Ross and Ashley MacPherson proudly announce the birth of their first child, Austin MacPherson. He was born on June 6 at South Shore Hospital. Austin weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces and was 20.25 inches long.

Ross MacPherson was born and raised in Vineyard Haven, as was his family for generations. Austin’s grandparents are Elizabeth Honey MacPherson of Vineyard Haven, and David and Barbara Stach of Milford, Conn.

Kristin Hall and Anthony Estrella of West Tisbury announce the birth of a son, Ellis Joseph Estrella, born on July 4 at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. Ellis weighed 8 pounds, 11.2 ounces at birth. He is joined at home by his brother Olsen.

Thorpe Karabees of Chilmark, an incoming first-year student, has been admitted to the University of Vermont’s Honors College.

Melissa Callahan and Bill Callahan of Oak Bluffs announce the birth of a son, Alister John Callahan, born on July 4 at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. Alister weighed 7 pounds, 6 ounces at birth. He is joined at home by big brothers Griffin and Jackson.

 Two evening planets are easy to see and are getting closer. The bright red planet Mars and the ringed planet Saturn are going to join together in the zodiacal constellation Libra. This is the top astronomical event for July and August, so far. Call it a race.

While the two planets will be closest together in late August, the show has already started. In the nights ahead, anyone can look up and note that Mars is “inching” closer to Saturn.

On Thursday, July 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Cottagers Inc. will present their 31st annual benefit house tour. The houses represent a diverse group in style and age. Some remain similar to the original houses built during the 18th century, while others are newly built or refurbished homes with current amenities.

The 15th annual fluke tournament takes place this weekend at the Veterans of Foreign War Post 9261 Hall in Oak Bluffs. Last year 114 fishermen participated. Lines go in the water Saturday at 12:01 a.m.

CHILMARK COMPOUND. Situated trail side and abutting hundreds of acres of conservation land, this custom designed 4,000 squarefoot Post and Beam home boasts three floors of luxurious living. $2.4M The spectacular setting which also includes a 4 bedroom beach house $1.5M offers privacy with impressive views of Squibnocket Point and the Atlantic Ocean. Purchase one or both to suit your lifestyle. Exclusive $3.9

Henry Udow and Regina Pitchon purchased 10 Witchwood Lane in Edgartown from Mary E. White for $1,950,000 on June 30.

Seastreak offers a day trip to New Bedford, which includes admission to two New Bedford area attractions and discounts for lunch at restaurants on the historic waterfront. Round-trip ferry transportation on Seastreak’s high speed vessel and passes are available for $50; children age 12 and under go free.
The ferry also offers Foxwoods excursions, currently scheduled for July 18, August 22, Sept. 19 and Oct. 13.