My family and I returned to our homes in Michigan after our 36th year vacationing on Martha’s Vineyard. Over the years we have witnessed a shocking increase in the amount of trash left on the beaches and in public areas. This year our collection of beach trash included broken glass, beer bottle caps, plastic and paper wrappers, cups, cigarette butts and various beverage cans. Fortunately no soiled diapers, as was the case last year. Additionally while in Oak Bluffs Post Office Square, we observed napkins, sales receipts, beverage cups and lids, masks, empty juice bottles and energy drink cans littered about. Two peopled strolled through smoking in spite of clearly posted no smoking signs.

I just don’t get it. Quite frankly we are tired of picking up others’ trash. Why is it so difficult to follow the rules? We believe it is a privilege to vacation on the Island and plan to continue doing so. Apparently some people do not see it that way. There is tremendous angst and action over global warming, plastic in the oceans, carbon footprints, large SUVs, etc. but that same energy doesn’t appear to flow over into something which should be easy to control. Put your trash in the proper container. It should be as simple as that.

Mike Reynolds

Grand Blanc, Mich.