Let’s hear it for the arts and for cultural enrichment! After 16 years of providing fabulous film festivals packed with guest artists, local film makers, stimulating conversations and debates, fun-filled Cinema Circus events, movies for kids, local and healthy food offerings, a year-round lending library and educational opportunities in our schools and community, the Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival is finally finding a permanent home.

The dedicated MVFF staff, board, interns and volunteers have provided so much for us as a community. As appreciative audiences we have cheered their efforts to find a permanent spot to continue their creative vision, to expand educational after school opportunities for our children, healthy alternatives and training for our youth, positive work environment for artists and young adults seeking employment.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of Arts Martha’s Vineyard with leadership of Ann Smith of Featherstone Center for the Arts, the Martha’s Vineyard Commission, chamber of commerce, the Donors Collaborative and many Island artists and arts organization, the Island is gradually becoming an arts destination with Oak Bluffs, Tisbury and soon Aquinnah as designated Arts Districts. Hopefully, all our towns will eventually qualify and celebrate our talent and offerings. Strong arts equal a strong community.

Any change can be difficult, especially on an Island as fragile and beloved as Martha’s Vineyard. We must be cautious and preserve the beauty and nature that nurture us. We also nourish our spirit and souls by encouraging arts and education, by applauding the committed people, artists, educators, nonprofit organizations and generous supporters that sustain the arts. Bravo to MVFF for working hard to enrich our lives year round.

Lynn Ditchfield
Edgartown