Below is a list of common closing costs associated with a purchase of a home by the buyer. To be on the safe side, ask your realtor to obtain a Good Faith Estimate that shows the closing costs.

This way you will know in advance how much they are and your realtor will know how to write your purchase agreement so to minimize your expenses. Please feel free to call me at 812-499-9234 if you have any questions.

Common Closing Costs for Buyers

You’ll likely be responsible for a variety of fees and expenses that you and the seller will have to pay at the time of closing. Your lender must provide a good-faith estimate of all settlement costs. The title company or other entity conducting the closing will tell you the required amount for:

· Down payment

· Loan origination

· Points, or loan discount fees, which you pay to receive a lower interest rate

· Home inspection

· Appraisal

· Credit report

· Private mortgage insurance premium

· Insurance escrow for homeowner’s insurance, if being paid as part of the mortgage

· Property tax escrow, if being paid as part of the mortgage. Lenders keep funds for taxes and insurance in escrow accounts as they are paid with the mortgage, then pay the insurance or taxes for you.

· Deed recording

· Title insurance policy premiums

· Land survey

· Notary fees

· Prorations for your share of costs, such as utility bills and property taxes

A Note about Prorations: Because such costs are usually paid on either a monthly or yearly basis, you might have to pay a bill for services used by the sellers before they moved. Proration is a way for the sellers to pay you back or for you to pay them for bills they may have paid in advance. For example, the gas company usually sends a bill each month for the gas used during the previous month. But assume you buy the home on the 6th of the month. You would owe the gas company for only the days from the 6th to the end for the month. The seller would owe for the first five days. The bill would be prorated for the number of days in the month, and then each person would be responsible for the days of his or her ownership.

For some live entertainment we suggest to go to the upcoming Convert & Bierstube By The Water on June 6th from 8:00PM to midnight in downtown Evansville. The event will be outdoors. This should be a fun event.

DATE: Friday, June 6, 2008 TIME: 8pm- Midnight LOCATION: Riverfront Lower Plaza/Esplanade   Main Entrance to Bierstube located at Riverside Drive & Main Street ADMISSION: $3.00   MORE INFORMATION:  Join us for an night-time concert and bierstube as  Rachel & the Jimmies take center stage at the Downtown Riverfront.  Must be 21 or over to enter.  Contact Jocee at 424.2986 / jocee@downtownevansville.org for more details

 

Here we have the Events Calender of Wesselman Nature Society for the month of June 2008:

 

June 2008

 

June 1   Wildlife in the City Canoe Program! (2 p.m.) Join Canoe Evansville for an alternative look at Evansville, via Pigeon Creek. $15 per person. Call 812-479-0771, ext. 105 for registration information.

 

June 4   Butterfly Bedazzaled Hike (9 to 10 a.m.) at Howell Wetlands. Experience the sights and sensations of butterflies that call Howell Wetlands home. The butterflies abound amongst the wetland and prairie plants at Howell Wetlands. Where do butterflies go for the winter? How long do they live? What is the difference between a monarch and a viceroy? To find answers to these and other questions, join us! Led by Debbie Goedde, Southwest Indiana Master Gardner and butterfly enthusiast. 1 hr. Free; donations accepted. Call 499-2952 for more information.

 

June 4   Toddler Tales! (10 a.m.) at the Wesselman Woods Nature Center. This nature story and craft class is for parents and children up to 5 years old. Interaction with nature is important in a child's early stages. Free; donations accepted. No reservation required. Call 479-0771, ext 102 for more information.

 

June 7   Recycle Saturday! (8 a.m. to Noon) at old Wal-Mart West. Support Wesselman Nature Society by bringing us your recyclable materials. We are accepting cardboard, newspaper, magazines, catalogs, phone books, mixed paper, aluminum cans, metal food cans, glass containers, #1 & #2 plastic bottles, and household batteries. Call 479-0771, ext. 101 or 436-7800 for more information.

 

June 7   Pickin’ on the Pigeon Family Music Festival! (10 a.m. to

4 p.m.) at Garvin Park. Evansville’s best homegrown musicians will take to the stage for a day of musical entertainment. Try paddling a canoe on the Garvin Park Lake or participate in the children’s environmental craft activities offered throughout the day. A great day of outdoor activities suitable for the whole family. Free; donations accepted.

 

June 8   Wildlife in the City Canoe Program! (2 p.m.) Join Canoe Evansville for an alternative look at Evansville, via Pigeon Creek. $15 per person. Call 812-479-0771, ext. 105 for registration information.

 

June 9—13   Summer Nature Camp! (8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.) at the Nature Center at Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve. Nature campers will enjoy mornings filled with themed, nature-related activities, most of which will take place in the Nature Center, inside the Preserve or within Wesselman Park. Afternoon activities will include daily off-site field trips for educational or recreational fun at various locations (such as Mesker Park Zoo, Howell Wetlands, the Children's Museum of Evansville, Swonder Ice Rink, etc.). Safe mode of travel to and from field trip sites provided. A mid-morning snack is provided, but it will be important for campers to eat a good breakfast before coming and pack a lunch each day as well. For children ages 8—12. $125. Call 479-0771, ext. 103 for more information or to register.

 

June 11   Toddler Tales! (10 a.m.) at the Wesselman Woods Nature Center. This nature story and craft class is for parents and children up to 5 years old. Interaction with nature is important in a child's early stages. Free; donations accepted. No reservation required. Call 479-0771, ext 102 for more information.

 

June 12—August 7   Reading with Raptors Summer Book Club! (1 to

5 p.m.) Thursdays at the Nature Center, Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve. For ages 12—14, or entering grades 6—8. This program will combine literature and science concentrating on birds of prey as an underlying theme. A small group of teens will meet five times throughout the summer for an afternoon that is part book club, part science discovery and part volunteer service. Call 479-0771, ext. 100 to register or for more information.

 

June 13   Moonlight Paddle! (6:30 p.m.) at Bluegrass F&W Area. Join Canoe Evansville for a guided paddle under the full moon at this serene natural area north of the City. $15 per person. Call 812-479-0771, ext. 105 for registration information.

 

June 14   Moonlight Paddle! (6:30 p.m.) at Bluegrass F&W Area. Join Canoe Evansville for a guided paddle under the full moon at this serene natural area north of the City. $15 per person. Call 812-479-0771, ext. 105 for registration information.

 

June 14   Wildlife in the City Canoe Program! (9 a.m.) Join Canoe Evansville for an alternative look at Evansville, via Pigeon Creek. $15 per person. Call 812-479-0771, ext. 105 for registration information.

 

June 14–15   Reptile Invasion! (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) at the Nature Center at Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve. Come to the Tri-State’s largest reptile show! Over 150 reptiles and amphibians from around the world will be on display: snakes of all sizes, turtles, lizards, alligators, frogs and salamanders! Programs offered throughout this event will teach more about native species, venomous snakes and other fabulous creatures. $4 adults; $3 ages 5 to 13; children age 4 and under are free. Call 479-0771, ext. 102 for more information.

 

June 14   Wetland Wildflower Hike (8:30 to 9:30 a.m.) at Howell Wetlands. Experience the sights and smells of wildflowers at Howell Wetlands on this guided tour. See a magnificent array of wildflowers, prairie grasses, and wildlife in the wetland, woodland and prairie…a quality show you can’t find anywhere else in the Evansville area. Ever seen a downy sunflower? A cardinal flower? Indian grass? Now is your chance. Join us! Led by Southwest Indiana Master Gardner/Southwest Indiana Master Naturalist Kate Lynch. Free; donations accepted. Call 499-2952 for more information.

 

June 15   Wildlife in the City Canoe Program! (2 p.m.) Join Canoe Evansville for an alternative look at Evansville, via Pigeon Creek. $15 per person. Call 812-479-0771, ext. 105 for registration information.

 

June 18   Toddler Tales! (10 a.m.) at the Wesselman Woods Nature Center. This nature story and craft class is for parents and children up to 5 years old. Interaction with nature is important in a child's early stages. Free; donations accepted. No reservation required. Call 479-0771, ext 102 for more information.

 

June 21   Wildlife in the City Canoe Program! (9 a.m.) Join Canoe Evansville for an alternative look at Evansville, via Pigeon Creek. $15 per person. Call 812-479-0771, ext. 105 for registration information.

 

June 22   Wildlife in the City Canoe Program! (2 p.m.) Join Canoe Evansville for an alternative look at Evansville, via Pigeon Creek. $15 per person. Call 812-479-0771, ext. 105 for registration information.

 

June 23—27   Summer Nature Camp! (8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.) at the Nature Center at Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve. Nature campers will enjoy mornings filled with themed, nature-related activities, most of which will take place in the Nature Center, inside the Preserve or within Wesselman Park. Afternoon activities will include daily off-site field trips for educational or recreational fun at various locations (such as Mesker Park Zoo, Howell Wetlands, the Children's Museum of Evansville, Swonder Ice Rink, etc.). Safe mode of travel to and from field trip sites provided. A mid-morning snack is provided, but it will be important for campers to eat a good breakfast before coming and pack a lunch each day as well. For children ages 8—12. $125. Call 479-0771, ext. 103 for more information or to register.

 

June 25   Toddler Tales! (10 a.m.) at the Wesselman Woods Nature Center. This nature story and craft class is for parents and children up to 5 years old. Interaction with nature is important in a child's early stages. Free; donations accepted. No reservation required. Call 479-0771, ext 102 for more information.

 

June 28   Butterfly Bedazzaled Hike (9 to 10 a.m.) at Howell Wetlands. Experience the sights and sensations of butterflies that call Howell Wetlands home. The butterflies abound amongst the wetland and prairie plants at Howell Wetlands. Where do butterflies go for the winter? How long do they live? What is the difference between a monarch and a viceroy? To find answers to these and other questions, join us! Led by Debbie Goedde, Southwest Indiana Master Gardner and butterfly enthusiast. Free; donations accepted. Call 499-2952 for more information.

June 28   Wildlife in the City Canoe Program! (9 a.m.) Join Canoe Evansville for an alternative look at Evansville, via Pigeon Creek. $15 per person. Call 812-479-0771, ext. 105 for registration information.

 

June 29   Wildlife in the City Canoe Program! (2 p.m.) Join Canoe Evansville for an alternative look at Evansville, via Pigeon Creek. $15 per person. Call 812-479-0771, ext. 105 for registration information.

Source:http://www.wesselmannaturesociety.org/events/index.php

This article is not only interesting because downtown Evansville has a new bistro that is serving homelike meals, but that the owners Joe and Jan Anglin are looking to open a downtown grocery store. Now that the Anglins have their bistro up and running, they say they're up to the task of also opening a grocery store downtown. With all the conversions of commercial buildings to condominiums, downtown Evansville is gaining more residential living and a grocery store would be welcomed by all. We wish the Anglins all the best with their Twilight Bistro at 221 Main Street, and we encourage them to pursue the opening of a new grocery store.

To read the article in the Evansville Courier & Press, click here.

These are some of the up coming attractions for downtown Evansville for the weekend of June 6th and June 7th.

The Dragons on the Ohio Boat races is a spectacular event to watch and lots of fun.

Vanderburgh County Farm Bureau Farmers' Market
June 6
7am - 2:30pm

Held from 7:00am –2:30pm, the ever?]popular Farmers Market features over twenty vendors that sell home grown produce and crafts. Each summer hundreds of people turn out to purchase local goods and to support the Tri-State’s agricultural efforts. Not only does the Farmers Market capture economic benefits for local farmers and strengthen the community but it also saves energy consumption with lower transportation costs and packaging. 

Fabulous First Fridays Lunch in the Park Brown Bag Music Series
June 6
11am - 1:30pm

Lunch in the Park will be held at the park on Fourth and Main Street on the first Friday of every month from May to September and will feature a “brown bag” series with different local musicians each month. This staple event will provide an excellent networking opportunity for local businessmen and women.

Location: ONB Park at the corner of Main & Fourth Street.

Fabulous First Fridays D-Patrick Ford Downtown Cruise-Ins
June 6
5pm – 9pm

Over 225 classic and show cars cruise down Main Street during the summer?]long cruise?]in series. From 5:00pm - 9:00pm, the event attracts thousands of families, regional car club enthusiasts, and local residents. Live radio remotes and entertainment make the Downtown Cruise?]Ins the place to be on the first Friday of every month from May thru September.

Location: Main Street

Downtown Multicultural Festival & Dragons on the Ohio Boat Races
June 7
10am - 6pm

Entering into its inaugural year, the 2008 Downtown Multicultural Festival will be bringing a whole new dimension to the established Dragons on the Ohio event. Throughout the one?]day extravaganza, the riverfront will bloom with culture and diversity in the heart of Evansville’s downtown district. The festival will promote the appreciation, value, and recognition of community diversity through entertainment, cuisine, song, dance, and artistic cultural expression. As part of the festivities there will be food from around the world, a unique line?]up of musicians, dancers, and performers, along with a number of cultural booths showcasing art and jewelry. The booths, run by a myriad of local Tri-State organizations, will educate and highlight traditions of a specific culture. In addition, a children’s activities booth will engage kids to explore the world of diversity. A festival passport will ensure an interactive and exciting time for kids of all ages. In conjuncture with the Multicultural Festival, the Dragons on the Ohio boat races will be taking place simultaneously on the river front. In its third year, the Chinese traditional boat races will once again feature roughly nine local and national teams of 20 that compete in various heats. The boats are 40-feet fiberglass and wood boats ornamented with dragon heads on the prow.

Location: Riverside Drive

Warrick County property taxes have been set. Homeowners should receive the new property tax bills in a few weeks. As per Larry Lacer, Warrick County Auditor, tax rates are increasing about 2% to 3% over last year's rate. He estimated nearly all Warrick homeowners will see their total tax bills decrease, however, thanks to $620 million in property tax relief the Legislature approved statewide this year. Lacer thinks Warrick's tax bills will be mailed at the end of June or the beginning of July. Spring installment tax payments would be due 15 days later. The exact deadline has not been determined.

For more information, read the Evansville Courier & Press article by clicking here.

Good news for Newburgh and Evansville. The Alcoa Warrick Power Plant has taken a significant step forward in reducing emissions. The first of four units has gone online and all should be operating by the end of the year. Construction started in 2005 and Alcoa says once the project is completed the new scrubbers will reduce sulfur dioxide emissions by 98 percent and hydrochloric acid emissions by 99 percent.

This should help with our air quality during the hot summer months.

To learn more, check out the Inside INdiana Business article by clicking here.

There will be new lane closures on the Lloyd Expressway starting Wednesday night. According to Indiana Transportation officals the Lloyd Expressway will be near Fulton Avenue starting Wednesday night. They say the two lanes will be restricted starting at 7:00 PM Wednesday and will last through 5:00 AM Thursday. INDOT says the lane restrictions will happen again on Thursday. They say the work is weather permitting, and may be pushed back on a day-by-day basis until it's finished.

For more information, click here.

It looks like Evansville Museum will break ground next year on a 9,000 square foot expansion that will include a planetarium and a theater. The museum has raised $ 9.1 million for this and other expansions. The city will also participate in the construction costs. The work is targeted for completion in November of 2010.

For more information on the Evansville Museum's latest expansion, click here to read the Evansiville Courier & Press article.

In an continued effort to keep residents safe, Governor Mitch Daniels has signed a bill requiring all 92 counties to give a report to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security which includes all existing tornado sirens as well as all planned siren location. The Department of Homeland Security is investing more money into tornado sirens as they can quickly alert thousands of people. We thank the Governor for his vision and leadership to make safety a high priority.

Click here to learn more about this initiative.

The Vanderburgh County Treasurer’s office has confirmed that the latest property tax bills have been mailed.

Due to the Memorial Day holiday most bills will arrive in mailboxes by Tuesday May 27th.

The real estate property taxes are due June 6th.

These will be the first bills sent out since Indiana passed sweeping new property tax reform legislation earlier this year.

Source: http://tristatehomepage.com/content/fulltext/?cid=6963

We applaud the Indiana manufacturing and logistics companies to set up an internship program that will help to address the future needs of companies to ensure that the pool of trained workers will continue to grow. These jobs demand technology skills, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, and they pay accordingly : The average Indiana manufacturing job pays 40% more than the state’s median income, while logistics jobs pay 30% more. Conexus Indiana and the Indiana INTERNnet initiative have formed a new partnership to give more students a first-hand look at manufacturing and logistics through internship programs. Addressing the workforce needs will take a multi-faceted approach: Making sure the right education and training programs are available to prepare young Hoosiers for manufacturing and logistics positions, and marketing these jobs aggressively. An important part of the overall strategy is exposing students to the manufacturing and logistics workplace early on.

Roundtable discussions on this topic will be held on June 17th, 2008 at the University of Evansville Schroeder Family School of Business.

For more information, check out the Inside INdiana Business website article by clicking here.

There is no surprise that Southwest Indiana, including Evansville, is gaining more recognition of choice location due to the proposed construction of I-69. The I-69 extension will give companies here an easy north-south route while Interstate 64 will continue to serve their east-west route needs. According to David Mathews, a long time real estate appraiser, Evansville is the most economical place to be when all things are considered - from government incentives and cost of living expenses to costs to establish and run an operation. Mathews explains that site locations today are being made based on a community's:

• Affordability of housing 
• Availability of reliable and skilled labor and work force training
• Quality of life 
• Recreational and cultural opportunities 
• Crime rate 
• Quality of schools 
• Climate
• Short commute times
• A local airport that serves major hubs 
• Good media outlets 

I don't know about you, but this sounds to me like Evansville is the place to be.

For more information, check out the Evansville Courier & Press article by clicking here.

We applaud Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel and other city officals for taking their time and visiting Louisville for a fact finding mission and we are encouraged to hear that the mayor has heard several ideas he might consider bringing back to Evansville, such as a campaign to identify things that make the area special and use them to brand the city to make it more identifiable to people in other parts of the county. This trip also provided the opportunity for the mayor to learn more about Louisville's new downtown arena, scheduled to open in 2010.

We hope the mayor will continue to keep the residents of Evansville informed about his decision regarding Evansville's new arena and that the public will have a chance to be heard before the final decision is made.

For more information about this visit, please read the Evansville Courier & Press article by clicking here.

The purpose of this article is to encourage our readers to review their home owners insurance every couple of years to make sure that the home owner’s insurance policy is up to date and that increased property values are adjusted on the home owners policy.

Most insurance companies require homeowners to have at least 80% of the actual value of your home (excluding the value of the land) in order to pay a claim in the event of a total loss. This is often referred to as "coinsurance." The results can come as a real surprise to a homeowner in the event of a loss. For example, consider a homeowner who has an older home that is insured for $60,000. Due to appreciation of home values, the home is now actually worth $100,000 -- which means the insurance company would today require the homeowner to carry at least $80,000 of coverage. Since the homeowner carried only $60,000 (60% of the home value), the insurance company may only provide 60% of the loss - a claim for $20,000 may result in payment of only $12,000.


Source: www.freeadvice.com

This information is for home buyers who have the intention to purchase a new home. Each builder has to adhere to these standards although it is not uncommon that some builders go beyond these warranties.

For instance, builders belonging to the Southwestern Indiana Builders Association will go by the Indiana Quality Assurance Builder Standards (QABS) for home building and remodeling standards.

These standards create a series of performance standards that the builder and the homeowner can use to communicate and understand each other’s expectations regarding the building or remodeling project.

The standards address the most prevalent issues that arise between the builder and the customer before the project, during the project, and, most importantly, after the project is completed. All too often it is the undefined expectations that create the majority of the problems encountered in the building and remodeling processes. The standards will help and eliminate problems before the project even begins.


Indiana's New Home Warranty Law
Consumers purchasing new homes in Indiana are protected by an implied warranty. As a purchaser, you can expect that different portions of your new home will last for reasonable amounts of time (e.g. roof, structural components, mechanical, etc.).

The builder is considered responsible for various portions of the home for specific periods. The builder may, at his or her own option, provide an insured warranty to the consumer and disclaim the implied warranty provided that certain conditions are met.

The following sections of Indiana's New Home Warranty Law can help you understand what legal rights and responsibilities you have as a purchaser, and what rights and responsibilities your builder has.

To download this information as a PDF, click here.

Source: Southwestern Indiana Builders Association

Date: 6/7/2008 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Cost: free
Location: Old Wal-Mart West
University Drive
Evansville, Indiana 47712

ITEMS TO BRING:
(Please be sure items are clean and sorted.)

Aluminum cans Metal food cans
Cardboard Catalogs/magazines
Newspaper Mixed paper
Glass containers #1 & #2 plastic bottles

VANDERBURGH COUNTY RESIDENTS ONLY
436-7800

This is the third series of a report on preventive measures that can save lives. This information was obtained at a breakfast meeting on May 9th, 2008, which was hosted by the Disaster Resistant Community Partners of Evansville.

The motto is: Be Prepared. Act Now. Stay safe!

Taking Emergency Action Series – Floods

Flooding can occur anytime, anywhere, and cause injuries and damage to homes, businesses, and belongings. In Indiana, flash floods can strike with little warning, turning small creeks and drains into raging bodies of water.

In case of a flood:

• Keep alert for signs of flooding, like thunderstorms and prolonged heavy rain.
• Be especially cautious at night, because it’s harder to recognize flooding after dark.
• Stay away from open channels, ditches and culverts.
• Do not try to walk, drive or swim through floodwaters. Even six inches of swift water can knock you off your feet.
• Be careful of bridges and dips in the road.
• If water rises over the road, abandon your vehicle and head for higher ground.

Do not wait! Prepare for floods:

• Have your home inspected to make sure it is not at risk from flooding. The LFUGG Division of Engineering can help you with this, free of charge.
• Retrofit your home against flood. This can include actually moving your home or elevating it above the floodplain, as well as “wet” and “dry” types of flood proofing.
• Buy flood insurance to cover the value of your home and contents.
• Move valuables and appliances out of the basement if your home is flood prone.
• Elevate utilities, including main breaker, fuse box, and meters, to protect them from damage. Contact your utility company to learn how.
• Install backflow valves to prevent sewage backup in urban areas. Financial assistance may also be available for some home flood-proofing projects through the LFUCG home flood proofing program. Contact the Division of Engineering to learn more.
  
  
  Source: Indiana Department of Homeland Security
  
  

From this report it seems that North Green River Road will remain open from Lynch Road to Millersburg Road during a two year widening project set to begin in September. There were conflicting reports as to whether the road would remain open or not. County Commissioners President Jeff Korb made the optimistic report Tuesday in his State of the County address to the Rotary Club of Evansville at The Coliseum. The speech traditionally is given by the president of the commissioners, county government's executive arm.

We encourage city officals to continue to work diligently and set a priority that the road has to remain open for the good of the public. Closing the road will inevitably lead to long delays and traffic jams.

To learn more about this project, click here to read the article in the Evansville Courier & Press.

The former Hilliard Lyons Building has been sold to the Kunkel Group, a developer of condominiums in downtown Evansville. We reported on the sale of this building a few months ago when the building was purchased by Jim and LaQuinta Schum. The Schum's had the intention to convert the Hilliard Lyons Building into commercial office condos. The Kunkel Group is completing work on remodeling and expanding the former de Jong's building at Third and Main streets into condominiums and commercial space. The $4.83 million development is now dubbed The Meridian Plaza. In 2006, The Kunkel Group began renovating the former JCPenney building on Main into condominiums. The building has been renamed The Renaissance on Main Street.

To learn more, read the article by the Evansville Courier & Press by clicking here.

We are pleased with the decision by the NFL to host the 2012 Super Bowl in Indianapolis.

This is good news for Indiana and it gives all of us a chance to attend a Super Bowl which is not too far from Evansville.

The icing on the cake would be of course for the Indianapolis Colts to win the Super Bowl in 2012.

It would not hurt if they win a Super Bowl between now and 2012.

Here's the story from the Evansville Courier & Press:

Indy will host 2012 Super Bowl

Indianapolis was chosen today by NFL owners to host the 2012 Super Bowl.

Meeting in Atlanta, the owners voted in the Hoosier capital over competing bids from Houston and Phoenix. Indianapolis was a finalist last year for the 2011 game, but lost out in bidding to a much larger stadium near Dallas.

The 2012 game will be held at the new Lucas Oil Stadium, scheduled to open in August to replace the RCA Dome. Colts and city officials plan to turn downtown Indianapolis into a Super Bowl Village to greet visitors at the game. They cited the city's success in hosting collegiate and amateur events in their bid.

The next three Super Bowls will be held in Tampa in 2009, South Florida in 2010 and Dallas in 2011.

We are very pleased to see that Evansville, Indiana is included in the list of Relocate-America’s Top 100 places to live in 2008.

This is a distinction that does mean a lot and we with new projects such as a new stadium downtown, Evansville will be in a very good position to solidify its position and remain on the list for years to come.

To learn more, visit the Relocate-America website by clicking here.

This article might be of interest to those of you interested in log homes. We are seeing more and more log homes built as primary residences. This appeal allows individuals to live all year in their "vacation" home. With a setting on a lake surrounded by woods and grassland the day to day hustle can be left behind.

To learn more about log homes, read the article in the Evansville Courier & Press by clicking here.

The news of an Indianapolis developer to build a four start hotel in downtown Evansville has been circulating for a few days. We now know that Browning Investments will only build the new hotel if the new stadium for Evansville will be built downtown. This of course will give the developer a better chance to succeed with their investment and it also gives city officals additional reasons to build the new stadium in downtown Evansville.

To learn more about the hotel proposition, click here to read the article by the Evansville Courier & Press.

We are pleased to see that the city of Evansville is to receive $ 900,000 to extend the Pigeon Creek Greenway trail. This was announced by the governor's office in Indianapolis. According to the governor's office, the grant funding will extend the Industrial Corridor section of the Pigeon Creek greenway in Evansville. Long-term plans eventually call for linking it to the Middle Levee Corridor, completed in 1997, and the Riverfront Corridor, completed in 2004.
Any expansion of the Greenway trail will give the residents of Evansville and those who come to visit more choices to do things and in this case enjoy the Greenway trail in a safe manner without having to worry for traffic.

To learn more about this new project, click here to read the article by the Evansville Courier & Press.

The city of Evansville has plans to build two new pools, one at Bellemeade Park and the other at Howell Park. The cost for both pools is around $ 5.8 million. The project needs approval from the city's Park Board when they meet on June 4 before construction can begin. We hope that the city’s Parks Board will approve this project as this will lead to improved community interaction and a nice place for children to go to during the hot summer days. 


Source: http://14wfie.com/global/story.asp?s=8349970

Are you looking for your ticket to Evansville's largest summer festival?

The famed Freedom Festival buttons are now for sale!

The button sales kicked off Friday evening at Ri-Rah's pub in downtown Evansville.

Mayor Johnathen Weinzapfel bought the first button.

This year’s events will feature aerial acrobatics, soaring hot air shows and thunder racing that rocks the Ohio River, as well as plenty of food and entertainment.

This year's festival runs from June 26th to June 29th, as well as July 4th.

Buttons are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. Buttons are not required for anyone age 12 and under.

Source: http://tristatehomepage.com/

The 2008 festival will feature these events and many more that are currently being confirmed:

Thunder on the Ohio Unlimited Hydroplane Racing

The Golden Knights US Army Parachute Team

USAF F-16 Viper West

USAF Heritage Flight P-51

Tim Weber Airshows Sponsored by GEICO

Mike Wiskus Airshow Sponsored by LUCAS OIL

Source: http://www.evansvillefreedomfestival.org/

In anticipation of a possible new arena in downtown Evansville, Browning Investments of Indianapolis has revealed that they are planning the development of a "Four Star" Hotel located in downtown Evansville.

This certainly will solidify the location of the new stadium to be located in downtown Evansville.

Even though this is just in the planning stages, any new construction of this scope will be good for Evansville.

The following is a news release issued by Browning Investments via Web Producer on Monday, May 19, 2008:

Browning Investments Plans Major Downtown Hotel Development

Browning Investments, a major developer headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana is planning the development of a "Four Star" Hotel located in downtown Evansville, Indiana in proximity to a possible new arena.

Senior Browning Executives consider that this Hotel will be a major enhancement factor that will play a significant part in the effort to increase tourism and the City's convention business.

The recent economic study by the Gateway Group indicates that development of a downtown Arena and Convention District will make Evansville more competitive with other cities of their size in attracting more Convention and Tourism business, resulting in a significant positive impact for the local economy and community.

Browning considers downtown Evansville an excellent hospitality development opportunity because of the multiple market drivers;

• The existing downtown corporate headquarters need for more business-focused accommodations.

• The lack of competitive alternatives because of existing out-dated facilities.

• The proximity to the local casino activities.

• The connectivity to a possible downtown arena • This headquarters hotel will provide many amenities that will attract people to the City for business, conventions and tourism.

"Some Cities have made mistakes moving their Convention and Tourism attractions away from the city center. The fact that Evansville is considering locating an arena downtown with a "Four Star Hotel" in close proximity combined with the local Casino will make the City very competitive in the midsize convention market. It will provide the stimulus to maintain the downtown momentum the City has already achieved and frankly that is what attracts us", states Dennis Dye, Executive Vice President for Browning.

Senior Browning Executives will be in Evansville, Tuesday, May 20th for a 9:00 AM Press Conference at the Innovation Pointe, 1st floor multi-purpose room – 318 Main Street - press kit materials with reproducible images will also be available for attending press.

This is the second series of a report on preventive measures that can save lives.

This information was obtained at a breakfast meeting on May 9, 2008, which was hosted by the Disaster Resistant Community Partners of Evansville.

The motto is: Be Prepared. Act Now. Stay safe!

Taking Emergency Action Series – Tornadoes

A tornado is a violent storm with spiraling wind, often accomplished by hail, wind, and rain.
Strong tornadoes can sweep houses off foundations, destroy brick buildings, and toss cars.
The noise of a tornado has been described as a roaring sound – like a train far away.

In case of a tornado:

• Grab your emergency kit and NOAA weather radio id you have time.
• In homes or small buildings, take shelter in an interior part of the lowest level, including basement, hallways, and interior bathrooms.
• In public areas, like schools or shopping centers, go to pre-designated shelter areas. Interior hallways on the lowest floor are best. Stay away from windows.
• In high-rise buildings, go to interior small rooms or hallways on the lowest floor possible with no windows. If you can see outside, you are not safe.
• In vehicles or mobile homes, leave them and take shelter in a substantial structure. If there is no shelter, lie flat in the nearest ditch with your hands shielding your head and neck.
• Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls. Try to protect your head.
• Get under something sturdy or lie in the bathtub. Cover yourself with a blanket.

Do not wait! Prepare for tornadoes:

• Have your home inspected and make sure it can withstand high winds.
• Attach wind straps and tie-downs to reinforce your home or business.
• Construct a “safe room” in your home. These are specially designed to protect you from tornadoes.
• Install safety film over windows. This transparent covering helps protect you from flying debris.
• Reinforce or replace garage doors and double entry doors to withstand high winds.
• Brace gable framing to reinforce your roof.
• Remove loose objects close to your home, such as trashcans, yard debris, or anything that can be picked up by a tornado. Inspect large trees and limbs that are close to your home. 
• Construct your home with insulated concrete forms. They make your home much stronger and more energy efficient
   
  Source: Indiana Department of Homeland Security
  
  

The University of Southern Indiana will receive more than 900 acres of land and $500,000 to be used for future expansion ay USI. The donation was made possible by a nonprofit organization, Southern Indiana Higher Education, Inc. The leaders of SIHE have decided to transfer the assets to the USI Foundation by the end of June of this year.

The actual cash transfer will be used to create two endorsed Presidential Scholarships bearing the SIHE name and a general scholarship.

We are certain that the scholarships and the use of the land will come to good use and that the legacy of SIHE will be preserved with USI for ever.

For additional information, visit the Inside INdiana Business website by clicking here.

The third annual Wine & Arts Festival in Newburgh will take place on Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Vinters from around the state will display their wines and explain the wine making process. In addition you can view fine arts and sample a variety of food.

To learn more, read the article by the Evansville Courier & Press by clicking here.

We have just received the next date for Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel’s Traveling City Hall Program set for May 27th, 2008 from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

May Traveling City Hall Program

Date: 5/27/2008 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Location: Howard Roosa Elementary School
                 1230 E. Illinois
                 Evansville, Indiana 47711

Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel will be holding his 48th Traveling City Hall Program, Tuesday, May 27th, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Howard Roosa Elementary, 1230 E. Illinois. All City residents are welcome. The Traveling City Hall Programs give the public the chance to ask questions and voice concerns, one-on-one outside of normal business hours, of the Mayor and City Department Heads

The date has finally been set for the payment of the spring tax bills it is June 6th, 2006. Since Vanderburgh County was the first county in Indiana to send out the new tax bills, we are most likely also the first ones to pay them. The difference however is that we will be paying less than last year. This is most likely welcomed by all.

To learn more, please read the Evansville Courier & Press article by clicking here.

At the annual shareholder meeting of Vectren, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Niel C. Ellerbrook predicted that energy prices will continue to experience immense pressure in coming years. "From gasoline to natural gas, our nation's energy prices continue to reach new levels of what's considered 'normal' pricing," Ellerbrook said.

Unfortunately the upward pressure will only get worse. Worldwide demand for energy will increase immensely, especially from India and China. This in turn will increase the price of all natural energy and all countries are competing in the same market for the same products. The solution to the energy crisis is to re-think of how we presently use our energy and what we can do to change or substitute the energy source. This of course will take a lot of time.

To learn more, click here to read teh article from Inside INdiana Business.

Vectren presents Evening On The River on Friday, May 30th. The event will entail a variety of entertainment and food/refreshments in a “moveable feast” format. Anchored by Casino Aztar on one end, and the Museum on the other, guests stroll from one end of the event to the other while enjoying a gorgeous sunset over the river.

Entertainment planned for the various river overlooks will include a Jazz Band, Singers, magicians, artists, and jugglers.

Proceeds from the event will benefit two very important causes— The Evansville Parks Foundation and Keep Evansville Beautiful.

Tickets are just $50. For more information please call 435-6141

Source: http://www.wiky.com/Article.asp?id=699122&spid=

I was not aware, that every time Habitat for Humanity builds a house in Evansville, the benefits are felt world wide. For every house erected here, $ 2,500 goes to Habitat organizations in Botswana and Jordan.

This is another example how a group of people not only pay their dues and work hard to provide a better life for the residents who are eligible for a Habitat house, but in their efforts are able to help others in far reaching places from Evansville. Hats off to Habitat for Humanity for their dedication and hard work.

Read more about Habitat for Humanity in the Evansville Courier & Press by clicking here.

Indiana residents are getting a break this year with their property taxes.

The promised rate cuts are starting to materialize, and Vanderburgh County is the first county in Indiana which got the property tax bills ready.

Vanderburgh county property owners can check their bill by going to the Vanderburg County government website, clicking on "tax billing database" and typing in a name or address.

Here's the details from TriState Homepage.

Property Tax Relief

Vanderburgh is the first county in the state to get its property tax bills ready. If you live in Vanderburgh, you will get your bill soon. But right now, you can go online to see if you got that promised tax cut. Republican State Representative Suzanne Crouch celebrated with one property owner today, who will pay almost half of what she did last year.

Barbara Hansen was pleasantly surprised to find that her property tax bill is down from 1,044 dollars to 581, a 44 percent cut. "That's a very good thing because with the price of gasoline going up , food, utility bills, it's nice to get a little break on our taxes to put a little few extra bucks in our pocket." The property tax relief package the general assembly passed this year will result in an average tax cut of 38 percent in Vanderburgh county. Statewide the figure is 30 percent. "The taxpayers spoke. The legislature listened and now the taxpayers are getting the benefit of that." Vanderburgh county property owners can check their bill by going to vanderburghgov.org and clicking on "tax billing database", and typing in a name or address. The tax cut is being paid for by an increase in the sales tax from 6 to 7 percent. Local governments can offset the loss in revenue by increasing the local option incomes tax, but the state would rather see them cut spending. "And you can raise that money not only to supplement losses in your budget, but you can also use that money to provide even more property tax relief to homeowners." Crouch says this year's immediate relief comes through an increase in the homestead credit and long term reform will be provided by capping residential property taxes at one percent of assessed value.

Some people will see property tax increases, but Crouch says 87 percent of Hoosiers will get a tax cut.

Not every person is happy with urban development.

Homeowners in Kingston, Springston, and Old Hickory neighborhoods say they are against plans to make property at the corner of Bell Road and Vann Road commercial.

The plus side of new commercial developments is that the tax base increases and new jobs are created.


Here's the story from TriState Homepage.

Warrick County Rezoning

Warrick county residents worried about businesses moving in near their neighborhood are speaking out.

Homeowners in Kingston, Springston, and Old Hickory neighborhoods say they are against plans to make property at the corner of Bell Road and Vann Road commercial.

Nearly 300 residents have signed a petition against it. They will meet with the developer tonight and with the county Wednesday hoping to persuade everyone that its a bad idea.

Developer Gregory Moore he says he will likely ask for a continuance during Wednesday's meeting giving him time to consider all sides.

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is expanding its online services so that customers can create online accounts for better service. BMV is hoping the law will change so registration renewals can also be done online. We applaud this move as any process that can be done on the Internet is a benefit to both customers and BMV.

To read more about the BMV's online service plans, read the Inside INdiana Business article by clicking here.

This is the first series of a report on preventive measures that can save lives.

This information was obtained at a breakfast meeting on May 9th, 2008, which was hosted by the Disaster Resistant Community Partners of Evansville.

The motto is: Be Prepared. Act Now. Stay safe!

Taking Emergency Action Series – Thunderstorms and Lighting

A thunderstorm is always accompanied by lighting and can cause destructive winds, tornadoes, heavy rain, hail, and flash flooding. Lighting causes more damage in a typical year than floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes combined.

In case of thunderstorms:

ARE YOU INSIDE?

Stay inside and postpone outdoor activities.

Unplug electrical devises not necessary for obtaining weather information.

Avoid using appliances and telephones except in an emergency.

Do not take a bath or shower during a thunderstorm.


ARE YOU OUTDSIDE?

Seek shelter in a sturdy building or a vehicle with a hard top.

Avoid touching metal objects such as bicycles, fences, golf clubs, and lawnmowers.

Do not go near tall tress, poles, hills, wires, or metal pipes.

In water, get out to shore immediately and seek shelter.

In woods, take shelter in a low area under thick, shorter trees.

In the open, head for a low ground such as a valley or a ravine and crouch down.

If golfing, leave the course immediately.

Ina group, do not huddle – spread out.

DO NOT WAIT! PREPARE FOR THUNDERSTORMS:

Install a lightning protection system, which provides a safe path for grounding electric current. They are not noticeable and do not attract lightning.

Install surge protectors to shield electrical equipment and appliances. These range from surge protectors for each item and those that protect the entire house.

Have your home inspected to make sure it is properly grounded for lightning strikes.


Source: Indiana Department of Homeland Security

We reported on this story a few weeks ago. The Evansville Metropolitan Planning Organization submitted a proposal to the City Council to convert a section of Lincoln Avenue from four lanes to three to add a bike route remains on hold. According to Brad Mills of Evansville Metropolitan Planning, Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel wants to see more data about the project before making a decision on whether to support it

We are encouraged that this project will get additional scrutiny so that this project has a chance to materialize.

To read more about this project,click here to see the Courier & Press article. 

Here is another interesting article on Roberts Stadium and the plans to build a new stadium down town. Even though the decision to build a new stadium or renovate the old stadium is not an easy one to make, this editorial by the Courier & Press does lay out what obstacles and issues have to be solved before the final decision is made.

We are confident that Mayor Weinzapfel and the Robert Stadium Advisory Board will reach a solution that best fits the needs of Evansville.

To read the informative editorial in the Courier & Press, click here.

Evansville can be proud of all the help that is given by individuals to Habitat for Humanity. With the efforts of all involved, Habitat for Humanity has announced that they will be building three additional homes in the New Haven Subdivision for tornado survivors. Habitat for Humanity plans to finish work on the subdivision this year by adding 23 more homes to the 27 already built. Our hats off to Habitat for Humanity.

Source: http://14wfie.com/global/story.asp?s=8305465

Last Friday I attended a breakfast meeting of the Disaster Resistant Community (DRC) organization. DRC Community Partners are individuals, groups and businesses that help make Southwest Indiana a more prepared and safer place to live and work by being directly involved with local authorities. There are only two cities in the United States that have been given a grant for this type of start up – Evansville is one of them. According to Christine Martin, director of DRC, the following projects have already been completed:

• Structural retrofitting of 5 fire stations to protect the equipment needed following a disastrous event;
• Water well insulation, built to seismic standards, providing a source of fresh water for the downtown area;
•  Master of Disaster: education materials provided to all public and non-public schools in our 5 counties;
• Outdoor weather warning sirens provided for Gibson, Posey and Warrick counties;
• GIS aided computer systems for Spencer County emergency response vehicle;
• Carbon monoxide detectors and “Right Now” bags (am/fm radio, flashlight, whistle) to senior in older homes.

The executive director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Joe Wainscott, was the keynote speaker for the meeting. According to him, there are two areas that keep him up at night: major earthquakes and highly contagious flu epidemics for which there are no vaccines yet. In his discussions he encouraged businesses and local communities to prepare for the day when 30% to 40% of the workforce in a company has to stay home due to the infection, and what needs to be done to continue to be productive and keep the company working.

I will continue to report on this topic and I will start a new series “Taking Emergency Action” which will give constructive suggestions in various natural disasters and emergencies. Even though this topic is not directly related to real estate, I feel that one can not be prepared enough and very little bit of information helps.

Please call me at 812-499-9234 or email me at Rolondo@TheTrentiniTeam.com if you would like to receive the “Taking Emergency Action” booklet.

The advisory board for Roberts Stadium met May 7th, 2008 and recommended to move forward with the project if adequate funding sources as identified in the consultant's report and support from regional business can be secured. The board also recommends that a financial study be done to ensure that property taxes won't be negatively affected in the long-term life of the new stadium. The advisory board also recommended studying new uses for Roberts Stadium. The consultant's report suggested an outlet mall, Water Park or a retail/residential development.

We hope that the board and the mayor will take their time and exhaust all venues before finalizing their decision. The future of Evansville will be affected by the decisions taken in the near future.

For more information on the discussions of Roberts Stadium, please read the Inside INdiana Business News article by clicking here.

We congratulate the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in Gibson County for plans to plant 22,300 trees on 40 acres just south of their manufacturing operations. The tree varieties include tulip, walnut, birch and pecan. Kelly L. Dillon, a spokesperson for Toyota, has said, "It's certainly good for the environment and air quality."

To learn more about Toyota's tree project, read the Evansville Courier Press article by clicking here. 

Residents of Vanderburgh County will have a chance to meet Jonathan Weaver, Vanderburgh County Assessor, on three occasions in the month of May and discuss their assessments and file an appeal. There are five meetings planned each one hour long. "This is a great opportunity to hit the road and connect with the taxpayers," Weaver said. "Taxpayers were extremely irate with the sticker shock and the amount they had to pay last year, but this year has been much, much calmer." For those who are upset with their assessment, appeal forms will be available at the meetings "so taxpayers can file on the spot."

Please contact me at 499-9234 if you have any questions.

For more information, read the Evansville Courier Press article by clicking here.

For those interested in buying fresh produce directly from local farmers and vendors the Farmer’s market located on Sycamore and Second Street can provide an alternative than the grocery store.

The Farmer’s Market is open very Friday from 7:00 AM to 2:30PM.


Farmer's Market
Food prices around the world are on the rise, hitting consumers in their pocket books.

But some local vendors say they may have an answer. The Farmer's Market.

Open for business and it's not just produce for sale at Evansville's Farmers Market along Sycamore and Second Street.

This is the place to find local farmers like Roger Huff trying to make a few extra bucks.

Huff says his top sellers are rhubarb and tomatoes. He sold about 30-pounds of rhubarb.

"I like the farmers market, all home grown stuff makes it nice, might as well support local people instead of who know where" Dave and Pat Eager's say they have been coming to Evansville's Farmers Markets for years.

They say for them it's not as much about saving a few pennies as it is helping out local farmers.

Rain or shine, fresh produce, flowers, herbs and baked goods will be sold every Friday from 7:00 until 2:30 through the end of September.

For vendors interested in taking part in the Farmers Market, they can register for free by going to downtownevansville.org.

Source: http://tristatehomepage.com/content/fulltext/?cid=6465

Holiday World, an acclaimed water amusement park will be opening for the summer season May 10th. For those who have not yet visited the water park a visit is well worth it. The park spent $6 million on a new look.

For more information on Holiday World's opening and new look, click here to read an article posted by 14 News.