The Big Brothers Big Sisters program started on the Island in 1974 and has ranged in size over the years, pairing as many as 60 children with adult mentors. But the national organization was hit hard by the recession and seemed to fade from Vineyard consciousness.

As part of new security measures, visitors to Martha's Vineyard Regional High School are now asked to present identification which is scanned into a computer, and to wear a name tag with their picture printed on it when walking the halls.

Oak Bluffs voters gave strong backing to regional projects at their annual town meeting this year, including those that aim to boost services for the elderly in the years ahead.

The Martha's Vineyard Land Bank recently bought 31 acres of rare land at Tom's Neck Farm, the culmination of a complicated deal involving multiple sellers, local donors and a financing model that marks a first for the land bank.

Adam Turner, town planner for Colchester, Conn., will replace Mark London this August as head of the Martha’s Vineyard Commission.