We all live in a watershed where our economy, environment, and society depend on its health. Two million people live in The Connecticut River Watershed encompassing 11,000 square miles in five states plus the province of Quebec. Ron Rhodes, CT River Watershed Steward, will present a wide ranging presentation about the importance of the CT watershed. Topics include preparing for floods, reconnecting habitat for fish, keeping sewage out of the river, the iconic CT River Paddlers trail, and major challenges facing the river.

The banner is up on the side of the white Hearse House, near the Public Tomb on Main Street in Chester, signaling that Chester Townscape is now appealing to the public for funds to finish the restoration and enhancement of the Hearse House. Contributions from some supporters and from members of the Chester Townscape Committee of the Chester Community Alliance, Inc., a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization, have brought restoration efforts to a very important point. So it's time to make that progress public - because the progress made is much more than meets the eye!

Lillian Willis, instructor for the My Vegetable Garden project offered by St. Luke's Church this past summer to Chester and Andover residents, presents gardening tools to Sharon Tanzer, Director of the Whiting Library in Chester. The free gardening program was supported by an Episcopal Diocese of Vermont Stirrings of the Sprit Grant. The rake, pitch fork, edger, and deep shovel given to the Library will allow people to borrow the tools to prepare a new garden for next year or maintain an existing garden more easily.

All are welcome to join the Chester Conservation Committee (CCC) for a morning of trail work as we continue to develop the Butternut Trail. Work some, learn about the trail and forest or simply come out and meet new people and spend an enjoyable fall morning in the woods.

Derek Buchan will perform a benefit concert on Monday, October 19 at 6 p.m. at the Chester Baptist Church on Main Street in Chester. Derek is from Aberdeen, Scotland, and he and his wife Fiona make an annual journey to Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. In 2012 Derek performed in Peru, Vermont to benefit that church community. He is a Licentiate of the Royal Academy of Music in piano teaching and holds a diploma in piano performance with the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music.