I hope you all get a chuckle out of this!
http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/YFetDjh6JY19j8Sy339S
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Austin Texas Komen Race for the Cure Sunday 11/7/2010
Austin's Komen Race for the Cure is This Sunday. I hope to see you all there!
We hope you will join us for the 2010 Komen Austin Race for the Cure® on Sunday, November 7, 2010 Daylight Saving Time ENDS Sunday morning so set your clocks BACK before you go to bed on Saturday! |
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TWO BIG CHANGES
1. PARKING ROUTES:
VIEW THE PARKING AND COURSE MAPS. Parking maps show the various routes you can take to the Domain depending on where you are coming from. Also shows parking available both for General and Handicap/Assigned Parking. *Be in control of your morning – don’t forget about the rolling start for untimed participants*. The general address for the Domain is 2900 Esperanza Crossing, Austin, TX 78759
2. ROLLING START TIMES:
ROLLING START FOR ALL UNTIMED PARTICIPANTS. The Timed 5K runners will begin at 7:30 am. Untimed participants (including the Family 1 milers) may begin the 5K run or walk anytime between 8:00 am and 10:00 am. At 10:00 am, the start line will close to ALL 5K runners and walkers. The rolling start time has been implemented in an attempt to ease parking and traffic and put Race participants in control of their day of celebration. Daylight Saving Time ENDS Sunday morning so set your clocks BACK before you go to bed on Saturday!
How does Austin's largest 5K race make an impact on the global movement to end breast cancer forever?
When you register for the Susan G. Komen Austin Race for the Cure®your registration fee mainly covers the cost of putting on the Race. Only 20% of Race participants raise funds each year, meaning 80% does not. Last year the average Race participant raised $179. This year if each of us would commit to a minimum of $125, which is the cost of a mammogram, Komen Austin would be able to give back more than $2.6 MILLION to local breast programs, and to research for the cures.
For More Information on this wonderful cause please go to:
Friday, July 2, 2010
GOD BLESS AMERICA
The following words were spoken by the late Red Skelton on his television program as he related the story of his teacher, Mr. Laswell, who felt his students had come to think of THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE as merely something to recite in class each day. Now more than ever, please, read the meaning of these words:
THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
I
Me, an individual, a committee of one
PLEDGE
Dedicate all of my worldly goods to give without self pity
ALLEGIANCE
My love and devotion
TO THE FLAG
Our standard, Old Glory, a symbol of freedom. Wherever she waves, there’s respect because your loyalty has given her a dignity that shouts freedom is everybody’s job
OF THE UNITED
That means that we have all come together
STATES OF AMERICA
Individual communities that have united into 48 states. Forty-eight individual communities with pride and dignity and purpose; all divided with imaginary boundaries yet united to a common purpose, that’s love for country
AND TO THE REPUBLIC
A state in which sovereign power is invested in representatives chosen by the people to govern. And government is the people, and it’s from the people to the leaders, not from the leader to the people
FOR WHICH IT STANDS, ONE NATION
One nation, meaning “so blessed by God”
INDIVISIBLE
Incapable of being divided
WITH LIBERTY
Which is freedom, the right of power to live one’s life without threats, fear, or retaliation
AND JUSTICE
The principle or quality of dealing fairly with others
FOR ALL
For all, which means, boys and girls, it’s as much your country as it is mine
And now, boys and girls, let me hear you recite the
Pledge of Allegiance:
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all”
Since I was a small boy, two states have been added to our country, and two words have been added to the Pledge of allegiance: “under God.” Wouldn’t it be a pity if someone said that is a prayer, and that would be eliminated from our schools too?
If you would like to view Red Skelton's Video please click here
If you would like to view Red Skelton's Video please click here
No matter who or where you are when you read this, please take time to, decide where your allegiance is and, if it is with the United States of American, please recite:
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and to the Republic for which it stands, ONE NATION, UNDER GOD, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all”
GOD BLESS AMERICA
HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY 4TH OF JULY EVERYONE!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Here is a Great article from the Austin Business Journal
Austin home sales up 27%
For the first time this year, Austin area home sales are up, rising 27 percent in March, though the median price was unchanged, according to the Austin Board of Realtors.
The median price for a single-family home sold in Central Texas last month was $189,900, the same as February. Home sales for the month totaled $422 million with 1,784 single-family homes sold, according to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report by the Austin Board of Realtors.
“Though we’ve seen increases in year-over-year sales volume consistently in recent months, it’s likely this substantial increase in volume is related to the impending expiration of the homebuyer tax credits on April 30,” Austin Board of Realtors Chairman John Horton said in a statement.
“What’s most encouraging, however, is that in the midst of this increase in sales volume, our real estate values have remained steady, which bodes well for the long-term value of real estate in Austin.”
Single-family home sales fell 28 percent in February compared with the same month in 2008, but home prices increased 5 percent from the same time period, according to a monthly report from the Austin Board of Realtors.
In January, single-family home sales and median home prices both fell compared with January 2009, decreasing 36 percent and 6 percent, respectively.
Condos and townhouse sales were particularly strong in March 2010, increasing 129 percent to 215 sold. Horton said he's seen a sustained increase in demand for condos and townhouses since September 2009.
“A softer condo market at the beginning of 2010 provided a good opportunity for buyers, and we are now seeing the results with an increase in activity,” Horton said.
“Condos can be attractive properties for first-time homebuyers, so it’s possible this increased demand is also related to both the first-time homebuyer tax credit, as well as an increased supply of condos in Austin in recent years.”
March 2010 also marked the second consecutive month of substantially decreased “days on market,” which refers to the average time homes remain active in the MLS. At 73 days for March 2010, homes spent 16 percent fewer days on the market than in March 2009.
Yet Horton is cautiously optimistic looking toward April’s sales.
“These statistics indicate that demand is continuing to outpace supply, which is encouraging,” Horton said. “However, no one really knows the full impact of the homebuyer tax credits yet, so we’ll look ahead to this summer to determine the sustainability of these conditions.”
Austin Business Journal
For the first time this year, Austin area home sales are up, rising 27 percent in March, though the median price was unchanged, according to the Austin Board of Realtors.
The median price for a single-family home sold in Central Texas last month was $189,900, the same as February. Home sales for the month totaled $422 million with 1,784 single-family homes sold, according to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) report by the Austin Board of Realtors.
“Though we’ve seen increases in year-over-year sales volume consistently in recent months, it’s likely this substantial increase in volume is related to the impending expiration of the homebuyer tax credits on April 30,” Austin Board of Realtors Chairman John Horton said in a statement.
“What’s most encouraging, however, is that in the midst of this increase in sales volume, our real estate values have remained steady, which bodes well for the long-term value of real estate in Austin.”
Single-family home sales fell 28 percent in February compared with the same month in 2008, but home prices increased 5 percent from the same time period, according to a monthly report from the Austin Board of Realtors.
In January, single-family home sales and median home prices both fell compared with January 2009, decreasing 36 percent and 6 percent, respectively.
Condos and townhouse sales were particularly strong in March 2010, increasing 129 percent to 215 sold. Horton said he's seen a sustained increase in demand for condos and townhouses since September 2009.
“A softer condo market at the beginning of 2010 provided a good opportunity for buyers, and we are now seeing the results with an increase in activity,” Horton said.
“Condos can be attractive properties for first-time homebuyers, so it’s possible this increased demand is also related to both the first-time homebuyer tax credit, as well as an increased supply of condos in Austin in recent years.”
March 2010 also marked the second consecutive month of substantially decreased “days on market,” which refers to the average time homes remain active in the MLS. At 73 days for March 2010, homes spent 16 percent fewer days on the market than in March 2009.
Yet Horton is cautiously optimistic looking toward April’s sales.
“These statistics indicate that demand is continuing to outpace supply, which is encouraging,” Horton said. “However, no one really knows the full impact of the homebuyer tax credits yet, so we’ll look ahead to this summer to determine the sustainability of these conditions.”
Austin Business Journal
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Here's more on Maqui Juice
If you would like to find out how Maqui Berry Juice can create an abundance of Health, Wealth, and a future filled with great promises please view this website: http://www.maquiberryparty.com/
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
MY NEW FAVORITE - maqui juice
The Maqui Berry has been used for centuries by the Mapuche Indian Tribe of South America. This fruit grows exclusively in the Patagonian Region of Southern Chile and Argentina. Maqui Berries are revered by the Mapuche Indians as a symbol of strength, health and vitality, and are believed to have mystical healing powers by the natives. Velocity International is proud to bring this incredible formula to the world for the very first time. Along with its delicious flavor, you will receive the most potent combination of nutrients that the world has ever seen.
The Patagonian Maqui Juice is a powerful blend of Maqui Berry, Aloe Vera, Resveratrol and Sea Minerals in a delicious nutritional supplement.
World’s Highest Known Source of Antioxidants
Supercharged with Resveratrol
The Patagonian Maqui Juice is a powerful blend of Maqui Berry, Aloe Vera, Resveratrol and Sea Minerals in a delicious nutritional supplement.
World’s Highest Known Source of Antioxidants
Supercharged with Resveratrol Promotes Weight Loss
Boosts Strength and Stamina
Neutralizes Free Radicals
Sunday, February 28, 2010
HERE ARE A FEW HOMES YOU MIGHT LIKE TO VISIT
http://13721glenmarkdrive.epropertysites.com/
http://13720shadowlawntrace.epropertysites.com/
http://1508middlewayroad.epropertysites.com/
http://14314empireheightscourt.epropertysites.com/
http://411wcrestlanddrive.epropertysites.com/
http://12705doorbell.epropertysites.com/
http://13721glenmark.epropertysites.com/
http://3125blueridgedrive.epropertysites.com/
http://13720shadowlawntrace.epropertysites.com/
http://1508middlewayroad.epropertysites.com/
http://14314empireheightscourt.epropertysites.com/
http://411wcrestlanddrive.epropertysites.com/
http://12705doorbell.epropertysites.com/
http://13721glenmark.epropertysites.com/
http://3125blueridgedrive.epropertysites.com/
Find Your Dream Home in Austin, Texas
If you are interested in finding the perfect home in Austin let your search begin here.
For real-time listings of properties in Central Texas and the Greater Austin Metroplitan click on this link: http://search.elizabethmorse.actris.mlxchange.com/
And do not forget that Morse & Young Realtors will fly you FREE, yes I said FREE to Austin to find your perfect home:
http://morseandyoung.com/FlyFree.aspx
Have fun shopping!
For real-time listings of properties in Central Texas and the Greater Austin Metroplitan click on this link: http://search.elizabethmorse.actris.mlxchange.com/
And do not forget that Morse & Young Realtors will fly you FREE, yes I said FREE to Austin to find your perfect home:
http://morseandyoung.com/FlyFree.aspx
Have fun shopping!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Keep those Home costs under control
These days, most people are trying to control their expenses a little more tightly. Often they don’t realize how much they’re paying to live in their homes. So let’s take a look at that home budget and see if we can’t do a better job of staying on top of the costs.
1. Your largest expense is probably your mortgage. These days mortgage rates are historically low, so you might be able to refinance and lower your monthly payment. Email or call and we’d be happy to let you know if that makes sense.
2. Another major expense is likely to be your homeowner’s insurance. Check in with your agent once a year to see if you’re getting the right coverage at the best price.
3. Next look at your real estate taxes. The higher the assessed value of your property, the higher your real estate taxes. So the next time your city or town does a reassessment, don’t be afraid to ask for an abatement if you think they’ve given your home too high a value. Do your homework. Look up the assessments for similar homes in your neighborhood. The records are public and usually available at the tax assessor’s office.
4. Recurring monthly expenses:
If you pay for town water, town sewer or a homeowners’ association, those are probably fixed expenses you can’t cut.
But if you pay for private trash collection, snow removal, lawn and gardening services, periodically look around for cheaper rates. Even if you’re happy with your current supplier, this information could help you get a better deal.
Phone, internet and cable TV services should be reviewed at least once a year to see if competitors offer better prices.
Energy costs. Oil companies should be reviewed once a year, before heating season begins. And if you think oil may be going up, pick a supplier who will lock in the price. In a growing number of areas, you can also find competing electric companies. Find out who has the best deal. If you heat and air condition with gas, ask your local gas company about special offers.
5. Maintenance and repairs. It is always cheaper to fix a problem as soon as it comes up, rather than letting it go. It costs very little to re-caulk around a bathtub, but if you ignore it, you could wind up replacing a wall. Put aside $500 to $1,000 a year to take care of minor repairs and maintenance.
6. Major improvements. If you have you heart set on updating a kitchen or bath, installing a deck, or even putting on a new addition, get a rough cost estimate and decide how many months from now you’d like to start. Divide the cost by the months and begin putting money away for it each month.
Your home is your biggest investment. But with a little effort you can make your home costs smaller.
Please thank Max Leaman for this information....and contact him for all your mortgage needs:
Max Leaman
PrimeLending, A PlainsCapital Company
Branch Manager/Senior Loan Officer
4501 Spicewood Springs Road, Suite 1025
Austin, Texas 78759
(512) 293-1239
1. Your largest expense is probably your mortgage. These days mortgage rates are historically low, so you might be able to refinance and lower your monthly payment. Email or call and we’d be happy to let you know if that makes sense.
2. Another major expense is likely to be your homeowner’s insurance. Check in with your agent once a year to see if you’re getting the right coverage at the best price.
3. Next look at your real estate taxes. The higher the assessed value of your property, the higher your real estate taxes. So the next time your city or town does a reassessment, don’t be afraid to ask for an abatement if you think they’ve given your home too high a value. Do your homework. Look up the assessments for similar homes in your neighborhood. The records are public and usually available at the tax assessor’s office.
4. Recurring monthly expenses:
If you pay for town water, town sewer or a homeowners’ association, those are probably fixed expenses you can’t cut.
But if you pay for private trash collection, snow removal, lawn and gardening services, periodically look around for cheaper rates. Even if you’re happy with your current supplier, this information could help you get a better deal.
Phone, internet and cable TV services should be reviewed at least once a year to see if competitors offer better prices.
Energy costs. Oil companies should be reviewed once a year, before heating season begins. And if you think oil may be going up, pick a supplier who will lock in the price. In a growing number of areas, you can also find competing electric companies. Find out who has the best deal. If you heat and air condition with gas, ask your local gas company about special offers.
5. Maintenance and repairs. It is always cheaper to fix a problem as soon as it comes up, rather than letting it go. It costs very little to re-caulk around a bathtub, but if you ignore it, you could wind up replacing a wall. Put aside $500 to $1,000 a year to take care of minor repairs and maintenance.
6. Major improvements. If you have you heart set on updating a kitchen or bath, installing a deck, or even putting on a new addition, get a rough cost estimate and decide how many months from now you’d like to start. Divide the cost by the months and begin putting money away for it each month.
Your home is your biggest investment. But with a little effort you can make your home costs smaller.
Please thank Max Leaman for this information....and contact him for all your mortgage needs:
Max Leaman
PrimeLending, A PlainsCapital Company
Branch Manager/Senior Loan Officer
4501 Spicewood Springs Road, Suite 1025
Austin, Texas 78759
(512) 293-1239
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
$8,000.00 First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit
As part of its plan to stimulate the U.S. housing market and address the economic challenges facing our nation, Congress has passed new legislation that:
Extends the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit of up to $8,000 to first-time home buyers until April 30, 2010.
Expands the credit to grant up to $6,500 credit to current home owners purchasing a new or existing home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010.
Here is more information about how the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit can help prospective home buyers become part of the American dream. If you have specific questions or need additional information, please contact a tax professional or the Internal Revenue Service at 800-829-1040.
Who Qualifies for the Extended Credit? First-time home buyers who purchase homes between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010.
Current home owners purchasing a home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010, who have used the home being sold or vacated as a principal residence for five consecutive years within the last eight.
To qualify as a “first-time home buyer” the purchaser or his/her spouse may not have owned a residence during the three years prior to the purchase.
If you or your client purchased a home between January 1, 2009 and November 6, 2009, please see: 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.
Which Properties Are Eligible? The Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit may be applied to primary residences, including: single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and co-ops.
How Much Is Available? The maximum allowable credit for first-time home buyers is $8,000. The maximum allowable credit for current homeowners is $6,500.
How is a Buyer's Credit Amount Determined? Each home buyer’s tax credit is determined by two additional factors:
The price of the home.
The buyer's income.
Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, credit may only be awarded on homes purchased for $800,000 or less. Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, which is effective on November 7, 2009, single buyers with incomes up to $125,000 and married couples with incomes up to $225,000—may receive the maximum tax credit.
These income limits have changed from the 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit limits. If you or your client purchased a home between January 1, 2009 and November 6, 2009, please see 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.
If the Buyer(s)’ Income Exceeds These Limits, Can He/She Still Get a Credit? Yes, some buyers may still be eligible for the credit.
The credit decreases for buyers who earn between $125,000 and $145,000 for single buyers and between $225,000 and $245,000 for home buyers filing jointly. The amount of the tax credit decreases as his/her income approaches the maximum limit. Home buyers earning more than the maximum qualifying income—over $145,000 for singles and over $245,000 for couples are not eligible for the credit.
Can a Buyer Still Qualify If He/She Closes After April 30, 2010?
Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, as long as a written binding contract to purchase is in effect on April 30, 2010, the purchaser will have until July 1, 2010 to close.
Will the Tax Credit Need to Be Repaid? No. The buyer does not need to repay the tax credit, if he/she occupies the home for three years or more. However, if the property is sold during this three-year period, the full amount credit will be recouped on the sale.
Extends the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit of up to $8,000 to first-time home buyers until April 30, 2010.
Expands the credit to grant up to $6,500 credit to current home owners purchasing a new or existing home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010.
Here is more information about how the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit can help prospective home buyers become part of the American dream. If you have specific questions or need additional information, please contact a tax professional or the Internal Revenue Service at 800-829-1040.
Who Qualifies for the Extended Credit? First-time home buyers who purchase homes between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010.
Current home owners purchasing a home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010, who have used the home being sold or vacated as a principal residence for five consecutive years within the last eight.
To qualify as a “first-time home buyer” the purchaser or his/her spouse may not have owned a residence during the three years prior to the purchase.
If you or your client purchased a home between January 1, 2009 and November 6, 2009, please see: 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.
Which Properties Are Eligible? The Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit may be applied to primary residences, including: single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and co-ops.
How Much Is Available? The maximum allowable credit for first-time home buyers is $8,000. The maximum allowable credit for current homeowners is $6,500.
How is a Buyer's Credit Amount Determined? Each home buyer’s tax credit is determined by two additional factors:
The price of the home.
The buyer's income.
Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, credit may only be awarded on homes purchased for $800,000 or less. Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, which is effective on November 7, 2009, single buyers with incomes up to $125,000 and married couples with incomes up to $225,000—may receive the maximum tax credit.
These income limits have changed from the 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit limits. If you or your client purchased a home between January 1, 2009 and November 6, 2009, please see 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit.
If the Buyer(s)’ Income Exceeds These Limits, Can He/She Still Get a Credit? Yes, some buyers may still be eligible for the credit.
The credit decreases for buyers who earn between $125,000 and $145,000 for single buyers and between $225,000 and $245,000 for home buyers filing jointly. The amount of the tax credit decreases as his/her income approaches the maximum limit. Home buyers earning more than the maximum qualifying income—over $145,000 for singles and over $245,000 for couples are not eligible for the credit.
Can a Buyer Still Qualify If He/She Closes After April 30, 2010?
Under the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit, as long as a written binding contract to purchase is in effect on April 30, 2010, the purchaser will have until July 1, 2010 to close.
Will the Tax Credit Need to Be Repaid? No. The buyer does not need to repay the tax credit, if he/she occupies the home for three years or more. However, if the property is sold during this three-year period, the full amount credit will be recouped on the sale.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Cedar Park signs agreement with Schlitterbahn
By Joseph M. de Leon Friday, 29 January 2010
Day-trippers and vacationers will soon be able to spend their time lounging and playing in the water in Cedar Park.
Cedar Park City Council voted unanimously Thursday to approve an incentive program to encourage New Braunfels-based Schlitterbahn Waterparks to build a $360 million water resort near the intersection of RM 1431 and Parmer Lane on the city’s eastern edge, which borders Round Rock.
Cedar Park Mayor Bob Lemon said the water resort will provide an economic boost to Cedar Park and is expected to bring 739 construction jobs and 1,200 permanent jobs to the area.
New Braunfels-based Schlitterbahn Waterparks plans to build a $360 million water resort in Cedar Park that includes a 16-acre convertible water park, a riverwalk, retail shops and a convention center. The first phase of development is expected to be ready to open by May 2012. All illustrations courtesy Schlitterbahn Waterparks “This resort will add to Cedar Park’s growing entertainment options for family fun, continuing the vision of the Cedar Park community being a family-friendly entertainment destination,” Lemon said. “It’s very exciting to see a plan like this come to Cedar Park—we’ve been planning for this for a long time.”
The 96-acre resort will be built in four phases with a 16-acre convertible water park set to be ready to open by May 2012. The first phase, estimated to cost $75 million, will also include other attractions, such as a ride that simulates skydiving.
Phase two and three of the project, which will be built at the same time, are expected to cost about $120 million. The project will include a 230-room hotel, 45,000 sq. ft. of retail space, a conference center and a river walk system to connect the various attractions. Construction on phase two and three must start in May 2012 to qualify for the incentive.
The final planned phase of the project could cost $160 million and will include 125,000 sq. ft. of retail and restaurant space and the expansion of one or more of the attractions built in the first three phases of development, depending on which components are most successful. Work on the final phase must start within 48 months of the completion of phases two and three to qualify for the incentive.
The concept for the water resort in Cedar Park tells the story of water flowing through the Hill Country, which is inspired by the Riverwalk in San Antonio. The resort will feature such technology as conveyors that move patrons through the water to reach different attractions and an electronic exploration game uses can control using a wireless glove.
The project is expected to generate between $2.5 billion and $5 billion for Cedar Park over the next 30 years, according to an economic impact analysis commissioned by the city. The water resort is eligible for $6 million in public infrastructure reimbursement when certain performance measures are met.
Phil Brewer, Cedar Park’s economic development director, said the incentive program is designed to protect the city. For example, the city will only use money for the incentive that is generated from taxes Schlitterbahn pays. Each phase must qualify for incentives on its own and there is a cap on how much Schlitterbahn can receive.
“This is a classic, creative public-private partnership which will develop a project that will yield both economic and tourist-related benefits for Cedar Park for many years to come,” Brewer said.
The Cedar Park Community Development Corporation (4B) board met in a special session about an hour before council and passed unanimously measures to facilitate preparations within Cedar Park for the water park construction.
The board approved a $6 million incentive to improve the city’s infrastructure, including road, water and sewer improvements, near the planned water park site.
Elevated tree houses made of redwood reclaimed from Texas water ways will feature a living area, a loft space and incorporate living plants throughout the building.
Not everyone welcomed the project. During the meeting, about a dozen residents from Round Rock and Cedar Park voiced their concerns about increased traffic, water shortage and overspending related to the incentive.
Jeff Henry, the son of the founder of Schlitterbahn, told council the idea for the famous water park in New Braunfels was conceived during a family trip to Germany as a tribute to the family’s heritage.
“What we were doing in 1979 was building a place where people can relax and vacation,” he said. “Every mistake you could make in building a water park from roads to parks can be seen in New Braunfels, but we’re still the number one water park in the U.S.”
Water is recycled at the resort and onsite drainage will be added to the parks recycled water system to ensure sustainable water use.
Over the years, Henry said Schlitterbahn has refined its approach to water parks and currently owns four, including Schlitterbahn Vacation Village—a $749 million retail entertainment center in Kansas City made up of multiple shopping, dining, lodging and entertainment venues.
Henry said traffic in and out of the park would be a steady trickle, nothing like the traffic gridlock during a football game or concert in which all attendees arrive and leave at the same time.
The concept for the water resort in Cedar Park is about water flowing through the Hill Country. Henry said the time he spent in San Antonio during the 1968 World's Fair as a child inspired him to incorporate a river walk into the resort.
“We will highlight the importance of water conservation and responsible water use at our resort in Cedar Park,” Henry said. “We hope to be an example for what’s right about development.”
Water is recycled at the water park and the resort would use far less water than if houses or apartments were built on the same area of land, he said. Emphasis is placed on sustainable building practices. For example, much of the resort will be built with reclaimed wood and onsite drainage will be added to the park’s recycled water system.
“We saw that family entertainment in the Austin area is lacking, so I can think of no better business to bring into Cedar Park than Schlitterbahn,” Henry said. “My purpose in this life on earth is to bring to people quality entertainment and bring families together.”
Day-trippers and vacationers will soon be able to spend their time lounging and playing in the water in Cedar Park.
Cedar Park City Council voted unanimously Thursday to approve an incentive program to encourage New Braunfels-based Schlitterbahn Waterparks to build a $360 million water resort near the intersection of RM 1431 and Parmer Lane on the city’s eastern edge, which borders Round Rock.
Cedar Park Mayor Bob Lemon said the water resort will provide an economic boost to Cedar Park and is expected to bring 739 construction jobs and 1,200 permanent jobs to the area.
New Braunfels-based Schlitterbahn Waterparks plans to build a $360 million water resort in Cedar Park that includes a 16-acre convertible water park, a riverwalk, retail shops and a convention center. The first phase of development is expected to be ready to open by May 2012. All illustrations courtesy Schlitterbahn Waterparks “This resort will add to Cedar Park’s growing entertainment options for family fun, continuing the vision of the Cedar Park community being a family-friendly entertainment destination,” Lemon said. “It’s very exciting to see a plan like this come to Cedar Park—we’ve been planning for this for a long time.”
The 96-acre resort will be built in four phases with a 16-acre convertible water park set to be ready to open by May 2012. The first phase, estimated to cost $75 million, will also include other attractions, such as a ride that simulates skydiving.
Phase two and three of the project, which will be built at the same time, are expected to cost about $120 million. The project will include a 230-room hotel, 45,000 sq. ft. of retail space, a conference center and a river walk system to connect the various attractions. Construction on phase two and three must start in May 2012 to qualify for the incentive.
The final planned phase of the project could cost $160 million and will include 125,000 sq. ft. of retail and restaurant space and the expansion of one or more of the attractions built in the first three phases of development, depending on which components are most successful. Work on the final phase must start within 48 months of the completion of phases two and three to qualify for the incentive.
The concept for the water resort in Cedar Park tells the story of water flowing through the Hill Country, which is inspired by the Riverwalk in San Antonio. The resort will feature such technology as conveyors that move patrons through the water to reach different attractions and an electronic exploration game uses can control using a wireless glove.
The project is expected to generate between $2.5 billion and $5 billion for Cedar Park over the next 30 years, according to an economic impact analysis commissioned by the city. The water resort is eligible for $6 million in public infrastructure reimbursement when certain performance measures are met.
Phil Brewer, Cedar Park’s economic development director, said the incentive program is designed to protect the city. For example, the city will only use money for the incentive that is generated from taxes Schlitterbahn pays. Each phase must qualify for incentives on its own and there is a cap on how much Schlitterbahn can receive.
“This is a classic, creative public-private partnership which will develop a project that will yield both economic and tourist-related benefits for Cedar Park for many years to come,” Brewer said.
The Cedar Park Community Development Corporation (4B) board met in a special session about an hour before council and passed unanimously measures to facilitate preparations within Cedar Park for the water park construction.
The board approved a $6 million incentive to improve the city’s infrastructure, including road, water and sewer improvements, near the planned water park site.
Elevated tree houses made of redwood reclaimed from Texas water ways will feature a living area, a loft space and incorporate living plants throughout the building.
Not everyone welcomed the project. During the meeting, about a dozen residents from Round Rock and Cedar Park voiced their concerns about increased traffic, water shortage and overspending related to the incentive.
Jeff Henry, the son of the founder of Schlitterbahn, told council the idea for the famous water park in New Braunfels was conceived during a family trip to Germany as a tribute to the family’s heritage.
“What we were doing in 1979 was building a place where people can relax and vacation,” he said. “Every mistake you could make in building a water park from roads to parks can be seen in New Braunfels, but we’re still the number one water park in the U.S.”
Water is recycled at the resort and onsite drainage will be added to the parks recycled water system to ensure sustainable water use.
Over the years, Henry said Schlitterbahn has refined its approach to water parks and currently owns four, including Schlitterbahn Vacation Village—a $749 million retail entertainment center in Kansas City made up of multiple shopping, dining, lodging and entertainment venues.
Henry said traffic in and out of the park would be a steady trickle, nothing like the traffic gridlock during a football game or concert in which all attendees arrive and leave at the same time.
The concept for the water resort in Cedar Park is about water flowing through the Hill Country. Henry said the time he spent in San Antonio during the 1968 World's Fair as a child inspired him to incorporate a river walk into the resort.
“We will highlight the importance of water conservation and responsible water use at our resort in Cedar Park,” Henry said. “We hope to be an example for what’s right about development.”
Water is recycled at the water park and the resort would use far less water than if houses or apartments were built on the same area of land, he said. Emphasis is placed on sustainable building practices. For example, much of the resort will be built with reclaimed wood and onsite drainage will be added to the park’s recycled water system.
“We saw that family entertainment in the Austin area is lacking, so I can think of no better business to bring into Cedar Park than Schlitterbahn,” Henry said. “My purpose in this life on earth is to bring to people quality entertainment and bring families together.”
10 Home Features Buyers Want
Home designers and builders speaking at the recent International Builders Show in Las Vegas say that buyers are seeking cost-effective features and rejecting things that don’t have lasting value.
“It's all about family togetherness – casual living, entertaining and flexible spaces," says Carol Lavender, president of the Lavender Design Group in San Antonio.
Paul Cardis, CEO of Avid Ratings, which conducts an annual survey of buyer preferences, identified these must-haves in new homes:
1. Large kitchens with islands
2. Energy efficiency, including energy-efficient appliances
3. Superinsulation, and high -efficiency windows
4. Home offices
5. Main-floor master suite
6. Outdoor living space
7. Ceiling fans
8. Soaking tub in the master suite and an oversize shower with a seating 9. Stone and brick exteriors
10. Community walking paths and playgrounds
11. Two-car garages, but three-car garages are even more desirable
Source: MarketWatch, Steve Kerch (01/30/2010)
“It's all about family togetherness – casual living, entertaining and flexible spaces," says Carol Lavender, president of the Lavender Design Group in San Antonio.
Paul Cardis, CEO of Avid Ratings, which conducts an annual survey of buyer preferences, identified these must-haves in new homes:
1. Large kitchens with islands
2. Energy efficiency, including energy-efficient appliances
3. Superinsulation, and high -efficiency windows
4. Home offices
5. Main-floor master suite
6. Outdoor living space
7. Ceiling fans
8. Soaking tub in the master suite and an oversize shower with a seating 9. Stone and brick exteriors
10. Community walking paths and playgrounds
11. Two-car garages, but three-car garages are even more desirable
Source: MarketWatch, Steve Kerch (01/30/2010)
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Central Texas Economy In Perspective
By Beverly Kerr, Chamber Vice President of Research
Friday’s Texas Workforce Commission and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics releases of December 2009 workforce numbers marked the 8th month running that the Austin metro, on a year-over-year basis, has lost jobs. Austin’s nonfarm payroll jobs total 781,000 in December, a loss of 2,300
(-0.3%) over December 2008. It should be noted that this year-over-year difference is the smallest Austin has seen since May, and as the graph below indicates, the difference has been steadily narrowing over the last several months.
On our customary ranking of the best performing large metros, we retain second place behind Virginia Beach. Austin’s aggregate job losses of 2,300 or 0.3% compare to 42,100 or -2.0% for Dallas, 8,000 or -0.9% for Fort Worth, 92,500 or -3.5% for Houston, and 9,000 or -1.1% for San Antonio.
Texas has 277,400 fewer jobs (-2.6%) than one year ago and has been seeing negative year-over-year numbers for 11 months. Nationally, 4,096,000 jobs (-3.0%) have been lost over the last 12 months and this is the 20th month of year-over-year decline.
In Austin’s private sector, 6 industries lost jobs in the last 12 months, with the greatest numbers and the highest rates of loss, from -5.6% to -11.1%, in 3 of these: natural resources/construction, manufacturing, and wholesale trade. These sectors lost a combined total of 11,900 jobs. A combined total of 1,600 jobs were lost in 3 other sectors: transportation/warehousing/ utilities, retail trade, and information. One of Austin’s negative growth sectors, manufacturing, lost a greater percentage in Austin than it did statewide (-11.1% vs. -9.8%).
Moderate increases were seen in professional and business services (700 net new jobs or 0.6%), other services (800 or 2.5%), and government (1,800 or 1.1%). Larger rates of increase were seen in education/health services (4,000 or 4.9%), financial activities (1,300 or 2.9%), and leisure/hospitality (2,600 or 3.3%). Texas edged over Austin’s growth rates only in the government sector. The only other sectors growing state wide were education/health services and other services, but Austin added at a greater rate in both of these industries.
Austin’s net gains in private service providing industries (4,800) and in government (1,800) were outweighed by a loss of 8,900 jobs in goods producing industries. Austin’s goods producing jobs decline of -8.6% was matched by Houston this month, which saw the same year-over-year loss. Dallas, Fort Worth, and San Antonio’s declines ranged from -2.8% to -5.8%. However, losses were greater statewide, -12.2%. While Austin’s manufacturing losses were greater than the state’s, our construction losses (-5.6%) were considerably lower than seen statewide (-14.6%). Among Texas’ major metros, Austin was the only one seeing a year-over-year net gain in private service-providing jobs. Dallas and Houston lost the most in these sectors, -3.0% and -1.9% respectively.
Friday’s Texas Workforce Commission and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics releases of December 2009 workforce numbers marked the 8th month running that the Austin metro, on a year-over-year basis, has lost jobs. Austin’s nonfarm payroll jobs total 781,000 in December, a loss of 2,300
(-0.3%) over December 2008. It should be noted that this year-over-year difference is the smallest Austin has seen since May, and as the graph below indicates, the difference has been steadily narrowing over the last several months.
On our customary ranking of the best performing large metros, we retain second place behind Virginia Beach. Austin’s aggregate job losses of 2,300 or 0.3% compare to 42,100 or -2.0% for Dallas, 8,000 or -0.9% for Fort Worth, 92,500 or -3.5% for Houston, and 9,000 or -1.1% for San Antonio.
Texas has 277,400 fewer jobs (-2.6%) than one year ago and has been seeing negative year-over-year numbers for 11 months. Nationally, 4,096,000 jobs (-3.0%) have been lost over the last 12 months and this is the 20th month of year-over-year decline.
In Austin’s private sector, 6 industries lost jobs in the last 12 months, with the greatest numbers and the highest rates of loss, from -5.6% to -11.1%, in 3 of these: natural resources/construction, manufacturing, and wholesale trade. These sectors lost a combined total of 11,900 jobs. A combined total of 1,600 jobs were lost in 3 other sectors: transportation/warehousing/ utilities, retail trade, and information. One of Austin’s negative growth sectors, manufacturing, lost a greater percentage in Austin than it did statewide (-11.1% vs. -9.8%).
Moderate increases were seen in professional and business services (700 net new jobs or 0.6%), other services (800 or 2.5%), and government (1,800 or 1.1%). Larger rates of increase were seen in education/health services (4,000 or 4.9%), financial activities (1,300 or 2.9%), and leisure/hospitality (2,600 or 3.3%). Texas edged over Austin’s growth rates only in the government sector. The only other sectors growing state wide were education/health services and other services, but Austin added at a greater rate in both of these industries.
Austin’s net gains in private service providing industries (4,800) and in government (1,800) were outweighed by a loss of 8,900 jobs in goods producing industries. Austin’s goods producing jobs decline of -8.6% was matched by Houston this month, which saw the same year-over-year loss. Dallas, Fort Worth, and San Antonio’s declines ranged from -2.8% to -5.8%. However, losses were greater statewide, -12.2%. While Austin’s manufacturing losses were greater than the state’s, our construction losses (-5.6%) were considerably lower than seen statewide (-14.6%). Among Texas’ major metros, Austin was the only one seeing a year-over-year net gain in private service-providing jobs. Dallas and Houston lost the most in these sectors, -3.0% and -1.9% respectively.
Friday, January 22, 2010
LA Gang Tours!
There is a new venture in Los Angeles offering tours through Los Angeles gang turf. These are high end specialty tours of top crime scene areas of South Central Los Angeles.
The first tour on January 16th was sold out! Passengers received a discount of $35 on the regular $100 per head ticket and signed waivers that they were aware they could become crime victims and agreed to put themselves in the hands of ex-gang members who had negotiated a cease-fire in the most violent gang area in the U.S.
The objective of these tours, which are scheduled to run once a month, is to create jobs for residents of South Central and to inject money back into the community. It also promotes the continuation of a cease fire in certain designated areas in exchange for the tour operators hiring some of their youth for employment and training opportunities. Designated routes and times are being honored by participating gangs.
For more information on these tours visit L.A. Gang Tours.
Thanks to Jane Peters, Los Angeles Real Estate agent for sharing this with us.
The first tour on January 16th was sold out! Passengers received a discount of $35 on the regular $100 per head ticket and signed waivers that they were aware they could become crime victims and agreed to put themselves in the hands of ex-gang members who had negotiated a cease-fire in the most violent gang area in the U.S.
The objective of these tours, which are scheduled to run once a month, is to create jobs for residents of South Central and to inject money back into the community. It also promotes the continuation of a cease fire in certain designated areas in exchange for the tour operators hiring some of their youth for employment and training opportunities. Designated routes and times are being honored by participating gangs.
For more information on these tours visit L.A. Gang Tours.
Thanks to Jane Peters, Los Angeles Real Estate agent for sharing this with us.
Securing an FHA mortgage is about to get more expensive.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the Federal Housing Authority outlined policy changes to its mortgage assistance program. The shift is meant to both reduce the government group's portfolio risk while strengthening its overall financials.
For consumers, the changes mean higher costs. As listed in the official announcement, there are 3 major guideline updates for the FHA:
For consumers, the changes mean higher costs. As listed in the official announcement, there are 3 major guideline updates for the FHA:
- Upfront mortgage insurance premiums are increasing to 2.25% from 1.75%
- Minimum downpayments for applicants with sub-580 FICOs are rising to 10 percent (not a huge deal because our minimum FICO is 620 anyway)
- Seller concessions are being limited to 3%, down from today's allowable 6%
To read the FHA's statement, it's clear what the group is trying to balance. On one side, the FHA wants to provide affordable financing to families that need it. That's its mission statement. On the other side, though, the FHA must manage the risk that comes with insuring lesser-quality loans.
To that end, the FHA is stepping up its enforcement of "bad lenders" in hopes of stopping problems where they start.
Also in its new policies, the FHA is introducing a "termination clause". If banks or loan officers that produce more than their fair share of bad loans, they lose their right to originate FHA mortgages.
As a result, homebuyers should expect tougher FHA underwriting in 2010. Not because the FHA says so, necessarily, but because banks don't want to do "bad loans". Lenders are incented to turn down at-risk applicants and, already, we're seeing examples of this. Despite FHA allowing 580 FICOs and lower, many banks have made 620 their minimum. Some have other guideline overlays, too.
The FHA's new guidelines don't go into effect until April 5th, 2010. So, between now and then, the old guidelines will apply. Therefore, if you know you're going to need an FHA home loan in the next few months, consider moving up your time-frame.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Consider Live-In Stagers for Vacant Homes
Showhomes, a Nashville, Tenn.-based home-management and staging company with eight offices in Florida, provides live-in stagers for vacant homes that are up for sale.
Live-in stagers reduce the chances that the property will be vandalized, and they ensure that the listing is kept in show condition and ready for buyers to tour with just 30 minutes' notice. They also must vacate the home when it sells; but in return, they pay dramatically reduced rents. Don Vanderhoef, who owns Showhomes' Fort Lauderdale franchise, says, "A big part of it is psychology. Buyers see food in the refrigerator, clothes in the closet. They see all the signs of life of a regular home."
While some real estate agents worry that live-in stagers will not keep the home clean or cause problems when asked to move out, Vanderhoef says in-home managers sign contracts and submit to background checks.
In the company's 24-year history, he says it has worked with only one problem manager. The program's properties generally spend less time on the market and fetch more money than other vacant listings. The company collects a "success" fee of 1 percent of the list price when a sale is completed and only the upfront money if the home is not sold.
Source: Charlotte Observer, Paul Owers(01/17/10)
Live-in stagers reduce the chances that the property will be vandalized, and they ensure that the listing is kept in show condition and ready for buyers to tour with just 30 minutes' notice. They also must vacate the home when it sells; but in return, they pay dramatically reduced rents. Don Vanderhoef, who owns Showhomes' Fort Lauderdale franchise, says, "A big part of it is psychology. Buyers see food in the refrigerator, clothes in the closet. They see all the signs of life of a regular home."
While some real estate agents worry that live-in stagers will not keep the home clean or cause problems when asked to move out, Vanderhoef says in-home managers sign contracts and submit to background checks.
In the company's 24-year history, he says it has worked with only one problem manager. The program's properties generally spend less time on the market and fetch more money than other vacant listings. The company collects a "success" fee of 1 percent of the list price when a sale is completed and only the upfront money if the home is not sold.
Source: Charlotte Observer, Paul Owers(01/17/10)
FHA To Toughen Down Payment Rules
The Federal Housing Administration will raise the minimum down payment for its least credit-worthy borrowers, agency announced Tuesday.
Borrowers with credit-rating scores below 580 will be required to put down at least 10 percent. Those with a credit score above 580 will be able to continue to put down only 3.5 percent. The changes are intended to shore up the agency's finances.
The FHA also will increase its upfront mortgage insurance premium from 1.75 percent to 2.25 percent. The agency is expected to seek congressional approval to raise annual mortgage insurance premiums, paid by borrowers over the life of the loan, above the current 0.55 percent maximum. The amount it will seek has yet been announced.
Source: Reuters News, Corbett B. Daly (01/19/2010)
Borrowers with credit-rating scores below 580 will be required to put down at least 10 percent. Those with a credit score above 580 will be able to continue to put down only 3.5 percent. The changes are intended to shore up the agency's finances.
The FHA also will increase its upfront mortgage insurance premium from 1.75 percent to 2.25 percent. The agency is expected to seek congressional approval to raise annual mortgage insurance premiums, paid by borrowers over the life of the loan, above the current 0.55 percent maximum. The amount it will seek has yet been announced.
Source: Reuters News, Corbett B. Daly (01/19/2010)
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Haiti Relief Fund
I placed a link on my blog today for those of you who would like to contribute to Haiti via the American Red Cross. Please find it in your heart to give what ever you can to help this devastated country.
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