On Saturday morning signs near the Eastville Beach at the Bridge encouraged all to “stand up” against gender bias wherever it exists. Droving over the bridge we were greeted by approximately 50 people holding signs saying SEAWALL Standout! The title of this demonstration was a brilliant play on the famous Stonewall uprising that took place in New York City on June 28, 1969. In the wee hours of that morning members of the LGBTQ community fought back against a police raid at the Stonewall Inn. This resistance is regarded as a pivotal point in the fight for LGBTQ rights in the United States. Thanks to the Martha’s Vineyard Community Services organization for reminding all of us that if some of us are not safe, none of us are safe!

The Vineyard House Water Tasting fundraiser enjoyed a beautiful night by the water at the Boch/Clemmey estate in Edgartown on July 24. The event featured dozens of auction items, direct contributions and raffle ticket sales that support the valuable services provided to the transitional living home for those seeking sobriety. Dozens of local businesses including Buckley’s Catering and Net Result gave generously to this event. This event has the best raw bar in town. Big shout out to Glenn Finley for his fundraising efforts. Can’t wait until next year.

This coming week you have a chance to hear academic and educational leaders discus the challenges and opportunities in higher education. On July 31 you will get to hear president Melissa Gilliam of Boston University, and on August 3 you will hear president Valerie Smith of Swarthmore College and president Crystal Williams of Rhode Island School of Design. Both forums take place at Union Chapel, beginning at 4 p.m.

The Mariposa Gallery is attracting a lot of attention on Circuit avenue, with the creative work of new comer Delroy Henry, and the featured artist and artist-in-residence, Island favorite Harry Seymour.

Mr. Danroy shares that his work invites a dialogue with the viewer.

“I aim to capture the resilience and triumph of humanity and nature, offering a space for viewers to immerse themselves and find their own connection within the work.”

Seymour’s work explores the value of “allies” in the struggle for justice and equity. He also has written a poem to accompany many of his pieces. You will be awash in the variety of art and the ingenuity of the presentation. You must stop by!

This past Saturday the United Negro College Fund hosted 12 engaging students from their summer program in Boston. The students are interested in asset management, life science and entrepreneurship. They were all selected to participate in the Lighted Pathways or the Dr. Ernest Everett Just life sciences program. The students and the accomplished career leaders heard motivating comments from former Motown executive Suzanne de Passé, former mayor Sharon Pratt and former professor Dr. Hassell McClellan. The event was hosted at the cottage of L. Duane and Debbie Jackson.

Paradise on earth is living the Vineyard experience. Enjoy it as life is fleeting.

Rest in Peace, Randall Edward Taylor