January/February 2024

In this newsletter . . .

  • Welcome Note
  • Community Ice Skating Rinks in Londonderry and Peru
  • Short-Term Rental Regulations - More Local Updates
  • Critical Winter Vent Maintenance
  • Featured Property - 2105 White Road in Windham
  • Calendar of Upcoming Local Events

January 20, 2024

Dear {First Name}:

 

The theme of this month’s newsletter is to have fun, but stay safe!

 

Some of you will recall that my husband John and I are both longtime volunteers with the Londonderry Volunteer Rescue Squad (LVRS) and John is also the President of the South Londonderry Champion 5 Fire Department. One thing that you may not know is that whenever there is a fire in the LVRS coverage area, we always have an ambulance standing by on scene in case there is a medical emergency or a firefighter is injured.


In the 25 years we’ve been volunteering, we’ve seen our fair share of fires and they are a nightmare for all involved. Many are preventable with maintenance and housekeeping. This month’s issue includes several “things to do” (or not do, as the case may be) that will keep you, your loved one and your homes safer.

 

And, as is my custom, the winter newsletter includes an appeal for you to support your local Vermont fire and rescue services. They receive some appropriations from the towns, but those funds do not cover operating expenses and they all depend on contributions. All contributions are tax-deductible and greatly appreciated!

 

  • LVRS – PO Box 911, Londonderry, VT 05148 or CLICK HERE to donate online (click on the blue button at the top of the page)
  • Londonderry (Phoenix 6) and South Londonderry (Champion 5) Fire Departments - Donations to either/both should be sent to PO Box 5, South Londonderry, VT 05155
  • Peru Volunteer Fire Department – PO Box 232, Peru, VT 05152
  • Weston Volunteer Fire Department – PO Box 52, Weston, VT 05161
  • Windham Fire – 290 White Road, Windham, VT 05143
  • Winhall Fire – P.O. Box 141, Bondville, VT 05340

 

Stay safe and have fun!

  

- Claudia Harris

Broker/Owner

Mary Mitchell Miller Real Estate

E-Mail: Claudia Harris

Website Click Here

Office: (802)824-3176

Cell: (802)379-0347

Facebook  Instagram  LinkedIn  Pinterest  YouTube

Community Ice Skating Rinks

Our community is fortunate to have not one but TWO outdoor skating rinks – one in Londonderry and one in Peru.

Photo courtesy of Martha Dale, Derry Ice Rink


Londonderry – The Derry Ice Rink is in the meadow behind Jake’s Restaurant in the Mountain Marketplace at the intersection of Routes 11 and 100.

Photo courtesy of @Peru_ice_rink


Peru – on the town green in front of the Peru Church and nearby the J.J. Hapgood Store (rumored to be reopening soon!).

These beautiful rinks are, of course, weather dependent and the incredible group of volunteers who tend the ice implore all to please obey all signage and stay off the ice if there is a No Skating sign posted.


Riley Rink in Manchester

And, if the weather is not cooperating and you'd like to skate inside, remember Riley Rink in Manchester. This beautiful facility has public skate hours every day and you can check their schedule HERE.

 

Short-Term Rentals - Updates


The review and regulation of short-term rentals (STR) continues to be a conversation in most Vermont towns.


The following information is new as of December 2023 and supplements our previous stories in both the December/January 2023 and April/May 2023 editions of this newsletter.

 

  • Londonderry - On December 19, 2023, the Londonderry Selectboard adopted an ordinance regulating short-term rentals. The ordinance , which can be viewed HERE. Unless a petition is filed in accordance with 24 V.S.A. § 1973, the Ordinance shall become effective sixty (60) days after its adoption, on or about February 17, 2024. 

 

  • Andover - The Andover Selectboard will hold a public hearing on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the Andover Town Hall to receive public comment on adding short-term rentals as a conditional use to the Andover Zoning Regulations. The proposal can be found HERE.

 

  • Manchester Village – The Village Board of Trustees adopted a STR Ordinance on December 4, 2023. The Ordinance mandates annual registration, inspections by the State Fire Marshals, occupancy limits, requiring a 24-hour caretaker within a 30-minute proximity, and other conditions. Like Londonderry, unless a petition is filed before January 20, 2024, the Ordinance will become effective on February 5, 2024. A copy of the Ordinance can be found HERE.

Critical Winter Vent Maintenance

decorated_turkey.jpg

Now that there is finally snow on the ground, we urge all homeowners and renters to clear vent and exhaust pipes (septic, roof vent, propane furnace) from snow. This is especially important when we have more than 6-8 inches of snow in any one storm.

 

* Clear snow and debris from vents, chimneys, and flues after a storm to a dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide.


* Keep exterior sidewall vents clear – if a vent becomes buried in snow or blocked otherwise, equipment may shut down or draw exhaust fumes into a home.



* Test carbon monoxide alarms – carbon monoxide (CO) is colorless, odorless and tasteless. Exposure to even small quantities of CO can cause flu-like symptoms. Higher levels are live threatening. Test and replace CO detectors as needed. Properly maintain and vent your appliances. Never use a gas stove to heat your home and do not use a generator indoors or near the home. If you suspect CO poisoning, call 911, seek fresh air and remain outside.


According to the VT Department of Health, “Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas you cannot see or smell. It is produced when liquid, solid or gas fuel is burned—such as natural gas, propane, oil, charcoal, wood and wood pellets. Dangerous levels can build up quickly in your home, garage, or other enclosed areas. CO poisoning is more often a problem in the colder months since that is when Vermonters burn fuel to keep warm and their homes are closed up.

 

From VT Emergency Management:

  • Ensure all heating vents are clear of snow or other obstructions. Even if you don’t see significant snowfall blowing snow can block heating vents. Blocked vents can lead to Carbon Monoxide buildup in the home. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors now. Carbon monoxide is a deadly, colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. CO poisoning can mimic flu-like symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Higher levels of exposure result in disorientation, drowsiness, and unconsciousness. If you experience any symptoms leave the home and contact help. CALL 911!
  • And, “If you use a generator, ensure it is used outside, away from open windows, doors, or air intakes. Exhaust from a generator or heating source can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide in the home, which can be deadly.”
  • Have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
  • Never use an “improvised” heat source like grill or oven as they can be fire or carbon monoxide hazards.
  • Make sure all heating vents are clear and properly discharging out of the house.
  • Make sure snow and ice is not impeding the venting of carbon monoxide and clear it away if it is.

 

Local propane delivery companies provide lots of great information, but this handy guide from the Propane Education & Research Council is especially helpful and easy to understand.

Featured Property for Sale

2105 White Road in Windham

There is a lot more to this sweet house than meets the eye… come see it for yourself and prepare to be enchanted!


What was once one of Windham’s quaint schoolhouses is now the quintessential Vermont escape, seamlessly blending classic architectural charm and design with the convenience and efficiency of a modern home. The schoolhouse was moved to its current location and placed on a new, full concrete foundation and then completely renovated with two sizeable additions to add a Great Room and first floor primary suite.


Offered mostly-furnished, this house will be a turn-key purchase for you and ready to enjoy throughout all of Vermont’s beautiful seasons. During the winter months, you will appreciate sunlit living areas, cozy spaces, and two wood stoves… while you dream about warmer months when you will enjoy time outside on the beautiful stone patio and lovely lawn. Plenty of storage for vehicles, toys and tools in the large woodshed and an over-sized one-car garage with storage and workspace.


There are 10.8 acres of your own private woods to explore and enjoy and you can walk, hike, bike, or snowshoe from your front door.


The house is almost equidistant to the picturesque villages of Grafton, Chester, Londonderry, and Weston with skiing at Magic Mountain just a few minutes-drive away and Bromley, Stratton and Okemo are 20-30 minute further. Lowell Lake State Park is also nearby, offering trails, kayaking and abundant wildlife viewing.


Make this your southern Vermont home!

 

Contact Claudia Harris at (802)379-0347 or email address here for more information.

Address: 2105 White Road

Windham, VT

Price: $615,000

Lot size: 10+/- acres

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 2

Year built: 1802

Square feet: 2466

See More Photos

Upcoming Local Events


Friday, February 1

Mom’s Day Off at Bromley Mountain - 100% of ticket sales benefit women’s breast cancer care at the Southwestern Vermont Regional Cancer Center. Tickets are $25 for Moms and available at Bromley on Feb. 1 by showing a photo of your child, pet, or honorary child. https://www.bromley.com/event/moms-day-off/

 

Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024

Rando Races at Bromley - There are two course options, a shorter recreational “fun” climb for weekend uphillers, and the longer U.S. Ski Mountaineering Association sanctioned race for more competitive skiers going for a personal best. Prizes and free “Skimo” swag for all participants! For a more detailed description, course and race layout, please click here. .

 

Saturday, February 3

WinterFest at Outer Limits Brewing – supporting the Okemo Mountain School . 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm, Cost: $25 – $35, 60 Village Green in Proctorsville. Click Here for INFO.

 

February 10 and 11

Southern Vermont Primitive Biathlon - A primitive biathlon is a fun and challenging wilderness competition of target shooting and snowshoeing. The event is open to all muzzleloading firearm enthusiast, regardless of their skill level or athletic ability. Spectators are welcomed and encouraged to view portions of the course. Other black powder shooting events are held throughout the weekend. To date, this event has contributed $3400 to Green Mountain Conservation Camps and $30,000 to the Manchester Rod and Gun Club's Green Mountain Conservation Camps Scholarship Fund. Click Here for Information

 

February 17 -18

Harris Hill Ski Jump - Harris Hill welcomes an international field of competitors for two days of ski jumping competition on New England's only Olympic-size 90-meter hill. Come thrill to the daring flight of jumpers soaring to 300 feet at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. Also: music; food court; souvenirs; bonfire; beer tent. Cedar Street in Brattleboro, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission: Adults, $25; kids age 6-12, $15; kids under 6 free. Tickets and info at https://harrishillskijump.com

 

Saturday, February 17

Bromley’s February Festival & Fireworks - It's February Festival time! Head to Bromley for the yearly celebration. The Lustre Kings perform in the Wild Boar 3-5pm, then will start back up at 8pm. Opal Raven returns with her fire performance acts like no other from 5-7pm. Torchlight Parade: 7:00 PM with Fireworks: 7:30 PM. Live music kicks back on after the fireworks show. https://www.bromley.com/event/febfest/ 

 

Thursday, February 22

Bennington County's Got Talent 2024 – This is your chance to be part of an unforgettable community celebration, so don't delay! Online tickets: $13 At the door: $15 The best part? You, the audience, will be the fifth judge! Hold on to your program because it will allow you to vote at the end. Get your tickets now and join us for a night of excitement and entertainment like no other. This family-friendly event will showcase the best and brightest talent from Bennington County. Get Tickets HERE. 6:30PM - 8:30PM at the Monument Arts and Cultural Center, 44 Gypsy Lane in Bennington.

 

Saturday, February 24

Magic Mountain’s WinterFest TorchLight Parade and Fireworks, Silent Auction, Dinner and Band. Magic Alpine Club Silent Auction 3-6:45, Buffet Dinner 5:30-730, TorchLight Parade 8:00, Fireworks 8:15p and Live Band 7:30-10:30.

https://magicmtn.com/events/winterfest-torchlight-parade-and-fireworks-silent-auction-dinner-and-band/

 

Sunday, March 3, 2024

Ski Vermont Specialty Food Day (Bromley) - Enjoy all the flavors of Vermont during the Ski Vermont 2024 Specialty Food Day Tour. This year’s lineup will feature tasting and samples from favorite local VT brands from 11am to 4pm! https://www.bromley.com/event/ski-vermont-specialty-food-day/

 

Saturday, March 9

Let It Glow: Party & Kids Torchlight Parade - at Okemo’s Jackson Gore Courtyard. Enjoy the DJ in the Courtyard all decked out in lights, glow gear, and ice sculptures galore! The Jackson Gore Snowground Playground and Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster will be available to fuel even more fun, and the Okemo Ski and Ride Team will be guiding a Kids Torchlight lapping the Stargazer Magic Carpet at Jackson Gore. Info HERE.

 

March 9 - March 10, 2024

Stratton Mountain: 2024 Vermont Open Banked Slalom - Wax up those snowboards! The Vermont Open presents The 2024 Banked Slalom; a two-day banked slalom event hosted by Stratton Mountain. https://www.stratton.com/things-to-do/events/the-vermont-open

 

March 9 - 11

The Vermont Open @ Stratton - A celebration of the beginning of snowboarding and its progression, the 6th Annual Vermont Open is truly open. This event invites snowboarders of all ages to come together to ride, party, enjoy the snow and compete for a prize purse of over $20,000. Live music will entertain the crowd at night with kick off and post parties around the weekend.

https://www.stratton.com/things-to-do/events/the-vermont-open

 

Sunday, March 17, 2024

Vertical Challenge (Bromley) - This fun event gives the base area a festival-like vibe with free fun races for all ages and abilities, ski and snowboard. Enjoy free product samples and great tunes while soaking up the sun. Registration begins at 7:30AM, Races begin at 10AM. https://www.bromley.com/event/vertical-challenge/

 

March 16 - March 17, 2024

24 Hours of Stratton & #Shred4Nate - The 24 Hours of Stratton is your ONLY chance to ski Stratton through the night under lighted trails and starry skies into sunrise for a great cause. Wear your bib for 2-day lift access Saturday, Night, Sunday. Start or join a team

https://www.stratton24.com/

 

 

 

Thinking of Selling? Still on the Fence?

Inventory Is Low and Demand Remains High

christmas_eve_decoration.jpg

Mary Mitchell Miller Real Estate is seeking new residential and land listings and we would welcome the opportunity to talk with you about listing your Vermont property for sale.


If you've been thinking about it, now is the time to make a move. The inventory of homes for sale is still low, demand is high, and there are buyers looking in ALL price ranges.


Please see our contact information below, or call us at the

office at (802)824-3176. Or, you can send an email here or contact one of our Sales Associates listed below.

Our Sales Associates

Kathy Snyder - Feb 2021 2.5x2.jpg

Kathy Snyder

(802)384-6674 

Kathy's Email Address 

About Kathy 

Chuck Sweetman 2.5x2.jpg

Chuck Sweetman

(802)345-9054 

Chuck's Email Address 

 About Chuck

Claudia Harris - head shot 2.5x2.jpg

Claudia Harris

(802)379-0347

Claudia's Email Address

About Claudia

Newsletter Archives


Archived issues of the NEWSLETTER are available online: 

Click Here


If you enjoy these newsletters, please like our Facebook page for more frequent updates, local news and fun information.

Facebook  Instagram  LinkedIn  Pinterest  Twitter  YouTube

MLS Access for All of Vermont

(click link below)

Visit our Website

Mary Mitchell Miller is a proud member of PRIME Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and our website features FULL access to ALL property listings for sale in the State of Vermont.


Mary Mitchell Miller Real Estate has been working with buyers and sellers of southern Vermont real estate in the tri-mountain area between Okemo, Bromley and Stratton ski areas for more than 40 years. We are a full-service real estate brokerage firm specializing in the sale of fine homes and properties in Weston, Londonderry, Peru, Landgrove, Dorset, Manchester, Andover, Chester, Ludlow (Okemo Mountain), Mount Holly, Jamaica, Stratton, Winhall and Windham. Fully licensed in Vermont.