’Tis the season to offer gratitude for the generosity of others. Those of us who have the privilege of working in Martha’s Vineyard Community Services New Paths Recovery Program want to give our thanks to Island businesses and community members who have been integral to the success of this program.

It is now public knowledge that our family has received an offer for a 12.9-acre parcel of land at the end of Flat Point Farm on Tisbury Great Pond. The land is currently in open pasture and grazed by the farm’s cattle and sheep — a view that we, other pond residents, boaters, painters and walkers enjoy.

Few had knowledge of the waters surrounding the Vineyard like Capt. Bob Weiss. With years of experience he could keep his clients and guests busy catching fish and listening to a lifetime of stories. He was gifted at doing both. As fellow captains and mariners we were always kept on our toes with Bob’s quick wit, humor and common sense advice. Bob had knowledge about many things boating and otherwise and was also willing to share with anyone who would listen. We were lucky to be among those who did.

’Twas the week before Christmas, the elves worked in shifts

At generous Grace Church wrapping thousands of gifts.

The children we served totaled 425

With Barbie and Batman and Baby Alive

The ones we cared for without using their name,

Last year, added up to exactly the same.

The following letter was sent to Admiral Robert J. Papp Jr., commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard.

I am writing in regard to the status of the Gay Head Light tower on Martha’s Vineyard.

A note to the Edgartown business community: Do you utilize signs to communicate with your customers and/or the public in general?

If so, you need to be aware of proposed changes to the Edgartown zoning bylaws and the planning board meeting scheduled for this coming Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 5:50 p.m. to review these proposed changes.