Ring in the new year in Southeastern Wisconsin with one of my favorite New Year’s Milwaukee Traditions, by watching the world famous, show stopping, smile generating, all around fun making…Harlem Globetrotters at the Bradley Center!
This event, is an annual event in Milwaukee. I went as a kid, and was so pleased to be able to take my kids, a few years ago. It’s great fun, and an excellent way to bring in the new year with laughter and family fun! Click here for ticket information.
As 2009 draws to a close, I’d like to thank all of you who take the time to view our blog. Keep reading, and pass it along to your friends. I look forward to giving you more information in 2010!
December 30, 2009 at 08:44 AM · Posted under Glenn Hanon
Robert Shiller, of the Case Shiller Index is interviewed in this video by the WSJ. The outlook is not that great, but there is good news. First our area has not been affected as severely as other parts of the country. We see that the first quarter of 2010 and perhaps into the second quarter the activity will be stronger than 2009. The threat of rising interest rates should be of concern to sellers and buyers. So while the saying sounds overused, NOW is the time to sell for two main reasons. First as a seller you can take advantage of the opportunity while the homebuyer tax credit is still available. Buyers must be under contract by April 30, 2010. The second reason is that most economists believe that interest rates will have to rise in 2010. If rates go up from 5% to 6% this decreases the buyer’s top price by 10% if the buyer is payment sensitive—which almost all are today. If you would like more information about our local real estate economy or the value of your home feel free to call me.
December 21, 2009 at 02:55 PM · Posted under Karen Trepton
As I was driving this weekend, I heard the term “Super Saturday” being tossed about on the radio, describing it as the last big push for Christmas shopping. Believe me, I’m not against shopping, gift giving or the trappings of the holidays, however, it did make me raise an eye brow and pause. “Super Saturday??” It seems that every year, we, as consumers are led down yet another “retail therapy” path, making it increasingly difficult to focus on the true spirit of the Christmas season.
So, it pleased me to read these articles (Click here for first article) (Click here for second article) about some Oconomowoc High School students, who took it upon themselves to spread the spirit of giving, this holiday season. It has become an annual event for some, who used their own money, in addition to funds that they raised, to purchase gifts and some essentials for other students who are less fortunate. Especially in these challenging economic times, it is essential to remember our community organizations that assist those who are struggling..food pantries, shelters, religious and fraternal organizations who collect for those in need, etc.
So, thank you OHS students who remembered this important lesson, and without any fanfare, went about doing something for others. I wish you and your families, a blessed holiday season!
December 21, 2009 at 09:14 AM · Posted under Karen Trepton
If you live in the Midwest, especially in Lake Country, it is inevitable that you are familiar with our area’s prime winter recreation activities; ice fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and skating. But are you familiar with one of the oldest and most unique winter sports, ice boating? Ice boating is every sailor’s favorite winter activity! If the love of wind and water gets your adrenaline running in the summer, ice boating will put you over the top, in the winter!
I’m not exactly sure where ice boating originated, but I remember hearing as a kid, that it was brought to the U.S. by the Scandinavians. In the late 1800’s, ice boats were considered the fastest mode of transportation on the planet! Huge boats were constructed and manned on the Hudson River, where, when the conditions allowed, teams of men would race the trains that ran along the river banks reaching speeds in excess of 80 mph. Years ago, Milwaukee Public TV ran a special with actual movie footage of just such an event.
For ice boating to occur, the “winter sailor gods” have to align the heavens for the perfect conditions. One needs, a frozen lake, little or no snow, and of course, wind! Because of this, some winter seasons come and go with little or no sailing, making the experience that much more coveted. The consensus is that if the conditions are right, you need to drop everything, and hit the ice. “Tomorrow snow may dump, and you’ve lost your chance!” My family has been ice boating for years. My uncle owns 3 boats, and my husband and I have inherited 2 youth boats. We’ve had years of fun, sailing on Golden Lake. As a child, we followed the regatta circuit on our local lakes, especially on Pewaukee Lake and Lake Geneva. Each winter, stories about the “perfect ride” circulate around the fireplace at family gatherings.
The boats themselves have various classes, just like water sailboats, based on hull and sail type, and typically resemble a torpedo like body with cross braces that have “skates” or “blades”…one in the front, and one on each side of the boat. The skipper steers the front blade and adjusts the sail to maximize the speed. Safety equipment consists of a helmet with face gear, warm clothes and often times, inflatable life vests, in the event of open water. It’s not for the faint of heart. The speeds are incredible, and if you hike up too far, the result can be a crash on very hard ice!
Many of my friends on Lac Labelle, sail the “Nite”. It’s the “Ferrari” of ice boats…sleek and beautiful. Opti iceboating is also hugely popular. My friend’s daughter sailed her opti ice boat at the world competition in Europe 2 years ago. One of our local Pewaukee sailors, won the North American Opti Championship, last year. There is a Wisconsin association that is dedicated to this sport, The Four Lakes Ice Yacht Club. Fabulous photos and information are on their site. In addition, you can Google “ice boating” and a barrage of websites, photos, YouTube sites, etc. pop up with information on this awesome and unique sport. Click here to see a YouTube video of an ice boat in action.
Check it out…yet another awesome activity in Lake Country, Wisconsin! Ice Boating!!
December 14, 2009 at 09:07 AM · Posted under Glenn Hanon
From our family to yours we hope you had a great 2009 and hope that 2010 is a great year for you. (Pictured left to right, Robert my youngest son, me, my wife Lori and our oldest son Paul. Robert is holding our dog, but she decided not to cooperate with the camera.)
While the news is full of stories about the real estate market, often times the real stories of people are sometimes missed. Companies are still relocating employees and they have an immediate need to sell quickly and move on to their new destination. This year I helped more relocating families than I have in past years and was thrilled to help make these difficult moves a little easier. Shorewest implemented a new policy when it comes to relocation too. Now only a handful of selected agents are considered to be Relocation Consultants. Earlier this year we were required to complete in-house training and sit for an exam. The new standards insure that the family who puts their trust in the Shorewest family of agents will get the best possible service—that is what the “Certified Shorewest Relocation Specialist” designation is all about. In the coming year if you need assistance with your move, whether you are relocating across the country or across town, I would be delighted to provide the very best in service to you and your family.
December 10, 2009 at 10:36 AM · Posted under Glenn Hanon
This incredible home is situated on a almost 1 acre city lot that is adjacent to a beautiful park. There are 4 large bedrooms on the second floor with an optional 5th bedroom in the finished lower level, handsome family room with bookcases that flank the bricked fireplace. A large kitchen with sunny southern-facing dinette also features an island and plenty of counter space. A 3.5 car garage is ideal for extra storage. Priced at $274,500 1391 Forest View Lane is the perfect home for a buyer looking for extreme value.
December 04, 2009 at 08:09 AM · Posted under Glenn Hanon
The new firehouse for the Oconomowoc Fire Department will be ready for operation in May of 2010 according to Chief Beguhn of the Oconomowoc Police Department. When completed the 14,000 sq. ft. facility will house the combined fire departments of Oconomowoc and the Town of Summit. Oconomowoc’s other fire department is located on the corner of Second Street and South Concord Road. The Summit Fire Department has operated out of the Town Hall and will now move to the new facility. One large tower and a smaller tower will be available for training purposes on-site. The larger facility will have two drive-through bays and will have enough room for 8 vehicles. As you can see from the artist rendering of the building the architecture features a gabled roof and natural stone materials. Due to the proximity of near-by subdivisions the firehouse reflects some of the residential feel. You will notice the new structure to the east of Hwy 67 and the Kwik Trip. The firehouse is on the eastern leg of the Oconomowoc Parkway.
With the threat of 1-2” of snow today, I thought a little escapism was necessary. Just beyond the hibiscus tree on the left is the built in hot tub. I don’t know if you can see it or not, but what a great idea with the pool. The setting here is very private as you can see from the picture (click on the photo for full sized image). The large slated deck features plenty of room for lounging entertaining etc. But what makes this pool worth so much money? Certainly it is not the hibiscus trees! No, the owner of this pool is graciously throwing in a sprawling shingle-styled home with cherry floors throughout, 5 natural fireplaces, a cherry paneled playroom for the children, workout room, a huge veranda that will easy entertain your largest of parties, and more, all with spectacular views of the azure of Lac La Belle. While not right on the water this manor home is the crème de le crème when it comes to settings and style. Sit and relax in your private library with full masonry fireplace or retire to you master suite with full masonry fireplace. No inserts here—nothing but the best. The lady of the house has her private office on the main floor while his office is perched on the second floor with spectacular views of the lake. The guest room with private bath and fireplace will give your guests a comfortable nights rest. Click here to take a virtual tour of this property. If you would like more information regarding this one-of-a-kind retreat, feel free to call me toll free at 1-888-HEY GLEN.
December 02, 2009 at 06:19 PM · Posted under Karen Trepton
If you want an early dose of holiday cheer, check out downtown Oconomowoc, this Saturday, December 5th, for the annual Christmas Parade.
The parade runs from 3 - 4pm, and follows a route from Fowler Park, south to downtown, through the round-about westward on Wisconsin Avenue, and then south on Main Street to Roosevelt Park.
The best place to see the parade is downtown or from various local businesses and churches, such as the steps of Dr. Martin Luther Church, on Main Street. They always welcome parade watchers, and sometimes offer hot chocolate and snacks.
In addition to various local groups, you will see some of our very own Shorewest Lake Country Team, following a very special “float”, and of course, Santa!
For more Oconomowoc events visit this calendar link from the Chamber of Commerce.
December 02, 2009 at 03:50 PM · Posted under Glenn Hanon
There is a buzz in the air with the two new hospitals in Oconomowoc. The soon-to-open Aurora Hospital (pictured above), located just south of I-94 on Hwy 67, (click here to view a map) and Pro Health’s state of the art facility on Summit Avenue (pictured on right), near the heart of Oconomowoc are both imposing sites. Beyond all the press releases the best way to find out when the hospital opens is the people that work there. I found this blog from nurses that discuss the opening and it looks like March 1, 2010 is the date to watch for Aurora. Pro Health, Oconomowoc’s first hospital is also looking for talented health care professionals and is holding a grand opening on Dec. 12th. There has been much talk about hospital wars with the two competing facilities, but I like to look at it this way. Oconomowoc is in the midst of two distinct entities that are eager to provide the best health care possible. Both hospitals are looking for good qualified people too. This is all good for the surrounding business and the housing economy in Oconomowoc. From the downtown merchants to the shops at Pabst Farms more interest in our great city is very positive.
December 01, 2009 at 02:55 PM · Posted under Glenn Hanon
Maury Sullivan (pictured on left), Oconomowoc mayor announced that he is seeking re-election this coming April. The primary will be held this February 17th 2010. The mayor hopes to finish several initiatives that have started on his watch. The revitalization of the waterfront near city hall is just one of the projects that can change downtown Oconomowoc for the better. Currently discussions are still underway as to where the new train station will be located in the city for high speed rail. Additionally, Mayor Sullivan would like to see improvements with our city roads—and I couldn’t agree with him more on that. Much has been done lately especially with the reworking of the downtown area. Next year we should see the road project finished from the four corners west to the county line. In 1999 the Town of Summit and the City of Oconomowoc finalized their Border Agreement and as of December 31, 2009 several parcels that were in the Town of Summit will now be a part of the city. Several residences are involved in the assimilation to the city and when calculating taxes for the sake of a real estate transaction, it would be best to have those proration amounts agreed to in writing. Oconomowoc is ready for smart growth and with some of these projects we look forward to a bright future.
Karen Trepton
Glenn Hanon
As I was driving this weekend, I heard the term “Super Saturday” being tossed about on the radio, describing it as the last big push for Christmas shopping. Believe me, I’m not against shopping, gift giving or the trappings of the holidays, however, it did make me raise an eye brow and pause. “Super Saturday??” It seems that every year, we, as consumers are led down yet another “retail therapy” path, making it increasingly difficult to focus on the true spirit of the Christmas season.
If you live in the Midwest, especially in Lake Country, it is inevitable that you are familiar with our area’s prime winter recreation activities; ice fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and skating. But are you familiar with one of the oldest and most unique winter sports, ice boating? Ice boating is every sailor’s favorite winter activity! If the love of wind and water gets your adrenaline running in the summer, ice boating will put you over the top, in the winter!
From our family to yours we hope you had a great 2009 and hope that 2010 is a great year for you. (Pictured left to right, Robert my youngest son, me, my wife Lori and our oldest son Paul. Robert is holding our dog, but she decided not to cooperate with the camera.)
The new firehouse for the Oconomowoc Fire Department will be ready for operation in May of 2010 according to Chief Beguhn of the Oconomowoc Police Department. When completed the 14,000 sq. ft. facility will house the combined fire departments of Oconomowoc and the Town of Summit. Oconomowoc’s other fire department is located on the corner of Second Street and South Concord Road. The Summit Fire Department has operated out of the Town Hall and will now move to the new facility. One large tower and a smaller tower will be available for training purposes on-site. The larger facility will have two drive-through bays and will have enough room for 8 vehicles. 
As you can see from the artist rendering of the building the architecture features a gabled roof and natural stone materials. Due to the proximity of near-by subdivisions the firehouse reflects some of the residential feel. You will notice the new structure to the east of Hwy 67 and the Kwik Trip. The firehouse is on the eastern leg of the Oconomowoc Parkway.
south to downtown, through the round-about westward on Wisconsin Avenue, and then south on Main Street to Roosevelt Park.
state of the art facility on Summit Avenue (pictured on right), near the heart of Oconomowoc are both imposing sites. Beyond all the press releases the best way to find out when the hospital opens is the people that work there. I found this blog 
Maury Sullivan (pictured on left), Oconomowoc mayor announced that he is seeking re-election this coming April. The 
In 1999 the Town of Summit and the City of Oconomowoc finalized their 
