I enjoyed reading Bruce Haulman’s Feb. 22 article (“Ferry revolution brings people, money to Vashon”). I admired Haulman’s expert account of the origins of some of our most pressing issues. That is, until the last paragraph.

Adding quotations to such loaded terms as “gated community” and “Martha’s Vineyard West” is merely a pretense of journalistic integrity. His conclusion was a de facto editorial viewpoint and therefore belongs on the editorial page. Mr. Haulman is certainly entitled to his opinion. Indeed, I sympathize with his feelings. I was born and raised in a semi-rural town much smaller than Vashon, and in the 40 years since I moved West, my hometown has changed greatly. For what it’s worth, my wife and I came to Vashon in 1999 because housing prices in Seattle were out of reach.

My point is that there are people of all stripes making significant contributions to the character and well-being of our extraordinary little island. As a result of countless community members lending their time, varied skill sets and yes, money, it seems to me that Vashon is thriving. The impact of our island’s changing demographics is undeniable. Pressures and challenges loom. While the the island has unquestionably changed in the last few decades (although I imagine you could say that in virtually any decade or century of island history) Vashon still reminds me vividly of that beautiful little town where I grew up.

— Sam Van Fleet