Here’s what’s happening on Martha’s Vineyard today.
On this day eight years ago, NASA released photos that indicated that there was water on Mars. Also today, violence peaked at the Rolling Stones’ free concert held at Altamount. It’s also National Gazpacho Day. We hope you enjoy it.If your friend sent you this, sign up for yourself here.
At home you are surrounded by life’s distractions, inclined to pick up the phone or do the dishes. Escape reality for a few hours with a screening at The Film Center. Enjoy cinema snacks and relax in one of our reclining chairs in front of the big screen. Simply sit and immerse yourself. You’ve earned it.
Convicted swindler faces new charges Due to prior convictions spanning almost three decades, police are charging Oak Bluffs resident Jeffrey S. Windle with being a "common and notorious thief." This after he allegedly attempted to put a down payment on a home with a picture of a $20,000 check, while using a different name. Read that story here.
Policing parties? On Jan. 8, the Edgartown select board will hold a public hearing on a proposed general bylaw limiting large residential social events. The bylaw would limit a residence from holding more than two gatherings of over 50 people per week, and over five such gatherings a month. Violations would be enforced by the police department and each carry a $300 fine. This comes after discussion in Edgartown last summer over noise and traffic complaints against the Uncle Nearest House. Read more here.
Diluting the Islands State Senator Sue Moran was before a joint committee advocating for the passage of her bill that would give port communities with the Steamship Authority more voting power. The bill has mostly languished in the legislature and does not have support from other local lawmakers. But a number of Falmouth and Hyannis residents pushed for the bill’s passage. Read more here.
MEETINGS The All Island School Committee meets at 5:30 pm on Thursday. Here’s the agenda. The Martha’s Vineyard Commission meets at 6:30 pm on Thursday. Here’s the agenda.
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Quote of the Day "Caleb Pond has its own unique and peaceful character that sets it apart from Katama Bay. . . This beautiful environment, which has remained largely undisturbed for many years, is enjoyed not only by us, but also by folks entering the pond on all types of watercraft, the many motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists traveling daily to and from the Chappy Ferry, and now visitors to the Land Bank’s new Caleb’s Pond Preserve." — A group of Chappy landowners in a letter to the Edgartown Conservation Commission on plans for Caleb’s Pond Preserve
Hot Topic Comment "‘Pro-life’ is a euphemism. Virtually all of us are in favor of life. If these people framed their position as ‘anti-women’s-right-to-choose,’ I think the issue would be clearer. I don’t want to see an anti-women flag flying at town hall." — Susanna Sturgis comments on a request to fly a "pro-life" flag on town property in West Tisbury
Hot Topic Letter "A chair would be nice for those who are holding a baby, walking with a cane, nine months pregnant with aching back and feet, or just elderly people like me who can’t stand for long periods or carry heavy boxes long distances." — Beth Tveit writes to us about service issues at the Oak Bluffs Post Office
Today:The M.V. Museum hosts a panel discussion on Off-Island Perspectives on the Island Housing Crisis with Dan O’Connell, Rep. Dylan Fernandes, and Tucker Holland. Maybe they’ll spark some new ideas. Let’s hope so. 5 pm. –Connie Berry
The First Congregational Church in West Tisbury gives us a Contemplative Advent Service for the next three Wednesdays. This first one is focused on helping you set an intention for the season. I like the sound of that. 5:30 pm. –C.B.
Tomorrow:The Louisa Gould Gallery opened its Holiday Small Wonders Show and I’m ready to browse. It always has a great selection of smaller (which means more affordable) artwork, plus jewelry, ceramics, and other spiffy things for sale. 11 am to 5 pm. –C.B.
Movies! Check out what's playing at Island theaters here.
Seasonal Events! Discover activities for the Holiday Season here.
Mix it up "Like new Sturdy KitchenAid blender. $35 call/text 646-584-0516."
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Dining out?
The Barn Open Monday through Saturday 11:30 am to 11 pm for lunch, dinner & bowling. Text Barnmv to 508/696/9800 to receive deals & specials. The Sweet Life Open year-round! Serving dinner Tuesday through Saturday at 5:30 pm. Wednesday is pasta night. Live music on Thursdays. Brunch is back! Sundays 11 am to 2 pm. @sweet_life_mv508/696/0200 sweetlifemv.com Click here for more details and specials
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The art of shopping We’re featuring the Featherstone Holiday Gift Show today, which is open every day through Dec. 17. You’ll find works there from a number of artists, from smaller-scale paintings to photos and sculptures. Gwyn McAllister says there’s a treasure trove of goods, and she talks about the artists. Check it out here.
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