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April 10, 2026

  1. Gardening Expert Tovah Martin to Present at Manchester Community Library: Tovah Martin, a gardening author and organic land care professional, is scheduled to present at the Manchester Community Library on Saturday, April 25, at 1 p.m. The event is organized through the collaboration of the Garden Club of Manchester and the Bennington Garden Club. Attendance is free and open to the public, encouraging community engagement in gardening topics. The two local clubs maintain separate affiliations but share an interest in promoting horticulture. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 9)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +3 Bennington, VT

  2. Vermont Baseball Historian Tracks State’s Professional Ballplayers: Baseball historian Dana Sprague has dedicated years to cataloging every Vermonter who has played or signed to play professional baseball. Driven by a passion for both the sport and his home state, Sprague's research includes those born in Vermont as well as alumni of Vermont high schools. His comprehensive effort aims to capture the full scope of the state’s contributions to professional baseball. The project reflects Vermont’s longstanding connection to the sport and its resilient spirit. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 10)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +18 Newbury, VT Burlington, VT Rutland, VT Springfield, VT Randolph, VT Chester, VT Bennington, VT Northfield, VT St. Louis, VT Greensboro, VT

April 9, 2026

  1. Taconic & Green District Schools Receive New Names, Regional Middle School Proposed: The Taconic & Green Regional School District will rename two of its schools starting in the 2026-27 academic year, aiming for a broader district identity. Dorset School will become Green Ridge Elementary School, serving students from Sunderland, Danby, Mt. Tabor, and Dorset due to the closure of two other schools. Manchester Elementary Middle School will be called Taconic Elementary School, with grades 6-8 forming Equinox Valley Middle School. A new regional middle school proposal was also discussed by board members. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 9)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +9 Dorset, VT Danby, VT Mt. Tabor, VT Londonderry, VT Weston, VT Bennington, VT

  2. Bank of Bennington Donates $100,000 to Riley Rink Capital Campaign: The Bank of Bennington has contributed $100,000 to the Riley Rink Capital Campaign in Manchester, Vermont. The campaign, started in October, seeks to secure funding to maintain and improve the facility as it nears its third decade. The donation was presented during a local boys hockey game, underscoring the bank’s support for community recreation and gathering spaces. This significant gift is intended to help ensure Riley Rink remains a vibrant asset for Manchester residents. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 25)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +2 Bennington, VT

April 8, 2026

  1. East Dorset Resident Sentenced Following String of Vehicle Break-Ins in Manchester: A 34-year-old East Dorset man has received a prison sentence after pleading guilty to felony grand larceny related to a series of vehicle break-ins in Manchester during August 2025. Jacob Alberico entered a plea agreement that led to the dismissal of three misdemeanor charges. He was given a sentence that will see him serve at least 18 months, with Department of Corrections calculations extending his incarceration to potentially over six years. Alberico was on probation for a prior offense when these incidents occurred. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 7)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +4 Rutland, VT Bennington, VT

April 7, 2026

  1. Agenda and Keynote Details Shared for 2026 Southern Vermont Economy Summit: Organizers have released session details for the upcoming Southern Vermont Economy Summit, scheduled for May 12 at Mount Snow in Dover. The event, now in its ninth year, will bring together regional business and community leaders to discuss economic strategies and development opportunities. Sarah Waring, executive director of the Northern Border Regional Commission, will give the keynote address focusing on federal support for rural economic growth. The summit’s breakout sessions will reflect priorities from the 2024 SoVermont Zone Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 7)

    Southern Vermont Dover, VT +2 Brattleboro, VT Bennington, VT

  2. Bennington Museum Launches Season with Events Amid Entrance Renovations: The Bennington Museum marked its seasonal reopening with a day of family activities, live performances, and educational presentations. Despite ongoing construction affecting the main entrance and parking lot, the museum remained open to the public and highlighted efforts to address longstanding infrastructure concerns. Renovations are focused on improving traffic flow, capacity, and water drainage around the facility. The updates aim to enhance future visitor experiences as the museum approaches its centennial. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 6)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +1 Chester, VT

April 6, 2026

  1. Avi Salloway to Lead Earth Week Events in Manchester's Northshire Area: Manchester's Northshire area will host a variety of Earth Week events as community organizations and local businesses collaborate to promote environmental awareness. Highlighting the celebration, Vermont musician and activist Avi Salloway will perform an evening concert on April 22 at Paradigm, aiming to motivate attendees with music influenced by his global experiences. The concert and related activities are supported by grass-roots group Earth Matters, with all events focused on sustainable living and climate education. The community is coordinating widespread participation throughout Earth Week. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 27)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +6 Weston, VT Bennington, VT Dorset, VT Burlington, VT

April 3, 2026

  1. 2026 Women in Leadership Luncheon Set for Hildene’s Lincoln Hall in Manchester: The Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with Beacon Bank, will host the 2026 Women in Leadership Luncheon at Hildene’s Lincoln Hall in Manchester on May 13. Attendees can expect a spring-themed lunch prepared by Pangaea and presentations from two keynote speakers. Three awards, recognizing achievements of local women, will be given during the event. The luncheon, which began in 2022, has expanded significantly and attracts a diverse group of regional professionals. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 3)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +3 Bennington, VT

April 2, 2026

  1. Bennington Youth Achieve Strong Results at Vermont State Chess Championships: Several young chess players from the Greater Bennington area earned top honors at the 39th Annual John Balch Memorial Vermont State Scholastic Chess Tournament, held at Lamoille Union High School on March 28. Local students secured state championships in both the kindergarten and third-grade divisions, as well as a second-place finish at the high school level. The Mount Anthony team emerged as overall state champions in the team competition. The event welcomed Vermont students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 1)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +4

April 1, 2026

  1. Sentencing in Bennington Weighs Justice and Deterrence in Driving Case: A sentencing hearing at Bennington Courthouse recently focused on the balance between justice and deterrence in handling a serious vehicle offense. Sara Klebbe, 34 and a mother of three, pleaded guilty to grossly negligent operation of a motor vehicle that caused serious injury. Prosecutors dropped several additional charges as part of a plea deal, recommending a suspended sentence with a specified time to serve. The court's decision was influenced by both the facts of the case and broader public safety concerns. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 31)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +2 Rutland, VT

March 31, 2026

  1. Shaftsbury Resident Charged With Animal Cruelty After Beagle Left Outside in Cold: An 82-year-old Shaftsbury woman was charged with animal cruelty following an incident in January where her senior beagle was allegedly left chained outside in freezing conditions without adequate shelter or access to unfrozen water. Law enforcement found the dog shivering and exposed to harsh weather, with temperatures reported at 16 degrees and significant wind chill. The woman pleaded not guilty during her Bennington arraignment and was released pending trial. Conditions were set for monitoring any animals she owns. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 30)

    Southern Vermont Shaftsbury, VT +1 Bennington, VT

  2. Southwest Vermont Union Sets Revote and Budget Session After Plan Rejected: The Southwest Vermont Union Elementary School District is preparing for a new vote on its budget following a narrow defeat of its initial spending plan. Voters in the district, which includes four towns, rejected a proposed $33.5 million budget that had a modest increase, leading the board to revise the plan with no spending growth over the current year. An informational hearing will be held on April 7 in Bennington ahead of the April 14 revote. The complex state funding formula may still result in a tax increase for local residents. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 31)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT

March 30, 2026

  1. Bongartz and Plunkett Launch Re-election Bids for Bennington Senate District: Vermont State Senators Seth Bongartz and Rob Plunkett have announced their intent to seek re-election for the Bennington Senate District. Representing Bennington County and several Windham County towns, the two Democrats cited their legislative efforts in areas such as housing, health care, and civil rights. After two years in office, they emphasized their commitment to ongoing progress for their district's residents. Their campaign prioritizes continued advocacy and sustained policy initiatives. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 30)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +5 Londonderry, VT Wilmington, VT Montpelier, VT

  2. Northshire Protesters Rally Against National Policies in Manchester: Dozens gathered at the Northshire Roundabout in Manchester, Vermont, for a two-hour demonstration as part of a larger national day of protest. The local event corresponded with broader activities across Bennington County, where over 1,800 people protested similar concerns. Issues raised included alleged authoritarian trends, intensified immigration enforcement, economic strains, weakening of environmental regulations, and other recent national and international policy decisions. Nearly 50 protests were held in Vermont as part of this movement. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 30)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +1 Bennington, VT

  3. Career Change Brings New Resident to Bennington, Vermont: Jasmine Huff, originally from a rural area in central New York, decided to relocate to Bennington, Vermont, despite not having visited the town before. Her move was motivated by both personal reasons and the opportunity to apply her technical background in a different professional setting. This transition involved considerable uncertainty, but ultimately led to a fulfilling new chapter in her career. The story highlights individual migration trends within rural New England. (Source: SoVermont on Mar 30)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT

March 27, 2026

  1. Bennington Museum Reopens for Spring Season Featuring Student Art Show: The Bennington Museum in Bennington is set to reopen its doors to the public on April 2 for the start of its spring season. This season includes newly installed galleries and the Annual Student Art Show, showcasing artwork from preschool to high school students from around a dozen area schools. The museum will also host a free community day with music and activities on April 4. The student exhibition highlights the region's commitment to art education and runs through May 17. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 27)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT

  2. Youth Chess Players Recognized at Third Annual March Madness Tournament in Pownal: The third Annual March Madness Chess Tournament, organized by Chess on the Hill, was held on March 22 at the Solomon Wright Public Library in Pownal. Designed specifically for youth from the Greater Bennington County region, the event drew 32 participants from 13 schools across Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York. The competition featured age- and skill-based categories, emphasizing sportsmanship and skill-building rather than cash prizes. Winners were announced following a highly competitive and spirited event. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 26)

    Southern Vermont Pownal, VT +4 Bennington, VT Manchester, VT Williamstown, VT

March 26, 2026

  1. Bennington Resident Faces Multiple Charges After Firearm Incident Near Arlington: A 25-year-old Bennington man was arrested following a confrontation that involved stalking another driver and allegedly brandishing a handgun while driving near Arlington. Police charged him with multiple offenses, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, reckless endangerment, and criminal threatening. Authorities responded after a report of dangerous driving and a firearm being displayed along Route 7A. The suspect pleaded not guilty and remains in custody pending further legal proceedings. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 25)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +3 Arlington, VT Rutland, VT Troy, VT

  2. Thomas West Seeks Democratic Nomination for Bennington-4 State Legislature Seat: Thomas West, vice-chair of the Manchester Planning Commission and a Justice of the Peace, has announced his candidacy for the Vermont House seat representing Bennington-4. He aims to succeed State Representative Kathleen James, who recently said she will not seek re-election. West's campaign will focus on rural issues such as housing, affordability, and education costs affecting Arlington, Manchester, Sandgate, and part of Sunderland. The Democratic primary is scheduled for August. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 26)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +9 Arlington, VT Londonderry, VT Bennington, VT Windsor, VT

March 25, 2026

  1. Bennington Man Convicted of Gross Negligence in 2024 Pownal Route 7 Crash: A 40-year-old Bennington resident has been found guilty of felony gross negligence after a serious crash on Route 7 in Pownal in August 2024. The verdict followed a one-day jury trial, where evidence indicated the defendant was driving at excessive speed in hazardous conditions, leading to multiple injuries. While sentencing has yet to be scheduled, the individual could face up to 15 years in prison and a substantial fine. The judge has ordered a pre-sentencing report before the final hearing. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 25)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +2 Pownal, VT Albany, VT

March 23, 2026

  1. Wendy Chenaille Retires from The Bank of Bennington After 48-Year Career: Wendy Chenaille is retiring from The Bank of Bennington after a banking career spanning 48 years, concluding on March 31. Beginning her professional journey in 1978, Chenaille rose to become a key leader at the bank and played an important role in its development. Throughout her tenure, she also contributed to several local organizations through volunteer work, strengthening connections within the Bennington community. Her career is noted for a commitment to both service and leadership. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 23)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT

  2. No Kings 3 Protest Events Scheduled for Manchester and Bennington on March 28: Two 'No Kings 3' protest events are scheduled for Manchester and Bennington on March 28, aligning with a national day of action. Manchester's event takes place at Northshire Roundabout from noon to 2 p.m., while Bennington will host a larger county-wide march, rally, and live activities from noon to 3:30 p.m. Organizers cite more than 3,000 protests nationwide, including over 50 in Vermont. The demonstrations will include speakers, music, and community gatherings. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 23)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +1 Bennington, VT

  3. Nationwide No Kings 3 Protests Planned for Manchester and Bennington on March 28: Manchester and Bennington will host No Kings 3 events on March 28 as part of a broader national protest movement. The Manchester gathering is set for the Northshire Roundabout from noon until 2 p.m., while Bennington's county-wide event will feature a march, speakers, music, and food trucks from noon to 3:30 p.m. Organizers expect over 3,000 similar events nationwide, with more than 50 in Vermont. The demonstrations aim to draw widespread community participation across the region. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 23)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +1 Bennington, VT

March 19, 2026

  1. Winhall Man to Face Trial for Alleged Drug Distribution to Minor Children: A Winhall resident is scheduled to stand trial in April following accusations that he provided hallucinogenic mushrooms to his two underage children in late summer 2025. The individual, age 52, is facing felony charges for both the delivery of hallucinogens and supplying drugs to minors, as well as a misdemeanor related to contributing to delinquency. If convicted, he could receive a prison sentence of up to ten years. Local police began their investigation after a report from the accused's former spouse. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 18)

    Southern Vermont Winhall, VT +1 Bennington, VT

  2. Route 7 Culvert Replacement in Sunderland Moved to 2026 After Funding Secured: A plan to replace two culverts on Route 7 in Sunderland, originally delayed until 2030 due to funding issues, has been rescheduled to begin later in 2026. The Vermont Agency of Transportation expects to advertise the construction contract in spring and start work by summer, with a full highway closure lasting about two weeks at some point between August and October. Traffic will be re-routed via VT 7A and VT 313, while larger vehicles may detour through Manchester or into New York. This schedule adjustment follows new funding allocations for the project. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 17)

    Southern Vermont Sunderland, VT +4 Arlington, VT Manchester, VT Bennington, VT

  3. Manchester Reporter Jeff McRae Named Finalist for 2025 Vermont Book Award: Jeff McRae, a reporter for the Manchester Journal and resident of North Bennington, has been selected as a finalist for the 2025 Vermont Book Award for his debut poetry collection, "The Kingdom Where No One Dies." The work, which draws on McRae’s experiences growing up in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, was published in October by Pulley Press. The Vermont Book Award, established by the Vermont College of Fine Arts, recognizes exceptional books by local authors each March. McRae’s recognition highlights the depth of literary talent in the region. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 19)

    Southern Vermont Montpelier, VT +5 Manchester, VT Bennington, VT

March 17, 2026

  1. Vermont Plans Preservation Projects at Bennington Monument and Four Other Sites: The Vermont Division for Historic Preservation has launched new restoration and preservation projects at five state-owned historic sites, including the Bennington Battle Monument. These efforts aim to improve the structural stability, historical accuracy, and accessibility of the sites. Archaeological investigations at the Bennington Monument will focus on uncovering information about a historic storehouse tied to the Revolutionary War. The projects reflect a commitment to protecting Vermont’s heritage for the future. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 17)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +8 Windsor, VT Quechee, VT Albany, VT

  2. Winston Prouty Center Housing Project Secures $4 Million in State Funding: The Village at Winston Prouty, a housing development planned for the former Austine School campus in Brattleboro, has received a significant financial boost. State Treasurer Michael Pieciak announced that $4 million from the "10% for Vermont" program will support the project through low-interest loans. This initial funding will help launch the first phase, which aims to create between 28 and 30 workforce housing units. The project seeks to address housing needs for area workers and families. (Source: The Commons on Mar 17)

    Southern Vermont Brattleboro, VT +1 Bennington, VT

  3. Bennington County Indivisible Highlights Broad Mission Ahead of March 28 Protest: Bennington County Indivisible is preparing for the upcoming National Day of Protest on March 28, emphasizing that its mission extends beyond protest activities. Leaders describe the organization as focused on a range of political action strategies, prioritizing non-violent efforts and community advocacy. Indivisible operates through partnerships with numerous local and national groups, providing resources, education, and training for civic engagement. The group seeks to deepen public understanding of its broader purpose. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 16)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +1 Arlington, VT

March 12, 2026

  1. Fundraising Campaign Begins to Preserve Manchester's Historic Little Red Church: A committee in Manchester has launched a capital campaign to preserve the First Baptist Church, known locally as the Little Red Church. Built in 1833 with bricks from Bennington, the church has seen several expansions, including meeting rooms, a bell tower, vestry, and kitchen wing added over the past two centuries. The campaign has already secured over a quarter of its $400,000 target, which is needed for a four-phase restoration project. No completion date for the work has been set yet. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 11)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +1 Bennington, VT

  2. Model Home Contest Invites Southern Vermont Students to Showcase Designs: Habitat for Humanity is inviting students in grades K-12 from southern Vermont to participate in its upcoming Model Home Contest. The event will be held at Hildene in Manchester on Saturday, March 28 at 1 p.m. Students can enter individually or as teams and will create three-dimensional model homes to be reviewed by local professionals such as architects and engineers. The contest encourages creative problem-solving, with past entries featuring inventive use of materials. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 9)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +5 Arlington, VT Bennington, VT Dorset, VT

  3. New Beginnings: One Resident’s Experience Settling in Bennington: After growing up in North Carolina, Sarah Blizzard moved to Bennington, Vermont, expecting only a change of scenery. Her relocation soon evolved into a meaningful journey, as she discovered the value of community and new opportunities in southern Vermont. Blizzard found the region’s unique charm and sense of belonging helped her build a fresh start. Her experience highlights how the area can offer newcomers both support and a place to call home. (Source: SoVermont on Mar 12)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT

March 9, 2026

  1. Southwest Vermont Tech School District Budget Approved and New Officers Elected: Voters from 13 towns in the Southwest Vermont Regional Technical School District have approved the proposed $5.4 million budget for fiscal year 2027, with strong majorities in all member towns. Residents also agreed to boost reserve funds for capital improvements and equipment. Three candidates secured unopposed seats on the school board, while Kayla Thompson was elected district clerk, succeeding the retiring Cassandra Barbeau. These approvals ensure ongoing support for district operations and leadership stability. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 8)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT

March 5, 2026

  1. Southwest Vermont Elementary School Budget Fails, Mount Anthony Plan Passes: The proposed $33.5 million budget for the Southwest Vermont Union Elementary School District failed to pass by a margin of 18 votes in a recent four-town district election, with results showing 1,020 against and 1,002 in favor. Meanwhile, the Mount Anthony Union School District's $34.9 million budget was approved by voters, securing 1,197 votes in favor. District officials plan to reconvene to discuss next steps after the defeat. The results will guide further actions regarding school funding for the upcoming year. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 4)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +4 Pownal, VT

  2. Southwest Vermont Elementary School Budget Fails, Mount Anthony Budget Passes: The Southwest Vermont Union Elementary School District's proposed $33.5 million budget was narrowly defeated by 18 votes, reflecting the challenging fiscal environment facing local education. Voters in the four-town district rejected the plan, while the $34.9 million Mount Anthony Union School District budget was approved. School officials highlighted minimal year-over-year growth in expenditure and cited external economic pressures. The elementary district board is expected to meet soon to determine next steps. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 4)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +4 Pownal, VT

  3. Bennington St. Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl Returns With New Venues and Giveaways: Bennington's St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl marks its fifth year in 2026 with an expanded lineup, adding Kelli's Tavern and Pearls at Village Garage alongside returning favorites such as Madison Brewing Company and Ramunto’s. Hosted by the Shires Young Professionals, the event features themed decorations, drink specials, and a festive atmosphere across multiple downtown venues. Participants can enjoy exclusive merchandise, a 50/50 raffle, and several giveaways throughout the celebration. The pub crawl is described as a tradition that supports local businesses. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 2)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT

March 3, 2026

  1. Shaftsbury Town Meeting Tables Decision on Apartheid-Free Community Pledge: During Monday's Town Meeting in Shaftsbury, residents decided to table a motion regarding the adoption of the Apartheid-Free Community Pledge and recommended that the Select Board withdraw its earlier support. Attendees also rejected a proposal to cut $50,000 from the proposed $3.2 million fiscal year 2027 budget, approving the original amount, which reflects a 9 percent increase. The meeting featured substantial debate on the pledge, leading to extended discussion that continued until attendance had decreased. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 3)

    Southern Vermont Shaftsbury, VT +3 Cambridge, VT Bennington, VT Manchester, VT

February 28, 2026

  1. Local Teen Wins Ninth Annual Bennington County's Got Talent Competition: A large audience filled the Monument Arts & Cultural Center in Bennington for the ninth annual Bennington County's Got Talent event. Sixteen-year-old Michael Greene earned first place with an original country song, impressing both the audience and four local judges. The competition featured 13 performances across various musical genres. The event highlighted a diverse display of local talent, drawing strong community participation and support. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 28)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +1 Manchester, VT

February 27, 2026

  1. Bennington Woman Set to Plead in 2022 Murder Accessory Case: A woman charged as an accessory in the 2022 murder of Ulysses Ivey in Bennington is expected to enter a plea agreement. Erin Wilson, 33, was arrested in 2023 on several felony charges linked to Ivey's fatal shooting near a Green Mountain Power substation. Authorities allege Elliot Russell, a Brooklyn native recently released from a Vermont jail, was the shooter in the case. Police reports suggest a possible motive of jealousy, and the case continues to move through local courts. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 26)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +3

  2. Peru Plans Agenda and Local Ballot for Upcoming Town Meeting Day: As Town Meeting Day approaches in Peru, Vermont, residents will address several important community decisions directly from the floor, reflecting the town's small size. Voters will choose individuals for various municipal roles, including town clerk, treasurer, constables, selectboard member, and more, with terms ranging from one to five years. A key article on the warning asks whether to implement a 1 percent rooms tax under state law. The meeting will also feature the Taconic and Green ballot for local consideration. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 27)

    Southern Vermont Peru, IN +3 Londonderry, VT Bennington, VT

  3. Bennington County Coalition for the Homeless Discusses Funding With Selectboard: During a recent Bennington Selectboard meeting, the director of the Bennington County Coalition for the Homeless updated officials on the organization's requests for appropriations from municipalities across the county. Board members expressed concerns about the weight of financial responsibility traditionally falling on Bennington, highlighting its long-term support of local shelter programs. The coalition indicated plans to seek more equitable funding contributions from neighboring towns moving forward. This approach aims to balance resources for addressing homelessness throughout the county. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 27)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +18 Manchester, VT Arlington, VT Dorset, VT Peru, IN Pownal, VT Readsboro, VT Stamford, VT Rutland, VT Brattleboro, VT

February 26, 2026

  1. Bennington Appoints Shannon Barsotti as Assistant Town Manager: Shannon Barsotti, currently serving as director of Bennington's Department of Housing, Community and Economic Development, has been named the town's assistant manager. The appointment, made by Town Manager Dan Monks, aims to strengthen leadership and ensure operational continuity for the community. Barsotti has worked in town administration since 2019 and has led a variety of projects involving local, state, and federal partners. The new role gives her increased responsibility within Bennington's administration. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 26)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +1

February 24, 2026

  1. Hawkins House Craftsmarket to Close After 49 Years in Bennington: The Hawkins House Craftsmarket in Bennington will close its doors in June, ending a 49-year presence in the community. Owners Elizabeth Ganger and Jonah Spivak stated the decision was motivated by personal plans rather than financial difficulties or health issues. Despite having a successful holiday season, the business will not initiate liquidation sales immediately and will continue serving customers until its closure. The owners are encouraging patrons to use gift certificates and store credits before then. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 23)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +3 Cambridge, VT

  2. Newfane Residents Question Role of Town Meeting Debates on Global Issues: As Newfane prepares for its annual Town Meeting, debate has emerged over whether discussing national and international issues should be part of the local agenda. In previous years, residents have proposed measures on topics ranging from genetically modified foods to international conflicts. However, this year will see fewer advisory resolutions as some advocates shift their focus to other forms of activism. The ongoing discussion reflects a wider debate within Vermont communities about the impact of their Town Meeting decisions. (Source: The Commons on Feb 24)

    Southern Vermont Newfane, VT +14 Brandon, VT Bristol, VT Middlebury, VT Putney, VT Salisbury, NY Westminster, VT Bennington, VT Brattleboro, VT Montpelier, VT Burlington, VT

February 20, 2026

  1. Manchester Girl Scouts Mark Cookie Weekend, Support Local Community Projects: Local Girl Scout troops in Manchester and Dorset are participating in National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend, with members from Troop 51726 actively selling cookies at community spots like Northshire Bookstore, Manchester Fire Department, and the local library. So far, the troop has sold 500 boxes but aims for a larger goal of 5,000 to fund both community initiatives and a group trip. The troop emphasizes the sale's broader benefits, including choosing and supporting local organizations each year. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 20)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +5 Dorset, VT Arlington, VT Bennington, VT

  2. Bennington College Student Completes Six-Week Field Work at Red Fox Community School: Sofia Mirenda, a Bennington College student and East Dorset native, recently completed a six-week Field Work Term at Red Fox Community School in Manchester. During her time, Mirenda focused on examining the connections between art, psychology, and education through the school's experiential learning model. Her participation built on her earlier experiences in local educational programs that emphasized nature and student engagement. The placement aimed to support both her academic growth and the school's evolving curriculum. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 19)

    Southern Vermont Manchester, VT +2 Bennington, VT

February 19, 2026

  1. Pownal Sex Abuse Survivor Voices Disappointment After Plea Agreement: A young woman from Bennington, Vermont, spoke publicly about her experiences following the sentencing of Angel Varno, 56, who received a plea deal in a prolonged sexual abuse case. Varno, originally charged as an accessory to the aggravated repeated sexual assault of a minor, avoided jail time and was instead sentenced to 10 years of probation. The victim, now 19, expressed her dissatisfaction with the outcome and hopes to share lessons from her ordeal with others. The case highlights ongoing concerns around plea agreements in serious abuse cases. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 18)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +1 Pownal, VT

  2. Local Senators to Lead Bennington Health Care Forum on Rising Costs: State Senators Seth Bongartz and Rob Plunkett, along with Senate Health & Welfare Chair Ginny Lyons, will conduct a public forum in Bennington focused on health care cost challenges and the impact on Vermonters. The event will feature perspectives from local health professionals, including representatives from Battenkill Valley Health Center and Southwest Vermont Medical Center. Scheduled for March 1 at the Bennington Firehouse, the discussion aims to address cost control and quality measures. Residents are encouraged to attend and engage in the conversation. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 19)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +1 Montpelier, VT

February 18, 2026

  1. Vermont Treasurer Discusses Healthcare, Housing Issues with Bennington Leaders: Vermont Treasurer Mike Pieciak met with local business and healthcare representatives in Bennington to discuss ongoing challenges related to the state’s regulatory climate, healthcare, and Act 250. The conversation highlighted concerns about affordability and the pressure regulations place on local economic growth. Pieciak also addressed the shortage of affordable housing, noting issues like aging infrastructure and the rise of short-term rentals. The roundtable was organized by the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 17)

    Southern Vermont Bennington, VT +1 Rutland, VT
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