Editors, Vineyard Gazette;

A team of activists for banning assault weapons and demanding gun regulation worked a miracle on July 8 when supporters from all over the Island arrived every minute from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to buy old and new art and jewelry at an affordable cost to raise money for the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence. We have promised to partner with this organization and their tireless efforts to keep people from dying every minute, and every hour of the day.

Those of us who organized and saw this project grow from ideas to fruition have taken copious notes on how to keep this vital support persistent and demanding.

Nancy Hall, owner of the handsome and venerable Howland Barn on her property, deserves praise for her generosity and patience. And a big thank you goes out to everyone who donated art and jewelry, their time and money to this cause.

To the Tisbury police who kept us safe on Spring street, we honor their service.

Those of us in our elder years hope that young people will help propel us forward because the USA needs to show compassion and commitment to the children and adults who are victims of gun fire, and to defy the NRA which promotes more and more gun sales.

We are betting that if every child were asked what is their most fervent wish for this country, they would say peace.

Liza Coogan

Vineyard Haven