As secluded white sand beaches become a commodity more precious than oil, the Martha's Vineyard Land Bank this week announced significant expansion

Old land use battles were a silent backdrop last week when the Martha's Vineyard Commission had its first look at a new bank project now planned for the site of the former Nobnocket garage in Vineyard Haven.

Aquinnah Officials Ask for Public Input on How to Raise Revenues, Hold Taxes

By JULIA WELLS

How to boost revenues without raising property taxes in the second smallest town in the commonwealth - Aquinnah selectmen will tackle the topic at a public meeting this week.

The selectmen voted to schedule the special session during their regular board meeting last week.

Interim Manager at Woods Hole Started Out at the Ticket Window

By JULIA WELLS
Gazette Senior Writer

His first summer job was in a hardware store where he learned how to fix screen doors.

Today at age 53, Wayne Lamson has been called on to fix something bigger than a screen door - way bigger - but those who know the soft-spoken, highly capable Steamship Authority treasurer think he is more than up to the job.

For the fifth time in three decades, this week Mr. Lamson stepped in as interim general manager of the SSA.

Changes Underway in SSA Priorities

An Olive Branch Toward Nantucket; Islander Meeting Will Be August 12; Can Rates Be Held Down?

By JULIA WELLS
Gazette Senior Writer

Change is the watchword these days at the Steamship Authority, palpable and overnight change.

Today's lesson is turtles.

A tiny boy wearing a T-shirt, shorts and cap stands up suddenly and shades his eyes with his hands.

"I can't see, Gus - sorry!" he exclaims.