This week Mr. Vanderhoop officially took over as the new tribal chairman of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah). He was elected in November on a campaign of inclusivity.

The Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard has a few nice animals who need good homes.

Confirming the first promotions under a restructured force, the Oak Bluffs selectmen this week appointed two men to the upper ranks of the fire department.

Shawn Broadley was named deputy fire chief, and Manuel (Manny) Rose was appointed assistant fire chief.

There’s a rising star among the new faculty members at the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School.

It was a short run for Edgartown restaurant Eleven North, which closed for business after several months of tension with the town over issues including flooding and handicapped accessibility.

The Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank reported revenues of $49,001.95 for the business week ending on Friday, Jan. 3, 2014.

A public-private improvement project now on the drawing board for Squibnocket Beach was the subject of more discussion this week, with some questioning whether the cost is worth it as natural forces continue to assault the shoreline.

It’s not that I’m risk averse — I prefer predictability. I appreciate a pleasant sameness in my daily routine. Blissful in the calm, I can get things done.

A self-described beginning birder for almost 25 years finds the annual Christmas Bird Count a journey of discovery this year.

From the Vineyard Gazette edition of January 5, 1940:

The first real snowfall of winter began Friday night and continued through Saturday morning, until the Island was covered to a depth of four to five inches. There were no large drifts in most neighborhoods, but the snow proved to be a taste of genuine winter just the same. The snow clung to trees and fences, and the outlook everywhere was spectacularly beautiful.