Connecticut

Judge James Lawlor, the probate court administrator, gets the boot — or rather, "made a decision to retire," according to Chief Court Administrator Barbara M. Quinn. What message does that send to our 117 different probate courts that have been excoriated for trampling the civil rights of the old, frail and impoverished?Lawlor has been the man pushing for change from inside, dragging renegade pr

Saw Mill Pond in Ledyardby guest blogger, Elise HanksUpon reflecting on local places that hold my favorite memories, I recalled countless afternoons and evenings spent at Saw Mill Park in Ledyard.  A National Historic Landmark, the park holds great educational merit; the water-powered saw mill and its museum run in April and May and October and November on Saturday afternoons.  In additi

The perfect place for a Ledyard garden.I've always admired the large (and flat) back yard of this home on Reuven Drive in Ledyard. A new owner will soon be enjoying it!  I hope they have a riding mower.See AlsoLast Week: Eastern CT Photo FridaySomeone buy this boat please

A week in the life of this realtor©I had an appointment last week on a home that offered no listing or commission opportunity for me. Instead, the owners were just interested to know what their home might be worth. When I pulled up to their home on Ramblewood Drive in Gales Ferry, I was delighted to find out it was a home I had long admired for its lush perennial gardens. 

Someone buy this boat, please..I know you've seen it. This boat, prominently located on the corner of Route 12 and River Road in Gales Ferry, has been for sale ($995 or best offer) for 23 years.  Ok, maybe not quite, but it sure seems that long.  I'd guess this boat has been sitting in this same spot at least 5 years, probably longer.  Frankly, I'm tired of looki

We're seeking an highly motivated individual with a Ph.D. in Computer Science / Chemical / Mechanical Engineering / Physics or related fields with strong experience in MPI based parallel programming. The candidate is required to have strong programming skills (preferably in C/C++) and work experience in Linux/Unix OS. The candidate will take leadership in the pursuit of modifying a serial C pr

Fred's Shanty in New London, CTBy guest blogger, Elise HanksAs a girl who loves burgers and fries by the water, I feel compelled to write about my all-time favorite place to go for that taste of summer.  Fred's Shanty in New London, just a few miles down the shore from Ocean Beach, is famous for its food.  More sophisticated summer shack connoisseurs love their clam chowder, lobster roll

Determining value or not...There are many factors to consider when determining the value of real estate.  In  addition to square footage, condition and amenities, there are things like steep driveways, busy roads, power lines, and bright colors.  In New England, swimming pools don't necessarily add value like they would in Florida or Georgia. Electric heat can negatively a

Hiking in Connecticutby guest blogger, Elise Hanks Summertime means heading out into the sunshine and communing with nature.  Well, I realize that not everyone wants to pack granola, strap on hiking gear, and begin a trek.  Luckily there are many levels of hiking trails in the local area that can be stimulating for any and everyone with the mind to go for a hike. For those who

Sunning at Connecticut College ArboretumPhoto Friday this week comes courtesy of Wendy Limouge of Ledyard.  Wendy has a blog of her own, Limauge Boutique, where she shares new product ideas and other cool stuff.  Wendy also enjoys photography and snapped these turtles sunning at Connecticut College Arboretum.  See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo Fri

The outrageous story of Daniel Gross - the elderly New York man who was held against his will in a Waterbury nursing home in 2006 by order of the probate court, merely because he happened to get sick in Connecticut. He was freed when a Superior Court judge intervened, calling the Gross case "a terrible miscarriage of justice." Gross has become a symbol for families across the country who believe

Average condition isn't good enoughConnecticut is experiencing a real estate market of superlatives. I use a program called HomeFeedback.  It's a simple tool that provides sellers with showing feedback via email.  The agent who shows the home is asked to fill out an online form which is delivered to the seller. In addition to other questions, agents are asked to rate

Lake of Isles Golf CourseHitting the 16th hole at Lake of Isles Golf Course is always a challenge and once you get on the green, you need to navigate goose poop.  Yep, I said goose poop.  This family of twelve is guilty as charged.  See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayJune is graduation time in Eastern CT

Heroin is certainly one of the most addictive drugs in the world. The treatment from this substance is not easy because of the severe withdrawal that it causes when the person is forced to stop using the drug.

Paul's Pasta Shop - Groton, CT   by guest blogger, Elise Hanks   The aroma of garlic wafts through the air, propelled by something simmering just beyond the swinging door to the kitchen. If it is night time, soft candles glow on each table and the city lights of New London wink and blink across the Thames.  You have arrived, my friends, to a land of pasta where the ch

Summertime employee turned bloggerWhen I started looking for a summertime employee for RE/MAX Realty Group, I didn't realize I would find not only a great addition to my staff, but also a guest blogger.  Elise Hanks graduated from Ledyard High School in 2007 with a whole page of accomplishments and many of them were awards for her writing ability.  For those who have heard

June is graduation time in ConnecticutIt's nice having friends who help with Photo Friday. This one came from my friend Sid Minor from the Peachtree area of Altanta, GA.   See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayBambi in Moosup CT

Those suffering from mesothelioma, should consider hiring a lawyer and can find one through Mesotheliomawatch.org. Asbestos causes mesothelioma lung cancer. Find information regarding mesothelioma doctors and lawyers in your area by using this helpful resource. For the second time this year, Bethel High School in Danbury Connecticut was temporarily closed due to tests that showed [...] Source: [..

Full article here. I can't tell you how deeply saddened I was to see this video and read about this. A man was hit by a car TWICE and ignored by passing cars and pedestrians. Is it the shock that makes you not want to run to the middle of the street and hold his hand and tell him that he'll be okay, and that help is on the way? What is it? Because I REALLY need to know. PS: Don't forget to sign t

Bambi in Moosup ConnecticutI know they eat my hosta. And I've seen the damage they can do if they make contact with a car.  Deer overpopulation in Connecticut is a problem but c'mon, how can you not smile when you see this little cutie?  Another fabulous Friday photo find from my assistant Kerry - taken with her cell phone in a field in Moosup.     

A high view of 20 Hyde Park Drive Gales FerryIt's not often a real estate agent gets a chance to list one of their very favorite houses in town.  20 Hyde Park Drive has always been one of my favorites! I remember when it was built in 1988 by Jim Onorato, a local custom home builder. Jimmy built 20 Hyde Park Drive for his family and his attention to detail with the use

Connecticut is included among the states that have the highest number of programs for addiction treatment within the US. This is actually not so surprising because Connecticut is also among the states that have the highest number of people trying to fight their addictions.

A golfers view of the MGM Grand at FoxwoodsI took this photo from the tee box of the 15th hole at Lake of Isles golf course in North Stonington.  To the right of Foxwoods Resort Casino is the new MGM Grand at Foxwoods. See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayWho stole my P?

One of the most embarrassing facts about the Connecticut college financial aid system is the fact that parents and students are practically forced to go into even further debt under the guise of financial aid to pay for college. I meet with parents everyday who are already in debt and cannot afford to go an additional fifty thousand dollars in debt. Why do Connecticut colleges have billions of dol

This is an exciting time of year for many Connecticut parents of college bound students because families are receiving and reviewing college awards letters. The college awards letters let the families know the amount and type of financial aid that is offered to the student to attend that particular college.<br><br> One of the biggest secrets in the college education business is that pa

Location: Connecticut, United States Institution Type: College/University Position Type: Lecturer/Visiting Assistant Professor Submitted: Wednesday, May 21st, 2008 Main Category: African American History or Studies Secondary Categories: Women/Gender U.S. History Black Studies Black History Area Studies/Ethnic Studies American Studies The African American Studies Program and the

Location: Connecticut, United States Institution Type: College/University Position Type: Lecturer/Visiting Assistant Professor Submitted: Wednesday, May 21st, 2008 Main Category: Literature Secondary Categories: Women/Gender Humanities Asian History or Studies Area Studies/Ethnic Studies American Studies The English Department at Wesleyan University invite applications for a

Wisin & Yandel siguen muy activos en sus conciertos, el viernes estuvieron en Boston y el Sabado 24 de Mayo en Connecticut presentandose en el Chevrolet Theatre, el 30 de Mayo estaran en California (Staples Center). Cheka el video a continuacion en Connecticut (excusennos por la calidad del video):

Every day I have a funny experience that happens to me. At night when I go home after helping my team get three to five people approved for a Connecticut home mortgage I turn on the television and put on financial news and all I hear is doom and gloom. I hear talk show hosts, television personalities as well as some highly respected financial professionals saying how interest rates are high and ho

Who stole my P?I found this sign in the parking lot of the professional building on Route 12 in Gales Ferry.  I thought it was a hoot and didn't even notice the missing P until I looked at the photo when I downloaded it off my camera.  It's probably a good thing. I'm sure laying in the parking lot is way more dangerous than playing there. See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Co

See also ← Previous revision Revision as of 03:12, 20 May 2008 Line 55: Line 55: == References == == References == <references/> <references/> -   - == See also ==   - *[[List of minor state routes in Connecticut]]   [[Category:State highways in Conn

There is problem in Connecticut....Daniel Gross, an eighty-six-year-old resident of New York, went to a Connecticut hospital for treatment of leg problems and ended up, as a result of a conservator’s appointment, a locked ward of a nursing home where he unnecessarily remained for almost ten months. During that time, Gross charges that his assets were dissipated:Connecticut ConservatorshipHow Can

Spotlite on Eastern Connecticut BusinessI like to eat. There I said it. I'm not much into the dinner scene since I do like to crash once I make it home at the end of my real estate day. I'm more into "researching" places to grab lunch or to satisfy my sweet tooth.  Cafe 32 at 311 Route 32 in Uncasville is a place to do both.  Opened since September 2007

We’re not all just real estate and stats here at Real Estate Chocolate.. we love Ridgefield history too! Ridgefield is one of the most historic towns in Connecticut. Here are some events chronicled by Jack Sanders on his wonderful Timeline website. Test yourself and see how many dates you can [...]

Step away from this mailbox with your hands in the airThe next photos in the mailbox series were found protecting a home in Voluntown, CT.  Something tells me this is far better than an alarm system or a German Shepherd.  See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridaySpring in Gales Ferry, CT

Spring in Gales Ferry CTI found this colorful photo opportunity last week on Partridge Hollow Drive in Gales Ferry.  Only a few years ago this home was devoid of any landscaping.  The folks who bought this home have made some really nice changes.  I thought they might like to know we noticed.See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayYou CAN go home again - Pittsburgh, PA

Just the facts. Connecticut's January foreclosure rate ranked 8th highest among the states.In March, www.CTReal.com was launched by the Connecticut Statewide Multiple Listing Service. It is the official public search engine of the Connecticut Association of Realtors.There are currently 25 residential listings priced over 5 million dollars through the Connecticut Multiple Listing Service. (The highest priced home to sell this year sold for 11 million dollars in Farmington.)Connecticut law requires that a Realtor® furnish you with a written agreement setting forth all the terms and conditions of the representation between you and the Realtor® prior to showing you a property that is not listed with the Realtor®'s firm.Sales of single-family houses in Connecticu

Many Connecticut parents feel like they are hit by a city bus when they find out that the many months of work they have done to push their child to do community service, study hard for the SAT and fill out financial aid forms only allows their student to qualify for student loan debt. It is not a good feeling to have to sit your child down and explain that all of their efforts allowed them the exclusive once in a lifetime opportunity to go into debt.<br><br>The worst part about it is that many Connecticut colleges promote student loan debt like its the best thing since sliced bread when the real truth is the same Connecticut colleges are sitting on billion dollar endowments that can be used to really help students pay for the rising cost of college. One of the popular statement

Every spring there are thousands of Connecticut parents of college bound high school students who are devastated when they realize that the awards letter that they received from the colleges that their child applied to are substantially short of meeting the true cost of attendance. This happens because the college's award letter does not meet the student's financial needs either in the total amount of aid or in the type of aid and the student can appeal the award on that basis to the college. <br><br>Every college has an appeal process that allows students to request a review of their financial aid eligibility and corresponding financial aid award offer. But before you go and contact each college then remember that each college determines its own regulations for this process, a

Many parents of college bound students in Connecticut do not truly understand that Connecticut colleges are big business. We would all love to believe that everyone who is an college administrator, advisor or professor is doing it for the love of education. However, many colleges have endowments or simply put; bank accounts that rival those of many Fortune 500 companies. It should also be a clear sign that motives might not be completely pure based on the relentless pursuit in which colleges ask for alumni contributions.<br><br>Most parents I speak to simply do not realize that it is the best interest of the college to politely send you financial aid award packages that are comprised mostly of student loans. Unfortunately if this is your first time navigating the Connecticut co

You CAN go home again and take lots of photos too!I was in Pittsburgh for a few days with my Cyberprofessional Networking Group.  My old hometown gave the group plenty of photo opportunities.  Friday's photo is one of 452 photos (not a typo) taken by member Les Sulgrove of Des Moines. The location on Mount Washington is a popular vantage for photographers and captures the Duquesne Incline as well as Point State Park where the 3 rivers meet.  (All together now - the Monongehela, the Allegheny and the Ohio.)  It's my favorite of his many photographs because it reminds me of a postcard. It is also a location that brings back memories of growing up in Pittsburgh. See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo Fr

The Grant Institute's Grants 101: Professional Grant Proposal Writing Workshop will be held in Hartford, Connecticut, July 28 - 30, 2008. Interested development professionals, researchers, faculty,... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

A Day in the Life of This Realtor® Thursday was one of those special days that makes me glad I chose real estate as my profession.6:00AM:  My day started on a good note when I opened my email and found this message, "I am a Navy Officer that is “Likely” going to be stationed in CT for the next 3+ years.....I am looking for a realtor who really knows this area and the current market.  Lucky for me I stumbled across your blog.  I like what I read, and would like to talk to you about what I am interested in."I admit, as a blogger, it is really nice to know that I'm not just talking to myself here.  It made me smile and that is a great way to start off the day. 6:30AM:  I left for a 7AM meeting of the Rose City Chapter of BNI (Busi

The Mailbox SeriesMy friend Chris Griffith has started a mailbox series at her blog, Life In Bonita Springs.  Personally I wish I had thought of the idea first. But the blogophere is full of nice people and Chris is one of the nicest so she suggested I run with the idea.  I found this creative mailbox on Meadow Drive in Gales Ferry.  I'm hoping it will be a blooming mailbox this summer. I actually used a photo of a mailbox for Photo Friday in the past so I guess that one would be the first in the series; I just didn't know it was a series at the time.  If you know where I can find any clever, creative or even bizarre mailboxes, let me know.  I'll go take a photo and they may show up here on Photo Friday!See AlsoLast Week

Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal has asked for help against influence wielded by drugmakers in formal testimony before the state’s Legislature. Blumenthal wants to make it illegal for drugmakers to give gifts or other benefits to physicians, citing it may influence their health care decisions despite a code of ethics the industry has already adopted. In his view, the current code is meaningless and unenforceable. Drug companies spend more than $11 billion per year on relentless direct marketing of their drugs. Specifically, Blumenthal proposes that Connecticut law: Prohibit any gifts, scholarships or other items in exchange for prescribing products, a commitment to continue prescribing products or to otherwise interfere with the independence of a health care provider’s

According to friends, Margot Claus, a German citizen, is a fiercely independent New Yorker who wanted to spend her last years in her native land.The 79-year-old, despondent and now hospitalized for dehydration, had been living in an assisted-living facility in Woodbridge, her estate in the hands of a distant relative and her life overseen by Connecticut's probate court.Alarmed German authorities are asking for an investigation into how Claus was taken from New York and moved to Connecticut. A probate court judge in February named a North Haven woman, Linda Eger, conservator of Claus' sizable estate.The odyssey of Margot Claus appears to be yet another misadventure within Connecticut's byzantine and sprawling probate system, where life-altering decisions are made in obscure mom-and-pop cour

A closer look at Connecticut Real Estate Has your agent sold a house this year?  Silly question, huh?  Not really. There are currently 1310 members of the Eastern CT Association of Realtors.  According to association statistics, there were 564 single family homes sold during the first quarter.  Assuming a few agents like me sold more than one house during the first quarter, that means that a large majority of members did not have a single sale in the first quarter. There's more news. The National Association of Realtors reports that the typical realtor has been in the business for 7 years or less. Despite market conditions, membership in the organization increased by 23% in 2007.  That's a whole lot of newbies stumbling

Captain Scott's Lobster DockThose that follow this blog know that my favorite place to buy lobster rolls is Captain Scott's Lobster Dock in New London. The good news is Captain Scott's is open for the season!  The bad news is lobster prices are way up in the area. Since Scott's Lobster Rolls are mostly made with lobster (and not much filler), the price is now $13.95 for a lobster roll. Yikes!   P.S. The onion rings are to die for. And the lobster rolls?  They are worth every penny. See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayStew Leonard's

It looks like an old story is playing out again in Vernon, Connecticut. ABA based instruction for autistic children, provided under contract with an outside agency, is being terminated by the local education authorities and is being brought "in house". As reported in the Journal Inquirer:VERNON — The local school system’s decision to stop contracting with the Capitol Region Education Council to teach children with autism — and to bring the work in house — has angered parents, who say any change can harm a child with an autistic disorder...... For more than a decade, CREC has taught children with autism at the Center Road School. The organization uses the Applied Behavior Analysis instructional method, which has the approval of the U.S. Surgeon General.In fact t

Stew Leonard'sI was in Danbury this week speaking to the nice members of the Women's Council of Realtors of Greater Fairfield County. While I was in Danbury, I thought I'd pay a visit to Stew Leonard's. I've never been there before and found it to be like the Disney World of Grocery Stores, complete with singing cows and dancing chickens. They are known for great produce and dairy products and their muffin tops are to die for. There is a Stew Leonard's in Newington, which is a little closer to Eastern Connecticut. I think I'll become a regular visitor.See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayIs it spring yet?

Citigroup Confirms It Will Close 10 Connecticut Branches >C Last Update: 4/8/2008 6:24:34 AM WATERBURY, Conn. (AP)–Citigroup Inc. (C) is confirming plans to close 10 Connecticut Citibank branches beginning in July, trimming the number of branches it has in the state by a third. A Citigroup spokesman says the branch closings could cause between 100 and 120 Citibank employees to lose [...]

The Connecticut Sun presale code has just been become available. This presale password is your key to getting premium tickets. Our site has been serving ticket brokers and concert fans for years now and we are a proven source for accurate codes. Make sure to tell your friends about presale411 when you get great Connecticut Sun tickets.Connecticut Sun Presale TicketsMohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, CTMultiple Dates & TimesInternet Presale:Start:Mon, 04/07/08 10:00 AM EDTEnd:Wed, 04/09/08 11:59 PM EDTPresale Code: BLAZEGrab Presale Tickets at TicketmasterLooking for a password that isn't listed here? Check out PresalePassword.net

Is it spring yet?Today I have lots of questions.I can tell that spring has really arrived when I see forsythia blooming.  I found these forsythia plants at BJ's in Waterford this week.  Does this count?  And who actually buys forsythia anyway? Don't they just kind of show up in your yard?Please note that the man pushing the shopping cart in the background is wearing a flannel jacket.  Does that cancel things out?  Does that mean we are going to have 6 more weeks of winter?See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayTwo swans a-swimming. Rocky Neck State Park

Oil adjustments add to buyer closing costsEvery spring I do some cleaning in the office which includes sorting through my personal closing files.  When you have been in the real estate business as long as I have, the number of files does tend to grow by a lot each year. This is a good thing and means that despite the market, I keep having closings and adding to my closing files.  Each file is a memory of a house and a buyer or a seller. Most of the files have good memories inside.  For each closing, We send information to the closing attorney's office which includes the oil reimbursement figures if the home is heated by oil.  In Connecticut, unless otherwise agreed upon, the buyer reimburses the seller for a full tank of oil. Today, wh

Two swans a-swimming....Rocky Neck State ParkThese two swans were photographed swimming at Rocky Neck State Park in Niantic this week.  Yes, I know it is "seven swans a-swimming" but the other five weren't quite as cooperative and I knew you wouldn't let me get away with calling them "two turtle doves".See AlsoLast week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayMystic Salamander Crossing

A closer look at Connecticut Real EstateAlthough the market in Eastern Connecticut isn't anything to write home about, there are things that a seller can do to get their home sold quicker with less hassle and at a better price, ....even in this market. Last week I had a sale fall through because of a home inspection that was unsatisfactory to the buyer. Bummer. This situation may have been avoided had the seller completed a pre-listing home inspection. Instead, the buyer, unhappy with what the home inspector discovered, decided he wanted to look for another home in better condition. Buying a home can be a stressful experience and no buyer likes surprises from a home inspection. Even worse, buyers often "horriblize" repair issues, estimating much higher numbers than a repair may a

Protestant ministers are fond of saying witty things like: "If God does not punish [fill in the blank] then he will have to dig up Sodom and Gamorah and apologize." It is a line that never fails to amuse, or drum up high quality righteous indignation. Perhaps that is what Timothy M. Kaine (D), governor of Virginia, was thinking a couple of years ago, when he granted a "ceremonial pardon" to a woman long-since dead, but convicted of witchcraft because she had the audacity to float in the Lynnhaven River (Virginia Beach). That is to say, 300 years ago, sinking in water would have cleared her of the charges. After seven years in prison, Grace Sherwood (a.k.a. "the Witch of Pungo") was released. I cannot yet discover if there was a follow-up administration of the sinking/floating test as she e

Mystic Salamander CrossingOne interesting thing about Photo Friday is I often get tips on where I can find an interesting photo.  I got a tip this week about a salamander crossing so I headed to Pequotsepos Road in Mystic. Each time this year, on rainy nights, the spotted salamanders begin their migration to their breeding grounds.I didn't see any salamanders but the sign was worth the trip.See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayFrom my seat on the Ledyard Town Council

If you are like thousands of Connecticut parents then you have no idea how the subprime mortgage real estate collapse and student loans are related. You probably would not know that the mortgage banks that were giving out hundred thousand dollar mortgages with adjustable rate mortgages without verifying income may now impact your childs ability to get money for a Connecticut college or nationwide university. <br><Br>Let me explain this in plain English.<br><br>When you take out a mortgage loan from a bank that bank turns around and sells your mortgage to another company. They do this because they get a fee from the buying bank in exchange for giving up future mortgage payments from you the consumer. That is why you get a notice in the mail that says your mortgage ha

Scholarship from Sickle Cell Disease Association o... Waterbury Foundation Scholarship Program Connecticut Association for Health, Physical Educa... Woman's Seamen's Friend Society of Connecticut, In... NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium Fellowship... Scholarship from Connecticut Student Loan Foundati... Air and Waste Management Association-Connecticut C... Grant From Connecticut Department of Higher Educat...

The very 1st state prison in the United States was founded before there were states at all, let alone united ones. Connecticut’s New-Gate Prison, originally a copper mine, was began it’s role as a detention center in the fall of 1773 as the colony’s public “gaol” and workhouse. It was called New-Gate after the fearsome [...]

Rose Quattro is an 88-year-old widow in a wheelchair who just wants to live quietly at her East Hartford home. Quattro's life landed under court control last summer after she was hospitalized for an infection and ended up in a nursing home. A dispute arose between her son and the nursing home that she was set to be released from. The nursing home - part of the infamous, bankrupt Haven Healthcare

From my seat on the Ledyard Town CouncilI wrote last week's Eastern Connecticut Photo Friday post while in Las Vegas.  I posted it on late Wednesday although I meant to post it late Thursday, Las Vegas Time, so it would appear on Friday, Ledyard Time.  The whole time thing drives me crazy and I really screwed it up.Speaking of Friday, the Wednesday Ledyard Town Council meetings are filmed and then televised on Friday Night at 7PM on Channel 12 and again on Sunday at 5PM.  Ledyard Time, of course.  Got that? Filming of the Ledyard Town Council MeetingSee AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayThe RE/MAX Convention in Las Vegas

A closer look at Connecticut Real EstateBack in the late 70's and early 80's, real estate agents did more than list, show and sell houses; we also qualified buyers for their mortgages. As a result, I have a few tidbits of financing info stored in my memory that come in handy now and again.I have a sweet little condo on the market in the Oakdale area of Montville listed at $108,000. Yesterday I received an offer from an agent who's buyer is pre-approved with a national (think big) mortgage company.  A Little red flag appeared as soon as I received the offer; the pre-approval letter was for a VA Mortgage. I called the nice real estate agent and suggested that this particular condominium project has not been approved for VA Financing.&nbs

I don’t go out for breakfast more than about once a week, but when I do, I always go to Friendly’s at the corner of Route 6 and 229. Service is good, coffee is always good, food has a high percentage chance of being great. What’s not to love? I recently spiced things up by changing my order [...]

“Hi I am new to Connecticut and I am looking to buy in the New Haven area.  I saw you blog and I was wondering if you could give me some quick perspective.  My wife and I have been in contact with two agents in the area and we have been shown a few properties [...]

I'm pulling double duty today. In addition to my regular posts here, I'm also guest blogging at the Connecticut Employment Law Blog to cover for Dan Schwartz while he's in trial. Click on over to Dan's outstanding blog (and I'm not just saying that because of my guest post) and take a look at my thoughts on the federal Healthy Families Act. While your there, be sure to subscribe and add Dan to your feed reader.Presented by Kohrman Jackson & Krantz

This from the Hartford Courant:NEW YORK — - The dispute over a Burlington, Conn., teenager's Internet journal gave rise on Tuesday to a wide-ranging and contentious federal court hearing about free speech, whether schools can regulate students' language off campus and how the Internet blurs the boundaries of a school campus.Avery Doninger, the 17-year-old high school senior at the center of the case, sat in the front row as a three-judge panel of the U.S. 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals lobbed questions at the attorneys. Lawyers for both sides described the hearing as uncharacteristically lengthy and suggested that the duration underscored the case's position in new legal territory.In simplest terms, the hearing Tuesday addressed whether Doninger should be allowed to serve as senior class s

I’m doing back flips here! Direct from my email… “Dear CTMLS Participants & Subscribers,  I am pleased to report that CTMLS has doubled the total number of photos allowed on MLXchange to twenty!  Many of you have asked for more than ten photos over the past year, so CTMLS purchased the extra space to allow twenty - [...]

It is essential that you engage a member contractor who is licensed in his trade. This way you will be sure of getting someone who is knowledgeable about his work and is aware of the rules and regulations of local building. The member contractor will also have insurance, thus eliminating your headache of seeing More: [...]

Brought to you from the REMAX Convention in Las VegasMaybe It's because I don't get out much or maybe it's because I'm in Las Vegas, but I'm absolutely amazed at a coke machine that takes credit cards. I pass it as I walk from my hotel room to the elevator. More amazing is $2.75 for a can of soda which could be why they need to offer a credit card as a method of payment.See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayLedyard's Super Mom

Ledyard's Super MomI sold Brian and Kerri Charette their home in Gales Ferry in 1998.   You might know Kerri from her column in Ledyard's Weekly newspaper, "Thames River Times".  Kerri is passionate about raising awareness of the need for families to adopt children from foster care.  That is her motive for entering "America's Favorite Mom" contest.  Please stop by the site and vote for her.  It does require you to register but it's worth it.  Her name is Kerri Charette and she approved this message.See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayJunk Mail Welcome Here

Scholarship Program:I. H. McLendon Memorial ScholarshipSybil Fong Sam Scholarship Essay ContestI. H. McLendon Memorial Scholarship(Four Year College, Two Year College, University, Vocational/Occupational/Scholarship)Purpose: The I. H. McLendon Memorial Scholarship provides a one-time scholarship to graduating high school seniors with sickle cell disease in Connecticut who will enter college, university, or technical training. Minimum 3.0 GPA required. Qualif.: High school students considered. Award available to U.S. citizens. Award intended for the physically handicapped.Funds Avail.: Minimum no. of awards: 1. Minimum award amount: $1000. No. and Amount Awarded Last Calendar Year: 1 scholarship(s), totalling $1,000. To Apply: Required: application form; transcript; autobiography; interview

Local bloggers unite!I'm always on the prowl for good local blogs to read. Just last week, I received an email from a couple of new bloggers to the scene, promoting their new blog, A Guide to Southeastern CT. It is a resourceful site that offers plenty of information for tourists and locals and will be appreciated by my real estate clients new to the area.I'd love to meet up with some local bloggers but finding them has been a bit of a challenge.  CT Weblogs is a good resource but their blogroll is broken down by category not location, so my search for local blogs continues. If you are a local blogger stop by or send an email. It would be fun to get a few bloggers together to share ideas and a cup of coffee!

Well, not right this minute, but soon. 8/365 April 24th kind of soon. Before I explain, let me establish a few things. 1. I am not some kind of travel extraordinaire that does this thing all the time. 2. In fact, the last time I was on a plane I was 18 and heading to booze it up with my cousin in California. 3. The last vacation we took as a family was 1999. 4. I've never been away from the

Junk Mail Welcome Here!I drove by this mail box on Long Cove Road in Gales Ferry and just had to turn around and take a photo. Some things just make me laugh but I'm not sure why.  This mailbox is a case in point.  I have no idea why I found it so funny but I did.  See AlsoLast Week: Eastern Connecticut Photo FridayMystic Pink

Like a Mexican Standoff I talked to my good friend and competitor, Rich Mancini from Ann McBride Real Estate today about the market.  We talk about once a week, exchange war stories and discuss market conditions. We've both been in the business for over 30 years. We've been through the highs and lows of the real estate market in Connecticut. We discussed the market in the late 70's when high interest rates slowed the market to a crawl, and the late 80's when the economy stalled in the area. Today Rich likened the real estate market in Connecticut to a Mexican Standoff.According to Wikipedia, "a Mexican Standoff is a phrase referring to a strategic deadlock or impasse, in which no party can act in a way that ensures victory."Yep, that describes o

Vote for you favorite girl scout cookie! Say it isn't so.  Thin Mints are NOT Connecticut's favorite Girl Scout cookie.  How can that be?  The race is very close over at the Cookie Vote Website, so a few more votes for my favorite cookie might make the difference. Even Geno Auriemma, head coach of the UCONN women's basketball team, loves Thin Mints best.  Girl Scouts have been selling commercially baked cookies since the 1930's but Girl Scout Cookies were baked in private kitchens long before that. Thin Mints were one of the original flavors available and I remember selling them for 35 cents a box back in the 60's. And just in case you were wondering.....Girl Scout Cookies even have their own my space page !See AlsoConnecticut Gir

The idea of writing about my recent travels is nothing new to me, I also write about my travels every year to New Hampshire Motor (formerly International) Speedway for NASCAR at least once a year, but its rare to see write about non-motorsports travels, however in my daily visits to my favorite blogs, I read something intreging over at Lorelle on wordpress blog, she has issued a challenge for her fellow bloggers to write a travel post consider that she travels a lot.Now, I have to say, what I consider travel and what she considers travel may be two different things, my travels doesn’t consist of hotel rooms, its normally a driving trip a couple hours away to a location and in the same day, driving back home. With that said, I still wanted to try my luck at this one sort of speck.This pas

While the Committee for High School Redesign in Connecticut (currently sporting a one-test-fits-all mentality) takes two steps backwards as they ponder reforms that will be announced for all students starting with the Class of 2013, the Governor’s office took a huge leap forward, releasing very positive and constructive news for Connecticut high schools. The following information was released to schools by the state on December 27:Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the launch of the CT Virtual Learning Center, a statewide program for High School students to take online courses. Enrollments are being accepted now for students to begin coursework in January 2008.“We want to use online courses to increase access to high quality content so that every student in Connecticut will have acc

Scholarship Program:Mary Benevento CAHPERD ScholarshipGibson-Laemel CAHPERD ScholarshipMary Benevento CAHPERD Scholarship(Four Year College, University/Scholarship)Purpose: Scholarship awarded to a graduating high school senior who plans to engage in the professional studies of health education, physical education, recreation, or dance. Must be resident of Connecticut and plan to attend a university or four-year college in Connecticut. Focus: Sports-related; Education Qualif.: Applicant must be: full-time student. High school students considered. Award available to U.S. citizens.Funds Avail.: Minimum no. of awards: 1. Maximum no. of awards: 2. Minimum award amount: $1000. No. and Amount Awarded Last Calendar Year: 2 scholarship(s), totalling $2,000. To Apply: Required: application form; tr

Connecticut abdominoplasty,Choosing a worthwhile surgeon is perhaps the most important part of abdominoplasty. There are many surgeon who may not be having any experience in Abdominoplasty though their claim may be contrary.Doing a bit of research always helps and is desirable. Checking the facilities out should also help. Avoid going to a surgeon with little or no experience just to save some bucks as it may eventually turn out to be even more expensive , painful and regrettable afterwards.

How To Find Affordable Health Insurance In ConnecticutBy: Angela FarnsworthConnecticut residents may find affordable health insurance for their children through the HUSKY Plan. HUSKY is an acronym for Healthcare for UninSured Kids and Youth.HUSKY offers insurance for children of low-income families. HUSKY offers two options. Part A for families whose income fits within the lower qualified income limit and Part B for children of families who earn above the limit.1. For children to qualify they must be:Under the age of 19 andLive in the state of Connecticut.Income Limitation: The income level varies depending on the number of individuals in the household.For example, a family of 2 must earn less than $20,535 can qualify for Husky A. However, a family of 2 earning between $25,327 and $32, 171 will qualify for Husky B.2. Coverage Cost:Husky Part A: The cost for the coverage can range from free to minimal depending on incomeHusky Part B: Premiums are based on income. For example: a family o

Fellowship Program:Connecticut Space Grant Consortium Graduate Student FellowshipsConnecticut Space Grant Consortium Undergraduate Student FellowshipsConnecticut Space Grant Consortium Graduate Student Fellowships(Four Year College, University/Fellowship)Purpose: Fellowships designated for full-time graduate students pursuing careers related to NASA initiatives. Applicants must be U.S. citizens studying at a Connecticut Space Grant Consortium member institution. For more details, please refer to Web site: Qualif.: Applicant must be: full-time student. High school students not considered. Award available to U.S. citizens.Funds Avail.: Minimum award amount: $6250. To Apply: Required: application form; transcript; reference(s); resume; enrollment verification, W-9 form. Deadline: 4/15.Connec

Program Scholarship:Connecticut Innovations Technology Scholar ProgramVincent J. Maiocco ScholarshipConnecticut Innovations Technology Scholar Program(Four Year College, Two Year College, University/Loan)Purpose: An earned scholarship program available to Connecticut high school seniors who plan on studying within the fields of science or technology at an accredited Connecticut college or university. Must work within the State of Connecticut for two years following graduation. Focus: Biology; Chemical Engineering; Computer Science/Data Processing; Earth Science; Electrical Engineering/Electronics; Engineering/Technology; Mechanical Engineering; Natural Sciences; Materials Science, Engineering, and Metallurgy; Physical Sciences and Math Qualif.: Applicant must be: full-time student. High sc

(Four Year College, Postgraduate, University/Scholarship)Purpose: Scholarship for Connecticut residents accepted to and enrolled in full-time courses of study in science and engineering leading to careers in the environmental field. Focus: Engineering/Technology; Earth Science; Biology; Physical Sciences and Math; Natural Resources; Natural Sciences Qualif.: Applicant must be: full-time student. High school students not considered. Award available to U.S. citizens.Funds Avail.: Minimum no. of awards: 1. Maximum no. of awards: 2. Minimum award amount: $1000. No. and Amount Awarded Last Calendar Year: 1 scholarship(s), totalling $1,000. To Apply: Required: application form; transcript; essay; reference(s). Deadline: 4/15. Contact: Ray Yarmac, Secretary, Connecticut Chapter, ryarmac@sci-techi