Factors behind burgeoning black bear populations
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department set a statewide population goal of 3,500 to 5,500 black bears, based on available habitat for food, cover, and winter denning, as well as the size of black bear territories. But in 2024, the population numbered between 6,800 and 8,000.
Growing Good Citizens, one summer at a time
So much of our public debate these days centers on polarization from families to Congress, a deep divide over upcoming election processes, and worry over the information ecosystem as social media and internet voices eclipse traditional sources of facts.
Obituary: Linda Carol Piering Devlin
Linda Carol Piering Devlin, 89, of Waterbury, Vermont, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2025.
Obituary: Wilbur B. “Mac” McAllister Jr.
Wilbur B. (Mac) McAllister, Jr., 93, passed away on October 31, 2025, at Central Vermont Medical Center after a brief illness.
Photo exhibitions, ‘From the Alps to Vermont,’ ‘From Snurfing to Snowboarding,’ open in Stowe
The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum celebrates one of the most prolific photographers in the history of mountain sports with the exhibition, “Hubert Schriebl: From the Alps to Vermont,” opening on Dec. 5.
Moving on: Porcupettes no more
Young porcupines are dispersing from their mothers this time of year, and with that, leaving behind the cutest name for a baby animal – porcupette – as they strike out on their own.
State recreation awards honor multiple Waterbury recipients
The Vermont Recreation & Parks Association recently announced its annual awards and winners included multiple recipients from Waterbury.
Arborists gather at Little River State Park for service, training
Little River State Park was the site recently for an inaugural gathering of 21 tree care professionals from around Vermont for an arborist’s day of service.
Waterbury Thanksgiving traditions continue with turkey drive, senior dinner
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, volunteers in the community are gearing up to run two annual events that help ensure that many get to celebrate the holiday.
Friday workshop to button up drafty homes, save money on winter heat bills
Winter is at the doorstep and Waterbury LEAP is running a Button Up weatherization workshop on Friday for homeowners.
MakerSphere annual meeting celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, community spirit
At its recent annual meeting, MakerSphere brought together artists, makers and community supporters to celebrate creativity, volunteerism, and the organization’s growing impact on the local arts community.
Ripples from the Reservoir: Mid-November edition
The Friends of Waterbury Reservoir share a November update on wildlife, water and ice safety, and a report from its annual meeting where more than 200 people turned out to meet birds from the VINS Nature Center in Quechee.
Chamber players add voices in weekend concerts
Marking their 20th season, the Eleva Chamber Players collaborate this weekend with Counterpoint, Vermont’s professional choral ensemble in performances Saturday in Waterbury and Sunday in Waitsfield.
Young loons may linger before winging to the ocean
At this point in the season, most migrating songbirds and raptors have already left. But on lakes and ponds across New England, some loons are still fishing and paddling.
Obituary: Pauline Jennie Thompson
Heaven gained a gentle soul when Pauline Jennie Thompson was called home to God on Friday, October 17, 2025.
Library serves up art, music, acupuncture, games and more in November
From music and art, acupuncture and silent reading, writing discussions and gaming, here are highlights from the Waterbury Library for November.
Gyttja: The mud beneath us reveals the past
Most northern lakes have at least 10 feet of mud beneath the basins. The technical term for this lake bottom mud made of mineral silt and decaying organic matter is gyttja, a Swedish word pronounced “yitcha.”
Obituary: John Bisbee
John Bisbee died October 24, 2025, shortly after his 99th birthday, at Wake Robin in Shelburne, Vermont.
Veterans invited to share stories at Vets Town Halls, starting Sunday in Montpelier
This month in connection with Veterans Day, a number of Vets Town Hall events will be held, starting on Sunday, Nov. 2, at the Vermont State House in Montpelier.
Obituary: Florence May Hagenbuch
Florence May Hagenbuch passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.