Latest News
December 16, 2025
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Local Clergy Emphasize Messages of Hope and Peace During Christmas Services: Churches in southern Vermont are preparing Christmas services focused on themes of hope, peace, and resilience. Local clergy members have noted a growing interest in faith and reflection on spiritual matters, attributing this shift to current global uncertainties and challenges. The Christmas sermons are expected to address contemporary concerns while encouraging kindness and understanding within the community. These gatherings aim to bring light and comfort to congregants during the holiday season. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Dec 16)
December 9, 2025
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Hartland Resident and Student Athlete Benjamin Roy Johnsen Dies at 19: Benjamin Roy Johnsen of Hartland died unexpectedly on November 29, 2025, at age 19. A former student-athlete at Woodstock Union High School, he participated in both alpine skiing and soccer, and was an Eagle Scout with Troop 232. Johnsen was in his second year at Rutgers University in New Jersey, where he was studying finance. The Hartland and Woodstock communities have shown strong support following his passing. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Dec 9)
December 4, 2025
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Investigation Continues After Hartland College Student Found Dead Near River: Authorities in Woodstock, Vermont, are investigating the death of a 19-year-old Hartland resident whose body was found near the Ottauquechee River, approximately a quarter mile from a car crash site. The deceased, a sophomore at Rutgers University and recent Woodstock Union High School graduate, was discovered about 17 hours after his vehicle crashed off East Woodstock Road. An autopsy is underway to determine the cause of death, with foul play not currently suspected. Official results may take several weeks to complete. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Dec 4)
December 3, 2025
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Hartland Selectboard Approves Three-Year Extension for Town Manager: The Hartland Selectboard has unanimously agreed to extend Town Manager John Broker-Campbell's contract for another three years, following a performance review discussed in executive session at their Monday meeting. The new contract, starting in January, features auto-renewal for two-year terms and an annual salary of $102,760 that reflects recent merit and cost-of-living increases. Broker-Campbell has served in the role since January 2024. This decision demonstrates continued support for his leadership in Hartland. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Dec 3)
November 30, 2025
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Hartland Teen Discovered Deceased Near Ottauquechee River Following Woodstock Crash: A 19-year-old man from Hartland was found dead along the Ottauquechee River approximately 17 hours after reportedly crashing his car into a tree on East Woodstock Road in Woodstock. Authorities identified the driver as Benjamin Johnsen, whose body has been sent to Burlington for autopsy examination. Police stated there did not appear to be suspicious circumstances, though few additional details were released. Law enforcement had searched for Johnsen as temperatures in the area dropped below freezing overnight. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Nov 30)
November 24, 2025
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Box Truck Crash in Hartland Spills Diesel Fuel into Ottauquechee River: State officials reported that a box truck accident on Interstate 91 in Hartland led to nearly 200 gallons of diesel fuel entering the Ottauquechee River on Saturday morning. The truck, driven by a Massachusetts resident, left the roadway, struck guardrails, and came to rest partially submerged. Authorities closed one lane near the crash for several hours to manage recovery and cleanup. Several local and state agencies responded to address the environmental and traffic impact. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Nov 24)
November 19, 2025
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Artistree to Feature Three Short Plays by Local Playwrights at Grange Theater: The Grange Theater at Artistree in South Pomfret will present three short plays this weekend, each penned by writers with ties to the region. The performances span genres including science fiction, drama, and historical themes, and will be staged as readings by professional actors in the theater's intimate 75-seat setting. Among the works featured are Daniel Patterson’s science fiction play and Peter Rousmaniere's historically inspired drama. The event highlights local creative talent. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Nov 19)
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Hartland’s Howland Family Traces Mayflower Roots as Thanksgiving Approaches: Members of the Howland family in Hartland, Vermont, are preparing to recognize their longstanding ancestral links to Mayflower passengers as Thanksgiving nears. Their connection stems from genealogical research detailing the family's lineage to those who anchored in Provincetown Harbor in 1620 and later celebrated the first Thanksgiving with the Wampanoag people. This annual tradition allows the family to honor their heritage within Vermont and across New England. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Nov 19)
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Upper Valley Waldorf School Hosts Annual Lantern Walk in Quechee: Children, teachers, and families gathered at the Upper Valley Waldorf School in Quechee for the annual Lantern Walk, carrying handmade lanterns to mark the darker days of the season. This tradition, rooted in the European festival of Martinmas, encourages reflection, community spirit, and warmth. The event serves as a meaningful pause amid daily routines, offering participants an opportunity for togetherness. The school, founded in 1986, is one of two Waldorf institutions in Vermont. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Nov 19)
October 30, 2025
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Gordon Cowdrey, Longtime Hartland Resident, Dies at 78: Gordon Cowdrey, a Hartland resident born in Hanover, New Hampshire, died on October 15 after battling prostate cancer for nearly five years. Known for his early start in the workforce, Cowdrey dedicated much of his life to supporting his family and contributing to the family farm. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, siblings, and a sister-in-law who cared for him in recent years. Cowdrey's passing marks the loss of a committed family man in the Hartland community. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Oct 30)
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Sam Shallow, Adventurer and Longtime Vermont Resident, Dies at 75: Sam Shallow, a Woodstock and Hartland resident who embraced adventure throughout his life, died on October 11 at age 75. Raised in New Jersey and Connecticut, Shallow was an avid sailor, skier, and surfer, traveling widely and spending 13 years in Ireland. He later settled in Vermont, where he started a family and was known for his passion for outdoor activities. Shallow spent his later years dividing time between Key West, Florida, and New England. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Oct 30)