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On May 29, 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay became the first people confirmed to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth. Their achievement remains one of the greatest examples of determination, preparation, and adventure. What Does Everest Have to Do with Vermont? More than you might think. Life in Vermont is built around adventure. Whether it's hiking Burke Mountain, exploring the Northeast Kingdom's backroads, fishing remote ponds, or taking a Jeep on a weekend trail ride, Vermonters have always embraced the outdoors. The spirit that drove Hillary and Norgay to the top of Everest is the same spirit that drives people across the Northeast Kingdom to get outside, explore new places, and take on new challenges. A Great Time to Explore the NEK With summer just around the corner, now is a great time to start planning outdoor adventures. Some local favorites include: Hiking Burke Mountain Exploring the trails around Victory Basin Visiting Lake Willoughby Driving Vermont's scenic backroads Camping throughout the Northeast Kingdom Whether you're heading into the mountains, towing a camper, or loading up the family for a weekend getaway, having the right vehicle can make every adventure more enjoyable. Where Vermont Comes to Drive At St. Johnsbury Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we're proud to help Vermonters explore everything our state has to offer. From Jeep Wranglers built for adventure to Ram trucks ready for work and play, we're here to help you get wherever the road—or trail—takes you. What adventure is on your bucket list this summer?

Long before interstate highways crossed Vermont, Route 2 was one of the most important roads in northern New England. Running directly through St. Johnsbury and much of the Northeast Kingdom, Route 2 connected local communities, farms, rail stations, and businesses decades before modern travel existed. In many ways, it helped shape the growth of towns across Vermont. Before Interstate 91 Before I-91 opened, Route 2 carried much of the east-west traffic through northern Vermont. Travelers heading across the state passed directly through downtown St. Johnsbury. Local restaurants, gas stations, general stores, and small businesses all depended heavily on Route 2 travelers. A Road Built for Vermont Unlike modern interstates, Route 2 follows the terrain of Vermont itself — winding through hills, rivers, villages, and farmland. Even today, many Vermonters still prefer the scenic drive over the highway. In the fall especially, Route 2 becomes one of the most scenic drives anywhere in New England. St. Johnsbury’s Role St. Johnsbury has long been considered a gateway to the Northeast Kingdom. Thanks to Route 2, the town became an important stop for commerce, tourism, and transportation throughout Vermont history. Even today, thousands of drivers pass through the area every week heading toward: The White Mountains Burke Mountain Northern Vermont lakes Canada The Northeast Kingdom trail systems Vermont Driving Has Changed — But Some Things Haven’t Vehicles today are more advanced than ever, but Vermonters still need dependable transportation capable of handling changing weather, dirt roads, long winters, and mountain terrain. That’s one reason trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps remain so popular throughout the region. At St. Johnsbury Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we’re proud to continue serving drivers in a town with such a long transportation history.

The Northeast Kingdom is starting to feel like summer again, and there’s plenty happening around St. Johnsbury and the surrounding area this weekend. Whether you’re looking for live music, local food, outdoor adventures, or just a reason to get out and enjoy Vermont, there’s no shortage of things to do. Explore Downtown St. Johnsbury One of the best weekend stops in town is the St Johnsbury Farmer's Market at Depot Square on Saturday morning. Local vendors bring everything from fresh produce and baked goods to maple syrup, meats, flowers, and handmade crafts. Downtown St. Johnsbury continues to be one of the best places in the NEK to spend a Saturday morning. 7 Outdoor Adventure Season Is Back This is also one of the best weekends to get outside and explore the Northeast Kingdom. Kingdom Trails and Burke Mountain are beginning to get busier with hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts enjoying warmer weather and longer days. From scenic drives and mountain views to fishing spots and back roads, there’s no shortage of places to explore throughout the NEK this time of year. 6 Local Food, Music & Nightlife Downtown restaurants, bars, and entertainment spots around St. Johnsbury are also picking up heading into Memorial Day weekend. Whether you’re grabbing dinner, catching live music, or meeting friends downtown, there’s plenty happening around the area. 6 At St. Johnsbury Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we love seeing people get out and enjoy everything the Northeast Kingdom has to offer this time of year. Whether you’re headed to the mountains, the lake, or just taking a scenic drive through Vermont, we hope you have a great weekend exploring the NEK.

5 May 14th is one of those dates in history where big moments happened—events that helped shape the country we live in today. And while those moments didn’t happen here in Vermont, their impact is felt even in a place like the Northeast Kingdom. 1607 – The Start of Something New On May 14, 1607, settlers established Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in North America. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in American history—one that would eventually lead to the growth of towns and communities all across the country. Places like St. Johnsbury didn’t exist yet, but this was the starting point for everything that came after. 1804 – Heading Into the Unknown On this day in 1804, the Lewis and Clark expedition officially began its journey west. They set out to explore uncharted territory, map the land, and better understand a country that was still largely unknown. That same spirit—exploration, independence, and resilience—is something that still defines places like the Northeast Kingdom today. 1973 – Reaching Beyond the Earth Fast forward to 1973, and May 14th marked the launch of Skylab, America’s first space station. From wooden forts… to exploring the frontier… to launching into space—this date shows just how far things have come. What Does That Have to Do With the NEK? Here in the Northeast Kingdom, life moves at a different pace—but the values haven’t changed: Independence Hard work Exploration Community Whether it’s navigating dirt roads, building something from the ground up, or simply making a life in a place you’re proud to call home, there’s a connection between those historic moments and everyday life here in Vermont. A Different Kind of History—Still Being Written While the history books talk about Jamestown, Lewis & Clark, and space exploration, the Northeast Kingdom has its own story—one that’s still being written every day. It’s in the small businesses. It’s in the families that have been here for generations. It’s in the people who choose to live and work here. And it’s in every drive through backroads, every trip through town, and every stop along the way. From Then to Now From the first settlement… To exploring a continent… To reaching space… And today—right here in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. We’re proud to be part of this community and part of the story that continues to grow every day. Stop by St. Johnsbury Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram on Memorial Drive—just past the railroad tracks. Where Vermont comes to drive.

4 If you stood on the roads of St. Johnsbury 100 years ago, you wouldn’t hear engines—you’d hear horses, wagon wheels, and maybe the whistle of a passing train. Today, those same roads are filled with trucks and SUVs built for performance. But while the vehicles have changed, Vermont driving hasn’t gotten any easier—it’s just gotten more capable. The Early Days: Dirt Roads and Tough Travel 6 In the early 1900s, getting between towns like Lyndon and Danville wasn’t simple. Roads were rough, often muddy, and completely at the mercy of the weather. Back then, reliability meant having a strong horse and a lot of patience. Interestingly, the challenges haven’t changed much. Mud, snow, and uneven terrain are still part of daily life here in the Northeast Kingdom. When Cars First Arrived 7 The first cars in Vermont weren’t exactly built for what we deal with today. Early vehicles struggled with: Traction on dirt and mud Low ground clearance Limited braking capability Drivers needed skill—and a bit of luck—to get where they were going. Sound familiar during mud season? Built for Vermont: Modern Capability 4 Fast forward to today, and vehicles are finally built for the kind of conditions we face every day. Models like the Jeep Wrangler and Ram 1500 are designed with: Advanced 4x4 systems for traction Higher ground clearance for rough roads Suspension systems built to handle uneven terrain What used to be a challenge is now something your vehicle is engineered to handle. What Hasn’t Changed Even with all the advancements, Vermont driving still demands respect. Weather can change quickly Road conditions can shift overnight Experience still matters Technology helps—but knowing how to handle Vermont roads is still key. From Then to Now From horse-drawn wagons to modern 4x4 trucks, driving in Vermont has always been about adapting to the environment. The difference today? You’ve got better tools to do it. If your current vehicle feels like it belongs in the early 1900s, it might be time to experience what modern capability really looks like. Stop by St. Johnsbury Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram on Memorial Drive—just past the railroad tracks—and see the difference for yourself.

5 If you live in Vermont—especially here in the Northeast Kingdom—you already know this isn’t an easy place on vehicles. Between road salt, mud season, potholes, and long winters, we see firsthand what holds up… and what doesn’t. Every day in our service department at St. Johnsbury CDJR, we’re working on vehicles with 150,000, 200,000, even 250,000 miles on them. And there’s a clear pattern. It’s Not Just the Brand — It’s How the Vehicle Is Owned Everyone wants to know: “What vehicle lasts the longest?” The reality is, it’s not that simple. Yes, certain trucks and SUVs—especially Ram trucks and Jeep models—tend to perform well in Vermont conditions. But the vehicles we see go the distance all have a few things in common, regardless of brand. 1. Consistent Maintenance Wins Every Time The longest-lasting vehicles we see aren’t always the newest—they’re the most consistently maintained. We’re talking: Regular oil changes (not stretched out) Keeping up with recommended service intervals Addressing small issues before they turn into big ones The difference between a truck that makes it to 200,000 miles and one that doesn’t usually comes down to discipline, not luck. 2. Undercarriage Protection Is Everything in Vermont If you drive in Vermont, salt is your vehicle’s biggest enemy. The trucks that hold up best: Get washed regularly in the winter (especially underneath) Have some form of rust protection or undercoating Get inspected after winter to catch early corrosion The ones that don’t? We see premature frame rust, brake line issues, and suspension wear far earlier than they should. 3. Vermont Driving Requires the Right Setup Vehicles that last here are usually equipped for the environment: Proper tires for the season 4x4 or AWD when needed Ground clearance that can handle back roads and mud season It’s not about overkill—it’s about being properly equipped for where you live. 4. The Owner Pays Attention This one’s simple. The vehicles that last belong to owners who notice when something feels off: A new noise A vibration A warning light that comes on and goes off Catching issues early is the difference between a quick fix and a major repair. What We See Every Day We regularly see well-maintained trucks and SUVs—especially Ram 1500s, heavy-duty Rams, and Jeep Wranglers—pushing well past 200,000 miles in Vermont. And it’s not because they were lucky. It’s because their owners stayed on top of them. Final Thought If you want your vehicle to last in Vermont, the formula is pretty straightforward: Take care of it, stay ahead of maintenance, and don’t ignore the small stuff. Do that, and there’s no reason your vehicle can’t go the distance—no matter what you’re driving. If you ever want a second set of eyes on your vehicle, stop by St. Johnsbury Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram—just past the railroad tracks on Memorial Drive. Our team will give you a clear picture of where your vehicle stands and what it needs to keep going strong. St. Johnsbury CDJR — Where Vermont comes to drive.

If you live in the Northeast Kingdom, you know that April isn't just about showers and flowers—it’s the home stretch of Mud Season. As we hit April 30, the dirt roads are finally firming up, but your vehicle is likely wearing a thick "Vermont tuxedo" of dried mud and road salt. While today marks the official end of National Car Care Month, for us in St. Johnsbury, it’s really the starting line for reclaiming our rides. Here are three things you should prioritize this week to ensure your car survives the transition to spring: 1. The "Deep Dive" Undercarriage Wash Standard car washes are great for the hood and doors, but the real enemy is underneath. The combination of winter salt and spring mud can trap moisture against your frame, leading to rapid corrosion. Pro Tip: Don't just spray the wheel wells. Make sure you’re getting a high-pressure rinse underneath to clear out the "mud cakes" that settle on your suspension components. 2. Pothole Patrol (Alignment & Suspension) The frost heaves and potholes on our local roads have been working overtime this month. If you’ve noticed your steering wheel off-center or a new vibration when driving down Railroad Street, your alignment likely took a hit. Why it matters: Poor alignment doesn't just feel bad—it eats through your tires and lowers your fuel efficiency. 3. Breathe Easy: Cabin Air Filter Swap With the windows going down and the pollen starting to fly, don't forget your cabin air filter. After a long Vermont winter of recirculating dry heater air and dust, a fresh filter makes a world of difference for your spring drives. Is your vehicle ready for the NEK Spring? Don't let the remnants of winter wear down your Jeep, Ram, or Dodge. Whether you need a deep-clean inspection or an alignment check, our team at St. Johnsbury Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is here to help.

Here in St. Johnsbury, history runs deep—and April 29th marks a particularly fascinating moment in the story of our town. Back on April 29, 1910, St. Johnsbury made Vermont history by hosting the first recorded airplane flight in the state. Taking place at the local fairgrounds, this early aviation milestone brought a sense of innovation and excitement to the Northeast Kingdom. Imagine the scene—residents gathering to witness something they had never seen before, as a fragile early aircraft lifted off the ground for the very first time in Vermont. But the roots of St. Johnsbury go back even further. The town itself was officially organized in 1790, after being chartered in 1786 by Dr. Jonathan Arnold. From those early days, it steadily grew into one of the region’s most important economic centers. By the 19th century, St. Johnsbury had become a thriving industrial hub, largely thanks to the success of the Fairbanks Scale Company. Known worldwide for its precision scales, the company helped put this small Vermont town on the global map and played a major role in shaping the local economy and community. Today, while the industries and technologies may have changed, that same spirit of progress and innovation is still alive here. Whether it was launching the first flight in Vermont or building a world-renowned manufacturing legacy, St. Johnsbury has always been a place where big things happen. And at St. Johnsbury CDJR, we’re proud to be part of that ongoing story—serving a community that’s been moving forward for over two centuries, just past the railroad tracks.

7 If you’ve ever driven a Jeep Wrangler or Jeep Gladiator, chances are you’ve experienced it—the subtle lift of a hand, two fingers off the wheel, or a full wave from another Jeep driver coming your way. That’s the Jeep Wave. What Is the Jeep Wave? The Jeep Wave is an unspoken tradition among Jeep owners. It’s a simple gesture, but it represents something bigger—a shared understanding that you’re part of a unique community. Whether you’re on pavement, dirt, or somewhere in between, that wave connects drivers who chose capability, adventure, and freedom. Where It Came From The tradition traces back to military roots, when early Jeep vehicles were used during wartime. Soldiers would acknowledge each other as they passed, and that sense of camaraderie carried over into civilian life. Today, it’s still alive and well—especially in places like Vermont, where Jeep ownership isn’t just about style, it’s about practicality. Why It Matters Here in the Northeast Kingdom Around St. Johnsbury and throughout the Northeast Kingdom, Jeeps aren’t just weekend toys—they’re daily drivers built for everything Vermont throws at you: Mud season backroads Snow-covered highways Trail rides and mountain views Weekend getaways off the beaten path When you pass another Jeep out on a Class IV road or cruising down Memorial Drive, that wave feels earned. It’s More Than a Vehicle Driving a Jeep means joining a community. It’s about helping each other out on the trail, sharing stories, and appreciating the capability that comes with the badge. The Jeep Wave is a reminder that no matter where you’re headed, you’re never really driving alone. Keep the Tradition Alive Next time you’re behind the wheel of your Jeep and see another one coming your way—give the wave. It’s a small gesture that keeps a long-standing tradition going strong. At St. Johnsbury Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we’re proud to be part of the Jeep community right here in Vermont. St. Johnsbury CDJR — Where Vermont comes to drive.

Recent news out of Vermont brings a positive step forward in the ongoing recovery from the flooding that has impacted communities across the state. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved funding to support flood recovery projects in Vermont—part of a broader effort to help communities rebuild, strengthen infrastructure, and better prepare for future storms. 🌧️ Why This Matters to Vermont 6 If you live in the Northeast Kingdom, you’ve seen firsthand what the past few years have brought. From washed-out roads to damaged homes and infrastructure, flooding has become more frequent—and more severe. In fact, multiple storms in recent years have caused widespread damage across towns like Burke, Lyndon, and surrounding areas. This funding represents more than just dollars—it’s part of a long-term effort to help small communities recover and become more resilient moving forward. 🏗️ What the Funding Supports FEMA funding is typically used for: Repairing roads, bridges, and public infrastructure Supporting local municipalities with recovery costs Strengthening flood mitigation efforts to reduce future damage Programs like these are designed not just to fix what was broken—but to help prevent the same level of damage the next time severe weather hits. 🌲 The Reality for the NEK While this funding is a step in the right direction, many towns in the Northeast Kingdom have faced challenges securing enough support after recent flooding events. Some communities have had to explore alternative funding or local solutions when federal aid wasn’t fully available—highlighting just how important investments like this can be when they do come through. 🚙 Why It Hits Close to Home Here in St. Johnsbury and across Caledonia County, reliable infrastructure—and reliable vehicles—aren’t optional. When roads wash out or conditions change quickly, it impacts: Daily commutes Local businesses Emergency response And the overall flow of life in our communities That’s why resilience—both in our infrastructure and in what we drive—matters so much in Vermont. Looking Ahead This funding is another step forward in helping Vermont communities recover, rebuild, and prepare for whatever comes next. For those of us in the Northeast Kingdom, it’s a reminder of how strong and resilient this region is—and how important it is to keep moving forward. Fema Flood Recovery Right Here in St. Johnsbury At St. Johnsbury Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we see the impact of Vermont weather every day—from mud season to flooding and everything in between. If your vehicle has taken a hit over the past year, or you’re thinking about upgrading to something better suited for Vermont conditions, stop by and see us on Memorial Drive—just past the railroad tracks. “Where Vermont comes to drive.”

1. PoemTown St. Johnsbury (All Week) 6 📍 St. Johnsbury 🗓️ All of April Hundreds of poems displayed in downtown storefronts Community-driven for National Poetry Month Easy walkable activity 👉 This is one of your best “this week” posts—low effort, highly local, and unique to the area. 2. Local Live Performances & Shows (Ongoing This Week) 7 📍 Catamount Arts area 🗓️ Multiple events throughout the week Rotating concerts, films, and performances Small venue, strong community turnout 👉 Blog angle: “Something to do this week in the NEK (besides sitting at home)” These performances run consistently throughout spring in the region. 3. NEK Classical Music Series (Spring Performances) 6 📍 Around St. Johnsbury and NEK 🗓️ Spring concert season (active now) Chamber music performances Draws regional audiences 👉 Blog angle: “Not something you expect in a small town—but it’s happening here” This series runs through the spring with scheduled performances. 4. NEK Council on Aging Classes & Community Programs 📍 Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging 🗓️ This week (example: April 20 wellness programming) Exercise classes, wellness programs, community events Regular weekday programming 👉 Blog angle: “What’s happening around town during the week (not just weekends)” Example: scheduled programming like exercise classes is actively running this week. 5. Spring Farmers Market (Indoor – Final Weeks) 7 📍 St. Johnsbury Farmers Market 🗓️ April (indoor season wrapping up) Local food, crafts, baked goods Transition to outdoor market coming soon 👉 Blog angle: “Last chance to hit the indoor market before summer kicks off” Indoor markets continue through April before shifting outdoors in May.

Spring in the Northeast Kingdom is one of the most underrated times to explore Vermont. The snow is melting, the roads are opening up, and the landscape starts to come alive again. Whether you're behind the wheel of a rugged Jeep or cruising in a comfortable Ram, this is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the drive. Here are five must-drive routes right here around St. Johnsbury: 1. Route 5 Along the Connecticut River A smooth, easy drive with great river views. Perfect if you’re just looking to unwind after work or take a relaxed weekend cruise. 2. Lake Willoughby Pass (Route 5A) Arguably one of the most scenic spots in all of Vermont. Driving between Mount Pisgah and Hor is something everyone should experience at least once—especially as the ice starts to break up on the lake. 3. Burke Mountain Road If you're looking to test your vehicle a bit, this is a great climb with rewarding views at the top. A great reminder why Vermont drivers love capability. 4. Route 114 Toward Island Pond A longer, peaceful drive with classic Northeast Kingdom scenery—forests, small towns, and plenty of spots to pull over and take it all in. 5. Backroads Around St. Johnsbury Let’s be honest—this time of year is what Jeeps and trucks were built for. The dirt roads might be messy, but that’s part of the fun. Why It Matters Living in Vermont means your vehicle isn’t just transportation—it’s part of your lifestyle. Spring driving conditions can change fast, from dry pavement to mud and everything in between. Having the right vehicle makes all the difference. At St. Johnsbury CDJR, we see it every day—customers who rely on their vehicles not just to get from point A to B, but to actually enjoy where they live.