What Not to Pack!

Packing and moving can be a lengthy and stressful process. Knowing what to pack is simple though, right? Unfortunately, it isn't always so simple! There are some items that you should not send with your moving company. Hazardous items are actually illegal for movers to to transport. The following items should not be sent in the moving van:

• Paint and paint thinners
• Ammunition and firearms
• Gas, Propane, and Oil
• Flammable or Explosive Materials
• Aerosols
• Acetone Products (such as nail polish remover)
• Stereo Equipment
• Matches
• Valuable Items
• Pets

For a complete list of items that moving companies can't move or for a quote to move your property, contact Mike with Relocation LLC at 918-455-6683 or www.relocationllc.net.

Interested in moving to the Tulsa, OK. area, contact Darryl Baskin of McGraw Realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

What is Land Use Planning?

Land use planning is a process where experts assess the land and its resources with the goal of making the land most beneficial to the users while also conserving the environment. While this process does take time, it can be very beneficial to property owners and the environment. As land is used up over time, it is very important to conserve the limited resources available to us. Land use planning helps all involved to make the best use of the land and help anticipate future needs and possible changes.

There are many steps and factors that are present when developing a land use plan, from discussions with owners to legal, economic, and social factors. The basic steps in land use planning are as follows:

• Determine Goals and Get Organized
• List Problems adn Changes that are Possible
• Evaluate the Land
• Analyze the Legal, Economic, Social, and Environmental Factors
• Select the Best Option
• Prepare and Implement the Plan
• Monitor the Plan and Revise as Needed

To discuss land use planning, contact Dennis Blind of Glory Development at 918-812-2339 or glorydevelopment@olp.net.

For legal issues involving your property or land use plan, contact Chuck Richardson of Richardson, Richardson, Boudreaux at 918-663-5070 or clrichardson@richardsonlawfirmpc.com.

For all your Bixby, OK area real estate needs, contact Darryl Baskin, McGraw Realtors at 918-258-2600 or www.darrylbaskin.com.

Preventing Water Damage!

Water damage and leaks can be anything from a minor irritation to a major problem. For some homeowners, the damage caused from water leaks may be covered under their homeowner's insurance policy. For others, the cost to repair these damages is out-of-pocket. No one likes to spends lots of money in repairs, therefore preventing damage is the best way help prevent those excess expenses.

• Occasionally, check appliances that use water. Check for leaks around hoses, underneath for soft flooring and nearby for evidence of water leaks. When leaving the house, don't leave these appliances running. Disconnect or turn off the water to your washing machine before leaving the house for extended periods of time.
  
• Check sinks, showers/tubs, and toilets for clogs and loose caulking. Also check for soft flooring or water nearby that might indicate a leak.
• Check your water heater for rust and for wet spots on the floor.
• Make sure your roof is in good condition, all soffits and vents allow for good air flow, there isn't any debris on the roof or guttering, and there is no evidence of bent, missing or damaged shingles.
• Before and during cold weather keep faucets off and hoses disconnected from the spigots.
• During warmer weather, have your A/C unit serviced to ensure that it is in good working order.
• Check all caulking and paint on the exterior of your house and around windows and doors.
• Prevent water from sitting around the foundation of your home by filling low spots.
  
• If you suspect a leak that you can't find, turn off all appliances (that use water), faucets and don't flush the toilet. Record your water meter reading at the beginning and ending of an hour. If the number has changed, a leak is possible.
• Make sure everyone in the household knows where the water shut-off valve is in case of an emergency. Turning this off while away from home for vacation can also help to prevent damage from leaks.
  

Remember to keep the above tips in mind to help prevent water damage, however when water damage does occur consult with home maintenance professionals.

For roof repair and installation in the Bixby, OK area contact Judy Smith of A-Best Roofing at 918-587-1426 or www.abestroofing.com.

For information about Oklahoma insurance coverage of water damage, contact Mike Tedford of Tedford Insurance at 918-299-2345 or www.tedfordinsurance.com.

To get your Bixby, OK area house repaired after water damage, contact Roger Fisher of PCC Cleaning and Restoration at 918-641-1111 or www.pcccr.com.

Recent Mortgage Modifications Fail!

President Obama's plan to help mortgage borrowers who are in trouble is failing for many. Almost 1 million borrowers applied for the mortgage modification program, however only 65,000 or 7 percent have completed the modification. Approximately 50,000 borrowers dropped out because they didn't qualify and the rest of those that applied are still waiting.

For more information on the mortgage modification program or to apply for a mortgage loan or refinance, contact Karen Heston of BOK Mortgage at 918-230-9432 or visit her website here.

Bixby Fighter Prepares for Match

Bixby's Derek Pressler works out at www.icehousefitness.com preparing for his nearing MMA fight in Kansas City, MO January 15th. More information at Ticketmaster.com

Upward Basketball

Bixby First United Methodist Church offers Upward basketball program- a league for boys that focuses on good sportsmanship and integrates biblical truths and values. Www.fumcbixby.org

Jake's Place BBQ Opening Soon!

Jake's Place famous Bar-B-Que is opening in downtown Bixby in a few days. The anticipated restaurant will serve what many area residents have enjoyed at special catering events. Jake's Place is located across the street from The Ice house 24-hour Fitness Center and BTC on Armstrong in downtown Bixby, OK. (East of Memorial at approximately E. 153rd St.)

School Board Elections Information

Lisa Vining prepares training program at the www.IceHouseFitness.com in Bixby, OK