We set another record here in the north country yesterday. Not only did it snow here at Joe's Pond - no big surprise there, we expect snow in May - but on Mt. Mansfield they got 3 1/2 inches of snow at the stake, and that's a record of some sort, for the day or latest in the year. I searched the weather in several places but didn't find any reference to that report. I did hear it yesterday on the noontime news, though and also that while the road through Hazen's Notch had opened for the season a few days ago, it was closed again yesterday - you guessed it! Because of snow! Today has been cooler but no snow, and we're being promised a nice weekend. But we have to earn it by enduring rainy cool weather off and on this week until about Friday, and then we'll be warming up maybe even into the 70's.

Perhaps you've heard that there has been damage to homes by bears again this spring. People need to be aware this is a tough time for bears; they awake hungry (as a bear) often with young to feed, and there's really not much food out there in the wild yet. They learn quickly where the easy meals can be found - bird feeders, garbage left outside - and their sense of smell will lead them for miles to find it. They are inquisitive and have battered doors and broken into homes in search of food. So be careful, keep your home free of garbage, and give the big brutes lots of space if you come across them.

According to the Caledonian Record, the state is asking the Town of Danville to make more cuts to the proposed Route 2 Project that involves the Green. With the cost of energy and materials going up rapidly, it doesn't look good for getting that project started any time soon. There have been cuts - fewer trees and fewer lights which will result in scaled-down landscaping and construction/engineering costs, and some "roadway modifications" are being considered, but apparently more are needed.

We're being told that St. Johnsbury seems to have turned the corner after several decades of struggling to keep businesses in town. The organization, "St. Johnsbury on the Move" is being credited with revitalizing the business district and St. Johnsbury is beginning to enjoy popularity again as a tourist and upscale shopping destination. There are some very interesting shops along Railroad Street, and Main Street continues to be a showcase of Victorian homes and with the Athenaeum Art Gallery and the Fairbanks Museum open to visitors, there's no shortage of interesting things to see and do. Eastern Avenue is looking perkier, too, and some great restaurants scattered about town. We have links to more places of interest in the area listed on the web site - go to "Links" on the home page, www.joespondvermont.com.