A Place in Vermont Real Estate is pleased to announce we are once again expanding.  Our firm will now be offering services for Long and Short-term Rentals.  The newest member of our team is our Rental Manager, Jeremy Deschaine.  As head of our Rental Department, Jeremy is committed to offering outstanding service in assisting each and every client with their rental needs.  A local to Southern Vermont, Jeremy is knowledgeable in the Mount Snow and Stratton ski areas as well the outlying areas.

At A Place in Vermont, our goal is to keep up with the changing needs of our customers and clients.  Many of our clients have long been asking us to assist them in the rental market.  Our clients needs, combined with the seemingly high demand for rentals in our market area, has propelled us to further reach out and offer this additional service.

If you would like assistance in renting your place in Vermont or are looking for a place to rent, call Jeremy at 802.464.4608 x220. 

The U.S. Senate voted Wednesday to extend the home buyer tax credit closing deadline to Sept. 30, giving an estimated 180,000 buyers who met the contract deadline of April 30 extra time to close the transaction. The extension was added to a bill to pay for jobless benefits, which still must pass.

The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® estimates that one-third of qualified applicants have been notified that they will be unable to close by the deadline. The Mortgage Bankers Association says delays are caused largely by the volume of transactions.

The overall bill, once it passes the Senate, must be approved by the House.

Source: Associated Press, Andrew Taylor (06/16/2010)

The village of Grafton's historic district, a cluster of 19th century buildings is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  The National Register, established by Congress in 1966, lists historic cultural properties worthy of preservation, judging them based on design quality, workmanship and historic association. Giovanna Peebles, who heads the state Division of Historic Preservation, says Grafton's historic district is one of the most well-preserved rural villages in Vermont.  Grafton is a place in Vermont definitely worth visiting!

 White puffed clouds floating in a sea of perfect blue sky, light breeze  and shirt sleeve and shorts 80 degree temps. Sort of like being on the top rung of the ladder that leads to heaven!. I was lucky enough to be out with customers viewing some properties north of Mount Snow. After leaving one of our Place in Vermont listings on Smead Road, Wardsboro we headed out towards Newfane via Potter Hill Rd in Wardsboro. Now I will warn you that you will not want to attempt this trip in the winter- (they don’t plow Potter hill Rd).

My customers Fred and Maria were really enjoying the trip.(and though I have been living here for more years than I can count anymore, so was I) Through the forest, by exposed ledges and ponds with bull frogs singing their summer song and the occasional view of distant ledges. Down the other side we picked up South Wardsboro Rd towards Newfane.

            It was along there that we were treated to a little man-made beauty. I had recently been reading a book entitled “Listening to Stone” by Dan Snow who is a local stone-master/magician. Dan does dry stone work. Everyone is familiar with stone walls that line the fields. Beautiful in their own right. Dry stone work is just that- there is no mortar used. So in order to keep it all together there must be a very tight fit between one stone and another. If all we were talking about was a wall this technique would be amazing. While Snow does indeed build fabulous walls, he also does arches, bridges and even huts! So it was indeed a stone hut that we came upon in Newfane- gravity-defyingly beautiful! Then a short way down the road we came upon another free-standing stone structure. Wow what a treat- Now I do need to note that I am assuming this work to be Snow’s. There are not that many people in the world who do this sort of thing. But as I do not want to be found guilty of calling a Picasso a Rembrandt- if someone knows differently please let me know. Happy trails!

Joe Specht,  REALTOR ®

A PLACE IN VERMONT

Mortgage rates are at an all time low with a current  average of 4.69 % for a 30-year fixed rate.  Now is the time to buy a place in vermont!

It begins with cocktails on a back deck, larger than some Manhattan apartments, overlooking a mountain brook. It progresses to a dining room gazing down at a sunken lawn with a magnificent day lily hedge, served from a true gourmet kitchen. Romantic after-dinner cordials are enjoyed on a bedroom deck beside a rolling lawn, and if you desire, an evening cappuccino in a large Kohler jetted spa – all the while listening to your favorite music in one of the five sound centers.

 This good-life scenario can be yours each night in a beautiful fortress of a home called Skiwood located in the tiny community of West Wardsboro – but just minutes from Mount Snow and Stratton

      89 Top of Hill is unlike any home in Wilmington, Vermont and arguably one of the finest residences in all the Mount Snow area. This unique property warrants attention and prestige as it blends the perfect combination of casual luxury with spectacular views and extraordinary outdoor living. It is located on a beautiful, private and quiet cul-de-sac just a few miles from the center of town and Mt. Snow. The residence prominently sits at 2,100' on one of the most coveted parcels of land providing for maximum 180 degree panoramic views of the Green Mountains and the Berkshires including Mt. Snow, Haystack, Greylock and Hogback. A blissful and quintessential Vermont setting , 89 Top of Hill features 5.73 picturesque acres of rolling meadows, varied woodlands, stone walls, brook and beaver ponds with direct access to snowmobiling trails (VAST) and hiking as well as nearby resident only access to Lake Raponda for all-season outdoor activities.
89 Top of Hill is new construction built with old-world hand craftsmanship to the most exacting standards. This true Douglas fir post and beam home with full SIP enclosure constructed by master builder Rob Wadsworth offers 4,840 square feet of interior living space plus an additional 950+ square feet of wrap around deck and screened porch bringing interior living out to your private countryside. The stunning architecture showcases a wonderfully open floor plan including walls of glass, soaring ceilings, lofts and spacious rooms. This must see house boasts four levels of spectacular living and centers around a magnificent Great Room with a 30' vaulted ceiling of clear grain Douglas fir, a showpiece full height fieldstone fireplace with radiant heated seating hearth, and walls of large picture windows with unmatched southeast to northwest views. Southern exposure provides for excellent passive solar benefits. There are 4+ bedrooms / 3+ full and 1 half baths in this energy star home.

       Awaiting its new owner’s personalized interior finishing is unparalleled attention to structural and architectural detail and quality. A rare opportunity to complement its gorgeous post and beam frame built with highly coveted “ standing dead” Douglas fir courtesy of a 2005 lightning strike forest fire in the Rouge River Valley of Oregon. Bring your living outdoors to its magnificent cedar skirl and shingled exterior siding with prominent trim, port orford post and beam screened porch and front entry, two Upper Level viewing porches, expansive wrap around deck, and tastefully sculptured grounds with on-site sourced stone retaining walls and natural ledge formations.

At a new asking price of $750,000! You are saving at least $3,000 and saving a year’s worth of time. Move in before winter!

Its not just for Summer anymore!!!

With fall quietly rounding the corner, people are already talking about snow. Some think this is the time that the lakes become deserted and often think of lakes as only a summer activity. This is not true on Lake Raponda!! We have fall kayaking with wool hats where you can see the most beautiful view of the leaves as they mirror the lake.  
Don't forget you’re fishing pole if you like to fish, it's much easier to catch the trout in the cooler temps. When winter comes around the lakes activities are abundant!! We have ice skating and hockey parties with bonfires and barbeques! Yes winter barbeques are the best!!! We also have snow showing and ice walking as well as ice fishing and of course snowmobiling.

All these activities are great fun and make the lake not just for Summer Fun but year round activities!!! I can't wait...

If you want a house on Lake Radponda we have a deal for you!

Seven generations of Vermonters have owned, operated and managed Bills Lumber Mill and the land that surrounds it. Since The Mills initial conception back in 1936, built from the ground up by the hands of Melbourne Bills, this mill first operated with a good old 1933 Buick engine and lots of heavy hands. The Bills family past and present have collectively owned over 8,000 acres of land here in Southern Vermont. As later generations would soon discover the hard work and investment of land and opportunity would keep them busy for many years and generations to come.
Countless changes over the years have occurred, as we all know, time does not stand still. The mill was altered over the years to keep up with the supply and demand of the ever changing lumber market. In the early years the good old 1933 Buick engine kept everything moving, with a need for more power and higher production the Buick engine was replaced with a more powerful steam engine. The steam engine was great and was very economical at that time; they could utilize the scraps from their sawing to produce more power. Around 1941 Melbourne reverted back to the 1933 Buick engine as the steam boiler was condemned for it use. It wasn’t until 1952 that Melbourne decided the mill just needed more power. The Buick engine was out and the superior diesel engine took its place. Since 1952 the CAT Diesel 13,000 engine has been in use and is still utilized even today at the mill! The mill has not only continued to stay in operation but has also played an active role in contributing to the local economy.
The trials and tribulations at the mill were that of many, in 1941 the mill caught fire and burnt down. Melbourne quickly rebuilt the mill to keep the families and workers at the mill from going hungry. As Everett, Alan and Kathy reflect on their father’s years of dedication to the mill, they remember as children sometimes as many as six trucks running simultaneously delivering lumber and materials to and from Massachusetts and Connecticut, day in and day out. The mill employed many local young men, some of whom were deferred from World War II (thanks to Melbourne) in order to keep the mill deliveries obtainable. Sawing six days a week was not uncommon for anyone who knew the Bills family past or present. As hard luck would have it, the fire in 1941 wouldn’t be the last that the Bills’ experienced. In 1960 the mill, now located up on the hill, burnt again! As persistent as they are, the Bills Family rebuilt again only to have a run in with Mother Nature in 1972 where a flood swept a portion of the mill down the road!
The Bills Family did expand their horizons and business as the children recall; their father also had dealings in some cattle (both buying and selling) and was one of the first in the area to own a crusher, shovel and grader that were rented to nearby neighboring towns to assist in building better local roads. Melbourne Bills left the mill to his three sons Milton, Alan and Everett Bills. Milton being the recognized sawyer of the bunch handled most of the sawing right up until his final days here with us. This mill holds a great deal of history, many untold stories and has survived many hurdles, especially that of the rollercoaster economy, and yet the Bill’s family still have a sustainable business that is ready for the next motivated family or individual(s) to take over the reins!      
Bills Lumber continues to supply custom beams to local businesses and you may be fast to find much of their work in just about any home around southern Vermont, just ask our owners here at A Place in Vermont as you will find their beams in their homes as well.  Bills Lumber is currently owned and operated by Alan Bills and son Tim Bills. Many additional family members and friends think nothing of stopping by and lending a helping hand when their schedules allow. For their efforts they are paid greatly with the distinguished company of the Bills clan and tall stories from both Alan and Tim!

The 2010 real estate market here in Southern Vermont showed some signs of improvement over 2009.  Based on the statistics in the Northern New England Real Estate Network,  the  number of new listings in Windham and Bennington Counties in 2010 actually decreased from 2009 by about 5% while the number of sold units was up about 2.5%  The dollar volume of  sold homes and condos was up about 7.5% and  the median sales price remained  mostly flat at about $210,000.    Interestingly, the number of land parcels that sold was up 20% and the dollar volume was up 30% to $9.4 million.  An increase in land sales is unusual in a down real estate market where the cost of buying a home is significantly less than building a new home.

Some towns fared better than others.  Dover sales were down about 15% while Wilmington sales volume was up about 30%.  Both towns serve the Mount Snow resort area, a real estate market which is predominantly vacation homes.  In the Stratton Mountain resort area, the town of Winhall saw a significant increase in sales in excess of 80% in sales volume and 36% in units while sales in the town of Stratton remained relatively flat.  In Wardsboro, the town between Mount Snow and Stratton resort areas, sales of single family homes were relatively flat.   The average selling price in the Stratton Mountain Resort area is about $500,000, twice that of the Mount Snow resort area. There were twice as many land sales in the Mount Snow area than the Stratton area.  Land in Wardsboro, Vermont also saw a significant increase. 

A Place in Vermont Real Estate saw an increase of 58% over 2009 as we continue to grow and gain market share in Southern Vermont real estate.  With the addition of our Stratton real estate office and several new agents we are confident that 2011 will be a great year for Southern Vermont real estate sales.

If you’ve ever skied the enchanting slopes of Vermont’s Mount Snow in the last thirty years or so, chances are you’ve stopped by the legendary Deacon’s Den to warm up with a free cup of soup from the open kettle. Perhaps you saddled up to the bar, not only to kick back après ski with your friends and a beer, but to get a closer look at the quirky antiques and oddities that adorned the Den’s walls. Who could forget the1950’s era coin-operated pony seemingly enjoying his hay right next to you in the dining area?

Remember entering through a sketchy back door, walking down a creaky corridor, giggling at yourself in the fun-house mirror, and then either proceeding right to the dingy Deacon’s, or left to Fennessey’s, the adjoining country restaurant?

They’re gone now, but not forgotten. In fact, they’ve been gloriously rescued, resuscitated, reinvented and restored by new owners Rob and Betsy Wadsworth, Kevin and Angela Siebrecht, and Paul and Gisela Donahue. These proprietors’ priority is to create a sensational culinary experience in a warm, inviting environment while maintaining the integrity of the original establishments’ curious charm. Welcome to THE LAST CHAIR bar and grill, and the elegant FIDDLEHEADS!

THE LAST CHAIR features such fine pub fare as Baby Back Ribs smothered in Vermont maple barbeque sauce and crisp, fresh salads topped with generous portions of melt-in-your-mouth grilled salmon or tender ahi tuna. Also on the menu: avocado, goat cheese or spinach-smeared Angus burgers, as well as unique pizzas and tender aged steaks grilled to perfection on the new open grill. The restaurant’s beautiful new wood-paneled walls provide the perfect back-drop for some of the old, strange and interesting memorabilia.

There is a new game in town…First Trax Sport Shop opened this fall to serve skiers in
the Mount Snow area. First Trax Sports Shop is a full service sports shop. The back
shop provides all repairs and tuning of equipment associated with the shop. They are
also certified to work on every brand of bindings .
Owners Mark Wallace, right, and John Grush, left, have teamed up to bring you the
latest and greatest in gear. There is no substitute for their years of experience and
knowledge.
Mark and his wife Kristin are the former owners of Wallace Properties, which they sold
to TPW. Mark was an avid skier and so a ski/sports shop seemed the perfect idea.
Kristen, always a fair weather skier, will be out in fancy new gear this year!
John was practically born on skies. A graduate of Stratton Mountain School, John
raced on the World Pro Tour for nine years. Since then he has managed several major
retail shops and has been in the Mount Snow Valley for nine years.
Service and knowledge of product is what Mark and John promise to deliver. Stop by
First Trax to find out why more Elite racers from the Tri State area come to First Trax
Sports Shop to be fitted for their race equipment.
First Trax is open seven days a week all winter. Call 802-464-3464 or check out their
website at www.firsttraxsportsshop.com

If snowmobiling is your passion, then Southern Vermont is the place to be. The Vermont
Association of Snow Travelers (VAST) trails are located throughout the state of Vermont
but Windham and Bennington Counties offer miles and miles of some of the best
groomed trails and many amenities including food, fuel, lodging and stores.

Here are a couple of our favorite stops.

Mount Snow Powersports is located in Wilmington, Vermont on Route 100 just 4 miles
North of Route 9. No matter what you’re looking for in power toys, look no further.
Mount Snow Powersports has it all from clothing and accessories to parts, fuel and service for
your snowmobiles, ATVs, UTVs and boats. You can even register your sled and buy your VAST pass.
They offer everything you need to enjoy your riding season to the fullest. Frank Noto, the
owner of Mount Snow Powersports is quickly becoming a favorite in the community
making new friends and gaining customers with his friendly, ‘can-do’ attitude. You can
take a break and enjoy his hospitality and all that they have to offer. Gas up and warm
up in the heated showroom until you’re ready to suit up and hit the trails right from the
store front. There is also parking on site to leave your truck and trailer while you ride.
For more info, call Mount Snow Powersports at 802-464-0300. When you ride on by,
be sure to tell Frank that A Place in Vermont sent you!

Further north in Winhall is Jenk’s Oasis. Jenk’s is about as Vermont as it gets. Upon
arriving by sled (Corridor 7F4@BN35), you will think you are in the middle of nowhere
though you are just off of Route 30. Truly an oasis, Jenk’s is a great place to warm up,
grab a hot chocolate, a hot dog and hang out with the locals. Facilities (old style, outdoor)
are also available. Jenk’s is also the nearest rescue facility from the Woodford
area though we are hoping you won’t need them for that!

Important Tips: A VAST Season Passes (TMA’s) and insurance is required to ride in Vermont.
Please be cautious of all other trail riders and land owners while enjoying the
trails. Also, be advised that there is no speed limit because of the variable trail conditions,
but you are expected to use your common knowledge and be sensible, (those
who do not follow the rules are subject to a $300 fine for “Reckless Operation”). All
are welcome to volunteer to help maintain the trail system.

Enjoy the winter season and be safe. If you are looking for a place to buy on the snowmobile
trails, one of our agents would be happy to help you in your search.

Looking for a weekend full of fun?? Head to Vermont for the Bud Light Reggae Festival at Mount Snow.  Enjoy spring skiing at its finest, a weekend full of awesome Reggae Music and lots of laughs for the Sink or Skim Pond Skim and the Duct Tape Derby.  This Mount Snow Reggae Festival is so much fun that my family is flying in from Pittsburgh to enjoy the festivities. For the pond skim, contestants have to dress in costume and ski down Standard ski run and try to cross a 100’ man-made pond in the Mount Snow Base area in front of crowds of people. On Sunday, you can join in the Duct Tape Derby.  Feeling creative?  Grab some cardboard, duck tape and zip ties and put together a sled and a team of riders and attempt to make it down the Mount Snow tubing hill.  Mount Snow ski conditions are still awesome as well.  Don’t miss it!

A house can be made of many types of materials: wood, brick, stone or cement. It can be decorated in various types of traditional or contemporary furnishings but when a family moves in, each house takes on a new feeling turning that house into a home. Over a period of 50 to 100 years homes go through many transformations: additions, floods, fires, renovations, paint projects etc... These things make that original an ever changing place. A home takes on a feel the moment you enter its doors and no house more so than an Antique which has seen it all: the family parties, tears, skinned knees, weddings, passings, birthdays etc… It surely could tell a story or two.
 Steeped in history and memories an Antique home has a special allure for a special buyer. One must appreciate some of the old quirks that go along with a house of that chronological age and know how to love and understand its faults no matter how big or small. After all, they are old.
When shopping for an antique, here are a few things to keep in mind.
1.    Don’t expect perfection. If perfect is what you are looking for then buy new, not antique.
2.    Hire a home inspector well versed in antique homes. They will recognize what is age appropriate and what is a true problem.
3.    Check with your local town historical society to get some history on the home and try to keep any photographs of changes made while you reside there.
4.    Appreciate the home for its unique character and grace. Try to keep its original character in tact during any renovation projects.
5.    Be sure to check for lead paint before starting a project that will create a lot of dust especially when there are children in the home.
6.    If the home has a name plaque on the front, check with your town to see if the home is historically registered. Find out what implications this may have on future plans you have for the home.
7.    Last but not least, remember to treat the home with the respect it deserves. It has been around a long time and with lots of love and care will be around for another hundred years or so. It will keep your memories and stories inside it as well, so be nice to it because it may talk about you some day.

Written by Realtor Heidi Zizza A Place in Vermont Real Estate www.aplaceinvermontrealestate.com

LOVE IS IN THE AIR…
 … and Vermont is the place for clean, fresh air.  Thinking about tying the knot?  Think Vermont!!  Think scenic beauty, rolling and mountainous terrain, all coupled with New England Charm.  Whether you are planning a traditional marriage or a civil union, Southern Vermont offers a multitude of beautiful properties that showcase Vermont’s unique character.
 The connection to Vermont often stems from a member of the wedding party growing up vacationing in this beautiful state creating wonderful family memories. The bride and groom may have met during a college break while skiing the mountain slopes. A summer job working on a horse farm or the experience of hiking the Long Trail may have had an influence.  Whatever, the reason Vermont is the place to hold your special event.
The choice of exquisite venues to celebrate the joyous occasion abounds from fabulous country inns to converted barns, a vineyard or hayfield, perhaps a mountain summit or a glistening lake.  Maybe you have just always dreamed of getting married barefoot at the base of a waterfall or arriving for your wedding in a horse drawn sleigh.   You may want to enlist the skills of professionals to assist in pulling off a flawlessly executed event and memories that will last a lifetime.  Fortunately, we have a number of seasoned professionals right here in Southern Vermont to assist you.  
Veteran wedding coordinator Janet Dunnington is well known for signature New England- inspired destination weddings. With over 20 years of experience, she crafts every detail of your wedding.
Michael Rodriguez, Hairdressing and Stacy Hunter, Make-Up Artist, provide creative talents for weddings “on location” for bride, bridal party and family. Stacy Hunters’ focus as a premier make-up artist is to enhance the brides’ natural beauty for an elegant look and a dynamic portrait.  Michael Rodriguez Hairdressing Studio located in Manchester Center Vermont features hairdressing services within his solo studio. He executes 20-30 wedding per year. A bonus to Michael’s hairdressing services is his ability as a dance coach to assist bride and groom with their wedding dance.
Gina Renzi Photography, one of the most sought after photography studios in New England as well as the greater NYC area and called "intuitive and sensitively unique photography at its finest ..."  by NY Magazine, creates exceptional images that preserve the wonderful moments amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Vermont.  
All the ingredients are here for a couple to orchestrate the most amazing event. It’s not a surprise that Vermont ranks high for destination weddings.
Janet Dunnington, Wedding Coordinator 802 375 6818 www.janetdunningtonweddings.com
Michael Rodriguez,  Hairdressing, 802 362 1819
Stacy Hunter, 802 362 2496
Gina Renzi Photography, 518-226-4498 www.GinaRenziPhotography.com

Those who know the ski industry know that Bromley Mountain’s stewards have been, and are now, nothing if not visionary and innovative.  That explains Bromley’s storied place in skiing history and it also explains why, back in the summer of 1975, Bromley’s owner looked up at a grass-covered mountain and thought “Wouldn’t it be nice to have people coming down those slopes all year long?”
With that question in mind, in the summer of ’76, Bromley Mountain unveiled the Bromley Alpine Slide.  It was the nation’s first triple-tracked Alpine Slide and at a full 2/3 of a mile long it is still one of the nations longest.  The Alpine Slide remained the only summer game in Southern Vermont until some twenty years later when the question became “Wouldn’t it be nice to give folks a variety of summertime rides and attractions suitable for the whole family?”
And so, in the early 1990’s, Bromley began adding amusements of all shapes and sizes and the park, now known as Bromley – Vermont’s Summer Adventure, boasts 23 rides and attractions plus a full slate of free family entertainment on most weekends.
On Fridays in July and August join your friends and bring the kids for “Fridays After Five” and experience a great evening at the park at special pricing.  When you’re not riding-it-up, enjoy great food and beverage specials on the Sun Deck.  Ride the rides from 5-7:30 p.m., party on the Sun Deck from 5 p.m. till close.

Here’s what you’ll find at Vermont’s Summer Adventure:

Sun Mountain Flyer: The half-mile long Sun Mountain Flyer launches riders from a five-story tower and attains speeds just shy of 50 mph.  It is the newest and longest four-cable ZipRider in New England, one of only three on the east coast, and one of only ten in the world!
Alpine Slide:  The Grand Daddy of them all… North America’s first triple-tracked Alpine Slide and still one of the longest slides in the world – a full 2/3 of a mile.
Giant Swing:  It looms as high as a four-story building, swings riders at speeds approaching 40 mph and produces 3G’s of gravitational force.  It’s the only one of its kind in Vermont.
Big Splash:  At 456 feet, the Splash is Vermont’s longest, and therefore coolest, water slide ride.
Adrenaline Zip Line:  It’s basically 100 feet of “YEEEEEEE-HA!” on a super strong steel cable.
Space-Bikes:  Race against a friend or the clock as you actually pedal your way into orbit – like a bicycle race turned on its head!
Twin Spin:  Round and round you’ll go until you yell “Stop!”  It’s a four-rider, self-propelled spinning sensation!
Shoot and Shower:  Arcade-style basketball ball game where competitors – one-on-one, two-on-two or three-on-three – shoot against the clock; the loser(s) hit the showers, or vise-a-versa, instantly!
Climbing Wall:   An über-challenging 24 foot multi-faced “real-rock” wall with different faces for different challenges.
Trampoline Things: Two, count ‘em, two!  Slip into the harness and take trampolines to new heights.  Literally!
18-hole Championship Mini Golf: Truly beautiful and scenic, it’s the Augusta National of miniature golf courses.
Add to this an indoor arcade, a park just for little kids, a super slide for the little ones, bumper boats and a bounce house and the kids are sure to go home thoroughly exhausted and happy!

It was just seven years after our forefathers signed the Declaration of Independence that the Sumner’s came to settle in the little Southern Vermont town of Halifax.  The year was 1783.  Like most pioneers of that day, they worked hard to wrestle a homestead out of the rugged Vermont terrain.  They worked hard clearing the land and building stonewalls.  Back in those days, the purpose of this little side-hill farm was simply to provide for and meet the needs of the family.  The Branch Brook running through the property was dammed up, and the operation of a water-powered sawmill and gristmill was also a big part the family’s daily activities.   As winter gave way to spring each year, maple trees were tapped and the sap was boiled down into maple syrup.  Back in those days there were many, many farms in the area. 

Today, 228 years later, the Sumner Farm, owned by Malcolm and Monica Sumner and family, is the only dairy farm still operating in Halifax, Vermont.  The Sumner cows graze freely from the spring through the fall on pasture and are given no vaccines, hormones, antibiotics to maintain their organic status. The 250-acre Sumner Farm has approximately 70 head of Jersey cows, 40 of which are milked each morning and night.  Each cow produces about 6 gallons of mile each day.   The organic milk is delivered to Organic Valley where much of it is made into Stonyfield Farms yogurt.  

Maple syrup is still made every spring, and timber continues to be cut and sold although no longer milled on the farm.  Malcolm and Monica are the sixth generation to reside on and operate the family farm.  They have four daughters: April, an accountant, married to Sean Dupuis with son, Donovan, and another son on the way; Kimberly, a registered nurse, soon to be wed to Thomas Tefft; Maria, a certified elementary teacher, engaged to Matthew Stewart; and Lauren, the youngest of the family, a seventh grader at Halifax Elementary School.  Monica is a REALTOR® with A Place in Vermont and Malcolm works full-time on the farm with help from all his family.  Says Malcolm of life on the farm, “It has it’s ups and downs but I like being my own boss and love being outdoors.  Farming is in my blood”.

The Wardsboro Fourth of July Parade and Street Fair is an event not to missed.   Thousands turn out in the little village of Wardsboro, VT (population 800) to enjoy a parade of antique cars, tractors, ATV’s, floats, kids and maybe an farm animal or two and to enjoy the Street Fair that is now in its 62^nd year. 

The Wardsboro Parade Route is along Main Street. If you miss the 10AM parade start, don’t worry, they will come back down Main Street again. The Street Fair starts at 9AM and over 40 vendors will along Main Street on both sides. The Wardsboro Friends of the Library hold a  Book Sale is at the Library,  There is also a Chicken BBQ and a Pie Sale  at Wardsboro Town Hall.  Be sure to save room for the Strawberry Shortcake is sold at the Vestry. In addition there is a Quilt Show inside the Methodist Church.

The Wardsboro Fourth of July celebration is listed as a July 4^th highlight on www.VisitNewEngland.com  whom say it is a “full-fledged community celebration in the traditional New England Style.

If you are interested in looking at some Wardsboro homes for sale or land for sale in Wardsboro Vermont, A Place in Vermont has offices just north and just south of Wardsboro and agents ready to assist you.  We have great real estate for sale in Wardsboro, Vermont and surrounding areas.

Swimming holes are as much a part of Vermont as the Green Mountains that surround us. Not only do they provide a welcome reprieve from the summer heat, each has its own special character to welcome visitors. While half the fun of visiting a swimming hole is journey to find it, we thought we’d point the way to one of our favorites

PIKES FALLS

Lat: 43.09767, Lon: -72.85191

On hot summer days, Pikes Falls beckons fun-lovers of all ages.  As its name suggests, Pikes Falls features a waterfall that drops into one of the largest swimming holes in the state … about 40 feet wide, 25 feet long, and up to 10 feet deep.  Teenagers can be seen cannon-balling off of an enormous boulder into the deep, clear, cold water, while children skip rocks or slide down the 10-foot long rock slide, and dogs paddle after their balls.  There is a rocky beach running along its edges where you can sprawl out on one of the large rocks to take in the sun (wear your sunscreen) or enjoy a picnic.  In spite of its pristine beauty, Pikes Falls is rarely crowded. One warning though, because Vermont does not have any laws prohibiting nudity, you may encounter the occasional nude sunbather….

Directions: From Route 30 in Jamaica, take Pikes Falls Road (also called Mechanic Street) for about 4 miles. There is a small parking area on the left side of the road.  Park here and follow the very easy trail about .10 of a mile down to the foot of the falls.

The Fat Spy Tavern and Stones Lodge are conveniently located  just down the road from Our Place in Vermont Stratton Real Estate Stratton Office, at the base of the Stratton Mountain access road, in Bondville Vermont. New owners Eric and Yana Stonecipher recently opened the tavern and lodge in the fall of 2010; they have succeeded in creating a welcoming atmosphere with great food and entertainment.

With only 20 rooms, the Inn prides itself on customer service and comfort. There are family rooms with 2 twin beds and a Queen bed, deluxe rooms with a fireplace, as well as several other combinations available. So whether you are on a romantic getaway or a family ski trip, there will be room to suit your needs. After your day adventures you don’t even need to go back out to find dinner, you can just go down to the tavern and enjoy a cold drink and a nice meal.

The Fat Spy and Steakhouse Carries twenty varieties of beer on Tap, many of which are brewed locally, added to that is a fully stocked bar, and a great wine selection. You will always find the perfect beverage to compliment your dinner. The menu had something for everyone, from salads with topping such as wagyu beef or salmon, to the more traditional pub fare. The tavern is also well equipped to keep you entertained with two pool tables, foosball, air hockey, video games, and a 15 foot high-definition projection screen. Live music and great DJ’s are often playing, check out the events calendar on their website for dates; www.stoneslodge.com

Sweeping through curves over mountains and through farmlands, there are not many experiences like riding a motorcycle through Vermont.  Well it could be compared to many things actually.  Skiing, camping, hang-gliding, and sitting by a lake, river, or pond all come to mind.  How can these all be connected through riding a motorcycle?

Manchester musician Kelly Moore, President of Music For Mankind®, Inc. started riding in 2008 and has already put over 23,000 miles under his wheels.

“As I ride through Vermont”, says Kelly, “I find myself experiencing all of these: the sights, smells, sounds, and feelings…well, honestly, I’ve never tried hang-gliding, but it’s incredible how I feel at times as though I am hang-gliding!”

The experiences he talks about are close to home for many of us: the smell of the wetness of a river tumbling over rocks by the road; the serenity of a calm, moon-lit lake with the chirping of frogs and the breeze tugging at the waves; or the feeling of sliding down a ski slope, twisting and turning through the trees and bumps.  These and many more, he states with enthusiasm, are more than matched on two wheels at 50+ MPH.

In 2007 Kelly created Music For Mankind®, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit public charity organization, contributing the proceeds of his concerts to the United Nations World Food Program and other humanitarian organizations for hunger and disaster relief, both locally and globally.

Music For Mankind® – Ride For The Hungry™ is an exciting and new opportunity in the form of guided motorcycle tours of Vermont.  The proceeds of the tours contribute to help those who struggle every day just to survive.

Tours down the scenic back roads of Southern Vermont will fit your schedule and locale.  Proceeds are contributed to World Food Program USA, Feeding America, local food cupboards, and other humanitarian organizations which are helping around the world.  Enjoy the beauty of Vermont from the saddle of your motorcycle knowing that you are helping others too.

To book tours contact Kelly at 802-362-3806 or kelly@musicformankind.net.  To learn more about Music For Mankind® visit www.musicformankind.net.

The story begins in 1904 when a girl named Mary was born in New York City.  As a little girl she learned to sew from her mother.  She learned about style and fashion from her father who was a manager in one of New York City’s finest hotels.  As a teenager in school she learned to make patterns and work with fabrics that she would later make into pincushion animals.

When Mary was 24 she met and fell in love with Hans Meyer and they married within a year.  In 1933 the Great Depression had arrived and times were tough.  But this couple put their talents together and started a business.  Hans went on the road selling while Mary and her small staff sewed and stuffed her designs.

By the early 40’s, city life had grown thin on Hans who grew up in the country.  Like a good salesman, he sold Mary on the idea of moving to the Green Mountains in Vermont to raise their two children, have a farm, and a toy shop.

In Townshend they raised cows, tended to horses and built their business.  The business grew.  This time Mary sold Hans on the idea that the animals would have to move out of the barn so the toys could have more room.

Over the years many West River Valley residents worked at the Mary Meyer toy factory.  Their products are available all over the US, Canada, and overseas.  Much has changed in the world, but today Mary Meyer is still a family owned and operated business.  The designers still work in the original shop here in Vermont.  Every day you will find the third generation of Meyers continuing their grandmother’s dream.

If you are driving by the bright Big Black Bear Shop on Route 30 in Townshend, stop in to visit the museum.  Say hello to the Meyer family and the dedicated, very nice people who work there and tell them A Place in Vermont sent you.  Maybe, when surrounded by all the beautiful stuffed toys, pick up one for a special child in your life.

Thank you for your outpouring of support in the wake of the flooding from tropical storm Irene.  Thanks to the help of clients, friends and peers,  A Place in Vermont has established temporary office space for our Mount Snow office above the Valley View Saloon on Route 100 in Dover.   Our Bondville office was not affected at all so both offices are open 7 days a week and back in business just in time for fall foliage. 

We are pleased to report that more roads are opening every day.  Route 9 is now open from Brattleboro through Bennington.  That means you can access the Mount Snow Valley from the east or west (I-91 or I-87).  Route 7 to Manchester was not affected.  Route 30 from Brattleboro to Bondville is open with the exception of a detour through Jamaica.    Route 100 is open from Wilmington to Stratton Arlington Road. 

While some businesses, particularly those in downtown Wilmington are still recovering from Irene, many area businesses are open including all of Dover, Stratton and Manchester.  Ski shops are open and the 2012 gear is in stock. As most of you know, fall is one of the most beautiful times of year to visit Southern Vermont.  Some of the leaves have already started to change giving us a glimpse of the spectacular fall foliage soon to come.  It is the perfect time to visit your place in Vermont or to shop for one. 

In addition, Boulder Ridge, the luxury condo development at Mount Snow that we represent was not affected so the model is also open every weekend or weekdays by appointment for viewing.  Boulder Ridge is a great place to take in the amazing fall colors. 

Many members of our extended community including second homeowners and repeat visitors have offered assistance.  One of the best ways you can assist is to come visit this fall and bring your friends and extended families.  Consider coming next weekend for Floodstock, a two day music festival hosting 8 bands at three venues to raise money for Wilmington.  For more info visit www.floodstockvt.com

Thank you so much for your concern and your efforts on behalf of our wonderful community.  Hope to see you in Vermont over the next few weeks. 

I believe it was 1984 when Steve Jobs suggested that someday in the future all business would have a computer and perhaps some people might even have one at home. Back then it sounded like a Star Trek episode. I mean really, if you had a word processer at college that was big. Some of us were still using old fashioned typewriters and white out was our best friend. Well we know now how amazingly innovative and correct he was. Almost every home has at least one computer if not one for each family member. I know in my house we have 4 and we have an extra lap top for traveling. That being said, homes have started to morph from 4 bedrooms to “4^th bedroom being used as office”. If you don’t have an office space carved out somewhere in your home, your prospective buyer will say, “Where are we going to put the office?” If your office space is really your dining room please try to relocate. Dining rooms should be shown as dining rooms and not as anything else. If you have a small house try to carve out a corner nook somewhere. Corner desks are widely available, inexpensive and great space savers. Computers today are small, so a lot of room is not needed. Most new construction homes nowadays either have 1^st floor offices or spaces in the kitchen where a desk has been built in and is cable ready for computer hook up. If you have a wide landing on your second floor you can also make an office space there as well. What I am trying to say here is that home offices have almost become mandatory. If you don’t have one make one. Please remember not to leave office space cluttered with every bill from 2002 and hundreds of kindergarten drawings. Office spaces should look clean and uncluttered creating a serene and inviting work space. If you have small children, perhaps put a child’s desk in the corner with his or her DS and a few drawings from school. This can look adorable.

So thank you to Steve again. You were an innovator and your insight has reached far beyond music, computers and phones. You have actually changed the face of Real Estate all over the world!

Heidi Zizza REALTOR® A Place in Vermont