It's still Summer! — island mettle

Summer continues to show its colors. It's that time of year when arrangements are brimming, plantings are lush, and trimming/deadheading are necessary. Happy to say Lew has been helpful and I was able to be outside a bit as the weather has cooled.

Although I should have paced myself more, it was so nice to be outside messing about. I directed meaning I had last call on what was a weed and what was a flower which really depends on said plants location. It's amazing what a guy will do if a tractor and a dump cart can be part of the scheme!

So what will tempt me to venture out this week?

Many of the young ones who have been to the Island have made their way back to the classroom.

That doesn’t mean the summer fun has ended. The coming weekend is a glorious time for residents and visitors alike here on Washington Island!

Take a look at what the Island has in store for you!

Admittedly, a pick from schoolhouse beach internet images.

1. The picnic pavilion at Schoolhouse Beach* is the spot and the celebration of 70+ years for the fellowship & philanthropy of the Washington Island Womens Club is the purpose of a potluck this Tuesday the 25th @ 5:00pm. The ladies will provide hamburgers and hot dogs. A dish to pass is welcome with cake to follow graciously donated by the Danish Mill. Cindra Hokkanen would appreciate a call with the number in your group by tonight - er, 8/23. Stop by and wish these Ladies well as this group has made quite a difference in our Island community through their donations and help to - it sure seems - every nonprofit here.

*In case of rain, Trinity Lutheran Fellowship Hall is the Plan B location.

2.) Summertime and ribs just have a wonderful relationship. Check out what Death's Door BBQ has in store at it's 4th Annual event. Besides tasting delectable meat in a variety of categories, check out live entertainment, kids events and a whole slew of fun things to do/buy with the entire family in this two-day fest.

Friday-Saturday, August 28 - 29 @ the Airport www.deathsdoorbbq.com

A note from DDBBQ Master Dick Jepsen: On Tuesday August 25th make sure you watch Good Day Wisconsin on Fox 11. Chef Jeff and myself will be talking about Deaths Door BBQ. Chef will be cooking up some ribs. The segment will be live between 8:45 AM and 9 AM. (Ed. Note: Set your DVR now!)

Dick Purinton's contribution to the ANC's "Canvas Quilt".

3.) The Washington Island Art Association has set up what will be the final show of the ANC's 50th season. Paintings can be viewed now but the official opening reception will be held August 28 from 4:30 to 6:00pm @ the Art & Nature Center.

4.) Out at the Red Barn plans are underway for the 13th Annual Folk Music Festival. This year's theme is "International". If you will be on the Island and are interested in sitting In with a song or two from America or anywhere else in the world, contact Dan Hansen or Jordon Harris. Come for the music -vocal & instrumental- Friday the 28th, 7:30pm out at the Red Barn! For more info, see the yellow RB signs posted around the Island.

5. Lastly, a reminder that the early bird deadline - Sept. 1 - is approaching for the 3rd Annual Literary Festival. This year's theme is "Spirit of Place: Literature of Land & Sea." For more information go to www.truebloodpac.com and click on the current season and ticket tab!

Till next time ...