Susan Speaks Out: And The Winner Is…

Let’s go back, say maybe 5 years or so ago. It’s this same time of year. The time when all of the “stars” come out and drive to a destination where they step out onto a red carpet and it all began. The world was watching, with the streets lined with people on a mission to get a glimpse. Cameras were rolling. Bulbs were flashing. Names being called out from the crowds. All of the magazines were represented with a snapping cameraman. All in attendance and just hoping for a chance to put their microphones in front of them and ask their big question. It was obvious that everyone had been preparing and waiting for tonight. (What on earth had I missed! I’m so out of it!) There seemed to be something more to it than I had tuned in to see. I hadn’t payed much attention but I guess I had heard something about this event coming up on Good Morning America. And the Trib. did have a small ‘reminder’ on the front page of yesterday’s paper. I ignored it. And come to think of it … radio personalities were counting down the days to “the big night”. Now I’m feeling out of it. What is it? What’s all the ‘buzz’? And then it was revealed. The question of the evening… I heard it, but still it had no impact on me. It was asked again to the next one. Did he say…”who are you wearing?” And what did she say? I wasn’t sure what he wanted to know. I was confused…” who are you wearing….. Who are you wearing?” I heard it over and over. Finally, I understood. It was the designer name. Well, fast forward 5 years and here we are. We’re living in a designer clothing crazed society. The academy awards are almost a holiday! There are house parties, get togethers with invitations, family rooms are spruced up, TVs are purchased (just a little larger is always better!) It’s the “New Superbowl”! What is the reason for this? Why should we care? Who are these people? Aren’t these the ones that have such messed up personal lives? Isn’t he the one whose parents I’ve pitied and the one that I would go to any length to shield my daughter from? Isn’t she the one that was just married in Las Vegas and divorced the next day? He’s the one that’s facing jail time and she wrote a book denouncing her messed up family. (Nice.) Wow. Well, on to the awards program! That’s why I watch.

So, I guess this is just life in the new millennium! We are a star struck nation. A star struck world. But here’s my beef. Many of these people are truly talented. They deserve their night to accept awards for their accomplishments. I believe they work hard at their jobs. They are gifted. In acting! All this big brouhaha for their acting abilities. They make movies. They’re entertainers. Why, then, do we have to listen to their views on politics and our country at this forum? Shouldn’t we be insulted that they are stealing the networks TV air time to try to use their power (gained by acting) to promote their personal views? They have the money… take out a full page ad in any paper you want. Pay for a commercial. How about a blog? (heh! heh!) Go ahead and use your misdirected power to further your plight. You have freedom of speech. But choose the correct forum! Don’t use your telemarketer tactics and interrupt my leisure time, unless you want to pay for it in a commercial. Come on! Stay focused! You’re here for something else. Who respects a thief? I once heard an interviewer ask Brad Pitt, “What do you think about the war in Iraq?” His answer was so on point! He said, “I’m an actor. What does it matter what my opinion is on that subject? I’m not here to promote my thinking. Those are opinions.” You have to respect a person that understands his power and is intentional about how he uses it. Go Brad!!

Well, here we are ~ the word is out! The writer’s strike is over and we all know what that means… I’m not sure who will be wearing who, but I know I’ll be wearing sweats by “The Gap” and watching to see which celebrity will be the first to promote their favorite pick for president.

Susan Prokos – Buyer Specialist – The Luby Group
Susan’s Cell: 224-639-0227
Susan’s Email: Susan@TheLubyGroup.com
Susan’s Website: ColdwellBankerOnline.com/SusanProkos

Tags: Academy Awards, Celebrity Spokespeople, Designer Duds, Who Are You Wearing, Susan Prokos

50 Ways to Schmooze Your Lover – Valentine Values in Barrington*

If you haven’t found something for your Valentine yet, never fear. We’ve compiled a list of 50 ways to score some big points with your significant other, without leaving Barrington. Please feel free to add your two cents by offering some romantic ideas of your own. Anyone can leave a comment on this blog, just by clicking HERE and filling out the comments box at the very bottom of our Valentine post under idea number 50. In the meantime, here we go. Get ready for loads of ideas that will keep your main squeeze longing for your love.
1. TRUE LOVE TRIFECTA - Dinner for two at Francescas Famiglia, 12 Long Stem Roses from The Barrington Flower Shop and a Massage for one at Massage Movement – all for $250. Contact Francesca’s for details • 847-277-1027 - 100 E. Station Street, Barrington, IL MiaFrancesca.com • The Barrington Flower Shop 201 S. Cook Street, Barrington, IL BarringtonFlowerShop.com • Massage Movement 847-304-5112 202 S. Cook Street, Suite 206, Barrington, IL • MassageMovement.com
2. DO SOMETHING SWEET – Tempt your lover’s taste buds at The Barrington Chocolate and Ice Cream Shoppe. Dive into a decadent brownie sundae, taste a sampling of gourmet truffles, pick your favorite flavors or share a plate of freshly made chocolate covered strawberries. The Barrington Chocolate and Ice Cream Shoppe • 847-381-9973 • 140 S. Cook Street, Barrington, IL
3. DAZZLE WITH DIAMONDS – M.J. Miller & Company, Inc. is offering 14% off all heart shaped jewelry for the first 14 purchasers from February 14th through the 16th plus a complimentary box of chocolates • 847-381-7900 • 123 West Main Street, Barrington, IL 60010
4. CHAMPAIGN TOAST – Surprise your sweetie at home with a custom gift basket filled with flutes, Champaign and chocolate from Kelley’s Cellars – Small ($35.00+), Medium ($50.00+) or Large ($75.00+) • 847.842.WINE (9463) • 100 E. Station Street Suite 160 • KelleyCellars.com
5. A FRENCH AFFAIR – The Barrington Country Bistro has arranged a little Mood Music this Valentine’s Day. A musician with an accordion will be playing French music in the dining room starting at about 7PM. For Reservations call 847-842-1300 • 700 W. Northwest Highway, Barrington, IL • BarringtonCountryBistro.com
6. TABLESIDE SERENADE – For a little romantic guitar with your dinner, head over to Brass Restaurant and Brewery Company where, for $75 per couple, they’re offering an appetizer, soup or salad, choice of three featured entrees, dessert and a Champaign toast. • 847.765.1200 • 105 Hollywood Boulevard, South Barrington, IL • BrassRestaurantAndBrewery.com
7. BARBERSHOP QUARTET - If you prefer the harmonies of a classic Barbershop Quartet, the Millrose Restaurant and Brewing Co may be your date destination this Valentine’s Day. The quartet will serenade the dining rooms between 6PM and 7:30PM on February 14th. They’re also dressing up the tables with fancy white linens and rose petals topped with complimentary chocolate covered strawberries for dessert. • 847.382.7673 • 45 South Barrington Road, South Barrington, IL 60010
8. NOW PLAYING AT THE CATLOW - Atonement – Catlow Showtimes Special Promotion: The Catlow Theater and Boloney’s Sandwich Shoppe. The theater is offering 2 movie tickets and a gourmet bag of carmel, cheese or mixed popcorn to anyone who purchases a $25.00 gift certificate at Boloney’s Sandwich Shop. For more information, contact Roberta at 847-381-0645, visit Boloney’s Website at Boloneys.com or the Catlow Theater’s website at TheCatlow.com
9. NOW PLAYING AT THE AMC SOUTH BARRINGTON - 27 Dresses, Atonement, Fool’s Gold & Juno, to name a few. AMC South Barrington Showtimes • 847-765-2262 • 175 Studio Dr South Barrington, IL 60010 •
10. FLOWER POWER - Check out the selection online at the Barrington’s Fresh Flower Market. They’ve designed a variety of themed bouquets with names like “Cupid’s Kiss” and “Lady in Red” • 888-381-7800 • 122 Main Street • BarringtonFreshFlowerMarket.com
11. PASQUESI’S PICK YOUR OWN BOUQUET – For the first time ever, this Valentine’s Day Pasquesi Home and Gardens is offering a selection of freshly cut flowers for last minute Valentine’s shoppers who want to give a gift with a little hand-picked personality. They’ve ordered special shipments of a variety of flowers for customers to create assorted bouquets. They’ll offer the flowers through Valentine’s Day, while supplies last. The prices range from $6.99 to $39.99. Plus, their entire floral department and all indoor plants are 25% off through February 17th. Pasquesi Home and Gardens • 847.381.5511 • 990 W. Northwest Highway Barrington, IL 60010 • Pasquesi.com
12. TIPTOE THROUGH THE TULIPS - The Barrington Flower Shop has a bunch of Valentine’s Day specials. Pick up 12 long-stem roses for $85.00, a bubble bowl of mixed tulips for $55.00 or a clear square vase with red rocks and white dendrobium orchids for $50.00 • 800-382-4090 • 201 S. Cook Street, Barrington, IL • BarringtonFlowerShop.com
13. HEART SHAPED PIZZA - Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria puts a little romance into their pies. Finished with pepperoni, sausage or your favorite pizza toppings, this is one delivery that will delight your valentine. Lou Malnati’s in Lake Zurich delivers anywhere in Barrington. One heart shaped pizza is the size of a small deep dish and perfect for two. It’ll cost about $10.00, plus more for extra toppings. Delivery is an additional $2.50. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria • 847-550-8800 • 1225 Rand Road, Lake Zurich, IL
14. HEART SHAPED CHEESECAKE - If pizza’s not your thing, Lou Malnatis will deliver a heart shaped Eli’s Cheesecake. The white chocolate cheesecake filling sits on a chocolate crust and is finished with a delicious raspberry topping. The special delivery costs about $8.00.
15. LOVE POTION – The Baristas at Starbucks are serving “The Coffee of Love” this week. Sip the flavors of Verona while you share a chocolate cupcake, marble pound cake or delicious toffee almond bar • 847-842-8048 • 125 South Hough Street, Barrington, IL
16. PASSIONATE PASTRIES - Sugar gets sensual at Ambrosia Euro American Patisserie. Share tastes of some very luscious, very velvety & very special chocolaty sweets created especially for Valentine’s Day. You’ll find the food of the Gods at the Foundry. They’re all natural, with no artificial ingredients. • 847-304-8278 • 710 W. Northwest Highway, Barrington, IL 60010 • DiscoverAmbrosia.com
17. CUPID’S COOKIES - Clarke’s Bakery and Deli is offering chocolate dipped or red dipped heart shaped cookies, decadent strawberries dripped in white or dark chocolate and chocolate or vanilla petit fours • 847-381-5113 • 455 West Northwest Highway, Barrington, IL 60010
18. A CASUAL AFFAIR - The Onion Pub & Brewery is cooking up a special Valentine’s Day Menu with appetizer specials, surf and turf, unique desserts & drink specials • 847-381-7308 • 22N221 Pepper Road, Lake Barrington, IL • OnionPub.com
19. MASSAGE A TROIS – Buy two massages, get one for free at Massage Movement. It’s a $255 value for $170. Massage Movement • 847-304-5112 • 202 South Cook Street, Suite 206, Barrington, IL • MassageMovement.com.
20. PLEASED TO PAMPER -Xanadu Day Spa $200 Valentine’s Day Package – Dark Chocolate Facial, Rose Manicure and Pedicure and Aromatherapy Massage • 847-382-5555 • 109 South Cook Street, Barrington, Illinois • DayinXanadu.com
21. BREAKFAST IN BED – French toast, fruit juice or plain old toast and cereal. Beat your Baby out of bed and surprise her with breakfast between the sheets. For an extra touch, surprise him or her by bringing out the best china and silverware. Top it off with a flower and a little love note and, voila, bon appetit mon petit chou.
22. BREAK OUT THE BUBBLES -Shock your soul mate by setting up a luxury spa at home with fresh towels, fine smelling soaps and a tub full of fragrant froth. For a few fancy touches, visit Yves Delorme at the Foundry • 847-381-6005 • 700 West Northwest Hwy. • YvesDelorme.com
23. GET PHYSICAL AT GOOD SHEPHERD - From February 6th through the 15th, get $5.00 off for a one hour massage gift certificate or $5.00 off a single session of UV tanning. Or…sign up for duet pilates, anytime.  Session: 2 people – 1 coach  for 1 hour is $65.00. 847-620-4500 • 1301 S. Barrington Road, Barrington, IL • AdvocateHealth.com
24. TRIP TO THE TROPICS - Tropical Smoothie Cafe – The Tropical Smoothie Café just opened in Barrington this month by Staples at 500 N. Hough Street. They’re celebrating Valentine’s Day by offering guests a free 24 Ounce Smoothie with the purchase of a wrap, sandwich or salad from February 14th through February 16th. Take a break from the sub-zero temperatures and the snow by being transported to the tropics in this brightly colored café accented by bamboo and thatched roof. • TropicalSmoothie.com
25. TSHIRT TATTOOS – Bring in a T-shirt and fill in the blank to create your own custom tattoo that comes off with the wash. “Hot Mama” – “Main Squeeze” – whatever your moniker, Cricket Classics will embroider a tattoo on your T-shirt with the name of your choosing for $16.00. Cricket Classics • 847.277-7440 • 200 S Cook Street. Barrington, IL
26. GET COOKING - Sign up for a hands-on couple’s cooking class at Cucina Della Rosa Cooking School. For $75 a person, you’ll learn to cook up a five course feast. The chef instructor, Mary Rose Hoover, specializes in Italian fare and teaches classes out of the kitchen studio at McCauley Design • 847-650-9463 • 211 Park Avenue, Barrington, IL • MaryRoseCooks.com
27. TRUE LOVE’S TAKE-OUT - For a little Gourmet Grab-and-Go, stop by La Pomme de Pin & pick up a meal made in someone else’s home. This week’s dinners to-go include whole roasted chickens and roasted veggies, chorizo stuffed chilies, pork mole & chicken stuffed tamales. For dessert bring home a bag of “Love Cakes” or frosted heart-shaped sugar cookies. Open from 10-7PM • 847-382-0753 • 114 Applebee, Barrington, IL 60010 • PommeFoods.com
28. ROMANTIC READS – If your love bug is a book worm, drop by the bookstore or library and pick up a classic romance novel like Jane Eyre, Pride and Prejudice or Wuthering Heights – BarringtonAreaLibrary.org
29. VALENTINE VIDEOS – Hit the movie store and rent some romantic classics. Here are a few that might help bring back that lovin feeling: Gone with the Wind, Casablanca, Roman Holiday, Breakfast at Tiffanys, When Harry Met Sally, Dirty Dancing, You’ve Got Mail, Moonstruck, Sleepless in Seattle, An Affair to Remember, Ghost, Titanic, Doctor Zhivago, Pretty Woman – Hollywood Video • 847-842-9807 • 106 North Northwest Highway Barrington, IL • HollywoodVideo.com

FOR YOUR MAN

30. BUY YOUR HOTTIE A HOT DOG - Woodies Chicago Style Hot Dogs and Papa Joe’s are adding a little sizzle to their menus with 10% off all menu items from Valentine’s Day through the end of February • 847-381-6766 • 232 East Main Street, Barrington, IL 60010
31. LOVE AT THE CAR WASH - Even Fast Eddie’s Car Wash has a romantic side. They’re offering two Valentine’s specials through February 17th. Purchase a $100 gift card and receive an additional $25.00 complimentary gift card or purchase a $50.00 gift card and receive a $10.00 complimentary gift card. • 847-381-0530 • 330 W. Northwest Highway
32. TEASE HIM WITH TOOLS - Surprise him with that cordless drill or power saw he’s always wanted or build a beautiful bouquet of wrenches, hammers and screwdrivers Barrington • Ace Hardware • 847-381-1037 • 189 West Northwest Highway, Barrington, IL
33. SING HIS PRAISES - It might be tough, but find a way to compliment him on something he did – & express your thanks in song – karaoke style. Some options: “Let’s Get it On,” “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy,” or “Wild Thing”.
34. RADIO ROMANCE – If you’re like us, you might not want to admit it. But let’s be honest, sometimes it’s hard to turn the dial during those sappy dedication radio shows. Whether it’s Casey Kasem, Delilah or John Symon’s “Love Notes” on Chicago’s WLIT, there’s something shamefully addictive about listening to other people’s love shout-outs. You can make your own love requests and dedications by calling Chicago’s own John Symon’s “Love Notes” 7-9PM Daily at the WLIT Request Line, (312) 591-9548 (W-L-I-T) • “Love Notes” or Delilah’s request line at 1-888-6Delilah • RadioDelilah.com.
35. LOVE ALARM – Here’s a trick that’ll scare the pants off of your partner, in a loving way. Pick up a battery powered alarm clock, attach a love note, set the alarm for a special yet strategic time and plant it in a secret spot in your lover’s car, office or briefcase. If you take time to make time, you’ll end up with one surprise that he or she will never forget…and will hopefully forgive you for later.
36. PASSIONATE PROSE – Swap your keyboard for a calligraphy pen & send your sweetie a hand-written love note. For a surprise twist, pack it with their lunch, tuck it into their coat pocket, hide it in their hat, let her find it in the freezer, in his favorite box of cereal or plant it on their car seat.
37. ROSES ARE RED – To really win some brownie points, put on your poet’s hat and pen a Valentine verse or two. Click Here for tips on How to Write a Love Poem. Need to find words that rhyme with love, hottie or cupcake??? check out RhymeZone.com
38. PHOTO FINESSE - The folks at Wolf Camera in Barrington will help you create your own bound coffee table books. Bring in your favorite photos and you can assemble each page, including captions, with prices ranging from $6.99 to $75. They’ll make a 24′x36′ poster out of your favorite photo and have it ready in an hour. Or…they’ll etch your photo into a crystal heart for only $21.99 • (847) 277-7852 • 105 S Cook St. Barrington, IL • Wolf Camera
39. CUDDLE BUNNY – Wrap up with your Romeo in a blanket designed with a favorite photo image of the two of you. Pick a picture from a special trip, moment or occasion to help keep your memories close while you curl up on the couch. Go to RitzPix.com & find the throw blanket priced at $119.95.
40. SUCKER FACE - Put your main squeeze’s mug on the face of a large cherry flavored lollipop to create one sweet licker. All you have to do is upload the photo at RitzPix.com, drag the picture over the lollipop image and place your order. Each lolli is extra large (almost 4in) & the cost for six suckers is only $32.99 • RitzPix.com
41. PHOTO JEWELRY - For another nifty photo trick, use a favorite picture to design a piece of jewelry that will be sure to make her smile. Create your own photo necklace ($39.95) or bracelet ($89.95) at RitzPix.com, and voila, you’ll have a gift that’s so personal, it’s perfect.
42. MUSICAL MEMENTOS - Consolidated Music in Barrington hosts their biggest sale of the year each Valentine’s week. They’re offering special prices on their instruments, accessories & music books. You can even sign your little loved ones up for private lessons on almost all instruments for $20 per half hour. The store owner says it’s just one way they like to show their love for their customers. • 847-381-0164 • 420 W. Northwest Highway • Consolidated Music
43. MY VINYL VALENTINE - Dig out your records of yesteryear, unearth that old record player, turn the lights down low and let the turntable work its magic. You might find that those oldies are just what the love doctor ordered.
44. COME ON BABY LIGHT MY FIRE - Turn up the heat and create a little ambiance with a fireside picnic at home. Set the stage with a few candles, spread out a blanket and pillows and spark up the fireplace – just like they do in the movies. You might get a laugh because it’s JUST THAT CHEEZY. But it’s also easy, cheap and it’s the thought that counts.
45. GIFTS THAT KEEP GIVING – For every $100 you spend at GWhiz Gift Shop, you’ll get a $20 Spa Vargas gift certificate. Purchase a gift card online at ShopGWhiz.com and email it to your honey today for a quick and easy option. For kids, buy three Webkinz and receive a Lil’ Kinz Google Webkin FOR FREE • (847) 304-0255 • 724 W. Northwest Highway, The Foundry, Barrington, IL • ShopGWhiz.com
46. FOR YOUR FABULOUS FEMME – Drop by Angelina on Station Street, mention “The Luby Group’s” Valentine blog post and ask for a 20% off coupon (restrictions apply) • 847-382-6802 • 123 Station Street, Barrington, Illinois 60010 • ShopAngelina.com
47. WOOL STREET WOOERY - Come in from the cold at Wool Street Grill and Sports Bar, mention “The Luby Group’s” Valentine blog post and receive a complimentary cup of soup or chili through the end of February • 847-304-0313 • 128 Wool Street, Barrington, IL 60010 • WoolStreetGrill.com
48. PUPPY LOVE – February is National Dental Pet Care Month. Give you pooch a little lovin’ this Valentine’s day with a trip to the Doggie Dentist. Barrington Animal Hospital is offering $40 off your dog’s dental cleaning in February plus a free toothbrush & a sample of poultry or beef flavored toothpaste – YUM. Call 847-381-8100 for more info.
49. SURPRISE ATTIRE -
We’ll leave this one to your own imagination…Sometimes the best present is your presence.
AND FINALLY…OUR LAST IDEA… FOR VALENTINE’S DAY, 2008…
50. HUG YOUR REALTOR - Because we finally made it to number 50…and we’re fresh out of ideas. 
Please feel free to add any ideas of your own by filling out the message box below: 

Happy Valentine’s Day from The Luby Group!
*All offers subject to change at the discretion of individual business owners.
Tags: Valentine Ideas, Barrington, Values, Francesdas Famiglia, Barrington Flower Shop, Massage Movement, Barrington Ice Cream and Chocolate Shoppe, M.J. Miller & Company, Kelley Cellars, Barrington Country Bistro, Brass Restaurant and Brewery, Millrose Restaurant, Catlow Theater, Boloneys Sandwich Shop, AMC South Barrington 30, Barrington Fresh Flower Market, Pasquesi Home and Gardens, Barrington Flower Shop, Lou Malnati’s, Eli’s Cheescake, Starbucks, Ambrosia Euro American Patisserie, Clarke’s Bakery and Deli, The Onion Pub and Brewery, Xanadu Day Spa, Good Shepherd Health and Fitness, Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Cricket Classics, McCauley Design, Cucina Della Rosa Cooking School, La Pomme de Pin, Woodie’s Chicago Style Hotdogs, Papa Joe’s, Fast Eddie’s Car Wash, Wolf Camera, Consolidated Music, G Whiz, Spa Vargas, Angelina, Wool Street Grill

Landa’s Lowdown – Why Aren’t Interest Rates Any Lower?

“Why aren’t the interest rates any lower?!?” The lament heard by loan officers everywhere. Contrary to the popular belief that when the Fed’s cut the Federal Funds rate that mortgage rates follow in lockstep; mortgage rates are actually about the same as they have been for the last three weeks. Which is, on average, 5.75% for the lowest-fee 30-year conforming loan. If you need confirmation; check out www.freddiemac.com. They provide a weekly survey that is minus any sales pitch or media spin.

It’s tough for hard working loan officers to overcome the media hype that accompanies a “dramatic” Fed move in rates. Is a 1.25% cut in 8 days in the Fed Funds rate “dramatic?” Absolutely. Does it mean that conforming loan rates are 1.25% lower than they were last month? Absolutely NOT.

Mortgages are priced off the 10-year Treasury bond – a wholly different instrument than the Fed Funds rate or the Fed discount rate. Currently, the yield on the 10-year note is hovering at around 3.60%. That yield gives us 30-year mortgage rates under 6%, which is much better that seven or eight months ago.

This move by the Fed will certainly help homeowners who are currently in adjustable rate mortgages. It can even be advantageous to recent home buyers who locked their rates in the 6.5% range last summer. Depending on the size of their loan, a refinance may be in order. And, it’s certainly a GREAT situation for home buyers in the market right now – they can buy more house for the same monthly payment they were looking at last year.

The rate cut seems to be having the immediate sought-after effect – a shot in the arm for the ever popular “Spring” housing market. Now is a great time to buy – there is lots of inventory out there to pick from and great financing options.

Written By:
Terri Landa
Mortgage Advisor
Coldwell Banker Home Loans
Office: 847-382-3780
Cell: 847-921-6817
Email: terri.landa@mortgagefamily.com
TerriLanda.ColdwellBankerHomeLoans.com

Tags: 60010, Barrington, Barrington Real Estate, Illinois, Mortgage, Interest Rates, Fed Rate Cut, Home Buyers, Refinance, FreddieMac, Home Financing