Holiday Traditions in St. Charles, MO.
St. Charles is in the news again, this time in the AAA Midwest Traveler Magazine. Our holiday festivities, Christmas Traditions, is prominently featured in the November/December issue. To read the feature story, go to http://www.ouraaa.com/traveler/mid/2009/11/tank.html
This joyous season kicks off with opening ceremonies on Friday, November 27, at 11 a.m. at Kister Park. Santa and Mrs. Santa arrive in a horse drawn carriage, escorted by the Lewis and Clark Fife and Drum Corps and the Legends of Christmas.
To learn more about our premier event, go to www.stcharleschristmas.com
SCHNEIDER Real Estate and our agents are so very proud of our volunteers, the South Main Preservation Society, the St. Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau and the St. Charles Special Business District for showcasing St. Charles as a great place to visit and live.
Written by Myra Vandersall
Monday, November 16, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
H1N1 Infection - Prevention
Dr. Vinay Goyal is an MBBS, DRM, DNB (Intensivist and Thyroid specialist) having clinical experience of over 20 years. He has worked in institutions like Hinduja Hospital , Bombay Hospital , Saifee Hospital, Tata Memorial etc. Presently, he is heading our Nuclear Medicine Department and Thyroid clinic at Riddhivinayak Cardiac and Critical Centre, Malad (W).
The following message given by him, makes a lot of sense and is important for all of you to know.
* The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost impossible not coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is.
While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications, can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu):
1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications).
2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless you want to eat, bathe or sleep).
3. Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt). H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.
4. Similar to 3 above, clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water. Blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.
5. Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C (Amla and other citrus fruits). If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption.
6. Drink as much of warm liquids as you can. Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm.
Dr. Vinay Goyal is an MBBS, DRM, DNB (Intensivist and Thyroid specialist) having clinical experience of over 20 years. He has worked in institutions like Hinduja Hospital , Bombay Hospital , Saifee Hospital, Tata Memorial etc. Presently, he is heading our Nuclear Medicine Department and Thyroid clinic at Riddhivinayak Cardiac and Critical Centre, Malad (W).
The following message given by him, makes a lot of sense and is important for all of you to know.
* The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost impossible not coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is.
While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications, can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu):
1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications).
2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless you want to eat, bathe or sleep).
3. Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt). H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.
4. Similar to 3 above, clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water. Blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.
5. Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C (Amla and other citrus fruits). If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption.
6. Drink as much of warm liquids as you can. Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Cauy Clark and the Cardinals have a big day on Sunday, October 4, 2009
SCHNEIDER Real Estate agent Robert Clark’s son Cauy, who has tuberous sclerosis complex, will help raise money for research and at cure at the Cardinals’ last regular season game. What better way to cap off a fantastic Cardinals baseball season and send the team on to the Central Division Championships than attending the very last game of the season and supporting a wonderful cause.
Sunday, October 4 is the last game and a very special day for Cauy Clark, who has tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disease that causes tumors to form in many different organs. Cauy’s dad is SCHNEIDER Real Estate Agent Robert Clark, the driving force behind finding a cure for this complex and helping not only his son, but also the approximate 50,000 Americans who have TSC.
The October 4 game will be the third annual A Cure for Cauy day at the ballpark. We urge you to snap up tickets for $25.00 each, which is a great discount, join the fun at Busch Stadium and help Cauy raise money for research. This special day is in association with the Cardinals and the goal is to sell more than 1,000 tickets, which are located in the reserved outfield terrace on the third base side. A TSC kid will throw out the first pitch when the ticket goal is reached.
Robert explains that people afflicted with TSC are at risk for tumors growing in vital organs such as the brain, heart, eyes, kidneys, skin, liver and lungs. Some people with TSC can experience autism, epilepsy and kidney and heart disease.
Cauy was diagnosed around the age of three, but Robert saw a special positive spirit and can-do attitude in his son, and with that hope decided to become actively involved in raising money for treatment and a cure.
Here are the game day details. Get a group together, help Cauy and thousands like him, and send the Cardinals off to the National League Central Division Championships.
St. Louis Cardinals vs. the Milwaukee Brewers
Sunday, October 4
Game time 1:15 p.m.
Special Cure For Cauy ticket price: $25.00
To order tickets:E-mail Robert Clark at cureforcauy@gmail.com or call him at 636.248.6329.
Or mail your ticket request and a check payable to A Cure For Cauy to:
A Cure For Cauy, C/O SCHNEIDER Real Estate, One Point West Blvd., St. Charles, MO 63301
You can be sure the SCHNEIDER Real Estate team will be out in full force rooting for Cauy and the Cardinals.
SCHNEIDER Real Estate agent Robert Clark’s son Cauy, who has tuberous sclerosis complex, will help raise money for research and at cure at the Cardinals’ last regular season game. What better way to cap off a fantastic Cardinals baseball season and send the team on to the Central Division Championships than attending the very last game of the season and supporting a wonderful cause.
Sunday, October 4 is the last game and a very special day for Cauy Clark, who has tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disease that causes tumors to form in many different organs. Cauy’s dad is SCHNEIDER Real Estate Agent Robert Clark, the driving force behind finding a cure for this complex and helping not only his son, but also the approximate 50,000 Americans who have TSC.
The October 4 game will be the third annual A Cure for Cauy day at the ballpark. We urge you to snap up tickets for $25.00 each, which is a great discount, join the fun at Busch Stadium and help Cauy raise money for research. This special day is in association with the Cardinals and the goal is to sell more than 1,000 tickets, which are located in the reserved outfield terrace on the third base side. A TSC kid will throw out the first pitch when the ticket goal is reached.
Robert explains that people afflicted with TSC are at risk for tumors growing in vital organs such as the brain, heart, eyes, kidneys, skin, liver and lungs. Some people with TSC can experience autism, epilepsy and kidney and heart disease.
Cauy was diagnosed around the age of three, but Robert saw a special positive spirit and can-do attitude in his son, and with that hope decided to become actively involved in raising money for treatment and a cure.
Here are the game day details. Get a group together, help Cauy and thousands like him, and send the Cardinals off to the National League Central Division Championships.
St. Louis Cardinals vs. the Milwaukee Brewers
Sunday, October 4
Game time 1:15 p.m.
Special Cure For Cauy ticket price: $25.00
To order tickets:E-mail Robert Clark at cureforcauy@gmail.com or call him at 636.248.6329.
Or mail your ticket request and a check payable to A Cure For Cauy to:
A Cure For Cauy, C/O SCHNEIDER Real Estate, One Point West Blvd., St. Charles, MO 63301
You can be sure the SCHNEIDER Real Estate team will be out in full force rooting for Cauy and the Cardinals.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
New Bill Introduced to Amend the Tax Rebate for First Time Home Buyers
There is a new Bill - H.R.2801 or the Home Ownership Moves the Economy (HOME) Act of 2009 that was introduced by Rep. Howard Coble, Republican from North Carolina, on June 10, 2009. It is currently being reviewed by the House Committee on Ways and Means.Basically, this Bill will amend the Internal Revenue Code to:
1. Extend the first-time home buyer tax credit to all individuals who purchase a principal residence. Currently, only first-time home buyers may qualify for the $8000 Tax credit. The definition of a first time home buyer under the current program states that you cannot have owned a primary residence in the past 3 years. This credit still only applies to those buying a primary residence
2. Extend such credit and the waiver of recapture requirements for such credit through December 31, 20103. Repeal the limitation on such credit based on modified adjusted gross income. The current guidelines read that as a single tax payer, your income cannot exceed $75,000 to receive the full tax credit. A reduced credit may be claimed up to the phase out income limit of $95,000. For married filing jointly, the income guidelines are $150,000 phasing out at $195,000. This would enable those individuals that earn higher incomes to also receive the tax credit.
This bill is still in its infancy and has a long way to go before it is passed. If you are a first time home buyer, I would advise you not wait to see if this bill will be passed. The current $8,000 tax credit for first time home buyers will expire on November 30, 2009. The home you purchase must have the transaction closed by this date. If you wait, you may find yourself in a position where there is no way the closing on your home can take place by then and you will lose out on the tax rebate.
You can track the progress of this BILL at: http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=h111-2801
There is a new Bill - H.R.2801 or the Home Ownership Moves the Economy (HOME) Act of 2009 that was introduced by Rep. Howard Coble, Republican from North Carolina, on June 10, 2009. It is currently being reviewed by the House Committee on Ways and Means.Basically, this Bill will amend the Internal Revenue Code to:
1. Extend the first-time home buyer tax credit to all individuals who purchase a principal residence. Currently, only first-time home buyers may qualify for the $8000 Tax credit. The definition of a first time home buyer under the current program states that you cannot have owned a primary residence in the past 3 years. This credit still only applies to those buying a primary residence
2. Extend such credit and the waiver of recapture requirements for such credit through December 31, 20103. Repeal the limitation on such credit based on modified adjusted gross income. The current guidelines read that as a single tax payer, your income cannot exceed $75,000 to receive the full tax credit. A reduced credit may be claimed up to the phase out income limit of $95,000. For married filing jointly, the income guidelines are $150,000 phasing out at $195,000. This would enable those individuals that earn higher incomes to also receive the tax credit.
This bill is still in its infancy and has a long way to go before it is passed. If you are a first time home buyer, I would advise you not wait to see if this bill will be passed. The current $8,000 tax credit for first time home buyers will expire on November 30, 2009. The home you purchase must have the transaction closed by this date. If you wait, you may find yourself in a position where there is no way the closing on your home can take place by then and you will lose out on the tax rebate.
You can track the progress of this BILL at: http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=h111-2801
Monday, August 31, 2009
Around St. Charles County
Tuesday, September 15
Your Personal Economic Recovery7-8 p.m.Middendorf-Kredell Branch, St. Charles-St. Charles County Library District
Today's economic environment may be one of the most challenging. Take control of your financial situation - and the sooner you act, the better. Learn about the steps that can help prepare you for a potential recovery and keep your financial future on track. Presented by Gary W. Weber, Edward Jones.
Tuesday, September 15
AUDUBON OPEN HOUSE7 pm to 9 pmSt. Charles Nonprofit Development Center, 425 Spencer Road Open House presentation by the St. Louis Audubon Society. Refreshments will be served while you wander exhibits, pickup informational materials, and meet the folks that make it happen around the Metro Region. From birding to education to hands-on conservation activities and more. Free Info call 314-599-7390
Friday, September 18-Sunday, September 20
MOSAICS MISSOURI FESTIVAL FOR THE ARTSFriday: 4 pm - 9 pm Saturday: 11 am - 9 pm Sunday: 11 am - 5 pm
Historic St. Charles Downtown District Approximately 125 artists from across the country are selected to come to St. Charles to exhibit and sell their works. Mediums represented include painting, sculpture, jewelry, and many other fine arts. Other activities include A Mentor Me program, an Art for Youth gallery, and a Kids Creation Station. Food and other refreshments are available throughout the festival grounds. Free For info: call 636-940-5178 or visit www.stcharlesmosaics.org
September 25 - October 25, 2009
Quilt NationalTuesday-Saturday hours are 10 am - 5 pm Open until 9 pm on Wednesdays Sunday hours are 12 pm-4 pm Foundry Art Centre, 520 N. Main Street
Quilt National is a biennial, international, juried and judged quilt art competition. Quilt National has showcases the most exciting & innovative trends in the medium and promotes quilt making as what it always has been - an art form. Jurors will select works that represent unique approaches and demonstrate the breadth & diversity of contemporary expressions. An educational lecture series will run in conjunction with the exhibition. Free
Tuesday, September 29
Escape To Araluen/Ranger’s Apprentice7 p.m.Middendorf-Kredell Branch, St. Charles City-County Library
Experience the story, live the action with the Viking Story Pirates of New York City.Info: Register online at www.youranswerplace.org or call 636 978.7926
Wednesday, September 30
When Should Ms. Daisy Stop Driving?3-4:30 p.mProgress West Highway K Medical Building & Urgent Care CenterDesigned for the impaired senior driver and their loved ones, this discussion separates fact from fiction on the safety of older drivers. Call 636.344.2273 to register.
Tuesday, September 15
Your Personal Economic Recovery7-8 p.m.Middendorf-Kredell Branch, St. Charles-St. Charles County Library District
Today's economic environment may be one of the most challenging. Take control of your financial situation - and the sooner you act, the better. Learn about the steps that can help prepare you for a potential recovery and keep your financial future on track. Presented by Gary W. Weber, Edward Jones.
Tuesday, September 15
AUDUBON OPEN HOUSE7 pm to 9 pmSt. Charles Nonprofit Development Center, 425 Spencer Road Open House presentation by the St. Louis Audubon Society. Refreshments will be served while you wander exhibits, pickup informational materials, and meet the folks that make it happen around the Metro Region. From birding to education to hands-on conservation activities and more. Free Info call 314-599-7390
Friday, September 18-Sunday, September 20
MOSAICS MISSOURI FESTIVAL FOR THE ARTSFriday: 4 pm - 9 pm Saturday: 11 am - 9 pm Sunday: 11 am - 5 pm
Historic St. Charles Downtown District Approximately 125 artists from across the country are selected to come to St. Charles to exhibit and sell their works. Mediums represented include painting, sculpture, jewelry, and many other fine arts. Other activities include A Mentor Me program, an Art for Youth gallery, and a Kids Creation Station. Food and other refreshments are available throughout the festival grounds. Free For info: call 636-940-5178 or visit www.stcharlesmosaics.org
September 25 - October 25, 2009
Quilt NationalTuesday-Saturday hours are 10 am - 5 pm Open until 9 pm on Wednesdays Sunday hours are 12 pm-4 pm Foundry Art Centre, 520 N. Main Street
Quilt National is a biennial, international, juried and judged quilt art competition. Quilt National has showcases the most exciting & innovative trends in the medium and promotes quilt making as what it always has been - an art form. Jurors will select works that represent unique approaches and demonstrate the breadth & diversity of contemporary expressions. An educational lecture series will run in conjunction with the exhibition. Free
Tuesday, September 29
Escape To Araluen/Ranger’s Apprentice7 p.m.Middendorf-Kredell Branch, St. Charles City-County Library
Experience the story, live the action with the Viking Story Pirates of New York City.Info: Register online at www.youranswerplace.org or call 636 978.7926
Wednesday, September 30
When Should Ms. Daisy Stop Driving?3-4:30 p.mProgress West Highway K Medical Building & Urgent Care CenterDesigned for the impaired senior driver and their loved ones, this discussion separates fact from fiction on the safety of older drivers. Call 636.344.2273 to register.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
HR 2801: Home Ownership Moves the Economy Act of 2009
There is a new Bill - H.R.2801 or the Home Ownership Moves the Economy (HOME) Act of 2009 that was introduced by Rep. Howard Coble, Republican from North Carolina, on June 10, 2009. It is currently being reviewed by the House Committee on Ways and Means.
Basically, this Bill will amend the Internal Revenue Code to:
1. Extend the first-time home buyer tax credit to all individuals who purchase a principal residence. Currently, only first-time home buyers may qualify for the $8000 Tax credit. The definition of a first time home buyer under the current program states that you cannot have owned a primary residence in the past 3 years. This credit still only applies to those buying a primary residence
2. Extend such credit and the waiver of recapture requirements for such credit through December 31, 2010
3. Repeal the limitation on such credit based on modified adjusted gross income. The current guidelines read that as a single tax payer, your income cannot exceed $75,000 to receive the full tax credit. A reduced credit may be claimed up to the phase out income limit of $95,000. For married filing jointly, the income guidelines are $150,000 phasing out at $195,000. This would enable those individuals that earn higher incomes to also receive the tax credit.
This bill is still in its infancy and has a long way to go before it is passed. If you are a first time home buyer, I would advise you not wait to see if this bill will be passed. The current $8,000 tax credit for first time home buyers will expire on November 30, 2009. The home you purchase must have the transaction closed by this date. If you wait, you may find yourself in a position where there is no way the closing on your home can take place by then and you will lose out on the tax rebate.
You can track the progress of this BILL at: http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=h111-2801
There is a new Bill - H.R.2801 or the Home Ownership Moves the Economy (HOME) Act of 2009 that was introduced by Rep. Howard Coble, Republican from North Carolina, on June 10, 2009. It is currently being reviewed by the House Committee on Ways and Means.
Basically, this Bill will amend the Internal Revenue Code to:
1. Extend the first-time home buyer tax credit to all individuals who purchase a principal residence. Currently, only first-time home buyers may qualify for the $8000 Tax credit. The definition of a first time home buyer under the current program states that you cannot have owned a primary residence in the past 3 years. This credit still only applies to those buying a primary residence
2. Extend such credit and the waiver of recapture requirements for such credit through December 31, 2010
3. Repeal the limitation on such credit based on modified adjusted gross income. The current guidelines read that as a single tax payer, your income cannot exceed $75,000 to receive the full tax credit. A reduced credit may be claimed up to the phase out income limit of $95,000. For married filing jointly, the income guidelines are $150,000 phasing out at $195,000. This would enable those individuals that earn higher incomes to also receive the tax credit.
This bill is still in its infancy and has a long way to go before it is passed. If you are a first time home buyer, I would advise you not wait to see if this bill will be passed. The current $8,000 tax credit for first time home buyers will expire on November 30, 2009. The home you purchase must have the transaction closed by this date. If you wait, you may find yourself in a position where there is no way the closing on your home can take place by then and you will lose out on the tax rebate.
You can track the progress of this BILL at: http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=h111-2801
Monday, July 6, 2009
PENDING SALES RISE FOR THE SIXTH STRAIGHT MONTH
For the sixth month in a row, pending sales in June saw an increase over the previous month, according to the St. Charles County Association of Realtors. Pending sales, homes placed under contract, increased 3 percent in June over May. This followed consecutive increases of 11 percent in May, 16 percent in April and 26 percent in March!
June pending sales in St. Charles County were 10 percent higher than pending sales in June of 2008. This is the second month in a row that pending sales this year have been greater than the comparable sales one year ago.
For the sixth month in a row, pending sales in June saw an increase over the previous month, according to the St. Charles County Association of Realtors. Pending sales, homes placed under contract, increased 3 percent in June over May. This followed consecutive increases of 11 percent in May, 16 percent in April and 26 percent in March!
June pending sales in St. Charles County were 10 percent higher than pending sales in June of 2008. This is the second month in a row that pending sales this year have been greater than the comparable sales one year ago.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Home Sales on the Rise!
Sales of existing homes showed another gain in May, benefiting from favorable affordability conditions and a first-time buyer tax credit, according to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS ®. May's increase was the first back-to-back monthly gain since September 2005.
Existing-home sales - including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops - rose 2.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.77 million units in May from a downwardly revised level of 4.66 million units in April. Sales remained 3.6 percent below the 4.95 million-unit pace in May 2008.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, expected an improvement in sales. "Historically low mortgage interest rates clearly drew buyers into the market, and housing remains very affordable even with a recent uptick in rates," Yun says. "First-time buyers also are being drawn off the sidelines by the $8,000 tax credit, which is helping to absorb inventory.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Around St. Charles County
Thursday, July 2-Saturday, July 4
Riverfest, Frontier Park. Games, food, crafts, carnival rides, parade, fireworks and fun for the entire family.
Thursday, Bluegrass Festival
4:30-9:30 p.m.Friday and Saturday
Music at 2 stages. Parade at 10:00 AM on July 4th. Fireworks at 9:20 PM. On Friday and Saturday www.stcharlesriverfest.com
Friday, July 3-Saturday, July 4
O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest
Friday, 4-11 p.m. Saturday, noon-11 p.m.
Ozzie Smith Sports Complex.
National bands, fireworks, carnival rides, family-friendly shows, kids’ activities, festival food and beverages, Independence Day parade. Info, www.heritagandfreedomfest.com. Or (636) 379-5614.
Free
Saturday, July 4 - New Town St. Charles
1 p.m. Parade 4-8 p.m. music
Friday, July 10
Bicentennial Historical Trolley Tours
1-4:45 p.m.Tour of Old Cemeteries Historical Trolley Tours developed in conjunction with the Greater St. Charles CVB, the Bicentennial Committee & Steve Wiechens of the First Capitol Lions Club. Trolley Transportation will be provided by the CVB. Participation is limited to 20-22 people per tour and is by reservation only on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Info, 636-255-6154
Free
Saturday, July 11 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
MoCHIP - Child Identification and Protection Program: Keeping MO Kids Safe!
Little Guppy Child Development Center, 3151 Elm Point Industrial Drive.
MO Masonic Family will be on hand to further ensure the safety of area children free of charge. Representatives from the police department and fire department to discuss child safety. Car seat and helmet safety checks, games, ice cream social.
Info, 636-530-6069.
Free
Friday, July 17-Saturday, July 18
Friday, July 24 - Satuday, July 25
7:30 p.m.
Lindenwood Center for Fine & Performing Arts Events
Production of Pulitzer Prize Broadway play Harvey
Tickets available at Lindenwood Box Office, www.telecharge.com or 800-447-7400.
General Admission $10.
Info, 636-949-4433
Thursday, July 23 1:30 p.m.Middendorf-Kredell Branch, St. Charles Library District
How To Find Medical Information
Consumer health librarian Denise Ulett helps patrons research understandable, reliable sources for healthcare consumers. Navigate print and electronic information.
Free
Sunday, July 26 1-4 p.m.Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton
Hummingbird Festival
See hummingbirds up close. The Illinois Audubon Society will band birds. Adopt a hummingbird for a small fee.
Info, 618-786-2331, ext. 338
Free
Friday, July 31 2:30-4:30 p.m.Corporate Parkway Branch, St. Charles Library District
Teen 80s End of Summer Party
Games, trivia, snacks, prizes for best dressed.
Register online or call 332-9966
Free
Thursday, July 2-Saturday, July 4
Riverfest, Frontier Park. Games, food, crafts, carnival rides, parade, fireworks and fun for the entire family.
Thursday, Bluegrass Festival
4:30-9:30 p.m.Friday and Saturday
Music at 2 stages. Parade at 10:00 AM on July 4th. Fireworks at 9:20 PM. On Friday and Saturday www.stcharlesriverfest.com
Friday, July 3-Saturday, July 4
O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest
Friday, 4-11 p.m. Saturday, noon-11 p.m.
Ozzie Smith Sports Complex.
National bands, fireworks, carnival rides, family-friendly shows, kids’ activities, festival food and beverages, Independence Day parade. Info, www.heritagandfreedomfest.com. Or (636) 379-5614.
Free
Saturday, July 4 - New Town St. Charles
1 p.m. Parade 4-8 p.m. music
Friday, July 10
Bicentennial Historical Trolley Tours
1-4:45 p.m.Tour of Old Cemeteries Historical Trolley Tours developed in conjunction with the Greater St. Charles CVB, the Bicentennial Committee & Steve Wiechens of the First Capitol Lions Club. Trolley Transportation will be provided by the CVB. Participation is limited to 20-22 people per tour and is by reservation only on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Info, 636-255-6154
Free
Saturday, July 11 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
MoCHIP - Child Identification and Protection Program: Keeping MO Kids Safe!
Little Guppy Child Development Center, 3151 Elm Point Industrial Drive.
MO Masonic Family will be on hand to further ensure the safety of area children free of charge. Representatives from the police department and fire department to discuss child safety. Car seat and helmet safety checks, games, ice cream social.
Info, 636-530-6069.
Free
Friday, July 17-Saturday, July 18
Friday, July 24 - Satuday, July 25
7:30 p.m.
Lindenwood Center for Fine & Performing Arts Events
Production of Pulitzer Prize Broadway play Harvey
Tickets available at Lindenwood Box Office, www.telecharge.com or 800-447-7400.
General Admission $10.
Info, 636-949-4433
Thursday, July 23 1:30 p.m.Middendorf-Kredell Branch, St. Charles Library District
How To Find Medical Information
Consumer health librarian Denise Ulett helps patrons research understandable, reliable sources for healthcare consumers. Navigate print and electronic information.
Free
Sunday, July 26 1-4 p.m.Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton
Hummingbird Festival
See hummingbirds up close. The Illinois Audubon Society will band birds. Adopt a hummingbird for a small fee.
Info, 618-786-2331, ext. 338
Free
Friday, July 31 2:30-4:30 p.m.Corporate Parkway Branch, St. Charles Library District
Teen 80s End of Summer Party
Games, trivia, snacks, prizes for best dressed.
Register online or call 332-9966
Free
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Handy Hints
It's just about time to turn on the air conditioner again. Did you know approximately one-third of a home's energy is lost through its doors and windows and this is when they are closed? You can save money and energy by simply insulating and checking your weather-stripping.
To check for leaks in a door, open it and place a piece of paper in the doorjamb. Close the door and try to pull the paper out. If it comes out easily, there is an air leak. Try the same thing on your windows.
If you need to purchase new weather-stripping, get one that's easy to install and comes with a warranty. To insulate an exterior door, apply weather-stripping to the door-jamb and to the top and bottom of the door frame.
For a double-hung window, cut the weather-stripping to size and peel off the backing.
Apply the weather-stripping in the channel, which is the groove in the window frame on the bottom of the sash on the lower window and in the channel on top of the sash on the upper window. Then apply the weather-stripping into the middle channel of the vertical jambs on both sides of the window.
Now you will keep all that cool air inside your house and the hot air outside!
It's just about time to turn on the air conditioner again. Did you know approximately one-third of a home's energy is lost through its doors and windows and this is when they are closed? You can save money and energy by simply insulating and checking your weather-stripping.
To check for leaks in a door, open it and place a piece of paper in the doorjamb. Close the door and try to pull the paper out. If it comes out easily, there is an air leak. Try the same thing on your windows.
If you need to purchase new weather-stripping, get one that's easy to install and comes with a warranty. To insulate an exterior door, apply weather-stripping to the door-jamb and to the top and bottom of the door frame.
For a double-hung window, cut the weather-stripping to size and peel off the backing.
Apply the weather-stripping in the channel, which is the groove in the window frame on the bottom of the sash on the lower window and in the channel on top of the sash on the upper window. Then apply the weather-stripping into the middle channel of the vertical jambs on both sides of the window.
Now you will keep all that cool air inside your house and the hot air outside!
As reported on the St. Charles County Association of Realtors website: "The number of pending sales, homes under contract, in St. Charles County jumped 26 percent in March. “This strong increase over February numbers is an indicator of increased market activity in St. Charles County and across the nation,” commented Karen Vennard, 2009 St. Charles Association President.These numbers reflect the reports we are getting from brokers all across the county who are seeing an increase in property calls, showings and general business activity, reported Vennard.Brokers point to the $8,000 tax credit for first time buyers, record low interest rates and stable prices as the reasons for the increase in activity.“People are realizing that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to buy a home,” added Vennard. “Interest rates haven’t been at this level since the 1950s and if you are a first time buyer, Uncle Sam is giving you $8,000 in free money, so why would you not buy now, “concluded Vennard.These incentives have helped to keep housing affordability at record high levels. In March, the national housing affordability index stood at 166.7 percent. An index of 100 means that the family making the median income could afford the median priced home. In March that family making $61,100 per year could afford a home valued at $291,600. The index assumes a 20 percent down payment.“The market is rebounding and there may not be a better time to buy in our lifetime,” concluded Vennard".
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Going Green May Clinch the Sale
Green is the hot color right now and should be your color too
when you sell or buy a home. Becoming attuned to the current eco-
movement will make a huge difference. As a seller, you will boost the
value of your home with eco-friendly improvements and give your
real estate agent more features to highlight that will set your home
apart from the rest.
Buyers are much smarter about their home purchases and
want lasting value for the money; an energy efficient system
that saves on utilities; and a clean, healthy place to live.
Given the current real market, a buyer has the upper
advantage and green may very well clinch the sale.
Here are some smart eco-improvements that will attract
buyers and sell your house faster.
Breathe Easy
Applying a fresh coat of paint is a standard way of freshening
up a home, but you really don’t want that “fresh paint” smell.
To make it more comfortable and physically healthy for
potential buyers, use paint low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
This paint is readily available and comes in a wide array of colors.
The Hogs In The Kitchen
Two rooms attract the most attention from buyers–the
kitchen and the bathroom. Here’s where you can really shine
and show buyers you care about their utility bills. Upgrade old
appliances with new Energy Star certified models. While this
may seem expensive on the front end, the replacements will
more than pay for themselves on the back end and increase
traffic.
Don’t Take It For Granited
While we’re in the kitchen, take a look at those countertops.
But here’s the deal; don’t automatically assume that granite
is the way to go for replacement. Granite countertops may
still impress some buyers, but true trendsetters will be on the
lookout for kitchens that incorporate some of the hottest new
materials. So, what about paper? That’s right, paper.
Compressed post-recycled paper sealed with resin makes an
extremely durable countertop. It’s less expensive than
granite–which is not a renewable resource–and has a warm,
sleek feel. Maintenance is low too. A yearly application of
mineral oil will keep the countertop looking fresh and new.
Drips Are Out
Leaky faucets, showerheads and old toilets are not selling
points. Now’s the time to install low-flow faucet aerators and
showerheads. Did you know that showers account for 22% of
the individual water use in North America? That racks up
really big water and utility bills and rates will continue to rise.
Take a look at that toilet too. It’s the biggest water user in
the house. By installing a low water usage unit, you can save
around 2,000 gallons of water a year.
It Makes Scents
Potential home buyers get a feel for a property as soon as
they arrive. To give your visitors a preview of what’s inside,
arrange fresh plants new the front door. Especially effective
are scented geraniums and herbs that offer an aromatic
experience. To spruce up your landscaping, support your
state and choose native Missouri plants that grow well in local
soil and weather conditions. Inside, remove any chemical
room fresheners and display herbs, especially in the kitchen.
Flaunt It
When you go green to sell your home, make sure that
potential buyers know about your efforts. Discrete signs here
and there, noting low VOC paint, Energy Star appliances, low
water usage products and native plants show that you care
about your environment and that of the new owner.
For sellers who use eco-friendly techniques, your property has
an edge on the competition. Take advantage of these smart
tips to be green and earn more green!
when you sell or buy a home. Becoming attuned to the current eco-
movement will make a huge difference. As a seller, you will boost the
value of your home with eco-friendly improvements and give your
real estate agent more features to highlight that will set your home
apart from the rest.
Buyers are much smarter about their home purchases and
want lasting value for the money; an energy efficient system
that saves on utilities; and a clean, healthy place to live.
Given the current real market, a buyer has the upper
advantage and green may very well clinch the sale.
Here are some smart eco-improvements that will attract
buyers and sell your house faster.
Breathe Easy
Applying a fresh coat of paint is a standard way of freshening
up a home, but you really don’t want that “fresh paint” smell.
To make it more comfortable and physically healthy for
potential buyers, use paint low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
This paint is readily available and comes in a wide array of colors.
The Hogs In The Kitchen
Two rooms attract the most attention from buyers–the
kitchen and the bathroom. Here’s where you can really shine
and show buyers you care about their utility bills. Upgrade old
appliances with new Energy Star certified models. While this
may seem expensive on the front end, the replacements will
more than pay for themselves on the back end and increase
traffic.
Don’t Take It For Granited
While we’re in the kitchen, take a look at those countertops.
But here’s the deal; don’t automatically assume that granite
is the way to go for replacement. Granite countertops may
still impress some buyers, but true trendsetters will be on the
lookout for kitchens that incorporate some of the hottest new
materials. So, what about paper? That’s right, paper.
Compressed post-recycled paper sealed with resin makes an
extremely durable countertop. It’s less expensive than
granite–which is not a renewable resource–and has a warm,
sleek feel. Maintenance is low too. A yearly application of
mineral oil will keep the countertop looking fresh and new.
Drips Are Out
Leaky faucets, showerheads and old toilets are not selling
points. Now’s the time to install low-flow faucet aerators and
showerheads. Did you know that showers account for 22% of
the individual water use in North America? That racks up
really big water and utility bills and rates will continue to rise.
Take a look at that toilet too. It’s the biggest water user in
the house. By installing a low water usage unit, you can save
around 2,000 gallons of water a year.
It Makes Scents
Potential home buyers get a feel for a property as soon as
they arrive. To give your visitors a preview of what’s inside,
arrange fresh plants new the front door. Especially effective
are scented geraniums and herbs that offer an aromatic
experience. To spruce up your landscaping, support your
state and choose native Missouri plants that grow well in local
soil and weather conditions. Inside, remove any chemical
room fresheners and display herbs, especially in the kitchen.
Flaunt It
When you go green to sell your home, make sure that
potential buyers know about your efforts. Discrete signs here
and there, noting low VOC paint, Energy Star appliances, low
water usage products and native plants show that you care
about your environment and that of the new owner.
For sellers who use eco-friendly techniques, your property has
an edge on the competition. Take advantage of these smart
tips to be green and earn more green!
Around St. Charles County
- Saturday May 2, Garden Tour and Plant Sale: 9 a.m. to noon, Saint Charles County Master Gardeners, University of Missouri Extension Center, 260 Brown Road, Saint Peters, Free
- Friday, May 8, American Cancer Society Relay For Life St. Charles: 6 p.m.-6 a.m., St. Charles West High School Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17, 2009
- Saturday, May 9, St. Charles County Spring Garage Sale: Family Area parking lot, 8:00 am - noon, $5 per car
- Saturday, May 9, Lewis and Clark Heritage Days, Frontier Park, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday/9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Lewis and Clark Louisiana Purchase encampment reenactment, Crafts, food, museum tours, period music, children’s games, Fife and Drum Corps parade, Free
- Saturday, May 16, Charity Auction begins at 9 am, Harvest Ridge Elementary School Parking lot - 15 year anniversary Garage Sale of The Woodlands, Whispering Ridge, Heatherbrook, and Nantucket Place neighborhoods
- Saturday, May 16, Great River Rendezvous, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Canoe and kayak race on the Mississippi River, Begins in Grafton and ends at Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary, West Alton, Small registration fee donated to the Treehouse Wildlife Center of Madison County
- Saturday, May 16-Sunday, June 7, Greater St. Louis Renaissance Faire: Saturdays, Sundays and Memorial Day 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Rotary Park, 2577 W. Meyer Rd., Foristell, Adults-$12; seniors and students, $9; children $6
- Wednesday, May 20, 2009 thru September 16, Music on Main: 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Food, drink and live music, Free
- Saturday, May 30, Helmet Safety Check for Kids: 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Children’s Hospital professionals, St. Charles City-County Library District, Middendorf-Kredell Library, Free
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