This week has been jam-packed, and not the fruity delicious type of jam that Linda Alley makes, but jam-packed with events, launches, openings, and the usual August commitments. Our local nonprofits truly shone last week, with the Martha’s Vineyard Boys & Girls Club hosting its groundbreaking ceremony on a new facility that will be more than 21,000 square feet, and include a new full-size gymnasium, programming spaces for STEM education, computer labs, consulting spaces for the club’s mental health counseling services, and larger kitchen spaces for food preparation for club members. It was inspiring to hear the kids speak during this event, and it’s times like these that make Edgartown the strong community it is.
A few days later, another nonprofit, this time Harbor Homes, launched the third edition of its “Joyful Eatings” cookbook at the Federated Church. There was a short presentation and Q and A with shelter director Lisa Belcastro, who shared inspiring updates from the frontlines. Sponsored by the Federated Church of Martha’s Vineyard, with generous support from Cronig’s Market, each week during the cold winter months, Island chefs lead a class for volunteer “sous-chefs” as they prepare a meal for the overnight shelter. Volunteers learn some new recipes, cooking techniques, and enjoy a tasting, while helping some of the most vulnerable members of our community. If you’re in the culinary industry, consider reaching out to Harbor Homes or the Federated Church to support. In the meantime, you can purchase cookbooks at the church or online, with 100 percent of proceeds donated to support Harbor Homes.
Coming up this week, a few notable events you might want to attend:
At Edgartown Books, catch a book signing of “First Ladies Make History” by Anita McBride and Giovanna McBride on Friday, August 8, from 11 to 1 pm.
At the FARM Institute, join Charlie Granquiest of Slough Farm for a can’t-miss dining experience in the middle of the FARM’s one-acre sunflower field. Music by Darby Patterson and Sam. Tickets on sale at thetrustees.org/event/439916.
At the Daniel Fisher House, join the Vineyard Preservation Trust for a dazzling evening under the Vineyard stars as they celebrate 50 years of preserving Martha’s Vineyard’s most iconic landmarks, on Saturday, August 9, from 7 to 10 pm. Enjoy live music by Dukes of Circuit Avenue, sweet and savory treats, and joyful celebration with the Island community. Raise a glass, hit the dance floor, and help them blow out the candles on half a century of preservation. Tickets include libations and dessert; it’s a 21-plus event.
At the Old Whaling Church, experience the Martha’s Vineyard Gospel Festival on Monday, August 11, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. And then, at the same location, enjoy world-renowned saxophonist, vocalist, and composer Grace Kelly on Thursday, August 14, from 8 to 9:30 pm.
Like I said before, another jam-packed week! Happy birthday goes out to one of Edgartown’s finest culinarians, chef and owner of Atria, Christian Thornton, who celebrates his birthday on August 12! Cheers to you — thanks for making our town extra-delicious!