Vineyard Power is entering a new phase in its plans to develop a wind farm south of the Vineyard. Having successfully partnered with developer Offshore MW to secure a lease on 167,886 acres in January, the Island-owned energy cooperative is now focusing on public outreach.

While the Vineyard is perhaps best known for the ocean, Vineyarders have deep ties to the ponds that were carved into the Island landscape some 20,000 years ago.

Under a steady downpour on Tuesday, the Gay Head Light resumed its watch over Vineyard Sound and the waters off Aquinnah. A large crowd gathered in Aquinnah Circle, peering up from under their umbrellas and hoods to witness the end of the lighthouse’s longest period of darkness since 1856.

Visitors streamed into Menemsha on Thursday evening for a rare look inside the Island’s commercial fishing industry. The first event drew a young, vibrant crowd to the harbor, where most of the Island’s commercial fleet was docked and fishermen offered demonstrations in their trade.

Following 118 days of darkness, the Gay Head Light will shine again on Tuesday, August 11. Lighthouse committee member Paula Eisenberg said the relighting would take place promptly at 6 p.m., and the public is invited to attend the ceremony and a celebration afterward.