my mushroomwithout-mushrooms trip, and had three more flashbacks that were equally powerful. Over the years in the writing workshop, when people have written their early nightmares, their secrets, their broken-heart stories, I have called these childhood calamities tiny murders, slices on the trusting hearts of little people, chipping away at their innocence. But I hadn't ever gotten this closely in touch with some of my own. Until the other night. I feel as if this column is different from my usual fare. It might be a bit closer to the edge, but I'm feeling closer to you all. Sharing bits of my life with you all feels safe. Maybe you will try a mushroom-without-mushrooms pilgrimage of your own. If you do, I'd be honored if you'd share it.

Naomi Shihab Nye’s most recent books are the intimate “Grace Notes: Poems about Families” (2024) and “Everything Comes Next: Collected and New Poems” (2022). “Sidekick,” a new selection of poetry from BOA Editions, is scheduled to publish on Sept. 1

community & calendar

Tisbury By Taylor Stone tisburycolumnist@gmail.com

am finishing writing this on a beautifully sunny Sunday morning. After hearing all last week how we should expect weekend-long rainy weather, I’m glad the forecast got it wrong. I’m sure everyone celebrating the graduating class of 2026 at the Tabernacle in Oak Bluffs agrees, and a big congratulations to all you seniors, your families, and everyone that helps all our graduates walk across that finish line. Taking a stroll around Vineyard Haven right now

means being greeted by so many beautiful irises! Maybe it’s because I’ve been drawing so many flowers lately, but I never realized before how many varieties there are in color: from pale yellows to deep purples; solid-colored, speckled, or two-toned. And while the chestnut trees may seem to have passed, you can now catch some early dogwoods showing up. As of last week, my stint at the Miner Family Gallery has ended. I will miss the excitement of watching cars

Oak Bluffs By Joanne Lambert joannelamber@gmail.com “Love is never wrong.” –Melissa Etheridge

elebrate love this weekend with the annual M.V. Pride Weekend. Come to downtown Oak Bluffs for festivities all weekend to lift up our LGBTQ community. The struggle is real and ongoing; the freedom to be yourself and love who you love is at risk. The parade is the spotlight, filled with joy and hope. See the full schedule of events at marthasvineyard-

pride.com and obamv.com. Keep the party going on Saturday at the P.A. Club with ESP, playing from 6 to 9 pm. Mo’s closes early on Saturdays, so bring your snacks or supper, and enjoy everyone’s favorite dance band! Don’t know if you have

June 11, 2026

C on that little strip of road trying to find parking, visitors timidly following their GPS directions to the Black Dog Tavern, and customers with their arms full of clothing to be dropped off with Deloris. The inaugural First Friday is officially checked off, with the brand-new dock finished just in time. If you went, you may have noticed we moved some things around a bit in Owen Park and on the beach, but it seems like

marnely@gmail.com Marnely's column will return next week.

Maisie Adriana Mayhew

Emmy and Christopher of Edgartown announce the birth of a daughter, Maisie Adriana Mayhew, on May 19, 2026, at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. Maisie weighed 6.77 pounds.

Calvin Thomas MacInness

Kelly Bowse and Ted MacInnes of Chappaquiddick announce the birth of a son, Calvin Thomas MacInness, on June 4, 2026, at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. Calvin weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces.

The inaugural First Friday is officially checked off, with the brand-new dock finished just in time. If you went, you may have noticed we moved some things around a bit in Owen Park and on the beach, but it seems like the improvements were a success overall! a bench plaque, or a garden stone or tree to be dedicated to a loved one. See vineyardtrust.org for details, and you will also see its calendar of events for the season. Thursday music at the Strand this week features Sarah Shaw Dawson, Paleface, and Seán McMahon. The Sunday concert in Ocean Park will bring the blues, with Dave Willis and the Down Island Band, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Don’t forget to get your tickets for Featherstone’s first Musical Monday on June 22. It will be a special blues show with the Delanie Pickering Band. Tickets go on sale on Monday, June 15, at featherstoneart.org. Happy anniversary to Rob and Amelie Loyot on June 17! I hope they take time off

from greeting customers at Curio, taking care of Vanessa the Sea Serpent of Farm Pond, playing saxophone and drums with Island bands, and all their other pursuits! On June 11 we send heavenly birthday wishes to Hilde Combra, who passed away in February. Hugs to her husband Bert and their family. Happy birthday to Sandi Hakala on June 14! Sandi shares the day with Mary Breslauer and Janna O’Shaughnessy. On the 15th, we celebrate Judy Pizzella and Kerry QuinlanPotter. Birthday hugs to Kathryn Townes, Corinna Black, and Gayle Poggi on June 16. Natalie DeHaro, Anne Caldwell, Rita Barbosa, and Ava Castro celebrate birthdays on the 17th. Send me your news!

noticed, but Oak Bluffs Sunday Open Market has begun. Every Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm in Washington Park, enjoy local artisan shopping, specialty foods, and live music. Event contact is Kathleen Cowley: 508-939-1076. I’m sure you have noticed the renovations this winter at Cottagers Corner. The Cottagers is an organization of African American women celebrating their 70th year of service and giving to the community. They have renovated their iconic headquarters on Pequot Avenue. They

invite the public to the grand reopening at an Open House on June 24. Watch for more celebrations this summer; see the full schedule of events at thecottagersincofmv.org. The Union Chapel has also undergone property renovations. The Vineyard Preservation Trust has revitalized the grounds of the Chapel, known as Chapel Hill Park. Landscaping details are being completed, and should be ready for the first Sunday service on June 21. You can become part of the restoration project by buying a brick or

honor of Pride Month. Fun fact: I made the Spectrum logo and poster when they were starting this festival way back when! Working closely with Bob Dutton, we designed the image together before I converted it to translucent vellum to mimic film strips. Also coming up: the 46th Bloomsday celebration of the life and writings of James Joyce. Enjoy “music, drama, and humor,” starting at 8 pm on June 13 at the

C O M M U N I T Y Global Rhythms Summer Concert Series

By Marnely Murray

Katharine Cornell Theater. On Wednesday, June 17, at 2 pm, catch Tom Dresser at Island Elderly Housing’s Hillside Village, where he will be giving an overall historical view of Martha’s Vineyard, with a chance for questions and comments on Vineyard history. Very happy birthday to Stephen Engley on June 16, and Calvin Corwin on the 17th. 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, and anything coming up that you want spotlighted here. I certainly don’t want to miss anyone’s rightful “big bunches of birthday balloons,” or the next best event not to be missed in our corner of the Island.

the improvements were a success overall! With June being Pride Month, I wish everyone happy, safe, proud, colorful celebrations, especially in Oak Bluffs during its big weekend events (including the fifth annual Pride Parade on June 13 at 3 pm). This also marks the 10th year of Tisbury’s M.V. Film Society hosting Spectrum, a film series focusing on LGBTQ stories, voices, issues, and creators, in

Come to downtown Oak Bluffs for festivities all weekend to lift up our LGBTQ community. The struggle is real and ongoing; the freedom to be yourself and love who you love is at risk.

Edgartown

The Martha’s Vineyard Museum will host its weekly live Global Rhythms Summer Concert Series. This music series celebrates the diverse cultural traditions that shape the Island community. Presented in partnership with MVY Radio, the series runs Wednesday evenings from July through August, 5 to 7 pm, in the museum’s Bodman Courtyard. Each evening invites audiences to experience local favorites and internationally recognized musicians. Global Rhythms offers music as a form of storytelling — connecting sound, place, and cultural identity in an intimate, outdoor setting near Vineyard Haven Harbor. “Global Rhythms is about

more than music — it’s about connection,” said Laurel Redington, director of programming & audience engagement at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. “Having spent much of my life with MVY Radio, this

N O T E

The 2026 lineup opens on July 1 with Misfits of Avalon, whose Celtic-inspired sound blends traditional Irish influences with Island-rooted storytelling. Additional performances include a rare

Misfits of Avalon COURTESY MARTHA’S VINEYARD MUSEUM

series is especially meaningful to me. This year’s lineup is the strongest we’ve ever had, bringing together artists whose music is rooted in tradition, shaped by experience, and meant to be shared.”

performance from Vineyard favorites Kahoots, the return of acclaimed Latin fusion duo Sol y Canto, and a Latin jazz collaboration featuring Joel Harrison, Stan Strickland, and Friends. The series con-

tinues with performances by the KabuJazz Trio featuring Cândida Rose, Allie & Paryss, the Rubin Brothers, Isaac Taylor, and Kemp Harris, offering a wide-ranging exploration of global rhythms, genres, and traditions. Concerts begin at 5:30 pm. Doors open at 5 pm. General admission is $20 per concert, and admission is free for Gen Z and under (born 1998 or later). A season pass is available for $150, and includes entry to all nine performances, including the MidSummer Celebration. Bodman Courtyard, Martha’s Vineyard Museum. Tickets are $20. Free for children and teens. Season pass is $150. mvmuseum.org/special-events/global-rhythms. For more information, visit mvmuseum.org.

R E AD T H E T I M E S @ MV T I M E S .CO M

community & calendar B5

June 11, 2026

monthly meeting will take place Saturday morning at 9:30 am on Zoom. For information: demsmv@gmail.com. At the library: Saturday, June 13, 9:30 am, Drag King storytime with Ben Cover; a creative movement for birth class at noon; and “Remembering the Rosenthals” Concert by Music Street Musicians at 4 pm. Sunday, June 14, Climate Book Club will meet on the library porch at 4 pm. “Plastic, Inc.,” by Beth Gardiner, is available at the library. Sign up: wt_mail@clamsnet.org. Wednesday, June 17, 11:30 am, Tummy Time for Babies. Thursday, June 18, Kate Feiffer resumes her “Morn-

“A Tribute to Fanny Howe” poetry reading, curated by Jennifer Tseng. You may remember her familiar face behind the circulation desk at our library for several years. The event is free. Friday, June 19, is the first day of the annual Howes House Art Show. Hours are noon to 4 pm on Friday, and 9 am to 2 pm on Saturday. Their paintings and cards will be for sale. The Friday painters are Susan Boass, Nancy Cabot, Sally Flood, Nancy Holt, Jeri Larsen, Lynn Marquedant, Jean McCarthy, Ellen Miller, Olivia Redwine, and Sue Tonry. Free admission and refreshments. I invited friends over for

a garden tour last week. They were complimentary about my fully-in-bloom rhododendron hedge that towered over all of us, the kousa dogwoods, and the perennial garden off the porch, where we eventually sat. It was nice to see it through the eyes of others, a reminder that things aren’t as bad as I think they are. I especially loved showing off my new pagoda dogwood ‘Golden Shadows.’ Its green leaves are edged with a bright yellowgreen variegation. I am completely enamored of this tree, and go out to look at it several times a day. It’s from Vineyard Gardens, if you’re curious. “She may not always be right, but she’s never in doubt.” I’m passing along this comment my cousin, Michael Rubens, said during a recent conversation. It made me laugh.

add to the problems. Join us Saturday June 13, 10 am to noon for the Chilmark Church’s Children’s Fair. It is our gift, and all activities are free. Enjoy pony rides with Julie Flanders, a fish pond with Sarah Shipway, face painting with Sarah Laux, ball toss with Janet Weidner, frost your own cupcakes with Ann

West Tisbury By Hermine Hull hermine.hull@gmail.com

Join us Saturday June 13, 10 am to noon for the Chilmark Church’s Children’s Fair. It is our gift, and all activities are free.

cganz@live.com

he Ag Hall grounds were filled with displays of the most beautiful early vegetables and flowers at the first Farmers Market of the season. Across State Road, rolls of hay dotted the field. Signs of summer. Congratulations to the 2026 graduates of the Regional High School and the Charter School. I have great expectations for your futures and achievements, and wish you happy lives. The wonderful poster seen around town announcing the Town Picnic is by David Small. The picnic will be held rain or shine

Store. Visit the library website to sign up. The Chilmark library is exhibiting juxtaposed current and historical photographs of Menemsha Harbor, June 2 to 21, in the library meeting room. The current photographs were taken by Barbara Armstrong, a member of the Chilmark Historical Commission. The collection includes photos curated from a Vineyard Gazette article of the 1938 Hurricane and antique images courtesy of the Martha’s Vineyard Museum photo collection. July 18 and 18, Native Earth Teaching Farm will be hosting a basketmaking, with author and food journalist Elspeth Hay: bit.ly/ NETF_Basketmaking. Wishing all moments of joy and laughter.

By Claire Ganz

cooperation with the Visiting Nurse Association of Cape Cod. Friday, June 26, from 11:30 am to 1 pm, it’s “Intro to Lifestyle Medicine.” Physical therapist Kristen Siminski, who is board-certified in lifestyle medicine, will meet with us virtually to explore the Six Pillars of Health: physical activity, nutrition, social connections, sleep health, stress management, and avoidance of risky substances. This presentation aims to help you learn how to integrate simple techniques into your day for an improved quality of life. Participants can join the virtual call, or come to the library to enjoy the watch on Zoom and have lunch! Free lunch to the first 10 people to register, provided by the Chilmark General

stars have dusted themselves off and are ready to shine. The Aquinnah Cultural Center opens on June 16, presenting a new exhibit, “Maintaining Our Sovereignty.” The exhibit situates the fights of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) for federal recognition and land return in the 1970s and 1980s in the tribe’s larger history of self-determination on Nôepe. Supported by a MassHumanities grant, “Maintaining Our Sovereignty” assembles archival materials, works from Aquinnah Wampanoag artists, and oral histories to tell the story of Wampanoag political, cultural, and social

Chilmark

raveled to Bethesda, Md., to celebrate my sister, Jennie Ganz, on her 60th birthday on June 10. Trips remind me how much I appreciate our town, open-air parking, and those who farm and fish and sell to us. I literally got lost in a maze between a supermarket’s parking garage and the store. This summer I want to greet the complexities and crowds with a good nature and strong boundaries. We don’t have to accept or excuse awful behavior and

Saturday, from 4 to 6, head to the Aquinnah Circle for the Aquinnah Summer Solstice Celebration, with music from Aquinnah performers and Dave Willis and the Down Island Band.

By Kathie Olsen aquinnahcolumn@gmail.com

spring. BiodiversityWorks offers a chance for you to show your appreciation. They urge you to create steppingstones of habitat for wildlife and plants on your property that will help to connect and sustain populations across the Island. Whether you own or manage a quarter-acre or 40 acres, they will meet with you for free, learn about your interests, and help you identify ways you can help. They say that “small changes, such as adding a year-round water source, cover, or food plants, can transform your property into a biodiversity hot spot.” Do the trees and birds and bugs a favor and contact rcouse@biodiversityworksmv.org, 508-338-2939, for an appointment. Without a column last week, I missed a chance to say happiest birthday to Emily Vanderhoop on June 4, Emmet Taylor on June 5, and Allen Carney on June 9.

Aquinnah

ast week Aquinnah proudly watched the graduations of Kayden Devine and Claus Smith from MVRHS, and Bangii-Kai Bellecourt from the M.V. Charter School. The Aquinnah Community Association awards $2,000 scholarships to every graduate that resides in Aquinnah regardless of their plans after high school, and Matt Born was there to make the presentations. And so, summer commences. The shops on the Cliffs are open, including the Gay Head Store. The Outermost Inn is opening, showing off its new canopy and menus. And our cultural

this Saturday, June 13, noon to 2 pm, on the lawn behind the Grange Hall; inside if it rains. Bring your picnic lunch and a chair. There will be music, games, horseand-carriage rides. It’s always fun to see everyone. Thanks to parks and rec for getting us all together. In celebration of Pride Month, M.V. Democrats will be marching in this Saturday’s Pride Parade in Oak Bluffs. If interested, you are invited to join them. Meet at the Island Queen dock at 2 pm. “We the People” rainbow caps will be available. Wear your rainbow colors. The M.V. Democrats’

mobilization. Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $6 for ages 7 to 17. Tribal members and children ages 6 and under enter for free. The annual “Howes House Art Show” will be Friday, June 19, from noon to 2 pm, and Saturday, June 20, from 9 am to 2 pm at the Up-Island Council on Aging. The show will feature watercolor paintings and cards by the Friday painters. Most of the artwork is for sale. Admission is free, and refreshments will be served. Saturday, June 20, is going to be busy. From 4 to 6, head to the Aquinnah Circle for the Aquinnah Summer Solstice Celebration, with

Noyes and Violet Southwick, Oscar the Grouch with Kathie Carroll, jump in the bounce house with Mariah and Jessica Campbell, play water games and T-ball with Emily Broderick, and the bubble machine with Janet Stoddard Congratulations to North Tabor Farm’s chef in residence, Irene Wong, on selling all of your biscuits at the first-of-the-season West Tisbury Farmers Market within an hour. Another reason to get up and out early. This Saturday, 9 am to 2 pm, is Electronic Disposal Day at the high school. All proceeds benefit both M.V.

music from Aquinnah performers and Dave Willis and the Down Island Band, and treats from Cliffhangers, Aquila, and the Gay Head Store. The event is free and open to all, thanks to the Aquinnah Cultural Center and the Mass Cultural Council. Then, scoot down-Island to where the Friends of the Up-Island Council on Aging are hosting an event at the P.A. Club from 5 to 8 pm, to raise funds for the council. These funds support older adult programs, the purchase of durable medical equipment, and provide Up-Island seniors with emergency financial assistance. There will be music, great food, and

Community Services and the MVRHS junior class. Nancy Cabot reminds us that the annual Howes House Art Show will be Friday, June 19, from noon to 4 pm, and Saturday, June 20, from 9 to 2 pm. The show features watercolor paintings and cards by the Friday painters, and most of the artwork is for sale. Admission is free. Refreshments served. Location: Up-Island Council on Aging (Howes House), 1042 State Road, West Tisbury, 508-693-2896. The Chilmark board of health and the library have teamed up to present public health lunch-and-learns in

ing Pages” writing group, 8-9 am, on the library porch. At 1 pm, a free CPR class with EMT Alan Ganapol. The library will be closed on Friday for Juneteenth. Cathy Walthers, chef and author of “The Sea Table: Stories of Fishermen & Recipes From Martha’s Vineyard,” will be at the Ag Hall on Wednesday evening, June 17, 4 to 6 pm, for a panel discussion, food tasting, and book signing. The event is a benefit for fishermen and the Preservation Trust. Tickets are available for $20 at bit.ly/ EB_SeaTableatGrange. Thursday, June 18, at 4 pm, Featherstone will host

silent auction items. The MassAudubon Society is still sponsoring Tyke Hikes every Saturday, from 9:30 to 10:30 am. This is a chance to skip, waddle, or walk with your littlest ones alongside a naturalist at the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary as you explore new habitats and search for wildlife. Tyke Hikes are held on Saturdays through June 27 for families and kids aged 0 to 5 years old. Members of Mass Audubon attend for free; nonmembers pay $10 for the family. Register at massaudubon. org/felixneckprograms. Many of us are feeling grateful for this splendid

In celebration of Pride Month, M.V. Democrats will be marching in this Saturday’s Pride Parade in Oak Bluffs. If interested, you are invited to join them. Meet at the Island Queen dock at 2 pm.

community & calendar

June 11, 2026

PRIDE,2026 Beyond the parade. BY MATHEW TOMBERS

STEPHANIE WOLF DESIGNS

y name is Mathew Tombers. These are some facts about me: I am 76 years old, run Edgartown Books, a proud book monger. I am a gay man, born a Catholic in Minnesota into a time which was homophobic. Attending a Catholic boys high school, I was agonizingly afraid I would be discovered. College was better, but not by leaps and bounds. Being gay was not O.K. in 1960s Minnesota. Working with a therapist, I realized whoever I was going to be had to be discovered somewhere else. So in 1978, I loaded my car, headed for Los Angeles,

The Ritz marched in the parade. JEREMY DRIESEN

where I knew virtually no one, leaving on a brutally cold day in late January. It was the beginning of my “hero’s journey,” even if I didn’t feel heroic. With great good luck, I found a waiter’s job. Later,

POET’S

found a foothold in media, a business where gay was not O.K. In one job I was told if the president of the unit found out, a way would be found to eliminate me. Both cable networks I worked at in the

’80s and ’90s were surprisingly homophobic. At 76, I have lived through things. When I heard about the Stonewall riot in college, I felt wonder at their courage. In L.A., it was the last days of the disco age, sometimes dancing at Studio One until “Last Dance” by Donna Summer closed the night. I have lived through AIDS, personally unscathed though not untouched or unafraid, fearful every time I was intimate with someone. I buried friends, scattered ashes. Richard Easthouse, my greatest friend in that time, a television executive, with whom I rollicked on trips to New York, standing once in a summer rain, laughing as we were drenched, fell sick. His partner called; I flew to New York, sat with him, other friends and family; he rallied, slipped, rallied, went. We buried him in northern California on a foggy day. A friend from my waiter days went home to England because he couldn’t afford medical care in America, died alone, shunned by family, delirious at the end. The “cocktail” came, a savior for so many I knew; AIDS began to fade as a concern. Public opinion began to change. In the aughts, I attended the wedding of my friends Gary and Angel; their love incandescent. I understood viscerally, for the first time, the importance of marriage, to be recognized in front of loved ones and society for the relationship you have. Back in my radio days, 46 years ago, I met the people who now own Edgartown Books. Eighteen months of retirement nearly bored me to death, so I asked them if

By Ellie Bates

Living year-round in Edgartown, Ellie Bates writes with the Cleaveland House Poets and M.V. Poets’ Collective. In 2025 Bates received the O.B. library’s Gordon Goodwin Maritime Poetry Award. 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 threesentence bio at the end of your poem.

Open House in Edgartown at the Vincent House. COURTESY THE CARNEGIE

‘Edgartown Historic Walking Tours’ Explore historic Edgartown on a guided walking tour led by Vineyard Preservation Trust educators. Discover village streets and waterfront landmarks, with exclusive interior access to the Old Whaling Church

and the Vincent House. Tuesdays–Saturdays, 10:30 am (and by appointment). Adults $30, youth $15, kids 5–12 free; private tours $50/person. Carnegie Heritage Center, 58 North Water St., Edgartown. Contact: thecarnegie@ mvpreservation.org

Mathew Tomber is The MV TImes’ “Around the Bookstore” columnist.

on-Island celebration on Martha's Vineyard will take place from June 12 to 13, primarily centered in Oak Bluffs.

FRIDAY, JUNE 12 Pride Party kickoff Head to the Ritz Café for a high-energy start to the weekend, featuring drag queens, a glitter bar, music, and swag. 8 pm.

SATURDAY, JUNE 13 Drag King Storytime: Family-friendly event at the West Tisbury library featuring Benjamin Clover, to celebrate differences and diversity through books. 9:30 am. Pride Parade Lineup: Marchers, floats, and walkers gather at the Island Queen Ferry Terminal in Oak Bluffs. 2 pm. Pride Parade Step-Off: The parade marches from the terminal up Circuit Ave., and wraps through Narragansett and Niantic avenues, ending at Ocean Park. 3 pm. Pride Happy Hour at the Ritz Cafe. Food specials, half-burgers, and live entertainment. 4 to 6 pm. Stick around a little later for the wrap-up celebration, with DJs, dancing, and games at The Ritz. 9 pm. The Oak Bluffs Association and QueerHubMV are primary organizers. Check vendor lineups and any updates on the Oak Bluffs Association website, www.obamv.com.

N O T E S

‘Body and Voice: A Latin Orchestra’

Broken

June “Fidelity Month” or some such variation. I do not want the gay young men and women I know, who give so much to life, to feel they cannot be who they are for fear. Let us let them walk hand in hand down Main Street, as did one of my young employees last summer — my smile was broad as I drove by the two young women. My life was formed by fear and shame. I have spent a half-century becoming this person. We have come so far. Let us not go back, here, on this Island, or anywhere.

PRIDE EVENTS

C O M M U N I T Y

C O R N E R

I walk along the grassy path to the harbor shore and find a broken whelk that once housed a living snail-like creature the empty shell covered with barnacles like sequins sewn on her under tangles of green moss makes me wonder did an unexpected storm toss her from her home in smooth muddy flats onto the rocky breakwater pieces of her thrown into fierce waves of the ocean? yet the jagged part I hold survives reminds me this vessel held life I look inside to see shiny amber touch fragile inner beauty of strength an amulet to treasure what has been cast aside

they needed help. One thing led to another. I live here now, run their bookstore, sit on the vestry at St. Andrew’s, am community-involved, write for The MV Times, integrated into this Island community. The media business had me on planes a lot of the time; roots were hard to make. Here, I feel rooted. And unafraid. The Island is an embracing place. Anyone who knows me here knows my sexuality; it is a nonissue. We even have our own Pride now, and I am proud we do. There is, however, a concerning trend happening: Acceptance of us has plateaued; some states this year are actively counterprogramming Pride, calling

Be a part of this celebration of Latin rhythms, voice, and collective sound, with Rosi Amador of Sol y Canto. Workshop participants will explore circle singing, Brazilian rhythm games, and Venezuelan joropo; vocal and body-percussion patterns woven with rhythmic improvisation; how to recreate the sounds of instruments, including piano (drum), barril, cuá, chico, repique, claves, congas, maracas, campana (cowbell), and more. Amador is of Argentine and Puerto Rican heritage. She was raised by performer parents, who passed on to her their love of Latin American rhythms and musical styles. Tuesday, July 14, 5 pm. Register at stillpoint.thundertix.com/ events/264361. Stillpoint, 20 Stillpoint Meadows Road, West Tisbury.

Seasonal eating on M.V. during the Revolution Put away your Pop-Tarts and head to the Cooke House and Legacy Gardens in Edgartown for a food experience from a bygone era. Historian Norah Van Riper will deliver a fun and interactive examination of how food production and procurement on the Island was influenced by the American Revolution. From a modern-day perspective, Van Riper will present the material wearing a historical costume, with patriotic period-appropriate nibbles included. June 16, 5 to 6:30 pm. Please note: We regret that the historic Cooke House is not ADA-compliant and cannot accommodate mobility aids. Martha’s Vineyard Museum members, $15; nonmembers, $25; 51 Cooke St., Edgartown. Register at mvmuseum.org/registration-06-16-26.

community & calendar B7

June 11, 2026

If at first you don’t succeed …

OLLIE BECKER

LG Sonic Buoy results were mixed but hopeful.

arlier this spring, the Chilmark Pond Foundation held a community briefing and presentation to discuss the results of the 2025 LG Sonic MPC-Buoy launch, dredging efforts, and a preview of its 2025 Chilmark Pond Ecosystem Monitoring report. The MV Times covered the first launch of the LG Sonic MPC-Buoy, which took place in July 2025. In that article, LG Sonic Buoy biologist Jacob Yodzis explained that the buoy monitors and predicts pond health in real time: “In the monitoring phase, our buoys capture data every 30 minutes on key water quality factors, such as temperature and pH. This helps us understand in real time what is going on throughout that body of water. In the predicting phase, that data is then remotely sent to our software, MPC-View, to assess against years’ worth of global data to recognize patterns and aid in

BY ALLISON ROBERTS forecasting algal blooms.” The buoy’s job is to reduce the growth of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). It was installed in the middle of Chilmark Pond, as this area is often where Dolichospermum, a genus of cyanobacteria, blooms. The buoy hunkered down in the pond for about three months before being removed for the winter season. The results from the buoy were mixed.

Foundation, checked in with the manufacturer to ask if the sensors needed cleaning. “They said you don’t need to clean them — that they have wipers — but when the levels got lower and they checked the sensors, they were completely mucked up. Two days later it was dead. Had we been cleaning them all summer long it would have made a huge difference,” Salzman continues.

“We have a new protocol — clean the sensors and it will work as it’s supposed to.” — AMY SALZMAN “It seemed to work in the beginning, and then not so well,” president of Chilmark Pond Association and ex officio of the Chilmark Pond Foundation Amy Salzman says. Salzman says that Emily Reddington, executive director of the Great Pond

While comparing the data taken since 2022, the results showed that the Dolichospermum bloom was present for 14 more days in 2025 than it was in 2024. After cleaning the sensors, though, the buoy began to function properly. It appeared that it likely caused a faster dis-

sipation of the bloom compared with previous years. ˜Getting the buoy in before the blooms will be one step in the right direction. “Bloom season is normally May to October, but it varies from pond to pond,” says Reddington. “Chilmark Pond has not yet bloomed this season. If the buoy works as we hope, either it won’t bloom, or the bloom will be greatly reduced in intensity and duration.” In the briefing it states that due to the modifications and adjustments, the 2026 season should show much better results. “We have a new protocol — clean the sensors and it will work as it’s supposed to. We’re very optimistic,” Salzman continues. Reddington adds that the Chilmark Pond Foundation (CPF) is committed to transparent and clear communication of data. “The Island community is especially interested to see if the LG Sonic Buoy is a viable solution not just in Chilmark Pond, but in other bodies of water that are faced with cyanobacteria blooms.” “We can benefit from the collective experiences and knowledge of our sis-

CHILMARK POND FOUNDATION

PHOTO: SHENY LEON, COURTESY BLUEDOT LIVING

1. Dredging cut. 2. LG Sonic Buoy deployed in the middle basin of Chilmark Pond in 2025. 3. Biofouling. 4. Bloom and LG Sonic Buoy locations in 2025. 5. Bloom for the middle basin of Chilmark Pond.

ter ponds,” she continues. “Chilmark Pond Foundation, Association, and the town of Chilmark are cooperating to restore a treasured ecosystem, and they are deploying innovative solutions such as the LG Sonic Buoy to combat toxic cyanobacteria blooms. Tisbury Great Pond has a long and storied legacy of stewardship, and is an exemplary model for passing on traditions and generational knowledge. Watcha Pond,

a near pristine freshwater pond ecosystem, is demonstrating its natural resilience as its ecosystem restabilizes following multiple extreme overwash events that caused salt shock and disturbed its delicate balance.” To read the full summary, visit chilmarkpondfoundation.org. To see the most recent community briefing of the first partial season visit, go to youtube. com/watch?v=k7ru3FTYqas.

CHILMARK POND FOUNDATION

GREAT POND FOUNDATION

calendar & community

June 11, 2026

Allen Whiting welcomes you to his gallery in West Tisbury.

The evocative, enduring art of PHOTOS: DENA PORTER

BY ABBY REMER

paint. But something struck a chord.” The land, and in particular, Martha’s We enter Allen Whiting’s Whiting had little formal art training until Vineyard, has been Whiting’s muse he attended the University of Miami and later throughout his life. He was born in the same Windham College in Vermont, where he house where he now resides, on the West sumptuous art through our graduated magna cum laude. After graduatTisbury farm his great-grandfather established in 1851. He still tends the family farm, ing, Whiting returned home: “I had an affinsenses — what our eyes see, just as he did as a kid, when he helped his ity for the landscape, and a support system here.” It was after seeing a show at the Mufather. Looking out the kitchen window at seum of Fine Arts that Whiting truly decided home, Whiting continues to find inspiration our bodies feel. Whiting’s right at his doorstep: “It’s all right there. It’s a to dedicate himself to painting. “I always had another job, whether it was house painting, matter of me finding what’s right for me.” keen eye and expressive carpentry, or working for my dad. But they all Whiting’s paintings fill his entire house, sent me back to my easel, because that’s what which he shares with his wife, Lynne, whom brush capture the very essence he met at the Field Gallery. While he was I really wanted to do.” Although Whiting has painted still lifes, growing up, among the art on the walls was abstractions, and occasionally figures, that of his grandfather, Percy Cowen, whose of the natural world. landscapes are where his heart truly lies. work Whiting greatly admires. Additionally, He doesn’t quite know what keeps pulling best friend’s father was Stanley Murphy, For decades, color and form his him back to the subject after all these years: a renowned self-taught American artist who “Sometimes I feel like a scientist in a white spent more than 50 years painting portraits, coat looking for that missing gene that’s goand murals depicting the Island’s have merged to support one landscapes, ing to solve cancer. You may never find it, residents and natural beauty: "Between the two houses, I had my own art education every but that’s how you spend your life.” another in Whiting’s paintings, day. His door was always open to me.” After many decades, Whiting still finds inspiration from a walk on a moonlit night Whiting knew art was his calling from Allen, with his art or a late fall afternoon when the colors are on. “When I was 10 at the West Tiscreating images that evoke a early and animals in 1987. turning. “The older I get, the simpler it gets,” bury School, I would come in from recess he says of his art. “I’m still painting the same early and run upstairs. They had landscape rather than depict 10theminutes subjects, the same trees, just different times Encyclopedia Britannica, and they had That row of trees, that green grass.’ It’s pretty of the year. I try to bring something a little this Frederic Remington painting, and every it with photographic precision. day I’d study it. I always had it in me. And I different to it, but I don’t dwell on that. I say, much that simple. I’m a painter, but I grew up on a farm, and I still farm.” ‘Well, it’s still there, and I still like it. Maybe used to copy my grandfather’s art.” Another Whiting’s response to the land is like visual this time I’ll get it better.’” memory was driving near the beach with his His style is transportive, music, brushstrokes working together to creWhiting speaks about his connection to father when he was 11 or 12. “I remember seeate an expressive composition. His paintings the natural world: “I’m not a religious pering a receding row of scrub oaks going down planting us in the scene so are simultaneously immediate and timeless. son, but I feel the most spiritual when the toward the ocean. I was looking out the truck C.K. Wolfson, in an essay in “Allen Whitlandscape connects with me.” He continues, window and feeling, ‘There’s something here ing: A Painter at Sixty,” describes the artist’s “One time, I got a call from the Cape Cod me, but I don’t really know what it is.’ I’m we feel the air's temperature, for process: “Standing fixed and easy in front of Times for a phone interview. The reporter still painting that row of trees.” landscape easel, he gazes back and forth asked, ‘Who is your inspiration? Manet? When asked what drew him to art at such a the sounds of nature, and the young age, Whiting reflects, “I don’t know. I Monet? Who does it for you?’ I said, ‘I just his between the canvas and the field in front of him … Each stroke marks an increase in fogot off the tractor from cutting five acres think it’s just in you. I tease people: If I could cus and intensity. His comments are muttered of beautiful hay. That’s what does it for me. sing or play baseball, I probably wouldn’t smell of the land or water. MICHAEL ZIDE

calendar & community B9

June 11, 2026

“Oaks In Summer, Whiting Farm,” 2025.

“Across the Pond, 1,” 2024.

“Autumn in Aquinnah,” 2024.

“October Moon Set,” 2022.

and directed at himself — ‘There’s that russet at the bottom of the yellows.’ Cobalts, cadmiums, ochres — one color is not always wiped off his brush before it is dabbed into another. The wet oil paint is pushed away with a swipe of a gloved thumb or old red cloth.” Whiting had his first exhibition in 1970 at the Field Gallery in West Tisbury, just as it was getting started. In fact, he helped Tom Maley and friends build it. It was an auspi-

cious time for young artists on the Vineyard: “People were pouring in here, falling in love with the place, and had a little money in their pocket. The show gave me a feeling of professionalism — a boost to get going. I was lucky, being in the right place at the right time.” Over the course of his career, Whiting has exhibited in Boston, New York, and Los Angeles, among other cities. Throughout, he has sold work from his home gallery, and to-

“The reporter asked, ‘Who is your inspiration? Manet? Monet? Who does it for you?’ I said, ‘I just got off the tractor from cutting five acres of beautiful hay. That’s what does it for me.” –ALLEN WHITING

Whiting's barn has ample space for him to paint and store his artwork.

day, it is open on weekends and by appointment. “I think State Road is about as good as it gets, because of the captive audience who love it here,” he says about his prime Vineyard location. But ultimately, Whiting says, “You do paint for yourself. The older I get, the more I realize it is for me.” Whiting’s deeply evocative paintings enhance our appreciation of the Island’s rich vistas, which is exactly what he hopes for. “People will say, ‘You know, I was driving by this field in Chilmark in the afternoon, and I said, there’s an Allen Whiting.’ I want them to realize that I didn’t create the beauty. It

Whiting enjoys painting landscapes en plein air.

doesn’t belong to me. But I appreciate it when they appreciate my efforts.” He adds, “I like painting from life. It’s a remembrance. I will always recall being in that place at that time.” Coming up on his 80th birthday, Whiting is still working on the farm with the help of his children, and painting virtually daily: “I’m getting older; I’m adjusting rather than giving up on anything. I just want to go out and find that bramble bush in the evening with my table and my paints and make a picture of it.” Contact Allen Whiting at the Davis House Gallery, 508-693-4691.

B10

calendar & community

June 11, 2026

Event spotlight for the week of 6•12 — 6•17

FRI 6/12

SAT 6/13

VPT Patrons’ Party and auction

Volunteer Potluck

elebrate community at Felix Neck's Volunteer Potluck. We welcome returning, new, and future volunteers — come connect, meet staff, share a meal, and learn how to get involved in our work! Bring a dish and your own place setting, as this is a lowwaste event. From 5 to 7

pm, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, 100 Felix Neck Drive, Edgartown, massaudubon.org.

SUN 6/14

Vineyard Artisans Summer Festival

he Vineyard Artisans Festivals bring fine arts and community together. Meet local artists and

support and promote Island artisans. Free, 10 am to 2 pm, the Grange Hall, 1067 State Road, West Tisbury.

MV TIMES

he Vineyard Preservation Trust Patrons’ Party is a wonderful way to ring in the summer season. This year’s Garden Party includes cocktails, a gourmet dinner, live

music, and an exciting auction featuring one-ofa-kind experiences. Tickets are $395, 5:30 to 10 pm, Daniel Fisher House and Gardens, 99 North Water St., Edgartown, bit. ly/VPT_PatronsParty.

MV TIMES

MON 6/15

TUES 6/16

WED 6/17

Art: ‘Student Scholarship Show’ ‘Strawberry Jam for Beginners’ iew the art of M.V. Art Association's scholarship recipients: Grazina Biskis, Ian Patricio, and Adriana Young. The show will be

on display from June 13 to 19. An artist reception is June 14, from 4 to 6 pm. Old Sculpin Gallery, 58 Dock St., Edgartown, oldsculpingallery.org.

MV TIMES

oin FARM Institute’s transforming strawberculinary instructor, ries and rhubarb into jam and a refreshing soda. Cara Monteleone, for a hands-on class Preregistration is required for all FARM Institute cooking classes. From 5:30 to 7 pm, Members, $40; nonmembers, $50. If you would like to attend but are unable to pay, please reach out to lbrown@thetrustees.org. Register at thetrustees.org. The FARM Institute, 14 Aero Ave., Edgartown.

‘Climate Change, Plant Conservation’

plant ecologist and associate professor of biological sciences at Smith College, Jesse Bellemare, will discuss the development of New England flora following the last Ice Age. He will cover plant survival through past episodes of major climate change, which might inform conservation strategies moving forward. PHA members, $10; nonmembers, $20. From

5:30 to 6:30 pm, Polly Hill Arboretum, 795 State Road, West Tisbury, pollyhillarboretum.org.

MV TIMES

Events THURSDAY, JUNE 11

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.

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.

Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Board Quest

Art Exhibition: MVAA New Member Show featuring Bernstein and Everett

10 am-5 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. Art Exhibition: MVAA New Member Show featuring Harriet Bernstein and Rebecca Everett 508-9394092, art@oldsculpingallery.org.

Haven. Annual Spring Group Show: Sean Roach, Christie Scheele, Teek EatonKoch, Juliean Jarreau, and Paul Beebe. 508-693-7373, louisa.gould@gmail.com.

Tick Talk Thursdays: Community Q&A with the Martha’s Vineyard Tick Program

12-1 pm, Vineyard Haven Public Library. Open office hours: ask questions, share 9 am-3:30 pm, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Seaweed art Virtual Kripalu Flow Yoga experiences, and learn more about ticks Edgartown. Enjoy Sengekontacket on this 11 am-5 pm, Aquinnah Seaweed Art Gallery, 7:30 am, West Tisbury Library. On and tick-borne diseases. Register on self-guided kayak tour. Clues lead you Aquinnah. Colorful, natural seaweed Zoom with Yogijay. Sign up for free by VH Library event calendar. 508-696through the pond. Call to reserve for up art made on handmade paper by local emailing wt_mail@clamsnet.org. 5084211, vhpl_programs@clamsnet.org. to 3 hours; returning the boats by 3:30. artist Corinna Kaufman. Victorian art 693-3366, wt_mail@clamsnet.org. 508-627-4850, felixneck@massaudubon.org.. “In the Whale” Film Screening and form. Open till 7/15. Private showings Mindfulness & Meditation Alida O’Loughlin Photography available. ken@newlivingexpo.com. Q&A with Filmmaker David Abel Open Practice Group 9 am-5 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Community 1-3 pm, Edgartown Library, EdgarFamily Yoga Play 8-9 am, Aquinnah Town Hall. MindfulTelevision, Oak Bluffs. The Show, “Forms, town. Join us for a special screen11-11:30 am, West Tisbury Library. Playful, ness & meditation practice group, open Shapes and Patterns” allows for many ing of In the Whale: The Greatest fun yoga for littles & their caregivers. Rec. to anyone interested in being more sights unseen in Nature and in Daily Life. Fish Story Ever Told 508-627-4221, for ages 0-5! Free and no registration intentional and practicing with others. 508-560-2648, alidamv@comcast.net. needed. Thursdays 11:00-11:30 WT Library programs@edgartownlibrary.org. 413-575-0110, ruthfolchman@me.com. Exhibit: Margot Datz: Recreator 508-693-3366, hburbidge@clamsnet.org. Community Knitting Circle Kaiut Yoga 10 am-3 pm, THE CARNEGIE HERITAGE CENTER, 1-3 pm, Chilmark Library. Join us for Tech help 8:30-9:30 am, Peaked Hill Studio, Chilmark. Kaiut Edgartown. This exhibition highlights the a relaxed afternoon of knitting in the 11 am-1 pm, Up Island Council on Aging, Yoga works through chronic pain and injuries, creative process of muralist Margot Datz, Martha’s Vineyard Room. Our knitters West Tisbury. Free tach help 508-693general aches and stiffness, and is good for the whose work transformed the Old Whaling love to share their knowledge and 2896, coa-staff@westtisbury-ma.gov. inflexible, hyper flexible and the aging body. Church and Flying Horses Carousel. 774-549beginners are welcome! 508-645Spring Spectacular Show 774-563-8282, valerie@peakedhillstudio.com. 9107, THECARNEGIE@mvpreservation.org. 11 am-4 pm, Louisa Gould Gallery, Vineyard 3360, chil.programs@gmail.com.

Virtual: The Great Travels Writing Workshop with Caroline Joy Adams

2 pm, Vineyard Haven Public Library. Writers of all experience levels and interests are invited to attend this free, online writing workshop. Register on VH library event calendar. 508-696-4211, vhpl_programs@clamsnet.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.

Lego and Magna-tile Club

3-5 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Drop in anytime between 3 to 5pm. For kids ages 5-11. Duplos, Magna-tiles, and a huge quantity of legos will be provided. 508-693-9433, mlynch@clamsnet.org.

Book Buddies

3:30-4:30 pm, West Tisbury Library. High schoolers reading to kids! 2nd and 4th Thursdays 3:30-4:30 WT Library 508693-3366, hburbidge@clamsnet.org.

Library Board of Trustees Monthly Meeting

3:30-5 pm, Edgartown Library. The Board’s monthly meetings are scheduled for the second Thursday 508-627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org.

Anime and Manga Club

4-5 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. For kids and tweens is grades 4th-7th Come talk about your favorite anime and manga! Draw and snack. Take a look at our manga collection. 508-693-9433, mlynch@clamsnet.org.

Book Talk with Judith Bailow Hemphill 4:30-5:30 pm, West Tisbury Library. Author and former Vineyard teacher presents her new book, Teaching: The Inside Story. 508-693-3366, wt_mail@clamsnet.org.

Closing Reception & Pane 100 Black Women Serving the Vineyard for 70 Years

5-7 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Museum, Vineyard Haven. A talk exploring The Cottagers’ legacy of Naptime with David Stanwood supporting charitable, educational, and commu3:30-4:30 pm, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. Experi- nity initiatives to improve the quality of life on ence the calming effect of harmonic vibration, the island. 508-627-4441, info@mvmuseum.org. with pianist and acclaimed piano technician Continued on B8 David Stanwood. info@stillpointmv.org.

community & calendar B11

June 11, 2026

'The Last Spy': An insider’s perspective BY ABBY REMER

“T

he Last Spy,” the riveting and thoughtprovoking biography by Katharina OttoBernstein of the thencentenarian CIA spymaster Peter Sichel, plays at the M.V. Film Center starting June 12. With immense honesty and a good dose of humor, Sichel lays bare his unedited history of the U.S. foreign intelligence service from an insider’s perspective. During the journey, Sichel unpacks the obscured roots of the conflicts that plague the world today, and the toll that espionage took on his personal life. We meet Sichel descending in his house on one of those mechanical chair lifts, telling us he had been the head of the CIA in Berlin, worked for the organization in D.C., and ultimately ended up as chief of station in Hong Kong. We originally have no idea how modest this summary of his career will turn out to be. Otto-Bernstein anchors us in Sichel’s early life,

which includes a harrowing escape from Nazi Germany, internment in France until the family was released to run for their lives, dodging bullets from the oncoming Nazi invaders and starvation, and finally their journey to the U.S. After experiencing significant anti-Semitism and witnessing parades by the American Nazi Party and the America First Movement, urging America to stay out of World War II, Sichel was overjoyed to volunteer for the Army when the U.S. declared war after Pearl Harbor. Sichel was almost immediately singled out for the newly created Office of Strategic Services (OSS), America’s first clandestine intelligence service, and was taught to pick locks and kill with knives and with his bare hands. In 1942, he trained intelligence agents in Algiers to support resistance groups in France. Soon after, he was recruiting German prisoners of war to become spies for the Americans. At 22, Sichel was promoted to lead the OSS detachment of General Patton’s 7th Army. Patton’s deliberate disregard for Sichel’s intelligence led to dire conse-

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

Raising Tech Healthy Families Together 5:15-6:30 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Raising Tech Healthy Families Together 508693-9433, cphelan@clamsnet.org.

East Germany, Sichel’s first efforts, which used former Nazis as agents, proved disastrous, as none of them got out alive. He speaks movingly of the price paid for learning from their mistakes. The spy adventures continue through various twists and turns for many more years. Otto-Bernstein skillfully combines archival news and film footage to augment Sichel’s revealing account of how America’s actions during the Cold War and its aftermath negatively affected the world order, all in the name of fighting Communism. The story is complex and fascinating. Never afraid to speak his mind, Sichel made enemies of those within, even as others admired his excellence. However, eventually, too disillusioned, he decided to leave the agency in 1960. He notes, “The CIA misjudged a lot of situations.” Asked why, he replies, “Because … you are living in a world of mirrors, and you don’t know what is and what isn’t true … You’re no longer able to think straight because you have lived in a protected world for so long

“The Last Spy” begins at the M.V. Film Center starting on June 12. For more information, visit mvfilmsociety.com. that you don’t have any relationship to the society you live in, and it’s likely you’re burned out and no longer really creative.” Sichel continued to take issue with U.S. actions. “We’ve never been in a foreign affairs situation where we weren’t happy to have enemies. Somehow, that competition of facing an enemy is in our nature. We are dealing with 20th-century mindsets that have not thought of our future and how things can

change between nations. We’re not thinking of the underlying problems of poverty, disease, overpopulation, climate change, which today are much more important than getting the upper hand over somebody else.” While “The Last Spy” was filmed primarily during the years leading up to 2024, before his passing in 2025 at the age of 102, Sichel’s wise observations eerily speak to us even more urgently today.

Events

Continued from B7

Table Tennis

quences for American soldiers. Sichel told him not to enter the Ardennes Forest, because the German army was lurking. Patton called Sichel’s intelligence “shit.” A thousand casualties later, Sichel’s intelligence proved to be correct. After visiting Dachau at the end of the war, Sichel was haunted by the wall of secrecy that had existed about the death camps. “It was known only to the people in charge,” he says. Sichel wanted to leave the agency, but OSS spymaster and future CIA Director Allan Dulles asked him to remain in Germany as the head of the OSS Peter Unit in Berlin. As he learned what the Russians were doing in East Germany and their absorption of many in Eastern Europe, Sichel was ultimately convinced to present his findings directly to the State Department, marking the beginning of the Cold War. In clandestine circles, Sichel became known as the “Wunderkind.” In 1947, the OSS became the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and Sichel, now 25, served as station chief in Berlin. When tasked with building spy networks throughout

FRIDAY, JUNE 12

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.

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

Mini-Maker Craft Club

10:30 am-2 pm, Edgartown Library. A different-themed craft will be offered every week, drop in and get creative! 508-627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org.

Seaweed art

11 am-5 pm, Aquinnah Seaweed Art Gallery, Aquinnah. Colorful, natural seaweed art made Pilates Flow with Camille Beauzile 10 am-3 pm, THE CARNEGIE HERITAGE CENTER, Edgar- on handmade paper by local artist Corinna Pumped Up Intervals with 5:30-6:30 pm, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. This town. This exhibition highlights the creative process Kaufman. Victorian art form. Open till 7/15. Private Maria McFarland upbeat Pilates class blends preventative 8:30-9:30 am, Airport Fitness, West Tisbury. of muralist Margot Datz, whose work transformed showings available. ken@newlivingexpo.com. medicine, mind-over-matter focus, and the Old Whaling Church and Flying Horses Carousel. Spring Spectacular Show A class alternating cardio intervals and joyful movement info@stillpointmv.org. 11 am-4 pm, Louisa Gould Gallery, Vineyard Haven. weight work intervals using heavier weights, 774-549-9107, THECARNEGIE@mvpreservation.org Annual Spring Group Show: Sean Roach, Christie Partner Dancing Class with Carnegie Heritage Center body bars, loops bands, and weighted balls. Scheele, Teek Eaton-Koch, Juliean Jarreau, and Paul Maria & Tad Lawcewicz Opening Weekend 508-696-8000, workout568@aol.com. Beebe. 508-693-7373, louisa.gould@gmail.com. 5:30-6:30 pm, Edgartown Library. Learn 10 am-3 pm, the carnegie heritage center , EFF’n Move Series with Tuni Toddler Time partner dancing with Maria and Tad Lawcewicz Edgartown. Carnegie Heritage Center reopens 9-10 am, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. EFF’n of the MV Ballroom Dancers 508-627-4221, Easter weekend, Friday and Saturday, 10 AM – 4 PM. 11-11:30 am, Chilmark Library. We’ll read classic Move is a mindful, low-impact training programs@edgartownlibrary.org. Admission: $5 (ages 12+). vineyardtrust.org/events/ and current children’s literature, and sing, move, approach focused on why you move, not and play together. Ideal for preschool ages. 774-549-9107, thecarnegie@mvpreservation.org Jazz at Sweet Life with Jeremy Berlin just what you do. info@stillpointmv.org. chilmarklibrarykids@gmail.com 508-6456:30-8:30 pm, Sweet Life, Oak Bluffs. Art Exhibition: MVAA New Member Kayak & Stand Up Paddle 3360, chilmarklibrarykids@gmail.com. Jeremy Berlin plays jazz piano every Show featuring Bernstein and Everett Board Quest Online Balance with Kanta Lipsky Thursday at the Sweet Life starting at 6:30 10 am-5 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. 9 am-3:30 pm, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, 11:30 am-12:30 pm, West Tisbury Library. 617-835-3756, emhaggerty@gmail.com. Art Exhibition: MVAA New Member Show Edgartown. Enjoy Sengekontacket on this To strengthen our connection to Earth Live Blues Trio at The Pawnee House on self-guided kayak tour. Clues lead you featuring Harriet Bernstein and Rebecca Everett and maintain balance. To sign up, email 508-939-4092, art@oldsculpingallery.org. Thursday Nights from 6:30–8:30 PM through the pond. Call to reserve for up wt_mail@clamsnet.org. 508-693-3366. 6:30-8:30 pm, The Pawnee House, Oak Art Exhibition: MVAA New Member to 3 hours; returning the boats by 3:30. Drop-in Tech Help at the Anchors Bluffs. Live Blues Trio at The Pawnee House Show featuring Bernstein and Everett 508-627-4850, felixneck@massaudubon.org 12-1 pm, Edgartown Council on Aging (The Every Thursday Night from 6:30–8:30 PM 10 am-5 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. Alida O’Loughlin Photography Anchors), Edgartown. To help with your laptop, 508-338-2770, thepawneemv@gmail.com. Art Exhibition: MVAA New Member Show 9 am-5 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Community smartphone, iPad, or other devices. Tech help An Iliad featuring Bernstein and Everett 508-939Television, Oak Bluffs. The Show, “Forms, is also available at the library. programs@ 7 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, Vineyard 4092, art@oldsculpingallery. o rg. Shapes and Patterns” allows for many edgartownlibrary.org, 508-627-4221. Haven. Back by popular demand, An Iliad is a Kid’s Music Class sights unseen in Nature and in Daily Life. programs@edgartownlibrary.org. solo retelling of Homer’s epic, exploring war’s toll 508-560-2648, alidamv@comcast.net 10:30-11 am, West Tisbury Library. Sing fun songs Book Donations Welcome! through a weary poet in a raw, urgent meditation A Round About Book and play instruments with friends! Ages 0-5 Friend of the WT Library on loss. 506-696-6300, boxoffice@circuitarts.org. 10 am-1 pm, Seastone Papers, West 508-693-3366, hburbidge@clamsnet.org. 1-2 pm, Friends Book Donation Shed at West Tisbury MV Sound Series at the Strand Theatre Tisbury. Playing with color and patSeasonal Crafting School, West Tisbury. Book Donations accepted for 7:30-10:30 pm, Strand Theatre, Oak Bluffs. Martha’s tern, make a concertina book of artfully 10:30 am-4 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Craft projects the annual Friends of the West Tisbury Library sumVineyard Sound Series is a weekly celebration of designed, collaged circles. 508-693for ages 3-11. Fresh craft each week! Drop in. mer book sale. 617-543-7898, kjskin@comcast.net. the island’s creative pulse info@mvsoundfest.com. 5786, sandy@seastonepapers.com 508-693-9433, mlynch@clamsnet.org.

Exhibit: Margot Datz: Recreator

Volunteer Potluck. We welcome returning, new, and future volunteers - come share a meal, and learn how to get involved! 4:30-6 pm, Edgartown Library. Via Zoom. To register, visit the calendar at edgartownlibrary.org. 508-627-4850, felixneck@massaudubon.org An Iliad 508-627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org 7 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, Volunteer Potluck Vineyard Haven. Back by popular demand, 5-7 pm, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, An Iliad is a solo retelling of Homer’s epic, Edgartown. Celebrate community at FN’s

Build It, Build It Better: Online Poetry Workshop with Donald Nitchie

Continued on B12

The MV Film Society • Now celebrating 28 years • 1999-2026

4:00 PM 7:30 PM 4:00 PM 7:30 PM 4:00 PM 7:30 PM 1:00 PM Sun THE PLAYBOY OF THE WESTERN WORLD 6/14 THE LAST SPY 4:00 PM 7:30 PM TUNER

TUNER PROJECT HAIL MARY Fri TUNER 6/12 THE LAST SPY Sat PROJECT HAIL MARY 6/13 TUNER NATIONAL THEATER LIVE:

Thurs 6/11

MON & TUES, JUNE 15 & 16 - FILM CENTER IS CLOSED -

THE LAST SPY Thurs THE LAST SPY 6/18 TUNER Wed 6/17

WINNER BEST ARTS AND CULTURE ORGANIZATION 2025 Voted by the Vineyard Community The MV Film Center is open to the public and masks are optional for all individuals. Please join us for an in-person movie experience soon!

Information & Schedules

7:30 PM 4:00 PM 7:30 PM

scan code for complete schedule

mvfilmsociety.com

508.696.9369

B12

calendar & community

June 11, 2026

Events

Continued from B11

exploring war’s toll through a weary poet in a raw, urgent meditation on loss. 506-696-6300, boxoffice@circuitarts.org

Big Weather Celebrates Debut Album Release at Katharine Cornell Theatre 7 pm, Katharine Cornell Theatre, Vineyard Haven. Celebrate the release of Gemini, the debut album from Martha’s Vineyard band Big Weather, with musical guests Jackie West and Constant Smiles. 508-274-9634, constantsmilesmusic@gmail.com.

Emily King at the Strand Theatre

8 pm, The Strand Theatre, Oak Bluffs. Four-time Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Emily King in her Island debut at the Strand Theatre 508-696-6300, boxoffice@circuitarts.org.

SATURDAY, JUNE 13

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.

Electronics Disposal Day: Fundraiser for MVCS and MVRHS Junior Class 9 am-2 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, Vineyard Haven. Electronics Disposal Day is rescheduled for Saturday 6/13 kkuhlman@mvcommunityservices.org.

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.

Vinyasa Power Yoga

9-10 am, Edgartown Library. Therapeutic and creative, with elements of strength building. programs@edgartownlibrary.org, 508-627-4221.

Kaiut Yoga

9-10 am, Peaked Hill Studio, Chilmark. Kaiut Yoga is works through chronic pain and injuries, general aches and stiffness, and is good for the inflexible, hyper flexible and the aging body. 774-563-8282, vsonnenthal@gmail.com.

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.

Drag King Storytime

9:30-10 am, West Tisbury Library. Celebrate Pride with Drag King Storytime at the WT Library 6/13 9:30-10am 508-6933366, hburbidge@clamsnet.org.

Seen/Unseen: A Photography and Perception Workshop

9:30-11 am, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. Led by Island photographer Melissa Knowles, this workshop invites participants to slow down, look closely, and engage the world with greater presence info@stillpointmv.org.

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.

Tyke Hikes

9:30-10:30 am, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Edgartown. Skip, waddle, or walk with your little ones alongside a Naturalist as you explore a new habitat on this one-hour program. 508-627-4850, felixneck@massaudubon.org.

Container Gardening with MV Wildtype Plants

10 am-12 pm, The Polly Hill Arboretum, West Tisbury. Join PHA Plant Propagator Brittany Clark for an introduction to container gardening featuring MV native wildtype plants. Register online. 508693-9426, info@pollyhillarboretum.org.

Community Greenhouse Plant Sale! 10 am-3 pm, Community Greenhouse, Oak Bluffs. Community Greenhouse Sale! Get your annual and perennial plants! Beautiful herbs and flowers. Discounts for members and memberships available on site. 774-563-8417, smiller8690@gmail.com.

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 Opening Weekend

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.

Art Exhibition: Student Scholarship Show

10 am-5 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. Art Exhibition: Student Scholarship Show 508-939-4092, art@oldsculpingallery.org.

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. 508-693-1850, featherstone@featherstoneart.org.

Mini-Maker Craft Club

10:30 am-2 pm, Edgartown Library. A different-themed craft will be offered every week, drop in and get creative! 508-627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org.

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.

Spring Spectacular Show

11 am-4 pm, Louisa Gould Gallery, Vineyard Haven. Annual Spring Group Show: Sean Roach, Christie Scheele, Teek Eaton-Koch, Juliean Jarreau, and Paul Beebe. 508693-7373, louisa.gould@gmail.com.

Annual Remembering the Rosenthals Concert

An Iliad

Herb Foster’s Birthday Fundraiser

A Drag Revue Royale by Red Cat Kitchen

4 pm, West Tisbury Library,. Featuring Diane Katzenberg Braun, piano; Alan Toda-Ambaras, cello; Sangwon Lee, clarinet; and Yoonhee Lee, violin. 508-693-3366, wt_mail@clamsnet.org. 4-6 pm, Edgartown Library. Socialize, reminisce, celebrate, eat hot dogs, and DONATE! Please bring a dessert to share. 508-627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org.

Patrons’ Party & Auction

5:30-10 pm, DANIEL FISHER HOUSE & GARDENS, Edgartown. The Patrons’ Party is the Vineyard Preservation Trust’s most important fundraiser of the year — an elegant homecoming that ushers in the summer season 774-549-9107, THECARNEGIE@mvpreservation.org.

An Iliad

7 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, Vineyard Haven. Back by popular demand, An Iliad is a solo retelling of Homer’s epic, exploring war’s toll through a weary poet in a raw, urgent meditation on loss. 506-696-6300, boxoffice@circuitarts.org.

Bloomsday

8-9:30 pm, Katharine Cornell Theatre, Vineyard Haven. music, drama, and humor based on text of James Joyce, Peter Boak, Ian Chickering, Molly Conole, Mark Lovewell, Pam Schnatterly, and Becky Williams. 508-696-0539, jcrelan@yahoo.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 14

29th Annual Vineyard Artisans Summer Festival

10 am-2 pm, The Grange Hall, West Tisbury. The Vineyard Artisans Festivals provide an important link between the community and the Arts. artisan02557@yahoo.com.

“The Power of Music in Dementia Treatment” with Jodie DeSalvo

Summer Bulletin Board Craft

10 am, Unitarian Universalist Society of Martha’s Vineyard, Vineyard Haven. Please join us on Sunday for music and spirituality. uu.society.mv@gmail.com.

Sensory-Friendly Barnyard Buddies

10 am-3 pm, Community Greenhouse, Oak Bluffs. Community Greenhouse Sale! Get your annual and perennial plants! Beautiful herbs and flowers. Discounts for members and memberships available on site. 774-563-8417, smiller8690@gmail.com.

11 am-1 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Come hang out with us as we deck out the summer-themed bulletin board at the circulation desk. We’ll be making paper sailboats together—all ages!! 508-693-9433, mlynch@clamsnet.org.

Community Greenhouse Plant Sale!

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.

Mixed Media Collage Workshop

11-11:30 am, Chilmark Library. We’ll read classic and current children’s literature, and sing, move, and play together. Ideal for ages 3-6. adubno@clamsnet.org, 508-6453360. chilmarklibrarykids@gmail.com.

12-2 pm, West Tisbury Library. Learn techniques to help positively impact your birth experience with trained professionals. Sat 6/13 WT Library 12-2 508-693-3366, hburbidge@clamsnet.org.

11 am-4 pm, Louisa Gould Gallery, Vineyard Haven. Annual Spring Group Show: Sean Roach, Christie Scheele, Teek Eaton-Koch, Juliean Jarreau, and Paul Beebe. 508693-7373, louisa.gould@gmail.com.

Storytime

Creative Movement for Birth

Felted Landscapes

1-3 pm, Chilmark Library. Create a landscape painting out of felt, with Laura Hearn. To register email chil.programs@gmail.com 508-645-3360, chil.programs@gmail.com.

Aquinnah Library Book Group

2-3 pm, Aquinnah Library. Join us for a discussion of We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker. 508-645-2314, gwilbur@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: ‘DashNineteen_’ by Benita Jane

2-4 pm, Edgartown Books. Island resident Benita Jane signs copies of her latest novel, Dash-Nineteen_, a fascinating story of technology working for us and against us. 508-627-8463, info@edgartownbooks.com.

Hooks and Reels: From Ireland to Martha’s Vineyard 3-5 pm, Stillpoint , West Tisbury. Join author Lara O’Brien in celebrating the launch of her book The Power of the Prompt. info@stillpointmv.org.

10 am-2 pm, Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs. Join us to create one-of-a-kind mixed media collages from paint, newspaper, pictures, fabrics, and photographs! 508-6931850, featherstone@featherstoneart.org.

Seaweed art

Spring Spectacular Show

Sunday B-Side Brunch

11 am-2 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Museum, Vineyard Haven. Sunday B Side Brunch: 11–2 at First Light Café. Great food, views, and soulful vinyl by DJ Vincent Patricola. Free and open to all. 508-627-4441, rpierce@mvmuseum.org.

A Drag Revue Royale by Red Cat Kitchen 11 am-1:30 pm, Red Cat Kitchen, Oak Bluffs. Red Cat Kitchen presents a Drag Revue Royale Sunday, June 14th with shows at 11am & 2pm. This year’s Pride Brunch is one you won’t want to miss! 508-696-6040, timothy@redcatkitchen.com.

Art Exhibition: Student Scholarship Show

12-6 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. Art Exhibition: Student Scholarship Show 508-939-4092, art@oldsculpingallery.org

Tomato Pruning Workshop with Lydia Fischer

1-2 pm, Agricultural Hall, West Tisbury. Learn how to make your tomato plants thrive! 508-693-9549, programs@mvagsoc.org.

Opera Club: Massenet’s “Thaïs” 1-4 pm, Edgartown Library. June’s Opera Club features Thaïs 508-627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org.

2 pm, Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, Vineyard Haven. Back by popular demand, An Iliad is a solo retelling of Homer’s epic, exploring war’s toll through a weary poet in a raw, urgent meditation on loss. 506-696-6300, boxoffice@circuitarts.org. 2-4:30 pm, Red Cat Kitchen, Oak Bluffs. Red Cat Kitchen presents a Drag Revue Royale Sunday, June 14th with shows at 11am & 2pm. This year’s Pride Brunch is one you won’t want to miss! 508-696-6040, timothy@redcatkitchen.com.

Book Signing: ‘The Power of the Prompt’ by Lara O’Brien

2-4 pm, Edgartown Books,. Lara O’Brien will be signing copies of her new book, ‘The Power of the Prompt’, which tells the inspirational story of an Irish writing workshop. 508-627-8463, info@edgartownbooks.com.

Climate Book Club

4 pm, West Tisbury Library. Discussion of Beth Gardiner’s Plastic Inc. Meets on the library porch. Sign up by emailing wt_mail@clamsnet. org. 508-693-3366, wt_mail@clamsnet.org.

Super Sound Bath with Priscilla Warner & Alison Leipzig

4-5 pm, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. Join sound practitioner Priscilla Warner and her friend and collaborator, Alison Leipzig, for a transformative sound bath unlike any other info@stillpointmv.org.

Artist Reception: Student Scholarship Show

4-6 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. Artist Reception: Student Scholarship Show 508-939-4092, art@oldsculpingallery.org.The

Island Table with North Tabor Farm

4 pm, North Tabor Farm, Chilmark. A locally sourced, multi-course dinner showcasing the connection between the seasons, farmers, fishers and island community, with guest farmers islandtablemv@gmail.com.

Between the Oaks Outdoor Church

4:30-5:30 pm, First Congregational Church of West Tisbury, West Tisbury. Intergenerational gathering to connect with the natural world through readings, prayer, and song. 508-693-2842, wtiscong@comcast.net.

MONDAY, JUNE 15

MV Bird Club - Birding at Great Rock Bight with Nancy Weaver & Nancy Nordin

7-9 am, Great Rock Bight Preserve, Chilmark. Birding with MV Bird Club at Great Rock Bight. All birders welcome! mvbirdclub_president@biodiversityworksmv.org.

SoulStrength with Kris Martin

Moving Stories Dance Class

10:15-11 am, West Tisbury Library. Free Kids creative dance class with Claire Page! Mondays at 10:15 WT Library (ages 1.5-6 years old) 508-693-3366, hburbidge@clamsnet.org.

Seaweed art

Spring Spectacular Show

11 am-4 pm, Louisa Gould Gallery, Vineyard Haven. Annual Spring Group Show: Sean Roach, Christie Scheele, Teek Eaton-Koch, Juliean Jarreau, and Paul Beebe. 508-693-7373, louisa. gould@gmail.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.

Womans Club of MV Celebrates Juneteenth

12-2 pm, St Andrews Church, Edgartown. · The MV Woman’s Club will host speakers Shawn Ramoutar, Noel Ellington, & Dr. Lora Andrade of MV NAACP on 6/15 at St Andrew’s Church at noon. 508-246-2337, dkdropick@comcast.net.

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.

Drop-in Mah Jongg

1-3 pm, Edgartown Library. Mats, tiles, and cards provided. No formal instruction. programs@ edgartownlibrary.org, 508-627-4221.

Switch Games for kids and teens

3-5 pm, West Tisbury Library Switch club Mondays from 3-5pm in the Community Room 508-693-3366, lhearn@clamsnet.org.

Breathwork

5-6 pm, The Red House PRSC, Vineyard Haven. Breathwork can be a powerful tool for grounding and relaxation. 508-6932900, jtau@mvcommunityservices.org.

Vineyard Haven Town Band Rehearsal 7:30-9 pm, Martha Vineyard Sailing Camp, Oak Bluffs. Join us! Bring your instrument and love of playing! We have music and stands. 508-889-9621, jschilling4@msn.com.

TUESDAY, JUNE 16

Cardio and Conditioning with Alyson Parker

7-8 am, Airport Fitness, West Tisbury. Cardio and strength work with weights and conditioning using your own body weight for resistance. 508-696-8000, workout568@aol.com.

Kaiut Yoga

7:30-8:30 am, West Tisbury Library. Accessible to all levels and ages. Sign up for free by emailing wt_mail@clamsnet.org. 508-693-3366, wt_mail@clamsnet.org.

8:30-9:30 am, Peaked Hill Studio, Chilmark. Kaiut Yoga works through chronic pain and injuries, general aches and stiffness, and is good for the inflexible, hyper flexible and the aging body. 774-563-8282, valerie@peakedhillstudio.com.

8:30-9:30 am, Airport Fitness, West Tisbury. Core stabilization, strength and balance, targeting all the major muscle groups with some intermittent cardio. Have fun and go at your own pace! 508-696-8000, workout568@aol.com.

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.

Virtual Chair Yoga with YogiJay

Core Stability, Strength and Balance with Alyson Parker

Greenhouse Soil Therapy!

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. 508627-4850, felixneck@massaudubon.org.

Art Exhibition: Student Scholarship Show

10 am-5 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. Art Exhibition: Student Scholarship Show 508-939-4092, art@oldsculpingallery.org.

Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Board Quest

Play Kitchen and Store

10 am, Oak Bluffs Library. Come enjoy watching your kids be creative and solve problems! For ages 2-6. Drop in between 10am-noon. 508-693-9433, mlynch@clamsnet.org.

Edgartown Village Market

10 am-2 pm, Daniel Fisher House, Edgartown. From farm-fresh produce, flowers, and provisions, to one-of-a-kind artisanal goods, the Edgartown Village Market is your one-stop-shop 603-489-9155, edgartownvillagemarket@gmail.com.

Art Exhibition: Student Scholarship Show

10 am-5 pm, Old Sculpin Gallery, Edgartown. Art Exhibition: Student Scholarship Show 508-939-4092, art@oldsculpingallery.org.

Spring Spectacular Show

11 am-4 pm, Louisa Gould Gallery, Vineyard Haven. Annual Spring Group Show: Sean Roach, Christie Scheele, Teek Eaton-Koch, Juliean Jarreau, and Paul Beebe. 508693-7373, louisa.gould@gmail.com.

SQUAD FITNESS with Triva Emery • BeWell-MV

11 am-12 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. SQUAD FITNESS with Triva Emery • BeWell-MV 508-693-9433, cphelan@clamsnet.org.

Balance with Kanta Lipsky

11:30 am-12:30 pm, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. This is a one-hour class based on the gentle, flowing movements of Qigong (Chi Kung) info@stillpointmv.org.

Tuesday Crafternoons: Paint and Plant Flower Pots

12-4 pm, Aquinnah Library. Drop in to paint your own flower pot and plant a flower or herb to take home. 508-645-2314, gwilbur@clamsnet.org.

Mah Jongg Refresher Class

12:30-2:30 pm, Edgartown Library. Join us for a refresher on the fundamentals of American Mah Jongg. 508-627-4221, programs@edgartownlibrary.org.

Understanding and Managing Vicarious Trauma

1-4 pm, Stillpoint, West Tisbury. Join us June 16th at Stillpoint to learn and discuss how your body and mind are impacted by chronic stress and trauma exposure. birthwithjesse@gmail.com.

Lego Club

2:45-4 pm, Chilmark Library. Kids Lego Club 508-645-3360, chilmarklibrarykids@gmail.com.

Basics of Metalsmithing with Liam McGorman

3-6 pm, Featherstone Center for the Arts, Oak Bluffs. Learn the craft of jewelry making - create either a bracelet, ring, or necklace pendant using a variety of metals including, brass, copper and silver. 508-693-1850, featherstone@featherstoneart.org.

Drop in for our Teen and Tween Art & Craft Class

3:30-4:30 pm, West Tisbury. Teen and Tween Art & Craft Class at the library-meets every Tuesday, from 3:30-4:30pm. ages 10-18, supplies provided. 508-693-3366, lhearn@clamsnet.org.

Music Class for Littles

4-4:45 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Come join us for Ms. Sarah’s music class! The class includes a combination of songs, rhythms and movement. For 2-5 year olds. 508-693-9433, mlynch@clamsnet.org.

kundalini

4:30-5:30 pm, The Red House PRSC, Vineyard Haven. A chance to slow down, stretch and breath. 508-693-2900, jtau@mvcommunityservices.org.

ASL Practice Group

4:45-5:45 pm, Oak Bluffs Library. Want to learn ASL? Come drop in on our conversational practice group! No experience necessary. 508-693-9433, sschofield@clamsnet.org.

Knitting Group

5-6 pm, West Tisbury Library. Creativity and conversation. Use supplies provided or bring your own. Adults and teens. No sign-up. wt_mail@clamsnet.org, 508-693-3366. 508-693-3366, wt_mail@clamsnet.org

Book Club

5-6 pm, Bunch of Grapes Bookstore, Vineyard Haven. Join us to discuss The Lion Women of Tehran, a tale of love and courage and an exploration of how we are shaped by those we meet when we are young. 508-693-2291, molly4books@gmail.com.

Exhibit: Margot Datz: Recreator

For events for the full week scan code or visit mvtimes.com/things-to-do.

community & calendar B13

June 11, 2026

BUSINESSDIRECTORY S

LANDSCAPING

ROOFING

INDIGO FARM Full Service Landscape Design, Build, & Maintenance

Office & Artist Supplies • Office furniture • Scan & Fax Center • Book Binding • Shredding

Spring & Fall Clean-ups Native Planting • Renovations Mulching • Fertilizing Brushcutting Vegetable & Herb Gardens

• Office Machines & Repairs • Break Room & Cleaning Supplies • Large format Printing

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B14

community & calendar

June 11, 2026

GLOBETROTTING SERVICE WORKERS Seasonal workers return in droves, but where have they been? BY ELLA MUNNELLY

Tatum Bryan in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand, in April 2026.

magine it’s August. You’re on hour nine of a 14-hour double. You’re covered in a veil of sweat with a layer of backsplash from the dishpit. Your eight-top wants to split the check five ways. You pick up a plate from the kitchen window that burns all 10 of your fingertips clean off. You try to take out the trash, but you aren’t strong enough, and now your back hurts and your shoes are covered in the juice that had pooled in the bottom of the bag. You haven’t eaten in 10 hours, so you're picking at the cold scraps left over on someone’s plate, but doing it over the trash so if someone walks by, you can pretend you were throwing it away. Then it’s November, and the O.B. ferry is done running for the season, the tourists are gone, and along with them, your paycheck. Then it’s January, and you're on a different Island, oceans away. You’ve been living out of a backpack for a few weeks, and you don't have a flight booked home. Hospitality workers on the Vineyard dissect their year into halves. The summer season is spent meeting the every need of our Island’s abundance of visitors, but the off-season offers other possibilities. Some people tough out the winter as work dials back, some fly to Florida to bartend on a beach where summer never ends, some move to Vermont or Colorado to work on ski mountains. And others take their summer savings and see how long they can last across the globe. Seasonal work offers this kind of flexibility, which is hard to find elsewhere. It comes in exchange for some modern luxuries — health insurance, stable income, maybe even a home, but you are afforded the freedom of travel if you have the bug. Many of the Island’s favorite bartenders and waitresses spend the off-season exploring a different country, where the American dollar is stronger, and they can stretch a summer’s earnings across several months until they return to the Island to do it again. There are many different ways to globetrot, and each offers a very different experi-

ELLA MUNNELLY

Sophia Czarowicz and Alexis Barnes shark diving in the Philippines in May, 2026

Tatum Bryan in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, in February 2026. COURTESY SOPHIA CZAROWICZ

“I'm so fortunate to have a place where I can come and just make a large sum of money through tourism that I can go and give back to an economy that maybe isn't as fortunate.” –TATUM BRYAN ence. Here are two different sides of the same adventurous coin. If you have indulged in a cold beer in Oak Bluffs, you may recognize Sophia Czarowicz. This past summer was her second working seasonally on Island. During the season, Czarowicz’s busiest shift falls on Sunday, when she opened the

Ritz Cafe and closed the Alley, ringing in a 14-hour double. After 7 hours of slinging PBRs and Pocket Dogs, she leaves work on Circuit Ave. and walks over to Kennebec, where she greets her regulars at the Alley and prepares for another shift with last call at 12:30, and closing sidework keeping her at the bar, occasionally until 2 am.

To Czarowicz, the trade-off is beyond worth it. “I definitely recommend,” said Czarowicz, “I mean, it’s the best situation you’re gonna get where you can travel for months and have a job waiting for you. It's pretty intense on both ends, but yeah, 100 percent.” From diving with sharks in Thailand to cooking Continued on B15

June 11, 2026

tourists, she crossed the globe and became a tourist who was catered to. Her journey began in January in Bangkok, Thailand. By February she was living in Hoi An, a small city on the central coast of Vietnam, where she was working at a hostel in exchange for housing. She ended her adventure in Lombok, Indonesia, where she leaned into the surfing lifestyle of the small island east of Bali. “I'm so fortunate to have a place where I can come and just make a large sum of money through tourism that I can go and give back to an economy that maybe isn't as fortunate,” said Bryan. As opposed to Czarowicz’s fast-paced method of travel, Bryan moved much more slowly, stating that while she may have seen less of the world, her pace allowed her to fully immerse herself in the culture and community she came across. “The purpose of my trip was to find purpose,” said Bryan “to find a place I love as much as Martha's Vineyard, and I did.” She found this place on Lombok, Indonesia, in a small town on the south coast of the island called Kuta. Martha's Vineyard in the summer can be chaotic, especially with two service jobs. You’re rushing to work from work, and at work you’re rushing from table to table. In Kuta, Bryan was able to move slowly and intentionally, and the summer chaos paid off, because in Indonesia she truly had nowhere to rush to. The pace of life in Kuta allowed Bryan to explore a more calm version of herself. As her work on the Vineyard Tatum Bryan, left, starts once again, she feels on shift at Offshore more peaceful stepping into last season, 2025. the season. “I feel like that version still exists a little bit in COURTESY TATUM BRYAN me,” said Bryan. Although temporary, Bryan built a life on Lombok. She found a favorite coffee shop, knew her way around the neighborhood, hosted friends she had met on previous travels, and fell in love with both the people and the place she found herself in. She built a life she plans to return to come October, when work on the Vineyard slows and the summer visitors dwindle. Looking forward to another season, Bryan plans to keep her head down, work 65 hours a week, and save her money. “There's burnout mid-July, and then there's a burnout around mid-August, and I just cry a lot, and I am angry, but I'm gonna try and fight the Sophia Czarowicz behind midsummer blues this year,” the bar at the Ritz Cafe. said Bryan. While the summer tourists COURTESY SOPHIA CZAROWICZ enjoy their vacation, taking in the beaches and the sunsets, industry workers both in the front and worth it,” said Czarowicz. “I’m so drained the back of the house are working hard to by the end of the season. I think it's so imoffer the Island’s guests the quintessential portant to have a solid day off, because beMartha’s Vineyard experience, one they ing overworked is bad for everyone.” Czarowicz’s mother, as well as her grand- themselves are often giving up. So as the season begins to pick up, be parents, were born and raised on Martha's kind to the people standing between your Vineyard, which gives her the added adhungry mouth and your dayboat tuna vantage of someplace on-Island to stay. “I steak, and ask them about how they spent feel so lucky that I can do it, and I'm lucky that I have somewhere on the Island to stay their winter. for free,” she said. Tatum Bryan is also a member of this For the journalistic integrity of this piece, seasonal shuffling cohort. This past sumthe author herself, Ella Munnelly, also mer she worked at Offshore Ale Co. in Oak packed a backpack and went out into the Bluffs, and this year she will also begin world to wander. After spending five months working at the Lookout Tavern. traveling through Thailand, Laos, VietBryan entered the service industry on nam, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Japan, the Island in 2020, when she was 17 years she encourages everyone who is able to go old, as a host at the Black Dog Tavern. This elsewhere, try new food, and learn from the winter, after another summer of catering to people you meet. classes in Vietnam to getting a tattoo from the oldest living tattoo artist in the world in the Philippines, Czarowicz’s winter was filled with adventure. In February, Czarowicz met up with Alexis Barnes, another bartender who also works at the Alley, as well as the Covington in Edgartown. Other than that, Czarowicz’s journey was done independently. “It’s lovely,” she said, “I feel like when I'm with other people I tend to give up what I want to do to make everyone else happy. So being solo, I can really just do whatever I want, whenever I want.” The summer season is long and busy, and there's only so many times someone can walk out on their tab, or send back their food, or tell you you should smile more before it gets to you. “I’m exhausted, but it’s

community & calendar B15

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B16

community & calendar

June 11, 2026

Wild Side BY MATT PELIKAN

Allies of the Southern pine.

Checkered beetles

recent communication from a friend in Vineyard Haven provided an excuse to write about a group of beetles that has long fascinated me: the so-called “checkered beetles” constituting the taxonomic family Cleridae. My friend’s message, sent from Ground Zero of the ongoing Southern pine beetle outbreak along Lambert’s Cove Road, included nice photos of a beetle my friend correctly identified before I even had time to respond: a colorful Clerid called Thanasimus dubius, or the wavering checkered beetle. This beetle turns out to be an interesting one, and possibly an important one from a Vineyard perspective, and I’ll return to it for a closer look. But first, it’s worth discussing the family Cleridae as a group, because these are really cool insects. This is not a large family by beetle standards, with only about 300 representatives in North America. And while the family is well distributed around the globe, it seems oddly scarce in our region. As far as I can tell, only a half-dozen Clerid species have been documented on Martha’s Vineyard. And none of these appears to be at all common: Of about 3,300 Vineyard beetle observations in iNaturalist, only 19 are of Clerids. This pattern is roughly similar throughout the Southern New England coastal plain.

But what this family lacks in diversity and abundance, it more than makes up for in snappy coloration and ecological importance. Clerids are called “checkered beetles” because of the bold patterns of bands or spots that many species exhibit. While there is a lot of variation across the family, a typical Clerid is a medium-size beetle, with the head and thorax considerably narrower than the wings. Most Clerids are covered with short, dense hair, and the combination of structure, coloration, and hairiness makes this family fairly easy to recognize. The ecological importance of the checkered beetles stems from their predatory habits. Again, there is a wide range of variation. But generally speaking, Clerids eat other insects, often other beetles. Many species target woodboring beetles; others zero in on galls, feeding on the insect larvae inside; and still others associate with carrion, sometimes eating the dead animal but also often preying on other insects attracted to the decaying flesh. As is always the case with predators, these habits mean that Clerids can be influential in regulating the population size of the insects they prey on. So, back to Thanasimus dubius, which my friend observed “all over a knockedover pitch pine” along Chappaquonsett Road. That area, most readers will be aware, has seen its extensive stands of pitch pines devastated by Southern pine beetle infesta-

A typical Clerid beetle, photographed in Southern France in 2016.

An adult Southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis.

An adult Thanasimus dubius, found in a bird bath in Tisbury. PHOTOS: MATHEW PELIKAN

What this family lacks in diversity and abundance, it more than makes up for in snappy coloration and ecological importance. tions. The Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation, and possibly some private landowners as well, have embarked on largescale, expensive, but in my view necessary responses, removing dead pines and thinning surviving ones to reduce their vulnerability to Southern pine beetle infestation. My friend’s discovery of large numbers of T. dubius on a dead, presumably beetle-killed pitch pine is anything but an accident. The prey of choice for this particular Clerid beetle happens to bark-boring beetles, including the Southern pine beetle. Thanasimus lays its eggs in or near the entrance of boring beetle galleries on

the trunk of an infested tree. The beetle larvae enter the galleries to feed on the eggs of the boring beetle. And adult Thanasimus bushwhack adult boring beetles as they emerge from tree trunks to start their reproductive cycle. Thanasimus dubius is, in short, an ally in the fight to control Southern pine beetle, a native originally of the Southeastern U.S. that arrived here recently as its range expands northward, driven by milder winters that allow more of the coldsensitive Southern pine beetle larvae to survive. (Yes, Southern pine beetle devastation on the Island is a very

direct, very tangible effect of global climate change, though a variety of other factors have amplified the beetle’s impact.) What my astute friend observed was clear evidence of at least one natural predator of Southern pine beetle responding to the sudden abundance of a suitable prey species. I would not hold my breath waiting for Thanasimus to beat the Southern pine beetle into submission, though. In order for the predator to become abundant, the prey needs to become abundant first. And so I would expect a predator like Thanasimus to respond to local beetle outbreaks once they’re under-

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way, rather than preventing them in the first place. Over the long term, once the initial outbreak of Southern pine beetle has run its course, natural predators like Thanasimus will likely play a role in regulating Southern pine beetle numbers, as this newly established pest species gradually settles in as an established member of our insect fauna. But trees grow slowly, and forest regeneration takes decades or centuries to play out fully. A new equilibrium will eventually emerge involving pitch pine, its associated, lethal boring beetle, and predators of that beetle. But it will take time.

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