Snowbirds fleeing south for the “warmth of other suns” are quickly followed by many from Oak Bluffs and other parts of the Island. Sarasota is often referred to as the Oak Bluffs of the South, where scores of Island summer residents ensconce for the winter months. Barbara Edelin and mother Harriet, Cindy Carter, Ed and Claudia Swan, Jeff and Ardell Otten, Margaret Harrison and Wayne Johnson, Roger and Myrna Morris, Sonny and Ronnie Lytle represent a brief listing of those that follow the birds. But a few weeks ago many gathered in Sarasota to celebrate with the Visible Men Academy awards program. The event recognized individuals and organizations that assist the academy in providing support to young boys of color that do not have male figures in their life.

Dr. Washington Clark Hill, Nate Jacobs, Maureik Robison, Officer Dominic Harris and Coaches Floyd Rome and Korey Waters were among the honorees. My wife Kathy and I were guests of our daughter Caroline Taylor Ellerson and our son in law Brian, who were among the event sponsors. Caroline represented the Sunshine Chapter of the local Jack and Jill whose community service project worked with the Academy. The Oak Bluffs and Island presence continued with David and Lisa Grain, Jim and Clemmie Cash who generously helped to finance the evening of fun, food and fellowship, all for a great cause. Also enjoying the evening festivities were Charlayne and Ron Gault as well as Dorothy and Rev. Larry Green.

But Sarasota is not the only hot spot for Oak Bluffs snowbirds. Al and Thelma Johnson praise the music and culture in Naples, while L. Duane and Debbie Jackson prefer the excitement and fast pace of Miami. Diane and Craig Welburn like the Disney events and entertainment hosted in Orlando. George and Faye Russell as well as Ed and Shirley Redd love the seasonality of Atlanta temperatures. And they gladly trade the constant sun for the constant warmth provided by the proximity of their grandchildren.

Gus and Millie Anglin are off this week to the sunshine of Aruba for a month. Cheryle and Walter Lowe have preferred the splendid beaches of Barbados for decades. But this year is special. Many from New York, New Jersey and places beyond will join them to celebrate Walter’s 90th birthday. A revered fixture in the School street district, Walter is a splendid cook himself, whose pancakes and fried fish will rival any breakfast feast. But Cheryle promises that on this trip Walter will be king for at least one day.

Be sure to see the Oak Bluffs Library screening of two intriguing documentaries for Black History Month: Ida B. Wells — A Passion for Justice on Saturday, Feb. 17 and A Zest for Life: Afro-Peruvian Rhythms on Saturday, Feb. 24. Both will begin at 1:30 p.m. with discussion to follow. And please don’t forget that February is fine amnesty month. So hurry up and bring back those overdue books and avoid your fine.

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

Send Oak Bluffs news to rtaylor@mvgazette.com.