The contra dance weekend sponsored by the Ocrafolk Festival was a big hit. The participants were enthusiastic and everyone looked like they were having a great time. We have gotten lots of positive feedback from everyone involved. Many thanks to Joan Kelly for being so patient with us and teaching us to enjoy the dances. The musicians were also great and made the weekend that much better. We hope to do it again next year!
The weekend also contained an organic farming workshop (which ties in to but is not conected with a gardening workshop series that Nancy Leach of Firefly Gift and Garden has organized) and a demonstration and explanation of an alternative water heating unit just installed in a new rental unit. It was all very informative and interesting.
Saturday was also a big day for Jason Wells (of Jason's Restaurant) and Brooke Garrish. They tied the knot at the Ocracoke United Methodist Church. The church was packed almost to overflowing, but they managed to fit everyone in the sanctuary using creative seating solutions. Congratulations to them both and their families.
You can read our latest newsletter here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news021806.htm. It's the story of the US Life Saving Station on Ocracoke and the wreck of the A.F. Crockett on February 17, 1885.
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Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Monday, February 27, 2006
Greetings from Indiana!
Hello to all of our readers. I'm sorry I haven't written in the last few days. On my way out to see Lou Ann I came down with a head and chest cold. I drove for two days "under the weather" and then stayed in bed for two more days. I am slowly recuperating.
I came to see the theater production Lou Ann directed here in northeast Indiana -- The Vagina Monologues. All proceeds went to a local advocacy group to help prevent violence against women. The show was supported by a host of organizations and individuals, including the town mayor and state representative who both helped usher. The theater was almost sold out and the performance was superb. At the curtain call the enthusiastic audience rose as one to offer a standing ovation. Congratulations Lou Ann!
Back home, I'm told, the contra dance and workshop was a huge success. David & Amy told me that they had two parties in my house while I was gone. The dancers, musicians, and other friends gathered after the festivities each night to relax.
I also had a phone call from a neighbor who wanted to borrow my pickup truck to pick up some furniture in Manteo. "Sure," I said. "Do you know where the truck is right now?" "Well," he said, "actually, it's in my driveway." So not much has changed on the island since I've been gone.
You can read our latest newsletter here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news021806.htm. It's the story of the US Life Saving Station on Ocracoke and the wreck of the A.F. Crockett on February 17, 1885.
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I came to see the theater production Lou Ann directed here in northeast Indiana -- The Vagina Monologues. All proceeds went to a local advocacy group to help prevent violence against women. The show was supported by a host of organizations and individuals, including the town mayor and state representative who both helped usher. The theater was almost sold out and the performance was superb. At the curtain call the enthusiastic audience rose as one to offer a standing ovation. Congratulations Lou Ann!
Back home, I'm told, the contra dance and workshop was a huge success. David & Amy told me that they had two parties in my house while I was gone. The dancers, musicians, and other friends gathered after the festivities each night to relax.
I also had a phone call from a neighbor who wanted to borrow my pickup truck to pick up some furniture in Manteo. "Sure," I said. "Do you know where the truck is right now?" "Well," he said, "actually, it's in my driveway." So not much has changed on the island since I've been gone.
You can read our latest newsletter here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news021806.htm. It's the story of the US Life Saving Station on Ocracoke and the wreck of the A.F. Crockett on February 17, 1885.
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Thursday, February 23, 2006
Ocracoke Newsletter
I've published another story on our Ocracoke Newsletter page. This month I share some information about the US Life Saving Service. The first station on Ocracoke was commissioned in 1883. I have also included the story of the rescue of the captain and crew of the schooner A. F. Crockett. Their vessel ran aground on Ocracoke's beach in rough weather on February 17, 1885.
Reading my great-grandfather's shipwreck reports I am always struck with the bravery and courage of the many Outer Bankers who struggled valiantly to bring the life saving equipment to the stranded vessels (usually in adverse conditions and using only manpower), and who braved the often cold and angry Atlantic ocean to rescue people they did not know.
You can read the latest newsletter here.
Reading my great-grandfather's shipwreck reports I am always struck with the bravery and courage of the many Outer Bankers who struggled valiantly to bring the life saving equipment to the stranded vessels (usually in adverse conditions and using only manpower), and who braved the often cold and angry Atlantic ocean to rescue people they did not know.
You can read the latest newsletter here.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Jude
Some of our readers know Jude, but many do not. Jude works "in the back" at Village Craftsmen. She is a dedicated, hard-working, extremely competent employee. In a word, she's great. (But she always changes the subject when I try to compliment her.) She keeps our inventory current, pays the bills, & processes internet orders. If you call about an order you will usually talk with Jude. And you will always get her full attention. Once in a while you will see her at the front counter.
Jude has been off work for a couple of weeks now. She had both knees replaced, but is recuperating wonderfully. We even had her laptop connected to the Village Craftsmen computer so she can work from home (she was more than ready to get back to work even though she's still got several weeks before she will be able to play basketball with her granddaughter). We're all delighted that her surgery went so well.
In other news, I will be traveling to Indiana to see Lou Ann in a couple of days. On the way home I'll stop in western NC to see my son Stefen and his family. While I am gone Ernest & Joan Kelly will be staying at my house. They will be on the island for a couple of weeks, including this coming weekend when they will be teaching and calling the contra dances for Ocracoke's "Winter Chill Chaser."
I'll try to convince someone else to keep you posted on island life while I'm gone -- and maybe I'll add a journal entry every now and then from "off-island."
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Jude has been off work for a couple of weeks now. She had both knees replaced, but is recuperating wonderfully. We even had her laptop connected to the Village Craftsmen computer so she can work from home (she was more than ready to get back to work even though she's still got several weeks before she will be able to play basketball with her granddaughter). We're all delighted that her surgery went so well.
In other news, I will be traveling to Indiana to see Lou Ann in a couple of days. On the way home I'll stop in western NC to see my son Stefen and his family. While I am gone Ernest & Joan Kelly will be staying at my house. They will be on the island for a couple of weeks, including this coming weekend when they will be teaching and calling the contra dances for Ocracoke's "Winter Chill Chaser."
I'll try to convince someone else to keep you posted on island life while I'm gone -- and maybe I'll add a journal entry every now and then from "off-island."
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Monday, February 20, 2006
Snow!
It wasn't much....less than an inch of heavy wet snow, and it is starting to melt already, but it was a pleasant surprise when I looked out my bedroom window this morning. Here are a few photos.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Sunday, February 19, 2006
Winter has Returned
For all of our readers who may have been envying our 70 degree temperatures last week, this is a good time to remember that we do get cold weather here on the island now and then. Right now it is only 35 degrees with about a 15 mph breeze. The forecast calls for lows tonight in the upper 20s. It is bright and sunny, however, so I think I'll don a sweater, knit cap, heavy jacket, & gloves, and take a stroll along the surf. Maybe I'll check my freeze protection on the pipes under my buildings first so I don't need to do that after dark.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Saturday, February 18, 2006
Blanche
For all of our readers who know my cousin Blanche, she is doing fine -- but she did have a fall yesterday. She lost her footing and tumbled onto some concrete blocks in the back yard. I carried her up to Nags Head for an x-ray, and she's broken her humerus. We came back home last evening with her left arm immobilized, and the biggest problem now will just be convincing her to slow down.
Blanche is the sweetest and hardest working 86 year old I've ever known. You may have seen her tending to the graveyards across the street from the Village Craftsmen. She likes to be busy. And she is a wealth of information about old-time Ocracoke. She can answer almost any question I have about the island's history.
I told her I was going to move the ladder she has propped up against her house so she wouldn't be tempted to climb up on the roof to clean out her gutters, but she let me know that I wasn't to touch her ladder or she'd just have to move it back!
At first she didn't want me to tell about her fall in my journal, but then she relented and said it was OK. If you want to send her a card, just address it to Blanche Howard Jolliff, General Delivery, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
Or, if you want to send her an e-card, I'll be happy to print it out and hand deliver it to her. Just email any card to info@villagecraftsmen.com. There are lots of e-card sites on the web. Here is one: http://www.mac.com/WebObjects/iCards.woa/wa/default?lang=en
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Blanche is the sweetest and hardest working 86 year old I've ever known. You may have seen her tending to the graveyards across the street from the Village Craftsmen. She likes to be busy. And she is a wealth of information about old-time Ocracoke. She can answer almost any question I have about the island's history.
I told her I was going to move the ladder she has propped up against her house so she wouldn't be tempted to climb up on the roof to clean out her gutters, but she let me know that I wasn't to touch her ladder or she'd just have to move it back!
At first she didn't want me to tell about her fall in my journal, but then she relented and said it was OK. If you want to send her a card, just address it to Blanche Howard Jolliff, General Delivery, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
Or, if you want to send her an e-card, I'll be happy to print it out and hand deliver it to her. Just email any card to info@villagecraftsmen.com. There are lots of e-card sites on the web. Here is one: http://www.mac.com/WebObjects/iCards.woa/wa/default?lang=en
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Friday, February 17, 2006
Lambert Tree & A.F. Crockett
Today is February 17. Twice on this date in the 19th century Ocracoke Island was witness to calamitous shipwrecks. In 1841 the schooner "Lambert Tree" ran aground on Ocracoke. In 1885 another schooner, the "A.F. Crockett," wrecked about two miles north of the village in rough seas.
There is little chance of a shipwreck today. Of course the heyday of schooners is long over; and the weather today is just plain super. With highs near 70, bright skies, and a light breeze this would be a mariner's dream.
Look for a more detailed account of the wreck of the A.F. Crockett in an upcoming newsletter.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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There is little chance of a shipwreck today. Of course the heyday of schooners is long over; and the weather today is just plain super. With highs near 70, bright skies, and a light breeze this would be a mariner's dream.
Look for a more detailed account of the wreck of the A.F. Crockett in an upcoming newsletter.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Thursday, February 16, 2006
Fibonacci Sequence
Lachlan is such fun to have around. His verbal skills are improving daily, and he will repeat almost anything he hears (mama and papa, if you're listening, think about this!), even if it's sometimes difficult to make it out.
I have been enjoying teaching him to say "Fibonacci Sequence." Most folks just look at me sideways and furrow their brows. If you're not familiar with the phrase, you might want to look it up on-line. Among other things, the Fibonacci Sequence is the number sequence that many mollusks (most notably the chambered nautilus) use to construct their seashells. So it's an entirely appropriate phrase for our little islander.
The sequence is 0,1,1,2,3,5,8,13,21,34.... Each number is the sum of the two previous numbers. The sequence is common in nature (including the patterns in sunflower seeds, pine cones, rabbit populations, etc.).
Here is a good link: http://www.mcs.surrey.ac.uk/Personal/R.Knott/Fibonacci/fibnat.html Scroll down the page to read about seashells.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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I have been enjoying teaching him to say "Fibonacci Sequence." Most folks just look at me sideways and furrow their brows. If you're not familiar with the phrase, you might want to look it up on-line. Among other things, the Fibonacci Sequence is the number sequence that many mollusks (most notably the chambered nautilus) use to construct their seashells. So it's an entirely appropriate phrase for our little islander.
The sequence is 0,1,1,2,3,5,8,13,21,34.... Each number is the sum of the two previous numbers. The sequence is common in nature (including the patterns in sunflower seeds, pine cones, rabbit populations, etc.).
Here is a good link: http://www.mcs.surrey.ac.uk/Personal/R.Knott/Fibonacci/fibnat.html Scroll down the page to read about seashells.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Wednesday, February 15, 2006
A Belated "Happy Valentine's Day!"
We hope all of our friends of Ocracoke had a wonderful Valentine's Day. I meant to send this greeting out yesterday, of course, but I didn't plan ahead too well. I babysat Lachlan last night so mama & papa could have an evening out at the Flying Melon restaurant. We took cookies across the lane to cousin Blanche (I was sharing some of my Valentine's present from Lou Ann), then came home and played for a while, before falling asleep on the sofa. There was just no way to get to the computer!
By the way, it's warming up on the island again. We're all happy about that.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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By the way, it's warming up on the island again. We're all happy about that.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Monday, February 13, 2006
Happy Birthday Phyllis
I suppose other small communities come together often for special events. Ocracoke certainly does. Last night several hundred people gathered at the community center at 6 pm. Tables were piled high with chicken, quiche, bean salads, deviled eggs, vegetable dishes, potato salad, and dozens of other delectables. Another table was covered with cakes, pies, fudge, cream puffs, soft drinks, and other desserts too numerous to mention.
Everyone hushed at 6:45 when Phyllis Wall's family coaxed her into the building with some tall tale. I'm sure she realized something was up when she saw all the automobiles in the parking lot, but she was genuinely surprised to see so many of her friends (all singing "Happy Birthday") when she walked through the doorway.
Phyllis has been a long-time resident of the island (I remember when she used to come into our Village Craftsmen tepee in the 1970s to buy spoon rings), and is much loved by all. It was fun to see the sparkle in her face as she greeted everyone, and as friends wished her a very happy birthday.
A highlight of the evening was live jazz music provided by David Tweedie (violin) and Serge Gracovetsky (clarinet). (I'm not sure I've spelled Serge's name correctly.) Serge has owned a house on the island for more than thirty years, but I never realized that he is such an accomplished musician. Everyone was captivated by the lilting tones (and tunes) that wafted through the building. We'll be looking forward to hearing more of this duo's accomplishments.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Everyone hushed at 6:45 when Phyllis Wall's family coaxed her into the building with some tall tale. I'm sure she realized something was up when she saw all the automobiles in the parking lot, but she was genuinely surprised to see so many of her friends (all singing "Happy Birthday") when she walked through the doorway.
Phyllis has been a long-time resident of the island (I remember when she used to come into our Village Craftsmen tepee in the 1970s to buy spoon rings), and is much loved by all. It was fun to see the sparkle in her face as she greeted everyone, and as friends wished her a very happy birthday.
A highlight of the evening was live jazz music provided by David Tweedie (violin) and Serge Gracovetsky (clarinet). (I'm not sure I've spelled Serge's name correctly.) Serge has owned a house on the island for more than thirty years, but I never realized that he is such an accomplished musician. Everyone was captivated by the lilting tones (and tunes) that wafted through the building. We'll be looking forward to hearing more of this duo's accomplishments.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Sunday, February 12, 2006
Winter Weather
I awoke this morning to wind gusts pummeling the side of my house, but no rain....and no snow! The storm that clobbered the northeast missed us, so we have now only a light breeze and overcast skies. The temperature is cold for us (the forecast calls for temps just below freezing tonight), even if nowhere near what other parts of the US are experiencing.
Amy, David & Lachlan came by for pancakes this morning (with real maple syrup, thanks to Jim Horn and his book club). I babysat until noon so mama & papa could get some other things done. I haven't even walked on the beach today -- it's just been one of those perfect days to stay home and read by the fire.
We hope all of our off-island friends are staying warm and dry.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Amy, David & Lachlan came by for pancakes this morning (with real maple syrup, thanks to Jim Horn and his book club). I babysat until noon so mama & papa could get some other things done. I haven't even walked on the beach today -- it's just been one of those perfect days to stay home and read by the fire.
We hope all of our off-island friends are staying warm and dry.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Saturday, February 11, 2006
Old Records
Dale stopped by this afternoon. He had been "up the beach" to visit the National Park Service archives several days ago. Park employees had allowed him to make copies of the Portsmouth Island US Army Signal Corps weather records from 1876 to 1881. Many of the entries documented work and repairs on the telegraph line from Hatteras Inlet to Drum Inlet.
We spent nearly two hours reading these century-and-a-half old reports that included information on storms, gales, hurricanes, shipwrecks, fires, and waterspouts that helped shape our barrier islands and the hearty folks who called this home.
It was a good day to sit around the dining room table and examine these old reports. Today has been bleak, dreary and chilly, with light rain and mist since early this morning.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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We spent nearly two hours reading these century-and-a-half old reports that included information on storms, gales, hurricanes, shipwrecks, fires, and waterspouts that helped shape our barrier islands and the hearty folks who called this home.
It was a good day to sit around the dining room table and examine these old reports. Today has been bleak, dreary and chilly, with light rain and mist since early this morning.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Friday, February 10, 2006
Winter Chill Chaser
We have yet another announcement, this time for all of our Ocracoke/Dance fans out there in cyberspace. Fiddler Dave sent the following information about a Contra Dance weekend being held on the island at the end of this month. If you live on the island or nearby consider joining us for this fun weekend.
All dances and workshops are free & everyone is welcome.
Read on for more particulars:
Ocrafolk Festival Presents
Winter Chill Chaser
Free Contra Dance and Organic Farming Workshop Weekend at Ocracoke Island School
Friday, February 24
7:00 - 9:30 pm -- Family Contra Dance
Lots of teaching and easy dances, suitable for people who have never danced before. Children should know left from right, be comfortable letting go of parents and interacting with strangers, and be able to listen to and follow a short series of instructions. Refreshments provided by the Ocracoke Family Resource Program.
Saturday, February 25
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Dance Workshop
Teaching a few more complex contra moves, plenty of dances, and a session of basic waltz instruction. Geared towards teens and adults.
2:00 - 3:30 pm Contra musicians workshop
David DiGuiseppie and Pete Campbell will help musicians hone their dance
accompaniment skills.
7:00 - 10:00 pm Chillchaser Contra Dance Ball
Contra calling and instruction by Joan Kelly of Memphis, TN.
Weekend music provided by David DiGiuseppe and Pete Campbell.
Sunday, February 26
1:00 - 5:00 pm Organic Farming Workshop at Deepwater Theater
At Deepwater Theater on Ocracoke’s School Road come explore films and discussion about Agriculture with Organic Farmer John Wilson from New Earth Farm in Virginia Beach. He will discuss the need to preserve local family farms, Sustainable Agriculture and some of the pitfalls of factory farming.
Contra dance is a lively and distinctively American form of folk dancing, rooted in English Country Dancing. The dance is social in nature, vigorous and joyful. Partners dance together, repeating a series of moves with every other couple in line down the hall. There is no specific footwork to learn, and all the moves are taught, walked through, and prompted by the caller during the dance. Live music adds to the zest. Contra dance groups meet regularly all over the United States.
Come alone or bring a friend!
www.ocrafolkfestival.org
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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All dances and workshops are free & everyone is welcome.
Read on for more particulars:
Ocrafolk Festival Presents
Winter Chill Chaser
Free Contra Dance and Organic Farming Workshop Weekend at Ocracoke Island School
Friday, February 24
7:00 - 9:30 pm -- Family Contra Dance
Lots of teaching and easy dances, suitable for people who have never danced before. Children should know left from right, be comfortable letting go of parents and interacting with strangers, and be able to listen to and follow a short series of instructions. Refreshments provided by the Ocracoke Family Resource Program.
Saturday, February 25
10:00 am - 12:00 pm Dance Workshop
Teaching a few more complex contra moves, plenty of dances, and a session of basic waltz instruction. Geared towards teens and adults.
2:00 - 3:30 pm Contra musicians workshop
David DiGuiseppie and Pete Campbell will help musicians hone their dance
accompaniment skills.
7:00 - 10:00 pm Chillchaser Contra Dance Ball
Contra calling and instruction by Joan Kelly of Memphis, TN.
Weekend music provided by David DiGiuseppe and Pete Campbell.
Sunday, February 26
1:00 - 5:00 pm Organic Farming Workshop at Deepwater Theater
At Deepwater Theater on Ocracoke’s School Road come explore films and discussion about Agriculture with Organic Farmer John Wilson from New Earth Farm in Virginia Beach. He will discuss the need to preserve local family farms, Sustainable Agriculture and some of the pitfalls of factory farming.
Contra dance is a lively and distinctively American form of folk dancing, rooted in English Country Dancing. The dance is social in nature, vigorous and joyful. Partners dance together, repeating a series of moves with every other couple in line down the hall. There is no specific footwork to learn, and all the moves are taught, walked through, and prompted by the caller during the dance. Live music adds to the zest. Contra dance groups meet regularly all over the United States.
Come alone or bring a friend!
www.ocrafolkfestival.org
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Thursday, February 09, 2006
Turning Cold
The temperature is in the upper 30s right now -- very brisk and winter-like. We're expecting the thermometer to read right around freezing by morning. But the heavens have been clear and pristine today. Fiddler Dave commented that the clouds looked like crystal buffalos marching across the sky. By sunset the western horizon was ablaze in shades of red and orange. Above were bands of rainbow colors melting into the last pale blue of daylight.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Ocracoke Web Camera
Several readers have made comments or asked about Ocracoke web cameras. The only one I am aware of is located on the roof of the Castle Bed and Breakfast. Just go to their web site: http://www.thecastlebb.com/ and click on "Live Web Camera."
The dredge you may see anchored in the harbor has been working on the ferry channel close by Ocracoke. I haven't heard if they are planning to do any dredging in Silver Lake. At least they do this kind of work in the off-season. We're glad for that.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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The dredge you may see anchored in the harbor has been working on the ferry channel close by Ocracoke. I haven't heard if they are planning to do any dredging in Silver Lake. At least they do this kind of work in the off-season. We're glad for that.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Valentine Party & Dance
Special announcement for Ocracoke residents & visitors this coming weekend:
There will be a Valentine Party & Dance this Saturday, Feb. 11 at the Ocracoke Community Center. Doors open at 8 pm. The Ocracoke Rockers will be providing the music.
Admission is for a donation of $20.00. All proceeds are to benefit the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department. Admission is limited. You can sign up at the Ocracoke Post Office or the Pony Island Motel Office.
If you will be on the island this weekend be sure to come on out, listen to some wonderful local music, dance the night away, get to know some locals, celebrate Valentine's Day with your sweetheart, and help our volunteer fire department.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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There will be a Valentine Party & Dance this Saturday, Feb. 11 at the Ocracoke Community Center. Doors open at 8 pm. The Ocracoke Rockers will be providing the music.
Admission is for a donation of $20.00. All proceeds are to benefit the Ocracoke Volunteer Fire Department. Admission is limited. You can sign up at the Ocracoke Post Office or the Pony Island Motel Office.
If you will be on the island this weekend be sure to come on out, listen to some wonderful local music, dance the night away, get to know some locals, celebrate Valentine's Day with your sweetheart, and help our volunteer fire department.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Monday, February 06, 2006
Update to Tech Problems
I've worked on the problem journal entries this afternoon (see today's earlier post) and think I've corrected the mistakes. I had copied a press release about the Island Path Workshops that contained a lot of extraneous html computer code (don't worry these were not viruses, just harmless web site code), that caused scrolling problems when viewing my pages.
I've deleted the html code and that seems to have fixed the issue (I found a computer that was experiencing the left to right scrolling problems and everything looks fine there now).
Please let me know if you are still having problems with the journal (don't forget to refresh your page to check if it's working correctly). And thanks to all the folks who responded to my call for help. It's nice to know that so many great people out there enjoy keeping up on news from the island.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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I've deleted the html code and that seems to have fixed the issue (I found a computer that was experiencing the left to right scrolling problems and everything looks fine there now).
Please let me know if you are still having problems with the journal (don't forget to refresh your page to check if it's working correctly). And thanks to all the folks who responded to my call for help. It's nice to know that so many great people out there enjoy keeping up on news from the island.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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A Question for Our Readers
This morning I received the following email message:
"I love your journal entries - it keeps me in touch and gives such pleasant thoughts and memories.
"I love your journal entries - it keeps me in touch and gives such pleasant thoughts and memories.
The last week something weird has happened. The writing seems to be going off the page - did you do something at your end...or is it my problem? Warm thoughts of Okracoke - see you in June!"
One local reader also reported the same problem. However, every computer that I have looked at shows no problem. Are other readers experiencing the same thing -- having to scroll right to left? I may have inadvertently made a change one day. If I knew on what date the problems began I might be better able to correct it. Thanks for any help.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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One local reader also reported the same problem. However, every computer that I have looked at shows no problem. Are other readers experiencing the same thing -- having to scroll right to left? I may have inadvertently made a change one day. If I knew on what date the problems began I might be better able to correct it. Thanks for any help.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Sunday, February 05, 2006
Happy Birthday Lou!
Marcie Brenner and Lou Castro (also known to Ocracoke music lovers as "Coyote") invited the community to an open house yesterday afternoon. They are renovating the former Bertha & Van Henry O'Neal home on Firehouse Road. Although the project is several months from completion Marcie & Lou scheduled the event for yesterday because it was also Lou's 40th birthday.
The house is a beautiful remodeling of an older home, with beadboard walls, tiled floors, antique reproduction appliances, and a sizable side porch. Several local musicians gathered on the porch for an impromptu jam session later in the afternoon, and this time John Golden brought his homemade banjo to complement the guitars, dobro, and mandelin.
Later on, at 6 o'clock, several hundred islanders converged on the Community Center for a surprise birthday party for Lou. The only way Marcie could get Lou there was to tell him they were playing for a private party for folks from Hatteras. Eventually, when the whole crowd broke out with "Happy Birthday," Lou figured out that the party was for him. He still had to perform, however, as did Marcie, Jackie, & Martin.
A wonderful time was had by all.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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The house is a beautiful remodeling of an older home, with beadboard walls, tiled floors, antique reproduction appliances, and a sizable side porch. Several local musicians gathered on the porch for an impromptu jam session later in the afternoon, and this time John Golden brought his homemade banjo to complement the guitars, dobro, and mandelin.
Later on, at 6 o'clock, several hundred islanders converged on the Community Center for a surprise birthday party for Lou. The only way Marcie could get Lou there was to tell him they were playing for a private party for folks from Hatteras. Eventually, when the whole crowd broke out with "Happy Birthday," Lou figured out that the party was for him. He still had to perform, however, as did Marcie, Jackie, & Martin.
A wonderful time was had by all.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Saturday, February 04, 2006
In Memoriam
Many visitors to Village Craftsmen will remember our faithful shop cat, Leon. He died sometime Thursday morning on Howard Street.
Leon came to Ocracoke from Colorado and loved island life. Although we never knew for sure, many folks were convinced, because of his short, stubby tail, that he was a Manx. He had long, fluffy fur, and the sweetest personality. You couldn't help but fall in love with Leon.
In the many years he wandered around the shop, sleeping on bottom shelves, or perched on the counter, or greeting folks on the front porch, he never once scratched or even bared his teeth. Even when agressive younguns got in his face he would simply turn and walk away.
I miss seeing him every morning at my back door, and I don't pass his sleeping box at the Village Craftsmen without a thought for the best cat I've ever known.
So long, Leon, from all your friends at Village Craftsmen!
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Leon came to Ocracoke from Colorado and loved island life. Although we never knew for sure, many folks were convinced, because of his short, stubby tail, that he was a Manx. He had long, fluffy fur, and the sweetest personality. You couldn't help but fall in love with Leon.
In the many years he wandered around the shop, sleeping on bottom shelves, or perched on the counter, or greeting folks on the front porch, he never once scratched or even bared his teeth. Even when agressive younguns got in his face he would simply turn and walk away.
I miss seeing him every morning at my back door, and I don't pass his sleeping box at the Village Craftsmen without a thought for the best cat I've ever known.
So long, Leon, from all your friends at Village Craftsmen!
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Friday, February 03, 2006
Hours from Home Depot?
Wednesday's post was about moving Milan & Nina Williams' old brick cistern. I included several photos of the move, which prompted this comment from one of our readers:
"Your latest photos made me wonder about the realities of living hours from the nearest Home Depot. Also, about the pace of daily business during the off season--the volume of ferry traffic and customers throughout the day, etc.
Enjoy the posts."
We do live hours from the nearest Home Depot as well as from any number of other retail establishments (and professional services) that our readers are familiar with. There are several ways we deal with this:
We may be hours from Home Depot, but we're just minutes from the beach and from our friends and neighbors.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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"Your latest photos made me wonder about the realities of living hours from the nearest Home Depot. Also, about the pace of daily business during the off season--the volume of ferry traffic and customers throughout the day, etc.
Enjoy the posts."
We do live hours from the nearest Home Depot as well as from any number of other retail establishments (and professional services) that our readers are familiar with. There are several ways we deal with this:
- Sometimes we just do without. Do we really need that new pair of shoes? Maybe we can do without a screen on that window.
- Or we might borrow from a neighbor. Somebody on the island surely has an extra sheet of 1/2" plywood.
- Often we've got just what we need in the outbuilding -- spare plumbing parts, screws, eye bolts, you name it -- we seldom throw such things away.
- Maybe we can actually buy it on the island. The hardware section of the Variety Store carries all the basics for plumbing, electric, and other general house repair. If it's for a boat Tradewinds or O'Neals may have just what we need.
- If a friend is going "up the beach," as we say, there's a good chance he or she will have time to make one more stop for that special circuit breaker or can of paint.
- Don't forget -- Dare Building Supply and Kellogg's Supply send lumber trucks down to the island several times every week. They bring 2 x 4s, 8 x 8s, shingles, concrete blocks, plywood......you name it. They even can get their vehicles down Howard Street.
- The internet is a convenient way for islanders to get the odd or hard to find item. I just ordered a magnetic knife holder, computer software, and a fire escape ladder, all on-line.
- And finally there are lists. We all make lists -- for paper towels & toilet paper, underwear, plants, special light bulbs, computer supplies, prescription drugs, etc. A trip off the island can be busy and fast-paced (and often expensive) as we try to make all the rounds (after a dental appointment) and still catch a late night ferry home.
We may be hours from Home Depot, but we're just minutes from the beach and from our friends and neighbors.
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Thursday, February 02, 2006
Ocracoke Island residents Ruth Fordon and Ken DeBarth have asked me to post information about the 2006 camps hosted by Island Path. Please read on for details:
"2006 Camps hosted by Island Path (www.islandpath.com, 1-877-708-7284, Ocracoke Island, NC)
We are pleased to announce the following cmps for the 2006 season. All will be held at the Lightkeeper's Guest House on Ocracoke Island, NC. Lodging is not included in the cost, but lmany of the meals are part of the workshop package. If you want to stay at the Lightkeeper's Guest House, early registration offers you the best opportunity to reserve one of the limited number of rooms available.
For Women:
Awakening at Midlife -- with noted author, coach and psychologist, Kathleen Brehony & Ruth Fordon, life coach and co-founder of Island Path.
We will host this 3 day weekend camp once in the spring and once in the fall.
May 18-20 & Oct. 19-21, 2006
Cost: $395. A deposit of $150 is required to hold your place in the camp.
For Writers:
We will host this weeklong camp just once in the fall.
Coaching Your Book Into Being -- with published authors, Kathleen Brehony & Karen Jones.
Sept 10-16, 2006
Cost: $950 if you register by June 1st, or $995 after that date.
A deposit of $500 is required by August 1st.
This is a new rate for the camp, reflecting a no frills approach.
If you would like to see a complete description of either camp, you can write to ruth@islandpath.com and request the pdf to be emailed or you can visit our website at www.islandpath.com and view the updated 2006 descriptions for our camps.
Please feel free to call toll free 1-877-708-7284 or email Ruth or Ken @islandpath.com if you have questions."
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm
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"2006 Camps hosted by Island Path (www.islandpath.com, 1-877-708-7284, Ocracoke Island, NC)
We are pleased to announce the following cmps for the 2006 season. All will be held at the Lightkeeper's Guest House on Ocracoke Island, NC. Lodging is not included in the cost, but lmany of the meals are part of the workshop package. If you want to stay at the Lightkeeper's Guest House, early registration offers you the best opportunity to reserve one of the limited number of rooms available.
For Women:
Awakening at Midlife -- with noted author, coach and psychologist, Kathleen Brehony & Ruth Fordon, life coach and co-founder of Island Path.
We will host this 3 day weekend camp once in the spring and once in the fall.
May 18-20 & Oct. 19-21, 2006
Cost: $395. A deposit of $150 is required to hold your place in the camp.
For Writers:
We will host this weeklong camp just once in the fall.
Coaching Your Book Into Being -- with published authors, Kathleen Brehony & Karen Jones.
Sept 10-16, 2006
Cost: $950 if you register by June 1st, or $995 after that date.
A deposit of $500 is required by August 1st.
This is a new rate for the camp, reflecting a no frills approach.
If you would like to see a complete description of either camp, you can write to ruth@islandpath.com and request the pdf to be emailed or you can visit our website at www.islandpath.com and view the updated 2006 descriptions for our camps.
Please feel free to call toll free 1-877-708-7284 or email Ruth or Ken @islandpath.com if you have questions."
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm
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Wednesday, February 01, 2006
An Old Brick Cistern
Yesterday afternoon island homeowner, Fred Garst, and his crew moved an old brick cistern for the Ocracoke Preservation Society. It was quite the scene. The movers used a large crane to hoist the cistern from the yard where Milan & Nina Williams' house stood until recently. The cistern was trucked to the OPS museum where it was lowered into place near the rear porch.
Until the mid-70s everyone on Ocracoke depended for drinking water on rainwater that ran off the roof and into a large wooden or brick cistern. Cisterns are now almost a thing of the past since we have had a municipal, reverse osmosis desalination plant for about thirty years. There are still a few homes in outlying areas where the water system does not yet extend. Today those homeowners generally rely on fiberglass tanks to collect rain water.
The following photos are courtesy of island native, Dale Mutro. (The cistern is wrapped with reinforcing material to keep it intact.)
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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Until the mid-70s everyone on Ocracoke depended for drinking water on rainwater that ran off the roof and into a large wooden or brick cistern. Cisterns are now almost a thing of the past since we have had a municipal, reverse osmosis desalination plant for about thirty years. There are still a few homes in outlying areas where the water system does not yet extend. Today those homeowners generally rely on fiberglass tanks to collect rain water.
The following photos are courtesy of island native, Dale Mutro. (The cistern is wrapped with reinforcing material to keep it intact.)
Our current monthly Ocracoke Newsletter is Gary Mitchell's essay "I Believe in Pot-Lucks," published January 23, 2006. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news012306.htm.
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