My wife Jo Anne and I just returned from a 4 day vacation with some friends in Manchester Vermont. Manchester is located in rustic southern end of the state amid the Green Mountains – an impressive array of tree covered peaks absent microwave or cell towers. And, it’s home to rustic towns with friendly locals. Several challenging golf courses invite the player to take in the gorgeous views between striking golf balls. The shopping is worth the trip too: the Vermont Country Store as well as Orvis outlet store are for real. Art galleries and woodworking shops are bountiful. Oh, don’t forget the numerous Ben & Jerry ice cream stores – I think their new “turtle cheese cake” ice cream is the best ever. Since we can drive Vermont in about 4 ½ hours, I think Jo Anne and I will be back.

Thomas M. Riddle
President, VNFA