Editors, Vineyard Gazette:

Thanks to the patriotism and courage of people lining the route of Edgartown’s July Fourth parade, the Martha’s Vineyard Peace Council had many marchers this year.

But not by chance. Peace Council members had a plan. They made extra signs, loaded them into a shopping cart, and as they marched along the parade route, invited spectators to, one, pick out their favorite signs, two, carry them for a block or more and three, enjoy the applause of their audience.

People of all ages courageously accepted the invitation, some carrying signs the entire two-mile route.

I look forward to seeing even more people joining the Peace Council’s do-it-yourself entry next year. Maybe peace enthusiasm will necessitate pushing two carts filled with signs?

Chris Fried, Vineyard Haven