So you declare a tie and in your statement about it said beaufort had more votes???? I think that each should be recognized but as you stated naming beaufort number 1 and hammondsport number 2 respectively (as you put it yourself) and give ...each town a spread on seperate months for all the participation and hard work. Each should be honored for their support and dedication of the people that voted for each location, however with that being said Beaufort, NC is the overall winner and deserves to be reflected as such. Feel free to look on my facebook page and see the attached picture where you declared Beaufort the winner but then took it down. That does not show much faith in your system backtracking like that.

Posted By Nick Salter on February 1, 2012, 11:09 AM

36.2 over 36.0 means beaufort nc won!

Posted By David on February 1, 2012, 11:20 AM

Very noble decision on the part of budgettravel.com to declare a tie! I think I speak for most of us in the Finger Lakes region of NY when I say that for us- and Beaufort too I imagine- a tie is a win! I have friends down in NC, and now am seriously compelled to go visit that town someday soon on vacation myself! Great contest.

Posted By Paul Thomas on February 1, 2012, 11:21 AM

Beaufort won. Why would you declare a tie? Since when does tech trouble replace competition? Congrats to Beaufort and Carteret County, NC!M

Posted By JoAnn on February 1, 2012, 11:25 AM

Being from Hammondsport, of course I am thrilled at the results. Thank you to Budget Travel for supporting small towns and big hearts! Congratulations to Beaufort NC. It's next on our list of places to visit.

Posted By diana roberts on February 1, 2012, 11:25 AM

way to go Budget Travel, you made a fair decision, it was neck and neck for many days..Thanks, I live in the Finger Lakes Region and LOVE Hammondsport,NY ! I would enjoy visiting Beaufort someday as well. Good Call !

Posted By lori on February 1, 2012, 11:26 AM

In fairness, you could name Hammondsport the winner in the "Lakeside" category and Beaufort in the "Seaside" category. They both richly deserve their wins.

Posted By Deborah Chiles on February 1, 2012, 11:26 AM

this is un-real. there should NOT be a tie. there should only be one winner. i'm sure hammondsport is REJOICING that they get to share the title with us in a fluke of a contest. we were ahead by .2 percent with 1 hour left of voting, so you're saying that in 1 hour that the site crashed, you thinkn there was a chance that (with both hammondsport and BEAUFORT voteres voting) hammondsport could have shot up .3 percent faster than beaufort? that does not make sense. it's very discouraging to be following this the whole time and then to see a tie. i'd rather have lost to hammondsport than to be tied. thanks a lot, budget travel.

Posted By hayley on February 1, 2012, 11:27 AM

how is this considered a tie?
In the end, more than 360,000 votes were cast, with Beaufort and Hammondsport receiving 36.2 and 36.0 percent of the vote respectively.

I really wish you could give props to the town that really won. BEAUFORT, NC I understand with the site crashing and all it might be hard to make the decision but 36.2 and 36.0 well in my math book that does not constitute a tie.

Posted By Beaufort Lover on February 1, 2012, 11:28 AM

Your coolest small towns was a lot of fun----thanks

Posted By hank michaelson on February 1, 2012, 11:29 AM

Really? No...seriously a tie. No declared winner? How is 36.2 not greater than 36.0? Beaufort won.

Because you had technical issues by not preparing for the obvious last minute voting that would occur in such a tight race Beaufort loses bragging rights.

The inability to access the site was not geo-specific. None could access...so the results that were entered should have been used in final results. This was not a one day contest.

As a result, the only true beneficiary to the contest is BudgetTravel.com and the web traffic it received and in turn the advertising dollars you will reep. Neither town can truly claim to be the "Coolest Small Town in America". This is such a sad turn, to what was a fun contest.

I believe this to be an really poor decision by BudgetTravel.com and should not be accepted as a fair result to any of the competing towns.

Posted By Jason H. on February 1, 2012, 11:30 AM

>>>The site had been programmed to cut off voting at the stroke of midnight and declare a winner, and at precisely 12 a.m. it did—picking Beaufort, which was technically ahead by a few votes at that time.

Then it WASN'T a tie!!!

Posted By Whit Procter on February 1, 2012, 11:32 AM

Awesome decision~ The page was crashing for me since 4:30 yesterday~ I did finally get in to vote~
Suggestion? NEXT year...you need to provide a totally different link to CHECK results, so that we are not all comming into the VOTE page and having to click the vote...in order to view the stats.

That will cut down the probable problem of a crash.

Posted By Deb on February 1, 2012, 11:33 AM

Nooooo way is this even close to fair!! It was a contest, votes count! We are NOT in Florida where there were hanging and pregnant chads!! BEAUFORT, NORTH CAROLINA won fair and square! We voted legally and won honorably. It is what it is and it is NOT a tie.

Posted By Lorrie on February 1, 2012, 11:33 AM

Sounds like you need better servers. Beaufort was ahead before the crash so Beaufort wins!

Posted By Tyler on February 1, 2012, 11:34 AM

I am from that small town, Hammondsport, NY. I just want to thank you for this opportunity. I wish the site didnt crash and it didnt have to be declared a tie but a big THANK YOU BUDGET TRAVEL for your fairness in the Coolest small town in America contest.
Shari Kashmer, Hammondsport NY on beautiful Keuka Lake!!!!!

Posted By Shari on February 1, 2012, 11:34 AM

What were the final votes for all of the ten?

Posted By Michael on February 1, 2012, 11:35 AM

As a resident of Carteret County I tie is okay Beaufort still considered as one of the coolest small towns in America along with NY and so we should show our southern hospitality to this event and be thankful that Beaufort was even considered for a spot.After all its not who wins its how we except compromise and we are a gracious enough community to share the spot and bragging rights.Remember the key words in the contest "Coolest & America" lets look at what is going on in the world today because people cant learn to compromise.

Posted By susie on February 1, 2012, 11:35 AM

we've got one word about america's coolest little town contest.
REMATCH!!!
thank you..

Posted By johnny/tina on February 1, 2012, 11:37 AM

This is such a disappointment. If the site crashed, wasn't EVERYONE equally "locked out"? Too much political correctness if you ask me. If there was a winner, declare it so. First you post a banner with the winning town on it (Beaufort) and then take it back? So Budget Travel caved under pressure? Wow.

Posted By MarylandNative on February 1, 2012, 11:37 AM

This one was certainly a nail biter!

Posted By Myles on February 1, 2012, 11:38 AM

People complained about their votes not going through during the whole contest.... but they had to wait for the page to totally load all blips at the bottom before voting~ OTHERWISE, YOU could not see that THE first click YOU made did in fact go through. They also need to alter the link for checking results~ and make it seperate from the vote link, so the site will not crash during the crunch time.

THANK YOU Budget Travel~ AWESOME marketing plan~

Posted By Deb on February 1, 2012, 11:39 AM

Way to go Weaverville! An amazing 3rd place finish for an amazing treasure in Northern California! Thanks for all the votes!

Posted By Billy & Patrick on February 1, 2012, 11:42 AM

WOO HOO! We here in the Finger Lakes have been waiting for your announcement! What a great place to tie with!!

Posted By Lilac Farm ( Penelope Crescibene) on February 1, 2012, 11:44 AM

Congrats to both Beaufort, NC and Hammondsport, NY for winning!! I think both towns should get together and have a big party, ok maybe two, one in Hammondsport and one in Beaufort.. My votes went to Hammondsport but due to this contest I now more than ever want to visit Beaufort.. I'd also like to add a congrats to Weaverville, Ca even with your loss of power due to your snow storm you still managed to come in a respective 3rd place!!

Posted By Cathie on February 1, 2012, 11:47 AM

You were wrong in calling it a tie. There was only one winner and that was Beaufort, NC.
You made the rules and in the end didn't abide by them.

Beaufort was in the lead when the contest ended and you call that a tie.

How unfair of you to do that.

I will not participate in any more of your contest.

Posted By Norman Earl on February 1, 2012, 11:49 AM

this is not right. you should have added an extra hour to the voting once the site began working again or SOMETHING. this is discouraging to both sides who did not necessarily want to share the title with another town--as no one in the past has had to do. It seems to me that Beaufort should be declared the only winner since they were ahead by .2 percent when the site crashed which was over 2,000 votes. also, had the site not crashed, hammondsport AND beaufort voters would have continued voting making it very difficult for hammondsport to get that extra .3 percent to beat beaufort. I'll tell you, i don't think many people are liking this "tie" that you've declared.

Posted By Renee on February 1, 2012, 11:50 AM

Bogus!!

Posted By Laura on February 1, 2012, 11:51 AM

Beaufort was locked out also because of the heavy volume of traffic on the Coolest Small Town site. Nevertheless, at 12:00, Beaufort was ahead and is
technically the winner. Fair is fair.

Posted By Martha Barnes on February 1, 2012, 11:51 AM

A tie seems only fair, since the website crashed and late votes weren't able to be counted.

Two great places to visit.

Posted By Tom on February 1, 2012, 11:53 AM

Hammondsport is my hometown and I wish to congratulate Beaufort, Hammondsport, Weaverville, and all the towns included in the top 10. They look like great towns and certainly deserved to be in running. I have visited Beaufort and thought it was a beautiful town. I hope to go back there some day and I also hope to visit the other towns that competed. Thank you Budget Travel for the opportunity to learn about such wonderful towns located in the United States.

Posted By BJ on February 1, 2012, 11:54 AM

I think it should be a rematch. BEAUFORT don't go down like that

Posted By Dee Garner on February 1, 2012, 11:54 AM

Hey....if we were ahead...and the site crashed....BEAUFORT STILL WON. Don't take it away for us. Many of us voted every day without others telling us to vote for we know how much personality BEAUFORT has. Friendly folks to serve YOU and they have music for those that park their boats. Don't call it a TIE....BEAUFORT WON. Come see for yourself. You will be very glad YOU DID.

Posted By Bernice on February 1, 2012, 11:56 AM

A tie, this was right thing to do because voting in my area carshed at about 8:30 PM, way to early to declare a winner; but I must add that Hammondsport's population of 700 should be the winner because they are truely a small town. Beaufort has a population of about 4000, almost 6 times the voting base.
We are pround of our little village, I have been a resident for almost 55 years.

Posted By Dobs on February 1, 2012, 11:56 AM

This is so wrong. Beaufort should be declared the winner. Many people from all over were locked out.
1/31 at midnight, Beaufort was ahead. I know this won't change your decision but you should live by your own rules.

Posted By Marcia Parker on February 1, 2012, 11:57 AM

Thank you for dealing with this in a fair and unbiased method! Myself and others tried several times to vote yesterday, but always received the response "You have already voted...", which we had not. I was raised in Hammondsport, NY, as were most of my ancestors and it truly is a winner.

Posted By Kay Bailey Kaiser on February 1, 2012, 11:57 AM

This is so wrong. Beaufort should be declared the winner. Many people from all over were locked out.
1/31 at midnight, Beaufort was ahead. I know this won't change your decision but you should live by your own rules.

Posted By Marcia Parker on February 1, 2012, 11:59 AM

How Bogus! So in other words, Beaufort won, BUT we are declaring a tie..... If the sire was down, it was down for ALL voters, not just those in NY! Get a backbone. Beaufort won plain and simple! By your statistics we won by 720 votes. Man-up!

Posted By Tim on February 1, 2012, 12:07 PM

Hi Budget Travel (Lisa)
We are very excited and pleased that a tie was awarded between the top 2 coolest towns this year. We always enjoy the BT magazine. We recently did a Nova Scotia cruise on Norwegian cruise lines and actually visited "Peggy's Cove" and took the exact same photo as appeared in your BT magazine. I have encouraged many people to subscribe to BT as it is packed with great bargains and great travel tips.
Our community cannot thank you enough for sponsoring such an event. It is without a doubt that many many people will come and see us and see what is so great about a small town named Hammondsport New York.

Posted By Ken Sherer on February 1, 2012, 12:09 PM

Way to go, Beaufort! We're proud of our delightful neighbor.

Posted By Ococker on February 1, 2012, 12:12 PM

Thanks so much for giving the tie, I just couldn't bare the thought of losing by .02 that would have been terrible. The race was fun, go Hammondsport!!!! Lorraine

Posted By Lorraine Hafleigh on February 1, 2012, 12:15 PM

It's great to see Hammondsport as one of the tie-winners of the coolest small town :) I am a New Yorker and definitely will visit it :)

Posted By New Yorker on February 1, 2012, 12:26 PM

Since it was a tie and technically Both towns win, does that mean I get a signed copy of Nicholas Sparks book? I would really like one, I am a fan.

Thanks,
Shelly Shuart
304 North 7th ST.
Carolina Beach NC 28428

Posted By shelly shuart on February 1, 2012, 12:27 PM

Since Beaufort was ahead right before the website crashed, it should be the winner!

Posted By Brenda Stotlemyer on February 1, 2012, 12:28 PM

Wait a minute.....Beaufort won and you declare a tie ??

Posted By Bucky on February 1, 2012, 12:28 PM

Thanks to Budget Travel Magazine for this fantastic opportunity to galvanize communities expressing their pride and heritage. Congratulations to all of the communities nominated. Honored to live in Morehead City, NC but more proud our first Boys and Girls Club was and is still making an impact in Beaufort! Thanks to Doug Raymond for his vision and commitment to create excitement along the Crystal Coast.

Posted By John T Capps on February 1, 2012, 12:29 PM

We are so proud that Beaufort, North Carolina was one of the winners of the "Coolest Small Towns". We live is New Bern, NC and love spending time in Beaufort on weekends and always spend our anniversary at one of their many "wonderful" restaurants. We are from upstate New York and our grandchildren live in Arizona so we were very happy to see both Hammondsport, NY and Jerome, AZ in the running but Beaufort is here in North Carolina and we have so many friends and many great times in Beaufort each year that we had to send our vote their way. Beaufort is truly the "Coolest Small Town".

Posted By Carol Williams on February 1, 2012, 12:29 PM

Ya Hammondsport,NY You are the best

Posted By Dale on February 1, 2012, 12:29 PM

It's pretty cowardly to declare a tie when one of the towns was ahead by 700 votes. To call a tie requires that you make the assumption that Hammondsport was going to get more votes in the last minutes than Beaufort when, in fact, Beaufort had been leading for most of the contest!!!! How did you make this assumption?. There was no tie--one vote makes a win. What happened to "every vote counts." A lot of people won't be buying your magazine. It wasn't very good anyway.

Posted By bruce gentry on February 1, 2012, 12:34 PM

Go to Hammondsport. You will see that it's the best!

Posted By Jack Minnch on February 1, 2012, 12:36 PM

How you gonna call it a tie when Beaufort won by .2 i'm from beaufort and it locked me out more then just last night there was one point in time i couldn't vote for 3 days straight and your gonna call it a tie because a few people from there couldn't vote but also a few people from here couldn't vote either. I just believe that you didn't want Beaufort to win to begin with.

Posted By Dylan on February 1, 2012, 12:37 PM

Yes a tie is the way to go, I know serveral people who were locked out trying to vote for hammondsport last minute so you really cannot say they would not have pulled ahead, so yes they did the right thing.

Posted By New Yorker on February 1, 2012, 12:39 PM

A Big Congrats to Beaufort and Hammondsport! Maybe I'll come visit your "coolest small town" sometime.

To all the cool small towns that were in the race, Congrats to you too!

Weaverville is still my "Coolest small town" Thanks to all who voted!

Posted By Jana Reese on February 1, 2012, 12:40 PM

Wow. What a cowardly way out. Pick the winner and let it be. No these people didn't have the backbone to say who had the total votes so let's call it a tie.

Posted By john on February 1, 2012, 12:41 PM

I commend Lisa Schneider for making such a responsible decision about the winnerS of this fun contest. There really could not be any other decision. Isn't it WONDERFUL that there are two "Coolest Small Towns in the USA"!!!! What a credit that so many residents/visitors think so much of their respective Communities to VOTE so enthusiastically to shut down the BT site. It's very Excitiing!!!!

Posted By mws on February 1, 2012, 12:46 PM

I didn't even get to cast my last vote. The website seemed to be having problems...could have been my end??

Posted By Sandra Grigg on February 1, 2012, 12:48 PM

You lost me as a customer....do not plan to save your site on my bookmarks....I was happy to follow the rules and vote, but in the end you changed the rules...

Posted By Russ Eaton on February 1, 2012, 12:48 PM

At 11:59 Beaufort, NC was ahead, despite the fact that we couldn't vote then and at other times. Sad, but expected, BudgetTravel got more advertising that way. Beaufort still WINS in OUR BOOK!!!!

Posted By skipper2 on February 1, 2012, 12:49 PM

Weaverville should be the winner!!

Posted By Shelle on February 1, 2012, 12:50 PM

Just think if we ALL start following these rules u implemented after u post Beaufort with the higher count, then come any other ballots or voting of any kind, lets just declare the top two vote getter's winners and be done with it...Lets play the Superbowl but since both NY and NE are deserving of a win, claim a tie, let both states enjoy the gratification of said title....Seems to have worked for you guys ....WTG Beaufort and ALL the Carolinians voting for our crystal coast!!!

Posted By Jennifer on February 1, 2012, 12:52 PM

The site was down for everyone. NC voters couldn't vote either during that time. The initially declared winner is the winner. It isn't right to change that decision 10 hours later.

Posted By Mary Lou Stetka on February 1, 2012, 12:53 PM

Just think if we ALL start following these rules u implemented after u post Beaufort with the higher count, then come any other ballots or voting of any kind, lets just declare the top two vote getter's winners and be done with it...Lets play the Superbowl but since both NY and NE are deserving of a win, claim a tie, let both states enjoy the gratification of said title....Seems to have worked for you guys ....WTG Beaufort and ALL the Carolinians voting for our crystal coast!!!

Posted By Jennifer on February 1, 2012, 12:54 PM

What a joke Beaufort had more votes and you call it a tie? If it was the other way around you would've just gave it to the yankees, thanks for wasting my time.

Posted By John on February 1, 2012, 12:55 PM

I have heard of sore losers, but sore winners?
Shameful.

Posted By Beth Johnson on February 1, 2012, 12:55 PM

I am glad that Hammondsport and North Carolina tied. As NC has over 4000 residents and Hammondsport has approximately 750 residents. The Hammondsport town spirit shows through, it is a fabulous town. All tourist should go visit the wineries, the lake and the Glenn Curtis Aviation Museum. The town has an incredibly good school. The lake, Keuka Lake is absolutely stunning to view from all points. It is fun to swim, boat and every other water activity you can think of and has an annual sea plane race and boat regatta. It is a must visit, put it on your bucket list!

If Beaufort, NC is a great town they would understand and be happy for Hammondsport that has 1/4 of their population. Both reap the rewards of notariety and what is wrong with that? Way to go budgettravel. Only 2 fabulous towns could have made this race so exciting. Congratulations to both towns Beaufort North carolina AND Hammondsport New York!

Posted By JoAnn on February 1, 2012, 12:56 PM

It is sad that Budget Travel has to roll over and be politically correct by declaring a "tie". Rules are rules and they are YOUR rules - small city with the most votes on January 31 at midnight (EST) wins. Seems pretty clear! If your site went down it went down for everyone - regardless of what city they might have voted for. All things were equal for all voters!!! You even state in the article above that your own site declared a winner at midnight - Beaufort, NC! You have lost a lot of credibility by not adhering to your own rules. Sad - very sad!

Posted By Bud on February 1, 2012, 12:56 PM

Yay Hammondsport! Proud to be a new Yorker
And to have grown up around the Finger Lakes.
No need to be so hostile people, it's just a contest.
I'm sure Beaufort is beautiful, don't trash it by your nasty
Comments.

Posted By Catherine on February 1, 2012, 12:56 PM

Yes! The tie is the way to go! Hammondsport supporters, you did a terrific job especially for a town of less than 1000 people! We were ahead many times! Thanks Budget Travel for providing all the excitement to bring supporters together.

Posted By Carol on February 1, 2012, 12:57 PM

I live near Hammondsport, NY and I have also had a wonderful visit to Beaufort, NC! Both are very special towns! For those of you upset about .02%, there were several times during the voting that H-Port was ahead by a little...Budget Travel did the right thing! The Finger Lakes Region of New York was rallying last night and who knows what the real outcome would have been! Let's be proud of all our unique small towns and hey, c'mon up to Hammondsport, Beaufort! We welcome you happily!

Posted By Janet Dunlavey on February 1, 2012, 12:58 PM

I wonder what would have happened if people were only able to vote once? Personally I am glad Hammondsport, NY, was one of the finalists. My family has a cottage on Keuka Lake, and we drive right through Hammondsport to get there. I've never been to Beaufort, but I bet it is as beautiful as the tiny community of Hammondsport. Stop whining people. Both towns are going to benefit big time from the award through tourism! Congratualtions to both towns!

Posted By Dave on February 1, 2012, 12:59 PM

Tie Nothing!!!!!!
Beaufor WON!!!! You even said so yourself!!!!!
BOGUS!!!!!!!
You notice that the only folks that agree with the decision are the true "2nd place" finishers from New York!!!!!

Posted By Scott on February 1, 2012, 1:00 PM

You got to be kidding me????
Beaufort won and you are declaring a TIE????
I am from Carteret County and couldn't get in to vote last nite. There were lots of others from here that had the problem too!!!!
Come on now..............BEAUFORT should have been declared the winner....site crash...or no site crash!!!! That just isn't right!!!!!

Posted By Linda on February 1, 2012, 1:01 PM

Wow, Beaufort, please don't make me sorry I voted for you! Shows some class, kids! You have a great town, don't be small now! (I'm sure Hport is nice too)

Posted By mikie on February 1, 2012, 1:01 PM

Take a deep breath, Beaufort supporters. A tie is not the end of the world in a race that means what, exactly? Nice that so many small towns were recognized and hopefully it means a boost in tourism for village residents that depend on that for survival.

Posted By Jill on February 1, 2012, 1:02 PM

Everybody stop whining...it does not reflect well on you as a "Cool Town". Celebrate the win and enjoy the day!

Posted By Dennis on February 1, 2012, 1:04 PM

Wow I cant believe some of the comments. They are both beautiful places to visit. Grow up its just a silly contest. The winner doesn't receive a million bucks

Posted By Janette on February 1, 2012, 1:04 PM

Huge congratulations go out to BOTH winners! Truly shows the love that residents from all the towns represented have to crash the website....WOW! Again, congratulations to Beaufort, NC and Hammondsport, NY. What an honor for both of them.

Posted By Penny on February 1, 2012, 1:06 PM

Please don't start with the insults NY...Sore Winners? I assume u are grown and when u vote in anything a tie doesn't go to any person/place/ or thing when the other has per this site a higher count, no matter how big or small...I take nothing away from NY and how many ppl u have or more we had voting, by your analogy us 4000 Carolinians probably crashed the site then eh? Both are well deserving, so be as it may, but rules were implemented from the get go, Beaufort was declared a Winner from this site themselves, so had that BEEN YOU GUYS, I am sure u would question it as well.....So again CONGRATS and may many WONDERFUL things happen to both these great towns!!!!

Posted By Jennifer on February 1, 2012, 1:07 PM

Yea Beaufort, and thanks to our local paper Newstimes for updates during the contest. I extend an olive branch to Hammondsport and promise not to hit them with it if they come to visit Beaufort! Good fun for both towns and hope it helps the economy for them too!

Posted By bigsur06 on February 1, 2012, 1:10 PM

I'm surprised at the reaction to which small town won the bragging rights, I've been to hammondsport many times, and although I voted for them I planned on taking a vacation to beaufort, but now that I read all the griping and rude comments about Beaufort not getting the title, I'll be spending my money elesewhere, after all it is only for bragging rights, every town participating will benefit from the coverage and that's what it should be about

Posted By Joe tongue on February 1, 2012, 1:10 PM

720 votes is not a tie! What a cowardly bunch. I for one will never read your magazine again. Why have an election if you're not going to count the votes?

Posted By Dan Stetka on February 1, 2012, 1:11 PM

When I am out and about, I will be sure to visit Hammondsport, NY. Too bad the Beaufort, NC crowd, by ways of the comments posted, appear to be very ungracious and whinny! The "Fine, I'll take my ball and go home!" attitude is almost laughable! Sorry, in my book, people who live in "Cool" towns don't complain!

Posted By Tim on February 1, 2012, 1:11 PM

I don't understand all this whining about the contest being declared a tie. Couple of questions you whiners may want to ask yourselves...1. Was this not just a fun online contest? 2. If my town was number 1 by itself exactly what value is there? I did not see a cash prize or trophy handed out. GET OVER IT PEOPLE. Budget Travel did the right thing,,,there was a glitch in the system and they resolved it the fairest way they could. CONGRATS to both towns...of which by the way I HAVE HAD THE PLEASURING OF VISITING BOTH!!!!

Posted By Larry on February 1, 2012, 1:12 PM

I think it's wonderful we have a tie...being from Hammondsport orignally. I am inclined to visit Beaufort, NC real soon as well. Congrats to both for being the COOLEST small town. Can't wait to compare.

Posted By Ann on February 1, 2012, 1:12 PM

I have to say that I wasn't "excited" about Beaufort winning such a contest because I am a local, even though many said it might help the economy in our area. I like the fact that it isn't overrun with tourists (yet) and that there are still local (as opposed to state owned) ferry services that take smaller groups out to the islands. However, clearly Beaufort won this contest....it's a no-brainer.

I don't believe over seven hundred fifty people would have logged on BudgetTravel at 11:45 last night in support of Hammondsport.....but suppose they did for a moment. The same amount of Beaufort supporters lost the opportunity to cast more votes as well, didn't they?

Plus, it begs the question...Is there really a "contest" between miles and miles of unspoiled wilderness, turquoise water, pristine beaches and a bunch of little planes flying around and homemade cars, etc?

This whole thing was a waste of time and obviously, some kind of paid advertisement.

Posted By Angela Keel on February 1, 2012, 1:13 PM

Thank you for calling it a tie. It wouldn't let me vote on the 31st. I had waited the 24 hours. I tried several times but it wouldn't take. In fact the vote now for Hammondsport wasn't showing. So thank you again.

Posted By jan on February 1, 2012, 1:14 PM

beaufort is the out right winner in our hearts , we have lived here sense birth!!!!Thanks to all residents and friends of this small town called Beaufort, over 300 years old!!!!lawrence

Posted By M. Lawrence on February 1, 2012, 1:15 PM

Congrats to both great small towns. I need to visit Beaufort - it sounds terrific. And pleas do come visit all of us in Hammondsport. The view of the lake is priceless, and we love the company. You'll have a great time!

Posted By Tim Tighe on February 1, 2012, 1:16 PM

All you naysayers come on!! It's a tie get over it!

Posted By Tania on February 1, 2012, 1:17 PM

Funny all these New Yorkers calling us uncool and taking their money else where...Please do.....Not only do u want to admit a LOSS that clearly shows u in the votes, but u decide to get cocky with having been given a TIE, by votes u didn't win....If u can sit over there and say u wouldn't be spewing your ignorance, had u been given the FINAL RESULTS DECLARING the WINNER as BEAUFORT by that .02 percent then happy spending!!!

Posted By Jennifer on February 1, 2012, 1:18 PM

You would think that the prize was a million dollars for each resident, it's nothing more than bragging rights I have friends and family in NC and always thought their state was full of laid back southern folk, turns out it's full of a bunch of uptight whiners that can't handle a tie. It's laughable

Posted By Joe tongue on February 1, 2012, 1:19 PM

The true beauty of a town isn't found only in the landscape, but the content of the character of the people in and around it. Hammondsport is much more than the video suggests....and from these blog posts, it sounds like some folks could use a visit to the wineries there....and soon!

Posted By Beth Johnson on February 1, 2012, 1:20 PM

Shame on you Budget travel! You are the real winner here with all of the free advertsing you've received. As for the contest, based on your rules the town with the most votes wins. In case your math skills are lacking let me point out that town is Beaufort, NC. No disrespect to Hammondsport but the fact that your site crashed is your problem. Don't pawn it off on the Beaufort voters by declaring a tie. Okay, the site crashed -- for everyone, not just Hammdsport voters. Beaufort voters experienced the same problem. If everyone kept voting as they had been an hour would not have been enough time to recover from a .2 deficit. Again, it's in the math. So Budget Travel, you took the coward's way out. Shame on you! Congratulations to Beaufort, NC -- the only valid winner of this contest! And much respect to the towns who made up the 10 finalists. In a race of 10 each competitor places out in positions 1 -10. In this race Beafort finished first, Hammondsport was 2nd, and Weaverville came in third. Embrace your successes and revel in the spot where you finished! The blue ribbon goes to Beaufort and no arbitary, safe, attempt at controversy-free corporate decision can change the vote-counting. BEAUFORT WON!

Posted By RT on February 1, 2012, 1:23 PM

Beaufort is the out right winner in our hearts , we have lived here sense birth!!!!Thanks to all residents and friends of this small town called Beaufort, over 300 years old!!

Posted By M. Lawrence on February 1, 2012, 1:25 PM

Being a Beaufort native I would have loved for Beaufort to be declared the winner, however Budget Travel made a great call considering the technical difficulties and I'm happy for both small towns. Hopefully everyone will enjoy a nice vacation and maybe the Mayor's of the towns can have their own contests to give a vacation from their town to the winner from the other town. This could be a real media win for both towns if the cards are played correctly.

Posted By Rob Parrish on February 1, 2012, 1:26 PM

I have spent time in both and a tie is a good end result both towns so differnet in nature...but hands down hammondsport is much more beautiful.

Posted By JOHN on February 1, 2012, 1:26 PM

JenniFer at 11:55 last night Beaufort was ahead so I gave up watching the tally, your town is the winner by votes, but from the comments here and your in particular we see who the real winners are

Posted By Joe tongue on February 1, 2012, 1:27 PM

I thank Budget Travel for their decision. What happened to southern kindness and courtesy? I was unable to vote a number of times and be sure, there were plenty others for Hammondsport and Beufort that couldn't either. What a wonderful contest and I had hoped to go to Beufort someday and without this contest, wouldn't have known anything about it! I will be sure not to now. Sorry for the sour grapes - maybe they didn't deserve it after all!

Posted By Kate on February 1, 2012, 1:28 PM

For most of the last day, the towns were tied. My family members had to wait until the evening to vote because of the 1x/24 hour rule. However, we were unable to vote because the site crashed. Several of us were on the phone, so disappointed, because the vote was so close and we weren't able to participate. I think it's fair to call it a tie--in the end, does it really matter? Both towns are wonderful and are deserving of any tourism boost--afterall, with this economy, how can it hurt anyone to honor both towns! And, if people want to get down to the nitty-gritty, it's amazing that Hammondsport was able to stay neck and neck with a town that had 3 times the number of people!! That sure says something to me!

Posted By Alan on February 1, 2012, 1:29 PM

While I am a supporter of Beaufort, I am amazed at the number of commenters insisting that Beaufort won! Yes, it did appear to have the largesst number of votes at midnight, but with all the difficulty experienced by voters - and potential voters, I believe the decision to have a tie is appropriate. Beaufort - don't take yourself too seriously! Maybe you should have won, but don't make yourself look foolish and childish by insisting you won. Take the tie and learn from it and continue to be gracious hosts to visiting tourists.

Posted By Freedom From Insanity on February 1, 2012, 1:30 PM

I have been having trouble voting since late last week. I'd try to vote and it wouldn't let me - I'd get a message saying I had already voted when I had not. I was voting for Hammondsport and felt very frustrated that I was not able to register my vote for several days. I think this solution was the only way to go. I'm sure that others (both in NY and NC) were having similar issues. Can we all get along, please? Congrats to both towns!

Posted By Sue on February 1, 2012, 1:31 PM

Way to go Beaufort! My aunt use to live there and my cousins attended East Carteret H.S. I grew up in Newport, but now live in Illinois. Can't wait to go home to visit again. Just looking at the video made me home-sick.

Posted By Stephanie on February 1, 2012, 1:32 PM

If the individuals that are commenting about Beaufort live in Beaufort- I WOULD NOT WANT TO GO THERE! I am not from either area, but because of your foolish comments- about a competition that is not the end of the world, you make your small town look like a very non-desireable vacation stop. Maybe you should just be happy that you get to share something wonderful with people who like you, love where you live you would be so much more fulfilled. Next stop on my travel list- Hammondsport where the people seem to be gracious and good.

Posted By Future traveler on February 1, 2012, 1:38 PM

Wow I thought Beaufort was a beautiful town but I'm glad it wasn't announced the winner..the people commenting here sure don't fit the town. How nasty and mean you all are! Hammondsport - I'll be there to visit this year!

Posted By Brandy on February 1, 2012, 1:39 PM

I have to say by reading all these comments, I am seriously disappointed on how people are acting. It was a little contest for a magazine. Both towns did amazing on how many votes came in for both of them. With this being published though both towns should be looking forward to some tourist coming this season! Total plus anyway you look at it.

Posted By Amy on February 1, 2012, 1:39 PM

I have to say by reading all these comments, I am seriously disappointed on how people are acting. It was a little contest for a magazine. Both towns did amazing on how many votes came in for both of them. With this being published though both towns should be looking forward to some tourist coming this season! Total plus anyway you look at it.

Posted By Amy on February 1, 2012, 1:39 PM

On behalf of the Hammondsport Chamber of Commerce, I would like to send out congratulations to Beaufort, NC and commend Budget Travel for the decision to call it a tie. What a great, exciting contest & show of support from both communities! In the electronic world we live in, computer glitches are bound to occur, but what a statement on the popularity of the contest! Well done & thanks!

Posted By Marybeth Haar on February 1, 2012, 1:40 PM

23 of my friends were not able to vote for Hammondsport last night due to the technical issues. They had also asked their friends to vote.. As many of them live in Europe they couldn't stay up until midnight US time which would have been in the early hours of the morning. I heard there were many others who couldn't vote either as they normally use an earlier window to vote ( When the site was down) Between work and going to bed..
( @ Dan S : Where did you get your figures of 720 votes ? ) I was going to go to visit Beaufort but am not really sure now as there seem to be a lot of negative attitudes there ... Hopefully they don't represent the Majority. Not a good way to promote your area..
I don't live in Hammondsport but I admire their welcoming and friendly attitude and that is partly what this whole competition is about.. " Coolest-small-Town" Irrelevant of all the immature outbursts all competitors will see an increase in tourism and revenue for their area thanks to Budget Travels
"Smallest cool Town Competition". Everyone will benefit. Stay positive and be happy that you live in such beautiful country :)
Thank you Budget Travel for giving me ideas of where to travel ..

Posted By Mia on February 1, 2012, 1:40 PM

This is a real shame for you to go back on the rules of your own contest. It's not like the system crashed, and only those voting for the NY town couldn't vote. No one could!! I kept trying!! I was finally able to cast my final vote for Beaufort last night at 11:52pm where we were clearly ahead. I was persistant! There is NO TIE!! I'm extremely disappointed in the way you have handled this.

Posted By Kelly on February 1, 2012, 1:41 PM

I also tried to vote for Hammondsport on the 31st and it wouldn't let me.

Before reading all the blogs I thought I would love to visit Beaufort but why would I want to go to a place where there's name calling and people are so hostile over a silly contest? Congrats to Hammondsport people for being grown ups.

Posted By Jen on February 1, 2012, 1:42 PM

Throughout the contest my votes were not counted. Several days I received the "already voted" statement despite not voting within the past 24 hours. Seriously, this should have been a fun contest and the poor sportsmanship being shown in comments is unfortunate. Hopefully readers will visit the top 10 finalists towns. All the communities are winners.

Posted By The Getaway on Keuka on February 1, 2012, 1:42 PM

We did not have to offer a prize (bribe..lol.see 10:52 am blog) for voting for our wonderful town of Hammondsport....so a tie is pretty generous to Beaufort.....God bless America

Posted By Allan Gray on February 1, 2012, 1:44 PM

I am not begrudging Beaufort the win in this, even tho technical difficulties for several days hindered voting on both sides. What bothers me is Budget travel, due to there technical difficulties decided to be fair in a contest that was close from the get go. What i dont understand is the hating. Its not a presidential election, people....Grow up. I have been to Beaufort and i live in Hammondsport, they are both beutiful towns and both very cool in there own way. What happened to southern hospitality?

This just seems indicative of whats going on in this country. This is why we cant pick good leaders and why none of us can get along. If this whining is your example of southern hospitality, i wont be vacationing south of the Mason/Dixon line this year.

Posted By Christopher on February 1, 2012, 1:45 PM

If the negative comments from the people in NC are any indication of the hospitality that is shown to visitors....I think I will visit Hammondsport.

Posted By Archie's Girls on February 1, 2012, 1:47 PM

Congrats Hammondsport! Nothing like coming together as a community to give a town with 6x the population a run for their money!!! I think this will be great for the local economy. Thanks Budget Travel for allowing Hammondsport to finally make it on the map!!!

Posted By Diana on February 1, 2012, 1:47 PM

There is a lot of whining coming from both sides here. No one could access the website last night, it happens and happens often to sites with lots of hits at once! As for not being declared the winner Beaufort, which technically you were, some of you are showing your a$$ right now. I'm from MHC and I'm a little embarressed by some of the comments. The Crystal Coast is better than that and would love people to come experience the greatness that the area has to offer!

Posted By Stop the Whining on February 1, 2012, 1:47 PM

I am not begrudging Beaufort the win in this, even tho technical difficulties for several days hindered voting on both sides. And it doesnt bother me that Budget Travel, due to there technical difficulties decided to be fair in a contest that was close from the get go. What i dont understand is the hating. Its not a presidential election, people....Grow up. I have been to Beaufort and i live in Hammondsport, they are both beutiful towns and both very cool in there own way. What happened to southern hospitality?

This just seems indicative of whats going on in this country. This is why we cant pick good leaders and why none of us can get along. If this whining is your example of southern hospitality, i wont be vacationing south of the Mason/Dixon line this year.

Posted By Christopher on February 1, 2012, 1:47 PM

This is silly and over dramatic. Both towns are recognized and are getting attention. I would have loved to go visit Beauford, but after reading some of the comments, I'm not so sure I'd want to now. Can't you just be thankful? I hate all the drama surrounding a neat contest that we were all so fortunate to be a part of. Thank you Budget Travel for including us.

Posted By Ani on February 1, 2012, 1:48 PM

Hey, I've really got to hope the people complaining about a tie don't really represent the fine and gracious town of Beaufort. Apparently y'all don't mind "winning" even if it takes a crashed website to do it. I wouldn't call that a victory and if that's your winning spirit, think I'll give your place a miss...

Posted By Mary on February 1, 2012, 1:49 PM

Beaufort was a clear winner leading for over a week, and was cheated out of as many votes last night in the last three hours of the voting.

Beaufort can say they won and it was announced on the site, only to be declared a co-winner by the site to bring in second place town.

It's good you don't run elections in Banana Republics, you would have Jimmy Carter all over you.

Barry.

Posted By Barry on February 1, 2012, 1:49 PM

Well, I find it interesting that the NY people think that your resolution is a fine one! And some in the process make condescending remarks about Beaufort voters are "whining"....

A contest should abide by its own rules, or it is not a contest!

Posted By Fay on February 1, 2012, 1:51 PM

On today's homepage, just above the article about the "tie" between Beaufort and Hammondsport, you advertise your blog with these words: "You can always trust us ..." I sure don't trust your decision-making, that's for sure. You wasted a lot of people's time, and got their hopes up needlessly. On the other hand, you introduced your website to a lot of new readers, huh? The site went down for everyone -- not just those in Hammondsport. I wonder where the folks who made this decision are from, who your business associates are and where your loyalties lie. You know you've lost some followers, don't you? Shame, shame on you.

Posted By Candy on February 1, 2012, 1:55 PM

Usually one has to say "poor losers" Seems we have to say "poor winner" this time. Congratulations to Beaufort and Hammondsport, NY

Posted By Ted Marks on February 1, 2012, 1:56 PM

This just in - Budget Travel will not be having the Coolest Small Town in America contest in 2013. They will instead be looking for the Crankiest Small Town in America.

Posted By John on February 1, 2012, 1:59 PM

Seriously a tie LOL?!? What a load of politically correct cowardly trash. I'll simply continue to get credible travel info from a real website called Trip Advisor.

BTW I been to both places and there is no comparison. The only thing cool about Hammondsport is the temperature of the air & the lake.

Posted By Dwayne P. on February 1, 2012, 2:01 PM

Hammondsport is actually a small town. We have less than 800 poeple in our whole town. One school of only 546 kids K-12. We should have won anyway. Due to the fact you have 5x the people to vote and we were that close before the site even crashed. We are 100% the coolest small town in America.

Posted By Carly on February 1, 2012, 2:01 PM

720 votes is a few??

Posted By Dave on February 1, 2012, 2:02 PM

Congratulations Hammondsport! Thank you for putting our area on the map. This probably has been one of the most exciting things that has happened in our area in a long time. It wasn't just Hammondsport residents voting it was people from all of the surrounding small towns rallying together to help Hammondsport get votes. I am proud to be from this area and knowing no matter the name of my small town that the people in this area are willing to work together to help each other out.

Posted By Wendy on February 1, 2012, 2:04 PM

Beaufort, NC did an awesome job in this, but they were not ahead "for over a week". It went back and forth several times all week long. Let's also keep in mind that Beaufort got the top spot on the "finalists" list (every time I visited the page anyway). Alphabetical, maybe but I don't think it was fair that their town was listed first the entire time. As well as... have you checked the population for these areas? Hammondsport, NY rocks for giving you such tough competition! I think Budget Travel did well to call it a tie. Who is to say that there weren't a lot more people pulling in last minute to help H'port win? I commend Budget Travel for this decision. And to those that mentioned it... of course it was Budget Travel's intent to draw traffic to their site... can't fault them for that!

Posted By JC on February 1, 2012, 2:04 PM

Congrats to both. Can't wait for the rematch next year!!!!

Posted By OBX on February 1, 2012, 2:05 PM

It's funny that Hammondsport people are the only people "Excited about the tie"

if this was the other way around, HAMMONDSPORT WOULD NOT BE SO EXCITED. it's not right.. and i can't imagine who would think this is a good idea. sounds like a conspiracy ESPECIALLY since budget travel is based in NY. sounds fishy. and we don't like it ONE bit.

Posted By Ellen on February 1, 2012, 2:05 PM

I tried voting since last Friday and something was wrong with the website, saying I already voted. I have a co-worker who ran into the same problem. How many others had that issue? Enough to possibly get more votes and win?

Posted By Stephanie Rawleigh on February 1, 2012, 2:05 PM

Because of all the advertisement on Beaufort, NC, I was most definitely planning a trip down there. But, since all the negativism from those that live there, I'm not sure now that I want to visit.
I have to commend Budget Travel for declaring a tie. Who knows which one would have been a winner. The site crashed well before midnight, because I know of many people in the Finger Lakes that tried to get on and vote and was unable to, as early as 7 p.m..

Posted By Sylvia Cadwell on February 1, 2012, 2:06 PM

I cannot believe all the complaining and excuses that are being made over this contest. Both towns should be proud of coming in top place. They constantly talked about what neighborly and friendly towns they are. I am afraid that their true colors have finally shown through, and they are still living in the "North versus South" age with the Yankees versus the Rebels! With this type of attitude, I would be so ashamed and embarrassed to be from either town!! I don't think either one of them deserve the title

Posted By Judy on February 1, 2012, 2:07 PM

Well, Budget Travel man did you screw the pooch on this one.Just because you had a problem doesn't mean that we ( Carteret County)folks did.We won the contest fair and square.I bet the Yankees would have felt a little different about your decision had they been leading by .2....P.S. I along with alot of my friends have used your services for their vacation needs in the past but I guess like this contest this too has come to an end

Posted By Robert Geiges on February 1, 2012, 2:08 PM

Wow Beaufort, be gracious wouldya!Given the wide margin between Beaufort, Hammondsport and the rest of the field, I would say it was a runaway for these two towns. In such a race (contest) as this it doesn't mean that second (or first in this case) is going to get any less from it.
I lived in NC for 16 yrs, and presently hale from the Fingerlakes area. Really as beautiful as a small town as I'm sure Beaufort is, I've always thought you can not compare the hills of the FingerLakes Region to any other area. It came through the ice ages, and is simply spectacular.

Posted By bonnie coulson on February 1, 2012, 2:09 PM

Thank you Budget Travel for the contest. I grew up in the very small town of Hammondsport. I am proud that we kept pace with the not so small other town. I think we had a better ratio in size(s) comparatively. Personally had Facebook friends from California and around the world that could not vote. So who is to say but Budget Travel.

Posted By HistoricNearWestside.com on February 1, 2012, 2:09 PM

Very noble decision. I had been having computer problems also. This contest was great fun! And made us aware of some great places to visit. I am sorry some people are upset. As far as I am concerned both towns showed great community support. I think it's a win for both towns. And they should take pride in it. Also Budget travel made a very difficult decision with grace. Congrats. to all.

Posted By Wen on February 1, 2012, 2:13 PM

Seriously, if NY would have been allowed to vote yesterday we wouldn't be having this issue, you did tell right thing Budget Travel

Posted By Diane Sherwood on February 1, 2012, 2:17 PM

Congrats Budget Travel, you mastered the world of politics! Anyone there running for office?

Posted By Donnie on February 1, 2012, 2:18 PM

Not everyone commenting on the unfairness of a tie is from Beaufort so please stop calling us a town of whiners. People from all over the country voted for both towns and if the town they selected seems to be treated unfairly they have every right to express their disappointment with how BT handled the final decision. The rules of the contest set the size of the towns that could participate. In that sense we are all 'even' so to speak. There were towns both larger and smaller that did not end up in the race to the finish. Budget Travel had been made aware days before the last day of the contest about the site issues. Shame on them for not fixing them or preparing more adequately and creating this controversy. To those who say that everyone should be content with the results, I do understand that both towns can benefit from this. BUT the contest was for THE CoolEST town and the rules were very clear; the town with the most votes wins. It's an issue of BT NOT honoring their rules that we take issue wih. That is not ungracious or showing a lack of Southern manners. In fact it exemplfies Southern HONOR to call for what is right and fair based on the parameters given for the contest. It was a good race and Hammondsport should be proud of their efforts. The FACT remains though that BT didn't declare Beaufort, who had more votes, regardless of who got locked out and when, the winner at the final buzzer and instead is trying to whitewash their own shortcomings by declaring a tie. That is unsatisfactory in my opinion. Instead of people saying they won't visit Beaufort I believe they should instead consider asking BT to honor the contest rules and declare THE winner based on the numbers. In Beaufort we are understandably disappointed that BT hasn't acted responsibly or ethically in regards to contest results. That isn't sour grapes, it is us expressing our frustration with BT's handling of things.

Posted By Disappointed on February 1, 2012, 2:18 PM

Wow- I'm sure Beufort, NC is a beautiful place to visit but after reading the comments made by MANY... Its the people that are scaring me. A tie is the only way they could have ever called it after the site crashed because there was NO WAY TO EVER KNOW after the fact... who the sole winner MIGHT have been if it had not crashed.

Posted By Becky on February 1, 2012, 2:20 PM

Thank you for the tie I know of at least 10 people that could not vote plus me we had to work so by the time the site was back up we were at work so we didn't get a chance to vote

Posted By Jay on February 1, 2012, 2:24 PM

Congrats Budget Travel on such a fun way to spend January! After enjoying summers here, my family relocated to Hammondsport this year for a "sabbatical," leaving a town in Texas Money Magazine named one of the Top 5 Places to Live in America. We may have found its smaller equal here in the Finger Lakes! We put our kids in the school and dived into the community. From the wineries to the lake sports, from the small, artsy downtown to a public school that rivals any private one I have seen, Hammondsport is a small town that boasts not only the "coolest" people, but those with the biggest hearts! Just look at the above posts. Friendly as can be. What a joy to live here! Come visit. Thanks Budget Travel for recognizing all small towns and creating a buzz for everyone!

Posted By JV on February 1, 2012, 2:25 PM

Way to go Weaverville, we all know that you are the Best of the West. Hold your heads up high!!!

Posted By Tom and Judy on February 1, 2012, 2:26 PM

Gives new meaning to "hanging chad". Two tenths of a winning margin is a win...not a tie.

Posted By speckhunter80 on February 1, 2012, 2:27 PM

After reading several immature comments by NC citizens, I have to say I don't think I want to visit Beaufort, NC or anywhere close. If people are going to get this mean and nasty over a contest, after the company makes a decision to try and keep things fair after their own mistake, especially when the contest gives all the top 10 some publicity, it is NOT a place I'd like to travel to or spend my money.

Posted By Alana on February 1, 2012, 2:29 PM

At 11:55pm last night I put my vote in for my hometown of Damascus,VA. I love my little town.Then at exactly 12 midnight, on the map it was declared Beauford, NC was the winner. Since I live in High Point,NC I was happy since I knew Damascus was to far behind to win..
So there was definately not a tie..I agree with Donnie, Budget Travel you mastered the world of politics!!!

Posted By Connie on February 1, 2012, 2:29 PM

Hurray for Hammondsport..a beautiful small town with a beautiful countryside...especially in the summer and fall....so many folks getting mad over "The Tie"...lighten up..it is only a contest...Life is too short. Enjoy your title...without the anger. People in small towns, shouldn't get so upset...enjoy the simple pleasures in life..

Posted By agneslynn on February 1, 2012, 2:33 PM

Beaufort, NC had been ahead of NY the whole time of the contest so I think that is the way you need to look at it so Beaufort, NC WINS. That is really the only way to pick a winner. Beaufort was leading at the end and should be announced the winner even if the lines did go down. We all voted and was voting for ONE WINNER and that is the way it should be. I am totally disappointed in the way you picked your winner. I won't be voting next year!!!!!

Posted By Pat Jones on February 1, 2012, 2:37 PM

Congratulations to both Beaufort NC and Hammondsport NY (my hometown). We all should feel very blessed to live in such beautiful places.

Posted By Ellen Shaw Maceko on February 1, 2012, 2:38 PM

Beaufort, NC had been ahead of NY the whole time of the contest so I think that is the way you need to look at it so Beaufort, NC WINS. That is really the only way to pick a winner. Beaufort was leading at the end and should be announced the winner even if the lines did go down. We all voted and was voting for ONE WINNER and that is the way it should be. I am totally disappointed in the way you picked your winner. I won't be voting next year!!!!!

Posted By Pat Jones on February 1, 2012, 2:39 PM

The best decision was made to cast this as a tie since there were many people I rallied to vote and were not able to have there votes counted due to the site crashing. In retrospect, what a great problem to have when there was so much activity right? Kudos to both towns as I'm sure they are both the cream of the crop.

Posted By Stacey Hubbard on February 1, 2012, 2:45 PM

Congratulations to both Beaufort NY and Hammondsport NY (my hometown). I have been to Beaufort and it is lovely- this contest makes me want to go back there again. So COOL that the two coolest small towns in America are on the east coast! We are both winners and both will benefit from this contest!!

Posted By Ellen Shaw Maceko on February 1, 2012, 2:48 PM

I see that the true distinction between Hammondsport and Beaufort has finally shown thru! While Hammondsport fans are congratulating BOTH towns and paying tribute to the spirit of the competition, Beaufort fans are just whining and complaining. If I was a whiner and complainer, I'd state that we had 1/6th of the population Beaufort has, and we certainly didn't have a world-famous author (Nicholas Sparks) campaigning for us, but none of that matters, because what I took out of it was how much spirit, fight, and class we as Hammondsport had thru it all. Too bad, because I'm sure Beaufort, NC is a beautiful place, but I don't know as if I want to visit a town full of whiners and complainers. Coolest Small Town in America or not, at least we know who has class. Congratulations to both towns, nevertheless.

Posted By Kyle Bills on February 1, 2012, 2:53 PM

Oh my goodness Beaufort N Carolinians you need to calm down.You are not presenting a friendly face to potential visitors.

Posted By Jeanne on February 1, 2012, 2:54 PM

Love both of the winners! Beaufort's Pecan Tree Inn was a place I would escape to from the NY Finger Lakes when the NY winters got too long by March/April. No need to escape the Finger Lakes in the summer.

B and H should hold a joint culinary celebration, some excellent Riesling to complement some excellent seafood.

Posted By Steve Pacenka on February 1, 2012, 2:54 PM

I think it should be a tie. Beaufort has almost 4 times the population of Hammondsport. Therefore a lot more voters and it was still that close? A tie was a great idea! Congrats to both cities!

Posted By Jackie on February 1, 2012, 2:56 PM

I was born and raised in Hammondsport and would never want to live any place else. I can walk out my door and within a few feet I am at the shore's edge. I am very blessed indeed. Beaufort, after watching your video and learning more about your town- I would love to come back and visit. It's been many many years since I have been there. Please, let us all stop being negative and be happy that we have received this honor from BT.

Posted By Ellen Shaw Maceko on February 1, 2012, 2:59 PM

you hammondsporters are funny. you say we're whiners and bleh bleh bleh. i guess you're saying that if you were ahead by .02 in the votes the hour before the system "crashed" that you wouldn't be upset when they called a tie? come on, be realistic and quit acting all high and mighty. you won by a fluke. and that's what is laughable.

Posted By Hay on February 1, 2012, 2:59 PM

I was born and raised in Hammondsport and would never want to live any place else. I can walk out my door and within a few feet I am at the shore's edge. I am very blessed indeed. Beaufort, after watching your video and learning more about your town- I would love to come back and visit. It's been many many years since I have been there. Please, let us all stop being negative and be happy that we have received this honor from BT.

Posted By Ellen Shaw Maceko on February 1, 2012, 2:59 PM

Beaufort NC, Hammondsport NY, what's the difference? Chances are there's more New Yawkers living in Beaufort than there is in Hammondsport! Funny how the Beaufort natives will fight over something as silly as this contest, but won't get off their haunches to fight against skyrocketing property taxes influenced by the northern invasion...go figure...

Posted By The Truth on February 1, 2012, 3:00 PM

NY can shove it! They lost beaufort won. The end.

Posted By 252CC on February 1, 2012, 3:01 PM

It is wonderful that 2 towns came out winners. Think of all the marketing possibilities! I am thankful everyday that I live in a beautiful place such as Hammondsport, NY. Congratulations to both towns!

Posted By Carolyn Hopkins on February 1, 2012, 3:01 PM

It should be an honor for both cities for being that close. So everyone should appreciate it and stop being rude and immature.

Posted By Jackie on February 1, 2012, 3:01 PM

Beaufort voters were locked out of voting too due to the crash. So as far as we are concerned Beaufort is the overall winner. Congratulations Beaufort, NC!! In two short years we will be calling you home - looking forward to our retirement there.

Posted By Melissa on February 1, 2012, 3:02 PM

I'm from Beaufort, and while I was initially upset, it only took a few moments of viewing the comments on this page for me to realize that Hammondsport might be the better place to visit. Budget Travel declare a draw, and Beaufort locals are now blowing up the page with negative, dirty comments. Come on, I think everyone here knows it's a miracle we were even nominated, much less came in first on a draw. I hope other Beaufort locals look at this and realize the purpose of the site to begin with. It wasn't a popularity contest, it was meant to show potential visitors a nice small town that would be optimal for a low-budget getaway. But with all this ruckus over .2% or whatever the last figure was, who would look at this blog and think they'd want to come visit Beaufort.

Posted By William on February 1, 2012, 3:02 PM

I first want to says congrats to all the small towns who were nominated- that's an achievement in and of itself! This was certainly a nail-biting contest, all the way down to the last second. I'm sure because of the fierce competition between Beaufort and Hammondsport, in addition to the technical difficulties with the voting during the last several hours, BudgetTravel had no choice but to declare a tie to be "fair" to both towns. What I am not sure of, however, is how 36.2 and 36.0 percent are found to be "equal", since this is in fact a PERCENT of the total number of votes, meaning there was a distinct number of actual votes separating the two towns(though I'm no mathematician!) This was a month-long contest and Hammondsport had been a front runner during most of the competition. I have read in some reports that they even had the support and endoresements of highly-elected government officials, such as senators, and used billboards to advertise the contest. I am from Beaufort and I can honestly say that I never once saw any signs or billboards out in public. Never once did I hear any governement officials campaigning for our town. Primary sources of our support came through what us "small town" folks call word of mouth, with the aid of local newspaper and facebook media. Only in the last couple of weeks did a short 15 sec local ad air over the local radio and tv stations. So if you sitting here reading all of these comments thinking that people from Beaufort are "sore losers", it's only because we know how great of a town we live in and all it has to offer. I would challenge any of you to visit our quaint little town so we can prove to you how cool it truly is!

Posted By Lindsey on February 1, 2012, 3:02 PM

Beaufort voters were locked out too due to the "crash." So as far as we are concerned Beaufort is the winner!! Congratulations Beaufort, NC!! In just under two years we will be calling you home as we are planning on retiring there.

Posted By Melissa on February 1, 2012, 3:04 PM

This comment is directed at "the truth." There is a difference thank you. We stand out for all of our historical buildings and what-not. & All of the yankees don't really come here they prefer to buy all of the property on atlantic beach. They should just stay up north.

Posted By Beaufort local on February 1, 2012, 3:05 PM

I have been to both Beaufort, SC and Hammondsport, NY. Both are wonderful towns with wonderful people and cool places! I could not honestly say one is better than the other they are both unique! I tried to vote for Hammondsport, NY the last day and it was so busy....no luck....something was not right in naming either a winner....both are!!!!

Posted By Daniel J. Woodburn on February 1, 2012, 3:05 PM

I am truly amazed at all of the negativity in these comments. This contest was in good fun. Both towns will benefit greatly from the free advertisement. Seriously people... grow up!!

Posted By Brittney on February 1, 2012, 3:05 PM

I am truly amazed at all of the negativity in these comments. This contest was in good fun. Both towns will benefit greatly from the free advertisement. Seriously people... grow up!!

Posted By Brittney on February 1, 2012, 3:06 PM

I totally understand Budget's decision to declare a tie. Politically correct? Maybe. I campaigned on facebook for my town and had fun with it. For me, good manners and Southern hospitality will always win out--come on down to Beaufort and experience the good life on the Crystal Coast. To my fellow Beauforters: smile, get over it, and visit Hammondsport when you go North. Let's be gracious and share the honor.

Posted By Pepper Cory on February 1, 2012, 3:06 PM

"Hay" is for horses. And so is your complaining. Grow up. It's great for both towns. That's all that matters. What did you lose by this thing being called a tie? Nothing. What did you gain? A lot. Stop whining and be happy for your town.

Posted By Kyle Bills on February 1, 2012, 3:07 PM

Being gracious to all visitors is the most important thing to be proud of. People visit these great places because someone gave them the recommendation. Be proud and give tourists your very best hospitality! Congratulations to all towns nominated!

Posted By joanne H. on February 1, 2012, 3:08 PM

I totally understand Budget's decision to declare a tie. Politically correct? Maybe. I campaigned on facebook for my town and had fun with it. For me, good manners and Southern hospitality will always win out--come on down to Beaufort and experience the good life on the Crystal Coast. To my fellow Beauforters: smile, get over it, and visit Hammondsport when you go North. Let's be gracious and share the honor.

Posted By Pepper Cory on February 1, 2012, 3:09 PM

Congratulations to Beauford and Hammondsport. Let's count our blessings. We both live in beautiful places. This could have been 2 contests depending on populations of towns - Beauford can be coolest small town Population 4000 and Hammondsport can be coolest tiny small town Population 725. Given that and the ups and downs of the contest lets just be happy that we are so fortunate. We really are two very special places.

Posted By Rita Hunter on February 1, 2012, 3:10 PM

I am from the Beaufort NC area (born and raised) and I am ashamed by all the negative comments on here. Considering the circumstances I think this was the only fair result. We are both winners! Please don't spoil it by your hateful comments. Beaufort is a gorgeous community with great Southern charm and we would be happy for anyone to visit to see for themselves.

Posted By Sara Laughton on February 1, 2012, 3:11 PM

Super Bowl 46
Giants 36.2 Patriots 36.0

Posted By Jeff on February 1, 2012, 3:13 PM

I thought Beaufort looked like a beautiful place to visit when I stumbled on this site and voted a few days ago. Curious about who won, I came back today. I won't be visiting anytime soon with all this negativity from residents in this comment section. What a sad way to represent a town that you all obviously love and have pride in.

Posted By Jenny on February 1, 2012, 3:13 PM

Wonderful that you declared both towns winners.
A tie was the only fair decision.

Posted By M. B. on February 1, 2012, 3:14 PM

Sara Laughton- thank you! I have a feeling that most people in Beaufort are like you! Come see us in Hammondsport- we will show you a beautiful community.

Posted By Ellen Shaw Maceko on February 1, 2012, 3:15 PM

Wow! I came back to see who won after seeing so many charming places...scratch Beaufort off my list! I am really disappointed by the negative comments on this posting. Unfortunate.

Posted By Barchbo on February 1, 2012, 3:16 PM

Super Bowl 46
Giants 36.2 Patriots 36.0
Can anyone remember the "score" in Super 45?

Posted By Jeff on February 1, 2012, 3:19 PM

I am very disappointed in your decision to declare a tie when you stated yourself that Beaufort had the most votes. I can assure you that your site crashed in Carteret County (Beaufort's county) and areas around it. You had all this hype about choosing the "Coolest Small Town in America", had a contest, and then declared a tie between number 1 and number 2 when there was not only a difference in the number of votes but also a difference in percentage points. I think both towns can be proud of the support they received, but it was a contest, and a win is a win...or should be. Coming in second out of all the towns nominated surely isn't a loss, but it isn't first place. You didn't honor the parameters you yourself set for the contest.

I don't think I'd trust you guys to handle any travel plans of mine or honor anything you advertise if you can't honor the rules of a contest you sponsor.

Posted By Bobbe on February 1, 2012, 3:25 PM

Will the real people from Beaufort please stand up? I hope the community is not so totally lacking in grace as many of these comments suggest.

Posted By buckaroo on February 1, 2012, 3:27 PM

Well - I am in Oklahoma and have been voting in this contest - I have no ties to either city. I find it so sad the attitudes of the Beaufort residents. I too have been voting and have had difficulty all week off and on - not just last night. I think the decision made to declare a tie was a fair and just choice. For a little town like Hammondsport to hold their own against a city so much larger says alot about it's residents and their gracious attitudes. Has nothing to do with being tied - they could be complaining and being ugly about the inability to vote thru out this contest. I hope someday to visit Hammondsport - they are my kind of people......... Beaufort residents: tske note of true southern hospitality....

Posted By Kay in Oklahoma on February 1, 2012, 3:28 PM

Who is Beaufort, NC want some cheese to go with that whine ( wine ) Hahah get it? :D Hammondsport Wine Country rocks.

Posted By Taryn E. on February 1, 2012, 3:29 PM

I think you all should quit whining. Did any of you complaining, book anything with budget travel.com because of this contest? I highly doubt it. And I don't believe anyone in or near Hammondsport offered anything in return for voting for their town such as the book author from Beaufort. That alone should be reason for disqualification. So it's a tie...big deal!!! Be happy that you live in area so rich in beauty and that at least others are now aware that there are more places on this earth similar to where they live. We all could have been born and live somewhere "less desireable". Chew on that for minute. Nuff said.

Posted By Randy on February 1, 2012, 3:30 PM

I live in Beaufort and I am embarrassed by the comments from the Beaufort locals. We do have a great small town and the negative comments from a few are not the feelings of most people in Beaufort.

Posted By Va on February 1, 2012, 3:30 PM

Weaverville had a real chance to be in the #2 or #1 spot, but we had a major power outage in the middle of January. The entire county was out and we lost an entire day of voting, that is when the other two really jumped ahead and we just couldn't catch up. Redding Search Light is right, Weaverville has a wonderful charm as well as beautiful majestic mountains all around us in the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Come see us, you won't be sorry.

Posted By Sheila on February 1, 2012, 3:31 PM

It absolutely disgusts me that people from one of the towns that tied for being the winner are complaining. Yes, you were up by .2% when the website crashed, congratulations. Coming from a town with a population of about 4,000... compared to Hammondsport's 700, their ability to stay so close throughout the past few weeks is extremely impressive. If you don't have enough respect to not throw a fit that you aren't the only winner, you shouldn't be from the coolest small town to begin with. You're making yourself and your town look bad... You still won. You are still a coolest small town in America, along with Hammondsport. If that's not enough for you than I don't know what is.

Posted By Annonymous on February 1, 2012, 3:36 PM

WOW ..... WAY TO REPRESENT YOUR COOL TOWN OF BEAUFORT! SO MUCH NEGATIVITIY - REALLY ? I WAS NOT ABLE TO VOTE OR ACCESS THE PAGE FROM 6 PM ON YESTERDAY. THE LAST TIME THAT I DID GET ON - THE 2 SMALL 'COOLEST' TOWNS WERE TIED. IT IS A CRYING SHAME THAT THESE PEOPLE ARE ACTING THIS WAY. I LOVE TO TRAVEL, BUT WOULD NEVER SPEND A DIME TRAVELING TO BEAUFORT AFTER READING ALL OF THESE COMMENTS. HAMMONDSPORT, AND SOME OF THE OTHER TOP 10 TOWNS SURELY GOT MY ATTENTION. THOSE ARE THE TOWNS THAT DESERVE A LITTLE EXTRA TOURISM OUT OF THIS :) THANKS BUDGET!

Posted By Kate on February 1, 2012, 3:37 PM

Hurray for Beaufort and Hammondsport{my life long hometown}!! I live in one of the most beautiful and coolest towns. I have always known it. I hope that, someday, I will visit Beaufort, I will prouudly say I am from Hammondsport, NY, and I will just bet, that you will make me feel welcomed, just like we will you, when you visit here.

Posted By Maurice on February 1, 2012, 3:40 PM

Wow, I was so excited for my town Hammondsport and Beufort for both coming out winners and I thought it was a great decision by budget travel, but after reading comments on here, I can't say I feel happy for Beufort for the most part. Budget travel gave both of our towns a great opportunity to be put on the map and thrive, and ya'll are angry at budget travel for making both of us winners? Just be happy that they chose us for this voting and that our community came together to recognize how great our towns are, and both of our towns are going to benefit from this. We should all be happy about this and for each other. So I hope that soon you guys will see the big picture and be proud. Thank you Budget Travel!

Posted By H-port on February 1, 2012, 3:41 PM

Both towns earned all the comments they recieved.
I attended the farmers market several summers in a row in Hammonsport. But reading the comments, I noticed that several persons from the North are going to visit Beaufort, but didn't seen where anyone from the South wishes to visit the North.
Come on; what has happened to that Southern
hospitality I heard so much about.

Posted By Jesse Slate on February 1, 2012, 3:43 PM

Trust me, our small town was voted "coolest" once and BT went on national tv and dissed us. This award is NOT that big of a deal.

Posted By DearSweetMama on February 1, 2012, 3:43 PM

Wow what happened to Southern Hospitality? I think this tie can be a win win for both towns. Just remember, people from all over the world are reading the posts here. What you say is what they will be judging you on....think before you speack (or type in this case). By reading some of these posts I think I'll choose Wine not Whine!

Posted By Bill on February 1, 2012, 3:46 PM

I'm glad there was a tie. People voting for Hammondsport were blocked out too. They couldn't declare a winner because not everyone got to vote! It wouldn't of been fair to just count the votes when the site crashed because it wasn't suppose to be over yet! For who ever said about billboards and other things, I never saw one or heard about this contest except on facebook!

Posted By Jen on February 1, 2012, 3:48 PM

So excited for Hammondsport! I have visited this welcoming hospitable town many times. The wineries, rolling hills, and Keuka Lake make it a wonderful place to visit and vacation. Beaufort looks nice... but from the whining... have to wonder about the southern hospitality. Not one whine out of Hammondsport - and when I checked yesterday, THEY were ahead before the site went down... who's to say how this could have ended without the inconvenience of a bad server? Northern Hospitality.. no one talks about that. BTW... GO Patriots!

Posted By Maureen on February 1, 2012, 3:56 PM

Thanks to all who participated through out the course of the spirited campaign. Thanks to Budget Travel for the fun, while sitting here inside, thinking about future Travel...oh, where shall I go this year to see what all the chatter is about.

If one stops to consider the process I think a lot of tenacity and spirit comes through, as observed over the last few weeks!

God Bless everyone!

Posted By Keukahawk on February 1, 2012, 3:58 PM

The chatter in MY town this morning before we were sure of the results was that we would be proud to call ourselves "The Second Coolest Small Town in America" if we had come in 2nd place. I'm proud to be from Hammondsport.

Posted By A on February 1, 2012, 3:59 PM

Great job, Budget Travel! I was thinking "tie" would be the best conclusion several days ago. I live in Beaufort, but I am very impressed with Hammondsport. Congratulations to the co-winners of Coolest Small Town! Now, what do we GET? :)

Posted By Alan on February 1, 2012, 3:59 PM

Since the two winners cant do anything but complain that they have a tie and respect that fact then I say that those two tie winners be disqualified for their lack of respect and place the town of Weaverville in 1st place and the move everyone else up as well. So as far as most people see it, they would rather have a 3rd place winner get the recognition before tow towns that complain about a tie. So the two tie winners, please grow up and learn something from a way smaller town and one that has a huge history and big part of who and what this country stands for. Stop complaining and show some respect.

Posted By Brent Showtime on February 1, 2012, 4:00 PM

Wow... there are a bunch of cry babies in Beufort.

Posted By Dustin on February 1, 2012, 4:00 PM

Wow, I have always loved what I thought were our cool, laid back ways here in Carteret County, NC. That's why we were nominated, right? But all these uptight, rude and negative comments from the (sore) winners are an embarrassment. Most gracious congratulations to all the finalists--and BOTH winners! I hope one day to visit all these cool small towns. Though I may skip my occasional trips to Beaufort...

Posted By Embarrassed on February 1, 2012, 4:02 PM

Wow! The people of Beaufort, NC seem pretty hostile about this tie! I'm not so sure that makes for a "cool" town. Maybe they should spend some time in Hammondsport, NY and chill out a bit! :)

Posted By April on February 1, 2012, 4:02 PM

130,320 votes vs. 129,600 votes. I am not from either place but I clearly see a single "winner". Congrats to both towns for this grand achievement. I think if I were from Beaufort I would be upset and if I were from Hammondsport I would be thrilled about the tie. I hope people can put themselves in the shoes of those who worked so hard to be the "highest voted" small town before judging them. I doubt they mean any disrespect to those in Hammondsport but they did clearly win.

Posted By Pauline on February 1, 2012, 4:03 PM

It's so sad that all of these winners from Beaufort are acting like they have been wronged. I've heard of sore losers before but sore winners?? They should all be ashamed of themselves. This is a wonderful opportunity for both places to shine and show America what they have. It's too bad that selfishness has gotten in the way.

Posted By Cyndi on February 1, 2012, 4:06 PM

The contest doesn't really prove much except that two communities were singled out for being special. Being from neither locale, I have to agree that Beaufort won the contest. However, after reading all of the comments posted here, I now have to choose between wineries or whineries..... so I guess I'm heading north to NY.

Posted By Jon Hoek on February 1, 2012, 4:07 PM

OK.....enough whining now. Those of us who chose to vote for Beaufort, let's show some Southern Class. That is why we came together to share what we already knew. Thanks Budget Travel for giving us this opportunity. I quite enjoyed the competition!

Posted By Teryl on February 1, 2012, 4:12 PM

People, this is a wonderful way to bring knowledge to the towns involved. Have heart for them all. They are all beautiful and deserving of winning. I don't like to hear the bashing of anyone, site or place over a fun contest. I can't wait till next time to see the many places to add to my bucket list and BIG THANKS to Budget Travel for bringing them to life for me. It was fun being part of this cool contest even though the winners were declared a tie. I like the idea of one being the seaside winner and one being the lake side winner. People, just keep it fun, life's too short!!!!!!!!

Posted By Cheryl A on February 1, 2012, 4:12 PM

I like how the apparent people from the other town(and everywhere else) are basing the indeed population of 4k off of the comments of maybe a handful of people...that doesn't sound very smart on your behalf. So saying you have scratched Beaufort off your list...Really? Maybe Beaufort doesn't need such people visiting.

And the "negative and hostile remarks"? Those are towards a website than in all technicalities, LIED. Let me restate...TOWARDS THE WEBSITE. Not the other town. Everyone is misjudging everything everyone is saying. Get off your high horses.

and lastly...

Blackbeard.

Posted By Pirate on February 1, 2012, 4:13 PM

I'm having a hard time with the use of the word "whining" in these posts. In any intense competition that ends this way there are always differences of opinion about the turn out. That's not "whining" that's normal. There seem to be just as many comments about the server going down not being fair as there was that the one with the most votes not winning wasn't fair. All these comments are being addressed to the contests sponsors not the people of the other town. Now all this North vs South stuff. Please. The people that matter in all these towns love their town as well as the people that visit.

I think that the magazine owes a cover article called "Beaufort: The Coolest Town in America" and the very next issue should be "Hammondsport: The Town That Was So Close to Becoming the Coolest Town in America That The Voting Crashed Our Website". They should both get their OWN article. Now that's fair!

Posted By PaulG on February 1, 2012, 4:13 PM

The reason that it was declared a tie is because the site crashed and many people (myself and some friends on the west coast) were unable to vote- beaufort was ahead at that point, but it had oscillated between the two for days. Another point to consider is that most of the people voting repeatedly LIVE in these towns... and Beaufort has roughly 10 TIMES the population of Hammondsport- which I think is a total win for that tiny town. I grew up in Hammondsport, traveled to Beaufort this summer, and am living near Port Townsend now- and would have liked to vote yesterday but the site crashed and I couldn't. And that's why they declared a tie- because many parts of the country were blacked out from voting.

Posted By Erin on February 1, 2012, 4:16 PM

For people who live in the "Bible Belt" I'm sensing an awful lot of hatred for your Christian neighbors to the north. Perhaps you should ask yourselves "What would Jesus do?" I mean, did any of you have any money on this contest? If so, perhaps it would have been put to better use in the collection plate of your local house of worship. I would like to congratulate our co-coolios to the south...God Bless and may both of our towns prosper as a result of the publicity.

Posted By Friendly New Yorker on February 1, 2012, 4:18 PM

SOMEONE PULLED THE RELIGIOUS CARD????????? you guys are so freaking stupid. all this talk of southern hospitality?????

THIS IS 2012.......how the freak old ARE you?? 80????

AND HALF OF YOU CANT SPELL BEAUFORT.
and you are down talking them!!!!!!

HOLY CRAP whats wrong with people?

Posted By WOW on February 1, 2012, 4:23 PM

When you look at the size of the two towns, its amazing that little old Hammondsport ran a neck to neck race with a town 10 x its size! I've been to both towns and they both have their own charm.

Posted By Terry Rook on February 1, 2012, 4:27 PM

I avidly supported Beaufort but, given the problems that arose, Budget Travel did the right thing. Allowing for rounding, the difference in totals was at least 370 votes. But.... a few hundred votes out of 367,000 is SO tiny. Clearly both towns have wonderful supporters and I'm sure Hammondsport, like Beaufort, is wonderful. Emotions run high right after competition, especially when one was initially declared a winner. But, in time, I bet clearer reflections will emerge from supporters of both towns.

Posted By HC on February 1, 2012, 4:27 PM

Is someone paying you to say it was a TIE??? I like the idea about the Beaufort,NC best sea town and NY the best lake. If not.. I think you need to recount the votes. I hope someone is NOT paying you to say it was a tie...????....???? I sounds like you wanted Hammondsport to win.

Posted By Blair on February 1, 2012, 4:29 PM

Does it really matter that a tie was declared? Each town is a jewel in itself. The people, places and love is what matters. I miss Hammondsport and the shops, restaurants and mostly, THE PARK INN!!!!!!! This contest had no money rewarded. It just shows that there are some great towns to live in, work in and have fun itn. Be it NC or NY, I am proud of both of you! Please don't spoil the fun. We love BOTH towns and I congratulate both. Miss you Carmen!!!!

Posted By Karen Baroody on February 1, 2012, 4:30 PM

Some of you keep harping on the fact that Beaufort has 6x the population of Hammondsport.The fact that you were so close in the voting shows that alot more people have heard of you than of Beaufort.I live in Newport which is only about 15 miles from Beaufort and Im very proud of the fact that they were in the running for this award.Its funny to see some of the comments that a few of you stated about friends from other parts of the country could not vote,they had plenty of time,why wait to the last day.Im very disappointed in BT on this decision but I guess they had to do it to keep the folks from OFF happy...just saying

Posted By Robert on February 1, 2012, 4:33 PM

First I would like to say how much I enjoyed your Coolest Small Town contest. I enjoyed voting and am pleased that you have declared it a tie. No one knows exactly how things would have worked out had your site not crashed. You have done the right thing in making the decision to call it a tie. Now to give both towns the recognition they deserve. I would be happy to travel to any of your top ten towns, they all look cool to me. Although Beaufort does have a special place in my heart, it and the surrounding communities are a wonderful place to live or visit.

Posted By Karen Buck on February 1, 2012, 4:40 PM

This was just for fun, guys! I am from Beaufort and love it - and now, I am anxious to visit Hammondsport, too. People won't want to come visit if we all sound like a bunch of whiners, so cheer up and be glad for all the free publicity!

Posted By Kristin on February 1, 2012, 4:41 PM

I have followed and voted for Beaufort since around January 7 when Beaufort was at 4%. I am disappointed that you have called this a "tie" when Beaufort was ahead when your site crashed. I could not get on the site as well as a lot of my Facebook friends to vote for BEAUFORT NC. The one ahead at time of crash should be given the title because no one could vote for their town. Higher percent should mean WINNER!

Posted By Judy on February 1, 2012, 4:42 PM

Thank you Budget Travel for bringing small towns to the attention of people who are interested in visiting these places. I'm sure all towns that made the top 10 list were pleased. As living near one of these top 10 towns and having visited another let me say THANK YOU. Each of these towns will benefit from the positive press they receive which will help them for years to come.

Posted By Amanda on February 1, 2012, 4:42 PM

I have followed and voted for Beaufort since around January 7 when Beaufort was at 4%. I am disappointed that you have called this a "tie" when Beaufort was ahead when your site crashed. I could not get on the site as well as a lot of my Facebook friends to vote for BEAUFORT NC. The one ahead at time of crash should be given the title because no one could vote for their town. Higher percent should mean WINNER!

Posted By Judy on February 1, 2012, 4:43 PM

Congratulations to both Beaufort and Hammondsport on being the coolest towns in America!! I'm very excited that both got the recognition. I'm from Hammondsport but have been to Beaufort many times ever since my friends moved to Pine Knoll Shores back in '04. But anyway - all you North Carolina'ers should plan a road trip so you can taste all of our delicious wines and see our amazing views and all you New Yorkers, you'll love Beaufort! I always like going to the General Store ha... and the Dock House and watching the beautiful sunsets and trying to see the wild horses... it's amazing. Congrats again!

Posted By Kayla on February 1, 2012, 4:44 PM

Too cool! Was born and raised outside of Hammondsport, NY but now live near Beaufort, NC. So I have been torn between voting for BOTH OF THEM! They are both really neat places in very different ways. Can't believe it actually turned out to be a tie! Couldn't be better!!

Posted By Jeannette Mospaw on February 1, 2012, 4:47 PM

I thank budget travel for doing the right thing. I find it disappointing there are so many upset people from NC. I was locked out and so were so many members of my family for several days right up to the end. Mistakes happen, but don't make the mistake of not winning graciously. I think a tie was the fairest way for Budget Travel to handle it. There is no way to know how many votes were lost. Good Job BT I also can't wait to visit your small town it looks wonderful!

Posted By Stacie on February 1, 2012, 4:47 PM

I thank budget travel for doing the right thing. I find it disappointing there are so many upset people from NC. I was locked out and so were so many members of my family for several days right up to the end. Mistakes happen, but don't make the mistake of not winning graciously. I think a tie was the fairest way for Budget Travel to handle it. There is no way to know how many votes were lost. Good Job BT I also can't wait to visit your small town it looks wonderful!

Posted By Stacie on February 1, 2012, 4:48 PM

I've been to Hammondsport and stil have a home in Beaufort where I lived fo about 15 years. Both towns are very different from each other. Both towns are worth visiting. But now both need to brace themselves for the onslaught of even more tourists! Just what we need in Beaufort is more people driving 10 mph down Front Street looking south for ponies on Carrot Island instead of paying attention to the 15 cars backed up behind them! Success is sweet. Enjoy it now because come this summer, the invasion, and I don't mean the pirates, will begin! Congratulations to both towns. But my heart is and always will be in Beaufort.

Posted By Brian on February 1, 2012, 4:50 PM

I am disappointed in the attitude of Beaufort. Their words here make them sound like angry people. Not very hospitable.

To those who claim Beaufort was ahead through most of the contest, that is not true. There were many days I checked in and Beaufort was ahead in the morning and behind at night. I was amazed at how quickly the tides turned each day!

I do not favor one town or the other, and I did not vote. However, due to the comments here, Beaufort just lost this tourist.

Posted By sj on February 1, 2012, 4:51 PM

Congratulations to both Beaufort and Hammondsport on being the coolest towns in America woohoo!! I was excited that both got recognition. I'm from Hammondsport but have visited Beaufort many times ever since my friends moved to Pine Knoll Shores back in '04 and I loved it. It always reminded me of Hammondsport because of its small town feel. Plus... it's also pretty cool that I met my fiance in H'Port and our first date happened to be in Beaufort (he's in the USMC). But anyway! All of you North Carolina'ers should plan a road trip so you can try all of our amazing wines and see our beautiful views and all you New Yorkers - you'll love Beaufort. I've always enjoyed going to the Dock House and watching the sunsets and secretly hoping I get to see some of the wild horses across the water. Congrats again to both!

Posted By Kayla on February 1, 2012, 4:51 PM

Congratulations to both Beaufort and Hammondsport on being the coolest towns in America woohoo!! I was excited that both got recognition. I'm from Hammondsport but have visited Beaufort many times ever since my friends moved to Pine Knoll Shores back in '04 and I loved it. It always reminded me of Hammondsport because of its small town feel. Plus... it's also pretty cool that I met my fiance in H'Port and our first date happened to be in Beaufort (he's in the USMC). But anyway! All of you North Carolina'ers should plan a road trip so you can try all of our amazing wines and see our beautiful views and all you New Yorkers - you'll love Beaufort. I've always enjoyed going to the Dock House and watching the sunsets and secretly hoping I get to see some of the wild horses across the water. Congrats again to both!

Posted By Kayla on February 1, 2012, 4:52 PM

I live in NC but have a summer house at Keuka Lake - I love BOTH places and am extremely happy that these gems are getting this honor! CHEERS!

Posted By Kathy on February 1, 2012, 4:52 PM

It's a tie! Think about how "Cool" it is being associated with any of these towns. Thank you Budge Travel for helping to bring together town's folk in the middle of the winter and off-season. It got people excited and rejuvinated in these winter months. Both towns can enjoy the added popularity associated with this contest. Yes, there were problems with the site last night, but it was a fun and "cool" contest. Thank you Budget Travel. Both towns can enjoy the glow! All 10 finalists were winners in this! Let's all visit each other's town and take in the great things they each have to offer!!

Posted By Keukajack on February 1, 2012, 4:55 PM

I was going to Tweet this blog up and share the final news, but the poor behavior in the comments turned me off. (Psssst: It's a small town contest, people, not life or death... Sheesh.)

Congrats to all the towns who participated!

Posted By Tracy on February 1, 2012, 4:56 PM

I want to say to the folks from Hammondsport that ya"ll hung in there to the end.Although until this contest I had never heard of you as Im sure alot of you had never heard of Beaufort ( Bo-Furt).It was a fair contest,I don't agree with the outcome,because when the website crashed none of us could vote anymore,not just you. There is nothing we can do about it .Im sure your town is just as nice of a place as Beaufort is so if your in the area we would love to have you visit.Best wishes to you all.

Posted By Robert on February 1, 2012, 4:57 PM

My oh my.. it sounds like maybe you southern folks are still a little upset about LOSING the civil war. This time why don't you retain your dignity and just call it a draw.

-Grant

Posted By Grant on February 1, 2012, 4:58 PM

Beaufort, NC: the clear winner in coolest small towns with a population that whines more than a 2 year old. Y'all keep it up and people aren't going to want to visit your town, no matter how cool it is.

Posted By Pamela on February 1, 2012, 5:03 PM

Wow, I simply cannot believe the attitude of the local townsfolk being represented here. I for one, not being from either will much rather visit Hammondsport over Beaufort based purely by the attitude of the Beaufort folks represented here. Seems to me, they are a bunch of sore winners because the high road was taken by the website administrators.

I guess in this case sharing the winning spot with another probably wonderful place is just too much to handle for you folks and your true spirit comes out. New Yorkers are not exactly known for their charm and hospitality but I for one will book my stay in Hammondsport over Beaufort anyday!!

Posted By doc76 on February 1, 2012, 5:03 PM

Congratulations to BOTH! I am really excited that Beaufort was even in the contest, and of course voted for Beaufort! I am, however, disappointed that so many negative comments are coming from the area! Where is that southern hospitality? Be proud that we were even honored to be a part of this most exciting and nail-biting contest!

Posted By Sybil on February 1, 2012, 5:03 PM

I never imagined that when I went to the blog page today that there would be so many negative and awful things posted on what was supposed to be such a fun and enjoyable contest! I know that we all had a great time voting here in Upstate NY, and this was a great contest that really brought our small town of Hammondsport together. Both towns clearly put up a great fight, and who knows what would have happened if the internet had not gone down...I guess no one can say for sure. Instead of being so negative about the contest, why can't we all be excited that both towns will be recognized? No one is taking fame away from either town, as both will now be recognized. After watching the video, it seems like Beaufort is a very charming place to visit and after such hard work of voting don't give it a bad image now. I am so proud to call myself a Hammondsport resident and have truly enjoyed growing up there. Thanks to all who voted and for making this such a fun contest. Budget Travel was truly in a lose/lose situation when the server crashed last night, and no matter what decision they made, someone would have been angry. Stay classy Hammondsport...we came together as a town and showed that we may be small but mighty! Congratulations to all who are enjoying a victory : )

Posted By H-Port Resident on February 1, 2012, 5:04 PM

I think many are misunderstanding the disappointment from some towards the outcome as some sort of personal attack against NY. I'm sure Hammondsport,NY and all of the other towns are amazing, but I think the real frustration is really directed towards BudgetTravel for dropping the ball. They really took the fun out of the contest for all the towns.

A contest should have a winner. Isn't that why you voted in the first place? This was not a one day contest, so the "server crash" should have been irrelevant to the outcome. Saying it does discounts the far greater number that voted prior to last minute voters. The reality is most of the last minute voting was the battle to win the contest. Again, BT took the fun from the whole thing. Further compounding the problem by not declaring a single victor.

I'm sure the people of Beaufort would've gladly tippped their hats to Hammodsport graciously if they had won the contest. I hope the good people of Hammondsport would do the same. The fact is the win for Beaufort was by more that 700+ votes, greater than the entire population of Hammondsport.

The ironic thing is how many are now calling the entire population of Beaufort (and the south in general) whiners, complainers, selfish, nasty, etc. Saying they won't visit based on 30+ words from a handful of people. Doesn't that personify the exact sentiment you are attacking?

Come visit the Crystal Coast of NC and you'll see why it recevied 36.2%. I'll visit Hammondsport,NY and surely discover its beauty and why it received 36.0%.

Posted By Jason on February 1, 2012, 5:06 PM

WOW, what a fun contest! Congrats to all 10 towns. Now I'm one who roots for the underdog, and the way I see it Hammodsport was an underdog since it was at a significant voting disadvantage with a population of only 725 compared to Beaufort's 4,309. So if this fact was taken into account, Hammondsport would have won by a considerable margin. But hey! since this is not a life or death situation some of the comments by Beaufort's residents are less than congenial. Hammondsport is in an area where grapes are grown which are made into excellent wine. I hope there are only a handful of residents in Beaufort whose comments can be viewed as sour grapes, not suitable for making fine wine and not suitable to represent the other good citizens of this wonderful small town.

Posted By Andrew Brandston on February 1, 2012, 5:07 PM

I think Beaufort was the clear winner. I tried unsuccessfully to vote for Beaufort for over 45 minutes last night.....I accept that....why can't Budget accept the fact that Beaufort was the WINNER!!!! This is such a political chicken way out....I guess Obama and Romney will tie for president.....Hope Budget isn't the one counting the votes.

Posted By Barbara on February 1, 2012, 5:17 PM

Sounds like he folks from the Finger Lakes are better sports! Each town should be thrilled with the positive attention and all the towns have to offer. I myself prefer the fresh water lake a long with a nice crisp Fall day! Congrats to Hammondsport NY!

Posted By Martha Ross on February 1, 2012, 5:21 PM

I am thrilled that Budget Travel held a contest in which people are able to learn more about different towns all over the country. I must admit my vote went to Hammondsport, although there were several others that I found almost as enchanting. What I can say is that I am now thrilled my vote did not go to Beaufort. Why in the world would people in a community post such negative comments? I'm sure the "tie" is frustrating, however show a little dignity and class. I'm sure there are many people (I was one of them) who have discovered your town through this contest and would add it to their list of places to visit. I will now be sure to visit Hammondsport ~ and congrats to all the towns in the top 10.

Posted By Kelly on February 1, 2012, 5:21 PM

It comes down to this, Budget Travel owns the contest, budget Travel decides. I think all of the towns chosen won. Do you really think Cooke City, Montana had a chance? Is there a community within 1000 miles of Cooke City with the population of 50,000, 100,000 or 360,000? With the smallest population at 142, they should be the winner. Maybe nest time Budget Travel should do a ratio of votes to population or maybe Budget Travel should have a voting booth in the center of the chosen towns. Then maybe it would be "fair" and the towns would truly benefit from all those visitors. So with that being said, go Weaverville, the coolest in the west!

Posted By Steve on February 1, 2012, 5:23 PM

Way to go, Beaufort! We're proud of our delightful neighbor.

Posted By Ococker on February 1, 2012, 5:23 PM

Was it fair for a famous person like Nichols Sparks to bribe people to vote for Beaufort by giving them free books was fair? Hammondsport doesn't have a famous resident. They just depended on their residents and friends. Just asking! (:

Posted By Betsy Burns on February 1, 2012, 5:26 PM

I was born and raised just east of Beaufort and have lived here most of my life. If you haven't been, come see us. I was one of the last to get a chance to vote, before the crash. At that time it was only a .2% difference. I listened on my ,favorite radio station, 107.9, this morning traveling to work for the results and found out about the crash. I think this was the right decision to make. Both towns deserve respect. Congrats to both.
Eileen-Newport, NC

Posted By Eileen Small on February 1, 2012, 5:26 PM

All the SORE winners/ tie-ers from Beaufort NC should really BE QUIET and calm down all of ur whining is annoying

Posted By John Smtih on February 1, 2012, 5:26 PM

You blew it budget travel. A winner is a winner even if it's by .0001%, This will be the last time I visit your website.

Posted By Billy on February 1, 2012, 5:26 PM

Congratulations to Hammondsport and Beaufort NC it was a close race right till the end. Be happy with the results, they just out you on the map.

Posted By K on February 1, 2012, 5:27 PM

Guess what?

What?

Beaufort is the real winner, that's what.

Posted By Jomama on February 1, 2012, 5:29 PM

That should say put you on the map.

Posted By K on February 1, 2012, 5:30 PM

I have to say although Beaufort was in the lead, I for one am disgusted at their negativity as they certainly lack respect and maturity on their posts. I was wanting to visit that area sometime but now have no desire. These two locations were neck and neck. What is the harm in decalring a tie...the world isn't all about you...Hammondsport is a more peaceful environment with gorgeous Keuka Lake and the vineyards...shame on Beaufort for their lack of congeniality!

Posted By Donna Wood on February 1, 2012, 5:32 PM

What map K, the map on top of ya head HAHA!

Posted By Jomama on February 1, 2012, 5:32 PM

PLEASE, Get over yourselves Beaufort, NC!

Posted By pt on February 1, 2012, 5:33 PM

Maybe the rules should have been a little different to start with. The definition of small town generally means population less than 10000 and not a suburb of a large city. That being said categories should have been setup for example: small towns with populations 5000-10000, 1000-4999 and less than 1000.
You can see with this range it would separate larger towns from the real small ones and voting wise may be fairer. The crash was unfortunate BUT many peoples vote did not count. Who knows what would have happened. When I checked at 11:30 PM there was a .1% difference thats not much I don't care how you look at it - anything could happen. If it would have been a wider percentage, there would have been a winner declared, but as to circumstances the correct decision was made. For Hammondsport voters to vote against a much larger town and keep up with them is totally remarkable and are to be commended. So SUCK IT UP Tarheels, the real little guys of Hammondsport kept up with the big boys and I'd say did pretty amazing against a town 6 times bigger. Sounds like David and Goliath to me. Come up and enjoy some sweet grapes in Hammondsport not the sour grapes the Tarheels are putting out. Congratulations to both locations. I know Hammondsport is beautiful as it once was my hometown and from what i've heard so is Beaufort. All the best to both.

Posted By Don on February 1, 2012, 5:33 PM

Congrats to both towns!

Posted By Barbara Burns on February 1, 2012, 5:35 PM

Congratulations to both Beaufort and Hammondsport. I think that Budget Travel did the best for everyone involved by declaring a tie. Hundreds of people that I know could not get into the website yesterday in order to cast votes for Hammondsport. Since I am a graduate of Hammondsport Central School, I think that it is great that a town with a population of only 700+ people can run with a town of 4,000+ people.

Congratulations to all!

Hopefully our family will get to visit Beaufort soon!!!!!!!!!!!!!

If anyone from Beaufort comes up North, you will see how great an area we live in! Please come and visit!!!

Posted By Laker 95 on February 1, 2012, 5:37 PM

well done on a fair decision since nobody can say what would have happened if not locked up so no fight no fuss no muss just call it a tie and move on with life kuodo's to Budget travel for being fair and fast with thier decision.

Posted By kerry on February 1, 2012, 5:37 PM

Congratulations Hammondsport NY. I grew up in Bath NY, a great town 5 miles south of Hammondsport, but married a Hport native and have lived here for almost 30 years. It was a great place to raise our children. Keuka Lake is the highlight of this area and SO beautiful. Congratulations to Beaufort NC also. I think this contest will benefit both towns in many ways. Thank you Budget Travel for this truly fun contest.

Posted By Karen Miller on February 1, 2012, 5:38 PM

A couple of comments to the boo-hooers who wanted Beauford to win.... 1) the outage was not evenly spread across the country and the Northeast was more affected... 2)New Yorkers are famous for fourth quarter rallies (can you say Giants)... and 3)It's just not cool to complain, be gracious like most of the NC bloggers... Congrats to both towns... My wife and I plan to visit both soon

Posted By SteveL on February 1, 2012, 5:39 PM

I'd have been happy with second place!!! Hammondsport is an awesome small town... a VERY small town. I'm so proud of our area for competing with towns with populations up to nearly 10,000! We gave a town with almost 6 times the population a very close race!!! Go Hammondsport!!!

Posted By JC on February 1, 2012, 5:41 PM

Congratulations to all the towns! It was a fun contest. Proud to be from Weaverville!

Posted By Jane on February 1, 2012, 5:41 PM

I'm not sure why everyone keeps saying Hammondsport should of lost. I mean they only have 800 folks in their town, but have the major metropolatan areas in their backyard...NYC, Pittsburg, Philli, Albany. Man I wonder why they were able to compete with the "David" of Beaufort. I mean the Northeast doesn't is the most populated area in the country. I commend the folks of Hammondsport...I mean NYC.

Posted By johnson on February 1, 2012, 5:41 PM

The population of the towns only makes a difference if they are the only ones voting. People from all over New York, North Carolina, and the entire nation voted for these towns to win.

Posted By Donnie on February 1, 2012, 5:45 PM

Congrats to both small towns, even though one is near 4 major US cities. But still great for the communities involved. Most people talking trash on this website probably don't even live in these towns....like me!

Posted By johsnon on February 1, 2012, 5:46 PM

Boy... with all the negative comments and ungracious words from the residents and supporters of Beaufort I'm not sure I would want to visit the town regardless of the beautiful location. I'm sure these words don't reflect the true spirit of Beaufort. Unfortunate.

Posted By TexaGirl on February 1, 2012, 5:53 PM

I'm so glad Beaufort won - .2%. I can understand somewhat saying that because the website crashed, the two towns be declared a winner - however, the website crashed for all participating and I think should distinction should be made that Beaufort won by .2 percent

Posted By Mary Kirk on February 1, 2012, 5:56 PM

Gosh,Beaufort residents, I REALLY want to visit your town after all of your negative comments! Shame on you---- I will visit Hammondsport, NY over your "friendly" town any day!

Posted By Char on February 1, 2012, 6:09 PM

I have lived in Hammondsport my entire life....50 plus years. Of course I am happy that it was called a tie. But I certainly understand most of Beauforts residents feelings. I understand they were declared the winner at midnight, and then that it was taken away....and they were declared co-winner of first place. If that had happened to Hammondsport, our residents would be dissapointed too! Judge no man until you have walked in his shoes. I feel people should have more understanding of what Beaufort is feeling. Having said that, I am glad we are both the winners, and I look very forward to visiting Beaufort someday. I also feel for Budget Magazine. It was wonderful that they hosted this contest in the first place. There are many comments that people will no longer be doing business with them. They are the one who are losing, when all they did was provide us all with a lot of fun, and made a decision that they thought was best.

Posted By kim galpin on February 1, 2012, 6:10 PM

Thanks so much for putting both places (Beaufort and Hammondsport) on the map. I think that you did the honorable thing seeing that the site went down and there were still many people from both places trying to vote. I know that my hometown of Hammondsport is a nice community and am sure Beaufort is as well. I hope that both can be gracious winners and stop complaining about who won or didn't win. It was a tie, please just be thankful to be put on the map and knowing out of all the place nominated that both places got the most votes and share the win.

Posted By Judi Horton on February 1, 2012, 6:11 PM

Thank you Budget Travel, and all the small towns who participated in the contest. If you've been following since the beginning, the initial lead was neck-and-neck between Hammondsport NY and Weaverville CA. As Weaverville fell off, Beaufort NC came from nowhere to "race" with the small charming upstate NY town. With just 725 residents, it's awesome to see a tie between a city that nearly quadruples the population. Growing up on Keuka Lake, Hammondsport is home to me. Now currently residing in North Carolina, I've visited Beaufort on occasion and understand the charm indeed. (Although my votes were always for H'port!)

Thanks again, Budget Travel. Way to go to all Hammondsport advocates. We'll see you at The Waterfront this summer for clamin' and jammin' with Sam Pallet :)

Posted By anon. on February 1, 2012, 6:14 PM

Reading comments and want those from Beaufort to know that they contest did not stop at midnight like you seem to think...the server went down way before midnight so please just take the tie and quit complaining. I'm happy that it was a tie, can't you be too????

Posted By Judi on February 1, 2012, 6:14 PM

I'm happy for the tie, I was rooting for Hammonsport but the site didn't let my family's vote go through. Both states have their beauty and charm as well as the other 8 places. I believe the NC fans should be more gracious with the tie, it was only by .1 at 11PM before I voted and can vouch about the technical difficulties. Everyone wins just by being in the top ten.

Posted By Lorelei on February 1, 2012, 6:18 PM

I will be visiting Hammondsport this coming summer. Not only is it the most beautiful little town with so much to see and do but their residents are gracious and friendly...not so Beaufort.

Posted By Edie on February 1, 2012, 6:21 PM

I would like to say Congrats to "ALL" top ten towns that were nominated for this contest!! To me, this seems a great honor for each of you!! I myself am from the Finger Lakes area origionally and can say I am very proud to still call this area home!! I had friends from all over voting! There are many great spots to visit,so go check them out!! I enjoyed this contest and small town "up-state" NY has always shown this kind of team spirit!!! I hope each of the "10" towns will benefit from the contest that Budget Travel offered!!! What a great way to get tourist traffic
to your area!!!!

Posted By Nita (Sherer) Baker on February 1, 2012, 6:21 PM

I am pleased with the decision. We in Hammondsport are happy for Beaufort. They came in strong and many talk of visiting because of this. If you were to look at it from the perspective of percentage and population, Hammondsport would have won based on the simple fact that there are 1/5th the population in Hammondsport. Reading some of the comments I am surprised and disappointed with the "feelings" of Beaufort or the few that post negative comments about a town they have never visited. Part of being a "cool" town is being respectful and proud of who you are and being able to believe there are towns just as nice as your own. Also, You, Donnie, your statement claims that Hammondsport has others voting for them is unfair. Don't you believe people in Beaufort have people they know (outside of Beaufort) and neighborting towns voting for them as well??? Probably thousands more visit Beaufort as there are more people to visit. What about the tourists who have visited Beaufort? They probably voted for them, too. Let's just be proud of our dedicated population in both towns and move on. Congratulations to both towns!

Posted By Michelle Sincerbox on February 1, 2012, 6:24 PM

This certainly has been an interesting read. I especially enjoy the comments about the location of Hammondsport. It is approximately a 6 hour drive to NYC so, no, NYC is not in the backyard. If you look on a map, you will see that Hammondsport is located in the southern tier of New York state, close to the Pennsylvania state border. We are in RURAL New York. The closest large city is Rochester...which in no way compares to the size of NYC, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia or Albany which are all several hours drive from Hammondsport as well. Hammondsport is the epitome of a small rural town that depends on tourism to survive. It is nestled amongst some of the most beautiful farmland in New York State. I have visited North Carolina and it in itself is a beautiful state. Both towns should be pleased that they received much needed publicity in this economy. People should stop tearing down the contest, be proud of their community and be good sports. Congratulations to both towns.

Posted By Rosalie McCartney on February 1, 2012, 6:24 PM

I love NY and am delighted that Budget Travel called a tie between Hammondsport, NY and Beaufort, NC. I grew up in the Finger Lakes Region and know first-hand what a cool small town Hammondsport really is! It's a great place to spend some time, enjoy beautiful Keuka Lake, visit the Glenn Curtis Museum, cruise antique shops, dine at some great restaurants or relax and picnic at Champlin Beach . When I'm traveling in the south I'd like to visit Beaufort, NC. It sounds like a great place to visit and enjoy southern hospitality. It's a win/win situation for both towns. Congratulations to both "cool small towns"!

Posted By Carolyn in Maryland on February 1, 2012, 6:24 PM

The Budget Travel contest was fun. I'm sure that all of the towns are really cool, or they wouldn't even have been in this group.....

However.....Declaring the contest "a tie" was NOT fair, as some people said it was. It was NICE (to the residents of Hammonsport), but there is no way that it was a "fair decision". The only ones that this was "fair" to, were the ones that would have been the "losers".

Changing the rules in midstream is NOT a nice thing to do. Now, neither town can claim the title of "Coolest".

Posted By DonC on February 1, 2012, 6:32 PM

It's too bad there are so many SORE WINNERS in Beaufort--it really deters people from wanting to visit!!

Posted By phil on February 1, 2012, 6:41 PM

I have read a few comments on here from Beaufort fans saying they were ahead all throughout the contest,,,maybe those people need to learn how to read a graph...for the first half it was up and down between Weaverville and Hammondsport,,,then throughout the second half it was up and down between Beaufort and Hammondsport. Please know your facts before showing your ignorance.

Posted By Larry on February 1, 2012, 6:45 PM

I am a resident from Beaufort and after reading these comments I am ashamed of where i am from!! Congratulations to Hammondsport for staying classy and showing how much a small close community can accomplish. I have not read one bad comment from the Hammondsport fan zone and i truly apologize for all of the single minded people in my town. I guess no matter where you live there are going to be people who are ignorant and down right trashy. Beaufort is a beautiful place do not let these horribly rude people affect your opinions. Stay classy it looks great for your town! After reading these blogs I wish i would have voted for Hammondsport.

Posted By Beaufort Resident on February 1, 2012, 6:45 PM

JOIN OUR FACEBOOK PAGE!

HAMMONDSPORT NY LOVES BEAUFORT NC

BECAUSE WE DO! LOVE US TOO.

( !!!!!!! )

Posted By BEAUFORT LOVERS IN UPSTATE NY on February 1, 2012, 6:46 PM

I had a lot of fun watching your contest progress. I congratulate you for thinking of this promotion. I am baffled at the vitrial from the Beaufort, NC supporters. Does not entice me to desire to see the charm of the "southern hospitality" in that town. It would seem that all the towns nominated are winners and might be destinations for us all to consider.

Posted By jennifer on February 1, 2012, 6:47 PM

I have been very enthusiastic about this whole contest and decided win lose or TIE I had planned on visiting Beauford this year. Isn't that really what we all where looking for to generate interest in our Home town while having fun. All of you in Beaufort are certianly welcome to visit us I sure hope we are welcome there because I still plan on stopping in.

Posted By Jim Presley on February 1, 2012, 6:48 PM

Well, at least you have illustrated for us where the people who understand what good sportsmanship is live! I grew up in Hammondsport and lived in Eastern NC for 25 years -- both places are gorgeous and have fantastic things to offer those who visit and are lucky enough to live there. It's so sad to see people getting angry over something that is a win-win for all involved. Really, people, just the fact that any of these towns were in the competition is a wonderful thing -- all of these towns have something to offer all of us. Go see them and enjoy them!

Posted By Moosie on February 1, 2012, 6:57 PM

Thanks for a great contest and a gracious response for the breakdown in technology. It's great to see that TWO towns will benefit from the additional exposure, and the tie may actually get everyone more media attention all the way around. Thanks again, and congrats to everyone who got out the vote!

Posted By Susan on February 1, 2012, 7:03 PM

Congratulations to both towns! I must say, however, that some people are acting very childish.....most from Beauford. Grow up and be better sportsmen like we try to teach our children.

Posted By Carole on February 1, 2012, 7:05 PM

Congrats to both town! I am sad to see some of the comments. I think some people are missing the point. Who cares if their town was voted #1 or not. A tie does not eliminate the wonderful things about each town, nor does it limit the impact of the results. Hopefully this contest will do what it was intended to do--give the towns a boost in tourism! Seriously people, show some maturity! It isn't as though both towns are within an hour of each other and now tourists will be confused about where to visit! The towns are 10+ hours apart---hardly competition to each other for tourism! What would really show some class is to invite the town officials from each town to meet with the other town officials for a dinner or something to congratulate each other! Show some unison...share ideas...and, for goodness sakes--show some decency, as there is just too little of it in the world!

Posted By Ed on February 1, 2012, 7:07 PM

I think that budget travel did the right thing. People in Hammondsport not only couldnt vote for an hour, the website would not allow us to vote for over seven hours. Both towns deserved it, so both towns won. We are from an area were all the towns are small so getting this is big for everybody here. Thanks to everyone for voting, and thank you to budget travel for giving us this great opportunity!!!!!!

Posted By Annie on February 1, 2012, 7:11 PM

I believe the problem here is that the folks in Hammondsport feel our disappointment is aimed at them and their town. In fact, it is directed at Budget Travel. Imagine how you would feel in our shoes? To have the site announcing us as the winner, only to find out we tied? Remember, we are very competitive here in NC, with the likes of UNC, Duke, and NC State. Most of us will always feel we won, but that is not to take anything away from Hammondsport and your residents. We would welcome anyone there to see for themselves, and I would like to be able to visit there sometime. Any town that finished in the top ten do have something to be proud of. So, we are not whiners, but we do enjoy winning!

Posted By Donnie on February 1, 2012, 7:11 PM

I mean Johnson.

Posted By Michelle Sincerbox on February 1, 2012, 7:15 PM

Beaufort with your insults you showed your true colors! Your but one of hundreds, if not thousands of small towns along the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. But there’s nothing special about you, your like a nasty little traveling carnival, a sideshow curiosity, full of sleazy, dishonest filled games, in other words, a freak show!

hank

Posted By hank on February 1, 2012, 7:18 PM

I think that some of the comments are very rude. We have 700 people in our town and we couldn't vote for a lot longer than an hour. I just hope that some of the things being said won't stop people from visiting. I think that Beaufort sounds like a very nice town, we all definetly deserved this chance, thanks to all.

Posted By Laker on February 1, 2012, 7:24 PM

I think that some of the comments are very rude. We have 700 people in our town and we couldn't vote for a lot longer than an hour. I just hope that some of the things being said won't stop people from visiting. I think that Beaufort sounds like a very nice town, we all definetly deserved this chance, thanks to all.

Posted By Laker on February 1, 2012, 7:25 PM

Congrats to the Top 9 Coolest Small Towns!! Only problem is that one town was added to this list that shouldnt have been here...They needed to be added to the Poorest Attitude Small Towns. History repeats THE NORTH WON!!

Posted By JoshHurd on February 1, 2012, 7:25 PM

I think that some of the comments are very rude. We have 700 people in our town and we couldn't vote for a lot longer than an hour. I just hope that some of the things being said won't stop people from visiting. I think that Beaufort sounds like a very nice town, we all definetly deserved this chance, thanks to all.

Posted By Laker on February 1, 2012, 7:26 PM

Thats strange when we were voting last night New york votes were going up just as ours were..its hard to believe there was a tech problem....I was watching the site every minute the last two hours and was watching as it changed over at midnight ..but if this is how Budget travel handles things I hope people will take note of it and remember what happened trying to get a contest settled...who knows what would happen if you were to book through them.I bet they had no problems booking trips during this contest..We are not sore losers... but we do have integrity and would have handled it differently...I say rescind it and let New York have it,if they can deal with the way it was given to them,they need it worse than we do ..it puts a sour taste in your mouth having Beaufort and Budget in the same sentence

Posted By Deb Marsh on February 1, 2012, 7:29 PM

Congratulations Budget Travel for your decision to call it a tie. No, we will never know what the true outcome would have been if there hadn't been any technical difficulties but you made the right decision. Yes, I was voting for Hammonsport which is in the beautiful Finger Lakes area but we all need to sit back and think. We live in the Land of the Free - America. Everyone had the right to vote and to their thoughts about the results but let's think of the bigger picture and be thankful for all we have. Congratulations to both Hammondsport and Beaufort. Both towns and surrounding area benefitted from this equally.

Posted By Mary Jane Semple on February 1, 2012, 7:34 PM

I'm glad to hear that some folks are not holding it against Hammondsport due to the changing of the rules to declare a tie. I have never lived there, but I've gone there nearly every summer of my life to visit the place both of my parents and their families grew up. It's a rare gem of a town and I hope that this contest has sparked some curiosity in others to go and check it out. I know that I feel the same way about Beaufort. Folks, don't be hating on the tie. This was created in good fun and good spirits and this kind of hostility only takes away from what this is really all about. Congratulations to both towns!

Posted By Hillary Jean-Bean on February 1, 2012, 7:35 PM

HI I am not from either places.. But numbers are numbers like any votes.. next time don't wait till the last min to vote. The NC people are not being rude or not southern.. they just know who won and it should be said.... North or South.. BT should have thought about this before they called a tie. I am sure both places are pretty.. but fair is fair.. So BT what are you going to do to make it right?

Posted By caring on February 1, 2012, 7:36 PM

Run-off???

Posted By MC on February 1, 2012, 7:39 PM

Congrats to both towns for the tie. I live outside of Hammondsport and can say it is a beautiful, great little town.It is a beautiful area and very nice people! Me and my fiance had trouble voting for approx 2 weeks and neither of us could vote at all, it said we already voted and had to wait 24hrs, would come back the next day and same message! And then with the site going down the night before and all of these glitches and the closeness of the votes and the fact that it kept going back and forth and ties that it was a great decision on Budget Travels part to call it a tie!! Had it been the other way around and I lived near the NC town I would of been happy with the result of it being a tie as well. Look forward to the write ups in the magazine. Thanks for having this contest, great decision!!

Posted By Kristy on February 1, 2012, 7:41 PM

And, as shown by Hank, rude remarks are being sent from both towns!

Posted By Donnie on February 1, 2012, 7:44 PM

After leaving a comment I went back and was reading other peoples comments. Hammondsport is in Stueben County, in the Finger Lakes, it is a very small area. We are basically in the opposite part as Syracuse, NYC, and Albany. Hammondsport tied because of the unity in their community not because of big cities that are just in the same state.

Posted By Annie on February 1, 2012, 7:47 PM

Thank you for taking the FAIR and HONORABLE PATH - declaring the tie - Several of us were sharing our frustration via Facebook when we could not vote due to your server problems. Beaufort supporters - if the shoe were on the other foot MAYBE you would understand BudgetTravel's position. I grew up in the Finger Lakes and would like to visit all these small towns, but I am seeing a lack of hospitality from some Beaufort supporters based on these comments. Maybe I should just visit the other 8....

Posted By Donna on February 1, 2012, 7:52 PM

First, I would like to say Congratulations to Beaufort and Hammondsport, and all of the small towns mentioned in this contest...You are all "Cool!" Second, I would also like to thank Budget Travel for having this contest. I would like to remind people that Budget Travel may have had this contest to bring people to their website...but to also make people aware of these "Small, Cool towns of America" that may have otherwise remained overlooked. Voters: Please be grateful of the free PR your towns have gotten from this contest. I can't believe people are angry at Budget Travel because if it wasn't for them these towns would not have been getting this wonderful attention over the last several weeks. Shame on ANYONE posting unkind words about Budget Travel. Remember this is all about promoting YOUR community and that is EXACTLY what Budget Travel delivered. I, as a Hammondsport Central School graduate, was prepared to congratulate Beaufort if they had gotten the win. I do personally know MANY people who wanted to vote for Hammondsport last night and were not able to because of the crash..so it could have brought Hammondsport out the winner, who knows? The crash also could have brought Hammondsport out the winner instead, and that wouldn't have seemed fair either...the decision to consider it a tie was appropriate in my opinion...but you know what they say about opinions..... One more message to the two towns: Stop the negativity and go celebrate your cool town!

Posted By Lisa Griffin on February 1, 2012, 7:52 PM

I would like to apologize for all the negativity coming from some people on here! As a resident of Beaufort, I am GLAD it was called a tie; it was a fair decision. We should take this opportunity to build a relationship with the people of Hammondsport, NY with the common title of "America's Coolest Small Town(s) 2012." We could plan festivals in each town and take turns hosting one another! I would love to visit Hammondsport and I'm sure there are those in Hammondsport that would enjoy a visit to Beaufort as well. People of Beaufort and Beaufort supporters: please do not act like "sore losers," we are winners and we get to share that with Hammondsport, NY! Well done!

Posted By Sarah on February 1, 2012, 7:54 PM

Congrats to both towns!Im sure both towns are great! I myself had trouble voting last night and I am happy with the decision that they called it a tie. Both towns will get the recognition that they deserve! Again congrats to Hammondsport and Beaufort :)

Posted By Steffanie on February 1, 2012, 7:55 PM

Thank you Budget travel for the opportunity to be involved in such a great contest, I commend you for declaring a tie. My husband and I along with our siblings were all raised in Hammondsport and are grateful for the publicity this will bring to the beautiful Finger Lakes area. My husband and I are fortunate enough to retire in a couple years and once this contest began we were planning a trip to Beaufort - however, with all the whining that is going on about declaring a "tie" I am having second thoughts! Congratulations to BOTH coolest small towns. After reading these negative comments Hammondsport comes in first place as far as accepting this decision with gratitude and character.

Posted By Kimberly on February 1, 2012, 8:00 PM

Thank you Budget travel for the opportunity to be involved in such a great contest, I commend you for declaring a tie. My husband and I along with our siblings were all raised in Hammondsport and are grateful for the publicity this will bring to the beautiful Finger Lakes area. My husband and I are fortunate enough to retire in a couple years and once this contest began we were planning a trip to Beaufort - however, with all the whining that is going on about declaring a "tie" I am having second thoughts! Congratulations to BOTH coolest small towns. After reading these negative comments Hammondsport comes in first place as far as accepting this decision with gratitude and character.

Posted By Kimberly on February 1, 2012, 8:01 PM

Great call Budget. As one who could not get on to vote for the last day and agonized over the fact that votes were so close I applaude the fact that you recognized that technical difficulties affected an obviously close race for the duration of the contest. I will not say where I am from but I am sure that both towns deserved the recognition and votes that they received. Fun and exciting contest. Thank you.

Posted By Susan on February 1, 2012, 8:08 PM

Has anyone out there ever been to Haleiwa?

Posted By zsaz on February 1, 2012, 8:14 PM

I think both Beaufort and Hammondsport are great places with good kind people. Let's not let the
people who want to put a negative spin on this fact
turn this into the opposite of what it should be - a win win.
Peace

Posted By Peace on February 1, 2012, 8:18 PM

Not from either town but seeing comments from Hammondsport and their supporters calling names like children would do because some from Beaufort think it was unfair shows they are just trying to justify the tie. Congratulations Beaufort for your win & Hammondsport for second & all the other small cool towns that were in the running. I would like to visit them all!

Posted By Ralph on February 1, 2012, 8:24 PM

Wow, reading some of these comments, I have to wonder how old some of the people are that are writing them. I can just see them stomping their feet yelling "but we won". Come on people, in the scheme of life, what does this mean, it means that both places are great and all those concerned should be glad to live in these areas.I am sure Budget Travel didn't put on this contest to hear people complain about who they think won.

Posted By Becky on February 1, 2012, 8:28 PM

Wow, reading some of these comments, I have to wonder how old some of the people are that are writing them. I can just see them stomping their feet yelling "but we won". Come on people, in the scheme of life, what does this mean, it means that both places are great and all those concerned should be glad to live in these areas.I am sure Budget Travel didn't put on this contest to hear people complain about who they think won.

Posted By Becky on February 1, 2012, 8:29 PM

Congratulations to both Hammondsport and Beaufort! But let's not be sore winners folks! Isn't it great that the whole competition brought so much attention to the wonderful small towns of America! Congratulations to all the finalists!

Posted By Karen on February 1, 2012, 8:35 PM

WOW are there a lot of whiners....NOT winners....on this site! People of NC, just be happy that you were even concidered to be a part of this! Congrats to BOTH towns! And thank you Budget Travle for the contest. It was fun :)

Posted By Nicole on February 1, 2012, 8:43 PM

WOW are there a lot of whiners....NOT winners....on this site! People of NC, just be happy that you were even concidered to be a part of this! Congrats to BOTH towns! And thank you Budget Travle for the contest. It was fun :)

Posted By Nicole on February 1, 2012, 8:43 PM

I appreciate Budget Travel having this competiion. It has been great for Beaufort and Hammondsport. Beaufort is a fantastic place and I look forward to visiting Hammondsport very soon. Maybe we should be sister cities. Let's celebrate the tremendous positive in this great opportunity.

Posted By Jamie Cosson on February 1, 2012, 8:48 PM

By the way budgettravel is in New York

Hmmm

go figure

Posted By Bruce on February 1, 2012, 8:51 PM

Kudos to BOTH Hammondsport and Beaufort, whose residents, neighbors, town officials and friends around the globe got together to so hugely support their favorite small town. Congrats to ALL of the top ten small towns in America; I'd love to visit them all! Thanks, BT, to hosting this fun contest and bringing attention to some of the loveliest places to live and visit in the country.

Posted By Mary on February 1, 2012, 8:54 PM

OK folks, even the Iowa Republican caucus knows how to handle a close race with technical difficulties, you call it a tie. A tie is not bad for a race that will garner recognition and bragging rights for both towns. Both were close in votes and both deserve the win. Call it a day and congratulations to both. Both look like great places to visit.

Posted By Susan on February 1, 2012, 8:59 PM

Wow! What a shame that Beaufort residents are acting so disgracefully. I could not vote from my computer, nor could several of my friends at various times throughout the entire week so I believe that this site had issues for several days depending on the amount of votes coming in at any given time. The website wasn't set up to be able to handle the volume of votes it was receiving. The website completely crashed around 8-8:30, not one hour before midnight. I believe that Hammondsport rightfully was declared as a winner as well as Beaufort, because every day, one caught up to the other and on the last day, Hammondsport was not given the opportunity to catch up and beat Beaufort. Since NO ONE knows what the final results would have been, a tie is the only fair decision. Thank you to Budget Travel for agreeing with this and doing the right thing. Beaufort...shame on you for your negative comments! I'm sure you have lost many possible visitors due to your public reaction.

Posted By Lynn on February 1, 2012, 9:00 PM

Hello Congrats Beaufort! I personally voted for Hammondsport every day. And yes I did ask for many people who I know that have been to the 'Port' via visisting me. I think for a town of 725 people to come within .2% of a town with over 4000 speaks volumes for the visitors of Hammondsport. Either way you won and we won. Be Happy!

Posted By Anne Kofod on February 1, 2012, 9:01 PM

Not all NC residents are acting disgracefully. Not all NY are acting gracefully. our problem is with BT, not the residents from NY.

Posted By Donnie on February 1, 2012, 9:04 PM

I am a travel agent and from the Beaufort area. I am very upset that Budget would declare Beaufort a winner then under pressure change to a tie. Not sure that will help in premoting your website. This is a lesson to me not to go to your website for research. I don't think I can trust your company. Honesty is the best policy. Congrats to all the small towns and their people for supporting them.

Posted By marlene on February 1, 2012, 9:12 PM

I agree with Lynn, we in the southern tier of NY could not get through on Saturday night, Sunday morning early, or Monday evening. Come on guys, this isn't the Civil War!

Posted By Tom on February 1, 2012, 9:19 PM

Susie from Carteret Cty - it seems as though you are the only person with any southern hospitality, as you put it (thank you for being a gracious winner). What a bunch of sour grapes from the rest of your neighbors in NC. Beaufort still won. Why does everyone feel the need to slam the other winner? Ever hear of too close to call? This apparently was. And yes, the vote could have swung the other way at the end. One location a few years back had an enormous number of votes in the 11th hour.

-Not from either winning location and proud of it

Posted By Sore winners on February 1, 2012, 9:19 PM

I want to contratulate all the towns in the top 10. Having grown up near Hammondsport, I say to all readers "Come on up and drink some wine and enjoy the Finger Lakes Region of New York State! It's a cool place to visit and hang out!" And to Beaufort... a hearty congratulations! You're the winner, and I'll bet your town's a cool spot to visit. Matter of fact, there's a bunch of them that ought to be on a "Must visit" plan come retirement! Way to go Beaufort!

Posted By Gary Whyman on February 1, 2012, 9:28 PM

If you think Beaufort is cool you should really visit Carteret County's real jewel.....Harkers Island NC. Now there's Heaven on Earth!

Posted By Bobby on February 1, 2012, 9:31 PM

REALLY?? REALLY???? I can't believe all the whining over this. Get a grip people!

Posted By Cindy on February 1, 2012, 9:32 PM

You folks seem unhappy. You should eat more bacon. Bacon makes you happy! :)

Posted By Dean on February 1, 2012, 9:32 PM

I attempted to cast a vote for Beaufort but was unable, who is to say Beaufort could have won by a greater margin. The final count should stand, number 8 could have rallied and beat both if you use your logic.........

Posted By Bill on February 1, 2012, 9:38 PM

Sounds like a lot of sour grapes from the South...Shame on you!!! I tried for 4 hours to vote and finally did at 11:30PM last night. I don't know about you, but where I'm from, if the voting machine is disabled,those that are disenfranchised are not ignored..Didn't your momma teach you how to share??? I sure would like to visit NC, maybe you should come to upstate NY..Both seem to be great areas!!!

Posted By Niki on February 1, 2012, 9:39 PM

Waaa, what a bunch of whiners! First of all, if you are one of the people commenting on how disgusted you are at reading other peoples' comments, then STOP READING THEM! Second of all, it's spelled BEAUFORT and pronounced "Bo-furt"-if you are going to criticize at least spell the town's name correctly. Also, for the person who said that the outage was "more widespread up north"-how do you know that? As far as I can tell, it seems people voting for both towns were unable to get access to vote during the last several hours. I personally was voting for Beaufort and I had cousins in California who could not get through, so get over it. Yes, Beaufort was declared the winner at midnight (people were even posting the map picture on facebook, depicting the "winner" flag over Beaufort, NC). I think Beaufort's hostility is reflected more towards the fact that Beaufort was declared the winner, then had it taken away from them. Who wouldn't be upset about that, especially after such a nail-biting contest? And for the record, the town of Beaufort does not actually have 4,000+ people living within its city limits. This number includes people living in small communities outside of the town, those without post office/zip codes. I live 20 minutes from Beaufort, in another community, yet my address is considered "Beaufort". Regardless of size, it's about the number of votes, not population. Beaufort has a lot of tourists visit year-round from all over the world. Do you not think these people were voting for Beaufort? I am sure Hammondsport, NY also has a lot of people visiting each year, who are not from there, who probabaly voted too! Population size has nothing to do with this (If this were the case then Cape May, NJ should have beaten NY too!). People from Beaufort are not bashing any other town, just BudgetTravel for its actions, so back off. And those of us from Beaufort should quit complaining, because obviously it's not going to do any good and it's really making us look like a bunch of angry idiots. For those of you saying you aren't going to visit Beaufort now because of the handful of comments you read on here, then so be it. We have enough people to offer our beautiful scenery and southern hospitality to as it is. Shame on you for letting the opinions of others affect your own. It's kind of sad really because you are truly missing out on a really cool town, such as your own!

Posted By So Over It! on February 1, 2012, 9:40 PM

REALLY? AND BEAUFORT RESIDENTS ARE NASTY? (not saying this person was from Hammondsport) SHAME ON YOU!!!!

Beaufort with your insults you showed your true colors! Your but one of hundreds, if not thousands of small towns along the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. But there’s nothing special about you, your like a nasty little traveling carnival, a sideshow curiosity, full of sleazy, dishonest filled games, in other words, a freak show!

hank

THIS IS BEYOND INSULTING AND CHILDISH!!!!!!

Posted By REALLY?????? on February 1, 2012, 9:43 PM

I had issues with trying to get on line numerous times prior to the 31st and on that date I was unable to get on line about 8p.m.The difference based on 360,000 votes( I know it said over 360,ooo votes)was a scant 720 votes not 2000 votes,so who is to say that the gap couldn't be made up or lost for that matter.Matthew Lutomski Severn,Md

Posted By Matthew Lutomski on February 1, 2012, 9:44 PM

Both towns sound very nice.
Beaufort supporters are upset. Fair enough.
Hammondsport appreciates the tie. Fair enough.

A handful of people from Beaufort are quite upset and ungracious/belligerent. Watch any sports event, this happens across the board anywhere.

Hammondsport adopts a nyanya look at them holier than thou counter point. Again, common.

Anyone reading the comments should realize that a handful of people do not represent an entirety. Many supporters of Beaufort have been quite gracious in their comments, the same with Hammondsport. Neither town should be "Feeding the Trolls".

I'd suggest Budget Travel spotlight both towns as winners with a title that gives light to how close the towns were in popularity. Both towns have plenty to spotlight. Articles on Beaufort during the old homes tour, or the seafood festival and annual pirate invasion, Hammondsport with their antique boat show, classic motorcycle rally, and winery tours.
Both towns offer many wonderful events to attend, and both towns are full of friendly locals. I for one am excited about the outcome and the benefits that could be leveraged by both towns. Any small tourist destination thrives from a boost such as this, and hopefully the small majority from both towns that are puffing their chests will be ignored as individuals, and the towns will be appreciated as America's Coolest Small Towns.

Posted By Where am I from? on February 1, 2012, 9:48 PM

A "Tie Vote" is an identical score. Beaufort won fairly. We all experienced the server issues; our votes didn't get counted either. Budget Travel needed to handle this differently. If it had been a “tie” than we should have gone into sudden death, just like any sport breaks a “Tie”. Oops! This wasn’t really a “Tie” now was it? We were ahead by more than 700 votes. It was a “Give me” for NY. I am not a sore Winner, I just believe in fair play. There are winners and there are losers, apparently, NY doesn’t understand that, hopefully Sunday they will learn this lesson even better.

Posted By Nancy on February 1, 2012, 9:53 PM

So Haammondsport, let me ask you a question, if the shoe was on the other foot, how would you feel? Would you still be saying it was fair? I seriously doubt it! BEAUFORT #1

Posted By MJB on February 1, 2012, 9:56 PM

I can’t believe you changed the rules AFTER the deadline. You can only have one winner unless the votes are equal and obviously they WERE NOT. Basketball, football and baseball games are won by one point or one run. If the lights go out, the team that is ahead WINS. If it rains at a baseball game, the team that is ahead WINS. So since the lights went out on your website, the town that was ahead WINS. So Beaufort is the WINNER.

Posted By Joey P on February 1, 2012, 9:57 PM

I participated in this contest for the weeks. I saw Beaufort go from 3rd to 1st place. In my heart, Beaufort is the 1st place winner. I witnessed competitive spirit from both states... and I love my local community.
Not all of us are nay-sayers. But I must admit that this was a rather anti-climatic experience to declare a tie.

Both towns had problems voting ~ throughout the contest. Both towns are now winners by the experience and committment of its people. I do, however believe, if you pose something as a contest, then you need to have a winner. It was a really close race. I agree, both towns should have separate features in Budget Travel. I also think there should be some kind of contest between the two towns. Definitely having a way to check vote status other than by hitting the vote button will probably fix the website demand issues.
Lets stop with the name calling, brow beating and belly aching.

I have been in a number of Beaufort events aka "contests" recently where rules don't seem to matter ~ from the fish towne regatta, to the Flotilla, to the chowder cook-off. That's because the whole point is to have fun!!!

Beaufort is a wonderful and fun place. I LOVE THIS TOWN! and I'm glad to live in it!
Thanks for the fun, Budget Travel. Now, make it worth it!! (for us!)
Regards,
Barbara in Beaufort

Posted By Barbara on February 1, 2012, 10:00 PM

So Hammondsports, if the shoe was on the other foot would you be upset? I am sure you would! You would not be saying it was a fair contest then, would you. One thing I know for sure, Beaufort had the most votes......#1

Posted By MJB on February 1, 2012, 10:02 PM

Everyone huffing that it wasn't "fair" should remember that it started off with the deck stacked against Hammondsport with a 1/4 the voting base. Also, by both towns winning, both towns reap the benefits of the tourism and the right to call themselves the coolest! I congratulate all the cool little towns nominated and ask you to choose to have a generous heart over a spiteful one. Both towns should be grateful for the recognition!

Posted By Elaine Brundage on February 1, 2012, 10:04 PM

I am surprised at the poor sportsmenship being displayed by my fellow Beaufortites...Can't you all see that the tie is ALSO a win?!?!?!? BT was being fair to all parties by declaring a tie, and we're having trouble accepting that? SHAME ON US!!

If the shoe was on the other foot, we would not have accepted a NY win for the same reason...we'd be on here moaning that the site had crashed and our votes weren't counted.

KUDOS to the NY crew for being classy!! Most of you have commented positively, even when my fellow North Carolinians were being "sore winners". That makes ME want to come visit your little town. At least there is class there. CONGRATULATIONS on YOUR WIN!!

Posted By From Beaufort on February 1, 2012, 10:09 PM

I think we all were passionately promoting and campaigning for our towns and there is no way to tell what would have happened in the last hours. I was trying to get on from about 5 pm and had friends from all my pages trying too. Congratulations to 2 great towns! I look forward to spending time in both as I hope you all do too. I actually would love to check out all 10. Thank you for a great contest, and highlighting some great little towns.

Posted By Lynda on February 1, 2012, 10:17 PM

Whoop whoop! I'm from Hammondsport!(: This is an amazing achievment!

Posted By Dakota Hall on February 1, 2012, 10:17 PM

In the fall of 1989 I was in college in upstate NY. A friend of mine and I traveled to Hammondsport for a day trip to a vineyard. I was in love, with him and with the beautiful Finger Lakes region. Nearly 23 years later, we're raising our two kids in central New York. No contest necessary for me to know what a special place Hammondsport is.

Posted By Upstate New Yorker on February 1, 2012, 10:18 PM

Being from Beaufort and speaking on my behalf, first of all I would like to thank BT for this recognition.. to be in the top 10 of 647 towns was an honor but to be tie for first feels like a winner to me.. I hope that a lot of the crazy comments coming from some people does not discourage anyone from visiting BEAUFORT.. people are upset with the voting and the fact that we(BEAUFORT) were announced as the winner and then it was taken away, kinda felt like a slap in the face.. people from the other small towns would feel the same way if that happened to them.. however, 1st place is 1st place it doesn't matter if we share 1st place we are still WINNERS!! BE HAPPY!! and hopefully BEAUFORT can drum up big business during tourist season... I also must say I got to give it to Hammondsport, NY to be such a small town with a small population you guys gave us a run for our money the whole way through the competition neck and neck every time I checked.. so its great to share 1st place with Hammondsport, NY.. who knows I may visit there in the near future.. Congrats to all that placed in the top 10..

Posted By kathy on February 1, 2012, 10:21 PM

Being from Beaufort and speaking on my behalf, first of all I would like to thank BT for this recognition.. to be in the top 10 of 647 towns was an honor but to be tie for first feels like a winner to me.. I hope that a lot of the crazy comments coming from some people does not discourage anyone from visiting BEAUFORT.. people are upset with the voting and the fact that we(BEAUFORT) were announced as the winner and then it was taken away, kinda felt like a slap in the face.. people from the other small towns would feel the same way if that happened to them.. however, 1st place is 1st place it doesn't matter if we share 1st place we are still WINNERS!! BE HAPPY!! and hopefully BEAUFORT can drum up big business during tourist season... I also must say I got to give it to Hammondsport, NY to be such a small town with a small population you guys gave us a run for our money the whole way through the competition neck and neck every time I checked.. so its great to share 1st place with Hammondsport, NY.. who knows I may visit there in the near future.. Congrats to all that placed in the top 10..

Posted By kathy on February 1, 2012, 10:22 PM

Budget Travel absolutely did the right thing. I tried ( and several people I know) to vote for Hammondsport starting in the late afternoon on 1/31/12 and could not get through. I even got an email for the web server and it was returned undeliverable- how would it have been fair to declare Beaufort the winner with these circumstances??? To the less well mannered responders--- Get over it- we are all winners to be blessed to visit such wonderful towns!!!

Posted By TSalter on February 1, 2012, 10:23 PM

And Folks!

The excitement continues!

Posted By Keukahawk on February 1, 2012, 10:24 PM

Sorry, but 36.2 is not a tie to 36.0. As far as having a bigger voting base, I'm not from Beaufort, but I love to visit there. The voting base is "anyone with the Internet" can vote. I could have voted for any of the towns listed. I understand that both towns "win" this way, but to change the rules after the voting ends is not acceptable -- no matter who the winner is. However, the world goes on, and Beaufort is a fantastically cool town. Now I'm waiting for Boone, NC or Southern Pines, NC to be on the list!!

Posted By nc2teacher on February 1, 2012, 10:28 PM

Not from either town but seeing comments from Hammondsport and their supporters calling names like children would do because some from Beaufort think it was unfair shows they are just trying to justify the tie. Congratulations Beaufort for your win & Hammondsport for second & all the other small cool towns that were in the running.

Posted By Ralph on February 1, 2012, 10:38 PM

Hammondsport and Glenn Curtiss' fame for the 1st flight in America was taken away by NC and those Wright guys....NC even has this event on a quarter!..Consider a tie a timely makeup call by Budget Travel hahah

Posted By Zack on February 1, 2012, 10:40 PM

Hey--if Beaufort and Hammondsport keep arguing about this, why not just give the win to Weaverville! That would certainly be a tie-breaker.

Posted By NorthernCA on February 1, 2012, 10:41 PM

What do you mean it is a tie??????? Beaufort clearly won! Why would you mimize it in the 11th hour??? Probably trying to be politically correct huh? Doesn't say much about your organization or web site. Losers.

Posted By Glenn Druhot on February 1, 2012, 10:50 PM

I have found that the lighthearted folks in Hammondsport focus less on winning and more on making new friends and having fun, whether it be participating in the Firemen's Carnival, a Fishing Tournament or Auctioning the Artist Palettes and Adirondack Chairs. That is what makes it a very Cool American Small Town. When it gets hot in the summer, we hope that everyone will come visit and get to know us and Cool Off in beautiful Keuka Lake. Congratulations to All~

Posted By floozy2u on February 1, 2012, 10:56 PM

36.2 to 36 and that is a tie!!?? Do you own land in Hammondsport?

Posted By Dale Rasmussen on February 1, 2012, 11:02 PM

Didn't the "winner" of this contest win because they were most successful at voting for themselves? Is that how "winners" usually get there? As far as I'm conserned, we were all winners when we were nominated.Everything after that was just for the fun of it.

Posted By notfunanymore on February 1, 2012, 11:10 PM

Beaufort Won! We were ahead before your site crashed. Then you announced Beaufort as the winner then denounced it and put us in a tie with NY???? The votes proved who the winner was. If fairness was your intent why not have continued the contest for the hours lost during your site crashing. Bless your heart,Budget Travel!

Posted By Laurie on February 1, 2012, 11:17 PM

I have visited several of the finalist towns, and have found them unique and charming. Yes, being #1 gives bragging rights, but even with a tie you are still #1. I am hoping that the publicity gained by this contest will help all 10 finalists to increase their tourist traffic and help local business. Congrats to the winners (so proud of Hammondsport), and for those of you who are able, go see all the fabulous 10 finalists!

Posted By Michelle on February 1, 2012, 11:29 PM

I think I can speak for most of Hammondsport when I say that "yes" MJB we would have been saying it was fair had the shoe been on the other foot. That is the kind of community that we are. I had never heard of Beaufort, NC before this contest. It looks amazing and I do plan to visit. A few bad apples won't spoil it for me. I'm sure that the friendly people outnumber the ones who left nasty comments to us "Yankees" (I so thought we were over that). Congratulations to both of the Coolest Small Towns in AMERICA! Hammondsport and Beaufort.

Posted By Kelly on February 1, 2012, 11:34 PM

Whoa!! This is unreal! I bet BT is sorry that they even included Beaufort in this contest regardless of the outcome. This is for "the coolest small town". The comments I have read....definitely...NOT cool.

Posted By Not from NY or NC on February 1, 2012, 11:42 PM

I am shocked at the "tie vote" Is it to be so "politically correct" to have no clear winner? It is like "everyone deserves a trophy"! No "winners or losers". What is a contest then? Do we announce a tie when we are looking at elections? Beaufort was the winner. The only loser is the person or people who decided to call it a tie!!

Posted By Mary Means on February 1, 2012, 11:44 PM

Win, Lose, Draw, I had fun, Thanks Budget Travel!

Posted By marche on February 1, 2012, 11:52 PM

Yes, Beaufort is a wonderful little town by the sea....until you declare a tie then the completely flip out and trash everyone involved and leave a long list of "name calling" rants. I now agree with the folks from Beaufort, there should be no tie, the posts from your residents prove you are not worthy of even sharing the top spot in what ultimately is just a competition to see which small group can stuff enough votes in the box before it closes. Definitely not "Cool" at all. I'll get out of the way now and let the whining continue!

Posted By Tom on February 1, 2012, 11:58 PM

As a citizen of Hammondsport as well as a student at Hammondsport Central School, I'd like to congratulate Beaufort and my home town, Hammondsport! I know every student at my school and everyone in the community was voting as often as they could! A tie for first is as good as a win in my book and I'm glad that we get to share the spot light with a town as "cool" sounding as Beaufort, who obviously has as dedicated a population as us. This contest has been a great experience for everyone in our community, and I look forward to the help it's going to bring to both of our little towns. My parents and I will definitely be stopping in Beaufort, North Carolina on our next vacation! Congrats to both towns again!

Posted By Hport Student on February 2, 2012, 12:02 AM

I would just like to say to all the litle towns that got nominated for the top 10 congrat's to all. Congrat's to Beaufoft and Hammondsport.We both got what we wanted so just enjoy it!!!!! Now I have to go visit the remaning towns on the list thanks BT

Posted By Marina Presley on February 2, 2012, 12:41 AM

Wow....that was close. I'm glad both towns were named winners. Again...both towns were declared winners. Upon reading the comments, it seems that many of the N.C. voters feel that perhaps a tie means not winning. Be thankful for all the voters that voted to help support and get their "cool small town" recognized.

Posted By GaryD on February 2, 2012, 1:32 AM

I think NorthernCA has the best idea yet!!

Posted By Jonny on February 2, 2012, 2:04 AM

360K hits over 30 days and your web server crashes on the last night? Running Linux on an Amazon cluster? Cmon man.

Posted By Rob on February 2, 2012, 4:34 AM

360K hits over 30 days and your web server crashes on the last night? Running Linux on an Amazon cluster? Cmon man.

Posted By Rob on February 2, 2012, 4:34 AM

Pretty good for a little town of 700+ population and a town with 4 times as many residents to be that close!!
Hooray for Hammondsport-I am proud of ya! And beautiful Keuka Lake certainly does welcome all of you to jump in her clean and relaxing waters!

Posted By Bev on February 2, 2012, 6:41 AM

Beaufort won, so why call it a tie? It was close and both deserve congrats. I guess with a tie you figured you would help Budget Travel the most.

Posted By Bob on February 2, 2012, 7:56 AM

First of all I would like to thank Hammondsport for mostly staying classy in their comments.
Second I would like to go on record and say their were three days when I could not vote at all. Hammondsport was ahead in the AM but it was so close. Bummed that there was a tie but both towns deserve an applause.Not sure I want to visit Beaufort though especially if they find out where I am from :)

Posted By Megan on February 2, 2012, 8:45 AM

As many supporters for Hammondsport have already stated, because all the votes were not counted, period. You don't have a winner till all the votes are counted, including the attempted votes from not being able to vote. It was only a .1 percent difference around 11:00 PM when last checked, a maximum of 360 votes but anywhere in between 1 and 360 votes at about 11:00PM when the servers in NY were down. The servers were extremely slow or down most of the day in NY state, and NY City has how many million’s of residents? Most sensible people could understand this. I would agree to the same outcome if the shoe was on the other foot too. Congratulations to the good people from Beaufort and to Hammondsport's supporters, as well to all the other small towns in the contest.

Posted By hank on February 2, 2012, 8:57 AM

No disrespect intended, but the servers being slow or down did not only affect NY. I myself tried some days for hours trying to get a vote in, some days I couldn't vote at all.

Posted By Donnie on February 2, 2012, 9:25 AM

People...this was a FREE contest that was simply people clicking a button as many times as they could. I can't believe people are getting so worked up about all this. In the end, the true message is that both towns are obviously great communities with strong support. They did the right thing in declaring a tie. Everybody won here, now let's move on!

Posted By Dave on February 2, 2012, 9:36 AM

Congratulations go out to Hammondsport along New York State Route 17! Lots of fun and exciting things to do and see in the regional area!

Posted By Julie on February 2, 2012, 9:36 AM

I am disappointed in the tie, but it was a fun contest and I believe both towns will benefit from the publicity. I am from Beaufort NC, have lived in and visited many other areas of the country and to me Beaufort is and always will be the COOLEST town! I really don't need Budget Travel to tell me that. I would like to visit Hammondsport also and may add it onto my annual summer vacation that I usually take in Pennsylvania. I hope that a few bad comments from some Beaufort supporters wont deter people from visiting Beaufort, those people really are the minority. We love our visitors and you will experience plenty of southern hospitality if you decide to come see us.

Posted By Melissa on February 2, 2012, 10:11 AM

Congrats to Beaufort on the win! Congrats to Hammondsport for 2nd place. Congrats to Weaverville for 3rd place!! Fun times!

Posted By Hayley on February 2, 2012, 10:17 AM

1. It’s spelled Beaufort.
2. Budget Travel is based in NY.
3. Budget Travel changed the rules after the end of the contest.
4. Both towns qualified as “small towns” based on Budget Travel’s definition for the contest.
5. People all over each state and region were voting, likely for the town in their state or region, and the NE region certainly has a higher population than the SE region.
6. If Hammondsport had been declared the winner, and then Budget Travel had changed it to a tie (but would they have? See #2), the comments on this thread would simply have been reversed (i.e. people who voted for/supported Hammondsport would be expressing their disappointment at the last minute rule change, and people who voted for Beaufort would be happy to accept the tie rather than 2nd place).
7. Adding things like religion, south vs. north, and the Civil War to the discussion is ridiculous.
8. Expressing disappointment in how a contest was handled, when one thinks it was improperly handled, is not whining, immature, sour grapes, nasty, dishonest, rude, or any of the other disparaging terms used to describe people commenting in that vein. It is simply exercising one’s first amendment right to express one’s opinion.
9. There were other ways Budget Travel could have handled the situation, with a bit more thinking and creativity. Some have been suggested here - "Coolest Lakeside Town and Coolest Seaside Town" or "Coolest Small Town (pop. under 5,000) and Coolest Tiny Town (pop. under 1,000)" are two examples.

Posted By kate on February 2, 2012, 10:34 AM

Congrats to both towns. Too bad there is no single winner declared....

PS: Here is a special message from Budget Travel...
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U Mad?

Posted By U Mad? on February 2, 2012, 10:42 AM

I find it very interesting how many people from Beaufort are posting such nasty and mean comments on a travel website. I think people should realize that these actions will actually deter more people from their town then graciously accepting the tie. There is no way to determine what the outcome would have been considering the site issues existed. Hammondsport and Beaufort were head to head for days transferring the lead back and forth many times showing that it is impossible to know who would have come out a head if no issues had existed. I for one wouldn’t visit a town after reading these comments. It may be a beautiful place but the people leave much to be desired.

Posted By D on February 2, 2012, 10:42 AM

Congrats to Beaufort! It's an amazing little town with so much to offer and super friendly people!

Posted By sher on February 2, 2012, 10:47 AM

If I were Budget I would never do this again.... they did us all a favor by giving our small towns some much needed attention and look what they get for it. I can tell you after all the negative comments from Beaufort, I wouldn't go there on a bet!

Posted By Henry on February 2, 2012, 10:53 AM

Thanks to NY based Budget, Beaufort had an opportunity to be one of the Coolest Small Towns.....
The supporters of Beaufort are definately NOT the Coolest!

Posted By Nicki on February 2, 2012, 10:58 AM

I want to say congradulation to both towns. It was a tight race and I wish it would have finished like it should have. I live about 8 miles east of Beaufort and I have lived there all my life. When I was little I bet there weren't anymore than 700 or less people in Beaufort then. My Mom would take me and my sister to Beaufort on Saturday and the main highlight was to go into the 5 & 10 store on front street. Now it is a great place to eat called Clawsons. I myself beleive that when people came to visit they loved it so good there they decided to stay. Mostly people from up north. But every town has some people with no manners. None of us people own either of these towns. If it hadn't been for our Lord and Savior neither town would be there. People it is time to wake up and realize what is going on here. This world is not going to be around much longer and instead of fighting over who won the contest we need to be praying. Both towns thinks theirs are the best ant that is the way it should be. Be proud of where you are from and let God take care of the rest. God Bless both towns and be kind to everyone.

Posted By CMT on February 2, 2012, 11:14 AM

If you'll go back read a few more comments, you will see not all negative comments are coming from Beaufort supporters. Again, our problem is not with the folks in Hammondsport or NY. Our problem is with BT. Yall are welcome here, I promise you won't be run out of town.

Posted By Donnie on February 2, 2012, 11:59 AM

One good thing to come out of this will be some new rules on what happens when the site crashes, eh Budget Travel? ;-)

I must admit I thought this was a fun little contest with a lot of small-town schmaltz going for it ... until the post-results commentary. My advice to the whiners? Take your big-city attitude back to the big city where it belongs. The rest of us folks just had a good time watching the parade go by and chattin' with our small-town cousins.

So congrats to the residents of Beaufort and Hammondsport for making your towns a great place to be (or visit for that matter ;-).

And congrats to Weaverville, California. I got a kick out of noticing that about 100 miles from Weaverville is Corning, CALIFORNIA. Eerie, eh? LoL

I don't remember the population limits but just a few hours south of Weaverville is Ukiah (16,075 give or take a few cousins :-).

Heck, even Jerome (AZ) looks like it might be a fun place to visit.

Nope. Don't live in any of these places. Y'all have a nice day.

Posted By jim on February 2, 2012, 12:23 PM

Thank you Budget Travel for such a wonderful contest! Living in Beaufort is such a blessing. Thank you Hammondsport for joining in the race! I can not wait to visit! I, myself had a blast. I hope the rest of the country doesn't think that we, here in Beaufort are ungrateful for any good press. Thank you again for a great month :)

Posted By Beth Marshall on February 2, 2012, 1:02 PM

I've been to both places. Hammondsport is the clear and convincing winner IMHO. Given how much larger Beaufort is than Hammondsport, it shows that more people agree with me. This is because I'll bet that each town has the same proportion of folks who rabidly voted day after day for their town. Finally, it's really kind of sad to read how many Beaufort folks have such 'sour grapes' over the outcome. They should go to Hammondsport and chill out with some of the wines made there.

Posted By brian flynn seattle on February 2, 2012, 1:11 PM

Really?!?!? Could NC be any more obnoxious over this? I keep reading the comments of NY residents and they are nothing but genuine and sincere. NC-get over yourselves-you are making yourselves look like idiots. Keep it up and nobody will want to visit your "coolest small town"!

Posted By FingerLakes1 on February 2, 2012, 1:15 PM

Is there a sportsmanship award? I guess Beaufort, NC residents down believe in southern hospitality. A win is a win, regardless if it's being shared.

Posted By IheartNY on February 2, 2012, 1:33 PM

You know,its not just the Beaufort folks that are talkin' so much junk.The folks from Hammondsport are doing the same thing.The folks from Beaufort have a right to be upset,yes some are carrying it a little too far but for the most part they just want their fair shake in this cluster *uck that Budget Travel has created.If they weren't going to declare a real winner they should have never had a contest in the first place.This is crazy,lets everybody take a deep breathe.Im sure Hammondsport is a nice place to visit but so is Beaufort.

Posted By Robert on February 2, 2012, 1:42 PM

That's right Budget, it was pretty stupid of you to do such a nice thing for small towns accross the US. Some towns certainly don't appreciate it!
How sad!!! Wonder if Weaverville would have reacted the same way.... doubt it!

Posted By Vicki on February 2, 2012, 1:58 PM

Really?!?!? Could NY be any more obnoxious over this? I keep reading the comments of NC residents and they are nothing but genuine and sincere. NY-get over yourselves-you are making yourselves look like idiots. Keep it up and nobody will want to visit your "coolest small town"

Posted By BackAtYa on February 2, 2012, 1:59 PM

I cannot believe the negative comments on this site. If you call yourselves a state of "southern hospitality," it certainly does not show here. What is the difference if one village won by a few votes or the system shut down. Be happy that you were chosen and that people thought enough of your village to vote for you. There is too much violence, poverty, negative, sad news in the world to be so disappointed with such a trivial thing. Congratulations to the winners!!!

Posted By jamlady on February 2, 2012, 2:11 PM

Congratulations to both Hammondsport and Beaufort!! I was born and raised in Hammondsport, I left 11 years ago for a job/college opportunity and I miss it EVERYDAY! There is no place like it...the beauty of the area is beyond words. Come and enjoy some wine, meet some friendly people, and go for a dip in the lake (winter or summer...LOL)! I have been reading through the comments and there are a lot of them are so negative and rude. Really this is a online contest...not the end of the world. Yes it the marketing opportunities are endless, tourism will pick up...which it will for both towns, if not the top 3! But this whole north vs south thing needs to stop! Also, Hammondsport is no where near NYC (where BT is)...I live about 30 miles from NYC and it takes me about 5 hrs to get home. Now with all that I will end with life is short!! Enjoy your life and live it to the fullest cause you never know when it will be you last. Congratulations again to the co-coolest small towns! Cheers!!!

Posted By Qka Lover on February 2, 2012, 2:26 PM

On behalf of the Steuben County CVB, which represents Hammondsport, I want to extend my congratulations to Beaufort and the other eight nominees. Weaverville, you gave us a good run for our money early on, and Beaufort, you've certainly made things interesting recently! But everyone supported their communities with such pride. We are delighted to share this great honor with such a deserving town.

A huge thank you to everyone who voted every day and worked hard to make sure everyone they knew was doing the same. We couldn't have done this without you!

Thank you, Budget Travel, for having the courage to recognize a problem and come up with a fair solution. You are to be commended.

Cheers to what is shaping up to be an exciting tourism season for the two Coolest Small Towns America!

Posted By Kim Price on February 2, 2012, 2:44 PM

While I might not agree with Budget Travel's decision, I can assure you that both towns are undoubtedly amazing. Each community is obviously passionate, but to portray the destinations in the best possible light, these comments should be positive. The final verdict wasn't made by the towns and everyone needs to remember that.

Similarly, neither area should be judged by a few negative comments made by negative people.

Posted By RKent on February 2, 2012, 2:54 PM

I believe that each town is a winner and part of what makes Beaufort so great is that we are so willing to share all that makes us cool with so many visitors each year. We are steeped in history, entertainment, and natural beauty, but most of all our people are friendly and delightful. I would not want something as wonderful as this to bring out anything but the best. Come see us anytime. All if our seasons have something unique to offer. I plan to seek out these other towns as well. Thanks for all your efforts. This little contest brought so much pride to us all.

Posted By Beaufort Native on February 2, 2012, 3:01 PM

You know what? Things happen and Budget Travel did the best with what they had available and it was a great and enjoyable contest. No sour grapes!
I am a resident of Beaufort with ancestors going back to the early 1800's and I am proud we as a community were actually in the race! So with that said everybody can be a winner in certain forms and we should be proud to be in the top!
Stop the whining and ill will directed at others and put a smile on your face! I do so no matter what town I visit and if I ever run into anybody from Hammondsport, NY it will be a really cool experience and I look forward to possibly that happening either here in Beaufort or up in Hammondsport!.
If I ever have the great fortune to visit that neat little town of Hammondsport NY I would hope to receive the same hospitality that we dish out here in Beaufort, NC.
So with that said Beaufort/Carteret County residents rejoice that we are in the top 1 or 2. We have much to be proud of and I am happy for the residents of Hammondsport, NY as well as all of us in Beaufort, NC! Lets join hands and have fun during our tourist seasons which I know we both count on and are looking forward to in order to help each of our economy's! Come to Beaufort, NC if you travel south from Hammondsport NY and go to Hammondsport NY by way of Beaufort,NC if you travel north. You will not regret it! God Bless us all! Small towns USA, the backbone of America!

Posted By Charles on February 2, 2012, 3:26 PM

I have read through many of the comments about the contest and want to point out a few observations:

(1) I did not see a single comment from the NC folks that said the people in Hammondsport are "scary" and would be "afraid" to go there!

(2) Nor did I see any comments recommending that others not go to Beaufort because of the type of people who live there.

Sounds like you NY'ers are bad co-winners and why is that? Because you know you did not win fair and square? Hummm?

I do not live in Beaufort but am a native North Carolinian that grew up near Beaufort and you cannot possibly know how we look out for our own. That's why there were so many votes that had nothing to do with the number of Beaufort residents voting.

Posted By fay on February 2, 2012, 5:15 PM

Since 1st and 2nd was a tie, dos that make Damascus 3rd place? Now, Damascus is a cool small town and we would like all of you to visit especially for Trail Days in middle of May - awesome!

Posted By Patsy on February 2, 2012, 5:23 PM

Just a gentle reminder that this IS the internet and we don't really know where the people are from who are leaving hostile comments. I could leave a comment and claim to be from Hong Kong and nobody would be the wiser. Just sayin'......

And for anyone who is tired of the vitriol and derision and would like to spread a little positive thinking, you should just walk away from this ugly thread and go to Facebook and friend "Hammondsport NY loves Beaufort NC" Personally, I think Hammondsport and Beaufort should do something together as "sister cities."

Well...that's just my two cents on this whole thing.

Jamy

Posted By Jamy Gearhart Hillis on February 2, 2012, 5:58 PM

To the Beaufort folks who said they won because there were more votes. well the site crashed in the afternoon, i know 38 people who were trying to vote for Hammondsport all night but couldn't, not to mention the people they knew. So we unfortunately will never know, unless Budget travel would like to have a runoff. Otherwise, in a better spirit than the republican primary votes, let's take the high Road and celebrate a win together. People who want Beer and Buffalo wings can visit Beaufort, those who prefer Wine Water and Wings (another cradle of aviation) can visit Hammondsport. Beaufort looks like a fun place to visit.

Posted By Tom on February 2, 2012, 7:33 PM

I've been to both Hammondsport and Beaufort. No offense to Hammondsport, but the wine and hills can get a little boring. Beaufort has the beach, bars, awesome history, Pony Island, warm water, the outer banks, did I mention the beach! C'mon, let's get real here Beaufort is way cooler the Hammondsport, no offense Hammondsport, yous gies are wonderful, but the Southeast coast is where it's at.

Posted By Carl on February 2, 2012, 8:31 PM

people from Beaufort seem reallly coooool :x .... lighten up..you're lucky the site crashed or NY would've blown by ya :0

Posted By Jesse Wordooo on February 2, 2012, 9:01 PM

Seriously, I cannot believe some of the reactions of people!! It was a contest... for FUN!! IF you read the whole article that Budget Travel wrote... we were blocked out for a long period of time... also, I am very proud to say that the population in Hammondsport is a little over 700, the population in Beaufort is over 4,000.... enough said!! Hammondsport is an awesome place... and I'm glad we made the top ten and "tied" for first place... Thanks to all who voted for us!!

Posted By JoAnn Mulholland on February 2, 2012, 9:33 PM

I have an idea! Let's only count the votes of those that actually live in these towns! Enough said?

Posted By Donnie on February 2, 2012, 9:37 PM

I'm so proud of my native finger lakes NY!!!!! Not only did they rally together and stay ahead of a town many times larger, they did it with good old small town git it done spirit!! I live in the south now for the last 19 yrs... But NY will always be my HOME!!The Upstate People are good hearted small town folks!!! Congrats to Hamondsport....it is a beautiful place to live and visit!!!! Thanks to BT for the contest to bring respect to small town America!! It is wonderful to make them known for what they are A COOL SMALL TOWN!!!!

Posted By Cheryl Ovenshire on February 2, 2012, 9:51 PM

How funny.....everyone who voted for Hammondsport thinks it was a very fair decision. Of course you do, because you didn't have the votes, yet you won the contest anyway. Losing is a part of life; Learning to accept losing graciously is an even bigger part.
That being said, ENOUGH comments about which town has the bigger population! The contest was for the Coolest Small Town, not the town with the smaller population. Obviously people all over the world were voting for their favorites, so it's not a major accomplishment that your town with less than 800 residents made it in 2nd place. Congratulations to Beaufort, the true winners.

Posted By Catherine on February 2, 2012, 10:21 PM

As a teen from Carteret county, I'm thrilled that we came out on top. It's hard to imagine people across the country rooting for my home! (: My school and I had a blast participating in the voting experience, even to the point where we would discuss it during school and post multiple Facebook status reminding everyone to cast their "daily vote". Way to go you guys, we finally get the recognition we deserve for being one of best with our old small town charm! :)

Posted By Ashleynicole on February 2, 2012, 10:23 PM

The population density of the east coast definitely made the difference in the end. Congrats to all us "Weaves" for keeping our small town in the running. With our county's population density of 4.3 per square mile, compared to 114 and 71 of the competition, we made an aweome showing! Maybe next year Weaverville, NC can make a run at it!

Posted By JoeF on February 2, 2012, 11:19 PM

Readers...if you are still here by this time, and you are not from SOBX, please consult a map. You may not realize where Beaufort is in relation to a "city" of any real size.

I watched the "contest" out of curiosity...study of man, and all that. LOL!!! The truth is, we are ...I mean "arrrghh" real pirates and we have been here a long, long time (we came over before the horses!) Many of our ancestors were literally "squatters" from Europe so you can enjoy a strange "British mixed with Southern U.S." accents...and we can be hard to understand.

So matey's, we continue to enjoy the spoils here and we are more than WILLING to share but if you think a lake in a northern climate could somehow be compared to the Southern Outer Banks of North Carolina, that's kinda insulting. It's almost like saying lakes in the middle of Florida are comparable to Bahama's Out Islands. They are two very different things. Again, kindly look at a map or hopefully, a nautical grease chart....then you'll see.

P.S. - magazine should stick to comparing apples to apples and they didn't in this case...oh well...life goes on!!!

Posted By Another Keel on February 3, 2012, 12:29 AM

P.S.S. - sitting in a john boat fighting a bass does not compare to being on a yacht off shore fighting a marlin. Different strokes for different folks! This is the "apples to apples" thing I brought up. Can you have fun flounder fishing at night on a "finger lake" in NY? Do you have access to great scuba diving in the Graveyard of the Atlantic -day or night....nah....didn't think so!

Posted By another keel on February 3, 2012, 12:53 AM

[Unofficial] A snapshot in time...

Here is a little sidebar/factoid based on a snapshot of the total votes [unofficial] [367,356] at 11:59.5 EST moments before voting ended.

Beaufort w/a population of 4309 or 361 people/sq mi produced 31 votes / person.
...
Hammondsport w/a population of 725 or 61 people/sq mi produced 183 votes / person.

Last years winner, Lewisburg, Va with a population of 3830 people produced 139,118 votes for Lewisburg, or 36 votes / person.

Last years voting was every 5 hours for 20 nominees.

This years voting was every 24 hours for 10 nominees.

PS: A little factoid demonstrating the overloading and crashing the BT site early in the day. These figures were directly taken from the chart at the bottom of the voting page as the count down entered those last few minutes and each time stats recorded were after a refresh of the page. The 23:59:5 time refresh was just moments before 00:00:00.

As we can see the system was overloaded and indicated there were more hits [votes] coming in, then the system could keep up with. This was going on from the late afternoon time frame, thus, we out here in the hinter land saw the crashing of the site several times during the evening. In other words, these figures were not up to date as one sees them.

[Unofficial] snapshots of time sequence...If any one else also did what I did, their figures would vary from mine a little but the pattern would be the same, due to differences of the various pc times. My time is sync with National Standards every 31 minutes and has never been off more than .5sec in 31 minutes.

TIME Bea% Ham% TOTAL VOTES [Unofficial] 31Jan 2012

23:19 36.2 36.0 364,452
23:28 36.2 36.1 365,267
23:34 36.2 36.1 365,730
23:37 36.2 36.1 366,041
23:44 36.2 36.1 366,470
23:45 36.2 36.1 366,563
23:46 36.2 36.1 366,619
23:47 36.2 36.1 366,653
23:48 36.2 36.1 366,693
23:50 36.2 36.1 366,845
23:51 36.2 36.1 366,891
23:52 36.2 36.1 366,950
23:53 36.2 36.1 366,992
23:54 36.2 36.1 367,050
23:55 36.2 36.1 367,099
23:56 36.2 36.1 367,166
23:57 36.2 36.1 367,221
23:58 36.2 36.1 367,266
23:59:5 36.2 36.1 367,356

Life is not perfect, no matter how much we try to dictate/demand it.

Posted By 726 on February 3, 2012, 12:56 AM

Congratulations Beaufort! Top vote getter for America's Coolest Small Town. Special and unique place. The treasurers from the recently found shipwreck of Blackbeard's Queen Anne's Revenge literally a 1,000 yards the off shore is amazing! Great coastal town, home to some of the US's largest Blue Marlin fishing tournaments out in the Atlantic Ocean Gulf Stream--beautiful warm place with the flavor of Key West and Charleston combined. CONGRATS BEAUFORT!

Posted By Wayland on February 3, 2012, 1:10 AM

Political correctness run amuck. In soccer, let's don't keep score so there are NO losers...in voting, let's declare a tie so there are NO losers....obviously NO one would want a southern time to out-vote / out-point a town from the glorious north / New York. Maybe this Sunday, as they time clock winds down and the soore is close, the officials will declare a tie and give both teams a trophy becuase IF they had played longer, the team with less points might have scored again.

I suppose political correctness is designed to make everyone "feel good." IT does NOT work....Hammondsport, NY lost and Beaufort, NC won....or do we recount the votes..maybe Al Gore can help...he has lots of time on his hands.

Posted By Larry on February 3, 2012, 7:46 AM

People are still posting about this? Get over it! GO BEAUFORT! :)

Posted By What? on February 3, 2012, 9:03 AM

I am thankful for the nice people of Hammondsport, I'm sure they understand that it was disconcerting to think we were the sole winner and then be told that it was a tie.
However, it was still fun. Hammondsport does look like a beautiful place with great people. Thank you for understanding our conerns with Budget Travel, not with Hammondsport, NY or the people in it. Hope to see ya'll around!! :)

Posted By Jordan on February 3, 2012, 9:55 AM

I think Budget Travel clearly made the correct decision to declare this race a tie. It was such a close race and so many of us in New York could not cast their votes on the last day after a media blitz across our state that could very well have given us the win.

I am saddened by some of the very negative comments I have read on this blog - I think everyone should be proud to have their towns mentioned in this contest - the showings were impressive.

Congratulations to each of the top ten towns across America.

Julie

Posted By Julie on February 3, 2012, 10:45 AM

Silly decision to make it a tie. I LIVE in Beaufort, NC and couldn't vote either during that hour of technical issues. Site broken, means it was broken nationwide. duh.

Posted By Anna on February 3, 2012, 11:14 AM

LOL at all the bitterness expressed by the Beaufort clan. I thought they were supposed to be gracious in the south. Guess not.

However, I guess it makes sense that there are some crazies everywhere in this great country of ours.

So, Beaufort folks, I still look forward to visiting there again in June notwithstanding the crazies in your midst.

As for Hammondsport, I think it would be a great gesture for the Mayor to send a case of assorted Hammondsport wines/champagnes to the Mayor of Beaufort. It'd likely get some more free press too.

As for Beaufort's Mayor, I'm sorry that I don't have a recollection of something local to send to Hammondsport...maybe some bbq.

Posted By brian flynn seattle on February 3, 2012, 11:32 AM

We are very gracious in the South. We just insist on be treated fairly.

It's a shame that some Hammondsport NY residents continue to act as if our problem is with them. It's not.

And yes, we do have the best BBQ on the planet.

Posted By Donnie on February 3, 2012, 12:12 PM

Doing a correction:

Last years Winner was Lewisburg, WV.

Posted By 726 on February 3, 2012, 12:15 PM

What an exciting contest! Too bad about the negativity following Budget Travel's attempt to be equitable! As one of the few people raised in Jerome, AZ, I was simply thrilled that we received 5,600 votes! Thank you, Budget Travel, for finding these little gems and sharing their coolness!

Posted By Susan Smull on February 3, 2012, 6:22 PM

Do I smell controversy? This reminds me of the FL recount in 2000!!! Just kiddin'
Hammondsport is a true small town. The only reason Beaufort got so many votes is cause outside people probably thought it was the cool Beaufort in the better Carolina (south that is). There are probably more students in the local school system in Beaufort, NC than all of Hammonsport. Too bad Georgia is still better at everything than SC and NY put together.

Posted By Ossssssum on February 3, 2012, 8:49 PM

The Beaufort in the better Carolina did win. And what has Georgia and SC won lately?

Posted By Donnie on February 3, 2012, 10:33 PM

Oh my goodness! I love small towns, and was watching eagerly to see which one was going to win this contest so I could plan a trip to the area. I was thrilled with a tie, since that means TWO cool places to visit, but with all the negativity being posted by Beaufort supporters -- definitely NOT cool! -- I think my first visit will be to the Finger Lakes. Don't need to vacation around people who get so upset over a simple, fun little competition!

Posted By M. Cass on February 3, 2012, 11:53 PM

Great Contest. I'm, sure Beaufort is beautiful, but I must say when I travel, I want a connection w/ the local population. So far I've seen a bunch of whining babies argue about the last ice pop in the freezer. Plannig a trip back east this fall... Buaufort will not be on the agenda. Get over yourselves. Where's that southern grace and hospitality? Hammandsport here we come!

Posted By Howard S. on February 4, 2012, 1:14 AM

Wow I find this comment a little nasty and rude.. it's not only beaufort that is being that way obviously! It really is both towns.. lay off each other geeze people!

"Beaufort with your insults you showed your true colors! Your but one of hundreds, if not thousands of small towns along the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. But there’s nothing special about you, your like a nasty little traveling carnival, a sideshow curiosity, full of sleazy, dishonest filled games, in other words, a freak show!"

This comment makes you NO better .. just sayin !

Posted By june on February 4, 2012, 6:31 AM

I feel like I need to comment on the misunderstanding that Hammondsport was offering a free vacation if you voted for them. First off, I am not from Hammondsport. I clicked on the website that allegedly was offering this because I couldn't believe it could be true. It wasn't. What was being offered was a free trip to Hammondsport on a totally different contest. Once you entered that contest, there was a link to the Budget Travel website where you could do one of 4 things: 1. Not get on that website at all. 2. Go on that website and not participate in the small town contest at all. 3. Vote for Hammondsport. 4. Vote for any other town. Think about it: how would anybody know if you voted at all or for Hammondsport in particular? It was an anonymous contest.

Posted By tourist on February 4, 2012, 7:38 AM

Sounds like a lot of angry people live in Beaufort, NC as well as Hammondsport, NY. Everyone acts like this award is the equivilent to the Oscars. Let's be real, all the people that have gone to Hammondsport and Beaufort respectively will go back no matter what because each has its own "personality". Get over the .2 % and be gracious! Lot more things in this country/world to be worried about.

Posted By eman on February 4, 2012, 12:02 PM

They should've just given the title to the state of New York. 90 percent of Beaufort's residents are relocated yankees anyway

Posted By LovinNC on February 4, 2012, 2:17 PM

Both towns did themselves proud in the race to the wire. I am sorry that a few sour grapes are acting like pirates and spoiling the fun. I spend lots of my free time in Beaufort though I am from the North. Warm and Friendly people makes each visit special. I have not been to Hammondsport NY but when time permits I plan to visit just because they are so proud of their small town too. Best to both towns.

Posted By Yankee Redneck on February 4, 2012, 2:29 PM

May I point out that my family comes from a little community called Otway, N.C., down east of Beaufort, N.C. I lived in Staten Island, NY from 1947 to 1958 when my family moved to Florida. I was here for the messy voting of hanging shads & the Supreme Court declared the President. Beaufort, N.C. won fair & square & I think the people of N.Y. would feel the same way if their voting was ahead & it was declared a tie. Does it smell a little since the headquarters of Budget Travel is in N.Y. city. If it had been in a state with no small town on the list would this have been declared a tie. Everybody got locked out of the voting & while both towns are unique & worth visiting Budget Travel changed their own rules at the last minute. I think that the N.Y. people need to understand more why the N.C. people feel cheated since they would feel the same way if the situation was reversed. This is not whining. A contest was entered & won fair & square & it got taken away from them. I would have been happy if an honest first, 2nd, 3rd place finish had been declared. Guess in the next election we can put 2 Presidents in the White House if the voting is close.

Posted By Diane on February 4, 2012, 2:40 PM

Based on all these comments, the folks in the #1 and #2 towns (or is it #1 and #1?) seem a bit fight-y. So, come visit Weaverville (proud to be Number 3!). We're a mellow, happy, it's-all-good kinda place!

Posted By Jeannine on February 4, 2012, 3:06 PM

Congrats to both! It's been declared-get over it! I'm happy my town -Damascus, VA- was in the running. Thank you Budget Travel.

Posted By Nina on February 4, 2012, 3:33 PM

Not a BT reader, but was tipped off by a friend who lives in Bath just 7 miles from Hammondsport. I am currently visiting the bay area of CA, but live in western NY, about 45 miles from H'port. I've been to Beaufort, NC and it's a great place. I've also been to Weaverville CA and it is nice,too. It seems that people from around NC are really expressing (outwardly so) a real sense of darkness and loathing about having not taken the prize all out. Wow! How much ugliness is under the rock! Maybe the folks supporting NC need a vacation to clear their minds and souls...BTW, many people in upstate western NY, especially the southern tier, would just as soon have New York City secede from the state or visa-verse, as they often believe that everything and everybody in the NYC metro area is taking all of the "good stuff" away from them and leaving the scraps. Seems like the same yowling and loathe feeling I feel coming from many of the "why didn't we win it outright, I don't want to share" guff I'm hearing from many Beaufort supporters. It's all sour grapes. Just seems more people have to show outward and inward appreciation for the good that has come for them and not be so immature about things... Mellow out a little, please. (at least you don't have to deal with the horrid specter of high volume slick water hydrofracturing {fracking} destroying your surroundings-That's something really worth whining about!) Peace and love....

Posted By p finley on February 4, 2012, 4:43 PM

P.S. I also agree that that sending a case or two (or even a small truckload) of some samplings of the great wines produced and grown in and around the town and township of Hammondsport would be an excellent idea, and Beaufort could offer in kind something that they may have... Cheers to all...!!

Posted By pfinley on February 4, 2012, 4:56 PM

Well, I am shocked by all the people that have posted negative comments. If, in fact, Beaufort, NC is the coolest small town in America, they have a poor way of showing it. The citizens of Beaufort should be ashamed of themselves. I can say that I would not want to visit your town, with all the rude comments, I can only imagine what it would be like to sit in one of your cafes. This is the poorest example of "Small Town" pride I have ever seen. You should all be ASHAMED!!!

Nancy Hamilton
Hammondsport, NY and proud of it.

Posted By Nancy Hamilton on February 4, 2012, 6:44 PM

In the four days since the contest ended, Weaverville has had beautiful sunny weather, a 'lion dance' through town, live music, an art cruise in town, and we celebrated the 100th birthday of one of our lifetime residents!! So, while the other two towns are fighting over first place, come check out a truly super "cool" town!! We know how to appreciate and enjoy life!! P.S. We're still 'Best in the West'!!

Posted By Tanya on February 5, 2012, 3:08 AM

We were thinking about retiring in Beaufort and have been looking at Real Estate because of Budget Travels Contest.....we voted for Hammondsport but were loving Beaufort but after all the hateful stuff being said by the people their.....wouldn't think about wanting to live in such a hostile environment.

Posted By Sara on February 5, 2012, 6:52 AM

Whoa. Sore winners. I think I'll just visit 10 thru 3 and avoid the whiners; they probably used robo ballot stuffers anyway.

Posted By The_Ace_of_Sporks on February 5, 2012, 12:23 PM

Wow, just saw these comments and I'm amazed.

Beaufort supporters, Budget Travel might have turned your "win" into a "tie", but your nastiness has turned your tie into a loss.

Congratulations to all of the top 10 towns, especially those with graceful folks who can celebrate their success along with the success of others.

Posted By Ed in SF on February 5, 2012, 6:15 PM

seriously, any comments from Beaufort or whatever its called, that arent gracious enough to take the tie with Hammondsport....blow urselves, peace out. The Ville..til i die

Posted By wrathofjaques on February 5, 2012, 6:48 PM

I'm from Virginia and wanted Damascus to win. I've noticed the people of Beaufort act like a 20 year old that has that annoying self entitlement thing, and has to have everything given to them or they cry and run to mommy or the government. Just for that Hammondsport should be named #1

Posted By Joe Shirley on February 5, 2012, 11:35 PM

We were voting for the COOLEST town ... Obviously you all got it wrong ... JEROME, ARIZONA wins hands down

Posted By Jenn on February 6, 2012, 8:41 AM

As a long time resident of a small town near Hammondsport, I can state that it is a great little town in the finger lakes region of NY one of the most beautiful places in the country. I am pleased that the race was as close as it was and congratulate both towns on the tie win. I wish that the whiners from Beaufort showed more of the southern hospitality that most southerners have and just enjoy the exposure this contest brought to all of the towns in the top ten.

Posted By Larry C. on February 6, 2012, 10:34 AM

...Haven't seen my original comment having posted so I'll give it another go.

I voted for each location and was tickled to see (along the way) that these two towns were benefiting from lots of creative fans encouraging folks to vote. Fans for each were all over my FB feed for weeks.

I own land on and around Keuka Lake, NY, but was raised in NC. My loved ones and extended family call both locales their home away from home.

I have a deep love for each location. I wept for the people of Beaufort and those
along the inlet that lost so much when last summer's Irene made landfill in their area. Then Irene came to upstate NY and walloped a good deal of us.

Fresh water vs. Sea water, yes...but both with a rich culture. I am shocked by the comments here. I cannot stand in judgement of a company's right to offer up a tie.

I'm a southern NC/northern SC beach girl, but I highly recommend Beaufort. It's worth noting I have purchased artwork celebrating NC beaches at the annual H'Port art fair in the square. Merchants in H'port sell various items that celebrate NC.

I was so proud that for all in tense and purposes a tie was declared, because the two were basically tied in my mind from the start. Growing up in Raleigh, beach home on what was Bald Head...wow.. Give the South vs. north a rest. Life is too short.

Posted By StillsaddenedJoy on February 6, 2012, 11:01 AM

To those who would form a poor opinion of Beaufort because of these comments, please consider this: these mad reactions do not reflect the make-up the town. In fact, in my travels there, I never came across a single person who said to my face anything unkind like the comments I'm reading here. Perhaps those that would were home with their computer.

Posted By Essby on February 6, 2012, 2:38 PM

Beaufort won this is complete crapola.

Posted By dan on February 7, 2012, 1:08 AM

Budget Travel's Coolest Small Town Results 2012? It’s a Tie! - This Just In - Travel Blog - just great!

Posted By worldclock on February 7, 2012, 7:58 PM

Budget Travel's Coolest Small Town Results 2012? It’s a Tie! - This Just In - Travel Blog - just great!

Posted By worldclock on February 7, 2012, 8:05 PM

For all of those questioning the town of Beaufort due to the seemingly immature comments left here, please remember: Facebook was a critical tool in advertising this competition. Despite a growing adult demographic (my 86 year old Grandmother is a Facebooker!) the teenagers to twenty-somethings definitely rule the FB roost.

I'm sure a majority of Beaufort residents are reasonable, understanding and full of that southern charm and hospitality we expect from those south of the Mason Dixon.

Watching the votes closely throughout the process, Hammondsport was ahead from time to time and the towns were sometimes tied (at least when I looked at it). So declaring a tie was the fair thing to do.

I look forward to visiting Beaufort sometime, perhaps on my next drive home to Hammondsport!

Posted By Margaret on February 8, 2012, 3:12 AM

I live in Texas....and although you say you were trying to be fair, ALL VOTERS were locked out at the end. Changing the rules at the end of the game was just wrong. If one town was ahead at the end, and DECLARED THE WINNER by BudgetTravel, you should have followed your own rules, instead of backtracking and making things up. Just wrong!!!

Posted By John on February 8, 2012, 7:59 AM

Copied from Budget Travel's Blog above as to why a tie was declared:
--"...However, since voters in several parts of the country had been locked out due to the site crash, Budget Travel editors decided it was impossible to determine which town would have won had all things been equal for all voters. "We have to declare a tie,"..."-- What is it you or anyone else do not understand? Good luck to Beaufort and Hammondsport.

Posted By hank on February 8, 2012, 11:57 AM

I'll be visiting Wine Country, not Whine Country!

Posted By carol hanson on February 8, 2012, 10:23 PM

While all we Beauforteans thank you for the honor, it was left-handed. However, we attribute this decision to the recent unpleasantness which was declared by the victors to be over in 1865. We are sure Hammondsport is a fine little town next to a pretty lake in New York. We even invite its residents to come to see our fine little town on the sound and ocean. We welcome them. Indeed some have retired here. I can think of no one, however, who has left Beaufort to retire in Hammondsort, worthy though it may be as a second place village.

Posted By John A C Cartner on February 8, 2012, 10:46 PM

Reading all the NEGATIVE COMMENTS from Beaufort makes me wonder why anyone would ever want to visit there.
That being said, the nicest blog was posted by susie, a Beufort supporter, on Feb. 1. She says -- "it is not who wins, it is how we accept compromise.. Look at what is going on in the world today because people can't learn to compromise."
And --did anyone else notice the population difference: Hammondsport 750 vs Beaufort over 4,000??? So David tied-- get over it Goliath!

Posted By Elaine from Austin, TX on February 8, 2012, 11:45 PM

Of course, all the negative comments are coming from the Beaufort supporters....they're the ones whose town was declared the winner at the end of the competition (and then was told it was "a tie")!!! No one from Hammondsport is going to complain about it, are they?!! Geez! Won't waste my time voting on this site for anything in the future, that's for sure!

Posted By Carmen on February 9, 2012, 8:40 PM

Of course, all the negative comments are coming from the Beaufort supporters....they're the ones whose town was declared the winner at the end of the competition (and then was told it was "a tie")!!! No one from Hammondsport is going to complain about it, are they?!! Geez! Won't waste my time voting on this site for anything in the future, that's for sure!

Posted By Griff on February 9, 2012, 8:42 PM

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Posted By cheap facebook fans on February 14, 2012, 1:31 AM

What a bunch of morons....making such a big deal about a contest where you vote on the internet for yourself as many times as possible. And this tells the budget traveler what??? Absolutely nothing except people in Hammondsport & Beaufort are bored out of their skulls & have nothing better to do and in conclusion each location is really not all that cool.

Posted By Flash on February 14, 2012, 2:55 PM

Wow - Beaufort Supporters: You are showing that you're not very hospitable! If I ever had plans to visit Beaufort, those plans have changed based on your reactions to this FUN contest! And no, I'm not from Hammondsport.

Posted By kay on February 17, 2012, 4:42 PM

The Zune concentrates on being a Portable Media Player. Not a web browser. Not a game machine. Maybe in the future it'll do even better in those areas, but for now it's a fantastic way to organize and listen to your music and videos, and is without peer in that regard. The iPod's strengths are its web browsing and apps. If those sound more compelling, perhaps it is your best choice.

Posted By Luigi Fulk on February 19, 2012, 11:38 PM

The comments make me wonder if a visit to Beaufort is a good idea. Y'all are not looking so good right now. Lighten up!

Posted By Lisa on February 27, 2012, 6:28 PM

I think the site crashed at 11pm on the 31st when my 900 twitter followers were trying to vote for h'port. great job Hammondsport.

Posted By victor on March 1, 2012, 3:40 AM

I think the site crashed at 11pm on the 31st when my 900 twitter followers were trying to vote for h'port. great job Hammondsport.

Posted By victor on March 1, 2012, 3:42 AM

A few thoughts. Frankly, I would prefer to hear the experts at your magazine decide which of these towns is the coolest rather than a bogus internet vote which tells me nothing useful about any of these places. Second, the combination of being associated with Nicholas Sparks, and the long list of people whining about how unfair a tie is to Beaufort leads me to believe that, voting aside, Beaufort is probably not very cool at all.

Posted By stumbler2001 on March 27, 2012, 12:40 PM

So, pointing out injustice is whining. To those of you that think we are whining, DON'T COME! We'll be happy to keep our Coolest Small Town to ourselves!

Posted By Blackbeard's Revenge on March 29, 2012, 10:17 AM

Given the crybabies posting from the East Coast towns posting on this thread, I think I'll head to Weaverville. Cheaper fare from the midwest right now and it looks gorgeous. Oiling up my hiking boots now :)

Posted By Anyechkya on April 6, 2012, 11:38 PM