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April 10, 2026
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Vermont Man Accepts Life Sentences in Double Homicide of Massachusetts Residents: Theodore Bland, a former resident of Stowe and Burlington, has agreed to a plea deal resulting in consecutive life sentences following the fatal shootings of two men from Pittsfield and Chicopee. Prosecutors had considered seeking the death penalty after the victims' bodies were discovered in Eden, Lamoille County, in October 2023. Bland admitted to both murders and related firearms and drug trafficking charges as part of the agreement. The plea deal removes the possibility of a death penalty trial. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 9)
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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)
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Manchester Hosts Workshop on Housing Affordability and Local Energy Solutions: The Manchester Energy Committee is organizing a workshop on April 23 to address the relationship between housing and local energy solutions. Held at the Manchester Community Library, the event will focus on energy-efficient building techniques and local projects, such as those on Airport Road. Participants will explore shared systems like Thermal Energy Networks, which aim to lower energy costs and reduce dependency on imported fuels. The workshop emphasizes advancements in heat pump technology as a route to long-term affordability. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 10)
April 9, 2026
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Student Art Exhibition Showcases Local Talent at Southern Vermont Arts Center: The 2026 Art from the Schools Exhibition opened at the Southern Vermont Arts Center, drawing families and community members to the event. The exhibition features artwork from pre-kindergarten through eighth-grade students, as well as homeschooled participants, displayed in the Elizabeth de C. Wilson Museum. High school student art from seven regional schools is presented in Yester House. The event highlights creative achievements by youth from 29 area elementary and middle schools. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 6)
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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)
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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)
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Vermont Lawmakers Consider Structural Changes to State Education System: Vermont legislators are wrestling with complex decisions regarding the state's education reform, debating whether to pursue a major governance overhaul or focus on making the existing system more efficient. Key issues include community input on school district alignment, the future of small and independent schools facing declining enrollment, and potential impacts on property taxes and academic quality. Bennington County exemplifies many of these statewide debates as the reform discussion continues. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 6)
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Sean Dillon Announces Candidacy for Manchester Selectboard in Special Election: Sean Dillon has declared his intention to seek the vacant Selectboard seat in Manchester's upcoming special election. Dillon, currently serving as a deputy state’s attorney in Bennington County and a local realtor, brings a background that includes legal work, compliance leadership, and financial sector experience. After years away studying and working in New York City, Dillon returned to Vermont in 2017 to raise his family in Northshire. The special election will determine who fills the open position on the Selectboard. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 9)
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Manchester Selectboard Sets April 28 Warning Date Before June 2 Special Election: The Manchester Selectboard has scheduled April 28 to officially notify residents about a special election set for June 2. This step ensures compliance with the required notice period before voters decide on filling two vacant positions, including completing the unexpired term currently held by Cynthia Kilburn. The election follows community petitions advocating for public involvement in filling local government seats. Manchester residents will make their choices during the June 2 vote. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 8)
April 8, 2026
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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)
April 6, 2026
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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)
April 3, 2026
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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)
April 2, 2026
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Green Mountain Academy to Host Talk on International Humanitarian Law: Green Mountain Academy is organizing a public talk led by attorney Chris Hardaway, who will discuss the rules governing armed conflict. The event is scheduled for April 9 at Burr and Burton Academy in Manchester and aims to explain International Humanitarian Law, its principles, sources, and protective measures for civilians and infrastructure during war. Attendees are expected to leave with a foundational understanding of how law influences conduct in conflict situations. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 31)
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Jackie Wilson Announces Candidacy for Manchester Selectboard Special Election: Jackie Wilson, a longtime Manchester resident and former superintendent of the Bennington-Rutland Supervisory Union, has entered the upcoming special election for the Manchester Selectboard. Wilson brings nearly three decades of educational and administrative experience, including previous work consulting for Vermont school districts. Currently serving as president of Northshire Day School, she aims to contribute her background in governance and public service to the Selectboard. Wilson has lived in Manchester for over 40 years. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 2)
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Burr and Burton Student Named Finalist in State of the Union Essay Contest: Hana Heidebrecht, a sophomore at Burr and Burton, has been selected as a finalist in Senator Bernie Sanders’ 16th Annual State of the Union Essay Contest. This year, over 400 students from 30 Vermont high schools submitted essays on topics including climate change, mental health access, and political polarization. Heidebrecht and other finalists met with Senator Sanders for a roundtable discussion at the Statehouse. Her essay, which examines the issue of political polarization, will be added to the Congressional record. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Apr 2)
April 1, 2026
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Woodstock High School Lacrosse Anticipates Strong Season With Experienced Roster: The Woodstock High School lacrosse teams are preparing for the upcoming season with practices underway at Union Arena. Both programs, led by seasoned coaches, aim to compete for top positions in Vermont's Division I. The boys team, coached by Brandon Little in his 17th year at the helm, returns a balanced mix of freshmen and seniors. With improved lineup depth and key returning players, the team looks forward to a competitive and promising season ahead. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Apr 1)
March 30, 2026
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Court Hearing Scheduled for Suspect in Pittsburg Border Patrol Shooting: A federal court hearing is set for April 10 for Blu Zeke Daly, a 26-year-old from Manchester, New Hampshire, accused of attempting to murder a federal officer near the Vermont border. The case stems from a February incident where Daly, described as transgender, allegedly fired at a U.S. Border Patrol agent at the Pittsburg, New Hampshire border crossing. Daly was seriously wounded after the agent returned fire. The agent was not injured during the exchange, according to federal court documents. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 30)
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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)
March 27, 2026
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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)
March 26, 2026
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Manchester Select Board Appoints Interim Member Ahead of Special Election: The Manchester Select Board has chosen Cynthia Kilburn to temporarily fill a vacant seat following a special meeting on Tuesday. Kilburn, currently a Justice of the Peace, will serve as an interim member and has agreed not to run in the upcoming special election. The election to select a longer-term member is expected to take place on June 2, with details to be finalized in April. The board's next regular meeting is scheduled for April 7. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 26)
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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)
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Manchester Elementary Middle School Celebrates Advances in Math and Robotics: Manchester Elementary Middle School reports notable progress in middle school math achievements this school year. Internal assessments reflect improved math performance across grades, particularly among middle school students. The school's success also extends to extracurricular activities, with a robotics team of 7th and 8th graders winning first place in the Innovation Project category at a regional tournament. These advancements have brought recognition to the school within Vermont. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 26)
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Hildene Introduces Spring Vacation Camp Focused on Outdoor Learning for Children: Hildene, the historic estate in Manchester, is launching a new Spring Vacation Camp for children from April 20 to 24. The camp aims to promote outdoor learning by engaging participants in activities such as exploring nature, preparing gardens, and caring for farm animals. The program is part of Hildene's broader mission to support youth education and encourage time spent outdoors. Organizers highlight the camp's focus on fun, hands-on experiences that contribute to children's overall well-being. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 26)
March 24, 2026
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Burr and Burton Academy Hosts Community Suicide Prevention Training Session: Burr and Burton Academy's Yellow Tulip Club is organizing an interactive event focused on suicide awareness and prevention, to be held at the Academy’s Belltower on Monday, March 30, at 5:30 p.m. The club operates as a local chapter of the Yellow Tulip Project, a national organization dedicated to mental health advocacy and prevention efforts. This initiative invites local residents to learn more about addressing mental health challenges in the community. The training aims to support suicide prevention and foster community awareness. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 24)
March 23, 2026
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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)
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Children’s Author Shares Stories and Huskies at Manchester Bookstore Event: At Northshire Bookstore in Manchester, author Milagro Amaya Turner captivated approximately 30 children and parents with a reading from her bilingual book, 'Discover Siber Sled Dogs.' Accompanied by her two trained Husky sled dogs, Turner introduced attendees to the unique world of sled dog teams and shared her love of the breed. The event highlighted her educational approach, using books and visuals to engage young readers. Turner resides in Cambridge, Vermont, where she also breeds Huskies. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 23)
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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)
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Maple Sugaring Season Celebrated Across Southern Vermont: Communities throughout southern Vermont are marking the annual maple sugaring season, an important tradition in the region. Local producers tap trees and boil sap, offering demonstrations and tastings for residents and visitors. The event highlights the cultural and economic significance of maple syrup to the area. Festivities provide insight into the skills and heritage that define Vermont's maple industry. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 23)
March 20, 2026
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Retired Burr and Burton Academy Teacher Hikes to Support Manchester Food Pantry: Chris Nolan, who recently retired from teaching and coaching at Burr and Burton Academy in Manchester, Vermont, is undertaking a hiking challenge to raise funds for the Community Food Cupboard. Nolan, well regarded in the community for his mentorship, is receiving support from students including sophomore Emily Scott, who is active in related service initiatives. The hike is intended to engage the broader Manchester community and boost awareness and donations for local food insecurity efforts. Nolan continues to make a positive community impact beyond the classroom. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 19)
March 19, 2026
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Rabies Vaccination Clinic Scheduled at Manchester Fire Department March 25: A rabies vaccination clinic will take place on Wednesday, March 25, from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Manchester Fire Department, with participation from both Manchester and Dorset town clerks. The Green Mountain Veterinary Hospital will provide vaccination services for dogs and cats. Vaccines are offered at $17 for both species or $21 for feline-only shots, and payment can be made by cash or check. All pets must remain leashed during the event. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 19)
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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)
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State Rep. Kathleen James to Step Down After Four Terms Representing Bennington-4: State Representative Kathleen James, a Democrat who has represented the Bennington-4 district since 2018, has decided not to seek re-election this fall. Her district includes Manchester, Arlington, Sandgate, and part of Sunderland. After serving four terms, James's decision opens the seat to new Democratic candidates for the upcoming election, with primaries scheduled for August 11. Her departure is expected to prompt a competitive race for the newly available position. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 19)
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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)
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Mother Myrick's to Host 2026 Annual Easter Egg Decorating Contest in Manchester: Mother Myrick's Confectionery in Manchester will again host its Annual Easter Egg Decorating Contest from March 22 to 29, 2026. The event supports Neighbor to Neighbor of Vermont, which assists local seniors in remaining independent by providing necessary services like transportation and errand help. Winners of the contest will be announced on April 4. The event is open to participants of all ages and benefits a community-focused local nonprofit. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 18)
March 17, 2026
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Biographer Discusses Bernie Sanders’ Early Life and Influence at Book Event: At a recent event at Northshire Bookstore, biographer Dan Chiasson shared insights from his new book examining Bernie Sanders’ early life, beginning in Brooklyn and tracing his path up to his first congressional victory. The nearly 600-page biography, “Bernie for Burlington: Politics and Change in One American Place,” focuses on key moments and influences that shaped Sanders. Chiasson, an English professor and poet, engaged attendees by reading selections from his work. The talk highlighted Sanders’ formative years and their significance to his political trajectory. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 15)
March 12, 2026
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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)
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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)
March 10, 2026
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Burr and Burton Bulldogs One Win from State Championship After Quarterfinal Victory: The Burr and Burton Bulldogs advanced to the Division I girls hockey semifinals after defeating Harwood 4–0 in a quarterfinal held at Riley Rink on March 7. The Bulldogs, who entered the game with an 11–6 record, now prepare to face Hartford for a chance to reach the state championship at the University of Vermont's Gutterson Fieldhouse. Their strong performance against Harwood keeps their title hopes alive. The semifinal game against Hartford is scheduled for tonight at 5:45 p.m. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 10)
March 9, 2026
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Northshire U14 Girls Secure Hockey State Championship Against Stowe Raiders: The Northshire Bulldogs U14 girls hockey team clinched the state championship by defeating the Stowe Raiders 3-0, marking their first state title in over a decade. The match took place at the Collins Perley Sports and Fitness Center, with key goals from Tamsin Wilson, Matilda Kovac, and Lena Kramer. Goalie Catherine Hornby recorded a shutout, a rare feat in the tournament. The team concluded a strong season with a 20-7-5 record, despite a notably small roster. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 9)
March 6, 2026
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Greg Cutler Steps Down from Manchester Select Board After 11 Years: Greg Cutler has resigned from the Manchester Select Board, leaving a vacancy after more than a decade of service. Cutler, who has served for 11 years and previously spent three years on the town’s Design Advisory and Development Review Boards, cited plans for more frequent overseas travel and semi-retirement as reasons for stepping down. He intends to continue his work with Four Seasons/Sotheby’s International Realty in Manchester. The board is now tasked with filling his seat. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 6)
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Burr and Burton Bulldogs Advance in Playoffs as Brownlee Achieves Milestone: The Burr and Burton Bulldogs secured a key victory over Rutland in a recent home playoff game held in Manchester, Vermont. Senior captain Luke Brownlee entered the match needing four points to reach his 100th career milestone, becoming the third player from the school to do so this season. Fans filled Riley Rink for the contest, which not only carried playoff implications but also celebrated individual achievement. The Bulldogs continue their postseason with momentum following this win. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 6)
March 5, 2026
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Taconic & Green School District Budget Approved With 3.2% Increase: Voters in Manchester, Dorset, Danby, Mt. Tabor, Sunderland, Peru, Landgrove, Weston, and Londonderry approved the Taconic & Green Regional School District’s $41 million budget, a 3.2% rise from last year. The budget drew 1,155 votes in favor and 422 against, including funding for bus and technology reserve funds. Additional articles were also passed. Education spending will rise 3.8%, which is below Vermont's statewide average for school budgets. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 5)
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Manchester to Hold Visioning Workshop as Part of Town Plan Update: The Town of Manchester is set to host a public Visioning Workshop on March 16 at the Kimpton Taconic Hotel, launching a three-part series aimed at updating the town's comprehensive plan. This session will build on feedback from an earlier community meeting and a town-wide survey, with preliminary results guiding discussion topics. Following this workshop, two more meetings will focus on housing and economic development, continuing through April at various local venues. The initiative seeks broad community involvement for future planning. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 5)
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Flood Brook Hosts Regional Winter Carnival for Area Middle Schools: Flood Brook School in southern Vermont held its annual Winter Carnival, welcoming middle school students from The Dorset School and Manchester Elementary Middle School. The event drew about 300 participants who engaged in various winter activities, marking the largest turnout in recent years. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to foster connections among local students through shared programs and events. Organizers noted strong enthusiasm and a sense of community throughout the day. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 5)
March 4, 2026
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Dorset Residents Approve Budget and Elect Officials at Annual Town Meeting: Dorset held its 2026 Town Meeting with residents casting ballots at the town offices and gathering at the Dorset School gym. Incumbents Henry Chandler and Jim Salsgiver retained their one-year Selectboard seats, while Frank Parent and Kevin O'Toole won their races unopposed. Approximately 100 people attended in person to vote on the proposed $3.5 million municipal budget, which was approved by a significant margin. The meeting also resulted in the passage of articles regarding nonprofit funding and property tax collection. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 4)
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Manchester Select Board Members Re-Elected; Funding Initiatives Gain Approval: Voters in Manchester, Vermont, re-elected Ivan Beattie and Jonathan West to the Select Board during recent balloting, with both candidates running unopposed. Several funding requests, including appropriations for Northshire Day School, Habitat for Humanity, Vermont Nursing Association and Hospice, and the Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging, were all approved by significant margins. Additionally, residents supported the regional district school budget and backed an $8.2 million town budget at the annual Town Meeting. These decisions reflect broad support for local services. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 4)
March 3, 2026
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Manchester Voters Approve $8.2 Million Town Budget at Annual Meeting: Manchester residents gathered at Manchester Elementary Middle School to approve an $8.2 million town budget during the annual Town Meeting. Approximately 130 voters attended the event, which also saw the passage of all other articles on the agenda. The gathering continues a local tradition of direct democracy dating back over two centuries. Presentations from local legislators and discussions about civic issues featured prominently at the meeting. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 3)
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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)
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Sunderland Adopts Australian Ballot System After Narrow Town Meeting Vote: Sunderland residents voted at a recent town meeting to adopt the Australian ballot for deciding public questions, shifting away from traditional floor votes. The decision, passed by a slim margin of 26 to 25, followed extended discussion about voter turnout and representation at local meetings. This change aims to increase participation in important town decisions by allowing voters more flexibility. The measure reflects ongoing debate about maintaining democratic fairness in Sunderland. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 3)
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Danby Residents Address Town Issues and School Consolidation at Annual Meeting: Approximately 25 residents gathered at Currier Memorial School for the annual Danby floor meeting to discuss town business. Attendees voted by voice on the town report and a proposed property tax delivery date, both of which passed. Candidates vying for a contested selectman seat introduced their backgrounds to the community. State Representative Sandy Pinsonault addressed ongoing uncertainty regarding high school choices for local students due to anticipated school consolidation. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 3)