The early onset of darkness in November is a dramatic change. I recall a parishioner from an earlier parish who suffered from depression every year during this darker time. Winter darkness has measurable effect on the way we live: whether it is (for some) a depressed feeling; taking fewer walks and jogs when you get home from work, or having to find a big flashlight to go and get the mail.

In last week’s newspaper, Vineyarders were confronted by a story of an incident involving a Martha’s Vineyard public school educator allegedly acting inappropriately, and as a result, I feel compelled to address this type of situation with the entire Island community. Let me say first that in our legal system, everyone is innocent until proven guilty; therefore, nothing I say here should be construed to indicate that I believe last week’s story details guilt on anyone’s part.

Christmas 2008

The annual December used book sale at the Chilmark Public Library will continue through the end of the year. From now through Dec. 24, everything is half price.

From Dec. 27 through Dec. 31, everything is free. The sale is held during regular library hours, as follows.

Mondays 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Saturdays 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Wednesdays Dec. 24 and Dec. 31, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Sponsored by The Friends of the Chilmark Public Library.

Yard Receives Grant

Legal Talk for Students

The Oak Bluffs police department will host a free informational night at the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School culinary arts dining room to provide parents and students with legal information regarding students. The information night is being presented on Thursday, Jan. 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. Materials reviewed will include junior operating laws, alcohol and underage drinking enforcement grant, the role of the school resource officer and the school lockdown drill.

Ivy is in a league of its own.

However, this plant is never really alone. Since it is a parasite, it needs a partner to survive. English ivy, which adorns buildings and trees, is called Hedera helix by botanists. Its scientific name means twist and turn, which aptly describes its ascent up walls and trees.

Several high school musicians auditioned for two off-Island festivals recently. All were selected for the All Cape and Islands Festival: chorus members Zach Rabin, Rosie Bick, Hannah Marlin, Emma Frizzell and Sidra Dumont, and string players Shaelah Huntington, Bethany Pennington, Anna Yukevich and Willoughby Smith.

Sidra Dumont and Bethany Pennington also were chosen for the Southeast Festival.

Margaret Knight>

508 627-8894

(margaret02539@yahoo.com)

Farmers across Massachusetts who are interested in becoming more energy efficient are invited to apply for a new audits and incentives program offered by the Massachusetts Farm Energy Program. The program will provide energy audits, renewable energy assessments and financial incentives for implementation of audit recommendations, including those recommended by public utility programs.