Della Hardman Day is canceled this year to promote public safety in the age of Covid-19. The many inquiries about this year’s program are appreciated. Normally, we’d gather under a tent in Ocean Park on the last Saturday in July, “to celebrate the arts and the joy of living,” as reflected in Della’s loving spirit and zest for life during her 83 years on planet earth. A lifelong Island visitor and year-round resident for 20 years until 2005, she was beloved friend, teacher, Vineyard Gazette columnist and community activist, fully engaged in this magical place.

We recall special guests — Charlayne Hunter-Gault, Skip Gates, Rose Styron, Khalil Muhammad, Sonia Sanchez, Nikki Giovanni, Cornell Brooks and Carol Anderson and also our sponsors, Featherstone Center for the Arts, MV Rotary and the town of Oak Bluffs.

In these unpredictable times, Della would surely advise, now, more than ever, that we wear the mask, practice social distancing and “savor the moment!”

Andrea L. Taylor

Oak Bluffs