After the high winds and rain this weekend, fall seems to have spilled across the island. The roads are carpeted in oranges and reds and our office is just as fittingly adorned — a soft leaf-strewn path leading to the newsroom door. It’s the perfect backdrop for this week’s edition, which feels as seasonally Vashon as it gets.

It’s back to school with a look at McMurray’s phone-free policy one year in — where students and teachers say the “away for the day” rule is reshaping how kids socialize and learn.

It’s a step into the woods for a deep dive on the island’s deer population — and a chat with bow hunter James Cottrell, who’s helping others navigate the balance between sustainability, safety and tradition.

And, of course, it’s witches on the water, as Vashon’s paddle board coven once again took to the waves at Jensen Point, raising funds for local causes in true island spirit.

We’re also starting to keep tabs on how the ongoing federal government shutdowns is affecting islanders — from ferry service to SNAP benefits to cash crunches for individual families — and will report on those impacts in the weeks ahead.

If you are affected by the federal shutdown and would like your story to be included in our coverage, please contact us at editor@vashonbeachcomber.com.

But for now, it’s Halloween Eve, and we’ll look forward to the center of town fill with costumes, candy and community fun. Be sure to check out our Halloween preview for all the night’s festivities.

Stay safe, stay spooky and have a wonderful Halloween.