Latest News

April 14, 2026

1. Locally Sourced Rolls Receive Positive Feedback at Brattleboro Union High School: Students at Brattleboro Union High School sampled locally made whole-grain, sourdough rolls during a recent lunch as part of a new pilot program. The initiative, which features bread from Butter Mountain Bakery in Wilmington, uses locally grown grains and flour milled in Vermont. Approximately 600 students participated in the rollout, and the program will soon expand to other Windham Southeast Supervisory Union schools. Organizers aim to eventually bring the effort to more public schools statewide. (Source: The Commons on Apr 14)

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2. Bald Eagle Numbers on the Rise in Southern Vermont: Southern Vermont has seen a significant increase in its bald eagle population in recent years. Monitoring efforts between Vernon and North Windsor have identified multiple active nests, with several successful eaglet fledgings each year. The resurgence of bald eagles along the Connecticut River marks a notable environmental recovery, credited in part to reduced human interference. Many older residents recall when sightings were rare, highlighting the species’ remarkable comeback. (Source: The Commons on Apr 14)

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March 4, 2026

1. Newfane Approves Budget and Reserves While Marlboro Votes to Close Elementary School: Residents of Newfane gathered at Union Hall to approve a $1.9 million budget for general and highway expenses, alongside funding allocations for nonprofit organizations and capital reserves. Additional spending measures included funds for equipment payments and a reappraisal reserve. Voters also passed non-binding resolutions addressing national policy issues and set plans to review town meeting logistics. In Marlboro, the community voted to close its elementary school at the end of the current school year. (Source: The Commons on Mar 4)

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March 3, 2026

1. Stratton Residents Examine Act 73 Effects on Local School Choices: During Stratton's annual school meeting, residents spent considerable time considering the implications of Vermont's Act 73, which impacts district consolidation and school-choice options. While the town approved its annual tuition budget, much discussion centered on a letter from the school board expressing concern over the loss of access to independent schools if consolidation forces local students to attend Leland & Gray in Townshend. The board emphasized the role of school choice in supporting students and maintaining community vitality. The issue remains a significant concern for Stratton's future education options. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Mar 3)

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February 24, 2026

1. 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)

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February 10, 2026

1. Windham County Agencies Address Aging Population Challenges by 2040: Windham County in southern Vermont faces unique issues as its population continues to age, including low birth rates and a median age of 48. The region struggles to meet growing needs for elder housing, transportation, healthcare, food, broadband, and clean air, despite a strong presence of local agencies. In response, the Windham Aging Collaborative, representing over 35 organizations, convened in Brattleboro to discuss strategies and improve conditions for older residents. The group aims to significantly enhance elder services by the year 2040. (Source: The Commons on Feb 10)

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February 6, 2026

1. World War II Veteran and Townshend Resident Richard Jackson Dies at 102: Richard Jackson, a noted World War II veteran from Townshend, has passed away at the age of 102. Jackson served in the 100th Infantry Division from 1942 to 1946, contributing to significant campaigns in Europe, including the liberation of Bitche, France. He received France's Légion d'Honneur in 2024 for his wartime contributions, an honor seldom given to Americans. Jackson also played an active role in the Townshend Church, serving as treasurer for nearly three decades. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Feb 5)

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January 8, 2026

1. Long Trail School Girls Secure Win, Boys Lose in Basketball Doubleheader: Long Trail School's varsity basketball teams held a home doubleheader in Dorset on January 3. The girls' team earned a close victory over Poultney High School, improving their season record to 2-3, but suffered a subsequent loss to Green Mountain Union. The boys' team fell to Poultney and currently hold a 1-4 record. Additional games were played and are scheduled, though some outcomes were unavailable at press time. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Jan 8)

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November 20, 2025

1. Flood Brook School Students Explore Local Watersheds and Dam Management: Seventh and eighth graders at Flood Brook School in Londonderry, Vermont, recently undertook a project examining the management of local watersheds and the role of dams, some of which are over two centuries old. Their work involved analyzing the necessity and impact of these dams, especially in light of recent flooding affecting nearby mountain towns. The project encouraged students to apply classroom knowledge to practical, real-world issues within their community. Their process highlighted the importance of critical thinking and local engagement. (Source: The Manchester Journal on Nov 20)

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