The Department of Conservation and Recreation has scheduled a public hearing date to air a final remediation plan for unpermitted trail clearing.

After a months-long surge, Island coronavirus case counts have fallen dramatically in recent weeks, with health agents reporting only two new cases over the weekend — the lowest numbers since early fall.

Ridership has declined sharply on Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) buses this year, as the pandemic’s impact on public transit authorities nationwide trickles down to the Island.

Vaccine clinics for Island residents 65 and older began Monday after more than 1,200 appointments filled up in less than an hour Saturday.

Filling a long-term vacancy, the state Department of Conservation and Recreation has hired Conor Laffey of Falmouth as the new superintendent for the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest.

After 18 years as an Aquinnah selectman, Jim Newman has decided the best way to continue to serve the tiny up-Island town he loves is to step aside for someone new to take his seat.