Retired & Senior Volunteer, 142 Woodridge Rd, Montpelier, VT 05602, US

Vermont Attractions Association ( VAA ) announces the acceptance of two new members for 2010 that exemplify the qualities of a premier Vermont attraction under the Association's criteria. The newest attractions qualifying for membership in VAA are Brandon Museum at the Stephen A. Douglas Birthplace, in Brandon, Farm-Way, Inc, located in Bradford. After submitting an application, the VAA Board of Directors accepts members based upon the quality of the facility as a family destination, ability to provide visitor services, and the educational component of the attraction. Brandon Museum at the Stephen A. Douglas Birthplace celebrates the history and the lives of early Brandon residents. This 1802 home celebrates the life of statesman Stephen A. Douglas, who in his short 48 years of life was elected legislator, U.S. Senator, Congressman, Vermont Attorney General, and Supreme Court judge. Stephen A. Douglas was known as The Little Giantbecause of his great oratory skills and ability to get things accomplished, in contrast with his small physical size. This historical site offers an opportunity to learn about the 19th century, the anti-slavery movement, and how it impacted this unique Vermont town. Farm-Way, Inc of Bradford is an outdoor apparel store located in a mill powered by solar energy, where visitors shop for tangible Vermont products while experiencing alternative energy in action. Farm-Way, Inc offers an expansive selection of outdoor gear, including footwear, clothing, saddlery, hunting and camping equipment, and more. Those who can pull themselves away may step outside to inspect rows of solar panels generating approximately 58 KW of power - equivalent to 43 percent of the electrical power used by the store. From solar seminars to kayak and snowshoe clinics, Farm-Way is an adventure for anyone. Members of VAA enjoy many benefits, including a presence on 1.1. million copies of the Official Vermont Road Map & Guide to Vermont Attractions, which is widely distributed across the country and internationally as Vermont's highway map. The VAA, which is managed by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, was founded in 1957, and represents 67 of Vermont's finest family destinations. Focusing on education as a component of the visitor experience, VAA members meet high standards while offering unusual experiences in the areas of agricultural tourism, art, excursions, galleries, guided tours, history, museums, recreation, shopping, and specialty foods. To see a complete list of VAA members or for more information about the VAA, visit www.vtattractions.org.