The fall 2014 election season begins in earnest next week, as Vineyarders join voters statewide in going to the polls for the state primary. Polls will be open in all Vineyard towns from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 9.

Police are investigating a series of thefts Wednesday at up-Island businesses, including several farm stands. Police said money and cash registers were taken from Little Leona’s Pets and Supplies and Fiddlehead Farm. Money was also taken from honor-system farm stands in Chilmark.

Following a huge welcome home early this month, the Charles W. Morgan is now back in her berth at Chubb’s Wharf at Mystic Seaport. There are no barrels of whale oil to unload this time, but instead a wealth of new information to digest.

World affairs intruded more than ever this year on President Obama's Vineyard vacation. But still he managed some down time. The Obamas are scheduled to leave Sunday.

Politics and world affairs took the center stage during the first week of President Obama’s Vineyard vacation. The President mixed down time on the golf course and with family with public statements, fundraising and discussions with staff and world leaders.

The president, first lady Michelle Obama and daughter Malia landed in Marine One under clear blue skies on a picture-perfect August day. By mid-afternoon the president was out on the links at Farm Neck Golf Club in Oak Bluffs.