A rare opportunity–a Vineyard harbor front property with a Victorian gambrel cottage restored to its original grandeur of a century ago, an expansive front yard, 180 degree commanding views of the active harbor, private sandy beach, and unmatched serenity. You have the opportunity to own one of the finest estates gracing the Vineyard Haven harbor front–so admired by all visitors to the Vineyard.

The trails in the West Chop Woods have been temporarily closed due to concerns that an infestation of beetles has left the trees there too brittle to stand. 

The Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation, which owns the 90-acre woods in Vineyard Haven, announced the closure on Dec. 24 after the trees there had been decimated by the invasive southern pine beetle. The nonprofit plans to cut down trees that have been affected, but there is no clear timeline for reopening.

The homes of West Chop have been listening to a chorus of chainsaws this fall as the march of the devastating southern pine beetle progresses into residential areas. 

Firefighters were called 741 Main street at about 8:45 p.m. and the family that was inside the home was out safe by the time the police department responded.

Last Monday, the changing of the months occurred. Along with the month’s changing name, the Chop’s people changed names also. The Herdeg family house on Bug Hill, for instance, changed names with the Sam Bodman family from Wellesley.

There were quite a few other changes. Mr. and Mrs. P. McEvoy Cromwell from Ruxton, Md., are staying in the Jackson house. Also from Ruxton and staying in the Froelicher house are Mr. and Mrs. Cub Harvey,

Staying in the Busselle house, from Perrysburg, Ohio, are Mr. and Mrs. Peter M. Coy.

Dr. and Mrs. John O’Connor are newcomers at the inn this week. Also staying at the inn are Mr. and Mrs. Cole Blasier, Mr. and Mrs. John Reese, Mrs. Benjamin, and Mrs. Francis Dewitt Pratt and her family. The Cedars also welcomes Mrs. Stevenson, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Montaque and their family, Mrs. Eugene Carusi, and Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan.

Staying with the Conways are Mr. and Mrs. John Estes and their four children. Staying with the Chiltons is Barbara Merlin from Lake Forest, Ill. She works for Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Stinson, taking care of their two children.

With the repairs on the Cedars nearing completion, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Rank have arrived at the Inn and will be staying until July 31.

Growing up in Vineyard Haven Ron Borges experienced something many year-round Islanders know all too well: he needed something to do in the winter.

Just once in a blue moon, a property of this character, charm and quality becomes available on the island.