Two Tidal Projects Gain Speed in Energy Development Race

By IAN FEIN

While the proposed Nantucket Sound wind farm continues to grab headlines and attract political attention, two underwater tidal energy projects that flank either side of the Vineyard are quietly progressing.

The 50 year-old regional high school agreement remains intact, but the trust that has been its mortar for decades may be broken.

Following a special town meeting vote in Chilmark last week, the cost of operating the regional high school, for the first time in school history will be divided among the six Island towns based on a state formula, rather than the enrollment-based formula spelled out in the regional agreement.

Land Bank Revenues Sharply Down

By MIKE SECCOMBE

Martha's Vineyard Land Bank revenues fell some 14 per cent in the fiscal year just ended, as a result of the downturn in the Island real estate market.

As it closed the books on the fiscal year yesterday, the land bank reported revenues for the year ending June 30 were just under $11.1 million, compared with a little over $12.9 million the year before.

The fragile good will between the Dukes County commission and outgoing county manager E. Winn Davis began to unravel this week amid reports that Mr. Davis had refused to sign an agreement preventing him from bringing a lawsuit against the county in the future.

Summer Beach Party Culture Endures

By JIM HICKEY

It is 2 a.m. on South Beach in Edgartown on an overcast and chilly evening in early June.

The Fourth of July may not hit for another few days, but the heat already has been turned on in the kitchen.

The 10th annual Independence Day barbecue is set to start at 4 p.m. on the lawn of the Dr. Daniel Fisher House in Edgartown.