Frank M. Fenner Jr. is Chilmark's newest selectman. He was elected overwhelmingly into office, winning 58 per cent of the vote in Wednesday's special election. He fills the unexpired term left vacant by the late Herbert Hancock. With 273 votes, he handily beat candidates Marc Villa (169 votes) and Elizabeth Pickett-Gray (24). There were 467 votes cast, and one blank ballot.

The popular low-cost excursion fares for Vineyard residents on Steamship Authority ferries are now slated for major change, if a proposal by boat line managers is approved next month.

New Bedford SSA Suit Goes to Trial

By JULIA WELLS

A federal judge ruled last week that a lawsuit between the city of New Bedford and the Steamship Authority can go to trial, although the judge imposed a set of strict limits that will block any plan by the Whaling City to turn the case into a giant legal fishing expedition.

First Fall Northeaster Buffets Vineyard With Heavy Rains and Blustery Winds

By JOSHUA SABATINI

A late September northeaster hit the Island Saturday and lingered through the weekend, bringing heavy rains and gusty winds and generally upsetting Vineyard life.

The fall fishing derby was effectively put on hold by the high winds, which kept boats at their moorings. Only seven fish were weighed on Sunday, and just four Monday morning.

Comsog Fall Festival Celebrates Harvest Time on the Island

By ALEXIS TONTI

Sunday was a cold and blustery day, coming at the end of that kind of weekend, gray all around. Because of all that grayness, the bright sign stood out even more. Red lettering against a yellow background: COMSOG Fall Festival, 12-3, Free Soup.

Tomorrow is election day in Chilmark. Three candidates are running for the seat left vacant by the death of selectman Herbert Hancock this spring. Polls at the Chilmark Community Center will be open from noon to 8 p.m.

The three candidates come from varied backgrounds. Elizabeth Pickett-Gray owns the Pickett House on South Road, and has never before held town office.