Martha’s Vineyard prepares, subtly, for the arrival of the president and his family

By Akilah Johnson, Globe Staff

OAK BLUFFS -- Among the cars packed with dogs, children, and enough groceries to last a week sat three black Chevrolet Express vans waiting to board the Island Home ferry to Martha’s Vineyard. The only thing hinting at their purpose: police lights discreetly affixed to the front windshield and men inside wearing stern faces and official garb.

The president is coming to town, and subtle signs abound of his impending arrival in Martha’s Vineyard.

President Obama lands Thursday -- it’s the third summer the first family has made a sojourn to the island since moving into the White House -- and a buzz has taken hold, albeit at a lower volume than in years past.

Patricia Irving, a year-round resident of Oak Bluffs, said there are always sure signs Obama, his wife Michelle, their two daughters, and a substantial entourage are on their way.

“Oh God, the buzz started back in March,” Irving said, “because you had inquiries about apartments and what not.”

Irving, shopping along Circuit Avenue, said the island embraces its role as the summer home of the president. “But it bothers me that he can’t get out more,” she lamented.

At a boutique in Edgartown that is pretty in pink, the shopkeeper keeps hope alive that the Obamas will stop in and do their part to pump up the economy. Sheila Allen-Styles $25 or Less, which takes its name from the owner, specializes in all things sparkly. Ribbons, purses, earrings, bracelets. Perfect, in other words, for Obama’s daughters.

“I’m under tons of hair bows in here,” Allen-Styles said.

In past years, the First Family has shopped across the street at Edgartown Books. Maybe this will be the year for baubles.