Latest News
August 26, 2026
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Dorset Theatre Festival’s 'Lobby Hero' Examines Morality and Accountability: Dorset Theatre Festival presents Kenneth Lonergan's "Lobby Hero," directed by M. Bevan O'Gara, running through September 5. The production takes place in an apartment lobby and probes themes of personal loyalty, systemic corruption, and the complexities of justice. Despite being staged in rural Vermont, the play’s exploration of ethical dilemmas and institutional pressures remains timely and resonant. Audiences can expect a nuanced look at how truth and morality intersect under scrutiny. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 26)
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Long Trail School Students Celebrate Start of 51st Academic Year: Students at Long Trail School in southern Vermont returned to classes on August 25, marking the beginning of the school's 51st year. The first day included festive decorations, welcoming signs, and energetic greetings from faculty and staff. The school community came together to create a positive and celebratory environment for the new academic year. Activities highlighted the school's tradition of fostering a spirited and inclusive atmosphere. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 26)
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North Bennington Gallery Presents 'Peace by Piece' Quilt Exhibition: The Left Bank gallery in North Bennington will feature 'Peace by Piece,' an exhibition showcasing resistance quilts by Laura Bittel and Karen Rose on September 3 from 4 to 7 p.m. Curated by Rachel Blumenthal and Leslie Morris Noyes, the show uses quilts as platforms for political and moral expression. The exhibition aims to challenge traditional perceptions of quilts, urging viewers to consider fabric as a tool for civic engagement. The event highlights the intersection of art and activism in the local community. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 25)
August 25, 2026
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Sheryl Geno Phelps, Woodstock graduate and lifelong Vermonter, dies at 72: Sheryl Geno Phelps, a 1971 graduate of Woodstock Union High School, died on August 16, 2026. She attended Castleton University and spent her life in Vermont, where she married Randall James Phelps and raised a family. Sheryl is survived by her mother, her son and daughter-in-law, and several siblings residing in Florida, New Hampshire, and Vermont. As requested, her family will honor her wishes with no public service. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 25)
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Vermont Camp Offers Educators Support and Renewal Ahead of School Year: Educators from several states came together in Dummerston, Vermont, to participate in the Green Mountain Teachers Camp, an event emphasizing self-care and professional renewal. Around 50 teachers with varying levels of experience attended sessions designed to help them reconnect with their purpose in education. The camp focused on well-being and offered programming for both teachers and their families. Organizers stressed the importance of supporting educators as the new school year approaches. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 24)
August 24, 2026
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Veterans' Home Honor Roll Monuments Vandalized in Bennington: Authorities in Bennington are investigating vandalism at the Vermont Veterans Home where stone monuments listing local veterans were defaced with spray-painted messages. The incident occurred overnight and involved red and white paint, with messages critical of war and America. In response, residents, staff, and community members, coordinated by the local Veterans of Foreign Wars post, organized a volunteer cleanup. Police have urged those with information to contact them as the investigation continues. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 24)
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Vermont Kid Governor Civic Education Program to Return for Second Year: Vermont Secretary of State Sarah Copeland Hanzas has announced the continuation of the Kid Governor civic education initiative for the 2026-27 school year, following a successful launch in 2025. The program, open to fifth-grade students, combines lessons in state government and voting with a real election for Vermont's Kid Governor. Last year's winner, Roslyn Fortin, focused on homelessness and led various community initiatives during her term. The program also includes a cabinet of finalists working on issues like mental health and bullying prevention. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 20)
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South Newfane Mother and Daughter Turn School Story into Short Film: In South Newfane, 13-year-old Arabella Frost and her mother, filmmaker Jeanine Frost, are adapting Arabella's eighth-grade dystopian story into a short film. The project, titled "The Books," follows a teenager trying to rescue banned books against the backdrop of a looming crisis. Arabella's narrative, influenced by her passion for literature and current issues, was originally created as a school assignment and later entered in a national contest. The film adaptation is currently in development by the family duo. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 24)
August 21, 2026
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Arlington Area Childcare Inc. Sees Success with Farm-to-School Initiative: Arlington Area Childcare Inc. recently showcased its successful farm-to-school program during an open house event, which allowed families to tour the facility and learn about the new educational gardens. The initiative, developed after staff attended a regional farm-to-school institute, integrates gardening into the curriculum, offering students hands-on lessons in science, math, and social-emotional skills. Children now participate in growing and harvesting vegetables, which are also featured in meals at the center. The gardens serve as active classrooms, enriching the educational experience. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 21)
August 20, 2026
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Legal Scholar Akhil Reed Amar Discusses Constitution and Equality at Hildene Event: Renowned Yale professor and legal scholar Akhil Reed Amar delivered a lecture at Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home’s Lincoln Hall in Manchester, where he discussed constitutional themes and America's evolving ideas of citizenship and equality. The presentation drew local residents interested in civic issues and highlighted Amar’s recent work on the nation’s constitutional development. The talk was organized by the Lincoln-Hildene Civil Community Initiative as part of ongoing educational efforts in the region. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 20)
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Pomfret Author Elizabeth Wellington Rollins to Launch Debut Novel in September: Elizabeth Wellington Rollins of Pomfret is preparing to launch her debut novel, "The Three Graces of Pearl Street," published by Atria Books. The novel, inspired during a personal trip in 2022, follows three generations of Italian American women and is set in New York City. Rollins will debut the book there before holding a local event at Woodstock's Town Hall Theatre on September 3. The project reflects her family's ties to both New York and Vermont communities. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 20)
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Woodstock Selectboard Considers Engaging Forensic Accountant for Tax Inquiry: The Woodstock Selectboard has agreed to investigate hiring a forensic accountant to examine whether town tax funds were wrongfully allocated to the village to cover legal fees linked to the demotion proceedings involving the municipal manager and police chief. Two recently appointed board members will assess options and report on potential costs and timeframes for the audit. The decision followed extensive discussion among residents and officials and was approved by a 4-0 vote. The board aims to address concerns over financial transparency. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 20)
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Vital Communities to Discontinue 38 Upper Valley Town Email Listservs: Vital Communities will shut down 38 town and community email lists across the Upper Valley on Friday, August 21. These lists, which together have over 40,000 total subscriptions, include several within the Woodstock area such as Barnard, Bridgewater, Brownsville, Hartford, Pomfret, Reading, Windsor, and the Woodstock Community Listserv. The organization will continue to operate its nine topic-specific and three region-wide email lists. The decision is intended to refocus organizational efforts on broader community forums. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 20)
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Vermont Overland Event Draws Hundreds of Cyclists and Runners to Southern Vermont: The Vermont Overland Bike and Run event took place over the weekend, bringing together nearly 800 to 900 cyclists and 500 to 600 runners. Participants traveled from across New England and the wider United States to compete on trails winding through Brownsville, Reading, West Windsor, and neighboring towns. The event, known for its strong turnout in recent years, highlights the growing appeal of outdoor adventure sports. Increased interest reflects both regional support and the area’s distinctive recreational landscape. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 20)
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Woodstock Selectboard Appoints Four Members to Housing and Economic Task Force: The Woodstock Selectboard has unanimously selected four individuals to serve on a new Housing and Economic Development Task Force. This group is tasked with advancing housing development and supporting workforce growth within the town. The appointments provide the necessary quorum for the task force to begin its work, despite one position still being open. The group's responsibilities include collaborating with organizations, recommending policies, community education, and partnering on housing solutions. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 20)
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Participatory Play 'Every Brilliant Thing' Scheduled for Woodstock's Little Theatre: The play 'Every Brilliant Thing,' which centers on the small joys that help people cope with hardship, is set to be performed for three shows at the Little Theatre in Woodstock next month. This one-person, one-act production features audience participation and follows the narrator from childhood into adulthood as he grapples with his mother's suicide attempt. Actor R.J. Crowley, a Hartland resident with extensive local experience, will both produce and perform the play. The production brings a recent Broadway hit to the local stage. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 20)
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Retired Teacher Completes Appalachian Trail Hike to Support Manchester Food Cupboard: Chris Nolan, a retired Spanish teacher and mountain biking coach in Manchester, recently completed a 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail hike spanning 14 states. His trek, conducted over two summers, was dedicated to raising $5,000 for Manchester's Community Food Cupboard, where he is a board member. Nolan began the journey in Georgia and finished near the New Jersey–Pennsylvania border, achieving his fundraising goal with community support. The effort highlights a local commitment to addressing food insecurity. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 20)
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Woodstock Union High School Class of 1963 Funds Bottle Filling Station at Vail Field: A new water bottle filling station has been installed at Vail Field in Woodstock, funded by alumni from the Woodstock Union High School Class of 1963. The initiative was coordinated by class member Dennis Wright in partnership with the Woodstock Recreation Center. Additional help came from local residents and businesses, with installation completed in early July behind the baseball field. The project enhances amenities for community use at the recreational site. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 20)
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Woodstock Addresses Water Well Control Failure with Planned Equipment Replacement: Woodstock is taking action to replace a malfunctioning electrical control at its primary drinking water well after a recent failure caused a temporary reduction in water flow to the town’s storage tank. Residents and businesses were asked to limit water use for around 24 hours while repairs were underway. The component, a Variable Frequency Drive, is being replaced at a cost of $10,600, and the well currently operates under a temporary solution. No customers lost access to drinking water during the incident. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 20)
August 19, 2026
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Woodstock Selectboard Chair Susan Ford Steps Down After Two Years in Office: Susan Ford, who has served as chair of the Woodstock Town Selectboard since early 2024, announced her resignation at the end of a lengthy board meeting on Tuesday. Ford, originally elected in 2022 and re-elected in subsequent years, was unanimously chosen as chair earlier this year. Her predecessor, Ray Bourgeois, also resigned earlier in the year due to relocation. The board now faces deciding how to fill her seat for the remaining 19 months of her term. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 19)
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Quechee Gorge Bridge Reopens to Two-Way Traffic After Renovations: The Quechee Gorge Bridge has reopened to two-way traffic after a major two-year rehabilitation project costing $25.2 million. Improvements to the historic 1911 steel arch bridge included structural steel repairs, a new deck, wider sidewalks, upgraded railings and fencing, and enhanced safety features. While the majority of construction is complete, state transportation officials note that occasional midday lane closures may still occur in the coming weeks. The bridge remains a prominent and protected local landmark. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 19)
August 18, 2026
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Memorial Mass for Richard J. Beda Scheduled in Woodstock: A memorial Mass for Richard J. Beda, who passed away at the age of 73 on July 19, 2026, is planned. The service is set for Saturday, August 22, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church in Woodstock. The Cabot Funeral Home is providing assistance to the family during this time. Community members are invited to attend the service to pay their respects. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 18)
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Jesse John Farrell, 49, Remembered for Work and Friendships in Vermont: Jesse John Farrell, age 49, passed away on August 14 at the Jack Byrnes Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, Farrell moved to Thetford, Vermont, as a child, where he built lasting friendships. He graduated from high school in Connecticut and spent much of his career in Vermont's construction field, notably working for Northwoods Excavating for over 15 years. Farrell is remembered for his passion for motor vehicles, his close ties to friends and colleagues, and his love of animals. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 18)
August 14, 2026
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Woodstock Resident Challenges Manager’s Report on Village Legal Fee Spending: A Woodstock resident has presented a 32-page analysis to the Selectboard challenging the municipal manager's prior report detailing how town funds were used to cover legal fees for the Village. The debate centers on approximately $150,000 spent in connection with efforts to demote the police chief. This ongoing dispute over fund transfers prompted the Vermont State Police to open an investigation, though progress has slowed due to competing demands. The investigation remains active and under review. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 14)
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Inside Scoop Explores the Mount Washington Cog Railway Experience: The latest episode of The Vermont Standard's Inside Scoop series spotlights the Mount Washington Cog Railway. Reporter Vicki Ferentinos travels from Vermont into New Hampshire to ride the iconic railway, which has transported visitors up the mountain since the 19th century. The program delves into the history behind the scenic journey and highlights the enduring appeal of Mount Washington for both locals and tourists. Viewers can expect insights into the region’s unique rail heritage. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 14)
August 13, 2026
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Former Pownal Resident Receives 4 Years to Life for Sexual Assault of Minor: A former resident of Pownal, also connected to the Manchester area, was sentenced in Bennington County Superior Court to four years to life in prison after being convicted of repeated sexual assault of a young teenager, an offense that resulted in the girl becoming pregnant. The sentencing agreement, approved by the court, dismisses additional pending charges and bars new charges related to the case. This resolution provides a defined sentence and concludes multiple criminal proceedings against the defendant. The court's decision finalizes the legal actions. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 13)
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Route 7 Section to Close for Two Weeks During Sunderland Culvert Replacement: A major culvert replacement on Route 7 in Sunderland will require a full closure of the highway between Exit 3 in Sunderland and Exit 2 in Bennington for two weeks, from September 19 to October 3. Drivers will be detoured along Routes 313 and 7A, extending travel distance by 3.3 miles. The project affects two culverts located just south of the Route 7 and Route 313 junction. Construction crews are scheduled to work continuously, including nights and weekends, to complete the repairs. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 13)
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Inclusive Theater Camp Launches at Southern Vermont Arts Center: The Southern Vermont Arts Center in Manchester recently introduced the Loose Cannons Theater Lab, a summer program aimed at teens and adults of all abilities, including those with intellectual disabilities. The camp follows a traditional summer format, allowing participants to shape their own experiences and contribute to a final performance. Organizers emphasize a unified theater model that prioritizes inclusivity and the celebration of individual strengths. The new program reflects growing local interest in unified arts and activities. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 13)
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Manchester’s Role Before the Battle of Bennington Examined Through 1777 Events: In the summer of 1777, Manchester, Vermont found itself at the center of turmoil just before the Battle of Bennington. The town, recently settled and officially organized only a decade earlier, experienced significant unrest and uncertainty as soldiers passed through and local allegiances constantly shifted. Taverns evolved into places where war strategies were discussed, and questions of loyalty arose within the community. This pivotal period shaped Manchester's place in Revolutionary War history. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 13)
August 12, 2026
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Woodstock Union High Grad Matt Birmingham Recalls 28 Years with Vermont State Police: Matt Birmingham, a Woodstock Union High School graduate, dedicated 28 years to the Vermont State Police after joining in 1998. Coming from a family with a strong tradition of community service, Birmingham initially planned to pursue law but chose public safety instead. His career included roles with the Criminal Division, Drug Task Force, and leadership in special investigations. He eventually attained the rank of lieutenant colonel before continuing to serve in higher capacities. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 12)
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BarnArts Summer Youth Theater Stages 'The SpongeBob Musical' in Barnard: BarnArts' 15th annual Summer Youth Theater concluded last weekend with a production of 'The SpongeBob Musical' at Barnard Town Hall. After three weeks of rehearsals, 31 young performers delivered four sold-out shows featuring original staging, costumes, choreography, and accompaniment from a live band. The event demonstrated local enthusiasm for youth arts and community involvement. Audiences from the area supported the production with robust attendance. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 12)
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Quechee Gorge Bridge Construction Nears Completion as Signals Set for Removal: Final construction work on the Quechee Gorge bridge is concluding this week, with crews addressing tasks such as expansion joints, guardrail installation, and crosswalk painting. The Vermont Agency of Transportation plans to remove temporary signals on Friday, allowing two-way vehicle traffic to resume. Occasional midday lane closures may still occur for additional finishing work. Trails under the bridge have reopened, and pedestrian access will fully return as traffic flow normalizes. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 12)
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Lt. Leonard Seeks Windsor County High Bailiff Role as Independent Candidate: Lt. Anthony Leonard of the Windsor County Sheriff’s Office has submitted his candidacy for High Bailiff in the November general election as an independent. With over four decades in law enforcement, Leonard emphasizes the value of experience for this position, which serves as a backup to the county sheriff. He currently manages both patrol and administrative duties within the department. The role is vital for ensuring departmental continuity if the sheriff is unable to serve. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 12)
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Incumbents Prevail in Bennington County Primary Elections: In Bennington County's recent primary elections, incumbent candidates largely retained their positions on the upcoming November ballot. State Representatives Will Greer and Timothy Corcoran II secured the Democratic nomination in the Bennington-2 House District, with Republican Anthony Cook advancing unopposed. Several legislative races in Northshire and Windham Windsor Bennington districts saw unopposed candidates from both major parties. The results set the stage for the general election in November. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 12)
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Former Windsor Prison's Prospects for Redevelopment Clouded by Permit Uncertainty: The Mount Ascutney Regional Commission's 2026 Regional Plan continues to list the former Southeast State Correctional Facility in Windsor as a potential site for redevelopment. However, planners opted not to include the property in Windsor's proposed Tier 1B area, which would have eased permitting for certain housing projects by exempting them from Vermont's state review process, Act 250. Without this designation, future ventures must meet both local zoning and Act 250 requirements. This change could complicate or delay efforts to build housing on the site. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 12)
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Lake Monsters Head Coach Matt Fincher Highlighted in Local Profile: The Vermont Standard introduces Matt Fincher, who has served as the Vermont Lake Monsters' head coach since 2024 after joining the coaching staff in 2021. Fincher, originally from Athens, Georgia, began his coaching career at the collegiate level, holding various coaching roles across several universities since 1985. The article outlines his deep-rooted passion for baseball and details his progression through college coaching positions before leading the Lake Monsters. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 12)
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Woodstock Union High School Athletic Director Leaves for New Hampshire Role: Orion Binney, after serving two successful seasons as the athletic director at Woodstock Union High School, is leaving his position to become the athletic director at Fall Mountain High School in Langdon, New Hampshire, his alma mater. Binney's decision was motivated by the opportunity to return to his hometown and work closely with his community. His departure leaves Woodstock seeking a new athletic director for the upcoming school year. Fall Mountain looks forward to welcoming him back. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 12)
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West Windsor to Consider Zoning Changes for Possible Route 44 Housing Development: On August 25, the West Windsor Planning Commission will review proposed zoning amendments that could allow residential use in the town's Light Industrial/Commercial district, potentially enabling a housing project on approximately 10 acres along Route 44. This site would combine land from a former veterinary clinic with an adjacent town-owned parcel, though neither property is formally tied to the effort yet. The proposal stems from a recent affordable housing study and broader local housing goals. The town received grant funding to support planning activities. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 12)
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Reading Selectboard Approves Policing Contract with Weathersfield Police Department: The town of Reading, Vermont, has opted to contract with the newly established Weathersfield Police Department for local police services, ending nearly three decades of service from the Windsor County Sheriff’s Department. The selectboard made the decision at its July 13 meeting, citing financial reasons, and approved a one-year agreement effective from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. Windsor County Sheriff’s Department has indicated willingness to assist if future issues arise. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 12)
August 11, 2026
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Woodstock Residents Asked to Limit Water Use Due to Main Well Issue: The municipal manager in Woodstock, Vermont has called on residents to conserve water after a failure at the town's main well limited the supply available for the community. Residents have been asked to reduce usage until the issue is resolved to prevent a mandatory boil water advisory. Local officials are monitoring the situation and will provide further guidance as needed. The duration of the conservation request remains uncertain at this time. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 11)
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Rupert Old Home Days Highlights Local Firefighters and Community Contributors: The annual Rupert Old Home Days, held from August 6 to 8, fostered community connections and celebrated local heritage. The event's parade on August 8 showcased dozens of firetrucks representing nearby towns, recognizing the Rupert Volunteer Fire Department's vital fundraising and service. Honorees included Rupert’s oldest resident, the late John Malcolm, and community award recipients Kelly Lewis and Gabe Casey. Old Home Days continues to recognize volunteerism and shared history. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 11)
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Manchester Teenager Killed in Single-Vehicle Accident on National Forest Highway: A 17-year-old from Manchester died following a car crash Monday evening on National Forest Highway 10 near Mt. Tabor, according to Vermont State Police. The crash involved a 2014 Subaru Forester that lost control at high speed and struck a tree, causing significant damage. While the driver and another passenger sustained non-life-threatening injuries, the rear seat passenger, identified as a Manchester resident, died at the scene. Police continue to investigate the circumstances of the accident. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 11)
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Judge Orders Former Townshend Breeder to Surrender Remaining Friesian Horses: A Windham Superior Court judge has ordered Robert Labrie, a former horse breeder from Townshend, to forfeit 39 Friesian horses to rescue groups that have cared for the animals since their confiscation in June 2025. Evidence presented in court supported claims of neglect and cruelty toward the horses at the Friesians of Majesty farm. Labrie has faced and lost multiple forfeiture cases related to animal cruelty and has since sold his property. He is also facing two criminal charges related to the 2025 incident. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 11)
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Manchester Center Man Detained Without Bail on Felony Bus Assault Charges: A 40-year-old Manchester Center resident, Justinvil Archelus, is being held without bail following felony charges that he groped a woman on a Green Mountain Express bus in March 2026. Archelus has pleaded not guilty to three counts of lewd and lascivious conduct and one count of attempted sexual assault without consent. The case has presented challenges related to communication and language barriers between the defendant and his legal counsel. Court proceedings are ongoing as the investigation continues. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 11)
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Affordability and Partisanship Key Issues in Manchester Primary Election: Manchester residents cast their votes at Town Hall during Tuesday’s primary election, as discussions centered on local affordability and increasing partisanship. Voter turnout remained consistent with previous Vermont primaries, with a steady flow reported by midday. Participants cited candidate experience and civic engagement as major factors influencing their choices. The election concluded with no major disruptions or unexpected surges in voter participation. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 11)
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Jo Alison Andrews Remembered for Community Service and Dedication to Literature: Jo Alison Andrews, a long-time Vermont resident and avid reader, died peacefully at age 87 on August 1, 2026, in Annapolis, Maryland. During her years in Vermont, she was involved with the Woodstock Elementary School and Norman Williams Public Library, and played a significant role in helping restore Rutland’s Paramount Theater. Known for her generosity and devotion to animals, Jo's contributions left a lasting mark on the communities she served. She is survived by her family, including her husband, sons, and grandchildren. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 11)
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Celebration of Life Planned for Barnard Resident Larry Morrison in Woodstock: A Celebration of Life honoring Larry Morrison of Barnard, who passed away on June 28, 2026, is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, at the Thompson Senior Center in Woodstock, Vermont. The remembrance event will begin at noon, with a special time of reflection to commence at 12:30 p.m. Family, friends, and community members are invited to pay their respects and share memories. Morrison was a recognized member of the local area. (Source: The Vermont Standard on Aug 11)
August 10, 2026
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Vermont Officials Affirm Security and Accessibility of Upcoming State Elections: Vermont's Secretary of State, along with local town and city clerks, emphasized the state's commitment to ensuring well-run elections ahead of the upcoming primary. Officials highlighted Vermont's use of paper ballots and repeated election procedure reviews to reinforce trust in the process. Despite national debate over election integrity, state leaders expressed confidence in Vermont's transparent and reliable voting system. Preparations are ongoing to support voters throughout the state. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 6)
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Vermont Officials Outline AI Task Force Progress and Objectives: Vermont Governor Phil Scott and state officials held a press conference to discuss the ongoing work of the Vermont Artificial Intelligence Economic Task Force, established by executive order in May. The task force, set to operate for two years, is examining the impact of artificial intelligence on the state's economy and preparing recommendations for policy and workforce development. Its 18 members represent a wide range of sectors including government, healthcare, energy, and education. The group aims to address both opportunities and challenges created by AI technologies. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 10)
August 7, 2026
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Community Members Gather for National Night Out at Manchester Park: Residents of Manchester and surrounding towns attended National Night Out at Dana L. Thompson Memorial Park, participating in activities designed to foster positive relationships with local police and emergency services. The event, coordinated by the Manchester and Winhall Police Departments, provided an opportunity for the public to meet first responders in a relaxed environment. Attractions like a popular dunk tank contributed to the festive atmosphere. Multiple agencies from the region participated, strengthening ties with the community. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Aug 7)