“Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds” is a motto that is often attributed to the postal service in America. It well could have applied to the planners of some of the activities and festivities this past weekend in Oak Bluffs.

The traditional Inkwell Beach Cookout always held on Indigenous Peoples’ weekend, was moved from Saturday to Sunday because the enormously popular Ladyfest festival was booked for Alley Waban Park on the same Saturday, at the same time. Two large events occurring simultaneously would create parking and other logistics complications. As the weather forecast predicted a rainy, stormy Sunday the organizers made a pivot to Eastville Beach and moved the event back to Saturday, their traditional date for the end of the summer season celebration.

The weather was outstanding — sunny, no wind and comfortable. The food and beverages were plenty, the conversations about the wonderful summer past continued through the late afternoon. As attendees reveled during the afternoon Odetta Rogers bid all a goodbye and jumped in her kayak and paddled from the beach to her cottage on East Chop Drive. What an unsuspecting surprise to bid adieu to a glorious afternoon.

Even with social media, many people were not aware of the date and location audible and so were not present. Others, fearful of the deteriorating weather conditions left the Island early. Much chatter occurred comparing Eastville to Inkwell as planning for 2026 is contemplated. Parking is tight at Eastville and pulling out of the driveway at the foot of the bridge can be very challenging. Timing, permits and communications must all be part of the process for next year!

At least 500 people enjoyed the Ladyfest music festival that helps funds for the CONNECT to End Violence program at Community Services. Their mission is to change social norms through education, advocacy, community mobilization and providing crisis intervention services and support for victims.

There were approximately 50 vendors draped on either side of the park running parallel to Nantucket avenue and Tuckernuck avenue. Food, apparel, beverage stations and a VIP section were all in front of a massive stage. Congrats to the Ritz Cafe for being a major sponsor.

The crowd was treated with live music with acts such as Dwight and Nicole, Rose Guerin, Dana Williams and Island Hip Hop. The treat was the performance of widely acclaimed Esperanza Spalding, and a surprise performance by Carly Simon and her children, Ben and Sally Taylor.

Rob and Sabrina Williams kept the party going on Sunday by inviting football junkies over to watch the Patriots, sipping drinks and eating hamburgers, hot dogs and chili as if there was no rain. And the Patriots continue to impress.

It was however tough times getting off the Island during the storm. Not unexpectedly, the Oak Bluffs boats were diverted to Vineyard Haven on Sunday. And boats were canceled on both Sunday and Monday because of the storm. In spite of these inconveniences it is important to thank the SSA staff and crew for their extraordinary efforts during storms to get us off Island as safely as possible.

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

Rest in Peace, Randall Edward Taylor