The surprise decision by the Steamship Authority governors last month to buy the New Bedford passenger ferry Schamonchi was pitched as a sound business decision for the public boat line, but an internal financial analysis done by the SSA shows that in fact the ferry is expected to lose large amounts of money.

The boat line board of governors voted last month to buy the Schamonchi for $1.75 million.

The Martha's Vineyard Commission acted swiftly last night to set in motion a plan that could preserve the north shore between the West Chop and Gay Head lighthouses as it is today - pristine and virtually free of any piers, docks or groins.

Federal and state investigators continue their inquiry into the causes of a commuter airplane crash early Tuesday night in the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest. Both the plane's pilot and its sole passenger remain hospitalized.

A 32-lot luxury home subdivision plan for the Herring Creek Farm in Edgartown cleared the final hurdle for approval this week, but if a complicated private agreement for the sale of the farm is completed in the months ahead, the subdivision may never be developed.

He has been on the job two months now, and no one calls him Mr. Dresser anymore.

NEW BEDFORD - Encouraged by hundreds of applauding onlookers, New Bedford political leaders, transportation planners and tourism promoters last night issued their demand for full ferry service to the two Islands - and for a place on the Steamship Authority governing board, all in the name of commerce and progress.