PLATTSBURGH | People can get into the holiday spirit while running for “a good Claus” at the second annual Santa Dash 5K Run/Walk. The event is being held on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 11 am at Valcour Brewing Company in partnership with Adirondack Coast Events.

Proceeds will go toward scholarships supporting nurses at University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) who are seeking to further their education and grow professionally. This includes taking additional classes, pursuing certifications, attending conferences and conducting research.

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF THE SUN COMMUNITY NEWS HERE

Each November, a breathtaking natural spectacle unfolds at Dead Creek in Addison, Vermont, as thousands of snow geese gather to rest and refuel on their long journey south. This gathering draws birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike, eager to witness one of the region’s most awe-inspiring wildlife events. But snow geese aren’t the only ones making a move. Human “snowbirds” are also preparing to migrate—seeking refuge from Vermont’s icy winters in pursuit of warmer destinations.

The Snow Geese Migration at Dead Creek

Snow geese are an iconic sight in Vermont’s Champlain Valley during late fall. As temperatures drop, thousands of these striking white birds with black wingtips arrive at Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area, a critical stopover on their southward journey from northern Canada to warmer areas along the Atlantic coast, the southern United States, and even Mexico. Here, they rest and feed in the area’s grasslands and wetlands, building up energy reserves for the rest of their journey.

Can Birdwatchers Still Catch a Glimpse?
For birdwatchers, November is one of the best times to visit Dead Creek to see these snow geese in action. Despite the chill, the snow geese typically linger until late November or early December, depending on the weather. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best viewing times as large flocks take flight, creating stunning visuals against the backdrop of Vermont’s golden-brown fields and frosty November skies.

The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department welcomes visitors to designated observation areas at Dead Creek, offering opportunities to view these migratory birds without disturbing them. However, the exact timing of the migration is a delicate balance—snow geese respond to weather patterns, moving south when food is scarce or cold temperatures make the area inhospitable.

The Lake Placid Film Festival returns November 7-10, 2024!

The Festival’s screenings will be held at the Lake Placid Center for the Arts and the historic Palace Theatre. This year’s lineup features 20 feature films and more than 30 short films, celebrating diverse cinematic talents from around the world and Upstate New York.

READ THE FULL STORY HERE COURTESY OF ADIRONDACK.NET

Head to the Milton Artists’ Guild’s 18th Annual Art Fest this Saturday, November 12, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. You’ll find live tunes, raffles, wine tasting, and unique art and handmade treasures from 150 local artists—perfect for getting a head start on holiday gifts. Find the Guild at Milton Square behind the post office on Route 7 in Milton, VT.

Plus, MAG is running a fall fundraiser with an online auction featuring Lorraine Manley’s “Woodlands” painting (24″ x 48″). To bid or make a donation, visit givebutter.com/c/yWVBGA. Every bit helps keep local art thriving!

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF MILTON INDEPENDENT HERE:

Local sensation Taylor LaValley is bringing home two Josie Awards after her standout debut at Nashville’s iconic Grand Ole Opry! Hailing from Plattsburgh, NY, Taylor isn’t just making waves – she’s creating her own current. She’s rocked the stage opening for legends like The Kentucky Headhunters, captivated crowds at hometown venues, and added her own magic to countless weddings. This summer, she threw her name into the Josie Awards ring with six nominations and scored big with two wins on Sunday, Oct. 27th.

What are the Josies? Think of it as the Grammys for independent artists. They celebrate musicians from all genres, bringing together a diverse crowd each year in Nashville. This year’s awards – the biggest indie music awards in the world – dished out over 196 honors from an impressive 75,000 submissions.

Founded by the mother-daughter powerhouse Josie Passantino-Boone and Tinamarie Passantino in 2015, the Josie Awards were born out of a passion for giving indie artists a space to shine. This year’s star-studded show included live performances by icons like Tiffany, Neal McCoy, Buddy Jewell, JD Shelburne, and more.

So, next time you see Taylor LaValley’s name on the lineup at your local venue, just know she’s not only rocking our local scene – she’s representing us on one of the biggest stages in independent music!

READ MORE ABOUT THE JOSIE AWARDS IN NASHVILLE COURTESY OF THE TENNESEAN HERE:

Rick Hubbard, an 82-year-old retired attorney from South Burlington, Vermont, set out on his cross-country walk in October 2022, starting in Los Angeles to advocate for campaign finance reform and a more equitable democracy. His journey, inspired by Doris “Granny D” Haddock’s walk for similar causes, took a sudden pause when his life partner, Sally Howe, was diagnosed with cancer. Rick returned to Vermont in December 2022 to support her, and after Sally’s passing in April 2023, he resumed his walk with renewed dedication, carrying her memory as he continued his mission.

Rick, who holds degrees from the University of Vermont, Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business, and Georgetown University Law Center, has long championed democracy reform. He co-founded Vermont’s chapter of Common Cause and served on its National Governing Board. His journey is set to conclude in January 2025 on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, symbolizing his commitment to reducing the influence of big money in politics.

For more on Rick’s journey, visit fixourdemocracy.us​

The Vermont International Film Festival is taking place at Main Street Landing in Burlington from October 18 to 27, 2024. This 10-day event showcases a wide variety of independent films from across the globe, offering opportunities to watch thought-provoking films and engage in discussions with filmmakers. Attendees can participate in post-film Q&A sessions and network with industry professionals. The festival is a must-attend for cinephiles and those interested in diverse, artistic storytelling. For more details, visit Vermont Tourism​

The U.S. Coast Guard Haunted House in Burlington promises a thrilling Halloween experience on October 26, 2024. Hosted at the U.S. Coast Guard Station, this spooky event is family-friendly, offering chills and fun for all ages. It’s a great way to celebrate Halloween in a unique setting along Burlington’s waterfront. More information can be found here​

Photos by Darren Benz

STOWE, Vt. — In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a local survivor is taking on an extraordinary challenge to raise awareness for the search for a cure.

Michy Lemay believed she was in perfect health until an unexpected diagnosis changed everything. Had she not gone for that life-saving scan when she did, her story

might have turned out much differently.

READ THE FULL STORY FROM WPTZ.COM HERE

Looking for the Top Dog in this year’s Dog Costume Contest on the Church Street Marketplace in Burlington October 26th. Get your pooch ready to strike the pose to take home the top dog honors in either “Silliest Costume”, “Most Original,” “Best Pup & Owner” and “Best in Show.”

READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF WPTZ HERE