I visited the Agricultural Fair with my two oldest grandchildren. While they were excited to go, one even earned a blue ribbon, their disappointment was clear when they realized the Ferris wheel was missing. My grandson even exclaimed: “This is no fair without the wheel!”

I later learned that a change in vendors had sent the larger rides elsewhere, leaving organizers scrambling to fill the gaps. Unfortunately, this did not stop the Fair from charging steep prices — both for rides and food — along with a staggering 30 per cent fee for using credit cards. The confusing credit system also made it easy for families to overspend.

When my own children were young, the Fair was a joyful and affordable family outing at which the entire Island community marked the end of summer. Sadly, it no longer feels that way.

I should also add that as a Brazilian, who has owned a home on the Island for over four decades, I was also struck by the absence of Portuguese voices in the crowd. So many Brazilians contribute to this Island’s daily life, and yet the Fair did not feel like a gathering place for them or for the working families of the Island.

I hope next year’s Fair can recapture what has made this tradition so special: a sense of community, fairness, and fun where everyone is welcome.

Talia Nunes Herman

Chilmark