Happy New Years Trivia Challenge

Happy New Year!!  I hope that you had a very happy holiday season with friends and family!  We have enjoyed a great year with my family, friends, business associates, and clients and are looking forward to an amazing 2014.  Here are a few more trivia tidbits to help you ring in the New Year with a little history.

The Babylonians were the first society to observe New Year's Day around 4,000 years ago. Back then, the holiday was celebrated at the beginning of spring instead of mid-winter. And it wasn't "one night only" but festivities lasting eleven days!

When was the first Times Square New Year's Eve ball drop? 

1. 1907 
2. 1934
3. 1940 
4. 1952 

ANSWER: The first ball drop was organized by Adolph Ochs, the owner of The New York Times, and held on December 31, 1907. The ball itself was designed by Artkraft Strauss, and the ball drop has been held every year since, except for 1942 and 1943 due to wartime blackouts.

Between 1903 and 1915, what was the main New Year's Day event at Rose Bowl Stadium?

1. Football
2. Soccer 
3. Chariot Races
4. Sprint Running

ANSWER: In an effort to enhance New Year's Day activities, the Tournament of Roses Association decided to add a football game in 1902. The first game was Stanford University vs. University of Michigan. After Stanford lost to Michigan 49-0, the Tournament replaced football with Roman-style chariot races. Football didn't return until 1916.

Which of the following is NOT in the top three favorite destinations for ringing in the New Year in the United States? 

1. Las Vegas
2. Disney World
3. New York City
4. Seattle

ANSWER: The top three New Year's destinations are Las Vegas, Disney World, and New York City. Seattle is actually number five, just behind Los Angeles.

Wishing you a very happy New Year!

I would love the opportunity to help you manage your Lake of the Ozarks Mortgage Loan or refinance.  Give me a call at (573) 746-7211 or send me an email at mlasson@fsbfinancial.com with any questions you may have!!

For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 

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Michael Lasson

Sr. Residential Mortgage Lender

2265 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B

PO Box 1449

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Direct:  (573) 746-7211

Cell: (573) 216-7258

Fax:(573) 693-9141

Email:  mlasson@fsbfinancial.com

NMLS #: 493712

Five Books to Inspire you for 2014

"Today a reader, tomorrow a leader" - Margaret Fuller

This quote has always struck me as a quote directed towards children - but learning doesn't stop when you receive your degree - learning is a lifetime experience.  In today's world, you must continue to learn to be the best in your field.  

A simple and inexpensive way to improve in your field of business is to read a book relative to your industry and find ways to gain YOUR competitive advantage. Here are 5 of Amazon's Best Sellers in Business to help you get inspired for 2014!

#5. Contagious: Why Things Catch On. Wharton marketing professor Jonah Berger has spent the last decade answering the question, "What makes things popular?" Most people think advertising. Not so, according to Berger, it's word of mouth. The trick is how to boost awareness without coming off as self-serving. Whether you need to spark something viral with a product, a person, or an idea, look no further than Contagious.

#4. Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success. Head coach of the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers, Phil Jackson has won more championships than any coach in the history of professional sports. More importantly, according to Eleven Rings, he coached from a place of deep values. Being tagged as the "Zen master" coach, he developed a new approach to leadership based on freedom, authenticity, and selfless teamwork. Unique in the ultra-competitive world of professional sports, this method is equally needed in the business world today.

#3. Playing to Win: How Strategy Really Works. A.G. Lafley, CEO of Procter & Gamble, co-authors with strategic adviser Roger L. Martin to outline the strategy P&G used to double sales, quadruple profits, and increase market value by more than $100 billion during Lafley's tenure between 2000-2009. Leaders in any organization will learn the essential elements for business success: where to play and how to win, while implementing five essential strategic choices. The ideas in this book can help you turn a brand around or make a great one even better.

#2. Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success. Wharton's youngest tenured professor, Adam Grant, Ph.D., reveals his pioneering research on how focus on the traditional "indicators" of success like passion, hard work, talent, and luck don't play the role we once thought. Grant shows how three interaction styles in the office have a surprising impact on success. Praised by bestselling authors such as Dan Pink, Robert Cialdini, Seth Godin, and more, Give and Take promises an approach to success that could transform any organization.

#1. Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead. Sheryl Sandberg, CEO of Facebook, is ranked on Fortune's list of the 50 Most Powerful Women in Business and Time's 100 Most Influential People in the World. Lean In expands on her now famous TEDTalk (viewed over 2 million times) where she described how women unintentionally hold themselves back, and offers solutions to empower women to achieve their full potential. Called an "inspiring call to action and a blueprint for individual growth," Lean In is an important conversation-changer for women in business.

I am excited for the promise that 2014 holds.  I hope that you will be inspired to grab one of these books or another great book from your industry and unlock the potential for your business.  I look forward to a year of family, friendship and great business relationships!

I would love the opportunity to help you manage your Lake of the Ozarks Mortgage Loan or refinance.  Give me a call at (573) 746-7211 or send me an email at mlasson@fsbfinancial.com with any questions you may have!!

For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 

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Michael Lasson

Sr. Residential Mortgage Lender

2265 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B

PO Box 1449

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Direct:  (573) 746-7211

Cell: (573) 216-7258

Fax:(573) 693-9141

Email:  mlasson@fsbfinancial.com

NMLS #: 493712

The True Value of Time

"I once asked a five-year-old what he would take with him if he were going to Heaven. He replied, ‘I would take my parents because I think that up there they would have more time with me.’... 'nuff said." - Art Linkletter, TV Host

Time is a treasured commodity made more valuable because it is usually in short supply. When a day, an hour, or even one second passes, it cannot be returned. It is fixed. And it is finite.

What might seem to be stating the obvious is really a profound concept worth our reflection during hectic holidays. This season, regardless of which holiday you celebrate or if you celebrate any at all, remind yourself that the family, friends, and even coworkers and clients gathered around you probably crave your attention much more than any other gift.

The key is to consciously honor the person or event, to stay connected during your experience. This is all that "being in the moment" means, and it makes moments last. Consider setting aside a few hours for coffee with a friend. If you have kids, make a plan to take each one for their own special outing. Reserve some time each workday to call your favorite clients and colleagues, check-in, and personally wish them a happy holiday.

Our "to-do list" is always right where we left it, our schedule can remain the paragon of organization, and success will eagerly await our return! But somehow the importance of these things will seem somewhat diminished and somehow less important when first we realize how precious, how priceless, our time really is to others.

Feel free to pass these tips along to your team, clients, and colleagues!

I would love the opportunity to help you manage your Lake of the Ozarks Mortgage Loan or refinance.  Give me a call at (573) 746-7211 or send me an email at mlasson@fsbfinancial.com with any questions you may have!!

For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 

LIKE my Facebook Page, Follow me on Twitter or Connect on LinkedIn

Michael Lasson

Sr. Residential Mortgage Lender

2265 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B

PO Box 1449

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Direct:  (573) 746-7211

Cell: (573) 216-7258

Fax:(573) 693-9141

Email:  mlasson@fsbfinancial.com

NMLS #: 493712

Unemployment Rate Falls to a 5-year Low of 7 Percent

"Tomorrow is often the busiest day of the week." Spanish Proverb. And it sure seemed that way with last week's busy economic calendar, as Friday's Jobs Report capped off a week filled with data. Here are the highlights. 

The highly anticipated November Jobs Report revealed that employers created 203,000 jobs last month, above the 188,000 expected. The Unemployment Rate fell to a 5-year low of 7 percent while the Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) managed to tick up to 63.0 percent, though it is still at lows not seen since the late 1970s. The LFPR is a measure of how many people are looking for work. All in all this was a good report, but the labor market is not out of the woods yet. 

Also of significance, the second reading of third quarter Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rose by 3.6 percent, above expectations and the best level in a year and a half. But a closer look shows the gains coming from a large buildup in inventories. This is important to note because a buildup in inventories could cause goods to stay on the shelf and not materialize into sales, which could set the stage for a disappointing read in the fourth quarter. 

In housing news, research firm CoreLogic reported that home prices, including distressed sales, rose by 12.5 percent in October 2013 compared to October 2012. This marks the twentieth month of year-over-year home price gains. In addition, New Home Sales for September fell but October's New Home Sales surged 26 percent, coming in above expectations. Both reports were delayed due to the government shutdown. 

What does this mean for home loan rates? Remember that the Fed has been purchasing $85 billion in Bonds and Treasuries each month to stimulate the economy and housing market. The Fed has said that its decision regarding when to taper these purchases will be dependent on economic data. Whether data has been strong enough for the Fed to begin tapering these purchases after its meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee on December 17-18 remains to be seen. Either way, the timing of the Fed's decision will definitely impact home loan rates heading into 2014 and it's why economic data in the coming weeks will be important to monitor. 

The bottom line is that now remains a great time to consider a home purchase or refinance as home loan rates remain attractive compared to historical levels. Let me know if I can answer any questions at all for you or your clients. 

I would love the opportunity to help you manage your Lake of the Ozarks Mortgage Loan or refinance.  Give me a call at (573) 746-7211 or send me an email at mlasson@fsbfinancial.com with any questions you may have!!

For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 

LIKE my Facebook Page, Follow me on Twitter or Connect on LinkedIn

Michael Lasson

Sr. Residential Mortgage Lender

2265 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B

PO Box 1449

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Direct:  (573) 746-7211

Cell: (573) 216-7258

Fax:(573) 693-9141

Email:  mlasson@fsbfinancial.com

NMLS #: 493712

Stay Up To Date and PRODUCTIVE with the Latest 2013 Flu Information

From time to time, I offer some productivity tips - I do this because productivity is a critical factor in your financial stability.  Managing you time and your money is the key to financial success.  This time of year, one of the biggest impacts on your productivity is your health.  American's spend approximately $4 billion on over-the-counter cold and flu remedies... and that doesn't event take into account the productivity that is lost in the workplace, doctor's visits or a prescription from your doctor!  

I think we can all agree, the last thing you need during the hectic holiday season and end-of-business-year is to get the flu!  Here are a few ways to stay up-to-date on the latest flu information: 

Flu Near You is a free site, and the brainchild of Boston Children's Hospital. When someone reports symptoms the map registers a "pin." Then you simply click on that pin to learn more about the symptoms or severity of the case in the specified area. You can also register to find out when flu cases are reported near you, and participate to help others learn more about the spread of the flu.

Flu Tracker is a free app for Android users that uses up-to-the-minute data from the Centers for Disease Control and Google Flu Vaccine Finder. 

Fight The Flu and CDC Influenza are for iPhone users and feature similar tracking of flu virus around the country, with special sections on prevention and minimizing a flu virus should you get it accidentally. 

Here's to a happy and flu-free holiday season! And don't forget to share this health-boosting information with your team, clients, and colleagues.

I would love the opportunity to help you manage your Lake of the Ozarks Mortgage Loan or refinance.  Give me a call at (573) 746-7211 or send me an email at mlasson@fsbfinancial.com with any questions you may have!!

For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 

LIKE my Facebook Page, Follow me on Twitter or Connect on LinkedIn

Michael Lasson

Sr. Residential Mortgage Lender

2265 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B

PO Box 1449

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Direct:  (573) 746-7211

Cell: (573) 216-7258

Fax:(573) 693-9141

Email:  mlasson@fsbfinancial.com

NMLS #: 493712

8 Ways to Save Money & Get Organized for Black Friday!

It's almost time for BLACK FRIDAY and if you intend to get out and fight the crowd then this blog is for you!!  

Black Friday is a great day for saving money but it can be difficult to know if you are getting the best deal and the day can turn into a financial disaster if you don't do your homework and set some guidelines for yourself.   Here are a few tips to help you get organized, save money and maintain some level of sanity during the chaos!

1. Set a budget.  Do not allow yourself to venture out on Black Friday without some guidelines of how much you will spend.  Balance your checkbook, transfer your holiday savings and know your limits!
2. Arrange trade lists with friends.  You cannot be in two places at once...but chances are that you have a friend that will be in one of the two stores that you need to shop.   Arrange a trade-off so that both of you can get the items you are looking for.
3. Get a babysitter.  Get a babysitter.  Get a babysitter.  Avoid the stress of getting your child in and out of the car, standing in lines and the chaos of Black Friday by having a friend or family member watch your child.  
4. Use social media for additional savings - many of your favorite stores will offer additional coupons just for following them via social media!
5. Read the fine print to know exactly when and where your best deals are located.
6. Black Friday Apps will help you find the deals you are looking for and allow you to shop while you stand in line!
7. Plan your Black Friday Shopping to help you get more done and reduce anxiety.  Determine which stores you need to hit first for the best deals.
8. Enjoy the day!  Although there are many great deals available, keep in mind there will be many more to come in the next few weeks.  Maintain the attitude of Gratitude that you celebrated on Thursday as you head out on Black Friday!

Good luck and happy holiday shopping!

I would love the opportunity to help you manage your Lake of the Ozarks Mortgage Loan or refinance.  Give me a call at (573) 746-7211 or send me an email at mlasson@fsbfinancial.com with any questions you may have!!

For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 

LIKE my Facebook Page, Follow me on Twitter or Connect on LinkedIn

Michael Lasson

Sr. Residential Mortgage Lender

2265 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B

PO Box 1449

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Direct:  (573) 746-7211

Cell: (573) 216-7258

Fax:(573) 693-9141

Email:  mlasson@fsbfinancial.com

NMLS #: 493712

4 Gift Ideas for Busy Business People during the Hectic Holiday Season

Black Friday is just around the corner and after that, the busy holiday season.  Just because others are fighting over the "next big thing" on the shelf, doesn't mean shopping has to be hectic OR expensive.

Instead of racking your brain at the last minute, trying to find that perfect gift to express your appreciation, just try these easy-to-get, inexpensive, but always appreciated gift ideas.

• Gift Cards Aren't Generic. Anyone who says a gift card is too impersonal has obviously never received one. It doesn't get any more personal than giving someone the opportunity to pick out a gift they will want and use. Gift cards are always well received, and nowadays, offer hundreds of options. Find them at your local grocery or big-box retailer.
• Chocolate Crazy. Diehard chocolate lovers swoon at the sight of a Godiva label and Godiva.com offers several gift selections for under $25.  It's not only a delicious product, but receiving chocolate in a little gold box is nearly as iconic as receiving jewelry in a little blue one!
• Tickets for Two. For movie fanatics who can't get enough, free tickets are an ideal gift. Combine this with idea number one above, and you've got the perfect "dinner and a movie" evening--and one very appreciative recipient.
• A Case for Baskets. Putting together a gift basket for someone allows you to tailor the gift precisely to the interests of the person who's receiving it--limitless themes and items will fit practically any budget.

Good luck and happy holiday shopping!

I would love the opportunity to help you manage your Lake of the Ozarks Mortgage Loan or refinance.  Give me a call at (573) 746-7211 or send me an email at mlasson@fsbfinancial.com with any questions you may have!!

For Lake area news, resources and tips on financial services, please 

LIKE my Facebook Page, Follow me on Twitter or Connect on LinkedIn

Michael Lasson

Sr. Residential Mortgage Lender

2265 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B

PO Box 1449

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

Direct:  (573) 746-7211

Cell: (573) 216-7258

Fax:(573) 693-9141

Email:  mlasson@fsbfinancial.com

NMLS #: 493712