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February 13, 2026

Chicago Developer Acquires Chauncey Annex, Eyes Mixed-Use Redevelopment Near Purdue: A Chicago-based developer has acquired several properties near Purdue University, including the vacant Chauncey Annex strip center and nearby lots previously owned by Muinzer. The purchases, totaling $14.25 million according to county records, cover a prominent intersection and former parking areas connected to the Chauncey Hill Mall. Early indications suggest the developer intends to pursue a mixed-use redevelopment, though specific project details have not been finalized. The City Council recently rejected a past high-rise proposal for the site. (Source: Based in Lafayette on Feb 13)

Greater Lafayette West Lafayette, IN +5 Lafayette, IN Lebanon, IN

Woodstock Faces Pressure Over Depositions in $5 Million Lawsuit: A motion has been filed in Vermont state court seeking to require Interim Police Chief Chris O’Keeffe to attend a deposition as part of a $5 million lawsuit involving the Village of Woodstock and several local officials. The request comes after a court order lifted a previous hold on the case, prompting renewed legal activity. Attorneys representing Police Chief Joe Swanson are also seeking legal fees due to resistance from the village. The ongoing civil case includes the village and multiple officials as defendants. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 12)

Southern Vermont Woodstock, VT +2 Springfield, VT Lebanon, IN

West Windsor Mourns Matt Birmingham, Longtime Community Leader and Mentor: Matt Birmingham, a respected resident of West Windsor, Vermont, was remembered for his impactful contributions to the community following his passing at age 77 due to illness. He was widely known for his mentorship, coaching, and teaching roles at Woodstock Union High School, Albert Bridge School, and the former College of St. Joseph. Friends, colleagues, and students highlighted his commitment to civic engagement and lifelong support of local youth. Birmingham’s service spanned families, schools, and recreation programs in the region. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 5)

Southern Vermont West Windsor, VT +5 Ludlow, VT Lebanon, IN Woodstock, VT Rutland, VT

Letitia Dick Ellis, Accomplished Psychologist and Author, Dies at 91: Letitia Dick Ellis, PhD, a noted psychologist, author, and humanitarian, died peacefully on January 22 at age 91. Born in New York City in 1934 and raised in Lake Forest, Illinois, Dr. Ellis was a Smith College graduate and earned her doctorate in counseling psychology at Northwestern University. She and her husband, William Corson Ellis, were married for 61 years and deeply involved in the arts and humanitarian work. Dr. Ellis is survived by three children and eleven grandchildren. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 2)

Southern Vermont Woodstock, VT +8 Lebanon, IN

Spanish Student Athlete Reflects on Cultural Exchange Experience in Woodstock: Paula Cortijo Martin, a fourteen-year-old basketball talent from Madrid, spent several months in Woodstock, Vermont, to enhance her English skills and experience American culture. During her stay, she attended Woodstock Union High School and formed close connections within the community. Her parents were initially concerned but were reassured by her positive experience with a local host family. Paula has returned to Spain with lasting friendships and valuable memories from her time in Vermont. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 21)

Southern Vermont Woodstock, VT +2 Lebanon, IN

Woodstock Student Athlete Finds New Purpose After Suffering Major Pole Vault Injury: Woodstock High School sophomore Pippa Shaw faced a serious setback when she sustained a life-changing injury during a pole vault warm-up last spring. Known for her dedication to track and intended college ambitions, Shaw's season was further challenged by a lack of training facilities and rainy weather. Despite these obstacles and her injury, she has redirected her athletic ambitions and discovered a new passion. Shaw's journey highlights perseverance and adaptation in the face of adversity. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 14)

Southern Vermont Woodstock, VT +5 Rutland, VT Lebanon, IN Middlebury, VT

Woodstock Municipal Manager Seeks Dismissal of Police Chief Swanson: Woodstock Municipal Manager Eric Duffy has moved from advocating for Police Chief Joe Swanson’s demotion to now seeking his termination. Duffy’s recent letter indicates his intent to bypass demotion proceedings and dismiss Swanson from the village police department. Swanson’s attorney, Linda E. Fraas, intends to contest both the demotion and possible dismissal, aiming to restore Swanson to his full role. The situation marks a notable escalation in the administrative dispute within Woodstock. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jan 8)

Southern Vermont Woodstock, VT +2 Burlington, VT Lebanon, IN

West Windsor Initiative Aims to Create 70 New Housing Units by 2030: Officials in West Windsor are working to address local housing needs by forming a Housing Commission tasked with securing grants and prioritizing suitable land. Former and current planning commission members have narrowed their initial review from 21 potential parcels to two viable sites that are targeted for development in 2026 and 2027. Their goal is to provide 70 new housing units within the coming years. Site evaluations and planning are underway to advance this initiative. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Dec 30)

Southern Vermont West Windsor, VT +2 Montpelier, VT Lebanon, IN

Woodstock Hosts New Year’s Celebrations and Activities for All Ages: The Woodstock area in southern Vermont is planning a variety of events to welcome 2026, including a family-friendly New Year’s Eve party at the Woodstock Inn & Resort with music, party favors, and midnight countdowns. Skiers at Saskadena Six can enjoy a weekend on the slopes, featuring live music as part of the Slopeside Tunes series. These activities cater to both families and adults, providing entertainment options for everyone. Advance tickets are required for some events. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Dec 29)

Southern Vermont Woodstock, VT +6 Quechee, VT Norwich, VT Lebanon, IN

Martha Thir, 90, Remembered for Her Positivity and Support to Community: Martha Thir, who recently celebrated her 90th birthday, died peacefully at the Jack Byrne Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, on November 2. Known for her positive spirit and unwavering support to those around her, she touched many lives throughout her years. Martha is survived by her husband, sister, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Cabot Funeral Home in Woodstock is assisting her family with arrangements. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Dec 23)

Southern Vermont Lebanon, IN +1 Woodstock, VT

Elizabeth Walker, 71, Remembered by Family and Friends: Elizabeth Walker, aged 71, died on November 20, 2025, at the Jack Byrnes Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Arrangements for a memorial service are being handled by the Cabot Funeral Home in Woodstock, with details to be announced at a later date. She is remembered by her family, friends, and local community. Plans to honor her life will be shared once finalized. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Nov 25)

Southern Vermont Lebanon, IN +1 Woodstock, VT