Massachusetts senatorial candidate Elizabeth Warren introduced herself to the Vineyard last weekend during a two-day swing through the Island that included public and private fundraisers, visits to Island newspapers and some unscheduled face time with voters on the street and in restaurants and coffee shops. We hope to see incumbent Sen. Scott Brown, too, in the weeks ahead so that Vineyard voters will be offered the same chance to hear his message and position on issues as the November 2012 election and this significant race draw near.

The beach, sunshine, family gatherings and the ability to enjoy something like anonymity — these are among the things that draw a variety of high-profile seasonal residents to the Vineyard year after year.

For many prominent African Americans, it is all that and something more: a chance to be part of a close-knit geographical community that has become less common in an increasingly integrated world.

Our country celebrates its two hundred and thirty-sixth birthday tomorrow and the national holiday will be marked by colorful parades, fireworks displays and picnics from sea to shining sea, including here on the Vineyard where bells will ring and Islanders of every stripe will pause to commemorate the founding of our country.

Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence, once said, “My God! How little do my countrymen know what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other people on earth enjoy.” Were Mr. Jefferson able to come to the Vineyard today, he might amend that assessment.

Beginning this week the Gazette has finetuned its design, including changes in fonts, typography and makeup.

The tournament is over, the trophy has been held high and now holds its place of honor in the front lobby of the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High Sc