Shotgun hunting season opened last week, and runs through Dec. 13. In addition to putting food on the table, the season is essential for gathering the data used to manage the deer population.

Two leading scientists with the Massachusetts Estuaries Project met with the Chilmark selectmen this week to seek approval in moving forward with their study of Chilmark Pond. A draft report released last month confirms that the pond is at its limit for handling nitrogen runoff.

The Old Whaling Church was filled with harmonies this week as the 115-member Island Community Chorus practiced for its annual holiday concert, which takes place Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. This year's program features lighter fare than previous concerts, including a bouncy arrangement of Jingle Bells.

The larger of two barns at the town-owned property leased by the Farm Institute has a failed roof and water has been leaking through. This week selectmen awarded a contract for replacing the roof that covers the 8,400-square-foot barn.

The brassy notes of a trombone, French horns, and trumpets greeted onlookers as they crowded into Post Office Square on Wednesday night for the annual Oak Bluffs tree lighting. Later there was hot chocolate and Santa came too.