My family and I just returned from a two-week vacation on Martha’s Vineyard. We’ve been coming to your Island annually for almost 20 years. My wife calls it her “happy place” and my daughters hold the Vineyard in a special place in their hearts. Our dog is named Chappy. We’ve all grown in memorable ways — individually and together as a family — because our time there has been an oasis away from our daily norm.

This year, 2020, was no different. That may sound odd because 2020 has been such a different year for all of us. Of course, we’ve all had to adjust the way we live and interact. But it was because of the efforts all of you made — the full time Islanders, the retailers, restaurateurs, realtors, the managing government — that allowed us to visit your magical home. The solidarity we observed, the seriousness with which everyone executed best-practices for distancing and hygiene, the clarity of the signage, the outdoor dining spaces, it was all impressive and very much appreciated because of the singular purpose those efforts served: to keep the Island open for safe visitation.

Impressive and appreciated, yes, but surprising, no. In fact what we experienced was nothing more than what we’ve always come to expect from people who love their home and understand how special it is. It was Martha’s Vineyard energy and love, simply refocused. No different than the extensive land conservation, architecture policies, beach protections, beautification, restorations, and every other thoughtful effort that, through decades and even centuries has made Martha’s Vineyard what it is today. A truly unique and magical place, a treasure of the state, the country, and indeed the world.

Yes, we know many Islanders look differently upon those of us who don’t live there or even spend the whole summer there. But I can assure you, our love of the Vineyard is not that different from yours; we would fight fervently with you, side by side, in her defense. So thank you, from visitors who every year wish they could stay forever, for your efforts to keep Martha’s Vineyard the shining gem that it is, and for sharing it with people like us.

Andy and Kate Herz

Westfield, N.J.