A huge thank you to the entire Island community for your overwhelming support of our holiday concert this past weekend.

Satisfied smiles are sported by the staff and workers at the shelter as we celebrate a job well done. As happy as we are for the animals the shelter placed, we are equally pleased with, and thankful for, the people who made room in their hearts and homes for these creatures.

It was a busy first week of winter sports as all six teams saw action this week against a variety of opponents.

Alas, with the halls decked out for the holidays all around town, I’m chagrined that Circuit avenue’s historic next door neighbor, the Camp Ground isn’t too — imagine that fairyland festooned with lights!

Talk about cold, well I think we have had our share already. But Monday was a great day with sunshine and warmth. Still trying to get the outside decorations done and hoping it stays the way Monday was for a bit.

On Saturday, Dec. 20, there will be a celebration and fundraiser honoring the life of Beatrice (Beach) Bennett. The event will raise money for scholarships to be given to Vineyard high school graduates to help them follow their dreams.

We were all saddened to hear that a scion of Chappy, Dodi Silva, passed away recently. With each passing brick of Chappy’s foundation, we lose some of the integrity of our little island.

Our Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse offers no end of entertainment for the holidays, and if you have guests bring them, too.

Though dinner conversation may be going the way of the dial phone and rabbit ears on televisions, a small group of students at the regional high school have been practicing their repartee once a week after school.

Sharon Engler, a teacher and guidance counselor who tutors at the high school, has developed a social skills curriculum called Food for Thought that involves not only the students but also the community.

I have always loved Christmas. For me, Christmas has never lost its wonder. It’s easy to see wonder in the bright eyes of a child. For children, Christmas is magical.