FEBRUARY 23, 2009

TREASURING TREES ....The many benefits of planting trees in your landscape

There are many benefits of planting trees and shrubs.  Some benefits include: *They add dollar value to our property.  Property values can increase 5-15% compared to properties without trees.  *Trees and shrubs increase energy savings by providing shade in the summer and wind and snow protection in the winter.  Trees that provide shade for the home can reduce the need for air conditioning up to 30%.  *Trees are an esay way to make a contribution to reduce global warming.  Trees store carbon.  This is known as "sequestration" or "being a carbon sink".  They remove CO2 from the atmosphere and convert it into food for themselves and oxygen for us.  The bigger the wood, the more CO2 is stored.  One mature tree can absorb CO2 at the rate of forty-eight pounds per year and release enough oxygen to support 2 people.  *  Trees support habitat for wildlife and birds.  * Trees create a calming and beautiful oasis.

Betsy Danielson, owner and designer of Dazzle Gardens, recommends:  "plant evergreens on the north and west side of the home and you'll have protection from the wind and snow and plant deciduous trees on the south the southwest sides of the house to protect from the sun".  Choose non-invasive species to your area.  Native species to your area is the best choice.

by: Kate Crowley and Mike Link from LAKE COUNTRY JOURNAL MARCH/APRIL 2009

February 18, 2009

MAYOR PRAISES ROUNDABOUTS

According to the mayor of Carmel, Indianna, concerns about roundabouts slowing traffic and being too difficult to maneuver are unfounded.  " Traffic flows better, even when the speed limit had been a lot higher before a roundabout was built."

Since 2001, the mayor has ordered the construction of 50 roundabouts in Carmel, a suburban Indianapolis city of 85,000.  There are 4 reasons Mayor Brainard backs roundabouts: Safety, cost Savings, Environental benefits, and Smoother traffic flow.  The city has a 75% reduction in injury accidents at roundabouts compared to the old stoplights at the same intersections.   There are going to be accidents but the "difference is what type of accidents"explains Brainard.

A federal study shows that 68% of respondents viewed roundabouts negatively before they were built, but after construction 73% viewed them favorably.

by: Robin Roy in THE SARASOTA OBSERVER Jan 2009                        

February 9, 2009

GREENLEADER...SIESTA KEY ZEN' HOUSE IS THE STATE'S GREENEST

A Sarasota company's remodeling project scores as the greenest house in the state, according to the Florida Green Building Coalition.

Folding doors open fully to allow cross ventilation and in milder weather, windows at the top of stairwell open to allow warm air to circulate out of the house before it reaches the upstairs bedrooms.  The house has green technologies that are becoming more familiar ---solar water heating, a closed and insulated attic design, energy saving lights and appliances, water saving toliets and other plumbing fixtures.

The healthful interior finishes include green-core cabinets with no added volatile organic compounds; paints, sealers and adhesive finishes.  The landscape is appropriate for the climate.  The five foot overhangs to reduce energy load on walls and windows gives the house a Frank Lloyd Wright flavor.

by  Harold Bubil Home & Real Estate Editor in Sarasota Tribune 2/7/09

January 20, 2009

LIVE DEBT-FREE

"I resolve to Live Debt-Free".  It is that time of year when many of us find ourselves resolving to lose weight....now here's a new twist: resolve to reduce the weight of your debt.  Most of us know the basics; live within your means by spending less than you earn.

Imagine life without a car payment or even a mortgage payment.   Sound impossible?  It is not, but it does take discipline and determination.  You need to formulate a solid plan, then stick with it, and the weight of all those owed dollars will flake away until it's finally gone.  Saving needs to become more important than spending and you will need to ask yourself some tough questions..like, "Do I really need that purchase"?  Your financial future will be defined by your answers.

by:  Tenlee Lund  in LAKE COUNTRY JOURNAL Jan/Feb 2009

January 13, 2009

THE PILEATED WOODPECKER

The Pileated Woodpecker is the largest of Minnesota's nine species of woodpeckers and the second largest in the United States.  The Pilateated ( pronounced: pill-ee-ated) is a crow-sized bird with a thirty -inch wingspan.  Everything about the Pileated's anatomy suggests an extreme adaptation to life in the trees. With mostly black and white stripes running from the bill to the sides of the neck, the Pileated; has a flaming-red chest.  The bill is stout and chisel like and specially designed to jackhammer large oval or rectangular holes in tree trunks to be used as nests and roosts.  The bill can pry off large chunks of bark in trees to find the Pileated's favorite foods, carpenter ants and wood boring beetles and larvae, which build extensive tunnel systems in decaying wood.

The most extraordinary tool in the pileated's arsenal is its long, barbed tongue,  After the Pileated chisels off a piece of bark to expose the smooth surface of the tree, he then inserts its tongue down the maze of tunnels, much like the plumber's steel snake to pierce the bug with the tip of the tongue and the bug is held in place with the tiny barbs while it retracts the tongue.   

If you wish to attract woodpeckers to your feeders in the wintertime, try hanging suet feeders.  You may be lucky enough to attrack a Pileated!

by:  Dominique Braud in LAKE COUNTRY JOURNAL Jan/Feb 2009

January 5, 2009

BRAINERD JAYCEES $150,000 ICE FISHING EXTRAVAGANZA JANUARY 24, 2009

Location:  Gull Lake Hole-in-the-Day Bay Brainerd, Minnesota

In the land of 10,000 Lakes....only one ice fishing contest is quite like this!  In 1990 the Brainerd Jaycees had a desire to develop a signature project that would rally members, raise money for local charities, and provide avenues for individual growth, personal development, and leadership.  It is certain the founders never expected this event would become the world's largest ice fishing contest and put Brainerd, Minnesota on the map with a winter event that generates over $1-million in revenue for area businesses and over $200,000 for area charities annually.

Proceeds of the contest are 100% donated to over 50 charities. The primary beneficiary of the Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Estravaganza is Confidence Learning Center.  This is a Learning Center that provides outdoor education and recreation serving persons of all ages with developmental disabilities.  The program is open to campers and their families throughout Minnesota and surrounding states.  Each camper is encouraged to succeed at their own level.  Your participation in this fine Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza will help Confidence Learning Center and other local charities continue to help those in Need!

Go to www.icefishing.org  for more information.

* Taylor Fitterer was Chairman of the 2007 Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganz and The Fitterer Team at Century 21 Brainerd continues to support this fine event.

by:  Kay Fitterer

December 30, 2008

REMODELING COST VS VALUE REPORT 2008-09.  HOME REHABS: Still many Happy Returns

National Association of Realtors statistics show that home prices have fallen by an average of 7 percent nationally in the past year.  But the value of home owners' investment in remodeling projects has declined only 3.86 percent on the average between 2007 and 2008 according to the REMODELING'S 2008-2009 COST VS VALUE REPORT.

Some of the remodeling projects that paid off were:  Attic-to-Bedroom, Bathroom & Kitchen Update with New Furnishings, Basement to "cottage Style" living space, Replaced roofing, new siding and new windows. 

If a home owner desires to sell and does not make the needed remodel updates and repairs; Buyer's just tick off the repairs and try to take them off the price according to Barnard Fallon, Real Estate Broker.  "Even though the markets have gone through some adjustments, it's still smart to invest in your home" according to Paul Zuch, president of Capital Improvements, a designing, building, and remodeling company in Dallas.

by: G.M. Filisko in REALTOR December 2008.

December 27, 2008

SELLERS STAGE HOMES FOR BETTER SALE PROSPECTS

The process starts on the outside.  Clean gutters, trim hedge, lawns, and shrubbery.  Add a new coat of paint to house and trim.  Clear any debris, children's toys, boats and RV's from driveway.   **Tuck the garbage cans in the garage.  People who drive past and see a house that looks "bad" from the outside will not even want to see the inside.  Match outside pots of flowers to match and coordinate the trim of the house and place on each side of the front entrance to draw the buyer in.

On the Inside, start with a good scrub-down of the whole house.  Declutter and neutalize the home.  Kitchen and baths must be "Q-Tip" clean.  And remember:  YOU ARE  MERCHANDIZING THE PRODUCT, WHICH IS YOUR HOME according to Barb Schwarz, president of trade group International Association of Home Staging Professionals.

Walls should be painted; fingerprint free, and rearrange and stage furniture to highlight the home's best features.  Remove furniture that has stained or torn fabric.  Better less furniture that too much  furniture gives a more spacious feeling.  Add greenery and flowers to tabletops, but make sure to replace them before they wilt.  Use a brightly colored throw blanket or one or two pillows to infuse color in a room.  

In todays real estate market every seller needs to make their home appealing for that "BETTER SALE". 

by:  J.W. Elphinstone, AP Real Estate Writer in HOME & CLASSIFIED BRAINERD DISPATCH 12/26/08.

 December 23, 2008

MIX AND MATCH MADE MODERN

When shopping for home decor, have you noticed how most match?  According to Kathleen Lordbock, owner of Re$ale Design & Home Staging in Brainerd, "Today's trend in decorating style is much more eclectic and less matchy-matchy".

Decorating to live should be all about personal taste and style of those living in and using the spaces.  One can start with a style, pattern or color scheme and buy a few matching items then expand with different choices.  One can modernize your home by balancing basics and neutrals with bold colors and geometric patterns.  Another creation of new interest can be done by adding a smooth contemporary piece to a traditionally styled room.

Try mixing elements of classic and modern styles.  Look for clean lines without a lot of embellishments.  Your furniture will last longer and remain in style as you and your family grow and change.  A rug can really tie a room together with colors and texture.

Once the main pieces are in place, add lamps, lampshades, pillows, throws, which are cheaper and can be replaced with the trends and seasons. Go with a single color or several shades when unifying a collection of random objects.  Lastly, lighting will help set the tone for the room. Dimmers are a good choice for change of mood and activity.

by:  Meredith S. Holt in BRAINERD LAKES AREA NEW HOMES  2008 OCTOBER ISSUE

December 16,2008

APPROPRIATELY PLEASING PATHWAYS ....FENG SHUI

Hallways connecting bedrooms are often drab and dull.  If they are more than seven steps long, they are good for some architectural choices.  One should consider niches, protected narrow shelving, and artwork display. 

Other choices for a more pleasing hallway could be:  install a stained-glass window and light it from behind, Frame a portion of a wall with bas-relief and use the frame to highlight artwork, Attach molding in panels to interrupt a long wall, Drape indulating cloths over dowels on a long narrow ceiling, Insert tiles into wood, use patterned carpeting, or change materials to break up contiguous flooring, and just be creative with colors and paint. 

by:  Nancilee Wydra, FSII, and Lenore Weiss Baigelman, AIA, FSII in FENG SHUI PRINCIPLES  FOR BUILDING AND REMODELING     

Decenber 8, 2008

THE ART OF KITCHEN DESIGN .....COUNTERTOPS

What countertop should one select?  There are many options for countertop covers on the market to choose from but the primary driver will be the budget. 

While choosing your countertop, select a color and texture that will complement your cabinetry, floor or paint selection.  Don't be afraid to combine two or more countertop materials. 

Granite is what almost everyone would choose if money is no object.  Granite is resilient to heat and performs well as a cutting surface;it is completely safe for food preparation as there never has been a single case of granite harboring bacteria. Granite is the moste durable of the natural stones.  Other solid stones to choose from are Soapstone which is popular with country kitchens, and Quartz; nice if you want to have definitive patterns. 

Laminates are still a beautiful product that is inexpensive and quite easy to maintain.  Choose from a variety of colors and patterns and by adding a wood edge can be very appealing.  Drawbacks are that laminates scratch and are quite difficult to repair.

Stainless Steel  countertops give a kitchen a professional restaurant look.  Stainless Steel can be a bit pricey but easy to clean and hot pans are no problem.  Other nice qualities for stainless steel countertops are resistance to water and heat, flexible, doesn't chip and requires mimimal maintenance.  Drawbacks of Stainless Steel countertops are scratches, unpleasant marks and dents if heavy objects are dropped.

Marble is another choice for the kitchen countertop.  Usually comes with a hefty price tag.  It is porous and risk chipping, so requires a sealant to be applied frequently to prevent staining.  Marble is timeless and beauty is quaranteed.

by:  Joyce Johnson, Kitchen Designer from BRAINERD LAKES AREA NEW HOMES October 2008

December 1, 2008

REMEMBER THE GOLDEN RULE

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.  ....It is like...What goes around, comes around.  As you treat others, so shall you be treated.  If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all.

**This must be one of the simplest, most easily implementable formulas for the creation of abundance.  Become a thoughtful person.  Offer assistance, be nice and reach out to others.

Giving and receiving are two sides of the same coin.  Ultimately ,what you offer to the world is what you get back.  So if you want to create a happy life with abundance, the most important thing you can do is to help others do the same.  You can control how generous you are.  You have the compacity  to offer help and to be of service and kind to others.

by:  Richard Carlson, PHD in DON'T WORRY, MAKE MONEY

November 25, 2008

MAINTAIN WEALTH CONSCIOUSNESS

Wealth consciousness suggests a complete absence of money worries; an awareness that there is always plenty of money to go around.  Worry keeps us from feeling free and joyful. A life without worry is a life of abundance, a life well lived.

Fear gets in the way of our creativity and traps us in the status quo.  If we are free of fear, our antennas will be on the lookout for new and exciting opportunities, and our minds will be open to embrace them.

"Don't put the cart before the horse"  is like developing your Wealth Consciousness FIRST.. by eliminating worry.  When you trust the universe and your own inner resources, True Abundance is just around the corner.

by:  Richard Carlson, PHD in DON'T WORRY, MAKE MONEY

November 17, 2008

10 Great Ideas for that old TV Cabinet

Sleek flat-panel televisions have replaced the 1990's pricy and popular armoires.  So what can one due with that armoire? 

Some New uses for old armoires are:  China Hutch...add lighting, shelves and glass doors for displaying dishes.  Garage Cabinetry... keep the large spaces for storing bulk items and add hooks and cubbies for tools.  Humidor...add hole in back for ventilation and cedar liners to keep cigars fresh.  Kitchen Pantry... add hooks for pots and pans and shelves for baking trays.  Linen Closet...add shelves for towels and sheets.  Liquor Cabinet....add racks for hanging glasses from ceiling.  Use glass shelves for liquor bottles.  Add wine-storage cubbies in lower area and a mirror for the back.  Media Archive....add shelves and racks for discs and DVDs.  Mudroom Lockers... remove doors and add cubbies, hooks and mirror.  Shoe Storage....add cubbies, racks and baskets.

The list is endless...just use a little imagination and you have found a new service for that "old" armoire.

by:  Stacy Downs  in SPACES...LIVING WELL IN THE TWIN CITIES

November 13, 2008

Best Place to Fish in MN (if your not a Fisherman)

As one of the State's best-known fishing meccas, Millle Lacs offers fertile waters for catching everythingfor walleye to perch.  But the lake also happens to be one of  the few big enough to accommodate fishing launches: Large boats-often decked out with bathrooms, stereos and grills-that can accomodate large groups who want to fish together.  Best of all, you don't need any experience-or equipment-to enjoy the trip.  Most launches furnish bait, tackle and a guide.  Only the lies are up to you.  For a list of launch providers visit millelacs.com

by: Elizabeth Dehn...Minnesota Monthly June 2008 

November 3, 2008

ALIEN INVASION

In Fall 2007 a commerical fisherman from Wabasha set his net in a huge circle along the shore of Lake Pepin.  As he pulled in one end, he spotted a specimen with an upside-down look, its eyes low on the sides of its head.  The strange specimen weighed 28 pounds and was found to be a big-head carp, native to China but now established in waters around the world.   This was the third big-head carp reported in Minnesota to the DNR.

Research from the University of Minnesota have established different views for Alien Species to our envirnoment. Some Aliens have proven beneficial and others upsetting the natural environment.  Professor Anne Kapuscinski has said "We 've gotten better at predicting whether a species will survive and spread.  But we've still got a lot to learn". 

Meanwhile, new species of Asian carp are swimming up the Mississippi.  Time will tell.....

by:  Greg Breining  from MINNESOTA MONTHLY June 2008

October 29, 2008

SEALING THE DEAL ON A FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT

Studies completed recently have found that the breakdown of asphalt sealers in residential and commericial areas can leek into the ground and into our waterways hurting fish, birds and other wildlife as well as humans.  Applying a good sealer that is good for the environment is an added bonus.

LAS-320 is an acrylic sealer that is distributed and applied by ECO FRIENDLY SEAL COAT LLC.  This sealer offers excellent protection for the surface of driveways.  It is made with 100 percent man made ingredients.  The sealer penetrates the surface to seal water out and does not fade, crack or peel off.  It is unaffected by sunlight and resistant to motor oil drippings from automobiles etc.  Ice and snow are resistant to sticking which makes snow removal easier.

by:  Sheila Helmberger from BRAINERD LAKES AREA NEW HOMES Oct. 2008

October 27, 2008

"A CONTRACTOR WHITE CEILING IS THE BIGGEST MISTAKE YOU CAN MAKE"

Laura Day has strong feelings about ceilings.  "Never ignore the ceiling when it comes to color.  It's important to not live by the rules----especially 'dark on the buttom and light on the top'.  That rule should be thrown away."  On example, Laura used was a dark ceiling in a taupe-browns with off white walls and window coverings. The room contained furniture, lamps, and rugs with a mixture of white shades and a few pieces of taupe-brown with white.  Lastly, the room took on it's character with a touch of special accents that were plants/trees with spring flowers.  She grounded the room at the top instead of on the floor.  This makes the room feel less airy.

Laura suggests you make the ceiling 25,50, or 75 percent of the wall color if you choose a color for walls.  Or, if the ceilings are low, turn it around and use 150 percent of the wall color on the ceiling.  This works especially if you have crown molding.

Another design principle that Laura suggests is to "work with what you got".  If the room is dark, with little outside, natural light, paint the walls brown and let the room be moody.  

by:  Laura Day from HOME OF YOUR DREAMS 

October 24, 2008

Subject:  My Interview on Fox Business News Today- Friday at 3:20PM

The National Association of Realtors has recently released its Latest Existing Home Sales Report, and the results are cautiously OPTIMISTIC.  Mr. Tom Kunz President and CEO of Century 21  will be on FOX BUSINESS NEWS "counting to the closing bell" with Liz Claman today at 3:30PM.  Mr. Kunz will talk about the Real Estate Market and what the CENTURY 21 SYSTEM is doing and experiencing in communities aron the country.  From:  Tom Kunz

October 20, 2008

Courtesy of the Brainerd Daily Dispatch

ECluck, cluck!

In Minnesota and elsewhere, the sport of hunting in on the decline.  Should we care if hunters go extinct?  For the last two years, Tom Kalahar has helped organize spring turkey hunt for kids.  Mr Kalahar is a conservation technician for the Renville County Soil and Water Conservation District in southwestern Minnesota with a primary goal to forge a link between the hunting tradition and would be hunters. 

Young hunters attend a safety class, and then, the day before the hunt, three -person teams are formed of a young hunter, a parent, and a guide that review the basics of scouting, calling and hunting.  On opening day, they head out with a single shotgun between them and start their day at 4:30AM to watch the sun rise and nature's activities.

Why do we need hunter's of wild life in Minnesota ?  Eighty percent of the state wildlife budget is funded by hunter generated funds.  Most fundamentally, the state continues to buy public state wildlife-management areas-protecting habitat and maintaining places to hunt. That is why we need hunting.  To understand the hunted, and to understand the hunter within us.

by:  Greg Breining (St. Paul-based free-lance writer) in MINNESOTA MONTHLY September 2008.

October 9, 2008 

THE FRONT DOOR.....DONE LAKE-STYLE

Autumn is such abeautiful time of year.  Residents can tansition their summer pots with fall plants with a wide variety of color and hardiness.  Multicolored mums and fill...such as gourds, pumpkins, colored corn can add to lake style living.  The changes can be small and easy to make; yet, help welcome that guest with a touch of warmth.

by:  Terri Bennett in LAKESTYLE

September 15, 2008

YOUR FRONT DOOR...THE NATURAL HARMONIES

The front door of your home is like your face.  Your front door is your mouth.  According to Feng Shui expert; Master Lam Kam Chuen, there are two important points to front doors.  One, staight paths leading to the the front door should be avoided if at all possible.  This is to avoid a strong rush of energy causing one to feel ungrounded & agitated.  A winding/curved path to the front door slows down energy and creates a comfortable flow of energy thus helping one entering the home to  feel comfortable & relaxed.  Second, more than one front door should be avoided because in Feng Shui, more than one front door is like a person with two mouths thus creating confusion and unrealiability. 

by:  Master Lam Kam Chuen from FENG SHUI HANDBOOK ...HOW TO CREATE A HEALTHIER LIVING AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT.

August 30, 2008

OPEN HOUSE FROM 10AM TO 1PM

BY:  THE FITTERER TEAM

MLS # 172215  for $ 249,700 Located on Madden's West Golf Course with Sylvan Lake Access.  Call Kay for directions....(218) 821-2293.

MLS# 176936 for $99,900 Located in SE Brainerd.  "Turn Key Condition".  Call Joe for directions....(218) 820-0164.

 August 29, 2008

STARS LINE UP AROUND GULL

Area Golf Courses earn TOP RATINGS....For the second straight year THE CLASSIC AT MADDEN'S and for the FIRST TIME....THE DUTCH COURSE AT THE LEGACY (CRAGUN'S) earned FIVE-STAR RATINGS in 2008-2009 according to... BEST PLACES TO PLAY issue of GOLF DIGEST magazine.

Of the 6,000 courses rated by some 20,000 GOLF DIGEST readers only 24 courses in the United States were awarded the FIVE-STAR designation.  Both resort owners were thrilled to have the top disignation.

Other golf courses in the Brainerd Lakes Area that received great ratings (4.5) were:  Golden Eagle Golf Club in Fifty Lakes, Deacon's Lodge in Breezy Point and both Grand View Lodge courses...The Pines and The Preserve.

by:  Jeremy Millsop from the Brainerd Dispatch August 20, 2008.

August 20, 2008

THE CURIOUS EFFECTS OF COLOR

The colors in your home should support the way you live.  Have you ever been in someone's home that seems " over the top" or just too plain?  Your comfort range is controlled by yor personal need for safety and adventure in a healthy balance.

Most people need between 60% to 90% safe colors and 10% to 40% risk colors.  A bright red entry door will increase the adventure for the occupants.  There is a 60/30/10 RULE which means that wall color = 60%, flooring & furniture = 30% and accent pieces= 10%.  If you select safe wall color than you can use risk colors for you accent items or in your window treatments, rugs, pillows etc.  

Add some drama to a safe color scheme by adding black lamps, pillows etc. When choosing a paint color for a room by adding black or brown to a risky colored tone will soften and tone it.  Red is a good example of a risk color.  Add black or brown color and you will get a brick red or maroon room.  Your body can relax and ground in a brick red or maroon colored room, where a red/scarlet colored room will put the body on alert.  Muted colors create a stronger YIN engergy that will increase strength and stability in the home.   Green balances the metabolic activity of the body and gold balances yellow's warmth with brown's stability.  Risky colors are bright and catch the eye.  Yang in nature, these colors stimulate, cause one to feel more alive and want to explore.  Bright yellow chair covering catches the eye and keeps a room active.  Red is a power color and should only be used in active rooms.  Black is formal, glamorous, and reserved.  Balance a black wall with plenty of surrounding white or cream.

by: Sharon Stasney in CHIC LIVING WITH FENG SHUI

August 11, 2008

WHITEFISH CHAIN

Whitefish Lake is the third largest lake in the Brainerd management area with 7,370 acres.  It is part of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes that consist of 14,000 acres.  This is a popular lake during the summer with heavy boat traffic.  The angler finds success in casting for the "big prize fish" and the boater finds joy in all the recreational water activities and the enchanting scenery.  Water clarity ranges from 6.5-10.5 feet. 

In the 1870's, the Whitefish Chain was much different than today. Logging was the sole industry supporting the local economy.  Government officals agreed to a dam on the Pine River connecting the Upper and Lower Whitefish with Cross Lake and raising the lake level 10 feet.  The newly shaped chain was created to help move the heavy logs from one place to another.  The Logging industry continued until about 1912 when the transition toward tourism took place.

FROM;  LOVE OF THE LAKES.....Echo Publishing and Printing

August 4, 2008

BE PREPARED TO WALK AWAY FROM A NEGOTIATION--YOU CAN USUALLY GO BACK

"Many people get less out of a negotiation than is otherwise possible because of fear".   Fear if they don't accept the terms of the deal, as is, they sabotage the deal completely.  This doesn't mean that you DO walk away; only that you're comfortable doing so.  You're not attached.  More often than not, most people ARE worriers and the person you are negotiating with is one of them. 

In real estate negotiations, the counteroffer is often done to keep the Buyer and Seller interested and settling on purchase price and terms.  It is important not to let your fear show.  Instead, show that you are perfectly willing to walk away.  Don't worry.....There are two outcomes....no deal or a deal made.  There is power of the willingness to walk away and have no regrets.  

from:  Richard Carlson in "DON'T WORRY, MAKE MONEY"

July 22,2008

Drag Racing......Brainerd International Raceway (BIR)

This 800 acre site houses a three mile road course and a campground that features 160 full service RV sites.  Today, Brainerd International Raceway is more than a world-class darag strip.  The BIR facility is becoming more family focused, drawing fans from throughout the Midwest area.  BIR has expanded its fan base into the lake country by offering a  fun family weekend to local residents and vacationers.  Each Wednesday night in the summer BIR hosts street drags.

by Mark Rustad, Curtis Johnson, and Mark Utter in BRAINERDBOUND

July 17,2008

CONSIDER THE WISDOM OF OPTIMISM......

There are two types of people: optimists and pessimists.  The question is , Which is wiser?  Pessimist, will tell you that they are being "realists".  They believe that live is hard, things often don't work out, ant it's not a good idea to set yourself up for dissappointment.  Pessimists insist that if you expect things to go wrong, you won't be let down when they do.

Pessimists experience far more disappointments that optimists because they are looking for failure.  They want verification of their negative assumptions.  They believe that optismists are burying their heads in the sand and that they simply don't face the realities of life.

Optimists believe that no one has a crystal ball and that no one can predict the future.  They choose to to take a more pleasant and joyful attitude with the multiple experiences in life.  ONE OF THE MOST BASIC LAWS OF SUCCESS IS THAT YOUR ENERGY FOLLOWS YOUR ATTENTION.  If your energy is primarily negative.....and you are looking for flaws and problems, that is where the bulk of your energy will lie.  Your abundance will be limited because your energy will be directed toward the limited and negative side of life.

Directly opposite; the optimist, looks on life with out doubt but with a sincere desire to get along with people and they are capable of change.  Optimists go through life CREATING and they do find what they are looking for.  Does this mean that the optimist will always find success?  No, there are times of failure, but they chalk these "learning failures" up to experiences that prepare them for their next adventure.  There is a great deal of wisdom and joy in OPTIMISM..........................GIVE IT A TRY!!!!!

from:  Richard Carlson PH. D.  "Don't Worry, Make Money"

July 7, 2008

 American Bald Eagle...Today

     Forty some years ago, the American Bald Eagle count dropped lower than 400 nesting pairs in total count in USA due to pesticides and lead poisons that were passed along the food chain.  Changes  in our wild life conservation, public awareness, and efforts from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources have all contributed to the rebound of the American Bald Eagle count.

    Today their are 7,000 nesting pairs of the American Bald Eagle with more than 700 nesting in Minnesota.  The exciting news for this area....Crow Wing County/Brainerd Lakes Area....is that approximately 40 nesting pairs reside here.  Feeding of  the clean waters in the Brainerd Lakes Area, the American Bald Eagle averages more than a twenty year life span, reaches top speeds of 50 miles per hour, with female average weight of 12 pounds and the male average weight of 8 pounds.  They stand up to 3 feet tall and carry a wing span of up to 7 feet. 

From:  Brainerd Bound Landmarks to the Lakes by Mark Rustad, Curtis Johnson & Mark Utter

 June 30, 2008

HOUSE SENSE.......PLACES TO WATCH FOR THE NEXT DESIGN TRENDS....

Design trends once took three or more years or filter down from various sources into home furnishings.....no longer true.  The internet has changed it all.  Look at Hotels....the New York Times Magazine mentioned that the baroque interiors of Gramercy Park Hotel. in New York changed to a more OPULENT STYLE.  Fashion Runways are another source of home trends says Patty Bouley of Bouley Design inc., New York.  A return to NEUTRALS in Spring fashion may be the start of the next home trend.  Movie and TV Shows lead to home designs.  The yellows and greens in all shades have migrated to the design mainstream according to Leatrice Eiseman of the Pantone Color Institute.  The Street....Look what people are wearing ...last year my daughter wore a T-shirt that this year is on candlesticks at deisn shows says Bouley.

Trends of "CLEAN LINES AND LOOKS " TOPS THIS YEARS TRENDS on the West Coast according to Beverly Stadler president of Design Focus  in San Clemente, California.  Stadler says there is less "froufrou" and fewer accessories than in the past.

By Mariwyn Evans

June 18,2008

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMNET

Where:  Cragun's Legacy Courses at Brainerd, Minnesota    Cost:  $125 per person

When:  July 11,2008.........Coach Tim Brewster, Head Football Coach, along with a large number of additional U of M coaches and Athletic Department Staff will be at Cragun's Legacy to mix and mingle with the particpants.  This is the 8th Annual Cragun's U of M Golf Event.  Coach Brewster will be the main speaker at the Coaches Luncheon to share insight on this year's team.  

From:  Cragun's Legacy Link Newsletter

June 17,2008

Flooring....for Homes Today.."From the Bottom Up"

Earthiness, comfort and environmental awareness are key trends in flooring.  It's a mix of rustic and serene, equal parts of the wild west and yoga style.  Home is a  place to de-stress and re-energize.  The flooring trends reflect this dual mission by making great use of natural materials ...different kinds of WOODS that are exotic, engineered and reclaimed. 

Homeowners today are choosing hardwood floors; in trend, the wider planks with deeper, richer colors.  Exotic woods from Asia, South America and Russia offer an unusual mixture of rustic warmth and elegance.  Some homeowners are choosing more ecofriendly blends of wood such as:  bamboo, cork and Marmoleum.  These materials come in a range of colors and textures, provide soft surfaces underfoot and require a touch of maintenance.

By Elisa Bernick in Home of Your Dreams.... Century 21 Fine Homes and Estates

June 11, 2008

Midwest's #1 Golf and Resort Destination

Today there are five Brainerd Area Golf Courses that have been nationally recognized by Golf Digest, Golf Week, Golf and Travel, and Golf magazine.  There are more than 450 holes of Golf  within the close proximity of Brainerd, Minnesota. 

In the 1930's Jack and Jim Madden pioneered the Golf Boom by owning and promoting the FIRST 18-hole  Golf Course (* that is still open today...Pine Beach East) in the Brainerd Lakes Area.  In turn, they worked to encourage other local resort owners to follow their lead by attracting Golfers as well as Anglers to the "North Woods" and Central Minnesota Lakes Area.  The impact of these two industry giants has drawn many visitors to the Brainerd Lakes Area.  Resorts with "Top Shelf" Golf Courses, Fishing/Boating/Nice Beaches and Pools are:  Madden's on Gull Lake, Cragun's on Gull Lake, Grand View on Gull Lake, Rutger's on Bay Lake  and Breezy Point on Pelican Lake.

From:  Brinerd Bound ...Landmarks to the Lakes

June 3,2008

SCANDINAVIAN MUSIC AND DANCE

Nisswa -Stamman Festival June 6th & 7th at Nisswa Pioneer Village.  The festival was first brought to the area by Paul Wilson and his wife Mary Abendroth, local Scandinavian folk musicians who wanted to start a traditional festival in the area.  Past years have consisted of 130 + Scandinavian performers from Norway, Sweden and regions within the USA.  Stages are set up in multiple areas for the performers to play and a dance floor for dancing.  Everyone is encouraged to try the Scandinavian dance (s)!  from the Nisswa Chamber 2008.

May 29th, 2008  BRAINERD LAKES AREA EVENTS.......

Events happening in the Brainerd Lakes Area for June 2008

June 1st - 10th annual Lakers Car Show, swap meet & flea Market- Pine River

June 6-7 Encore Art Show, Northland Arboretum, Brainerd

              Stammen--Scandinavian Festival....Nisswa

June 7 - Muskie Opener

June 7 - Tour of lakes Bike Ride

June 11 - Wednesday night Street legal drags - Brainerd Internation Raceway

June 13- 35th annual golf classic and Sertoma Mariucci fiesta - Confidence Learning Center 

June 14th - Ideal Lions Club 19th annual Fishing Contest - Moonlight Bay/Crosslake

               - Woodtick races - Cuyuna

               - Sour Grapes Half and Half Walk/Race- Northland Arboretum - Brainerd

               - Confidence Learning Center 25th Annual Fishing Classic - Gull Lake

June 21st - Pelican Lake Conservation Club Fishing Contest - Pelican Lake

June 25th - Wednesday night Street legal drags - Brainerd International Raceway

May 23,2008.....FUTURE EVENTS.....Brainerd/Baxter Minnesota's 4th of July Capital  STARTING....June 27---July 6, 2008   COME CELEBRATE THE AMERICAN CELEBRATION

 June 27...Little Miss & Mr 4th of July Pageant....Westgate Mall 1PM.

 June 27-29....PLeasureland RV Show & GO....BIR all week end.

June 28...Miss Brainerd Lakes Scholarship Pageant....Tornstrom Auditorium 7PM.

June 30....Right Friends Picnic....Confidence Learning Center 5PM.

July 1.....Arts in the Park...Gregory Park 10AM-4:30pm.

July 1.....Blue Thunder Baseball...Mills Field 7PM.

July 2 .....Battle of the Bands....Don Adamson Field 4-11PM.

July 3......Gospel Night '08.......Heritage Assembly of God Church 7PM.

July 3....Show & Shine....The Bodyworks Parking Lot HYW 371...7-10PM.

July 4.......American Celebration....DonAdamson Field...Parade 4PM, World Class Fireworks 10PM.

July 5..... Komen Brainerd Lakes Race for the Cure....Forestview Middle School 8AM

July5-6 Pohlkamp/struthers Softball Tournament.....Memorial Field start...8AM.

July 11-13....29th Annual Brainerd Men's Softball Invitation....Memorial Field ...TBD.

Great events for the whole family....Come to our Beautiful Brainerd Lakes Area and Have a real.......AMERICAN CELEBRATION!!             

May 13th, 2008

Governer Tim Pawlenty joined hundreds of anglers for the 2008 Walleye Opener on Pelican lake this past Saturday May 10th.  The weather was cool, but dry in the morning, the afternoon proved different with rain showers and wind.  This is the frst year since 2001 that the Governer has fished the Brainerd Lakes area since 2001.

The Governer did catch one walleye that was 17" long.  Lt. Governer Mulnow caught a 19" walleye that beat the governer for the sixth year in a row.  The two of them have had a friendly competition going on for years. 

 With the ice just going off most of the lakes less than 10 days ago, fishing was predicted to be tougher than normal.  Some people say it was tougher, but only because they wanted to fish traditional honey holes instead of fishing spawn and pre-spawn areas.

To all those that ventued out this past weekend, we hope you had wonderful luck.

 May 5, 2008

IDEAS FOR DECORATING AND REMODELING from Home of Your Dreams Century 21 Fine Homes & Estates....

"Your faucet is the JEWELRY of the bathroom.  It's the sparkle and sometimes it can even BE THE ARTWORK."  The faucet you choose is more than a dispenser of water, it is a statement of style.  Home owner's ...this is one room that often gets passed, but buyer's tell us this is an important room.  Today's, baths are disigned to comfort and pamper, but they must also deliver these amenities with efficiency, and ease with water conservation.  " People are looking for luxurious effects but with an eye toward practicality.  They're looking for sleek, elegant and simple" Some bathroom fixture designers are: Grohe, Danze, Parma, Kohler, Brizo  and the list goes on....

by Elisa Bernick

 April 24th 2008

April 22th 2008 

Off-campus housing pays off

By Jeanne Sahadi, CNN/Money staff writer

Buying a condo close to college can yield big savings. But look before you leap.

You already invest in your child's college education. For some parents, ensuring their kids' future is payback enough - but why not get a little something extra?

Investing in off-campus housing is one way to do that, and it is fast becoming a hot commodity among parents of college-bound kids. When purchased as a second home, such properties can help defray the cost of traditional room and board, provide tax breaks on the mortgage interest paid, and allow you to accrue equity. They also can provide future income, since campus-friendly condos can be rented to other students after your own kids move on.

The cost of living

According to the College Board, average annual living expenses at a four-year school -- including room and board, transportation, and personal expenses like laundry and recreation -- are $9,508 at a public university and $10,213 at a private institution. Toss in tuition and you're facing annual bills anywhere between $14,640 and $30,295.

"University education has skyrocketed in cost and a large part of that comes from living expenses," said Rick Ellis, branch manager of a real estate agency in Austin, home of the University of Texas and a half dozen other colleges. "Pricing is still very high for rentals so parents are buying properties near campus."

Ellis notes the trend has become especially pronounced in recent years, as borrowing costs have plunged.

How much can you save?

Just how much parents can save depends on the purchase price of the property and the location.

In downtown Boston, one of the priciest cities in the country, studio apartments within walking distance of Boston University, Boston College and Harvard rent for $800 to $1,500 per month, said Robert Imperato, a local real estate broker. That translates to anywhere from 38,400 to 72,000 for four years.

A comparable apartment costs about $160,000 to buy. With 10 percent down and 30-year interest rates in the 6.25 percent range, that equates to a monthly mortgage of around $887 before property taxes and private mortgage insurance.

But it's wise to investigate the neighborhoods surrounding campus before making a decision to buy an apartment. Some areas are less desirable and as such may lose their value, or may be difficult to unload on the resale market.

"Whether it's a good buy [for the parents of college students] probably depends on what market you're in. If you're in a good location to a university that has a need for decent housing, the resale capability is going to be a lot higher," said National Association of Realtors spokesman Walter Molony.

Gimme shelter

Rick Darvis, a certified public accountant in Plentywood, MT., notes that off-campus condos can serve another purpose as well.

Students with trust funds or custodial accounts often get rejected for financial aid. In many cases, that's true regardless of the age at which they're able to tap that fund - usually 21, about the time they're ready to graduate.

To improve their chances of securing low-interest loans, Darvis said the child can use their trust fund money to purchase a personal residence. Home equity is not considered an assessable asset under most financial aid calculations - providing a shelter of sorts.

"If the kid has $100,000 in a trust fund, that'll cost him $35,000 a year in lost financial aid eligibility," he said. "But if you move it into a non-assessable asset like a personal residence, it's excluded."

Of the roughly 3,200 colleges across the country, Darvis said, that exclusion holds true at all but about 300, usually the most elite, private universities.

The rules are rigid though. Your child cannot rent out extra rooms, for example, since the apartment would then become an income-producing asset.

By and large, Darvis said he believes buying an apartment close to campus is no riskier than renting.

"There are some who say, 'Well, what if my kid only goes to college for one year, isn't that risky?'" he said. "I say that's no more risky than paying dorm fees or renting for a year because that's a 100 percent loss guarantee."

April 15th 2008

GOLD RALLIES.....tough market or not, the Century 21 System is RAISING the Bar.

In a market when many real estate firms are playing it safe, Century 21 Real Estate LLC has actually chosen to raise its standards and perform, system-wide, at an even higher level.  Between their symbolic relaunch of the "gold jacket" and their proactive investments in major ad campaigns --watch for APRIL'S "OPEN HOUSE MONTH" initiative.....

The goal of OPEN HOUSE MONTH....APRIL is to bring buyers and sellers together with agents.

"The Century 21 System has and will continue to take an aggressive lead within the real estate industry to help bolster CONSUMER CONFIDENCE."  from Tom Kunz, President & CEO, Century 21 Real Estate LLC.

April 7th 2008

Century 21 Real Estate LLC Launches housing industry's first branded YOUTUBE Channel

Parsippany, N.J., (March 11, 2008) - Century 21 Real Estate LLC, franchisor of the world's largest residential real estate sales organization, today launched a branded Channel on Youtube, the leading online video community, that is dedicated to helping people showcase and search for real estate around the world.  Aimed at sellers, buyers and enthusiasts, the Channel will provide the opportunity for customers and agents to create and submit user-generated content.  In addition, to officially launch the branded channel on Youtube, the CENTYURY 21 System will hold a national consumer-generated video contest.

 "The CENTURY 21 System understands that in order to serve our clients and meet the demands of today's market, we must lead the industry with the most current home buying and selling platforms," said Robert Schwartz, vice president of national marketing for Century 21 Real Estate LLC.  "During the nexy year we will contnue to build on this momentum with additional Web-based innovations to help our agents and our clients navigate the world of real estate in a digital era."

Instead of the traditional photographs, virtual tours and videos on today's real estate sites, videos uploaded by agents and sellers on YouTube will have a personal touch that can help a prospective buyer better decide which homes may be right for their needs.  A video voiceover can highlight areas of interest in the home, as well as showcase recent home upgrades or renovations to the potential buyers.

From immediate release from Century 21 Real Estate LLC (21online) written by Corey Thomas