Jillian Kuefner | Arizona Homeowner | October 2023 Digital Newsletter

Vol. 10 Issue 10

TRAVEL TIME Wisconsin Dells Wisconsin

GOING GREEN ON A BUDGET A

s the cost of energy continues to rise, finding ways to make your home more energy efficient has become increasingly important. Fortunately, you don't have to break the bank to achieve significant energy savings. Here are five inexpensive ways to make your home more energy efficient, while reducing your carbon footprint and saving money on utility bills.

Known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World," Wisconsin Dells offers a wealth of family-friendly attractions and entertainment options. The main draw of Wisconsin Dells is its numerous indoor and outdoor waterparks, featuring thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones. Beyond waterparks, visitors can explore scenic boat tours along the Wisconsin River, enjoy exciting amusement parks, go minigolfing, or experience the area's unique rock formations and natural beauty. With its abundance of attractions and activities, Wisconsin Dells provides a fun-filled getaway for visitors of all ages.

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to save energy is by replacing traditional incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs.

While LED bulbs may have a slightly higher upfront cost, the long-term savings are substantial. Additionally, LED bulbs emit less heat, reducing the strain on your air conditioning during the summer months.

Another way to reduce the load on your heating and air conditioning systems is to close off any air leaks around windows, doors, and electrical outlets. Identify and seal these leaks using weather-stripping, caulking, or expandable foam. Weatherstripping around doors and windows prevents drafts, while caulking seals gaps in your walls and siding.

If you’re as terrible as many others about unplugging appliances when they're done suing them, this one is for you. Did you know that many appliances and electronic devices continue to consume energy even when they are turned off?

This phenomenon, known as "phantom load" or "standby power," can be responsible for a significant portion of your energy bill. Combat this issue by using smart power strips. These strips automatically cut off power to devices when they are not in use, eliminating unnecessary energy consumption.

Improving your home's energy efficiency doesn't have to be a costly endeavor. By implementing these inexpensive strategies, you can make a significant impact on your energy consumption and utility bills. From installing LED bulbs and sealing air leaks to using smart power strips for those devices we consistently leaved plugged in, these simple changes can add up to substantial long-term savings. Lastly, embracing natural lighting in the cooler months, not only reduces energy usage but also creates a pleasant and inviting atmosphere in your home. These small adjustments today will put you on the path to a more energy-efficient and sustainable home, without costing an arm and a leg.

LIFEWISE

D

id you know that 1 in 4 Americans believe they live in a haunted house? Hopefully, you aren’t one of them! But if you are looking for a good scare this Halloween, journey to one of these spooky spots in the United States.

If you’ve always wanted to check into a haunted hotel, head to Flagstaff, Arizona, and book a room at the Hotel Monte Vista.

Well, one room in particular. According to local legend, Room 220 is haunted by the ghost of a man who used to hang raw meat from the chandelier and died in that very same room. Guests have also heard infant cries coming from the basement and have seen a phantom bellboy in old-fashioned attire wandering the hallways.

Or perhaps a charming B&B is more your style? Then by all means, check into the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast in Fall River, Massachusetts, the site of the infamous murders of Andrew and Abby Borden. Andrew’s daughter Lizzie Borden was accused of the murders but was found not guilty in a court trial that rocked the nation. You can stay in the actual rooms where the two were butchered with a hatchet.

History buffs that make their way to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to learn more about the Civil War may encounter something spooky if they walk across Sachs Covered Bridge. Built in 1852, this wooden lattice bridge is purportedly haunted by three Confederate soldiers who were hanged off of it during the war. Some say you can’t walk across it without feeling their touch.

Head to Savannah, Georgia, and set Google Maps to Bonaventure Cemetery for a scene you won’t soon forget. The Southern Gothic style, the Victorian tombstones, and the Spanish moss dripping from the oak trees are a scary vibe like no other. Not to be missed is the grave of 6-year-old Gracie Watson who receives toys and cakes remembering her to this day although she died of pneumonia back in 1889.

FLAVORFUL

Finally, why not take a trip to a haunted zoo? Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, Illinois, was actually built over the 1840s-era Chicago City Cemetery. When it was deemed too close to the city’s water supply, 35,000 bodies had to be moved. Turns out, some 12,000 bodies may have been left behind.

Oops. Now paranormal activity is reported at the zoo, including a Victorian-era clothed female ghost often spotted at the lion house. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

MAC & CHEESE SPOOKY EYEBALLS Ingredients 40 oz

macaroni & cheese

Directions

Prepare macaroni & cheese according to package directions. Cool in 1 tbsp granulated chicken flavor bouillon refrigerator for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350° F. Grease baking sheet lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Combine breadcrumbs and bouillon in shallow 2 cups plain breadcrumbs dish. Shape macaroni & cheese into 1 ½-inch balls; cover completely with sliced pimiento-stuffed green olives prepared breadcrumbs. Place balls on prepared baking sheet. Place one olive slice on center of each ball. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through.

GoodNes

AZHO

Maricopa County

By The Numbers OCTOBER 2023 8/15/23 –9/15/23

5,093 TOTAL #

CLOSED

AVG SOLD PRICE

588,378

$

53

99

AVG DAYS ON MARKET

LIST/SELL PRICE RATIO

JILL KUEFNER

REALTOR®

Coldwell Banker Realty

C. 847.702.7539 O. 480.951.1010

jillian.kuefner@cbrealty.com 7975 Hayden Rd Ste D105 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

YOURYO NEIGHBOR SUMMIT U R G U I D E IN T O SCOTTSDALE A Z R E A L E S TAT E IfIf your your home home isis currently currently listed, listed, this thisisisnot notaasolicitation solicitationfor forthat that listing. listing.

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