Hey, readers! Summer is getting the better of me, and I’ve been delinquent in my blog posts, but, I’m baaaaack!
If you are looking for something really unique and fun to do this week, visit downtown Oconomowoc, Thursday August 12. Yes, that’s tomorrow night! Starting at 6pm, you will be greeted with food and retail therapy. Then, as soon as dusk hits, grab your camp chair, and claim your favorite spot in the street, yes, IN THE STREET! Get ready to see downtown Oconomowoc transform from a bustling commercial zone, into “Hogwarts,” as you are treated to a 40 foot outdoor screening of Harry Potter. If you were around last summer, you may remember the showing of The Wizard of Oz. This will be just as much fun, so don’t miss out!
For more info, be a friend of Moonlit Movies on Facebook.
Then, drop in on Sunday evening at the City Beach, on Lac LaBelle, to watch a “Venetian Boat Parade,” followed by fireworks, over LaBelle. This kicks of the annual Festival of the Arts in Oconomowoc. Juried artists from all over the country, come to display their wares in Fowler Park. There are activities, food vendors and entertainment all week long. For more information on this event, visit their webpage.
July 01, 2010 at 05:47 PM · Posted under Karen Trepton
When Flight for Life is called to the scene of an accident, time is of the essence. One of the most critical things they need to have on board is type O negative blood. O negative blood is the universal blood type, which means it can be transfused to anyone, regardless of their blood type.The Flight for Life medical crew takes two to four units of O negative blood on each flight, and on-board transfusions have been instrumental in helping stabilize patients and save lives during transport.
O Neg blood is also in every hospital emergency room. It could be the difference between life and death in a serious emergency.
During the summer, especially around the 4th of July holiday, the need for O Neg donors is greater than ever. As a matter of fact, BloodCenter of Wisconsin has a limited supply of O negative blood, and they need our help.
While only 8% of people are type O negative, 100% of the population could be saved by it in an emergency situation. That’s why if you are type O negative, I urge you to donate blood at our drive on:
Date Friday 07/09/1010
Time noon- 5 pm
Location Shorewest Lake Country
Recruit someone you know who has never donated blood. Maybe he or she will be in that 8 percent of people who have O negative blood.
Just one unit of blood could save up to three lives.
If you have a family member with O negative blood, please invite them to our drive and schedule a donation time by calling the office at Shorewest 262-567-8351
June 22, 2010 at 09:34 AM · Posted under Karen Trepton
If selling or buying property in Lake Country Wisconsin was advertised in a personals ad, it would go like this….
“If you love watching sunsets over the lake…Love swimming and boating at the lake…Love sailing on Lac LaBelle…Love gardening in Lake Country…Contact your Lake Country Real Estate Expert. Your Dream Location is waiting!
June 21, 2010 at 09:06 PM · Posted under Karen Trepton
Singers, dancers, musicians, beatboxer and unicyclist – some of the best amateur performers in Lake Country – will take the Oconomowoc Arts Center stage June 26 and 27 in a fundraiser for the Oconomowoc Public Education Foundation’s (OPEF) Performing Arts Center Enhancement (PACE) Fund!
It will be a great show featuring the top 26 acts selected from more than 200 people who auditioned (see who you know on the attached cast list!). Two performances – Saturday evening and Sunday matinee – as well as a raffle, concessions and a commemorative playbill – are contributing to the PACE fund to pay for the enhancements that make the Oconomowoc Arts Center a state-of-the-art performance venue.
Tickets: $12 adults, $8 students and seniors (with ID) on sale at the door and in advance at Books & Company at 1039 Summit Avenue, Oconomowoc Realty at 156 E. Wisconsin Ave., Piggly Wiggly at1300 Brown Street, and the Oconomowoc Arts Center box office at 641 E. Forest Street. (Cash and checks only)
Raffle: A drawing on Sunday, June 27, will give away items including a 42” plasma screen television,$250 cash,sports and theater tickets. Purchase raffle tickets for $5 each or 5/$20, available in advance at Oconomowoc Realty, from OPEF board members, or at the performances.
June 09, 2010 at 12:00 AM · Posted under Karen Trepton
Headlines seem to change daily, so it is very difficult to sift through the deluge of information and discern the truth about what is happening in the real estate market. Distressed properties, “foreclosures and short sales”, seem to be increasing in numbers. This inventory is called “shadow inventory”, by the professionals. Estimating the shadow inventory, and tracking it, can assist in determining how the overall market will play out.
This morning, I pulled, from the MLS, a zip code within the lake country market, in Waukesha County. This area is filled with a mix of starter to luxury market properties. As of today, there are 422 active listings in this zip code. Then, I went to a leading website that lists distressed properties by zip code. It highlights Pre-Foreclosure, scheduled Sheriff Sale and Bank Owned properties. The same zip code had 101 properties in this category. Some of these homes may be represented in the “active” for sale market, but some are not. I did not go through each and every home to see if it was on the market, but it is safe to say, that as a percentage, there is potentially, up to an additional 25% market share of inventory that is “shadowing” the current inventory, and these properties are financially “distressed.”
How do you, as a seller, compete in a market that is impacted by these homes? To determine that, you need information that is accurate and timely. My favorite source, Steve Harney, outlines his explanation of how these properties will affect the overall market, in this timely article.
Knowledge is key. When navigating through these turbulent waters, take the time to get the information you need, as a seller, to be successful. As a “Certified Short Sale and Foreclosure Specialist,” I can assist you in this process. Remember, it’s not if the glass is half empty, or half full…but that there’s water in the glass! Drink up!
Karen Trepton…Certified Short Sale and Foreclosure Specialist
June 07, 2010 at 04:32 PM · Posted under Karen Trepton
When purchasing or selling a home, price is always a major factor. Location, condition, amenities etc., all play into the picture, but it generally boils down to what one is willing to accept “for the price.” In today’s market, home prices need to be more than competitive, they need to be compelling! How does one determine what “compelling” is? Steve Harney identifies 6 factors that must be considered when pricing a home for sale. They are:
June 04, 2010 at 11:39 AM · Posted under Karen Trepton
Southeastern Wisconsin is unique in that many lifestyles are represented in a small geographical area. One can live on the shore of Lake Michigan, or on the shore of a beautiful, spring fed, inland lake. Hobby farms and equestrian estates abound. Country living or upscale condo living is available. The luxury market can be found throughout these market segments. What was not unique to Wisconsin, was that the luxury housing market in our state, has taken a bit of a beating, just like the rest of the country. What seemed to be an “sure thing” wasn’t. No longer could one purchase a dilapidated cottage on a lake, and turn it around for a profit, merely by slapping up some paint, cutting the grass and putting in a for sale sign. “McMansions” sat idle, in favor of smaller, energy efficient. low cost mortgage properties. The rub is that many of these homes offer a wonderful opportunity for “dream lifestyle” living. The American Dream for some, includes boating and swimming from your own pier, viewing city lights from a penthouse suite, or riding the trails of meadowed and wooded acreage on a your favorite prize horse. It may include “movie night” with your neighbors in your private movie theater, showing off a car collection in your heated 5 car garage, or viewing the wildlife on the acreage of your country parcel. Whatever the “dream” is for you, luxury living can be wonderful.
What is happening with prices in this market? Let’s see what Steve Harney has to say about it . And, if you’d like to purchase or sell a luxury property, give me a call. I’d love to help you live YOUR American Dream!
June 03, 2010 at 07:16 AM · Posted under Karen Trepton
If you read my posts, you may recognize that I enjoy giving you, the reader, bits and pieces of what it’s like to live in Southeastern Wisconsin. I do some hard reporting on the state of the real estate market, but mostly, I enjoy painting the picture of what it’s like to live in Lake Country, Wisconsin.
However, I am asked frequently about the state of the real estate market, and decided that it is equally important to share with you, the big picture regarding housing in Wisconsin and the nation. My favorite source of information regarding real estate and where it’s heading, is from Steve Harney. I am a pin wearing, card carrying, blog reading, twitter and facebook posting member of “Harney’s Army!” He’s spot on in terms of sharing the truth about the market.
Steve was in Brookfield, today, and I was impressed with this particular comment, “The professional doesn’t see the glass as half empty, or as half full…but recognizes that there’s water in the glass.” I love that!! Buyers and sellers will continue to move, regardless of interest rates, home prices, inventory volumes, etc. My job, as a professional, is to equip my clients with the information they need to maneuver through the ever changing market with the greatest success.
So, in an effort to share my knowledge of the market, I am going to share Steve’s advice and insight on the market with you. Watch for daily links to Steve’s blog, “Keeping Current Matters.” The information is invaluable! My cultural posts will continue, as well, but these links are required reading for the buyer or seller who wants to be “in the know.” Today’s article touches on the subject of the Housing Recovery, and how “shadow inventory” will affect it. Feel free to contact me with questions.
Real Trends has named Shorewest Realtors as #10 in the nation, in leading real estate firms. This is the highest ranking ever attained by a Wisconsin Real Estate company. When choosing a Realtor in Wisconsin, choose from the best! To find out about our family of services, including Wisconsin Mortgage, Heritage Title, Shorewest Insurance, Shorewest Home Services and more, contact me, or your preferred Shorewest agent. Click Here to view the Real Trends flyer.
May 21, 2010 at 12:00 AM · Posted under Karen Trepton
The Oconomowoc High School Drama Department’s fall production of “Into the Woods” has won an “Outstanding Musical” award. The newly opened Performing Arts Center was the backdrop for a fabulous display of talent by our local high schoolers. I attended the production, and was blown away! The poise and professionalism of these young actors, was incredible. The scenery, costuming, singing and acting were all comparable to a professional production.
The Tommy Awards are part of a state wide musical theater competition, administered by the Overture Center, in Madison. Professionals from around Wisconsin and Chicago spent 6 months attending and ranking performances to select the nominees. “Into the Woods” won in 7 categories, with 2 Honorable Mentions. The winners are as follows:
Outstanding Musical
Outstanding Direction – Thomas Klubertanz
Outstanding Lead Performer – Anna Herro (Little Red)
Outstanding Lead Performer – Hanna Gaffney (Witch)
Outstanding Lead Performer – Cria Ama (Cinderella)
Honorable Mentioned Supporting Performer–Tyson Monroe (Baker)
The ceremony to present the awards will take place on June 6th and 7th, at the Overture Center in Madison. Excerpts from the winning shows will be performed to a live, public audience. To be a part of this wonderful event, that celebrates the talents of our local Wisconsin youth, contact the Overture Center Box Office at: 608-258-4141, or visit their website.
For more wonderful theater in Oconomowoc, attend the current drama production, “Metamorphoses”, running through this Sunday, at the OHS Little Theater.
Location: OHS Little Theatre Comments: The OHS Drama Spring production of “Metamorphoses” presented in the Little Theater May 19-21 @ 8:00, May 22 @ 4:00 and 8:00, May 23 @ 2:00. Tickets are $15 for adult and $12 for students/seniors, general admission. Tickets go on sale at the OAC box office April 13th at 12:00. Tickets include sales tax. Service fees apply on all sales.
On Wednesday, May 12th, approximately 100 people were treated to a very special evening at the Milwaukee Yacht Club. The Milwaukee Yacht Club Foundation sponsored a special event, benefiting high school sailors from our greater Milwaukee area. It was an evening made in “sailing heaven” as not one, but 4 sailing icons were present to support our youth.
The keynote speaker was Gary Jobson, current President of US Sailing, an America’s Cup Winner, ESPN commentator and all around “sailing all-star”. Introducing him, was our local sailing royalty, Buddy Melges. His sailing adventures also include the America’s Cup, in addition to Olympic Gold and Bronze, World Championship titles, and numerous other personal and business accolades, that are too many to highlight. John Ruf, Olympic bronze medalist, Wisconsin native, and local hero, showed his support and his ready enthusiasm for the sport, by supporting the event and inspiring the kids to see the potential for greatness in all of us. To round out the “final four” was Olaf Harken, legendary local businessman, who is the “supplier to the stars” in the sailing world. Harken is a leader in sailboat hardware and accessories.
Gary treated the group to numerous stories and video clips of world class sailing events, in addition to personal inspirational messages.
April 30, 2010 at 08:44 PM · Posted under Karen Trepton
This weekend, sailors from the newly formed, Oconomowoc High School Sailing Team, head east to Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, in search of a chance to place in the prestigious Toby Baker National Regatta.
Teams from across the Midwest will compete for the coveted spot, to represent the MISSA at this event. Qualifiers will move on to the event, held on May 21-23, in Seattle, Washington, at “Sail Sand Point”, Seattle’s Community Sailing Center.
Participants from Oconomowoc High School are Senior: Ben Otten, Juniors: Connor Trepton, Katrina Debbink and Bridget Murphy, Sophomore: Brittan Keck, and Freshman: Dan Groskopf. Smooth Sailing and Fair Winds to our local metro Milwaukee kids!
April 30, 2010 at 03:50 PM · Posted under Karen Trepton
If you don’t have plans for this evening, consider attending this band concert at Carroll University.
It’s given by the Waukesha Area Symphonic Band, a juried group of adults who gather to promote the arts and love of music. This season’s concert, entitled “Luminescence,” will benefit ACAP, Adaptive Community Approach Program.
A highlight of the performance will be this year’s high school concerto winner, Sabrina Pruszka, who will be featured on the clarinet. Also, the very popular “Star Wars” medley will performed.
The concert starts at 7:30 in Shattuck Auditorium. See you there!
April 21, 2010 at 12:00 AM · Posted under Karen Trepton
High School sailing is in full swing in the Midwest. This past weekend, our local sailors played host to 12 teams from Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin. They competed in “team racing,” which consists of a round robin format, pitting one school against another in a 3 on 3 boat situation. Teams utilize strategy to block their opposing team. Boats are awarded points based on their respective finishes, i.e. 1st through 6th places, and the team with the lowest points wins that round. At the end of the regatta, the team with the most wins is the victor. Kids love this format, because in addition to their individual sailing skills, they can assist their team mates in maneuvering boat position.
Discovery World allowed us to use their docks as a base camp, allowing spectators a wonderful view of the sailing. Clear skies and blustery winds, at times in excess of 30 knots, made for some very exciting sailing!
This weekend, our teams from Oconomowoc High School and Marquette High School, will travel to Wayzata, Minnesota, to compete in a National Team Qualifier for the Mallory Regatta. Top teams from each region across the country, will compete in May in Connecticut, should they qualify.
For more information regarding local high school sailing, contact Milwaukee Youth Sailing Team at www.mystracing.org.
Karen Trepton
When Flight for Life is called to the scene of an accident, time is of the essence. One of the most critical things they need to have on board is type O negative blood. O negative blood is the universal blood type, which means it can be transfused to anyone, regardless of their blood type.The Flight for Life medical crew takes two to four units of O negative blood on each flight, and on-board transfusions have been instrumental in helping stabilize patients and save lives during transport.
Singers, dancers, musicians, beatboxer and unicyclist – some of the best amateur performers in Lake Country – will take the Oconomowoc Arts Center stage June 26 and 27 in a fundraiser for the Oconomowoc Public Education Foundation’s (OPEF) Performing Arts Center Enhancement (PACE) Fund!
To round out the “final four” was Olaf Harken, legendary local businessman, who is the “supplier to the stars” in the sailing world. Harken is a leader in sailboat hardware and accessories.
This weekend, sailors from the newly formed, Oconomowoc High School Sailing Team, head east to 
High School sailing is in full swing in the Midwest. This past weekend, our local sailors played host to 12 teams from Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin. They competed in “team racing,” which consists of a round robin format, pitting one school against another in a 3 on 3 boat situation. Teams utilize strategy to block their opposing team. Boats are awarded points based on their respective finishes, i.e. 1st through 6th places, and the team with the lowest points wins that round. At the end of the regatta, the team with the most wins is the victor. Kids love this format, because in additi
on to their individual sailing skills, they can assist their team mates in maneuvering boat position.
