Awards Night - NEK

Quite a few Northeast Kansas Realtors were able to join together for a nice evening last Thursday (12/11/08) at the Holton House Bed and Breakfast. We enjoyed a HUGE meal of Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, relishes and sides to stuff. It was my final meeting as the Northeast Kansas Board of Realtors President. It has been a wonderful 2 years full of networking with quality agents in the area and continual education for our business!

Northeast Kansas...There's no place like home!

Greetings from your Northeast Kansas Agent Resource! As the Today Show put it last Friday..."Northeast Kansas...there's no place like home!" Click on the link : http://www.capfednews.com/ to hear what the NBC's Today Show had to say about our community! In the New Year, consider the Fox Team for all of your Northeast Kansas real estate needs. Our Team looks to conservative resourcing and cutting edge top of the line service. We wish you each a Happy Holiday and a prosperous NEW YEAR!

Making Sense of Energy Ratings

Using the most efficient appliances and products in your home can significantly cut your utility bills. It will also reduce air pollution and damage to the envt! So how do you read one of these crazy labels? The wattage rating listed on a label indicates how fast it uses electricity. The govt has added a feature onto these labels that show standard rati ngs and estimated annual usage. All furnaces, heat pumps and central air conditioners will have one of the following ratings noted below. A higher number indicates a higher efficiency...initially the models that are more efficient are more pricy up front. Have a professional help you decide what model and version would be best for your particular home. HSPF - heating seasonal performance factor - this is a heating efficiency rating that compares the seasonal electricity use of heat pumps. SEER - seasonal energy efficiency ratio - this is a cooling efficiency rating that compares units. EER - Energy Efficiency Ratio - this is the cooling efficiency rating that compares the electricity use for window and portable a/c units. It is less accurate than SEER. AFUE - Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency - this is the heating efficiency rating that compares the fuel use of natural gas, propane and oil furnaces. Water heater efficiency is compared to by EF - Energy Factor. Water heaters havea yellow guide too that lists an approximte energy cost. Visit the Association of Appliance and Equipment Association Web Site - www.gamanet.org to find efficiency ratings and output capacities of heating appliacnes and www.ari.org for air conditioning and refrigeration. You can also visit www.energystar.gov for more information.

Decorate Safely for the Holidays

Here are some tips for using electrical products safely during the holidays: 1) Before decorating, read and follow manufacturers' instructions concerning installation and maintenance of all decorative electrical products. 2) Indors and out, use lights and other electrical decorations certified by a recognized, independent firm such as UL 3) Use lights certified for outdoor use only for outdoor use. The same goes for indoor lights 4) Carefully inspect each light before plugging it into a socket. Cracked, frayed, loose or bare wires may cause a serious electric shock or start a fire. 5) Do not mount or support light strings in any way that might damage the cord's insulation. Never nail or staple light strings or extension cords 6) Always unplug an electrical decoration before replacing lightbulbs or fuses 7) Keep all extension cords and light strings clear of snow and standing water. 8) Do not allow children or pets to play with electrical decorations. (Excerpt from Kansas Country Living Dec 2008) And Most Importantly - Enjoy the Holidays and decorations - its such a magical time!

Christmas Traditions

I had to laugh at our traditional tree decorating experience again this evening. Since Craig and I have been married we've skipped over purchasing a tree and gone out to cut one down. The tradition began when we had been married just a few years - I was still at Washburn Univ. and interning 40-60 hours a week on top of my full school schedule - Craig had long hours and we were driving an hour away several times a week to check on our cattle and we just seemed to let the Christmas season skip by us...I still remember telling mom just a few days before Christmas that year that we didn't have a tree - so mom MADE us drive down there that afternoon and we brought home our 2 foot tall Charlie Brown Christmas Tree from her pasture. I think it was able to hold only 4 ornaments and a 3 foot strand of lights circled twice around! There set forth our own tradition of hiking out into the pasture and finding the perfect Charlie Brown Christmas Tree - either 1/2 of the tree is missing branches or what seems like a 4-5 foot tree outside ends up being 8 foot tall and 8 foot wide once placed in the living room, and we have to rearrange all the furniture again! This year was no different, in fact - it would be even more special as we were unable to enjoy the lights and sounds of the holiday season last year with our 2 week crippling ice storm for the 2007 season! This year's humor could be yet another fun memory of the Christmas holiday. We had 2 ornaments left to put on and as I stand in the doorway, the boys go running by the tree and one of them caught ahold of it and the tree came slamming down in the dining room - on the brick tiles. The look on their faces was priceless - I almost burst into tears with the shock but had to just smile - as I picked up the 7-8 broken ornaments off the floor and both boys were saying over and over again how sorry they were, I remembered these were just material things and looking at their sweet little faces was really all I needed at Christmas. Our tree, while perfect in our eyes, may be a grin to another - as it is now being tied up to the upper stair rail by a Men's neck tie and the upper 1/2 of the lights do not work from the hard floor jolt and we're missing a few of the more memorable ornaments - others are being glued together. As Therron hung the last ornament up that had broken - it was a Boyds Bear on a Wagon, which was now missing all of its wheels, he said "Its okay mommy, the bear is just riding a sled now, not a wagon - you can't ride wagons at Christmas time anyway!" And he is right...

Decorating for the Holidays with your Home on the Market

Add tasteful, generic decorations. “Tasteful decorations can be an asset to a sale,” says David Iannuccilli, CRS, GRI, and co-broker/owner of RE/MAX Professionals in East Greenwich, R.I. But since taste is subjective, we asked Iannuccilli and other pros to define what good holiday taste looks like—and doesn’t. Most define it as “elegant,” “simple,” and “quiet.” Iannuccilli specifies a minimalist approach--one wreath, one tree, one dining table centerpiece. Dana recommends a tall narrow tree to emphasize a room’s height and conserve floor space. In the don’t-do list, Dana cites no “cute” wreaths with gingerbread men or oversized inflatable snowmen on front yards. She also suggests steering clear of personalized objects such as monogrammed stockings. “When decorations get too personal, people have a hard time picturing themselves in the home,” she says. Pat Heydlauff, a feng shui expert in Palm Beach County, Fla., recommends no or few religious symbols, whether crèches or menorahs. Trade nonseasonal for seasonal decorations. To avoid clutter, remove a nonholiday accessory for each seasonal accessory added, says Dana. Don’t imitate Scrooge. Even if decorating seems a Herculean task, don't avoid all decorations. “People expect some, and they add warmth,” says Dana. Think green…and metallic, and white. Too much red and green can backfire. Practitioners suggest a neutral palette of fresh greens, elegant silvers and golds, and classic whites. Karen Fornash, a real estate guru in New York, favors vases of white roses, lilies, and freesia, complemented by evergreens. Christi Page, owner of Top Drawer Hardware in Santa Monica, Ca., suggests replacing a few knobs in a bathroom or kitchen with ones that add a touch of seasonal color. Remember the joy of entertaining. Because home entertaining connotes happy homeownership, builder David Cohen of Hampden Design & Construction in Newton, Mass., suggests staging a kitchen as if you were going to throw a cozy holiday party. “People don’t want things to look stark at the holidays,” he says. Be mindful of valuable gifts. Keep most holiday presents and family heirlooms out of sight to avoid distracting buyers, says Gregg Goldsholl, a practitioner with Weichert Realtors in Larchmont, N.Y. Doing so also is a smart precaution for open houses. “Not all people who tour a home are trustworthy,” Dana says. Keep up decorations for a limited time. While most homeowners love prolonging the holiday spirit, experts suggest curtailing it when the house is on the market. Dave Sears, co-founder of OptHome, a homeownership resource Web site in Winchester, Mass., advises a maximum of two weeks before and two after Christmas. Add warmth and energy. Nothing says holidays more than twinkling lights and crackling fires, but make smart choices. Lights, which also help illuminate a home’s exterior in the dark—particularly important in winter when many showings take place—shouldn’t be left on all the time. Select efficient LED bulbs and use them with motion detectors or timers, says Rozanne Weissman, senior director of consumer campaigns with the nonprofit Alliance to Save Energy in Washington, D.C. To get a fire going quickly and make clean-up easier, consider manufactured logs, says Mendy Aul, with Pine Mountain in Daleville, Ind. Minimize smells. Holiday aromas—baked goods and live greens—enhance seasonal decor, but overly strong odors from air fresheners and candles may send buyers running, says Deanne Kory, senior vice president with The Corcoran Group in New York. Leave out a plate of cookies, which buyers will associate with the spirit of giving. Play soothing music. Most people get their fill of jingles and carols, so nonseasonal favorites that appeal year-round. Remember winter’s threat, shovel walks rather than have snow and ice become part of the décor. Remember - less is always best. Happy Holidays!

Tips for a Greener Day

Are you one of the Millions of Americans that print the receipt after making an ATM transaction, look at the balance, and throw the receipt away? Of the Billions of transactions every year - If everyone would stop printing their receipts, the paper saved would span the earth 15 times! Also, consider the number of extra paper napkins you take in a restaurant! Do you really need them? Most of them get thrown away! Reduce, Reuse and Recycle! Excerpts from the Today Show, November 19, 2008

10 Things Going Right

10 THINGS GOING RIGHT from Kiplingers.com 11/14/08 Never in modern memory have Americans been so gloomy about their future. A record 90% of registered voters say the country is seriously off on the wrong track, according to the most recent ABC News poll. A long economic slump lasting well into 2009 looks likely. But take heart. The editors of Kiplinger's Personal Finance and Kiplinger's forecasting came up with ten things going right these days. See if you agree: Oil Loses Its Swagger With the U.S. and global economy hurting, oil prices have dropped more than 50% in just three months, from $147 a barrel in July to the $65-$70 range. Remember $80-100 fill-ups at the gas station pump? The national average for a gallon of gasoline is below $3.00, from $4.11 in March, and should stay below $3.50 through next year. Prices for home heating oil and natural gas are also headed lower this winter than last. A Tipping Point for the Auto Industry After years of talk and false starts, finally, all the major carmakers are furiously developing hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles that could lessen our dependence on foreign oil. Meanwhile, desperate dealers are offering unheard-of incentives on new, gas-fired models. For example, Toyota is offering $1,000 cash back and 0% financing on the 2009 Camry, the most popular car in America. Don't drive much? If you've always wanted an SUV or truck, the discounting on some models is extraordinary. Interest Rates Are Low and Headed Lower The prime rate is at 4.5%, which is driving down interest rates on home-equity lines of credit and some consumer loans. The interest rate on a traditional 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is averaging 6.5%, the highest it's been since the summer of '07, but still not too far from the historic low of 5.8% reached in 2003-05 and 1963-65. Homes Are More Affordable Real estate, which was overpriced during the housing bubble, has returned to earth. That's especially good news for first-time home buyers who were priced out of the market. While scare stories persist of credit drying up, the reality is more a return to traditional lending standards that had been thrown overboard-recklessly in many cases-by lenders. That means to qualify you usually need a 20% down payment, sufficient annual income, good credit and a tolerable load of debt. Your Bank Savings Have Never Been Safer The $700-billion federal rescue plan more than doubles the amount of federal deposit insurance on individual bank accounts, to $250,000 from $100,000. Uncle Sam sweetened the pot further on October 14 by providing unlimited FDIC insurance on the non-interest-bearing accounts of virtually all of the nation's small businesses. Plus, a new temporary federal insurance program covers the full value if your money-market-fund shares fall below a net asset value of $1.00 (called "breaking the buck"). The program provides coverage for shareholders for the amount they owned on September 19, 2008. Stocks Are on Sale, and Many Bonds Offer Terrific Yields The current bear market is in the range of the 1973-74 and 2000-2002 downturns, the two worst retreats since World War II. That's the bad news. The good news: Individual blue chips are selling at bargain prices. For example, shares of AT&T (symbol T) sell for about eight times estimated 2009 earnings and yield 6%. Networking giant Cisco Systems (CSCO) sells for only ten times earnings estimates for its July 2009 fiscal year. Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), as steady an Eddie as you'll find, sells for just 13 times '09 forecasts, and Google (GOOG) is going for less than 15 times estimates. Triple-A-rated tax-free bonds, an extraordinarily safe investment, are paying 5%-plus for ten years and 6% for 20. That's more than the Treasury offers for bonds of the same maturity. The Miracle of Technological Innovation Continues Been to Best Buy, Sam's or Costco lately? For $799, you can buy a 42-inch, high-definition flat-panel TV that will knock your socks off. Throw in another $200, and you can get a surround-sound system to truly transform your den into a home theater. A top-of-the-line PC with more memory than you'll ever use now costs $1,000; high-end laptops with all the bells and whistles go for $1,200, down from $2,000-$4,000 five years ago. And giant leaps in handheld devices, such as Apple's new iPhone, have revolutionized the way people interact with the world. (Use our PriceGrabber tool to compare prices.) Prosperity Reigns in the Heartland The fall harvest is shaping up as one of the best ever, despite the destructive weather and floods in the Mississippi River corridor since last spring. Exports of U.S. farm products will increase more than 40% by value this year. And recent years of high profits have allowed farmers to pay down debt so low that it accounts for a measly 9% of their assets -- providing all the credit they'll need for 2009 operations. At home, while food prices jumped sharply earlier this year, the weak economy is now expected to slow further price increases. A New Tone in Washington Whether it's Barack Obama or John McCain who enters the White House in January, election of a new chief executive should provide at least 100 days of galvanizing certainty for markets, and a new direction and sense of purpose for the country. Shoppers Can Expect Great Gift Buys This Holiday Season Retailers depend on robust end-of-year sales to turn a profit, but for 2008, the National Federation of Retailers forecasts holiday spending will increase only 2.2% from last year. That won't even beat inflation. It's good news for bargain hunters, though. Both brick-and-mortar and online retailers are gearing up to offer huge discounts to boost sales. For example, Deal News predicts a DUAL Core Intel Laptop will go for as low as $299 on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, and a Canon PowerShot SD1100 (recommended in our Simple Tech picks) will go for a very low $139. So chin up. We've been through hard times before. To quote Rudyard Kipling, "If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs ..."

Winter Weather Home Prevention - Tip 4 (2008)

Watering Hoses! Remember in cold climates - its important to drain all of the water from garden hoses before the first freeze! You can use an air compressor to help blow them dry. Any water remianing in the hose is forced out the other end leaving it dray and ready for storage!

Portable Generator Hazards

With the extensive usage of portable generators in the NE Kansas area last Winter, we want to offer yet another resource regarding Safety of using this equipment. Portable generators are useful when temporary or remote electric power is needed, but they also can be hazardous. The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock of electrocution, fire and burns. Every year, people die in incidents related to portable generator use. Most of the incidents associated with portable generators reported to CSPC involve CO poisoning from generators used indoors or in partially-enclosed spaces. To view this article in full, view at htt;://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/portgen.html

Clearing the Indoor Air

While you are locked up over the winter did you ever wonder how safe your indoor air quality is? Your awareness of important gases is critical. Heres a few to pay attention to... 1) Radon - a colorless, odorless gas produced from the rock and soil. US Envt Prot. Agency estimates 1 in 15 homes across the nation reach dangerous levels of radon gases in homes. It comes in from the soil and deep private wells. Over time, lung problems can arise. Consider testing your home for radon gases - you can find them at your local hardware store or at major discount stores or call your local Envt Protection Agency for a list of reputable inspectors. 2) Carbon Monoxide - Gas furnaces, fireplaces or wood and coal stoves built before 1985 are more likely to have problems with carbon monoxide then with later models. This colorless, odorless gas can be present anyweher that fuel burning appliances are not being vented property - Note another blog mentioned re: generator safety during storms - Again, make sure your house has a carbon monoxide detector - found whereever smoke detectors are purchased. 3) Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)- Odors from new carpet, paint and furniture while a nice improvement to your home can also be dangerous VOCS. Ex. Formaldehyde(found in glue in particleboard and furniture) can also be dangerous causing many symptoms. Buy products that are VOC free or make sure items / households are aired out for a few days before they're installed or you live in environment. 4) Second Hand Smoke - Even when filtered thru air purifiers, 2nd hand smoke is dangerous, causing ear infections, asthma and sudden infant death in children. If you must smoke do it outside. 5) Dust and Allergens - Rural homes and workplaces have a disadvantage when it comes to dust and allergens. Pollen, road and field dust and animal dander can trigger asthma attacks, or make lung disesases worse. Keep windows closed during times when dust and pollen are high. You can go to www.pollen.com to find more information regarding your State! Information pulled from Americanprofile.com, by Maggie Koerth-Baker of Minneapolis

New Weekly Fox Team Listings

New Listing at 2646 SW Sherwood Park Dr. - Topeka. 3BR, 2.5 Bath, Full unfin bsmt, 2 car gar - priced in the $170's!

Hogue Constructions 'Heston' Design offers large open living w/ 22 ft vaulted ceilings, function and efficiencies and add'l growth room all in one! Mstr Suite isoversized w/ window seat, his/hers walkin closets, double vanity. Lrg add'l full bath on 2nd floor. Gas fireplace w/ tile abstract, open stairwell w/ pot shelves,and plenty of storage thru home, incl. lg pantry & linen closets.2 Daylight windows, pre-plumb & open space in bsmt allows for much expansion! Specialdetails thru home offer warmth! Call today to view!

Winter Weather Home Prevention - Tip 3 (2008)

The Cold weather season is approaching Fast! While watching the leaves turn deep shades and hues, tailgating on Football Fridays and planning for upcoming holidays with family and friends are top on our minds, it is vital not to forget important winter home maintenance. Here is your newest tip to help get you thru the cold weather season and hopefully help put some cash back in your pockets: TIP #3 Checking your homes insulating system is one of the fastest and most cost-efficient ways to use a whole house approach to reduce energy waste and maximize your energy dollars. You can increase the comfort of your home while reducing your heating and cooling needs by up to 30% by investing just a few hundred dollars in proper insulation and weatherization products. Check your home for air tightness. Here are a few tips: · Locate a leak – caulk, seal or weather-strip. Check doors and windows that leak air too. · Caulk and seal air leaks where plumbing, ducting or electrical wiring penetrates through exterior walls, floors, ceilings and soffits over cabinets. · Install rubber gaskets behind outlet and switch plates on exterior walls. · Look for dirty spots in your insulation, which often indicate holes where air leaks into and out of our home. · Install storm windows over single pane windows · When the fireplace is not in use, keep the flue damper tightly closed.

Insurance Tip: Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Kellerman Insurance reminds all households to not only change your batteries in your smoke detectors this time of year but also consider purchasing a carbon monoxide detector. Common sources of carbon monoxide include oil and gas furnaces, stove/gas ranges, gas line leaks, gas water heaters, generators and space heaters. Remember carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, with a detector you can help keep your family safe. Kellerman Insurance is having a drawing for a carbon monoxide detector. Email us by November 30, 2008 to enter! EMAIL: Kellerman@KellermanInsurance.com (submitted by Kellerman Insurance)

New Weekly Fox Team Listings

New Listing at 404 Friend - Soldier Kansas Priced at $77,500! 2 Bedrooms 2 Baths on 1.9 acres with LARGE attached 2 car garage, lots of work space and could fit 4 cars easily. Adorable front and back porch. Many updates thru home incl. kitchen and baths. 2nd floor bedroom is not incl. in county sq ftg but is large enough that it could be separated into 2 bedrooms. There are 2 large living room / great room areas on the main floor and a separate mud room/laundry room! Must visit today - call 305.1636 to view!

Fox Team Holiday Promotion 2008

The Fox Team has kicked off our Annual Holiday Promotion! Visit any Fox Team Home during November 1 thru November 30th and sign in to win a tray of homemade goodies. The trays to be given away are sponsored by Kansas Secured Title and the Fox Team. Need not be present to win. For more information on how you can enter, contact Craig and Sara Fox at 785.364.0424 or fox2@holtonks.net. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Winter Weather Home Prevention - Tip 2 (2008)

The Cold weather season is approaching Fast! While watching the leaves turn deep shades and hues, tailgating on Football Fridays and planning for upcoming holidays with family and friends are top on our minds, it is vital not to forget important winter home maintenance. Here is your newest tip to help get you thru the cold weather season and hopefully help put some cash back in your pockets: TIP #2 It is important to regulate the heat temperature inside your home so water lines and standard cold weather wear and tear do not create major problems. If your home is vacant and your water lines have been shut down it is extremely critical that you have your water lines professionally 'winterized'. We have seen too often the smallest amount of water left in lines create thousands of dollars in damage to a home!

VOTE NOVEMBER 4th!

Don't forget to get out and Vote November 4th if you have not already!

Winter Weather Home Prevention - Tip 1 (2008)

The Cold weather season is approaching Fast! While watching the leaves turn deep shades and hues, tailgating on Football Fridays and planning for upcoming holidays with family and friends are top on our minds, it is vital not to forget important winter home maintenance. Here is your newest tip to help get you thru the cold weather season and hopefully help put some cash back in your pockets: TIP #1: Falling leaves must be cleaned from your gutters regularly. If your gutters get clogged, rains and ice can cause water back-up, leading to severe damage to your roof and water invading your home. The market has many types of gutter 'covers' that are easy to install and do wonders for proper gutter maintenance.

Recipe Competition 08 - still have time to send those recipes in!

Time is coming to an end to get your recipes in!!!! GET COOKING WITH KELLERMAN INSURANCE AND REAL ESTATE RECIPE CONTEST Have fun with us by entering our recipe contest! Send in one or more of your favorite recipes to us no later than October 31, 2008. Be sure to tell us a little about your recipe, where it came from and why you like it. You can drop them off at our office, mail them to 101 W. 4th St, PO Box 1025, Holton, KS 66436 or email them to sparry@kellermanrealestate.com. Don't forget to put your name and phone number on each recipe! We will have a drawing of all our entries on October 31, 2008. The 5 winners will receive a "Get Cookin' with Kellerman Insurance and Real Estate" apron. Enjoy OUR recipes and share YOUR favorites with us. Hope to hear from you soon!

Chili Cook-off and Fall Harvest

Wow what a day! Sat. Oct 18th set off the first official FALL FEST combination with our annual Chili Cookoff Event! We all really enjoyed ourselves! 25 Chili and soup participants joined the ranks this year - making taste testing pretty heavy on everyones bellies! 10 categories of prizes were awarded thru the day for the chili/soup segment - Craig Fox bringing home the Judges overall choice for Chili and our brother in-law KJ Johnston of Lawrence bringing home the Peoples Choice Award! Pretty exciting stuff! We had almost 20 scarecrows for the first ever ScareCrow competition and if you didn't see the talent - you will need to make it a point to visit next year for the event. Local artisans showcased their talents weaving wheat, pottery wheels, painting and much more as well as pickers and players on every street corner. Plenty of activities were available for the kids to include painting free pumpkins, hay rack rides sponsored by Holton Family Health Center and face painting. Next year we expect to grow yet again trying to add evening entertainment, perhaps a beer garden and kids scarecrow dress-up competitions. In future years perhaps we'll even expand into a BBQ competition! It was a Fabulous day on the Holton Square in Downtown Holton Kansas! Hope to see you again next year!

Price Reductions

13780 246th Rd - Holton 14 Bedroom home on 15 acres w/ pond - price reduced to $89,000!

New Weekly Fox Team Listings

4214 Walnut Dr - North Shawnee County - Topeka This spacious, open living home is priced well in the $130's. Priced affordably, the home still offers 3 spacious bedrooms, including a master bedroom w/ private bath and walk-in closet, a rec room in the basement w/ separate study alcove, pool w/ deck and safety gate, privacy fenced in yard and so much more! Located in the West Indianola Elem. - Seaman school district - and just 1 minute away from Hwy 75 for easy access to Topeka. Call today to view!

Monthly Themed Luncheons a Tradition at Kellermans

(as published in the Holton Recorder 9/25/08-recipes included at bottom) Once a month, the folks at Kellerman Insurance and Kellerman Real Estate in Holton get together for a potluck luncheon. It's an idea that started a couple of years ago with a "Green Food Day" to commemorate St. Patrick's Day. All of them enjoyed that luncheon so much that they decided to make it a regular event. Roger and Cindy Hower are the owners of Kellerman's, and they have eight employees, which include two other married couples. This small dual company has a very close-knit, family atmosphere. All of them work full time for Kellerman's, as well as participating in volunteer work. Each of them have very busy schedules and most have children or grandchildren. All the employees agreed that they enjoy their monthly luncheons because it's a way for them to sit down together in a relaxed setting to talk and catch up on each other's lives. It helps keep both companies connected, said Cindy Hower. The group decided early on to always have a theme for their food day. Most all of them enjoy cooking and trying new recipes. Several in the group love to collect cookbooks so having a theme helps them to narrow their choices of "what to cook". Themes over the years have included "Red Food Day" in February, "Picnic Food Day," "No-Theme Food Day," and of course all the holidays have their own food day. Diana Rieschick mentions a future theme of "Breakfast Food Day". During the first year of potluck luncheons, Cindy Hower said she gave each employee a blank cookbook to fill with the recipes of each dish. All of the cooks bring copies of their recipes for everyone to take home for their cookbook. "The cookbooks are getting quite thick with so many different recipes, " said Sonja Parry. "People rarely bring the same dish twice." Many in the group have specialties they have become know for. For example, Cindy's mother Pat Kellerman, makes wonderful salads and everyone raves about her delicious split pea soup. Cindi Weilert has been dubbed the "cookie queen" of the office, and she often brings her special sugar cookies to the luncheons, but she has kept the recipe itself a secret. It is interesting to note that not everyone brings a dish every month, but all are encouraged to eat and enjoy. Rieschick said their is always plenty of food, and they have never run out. Even the men of the group regularly bring food. Occasionally, one of the men will forget to bring something and just claim a good-looking dish as one of their own, Rieschick said. Most of the employees know who the real cook is. One year around Thanksgiving, Roger Hower and Jeremiah Huyett decided it would be fun to bring a turkey fryer and cook a turkey right outside the office. As they were preparing the turkey, someone noticed that the turkey was still frozen. They hadn't realized it needed to be thawed so they scrambled trying to find a non-frozen turkey they could still cook. Huyett traveled to Topeka to find one, but their dinner turned out very well after all, the employees said. The inspiration for September's food day was based on their busy schedules. Parry mentioned that sometimes they would all get so busy they would forget about the food day until the night before. She laughs her husband sometimes has to give her hints to remind her. September's food day was labeled as "Quick and Easy with a Fall Flair." Some of the recipes were actually prepared in the tiny kitchen before lunch with ingredients picked up at the store on the way to work. Craig and Sara Fox's Four Cheese Lasagne can be prepared ahead of time and baked later. So the next time you walk by Kellerman's in Holton and smell something cooking in the air and hear the sounds of laughter, you can be sure it is just the employees enjoying each other's company at their montly potluck luncheon. Courtesy of Kathy Richards, The Holton Recorder, County Kitchen, Wednesday, September 24, 2008. GET COOKING WITH KELLERMAN INSURANCE AND REAL ESTATE RECIPE CONTEST Have fun with us by entering our recipe contest! Send in one or more of your favorite recipes to us no later than October 31, 2008. Be sure to tell us a little about your recipe, where it came from and why you like it. You can drop them off at our office, mail them to 101 W. 4th St, PO Box 1025, Holton, KS 66436 or email them to sparry@kellermanrealestate.com. Don't forget to put your name and phone number on each recipe! We will have a drawing of all our entries on October 31, 2008. The 5 winners will receive a "Get Cookin' with Kellerman Insurance and Real Estate" apron. Enjoy OUR recipes and share YOUR favorites with us. Hope to hear from you soon! RECIPES: Ranch Style Coleslaw - Cindi Weilert 1 16oz package Coleslaw blend6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled1/2 Cup Ranch Dressing1/4 Cup Sunflower Seeds Toss all ingredients. Chill for one hour. Candied Apples - Sonja Parry 8 cooking apples, peeled, cut in half, and cored1 Cup BRACH’S® Cinnamon Imperials (red hots)2 Cups boiling water Place Cinnamon Imperials in 9x13 baking dish, pour boiling water over them and let sit while preparing apples. Candies should be partially dissolved by time you have apples ready to place into dish. Place prepared apples (cored side down) into dish over candy mixture, take a spoon to drizzle some of candy mixture over top of each apple. Cover dish with aluminum foil, place in 350º oven for 25-30 minutes or until fork tender. Serve warm. Surprise Apple Salad - Diana Rieschick 4 to 5 Apples, cored and cut in to bite size pieces3 )2.07) Snickers candy bars, cut into small pieces12 oz Cool Whip (more or less)20 oz. Can Pineapple tidbits, drained1 Cup Spanish Peanuts Mix all. Refrigerate until serving time. Four Cheese Lasagna - Craig and Sara Fox 1 box Lasagna Noodles, cooked according to pkg. Directions12 oz Cottage Cheese15 oz. Ricotta Cheese12 oz. Shredded Colby/Monterray Jack Cheese BlendOregano26 oz. Favorite pasta sauceOptional: frozen spinach, thawed, drained and pressed Mix cottage cheese, ricotta cheese and half shredded cheeses with half pasta sauce in large bowl. Start layering with chilled lasagna noodles and alternate with cheese mixture and oregano. Top with remaining sauce and shredded cheese. Bake at 350 degrees until cheese melts and slightly browned. For a helathy kick, add spinach layers. No Bake Bars - Kristy Wilson 4 Cups Cheerios2 Cups Crisp Rice Cereal2 Cups Dry Roasted Peanuts2 Cups M&M's1 Cup Light Corn Syrup1 Cup Sugar1 1/2 Cups Creamy Peanut Butter1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract In large bowl, combine the first four indgredients and set aside. In saucepan, bring corn syrup and sugar to boil, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla extract. Pour over cereal mixture and toss to coat evenly. Spread into buttered 15 x 10 or 9 x 13 inch (depending on how thick you want them) Cool and cut into bars. Banana Oatmeal Cookies - Cindy Weilert 3/4 Cup Solid Vegetable Shortening1 Cup Sugar1 Egg1 Cup Mashed Banana (2 bananas)1 1/2 Cups All-Purpose Flour1/2 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon Salt1 teaspoon Cinnamon1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg2 Cups Quick Cooking Oats1 Cup Chocolate Chips Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Mix shortening, sugar, egg and mashed banana well. Add flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir in oats and chocolate chips. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto baking sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes. Cool on wire rack. Yield: 4 dozen Taco Soup - Rob Wilson 1 pound Ground Beef1 Can Rotel Tomatoes1 Can Red Kidney Beans1 Can Pinto Beans1 Can White Corn1 Package Taco Seaoning1 Package of Ranch Dressing Mix Brown the ground beef and drain. Combine everything in a crock-pot and turn on high for 30 minutes or low eight hours. Mexican Soup - Cindy Hower 2 15 oz. Cans fo Black Beans, rinsed and drained16 oz. Diced Tomatoes2 15 oz. Cans of Tomato Sauce2 11 oz. Cans of Mexicorn1 Tablespoon Cumin1 Tablespoon Cilantro1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon1/2 Large Onion, diced1 1/2 pounds browned and drained hamburger Combine all ingredients in crock-pot. Cook on low for eight hours. Shrimp Creole - Roger Hower 1 pound medium Shrimp, shelled and deveined1 Tablesppon Butter or Vegetable Oil1 small Red Pepper1 small Green Pepper1 medium Onion1/4 pound medium Mushrooms1 stalk Celery1 clove Garlic, pressed1 14.5 oz. Can Whole Tomatoes1/4 teaspoon Salt1 Tablespoon Sugar1/4 teaspoon Thyme1 teaspoon Chili Powder2 Tablespoons All-Purpose Flour3 Cups Cooked Rice Rinse and drain shrimp. Heat half of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and saute, stirring until pink. Remove. Wash, drain and thinly slice peppers, onion, mushrooms and celery. Add remaining butter to skillet along with sliced vegetables and garlic. Saute, stirring until onions and garlic have browned slightly. Pour off 1/4 cup of juice from Tomatoes and set aside. Add remaining tomatoes and juice to sauteed vegetables and bring mixture to boiling over medium heat. Stir salt, sugar, thyme, chili powder and flour into reserved tomato juice. Stir into vegetable mixture. Reduce heat and cook until thickened-about three to five minutes. Simmer until vegetables reach desired doneness-anywhere from three to five minutes. Add shrimp and heat through about one minute. Serve over rice. Published Thursday, September 25, 2008 11:38 AM by Roger Hower Filed under: Announcements, Events, Kellerman Real Estate, Holton Kansas, Northeast Kansas, Lunches, Kellerman Insurance, Recipes, Banana Oatmeal Cookies, Mexican Soup, Contest, Candied Apples, No Bake Bars, Four Cheese Lasagna, Surprise Apple Salad, Ranch Style Coleslaw, Taco Soup, Shrimp Creole

Customer Appreciation Lunch

Customer Appreciation Lunch Provided by Kellerman Real Estate and Kellerman Insurance Please join us for a BBQ on the Southeast Corner of the Square FRIDAY, SEPT 26, 2008 11a - 1pm

Fox Family - New Web Page

Hello Friends and Family! Yes, another way to blast our childrens faces in front of our family and friends across the country! Obsessive? Probably! Just don't want to forget a minute of it and want every opportunity to stay in touch with each of you! Much Love and Enjoy! http://foxfamily3.shutterfly.com/

New Weekly Fox Team Listings

518 Orange -Rossville KS - Priced in the $100's Incredible 3 BR, 1 BA home on large lot w/ privacy fence, deck, trees, flower beds, storage shed and a guys heaven - oversized finished garage w/ a/c and upstairs loft! The home has had MANY updates including a floor to ceiling renovation of the bathroom w/ authentic tiles, jacuzzi tub and quality fixtures. The convenience of the updated laundry room and master are just a few of the many bonuses this house offers. The master has a new coffered ceiling. There has been a fabulous tiled wall in the kitchen. The 2nd bedroom offers a add'l alcove toy area or hobby space. The 3rd bedroom could also be a nice study off the front living area.

New Weekly Fox Team Listings

12989 178th Rd - Mayetta Cute, Cute, Cute! Newly completely remodeled. 3BR, 2 BA home - like new inside and out - appx 2000 sq ft (lower level sq ft estimated) ,walkout basement,With great Location in between holton and mayetta on 5 acres in the country that many crave! HIGH efficiency furnace appx 2 yrs old, hot water est. 6 yrs old, roof appx. 1-2 yrs. All new laminate and carpet flooring. New Kitchen, 2 Full newly remodeled Bathrooms. New Dishwasher in kitchen. Washer / dryer included. Even has an apple tree! 3 living rooms PRICED AT ONLY: $129,900

Chili Cook-off and Fall Harvest

Join us for Jackson County's Annual Chili cook-off Sat. Oct 18th on the Downtown Holton Square. Included this year is a Soup Making Competition as well as the old classics of Best Salsa and the Famous Jalapeno Eating Contest! There will be pumpkin painting for the kids and a ScareCrow Making competition between local businesses! If you would like to get your organization into some friendly competition, call Craig Fox at 305.1636 or Sara Fox today at 364.0424. Entry forms and further information will be available the Sept 1st.

Tuscany Harvest Festival

Saturday, September 27th-"Tuscany Harvest Festival" cast $18 per person 4:00-7:00 pm call or e-mail for reservations. Food, live music, wine tasting, grape stomp, names are drawn from people attending to participate in the grape stomp.

Three in School This Year!!!

Ive come to the assumption it never gets easier! As I go running away from the elementary school this morning with tears streaming down my cheeks! My 2nd child is starting Kindergarten today - my 3rd grader is heading up to a new school and my 3 year old is starting Pre-school. Who said moms aren't tough! To get thru a day like today - we're tougher then the little pigs brick house!

New Weekly Fox Team Listings

Lots of New Listings and Price Reductions! 12890 Oak Ridge HOLTON reduced to $275K!!! A steal! Agent Owned and negotiable! 410 Magnolia - HOLTON NEW LISTING - 3BR, 2BA, Fireplace, AMAZING GARDENS and priced in the $160'S 12989 1788th - MAYETTA Completely Remodeled Interior priced in the $120's, just off Hwy 75 - 3BR, 2Ba, 3 Living Room areas plus more on 5 acres! 10961 254th - HOLTON Country living on acreage, Adorable 2 BR, 1 BA home - ready for horses!!! 13780 246th - HOLTON Price Reduction on this 14 Bedroom, yes 14 bedrooms, 15 acre home! Priced now at $95K Must sell! 14761 HWY K-16 - HOLTON on 3 Acres this Country property is FAMILY FRIENDLY! Plenty of rec space - open main living and fabulous master bath!

Leaving a Paper Trail!

While the concept of 'Looking the Part' and 'professionalism' I try to hold dear to my heart - there are moments when I fail to deliver - one of which happened just this past week - too humorous not to post! Another agent with her clients and myself and my clients were taking turns viewing a property and writing offers in the street on a home in Topeka - it was a Hot Property! We had been writing the offers on the back of the car trunk and it was our turn to go back inside to look at a few details. I securely stacked my items on the trunk in the front yard and was standing by the front door when my clients friend jumped, looked at her watch and realized she was running late for a meeting. As I was talking to my client in the front door of the home, I watched her friend drive away - with my pile of papers and car keys on the back of her trunk... Screaming I ran out the door waving my arms and fumbling for my cell phone trying to dial the friends number running full speed down the block in the middle of the street. I got to the end of the block just standing there looking to see if papers were fluttering thru the air or if there was a chance she'd turned around - no such luck! I went running back towards the house calling my client on the cell still in the home while being watched by this other agent and her group of customers! (I can only imagine the spectacle I had created!) Exhausted, I get back to the home - low and behold guess who's coming around the corner from the other direction? The friend - and nothing on the back of her car! She pulls up with a smile on her face and as I leaned over her window, panting like a worn pup, I saw my items in her front seat. Thankfully, when she turned the corner she had seen the items in her rear view mirror and pulled off immediately. My husband asked what I thought I was going to accomplish running down the middle of a road in Topeka after a car...my only thought was I was going to salvage every paper I could find no matter how far I had to go! Good grief! Professionalism :)

Floral Drought Busters

Hot Kansas Summers - though we haven't seen that yet this year - does not mean the end to colorful flowers. Here are a few drought resistent plants to talk to your nursery about: 1) Agastache or licorice mint - attracts hummingbirds and buterflies 2) Artemisia - Noted for their aromatic and silvery gray or white foliage 3) coreopsis - shades of yellow, red and orange - this will bloor thru autumn and is one of my personal favorites 4) germander - great for edging, low clipped hedge or small groundcover 5) goldenrod - tough plants with yellow blooms which thrive in less than ideal soil 6) lady banks' rose - climbs to 20 feet with yellow and white flowers 7) lavendar - highly aromatic great for herb gardens 8) purple coneflower - despite its names comes in many shades attracting many species of birds 9) rudbeckia or coneflower or black-eyed susan - showy until frost 10) salvia - low maintenance with much appeal 11) sedum - one of my mothers favorites - wide range of colors and shapes with long blooms great for borders 12) yarrow - a daisy family member with cluters of tiny flowers from gold to bronze. (Excerpt from Kansas Country Living April 2008)

KAR Mid-Year Meetings

The Week of June 11th, 2008 led us to the Great Wolf Lodge for a Family Friendly couple of days for education, Federal and State updates and regulations and networking. We were updated on contract changes, disaster relief programs, new company software and management opportunities and progress on the years legislative agendas on the table. The FOX TEAM strives to be involved in the Industry so we can be the best at what we do. Because you - our client - deserve it! The meetings hit at the same period as several Kansas tornados struck our hometowns of Chapman, Manhattan and Soldier. Our hearts immediately went out to the families affected - as the Soldier tornado happened in our back yard as well as affected MANY agents and their families and local hometowns. Upon our return I was contacted by several different boards regarding Realtors wanting to donate funds to the victims in NE Kansas. I was able to get a Fund started at Farmers State Bank, thanks to Judy May and with the support of the local Emergency Managemant Director - Pat Korte. This acts now as a central location for tax deductible funds for the Soldier tornado victims or for the Red Cross donations to filter thru. Beyond damaged homes- fences, crop and pasture grounds and farming supplies were also destroyed.

Kansas Tornados - Tornado Safety in your Home

(Pulled from the Northeast Corner Regionalization Initiative - the Pocket Guide to Emergency Preparedness) Before the storm: Develop a plan for you and your family for home, work, school and when outdoors. Have frequent drills, know the county in which you live and keep a highway map nearby to follow storm movement from weather bulletins. Have a NOAA Weather Radio with a warning alarm tone and battery back-up to receive warnings. Listen to radio and TV for information If planning a trip outdoors, listen to the latest forecasts and take necessary action if threatening weather is possible. IF A WARNING IS ISSUED: In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement. If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture. Stay away from windows. Get out of automobiles. Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately. If caught outside or in a vehicle, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned. ALWAYS have an emergency kit available. An easy to carry container like a backpack or duffle bag, with adequate emergency supplies in a convenient location. It's a good idea to keep some cash in your emergency kit. Also, be sure that everyone in the family has a list of impt phone numbers and that you've decided on two alternative places to meet in case you become separated. You can also hop online to www.redcross.org to see their suggestions for an emergency kit.

Tornado Victims Fund

A fund has now been established at Farmers State Bank to meet general needs of recent local Tornado victims. This fund has been approved and coordinated by Pat Korte of the Jackson County KS Emergency Management Office. You can use this fund as a general tax-deductible donation to these victims or you may state any specific needs you wish to meet with your donations - Some examples of calls received by those in need or those wanting to donate include: fencing supplies (miles of fence line have been destroyed for our local farmers), Red Cross assistance, household items, etc. For Donations Contact: Judy May Attn: Soldier Relief Fund Farmers State Bank 209 Montana Holton Kansas 785.364.4691 jmay@jbntelco.net You may also contact Pat Korte at 364.2811 with any questions regarding assistance needs. Thank you for your support!

New Weekly Fox Team Listings

Price Reduction 18465 W Road - Denison - $199,000 - 30 acres with berm home - 3BR, 2 BA, 2 car gar, hot tub hook-up, outbuilding, some pastureland, some crop ground - Fast Close date available. Call today for showing 305.1636 NEW LISTING 322 New Jersey - Holton $77,000 - Newly refurbished brick home - hardwood floors, new heat and air system, new roof, updated bathrooms, sheetrock replacing much of the plaster walls, newer foundation, picket fenced in yard - adorable. History abounds in this home! 4BR, 1 BA, 1 Car Garage

Mosquitos

I have not yet tried this personally - but would think it beats any aerisol can spray...Try it and let the Fox Team know how it works..."I was at a deck party awhile back, and the bugs were having a ball biting everyone. A man at the party sprayed the lawn and deck floor with Listerine, and the little demons disappeared. The next year I filled a 4-ounce spray bottle and used it around my seat whenever I saw mosquitoes. And voila! That worked as well. It worked at a picnic where we sprayed the area around the food table, the children's swing area, and the standing water nearby. During the summer, I don't leave home without it

WEEKLY OPEN HOUSES

12890 Oak Ridge Ln - Holton Thursday, May 9 - 5-6:30p Priced at $299,000 201 Park - St Marys - Friday, May 10th - 5-6p Priced at $210,000 28250 St Clere - Emmett - Friday, May 10th - 6:30-7:30 Priced at $119,000 12890 Oak Ridge Ln - Holton - Sat., May 11 - 10:30-11:30 Priced at $299,000

New Weekly Fox Team Listings

NEW LISTING - ST MARYS KANSAS $210,000 New Construction by Montgomery. 3BR, 2 BA, Full Unfin. Bsmt. Corner Lot - Grand Covered Entry to open living/dining. Tiled fireplace, tiled kitchen floor, CWP St Marys Cabinets (open up the cabinets, there are some fun surprises). Vaulted ceiling in office and grand master bedroom/bath combo. Covered back deck looks out onto pastureland. South edge of St Marys in new development. These homes are selling fast! Call the Fox Team Today 364.0424

Kitchen - More Energy Saving Tips

1 - Recycle! Kick those cleaned-out cans, jars, plastic bottles and pizza boxes to the curb on recycling day. When sorting plastic containers, look for #2 and #3 on the bottom and trash or reuse the rest. 2 - Reduce waste. Buy in bulk, pick fresh ingredients and look for products with limited — or at least recyclable — packaging. Switch to cloth napkins or buy paper towels and napkins labeled "recycled," "unbleached" and/or "post-consumer waste." 3 - Grill it! Outdoor grills take less energy than your stove and keep heat out of the house, reducing costly strain on your AC. Better still: upgrade to induction cooking — it’s most efficient. 4 - Ditch the plastic bottles.Outfit your kitchen tap with a purified water filter, and tote around a refillable sports bottle, made of glass, aluminum or recycled plastic. 5 - Chill out. Fill empty space in your refrigerator or freezer with crumpled newspapers or full water bottles — it improves cooling and saves electricity and money. 6 - Clean greener. Scour cast-iron pans with salt to preserve seasoning, turn off the tap while scrubbing dishes and only run a full dishwasher. Plus, stock your pantry with the best natural cleaners: baking soda, lemon juice, white vinegar and club soda. 7 - Go compostal! Feed fresh kitchen scraps (no meats or oils, please) to a compost pile. Then use the nutrient-rich compost to perk up your herb garden. (FoodTV.com)

New Weekly Fox Team Listings

12985 206th Road had been relisted! At a lower price and with new Home Improvements making this home perfect for your move-in ready family! Priced in the Mid 140's! The exterior log siding has been treated and should curb immediate future maintenance. The Master bath has been updated to include a high quality flooring and master vanity. Like stainless steel appliances? The Sellers would consider letting this New Trio of gear stay with the home! Call today if you wish to see this fabulous home! 3BR, 2BA on 3 acres South of Holton on Dead-end road! Price Reduced on newer 3BR, 2 Ba home on edge of Mayetta, placed on a cul-de-sac. This home sits on a large lot with privacy fence offers much in the way of add'l growth space with it's unfinished Basement! Call Today! ONly 15 minutes from Topeka!

WEEKLY OPEN HOUSES

Saturday, April 19th VISIT Craig and Sara Fox in Holton and surrounding areas for our weekly open houses... Sat April 19th 207 N Fifth- Mayetta (120's)12-12:45, 17420 Stoney Drive - Mayetta (130's), 1-1:45, 623 W 1st - Holton (109K)2-2:45, 521 W 6th - Holton ($73K)3-3:45, 617 New Jersey - Holton ($90's)4-4:45, 18465 W Road - Denison (200's)12-12:45, 717 Pennsylvania - Holton (90's)1-1:45, 327 Lincoln - Holton (70's)2-2:45, 28250 St Clere Rd - Emmett (100's)3:30-4:30

Noxious Weeds - Treatment

If you live on acreage in NE Kansas, you're sure to have passed by some noxious weeds. We've experienced the frustration ourselves of hours of summer hand spraying with costly product such as Tordon to remove the ugly Thistle weeds from areas of our pond dams and heavier grazed areas of the pasturelands. It is a continual man vs nature battle...Noxious Weeds! 4 of the most noxious of such in NE Kansas are Musk Thistle, Johnson Grass, Field Bineweed and the well-known and despised...Sericea Lespedeza (SL). (Note attached pictures for determination of such) I should preface this blog by stating, prior to treatment, it is wise to contact your local County Noxious Weed Dept. to determine the local preferred method of treatment. Treatment by aerial and ground can be costly, but by not maintaining and staying on top of the problem, the lost production and land value in the long run is outweighed by the initial investment. The NRCS has a program to assist in the cost sharing of this process. These weeds, while noxious locally, are often times used as a form of 'alfalfa' in the Southern areas of the country, due to its tolerance of drought and acidity. SL was not declared a noxious weed in the State of Kansas until 1988. In fact, a locally recognized way of managing Sericea Lespedeza is by utilizing goats to forage on it or mowing it down, then having cattle come in and graze it while it's young and low. The State of Kansas utilizes Tordon for treatment. Standardly after 2 years of a strong coverage by air or ground, you should be able to just spot treat it with product such as Tordon. Becoming more prevalent is the fear of aerial sprays or wind and water carrying treatments to nearby Ag-Tourism destinations or croplands such as new grape vineyards in the area. Kansas State University is working on a new insect transplant system to help manage the weed program in the future. As a side note of interest, marijuana while ILLEGAL, is actually not considered a noxious weed. Of other important note, if you own CRP lands, please contact your local Noxious Weed Dept for proper care and management. For more information, contact the Kansas State University Agricultural Studies Department in Manhattan Kansas or your local County NRCS or Noxious Weed Dept.

Foreclosure

Our relationship with our buyers and sellers does not end at the closing table! If you, as a homeowner, are struggling making ends meet...call the Fox Team to see if there may be some options for you. We have a number of Lender professionals that may be able to assist in refinancing or loss mitigation. There are also HUD certified counselors that are trained to assist you in guiding you to meet your financial needs. Call us at 785.364.0424 to obtain a list of these resources

Hot Water Heater - Turn It Down!

the Today Show on NBC just conducted a series on severe burns in relation to water heaters. We find ourselves walking into homes of our friends and families and finding hot water turned up so high as to not even be able to wash your hands. This can be a severe burn threat for children and elderly. Not to mention a severe impact on the environment. Adjust your water heater. If you lower the thermostat on your hot-water heater from about 145 degrees to 120 degrees, the change isn’t likely to be noticeable when you're taking a shower. But this step could save you more than $20 a year if you heat water with gas and more than $50 if your water heater is electric. Talk to a licensed professional about your particular hot water unit - but standardly, at the bottom of the unit will be a dial with 3 arrows. High - Medium and Low. It seems most systems are set in homes at medium, and in many cases, that water temperature is well above 120 degrees. Turn it down a bit below the medium dial until you can detect a comfort level and actually put a thermometer under the hot tap water for a few minutes to confirm the level. Safety and Energy wise - its the little things we all do that can make a difference!

Spring Impressions for Sellers

HEY SELLERS, With the increase in buyer traffic, it’s important to start concentrating on your buyers’ first impressions! Here are a few things we would suggest doing on a property for sale: a)Add potted plants to your front porch and decks. (Potted plants are good this time of year as we may still expect some off and on cold weather. The pots make it easy to bring indoors on those cold nights!) Think Bright Festive colors or Deep Greenery shades and plants that would accent the exterior siding. b)Finish picking up tree branches from the storm and put along the curb for city pick up. If the city has already been by or hasn’t been by for a while, perhaps call Holton’s City Hall at 364-4914. If you have not replaced electrical issues please call City Hall or a licensed electrician. If you live outside of Holton and are wondering whom to call for limb pick-up, please let us know and we’ll research your options. c)Clean the branches/leaves off the roof and gutters. d)Clear out ponds and till your gardens and flower beds. Everyone is in the mood to start planting and that gives a homey offering. e)Hang up bird feeders and houses to attract life. f)Shampoo carpets to eliminate winter grime. g)Consider fresh vase arrangements indoors at your bath vanity, bedrooms or in the kitchen. h)Clear out your winter decorations and excess from the holidays. i)Inspect your air conditioning units and make sure to change filters. j)Clean out fireplace ashes and consider post winter inspection of your fireplace. k)Spend a few hours this weekend on closets changing out Spring attire which will lighten your spaces making closets appear deeper. Oprah Winfrey hosted an ‘organization’ TV Special recently that stated, if each week you gather a trashbag of trash from your storage areas, basement, cubbards or closets and a trashbag full of items to donate to a philanthropy – after a month, you’ll have 8-10 bags of ‘stuff’ out of your home - Think of the spacing impact that would make on your living environment!

New Weekly Fox Team Listings

Price Reduction on 17420 Stoney Dr., Mayetta Reduced $5,000 down to $134,900!!! This ranch home on 3 acres is an all electric house! Full unfinished basement with walkout double french doors - easy finish opportunities as pre-studded for bathroom. Oversized mstr bedroom suite has sitting/office area, corner tub and oversized vanity in mstr bath. All bedrooms have walk-in closets. Wood burning fireplace in living. Rural Water, separate utility. Fresh open living. Amazing view to the East, located bet. Holton and Topeka w/ access to 75 Hwy. HBW 2-10 Home Warranty Provided.

Annual Mission Valley Ranch Sale - 2008

What a Fabulous weekend! Yet again, a great turnout, fabulous weather and Hot Angus on the grill! Over 70 head were sold, mostly Spring and Fall Pure Angus Bulls. It is such a beautiful drive down K-4 heading towards the 'gates' of the Flint Hills. I remember not long ago being able to stand on top of Rattlesnake Mound and look out to the North or West and not see a home for miles. Mission Creek running swiftly by at the base, faint gobbles of wild turkey towards the South, the horses running wild amist the orange and yellow setting sun, the old rusty jeep stale under the cottonwood draw, black dots of angus on the horizon, and periodically, after a good hard rain the hope of finding yet another historic arrowhead on the rocky hillside or in the creek bed. Today, numerous new homes follow the highway thru, built on those rocky bluffs between the corrals and periodic pastureland. But on Sunday, the straight roll of the Auctioneers tounge, the YEPS of the Arena Assistants. The bleachers are full, standing room only. The muddy ranch hands methodically pushing thru the head - lot by lot, living the cowboy dream! One future cowboy, just 3, stands stubbornly in his black hat. As he stands hollering at grandma "I want to ride those bulls Grandma!" Not realizing his little 30 to 1000 pound ratio would not be a welcome outcome - innocence! Grandpa sitting atop the arena stand, always looking so handsome with his hat cocked a bit over his brow. I regularly think of all the special faces and people who have been involved out at the ranch. As they have either lent a hand for registration, cooking the burgers, chasing loose cattle that have slipped by the Ranch Hands or the wonderful guests and visitors who have shown their support over the 50 years. Some of my earliest memories of sale day are of playing in the gravel, hay or grain barns watching all of the old 1970's and 1980's trailers and pick-up trucks roll-in. Over the years earning myself a bit more of a responsibility first running food, then sale bills or supplies back and forth and now to managing the sale day office. Oh, the year we tried the sale at St Marys Sale Barn and when the boys let the heifer out what a memory. She was heading home! Boy Grandpa was not happy with that incident! I believe the calf nearly took out some children running thru an alley, checked out a few police cars and was finally captured 35 minutes later in the St Mary's high school football field by a present day cowboy medium - standing in the back of a pick up truck with a lasso in hand...well, you can't have it all today. We slowly drove it back to the barn with cow following by rope :) Or the year my dad seemed to upset a bull - and it just pounded and pounded and pounded the plate over and over trying to get to dad with this bulls massive - thick head! We couldn't get that thing out of the arena soon enough! Dad always had an interesting way of working with cattle :) We'll chuck this sale up for yet another fabulous memory in our minds. And if you were present - thank you for being part of a special day. To me, it goes beyond that of a business - but the country lifestyle that is just worth holding on to!

For a copy of the published article, go to: http://www.missionvalleyranch.com/Journal/sara.html

New Weekly Fox Team Listings

We have had several Price reductions! 617 NEW JERSEY - Holton Reduced to $99,000! Large 4BR, 2BA, garden room set for hot-tub, updated kitchen, new carpeting, oversized garage/hobby sheds off alley! 207 N FIFTH - Mayetta Reduced to $135,000! Newer construction home w/ full basement, partially finished - ready to complete the rest. New fenced in yard - country view to the East, cul-de-sac setting. Call the Fox Team Today to View these or any other property! Interest rates are still decreasing! Lenders are calling us saying they have new FHA programs that can assist both First Time Home Buyers and the Veteran Purchaser. Our local USDA Rural Development group still has monies available and have recently raised their Home Value. For further information on financing opportunities, call us anytime 364.0424

NEW WEEKLY FOX TEAM LISTINGS

New Fox Team Weekly Listing Post: 120 Nebraska - Holton - - - Priced at $97,000 3BR, 3BA, 2Car Attached Gar. Lots of updates, including dishwasher, countertops, bathrooms, flooring, programmable thermostat, water pond/water feature and rock patio out in backyard and much more. This home is bright and decorated tastefully. The large rec room in the basement inc. add'l bathroom and kitchenette. Lg 2 car garage perfect for your hobbies! You have to see the oversized shower in the 2nd full bath on the main level. Well maintained home on great corner lot in quiet neighborhood with curb appeal! New roof to be completed by close of home! 327 Lincoln - Holton - - - Priced at $76,000 3+BR, 2BA Updated home! Updated oversized bath w/ Jet Tub. Large lot w/ potential for garage addition! Roof 3 years old, Heat & Air and hot water htr 2 years old. Newly remodeled! Must see - adorable inand out! Alley Access. Also incl. all appliances! First Time Homebuyers - Large home which should pass inspections programs well! 18465 W Road - Denison - - - Priced at $205,000 3BR, 2BA 6 year young BEAUTIFUL berm home on 30 acres ,want to save money on utilities,VERY EFFIECIENT!!,all appliances convey,hickory Custom WoodProducts (CWP-St Marys) cabinets ,surround sound THRU-OUT, Beautiful stamped concrete entrance, fruit trees, 36x48 implement shed, stocked crappie pond, some timber & wildlife, 30 min to Topeka - all paved roads, seller" MAY " reserve the right to receive harvest of crops and hay production of 08 season.. Oversized Bedrooms/closets,DON'T WAIT! INQUIRE TODAY!!

Tree Pruning - 4-H Project Talk - Forestry

by Rosalie Wilkerson, 4th year Straight Arrows 4-H The morning of December 11, 2007 I woke up to find the lights were out in my home and school was cancelled. I rushed to the window to see the whole world covered in a thick layer of ice. It was the most wonderful thing I had ever seen. As the frozen water continued to fall, I could hear firecrackers going off outside. What sounded like firecrackers was actually the sound of limbs breaking on trees. Hi, my name is Rosalie Wilkerson. This is my fourth year in the Straight Arrows 4-H Club and my first year in the Forestry project. I want to talk to you about how to help trees recover from the ice storm of 2007. After the ice storm most peoples’ first thought was, “let's get this mess cleaned up.” This unfortunately resulted in removing trees that could have been saved. The Arbor Day Foundation suggests a few simple rules in tree first aid after a storm: · Don't try to do it all yourself. If large limbs are broken or hanging, or if high climbing and chainsaw work is needed, it's a job for a professional arborist. They have the equipment and knowledge needed to prune trees. · Remove any broken branches still attached to the tree. Removing smaller broken limbs is one repair you can make after a storm. It will help reduce the risk of disease. Smaller branches should be pruned at the point where they join larger ones. · Repair torn bark To help the tree's appearance and to remove hiding places for insects, carefully chisel ragged edges where bark has been torn away. Try not to expose any of the greenish inner bark, as this layer contains the tree's food and water between roots and leaves. · Don’t over prune Don't worry if the tree doesn’t look perfect. Your tree may look naked with the branches gone, but you'll be surprised at how fast they will grow new leaves and return to their natural beauty. · Don't top your trees! Some people cut back all of the branches, hoping to keep limbs from breaking in the next storm. “Topping,” which is cutting main branches back to stubs, is one of the worst things you can do for your trees. Stubs will grow back a lot of weak branches that are even more likely to break in the next storm. Severe ice storms can affect trees, but trees can also make remarkable recoveries. It depends on the health of the tree and the techniques used to prune and remove limbs.

My Back Yard: Weekend Front Yard Face-Lift

Transform your yard in 7 easy steps - By Sarah Gleim Picture this: You're driving through the neighborhood admiring the beautifully manicured lawns when suddenly, your scenic drive is jarred by an overgrown, unkempt front yard. You immediately cringe in disgust—but not just at the sight of the yard. You're most appalled knowing that this eyesore is your yard. So, what's a busy homeowner like you supposed to do? Simple. Follow these seven steps and in just one weekend, you'll be sitting pretty in a yard you can be proud to call your own. · Mow the lawn regularly · Edge the Sidewalks and Drive · Trim overgrown bushes and hedges · Clean up and Prepare Flowerbeds · Start Planting · Mulch Flowerbeds · Water – Water – Water http://homegarden.realtor.com/

Green Home Corner: 10 Tips for an Energy Efficient Kitchen

1. Many dishwashers have internal heating elements that allow you to set the water heater to a lower temperature. 2. Let your dishes air dry. Turn off the control knob after the final rinse and prop the door open. 3. Make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight. Test them by closing the door over a piece of paper or a dollar bill. If you can pull the paper out easily, the latch may need adjustment or replace the seal. 4. Cover liquids and wrap foods stored in the refrigerator. Uncovered foods release moisture and make the compressor work harder. 5. Move your refrigerator out from the wall and vacuum its condenser coils once a year (unless you have a no-clean condenser model). Your refrigerator will run for shorter periods with clean coils. 6. Wash your clothes in cold water using cold-water detergents whenever possible. 7. Use the cool-down cycle to allow the clothes to finish drying with the residual heat in the dryer. 8. Place the faucet lever on the kitchen sink in the cold position when using small amounts of water. Placing the lever in the hot position uses energy to heat the water, even though it never reaches the faucet. 9. If you purchase a gas oven or range, look for one with an automatic, electric ignition system. An electric ignition saves gas because a pilot light is not burning continuously. 10. Use small electric pans or toaster ovens for small meals rather than your large stove or oven. A toaster oven uses a third to half as much energy as a full-sized oven. Source: U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency, and Renewable Energy Clearinghouse (EREC)

Slithering Surprises around every corner...

Being a real estate agent comes with its dips and turns. Why? Due to my high percentage of … Yes, that’s right, being Attacked by snakes. Here’s a few TRUE, humorous stories of just that. There was an old home in Mayetta with an historic rock stairway. I descended to open up the basement door for an open house. I reached out, unlatched the lock, went to push on the door and out jumped a small snake, having not seen it hiding in the crevice! When I had pushed the door open I had squished his little tail and he lurched out at my hand – coming with in cm’s away. ‘Quick Draw McGraw’ I am though – as I go screaming up the stairs! Not long after that, a fellow agent had a house for sale in town with an old chimney falling away. My client and I were standing in a rather large pile of leaves and my client said “What’s up with the snakes?” as I looked up the chimney there were 6 big black snakes dangling from the chimney opening – needless to say my courageousness kicked in again. As I went running, screaming like a fool – only to find out after I made a rude call to the listing agent, making him go look at the dilemma, that they were fake snakes posted to keep birds away. So, thinking my fellow agents were playing a joke on my past circumstances, when my husband and business partner finally mentioned the snake that he had seen dangling over my desk for several days from a light fixture – I thought, no way could this be real – and shame on someone! But no, this little gardener snake came in from the old brick attic above, tried crawling thru the light above my desk and SURPRISE – got stuck and died hanging about 6 inches out of the light. Last Fall, 2 6-foot long black snakes had entangled themselves in a lovely mating call in a tree over our house after slithering full blast away from our 3 screaming boys that had bumped into them in the yard. I see my fortunate adventures and actions carry from generation to generation! So, if you have snakes or are unsure, call Sara – she’s sure to find them – a pleasant, present day Medusa at your service. Do you have some fun snakes stories to share? Email them to us and we may post them on our website.