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#44 - Burlington, Vermont

The scintillating oasis on the Eastern shore of Lake Champlain is enjoying a renaissance because it appeals to people who thrive in a robust climate.

This is a super place to live and work. In fact, dozens of comapnies have seen the light after studying the record growth at Lockheed-Martin and long-time neighbor IBM. Lockheed-Martin, IDX Systems Corp, Rossignol Skis and Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream, are a few of the companies prospering in thearea.

With a state of the art telecommunications network, a "bulls eye" location (dead enter between Boston, New York and Montreal) and a highly educated labor force, Burlington's only uphill challenges are the slopes!

Life in Burlington is laid-back but lively - it's a town filled with dreamers and free-thinkers. Award-winning schools and low crime (one of the lowest violent crime rates in the country) are the icing on the lake! You can't help but have a warm feeling about this place.