I had a dream last night that our democracy today looked like our forefathers intended — a government run for the people, by the people. In my dream, it was a time where our elected officials were selfless, hardworking individuals who (due to the new voting rules) were able to work together as one cohesive body because their only role in congress was to educate themselves on the bills and resolutions coming up and then to advise their constituents accordingly.

It is truly amazing to experience the depth of care, giving and love found in this Island community. With so many fund-raisers during the summer months, it was indeed generous that several local businesses supported the Federated Church blueberry pancake breakfast on August 12.

Anyone who knows me knows that I am passionate about the high quality of education we have on the Vineyard. I truly feel that we are the luckiest school system in the commonwealth. Our teachers and staff are dedicated to their work and have a vested interest in each and every child. As another school year begins I want to take a moment to thank all of you.

Juli Vanderhoop says her bakery is her politics. Brava, say I. Every Wednesday she lets people make their own pizza. But they have to share half of what they make. “Sometimes people get upset and ask, why do I have to share? Honestly, some four-year-olds know how to share better. But that simple act of sharing food and time together has become something really special.”

Last Thursday morning a doctor called my office from a 645 telephone exchange and left an urgent message on my answering machine. He sought to arrange a flight to transport a little girl to Cleveland for medical treatment. Shortly afterward, I made repeated calls to the phone number but the line was continuously busy.

Responding to the Gazette story about ocean acidification. In the book Sea Sick by Alana Mitchell, the topic of ocean acidification is discussed at length. Some researchers say that at 450 parts per million, phytoplankton in the southern ocean will die as a result of acidification. The southern ocean is more susceptible but all oceans have their tipping point.