Latest News

July 16, 2026

  1. Okemo Mountain Resort Modernizes Snowmaking for Improved Efficiency: Okemo Mountain Resort in Ludlow is undertaking significant upgrades to its snowmaking system as part of efforts to enhance sustainability and snow quality. The new technology enables snow production at higher temperatures and reduces energy use compared to previous systems. This improvement allows for better and more consistent snow coverage, particularly early in the season, benefitting both resort operations and skier experience. Parent company Vail Resorts considers the project a major emissions reduction opportunity. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 14)

  2. Mount Snow Hosts Summer Community Dinner Series at Fairways Bar & Grill: Mount Snow is organizing a four-part Community Dinner Series this summer at Fairways Bar & Grill, located at the resort's golf course in West Dover. The events include picnic-style meals, live music, lawn games, access to putting greens, and ample space for families to relax. Each dinner offers a unique menu theme, with Mediterranean cuisine set for July 25 and a barbecue on August 29. The series aims to foster neighborhood connections and continues through late September. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 15)

  3. Hildene Launches Civic Initiative Featuring Noted Scholars in Manchester: Hildene in Manchester has launched the Lincoln-Hildene Civil Community Initiative, introduced by President Craig Gemmell and Programming Director Stephanie Moffett-Hynds at a recent gala. The program began with a lecture by historian Doris Kearns Goodwin and aims to bring respected scholars to discuss American identity throughout the year. Additional goals include advancing civics education for teachers and collaborating with like-minded organizations. The next featured speaker, Akhil Reed Amar, will appear on August 12. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 16)

July 15, 2026

  1. Prouty Event Surpasses Fundraising Goal for Dartmouth Cancer Center: The annual Prouty event on July 11, 2026, achieved a record-breaking fundraising total, collecting over $12 million for cancer research and patient support at Dartmouth Cancer Center. More than 4,700 donors, participants, and volunteers contributed to surpassing this ambitious goal, which exceeded the previous year’s total by nearly $2 million. This brings the event's overall fundraising to approximately $90 million since its inception. Organizers highlighted strong community involvement throughout the multi-day event. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 15)

  2. Wildfire Smoke Alters Sky Color and Air Quality in Southern Vermont: Unusually hazy conditions have settled over southern Vermont, as wildfire smoke from hundreds of fires in Canada and northern Minnesota drifts into the region. The jet stream has carried and confined the smoke overhead, creating an odd glow in the skies of Bennington and Windham Counties. Residents have reported the sun and landscape appearing in various orange, yellow, and purple hues, and air quality has reached moderate levels. The phenomenon stems from large particulate matter affecting the passage of sunlight. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 15)

  3. Dorset Theatre Festival Presents Theresa Rebeck's Comedy 'The Understudy': The Dorset Theatre Festival continues its 49th season with Theresa Rebeck's comedy "The Understudy," running through July 19. The play offers a fast-paced look behind the scenes at a chaotic Broadway rehearsal, combining sharp humor with a portrayal of the challenges faced by actors. This production, directed by Rebeck herself, combines satire and heartfelt moments as it explores the dynamics between seasoned and rising performers. The show pays tribute to the theater industry through its wit and insightful storytelling. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 15)

  4. Manchester Touch-a-Truck Event to Support Bennington County Habitat for Humanity: Manchester will host its third annual Touch-a-Truck event on Saturday, July 18, at the Northshire Civic Center's Riley Rink from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The family-oriented fundraiser features a range of vehicles, including fire trucks, police cruisers, and service vehicles, for attendees to explore. Proceeds will benefit Bennington County Habitat for Humanity. Additional activities will include a raffle, children's bouncy house, and local food offerings to engage the community. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 15)

  5. Dorset Historian Collects Vermont Veterans’ Stories for Preservation Project: Independent historian Charles “Max” Fish, based in Dorset, has dedicated the past year to interviewing Vermont veterans throughout southern Vermont. By recording their personal accounts, Fish contributes to the Library of Congress Veterans History Project, preserving unique perspectives on military service and community life. His work emphasizes the importance of documenting individual memories before they are lost, providing future generations a deeper understanding of local history. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 15)

  6. New Childcare Center Opens in Woodstock Amid Ongoing Capacity Challenges: A newly licensed childcare center has begun operations at the site of the former Woodstock Nursery School, located under The Little Theater at the Woodstock Recreation Center. This opening follows the closure of The Mill School in the area, effectively maintaining the existing childcare capacity rather than expanding it. Kayla Jenkins leads the new Sugar Maple School, aiming to address ongoing childcare needs. Persistent staffing shortages in early education continue to pose difficulties for the community. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 15)

  7. Five Candidates Compete for Two Open Woodstock Selectboard Seats: Five individuals are seeking election to fill two unexpired seats on the Woodstock Town Selectboard, with voting coinciding with Vermont's state and county primaries on August 11. Balloting is taking place by Australian ballot, and absentee as well as early voting began July 10. The vacancies stem from resignations earlier this spring, with Susan Chiefsky and Byron Kelly pursuing the seat left by Ray Bourgeois, and three others vying for the position vacated by Laura Powell. Terms will run until March 2027 and March 2028 respectively. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 15)

  8. Woodstock Village Conservancy Launches Fundraising for New Tree Planting Project: The Woodstock Village Conservancy, a volunteer group focused on enhancing public spaces, has initiated a fundraising effort to support the planting of four new trees on Central Street. This effort follows approval by local officials and is part of the Conservancy’s first initiative, “Branch Out Woodstock.” The estimated cost is approximately $60,000, with fundraising goals set slightly higher to cover ongoing maintenance. If successful, the trees are expected to be planted in vacant wells by April 2027. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 15)

  9. Arlington Fire Department Marks 100 Years with Centennial Celebration: The Arlington Fire Department in southern Vermont is commemorating its 100th anniversary with an expanded celebration. Traditionally, the volunteer department hosts a summer carnival for fundraising, but this year's July 17-18 event will highlight a century of organized service. The original town fire service predates 1921, but this anniversary recognizes the lasting establishment formed that year. The centennial celebration had been delayed due to the pandemic, making this year's festivities notable. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 15)

  10. Partial Collapse of Residential Home in Reading Investigated by Fire Department: A residential building at 916 Route 106 in Reading, Vermont partially collapsed early Thursday morning, prompting a response from the Reading Fire & Rescue Department. Two residents safely exited the structure with assistance from neighbors, but the building was deemed uninhabitable due to a caved-in roof. The cause of the collapse remains uncertain, with officials unable to conduct a thorough inspection owing to safety concerns. No injuries were reported as the investigation continues. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 15)

  11. Woodstock Village Sees Rise in Bear Encounters Prompting Community Concerns: Woodstock Village has recently experienced an uptick in bear sightings, raising concerns among residents and prompting village trustees to address the issue. Officials from the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department and the U.S. Department of Agriculture attended a meeting to discuss the growing trend of bears venturing into populated areas in Vermont. Woodstock Police responded to multiple reports of bears attempting to access trash in residential neighborhoods. Authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant and practice proper waste disposal. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 15)

  12. Woodstock Union Arena Hosts Summer Youth Hockey Programs for Area Kids: This summer, Woodstock's Union Arena is offering young athletes in the region an opportunity to enhance their hockey skills through two dedicated programs: Fireworks on Ice and Girls Rule the Rink. Organized by Woodstock Youth Hockey, these sessions accommodate boys and girls born between 2010 and 2017, with some flexibility for younger participants. The programs provide a structured yet relaxed environment, encouraging participation from kids across southern Vermont and neighboring areas. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 15)

  13. Vermont Film Festival to Be Held at Billings Farm & Museum in Woodstock This July: The Vermont Film Festival is set to return for its fourth year in Woodstock on the weekend of July 31. This year, the event moves to Billings Farm & Museum for the first time, continuing its effort to showcase Vermont-made films to local audiences. Organizers, including a newly added co-director, have emphasized the unique setting and growth of the festival. Filmmakers from around the country are expected to attend the festival later this month. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 15)

  14. Spotlight on Vermont Lake Monsters: Profiles of Three Key Players: This week, The Vermont Standard's series highlights three members of the Vermont Lake Monsters baseball team as they compete in The Futures League. The featured players include Elias Huber, an infielder originally from Gauting, Bavaria, Germany, who made his way to Vermont after first arriving in Arizona. The article explores the diverse backgrounds and experiences shaping the athletes’ journeys. Readers are introduced to their stories as the team enters the second half of the season. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 15)

  15. Ragnar Trail Vermont Team Race Returns to Ascutney Outdoors for Annual Event: The Ragnar Trail Vermont team race made its annual return to Ascutney Outdoors last weekend, drawing teams of four to eight runners for a relay challenge on Mt. Ascutney’s Cloud Climber Trail. Each participant tackled three increasingly difficult loops, contributing to a combined total of 118 miles per team. Participants camped in Ragnar Village and enjoyed activities such as bonfires, music, yoga, and prize games alongside race spectators. The event highlighted both the rigorous course and vibrant community atmosphere. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 15)

  16. Scavenger Art Creations Exhibit Debuts at Equinox Village Gallery in Manchester: The Gallery at Equinox Village in Manchester is hosting a new exhibit by Scavenger Art Creations, featuring works sculpted from recycled materials by Tim Taggart and his wife, Pam. The exhibit emphasizes creativity through repurposed metal and found objects, reflecting Tim's background in welding and his commitment to resourcefulness. An opening reception with live music and refreshments marks the start of the display, which remains open to the public daily until September 2. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 15)

July 14, 2026

  1. Survey Shows Many Vermonters Considering Leaving Due to Cost Concerns: A recent University of New Hampshire survey indicates that around 40 percent of Vermont residents are considering leaving the state within the next five years, primarily due to high housing prices, living costs, and taxes. The study, released in July, found only a small minority view Vermont as affordable. Young adults, especially those ages 18 to 34, were the most likely to contemplate moving. These findings highlight ongoing affordability challenges facing many in the state. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 14)

  2. Manchester Residents Consider Priorities for New Town Plan at Public Meeting: Residents in Manchester gathered at the community library for a public meeting aimed at shaping the town's new comprehensive plan. This event, the fifth in a series held this year, reviewed public feedback on key topics such as economic development, housing, and community character. The process is being led by a consulting firm, with the intention of finalizing a draft plan for official review and adoption by year end. Feedback from previous meetings continues to play a significant role in crafting the proposal. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 14)

July 13, 2026

  1. Repeated Fires Lead to Demolition of Downtown Manchester Building for Safety: Fire crews in Manchester responded several times to recurring flare-ups at a building on Main Street following an initial blaze. The incidents spanned from Thursday afternoon into the early hours of Friday, as hot spots continued to ignite. Due to ongoing fire risks and structural instability after a roof collapse, authorities ultimately ordered the building's demolition. The decision was made to prevent further threats to nearby structures and public safety. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 12)

  2. Woodlawn Creamery Earns Two Medals at National Cheese Competition: Woodlawn Creamery of Pawlet, Vermont, received two bronze medals at the 2026 American Cheese Society competition in Louisville, Kentucky. The creamery's Emerson cheese received recognition in the Fresh Unripened Cheese Category, while Rupert was awarded in the American Made/International Style class. Their cheeses are crafted with milk from a seventh-generation Vermont dairy farm. These awards highlight the creamery’s commitment to quality and Vermont’s longstanding dairy traditions. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 13)

July 11, 2026

  1. Stratton Mountain Resort Launches Mid-Mountain Saturday Brunch Series: Stratton Mountain Resort in southern Vermont has introduced a new brunch experience, offering guests a buffet-style meal at the mid-mountain lodge on Saturdays. A chairlift ride is included, with required reservations and wristbands issued at Guest Services. This new event follows the popularity of the resort's fall foliage dinners, which often reached capacity. Brunch is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Saturday and aims to provide scenic views alongside local cuisine. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 11)

July 10, 2026

  1. Fire Severely Damages Main Street Residence in Manchester; No Injuries Reported: A significant structure fire broke out Thursday afternoon at 5200 Main Street in Manchester, Vermont, prompting a substantial mutual-aid response from area fire departments. Firefighters encountered heavy flames through the roof and were limited to fighting the blaze from outside due to structural concerns. No injuries were reported, but the residential building sustained extensive damage. Officials emphasized the importance of safety while containing the fire. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 10)

  2. Bennington Courthouse Marks 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence: Members of the Bennington County legal community gathered at the Bennington Courthouse on South Street to recognize the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Judge John Valenti and attendees reflected on the document’s enduring relevance and the principles first adopted nationally in 1776 and later embraced by Vermonters in 1777. The event underscored the legacy of the Declaration and its impact on local governance and traditions. The celebration took place on Thursday and honored America’s founding values. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 10)

  3. Mount Anthony Graduate Pursues Maritime Career After Maine Maritime College: Owen Hansen, a 2020 graduate of Mount Anthony Union High School, has embarked on a maritime career as a deckhand in New York Harbor. Hansen joined McAllister Towing’s fleet following his completion of the Vessel Operations Technology program at Maine Maritime Academy, where he earned a Bachelor of Science and multiple professional licenses as a merchant marine. His interest in boats led him from southern Vermont to this demanding industry. Hansen’s work was recently broadcast during the 250th anniversary celebrations in New York. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 10)

July 9, 2026

  1. State Sen. Alison Clarkson to Retire After Two Decades in Vermont Legislature: Alison Clarkson, a longtime Democratic legislator from Woodstock and chair of the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs, will not seek reelection this year. Clarkson has represented Windsor County for 22 years, serving in both the House and Senate, including two terms as Senate majority leader. She stated that her decision to step down comes from a sense of having contributed significantly to the legislature. Her departure marks a significant transition in Vermont's political landscape. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 8)

  2. Woodstock Community Food Shelf Relocates to Larger Permanent Space: The Woodstock Community Food Shelf will move into a new permanent location at Unit 1E in the Mill Building on Maxham Meadow Way. The updated venue is nearly three times larger than the previous site, offering about 1,900 square feet to accommodate more guests and reduce wait times. Staff will complete the move between July 9 and 11, with the help of Vermont Food Bank grant funding. The relocation aims to improve service and operations for the local community. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 8)

  3. Long Trail School Graduate Named 2026 Gates Scholar, Set to Attend Middlebury College: James Dorr, a recent graduate from Long Trail School in Dorset, has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Gates Scholarship. Dorr was selected as one of 750 recipients from a national pool of 61,000 applicants, recognizing his academic achievement, leadership, and community service. This fall, he will join Middlebury College as part of the Class of 2030. The scholarship, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, aims to support exceptional student leaders in their pursuit of higher education. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 9)

  4. Burr and Burton Academy Student Part of Winning Team at Entrepreneurship Institute: Ella Kitts, a student at Burr and Burton Academy in Manchester, contributed to a team that earned top honors at the Governor's Institutes of Vermont Entrepreneurship Institute. The team's project, Cue, is a wearable device aimed at alleviating public speaking anxiety through real-time prompts. Their idea was developed during a week-long program and presented to Vermont business leaders. The institute offers high school students statewide a chance to explore entrepreneurship and build business skills. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 9)

  5. Woodstock Officials Seek Joint Meeting to Review Legal Fee Payments in Personnel Case: The Woodstock Town Selectboard has decided to send a formal letter to the Village Board of Trustees, requesting a joint session to discuss a report on legal expenses. These expenses relate to the demotion of former Police Chief Joseph Swanson, a decision that led to ongoing legal disputes and hearings involving village officials. Town funds were reportedly used to cover legal costs associated with this personnel matter. The review aims to clarify financial responsibilities between the two governing bodies. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 8)

  6. Manchester Structure Fire on Main Street Triggers Multi-Agency Response: A significant fire broke out at a residential building located at 5200 Main Street in Manchester on Thursday afternoon, drawing response from several local fire departments. The blaze, which began around 1:30 p.m., was severe enough to prompt a second alarm, impacting the third floor of the structure. Green Mountain Power cut electricity to the building and the surrounding area while firefighters worked to control the situation. No injuries were reported, but several nearby roads experienced closures. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 9)

  7. Slate Ridge Owner Daniel Banyai Plans Legal Action After Acquittal: Daniel Banyai, owner of the former Slate Ridge firearms training center in southern Vermont, was recently acquitted of charges connected to an alleged assault on a law enforcement officer during a 2024 traffic stop. Banyai spent nearly a year in jail and saw over $1.6 million in property demolished amid longstanding disputes with the town of Pawlet. Now, he intends to pursue lawsuits against media outlets, local officials, and others he claims defamed him. Banyai's future efforts will also focus on advocacy related to land use rights. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 9)

  8. Garden Tour Spotlights Dorset Home's Transformation of Former Marble Quarry: A Dorset property featuring a relocated 18th-century house and an 18-acre former marble quarry will be featured in the Garden Club of Manchester's biennial garden tour on July 11. The owners have spent decades converting the once-overgrown, industrial landscape into a network of gardens and terraced ledges. The event gives visitors a rare look at how a piece of local industrial history has been revitalized over time. The tour underscores both horticultural creativity and historic preservation in southern Vermont. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 9)

  9. Art Exhibit Showcases Creative Work by Incarcerated Vermonters in Manchester: An exhibit titled "Finding Hope Within" is currently on display at the Manchester Community Library, featuring artwork and poetry created by inmates in Vermont. The show includes diverse pieces such as a hand-knitted wedding dress, colorful images, and letterpress prints, reflecting personal journeys toward healing and hope during incarceration. The initiative addresses the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals seeking to rebuild their lives after release. The exhibit opened on June 25 and seeks to foster understanding within the community. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 9)

July 8, 2026

  1. Five Candidates Seek Two Open Positions on Woodstock Selectboard: In Woodstock, five individuals have entered the race to fill two vacant seats on the town's selectboard. The election is set for August 11, coinciding with the statewide primary. Voters will select representatives to complete the unexpired terms of the previous chair and vice chair, who resigned earlier this year. Absentee and early voting ballots are scheduled to become available starting July 10. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 8)

  2. Vermont 100 Endurance Race Returns as Major Fundraiser for Adaptive Sports: Next week marks the 35th annual Vermont 100 Endurance Race, hosting both runners and riders across Vermont’s roads and trails. The event, which raises funds for Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports, is notable for being one of the nation’s oldest continuous 100-mile races and the only remaining U.S. event of its kind featuring a simultaneous horse race. Proceeds support athletic and recreational programs for individuals with disabilities. Over 400 volunteers will assist athletes at multiple locations across the Green Mountain State. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 8)

  3. Asphyxia Cited in Death of Former Windsor County Legislator Noel Neely: The death of Noel A. Neely, a former Windsor County legislator, has been attributed to asphyxia caused by oxygen deprivation, according to Vermont's Chief Medical Examiner. Neely, 82, was found dead at her Norwich home in May, where officials reported suspicious circumstances surrounding her passing. The medical examiner noted nitrogen gas and a plastic bag were involved, but the manner of death remains undetermined. Authorities continue to investigate pending laboratory test results. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 8)

  4. Essential Repairs Progress at Woodstock Union Schools Amid Uncertain State Funding: Woodstock Union High School and Middle School are undergoing significant repairs this summer, including plumbing and floor work, funded by a $550,000 bond approved by voters. District officials describe ongoing challenges maintaining the 70-year-old facilities and express concerns about the potential need for temporary housing if systems fail. Earlier this year, voters in several area towns also approved a much larger bond to fund construction of a new school building in the coming years. State funding contributions for the new project remain undetermined. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 8)

  5. Vermont Lake Monsters Executive C.J. Knudsen Reflects on Defining Success: C.J. Knudsen, senior vice president of the Vermont Lake Monsters, has spent more than three decades involved in Vermont's baseball scene. His career began as an intern with the former Vermont Expos before he advanced to key leadership roles, including a pivotal period guiding the team through its rebranding to the Lake Monsters. Knudsen's experiences highlight his long-term dedication and evolving vision of the organization’s success. His leadership has played a significant role in the team's development over the years. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 8)

July 7, 2026

  1. Barnard Resident Larry Morrison Remembered for Career and Community Life: Larry Morrison, a long-time resident of Barnard, died at age 79 on June 28, 2026, at Gifford Medical Center in Randolph. Born in North Adams, Massachusetts, he built a career as a toolmaker and numerical control programmer, working for companies such as General Electric and Lockheed Martin before retiring to Vermont. Morrison valued family, outdoor activities, and community. He is survived by his wife Nancy and children, leaving a legacy of dedication and adventure. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 7)

  2. Brownsville Celebrates Independence Day With Music, Parade, and Historic Events: Brownsville marked Independence Day with a series of events organized by the local committee, beginning July 3 with a musical performance and fireworks on Mount Ascutney. On July 4, activities included a time capsule ceremony, a bike parade, community meals, and games at Albert Bridge School. The celebrations concluded with the Grand Brownsville Independence Day Parade, featuring themed floats, local organizations, and emergency services. The festivities brought together residents from across the community. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 7)

  3. Michael D. Worth, 68, of Woodstock, Passes Away July 5, 2026: Michael D. Worth, a resident of Woodstock, died at age 68 on July 5, 2026, at Mertens House. Plans are in place for a celebration of his life on July 18, 2026, with further details and a complete obituary to be published in an upcoming edition. The Cabot Funeral Home in Woodstock is managing arrangements for the family. Additional information will become available as the obituary is released. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 7)

  4. Woodstock Marks July 4th and Nation’s 250th Anniversary With Community Events: Woodstock, Vermont, commemorated Independence Day and the nation's 250th anniversary with a range of community activities during the holiday weekend. Events included the inaugural Firecracker 5K along the Ottauquechee River trail, a traditional gathering at Billings Farm & Museum, a wreath ceremony led by local Daughters of the American Revolution, a children's bike ride, and a fireworks display. The festivities attracted residents and visitors for a weekend of local celebration. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 7)

  5. Hartland Holds Annual Old Home Day with Parade and Community Events: The town of Hartland celebrated its annual Old Home Day last weekend, beginning with a morning tractor pull at the Hartland Recreation Center and a book sale at the public library. Festivities included a parade featuring local groups, classic cars, and costumed participants, along with live music and vendors at the Rec Center. Community organizations, local families, and the fire department took part in the procession, engaging residents of all ages. The event highlighted Hartland’s traditions and fostered community spirit. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 7)

  6. Harold Tilton “Scooter” Buck Jr., 89, Remembered for Career and Community Ties: Harold Tilton “Scooter” Buck Jr., aged 89, passed away at his Hinsonton residence on June 29, 2026. A Georgia native, Buck was known for his achievements as an athlete, principal, and artist, as well as his service in the U.S. Marine Corps. He leaves behind his wife of 36 years, several children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Honoring his wishes, his ashes will be placed in Bridgewater Corners Cemetery in Vermont, with no public services scheduled. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 7)

  7. Chess on the Hill Gains Nonprofit Status to Expand Youth Programs in Bennington: Trevor Plizga's efforts in Bennington have led to the growth of Chess on the Hill, a program teaching chess to youth through school clubs, camps, and tournaments. Since its inception four years ago, the initiative has served approximately 100 children weekly and is now formally recognized as a nonprofit organization. This new status aims to improve sustainability and accessibility, especially for families and schools with limited resources. The program emphasizes skill-building, community engagement, and emotional development. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 7)

  8. Pickleball Tournament Scheduled for July 14 in Southern Vermont: A pickleball tournament is set to take place on July 14 in southern Vermont, inviting players of all skill levels to participate. Registration is currently open, allowing community members to secure a spot in the event. The competition aims to foster friendly rivalry and promote an active lifestyle within the region. Interested participants are encouraged to learn more about the event and its schedule. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Jul 7)

July 6, 2026

  1. Manchester Holds 250th Independence Day with Festivities at Dana L. Thompson Park: Manchester residents and visitors gathered at Dana L. Thompson Memorial Park to mark both the nation's 250th birthday and Independence Day. Attendees enjoyed live performances, local food vendors, family games, and a children's bike parade before the evening fireworks show. Activities included dodgeball, lawn games, and a dunk tank supporting the fire department. Organizers hope these revived traditions will endure within the community. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jul 6)

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