Hi everyone! I'm back on my blogging box, and ready to roll.

Last week the Mrs. and I decided to take in a lovely summer evening in West Hartford Center and test out another of the new additions in Blue Back Square. There is nothing like a good summer movie in a brand new theater.

Criterion Cinemas sits directly in the center of Blue Back Square on South Main St. The facade is hard to miss, as it glows and welcomes you inside. (Not to mention Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Winebar is directly in front).

Step inside and you are transported to a modern spin on the classic feel of the studio days; days of Marilyn Monroe, Lucy and Dezi, and Gene Kelly. The color scheme is greys and deep reds mixes with chrome and stainless accents. It's a very modern look, while not pushing the envelope of a neon lit spaceship that so many cinemas go for.

There are only 6 screens at the theater, adding to it's charm. You don't feel overwhelmed by choices or screaming children with nothing to do on a Friday night... this is a place to simply take in a good film. First run films are the norm, with some indie flicks thrown in there from time to time.

I was suckered into a 'chic flick' so to speak -Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2- and had to endure for the sake of love. The Mrs enjoyed it thoroughly and even shed a few tears... and I actually enjoyed the film too! Here is info regarding the cinema. My suggestion is to park in/around the center rather than the Blue Back parking garages. Just remember to bring your quarters for the meter.

Bargain Matinees - All shows before 6PM Monday-Friday,and before 2PM Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays

General Admission - $7.50
Child (11 & under) - $7.00
Senior (62 & over, with valid ID) - $7.00

All Other Performances
General Admission - $10.50
Child (11 & under) - $7.50
Senior (62 & over, with valid ID) - $7.50
College Student (with valid ID) - $8.00 (Monday-Thursday only, excluding Holidays)

Last night I ventured to the Pond House Cafe in West Hartford's Elizabeth Park with the Mrs. in what proved to be a fantastic night out.

For those of you unfamiliar, the Pond House is a cozy restaurant nestled in Elizabeth Park and yes, overlooking the pond. Next time, I will do my homework a little better, as this establishment is a BYOBottle of Wine house. Nevertheless, the food was fantastic and the outdoor atmosphere was equally ideal.

We started the night out with a fresh tomato and mozzarella salad made from the Pond House's very own garden fresh vegetables. There was a rather interesting looking "vegetable" that I couldn't figure out what it was. I bit in with adventure and curiosity, yet still didn't realize what I had eaten. GARLIC! Yes, I ate an entire clove of raw garlic as if it were a potato. Anyone who knows me well knows that garlic and I are NOT friends. Let's just say that a few hours later, I was feeling the effects of that yummy morsel.

HOWEVER, I knew I still had a good two hours to enjoy every bite I took before Mr. Garlic revisited me... and enjoy I did. I ordered the homemade Gnocchi with a pesto tomato sauce and grilled shrimp- Fantastic.

The Mrs. ordered the Summer Pasta, a mix of fresh mozz, tomato, grilled chicken, and pine nuts tossed into a penne pasta with balsamic reduction and oil. I have to say, I did reach my fork across the table several times.

For dessert, we split vanilla gellato and an iced Mocha coffee complete with chocolate gelato, chocolate chips, and whipped cream.

The evening couldn't have been better. Top it off with the summer event series at Elizabeth Park (we listened to the distant sounds of the band Pandemonium all night long), and this was an evening well worth repeating.

Enjoy!

Your West Hartford Realtor, Michael Chenkus

This photo below is a summation of my day... This is NUTZ! Yes.. we hear how other countries have been paying much more for years.. but they also don't have the landscape or territorial layout that the US has! If I drove a Yugo around town to work, or a moto-scooter all day, I wouldn't be too worried about $7 gas nevermind $4.29!

Our government needs to realize that our economy and way of life is structured around our highway systems and automobiles.. thus GAS!

PS> Does anyone else cringe when they look at this photo or is it just me? I snapped this today using my phone

Plainville CT Condos For Sale | Plainville CT Realtor Michael Chenkus

Fantastic Opportunity! Peaceful setting surrounds this 1 bedroom, end unit condo. Private deck faces wooded picnic area. Washer/dryer, plentiful closets, and convenient commuter location. Enjoy the breeze as you relax all summer long. *New water heater. A pleasure to show.

Click Here for detailed photos and more info: http://www.michaelchenkus.com/Plainville/Connecticut/Condos/Plainville/Agent/Listing_1730491.html

Gorgeous New Listing.. Newington Condo For Sale. This unit will blow you away.

Immaculate end unit. Bright, spacious layout. Vaulted ceiling, chair rail, molding, pillars, LG refrig. Flowing ranch w/ master suite, soaking tub, shower, walk-in. Eat in kitchen, private deck w/ view. Huge basement for storage or to finish. A Must See unit.

http://www.michaelchenkus.com/Newington/Connecticut/Condos/Newington/Agent/Listing_1712192.html

For a private showing, contact Michael Chenkus

Email: MichaelChenkus@gmail.com

Cell: 860-985-5559

$419,900     West Hartford CT Spacious Ranch For Sale: Agent, Michael Chenkus

Don't miss this 2500 sq ft, 9 room bi-level Ranch with 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Large living room, Dining Room, & great room. Remodeled kitchen with copper range hood & tile breakfast bar. Central A/C & hardwood floors throughout. Large yard w/ possibility of seperate building lot. Finished lower level. A must see interior!

For complete details, directions, or to schedule a showing, CLICK HERE.

Following my post for Home SELLERS... I figured BUYERS would want in on the fun too...

Below is a list of some really helpful tips for buyers. Call 24.7 anytime.

Of course, nothing is substitute to live question/answer, so don't hesitate to contact me anytime... MIKE

FREE 24 Hour Recorded BUYER Tips!

1-800-655-4158

- Buy With Me, the Appraisal is FREE!  ext 11

- 5 Home Buying Mistakes  ext 21

- Pre-Qualified vs. Pre-Approved  ext 31

-How to Save for a Downpayment  ext 41

-5 Reasons to Buy a Home Today  ext 51

Search West Hartford CT Homes

24.7 Real Estate Tips, posted by West Hartford CT Realtor, Michael Chenkus.

Hello everyone! Thanks for dropping by my blog. I figured I would post some of my most pertinent and hepfuly tips that are assisting sellers in today's market. These tips are available 24.7 for you to check out!

FREE 24 Hour Recorded SELLER Tips!

1-800-655-4158

- Fix-ups that help you SELL!  ext 61

- How I Sell Your Home Faster and for More $$$$  ext 71

- Getting Ready to Sell? How to Prepare:  ext 81

-Sell With Me and Your Pre-Inspection is FREE  ext 91

When making a financial decision as well as a life decision as important as a home purchase, you are best served to study data and details of the location you are considering.

West Hartford CT Real Estate has been strong throughout the past five years, dodging trends of other markets, and maintaining value as well as sales. (as show by the graph below)

This valuable data can help you determine what price range to shop in, how to best situate an offer, how to prepare for your move, among many other things. Your only chance to do your homework is BEFORE you go to contract. I encourage you to ask your Realtor the questions that matter. Have them provide the data you are looking for.

This is a fantastic market for both buyers and sellers (those priced right!). West Hartford CT Real Estate is a wonderful opportunity for growth, jobs, culture, children, and education.

I invite you to call me anytime. It will be my pleasure to assist in your real estate needs

Click here to Search the MLS 24.7: