Local News

Lakes Region News Briefs

Student book thief caught
CASTLETON—Former Castleton State College student Heather Berenyi recently was charged with allegedly pawning college texts that she had checked out from the college library, to finance her heroin addiction. The thefts started becoming obvious last spring. She allegedly also stole books from other students at the school. She sold most of the books to Rutland pawn shop Big Guys, owned by John Mandell. Mandell had called the library to verify that the books Berenyi sold him were indeed discarded library books. Although library officials remember speaking with Mandell, they apparently told him they could not verify that the books were not stolen, according to investigating officer Castleton deputy police chief Stephen Dechen. Colleges lend books by student ID numbers. When students fail to return books on time, schools issue notices to the lenders. If the books do not come in, the borrowers may not register for classes or graduate. Berenyi pleaded innocent to five misdemeanor larceny charges and was released on her own recognizance.

Fair Haven Concerned announces address change
FAIR HAVEN—Fair Haven Concerned is moving to Fair Haven’s downtown. Previously at 19 Washington Street, the former St. Mary’s School building, the non-profit organization will open its doors at 73 Main Street, across the street from the south end of the town park. It plans to expand its services in the more centralized commercial space.
PTA plans supermarket bingo
FAIR HAVEN—Fair Haven’s PTA is again planning its annual Supermarket Bingo, a decades-long tradition for the Fair Haven community. Students have already taken home a request list for the items that will be used as prizes, with different sets of supplies requested from each grade level. Local business donations are also welcome and appreciated. The event is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 21, at the St. Mary’s School building on Washington Street. Fair Haven enjoys a vibrant and influential PTA that eagerly accepts new members.

Local business changes venue
Frank Kinney recently announced that he is closing the toy store he had opened in his home. He said that, in spite of having a small business identification number and paying state sales-and-use tax, the additional requirement of a commercial license became too much for his budget. Instead, he will be selling his wooden toys on Nov. 22 at the Central School in Springfield, Vt.; on Dec. 6 at the Middle School; on Dec. 13 at the Whitehall, N.Y., Armory; and at holiday craft shows in Argyle, N.Y.

Farmers’ market offers seasonal food, veggies
The West Pawlet Community Farmers’ Market continues to draw shoppers and vendors to the Fish & Game Club Building, 2849 VT Route 153. Recent offerings include pasture-raised chicken and duck, grass-fed beef, free-range eggs, tomatoes, beets, zucchini, decorative gourds, bell and spicy peppers, cabbage, garlic braids, potatoes, kale, swiss chard, casseroles, soups, quiche and falafels. Each Friday from 4 to 7 p.m., its foods offer a sampling of cultures from around the world. Coming up Friday, Oct. 31, the market plans a Halloween bash.

Lani’s weekly picks
Saturday, Nov. 1—Poultney Chamber of Commerce celebrates its 2014 Citizen of the Year award, given to the Poultney Fire Department. 4 to 6 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 1—Elvis impersonator Donny Romines performs at roast pork dinner in Castleton American Legion Post 50, 378 Rt 4A West, Castleton. Dinner, 5-7 p.m.; show, 7:30. Benefits the Post’s Commander project.
Sunday, Nov. 2—Castleton 8th graders hold a 5K Color Storm Run/Walk, raising funds for their trip to the nation’s capital. To register, call Lisa Beayon, 802-468-8830.

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