Travels in Southern Vermont

Live music this Saturday at VAE

2010-02-25T14:48:00.002-05:00

The Vermont Arts Exchange is featuring Toshi Reagon as part of their Basement Music series this coming Saturday night. Located at the Sage Street Mill in North Bennington, this is one of our best venues for awesome live music. For more details, visit the Vermont Art Exchange website.

Church Supper this weekend

2010-02-04T14:59:00.000-05:00

Sacred Heart St. Francis de Sales Church Upcoming Fundraisers. Please note:

Saturday, February 6 – Spaghetti and Pasta Dinner (sounds very good) from 5:00 until the food is gone with take-out available. $7.50 adults and $4.00 for children

Saturday, February 20 – 13^th Annual Toy and Model Show & Auction $3.00 entrance

Saturday, February 27 – Soup Supper 5:00 p.m. til gone.

Call the Parish Office from 9-12 and 1-4 daily at 442-3141 for more information.

Bennington Winterfest this weekend!

2010-01-25T16:37:00.001-05:00

This weekend is the annual Bennington Winterfest and Penguin Plunge in North Bennington. A great family event, with lots of activities all day long. Check out the details at http://www.bennington.com/winterfest/

Bennington Museum Re-opens!

The Bennington Museum was closed for the month of January, but re-opens on January 31 with a Free Community Day. With free admission, this is a wonderful time to come and enjoy the special exhibitions, permanent collection, and all that the museum has to offer– Free of Charge. At 11:00 am, 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm, tours of the museum will be given by museum docents. In addition, there will be free light refreshments and Vermont inspired art activities for children in the schoolhouse. At 2:00 pm, the museum’s winter exhibition Vermont Impressions will be introduced with a gallery talk by Curator of Collections Jamie Franklin.

January 31 also marks the opening of the annual Student Art Show at the Bennington Museum. The Student Art Show brings artwork of the region’s elementary, middle and high school students to the museum in a display ranging from whimsical projects by the young students to more advanced work of older students. Certificates of participation will be presented to youth as they arrive. This exhibit runs from January 31 through February 28.

Winter in Vermont

2010-01-07T16:25:00.002-05:00

With all the snow we've had recently, it's truly a winter wonderland here in the Shires of Vermont! For skiers, all the area mountains have terrific snow cover and conditions. Likewise for the cross-country skier crowd, Prospect Mountain in Woodford, and Wild Wings in Peru, both have lots of snow. If you prefer to cross country ski in natural conditions (no groomed trails) I highly recommend Woodford State Park on Route 9, which is closed in the winter but open to cross country skiers at no charge. Do not park right in front of the entrance to the park, instead travel a very short distance east of the park entrance to an off-road public parking area on the north side of the road.

This is also a great year for snow shoeing. One of my favorite spots is the trail to Little Pond also on Route 9 in Woodford, or the public access trail on Dorset Mountain located off Dorset Mtn. Road.

Snowmobiling is also very popular in our area, and there are hundreds of miles of trails. Contact VAST (Vermont Association of Snow Travelers) for more details.

Stay warm!

First Big Snow in The Shires

2009-12-10T10:13:00.002-05:00

Like most of the country, we got hit hard and heavy with the first major snow of the season. Of course this is a source of great joy to all of us who are eager to get out and ski or snowshoe, snowmobile or sled! The mountains are now loaded with snow and are a bit icy so be careful traveling. Still waiting to put on your snow tires? The time is now!

The valleys have some snow, but are clear and safe for your holiday shopping. Only 15 shopping days left!

Thanksgiving Weekend

2009-11-24T08:54:00.002-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

We hope you all have a safe and happy holiday. The day after Thanksgiving is the official start of the Christmas shopping season and most of the shops in our area are having sales to celebrate. Shopping our local downtowns is a really nice alternative to fighting the traffic and crowds at the mall. It also supports the local community and preserves the character of our region that makes us unique.

On a personal note, if you are looking for handcrafted jewelry, pottery, glass, wood, or fine gifts, consider stopping by the Hawkins House craftsmarket in Bennington, Vermont. This second generation business was started by my parents in 1977 and is today run by my wife Elizabeth Ganger. It's a really fun store that is well liked by both locals and travelers (many come year after year). The Hawkins House is located on North Street, two blocks north of four corners in downtown Bennington.

Thanksgiving is also traditionally a popular time for hunting, so remember to wear red or orange if you are out hiking this weekend. I'm not personally a hunter, but hunting is a vital part of wildlife management and the license fees also support a wide range of non-game conservation programs.

Again, have a great holiday!

Early winter in the Shires

2009-11-12T09:57:00.003-05:00

Everyone is gearing up for Thanksgiving, so not a lot of events this weekend. I love this time of year. The leaves are down and you can see a lot when hiking outside.

Hunting season continues, so if you are hiking remember to wear red or blaze orange. Cold weather has stopped the black flies and mosquitos, but it's prime season for ticks, so remember to check carefully for unwanted "visitors" after you hike. Ticks in our area carry Lyme disease so this is important. Remember, Lyme disease takes at least 24 hours to transfer from a tick to you... so as long as you check and remove any ticks you don't have to worry about catching the disease. Common Lyme Disease symptoms are aches, and flu-like symptoms MINUS the runny nose. (With runny nose, it's probably the flu!) A bulls-eye shaped rash often occurs at the site of the bite, but not always. Lyme is easily cured if caught early. If you have had a tick on you for more than 24 hours, and show symptoms, you should consult your doctor!

Vermont: one of the best places in the world.

2009-11-05T09:18:00.002-05:00

Here is an interesting bit of information for you... Vermont scored high in worldwide stewardship ranking. We have been named one of the best places in the world for stewardship and authenticity by the National Geographic Society. Vermont placed fifth in the world and first in the

United States

. The rankings have been published in the November/December issue of National Geographic Traveler magazine.

Coming this November:

The Bennington Museum presents their Annual Festival of Trees from November 27 and December 18. Live and Silent Auction Gala on December 18. November 28 features the very popular Children’s Holiday Shopping Day for kids from 4 – 12. Prices range from $1 - $7 and include gift wrapping. This is very special. Look for more holiday festivities in our Chamber Newsletter this week from the BenningtonMuseum.

Final Fall Color and Downtown Bennington Pumpkin Challenge

2009-10-22T09:52:00.004-04:00

If you thought you missed all of Vermont's foliage color, you still have one last chance! It is true that peak foliage has passed and the leaves are mostly gone at the upper elevations, but the valleys still are showing lots of color. This is a great time of year to drive along Route 7 from Williamstown, MA, to Bennington. From Bennington, take Historic Route 7A through the towns of Shaftsbury, Arlington, and Manchester. Stop at local farm stands and pick out a pumpkin for Halloween!

Speaking of Halloween, this Saturday is the Pumpkin Challenge in downtown Bennington. Here are the details:

Voted Vermont's #1 Downtown Event for 2009, and the Vermont Chamber of Commerce Top Ten Fall Events for four years in a row!!!

Join us on October 24th for a day full of activities in downtown Bennington. This year St. Francis will be holding their annual Harvest Bazaar on the same day so there will be plenty to do!

12:00 - 8:00PM Store to Store Trick or Treating Dress up the kids and bring them trick or treating in all of our shops and restaurants in the downtown area. The new, safe and fun way to celebrate the holiday. Look for the Bright Orange posters on the door of the businesses that are participating!

12:00 - 8PM Whitman's Hay Maze at Center StageEven the very young one's love Whitman's Hay Maze. Let the kids run through the maze as you take a break from all the activities.

12:30 - 1:30PM Bennington Library Creative Workshop Get the kids ready for the parade at the Library's Workshop. Bring an umbrella to decorate or make and decorate masks. This is a very popular event so call the library for more details. 802-442-9051

2:00PM Costume Parade Everyone is invited to get in line for this whimsical parade down Main Street. Join the fun at the TDBank parking lot when we head down Main Street to the Four Corners, then march up North Street to Pleasant where we turn right and head back to School Street. It's not a long parade so make sure you get in costume and get there early!

3:00 - 5:00PM WalMart Pumpkin Carving Tent Once again our friends at WalMart will be sponsoring the Pumpkin Carving Tent at Center Stage. They are providing pumpkins, carving tools, and helpers for anyone who joins in. Carving will continue until all the pumpkins are gone. After you carve your masterpiece add it to the Center Stage display and maybe you'll win a prize.

7:00 - 9:30PM Bennington Banner Haunted House Be afraid, be very afraid! That's the final warning for those brave enough to enter the world where nightmares are born.

8:30PM "Thriller" Dance Challenge This is it Bennington, we're going to thrill the world once again with this exciting event. This is on the top of the list for family fun! Go to our "Thrill the World" page for all the details and schedules.

9PM - Closing JC's Late-Night Costume Party We did not forget the adults! The pumpkinfest isn't just for kids so get into costume and join the party at JC's. Dance to "Vivid" the exciting and electric dance band. JC's is rewarding all the "Thriller" dancers with NO COVER CHARGE if you show them your registration bracelet.

So... bring your carved pumpkin and join us downtown for thousands of carved, lit pumpkins displayed around Center Stage, dress the kids up in costume and take them Trick-or-Treating from store to store for individual fun events and candy. It's the perfect "safe" way to let your kids enjoy the holiday. The Costume Parade begins at 2PM begins behind TDBanknorth, and the Bennington Free Library Creative Workshop starts at 12:30PM. Don't miss the famous Haunted House at the Bennington Banner, and Whitman's Hay Maze and the Wal-Mart Pumpkin Carving Tent at Center Stage.

Not only do we thrill Bennington with the Pumpkin Challenge, we thrill the world with the worldwide "Thrill the World" Dance Challenge. Last year, Bennington came in ninth place, just behind Los Angeles. In 2009, Bennington will be in the top 3!

For information on how to be involved, contact us at the Better Bennington Corp at 802-442-5758 or stop in at the BBC’s Welcome Center: 215 South Street in Beautiful Downtown Bennington.

Great foliage weekend!

2009-10-08T10:15:00.002-04:00

Every year I wonder... will the foliage color be good? Last weekend was a nice start, but the cool evenings and warmer days this past week have done their magic, and I'm ready to officially say that foliage color will peak this weekend!

This is also the final weekend for the decorated Moose in Bennington to be on the streets. If you've not seen them, they are fantastic! Over 50 bull, cow, and calf moose are positioned throughout Bennington as part of MOOSEFEST. Maps are available at many retail locations and restaurants, as well as the Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Welcome Center.

After this weekend, the moose will migrate to the Bennington Center of the Arts in preparation for the MOOSEFEST GALA & AUCTION on October 17. A black-tie optional event, this is your chance to bid on your favorite moose, or just to joint the excitement watching the auction. There is wine, food, live music and dancing at this event also. Mark you calendar now! Call the Bennington Area Chamber of Commerce to RSVP your tickets: 802-447-3311.

Brewfest and Foliage Oct 2-4 Weekend

2009-10-01T09:54:00.003-04:00

Love beer? Love foliage? Both? This is a great weekend to come to Vermont!

Foliage in the valley is about 50% of peak, and it's near peak foliage at higher elevations. Weather will be a little rainy Saturday, but clearing up nicely for Sunday.

Here's a few happenings you should know about in Bennington, Vermont:

October 3^rd 12 noon - 5 pm Brew Fest at the Brush Building on North Street

Micro-brew tastings, music, medieval combat demonstrations

October 3^rd Hometown Heroes Day at Upper Willow Park 1 pm - 4pm

October 3^rd Chicken Pie Supper at St Peter’s 5:00 & 6:30

MORE info on events coming up!

2009-09-17T14:36:00.002-04:00

Just got this from the Bennington Chamber Director and I wanted to share it with you :)

Oct 3rd - 1-4 p.m. at Upper Willow Park for the send-off party for our National Guard- HOMETOWN HEROES DAY.

Please show up and enjoy. We want them to know we care!!!!!

This is sponsored by a multitude of organizations and volunteers of which the Chamber is just a small piece.

BENNINGTON CAR SHOW- Saturday and Sunday, September 19 & 20. Flea Market section opens on Friday. Admission $8, Kids under 12=FREE.

Monday, September 21^st – NorthShire Bookstore at 5:00. Will Moses will sign the official poster of his painting “The Shires of Vermont”. Retail sale of posters kick-off. Wholesale orders may be placed through the RMP with Tammie Reilley.

Grace Christian Church Pancake Breakfast – September 19^th

Quilt Show at Mt Anthony High School Sept 19 & 20.

September 19^th – St Peter’s Church Bazaar.

Car Show Cruise-in and Sock Hop by BBC. Saturday Night 6-9 on Main Street, downtown Bennington.

Antique Car Show & Medieval Faire

2009-09-17T09:00:00.003-04:00

This weekend Sept. 17-19 is the 43rd Annual Bennington Car Show, this year located at the former Green Mountain Race Track on Route 7 in Pownal, VT.

Featuring hundreds of classic and antique cars, there is also an extensive flea market, food court, and activities. The event runs Friday through Sunday, rain or shine.

Also, mark your calendar for the Medieval Faire!

Medieval Faire in Putney October 10^th
^{10-4 FREE ADMISSION!}

thegrammarschool.org

Calling all brave knights, pretty princesses, fine young lads and fair young lasses. On Saturday, October 10, from 10 am to 4 pm The Grammar School campus in Putney, Vermont will transform into a Medieval village as it hosts its 22nd Annual Medieval Faire.
Enjoy the village as King Arthur and his royal court preside over games, feasts and peasant frivolity. Join players gaming on the glen, merchants minding the village market, cooks tending a feast fit for a King, and musicians leading the festivities.
Traditional highlights include Merlin the Wizard, climbing walls, archery, a candy throwing catapult, haunted dungeon, dunking booth, pony rides, slay-the-dragon piñata, scavenger hunts and knightings by King Arthur himself.
At 2 pm; the Queen will have story time for the youngest children; and our Master Huntsman will hold hatchet throwing training for older lads and lasses.
Back by popular demand, a Knight from The Society for Creative Anachronism will give brave patrons of the faire a first-hand opportunity to try their hand at medieval combat using boffer swords.
Admission to the TGS Medieval Faire is FREE for adults and children alike. All-day or individual game & ride passes are available with proceeds benefiting The Grammar School Student Scholarship Fund.
The Medieval Faire, with games, rides and entertainment for all ages, has been a family favorite for over 20 years. Come dressed as a brave knight, fair damsel, or come as you will – just don’t miss the fun of this Medieval village.
The Medieval Fair will take place on Saturday, October 10^th, from 10am- 4pm rain or shine. For additional information contact The Grammar School at 802-387-5364 or visit thegrammarschool.org. The Grammar School is located on Hickory Ridge Road off Westminster Road in Putney, Vermont – from I91 take Exit 4 into Putney, at the General Store make a left onto Westminster Road and follow signs to the fair. Fare thee well, until we meet at the faire!

Foliage is coming!

2009-09-10T16:43:00.003-04:00

We have been enjoying perfect weather here in Southern Vermont these past two weeks. Hopefully you were able to make it to Vermont LAST weekend for the Garlic Festival -- it was a huge success and a lots of fun!

This weekend the weather won't be quite as nice, but nonetheless ANY weekend is a good weekend to rejuvenate yourself by spending some time in the Green Mountains. A good think to remember is that the beautiful foliage starts early in the mountains... I expect there to be good color showing at higher elevations starting this weekend. The color works it's way down toward the valleys culminating in peak foliage color usually by the second weekend in October.

There are as always things happening this weekend:

September 10^th- Bennington Library Open House. Sue Kline – Book Signing

September 11^th – 9/11 Memorial Service by the Gazebo at the Vermont Veterans Home. Starts at 11:00 a.m. and is the only Vermont Memorial Event that day. Similar events will be simultaneous across the country with the Release of Doves. Mt Anthony Choir, Honor Guards, Bag Pipes.

Enjoy your day and I hope to see you in Vermont!

Garlic Fest this weekend

2009-09-03T15:07:00.002-04:00

Named one of Vermont's top ten events last year, make sure to check out the Southern Vermont Garlic and Herb Festival in Bennington this weekend September 5 & 6. Located at Camelot Village (on Route 9 just west of downtown Bennington), this is a terrific event for all ages... and for garlic lovers in particular! For details, visit: http://www.lovegarlic.com/

While you are in the area, make sure to take a drive or stroll through Bennington to see the 50+ decorated moose... part of this year's MOOSEFEST. These life size moose are truly amazing and well worth the trip. You can pick up maps showing all the moose locations at the Downtown Welcome Center in downtown Bennington, or at the Chamber of Commerce office... or at most retail shops and restaurants downtown.

Looks like the weather will be great this weekend... hope to see you all in Bennington!

Music and the Fair comes to The Shires

2009-08-20T09:34:00.002-04:00

This is the final weekend for music under the tent on Main Street in Bennington. Two acts will finish up the season starting on Friday August 21st with Greg Van Houten & Cindy Baxter from 5pm to 7pm. On Saturday August 22 will be the band Blueprint from 1pm to 3pm.

Also this weekend, the Tri-State Fair in Pownal features rides, fireworks, demolition derby, and music. The fair runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday and is located at the old Pownal Race Track on route 7a.

Moosefest continues with over 50+ decorated moose throughout Bennington. Pick up a map at the Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Welcome Center, or at most retail shops and restaurants in downtown.

Ready to beat the heat? Lake Paran in North Bennington is a local favorite. The lake is fed by Paran Creek, a fine cold-running trout stream that keeps water temperatures pleasantly cool. Hope to see you in The Shires!

Music and Events this weekend!

2009-07-23T12:40:00.002-04:00

First of all, Downtown Bennington is continuing it's Summerfest of concerts under the tent on Main Street. This weekend the schedule is:

Friday July 24th - The Prescription 5pm-7pm

Awesome Rock –n- Roll

Saturday July 25th - Dafe Brundajo 1pm-3pm

Cool Jazz

Saturday July 25th - Immune Friction 5pm-7pm

High Energy Rock

Moosefest continues in Bennington as well, a street art festival featuring over 50 decorated moose.

Also this weekend, check out the Shires Maple Festival at Colgate Park, West Road, in Bennington this Saturday and Sunday.

Always a lot going on in The Shires! Hope to see you this weekend.

Midnight Madness and Weekend Music

2009-07-16T09:51:00.002-04:00

Sorry for the short notice, but if you are in (or near) Bennington tonight, you don't want to miss MIDNIGHT MADNESS, a town-wide sale that starts at 7 pm and ends at midnight. This event has been going on for decades and is a very popular shopping event.

This weekend there is a lot happening with music here in the Shires of Vermont (Manchester - Bennington). On friday, check out Alex Torres and his latin orchestra at Hildene. For tickets, see www.vtartxchange.org.

Also starting tonight is Summerfest, downtown Bennington's summer concert series. The kickoff will be tonight with a live radio broadcast by WBTN from downtown, and Friday has the Kirsten Thien band, followed by Caught in the Act and The Talleys on Saturday. For a complete listing check out www.betterbennington.com

I'm always amazed at the amount of events, live music, cultural attractions, shopping, and just plain fun to be had in The Shires... hope to see you there!

Events for the 4th of July

2009-07-02T10:54:00.001-04:00

Here are some July 4 weekend celebration events for southern VT... enjoy!

Bennington -- July 4 - Old Time 4th Celebration and Reading of the Declaration of Independence
Celebrate the Fourth of July with old time fun on the lawn of the Bennington Monument with colonial music, games, and activities for children. In keeping with the annual tradition, the Reading of the Declaration of Independence with local actor Willy Jones will take place at 1:00 PM.
Fireworks: Willow Park (9pm?) Bennington

Brattleboro -- July 3 & 4- Music & Fireworks under the stars at Grafton Ponds
Friday: Superb music performed by the Vermont Symphony Orchestra, followed by dazzling fireworks under the stars at idyllic Grafton Ponds. Saturday: Various Independence Day events and festivities on Main Street and Living Memorial Park.

Manchester Center -- July 4 -The Manchester 4th of July Celebration
Held at the Dana L. Thompson Recreation Center in Manchester Center. This event includes a 5K Fun Run, food, music, demonstrations, soccer game and fireworks.

Wardsboro -- July 4 - Street Fair and 4th of July Parade
Southern Vermont's oldest Independence Day celebration happens again along Main Street followed by a vibrant street fair with 50 vendors!

Wilmington -- July 4 - The 32nd Annual 4th of July Mount Snow Area Fireworks
The Independence Day celebrations starts at 6:00 p.m. with a party, live entertainment and vendors at Baker Field, Twin Valley High School. The evening culminates with a spectacular Fireworks display at dusk - 9:00 p.m.

Stratton -- Bluegrass Festival and Fourth of July Celebration at Stratton Mountain Resort
Join us Fourth of July Weekend for our eighth annual Bluegrass Festival and Fourth of July Celebration. We'll celebrate our country's independence with fireworks and and live music from your favorite bluegrass performers. And sticking with the spirit of the holiday, admission is free.

Saxton's River 4th of July – Saxton's River, VT (taken from http://www.vermonthi.com/events.html)
"For a true small town experience, celebrate your 4th in Saxton's River. This quaint town of just over 500 residents puts on quite a show for this big day. A long parade of floats, fire trucks, musicians and street performers is capped off with kids on their bicycles and proceeds down a Main Street lined with carnival games and street vendors. Saxton's River's 4th is also known for its chicken barbeque, volunteer fire fighter water polo, a community dance and, of course, fireworks. Not to be missed, especially for a family with young children - any kid with a bike is free to participate in the parade! http://www.sover.net/~falklorn/saxtons.html "
Sadelle's own note... For a real small town vermont experience, this is one of the best July 4th celebrations I've ever experienced, complete with and up close fireworks! Wonderful small town FUN parade! I think things begin around 9am... best to call or email (802) 463-4280 info@gfrcc.org

Welcome back SUN!

2009-06-25T10:46:00.003-04:00

After a very rainy week, it looks like we'll have some sun for this weekend (but still bring your raincoat, there may be some thunderstorms on Saturday). The wild strawberries have really benefitted from all the rain and so far the blackberries and raspberries are on track for a really good harvest.

The fishing was terrific last Sunday at Somerset Reservoir! Somerset is a wonderful, very large lake in the southern section of the Green Mountain National Forest. Very scenic! Great lake for paddling, and motor boats are allowed as well. Somerset Reservoir is located off Route 9 between Wilmington and Bennington.

Here's some happenings this weekend:

Bennington Pet Fest

When: Sat, June 27, 10am – 2pm

Where: The River Walk at Bennington Station Restaurant

Description: Exhibitors and vendors. Second Chance Animal Center's Pet Fest will offer all sorts of fun ways to explore, celebrate and strenghten the bonds between people and their pets.

Progressive Dinner

When: Sat, June 27, 5:30pm – 9:30pm

Where: St James Church, Arlington

DescriptionCelebrate Summer at a progressive dinner 5 pm Hors d'oeuvres under the tent at St James 6:30 pm Dinner in private homes. Different menu at each home 8:30 pm Dessert finale at St James $25 per person. Reservations required. Call St James Church 375-9952 or Joanna 375-9330. Or mail check made payable to St James Church to St James Church, PO Box 25, Arlington, VT 05250

June Arts Closing Party: Shirley Jackson Day Continued

WhenSat, June 27, 6pm – 8pm

WhereNorth Bennington Firehouse

Description: Music by two of Shirley Jackson's talented children, Laurence and Barry Hyman, along with a group of their long-time musical friends. Dinner after may be arranged by Pangaea or Pangaea Lounge www.benningtonarts.com

Woodbinde Medieval Band

When: Sun, June 28, 2pm – 4pm

Where: Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 108 School St, Bennington

Description: Music for a Summer's Day performed on bowed psaltery, gemshorn, hurdy-gurdy, fortholt, medieval harp, rebec, recorders, viola da gamba and other instruments. www.benningtonarts.com

Ethan Allen Days

2009-06-19T12:03:00.002-04:00

This weekend (June 20 and 21) is Ethan Allen Days Colonial Fair at Colgate Park in Bennington! Battle reenactments, kid activities, demonstrations, food, and beer tent. The battle reenactment is at 2 pm on Saturday, and 1 pm on Sunday. Great event for the whole family. I'll be there!

If you are in town Friday June 19... check out the concert also at Colgate Park, located on Route 9 west of Bennington downtown.

for more info visit their website!

Get outside! But take precautions...

2009-05-28T10:13:00.003-04:00

It's been a rainy week, but the weather for this weekend looks like it will be very nice! This is a wonderful time of year to get outside in Vermont, and here's a few tips for you.

Trout Fishing is in full swing! We have lots of wonderful trout fishing spots to discover. I personally recommend the Walloomsac River in Bennington. Not only is the fishing very good, but the three covered bridges make for very scenic surroundings. There are good access points for fishing at both the Silk Road Covered Bridge and the Henry Bridge. The Papermill Bridge is less accessible. All three bridges are located off Route 67A between Bennington and North Bennington. I'd be remiss if I did not also mention the world famous Battenkill River in Manchester and Arlington. This is often more crowded than the Walloomsac, but often worth it. While you are up that way, you might want to visit ORVIS in Manchester and the American Museum of Fly Fishing. Both are located on route 7A south of Manchester Center.

Hiking is one of my favorite activities. While the leaves are fully out in the valleys, in the mountain tops you'll still see spring flowers and the leaves have that "new green" color that I love. One nice hike is to Harmon Hill. This hike starts with a very steep ascent, but then moderates to a more comfortable hike to an open hilltop with terrific views of Bennington and Mount Anthony. The trailhead is located east of Bennington on Route 9. Look for the Long Trail sign and follow the trail South.

Wherever adventure takes you in Vermont... remember to bring plenty of bug repellent. The blackflies (small biting insects) can be very fierce this time of year. Deer ticks are another pest to watch out for. These ticks are smaller than the more common dog tick... the smallest not much bigger than a speck. These ticks may carry Lyme Disease, which is easily treatable in it's early stages but can become chronic if not caught in time. Using insect repellent will discourage ticks as well, but if you do find one on you don't panic. A tick has to have been attached to you for more than 24 hours for there to be any significant risk of transmittal of the disease. It's a ritual in our family to check nightly for ticks (you don't need to go hiking to pick them up... they are everywhere!) and pull off any we find.

Bennington Moosefest is underway!

2009-05-21T10:07:00.002-04:00

Tuesday night was the unveiling for the 50+ decorated moose and hundreds of people came to celebrate and see all the moose in one place. They look amazing! Make sure you plan a trip to Bennington this summer to see them. The Bennington Moosefest continues right through October.

On another note, this Saturday May 23 is Mayfest in Bennington. The Main Street in Downtown Bennington will be closed to traffic for this annual street festival event. Crafts, music, food, and entertainment - very family friendly. See you there!

First Moosefest Event!

2009-05-14T12:26:00.003-04:00

In 2005, a herd of 57 painted moose came to Bennington...

This year they are back! And this time, they brought their families!

The event features over 50 painted bull, cow, and calf moose that will be on display throughout Bennington from May through October.

The full moose herd unveiling is this coming Tuesday, May 19, at the Bennington Brush Building on North Street. For more information visit the Bennington Moosefest website!

Apple Blossoms & Mother's Day

2009-05-07T12:56:00.002-04:00

Apple Blossoms

Happily we've gotten a few days of much needed rain, and natures is responding with an explosion of new green growth! In particular, the apple blossoms are now in full bloom and are filling the air with their sweet scents. If you are in the Bennington area, try taking a drive on Carpenter Hill Road (about 1 mile south of Bennington's four corners downtown on Route 7) to see the apple orchards in full bloom. The orchard owners had to install fencing to keep out the deer, so you can't wander about, but just the effect from the road is gorgeous. The lilacs are also in bloom, and you can see literally HUNDREDS of lilac bushes while following the John Dostal Lilac Trail in Bennington. Visit the Downtown Welcome Center in Bennington (located just south of four corners in Downtown Bennington) for more information.

Happy Mother's Day!

How about taking mom out to Vermont for dinner? Many area restaurants are offering specials, and you might want to call ahead to see if reservations are needed. The Hawkins House craftsmarket in Bennington is having a sale 10-30% off storewide to celebrate Mother's Day (pick a jelly bean, the color of the bean wins you a discount of 10 to 30% off your purchase!)

The Rybrook Tavern is having their Grand Opening this weekend! They are located on Harwood Hill (the old "Hunter's Tavern") on Route 7A in Bennington. I hope to get up there to try it out myself. Good luck to them.