Russel's Blog

Let's say "Thanks!"

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:58:39 -0600

On the first Saturday of each month (First Saturday), I write letters to my legislative representatives about my personal and business concerns, and offer whatever solutions I have dreamed up myself, or that I've found from someone else but agree with.

But that's not all I do on First Saturday. I do monthly accounting for last month, detail the car, and send a free card to one of our service members through the Xerox "Let's Say Thanks" program.

This is not just a holiday promotion. Xerox has been running the letssaythanks.com web site since early in 2006, possibly even a little earlier. It runs year round and once a month the cards are printed and distributed overseas.

Put this on your list of things to do once a month and let someone in uniform know that you care.

Comments here on my reblog of Ron's post have been disabled. Click here to go to Ron's post and let him know that you're sending a card, too.

Via Ron Brown FHA & VA Home Loan Specialist (First Mortgage Company of Washington):

I just received an email from one of my past military borrowers who has a loved one in Iraq. I thought it was a fabulous idea worth sharing with all the good folks on Active Rain.

Xerox is sponsoring a Thank You card drive for the men & women of our armed forces stationed overseas this holiday season. It will only take a minute of your time, and will definitely brighten their day. All you have to do is visit the Lets Say Thanks web site, follow the 3 easy steps (give your name, pick a design, and choose a pre worded thank you message, or create your own), and Xerox will print and deliver the card to one of our troops.

It does not matter what your stance is on our politics, or foreign policy, these people are serving our country, and deserve everyone's support. From a completely selfish standpoint, this is a great way to get in front of your database in a positive way. Who knows, you might just get some business out of being a nice person.

Important Recall - Samsung Over-The-Range Microwave by Ceil Winters

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:26:27 -0600

I had not gotten around to posting this recall, so I thought I'd just re-blog my good friends Carl and Ceil Winters over there in Central Texas.

I disable comments on reblogs to my blog, so if you'd like to thank Carl and Ceil Winters, click here to open a new window to the original post in their blog.

Via Carl & Ceil Winters Texas Hill Country Home Inspector (Complete Inspection Service, New Braunfels, Texas 78133):

                                                                    IMPORTANT RECALL

                                                       SAMSUNG OVER-THE-RANGE MICROWAVE

Go here for additional information: To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including a picture of the recalled product, please go to:
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10031.html

                                                                  NEWS from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 5, 2009
Release # 10-031

Firm's Recall Hotline: (888) 402-6974
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

                                      SamsungT Over-the-Range Microwaves Recalled Due to Shock Hazard

Please feel free to pass this on if you know someolne that may have this product

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Samsung Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens

                                                             Units: About 43,000

Importer: Samsung Electronics America Inc., of Ridgefield Park, N.J.

Hazard: If an installation bolt comes in contact with an electrical component inside the unit and the microwave is plugged into an ungrounded outlet, it could create a shock hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recall involves Samsung 1000 watt over-the-range microwave ovens. The following model and serial numbers are included in this recall:

Affected production lots / Affected Serial Number Range (From serial number To serial number)

All SMH9151x produced from January through May 2009: / xxxxxxxS1xxxxxx to xxxxxxxS5xxxxxx

Some products produced in June were also affected:
SMH9151B / xxxxxxOS600001 to xxxxxxOS600100 and xxxxxxTS600001 to xxxxxxTS601100
SMH9151S / xxxxxxTS600001 to xxxxxxTS601386
SMH9151ST / xxxxxxTS600001 to xxxxxxTS600330
SMH9151STE / xxxxxxTS600001 to xxxxxxTS600330
SMH9151W / xxxxxxOS600001 to xxxxxxOS600200 and xxxxxxTS600001 to xxxxxxTS602055

Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from January 2009 through July 2009 for between $180 and $200.

Manufactured in: Malaysia

Remedy: Consumers should immediately unplug and stop using the recalled product, and contact Samsung to schedule a free repair.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Samsung toll-free at (888) 402-6974 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET 7 days a week, or visit the firm's Web site at www.samsung.com/otrrecall

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including a picture of the recalled product, please go to:
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10031.html

Blog Information for Localism New Braunfels, Canyon Lake, Bexar Counties November 6, 2009

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Carl Winters, Advanced Inspector, #3630.Certified by Texas Real Estate Commission

Carl's Blogs: localism.com/neighbor/realestateinspector www.home-inspection4u.com



                Since 1994      *        Your Home Inspection Specialist       *       Serving the Texas Hill Country

                                        Complete Inspection Service

Christmas Cards for Noah Biorkman

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 21:53:06 -0600

I want to thank Jim and Maria Hart over in Charleston, South Carolina, for bringing this to my attention, and I hope reblogging it brings it to the attention of many others.

Comments on this reblog have been disabled, so click here to visit Jim and Maria and let them know that you sent a Christmas card, too. Let's spread the Christmas cheer!

Via Jim & Maria Hart ~ Charleston, SC Real Estate (AgentOwned Realty):

Riding home from the office today I heard about this brave young man who has been battling cancer for over 2 years. The doctors feel that he may not make it to celebrate Christmas, so Noah's family is going to celebrate early this year. Noah's last wish is to collect as many Christmas cards as he can. I check with snopes.com to verify the story and it is true. Here is a photo of Noah and his address. I know that I will have my card in the mail tomorrow. Please pass this on to everyone that you know and lets all make something special happen for Noah.

Christmas will come early for a five year old Michigan boy this year. Noah Biorkman is battling cancer and is not expected to live much longer. Noah is in the last stages of a 2 1/2 year battle with Neuroblastoma cancer.

Mrs. Biorkman is asking for Christmas cards for her son. If you would like to take time to send a card or letter, send it to:

Noah Biorkman
1141 Fountain View Circle
South Lyon Michigan, 48178.

All the animal lovers out there, asking a very small favor of you................

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 01:14:18 -0600

How can anyone look at this little guy and not help him with that very small favor.

Click here to go over to Ralph's blog and tell him you helped.

Via Ralph Gorgoglione (EcoBroker Certified - John Aaroe Group, Inc.):

There is a Seattle based animal rescue site that is in need of our help. It doesn't involve a donation, just the one thing that I know you Active Rainers are very good at - snooping the internet.

The Animal Rescue Site is having trouble getting enough people to click on it daily so they can meet their quota of getting FREE FOOD donated every day to abused and neglected animals.

It takes about 30 seconds to go to their site and click on the purple box 'fund food for animals for free'. This doesn't cost you a thing.

Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate food to abandoned/neglected animals in exchange for advertising.

I did this myself, and thoroughly examined the site and background information of the organization prior to posting this blog.

Here's the web site!

www.theanimalrescuesite.com

Please pass it along to people you know.

With our numbers, if we make an effort, the Active Rain community as well as visitors to my dedicated blog site can make a real difference.

Thank you for your time with this,

The Ralphster

The ActiveRain Point System

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 02:51:26 -0600

Here it is, Folks! The official ActiveRain blog from ActiveBrad detailing the current ActiveRain points system. I suspect that Brad only did this because the points system is changing this coming weekend -- LOL. After all, why would they possibly want us to know all the ins and outs of the ActiveRain points system? Okay, I'm laughing too much, so I'll quit while I'm ahead. Thanks, Brad!

Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):

The ActiveRain Point System

ActiveRain awards members points based on participation and their individual involvement within the network and community. While there is a much more complicated and technical explanation of how the point system works, this post is to provide you a general overview of how points are earned and distributed that to ALL ActiveRain members.

ActiveRain points are earned based on a members individual activities and efforts. Points are accumulated over the duration of the Calendar week which "Starts Monday morning at 12:00am Central Time, and Ends Sunday night at 11:59pm Central Time."

The following are some ways you can earn points and move up the "Featured Member" ladder in your Local Area.

200 Points for each Blog Post
(Max 10 per Week) (50 Word Minimum Required)

25 Additional Points when Post is added to Channels with a Topic

400 Points for Featured Post on ActiveRain.com
(Excludes Posts Featured in ActiveRain Groups)

25 Points For Each Comment
(Max 10 Per Day) (Comments on Your Own Posts Excluded)

25 Points for Each Reblogged Post
(Max 10 Per Week - These do not Include Your Own Posts)

ActiveRain Profile Points
(Building Your AR Profile will Build points)

Received Comments on Blog Posts
(No Blog Post to exceed 450 pts.)

100 Points - Logging In To ActiveRain Each Day
(This applies 7 days a week)

250 Points When Someone Accepts Your AR Invitation
(Must Sign Up under Members Invite Code)

10% of Total Points Earned By New Members Invited By You
(IE: Invited Member Earns 1000 pts. - You Earn 100 Pts.)

ActiveRain and Member Approved Contests - Points Will Vary
(These show up as Bonus Points in your Point Summary)

Staff Awarded Bonus Points - These are issued by the AR staff
(Member Humanitarian, Paying It Forward, Helping Others etc.)

Weekly Point Scenario: The potential of points available per week, per member would be as follows: 1750 for max comments, 2000 for max Blog posts, 700 for logging in daily, 250 for adding to Channels/Topics, and 250 for max ReBlogged posts. The Weekly potential of points would be 4950 (this does not include featured posts, comments received, invitation and percentage points, contests, and staff awarded bonus points.)

Point Disclaimer: The Points System created by the ActiveRain Network was developed and implemented to motivate, inspire, and reward members for their participation and involvement within the community. These points are subject to change at the discretion of the ActiveRain Mgmt. Team, with or without cause, warning, or notice.

"RainMaker" Special - Signup Here and Get New Member Discount

HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE HALLOWEEN!

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 21:45:01 -0500

A nice little safety list for Halloween from Marilyn Harrell over in Beaverton, Michigan. We all like to enjoy Halloween, but make sure it's a safe one. A life is too precious to lose to an event that should be fun.

Via Marilyn Harrell (Century21 Smith-Miller, Inc.):

HERE IS A LITTLE SOMETHING TO KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY HAPPY AT HALLOWEEN THIS YEAR.

HOPE EVERYONE ENJOYS TRICK-OR-TREATING

Carving Pumpkins can be great fun, it can also be dangerous. Make sure children are supervised, and make sure they have no sharp objects. They make SAFE pumpkin carving kits.

TEN TOP SAFETY TIPS FOR HALLOWEEN:

1. Nobody goes alone, always make sure children are supervised.

2. Make sure to check all candy prior to letting children eat it.

3. Make sure that children's costumes fit correctly so that they can see.

4. Children get very excited for Halloween, so make sure you lay out a plan beforehand.

5. Make sure that children stay out of the middle of the street, and look always for traffic.

6. Make sure each child is actively seen: glowsticks, light colors, reflectors can all be used.

7. Make sure to watch the weather report before hand.

8. Be aware of pets: strange costumes can trigger a reaction.

9. Only go to homes that have lights on.

10. And most importantly follow your instincts.

Credit Card Act of 2009, Making it Easier to Get out of DEBT!

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 03:37:52 -0500

A very nice summary of the Credit Card Act if you are one of those who didn't know there was one.

Via Brenda Mullen (Home Team of America):

Credit Card Act of 2009 - Were you aware there was one?!

Credit card debt is one of the reasons a lot of us get into trouble with our finances and our credit scores! This summer the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure Act of 2009, (CARD) was signed into law. The effective date will be February 2010, (just around the corner). Here is a breakdown of what the law says:

Over credit limit fees will be prohibited, unless consumers specifically agree to allow the transaction to go through, (those can get pretty pricey).

No more late fee traps! Institutions will have to give card holders a reasonable time to pay their bill, at least 21 days. No more weekend deadlines or due dates that change each month or any deadlines that fall in the middle of the day.

Retroactive interest rate increases are banned. No more rate increases on existing balances due to any time, any reason or a universal default. It also restricts rate increases unless the payment is more than 60 days late, (good, interest rate increases hurt!).

Plain Language in Plain Sight Disclosures must identify how long it would take to pay off the balance if only the minimum payment is paid, (trust me, you would be shocked!). Clear disclosures will be required on the total cost in interest and principal payments if a cardholder makes only the minimum payment for 36 months, (more life altering aha moments!). Did you know that with a balance of only $50.00, if you pay a minimum of 10 dollars each month with an interest rate of %12 it could take you 6 MONTHS to pay that off?! Click HERE for some handy calculators.

College students will be required to receive permission from parents or guardians in order to increase credit limit on joint accounts they hold with those adults, (yeah mom and dad, no more of those surprises!)

People under the age of 21 will be protected from pre screened credit card offers, (very good news!). This is where the trouble with those pesky credit cards start!

For more detailed information on the CARD Act of 2009, click HERE. Perhaps with this ACT, more Americans will find it easier to get out of debt, or better yet, not get into debt at all.

Brenda Mullen

Home Team of America - Realtor®, ABR®

NEED AID IN BUYING OR SELLING A HOME IN SAN ANTONIO OR HER SURROUNDING AREAS?

CALL ME, THE SAN ANTONIO HOUSE MEDIC

HELPING YOU TO FIND HOME

It's your writing that's important....

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:55:30 -0500

As a Native Texan, and a hot and spicy food lover, not to mention tastebuds that like to be tingled by a good Texas-style chili, I just could not resist reblogging this Chili Cook-off report from Frank & Sharon Alters over in Florida.

Via Frank & Sharon Alters, CDPE-Short Sales Jacksonville-Orange Park-Fleming Island (Watson Realty -):

Chili Cook-Off
If you can read this whole story without laughing, then there's no hope
for you. I was crying by the end. This is an actual account as relayed to
paramedics at a chili cook-off in Texas .
Note: Please take time to read this slowly.. If you pay attention to the
first two judges, the reaction of the third judge is even better. For those
of you who have lived in Texas , you know how true this is. They actually
have a Chili Cook-off about the time Halloween comes around. It takes up a
major portion of a parking lot at the San Antonio City Park .
Judge #3 was an inexperienced Chili taster named Frank, who was visiting from Northbrook , IL .
Frank: 'Recently, I was honored to be selected as a judge at a chili
cook-off. The original person called in sick at the last moment and I
happened to be standing there at the judge's table, asking for directions
to the Coors Light truck, when the call came in. I was assured by the other 2
judges (Native Texans) that the chili wouldn't be all that spicy; and,
besides, they told me I could have free beer during the tasting, so I
accepted and became Judge 3.'
Here are the scorecard notes from the event:

CHILI # 1 - MIKE'S MANIAC MONSTER CHILI
Judge # 1 -- A little too heavy on the tomato. Amusing kick.
Judge # 2 -- Nice, smooth tomato flavor. Very mild.
Judge # 3 (Frank) -- Oh crap, what the heck is this stuff? You could
remove dried paint from your driveway. Took me two beers to put the flames
out. I hope that's the worst one. These Texans are crazy.

CHILI # 2 - AUSTIN 'S AFTERBURNER CHILI
Judge # 1 -- Smoky, with a hint of pork. Slight jalapeno tang.
Judge # 2 -- Exciting BBQ flavor, needs more peppers to be taken
seriously.
Judge # 3 -- Keep this out of the reach of children. I'm not sure what
I'm supposed to taste besides pain. I had to wave off two people who wanted to give me the Heimlich maneuver. They had to rush in more beer when they saw the look on my face..

CHILI # 3 - FRED'S FAMOUS BURN DOWN THE BARN CHILI
Judge # 1 -- Excellent firehouse chili. Great kick.
Judge # 2 -- A bit salty, good use of peppers.
Judge # 3 -- Call the EPA. I've located a uranium spill. My nose feels like
I have been snorting Drano. Everyone knows the routine by now. Get me more beer before I ignite. Barmaid pounded me on the back, now my backbone is in the front part of my chest. I'm getting sh*t-faced from all of the beer.

CHILI # 4 - BUBBA'S BLACK MAGIC
Judge # 1 -- Black bean chili with almost no spice. Disappointing.
Judge # 2 -- Hint of lime in the black beans. Good side dish for fish or
other mild foods, not much of a chili.
Judge # 3 -- I felt something scraping across my tongue, but was unable to
taste it. Is it possible to burn out taste buds? Sally, the beer maid, was
standing behind me with fresh refills. This 300 lb. woman is starting to
look HOT .. just like this nuclear waste I'm eating! Is chili an aphrodisiac?

CHILI # 5 - LISA'S LEGAL LIP REMOVER
Judge # 1 -- Meaty, strong chili. Cayenne peppers freshly ground, adding
considerable kick. Very impressive.
Judge # 2 -- Chili using shredded beef, could use more tomato. Must admit
the cayenne peppers make a strong statement.
Judge # 3 -- My ears are ringing, sweat is pouring off my forehead and I
can no longer focus my eyes. I farted, and four people behind me needed
paramedics. The contestant seemed offended when I told her that her chili
had given me brain damage. Sally saved my tongue from bleeding by pouring beer directly on it from the pitcher. I wonder if I'm burning my lips off. It really ticks me off that the other judges asked me to stop screaming.
Screw them.

CHILI # 6 - VERA'S VERY VEGETARIAN VARIETY
Judge # 1 -- Thin yet bold vegetarian variety chili
Good balance of spices and peppers.
Judge # 2 -- The best yet. Aggressive use of peppers, onions, garlic.
Superb.
Judge # 3 -- My intestines are now a straight pipe filled with gaseous,
sulfuric flames. I crapped on myself when I farted, and I'm worried it will
eat through the chair. No one seems inclined to stand behind me except that
Sally. Can't feel my lips anymore. I need to wipe my butt with a snow cone.

CHILI # 7 - SUSAN'S SCREAMING SENSATION CHILI
Judge # 1 -- A mediocre chili with too much reliance on canned peppers.
Judge # 2 -- Ho hum, tastes as if the chef literally threw in a can of chili
peppers at the last moment. **I should take note that I am worried about
judge number 3. He appears to be in a bit of distress as he is cursing
uncontrollably.
Judge # 3 -- You could put a grenade in my mouth, pull the pin, and I
wouldn't feel a thing. I've lost sight in one eye, and the world sounds
like it is made of rushing water. My shirt is covered with chili, which slid
unnoticed out of my mouth.. My pants are full of lava to match my shirt. At
least during the autopsy, they'll know what killed me. I've decided to stop
breathing. It's too painful. Screw it; I'm not getting any oxygen anyway.
If I need air, I'll just suck it in through the 4-inch hole in my stomach.

CHILI # 8 - BIG TOM'S TOENAIL CURLING CHILI
Judge #1 -- The perfect ending, this is a nice blend chili. Not too bold
but spicy enough to declare its existence.
Judge # 2 -- This final entry is a good, balanced chili.. Neither mild nor
hot. Sorry to see that most of it was lost when Judge #3 farted, passed out,
fell over and pulled the chili pot down on top of himself.. Not sure if he's
going to make it. Poor feller, wonder how he'd have reacted to really hot
chili?
Judge # 3 - No Repor
To reach us, call or text us at 904-673-2308 or e-mail - sharon@teamalters.com

Original Photography, All Rights Reserved. * *

You can also find us here!

Memories at Active Rain Contest Winners Announced!

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 22:55:19 -0500

Here are some great blogs to read from the recent "Memories at ActiveRain" contest.

Via Chris Fisher of StagersLISTWebsites.com (StagersLIST.com):

When Robert Swetz asked me to help him out with his contest, Memories at Active Rain, I did not know what I was getting into! Judging all these wonderful entries was very difficult for everyone. I did love reading them all and learning more about the Active Rain members who posted. Thank you so much to everyone who entered this contest.

The prizes are:

3000 for first
2000 for second
1000 for third

200 for every entry (in addition to the points you got for posting the blog)

And my favorite:

In addition to the points that will be awarded to the winners starting with (fourth) place to (twenty fifth) place, these winners will be given a signed photograph print from Robert Swetz (11x14) in size and mailed directly to you.

That is a total of 21 photo prints for winners! I'd trade my points for that any day. I have a signed photo from Robert, it's truly a work of art.

So, the winners are:

First place: Marchel Peterson
Marchel's post tied her Active Rain points memories to real life events. I remember her 300,000 points and our Son out of Iraq post and remember being so relieved for her family that her son was home and safe.

Second place: Lori Cain
Lori's post was about a mistake that she made and shared here on Active Rain. C Tann Starr featured her mistake in Club Chaos and hilarity ensued. That's when Lori finally felt at home on Active Rain, the day her fellow rainers laughed WITH her.

Third Place: Clint Miller
Clint's post is very personal. He shared with us his life's journey and was very open about choices he's made along the way. Thank you Clint for reminding us to be thankful and to honor our paths.

In no particular order, the winners of a signed photograph from Robert Swetz (click their name to view their contest entry, they are all very good):

Jason Crouch
Donna Harris
Robin Rogers
Martha Brown
Russel Ray
Judi Barrett
Matt Stigliano
Steve Shatsky
Kevin and Monica Ray
Michael Thornton
Sheldon Neal
Tammy Lankford
Loreena Yeo
Maureen Megowan
Fernando Herboso
Lenn Harley
Matt Grohe
Norma Toering
Al and Peggy Cunningham
Chris Ann Cleland
Debra Walsh

Congratulations to all our winners and all our participants. You ALL did a great job, you made it very difficult to choose only a few winning entries!

You can shop for your photographs by visiting www.SearchMyPics.com or visiting Robert's blog on Active Rain. Have fun shopping! I have one at my house and I LOVE it. Be prepared to spend some time there, there is a lot of variety and so many to choose from. Then simply email Robert and he'll take care of the rest.

- offering website design, maintenance, hosting and virtual assistance

Need a roommate for the NAR Convention next month?

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 23:38:14 -0500

If you need anything regarding the NAR Convention here next month, let Jim or me know. If you'd like to leave a comment about Jim's post here, or about the Convention, leave it over at Jim's blog.

Hopefully we can get a good group of ActiveRainers together during some off-hours at the Convention.

Via Jim Frimmer, San Diego Mission Valley Realtor (Century 21 Award):

If you are coming to the 2009 Convention for the National Association of Realtors next month right here in San Diego, and you have a hotel room but would like a roommate, let me know.

If you don't have a room, but you want to come and think that staying with a roommate will solve your problems with trying to find a room at this late date, let me know that, too.

I just received my third inquiry as to whether or not I know anyone wanting roommates. I think the first two are going to be shacking up together.

Obviously we don't want the psycho spammers to know who we are and where we are, so send me a private email through the ActiveRain system and I'll try to play matchmaker here.

If you live in the San Diego area and would consider hosting someone, let me know.

If you have any other questions about San Diego -- tourist traps, restaurants, etc. -- let me know that, too, and I'll turn your questions into a blog post as well as answering them individually.

Russel and I would like to play docent for a day, morning, afternoon, or evening, so if you'd like to do something special while you're here -- Zoo, Cabrillo National Monument, Balboa Park museums, beaches, restaurants, etc. -- and would like a couple of wacky tour guides, let us know and we'll try to put something together for as many ActiveRainers as we can. Provide us with a date and time preference if you have one.

**********
If you're looking for a great condominium in Mission Valley,
the heart and soul of San Diego, please give me a call.

I'm available 24/7, so feel free to contact me by phone or email.

**********
Jim Frimmer, Realtor
Century 21 Award Mission Valley
California DRE License #01458572
619-729-5701
jimfrimmer@century21award.com
Mission Valley Condos Information

**********

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"Old Fashioned Service" Never Goes Out Of Style

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 04:02:34 -0500

Occasionally I like to pick a month for someone and cruise through their older blog posts to see if there's anything really good that I missed. Such was the case tonight when I visited Russell Lewis. Russell doesn't write many posts, but when he does, it tends to be extraordinary.

Via Russell Lewis, Broker,CLHMS,GRI (AvenueOne Properties, Austin Texas Real Estate):

I was recently listening to a friend complain about the fact that she could not get good service or even basic attention at many stores and businesses these days. You know what I mean, "Old Fashioned Service" and here is the funny thing, she is only 26 years old. I have been hearing the same thing for years and with the advent of Big Box Retail, Megastores, and Corporate empires along with a lack of personal involvement on the part of many business owners I see this happening at many businesses locally. However, after thinking about it for awhile, I realized that "old fashioned service" DOES still exist. The unfortunate fact is that you sometimes have to look around to find it!

Obviously, the key ingrediants to great service in any business are the people. My neighborhood convenience store manager, Cherie Kalaher is a great example. She is exceedingly friendly and also very mischievous. When I first began stopping there for gas, coffee and other items, I would hear her teasing others in the store and always enjoyed watching her in action (while managing to avoid any of her humorous barbs)! One day I was in a long line (yes it is a popular store) and when my turn arrived, I asked her to go easy on me. She laughed and said "Well honey, if you would just get caught up on our "child support payments" I would not have to hassle you!!" I was so shocked that I was speechless (a rare event) and all of the regulars in line broke up laughing"! I managed to recover and then began laughing myself. Since that time we have become good friends and I always make it a point to stop by just to see if she has a new story, joke or to watch her tease a "newcomer" to the neighborhood. She knows everyone and just about everything going on!

There are many other places where I do business in the community and again, the main reason is the people who work there every day. My local hardware store Breed & Company is managed by David Oltrogge. He is one of those people who has an encyclopedic mind and can help with any request in the store. If you want to know; what it takes, how it works or what will fix it, he is your man! At my favorite local restaurants, grocery stores, book stores, (yes you read that correctly - plural) gas station, music store, library, mechanic, camera shop and even at my Post Office are folks who I know and depend on to help me with whatever service I require. I wish I could list them all with a link to their respective web sites and plan to in the near future! In my profession as a real estate broker, I am keenly aware of the service aspect in my job. There are over 10,000 real estate agents in my MLS area and the only thing that differentiates us from each other is a professional approach and the level of knowledge and service we are willing to provide to our clients and customers! There are business establishments for every need and competition is fierce for business in the general public! Because of this, I avoid places where I am met with arrogance, indifference or rude treatment. I can almost always find what I need in a better environment!

Now, more than ever, in this current economic downturn it's important to patronize the folks who practice the Golden Rule and truly work for the customer!

Good service, knowledgeable and courteous assistance also comes with the responsibility to be a good customer! How many times have you watched rude, demanding patrons mistreat and abuse an employee who is trying their best? Such impatient, angry treatment is not soon forgotten and I am always amazed at the customers who act in such an inappropriate manner! On more than one occasion, I have been the next person in line and when appropriate, I usually say something funny or empathetic that in some way diffuses the situation. Over the years I have developed some good relationships; you know the type, when they see you walk in they smile and greet you and the feeling is mutual.

In Texas, we have a reputation for being friendly and though that may not ALWAYS be the case, I like to think it is true more often than not. It's really a way of life and not just an empty saying. A few years ago, a friend related the story about a European family on vacation that stopped for lunch at a small West Texas Café. After finishing their meal, they paid the bill and told the owner how much they enjoyed the meal and the friendly service. As they began to leave the owner said, "Y'all come back". The family turned around and marched back in, literally taking the man at his word. Funny story and as you know, it is just an expression in Texas but what makes people return to any business anywhere is friendly, courteous knowledgeable and professional service! So, please patronize the businesses where these options are available and you will be doing yourself and that business a favor!

Thanks for dropping by my blog today, y'all come back real soon!

If you enjoyed this post, why not connect with me in these other communities?

Prevent Strokes

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 04:20:06 -0500

I didn't know this about strokes, and I figure if I didn't know this, there are probably many more people who don't know this. I hope my re-blogging this help someone, and my thoughts go out to Ginger Harper upon the death of her mother-in-law due to a stroke.

Via Ginger Harper (Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty):

This is very touchy to me right now. I lost my Mother in law on Sunday, due to a stroke..

Maybe this note will save someone you know.

STROKE: Remember the 1st Three Letters.... S. T. R.

STROKE IDENTIFICATION:

During a BBQ, a woman stumbled and took a little fall - she assured everyone that she was fine (they offered to call paramedics). She said she had just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes.

They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of food. While she appeared a bit shaken up, Jane went about enjoying herself the rest of the evening

Jane's husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been taken to the hospital -
(at 6:00 pm Jane passed away.) She had suffered a stroke at the BBQ. Had they known how to identify the signs of a stroke, perhaps Jane would be with us today. Some don't die. They end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead.

It only takes a minute to read this...

A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke...totally. He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is tough.

RECOGNIZING A STROKE

Thank God for the sense to remember the '3' steps, STR . Read and Learn!

Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

S *Ask the individual to SMILE.

T *Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently)

(i.e. It is sunny out today.)

R *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.

If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call emergency number immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

New Sign of a Stroke -------- Stick out Your Tongue

NOTE: Another 'sign' of a stroke is this: Ask the person to 'stick' out his tongue.. If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other, that is also an indication of a stroke.

A cardiologist says if everyone who gets this e-mail sends it to 10 people; you can bet that at least one life will be saved.

I have done my part. Will you?

Value of a Home Inspection?

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 02:16:23 -0500

Here is a great example of the value of a home inspection from Stephanie Reynolds of Santee, California, just a hop, skip, and a jump from me. Unfortunately, I wasn't the inspector here -- LOL -- but the message is the same.

Via Stephanie Reynolds (Agent of Possibility, REALTOR, GRI, ePro at CMI, Inc. ):

It is March, 2008 and I have been referred to the greatest couple looking for a house in Santee, Ca. This couple is a friend of a friend and we hit it off perfectly! A fun, easy going couple with a couple of kids looking for their Dream Home!

He is active military so a VA loan is no problem! I refer them to my favorite lender, they have perfect credit scores and I thought, boy, this is going to be a piece of cake; and fun too!

Out house hunting we go! And then......within 2 weeks of our hunt, my military home buyer finds out he is being sent to Singapore for 6 months! House hunt on hold. Wife moving to home state of Washington in the interim to save money, pay off credit card debt and hope to qualify for a larger loan amount at the return of her soldier! Great plan!

Fast forward to last week of December 2008. Although we have continued our search virtually, it was more a pass time than an actual home search. Tour has lasted longer than expected, but 6 weeks more and her man will be home in San Diego and they want a home! She flys in for 5 days and we spend 3 days on a massive home search. Inventory has changed over the year. Not as many options available as when we started. Not a problem! We found it! The perfect home!

We make an offer on this short sale, and are assured by the listing agent they have short sale lender approval as a previous buyer walked. Not a problem. We have time to wait. The husband will not be back for 6 to 8 weeks, perfect timing for him to come home to his new home! And then we wait, and wait, and wait. Oh, and then we wait some more. FINALLY we have approval. 1 week prior to the husbands arrival! Such timing!

Day of husbands return is the day of home inspection. We have a fantastic time. This is the first time he is seeing the home in person. He has seen the home via the Internet and heard all of his wife's excitement as she plans to rip out the cabinets, tear down walls, put new flooring in.....As we walk from room to room, the husbands excitement grows with every step. Until the home inspector finds a small crack in the tile in the kitchen floor tile..........and he puts down his golf ball sized ball bearing..........and it rolls to the east. He moves further into the kitchen, it does the same. Then the living room....same.....garage.....even worse. This is the end of our fun.

We contact the listing agent and low and behold, since she was on her last minutes of disclosure and had not received them yet, oh ya, the home had a cracked slab at the time these sellers purchased and it has been corrected. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? Did you not think to mention this at ANYTIME over the last few months as we are waiting for bank approval? Whatever. Let's move forward. The listing agent offers to provide the previous report showing the problem corrected, but to no avail. They can not find anything. We request the seller to provide a current engineers report. The agent has no idea where to begin to get this, so I provide a company for her.

Report: $70k worth of repairs that need to be done to fix the existing slab. This does not include any amounts to correct the problem to avoid this happening for the THIRD time.

Home Inspection: $400, Cracked slab: $70,000. Value of a home inspection: PRICELESS.

The seller is in no position to correct this. Short sale lender will NOT fix this. Buyer will not purchase this home this way. Escrow canceled. Buyers now must find a place to live in a matter of days. Coincidentally, the house next door to me is for rent. I know have clients as neighbors!

A new search begins!

Making the Home of Your Dreams A Reality. As your Agent of Possibibility it is my intent to make your home buying or selling process a smooth one!

Please feel free to subscribe to my blog or contact me at 619-838-4408.

33rd Annual Fall Home Decorating & Remodeling Show coming up!

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 20:19:41 -0500

Great news for my home inspection Clients who have closed escrow and who are fixin' to close escrow, as well as those for whom escrow is a distant memory. Don't miss it!

Via Jim Frimmer, San Diego Mission Valley Realtor (Century 21 Award):

The 33rd Annual Fall Home Decorating & Remodeling Show is happening at the Del Mar Fairgrounds on Friday through Sunday, October 16, 17, & 18.

Hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Admission is FREE!

Call 1-800-999-5450 for more information, or visit the Shows USA web site.

Here's what you can find at the Show:

Appliances

Architects

Awnings

Backyard décor

Barbeques

Bathroom remodeling

Beds

Blinds and shades

Cabinets

Carpeting

Ceiling/popcorn removal

Cleaning products

Closet remodeling

Concrete (decorative)

Cookware and knives

Countertops

Crown molding and trim

Doors

Electric conservation

Fencing

Floors and floor care

Furnishings

Garage doors

Garage organizing

Granite and marble

Green and eco-friendly products

Heating and cooling products

Home décor

Home theater

Insulation

Insurance

Interior design

Kitchen remodeling

Landscaping

Lighting

Mortgages

Paint and faux finishings

Patios and decks

Paving stones and asphalt

Personal care

Plumbing

Pools, spas, and saunas

Rain gutters

Roofing

Screen doors

Security

Shutters

Solar energy

Stained glass

Stone and tile

Sunrooms

Tex coat and exteriors

Turf and artificial grass

Vacations

Water systems

Water heaters

Windows

Window coverings

Now's the time to get your Mission Valley condo ready for the Fall and Winter seasons!

**********
If you're looking for a great condominium in Mission Valley,
the heart and soul of San Diego, please give me a call.

I'm available 24/7, so feel free to contact me by phone or email.

**********
Jim Frimmer, Realtor
Century 21 Award Mission Valley
California DRE License #01458572
619-729-5701
jimfrimmer@century21award.com
Mission Valley Condos Information

**********

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Join me in the following ActiveRain Groups:

Out and About - Share specific events, places, and things to do with your target audience.

NAR 2009 Convention San Diego - Coming to the Convention in November? Check in here.

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Ambassador Series - What is Localism?

Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant) — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 10:56:58 -0500

A great post with some great Localism information and links from Donna Bigda in Branford, Connecticut.

Via Donna Bigda Realtor® CDPE e-PRO Branford Connecticut Homes and Condos (RE/MAX Alliance):

Are you new to Active Rain? Not sure of what Localism is and how it can be beneficial to you? When you're brand new to blogging it's often very difficult to come up with ideas for topics to write about on a consistent basis. I've been writing posts over almost 2 years and have had those days when I just can't think of anything to post.

One of the ways to overcome that problem is to write about your communities. The sister site and consumer facing side of Active Rain is Localism where members can display consumer oriented content about their local communities.

Posting to Localism allows you to interact and create connections with the public by providing them with local information and promotes you as the knowledgable local expert in your area,

I don't leave my house without my digital camera and flip video. You just never know when the opportunity will arise to take a picture of something of interest in your neighborhood. I also make sure I carry with me a small note pad too and jot down places of interest or upcoming events that I want to focus on at a later date to write a post about.

You're all familiary with Wikipedia, the free internet portal where there are millions of written articles on any topic you can think of many of which include links to guide its users to additional information on related pages.

Think of Localism as your local Wikipedia or as the tagline for Localism states "The World's Most Complete Neighborpedia."

Posts written to Localism consisting of hyper-local content and photos will attract consumers who want to learn more about a specific area. Write about upcoming events, local news, libraries, places of interest, schools, school activiites/sports, local businesses, parks, fund raising events....Think like a consumer and what they would be looking for that is engaging and interesting.

DON'T write content to your peers!!.....DO write content to the consumer!!

Your posts are sent to Localism by checking the box as shown and then choosing the state, county, city and neighborhood that you're writing your content for.

**If you are a free member any posts you've written are "Members Only." You will have to upgrade to a Rainmaker account to post to Localism**

As an Active Rain Ambassador, I would be more than happy to offer any assistance and help to any new members who are ready to get started.

I've included a few other member's posts that will provide additional information about the many benefits and ways that Localism can help to brand you as the local expert in your community.

10 steps to Localism success

by Jonathan Washburn

How To Maximize Indexing (RAINdexing) on your Outside Blogs

by Brad Andersohn

Localism - How to Add Photos & Why Quality is Essential

by Brad Andersohn

Get Noticed With Localism Comments!

by Katerina Gasset

What is 'Suitable' Content for Localism? - Blog Tips for Rain Drips

by Rich Jacobson

What's the point of Localism?

by Maureen McCabe

Localism - "Your Blogging Sucks"

by Maureen McCabe