Your Thoughts Regarding Advertising...Huntsville Alabama - 05/31/11 07:45 PM
Your Thoughts Regarding Advertising...Huntsville Alabama
When advertising in real estate, as agents we must be sure to follow Fair Housing guidelines and use appropriate wording and illustrations carefully.
We are not allowed to steer buyers to any particular neighborhood for any reason especially in order to maintain or change the racial or ethnic makeup of a neighborhood.  As agents, it's our job to match location and available features requested by our clients to homes available on the market.  Discrimination in advertising is simply not permitted, not ethical and unacceptable.  Wording such as: number of children, adult community, no families, ethnic references, senior … (13 comments)

Working On Memorial Day, Madison Alabama - 05/30/11 05:27 PM
Working On Memorial Day, Madison Alabama
Thank you for the opportunities I have and that I'm able to work today.
Well, here it is Memorial Day...lots of BBQ's, family get together, parades, spending time at the beach, pools opening, working and remembering those who gave there lives so we can enjoy our way of life...including the option of working today.  What ever it is that you are doing today...I wish you well and a great Memorial Day.

It's in the 90's here, so working in a nicely air conditioned office isn't so bad, however, I'm not in a nicely air conditioned office...I'm in … (7 comments)

The Brickhouse Sports Cafe, The Village Of Providence, Huntsville Alabama - 05/29/11 06:13 PM
The Brickhouse Sports Cafe, The Village Of Providence, Huntsville Alabama
7 Town Center Drive NorthwestThe Village of ProvidenceHuntsville Alabama 35806(256) 585-1199
Earlier this week found me at The Brickhouse Sports Cafe in The Village Of Providence, Huntsville Alabama for lunch.  The Brickhouse Sports Cafe is next to Grille 29 another of my favorite Providence restaurants.  Below are photos of the courtyard where you may dine outside under trees for a little shade.  As with most restaurants in Providence service is good and and the food top notch.   
 
On the menu at The Brickhouse Sports Cafe are really good burgers, sandwiches, soup … (7 comments)

Mellow Mushroom, Restaurant, The Village Of Providence, Huntsville Alabama - 05/28/11 06:25 PM
Mellow Mushroom, Restaurant, The Village Of Providence, Huntsville Alabama
470 Providence Main Street, Suite 102Phone:  (256) 864-2727Web:  www.mellowmushroom.com

If you're looking for good food in an unusual setting then the Mellow Mushroom, Restaurant, The Village Of Providence, Huntsville Alabama may be the restaurant for you.  I've stopped there a few times, the food and service has always been good.  Probably better known for their pizza, the Mellow Mushroom also serves, calzones, hoagies, soups, and salads.  You may build your own salad to your taste with choices from a generous list of ingredients.

On my last visit Mary Beth waited … (4 comments)

The American Flag And How To Care For It This Memorial Weekend - 05/27/11 04:13 PM
 The American Flag And How To Care For It This Memorial Weekend
I happened to be thinking about this Memorial weekend and all the flags that will be displayed particularly on homes or flag poles in our front yards and while I've displayed the American at homes for many years, it occurred to me that many first time home buyers may not have a clue how to properly display or care for the American Flag.  Go to the sight below for more detailed information about caring for the American Flag.

Memorial Day once known as Decoration Day is a day … (7 comments)

Shrimp Blast 2011, Huntsville Alabama, Von Braun Center South Hall - 05/26/11 07:29 PM
Shrimp Blast 2011, Huntsville Alabama, Von Braun Center South Hall

So, you like shrimp do you...then come join us for Shrimp Blast 2011, Huntsville Alabama, Von Braun Center South Hall, 700 Monroe Street in downtown Huntsville Alabama on June 4th, 2011 from 3:00pm to 11:00pm.  General admission is $7 and VIP tickets are $15.  VIP tickets allow you seating in a reserved area close to the bands.  Children under 12 with paying adult get in free.
Four bands are slated to entertain you from 3:00pm to 9:45pm: The Turner Family Band, Pla Station, Don Gallardo & How Far West Band and … (7 comments)

Professional Bull Riders, Huntsville Alabama, June 17-18, Von Braun Center - 05/25/11 10:56 PM
Professional Bull Riders, Huntsville Alabama, June 17-18, Von Braun Center
The Pro Division of the Professional Bull Riders Tour will come to Huntsville Alabama on June 17 and 18, 2011 for their last stop in Alabama this year.  The venue is the Von Braun Center at 700 Monroe Street, Huntsville Alabama, 35801 and the action begins at 7:00pm each night.  A special bonus for the Marshall Space Flight Center team members is a 20% discount on regular priced tickets.     

You can purchase tickets on line at www.ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000

Get all the details at the Professional Bull Riders … (8 comments)

Tony's "Little Italy", Italian Restaurant, Village Of Providence, Huntsville Alabama - 05/24/11 06:03 PM
Tony's "Little Italy", Italian Restaurant, Village Of Providence, Huntsville Alabama
Recently an out-of-state client emailed me, asking about restaurants, and where they could get good pizza.  My initial response was; "so you decided to move to Chicago"?  Of course I knew they wanted info about restaurants here in Huntsville and Madison Alabama, but but as unfair as it may be, Chicago is the city that I tend to judge or measure all other cities restaurants by, including hot dog joints.  
I emailed my client back a few names of restaurants and Tony's "Little Italy" was one of them.  The fact … (8 comments)

Cross Creek, Madison Alabama, Homes For Sale - 05/23/11 08:54 PM
Cross Creek, Madison Alabama, Homes For Sale
Cross Creek subdivision is actually in the Harvest/Monrovia area just north of University off of Balch Road, but with a Madison Alabama address.  Close to shopping and the new Madison Hospital under construction on the corner of University (Hyw 72) and Balch, Cross Creek is a subdivision of newer homes with an easy commute to downtown Huntsville, the Redstone Arsenal and Cummings Research Park.  The schools that service this subdivision are Providence Elementary & Middle Schools and Columbia High School.
There are currently five homes for sale in Cross Creek priced from $183,900 to … (8 comments)

Buying Foreclosure Properties And Rights Of Redemption - 05/22/11 03:47 PM
Buying Foreclosure Properties And Rights Of Redemption
 
Rights of Redemption is a topic I've had to explain more often than not these days especially because of all the foreclosure properties on the market.  Rights of Redemption are and well should be of particular interest to anyone considering the purchase of a foreclosed home either as primary residence or investment property.
 
Generally, there are two established types of redemption rights and vary by state.  Equitable right of redemption refers to the foreclosed individuals right to redeem his property before the foreclosure sale.  In order to redeem the property the owner usually has to make up any … (5 comments)

Ruth's Chris, Steak House, Huntsville Alabama - 05/21/11 06:54 PM
Ruth's Chris, Steak House, Huntsville Alabama
Ruth's Chris Steak House in Downtown Huntsville Alabama is one of my favorite restaurants in the area.  Located at 800 Monroe in the lobby of the Embassy Suites Hotel and next to the Von Braun Center and Big Spring Park, Ruth's Chris offers views, convenience and atmosphere in a very accessible location.  
In the mood for lobster, shrimp, filet, prime steak???  When you've finished dinner don't forget about dessert...cheesecake...Creme Brulee...Warm Apple Crumb Tart...I'm making myself hungry and Ruth's Chris is the place to be hungry...and here's a little hint...if you have a special dish … (7 comments)

Huntsville Botanical Gardens, Huntsville Alabama, Small Equipment Maintenance Around The Home - 05/20/11 07:36 PM
Huntsville Botanical Gardens, Huntsville Alabama, Small Equipment Maintenance Around The Home
Where:  The Huntsville Botanical Gardens4747 Bob Wallace Avenue,Huntsville Alabama, 35805Phone:  256 830-4447When:  Saturday, June 4, 201110:00 a.m.-11:30a.m.The fee for Garden members is $20 and non-members is $25.  Call the Education department at:256 830-4447 X 242  or email:  vlemieux@hsvbg.org
When I heard about this class I thought it was a great idea and that it was good info for any home owner or soon to be home owner that would take some of the mystery out of maintaining small engine equipment so many of us have around the home.

Okay...this is … (7 comments)

The EuroBrit Auto And Bike Expo - 05/19/11 07:46 PM
The EuroBrit Auto And Bike Expo
Presented at Dublin Park, Madison Alabama8324 Madison Pike, 35758Phone:  256 772-9300

Presented by the North Alabama British Motor Society, The EuroBrit Auto And Bike Expo comes to Madison Alabama.  The date is June 4th, 2011 and all British and European cars.  Madison Alabama's Dublin Park will play host to some very exotic and not often seen cars.  Jaguar is sure to be well represented as well as, Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, BMW, Porsche, Volvo and so many others.
 
Come register your own very special Marque from 8:00am-12:00.  The show and voting is from 10:00am to … (7 comments)

Steve Martin,Just A Wild And Crazy Guy, Huntsville Alabama, Von Braun Center - 05/18/11 06:07 PM
Steve Martin, Just A Wild And Crazy Guy, Huntsville Alabama, Von Braun Center
Before all my friends and acquaintances nod in agreement, I'm not talking about myself (this time).  I am, however, talking about the wild and crazy Steve Martin.  
My first recollection of Steve Martin was when he wrote for the Smothers Brothers in the late sixties, but I think the world really sat up and took notice when Martin did guest appearances on Saturday Night Live.  He actually  was not a cast member as many thought because of the number of appearances he made on SNL.  Steve Martin … (6 comments)

Huntsville Museum Of Art, Huntsville Alabama - 05/17/11 07:15 PM
Huntsville Museum Of Art, Huntsville Alabama
Huntsville Museum Of Art, Huntsville Alabama has always been a special place for me to visit ever since I stepped foot in Alabama.  The first thing I did after getting settled in my new real estate office was to visit the museum.  Located at 300 Church Street in downtown Huntsville next to Big Spring Park and lake the perfect back drop providing for a relaxing stroll in the middle of the city or when ever the moment strikes.  Also located at the north side of the museum is Pane e Vino Pizzeria...great for a light … (9 comments)

Madison Alabama, The Villa's At Madison, Condominiums - 05/16/11 07:21 PM
Madison Alabama, The Villa's At Madison, Condominiums
One of my favorite Condominium Communities in Madison Alabama is  The Villas At Madison.  It's location can't be beat, central in Madison just off of Hughes Rd., The Villas At Madison is just a minute away from the Kroger shopping center with plenty of restaurants at hand, including Bruegger's, Lawlers and Casa Blanca.  Condominiums at The Villas At Madison are a great first home or perfect for those wanting to downsize and have less home maintenance to tend to.  The Home Owners Association dues are $200-$220 and include Clubhouse, pool, yard maintenance, common grounds, … (5 comments)

Orchids, Heart Of Dixie Orchid Society, Annual Auction - 05/15/11 03:20 PM
Orchids, Heart Of Dixie Orchid Society, Annual Auction
The Heart Of Dixie Orchid Society's Annual Auction will once again be held in Huntsville Alabama, Monday, May 16, 2011 at the Huntsville Botanical Gardens, Murray Hall.  Plant preview will start at 5:30 PM  with the auction beginning at 6:00 PM.  The event is a fundraiser for society programs and upcoming shows.
 
Orchids are a terrific addition around your home and if you've ever wanted to learn more about growing orchids, proper care of your current plants or the different types of orchids and which ones do best in your particular climate, … (8 comments)

Newk's, Restaurant, Huntsville Alabama - 05/14/11 07:25 PM
Newk's, Restaurant, Huntsville Alabama
I've passed by Newk's many, many times and have heard recommendation's that I should stop in for lunch some day and today was the day.  I really didn't know what to expect or even what the menu offered, but it was late, I was hungry and there was Newk's. 
Things didn't start off great as I gave the girl my order...I got the feeling from her that she had better things to do and that I was an inconvenience in her daily routine.  Maybe she was having a bad day...who knows...anyway I wasn't impressed with her service … (11 comments)

Bruegger's, Baked Fresh Bagel's And Deli Sandwiches, Madison Alabama - 05/13/11 06:52 PM
Bruegger's, Baked Fresh Bagel's And Deli Sandwiches, Madison Alabama
I want to bring your attention to Bruegger's, Baked Fresh Bagel's And Deli Sandwiches, Madison Alabama.  I'm not quite sure why I haven't been in Bruegger's for lunch before now, but I'm glad I finally made it.  I have stopped in the morning for a bagel...a Rosemary Olive Oil Bagel...and that was really good.  So, today I stopped for a quick lunch and had a Turkey sandwich.  It was very good and large which is also good in my book.  I also had a Mighty Mango "Naked" fruit drink...it came in a bottle, … (6 comments)

The Village Of Providence, Grille 29 Restaurant, Huntsville Alabama - 05/12/11 07:04 PM
 
The Village Of Providence, Grille 29 Restaurant, Huntsville Alabama
Grille 29 Restaurant in Huntsville Alabama is upscale dining yet with a casual atmosphere.  Well known as a great steak and seafood restaurant offering Fillet's, Scallops and Lobster, be sure to save room for dessert because they are among the best I've had here in the Huntsville area.  Their Chocolate Souffle' is a must and my favorite, but be sure to let your waiter know that you want it ahead of time as it takes 20-25 minutes to prepare.
For the quality of service and meals served I feel the pricing … (4 comments)

Fine Artist, Julie Ellsworth, Huntsville Alabama - 05/11/11 06:44 PM
Fine Artist, Julie Ellsworth, Huntsville Alabama
Fine Artist, Huntsville Alabama, I want to give a big shout out to Julie Ellsworth who currently calls Huntsville Alabama home.  Julie and her husband Chris are clients and now friends of mine I'm happy to say.  I learned early on in our business relationship that Julie is a fine artist so I did a post about her and the Huntsville Art League featuring the work of members and of course Julie.  Below is a painting that Julie did of the home they purchased and sent to me as a thank you card.  
My point … (8 comments)

Trans Siberian Orchestra, Beethoven's Last Night Tour, Von Braun Center Arena - 05/10/11 04:41 PM
Trans Siberian Orchestra, Beethoven's Last Night Tour, Von Braun Center Arena
This post comes a little late, but for those living in the Huntsville Alabama area you might want to check this out.  Tonight the Trans-Siberian Orchestra will be performing "Beethoven's Last Night" at 8:00 PM, at the Von Braun Center Arena.  The performance was originally to perform last week, but because of the storms in Alabama the concert was rescheduled for tonight.  Tickets are still available and $1 of each ticket will be donated to disaster relief efforts benefiting those affected by the recent tornadoes that swept through the area.
… (9 comments)

Madison Alabama, Franklin Station, Homes For Sale - 05/09/11 09:50 PM
Madison Alabama, Franklin Station, Homes For Sale
Franklin Station in Madison Alabama is another of the many subdivisions conveniently located in Madison with easy access to major road ways, schools, shopping and employment.  Located just south of Gillespie and east off of Balch Road.  Your children will attend Columbia Elementary, Liberty Middle and Bob Jones High.

Below left is one of the beautifully maintained homes for sale in Franklin Station offering four bedrooms and for baths and a spacious 2800 square feet and the Cabana on the right is just a block away from this home.
 
Special attractions in the area include the Bridge … (1 comments)

Madison Alabama, Heritage Plantation, Homes For Sale - 05/08/11 06:17 PM
Madison Alabama, Heritage Plantation, Homes For Sale
Heritage Plantation, just off of County Line Road in Madison Alabama is a beautiful community of luxury homes.  Located minutes away from I-565 for quick access to downtown Huntsville the Redstone Arsenal, Decatur and of course shopping such as the near by Publix Grocery Store.  
Heritage plantation is in the Heritage Elementary, Liberty Middle and Bob Jones High School system, one of the most sought out schools districts in the area.  There is a well funded Home Owners Association maintaining the common grounds including clubhouse, pool and tennis courts.
To view photos and … (10 comments)

Rocket City Mustang Club, Huntsville Alabama...The Show!! - 05/07/11 06:45 PM
Rocket City Mustang Club, Huntsville Alabama...The Show!!
There were lots of Mustang's at the 31st annual Rocket City Mustang Club today, here in Huntsville Alabama.  Some newer models and many older cars and a few you might not have expected.  The first car photo is dedicated to My Canadian friend Jenny Kotulak as I found out that she owned a 1969 Mustang Mach I when she was 19...as a side note I bought a 1970 Mustang Mach I when I was 19.  I don't know what color colour her car was, but didn't think she would mind.
 


The … (7 comments)

WHNT NEWS 19, Donations Drive At The Huntsville Alabama Kroger's - 05/06/11 05:58 PM
WHNT NEWS 19, Donations Drive At The Huntsville Alabama Kroger's
ONLY TIL' 11:00 PM THIS EVENING
This post comes a little late because of technical difficulties experienced in the ActiveRain network, but it is still important to get this information out about the work WHNT 19 News is doing to collect donations for disaster relief due to the recent tornadoes that rolled through Northern Alabama.
If you can and want to make donations through, WHNT NEWS 19,  that goes directly to The American Red Cross and stays in the Tennessee Valley then please click on the following link where you can … (12 comments)

Recent Tornado Damage In Alabama - 05/05/11 09:04 PM
Recent Tornado Damage In Alabama
I don't plan to dwell on the recent tornadoes going through Alabama, but wanted to show a few of the photos very near my home...these are the only photos of the aftermath that I will post...any future photos will be of the rebuilding.
Some homes were left standing, but damage while others like the one at the end of the drive in the photo below right were less fortunate.
 
There were homes in both of the photos below.
 
People once lived here too.
 
These photos were taken just blocks from my home...the rebuilding … (0 comments)

Rocket City Mustang Club, Huntsville Alabama - 05/04/11 11:16 PM
Rocket City Mustang Club, Huntsville Alabama
Mustangs are one of my favorite cars, particularly the cars from the sixties and early seventies.  That could be because I once had a 1970 Mustang Mach I...a great car for this then twenty year old.  It did my heart good when ford revived that body style a few years ago and that Carrol Shelby was called in to work some of his magic with the newer cars was icing on the cake.If you are a muscle car buff...Mustangs especially, come join the Rocket City Mustang Club on May 7, 2011 for their 31st annual … (8 comments)

31 Day challenge for May...Day six surviving the Alabama tornadoes - 05/02/11 10:43 PM
31 Day challenge for May...Day six surviving the Alabama tornadoes
My perspective is going to be a little different than some of the folks who are dealing with this situation that have lost everything, but many residents are dealing with last weeks storm as I am...mostly without electricity.  We are fortunate to have running drinkable water, but as most hot water heaters are electric that also makes for a very cold shower...very cold!  Stove tops are also mostly electric so that means no coffee first thing in the morning...I don't know about you, but I pretty much live on coffee...If I … (15 comments)

My first post to the 31 days of May challenge - 05/01/11 11:03 PM
My first post to the 31 days of May challenge
This post will no doubt be lacking in quality and short because I'm posting this from my Droid...there is no power here in northern Alabama due to storms and tornadoes that rolled through last Wednesday.
I thought that I would write briefly about the great job the police, utility companies and clean up and rescue crews are doing.  I also need to give kudos to the salvation army and volunteers making life a little easier for those affected by the recent storms.  This has been quite an eye opening experience...everything can … (16 comments)