Latest News
March 1, 2026
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Woodstock Trustees Plan to Keep Police Chief Demotion Decision Confidential: Woodstock Village trustees intend to withhold the outcome of their upcoming deliberations regarding Police Chief Joe Swanson's potential demotion from the public. The latest hearing, scheduled for Monday at the Masonic Lodge, will proceed under rules similar to previous sessions, including limited access and undisclosed results. Officials announced that only legal representatives and the Village will receive the written decision within two weeks. Taxpayers will not have immediate access to the outcome. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 28)
February 28, 2026
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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)
February 27, 2026
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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)
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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)
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John Caldwell, Renowned Cross-Country Ski Coach and Author, Dies at 97: John Caldwell, a former Olympian considered a pioneer in U.S. cross-country skiing, has died at age 97. Caldwell, who lived for many years in Putney, Vermont, coached multiple U.S. Olympic teams and authored influential books that shaped the sport's growth nationally. He also founded the New England Nordic Ski Association and mentored several Olympians, including his own children. Caldwell's impact on cross-country skiing in New England and beyond is widely recognized. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 27)
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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)
February 26, 2026
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Ukrainian Ballet Company to Perform Swan Lake in Dorset for One-Night Fundraiser: The Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine is scheduled to present Swan Lake at Dorset Playhouse on March 6, with all ticket proceeds benefiting the company. The performance aims to support the troupe, which has been displaced due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the destruction of its facilities. The theater has waived its usual fee to maximize funds for the dancers, who are now touring internationally while based temporarily in the United States. Local donor Lisa J. Hadlock played a key role in organizing the event. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 26)
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Weston to Gain EV Fast-Charge Station Funded by State Initiative: Weston is set to receive a new DC Fast Charging station for electric vehicles as part of Charge Vermont, a statewide program to boost EV infrastructure. The installation, funded with $144,000 at the Vermont Country Store, aims to improve access for drivers more than 10 miles from existing high-speed chargers. Woodstock also benefited with a similar project at the Bridgewater Mill Complex. These investments seek to address charging gaps and encourage broader EV adoption in southern Vermont. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 25)
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Northshire Bookstore to Host Dan Chiasson Event on New Bernie Sanders Book: Northshire Bookstore in Manchester will host an event featuring poet and writer Dan Chiasson, who will discuss his new book about Bernie Sanders’ early political career in Burlington. The event is scheduled for Friday, March 13, at 6 p.m. Chiasson, a Burlington native, explores how Sanders built a coalition that transformed the city and became its first socialist mayor. The book offers insights into the diverse groups that shaped Burlington during Sanders' rise. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 26)
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Vermont State Treasurer to Return Over $20,000 in Unclaimed Funds to Schools: Vermont's state treasurer will return more than $20,000 in unclaimed property to public schools, districts, and supervisory unions throughout the state. The initiative comes ahead of Town Meeting Day, encouraging educational administrators to search for additional forgotten funds before upcoming budget votes. Unclaimed property often results from lost checks and dormant accounts, and the state currently holds over $150 million in such assets. Funds returned to schools are expected to support classroom needs directly. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 26)
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Weathersfield Withdraws From Sheriff Contract Over Financial and Legal Concerns: Town officials in Weathersfield have withdrawn from their five-year contract with the Windsor County Sheriff’s Department, citing concerns about departmental finances and uncertainty over continued road patrol services. The decision followed a unanimous vote by the Selectboard, with additional insight provided during a recent public meeting. Ongoing criminal investigations and legal proceedings involving Sheriff Ryan Palmer, who faces multiple misconduct charges, have contributed to the town’s cautious approach. Discussions with the towns of Reading and Cavendish are scheduled next. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 26)
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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)
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Vermont Farm Show Appoints First Director as Organization Plans for 2027 Return: The Vermont Farm Show has named Kim Stinson of Northfield as its first director, marking a new chapter for the organization as it restructures and expands its leadership. Undergoing changes to its tax status and Board composition, the farm show is preparing for a renewed event in 2027. The group aims to broaden its mission by offering educational programs throughout the year to support Vermont’s agricultural community. Stinson began her role in mid-February as preparations progress. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 25)
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Woodstock Village to Elect Two New Trustees During Annual Meeting: Woodstock Village will hold its annual meeting at the Town Hall on March 17, where residents can vote to fill two open trustee seats by Australian ballot from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Candidates include Stephen Stuntz for a three-year term and Jamie Fox for a two-year term, as the current chair and another trustee will not seek re-election. The meeting will also include floor votes on additional local positions and articles later that evening. Officer compensation and other governance matters are scheduled for discussion. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 26)
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Woodstock Approves New Contract and Pay Increase for Municipal Manager Eric Duffy: The Woodstock Town Selectboard and Village Trustees have approved a revised, open-ended contract for municipal manager Eric Duffy. Under the new agreement, Duffy will receive a salary of $176,000 for the 2026-27 fiscal year, reflecting a 24% increase over his current pay. The contract, approved after closed executive sessions, also provides Duffy with six weeks of paid vacation. This move comes as Duffy and local officials address ongoing legal issues involving a $5 million civil suit. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 26)
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Woodstock Resident Eva Douzinas Leads International Sustainability Initiatives: Eva Douzinas, a part-time resident of Woodstock Village, is actively involved in environmental advocacy, focusing on ocean conservation through scientific and nonprofit leadership. With a background as a software entrepreneur in the maritime sector, she co-founded Veson Nautical and later transitioned to philanthropic work. Douzinas has established nonprofit organizations, including Katheti in Greece, dedicated to environmental and educational projects. Her efforts highlight the impact of local residents in global sustainability causes. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 26)
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Woodstock Trustees Hold Public Hearing on Police Chief Swanson's Demotion: A public hearing regarding Police Chief Joe Swanson's demotion is scheduled before the Woodstock Village Trustees on Monday. Swanson will not be present due to ongoing recovery from back surgery, and his attorney reports he has not been cleared to attend. The municipal manager will rely on transcripts from a previous 2025 hearing rather than live witnesses. A judge previously overturned Swanson's demotion, prompting this new proceeding. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 26)
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Arlington Evaluates Expansion of Wastewater Treatment Capacity: Arlington officials are moving forward with plans to assess the town’s wastewater treatment options, with a public discussion expected after the March Town Meeting. While the town currently depends on a combination of septic systems and a treatment facility near Fisher Elementary School, the existing infrastructure is not sufficient for future growth. Town leaders say expanding wastewater capacity could address both current needs and potential housing or business development. Further meetings will gather community input on possible solutions. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 26)
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Maxine Linehan Launches Podcast on Joyful, Alcohol-Free Living: Maxine Linehan, a Dorset-based performing artist and community leader, has introduced a podcast focusing on living joyfully without alcohol. Co-hosted with Isabelle Laurier, the podcast explores sobriety predominantly among women looking to make positive changes in their lives. Recent episodes have been recorded at local venues and have resonated with listeners, drawing significant engagement and supportive feedback. The project underscores Linehan's commitment to wellness and community connection. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 24)
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Woodstock Girls Hockey Secures Win, Boys Fall in Doubleheader Against Stowe: Woodstock's boys and girls hockey teams faced off against Stowe in a doubleheader at Union Arena this past Saturday. The girls' team earned a 3-1 victory, highlighting the leadership of senior captain Alexis Audsley, while the boys narrowly lost 2-1. Audsley, who has played with the varsity team since eighth grade, was recognized for her commitment and leadership as she approaches early graduation. Both teams demonstrated strong efforts in these closely contested matchups. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 26)
February 25, 2026
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Vermont Secretary of State Affirms State Authority Over Election Administration: In a recent online discussion with Windham County residents, Vermont Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas addressed concerns about potential federal intervention in state elections. She emphasized that U.S. elections, including midterms, have continued through major national crises and are managed by individual states, not the federal executive branch. Copeland Hanzas also explained that there is no legal basis or precedent for a president to cancel or nationalize scheduled elections. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 24)
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Barnard Selectboard Grants Rezoning for Twin Farms Expansion: The Barnard Selectboard has unanimously approved a rezoning request from Twin Farms, a local luxury resort, during a meeting held on February 18. The decision will enable commercial use of a recently acquired property along Stage Road, resulting in a more contiguous area designated for the resort's operations. The change is intended to streamline future expansion for Twin Farms and clarify commercial zoning boundaries in the town. The rezoning will take effect on March 11 unless challenged by petition by March 10. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 25)
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Vehicle Leaves Road and Lands on Frozen Ottauquechee River in Woodstock: On Monday morning in Woodstock, Vermont, a car veered off East Woodstock Road near the Taftsville Bridge, coming to rest on the frozen Ottauquechee River. The driver, an 81-year-old local resident, reportedly made a sudden U-turn, colliding with another vehicle before careening down a 50-foot embankment. Emergency responders used safety equipment to rescue the driver as the vehicle began to break through the ice. No fatalities were reported from the incident. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 23)
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Sunderland Elementary Hosts Snow Sled-Building Event for Students: Sunderland Elementary School in Vermont recently organized a school-wide sled-building event that coincided with the Winter Olympics. Students from across grades worked in teams to design and construct sleds using cardboard, duct tape, and rope. The activity, aimed at fostering creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving, culminated in friendly sled races through the snow. The event brought the school community together before the winter break and was enjoyed by all participants. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 25)
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Grand Kyiv Ballet to Present 'Giselle' at Chandler Center in Randolph March 11: The Grand Kyiv Ballet is scheduled to perform 'Giselle' at the Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph on March 11. The company, founded by Oleksandr Stoianov, has toured the United States for several years and brings together talented dancers from various international backgrounds. This season, the group has presented a diverse repertoire, and principal dancer Viktor Tomashek, who has experience with the Odesa National Opera, will lead the Vermont performance. The event highlights the ballet's ongoing cultural outreach. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 25)
February 24, 2026
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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)
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Shaftsbury Select Board Approves Funding for Town Plan Update: The Shaftsbury Select Board has partnered with the Bennington County Regional Commission to update the town's official plan, with project costs capped at $12,500. Although a municipal planning grant was not awarded, funds have been allocated to ensure the plan meets requirements and incorporates community input. The update process, required every five years, aims to align local objectives with changing statutes and community needs. The current town plan remains active for over a year. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 22)
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Sen. Welch Presents $598,000 for Rockingham Fire Department's New Station: On February 20, U.S. Senator Peter Welch presented $598,000 in federal funding to support the Rockingham Municipal Fire Department in building a new fire station with enhanced emergency services in Saxtons River. The funding is part of a larger $58.68 million allocation Welch helped secure for 38 projects throughout Vermont, following the approval of federal appropriations bills for fiscal year 2026. The funds were designated through a bipartisan selection process. Several of these projects will benefit southern Vermont communities. (Source: The Commons on Feb 24)
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Windham Southeast School District Board Elections Feature Two Contested Seats: Voters in the Windham Southeast School District will choose new board directors in two contested races on March 3, 2026. In Brattleboro, incumbent Kimberly Price faces challenger Richard Leavy, while Dummerston residents will select between Daniel Everlith and Paul Smith for their seat. Ruby McAdoo is running unopposed to represent Putney. All district residents from Brattleboro, Dummerston, Guilford, and Putney may participate and cast their votes at their local polling sites. (Source: The Commons on Feb 24)
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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)
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Brattleboro Selectboard Election Draws Three-Year Seat Candidates: Brattleboro voters will decide on candidates for Selectboard positions during local elections set for March 3. The three-year seat currently held by Elizabeth McLoughlin is contested by Amanda Ellis-Thurber, who has served a one-year term, and newcomer Ken Fay. In addition, a separate race includes incumbent Isaac Evans-Frantz and four new candidates for two available one-year seats. Voting will take place at the American Legion on Linden Street. (Source: The Commons on Feb 24)
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Windham County Towns Prepare for Annual Town Meeting Day on March 3: Residents across Windham County are set to gather for Town Meeting Day on Tuesday, March 3, to discuss local budgets, elect officials, and vote on key warrant articles. Towns including Athens, Brattleboro, Brookline, Rockingham, Vernon, Westminster, and Windham will hold meetings according to their own schedules, with Marlboro casting votes by Australian ballot. Vermont state law recognizes Town Meeting Day as a holiday for state employees, and also permits unpaid leave for others to attend. (Source: The Commons on Feb 24)
February 23, 2026
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Honoré Vargas Hager, 87, Remembered for Community Spirit in Woodstock: Honoré Vargas Hager, affectionately known as Honey, died peacefully at her Woodstock, Vermont home on February 20 at age 87 after a prolonged illness. Known for her lively personality, appreciation for literature, and culinary interests, Hager cherished her Italian-American and Irish-American heritage from her upbringing in Rutland. She supported her family through frequent moves associated with her husband's journalism career, always maintaining strong ties to Vermont. Hager is survived by three daughters and is fondly remembered by many local residents. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 23)
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Norma Bradley, Longtime Barnard Resident, Dies at 97: Norma Bradley, a native of West Hartford, Vermont, and longtime resident of Barnard, passed away peacefully at Mertens House at the age of 97. Born in 1928, Bradley attended school locally and graduated from Woodstock High School. She married Thomas Bradley in 1946 and together raised five children. Over the years, she worked in several local businesses, including the Woodstock Inn and Vermont National Bank, contributing to her community until her retirement in the late 1980s. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 23)
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Flood Brook School Hosts Winter Concert Highlighting Music and Creativity: Students at Flood Brook School in southern Vermont held their Winter Concert, showcasing songs and performances from kindergarten through fifth grade. Musical selections included classics such as “What a Wonderful World” and “The Rainbow Connection,” with students using handmade sock puppets supported by contributions from the Stratton Foundation. Creative choreography accompanied penguin-themed songs by the youngest students, offering families and the school community a memorable evening. The event emphasized teamwork and artistic expression for all involved. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 23)
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Burr and Burton Academy Graduate Receives Television Academy Foundation Award: Yangshiyi Liu, a graduate of Burr and Burton Academy, earned the $10,000 Loreen Arbus Focus on Disability Award at the Television Academy Foundation’s College Television Awards. Liu and classmate Danzheng Chen created an animated film, Step Forward, during their time at the Savannah College of Art and Design. The film follows a character overcoming challenges after losing a limb, highlighting disability themes. Winners will be officially recognized at a ceremony in North Hollywood on March 28. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 23)
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Mary Frances Ryan, Former Nurse and Volunteer, Dies at 83: Mary Frances Ryan, 83, died at her Scottsdale, Arizona home on February 14, surrounded by family. Raised in South Portland, Maine, she completed her nursing education at Salve Regina College and spent part of her life in New Hampshire and Arizona. Ryan volunteered with several organizations, including Hospice of the Valley and Mission of Mercy of Arizona, and was deeply involved in her family’s milestones and community service. She is remembered for her compassion, dedication, and strength. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 23)
February 20, 2026
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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)
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Dorset Residents Discuss Potential Housing Development on Raptor Lane: Residents of Dorset gathered for a public forum on February 18 to discuss a proposed housing development on Raptor Lane, a 308-acre town-owned property adjacent to Route 30 near Dorset Quarry. The meeting, attended by approximately 70 people both in person and online, addressed community concerns over the number, type, and potential impact of new housing units. This discussion follows a January forum and is part of an ongoing conversation about housing needs and development. Additional forums are planned to gather more community input. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 20)
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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)
February 19, 2026
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Londonderry Prepares Agenda for Traditional Town Meeting: Londonderry residents are set to gather at Town Hall on March 3 for the annual Town Meeting, where decisions on local governance, including the budget and public offices, will be made directly by voters. This year's agenda may see extended discussion about a proposed 1 percent local option tax on sales, an item previously rejected in 2024 but now back for reconsideration. The meeting continues the town's tradition of community participation and face-to-face debate. All business will be conducted in person on the meeting floor. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 18)
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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)
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Vermont Releases 2024–2025 School Year Assessment and Accountability Results: The Vermont Agency of Education has published assessment results and accountability data for the 2024–2025 academic year. The release covers the state report card, school performance assessments, and lists of schools requiring comprehensive or targeted improvement. Officials emphasized greater transparency and the use of data to foster collaborative efforts among parents, educators, and communities. Enhanced support and oversight will be provided to schools identified as needing improvement. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 19)
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School Districts Release Annual Reports Ahead of March Town Meeting Day Vote: The Mettawee and Taconic & Green School Districts in southern Vermont have published their annual reports to inform residents about proposed budgets for the upcoming fiscal year. These documents include details on spending plans, tax rate calculations, and frequently asked questions to help voters prepare for the March 3 Town Meeting Day vote. Reports have been distributed to households in the respective communities and are also available at various local sites and online. Public in-person annual meetings will also be held prior to the vote. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 19)
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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)
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Vermont Joins Lawsuit Over Federal Energy Program Terminations: Vermont Attorney General Charity Clark, together with attorneys general from twelve other states, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration for ending funding to federally mandated energy and infrastructure programs. The Department of Energy and the Office of Management and Budget are accused of canceling billions in awards, including over $3 million for the University of Vermont. The suit claims these actions violate federal law and seeks a court order to prevent further interference. The matter holds local significance due to Vermont’s stake in renewable energy. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 19)
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Dead of Summer Music Festival Expands With Extra Night in Manchester: The Dead of Summer Music Festival in Manchester is extending its schedule by adding a Thursday night to this year's lineup. The festival will begin on July 9 at the Northshire Civic Center, featuring performances by Saints & Liars and Steely Dead. Notable acts such as God Street Wine and Leftover Salmon are set to headline on subsequent nights. With increased ticket sales and limited RV passes remaining, the event is expected to draw greater attendance and benefit local vendors. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 17)
February 18, 2026
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Two Woodstock Village Trustee Seats Open as McIlroy and Horneck Step Down: Woodstock Village will see changes in its leadership as current trustees Seton McIlroy, the board chair, and Frank Horneck have decided not to seek re-election in the March 17 village elections. Two residents, Stephen Stuntz and Jamie Fox, have entered the race for the now-open three-year and two-year terms, respectively. The annual voting is scheduled to run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., followed by the Village Meeting at the town hall. This leadership transition comes amid ongoing local governance issues. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 18)
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Rebuilding Woodstock Union School Deemed More Cost-Effective Than Renovation: A recent cost analysis for the Mountain Views School District indicates that constructing a new Woodstock Union High School and Middle School would save local taxpayers over $20 million compared to renovating the existing building. The findings, prepared by PC Construction and presented to the district’s Rebuild Working Group, account for state funding and private contributions. Although the new bond proposal has increased to $111.9 million due to inflation and tariffs, residents are expected to shoulder $84 million over three decades, less than prior estimates. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 18)
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Peter R. Bailey, Former Postal Carrier in Windsor, Dies at 73: Peter R. Bailey, aged 73, passed away on February 10, 2026, at Cedar Hill Nursing Home in Windsor, Vermont. Originally from Hanover, New Hampshire, Bailey began working for the U.S. Postal Service in the 1980s, serving at White River Junction and later as a mail carrier in Woodstock. He was well regarded in the community for his friendly interactions. Bailey is survived by his wife Dorinne and son Samuel, and a graveside service is being planned. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Feb 18)