Martin's Blog

Come One! Come All! To Columbus Indiana's 1ST Annual "Mutt Strutt" Saturday October 18, 2008

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 12:54:08 -0500

Come One! Come All! To Columbus Indiana's 1st Annual "Mutt Strutt" to benefit the Columbus Indiana Dog Park. This will be the first real event for the Dog Park, with a 5K walk benefitting Columbus Dog Park Sat October 18th at Clifty Park. Clifty Park will be the future home of the Columbus Dog Park.

Check-In begins at 8:00 a.m. Walk begins at 9:00 a.m.
There will be Games and Prizes following conclusion of walk, including: trick contest,
owner/dog look alike contest, costume contest, etc.
$1.00 donation for each contest entered.

Pre-registration is $10 for adults, $5 for children ending October 4th.
Day of Mutt Strut registration is $15 for adults, $10 for children.
To obtain registration forms please visit www.columbuslovesdogs.com
Email info@columbuslovesdogs.com for more information.

As a fellow dog owner, and Co-Chairman of the Columbus Indiana Dog Park Association I Welcome everyone! I look forward to meeting and seeing all in attendance, a good time should be had by all in attendance.

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368
Website: http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com/
Active Rain Blog: http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

You want Martin Dorgan as Your Realtor!

Tipton Lakes - Stands among the Elite, as one of Indiana's Planned Residential Communities!

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 18:33:14 -0500

Tipton Lakes

Tipton Lakes stands among the elite, as one of the finest of Indiana's planned residential communities, located on the western outskirts of the city of Columbus Indiana. Sprawling over 1200 acres of beautiful rolling hills, with three man-made lakes totaling 120 acres, that are inter-connected via waterways. The residents enjoy a sense of tranquility, embraced by the natural vegetation that has been preserved and protected. There are lush green wooded areas with dogwoods, oak, evergreen, pine and maple trees.

The area of Tipton Lakes encompasses many smaller neighborhoods with their own distinctive name, characteristics, benefits and appeal, for anyone wishing an exclusive lifestyle. Many different home styles have been created, surely something for everyones taste. You can walk through this community along paths, over bridges, stopping for a brief rest on a park bench, shaded by the canopy of tall pines, or maybe just laying on the grass, watching the small craft traverse through the canals.

Tipton Lakes has many amenities to offer each and every one of its residents. Including, a full scale Athletic Club, a Marina, the Harrison Ridge City Park, the Oakbrook City Park, and much more.

There is an active, and strong Association, with a Board of Directors, committees, representing the homeowners, together with a professional staff, the common areas are well maintained and managed. Tipton Lakes Community Association, Inc. is the "umbrella" homeowners' association and provides for the long-term management and maintenance of Tipton Lakes. The Association preserves property values and promotes the health, safety, and welfare of its residents. It does through the management and maintenance of the Common Areas, facilities and recreational amenities, providing community services, collecting and disbursing Association funds, rules enforcement, maintenance of architectural standards, and offering social activities. The Association functions both as a business and as a self-governing group.

If you have an interest in Tipton Lakes, whether you are relocating, or a resident of Columbus Indiana and you wish to move up, or you live in Tipton Lakes currently and you wish to list your home for sale, Call Me 812-603-1368 I will be honored to help you!

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368
Website:http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com/
Active Rain Blog:http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

Columbus Indiana, Tipton Lakes Neighborhoods

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 14:51:29 -0500

Columbus Indiana has many beautiful and highly sought after and desired neighborhoods, TIPTON LAKES is just one of the premiere areas of Columbus Indiana, that happens to have many smaller neighborhoods encompassed within.

Tipton Lakes Neighborhoods:

Family Neighborhoods

Tipton Lakes offers family life where the children playing can often be heard and seen, in their own backyards, or in the neighborhood park. Each neighborhood is a contributing factor, with unique benefits and a quality living environment for families to enjoy and grow.

Greystone
Greystone is one of Tipton Lakes family neighborhoods. Located just south and west of Oakbrook. Greystone residents are conveniently located to Oakbrook City Park. Via the pedestrian path system's connection, children can easily make their way to the Park, and join in the fun! For details on properties or homes currently available for sale, contact Martin Dorgan, Coldwell Banker South Central Realty (812) 603-1368

Oakbrook
Conveniently located Oakbrook City Park offers a basketball court, a small fishing pond, play equipment and an open field for enjoyment. Oakbrook is an excellent neighborhood for young families.

Blackhawk

Blackhawk neighborhood features winding streets, wooded ravines, and is just south of the marina. It's ideal for growing families that love to be close to nature and near the amenities at the Marina, including swimming and rental boats.

Butternut Pond
Butternut Pond, surrounds a beautiful pond and fountain. Families enjoy fishing at the pond and the neighborhood often sponsors activities including a holiday lights display.

Lexington Green
If you are a nature enthusiast, the lots in Lexington Green are designed for you, with the country in mind. Lexington Green homeowners, who are Association members, enjoy all the amenities of Tipton Lakes. Residents love the aesthetic beauty and seclusion of rolling hills and spacious lots. These homes enjoy a rural setting, located on 2 acre lots just outside the city limits, in the County of Bartholomew. Lexington Green, initial membership into the Association is elected not automatic! Because Lexington Green, preceeded Tipton Lakes development. Please contact the Association Office for more details.

Harrison Ridge
The Harrison Ridge family neighborhood is home to a Woman's Day award winning house. Designed by architectural student Chris Fye, this contemporary bungalow won a competition jointly sponsored by the University of Illinois School of Architecture and Woman's Day magazine. Boasting a 1920s style wrap-around porch, the homeowners look out to a peaceful, family neighborhood in the heart of Tipton Lakes.

Westlake Park
Walking or driving into the Westlake Park neighborhood, is like stepping into the past. With its white picket fences and welcoming front porch designs, Westlake Park exemplifies the best qualities of yesteryear. These homes were built by James Shoaf Construction, they are perfect for busy professionals, young families, or retirees. Lots are still available for your custom built home. Contact Martin Dorgan, with Coldwell Banker South Central Realty, and Martin will be pleased to help you select your lot, and set an appointment with Mr.Shoaf to discuss your needs in order to build your dream home in a great American neighborhood.

Winterberry Place
Winterberry Place is an upscale neighborhood nestled among tall pine trees. Winterberry Place is located at Goeller Blvd., and Tipton Lakes Boulevard, one of the first access entrances to Tipton Lakes. The homeowners enjoy privacy along with the connectivity of the pedestrian path system to all Tipton Lakes amenities.

Tipton Lakes Waterfront Neighborhoods

Westlake Hills
One of Tipton Lakes newest single-family home developments on Westlake, boasts rolling hills and spectacular views of the country side hills. Westlake has oversized lots and beautiful landscaping that will give great character to this neighborhood. For more info contact Martin Dorgan at Coldwell banker South Central Realty Tipton Lakes Specialist (812) 603-1368.

Turtle Bay
Beautifully landscaped with a panoramic view of Northlake surround Turtle Bay homes. Accented, with pine trees, and beautiful lake views. The "community turtle" mini-park offers an attractive gathering spot for neighbors. For more info contact Martin Dorgan at Coldwell banker South Central Realty Tipton Lakes Specialist (812) 603-1368.

Waterside
Waterside, features waterfront lots available on Westlake, offers fourteen spacious lots and beautiful views of the countryside tree-lined hills. Waterside is the perfect setting for those wanting to build on an estate size lot, a gorgeous Custom Built Home in an exclusive neighborhood. For more info contact Martin Dorgan at Coldwell banker South Central Realty Tipton Lakes Specialist (812) 603-1368.

The Preserve
Another of Tipton Lakes' newest neighborhoods, The Preserve, is made up of eight waterfront lots on the east shores of Westlake, and will consist of similarly designed Custom Luxury Homes. These Custom Luxury Homes at lakeside are designed with the "empty nester" in mind. Home ownership concerns are eased by common landscaping and lawn maintenance services. For more info contact Martin Dorgan at Coldwell banker South Central Realty Tipton Lakes Specialist (812) 603-1368.

Northlake Shores
Northlake Shores, is an established neighborhood within Tipton Lakes, most established neighborhoods, offering private tennis courts and a mini-park, right at the edge of the lake. The western view across Northlake is spectacular, especially at sunset to dusk with the skies changing hues of color. Providing, the avid photographer and romantic, visions of unbelievable splendor.

Pintail Point
Pintail Point offers spacious, floor plans and a quiet setting, located on the east side of the canal to Westlake, Pintail Point homeowners enjoy connection to the entire lake system, a benefit for those that like to paddle along the waterways. It is the perfect neighborhood for busy professionals.

Stonebridge
Stonebridge is located on Eastlake near the stone arch bridge. There is a beautiful mini-park welcoming homeowners, boasting a variety of perennials and a cozy park bench, at Stonebridge's entrance.

Shoreview
Shoreview is a small neighborhood of seven homes with a beautiful view of Eastlake. Located across the street from Harrison Ridge City Park, Shoreview offers many recreational opportunities within easy access..

Mallard Point
There are twelve architecturally designed homes making up Mallard Point's neighborhood. This cohesive neighborhood of homes with natural cedar siding and stone or brick accents, also offers gorgeous views of Eastlake.

Shadow Bay
Shadow Bay homes offer lower level walkouts to wonderful beaches and views of Eastlake. Owners here get the benefit of uniquely designed, zero lot line, spacious homes, and low maintenance.

Northlake Woods
Northlake Woods offers private, wooded lots, tree-lined lots, mature trees, and large waterfront lots, Northlake Woods offers a secluded area with beautiful Custom Designed Homes.

Timber Ridge
Timber Ridge, is home to hundreds of native dogwood trees wonderfully placed within the wooded ravines. Homeowners have encountered deer along their property lines-a welcomed reminder of the beauty of nature. For a very lucky few, there are 12 waterfront lots at Timber Ridge, adding to the aesthetic beauty of their home ownership.

Pintail Landing
Pintail Landing offers wooded lots along beautiful Northlake. The Custom Built Homes in Pintail Landing complement the mature tall trees and soft pines.

Fontana
Fontana offers attached single-family homes, spacious, large, and well designed. With all of the benefits of lakefront living, these exclusive homes are charming.

If you would like additional information concerning any of the neighborhoods encompassed within the Tipton Lakes area, feel free to call, I will respond with an answer to your querrie.

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368
Website: http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com

http://www.martinsellscolumbus.com

Active Rain Blog: http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

Will I Sell Your Columbus Indiana Home For Less Commission?

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 11:34:08 -0500

Will I Sell Your Columbus Indiana Home For Less Commission?

I hear it every day - "I don't want to list my house with a Realtor because
I'll have to pay 6%". You don't think it's fair.

Now for the good stuff!

When you list your Columbus Area house with a typical Realtor you get this:

1) A yard sign

2) Your home listed on the Columbus MLS.

3) A simple ad on Realtor.com with one photo.
Your home advertised in the newspaper and home magazines.

4) Flyers printed and placed in a flyer box.

When you hire Martin Dorgan to Market and SELL your home you get this:

1)Your home is listed in the Columbus MLS with multiple photos taken with a wide angle lens
(believe me, this makes a huge difference in how your photos appear)

2. Your home posted on the first page of all of my personal websites as a featured
listing (I currently have multiple personal websites with lots of internet
exposure, and I'm building more)

3. Your home posted on REALTOR.com as a FEATURED HOME.

This means that your home will appear on the first page of the
#1 real estate site in the world. See below for more information about
REALTOR.com.

4. Your home will have its' own website address:
www.123youraddress.com. Complete with photos, detailed descriptions, set up
showings, request feedback and more. Your yard sign and all advertising will
advertise this domain name so that buyer's can view your house 24/7.

5. Your home will have a beautiful virtual tour posted on all of our sites.

6. A video showcasing your house and neighborhood. Out-of-town buyers really love
this!

7. A yard sign - of course!

Every bit of marketing I do is totally structured around getting your property "SOLD", through

the most exposure in front of the most buyers. I am a Realtor thinking "outside of the box,"

and I believe you will find my marketing approach, refreshing and most of all effective.

Just give me a call and allow me an hour of your time.(812) 603-1368.

I'll even provide you with a complimentary Home Evaluation and CMA (Comprehensive Market Analysis) that will definetely set me apart from the majority of real estate agents in Columbus Indiana. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Visit my website http://www.columbusareahomesforsale/ and see for yourself! Visit my Selling Page http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com/Selling/page_163206.html and read my "29 Step Strategic Marketing Plan". But be prepared, I do require clients to sign a confidentiality contract, to see my additional Marketing.

A bit of information about REALTOR.com, REALTOR.com is the #1 real estate website in the
world with over 8 million views per month. Every home that goes into the MLS
will automatically get posted on REALTOR.com - Great, right? The bad news is
that if real estate agents do not enhance their listings on REALTOR.com only
one photo will be posted. More bad news is that the homes with only one photo
sink to the bottom of the pile and will probably get viewed less than 10 times
per week.

The great news is that when Martin Dorgan markets your home,

I not only enhance your listings with great looking multiple photos, I advertise
your house as a FEATURED HOME.

This means that your home will instantly rise to the top of the pile and,

show up on the FIRST PAGE of Realtor.com when buyers search for homes in your area.

This benefit is proven to get your home literally THOUSANDS more views,

than the average listing.

So, Will I Sell Your Columbus Indiana Home For Less Commission? Quite Simply! NO!

It's my time, my expertise, and my expenditures that all go into my presentations to you the seller and my networking, that creates a list of qualified buyer's, to bring to you the seller.

Just try asking any professional to reduce their fees, and see what the answer is? Actually, try negotiating the price of gas at the pump? Asking the clerk at the grocery store to reduce the cost of your grocery bill? Or, how about asking a doctor, lawyer or even a mechanic to reduce his fee for services? It's not very likely you will get a response of "Oh sure I'll cut my rate!."

You are paying my fee because I have invested thousands on education, constant upgrading of my expertise through Continuing Education courses, additional learning and specialization courses, marketing techniques, a huge internet presence, and all the incidentals that go along with being an independent contractor. "I work for a fee, not for free"

Contact Information:

Martin Dorgan

Coldwell Banker South Central Realty

1015 Third Street Columbus Indiana,47201

Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122

Cell:812-603-1368

Website: http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com

Email: martin.dorgan@coldwellbanker.com

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve!

That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price.

You want to find a home That's right For You! by negotiating the best price,

with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done. Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

How About Implementing a Daily Archive of Blogs?

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 07:27:21 -0600

How About Implementing a Daily Archive of Blogs, or Blog Titles?

I've often seen the Blog roll scroll very quickly, as new posts are added. And try as I might to search through them, I'm certain that I miss a few on a daily basis. Now sure enough I can find some, because they have been written by members to which I subscribe to their blogs. But often I think many a good suggestion, idea, or scenario has escaped my inquisitive eyes because it is lost in time.

Now, "Active Rain" creators have utilized their infinite wisdom, to show off New Members, daily, monthly etc, which you can check from the home page. Why couldn't the same premise and platform be used for archiving daily blog entries?

This may already be part of Active Rain, and I don't know about it yet, or haven't found it yet. But I've never seen any mention of a system incorporated into Active Rain that would allow for a quick search such as this, does it exist? How About Implementing a Daily Archive of Blogs, or Blog Titles?

I forgot to mention something, I've probably Bookmarked close to 60 Blogs, Subscribed to 20 or more Blogs, and Joined nearly 20 Groups, So it's not that I'm not trying to do my part. I just think there might be a better way to find lost articles.

Columbus Indiana EDUCATION Information

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 13:05:56 -0600

Columbus Indiana EDUCATION Information Definitely an asset to those residents of Columbus Indiana, or those living out of state considering relocation to Columbus Indiana. That might be in need of general information about our Education system, The Bartholomew County School Corporation the local schools, with connections to some of their school websites. Including Public Schools, Private Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, and Post Secondary Schools.

Columbus Indiana EDUCATION Information

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

BARTHOLOMEW CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL CORPORATION

Elementary Schools
Name	Enrollment
Clifty Creek School Fodrea School Lincoln School Mt. Healthy School Parkside School Richards School Rockcreek School Schmitt School Southside School Smith School Taylorsville School	548 312 217 382 660 573 324 709 813 478 573
Middle Schools
Name	Enrollment
Central Middle School Northside Middle School	927 955

High Schools
Name	Enrollment
Columbus East High School Columbus North High School	1,423 1,948
Other
Name	Enrollment
McDowell Adult Education Center, includes ABE, GED, ESL and Y-MED at Jefferson Education Center	Included in Middle School & High School Counts

Flat Rock-Hawcreek School Corp.
Name	Enrollment
Cross Cliff Primary School Hauser Junior/Senior High School Hope Intermediate School	252 64 329

General Data:

Size of district: 300 square miles. (14th largest school district in Indiana by enrollment).

School year: 9 months (Lincoln and Fodrea Schools - year round).

Summer term (optional): Grades 1-8: Remedial math and reading, enrichment courses, special education classes.

Grades 9-12: Required courses or electives (30 days, 5 hours per day).

Pre-Kindergarten programs for all elementary.

School transportation: 7,000+ students transported to-and-from schools. 100 buses.

Education Excellence

Graduating seniors enrolling in post secondary schools: 80%.

English as a second language: K-12.

Outstanding vocational education program: 2,011 students enrolled, 36 occupational teachers.

Outstanding special education programming for all disabilities.

Gifted and Talented education recognized throughout the state.

Substance Abuse Leadership recognized by state.

Faculty Data

Total teaching staff: 607 - 70% of teachers have Masters degree or higher (greater than state or national averages).

Overall teacher-to-pupil ratio: 1:17

Teacher salaries: $49,841 (2004-05)

Adult and Continuing Education:
Diverse programs offered both day and evenings, 1,350 enrolled. Over 75 course offerings, both credit and non-credit. Areas included are:
GED Program
Basic Literacy
Adult Basic Education
Off-site Jail Program
Personal Interest Courses
High School Completion
Day and Evening High School
Vocational Programs
English as a Second Language Program
Young Mothers Education Program
Education To Work Transition Programs
Athletic Facilities:
Elementary: Play area equipment and gymnasium at all schools.
Secondary: Athletic Fields, baseball fields, gymnasiums at all schools.
Swimming Pools: 5
East High School seating capacity:
Basketball	4,000
Football	3,500
North High School seating capacity:
Basketball	7,200
Football	4,000
Physical Education Area	540

School Building Data:
Facilities Library at each school. Staffed learning resource centers at all schools. Special Education facility for handicapped children. Industrial Technology Labs in secondary schools. Laboratories: Physics, chemistry, biology, foreign languages in secondary schools. TV studio, color broadcast center (network quality) and planetarium at East High School. Distance learning laboratories in both high schools. Internet access at all buildings.
School Finances 2003:
Operating Budget	$60,743,438
Operating cost per pupil	$5,741
Bonded long-term debt	$49,700,000
School tax rates, last 8 years:
2004	$1.4562
2003	$1.3088
2002	$1.6130
2001	$4.8707
2000	$4.7673
1999	$4.812
1998	$5.0371
1997	$4.71
1996	$5.10

PRIVATE AND PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS IN BARTHOLOMEW COUNTY
School	Grades	Enrollment
ABC Learning Center/Stewart Elementary	PK-06	225
Bethel Holiness Christian School	KG-12	22
Children Inc. #2	PK-KG	28
Columbus Christian School Inc.	PK-12	233
Columbus Seventh Day Adventist	01-08	8
Faith Lutheran Preschool	PK	16
Grace Lutheran Preschool	PK	90
Head Start Program	PK	70
Hope Head Start Program	PK	18
Midway Christian Academy	PK-12	33
St. Bartholomew Catholic School	PK-08	382
St. Peter's Luteran School	KG-08	421
St. Paul Lutheran Preschool	PK	26
White Creek Lutheran School	KG-08	99
Home School Enrollment for Bartholomew		282

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
INDIANA UNIVERSITY-PURDUE UNIVERSITY COLUMBUS
Accredited branch campus of Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. Facilities located at 4601 Central Avenue. Campus serves the 10 southeastern counties of Bartholomew, Dearborn, Decatur, Jackson, Jennings, Johnson, Ohio, Ripley, Shelby and Switzerland.Complete assiciate degree programs are offered in Chemistry, General Studies, Liberal Arts and Nursing (LPN-ASN Mobility Option). Complete bachelor's degrees are offered in Business, Elementary Education, General Studies, Nursing (RN-BSN Mobility Option), Psychology and Sociology. Complete master's degree offered in Business Administration. General education courses are offered for other IU and Purdue degrees.	Faculty:
	Full-time Adjunct	34 150
	Enrollment:
	Undergraduates Graduate students Average age of student body	94% 6% 24 yrs.
	Classes: Total IUPUC course offering: 180 courses, 272 sections. Day and evening classes. School term: 16-week semesters; 4 & 8-week sessions; 6-week summer sessions

Tuition	In-State Resident*	Out-of-State Resident*
Undergraduate/Credit Hour	$187.50	$531.75
Graduate/Credit Hour	$214.95	$620.40

Note: Fees are subject to change without notice by the Indiana University Board of Trustees. The most recent edition of the IUPUI Columbus "Registration Guide " will carry the most current rates.

Purdue University School of Technology
Accredited site of the Purdue University School of Technology at West Lafayette, IN. Columbus facilities located at 4601 Central Avenue. Campus serves the 7 southeastern counties of Bartholomew, Brown, Decatur, Jackson, Jennings, Johnson and Shelby. Complete associate degree programs are offered in Computer Graphics Technology, Computer Integrated Manufacturing Technology, Computer Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology and Organizational Leadership & Supervision. Complete bachelor's degrees are offered in Computer Information Systems Technology and Organizational Leadership & Supervision. Complete master's degree offered in Technology.	Faculty:
	Full-time Adjunct	8 20
	Enrollment:
	349 fall semester 2001 Undergraduates	100%
	Classes: Total Purdue School of Technology course offerings: 44 courses, 120 sections. Day and evening classes. School term: 16-week semesters; 4 & 8-week summer session.

Tuition	In-State Resident*	Out-of-State Resident*
Undergraduate/Credit Hour	$127.95	$398.00
Graduate/Credit Hour	$171.25	$494.15

* Residency is established for those 21 and older who are U.S. citizens or permanent resident visa holders who have lived within the state for 12 months immediately prior to the first day of class. Dependent minors 20 years or under are granted immediate residency status once parents move into Indiana.

IVY TECH STATE COLLEGE

Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, the Columbus Campus of Ivy Tech is one of 23 major instructional centers in Indiana. Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science degrees; technical certificates, short-term career certificates, and hundreds of certifications are available. Areas of study include: accounting, business administration, criminal justice, computer information systems, dental assisting, office administration, medical assisting, practical nursing, design technology, electronics and computer technology, manufacturing and industrial technology, paramedic science, visual communications, liberal studies, general education, apprenticeships, and corporate and continuing education.

Average Fall Enrollment: 2,300

Average Age: 27 years

Employees: 90 benefits eligible employees, 32 of whom are faculty; 100 adjunct faculty.

Financial Aid Available: Grants, scholarships, loans, employment.

Classes:
Total course offering: more than 200 courses.
Day and evening classes.
Academic Term: 16-week semesters; 8-week summer session.

	Tuition	In-State Resident*	Out-of-State Resident*
	Credit Hour	$83.95	$170.25

INDIANA UNIVERSITY Main campus, Bloomington, 36 miles. Driving time from Columbus: 45 to 50 minutes.
		miles south of Indianapolis. IU Bloomington is the flagship campus of an eight-campus system, two of which are jointly operated with Purdue University. IU Bloomington has the semester system and two summer terms. IU Bloomington offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in over 100 different programs in its 13 academic schools. Admission to IU Bloomington is selective. On-campus housing includes a variety of residence centers and married student facilities. An all-points meal plan is also available to students living in campus residence centers. In addition, IU Bloomington has a bus system that offers transportation throughout campus and portions of the city of Bloomington. For a virtual tour, visit: www.iub.edu/tour/.
Enrollment:
Number of Students	29,549
Levels of Study Offered:
Associate's Degree, Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, Specialist's Degree, Doctorate, First Professional Degree
Campus Description:
Indiana University is a major research university founded in 1820 as the state university for Indiana. Its 1,900-acre campus is located in Bloomington, a small city of 65,000 residents, fifty

	Tuition, Bloomington Campus	In-State Resident	Out-of-State Resident
	Undergraduate/Semester	$7,112.00	$19,508.00

	OTHER UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES WITHIN 50 MILES OF COLUMBUS
	Butler University	Indianapolis, Indiana
	Franklin College	Franklin, Indiana
	Hanover College	Madison, Indiana
	Indiana University/Purdue University at Indianapolis	Indianapolis, Indiana
	Ivy Tech State College	Indianapolis, Indiana
	University of Indianapolis	Indianapolis, Indiana

OTHER UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES IN INDIANA
Anderson College	Indiana State University	Taylor University
Ball State University	Indiana Wesleyan University	Tri-State University
Bethel College	Manchester College	University of Evansville
Concordia College	Marian College Purdue University	University of Notre Dame
DePauw University	Purdue University	University of Southern Indiana
Earlham College	Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology	Valparaiso University
Goshen College	St. Francis College	Vincennes University
Huntington College	St. Mary's College	Wabash College

C4 Columbus Area Career Connection

C⁴ Overview:

C4 provides career and technical education skills training to high school students in Bartholomew, Brown, Decatur and Jackson counties. Approximately 1,600 area students enroll in C4 classes each year. Facilities for C4 classes are located at Columbus East and Columbus North High Schools as well as the McDowell Adult Education Center. In addition, the community provides worksites for enhanced student learning. C4 program offerings are currently moving into a career cluster format including: Agricultural Science and Business, Computer Technology, Business, Management and Finance, Engineering Construction, Health Careers, Multimedia Communications, Transportation, Engineering Manufacturing and Human Services. Occupations within a cluster represent all achievement levels and reflect a wide-range of post-high school options. The occupations are clustered by a common set of competencies and skills. Each program area's curriculum is written in a competency-based format. Students completing a C4 program will receive a "Passport to Employment" which provides a detailed listing of the competencies they have attained and the proficiency level at which they perform.

C⁴ serves the following eleven area schools:

Brown County High School

Columbus East High School

Columbus North High School

Crothersville High School

Greensburg High School

Hauser Jr./Sr. High School

Jefferson Education Center

McDowell Adult Education Center

North Decatur High School

Seymour High School

South Decatur High School

If you are considering a move out of state, and moving to Columbus Indiana, Call Me! Martin Dorgan 812-603-1368 I would be happy to Fed EX or UPS You a Columbus "Newcomers Package" which includes maps, phone book, guides, current Homes Magazine, Articles and Information from local, state organizations, Community News, etc.. All very beneficial information which you can use before and after arriving here in Columbus Indiana.

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368

Email: martin.dorgan@coldwellbanker.com
Website:Http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com
Active Rain Blog:http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

Columbus Indiana Usefull Information For Residents, Relocators or Visitors

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:34:14 -0600

Columbus Indiana Community Information

Here are a few places you should get to know:

Utilities

ELECTRICITY: Bartholomew County REMC 372-2546; Cinergy PSI Energy (800) 521-2232.

GAS: Indiana Natural Gas 988-2512; Vectren Energy Delivery (800) 227-1376.

WATER: Columbus City Utilities 372-8861, Eastern Bartholomew Water Corp. 526-9777; Southwestern Bartholomew Water Corp. 342-4421.

CABLE TV: Comcast, 1470 Jackson St., 800-226-2278.

TELEPHONE: SBC Ameritech 800-742-8771.; AT&T 222-0300.

Services

DRIVER'S LICENSE: 745 Schnier Drive, 379-9323.

LIBRARY: Fifth Street and Lafayette Avenue, Columbus 379-1255; 635 Harrison St., Hope, 546-5310.

TRANSPORTATION: ColumBUS 376-2506; City Taxi 314-2227.

Emergency

POLICE: Columbus Police Department, 123 Washington St., 376-2600;

FIRE: Columbus Fire Department, 1101 Jackson St., 376-2679.

SHERIFF: Bartholomew County Sheriff's Department, 543 Second St., 379-1650.

Help

First Call for Help, 376-6666.

Volunteer Action Center, 1531 13th St., 375-2210.

Voting

Bartholomew County Voter Registration Office courthouse, Third and Washington Streets, 379-1604.

Schools

PUBLIC: Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp, 372-8211; Flat Rock-Hawcreek School Corp. 546-4922.

PAROCHIAL: ABC-Stewart Montessori 342-3029; St. Bartholomew Catholic 379-9353; Bethel Holiness Christian 376-0210; Columbus Christian 372-3780; St Peter's Lutheran 372-5266; White Creek Lutheran 342-6832; North Star Montessori 379-4180.

POST-SECONDARY: Indiana Business College 379-9000; Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus 372-8266; Purdue University College of Technology at Columbus 348-7245; Indiana Wesleyan University 376-7346; Ivy Tech State College, 372-9925.

Fun

Columbus Department of Parks and Recreation: 376-2680.

GOLF COURSES: Clifty Creek 372-6031; Greenbelt 376-2684; Harrison Lake 342-6012; Otter Creek 579-5227; Par 3 376-2687; Quarry Ridge 579-6559; Timbergate 526-3523.

ARTS: Columbus Area Arts Council, The Commons Mall, 376-2539 (Art Columbus, city band, philharmonic, orchestra, dance studio, kidscommons, Mill Race Players)

CEEN - Columbus Entertainment and Events Network 372-3744, www.CEENonline.com.

EXHIBITS: Art and Dance Center of Columbus, 211 Washington St., 372-4228, 376-8080; Columbus Museum of Art and Design, The Commons Mall, 376-2597; Southern Indiana Center for the Arts, Seymour, 812-522-2278.

Health

Columbus Regional Hospital, 2400 E. 17th St., 379-4441.

Behavioral Healthcare Columbus, 2223 Poshard Drive, 376-1711.

PromptMed, 2502 25th St, 372-8883.

Woodside PromptMed, 6220 Inwood Drive, 342-5900.

Quinco Behavioral Health Systems, 379-2341.

Volunteers in Medicine Clinic, 836 Jackson St., 376-9750
Wednesday, April 12, 2006

Housing in Columbus Indiana

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 08:08:02 -0600

Columbus Indiana has a Diverse Assortment of Housing Alternatives:

The Urban Columbus areas contain many varieties of style, age, cost and surroundings as alternative choices for a place to live. The current vacancy rate which changes constantly, are 3 - 5% for single family homes, and 4 - 5% for apartments. Columbus has many downtown apartments available in former single family homes. There are approximately 20 apartment complexes across the city, with 1,854 total units. Columbus may be historical but it is a 20th Century city with seven condominium developments.

There are more than 25 rural subdivisions within 6 miles of Columbus. Some of these country subdivisions are served by city water and have sewage treatment plants. There are some horse privledges and facilities available at a few. Some Columbus employees choose to live outside the city limits so they can take advantage of an even broader range of housing, and some just want a little more of country life benefits. As you drive around Columbus you will see many countryside villages within 15 miles of Columbus. And there are 13 towns with population ranging from 250 - 5,000.

Columbus has a strong agricultural tradition, and there are hundreds of farms within 20 miles. Some of these farms range from hobby farms of 10 acres or less, small farms of 50 to 300 acres, and larger farms from 300 to 2,500 acres. Bartholomew County and Columbus has a large selection of small farms or ranches. Farm owner investments range in size and investment of $1,500 to $3,000 per acre cultivated.

Columbus is a historical city, with many older homes ranging from 30 to 100 years old. Several of these homes and areas have undergone restoration and neighborhood improvements. Our downtown has maintained its aesthetic appeal because of improvements, and ever changing and updating. There are major projects either under construction or planned, including the Indigo Hotel which recently opened its doors to travellers.

Columbus has a number of man made lakes, ponds and natural lakes within the city and just on the outskirts of town, and within 10 miles of Columbus. Fifteen of these lakes are the focal point of housing developments. They enhance the natural beauty, add scenic views, create water-sports havens, and are easily accessible.

Columbus cares about its residents, and provides Public Housing and Section 8 accommodations. The Housing Authority of the City of Columbus serves the community and areas within 5 miles. They own and operate three low budget - low rent housing projects. One, specifically for the elderly and disabled. Two other facilities are for low income families. The Columbus Housing Authority has 45 homes diversely spread across the city and throughout the community, to provide housing for families requiring two or three bedroom accommodation. They also provide rental assistance through the Section 8 Voucher program. There are approximately 700 units involved with both programs.

For residents living in Columbus, there is something for everyone. For people looking to relocate the same applies. If you would like additional information about Columbus I would be happy to send you a Newcomers package, filled with all kinds of good information that you will find valuable.

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368
Website:Http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com
Active Rain Blog:http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan

Spectacular Results! That's what you want! That's what you deserve! That's what you really want, Right?

You want to find the home that's right for you-at the right price. You want to find a home by negotiating the best price, with the least hassle...And You Want Someone Who Can Get The Job Done Right!

Well You've Come To The Right Place!

Point2NLS Change is Coming! It Seems The Free Ride Is Over!

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:59:27 -0600

Change is Coming! It Seems The Free Ride Is Over! It saddened me to read this today. For months now I have been working on a strategic plan to fully implement and use Point2NLS to totally dominate my marketplace. In fact today, just before receiving this email alert I just finished purchasing 75 more domain names. You can guess where they were to be used, maybe not how they were to be used.

I started my real estate career researching, researching the best product for the money. And as far as I was concerned you couldn't have found a better product/web site provider. It would be really hard to equate Point2 with any other provider for the money, after all FREE is the best you can get. Sure I started with the free site, then progressed to the Professional level, a great move on my part. Have I benefitted from the upgrade? You Bet Ya! I average 3 - 5 Hot Prospects per week, not bad by my standards.

But what is unfortunate, is that those new agents that follow, will No Longer have the advantage I have gained, a great site, and decent benefits from being a Point2 member. Maybe the recent management shakeup at Point2 had something to do with this? I wish they would rethink their strategy!

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Point2NLS announces"What is Changing"

Point2 sent out an email today to its members, in which it qualifies/justifies its corporate decision, to make it a more viable business operation.

"What is Changing."

In order to help maintain the quality of Point2 NLS listing data and Handshake relationships, and to help ensure that the reliability and speed of the Point2 NLS system are constantly improved, the Standard Point2 NLS membership is now $9.95 per month, with the first six months free.

"What it Means for You" (Current Members)

The Good news: As a member who joined prior to February 20th, 2008, you have been granted an exemption. If you wish to remain at the Standard level, your membership will continue to cost you nothing , for as long as you wish to continue using it.
Thank you for your continued support of Point2 and here's wishing you a blockbuster 2008.
Sincerely,
Point2 NLS

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I guess I will have to rethink my own marketing strategy! Just to conform with their new strategy!

Hanging out in Active Rain requires Flu Medication

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 16:10:52 -0600

Hanging out in Active Rain requires Flu Medication, not for me, but for my wife. But that's Okay! So I'm at the drugstore picking up some Flu medication for my wife, my focus is on medication, Not Real Estate!

I'm scanning the isles, finally zeroing in on the correct location and begin searching for what I consider to be viable medication. A gentleman walks up beside me, I glance up momentarily, and there stands a salesman for Sam's Club that I know. He doesn't ask me how I am, he asks How Is Real Estate? I explain the current market conditions, almost verbatum from my blog. I explain the simple complexity of the scenario, and end by saying "Opportunity is Knocking for those that are willing and able!".To which he says" Sounds like you've got your AR blog memorized!" He then goes on to say that "he would be calling me later", as he pulls my business card from his shirt chest pocket. Apparently he had been reading my blogs and others on Active Rain for months now, trying to get a feel for an agent to represent him, his family, and his neighbors.

So for those of you that don't think AR is doing you any good, I'm here to say! Lets see now?,,,, He wants to sell a condo they own within 6 months! His daughter needs a home within a year! Two of his neighbors are contemplating moving out of state! That is 8 possible sides from ONE client! All because he reads Active Rain! And because he feels I have my finger on the market, the knowledge and skill to market and sell property better than any other agent in town, "I Love It!"

Columbus Indiana Public Schools

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 05:30:19 -0600

Columbus Indiana Public Schools

For the benefit of Columbus Indiana residents, and those people relocating to Columbus Indiana that would like information about our local public schools, here is a list of the public schools in Columbus Indiana.

Public Schools in Columbus, IN

Central Middle School - 725 7 Th St (07 - 8)

Clifty Creek Elementary Sch - 4625 E 50 N (PK - 6)

Columbus Area Vocational Program - 1400 25 Th St (00 - 0)

Columbus East High School - 230 S Marr Rd (09 - 12)

Columbus North High School - 1400 25 Th St (09 - 12)

Cross Cliff Elementary School - 4355 E 600 N Po Box 120 (KG - 2)

Fodrea Community School - 2775 Illinois St (PK - 6)

Jefferson Education Ctr

L Smith School - 4505 Waycross Dr (PK - 6)

Lillian Schmitt Elem School - 2675 California (PK - 6)

Lincoln Elementary School - 750 5 Th St (KG - 6)

Mount Healthy Elementary Sch - 12150 S Sr 58 (KG - 6)

Northside Middle School - 1400 27 Th St (07 - 8)

Parkside Elementary School - 1400 Parkside Dr (PK - 6)

Rockcreek Elementary School - 13000 E 200 S (PK - 6)

Southside Elementary School - 1320 W 200 S (PK - 6)

W D Richards Elementary Sch - 3311 Fairlawn Dr (PK - 6)

Private Schools in Columbus, IN

Abc Learning Center Inc - 6691 W State Road 46 (PK - 6)

Bethel Holiness Christian Scho - 6060 N Us Highway 31 (K - 10)

Columbus Christian School

Columbus Sda Church School - 2809 North Talley Rd (3 - 8)

Midway Christian Academy - 2850 N State Road 9 (PK - 11)

North Star Montessori School - 1609 Cottage Avenue F Po Box 2157 (PK - 2)

St Bartholomew School - 1306 27 Th Street (K - 8)

St Peters Lutheran School - 719 5 Th Street (K - 8)

White Creek Lutheran School - 16270 S 300 W (K - 8)

For additional information contact http://www.greatschools.com/ their website is a treasure trove of information which will aid in your choice of school for your children.

Should you need Real Estate advice please pick up the phone and call me!

Is Having an Online Marketing Blog, a Real Estate Paradigm Shift?

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 05:12:16 -0600

Good Morning Active Rainer's!

An interesting topic was presented by George and Nicole this morning. NEW GROUP! FREE online marketing blog! I think it will undoutedly become a very interesting topic!

Like yourselves I too was awake at 3:10 this morning, doing my usual internet reading. When I received a message in my inbox, which I will share with all of you.

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What Every Agent Needs to Know about Blogging, Social Networking, RSS Feeds and SEO

by Michael Parker

While I know a lot about how to market and sell products, I don't pretend to know all there is to know. However, ever since the advent of "Social Networking" I have watched (and commented) as one column after another purports to instruct the real estate professional about how one MUST be involved in Social Networking, how one MUST have a page on Facebook and put one's listings there, and that one MUST employ widgets, blogs and numerous other "great ideas" that will "make your site stand out and your success improve." Maybe I'm dumb, but I just don't get what all the hoopla is about.

Please don't misunderstand me, I do believe this: Social Networking and blogging are wonderful ways to stay in touch and meet new people. They're great ways to share experiences, to ask for help (See: RealTown, ActiveRain, etc.), all those kinds of things. It is my belief, however, that Social Networking and Advertising are two diametrically opposed things and that what works in a social environment may not work the same way in business-and in the real estate business in particular.

To read the complete article, see: http://www.brokeragentnews.com/news/residential/2008_2/2_19_2008_nv_1203436125.html

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I have to admit, at least to myself, after being a member here in Active Rain that this article is definitely on the mark in some context. But I don't think it should be taken as gospel. My own personal belief is that Real Estate is going through a major Paradigm shift in many facets of the business, and this is just one instance of the forthcoming shifts. Do I believe everything that "Michael Parker" had to say? No!

Why? You might ask, Simple, Some of the above "Blogging, Social Networking" place you in front of potential clients, just as Real Town and Active Rain. If you follow the posts on AR you will notice a marked increase in the number of agents posting success stories, about how their participation in AR brought them a prospect, that later became a client, and then a completed sale.

Do you think I'm correct, is this a Paradigm shift?

Columbus Indiana AREA RECREATION

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:09:45 -0600

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Five of Indiana's 23 State Parks are within 45 miles of Columbus. Two of the largest recreation areas in the state are located within that distance.

Brown County State Park: 16 miles from Columbus off 46 west. 15,547 acres, scenic rolling topography. Two small lakes. Camping, swimming, fishing, hiking, picnic areas, horseback riding. Lodge with restaurant, guest rooms, cabins.

Monroe Lake State Reservoir: 42 miles west of Columbus, using 46 west, past Bloomington. 10,750-acre lake, 190-mile shoreline, maximum depth of 55 ft. All major water sports. Boat docks and rental; houseboats, cabin cruisers, sailboats, fishing boats, 9 public boat ramps, camping, hiking and hunting. Resort hotel: horseback riding, championship golf course, tennis, interpretive/recreational programming

OTHER AREA FACILITIES

Grouse Ridge Public Fishing Area	160 acres		11 miles
Atterbury Fish and Wildlife Area		5,512 acres	15 miles
Hoosier National Forest	182,000 acres		24 miles
Brush Creek Fish and Wildlife Area	1,841 acres		25 miles
Crosley Fish and Wildlife Area	4,084 acres		25 miles
Yellowwood State Forest	23,283 acres		27 miles
Jackson-Washington State Forest	15,698 acres		35 miles
Morgan-Monroe State Forest	23,555 acres		40 miles

FISHING AND HUNTING

The Division of Fish and Wildlife operates 43 fish and wildlife areas. Several streams and rivers in the Columbus area are good for stream fishing, float trips: Sugar Creek, Clifty Creek, Driftwood River, Flatrock River and the East Fork of the White River. Indiana has more than 1,000 lakes within its borders.

Resident License Fees:

Fishing license
Trapping license
Hunting license
Hunting & Fishing license

$7.00
$14.00
$14.25
$20.75

Hunting Seasons: Established for: wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit, deer, quail, pheasant, ruffed grouse, dove, frogs, raccoon, opossum, red and gray fox, coyote, crow, gallinules, ducks, geese, coots, mergansers, rails, woodcock, snipe and teal.

SNOW SKIING

Ski Resort: Nashville, Indiana (16 miles). Ski World.

Facilities: The resort features different grades of slopes for beginners to advanced skiers. Lighted for after-dark skiing. Artificial snow made for slopes. Facilities include pro shop with complete ski equipment rentals, ski lodge with lounge and cafeteria. Open December through March.

Source: http://www.state.in.us.dnc/

SPECTATOR SPORTS

Indiana University, Bloomington (36 miles west of Columbus using 46 west): Big 10 basketball (seating for 17,000+); Big 10 football (seating for 51,000); baseball, track and field, swimming, gymnastics, wrestling and women's sports.

Indianapolis (45 miles from Columbus, North on I-65): Auto Racing: "Indianapolis 500" (last Sunday in May); NASCAR Brickyard 400 (first Saturday in August); Indiana State Fairgrounds race track features "Hoosier 100" USAC big-car dirt racing and drag racing; Raceway Park at Clermont features SCCA sports car and sprint car racing. Pro basketball: Indiana Pacers, NBA. Pro baseball: Indianapolis Indians, AAA, International League. Pro Hockey: Indianapolis Ice, International Hockey League.

Tennis: U.S. Hard court Open Championship tennis matches. Amateur world-class championships in swimming as well as track and field held at I.U.P.U.I. Pro football: Indianapolis Colts, National Football League.

Louisville (68 miles from Columbus, South on I-65): Horse Racing: Kentucky Derby (first Saturday in May). Pari-mutual thoroughbred racing, 1 track; Pari-mutuel trotters and pacers, 1 track.

University of Louisville, basketball and football.

Cincinnati (78 miles): Pro baseball: Cincinnati Reds, National League. Pro football: Cincinnati Bengals, NFL. University of Cincinnati basketball and football.

Safety Tip! For Male or Female, Real Estate Business People

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 16:47:28 -0600

We've all heard the horror story recently involving agents and showing properties, or even "open houses" have a similar amount of potential danger. No one expects anything sinister to happen, but there are evil people out there, lurking in the crowds.

Well while driving along the other day I had an idea! Lights started going off! Here I sat, leaving a message to myself through voice-mail, but that wasn't it! I looked down and there in front of me was my "voice recorder!"

Perfect!, tapes are pretty good length, so just before you encounter a potential sinister scenario, "Click it On!".Why not? You would at least have a recording of anything said, or anything that transpired. Now in retrospect/hindsite, it may not do You! any good, but it would certainly aid and help the authorities, if something did happen. Or/And Preprogram your cell phone to speed dial 911. Now you not only record the actual activities, but you give the authorities a means to track your location, and a means for them to hear the scenario Live!

Another instance for possible use.....Guys!, we have all had women in our cars, the overall majority generally speaking are good and honest, and would never try anything bogus! But say you picked up a young/older woman makes no difference and she did try to pull a fast one! Well Unknown to her! You are recording the trip! Bingo! We have evidence to contradict her statements.

Safety Tips! seved up as Food for thought!?

Don't be reactive! Get Proactive! These tips or any others may not "Save a Life!", but it may give authorities a chance to respond, or at least catch a criminal.

Columbus Indiana Dog Park Coming Soon! Update!

Martin Dorgan (Coldwell Banker South Central Realty) — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 11:38:55 -0600

In an effort to keep Columbus Indiana residents current, concerning the ongoing planing and meetings for the Columbus Indiana Dog Park, here is an over-all view of the proceedings.

Columbus Indiana Dog Park Association, Inc.

For Meeting February 7, 2008, at 7 p.m., Donnor Center

(Draft revised 2-8-08)

Dog parks can be designed and constructed for relatively low costs, i.e., metal T-posts with wire, a gate, and non-irrigated turf, to relatively high costs, i.e., irrigated turf, wooden fences, shelters, etc. We hope to base our design decisions for our Columbus dog-park not only on utility and cost, but also on how the overall use and appearance of the dog park fits into the surrounding park or area. Below we will discuss how we have arrived at many of our design choices for the Columbus Indiana dog park.

Design Decisions - Where to Begin?
We started by observing existing dog parks to break apart their designs for our own use. Our review led us to identify design considerations we felt could make the dog park more pleasing for both human and animal users. While other sorts of parks have been refining their designs for 80 years or more, Dog Parks are a relatively recent innovation. We have only five to ten years of experience to draw from in creating our design. Recent dog parks have evolved considerably over the original dog parks, with each successive park taking the best part of previous designs and improving upon them with their own new ideas. To understand our design process, we briefly visited those early dog parks and identified the concerns a simple fenced field could not address.

Evolving Dog-Park Design

First-generation dog-parks tend to be just large enclosures with a single entry/exit gate. Although they function very well to contain dogs, they have challenges and are limited in aesthetic value. The biggest problem in one of these simple parks is turf wear. Because of the concentrated use at the single entry/exit gate, the turf disappeared, leaving a rutted, dirt entry path. If the turf throughout these parks was not rested, reseeded and maintained, large sections of the park were destroyed, unable to recover from year to year. The single entry/exit point in first-generation parks also posed another unique problem. It was very hard for owners to control the entering dog (because it was so excited to get in), and it was equally hard to prevent the dogs that were already in the park from getting out (to investigate the new dog). These issues were addressed in the next generations of dog-park design.

Turf Concerns-Two Large Dog Areas

Consultation with other parks has led us to the conclusion that the dog play areas will receive the same type of use/abuse as many sports fields, and maintenance decisions should be based on this conclusion. We will need to treat these fields as if they were overused sports fields and maintenance of the dog park needs to include mowing, fertilizing, aerating, resting, over-seeding (using both slicing and broadcast methods) and trimming. The seed mix needs to be one developed specially as a sports turf mix or high use mix and tolerant of the light conditions in our chosen sight (shade or sun). No matter how well you address the wear of the turf through careful maintenance, if use is not removed to give the grass an opportunity to grow unmolested, it will never recover. Based on this concern, our design discussion has included planning for field rotation, where one play area is rested while another is opened for active use.

Other parks are using this rotation system with great success. It seems the best way to handle turf recovery and maintenance here, especially in the potentially muddy areas of the flood plains we are now considering. The rotation schedule should be based on use, wear, time of year, natural moisture, compaction, etc., not the calendar. The park maintenance staff, in consultation with the CDPA, should make the decision as to when to rotate to the other play area. While we might tentatively plan for rotating approximately every third month, that schedule might need to be adjusted in actual practice.

Of course the amount of turf wear is directly related to the size of the enclosures and the amount of use the park receives. Using Lafayette's dog-park (also in a flood plain) as a model, our design incorporates two 2.5 acre large dog areas. We believe this gives us a good opportunity to preserve the turf and maintain a beautiful and functional area.

Small-Dog Area -

Because some large dogs have a prey instinct that can be triggered by smaller dogs running, and because some smaller dogs are intimidated by, or fail to be intimidated by, larger dogs, we have decided to include a separately enclosed small-dog area in our design. This area doesn't have to be very large as the dogs are smaller and should cause less damage to the turf. From what we have seen, .5 acres appears to be an adequate small-dog area. It is anticipated that with a field of this size the turf concerns will be minimal and we will not need here a second enclosed small-dog area for turf rotation.

Keyed Entry-

The Entries to the more recent dog-parks include locking keyed systems to allow controlling access to the dog-park. This allows dog-park users to be screened for minimum health and safety standards; animals who are not vaccinated or are unhealthy, or who have owners who violate dog park policy could be denied access. The locked gate also helps limit vandalism and keeps unsupervised children out of the areas where dogs are running off-leash. Keyed entries also provide a means for raising money from the dog-park users for the ongoing maintenance of the park through membership fees. While the keyed or swipe entries can themselves be quite expensive, the described benefits are sufficient to lead us to include them in our local design.

The "Bullpen" entry --
Recent generation dog park design includes the addition of what we call the bullpen. This bullpen style entry addresses the issue of containing dogs as they enter or exit the park. The bullpen was an enclosed entry area, generally small (10' x 10' to 15' x 15'), with two gates. The first is the entry/exit gate used to get from the parking lot area into the bullpen; the second is a gate from the bullpen into the dog park play fields. The surface of the bullpen is generally some durable material, either hard (concrete) or soft (crushed stone) to avoid this high use area from becoming muddy or rutted. Some designs have included an additional surfaced area just inside the play fields, to help to disperse some of the concentrated use right at the entry/exit.

We have considered natural dog behaviors in shaping and designing the dog park, and the design of the bullpen is greatly influenced by these considerations. The entry and exit to the play fields will tend to be a natural congregation point for the dogs, and probably their owners as well. To break up crowding and allow easier exits and entrances, we are considering incorporating more than one access point to each large-dog area. Since our current thinking is that we would have a card-swipe or keyed entrance, and these entrance devices are quite costly, we have decided to increase the size of our bullpen. Our design incorporates a bigger, longer bull pen to allow several gates from the bull pen into the various fields from this one main point of keyed entry. These multiple field access points would also allow us to detour traffic from an entry if it was getting excessively worn, to allow recovery and spread out the traffic.

Enclosure Shape and materials-fencing

Fences are a major and visible component of any dog-park design, and a major expense. The fences are needed to contain the animals and protect other park users who are not participating in the dog-park and might not want to be approached by our dogs. The fences need to be functional, affordable, and aesthetically in keeping with the rest of the city park location.

Our design incorporates a five foot high chain-link fence. Some dog-parks with lower fences have indicated that four feet is too low and they wish they had installed higher ones. Some parks have 6 foot fences, but the extra height cost substantially more, and may not be necessary. We consider the minimum 5" height necessary to keep dogs from jumping over the fences, in or out, and hope it will also be high enough to discourage people from climbing over it or dropping their dogs over it.

There are some truly beautiful steel and aluminum fences available, but at $500+ for 10 linear feet installed, it seems beyond our reach. Wood is beautiful and costs less than these metal decorative fences, but it requires much more maintenance, blocks air and water flow, and would not hold up well to the regular flooding we expect at the sites currently under consideration. A review of fence options has led us to the conclusion that chain-link fencing is our best material. It is flexible, very low maintenance, strong, easily installed and available at a relatively low cost. It comes in several styles and colors, but we have learned that the vinyl-coated chain link is not only more expensive than the plain metal chain-link, but is also weaker.

Our plan includes bringing the fence all the way down to the ground. We have discussed trenching or burying the bottom edge of the fence to prevent dogs from digging or pushing under it. Anchoring the bottom edge might also serve to give the fence additional stability to withstand flood conditions. If we trenched and anchored the fence in a material such as concrete, asphalt or crushed stone, we might have the additional benefit of preventing weeds from growing against the fence. This would help reduce required trimming, lowering maintenance costs and assuring a tidy, well-groomed look to the fences. Trenching would cost more than just using an anchor wire to tack it into the ground, so we are looking into trenching as a phase II aspect of the project and currently pricing regular chain link with a smooth top and an anchored base.

There has been discussion about designing the shape of the play fields to avoid angles of 90 degrees or less so dogs can't get cornered by other dogs in the fields. The lack of sharp corners might also simplify mowing if planned right. Contouring the fences seems a relative minor adjustment that can be addressed once an actual site has been selected. We hope to contour the fencing without significantly impacting costs.

Shade/shelter

Summer in Indiana can be miserable without a bit of shade to rest in. To encourage year round use, we need to have some shade available in our large and small dog areas. In sites with existing mature trees, we are set for shade comfort, but need to be aware of the risk that too much shade will inhibit turf growth and recovery. In sites without existing mature trees, we will have to install some shade shelters. These shelters might be permanent structures, or temporary shelters to provide shade for a few years until we can get shade trees planted and matured. Several dog-parks suggest placing shade structures far enough into the play areas and away from the fences to limit entry point backups and dogs crowding against the fences.

The number, size and permanence of the shade shelters will depend on the actual site chosen. These shelters might be paid for with grants or contributions that require a specific capital improvement to finance. There has been discussion about locating benches within these shelters, and we might consider whether any rain protection is also desired when choosing a specific shelter design.

Water-

The dog park design requires access to clean drinking and wash water. We plan to have both a wash-off area and a water fountain available at our dog-park. We have no plans to supply bathroom facilities for human guests at this time.

We are looking at purchasing a three-tiered water fountain unit, with a regular-height fountain, a handicapped- accessible fountain and a dog-bowl fountain. This fountain might be located in the bullpen where it would be easy to maintain and clean, and available to all dog-park users, human and canine. If in the bullpen we will want it to be far from the keyed entrance as it might tend to be a natural congregation point, which is not the purpose of the bullpen. There has been some interest in placing drinking fountains in the play areas, so we plan to add additional fountains in the large dog and small dog areas when money permits as part of Phase II.

Our design also includes a doggie wash station for washing off muddy paws. This would be located immediately off the back or to one side of the bullpen as a small separate enclosure. The purpose is to allow park users to rinse off their pets' muddy feet before heading to their cars. We do not plan to provide a swimming area for the dogs, but being in flood plains means dirty paws more often than not.

Lights-

Our design plan includes lighting in the bullpen area and parking lot, and as otherwise advisable for security reasons. Since dark comes early in the winter, and many of the potential users of the dog park plan to use it in the evenings, we need to have lighting in the parking area and in the bullpen. Additionally, the brighter and better lit the area, the more comfortable people will be and the easier it will be to properly monitor their dogs. This will probably require electricity on the site, and installation and maintenance of street light type lighting. The electric set up and some minimal lighting are considered necessary as part of the initial construction, but additional field lighting could be left for Phase II. Solar Power Lighting is also being investigated as a possible option.

Benches-

We are planning on three benches per large dog area (6) and two in the small dog area for a total of eight benches. These should be located away from the fences and away from the entrance areas, and be somewhat scattered throughout the play areas. They should be immobile so they are not easily knocked over, stolen, or moved closer to the fence where they might be used by dogs or people to climb or jump the fences. They should also be durable and easily cleaned so they can withstand the flooding expected on the sites under consideration. Possibly one or more should be located in the shade in each play area.

Design Planning includes $300 per bench with 8 benches.

Waste receptacles & garbage cans-

We have planned for two regular garbage cans, one just outside the bullpen and one near the parking lot. These are outside the play areas to keep out off-leash dogs from getting into harmful trash. Tasty smelling trash might also lead to guarding or aggressive behavior, so most garbage and trash will need to be disposed of outside the play areas.

We are planning for 12 dog waste stations; one in the parking area, one in the bullpen, four in each of the large dog areas and two in the small dog area. These waste stations would be located with an eye toward convenient use and easy weekly collection. It is planned that these be located conveniently within the play areas and have courtesy collection bags attached.

Design Planning includes $200 to $300 per receptacle with 14 receptacles total.

Additional Design Interests-

Agility equipment has been requested by some interested members and is available at some parks. This might be an item we could get donated specifically or build ourselves if interest exists.

A time out space, a smaller separately enclosed area, is available in some parks, and we have a community member who might be willing to finance the fencing off of such an area. We do not currently see a need for this, but need to do more research to understand its uses before finalizing our design.

A lighted Kiosk is desirable in the long range future of the dog-park. A covered Kiosk outside the bullpen, possibly near the keyed entrance or the parking lot could be used for education, community outreach, posting rules, communicating with members and advertising our dog-park. Possibly we could include some sort of Photo Opportunity with the Kiosk to encourage people to take and share pictures of their dogs featuring our Dog-park logo. This would both publicize the dog-park, and be fun for the dog-park users.

Martin Dorgan
Coldwell Banker
South Central Realty
1015 Third Street
Columbus Indiana, 47201
Office: 812-378-3331 ext.122
Cell: 812-603-1368

Email: martin.dorgan@coldwellbanker.com
Website:Http://www.columbusareahomesforsale.com
Active Rain Blog:http://activerain.com/blogs/martindorgan

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