Once again this year from the Atlantic Coast desk of this estimable hyper-local blog we are looking forward to dispatches about the fizzy goings-on on Martha’s Vineyard during the height of vacation season. Our far-flung correspondent, who has come a long way from Pawtucketville, is Ray LaPorte, late of the Lowell Historic Preservation Commission, Assumption College, The New School for Social Research, and subsequent business and political precincts on the most-favored island of celebrities. Here is Ray’s pre-game analysis and color commentary.—PM

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Paradise Interrupted….again.  

It’s August again on Martha’s Vineyard, and that means the center of the political, social and cultural universe briefly shifts here from NYC, LA, and WDC.  The calendar is full, with no vacancy anywhere. Even the island’s airport is challenged to accommodate all the parked private jets. Tee times and dinner reservations are at a premium, traffic is high, lines are long and patience is short. “Get out of my way, I’m on vacation” is the group-think, and the off-season wave is replaced now with the high-season single digit salute.  We 52-week-ers once again openly pray for September. This is our version of a first-world problem.The past, present and future Presidents will all be here shortly.  In fact, Hilary will be autographing copies of her book this afternoon at the local indy bookstore across from my office. That means men in black with bugs in ears and Ninja SUV’s will be swarming around town, something we are long used to.  To the LA crowd the island is their summer camp with themed cocktail parties and dinners.  To the NYC captains of industry it is time for boat envy and friendly but ruthless competitive sailing. And for the politicos, it is time for the big tap. Fundraisers abound for all campaigns, both state and federal. Meanwhile, we, the island servant class, are on standby to serve this whining crowd and their every whimsy.It’s tough here on Paradise Island in August, but we who remain behind when they leave are thankful nonetheless for their seasonal migration. It allows us to pay the bills and enjoy the remaining eleven months.