Art
Pyrotechnic Storm Hits Ocean Park
Did you know fireworks date back to seventh century China when they were used to scare away evil spirits? But that was just for the wealthy. The masses didn’t get their boom-boom on until the 14th century, thanks to the Ming dynasty’s populist embrace. Fast-forward to today and a beloved dynasty of another sort, the Oak Bluffs Fire Department, which is hosting its annual fireworks blastoff at Ocean Park in Oak Bluffs.
Prominent Afghan businesswoman Hassina Sherjan, who owns the textile company Boumi and is coauthor of Toughing It Out in Afghanistan, will be among the notable women speaking at Empowering Afghan Women, a panel presentation to be held on Monday, August 23, at the Katharine Cornell Theatre in Vineyard Haven from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Mary Jane Carpenter will give a free public talk on the history of Edgartown’s Carnegie Library building, at the library at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 25.
Let’s Dance!
Island Salsa will be represented at the Let’s Move Festival on August 24 in Waban Park in Oak Bluffs. From 1 to 1:15 p.m. there will be a demonstration followed by a brief introductory class with David Vanderhoop. There is no charge. The rain date is August 25. And it’s not too early to start planning for salsa classes this coming fall. Classes for beginners, advanced beginners and a salsa intensive are all planned, starting in October. An announcement with details will appear in a future edition of the Gazette.
Shearer Cottage in Oak Bluffs has a history of being part of history. The 103-year-old summer inn was a haven for African American families in the early part of the 20th century during a time when few establishments would offer hospitality services, and has continued to be part of a vibrant community tradition.
Shearer Cottage in Oak Bluffs has a history of being part of history. The 103-year-old summer inn was a haven for African American families in the early part of the 20th century during a time when few establishments would offer hospitality services, and has continued to be part of a vibrant community tradition.
Meet the executive producer of Precious, the Academy Award-winning film directed by Lee Daniels, on Saturday, August 21, at 10 a.m. at the Harbor View Hotel. Hosted by the Weekend Renewing America’s Promise, the event includes a preview and discussion of a new movie underway led by Lisa Cortes, executive producer of Precious, and filmmakers Lisa Collins, Mark Schwartzburt and Maxim Thorne, founder of WRAP. The topic for discussion is Can We Create Change and Social Justice through Film?