Tour Of Homes Continues Tradition

Jackie Kalvin and Ray Jacob pose in front of one of the few Christmas trees located in the home. (photo by Don Hubbard)

Oskaloosa, Iowa – Wrapping up the week of events was the Tour of Homes. Jacob Ray and his fiancée Jackie Kalpin were excited to welcome the many guests that were making their way into the home located at 404 North C Street. The home’s deed dates back to 1910, but Ray believes there is more to the story of the home than that date.

His Aunt, Tara Rozenboom convinced Jacob “that I should have this event,” he says with a smile.

“About two weeks ago, I started working on my house to get it looking good and it came together,” Jacob explain about the process of getting prepared to open your home.

“I’m scared about being a part of all of this. I feel like it’s just fine, people are coming through it,” but admits he really hasn’t had much time about his thoughts on opening up his home. “I’ve been fixing and working,” Jacob explained. “It’s been fun.”

Jacob is a New Jersey transplant to the Oskaloosa area. One of the aspects of a home he was looking for was a big garage.

He had seen the house, and after returning to New Jersey, eventually made an offer on the home. After receiving a counter offer, the deal was sealed. “I packed my truck up and I moved out to Iowa,” Jacob shared.

Jacob owns Ray’s Elite Remodeling and has turned his hard work into a successful business. It’s a family affair with his mother and brother helping out.
The tour of home went from 1 to 4 pm, with the proceeds going to help Crisis Intervention Services. The host church was St. Paul Congregational United Church of Christ.