Happy New Years

Hope everyone is enjoying one of the best holiday weeks weather wise that we have had in many years!! Night temsp in the mid 20's and day temps in the high 30's. Some snow tonight, maybe 3-5" and than the potential of a big storm on Sunday. Crowds are pleantiful, skiing is great and restaurants are booming!

If you are looking for some family fun for New Years Eve you might check out the following:

Music
Grace Potter

Ring in the new year Monday night at Higher Ground with local, rising-star rockers Grace Potter and the Nocturnals. They're in town for three shows this weekend, but the first two are already sold out. Alt-country heartthrob Lowell Thompson opens on NYE.
Both Potter and Thompson appeared on covers of Seven Days in 2007. Music Editor Dan Bolles went on a 'date' with Potter last August. And former Music Editor Casey Rea profiled Thompson in March.
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, Friday, December 28 (sold out), Saturday, December 29 (sold out), and Monday, December 31. Higher Ground, South Burlington. See website for ticket info, times and prices.
forward to a friend

New Year's
First Night

First Night is a family-friendly way to celebrate the end of the year. On Monday, you can pick from three alcohol-free arts fests in Northern and Central Vermont. They feature a dizzying array of performances -- including, in Burlington, the FOOLZ, a pair of slapstick comics. There's also a fireworks show at 7 p.m. in the Queen City, for the kids -- and adults -- who won't make it until midnight.
First Night, Monday, December 31, Burlington, Montpelier and St. Johnsbury. See website for schedules and prices

ENJOY!!!!!!

Snow Update

Thought I would give you an accounting of the storm of yesterday. At my house, from 3AM Sunday until late Sunday evening we received about 23 inches. The wind blew very hard during the night last night so the total may be more but I shoveled one area at 8AM Sunday and that area had 20" in the path this morning.

Skiing is killer and you need to be here if you want to enjoy. Everything is open, all lifts and trails are in mid season condition and the snowbanks in the village are higher than any time I can remember in the last decade except for last Valentine's Day.

Hope you ahve the opportunity to enjoy Stowe this holiday season and if so please stop in the office and say hello.

Snow Update

Wow!!, Skiied this morning but got there late, about 945AM and thought most of the good stuff would be skiied off BUT was I wrong. It was one of the best days in years, and it started snowing about noon time.

All trails & lifts on the mountain will be opened tomorrow and for the rest of the year we assume with the exception of the Sensation Qud which will open sometime during this up coming mid week in time for next weekend. That means everything will be open for the holidays, something that has been unusual in recent years.

Projection is more snow for parts of 4 of the upcoming seven days but no large dump. That's great and with the temperatures which have been below 30 degrees for most of thed month the company has been making snow non-stop to set up the base for the real stuff.

Will try to update again on Monday. In the meantime if you need a rental for Xmas you better hurry, very limited supply left. Check out www.StoweRealtyRentals.com and you may find something that will fit you needs. If not call Kim Rushford in the office at 802-253-8484 and she will try very hard to assist you.

If you are not going to be in Stowe for the holidays I hope you enjoy the season anyhow. If you are in town stop by and say hello

Snow Update

Below is an update from the ski area which arrived on my desk about 3PM, Monday.


It's been snowing steadily & heavily at Stowe all day. The storm is projected to last into early Tuesday morning with "significant" accumulations--well over a foot, possibly closer to two feet. What a start to the season! We opened several trails today, and probably a bunch more on Tuesday. You definitely want to be here at Stowe for this first major winter storm of the season! (Want us to write you an excuse slip?) We have 3 rails set up on Ridgeview.

SNOW!!!!!!!

Want to go skiing. Stowe is the place to be. It started snowing about 1AM, Tuesday and by 8AM we had 8 inches at my house which is the same elevation as the parking lots at the ski area. About the same time we had 5 inches in the village at my office, Stowe Realty.

It is predicted that it will snow through Wednesday and total snow fall will be about 14-18 inches which could mean 24-30 on the mountain.

I will post a new photo this afternoon on the front page of our rental web site at www.StoweRealtyRentals.com. If you haven't made reservations for the Xmas holidays yet you should do so soon. We have had about 35 houses rented within the past two weeks and only have a few more options for the holiday. We have talked with a number of Condo complexes this morning and most of them are fully booked.

By the way, the new snowfall is on top of an already much higher than average snowfall for November and skiing has been great since before Thanksgiving.

Skiing Update

I skied this weekend with my 11 year old grand daughter. It was fantastic but by 1030AM the crowds were wild, parking lot full, sunny, about 25 degrees and great skiing. On our web site we will post a photo taken Monday of the mountain and last night, Tuesday night/wednesday morning the mountain received about 8 inches of powder. I couldn't make it to the mountain but a client expressed his opinion by 'Oh Wow!!!'. I will ski tomorrow morning and give you an update.

Crowds are small, weather is cold enough for man made and mother nature has been very good to us so far. I have had to plow the driveway two times so far this year. I plowed the second time in late December last year.

Vacation?

The following information has been reprinted from the Stowe Mountain Resorft newletter. They also annouced that they have received 6-10" of natural snow this week and snowmaking has been on all week with temps in the 20's each night. They plan to open on November 21 or earlier. Temperature forecasts for the rest of the month seem favorable for continued snowmaking.



2007/2008 Vacation Rewards Program: For anyone planning a trip to Stowe this season, the best value is our Vacation Rewards Program. The way to save is simple; purchase multi-day lift tickets at least seven days in advance and save 15%; including additional benefits like free rentals, lessons, kids tickets and program discounts. Best of all, there are no date restrictions all season long.

Things to Do, Nov 2007

Among the things to do in Stowe between Nov 1 & Nov 14 are the following:
Tonight, Nov 3 is the Hall of Fame celebration of the Mt. Mansfield Ski Club which starts at 530PM at the Midway Lodge. Lots of fun, huge silent auction and honoring the late Peter Ruschp, who for over 30 years headed the ski school program on Mt. Mansfield.
Nov 9, 6-10PM. Stowe Education Fund Barn Dance & chilli cook off fun raiser!!! Call 253-9900 for information
Every Thursday night is Gallery night. Ten leading art galleries remain open late so the public can visit after work.
Nov 15 at 7Pm Film Festival at the Helen Day Art Center with the showing of "One: The Movie".
Nov 7, book signing with author Shawn Kerivan at 730PM at the Stowe Free Library.
Nov 12: Vermont Ski Museum: at 330Pm "Memories of the 10th Mt. Division"

Skiing should start about the 17th, weather is turning cold and snow making has begun so the mountain should open on time. Hope you are planning to enjoy Stowe during the early season skiing which generally is some of the finest, certainly the warmest until March and usually not crowded.

During the winter I will try to post at least every other day and let you know what conditions are like as I ski at least 4 mornings a week, sometimes more.

Things to Do

WOW!!! Was foliage great!! BUT it was two weeks late. The town was almost full this past weekend and those that here got a treat with super color and temperatures in the high 60's.

Today is 75 degrees.

What to do now that foliage is winding down and skiing will not open until Nov. 21, Mother Nature cooperating. Well for this week we have the Fall Ghost Stories & History, a wlaking tour under candle light of the Historic Stowe village & buildings with sotries about the early settlers. This goes on Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat nights at 8PM until October 30. check out their web site at www.StoweLanternTours.com

Things to Do

OCTOBERFEST:

Stowe's 11th annual Octoberfest gets underway at 10AM, Saturday, Sept. 29 with a parade through the village over to the Jackson Ice Arena which will be transformed into a Babarian Village. At 11AM Burgermeister Ken Schumann will "tap" his 11th consecutive Stowe Rotary Octoberfest Keg" and the weekend will be underway. In addition to lots of outstanding food & music there is a Silent Auction & Raffle, Children's Activities, Oompah Bands, Dancing & FUN!!!

All the money raised is for scholarships to local students for college and awards to local non-profit organizations. In 2006 that totaled about $70,000.00

Come one and all and enjoy an exciting weekend PLUS it appears foliage will be at about 70% of peak by that weekend.

Happenings at the Mountain

Sept. 15: Live Music at the Spruce Peak Plaza Lowell Thompson - 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
September 15: Pete's Greens Summit Series Dinner Cliff House event. 6-9 p.m. Call 802-253-3665 for tickets.
September 29: Vermont Game Summit Series Dinner Cliff House event. 6-9 p.m. Call 802-253-3665 for tickets.
Today through October 15: Toll Road and Gondola Remain Open Daily. Columbus Day weekend is the end of the season for summer attractions.
October 26: Deadline for Early Season Pass Purchase Discounts. Buy your season's pass by this date to take advantage of substantial discounts being offered. Call 1-888-253-4849 for more details.
November 24: First Trick Rail Jam. From frozen turkeys to costumes bring it all to the 1st event of the new season. Details at (802)253-3000.

Fudge Festival

Fri, Sep 14th - Sun, Sep 16th Fudge Festival Celebrate all things English with a fudge festival! Laughing Moon Chocolates will be making traditional English fudges such as Penuchi and Rum Raisin on Friday, September 14th and serving samples all weekend long. Open Laughing Moon will be offering a selection of fudge samples as well as fudge dipped in chocolate and fudge crumbles on ice cream. Bring your British Invasion Car Show Pass for a free piece of fudge dipped in chocolate (one per person, while supplies last).Times: daily from 9am to 6pm Location: Laughing Moon Chocolates on Depot Street in Stowe Village More Info: 802-253-9591

British Invasion

Fri, Sep 14th - Sun, Sep 16th The British Invasion New England's largest all British classic and sports car show plus British cultural activities, shops, crafts, Auto Jumble and Car Corral. The British Invasion has evolved to become one of the Top Ten Events in Vermont. The participants are primarily from the US and Canada with over 600 cars on field, and approximately 1000 total. This event is "A Four Day Celebration and Salutation to the Great British Motorcar and all manner of other things British."Admission: $15.00 for a two day pass.
Website: www.britishinvasion.com

Antique Car Parade this weekend

This weekend is the 50th annual Stowe Antique Car Parade & Rally. The cars will begin arriving Thursday, gather at Nichols Field Friday and hold the parade Saturday. Over 1000 cars will be in the parade including (apparently) the car Ed Sachs raced from the pole in the 1961 Indy 500 and in which he finished 2nd. Rumor says a 1962 car that AJ Foyt raced at Indy will also be present but I am not sure.

On Sunday all the cars are lined up by class at Nichols Field at 9AM for judging and about 1-2PM the winner of Best of Show will be announced and displayed.

If you have ever liked looking at old cars you need to be in Stowe on Saturday & Sunday.

Stowe's Famous Recreation Path

Here in Stowe, it's known simply as "The Rec Path" and if you haven't explored it yet you will want to put it on your list of things to do in any season. The nearly six mile path starts out above Top Notch and continues through woods and farm fields, eventually crossing the Mountain Road and beyond until it ends behind the church in Stowe Village.

There are plenty of Stowe businesses along the way, including Gracie's Restaurant and the Rusty Nail, where you can enjoy lunch or dinner before finishing your stroll or bike ride.

My most recent trip along the path started at the top, where I was dropped off and ended at the Main Street Market & Deli, where I enjoyed a delicious homemade muffin and a cup of steaming coffee as my reward.

Dogs are allowed, as are bikes, which are easily rented at several locations in Stowe.

Happy Stowe Vacation!

Fed Cup Update

The weekend of July 14-15 is the Fed Cup. Stowe is buzzing, tennis stadium is about finished, all tickets are sold out but some are available through eBay plus some hotel packages are still available.

Even if you don't have tickets to the matches it will be a great weekend to be in Stowe, lots of events surrounding the tournament. Also many volunteers are needed to make this work and you can volunteer and likely get to see some tennis. If you want more information click the Fed Cup link on our rental web site at www.StoweRealtyRentals.com.

Stowe's New Brickhouse Studios Gallery

We'd like to extend a welcome to Stowe's new Brickhouse Studios Gallery, located in the Gracie's Building on the Mountain Road. Photographer and owner John Churchman's work is featured, along with many other talented photographers, including Peter Miller.

Stop by after a meal at Gracies and browse the collection. This is a great place to pick up a souvenier of your trip to Vermont. For more information contact john@brickhousestudios.com or call (802)253-2100.

While you're at it, visit Vermont Fine Arts Gallery in the Gale Farm Shopping Center to see Carolyn Walton's painting which is featured on the cover of the current issue of Stowe Magazine. You'll be pleasantly surprised to see the whole thing (it's a horizontal painting, but is croppped for the cover). The gallery features work by several Vermont artists, including Elizabeth Allen, Carolyn Walton and Peter Miller (the painter, not the photographer). For information visit http://www.vermontfineartgallery.com/ or call Elizabeth Prior at (802)253-9653.

Stowe Vacation Story 1

A Stowe Vacation Story from the O'Connells of Ivyland, PA - Guests at Ginger House during the now famous Valentine's Day Storm of 2007.

We'd like to tell you about the best vacation ever. Of course, it was in Stowe. We came the second week of February 2007 to enjoy cross country skiing and snowshoeing. We went to Trapp and skied through some of the most beautiful woodland scenes we could have imagined. We snowshoed the Recreation Path, all 5.5 miles of it.

Then, we were lucky enough to be snowed in on Valentine's Day in a romantic log cabin. That was the day of the blizzard, the second largest snowfall in Stowe history!! You can bet we'll be back for more next year!
Susan and Bill O'Connell
Ivyland, PA

Fed Cup Housing

The Fed Cup is set to go on July 13 & 14. Housing is quickly becoming desired and many hotels are already showing as sold out between the Fed Cup and other normal summer activities, weddings & etc.

Stowe Realty has a number of private homes, condos and etc which are available but we also have experienced a higher than normal request rate for July so if you are interested in seeing the Williams sisters represent the USA against the best players Russia has to offer please make your reservations ASAP. You can view properties available on our web site at www.StoweRealtyRentals.com.

Hope to see you in Stowe in July.

World Class Tennis Returns to Stowe

See article below from the Burlington Free Press, make plans and call for us to assist you with rental space.

World-class tennis returns to Stowe
Published: Wednesday, May 16, 2007By Ted RyanFree Press Staff Writer

Several of the world's finest women's tennis players will put their skills on display in Vermont when the United States and Russia compete in a Federation Cup semifinal at Topnotch Resort and Spa in Stowe on July 14-15. The United States Tennis Association made the announcement Tuesday, marking the return of elite tennis to Stowe for the first time since the 1980s, when the Head Classic men's tournament brought such stars as Jimmy Connors, Ille Nastase and Ivan Lendl to the Green Mountains. The competition's rosters could include Venus and Serena Williams and reigning U.S. Open champion Maria Sharapova.

This is a major event which will set the tone for the summer. Rooms will go fast so don't wait.
Ken Libby

End of Ski Season

The Stowe Mountain Resort confirmed this afternoon that Sunday the 29th of April will be the last day for the lifts to run. Snow is still deep on the mountain but with about 5 days over 50 of which two exceeded 75 degrees this week the snow is melting quickly. The forecast for this weekend is cloudy with few showers and temps in the high 50's to low 60's. This means early morning will be the best time to ski and ride, unless you like real soft snow.
Either way skiing should be excellent early each day. this past weekend it was OUTSTANDING. I skiied Thursday, Friday & Sunday and each day just got better.
At this time the golf course is scheduled to open May 5. The time between seasons this year will be short as it should be. Golf in the early part of the year is great, no one on the course so you can try a redo if you wish most of the time.

Spring has Sprung

Well, spring has finally arrived. Skiing still great, made 6 runs Thursday & 4 Friday. Need to get there early before the sun hits it hard. Temperatures at 8AM was 38 and at noon it is 71. Mountain will close on or after the 29th of April. At this time there is more snow at this late date than I have seen in 20+ years. The entire mountain could be operating if the business was here.
If you are planning a vacation this summer let Stowe Realty know and we can give you information about dates of special events, what the weather will likely be like (somewhat of a guess based on past performance) and other happenings.
Please let us know if we can help you in any way. Hope your vacation is a pleasant one!!!!

Spring in Stowe

Snow keeps coming and it looks like the Sugar Houses will operate until July. Wow, what great skiing for early April.

Sugaring Season in Full Swing

We are in the middle of a week of perfect sugaring weather. Cold nights & warm days make the sap run and it is great now and pedicted to stay this way for most of the upcoming week.
We have the New England Regional Conferece in Stowe starting Sunday until Tuesday. I could not have asked for better weather for the visitors. About 200 will enjoy a reception with Elisabeth Von Trapp starting the conference off with 45 minutes of great music.
Hope you have had the opportunity to enjoy Stowe is winter. If not consider visiting one of the most beautiful spots on earth this summer. When summer is high activities abound and we all enjoy Camp Stowe.

Happy St. Patty's Day

In keeping with the habit of major snow storms on holidays this year, as of 7AM Stowe had 12-18 inches on the mountain, about 15 inches at my house and snowing hard. This is set up spring skiing to well after Easter. Plan to spend Easter in Stowe.
I haven't updated in a few days as i am in Buffalo watching the NCAA tournament. Saw Duke lose on Thursday night and will watch Pitt against VCU this PM. I have a 27-5 record in the first round and have Pitt, Ohio St., Florida & Georgetown in the final four with Florida beating Ohio St in the finals.
Enjoy St. Patty's day!!!

Spring Skiing & Riding

Only 40 degrees today with a little coudy on top but what a fantastic day of skiing. Still 84 inches of snow at the gauge on top of the mountain and big crowds for this time of year.
If you enjoy good skiing get to Stowe in the next 3-4 weeks. Tomorrow is perdicted to be sunny & in the 40's so we will enjoy.
Ken Libby

Spring is coming, Maple Syrup can not be far behind

Today is cold but predicted to be the last really cold night of the year. They are saying record lows tonight which means below -25.
Starting tomorrow morning we have a warming trend and Saturday night will be in the 20's with sundays temps in the 40's. This will likely start the sap run and the forecast through all of next week is similiar. That means boiling will start in the sugar houses and skiing will start towards spring skiing. That is an awesome combination and with the amount of snow we have the Stowe Sugar Slalom race, to be held April 7 & 8, will be one of the best in years as long as it is a sunny day.
For more information on the race go to the Vermont Alping Racing Association's web page at
http://vara.org/news/eventcalendar.asp

And it just keeps snowing

6-8 inches at my house in the last 24 hours and flurries to continue for a couple of days, temps today in the 30's. Great powder skiing this morning and it should continue to be good. Temps cold next few nights but warming towards next weekend.
Ya'll come and enjoy!!!!
Ken Libby

Time to Catch Up

Sorry for not updating for a few days. I went on a business trip out of state and couldn't remember my password. Old age apparently catching up.
Got back on Monday and the weather has been so great I went skiing. Last 3 days, Sunny, temps in the 30's and snow conditions best in years. Forecast for a foot or more starting tonight and lasting through Friday late afternoon.
This weeks events:
The TD Banknorth New England Bill Koch League Festival - Fri, Mar 2nd - Sun, Mar 4th at Trapp Family Lodge Touring Center
Stowe Snowmobile Tours! - Offering two hour guided tours. We have great trail conditions! info@stowesnowmobiletours.com802-253-6221. www.stowesnowmobiletours.comFOR MORE go to http://gostowe.com/home/thisweek.php
Rental of homes & condos continues to be strong through early March as vacationers make up for the slow start of the season. Interested in coming to Stowe give us a shout out on our web site or by phone at 800-639-1812
Ken Libby

Spring Skiing, Summer Plans & Maple Syrup

Skied 10 runs today, weather was great, about 27 degrees and overcast. The sun will be with us tomorrow and 35 degrees.
Talk in the air about maple sap run which all the farmers are getting ready for. They are in their sugar woods making sure the taps and lines did not get damaged during the storms last week. Give us about 3 days of 40 degree weather and it will start running. Could be within the next week but likely will be the middle to end of March.
If you have never visited a syrup making operation you should put it on your list of things to do. If you want suggestions of where to visit give me a shout out.
Its not to early to start to think about summer vacation in Stowe. If you want to rent for a month or two, which many people do, please plan ahead and give us a call or email.
Ken Libby

Suggestions for quick dinner

Today I am going to give you a break from the snow forecast except to tell you that it has been snowing hard since day break and it will probably be 5-7 inches on the mountain before dark.
Last night a group from the office went to the Lucky King Chinese Restaurant which is located in the Baggy Knee's Shopping Center. They feature a great buffet which for the adults was $8.95, all you can eat. Yound kids eat for $.80 per year of age. Our two year old ate enough for most adults for $1.60. If you want a quick dinner give it a try. They also feature a buffet at lunch for $5.95, all you can eat.
The phone is still busy. Getting a significant number of rental bookings for March when the temperatures are generally warmer, snow will be excellent and crowds will be reduced. If you live within 8-10 hrs driving time you should be here the first week of March.
Ken Libby

Saturdays Snow Report

Below is the snow report issued today from the mountain. You notice that they say 5 feet of new snow this week. I can tell you from experience that they are correct. It is wild and fantastic skiing & riding. Went snowshoeing this morning and even with snowshoes the snow was over my knees.
Come and Enjoy!!!
ATTENTION, PLEASE! AVALANCHE WARNING! Stowe Mountain Rescue has issued an advisory that anybody considering travel in the backcountry should be alert to extemely high avalanche danger, due to the recent heavy snowfall. With continued cold temperatures forecast, it is expected these conditions will continue through the weekend into next week. Welcome to the Presidents Day Holiday Week at Stowe Mountain Resort! And we welcome everyone to our two incredible mountains - Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak. Our slopes have been covered with incredible amounts of snow over the last month, about FIVE FEET of which has fallen just this week! Welcome to the best conditions of the year at the Skiing and Riding Capital of the East - Stowe! Make sure to check out the great base lodge entertainers, and be at Midway Lodge Saturday night at 7pm for Torchlight Parade & Fireworks. The weather looks great for the weekend, with some sun, seasonal temps and a chance for more snow to freshen things up. All of our terrain is open, including all of our glades. In the freestyle terrain realm, we have 3 parks on Mansfield (Tyro Large, Standard Medium and North Slope Medium), a rail park (5th Avenue- off top of Triple) and smaller learning features on Spruce for aspiring freestylers. Lift Times: Over Easy 7am - 5pm, FourRunner Quad 7:30am - 4pm, Gondola 8:30am - 4pm, All Other Lifts 9am - 4pm (Adventure Triple 4:30pm)
Ken Libby

Events for next few weeks on Mt.

Here is a list of some of the upcoming on mountain events for Stowe!
February 17 Torchlight Parade & Fireworks Watch skiers and riders come down Gondolier in a torchlit procession and enjoy fireworks afterwards.February 24 MMSC Mogul Event Junior competition which will take place on the Slalom Hill at Spruce.February 25 Stowe Derby - The legendary Stowe Derby is the nation's oldest downhill X-C race. (802)253-7704.February 27 Stowe Ski Bum Race GS team race this week on the Slalom Hill at Spruce, 11:30am. Info: 253-7704.February 28 Women's Wednesdays Sign up for Stowe's heralded women's only instructional program. (800)253-4754.March 3-5 Women in Motion III The third edition of Stowe's popular program. Women coaching women in skiing & snowboarding under the watchful eye of Kristi Robertson, a veteran NSIA pro. This clinic gives a great opportunity for women to enjoy three days of focussed instruction with peers.March 6 Stowe Ski Bum Race The next ski bum team race is a Super-G starting on lower Smuggler's at Spruce. 11:30am. Info: 253-7704
Ken Libby

Storm of a Life time

Would you believe over 40 inches in 24 hours? The Governor stated this morning that this apparently is the largest snowfall in one 24 hour period in Vermont's history.

Lots of calls today from President Week's vacationers asking if the roads are passable. YES they are and with another 24 hours of work they will be excellent. The only suggestion is be careful on city streets as cars coming out of parking lots can not see around the snowbanks and may surprise you as you drive by.
Stowe Mountain Resort has issue an avalanche warning for the back country which is the first time I have ever seen that. The last time I can recall a storm larger than this is the winter of 1968-69 and again in 1969-70 BUT those storms were over 3-5 days. This all came down from 4AM Wednesday until 1AM today. The walkway at my office in the village is over my waist and I am 6 foot tall.
Skiing, riding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling will be the best in years over the next few weeks AND GUESS WHAT, the long range forecast says we are going to have another Northeaster coming on Friday next week, the 23rd.

Snow Forecasted for Holiday Weekend

THREE FEET IN THE VILLAGE AND FOUR FEET ON THE MOUNTAIN!!!!
That is the forcast this morning for a storm to begin tomorrow, Wednesday about 3AM and finishing about noon on Thursday. The forecaster said he might be off by 6 inches which means we will receive the best snow fall we have received in one storm since 1993.
This will set up the holiday week which begins on Saturday for the most outstanding skiing and riding that we have had in years. The public seems to be aware of it as our rental division had four calls yesterday for rentals beginning Saturday, talk about last minute shopping.
Come to Stowe and have fun this week. All the Stowe Mt. Resort ski shops will be having sales also during the week.

Stowe Weekend of Hope

May 4-6, 2007 is the Stowe Weekend of Hope which is a celebration of life & learning for cancer survivors and those who love them.
This is year seven(7) that Stowe has hosted this outstanding event. The weekend provides of 30 medical talks & workshops on the latest research in the field, wellness sessions, intensive workshop by cancer type, an inspirational candlelight servce, opening & closing ceremonies featuring will known cancer advocates and the beautiful surroundings of Stowe for shopping, recreation and sightseeing. Stowe provides somplimentary acommodations for first time attendees & discounted accomdations for returning participants. Last year it attracted over 1000 visitors.
If you subscribe to Vermont Life you will find a great article on Page 16 of the new Spring 2007 edition which arrived in my mail box today.
You can learn more at www.StoweHope.org or by calling 802-253-7321.

Snow & more snow

I had to travel to Brandon, Vermont this morning to show an Inn & Restaurant to a client. Left Stowe with about 5-6 inches of fresh snow overnight and drove in sunshine for the first hour but the last 45 minutes was in snow flurries. Trip back was on snow covered back roads over the mountain into the Sugarbush Valley area of Vermont and than back North to Stowe. Once back here I had to wash the car and get ready for more snow tonight and tomorrow morning, than turning cold for two days. End of the week should be outstanding.
I will ski tomorrow, Sunday, morning and will post conditions but if you look at the comments of SkiSheba attached to my post about the special pricing at the mountain yesterday you will see that she (I assume it is a female by the name although I don't know who it is) took advantage of the ticket pricing and had a grand time with outstanding conditions and temperatures in the high 20's.
Ken Libby

Wow, what a week!!!

It started snowing Wed. night & has barely stopped since, total of 13-16"! Breaks down like this: 4-6" by early yesterday morning, 3-4" during the day yesterday, at least 6" more overnight! Powder Day! Come and get it!
That was the ski report this morning on the website of Stowe Mountain Resort. It was windy and temperatures were only 8 degrees BUT on a day with over a foot of new powder you got to go and I did. Wow, what wonderful skiing and what great conditions for the upcoming vacation week.
If you are wondering if you should come to ski during vacation week by all means set asdie whatever you think can wait and come on up, It is as good as it gets right now.
Not able to update the last couple of days as I was in meetings on the road Wed & Thur but things on the hill have been improving every day with 3-4 inches each day. Yesterday morning I had about 6-7 inches at my house, more during the day and an extra four inches this morning.
For another report on conditions you also can go to http://www.stoweinsideline.com/insideline/index.php and see what this writer feels. He skis everyday and does posts on conditions. In the summer he golfs everyday and writes about that.
Ken Libby

Woodchuck Day

Below is Governor Jim Douglas' thoughts about the forecast for 12 more weeks of winter by the Vermont Woodchuck at this mornings event.
Vermont Governor Vetoes Punxsutawney Phil's Forecast Says Vermont Woodchucks Confirm 12 More Weeks of Winter Wonder
Vermonters Celebrate 'Woodchuck Day'
Montpelier, Vt.-Governor Jim Douglas today said his state is vetoing the findings of Punxsutawney Pennsylvania's most famous resident Punxsutawney Phil, an alleged "groundhog" masquerading as a meteorologist.
Reports from Pennsylvania suggest Phil has forecast an early spring, but Vermont begs to differ.
"First, everyone knows that 'groundhogs' are really woodchucks, so I don't know who Phil's fooling," the Governor said. "But more troubling is his prediction for an early spring.
"Our woodchucks know winter," Douglas continued. "And they've confirmed that it will last well into April. We've received a great deal of snow in the last few weeks, with more in the forecast. Now's the time to come on up and enjoy our legendary skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and the many inns, bed and breakfasts and resorts that make Vermont a winter wonderland."
In an elaborate ceremony hosted by The Radio Vermont Group this morning in Waterbury, Vermont, many of the state's woodchucks assembled to confirm winter, at least in Vermont, would last 12 more, snowy weeks.
Asked to comment on Vermont's celebration of Woodchuck Day, Punxsutawney's official Groundhog Day Coordinator Michelle Neal said, "We thought of it first, so Vermonters can bug off."
In a response typical of the state's well-known acerbic wit, Vermonters have designated an official reply to a "Happy Woodchuck Day" salutation. When wished a "Happy Woodchuck Day" Vermonters answer, "bug off."
Much like the Bill Murray gem 'Groundhog Day,' Vermont will be repeatedly waking up to prime winter weather well into April.
Punxsutawney Phil couldn't be reached for comment. However, several locals speaking on the condition of anonymity said, true to his squirrelly roots, he was last seen heading to the snow-covered mountains of Vermont on his snowmobile-packed with his skis, snowboard and snowshoes.
"Well, maybe he didn't see his shadow on Gobbler's Knob, but he's apparently on his way to Vermont to enjoy an extraordinary winter vacation," Governor Douglas said.

Update from the Mountain

Below is the update directly from the mountain which is published two times a day. I copied this one and pasted it in as I was not able to get to the mountain today. Weather is Sunny, about 27 degrees and I was able to wash the car today for the first time and a couple of weeks.
Two-four inches of snow overnight, & it's snowing lightly this morning with additional light accumulations forecasted. The snowy weather should continue off and on for the next few days, with a chance for snow or flurries each day right through the weekend. Surfaces all over the resort should get a nice freshening up with the new snow, making our already great packed powder surfaces that much better! Snowmaking operations continue as we build bases up for the long haul into spring. We'll make snow again tonight on upper Lord and Ridge View on Mount Mansfield.
Remember if you are interested in knowing more about investment opportunities in and around Stowe please contact a member of our staff at www.StoweRealty.com

Good Day from Stowe

Weather is sunny & bright but still about 10 degrees at noon time. A little snow is forecasted for Friday & Saturday evenings which will be good for the trails. Some of the trails are getting polished and could use some good snow.
The weather is suppose to warm over the weekend but get cold again next week. We will ski as much as possible and keep you posted.
It will be time soon to think about your summer vacation plans. If you ahve not experienced Stowe in the summer you should think about that option. Stowe does the majority of it's income in the non-winter months and something is going on in Stowe almost every weekend during the warm months. Within the next few days we will have part of the summer calendar on this site.
Ken Libby

Woodchuck Day

Friday, Feb 2 is the celebration of the first annual Woodchuck Day in Vermont. Nationally it is known as Groundhog Day but if you look up the definition of Gorundhog it reads "Woodchuck".
Vermonters have been known as Woodchucks for years and are proud of it. As part of the celebration the Stowe Mountain Resort will be selling lift tickets for the day at $35.00.
Skiing has been excellent from the ankles down but cold but the neck up. The forecast is for a warming trend starting tomorrow, Tuesday with some light snow fall this weekend. Come and enjoy the start of the 2nd half of what is turning out to be a great skiing and riding season although it started very late.
If you need lodging contact Stowe Realty at www.StoweRealtyRentals.com and we will find something for you. If you are planning to come up for President's Week you should book a house or condo ASAP as the word seems to finally be out that we have great conditions and the phone has been ringing off the hook.
Ken Libby

Upcoming Holiday

Boy, winter started late but it has come with full fury. With the amount of snow we have received in the past two weeks conditions are outstanding. Yesterday was about 30 degrees, sunny and one of those days you live for.
The forecast for the next couple of weeks continues to indicate great snow making weather and a few storms. This bodes well for the President's Week vacation and our phones in the rental division indicates that people are looking forward to being in Stowe for some great skiing & riding.
Feel free to contact us if you ahve any questions about the rest of the winter season. It won't be long before we haul the golf clubs out of the closet and head for the links.
Ken Libby

Whata beautiful day!!

Sunny and about 17 degrees has made for a beautiful day on the mountain and in Stowe in general. In addition, Winter Carnival is in full swing and I will attempt to attach some of the 15 photos I took yesterday of the ice sculptures. Most are truly awesome.
President's week promises to be very busy. Our rental division has been getting numerous calls each day and it doesn't seem to let up which is great. If you want to come to Stowe for President's Week I suggest you plan soon. Ken Libby

Snow Exceeds Predictions

I wrote yesterday that the forecast was for 7-10 inches and maybe as much as 15. Since noon yesterday I have received in excess of 12 inches at my house and another 5-6 is predicted ending late tonight.
The forecast for the next 5 days is Sunny each day with normal temperatures. This will make for OUTSTANDING skiing & riding during Winter Carnival week which started yeaterday.
Come & Enjoy, this is the best of the winter so far!!!!
Photo is from the ice carving competition at last year's Carnival.
Ken Libby

Snowing hard in Stowe, Winter Carnival starts today

It is snowing hard, perdicitions for significant snow fall between Friday morning & Saturday after dark, some say 8-10 inches and somw say maybe 15 inches, depending upon the storm track.
Winter Carnival starts today for 9 days and skiing will be outstanding. The temperature is in the 20's, and suppose to stay low enough all week to keep the ice carvings frozen, snow making working and skiing outstanding. To see a list of all of the carnival events go to: http://gostowe.com/home/thisweek.php#SpecialEvents.
Hope to see you in Stowe and when you are in town stop by for a chat. If you need to rent a house or condo for your visit give us a call.
Ken Libby

Stowe as it is meant to be

The weather is everything Stowe wants. Great snow fall the last two days, total at my house about 6-7 inches, more on the mountain. Temperatures at 5PM about 15 degrees with the forecast not to reach 30 for the rest of the month. That means the powder makers on the mountain will be hard at work every night this month. Conditions for the Stowe Winter Carnival, which starts on Jan 19th for a weekm will be among the best in years for the on hill activites and also for the ice carvings which are always such a hit.
Also, with the weather we should see some excellent skiing & riding for President's week in February. The phones have been active in the rental division for that week most of the last 4 days. www.StoweRealtyRentals.com still has a number of very good homes and condos available to rent for all occassions but suggest you not wait if you have a large group.
If you want to view the full schedule of events for winter carnival go to:
http://gostowe.com/home/thisweek.php#SpecialEvents

Calling In Stuck...

Have you been saving up your sick days? Because, it's here, it's here, it's here! The snow is falling and it's predicted to stay cold for the remainder of the winter! The ski season we've been waiting for has finally started. (I feel like a kid at Christmas, can you tell?!)
I predict a lot of "calling in sick" tomorrow.If that doesn't work, there's always "calling in stuck" due to weather.
Met a guy on the chairlift who drove up from Mt. Snow yesterday morning. When I asked whether he was from that area he told me "heck no, I live in New York, but when I looked out the window at my bed & breakfast and saw it was raining, I packed everything up, jumped in the car and drove up here." Now that's the spirit!
If Dr. Weather is right, we don't have to be that spontaneous anymore. It's safe to go ahead and book that trip. Start at Stowe Realty Rentals and then move on to Stowe Mountain Resort to book your tickets. If you book a week in advance you'll save 15% on lift tickets or 25% if you book with your American Express Card!

Vermont Ski Museum

Check out the fundraiser this week for the Vermont Ski Museum. Elizabeth Von Trapp will perform in concert and she will have a surprise partner on the cello, Ski racer Doug Lewis.
The fundraiser is Sunday, Jan 14, 2007 in the theatre at the Town Memorial building on Main St at 7PM.
Ken Libby

Bringing Fido to Stowe

Thinking about Bringing Fido to Stowe? Most of the Rental Agencies have an inventory of dog friendly properties. There's no better place for activities to do with your dog either. The famous Stowe Recreation Path allows dogs and even provides "clean up stations" at the parking areas. Canine companions are always welcome at Stowe Dogs in the Gale Farm Shopping Center on the Mountain Road. Dave, the owner, keeps dog biscuits ready for four-legged visitors.
There are lots of options for boarding, or for Doggie Day Care, to keep your dog happy while you are on the slopes. At the end of a long day, there's nothing better for a tired out owner/skier than a tired out pup. Check out Stowe Kennel Kare, on Adams Mill Road, Stowe, or Claire's Dog Camp, in Morrisville, See Spot Run, in Jeffersonville or Lamoille Kennels in Morrisville. Ask your Rental Agent which one is closest to your location.
Don't forget to stop by Gracies to pick up a homemade doggie treat from their "Gourmutt" Shop. This dog-themed restaurant is a favorite of Stowe locals. Their new, larger location on the Mountain Road, and right off the Rec Path, has allowed them to expand their offerings. Kids will get a kick out of all the Dog related artwork and photos.

Ski Guru Picks Stowe for Night Life

Confirming what we've known all along, Boston Globe's Ski Guru, Ethan Binns, has just named Stowe the Best New England Ski Resort for Night Life.
One fabulous place Binns didn't mention is Stowe's Blue Moon Cafe. Ask the owner, Jim Barton, to suggest a great bottle of wine to go with your meal. He's always got the inside line on something we haven't tried. The Blue Moon's menu changes weekly, so check it out online before you go. They're open seven days a week, so if you're on vacation, pick a mid-week night and book it for late so you can linger over your meal. We'd also suggest you make a reservation. If they're "fully committed" ask about eating at the bar, where their bartender, Veronica will make you feel right at home. I'm hungry just thinking about it...
Stowe Mountain Resort is reporting great conditions today for the folks lucky enough to be skiing mid-week.

The Promise of a Forested Landscape

The Stowe Land Trust's In From the Cold Speaker Series continues in Stowe on January 9th, with Chittenden County Forester, Michael Snyder leading an informative discussion on the important role modern forestry plays in Stowe.
Tuesday, January 9th, 7:00PM, Vermont Ski Museum. Admission to the In From the Cold speaker series is free, though donations are always welcome. To pre-register, call (802)253-7221.