An Important Piece of Real Estate Our Country has an important piece of real estate which is the Statue of Liberty!  For many years immigrants coming to America were welcomed by Lady Liberty as they approached Ellis Island.  I remember my Father sharing with me that when he returned from WWII and arrived back in the United States via ship he too was greeted by Lady Liberty and what a wonderful sight she was! Did you know that Lake Charles, Louisiana has it's own small replica of the Statue of Liberty on our own Lakefront? She has been there for years and most everyone knows about it in Lake Charles however I think we tend to forget about her.   I snapped this photo along Shell Beach Drive as I was headed to the Red, White, Blue and You events this evening.  You can see the small statue ... 07/04/2010

While she has a better known nickname in certain circles, I can't reveal that name here for reasons that I cannot tell you or I'd have to ....(lets not go there), this is my cat "Margaret Place".  Margaret Place is her official name as she was found under my house (as a baby kitten) which is located in...you guessed it....Margaret Place! She has office privileges. It is quite common for her to wait by the window for my return. She's an awesome cat with an awesome responsibility. To her credit, she seeks no fame or glory for the important job she conducts multiple times each week. ! 07/04/2010

Want to know where to run in Lake Charles? While there are numerous places in the Lake Charles area for runners and walkers to get their endorphin high, one of the most well known is Shell Beach Drive.  The Lake Area Runner's club website offers a map showing the 5 mile route of the annual Contraband Days run. I snapped these from a vantage point in Margaret Place yesterday.  These runners were taking part in a city approved run and were not far from the end of the race. City approval means that traffic is re-routed during the walk/run. Interestingly, I've never heard anyone complain about the minor inconvenience. Another answer to the "Where to run" in Lake Charles question is Sam Houston State Park, the Holly Hill Road area (3 miles), and the club's famous "Hump Day" run that takes t... 07/04/2010

This morning, while serving breakfast to the ducks on Griffith Coulee, I was reminded of the quiet beauty and blessings of the rich and architecturally diverse Margaret Place Historical District in Lake Charles. I took a few pictures, but then switched to a video app on my IPhone 3G. Not the greatest video and 4 minutes long! So, only watch (and listen) if you'd like to take a few minutes to enjoy a bit of nature's wonder. 07/04/2010

4th of July Parade of Lake Charles Homes: Greater Things Are Yet To Come!  An Independence Day Tribute 07/03/2010

Earlier this week, I posted that Lake Charles now boasts a second Farmer's Market! A few days later, in a conversation with Melinda (Vice President, Calcasieu Preservation Society) and Adley Cormier (current chairman of the Downtown Development Authority and former President of the Preservation Society), I learned that over 200 people were in attendance on Tuesday to shop at the Farmer's Market which offers local, fresh produce. Their enthusiasm was contagious as they reported how perfect the Cash Grocery building is for a Farmer's Market and other activities. They pointed out that those searching for fresh produce can now find it twice a week. Lake Charles also has a Farmer's Market on Saturday mornings. It is held behind the Old City Hall on Ryan Street and features many of the same ... 07/03/2010

Trying to find new home construction in South Lake Charles? Interested in real estate statistics for what's available? Below is a snapshot of new home construction in South Lake Charles currently available in MLS areas 30 and 40 as of today. Number of Active Listings: 19*  (note, this is an increase by 6 homes over last month's report) Average Square footage: 2,221Average list price: $295,887Median: $262,459    $136.13/Square FootLowest list price:$79,900   $62.42/Sq.Ft.   (2 bedrom 1 bath)Highest list price: $699,000  $167.10/ Sq.Ft (5 bedroom, 4 bath home with 4,183 Sq.Ft) *Excludes an MLS entry with "$0" for the price. The reason for the "$0" is that the entry represents multiple homes to be constructed. See the geographical boundaries of MLS areas 30 and 40 on this page on Derenda.... 07/03/2010

I am known as the "Flag Lady" of Canal Place Subdivision in South Lake Charles, Louisiana! Yes, this will be my third year putting flags out in Canal Place Subdivision in Lake Charles, Louisiana.  Every Memorial Day and July 4th the front entrance is lined with flags to welcome those entering the subdivision.  Sometimes residents might even find flags lining each street at the mailbox, I like to change things up! Today I got the flags out just in time before it poured down rain!! Canal Place Subdivision is a fun, friendly community where residents enjoy decorating their homes for each holiday.  One local neighbor always has one of those giant festive blow ups on display! If you are searching for a home in South Lake Charles, drive through Canal Place Subdivision in Lake Charles where yo... 07/01/2010

Lake Charles Louisiana Real Estate : Homes SOLD in Calcasieu Parish JUNE 2010  Calcasieu Parish Real Estate Market Report   Averaging statistics on a weekly basis, the following is a market snapshot of Lake Charles, Louisiana Real Estate for the month of JUNE encompassing North, South, East, West, Southeast and Southwest Lake Charles. MONTH OF JUNE 2010 Average Active Homes Listed = 492 Average Home Sales Per Week = 9 Average Days on Market of Homes SOLD = 83 (DOM) Average Price of SOLD Homes = $175,497 Average High Price of SOLD Homes $448,000 Average Low Price of SOLD Homes $40,550   Comparing these figures to the month of MAY market snapshot of Lake Charles, Louisiana Real Estate: Active listings have decreased by 6 SOLDS REMAINED THE SAME PER WEEK Days on Market have increased by 27... 06/30/2010

  I recently blogged about the City of Lake Charles 4th of July events, Red White Blue and You. This is my "blooper" right in the midde of my plug, I was distracted by a skateboarder--sometimes things just don't go right in the first "take" and you have to CUT. Take #2 wasn't much better as you see the skateboarder fly by in the background LOL! TAKE 1   Let's try that again... TAKE 2   I give up! Oh well you got the message! 06/30/2010

Looking for 4th of July Activities in Lake Charles, Louisiana? Don't miss one of the largest events, Red, White Blue and You! I have great childhood memories of growing up in Greenville, Mississippi and going to the levee every summer on 4th of July to watch the fireworks.  That was back when ordinances did not allow any fireworks inside the City limits.  We would bring our own colorful sparklers with us and light them along the levee. That was such a thrill as a kid and I looked forward to those sparklers all year long, 4th of July was just as exciting as Christmas! Lake Charles has its own fabulous display of Fireworks at the Civic Center Seawall on the 4th of July!  I can't bring my sparklers but I can bring my lawn chair and enjoy some great patriotic music presented by the Lake Cha... 06/28/2010

Southgate Shopping in Lake Charles, Louisiana Continuing in my summer series of highlighting Lake Charles shopping, today's feature is SOUTHGATE SHOPPING CENTER   Southgate Shopping Center has been a Lake Charles landmark for several years.  Convenience is what this shopping center offers residents with Office Depot, Market Basket, FED EX,  Books-A-Million and Joe Muggs Coffee.   Two of my personal favorites are located in Southgate Shopping Center--Fleur de Lis and Accessory Zone. Accessory Zone  in Lake Charles has gift items, clothing and accessories.  If you are looking for a fashionable outfit straight out of Style Magazine you will find it here!  While you are there, you are certain to find matching jewelry that will put you all together.  Searching for a quick gift item, Accessor... 06/24/2010

Mediterranean Restaurant in Lake Charles, Louisiana WELCOME TO MAZENS What started out years ago on Enterprise Boulevard in an old Burger Chef restaurant has evolved to become one of Lake Charles finest restaurants.  How did that happen in a city where cajun food is king?  Mazen's originally opened as a small restaurant by the name of Aladdin's serving authentic mediterranean cuisine and without serving any alcohol. There was little if any staff, you were waited on personally by the chef (Mazen himself) and if you wanted wine with your meal, locals knew it was BYOB and would come with their favorite brown bag!!  Friends would gather for truly intimate meals where they were the only patrons in the building.  Well you know how it is when word gets out about a good thing....Aladdin's grew ... 06/24/2010

MARKET CONDITIONS IN THE LAKE CHARLES NEIGHBORHOOD OF CANAL PLACE FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE 2010 WHAT IS GOING ON IN CANAL PLACE? This  restricted South Lake Charles subdivision is a neighborhood of New Orleans French Country inspired homes with features of warm inviting fireplaces, slate, tile and wood flooring, beautiful granite counters, natural brick accents with elaborate woodwork, cabinetry and built-ins. Canal Place homes for sale have been moving slowly with an average days on market of 284 days. However, inventory has been moving this month and Canal Place only has one home currently for sale listed at $299,500. Four Homes sold within the last six months ranging from $255,000 to $347,450.  The newest comps for June   were $118 and $ 126 per sq ft. Averaging these new comps the neig... 06/23/2010

A question I love to answer to those relocating to the Lake Charles area is, "Do you have a recycling program?" The answer is, "Yes!" We have a wonderful organization in Lake Charles called Team Green. In partnership with the City of Lake Charles and other sponsors, Team Green offers recyclingfrom 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM at the following locations.  Exceptions to the 10-3:00 times are indicated below. MondayWal-Mart- North Hwy. 171 Tuesday Stine Lumber, Nelson Road Wednesday Kroger's - 12th Street Thursday K-Mart, Ryan Street 10-3:00Wal-Mart - Hwy. 14 8:00 - 10:30 SaturdayPrien Lake Mall 11:00 - 2:00 So, look for theThe Team Green Roving Recycling Truck at the above locations.  To learn more, including what the accept, visit the Team Green page on the city's website. 06/23/2010

Home Loans in Lake Charles Louisiana Mortgage Associates Take a glimpse inside the new Lake Charles office of Louisiana Mortgage Associates located at 2915 Ryan Street in Lake Charles, Louisiana   The  Louisiana Mortgage Associates Loan Officers are ready to meet with you in a spacious confidential conference room to discuss your loan options and explain the loan process.  Your home is an investment in your future. You can trust the Loan Officers of Louisiana Mortgage to secure the best possible rates  for you and handle your loan with expertise and professionalism. Keith Wimberly-Owner of Louisiana Mortgage Associates Whether you are in need of a VA, FHA, USDA, or Conventional Loan, Louisiana Mortgage Associates Loan Officers are ready to assist you.  Rates are low and it is a great ti... 06/21/2010

New Townhome in South Lake Charles! This brand new townhome in Lake Charles is conveniently located close to Women and Children Hospital. Besides the the tall ceilings and open floor plan, the appeal is enhanced by the island kitchen with granite counters. The bath in this new townhome also offers granite. There are not many new townhomes in the Lake Charles Area! This one features tile floors downstairs, an oversized tub with tile shower surrounds, and a concrete patio.  Directions:  From I-210, south on Nelson Road, left on Mignonette, townhome on left. Lake Charles Schools: Prien Lake Elementary, S.J. Welsh Middle, Barbe High School   See more photos, a virtual tour, and the current price on a page dedicated to this new townhome on TonyCornner.com. 06/21/2010

Celebrating With My Buyers and Sellers in Their New Home   Selling real estate is more than just a transaction.  Buying or Selling a home is a major decision and as a REALTOR, you become intertwined with the buyers and sellers for at least 30 days.  Meet my friends Todd & Michelle Lejune.  Todd and Michelle were our neighbors on the same street in Lake Charles and my husband Craig graduated from high school with Todd.   When they decided to sell their South Lake Charles  home they called me and told me they wanted to move to the garden district in Lake Charles.  They had a very focused plan for their family future.  We prayed together and I embraced their dream and we started the plan in motion. They found a home they fell in love with and we wrote a contingency contract that went into ... 06/21/2010

Italian Dining in Lake Charles, Louisiana Louis DeAngelo's - A Favorite Lake Charles Restaurant DeAngelo's is a Lake Charles restaurant near and dear to my heart.  You might say I have a vested interest in this restaurant, the owners are just like family to the Boudreaux household. Louis DeAngelo's in Lake Charles  the REAL story Once upon a time in 2002, local businessmen Ritchie Gregory and Ben Herrera had a vision for a restaurant in an old historic building on S. Ryan Street in Lake Charles.  The concept was a simple one, a casual venue that would be family friendly with a quality menu yet something different in Lake Charles.  Ritchie and Ben set their sights on a DeAngelo's franchise. DeAngelo's Pizzeria Company was founded in Baton Rouge in 1991 by Louis De Angelo Jr. It was Louis... 06/20/2010

Sadly, I was unable to attend the funeral for Myrtle Chambers today, but wanted to post a tribute to an awesome and memorable lady. I first met Myrtle over 30 years ago through friends who have since moved away.  Myrtle was an integral member of their household in that she baby sat, cleaned, shopped, and cooked for my friends as well as others. They, like most others lucky enough to employ Myrtle, treated her with the respect and love she was due.  Fortunately, one of the major "others" is my next-door neighbor who retained Myrtle's services for even longer than my friends.  My across-the-street neighbor recognized Myrtle's gifts and brought her into her family as well. I doubt the words "work ethic" ever crossed Myrtle's mind.  She'd probably consider my mentioning it as nonsense.  Myr... 06/19/2010