This Weekend — island mettle

I am not a fan of Halloween. There, I said it. I think it goes back to trick or treating in the dark, wet, cold as a child. Do glasses go behind or in front of the mask? It goes on and on. This is fun? Then there was over 30 years of Halloween in my various school assignments. However, at this time of year, I find I have to keep an open mind.

Pumpkins? Fall? Autumn? That's a different story. So I have focused on those elements. The crisp air, apple cider, once in a while a spot-on costume. I manage.

Lew on the other hand, adores Halloween. So we decorate a little and I try to find things to like about this day. Little ones in costumes, preschool parties, the Great Pumpkin became my speed.

Nature on the Island encourages the thought process. Cobwebs, for instance, are amazing when there is time to examine them or even notice them for that matter. Thinking things through, examining, taking time, reading, sometimes one thing can lead to another.

Over the weekend, I read a Samantha Hernandez column in the Door County Advocate on a different holiday, Dia de los Muertos or Day of the Dead. I am not sure how long it will be available online but it was a good read.This Latin American tradition runs from October 31 to November 2 and honors those who are significant to us, who we continue to value even though they are no longer with us. Although the art and elements were foreign to me, I was intrigued. Other than an elaborate exhibit I once visited in Santa Fe focusing on Day of the Dead, I knew little.

As I found out more, I realized I had a tribute to it sitting on a shelf right in front of me - Pat Wright's artwork which was a part of the canvas quilt project for the Art and Nature Center's anniversary. I had the winning ticket and had just thought it would be good for Fall Halloween-like arrangement. I found her image is a calavera, a skull, yes. In this case it is one that reminds a loved one of special, significant people who have had an impact on their life. The artists were asked to portray something significant to the Island and Pat honored those who have meant so much to this community through her knowledge of Dia de los Muertos. Interesting how this all fell into place.

Chuck Sena presents Connie Sena's script on their ancestor Nels Friis.

Remembering significant people who have influenced us? That led me to thinking about the way the Archives in concert with Island Players produced the Cemetery Walk a year ago September.

Eric Greenfeldt wrote and presented on his ancestor.

The members of the Archives committee worked all that Summer on scripts on Island notables and Island Players reps took on the task of telling their story.

The turnout was good and the weather cooperated. Kirby Foss and Lillie May Shadle teamed to present a picture of Janet Burgoon.

Time and timing? It sure is nice when those things come together. I wish it for all of you.

...til next time.