A tradução deste artigo se encontra no final da versão em inglês
It is hard to believe that it is December. Trust me, I am not complaining. I am writing this column while sitting outside, and it certainly feels like October. However, I hope we get a white Christmas; everything sprinkled with a little snow would feel magical.
This past Friday, Dec. 11, was the Brazilian-American Friendship Lunch at the high school, organized by Elaine Weintraub and her Brazilian History class students who, over the years, have worked so hard to make the celebration a success. There was capoeira (a form of movement mixing dance and martial arts which originated from Brazilian slaves) and a home-cooked Brazilian meal, during which three MVRHS members of the jazz band serenaded guests by playing bossa-nova-inspired live music. This was the first year the luncheon featured music.
Jane McGroarty Sampaio, a MVRHS Portuguese teacher who attended the Brazilian-American Friendship Lunch, said that as she enjoyed herself at the event, she reflected on its brilliance: “The students in that room are so well prepared for the multicultural world we all live in,” she said. “In that room was a celebration of the courageous, a shared reflection on the obstacles that have been overcome, a time to appreciate the friendships and shared experience within the high school.
“So many think of Brazil as the land of Carnaval — and it certainly is a big part of the nation’s culture — but what many don’t realize is that there are also many Brazilians who dread its arrival each year,” Ms. Sampaio said. “Some may even say they hate Carnaval. But in all of my time in Brazil and among Brazilians here in the U.S., I have never ever met anyone who didn’t believe it is important to gather and celebrate together. This is the piece of Brazilian culture that for many, myself included, is so attractive and intriguing. Life must be celebrated, people must gather, and this luncheon brings this essential piece of Brazilian culture to our school each year.”
As Christmas fast approaches, there are many fantastic events happening. On Saturday, Dec. 19, at 4 pm at the First Baptist Church on Spring Street in Vineyard Haven, there will be a concert of traditional Irish music and Christmas carols played on fiddle, cello, flute, and guitar, featuring fiddle students of Mary Wolverton and guest musicians. The audience is invited to sing along with carols. The event is free.
Thursday, Dec. 17, at 4 pm the Vineyard Haven library is hosting “Gingerbread Houses in the Making” for kids 5 and older. Free admission and supplies provided.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will make an appearance at the Portuguese-American Club on Sunday, Dec. 20, from 1 to 2:30 pm.
This Friday, the Paint Corner Art Bar is hosting an evening of painting and dining in the restaurant at the beautiful Harbor View Hotel. It’s an opportunity to paint the view of the lighthouse all decked out for the holidays. Have fun creating a one-of-a-kind gift while you enjoy cocktails and Henry’s full restaurant menu. The restaurant offers a Friday lobster special. No experience is needed, and the event is $45.
I would like to thank Hermine Hull, Rabbi Caryn, and all the wonderful folks at the Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center for welcoming me to celebrate Hanukkah with you. It was a memorable experience.
Merry Christmas to all!
Portuguese translation – Tradução em português
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