Drew Riley, Hot Springs, AR Real Estate Blog, Team Riley Real Estate Blog, Hot Springs, AR Real Estate

So its been a while.......

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 13:20:32 -0500

Lately the news regarding the world of Real Estate has been kind of quiet. What was once a daily topic has started to slip from the front of the line. Is this a good thing, or perhaps something more to fear. If your not concerned about the fact that home sales were up last month, or that lenders DO have money to lend then read no more.

Finally, the bottom has been reached. In the constantly changing market of today's Real Estate no news just may be good news. Lenders are back to business and writing paper, although it be tougher to get a loan, rates have never been lower, and NOW is the time to buy. Although I work for an independent company in no way affiliated with RE/Max, their commercials where people "are kicking themselves" for not buying in this market, couldn't be any closer to the truth.

There are tons of listings to choose from, albeit some are still grossly overpriced, things have come more in line with what they are truly worth, and if you own or want to own lake property in my area....the market has seen little if any drop in price, and as a matter of fact has increased since this time last year. Yes it is still expensive to live on Lake Hamilton, but there are alternatives and remember as my dad always says, "everyone in Hot Springs has lake access," so living right on the waterfront doesn't have to mean you can't be close to it, even smell it.

The weather has been great, a little mild if anything, but things are shaping up to be a great and prosperous year. I just hope I get a little slice of the pie myself.......I'm in position, ready to work, have some great listings and buyers.....so as always....I keep on keepin' on.

So I had breakfast with a Lender this morning.

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Tue, 06 May 2008 11:26:48 -0500

Guess what, as I keep trying to relay to my clients and associates; the Hot Springs and Garland County, Arkansas Real Estate market is not spiraling out of control like Las Vegas or Florida or parts of some 20 metropolitan areas across the country. It has slowed some, but still is doing stronger than in 2002.....it had to peak sometime, and now that its leveled off things are starting to fall back in place.

Beings stated income and no money down loans are a thing of the past, how does one purchase a home? FHA and VA loans are simply the best option for almost all clientele. Even those with "good" credit need to consider this as a viable option for obtaining financing. A 680 credit score used to get you any loan, but now without being over a 700 FICO score you almost certainly need to look at FHA type loans unless your prepared for at least putting 10% down. There is a great market of homes that fit under the FHA/VA guidelines for pricing and Hot Springs is still seeing steady home sales and purchases largely in part due to some great lenders who work in the area.

Hot Springs home prices grew so fast, so quick that now that they have "COOLED OFF" prices are coming back to in-line with reality. The best of the best will survive and those who just got by the seat of their pants are in for a tough road. No matter what your situation, rest assured, at least locally, that things are going to be OK. Interest rates are still at phenomenal levels and with the right REALTOR and a knowledgeable LENDER purchasing a home is still a pleasant, smart, and economically viable investment.

I can't stress enough the power of having an agent that knows the market, knows how to put you in position to purchase the home and get you through the process without losing all your hair or sanity. It is a bright future if your willing to stick it through. Trying to wait for home prices to continue falling will only put you that much farther behind when the market comes back....ever heard the saying "being ahead of the curve?"

Well in todays market you must be educated, informed, have good counsel, and know just what options are available for seller and buyers. There is no dumb question in Real Estate and working with an agent you are comfortable with can help make a stressful situation almost seem enjoyable. There is no bad time to invest in Real Estate, and in Hot Springs, the future has never looked brighter.

Football....in Spring??

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 11:59:33 -0500

So if you have the chance you have to check out the Arkansas Twisters Arena Football Team.

My wife and I received tickets from her boss, and once again (we went last year too) it was just an absolute blast. Its fast paced, hard hitting, and fan friendly. You can touch and interact with the players since out of bounds is in your lap if your lucky enough to sit in the 1st (sometimes 2nd) row, and the coaches are on the field so you can harass and barage all you like, or just simply sit and enjoy a first class football team score a lot of points, and regardless of what some think see some great defensive hits and plays!

Next time theres a home game you need to check it out. Tickets are reasonable, and fairly easy to get........and it will help keep you "in check" till Razorback Football takes the field this Fall.

Did you see the numbers????

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 11:53:37 -0500

So on top of all the other news that doesn't necessarily apply here, now they release a 13% decline in home sales prices. Although this must be true in our nation as a whole, what about the communities and locals that haven't seen this turndown? Arkansas as a whole has only seen decreases in certain markets, while others have continued to gain.

Is there any end to the media making light of this problem as a whole, or is there some way to highlight the ever-present gains in owning real estate, and the fact most real estate is a longer term investment than what people as a whole are willing to wait. In the best markets there has to be a limit to the number of "house-flippers" and "remodels" that can be absorbed by consumers. Not everyone moves every 6 months...thats the joy of owning your own home, not being subject to a lease and can sell when you want, or stay as long as you live.

I'm ready to see the light at the end of the tunnel with everyone else, biggest problem is, everytime things start to get close to it, the media or someone slams the industry as a whole for what a few select areas have done. No matter the numbers, I'd rather be selling Real Estate today than 19 years ago when the "numbers" were bad.

So April showers bring May Flowers....It's been a raining

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 11:02:34 -0500

Yes the weather has had its way with Arkansas as of late.

Tornados leveled several communites, 16'' of snow a week later, then a 75-80 degree week followed by more than a foot of snow, then between that runoff and in some places 14" of RAIN we are still trying to dry out. Hey they had to close barge traffic on most every river in the state. Todays forecast is 60 degrees with Isolated Thunderstorms, with more Thursday and Friday.....yet there is hope (keep reading).

The weekend looks to be beautiful and there really is nothing more enjoyable than Arkansas in springtime. 65-70 degrees with lots of Sunshine!!!

With Oaklawn winding down there is some great thouroghbred racing going on in Hot Springs. The lakes are full and just gleaming with anticipation of the upcoming Summertime season, and Garvan Gardens is in full bloom with some of the most gorgeous botanical displays in the country. While your out that way be sure to check out the Southern Living House....which is for sale by the way if your interested....FURNISHED! (I know a Great Real Estate Team). There are countless other things going on.....need to know what and where.

CALL ME! I like to keep the really good things exclusive

My Guilty Music Pleasures

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 12:09:57 -0600

OK, so as far as music goes I have pretty eclectic tastes to begin with, but there are some songs you just don't play with your boys in the car. Besides the fact I really used to enjoy this music, there is nothing now that embarasses me more than anyone knowing that I just used to love................

Milli Vanilli....I know.......but only for AR and this "guilty music pleasure" would I devulge this info.

Enjoy!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSqV3rWM4iQ

Anybody else having a better year than last year?

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 12:22:05 -0600

I am.

Despite all the negative press, and rumors floating around, this year I have closed more sides, and actually made more money than in the last 3 years. Why? Better marketing? Harder work? Luck? I really don't know, and aren't really trying to figure it out. I just know I am happy with my career so far, enjoy the flexability of my lifestyle, see great potential for growth, and have met some great and interesting people along the way. To all my past clientel, many thanks for helping me feel so great about myself, and to those I encounter in the present or future....Let me show you what being passionate about your work can do for you!

All I really need to know I learned in Kindergarten

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 08:37:01 -0600

These are the things I learned:

Share everything.
Play fair.
Don't hit people.
Put things back where you found them.
Clean up your own mess.
Don't take things that aren't yours.
Say you're sorry when you hurt somebody.
Wash your hands before you eat.
Flush.
Warm cookies and cold milk are good for you.
Live a balanced life - learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work every day some.
Take a nap every afternoon.
When you go out in the world, watch out for traffic, hold hands and stick together.
Be aware of wonder. Remember the little seed in the Styrofoam cup: the roots go down and the plant goes up and nobody really knows how or why, but we are all like that.
Goldfish and hamsters and white mice and even the little seed in the Styrofoam cup - they all die. So do we.
And then remember the Dick-and-Jane books and the first word you learned - the biggest word of all - LOOK.

A repost of one of the most famous psychology texts ever written. Not to mention its strikingly true, and something we could all use some review of from time to time.

To any Veteran

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 13:46:50 -0600

Thank you!

It's a small, incomplete token of what your personal sacrifice truly gives ME.

There really isn't any word to describe how great it is that I can sit here today doing whatever it is I'm doing, but I know it is because of you. For all you do, for all you must endure, Thank you.

For having the courage, for having the desire, I personally want to thank you for it. If I could shake each and every one of your hands I would, but know your Job is one I truly admire...thanks for being the BEST at it!

Eternally Grateful,

Drew Riley, a U.S. Citizen

Buying or Selling Real Estate???

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 13:29:01 -0600

If so, then call a REALTOR today. I would hope you'd be calling Drew Riley with Spa Realty, Inc. He's the best. If your not dealing with Drew, then your going to be dealing for a long time, and in todays world...Time is Money!

If your not.....you must stop lying....OK, OK maybe it's not you who's buying nor selling, but surely you know someone who is. A friend, a co-worker, and maybe even a relative or neighbor. If you truly care about that person, even slightly, you need to make sure they have the best REALTOR around. Drew Riley again is the man for the job. Knowledge, experience, trustworthiness, and an accountable, results oriented REALTOR who wants your business. He wants to be the best REALTOR in Arkansas, and everyone likes to be associated with greatness.

Call Drew today at 501.318.7899 or email him at HotSpringsHomes@gmail.com and know you've done your part in helping yourself, because if you refer someone either buying or selling their house to Drew, he will pay you $250 to $500 for each referral upon closing. Just in time for the Holidays, but a great idea in any season. Drew will work hard for you, and your referral to assure the process goes as planned and smoothly as possible. No one has to know your getting paid, but Drew doesn't mind if you tell someone about his referral program! Not at all...in fact he wants you to tell someone. Go ahead...Make Drew's day. Call today.

Always Selling,

Drew Riley, REALTOR Spa Realty, Inc 501.318.7899 / hotspringshomes@gmail.com

Team Riley www.myhotspringshomes.com

December Calendar of Events

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 12:27:52 -0600

"A Christmas Story"
Pocket Theatre
501-623-8585
http://www.pockettheatre.com/
theatre@cablelynx.com

December 1-9, 2007

Arts, Entertainment, Nightlife

Details:
Tickets: $13 for Adults and $5 for students through grade 12

Description:
The "major prize" leg lamp, the Red Ryder BB gun, the Little Orphan Annie decoder, the tongue on the cold flagpole, the Bumpus' dogs and balky furnace are all a part of this holiday classic. The story follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker through his realities and fantasies. In his quest for the coveted BB gun, he is consistently faced with the reponse, "You'll shoot your eye out."

Holiday Christmas Parade
6:30pm
Historic Downtown
Contact: Kathy Rose
767-1200

December 6, 2007

Entertainment, Outdoors, Nightlife

Details:
Can goods to be donated from each participant on the floats. Collection barrels will also be along the parade route for can good donations from parade viewers. These donations will benefit all area shelters.

Description:
"Arkansas Christmas" is this years theme for the Hot Springs Christmas Parade. The parade route will begin at the Central and Whittington Avenues intersection.

5th Annual THE GAME
6:30 pm
Summit Arena, Hot Springs Convention Center
501-321-2027

December 7, 2007

Civic Center, Entertainment, Sports, Nightlife

Details:
More information as it is available.

Description:
One of the most heated sports rivalries in Arkansas history will be revived December 7 when the Lakeside Rams and the Lake Hamilton Wolves boys' and girls' basketball teams meet in THE GAME. The first annual THE GAME attracted nearly 3,000 fans and was the first sporting event played on the basketball floor of the new arena.

Gallery Walk
5-9pm
Downtown Hot Springs
501-624-0550

December 7, 2007

Arts, Entertainment, Nightlife

Description:
Gallery Walk gives an opportunity to stroll beautiful downtown Hot Springs and enjoy some of the finest contemporary art in America. The art galleries that sparkle like a fine necklace are located in the heart of the Victorian downtown district. They stay open until 9 p.m., often with music and complimentary refreshments. The artists whose works are on display also turn out to chat with visitors to the galleries. Don't miss this monthly opportunity to enjoy the arts that earned Hot Springs the No. 4 ranking in the Top 100 Small Art Towns in America.

Christmas Tours of Inns
Noon-6pm
501-525-6155 or 501-625-7829
http://www%20gccasa.net./

December 9, 2007

Arts, Entertainment, Outdoors

Details:
The Hot Springs area members of the Bed & Breakfast Association of Arkansas will showcase their inns' Christmas decorations from Noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 9. Proceeds from the $25 tickets, which include admission to Garvan Woodland Gardens' Winter Wonderland of Lights display in Hot Springs, will benefit the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), an organization that provides oversight and advocacy for abused and neglected children.

A new addition to this year's festivity is a raffle for those who purchase tickets by noon on Friday, December 6th. Businesses which donated items include: Avalon Salon & Spa, Beverly Raskin-Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork-Reiki Practitioner, Candlelight Galleria, DeGray Day Spa, Oaklawn Sportswear, Picasso's Cupboard, Sabai Spa and Shelly Blackwell Signature Spa. So buy your tickets early, this makes a great holiday outing for your family or friends.

Description:
* Mountain Thyme -- (501) 984-5428.
* Hilltop Manor -- (501) 625-7829.
* Abelard Inn Bed & Breakfast -- (501) 625-3834.
* Abode/Butler Manor -- (501) 520-5705.
* Lookout Point Lakeside Inn -- (501) 525-6155.
* Tiffany's Bed & Breakfast -- (501) 865-6060.
* Country Charm Bed & Breakfast -- (501) 865-1842.
* Captain Henderson House -- (870) 230-5544.

The eight inns participating in the Christmas tour will offer refreshments provided by an array of area restaurants, including Ambrosia Bakery, Bismarck Community Market, Café 1217, Café Pompeii, DJ's Catering, Due Amici, Green Herb Catering, Lake Center Grocery & Deli, Rod's Pizza, National Park Community College - Hospitality Department, and Rosario's Restaurant.

Tuesday Tea Series - "Holiday High Tea"
3pm
Garvan Woodland Gardens
501-262-9300, 800-366-4664
http://www.garvangardens.org/
info@garvangardens.org

December 11, 2007

Entertainment, Outdoors

Details:
Contact for more information.

Description:
Enjoy traditional English tea, including tasty scones, crumpets, finger sandwiches and delectable desserts, the second Tuesday of each month at 3 p.m. in the Millsap Bride's Hall. A different theme and selection of foods will be offered each month.

Lady Razorbacks vs Northwestern (LA) State
6pm
Summit Arena
501-321-2027 or 800-543-2284

December 13, 2007

Civic Center, Entertainment, Sports

Details:
To purchase individual tickets, call Ticketmaster at 501-321-1919. To purchase group tickets (20 or more) call the Summit Arena Box office at 501-620-5001.

Description:
Tickets go on sale Nov. 19th at the Summit Arena Box office. Ticket prices are $10 adult reserved lower court side, ($7 for students), $8 for reserved upper side court and end zone seats ($5 for students); $4 for groups of 20 or more for reserved upper side court and end zone seats.

Halftime entertainment will be provided by students of Dance City Studio of Hot Springs.

RK Shows Gun & Knife Show
Hot Springs Convention Center
Contact: Joyce Kehrli
563-927-8176
kehrili8@nconnect.net

December 15-16, 2007

Civic Center, Entertainment

Description:
300 tables will set up at this semi-annual event.

2nd Annual Jingle Bell Run/Walk 5k
Garvan Woodland Gardens
Contact: Arthritis Foundation
6213 Father Tribou Street
Suite 1
Little Rock, AR 72205
501-664-7242
http://www.arkansasjinglebellrun.org/
info@arthritis.org

December 15, 2007

Outdoors, Sports

Description:
The Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthitis is a fun-filled fundraising event consisting of a 5k fun run and walk. The Jingle Bell Run/Walk 5k raises awareness of America's leading cause of disability.

Antique Walk
4-8pm
100 Block of Central Avenue - Downtown Hot Springs
Contact: Davis Tillman
501-624-4083

December 21, 2007

Arts, Entertainment, Outdoors, Nightlife

Description:
Tillman's Antiques, celebrating twenty-five years in the 100 block, has been joined by the new shops - Rampant Lion, Art-Tiques, Manor House Antiques and Joan Good Antiques of Royal Street, New Orleans. These dealers hope to attract others who will expand Antique Row further into the Historic District and create an area whose reputation for fine antiques will be unmatched in the Mid-South. Antique Row with over 15 shops, two restaurants and a hotel also includes wonderful upscale boutiques featuring ladies clothing, decorative accessories, jewelry, linens, gourmet food, luxury bath items and a children's store. Restaurants include the Colonial Pancake and Waffle House celebrating its forty-fifth year in the 100 block who has expanded its menu to include plate lunches and Jernigan's Restaurant celebrating their 12th year on the 100 block serving up traditional southern favorites.

The 5th Annual Summit Bank Spa City Shootout
Summit Arena
Contact: Steve Arrison
501-321-2027

December 27-29, 2007

Civic Center, Entertainment, Sports

Details:

Description:
This year's Summit Bank Spa City Shootout at Summit Arena will feature a new format of 16 high school basketball teams competing in a round-robin tournament. Come join the fun of basketball!
Sponsors of the Shootout are Summit Bank, the Garland County Athletic Association and the Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Gallery Walk
5-9 pm
Downtown Hot Springs
501-624-0550

January 4, 2008

Arts, Entertainment, Nightlife

Description:
Gallery Walk gives an opportunity to stroll beautiful downtown Hot Springs and enjoy some of the finest contemporary art in America. The art galleries that sparkle like a fine necklace are located in the heart of the Victorian downtown district. They stay open until 9 p.m., often with music and complimentary refreshments. The artists whose works are on display also turn out to chat with visitors to the galleries. Don't miss this monthly opportunity to enjoy the arts that earned Hot Springs the No. 4 ranking in the Top 100 Small Art Towns in America.

November Calendar of Events

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 12:25:23 -0600

Event	Date and Category

2007 Southern Living Idea House
Red Oak Ridge - Hot Springs
Contact: Red Oak Ridge Sales Office
140 Red Ridge Blvd
Hot Springs, AR, AR 71913
501-262-3080
http://www.redoakridge.com/

June 9, 2007- April 13th, 2008

Outdoors

Details:
The 2007 Southern Living Idea House in Red Oak Ridge is just minutes outside Hot Springs and a short drive from Little Rock. Amenities in the development include more than 800 gated acres of natural beauty offering estate-size residences, as well as a beautiful garden-home living, all with meandering trails, two private fishing lakes and a private pool. Better still, it's all just a stone's throw from Hot Springs' business, medical, professional and retail amenities.

Schedule of Tours; June 9th - Sept. 30th Wednesday through Saturday, 11am to 5pm. Sunday, 1pm to 5pm. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. November 17th - December 31st, 2007; Wednesday through Sunday, 1pm to 5pm. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. March 1st - April 13th, 2008; Wedensday through Ssturday, 11am to 5pm. Sunday, 1pm to 5pm. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays

Description:
Nestled in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains near Lakes Hamilton and Catherine, this stately 4,500 square-foot brick home evokes old-world elegance with Georgian and French architectural influences. Designed by renowned residential designer Rick Gary of Plano, Texas, a large open terrace greets visitors and welcomes them into the home.

Once inside, the wrought-iron doors, brick floors and archways accent the front foyer while a winding staircase draws the eye upstairs. Tucked beneath the staircase, a wine closet stands ready for entertaining. The main floor features a large, open family area with a fireplace and brick arches that open into the spacious eat-in kitchen. In the rear, an outdoor living area has two covered porches and an open-air kitchen and fireplace.

"Hot Springs: A Journey Through History" - Photography Exhibit
Hot Springs Convention Center
501-321-2027 or 800-543-2284

October 19 13-March 1, 2008

Arts, Civic Center, Entertainment, Nightlife

Details:
"Hot Springs: A Journey Through History" consists of photographs from the collection of the Garland County Historical Society that have been enlarged and framed for exhibition purposes.

For more information please call the Hot Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Description:
"Hot Springs: A Journey Through History" is part of the permanent collection owned by the CVB featuring 19 new photos.

These are just some of the new photos added to this wonderful photo exhibit.

* Babe Ruth at the Hot Springs Country Club, circa 1923, with the Babe holding his golf club like a baseball bat.
* Ruth drinking from a water pump at the Hot Springs Country Club, also circa 1923.
* Ruth riding a horse at Oaklawn Jockey Club, also circa 1923.
* Cy Young, the legendary baseball pitcher, March 23, 1907. This photo was taken during spring training for pitchers held in Whittington Park. At the time Young was the player/manager for the Boston Americans (later renamed the Boston Red Sox).

"Tinsel & Traditions"
Friday 10am-7pm, Saturday 9am-5pm
Hot Springs Convention Center
Contact: Karla Brown
501-623-9321
http://www.gcredcross.org/
arcgcc@swbell.net

November 9-10, 2007

Arts, Civic Center, Entertainment

Details:
Admission: $5.00

Description:
The Galrnd County Chapter American Red Cross of Hot Springs present "Tinsels & Traditions". A holiday shopping extravaganza including booths with gifts, clothing, toys, jewerly, candles, bath & body and much more!

Veteran's Day Dinner
5pm
Elks Lodge - 132 Abbot Place
Contact: Bill Sexton
501-623-8931 ext 223

November 9, 2007

Entertainment, Nightlife

Description:
All you can eat Spaghetti Dinner open to all Veterans and their guests, at the Elks Lodge, 132 Abbott Place. $5.00 or $4.00 if in uniform, or some part of a uniform. Dinner will be followed by a USO dance 7 - 10 pm. A lot of neat Memorabilia will be on display. Door prizes will be awarded and we will have a silent auction for a number of items. Last year over 200 veterans and supporters attended. This year we are expecting even more.

JAMfest 2007 (The Turkey Jam)
Hot Springs Convention Center
Contact: Matt Moore
1-866-JAMFEST
http://www.jamfest.com/
matt@jamfest.com

November 10, 2007

Arts, Civic Center, Entertainment

Details:
Admission is free for this event.

Description:
JAMfest Cheer & Dance holds a competition featuring some of the best cheer and dance teams in the area. The Turkey JAM will feature awesome cheer and dance action along with tons of fun!

Garvan Woodland Gardens "Lights on the Landscape"
Garvan Woodland Gardens
501-262-9300, 800-366-4664
http://www.garvangardens.org/
info@garvangardens.org

November 17 - December 31, 2007

Entertainment, Outdoors, Nightlife

Description:
One of Arkansas' largest holiday lights displays, featuring over 1.5 million twinkling lights, covering fifteen acres of sculpted landscape. Live musical performances scheduled throughout the season. Complimentary hot chocolate and spiced cider served nightly, and marshmallows available to roast at the Pavilion.

Ice Skating in the Park
Hill Wheatley Plaza - next to Hot Springs Visitor Center
Contact: "Ice Skating Reservations"
501-321-2027
hscvb@hotsprings.org

November 23-January 6, 2008

Entertainment, Outdoors, Sports, Nightlife

Details:
Admission for Adults and Children ages 4 and up: $8.00 - Children 3 & under: $3.00. Call for Group pricing, information and reservations.

Monday thru Friday - 5 PM - 9 PM
Saturday - Noon - 10 PM
Sunday - 1 PM - 6 PM
School Holidays - 1 PM - 9 PM
Christmas Eve - 1 PM - 5 PM
Christmas Day -Closed
New Year's Eve - 1 PM - 9 PM
New Year's Day - 1 PM - 9 PM

Description:
Ice Skating in the Park is back by popular demand. This is a great event for the entire family, schools, and organizations, with music and give aways everyday. New, quality ice skates in all sizes. Safety monitors will be on the ice to assist beginners and help at all times.

20th Annual Winter Wonderland Arts & Crafts Festival
Hot Springs Convention Center
Contact: Charlotte Dodd
501-262-3651 (Best after 9pm)

November 23-24, 2007

Arts, Civic Center, Entertainment, Festivals

Description:
Arts, crafts and gift show. Over 250 vendors display a variety of hand crafted items.

ArtBlast 2007
10am-2pm
Hot Springs Convention Center
Contact: Arts Cooperative Team
501-625-3992
http://www.artblasths.org/
kids@artblasths.org

November 24, 2007

Arts, Civic Center, Entertainment, Festivals

Details:
Tickets: $5 for kids ages 4-18. Free admission for adults attending with children. Groups, classes, and clubs welcome! Great opportunity for volunteers to fulfill community service hours.

Description:
ArtBlast 2007 - An interactive, hands-on arts festival for kids age 4-18.
ArtBlast, with 18,000 sq ft of art activities, is a collaboration of non-profit art organizations. The programs include painting, drawing, drum making, documentary filmmaking, poster contests, music activities, a treasure hunt, and lots of fun for the entire family. Call for more information or to volunteer.

Does your city have a nickname???

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 12:21:59 -0600

Some nicknames for cities in Arkansas...pretty interesting...and who knew we had the capital of so many things?!?!?!?!?!

Arkansas

Alma - Spinach Capital of the World.
Berryville - Turkey Capital.
Brinkley - Home of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker.
Conway - The City of Colleges (The University of Central Arkansas, Hendrix College, and Central Baptist College)
Green Forest - Tomato Capital.
Hope - Watermelon Capital of the World.
Hot Springs - Spa City.
Jasper - Elk Capital of Arkansas.
Jonesboro
- The City of Churches.
- The Crepe Myrtle City.
Little Rock
- The City of Roses.
- River City
Lowell - A Town with a Past, A City with a Future.
Malvern - Brick Capital of the World.
Mount Ida - Quartz Crystal Capital of the World.
Mountain View - Folk Music Capital of the World.
Nashville
- Peach Capital.
Stuttgart - Rice and Duck Capital of the World.

courtesy of http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_city_nicknames_in_the_United_States

Going Green

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 11:58:05 -0600

So last night on the local news they had a report about some different ways of "going-green."

I try to do my part in helping the environment, although I know I'm coming up short in some areas, at least I'm retraining myself to think about the lasting effects of things, but one thing they mentioned on TV last night really caught me by surprise.

Using the local Library vs.purchasing books, DVD's, or other media. By reducing the number of copies in circulation of books, we would be reducing the amount of paper needed to produce such books, print, etc. This is a grand idea in theory, but most libraries struggle to keep up with new print and marketing tools. Largely in part due to funding most likely, but how many REAL ESTATE topics could they carry? There is a wide variety of ideas and theories, and so many are on-line or video or DVD, what is the chance the exact topic I'm looking for would even be at the library. On top of having a fairly limited selection at my local library (I went and looked, pretty small amount of material to view), almost all of it was from the 1960's or earlier. A lot of it didn't really apply to Real Estate anyways, more on sales in general, or retail sales.

My question is, besides the idea of using the library, what other "green" ideas have you heard that either work or don't work. I am curious to see some of the far-fetched and not so far-fetched ideas out there.

Outsourcing

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 11:49:12 -0600

So who outsources their marketing to any degree?

I have been tossing the idea around as far as having an outside company handle some mailings, appointments, and follow-ups and even maybe using a VA or Virtual Assistant.

I have gotten mixed reviews from other local REALTORS, but wonder who on AR has had experiance in using them, and just who they use. Thanks in advance for any help.

Hot Springs is at it again.

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 10:57:12 -0500

Hot Springs wins award !!!!!!

The National Geographic Adventure magazine has chosen Hot Springs as one its 50 Best Adventure Towns in the United States for 2007.

Hot Springs will be featured in the upcoming September issue that hits newsstands on this Tuesday, according to Ethan Fried of the National Geographic Society in Washington, D.C.

"Choosing one town per state for the cover story feature - 50 Top Adventure Towns - National Geographic Adventure breaks the top adventure towns where you can live the adventure dream daily into five categories: Wilderness, Small Town, Mountain, Waterfront, and City and also highlights a few select Hot Spots", Fried said.

"With an ideal mix of terrain, activity, and opportunity, Hot Springs is a place where you can live the adventure dream daily." -- article published by the Sentinel Record

Hot Springs wins award !!!!!!

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 11:14:27 -0500

The National Geographic Adventure magazine has chosen Hot Springs as one its 50 Best Adventure Towns in the United States for 2007.

Hot Springs will be featured in the upcoming September issue that hits newsstands on this Tuesday, according to Ethan Fried of the National Geographic Society in Washington, D.C.

"With an ideal mix of terrain, activity, and opportunity, Hot Springs is a place where you can live the adventure dream daily." -- article published by the Sentinel Record

Garland County, Arkansas

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 11:12:07 -0500

Home of Hot Springs National Park, thermal spas and baths, numerous lakes, and McClard's BBQ. Garland county is host to some of the most fun to be had in the Natural State. Beautiful lands encompassing Lake Oucahita to the North, Lake Hamilton, and Lake Catherine, large parts of the Ouchita National Forest to the west, and just south is Lake Degray.

The list of things to do never seems to end, and is constantly growing. Springtime brings live thouroughbred horse racing at one of the premiere tracks in the country, Oaklawn. Cool spring days lead to sizzling summers filled with boating, fishing, amusement parks, botanical gardens, duck rides, shopping, and thousands of other attractions right here in the area. So whether you live in Arkansas, or have just read or heard about it, Hot Springs, Garland County, and the whole south central part of the state offers something for everyone. Relax or Rev-up, we've got it all.

Visit my page for links to hundreds of local attractions, or visit the Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce website for lists of things and fun for the whole family.

The one that got away by divine intervention

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 11:00:05 -0500

So, I decided to take a late morning of work and go hunting this morning. It's bow season, no guns have 'riled' up the woods yet, so I felt fairly confident I would at least see something. I arrived plenty early, got my gear ready, loaded my arrow into my bow and set off across the starlit field to my stand. Last two mornings have been gorgeous, low 50's temperature, and a nice quieting morning dew on the grass keeps noise down. So things are going good to this point.

About 100 yards from my stand I have to top a small hill, and much to my surprise there is a buck standing there. Not just your typical buck...but I mean a real wall-hanger. A MONSTER...the kind of deer you only see once in a lifetime, let alone a buck you get a chance to make a good shot on. I think I startled him more than he startled me, so here we are 40 yards apart, there is just barely enough light for me to make out his massive rack and see his warm breath smoking into the cool morning air. I am frozen, unable to draw my bow, or make any kind of movement as he is just fixated in my direction.

After what seems like forever, he finally, slowly puts his head down and goes back to feeding. My heart skips a couple beats...this is the opportunity I've been waiting for 8 years of hard hunting. I take this as my chance, square up, take a deep breath, draw and just as I am about to shoot..............I'm blinded by what I thought was a spotlight. From behind this deer comes what at the time felt like the brightest most blinding light I've ever seen. Now the buck sees this and bolts...takes off across the field, hops a fence and disappears into a thicket of briar's and honeysuckle, probably never to be seen again (at least thats my luck, and what I could tell thru the spots of blindness caused by this mysterious light)

I'm going into a state of furiousness like never before as to what the heck someone is doing on my family's land so I immediately set off toward the direction of the light. I get out my flashlight and call out, I hear nothing...I stop...listen...still hear nothing...so I keep walking down the path....still no sounds and no sign of anybody or anything. I can't lie, I spent the next 45 minutes walking every square inch of ground in the direction that light came from....and I never saw a thing. I never heard anything that way...and I dunno if I just missed it as I watched my trophy buck but I swear I didn't hear or see anything after the bright light.

I don't know about aliens, or if someone just slipped out after they saw me, but all I kept thinking is the reason that deer was so Monstrously big is because of some kind of Divine Intervention that has been keeping it alive. I'm not trying to argue any kind of religion, but there was something about the whole situation that just doesn't add up. It was the whitest, brightest light I think I've ever seen. It came on, and as the deer ran away it disappeared, never to be seen again. There are only two ways in and out of where this light came from. I was standing on one, and the other hasn't been regularly used in 10 years....so its rather grown up and difficult to traverse through in any season, let alone early fall, when temps are just now getting out of the 80's, and the groundcover is so thick. It just doesn't add up....something or someone shined a light in my eyes...but what...and where did it go? Normally I cough or make some kind of noise that scares them off...but today....and hopefully only today...something else kept me from succeeding in my quest.

Maybe the jokes on me....but there's always next time

So does anybody else

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 17:05:22 -0500

Feel that the abundance of new, young agents has affected the integrity of our business?

Now I'm borderline a newbie myself, so to avoid calling the kettle black, let's be up front. Any industry is going to have peaks and valleys in the in-flux of employees, but as the overall # of agents grows.....has the knowledge and experiance, dare I say manners, of this whole process called REAL ESTATE been forgotten.

Just today I recieved an offer. Great news right? Well, nobody ever even told me I had an offer, the listing agent later told me "he figured I'd get it." Secondly in the offer he stated that he was to be paid an additional $1,500 bonus for bringing the buyer. (not something we had discussed nor mentioned at anytime). Whoa, it gets better! Then he wanted the Seller to pay for the appraisal, if it didn't appraise he would HAVE to sell it to them for the reduced price, if it did, then he had to pay for the inspection too, which included a $1000 Repair Limit. All that and NO ernest money, NO broker signature, NO dates or expiration.

Now thanks for bringing me something, but its called DOA (Dead on Arrival) to this particular Seller--this I knew, but to just make it that much better, the offer was for $10K less than list on a fair priced home, positioned correctly in the marketplace, which has been getting decent activity and favorable feedback from agents and buyers.

Needless to say I put as much into working the offer for the Buyer as the agent did. Not to mention my Seller just started laughing and thought I was joking just because things have been slower than normal.

Overall it just renewed my enthusiasm for what I DO, and makes me LOVE my Competition that much more. I just hate to see good agents get frustrated with the additional hassles of improperly trained agents, who seem to have no guideance or respect for the fellow REALTOR.

Hot Springs Village, Arkansas

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 16:31:17 -0500

Hot Springs Village Info.

Hot Springs Village, the nation's largest gated community, is a 26,000-acre resort and retirement community offering seven lakes for boating and fishing, nine championship golf courses, 16 tennis courts, 20 miles of wooded hiking trails, indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and performing arts center. Located in the Ouachita Mountains of west-central Arkansas, the village of 15,000 residents is 20 minutes from historic downtown Hot Springs National Park, famed for its Bathhouse Row, thermal waters, shopping, and hundreds of thousands of honeymooners romantic get-away.

The recent availability of value priced lots, has driven the market through the roof. Investors all over the country are looking at Hot Springs Village as one possible local that will not suffer the effects of the so-called Real Estate Market down-turn. The cost of recently built new homes has ranged from $123,000 to $450,000, with a median price of $195,000. The abundance of buyers looking at the area has spurred better than average growth (as the Village always has). Lake front lots can still be found for under $100K, and homes can be found for as little as $100-120K, with all the amenities and nestled in a safe, secure, vibrant community.

Whether you are looking for lots or a home, the knowledge and expertise of a local REALTOR are key to finding the right investment for you.

Arkansas State Fair

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 16:16:59 -0500

Once again, it's that time of year when the annual Arkansas State Fair, ranked as a "Top 50 Fair in North America" in 2003, 2005, and 2006; promises to be one again this year!

This year's events include

A Live Shark Encounter
"Jump" the Ultimate Dog Show
Potbelly pig races,
The "Swampmaster Gator Show",
Racing displays from the NASCAR Alltell Race Team
The National Guard
The New Exotic Barnyard
The annual FFA Barnyard
A multitude of concerts including the Charlie Daniels Band, Kelly Pickler, and REO Speedwagon (see list below)
The Arkansas State Rodeo: featuring Bareback riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding & more. There will be four exciting performances by the best Professional Cowboys in the business.
The usual livestock shows
And the always exciting Queen and Talent Shows
all the RIDES!!!!!
all the FOOD!!!!!
all the FUN!!!!!!!
lots more

Bring the whole Family, and have a ton of fun at the Arkansas State Fair!

Rodeo Ticket Prices:

Ticket prices
Seat Type Box Seats Reserved Center General Admission Ends	Adult $16 $13 $9	Child $13 $9 $6

DAILY CONCERT LINE-UP

Friday, October 12

Time	Artist
7:00pm	Satisfaction
8:30pm	KISS Army

Saturday, October 13

Time	Artist
3:00pm	Alice 107.7 Arkansas Idol
6:00pm	CW Arkansas Concert Showcase
8:00pm	Kellie Pickler

Sunday, October 14

Time	Artist
5:00pm	Riverbilly
6:00pm	The Charlie Daniels Band

Monday, October 15

Time	Artist
7:00pm	The Point 94.1 Featured Band
8:30pm	Christian Artist Showcase

Tuesday, October 16

Time	Artist
4:45pm	106th Arkansas Army National Guard Band
5:42pm	National Anthem perfromed by 106th AANG Band
5:45pm	Military Aerial Flyover
6:00pm	Veterans Administration Coin Presentation
7:00pm	Arkansas Jazz Orchestra

Wednesday, October 17

Time	Artist
6:30pm	Radio Disney's Rockin' Road Show
7:30pm	T-SQUAD

Thursday, October 18

Time	Artist
6:00pm	J.R. Rogers & the Allstars
8:00pm	J.R. Rogers & the Allstars

Friday, October 19

Time	Artist
7:00pm	Riverbilly
8:00pm	REO Speedwagon

Saturday, October 20

Time	Artist
2:00pm	Colgate Country Showdown
6:30pm	Ultimate Tribute to Elvis
8:30pm	Ultimate Tribute to Elvis

Sunday, October 21

Time	Artist
2:00pm	Colgate Country Showdown
5:00pm	Spirit 93.3 Christian Concert

Regular Admission:

Regular Gate Admission

$7.00 Adult
$4.00 Child
$4.00 Senior

Regular Parking

$5.00 for 1 car, 1 time, any day

Regular Ride Coupons

$1.00 each

These prices take effect after 5:00 PM on Thursday, October 11th

Advance Tickets:

Advance Single Gate Admission	$6.00 for 1 Adult or 2 Children or 2 Seniors
Advance Parking	$4.00 for 1 car, 1 time, any day
Advance Ride Coupons	$15.00 for a book of 24 coupons
Advance Group Discounts (25 or more)	$5.00 for 1 Adult OR 2 Children OR 2 Seniors

Family Pack:

Family Value Pack (available in advance)	$40.95
Includes 4 Fair Admission Tickets (any age), 1 Parking Pass, 24 Ride Coupons and $10.00 in Food Coupons.

all times subject to change, current as of 10/10/07 4:00 CST

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 12:57:28 -0500

A bustling city nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, the only city inside a National Park system, Hot Springs has a long and storied past. From the thermal waters that have drawn millions, to new developments and attractions that keep them coming back, our little town is the perfect destination for all.

We offer anything and everything you can think of. From A to Z there is literally something for everyone. Minus outrageous Real Estate and property taxes that is. Our median price of homes is only $139,500, and our property taxes remain the lowest in the U.S. But what else does someone looking for a place to move look for?

Outdoor activities?
Health facilities?
Recreation?
Sports opportunities?
Shopping?
Quality of life?
Infrastructure?
Job/Business opportunities?
Retirement?
Starting a family?
Lakes?
Nature?
Schools and Education?
Arts and Sciences?
Hunting?

Just about anything you could think of doing inside or out, can be found in or within 20 minutes of Hot Springs. Seriously.....think of anything....and I can point you in the direction of at least one place you can do that. (ok minus being oceanfront or above the tree-line that is). I challenge you to find something we don't offer....and if you do, Lunch is on me!

Exciting News!

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 08:46:06 -0500

Drew Riley

Spa Realty, Inc.

Hot Springs, AR

501.318.7899

888.708.3444

hotspringshomes@gmail.com

Drew Riley attends specialized listing course for Residential Real Estate Specialists

Drew Riley has completed a highly specialized course in the new skills involved in obtaining and servicing real estate listings, conducted by the COUNCIL OF RESIDENTIAL SPECIALISTS of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS.

The class was conducted in Springfield, MO, and is one of the required courses that must be taken by real estate agents and brokers in order to qualify for the coveted Certifed Residentail Specialist (CRS) designation.

The course included techniques in seller counseling, pricing (positioning home in the marketplace), various client servicing activities, marketing techniques and other programs designed to close sales on residential properties.

"Today's real estate market is more complex then ever before and the listing process has become the key in the movement of residential properties." said Drew Riley. "This course provided me with new input to enable me to serve both buyers and sellers of residential property more effectively."

Certifed Residential Specialist courses are presented in various cities throughout the United States in conjunction with the COUNCIL OF RESIDENTIAL SPECIALISTS an affiliate of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS.

National Safety Month

Drew Riley (Spa Realty, Inc Team Riley) — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 14:43:18 -0500

Good information on staying safe for anybody, especially women. Please feel free to pass it along to anybody you see fit.

This is important information for females of ALL ages.

When this was sent to me, I was told to forward it to my lady friends, but I forwarded it to most everyone in my address book. My men friends have female friends and this information is too important to miss someone.

Please pass it along.

A group of rapists and date rapists in prison were interviewed on what they look for in a potential victim and here are some interesting facts:

1) The first thing men look for in a potential victim is hairstyle. They are most likely to go after a woman with a ponytail, bun, braid or other hairstyle that can easily be grabbed. They are also likely to go after a woman with long hair. Women with short hair are not common targets.

2) The second thing men look for is clothing. They will look for women whose clothing is easy to remove quickly. Many of them carry scissors around specifically to cut clothing.

3) They also look for women on their cell phone, searching through their purse, or doing other activities while walking because they are off-guard and can be easily overpowered.

4) Men are most likely to attack &rape in the early morning, between 5:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.

5) The number one place women are abducted from/attacked is grocery store parking lots. Number two: Are office parking lots/garages. Number three: Are public restrooms.

6) The thing about these men is that they are looking to grab a woman and quickly move her to another location where they don't have to worry about getting caught.

7) Only 2% said they carried weapons because rape carries a 3-5 year sentence but rape with a weapon is 15-20 years.

8) If you put up any kind of a fight at all, they get discouraged because it only takes a minute or two for them to realize that going after you isn't worth it because it will be time-consuming.

9) These men said they would not pick on women who have umbrellas, or other similar objects that can be used from a distance, in their hands. Keys are not a deterrent because you have to get really close to the attacker to use them as a weapon. So, the idea is to convince these guys you're not worth it.

10) Several defense mechanisms he taught us are: If someone is following behind you on a street or in a garage or with you in an elevator or stairwell, look them in the face and ask them a question, like what time is it, or make general small talk: "I can't believe it is so cold out here," "we're in for a bad winter." Now you've seen their face and could identify them in a line-up; you lose appeal as a target.

11) If someone is coming toward you, hold out your hands in front of you and yell STOP or STAY BACK! Most of the rapists this man talked to said they'd leave a woman alone if she yelled or showed that she would not be afraid to fight back. Again, they are looking for an EASY target.

12) If you carry pepper spray (this instructor was a huge advocate of it and carries it with him wherever he goes), yell I HAVE PEPPER SPRAY and holding it out will be a deterrent.

13) If someone grabs you, you can't beat them with strength but you can by outsmarting them. If you are grabbed around the waist from behind, pinch the attacker either under the arm (between the elbow and armpit) OR in the upper inner thigh VERY VERY HARD. One woman in a class this guy taught told him she used the underarm pinch on a guy who was trying to date rape her and was so upset she broke through the skin and tore out muscle strands - the guy needed stitches. Try pinching yourself in those places as hard as you can stand it - it hurts.

14) After the initial hit, always GO for the GROIN. I know from a particularly unfortunate experience that if you slap a guy's parts it is extremely painful. You might think that you'll anger the guy and make him want to hurt you more, but the thing these rapists told our instructor is that they want a woman who will not cause a lot of trouble. Start causing trouble and he's out of there.

15) When the guy puts his hands up to you, grab his first two fingers and bend them back as far as possible with as much pressure pushing down on them as possible. The instructor did it to me without using much pressure, and I ended up on my knees and both knuckles cracked audibly.

16) Of course the things we always hear still apply. Always be aware of your surroundings, take someone with you if you can and if you see any odd behavior, don't dismiss it, go with your instincts!!!

_______________________________________________________________________________

Things we can do if we are confronted with situation. You may feel a little silly at the time, but you'd feel much worse if the guy really was trouble.

1. Tip from Tae Kwon Do: The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do!

2. Learned this from a tourist guide in New Orleans. If a robber asks for your wallet and/or purse, DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM. Toss it away from you....chances are that he is more interested in your wallet and/or purse than you, and he will go for the wallet/purse. RUN LIKE MAD IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!

3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car, kick out the back tail lights and stick your arm out the hole and start waving like crazy. The driver won't see you, but everybody else will. This has saved lives.

4. Women have a tendency to get into their cars after shopping, eating, working, etc., and just sit (doing their checkbook, or making a list, etc.) DON'T DO THIS! The predator will be watching you, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side, put a gun to your head, and tell you where to go. AS SOON AS YOU GET INTO YOUR CAR, LOCK THE DOORS AND LEAVE.

a. If someone is in the car with a gun to your head DO NOT DRIVE OFF, repeat: DO NOT DRIVE OFF! Instead gun the engine and speed into anything, wrecking the car. Your Air Bag will save you. If the person is in the back seat they will get the worst of it. As soon as the car crashes bail out and run. It is better than having them find your body in a remote location.

5. A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot or parking garage:

A.) Be aware: look around you, look into your car, at the passenger side floor, and in the back seat.

B.) If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door. Most serial killers attack their victims by pulling them into their vans while the women are attempting to get into their cars.

C.) Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, and the passenger side. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the mall, or work, and get a guard/policeman to walk you back out.

IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY. (And better paranoid than dead.)

6. ALWAYS take the elevator instead of the stairs. (Stairwells are horrible places to be alone and the perfect crime spot. This is especially true at NIGHT!)

7. If the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, ALWAYS RUN! The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times. And even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ. RUN, preferably in a zigzag pattern!

8. As women, we are always trying to be sympathetic: STOP! It may get you raped or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well-educated man, who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women. He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked "for help" into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next victim.

9. Please pass this on and DO NOT open the door for a crying baby ----This
should be taken seriously because the Crying Baby theory was mentioned on America's Most Wanted this past Saturday when they profiled the serial killer in Louisiana.

The lady then said that it sounded like the baby had crawled near a window, and she was worried that it would crawl to the street and get run over. The policeman said, "We already have a unit on the way, whatever you do, DO NOT open the door." He told her that they think a serial killer has a baby's cry recorded and uses it to coax women out of their homes thinking that someone dropped off a baby. He said they have not verified it, but have had several calls by women saying that they hear baby's cries outside their doors when they're home alone at night.

I'd like you to forward this to all the women you know. It may save a life. A candle is not dimmed by lighting another candle. I was going to send this to the ladies only, but guys, if you love your mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, etc., you may want to pass it onto them, as well.