Community block grant money is a little-known program that helps Islanders with affordable loans for home repairs. Cathy Weiss is one homeowner who has benefited.

On the job at the Steamship Authority for nearly 40 years, terminal manager Bridget Tobin brightens every day for boat line travelers.

The bouquets are gone from the rickety shelves and wicker chairs at the end of long driveways. Farm stand signs have been taken down. Clusters of people with name tag necklaces are no longer browsing the shops.

Dogs, dogs, dogs . . . those lucky enough to have one sitting at their feet as they read this must feel grateful for the presence of this ideal companion. Maybe because Islanders treasure their dogs, they are only surrendered to the Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard through a drastic change in the life circumstances of the owners.

In children’s books, the pumpkins all look much the same: round, orange and a bit bigger than a bowling ball. But check out the 71 pumpkin varieties offered by Johnny’s Seeds, or the Seed Saver’s Exchange, or any number of other seed purveyors, and prepare to be amazed.

It’s that time of year when it seems everything revolves around food. Thanksgiving dinners, savory crispy latkes sizzling for Hanukkah, Christmas parties, baking, Kwanzaa feasts: this season is full of culinary temptation.