A short-term land deal cut by the regional high school committee Monday night has flung open the starting gates on an ambitious $6-million plan to build an addition to Martha's Vineyard Community Services (MVCS), doubling the space at the social services agency.

A formidable Islandwide transportation planning project and a slew of fresh development proposals are expected to keep the newly configured Martha's Vineyard Commission busy in the months ahead.

Purple Gallinule Lands on Island From the South

By E. Vernon Laux

At noon on New Year's Day, Stephen Carlson of Oak Bluffs made a remarkable discovery.

Mr. Carlson had just left his home on a dirt road when, upon reaching the pavement, he noticed an object in the road. Dazed and confused, walking and standing in the middle of the road, was a very odd bird. As if recovering from a celebratory New Year's Eve, this bird was bobbing and weaving.

The waiting list for English as a second language classes on the Island has more than 80 names, and has left Island educators scrambling for teachers and funds.

This New Year's Eve, many Islanders brought in 2001 without champagne toasts and elegant balls. Instead, they celebrated with ghost tours, sea chanteys and contra dancing as part of Martha's Vineyard First Night.

Island Ice Arena Fights Financial Crisis; Seeks Help to Secure Future of Facility

By Mark Alan Lovewell

The Martha's Vineyard Arena is hurting. The arena is a bustling recreational center, drawing hundreds of skaters daily throughout the winter. Kurt Mundt, manager of the ice arena, said this week there is a misperception that the arena is thriving financially when it is not.