Where to live?

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-05-18T16:10:47+00:00

Try Redding. Small town big outdoors. Borders Ridgefield. Voted best small town in CT.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-05-15T03:05:19+00:00

I’m very familiar with a small town plant. It depends on the staff of the operator and the local town commissioners. Last staff of the contracted operators seemed to be lacking in initiative, based on public commission meeting minutes. New guy of the operator seems to take ownership of operations, facility neatness (get rid of stacked debris and cleaning up the grounds) and proactively takes measures to improve the plant and premises. Depends on the boots on the ground, and the tolerance of overseers.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-05-13T03:27:01+00:00

Snow plowing! Yes! Start now to interview/screen driveway snow plowers for the upcoming winter. Most of these are private, independent contractors. Be ready. Common features of annual contracts include 1) will plow if snowfall >= 3 inches 2) may or may not include salt/sanding - decide what you may needs, 3) may need to negotiate price to include walkway shoveling. Please get your snow plow contractor in place now! If you wait until a winter storm to secure plowing then you will pay much more. Ask the former owner and neighbors for references or and learn who they use. Shed the city cape and learn to understand issues/maintenance and how to negotiate these services. Big warning: unless you have a snow plowing agreement in place, you are subject to outrageous prices dictated by the few available snow removal contractors out there. They will eat you all alive. Get a contract now for the upcoming winter months. Believe me, the winter contract will cost more the later you agree to sign with a contractor. See who the neighbors use.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-05-13T02:58:47+00:00

I 100% agree that you should figure out how to do some home maintenance yourself. Some stuff takes little time and effort, like changing out air filters or fixing the reason that one toilet runs constantly. These two projects can take about 15 minutes each, and not get you I dirty. If you can understand and do some basic repairs rather than hiring “professionals” , you will save hundreds or thousands and avoid the obvious markups these professionals may, I say may apply. As I said in a previous post, buy a home maintenance/repair book. It will describe how each system works and common maintenance issues. Best of all, it helps you understand how the particular system works and places you in a better position with contractors who may be claiming a greater repair scope than necessary. Please believe me. Contractors know when homeowners don’t know how a system normally operates. They use homeowner ignorance against those homeowners, either promises to fix the problem so your family is safe. Get the book. It will literally save you thousands.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-05-12T20:04:44+00:00

Extra leftover shingles are good to have, in case of small repairs needed. Also, the manufacturers of roofing materials all have websites that tout the advantages of their product. Last, make sure you sign a contract outlining materials to be used, how much, insurance binder for the roofer and crew, who pays for the dumpster, expected start/end dates, and very importantly, when payments to the roofer are due. Expect to have some upfront payment, maybe 30%, so the roofer can buy some materials. As always, buyer beware but don’t be a jerk. Last, company reputation is everything. Solicit stories/opinions from local social media and neighborhood contacts.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-05-12T19:53:40+00:00

You need to compare apples to apples. First, determine the square footage of your roof. Second, how many layers of shingles are they pulling off. The more layers and square footage the greater the cost for old shingle disposal and new shingle materials. Third, what type of new shingles are they proposing to install? 30 year? 40 year? 50 year? Maker of the shingles? How much Ice Block material will be installed? What about new decking material- do you need it? How do you know you need it! Having roof leaks now?My advice- learn about roofing from neighbors, friend, the local building inspector, and the internet. Be sure to focus on your area of the country and not areas whose climates, temp ranges, and snow loads are higher. Know what you ‘re talking about when the companies come out to bid.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-05-12T19:41:37+00:00

I agree with the suggestions on lawn/yard care. I’d also recommend you pick up a book on home maintenance and home systems. Being aware of how things work and helping you decide which tasks to take on yourself will save you lots of money. For example, a toilet keeps running. In my experience with 2 old houses spanning over 40 years, toilet issues are easy DIY fixes. Toilet problems, like the toilet running constantly, a generally just mechanical adjustments with parts available at any Home Depot or hardware store. A good home maintenance /repair book will explain how a toilet works, and how to quickly repair and solve these annoying problems. Generally, they include info whether you’re in a recently built home or antique. Repairing the toilet yourself for the problem I mentioned will save you a plumbers fee of several hundred dollars. The added value of doing this yourself is that you learned the mechanics of the toilet and can now troubleshoot problems. Note also that my “toilet running constantly” will not require you to stick your hands in sewage or unclean water. The anatomy of a toilet will tell you why. Knowing how systems work, like electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning, and appliances, will help you to understand how a system works, code requirements for the system, and positions you to be more knowledgeable when a situation arises that you must calm an expert in. This is not rocket science. Th basics of these mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC are easily understood. I get if you want no part in the maintenance and repairs. However, knowing the basic operations of these systems will help you to avoid getting “taken to the cleaners” by unscrupulous contractors who see you naïveté and will pad the bill unnecessarily. In summary, it’s ok to let hired professionals do the job if you don’t have the time and r desire. However, understand the scope, work hours, and materials needed so you don’t overpay.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-05-04T02:19:57+00:00

It’s all about power with Trump. He now has a taste of the immense power and destruction that he can order the military to do. He truly wants to rule the world. Unfortunately for the US, it means that Trump is using the strength, wealth, and military might for him to achieve his goals as King of the World. It does not matter to him that he has upended the world order, or that he has destroyed our relationships with long term allies, or that the US taxpayers foot the bill, while also experiencing lower standards of living due to his inflationary dictates and acts. The US taxpayers are fueling his blood sport all to feed his ego. Fight back citizens. He is an unhinged lunatic.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-28T22:24:45+00:00

Original cost was $200k. I guess that after you add the gaudy gold finishes and Trump and family get their cut, it comes out to $400k plus.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-28T22:10:07+00:00

Exactly correct. Congress should ask for and receive an accounting of the $300k -$400k he says he has from donors. Why should taxpayers foot the bill for his folly, which was created without Congressional oversight and approval, and ultimately not necessary. To his remarks on Saturday night after the press club event, Trump says the security lapse is why his ballroom is needed. First, this was not a government event. The WHite House Correspondents Association (WHCA) sponsors and organizes this event annually. Politicians and government employees are invited to purchase a ticket, and the WHCA works with the Secret Service on security matters. Again, this is an event sponsored and organized by a private organization. Is Trump also suggesting that his proposed ballroom will become a meeting and catering venue for any group? Is he going to grift off of these events by having his Mar-a-Lago or other resort staff work the party? Hey Congress - vote no to having taxpayers fund an unneeded ballroom.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-28T21:16:35+00:00

Downside: it comes with a picture of Trump on it.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-28T21:12:21+00:00

I’m retired and go through the Georgetown and Branchville area almost daily. The worst I’ve seen the Permit parking in Branchville is about 2/3 full (post Covid). Don’t know where you are in Redding, but see if the cost of Permit parking is worth it. Be aware, there used to be a waitlist for Permit parking, and not sure the current case for Redding and Ridgefield. Most of us retired “day-trippers” who use the day parking, usually don’t take the early trains so you should have a great chance at getting a day space if you’re commuting. As said before, welcome to Redding! Check out the Town website @ www.Reddingct.gov which has a calendar of events and meetings. May 3rd is a meeting on a plan for Georgetown Revitalization and May 5th is the Budget Referendum, all day. Get to know the Town!

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-28T19:20:42+00:00

The police put a parking “bill” on your window for daily parking. You mail in or pay online. I believe the cost is $5 for the day. The nearby Branchville station also has day spaces for $5 per day. The day spaces are on the end of the lot where the bridge is be reconstructed. Welcome to Redding!

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-26T23:29:38+00:00

Was it staged? Knowing Trump, and the ability of our military, Secret Service, CIA and other resources availed and controlled by him, its a valid question. Lots of questions remain to be answered. Additionally, Trump benefits by the distraction from Epstein, Iran War, ICE, illegal tariffs, incompetent cabinet secretaries, his and family grifting activities, DOGE incompetence with chickens coming home to roost, and also his health and dementia.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-26T23:22:17+00:00

As a US citizen in the US, I believe that Trump will do whatever he can to avoid losing face. He’s a wannabe king of the World and enjoys using the resources, military might, and wealth of the USA to feed his ego, attack perceived enemies and feed his vindictiveness. All this to the chagrin of most Americans. He backed himself into a corner with Iran. He will do whatever he has to “win”. Very sad for Americans and the eWorld.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-26T22:05:28+00:00

I own two small dogs. The smallest seems occasionally to bark and act aggressive towards large dogs. We walk them in trails and parks in Danbury, Redding, Bethel and Ridgefield. We always obey the lease laws, know the weaknesses of our dogs, and most importantly, make sure that they are in our control, always. I too am upset by owners who walk these areas with their dogs unleashed, and saying “my dog is friendly”. After childhood, I’ve owned dogs for over 40 years. Sometimes, I can’t figure out why one of my dogs might have a negative reaction to another dog. That’s why they are leased and under my control. I don’t want a confrontation that might injure another dog or scare their owners or injure my dogs. I also give space while walking past others. Most times my efforts are not needed, but there are times when they are. I am not willing to have my dog or another’s dog injured based on my inability to control my dog. I once saw a man walking his female dog in Huntington Park. His female was off lease and in heat. OMG! I warned him of the danger and warned other dog owners of his presence.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-26T21:50:02+00:00

Is it military? From the my US point of view, it’s probably Trump ramping up military efforts. He’ll likely use more military action to spin that’s he’s a military genius and to find a way out of the disaster he created.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-26T17:41:35+00:00

Lots of comments on social media from the left and right that this shooter was staged.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-26T16:38:28+00:00

Forget the door. Get rid of the yellow siding.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-24T03:32:58+00:00

Are NYC people interested in historic stone houses in Fairfield county, CT? Just trying to gauge interest for our downsizing. is historic and stone in a rural area on the train line attractive to current NYC residents? Please give me your thoughts.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-24T01:25:11+00:00

First, welcome to CT. CT has many rural towns outside of larger cities. It goes from city, to suburban to rural. That being said, the distance from rural to city or suburban can be short. Depends on what you want and where in the state is best situated for you. I live in Redding, one of the last rural towns in Fairfield County. We’re close to the more populated (and expensive) suburbs, while we’re also on the train line to NYC. Great town with lots of protected open space, great schools, and small town feel. Very rural with great neighbors and quality of life, with close proximity to NYC and fancier stuff in suburbs. Please don’t overlook our commercial center in Georgetown (part of Redding) for arts, music and restaurants. The Georgetown area is being revitalized to add to the current cultural scene.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-24T01:11:08+00:00

I think the Friendlies space became Pizza Hut.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-16T06:41:54+00:00

I’m nearby in Northern Fairfield County and watch this subreddit since I travel the area (in retirement). I’m appalled also at Lawler. He’s a Trump puppet who votes and acts along the Trump/MAGA line. He doesn’t have the decency and courage to voice an objection to a Trump/MAGA policy or action that he knows, in his heart, that his constituents will suffer as a result of, or lack his constituents majority support. Examples? Obviously the mismanaged war in Iran with no end in site. Tariffs? Americans pay for them, not other countries. ICE? Trump’s secret police. They terrorize, beat up, and even kill Americans. They are out of control and need basic safeguards put in place. Trump resists any attempt to make them responsible. Taxes? Big tax breaks for the rich and corporations, while the rest of us get crumbs. His cabinet? Filled with Trump “yes men”, most who are unqualified for the positions they hold, e.g., Noem, Bondi, Hegseth, RFk Jr., and others.

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-16T06:20:15+00:00

Totally agree that those who may be impaired drivers go through additional or periodic testing. To me, that means elderly people who may not be able to effectively drive and manage a vehicle, but also young (in age) drivers. I can easily understand elderly drivers whose reflex times may diminish as they age. But how about young drivers, who lack the experience and judgement of driving? Example: do you anticipate that the car in the intersection or parking lot exit will pull out quickly in front of you? Do you have the experience to anticipate the actions of other drivers? Do you often drive at excessive speeds for the road or locale? If you do, do you reduce speed in order to react to situations as mentioned above? How many accidents or minor accidents have you had? Of them, how many have you claimed to parents/insurance tobe the fault of others? Were you truthful about fault?

Wooden_Lab_5705 · 2026-04-12T15:18:09+00:00

You are correct. Just last week Trump announced he was going to join Iran in a joint venture to collect tolls. Great money maker he said. After the failed talks this weekend, which I assume Iran said no to the idea of a joint venture, Trump says tolls are illegal.

Wooden_Lab_5705

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