At a time in our history when fear, anxiety and terror are becoming an accepted fact of life, a small town gathering to celebrate a joyous holiday can bring a community together for all the best reasons.

The Oak Bluffs tree lighting is all about joy and caring for one another and being together to share these special values. Many, many people contribute to this event and deserve our deepest gratitude. Thanks to the Friends of Oak Bluffs for all the bows, the highway department for helping to decorate and to Mark Crossland for his extra super-duper job in creating a one-of-a-kind holiday décor that is just breath-taking. Applause, applause to Paul Mahoney who supplied the perfect town tree that was lit by Mike Santoro, chairman of the selectmen (who also provided hot chocolate and all the fixings). Thanks to the Vineyard Classic Brass, playing all the traditional carols and to the Brian Wieland Band for their exciting and vibrant holiday music and to the Oak Bluffs firemens civic association who provided a most dramatic and impressive entrance for Saint Nick himself atop engine number one complete with flashing lights and sirens blazing!

Thanks to the Oak Bluffs police department volunteers who kept everyone safe and a special thanks to the town PTO which helped to get the word out and to encourage the donation of food for the Island Food Pantry. And last, but by far not the least, to the Oak Bluffs School art teacher, Kim O’Connor and her students K through 4 for the spectacular mural that lights up the Corner Store window (compliments of Luke DeBettencourt) that helps to cheer the passing crowd.

The Oak Bluffs Association has sponsored this special event for many years. It is a rich and rewarding experience that is all the thanks we need.

Happy holidays everyone.

Renee Balter
Oak Bluffs