Bill Austin

Chandler Real Estate Foreclosures

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 15:41:46 -0500

Chandler Arizona is a prime location for buying foreclosed property. Chandler Real Estate Foreclosures and foreclosure sales have been higher than their historical average for quite a while. If you are looking to buy foreclosure real estate properties in the Chandler Arizona area, now could be a good time to be looking for your next great investment property or personal residence.

Thousands of Chandler Arizona homeowners have been impacted by the downturn in the US economy and the local market in Chandler AZ has suffered more than many other locations throughout the United States. Whether you are looking for a Chandler single family residence, a multiple family property or a commercial real estate investment, Chandler Arizona has a great supply of both well maintained and distressed properties. Whether you are looking to buy a home in foreclosure, a house in pre-foreclosure, a foreclosure auction property or a bankruptcy sale in Chandler you will very likely find exactly what you are looking for. For those who want to concentrate on foreclosure property specifically in the Chandler area,

To find Chandler Arizona real estate and other Arizona real estate, use our Real Estate search to find the Chandler home or investment property you are looking for in Arizona. Whether looking for homes for sale in Chandler or Chandler apartments for rent our or any other property in the state of Arizona, the EVLiving.com real estate search can help you find what you are looking for.

Michael Jackson Quotes

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 17:29:36 -0500

Michael Jackson Quotes

If you enter this world knowing you are loved and you leave this world knowing the same, then everything that happens in between can be dealt with.
- Michael Jackson

I'm just like anyone. I cut and I bleed. And I embarass easily.
- Michael Jackson

And I remember going to the record studio and there was a park across the street and I'd see all the children playing and I would cry because it would make me sad that I would have to work instead.
- Michael Jackson

I'm never pleased with anything, I'm a perfectionist, it's part of who I am.
- Michael Jackson

The greatest education in the world is watching the masters at work.
- Michael Jackson

Elizabeth Taylor is gorgeous, beautiful, and she still is today, I'm crazy about her.
- Michael Jackson

If you enter this world knowing you are loved and you leave this world knowing the same, then everything that happens in between can be dealt with.
- Michael Jackson

Because I think every child star suffers through this period because you're not the cute and charming child that you were. You start to grow, and they want to keep you little forever. Elizabeth Taylor is gorgeous, beautiful, and she still is today, I'm crazy about her.
- Michael Jackson

And my goal in life is to give to the world what I was lucky to receive: the ecstasy of divine union through my music and my dance.
- Michael Jackson

People write negatives things, cause they feel that's what sells. Good news to them, doesn't sell.
- Michael Jackson

I love my family very much. I wish I could see them a little more often than I do. But we understand because we're a show business family and we all work.
- Michael Jackson

I wake up from dreams and go "Wow, put this down on paper." The whole thing is strange. You hear the words, everything is right there in front of your face.
- Michael Jackson

Ed McMahon Quotes

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 13:26:51 -0500

Ed McMahon Quotes

The most remembered and most famous of Ed McMahon quotes has to be the opening line of each show before Johnny Carson came on stage. For 30 years this long drawn-out introductory salute greeted Johnny …

“Here’s Johnny”
( Heeeerrrrss Johnny )
- Ed McMahon (1923 -2009) RIP Ed McMahon

Ed McMahon died recently at the age of 86 in Los Angeles, California. News reports gave no immediate indication of the cause of death but McMahon had been suffering from bone cancer and a variety of other ailments. Ed McMahon died early in the morning on Tuesday June 23, 2009. McMahon is best remembered for his former television role as the sidekick for Johnny Carson on NBC Television’s Tonight Show. Some famous quotes attributed to Ed McMahon follow.

Johnny once described our relationship by saying we were as close as two people could be without being married.
- Ed McMahon

Honesty is the most single most important factor having a direct bearing on the final success of an individual, corporation, or product.
- Ed McMahon

Golf courses sell real estate and that’s why they’re built.
- Ed McMahon

More at Ed McMahon Quotes

Farrah Fawcett Quotes

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 13:22:55 -0500

Actress Farrah Fawcett died today at the age of 62 after a long battle with cancer. She was born Farrah Leni Fawcett on February 2, 1947 and died June 25, 2009. She is best remembered for her Television role as private investigator Jill Munroe in the TV series Charlie’s Angels and for her role in the TV movie “The Burning Bed”

Farrah Fawcett Quotes

God made man stronger but not necessarily more intelligent. He gave women intuition and femininity. And, used properly, that combination easily jumbles the brain of any man I've ever met.
- Farrah Fawcett

Farrah Fawcett Quotes

The reason that the all-American boy prefers beauty to brains is that he can see better than he can think.
- Farrah Fawcett

When you do bad things, bad things happen to you.
- Farrah Fawcett

Real Estate Recruitment Announcement Education Advisory Committee

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:01:55 -0500

The State of Arizona Department of Real Estate is looking for Real Estate professionals to join an advisory Board called the Education Advisory Committee. The goal is to get input from real estate proctitioners on effective ways to raise the level of real estate professionalism in Arizona through appropriate education requirements and initiatives. The announcement below contains the contact information and requirements for members on the real estate industry in Arizona to volunteer to join the Education Advisory Committee.

Bill Austin Phoenix Real Estate News

Recruitment Announcement Education Advisory Committee

Arizona Real Estate Commissioner Judy Lowe extends an invitation to real estate professionals interested in joining the Education Advisory Committee (EAC). This committee was established to assist the Department in its mission of protecting the public interest by raising the level of professionalism in the Real Estate sector without creating undue barriers to entry into the profession.

The EAC has some upcoming vacancies in certain membership categories:

􀂃 Commercial or Business Brokerage (2)

􀂃 Industrial Brokerage (1)

􀂃 Real Estate Instructor (1)

􀂃 Lender (1)

􀂃 Escrow Officer (1)

􀂃 Real Estate School Owner/Administrator (3)

If you are interested in serving on the committee and your experience or current position dovetails with an upcoming opening for the 2009–2011 term, please submit a resume accompanied with a letter of interest describing your work experience and education to: Michael Hailey, Education Manger by COB Wednesday, July 15, 2009. Note: If you have served on the EAC in the past and are still interested in serving, please feel free to apply. You may submit your information via e-mail: mhailey@azre.gov or send it to 2910 N. 44^th St., Phoenix, AZ 85018.

The EAC meets every other month, with more frequent meetings from time to time as needed. The EAC members are volunteers and are not compensated for their time, nor reimbursed for expenses. Over the past four years, the EAC has worked diligently to provide ADRE with recommendations for an array of education issues pertaining to real estate licensees.

Again ADRE appreciates your time and effort in our aspirations to improve the quality of real estate pre-licensure and continuing education. If you have any other questions or concerns feel free to contact me.

Respectfully yours,

Michael Hailey, Education Manager

Mortgage Information

Phoenix Workforce Connection Volunteer Fair

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 12:24:47 -0500

Phoenix Workforce Connection

Join us at our Volunteer Fair where you can meet with organizations such as AZ Humane Society; the AZ Children’s Hospital; Sun Sounds; Catholic Social Services; Phoenix Youth at Risk; State of AZ; City of Phoenix and more. Help others while you help yourself! Equal Opportunity Employer/Program Auxiliary Aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Please contact 602-262-6776 or City TTY Relay / 602-534-5500 as early as possible to coordinate needed arrangements.

• Network with those who share your interests
• Enhance marketability and skills
• Keep your resumé active

Phoenix Workforce Connection
9801 North 7th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85020

JOIN US FROM . . . 9 to noon, Thursday, June 25, 2009

Phoenix Workforce Connection Volunteer Fair

The Phoenix Workforce Connection (PWC) offers workforce, employment, training and career information in the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Volunteer Fair at Phoenix Workforce Connection

Bill Austin

@wbaustin

East Valley Living

June Horoscopes

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:01:29 -0500

June Horoscopes

June Horoscopes 2009 are now available.

June Horoscopes 2008

Among the interesting observations that Albert Clayton Gaulden treated us to this month are the Sagittarius Horoscope where he had this to say:

Sagittarius Horoscope (November 22 - December 20) You may be feeling like you are never meant to roam and gamble another day in life, but you would be wrong. Get a job as a traveling salesman or a forest ranger and you will be as happy as the proverbial pig in mud. What the Universe is trying to tell you with the alignment of the stars is that even you Archers must learn to shoot straight—get your ducks in a row—so you can afford that cabin on the lake or the condo on Michigan Avenue. Jupiter is trying to put wind beneath your wings. See a life coach or headhunter and put the pedal to the metal in your money-making pursuits. A plan will help tons.

Perhaps running off to join the circucs or a traveling carnival is in order?

Taking a look at Kathee's Pisces horoscope he was a bit rough on her and her felow pisceans.

Pisces Horoscope (February 18 - March 20) The best news we can lay on you Fish this month is that sooner than later Saturn will stop opposing you, making you crazy with too much self-examination. If you have learned your lesson well that money does not grow on cactus and that even Beethoven had to sit down to write his symphonies you’ll be ahead of the game. No, Mildred and Mike—there are no free lunches unless you’re down-and-out in Beverly Hills (or so the movie says) or being roasted at the Friar’s Club—and you ain’t that important…yet. The revelation that keeps eluding you is that God will give you what He wants you to have when you prove to Him that you are willing to work for it. Peace, Pisces.

Read the rest at June Horoscopes

Dog Training

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 23:50:01 -0500

Dog Training Questions And Answers

Phoenix Dog Trainer Questions And Answers :

Is There A Difference Between a Dog Trainer And A Dog Behaviorist?

Q: What is an Animal Behaviorist / Dog Behaviorist?

A: The term “Behaviorist” is misused in many situations. Some professionals refer to themselves as behaviorists but they are using the term inappropriately. Professionals without an upper level degree that specializes in behavior should rightly be classified as counselors. An Animal Behaviorist has upper level degrees (MS or PhD.) In most cases this is over six to eight years of formal education specializing in psychology, ethology, biology, zoology, endocrinology, neurobiology, physical anatomy, canine physiology and kinesthetics, advanced training in the normal and abnormal behaviors of animals, the underlying disease states that may contribute to behavioral changes, the psychology of learning and in therapeutic behavioral medicines. An Animal Behaviorist can evaluate a pet’s behavioral problems, can work with your pet’s Veterinarian to help potentially diagnose medical problems that may be contributing to these behavioral problems and can recommend therapeutic medicines that may benefit these animals.

Q: What is the difference between an Animal Behaviorist / Dog Behaviorist like you and a Veterinarian Behaviorist?

A: Veterinarian Behaviorists have nothing to do with any actual training of dogs. A Veterinarian who has a specialty in Behavioral Medicine concerns themselves primarily with medicine, and has only as little as one year of behavioral training with the emphasis on psychotropic medicines. This is also a very new field in its infancy that has only been around for as little as 3 years. On the other hand, An Applied Clinical Animal Behaviorist, like those employed by TLC K9 Academy have had much more extensive education and training that takes at least 6 to 8 years in ALL aspects of behavior, not just behavioral medicine. The Profession of Applied Clinical Animal Behaviorists is not a new field. This type of real behaviorist has been around for many decades, and is considered THE definitive choice for expert behavioral help, treatment and advice for you and your pet. TLC K9 Academy Behaviorists are also Master Certified Dog Trainers with many additional years of education, training, and experience, giving you and your pet the absolute best of both worlds.

Q: Are behavioral problems simply dog training issues?

A: There are some pets that would benefit largely from some simple training, but many behavior problems require much more than that. Dog Trainers are not Dog Behaviorists /Animal Behaviorists with Advanced Training and Upper Level Degrees, (MS or PhD.) Animals, like people can develop a number of fears, anxieties, phobias, obsessive compulsive behaviors and many types of aggression that require an in-depth history and actual behavioral modifications (not training) to help resolve them. Sometimes trainers will employ aversive or punishment methods in attempts at resolving some of these behavioral problems which may actually aggravate the problem further. Training can however be an integral part of behavioral modifications, and often a good trainer will be employed or recommended to help the owner work with behavior modification techniques once they have been prescribed and explained in the initial consult. Many trainers wrongly call themselves a behaviorist without the proper training and are really just simple dog trainers who often make serious mistakes with your pet’s well being and with your pet’s behavior. Bill Glatzel is a Clinical Applied Animal Behaviorist and specialist in difficult and severe behavioral problems in pets, such as fears, anxieties, phobias, obsessive compulsive behaviors along with various types and severity levels of aggression.

Q: What is behavior modification?

A: Behavior modification techniques are used to alter an animal’s behaviors and reactions to stimuli using both operant and classical conditioning techniques. The most common employed techniques include systematic desensitization; counter conditioning, reinforcement of more appropriate behaviors and extinction.

For more information on dog behavior problems or information on Phoenix dog trainers, dog training in Arizona, or for specific information on severe dog aggression, severe anxiety disorders and other abnormal dog behaviors please contact TLC K9 ACADEMY on the web at http://www.tlck9academy.com or by phone toll free 888-502-DOGS (3647). If you are local and looking for Phoenix dog training, or a Phoenix dog trainer, you can call 480-502-DOGS (3647).

About the author: Bill Glatzel is a Master Certified Dog Trainer, and Professional Animal Behaviorist with over 33 years of experience , specializing in severe dog behavior disorders and behavior medicine in small animals. Bill is also the CEO and Founder of TLC K9 ACADEMY a nationwide dog training company headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, and Scottsdale Dog Training located in Scottsdale, AZ. Bill is often called in as a media expert and legal consultant on severe dog aggression. He also runs an International School for Dog Trainers in Phoenix Arizona. Bill Enjoys working with dogs deemed ‘untreatable,’ and lives with his pack of five dogs.

Bacon-Cheese Dip Recipe

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 23:41:20 -0500

Bacon-Cheese Dip

Ingredients
1/2  cup sour cream
1  (4-ounce) package crumbled blue cheese
1  (3-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/8  teaspoon hot sauce
2  tablespoons diced onion
4  bacon slices, cooked and crumbled

Preparation 

Process first 5 ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides. 
Stir in half of bacon. Cover and chill 2 hours. 
Sprinkle with remaining bacon. Serve with crackers, raw vegetables, or potato chips.

Yield Makes 1 1/2 cups

Diabetic Recipes

Community Members Shape a Vision for Papago Park

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 23:36:25 -0500

Community Members Shape a Vision for Papago Park

Members of the public are invited to provide feedback for the future of Papago Park at the second of three public workshops on Monday, June 15, to be hosted by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and the cities of Phoenix, Tempe and Scottsdale.

At the first public workshop, park users provided valuable suggestions that will help develop a vision for Papago Park. At the upcoming workshop, the project team will present that feedback, including a preliminary park vision statement crafted from public input. Initial park concepts will be presented and reviewed with workshop participants.

“Archery, hiking, climbing and golfing are only a few of the activities offered at the park,” said Shawn Wagner, city of Tempe project manager. “We are looking to the community to help guide the future of Papago Park as a premier regional park.”

The community is encouraged to participate in one of two sessions to be held on Monday, June 15, 2009:

10 a.m. to noon
Desert Botanical Garden, Dorrance Hall
1201 N. Galvin Parkway
Phoenix, Ariz.

6 to 8 p.m.
North Tempe Multi-Generational Center, Gymnasium
1555 N. Bridalwreath St.
Tempe, Ariz.

The Regional Master Plan will enhance:

Natural, cultural, historic and archaeological resources
Transportation, trail connections and wayfinding including ADA accessibility
Environment and native habitats
Structures and facilities for renovation and/or restoration
Park activities and education
Sustainability for the park

The third workshop will be held on Thursday, Aug. 20, 2009. The locations will be announced soon.

Public participation is encouraged throughout the planning process. If you are unable to attend the workshops, you may participate online at DiscoverPapagoPark.com, request information by e-mail at info@DiscoverPapagoPark.com, or call the project team to have the survey mailed to you.

If there are any questions regarding the Papago Park Regional Master Plan or the public workshops, residents and stakeholders are encouraged to contact the project hotline at 480-391-6800.

Valley Builder Begins Third Dunkin’ Donuts

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 23:32:51 -0500

Valley Builder Begins Third Dunkin’ Donuts

Tempe builder remains busy with small business commercial projects

TEMPE, Ariz. - Don’t take your eyes off the road too long, but yes, Dunkin’ Donuts has a new look, and Tempe-based Sanctuary Builder is bringing it to the Valley. On April 22, 2009, the commercial builder began construction on its third Dunkin’ Donuts project, which will showcase the chain’s spruced up exterior, chic interior and retro-like motif.

“Dunkin’ Donuts is an excellent example of taking a brand and carrying it through from product to packaging to their store designs,” explained Karl Tunberg, co-founder and CEO of Sanctuary Builder. “Our ability to work hands-on from start to completion and execute quality construction on-time and on-budget, has allowed us to secure projects like the expansion of Dunkin’ Donuts and construction of other office and small business outlets.”

Arizona Mortgage Foreclosure and Loan Modification Scams

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Thu, 14 May 2009 11:26:16 -0500

Arizona Mortgage Foreclosure and Loan Modification Scams

Arizona State Attorney General Terry Goddard talking about foreclosure and loan modification scam artists operating by cold calling homeowners. This video was taken at the May 13 meeting of the Arizona Foreclosure Prevention Task Force all hands meeting. At that same meeting, the Arizona Foreclosure Information Workbook was announced and copies were distributed.

Consumers at risk of foreclosure are encouraged to do their homework before contacting lenders and servicers. The Arizona Foreclosure Prevention Task Force has developed an easy to understand workbook to guide families through different options and scenarios in order to prepare for meeting with lenders or certified counselor at a HUD approved agency. The workbook is available free to consumers who are faced with foreclosure or who feel that may be at risk of missing a mortgage payment.

Mortgage Foreclosure Hotline

1-877-448-1211

TV News report about the Arizona Foreclosure Task Force and the Foreclosure Prevention Hotline

"Arizona Foreclosure Task Force offers phone hotline to help"

Reported by: Jodie Heisner

A press release from the Attorney General's office was also issued regarding the brand new Arizona Foreclosure Information Workbook.

Arizona Foreclosure Prevention Task Force Urges Consumers at Risk of Foreclosure to Be Prepared
Workbook developed to help consumers have discussion with lenders

In addition to providing consumer information, the workbook also describes tactics used by many unscrupulous firms who scam families that are seeking assistance. “This workbook is an important resource for families who are looking at a foreclosure situation.” says Patricia Garcia Duarte, Chair of the Arizona Foreclosure Prevention Task Force. “It is critical that consumers understand their situation, be educated, informed and prepared when meeting or talking with their lender.” said Duarte.

"Families struggling to avoid foreclosure are much more likely to stay in their homes if they act early and learn the full range of options available to them. This workbook will provides a free, one-stop resource to guide homeowners through the complicated process of modifying a loan, including communicating with your lender, avoiding fraud artists and finding trusted housing counselors," Attorney General Terry Goddard said. "By stopping the wave of foreclosures sweeping our state, Arizona's housing market can stabilize and the economy can get back on track. This workbook created by the Task Force is a great step toward this needed recovery."

The workbook has examples of letters that consumers can read and be prepared to draft for their own use, budget forms to help them document their income and assets, and even a telephone or contact log to help them keep track of discussions and correspondence in trying to resolve their mortgage predicament.
As national mortgage assistance programs come on-line lenders, servicers and counselors expect even more demands on an already strained system. Cheri Horbacz, Education Advocate for Don’t Borrow Trouble says, “It is more important than ever for consumers to maximize their interaction with lenders and counselors by having all their documents in order and to be familiar with the various options to foreclosure.” The workbook also directs consumers to a variety of national, state and local resources to obtain assistance.

The Arizona Foreclosure Prevention Task Force was created in 2007 to reduce residential foreclosures in Arizona and the impact of foreclosure on families and communities. The Task Force includes representatives of banks, municipalities, trade associations, non-profits, and state/federal agencies.

For more information about the work of the Task Force or for information about the workbook, contact Patricia Garcia Duarte, Arizona Foreclosure Prevention Task Force Chairwoman, at (602) 424-5340 or pgarciaduarte@nhsphoenix.org.

For more information from the Attorney General’s Office, contact Steve Wilson at (602) 542-8351 or steve.wilson@azag.gov.

First Time Home Buyer Credit for First Time Home Buyers

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 10:36:41 -0500

First Time Home Buyer Credit

Credit for First Time Home Buyers Deadline is closer than you think.

Shea Homes recently submitted and article to East Valley Living which indicates that in order to take advantage of the first time homebuyer credit, the home must close by November 30, 2009. This $8000 tax credit will otherwise be lost for 2009 taxes. If you have buyers sitting on the fence you should let them know about this deadline and the potential loss of this valuable benefit. Some information from the original article:

Time is running out for home buyers looking to purchase their first home and qualify for the $8,000 Federal tax credit. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) first time home buyers looking to purchase a new home in 2009 and take advantage of the $8,000 first time home buyer tax credit, should do so immediately in order to qualify. The Federal tax credit is contingent upon closing the home sale prior to the November 30th deadline. New home buyers must be aware with new construction homes, the tax credit deadline applies to the “purchase” or closing date, not the date the sales contract is signed. Taking into account the time the entire building process takes, prospective buyers looking to take advantage of this tax credit should plan on purchasing their new home no later than May 31st.

Read more about the first time home buyer tax credit or send this link to your first time home buyer clients here: First Time Home Buyers

Thank you,

Bill Austin

http://twitter.com/wbaustin

Phoenix Resale Transactions Jump in February

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:34:10 -0500

Phoenix Resale Transactions Jump in February

Foreclosure activity makes up bulk of resale transactions in greater Phoenix area

MESA, Ariz. - February 2009 resale activity experienced an upsurge of 8,510 resale homes recorded sold, while there were 6,960 recorded sales in January and 4,675 sales for a year ago. However, foreclosure activity in February 2009 represented 51 percent (4,295 transactions), while there were 4,215 traditional market transactions.

Foreclosure transactions represent home owners losing their property to successful individual bidders or the lender of record. For February 2008, there were 1,985 sales in foreclosure or 42 percent on the month’s recordings.

For February 2009, foreclosure activity differed throughout the Valley such as 48 percent in Surprise, 51 percent in Glendale and 40 percent in Scottsdale. Even in response to hiatus and mortgage modification programs, foreclosure activity did not slow.

Phoenix Real Estate

Real Estate Technology Conference

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 15:28:04 -0600

SEVRAR Real Estate Technology and Social Media Conference

January 26, 2009 · By Bill Austin (Edit)

Bill Austin will be presenting and participating in a panel discussion on social media at the SouthEast Valley Regional Association of REALTORS® (SEVRAR) real estate and social media technology conference January 27, 2009. See below for more information.

Phoenix AZ Real Estate

Real Estate Technology Conference

Social Media Conference

January 27, 2009!

SEVRAR / BlueRoof360.com

by Robert A. Gibbs

Hi everyone…

I wanted to let you know about the SEVRAR / BlueRoof360.com Technology Conference on the 27th of January 2009!

We’re holding it at the Mesa Convention Center Mesa Arizona in Building B and we have some FANTASTIC people lined up to speak!

Jack Peckham - Founder and CEO of the Real Estate Cyberspace Society (www.RECyber.com)
Greg Tracy - REALTOR and Founder of www.BlueRoof360.com
Joeann Fossland- GRI Technology Instructor and Business and Life Coach - www.Joeann.com
Chip Lambert- LinkedIn Master Instructor from www.IntegratedAlliances.com
Bill Austin- Social Media Guru & the 3rd most linked person in Phoenix on LinkedIn www.azhttp.com
Jay Thompson- Blogger Extraordinary - www.PhoenixRealEstateGuy.com
Chris McKeever- NAR Center for REALTOR Technology - http://www.realtor.org/technology
Jeff Raskin - Microsoft Expert - http://technologyforrealestate.net/
Kathy Lunak- AAR Transaction Management - http://www.aaronline.com/TM/

In addition, ARMLS will be doing training all day long on the following topics

Custom Views and Q & A
Business Cards, Flyers and Q & A
Personal Preferences and Q & A
Wireless flexmls and Q & A

If that was not enough you will get the opportunity for one on one time with experts in:

Blogging
Twitter
LinkedIn & Other Social Media
Search Engine Optimization
Tablet Computers
Technology Tools
Transaction Management

Also be sure to stop by and see our very own Arizona rep Candace Robinson at the Diverse Solutions booth. Diverse Solutions will be offering some training in conjunction with ARMLS. For those seeking an outstanding SEARCH MLS page to diversify your online presence and make a better search experience for your consumers be sure to stop by and see the great offer that DS has for you!

SEVRAR Members and Non-Members planning on attending the Keynote Address should Sign up with this form so you can order lunch (the address is over the lunch hour 12:00-1:00).

As always, SEVRAR Members who don’t feel they need lunch can sign up at www.SEVRAR.com

Our Keynote Address by Jack Peckham is over the Lunch Break so please DON’T FORGET TO ORDER A LUNCH when registering!

Thanks to our sponsors for keeping this event FREE to EVERYONE!

www.BlueRoof360.com
www.SendOutCards.Com
www.REALTOR.org
www.ORHP.com
www.magnustitle.com
www.DiverseSolutions.com
www.Zillow.com
www.HWA.com
www.VisitMyLuxuryHome.com
www.mycomputerworks.com
www.ARMLS.com
www.Superlative.com
www.DynamicPageSolutions.com
American Title Agency

Technorati Tags: arizona, Arizona SEO, Bill Austin, Blogging, Business Blogging, Expert, Internet Marketing, LinkedIn, Real Estate, Search Engine Optimization, Social Media, tech, Technology, twitter

Free Income Tax Preparation

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 01:04:59 -0600

Free Income Tax Preparation

Free Tax Preparation Sites

Phoenix Arizona — Community Information & Referral’s Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Tax Assistance Hotline is available through April 15th This special Hotline, in cooperation with the IRS, provides information on locations where low and moderate income individuals and families can go to have their tax forms prepared free of charge. Volunteers at the sites are trained by the IRS and at certain locations, can file your taxes electronically, also free of charge. Call (602) 263-8856 or 1-(800) 352-3792 outside Maricopa County or visit our website at http://www.cir.org/ for details. 2008 EITC/Tax Assistance Hotline sponsors are Arizona Public Service (APS), Salt River Project (SRP), and Southwest Gas Corporation.

Last year (January 1, 2008 through April 15, 2008 14,318 callers were assisted by the EITC Hotline.

Community Information & Referral (CIR), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, provides FREE 24-hour Help Hotline services to ten Arizona counties, including the greater Phoenix area. Trained Information & Referral Specialists respond to calls for help, assess problems, and provide appropriate information and/or referrals to available community resources. Callers can reach the helpline in Maricopa County by calling (602) 263-8856 or, outside of Maricopa County toll free at 1-800-352-3792. Visit us on the web at: http://www.cir.org

Free Income Tax Preparation

Free tax help at VITA sites in Mesa Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) The City of Mesa’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free basic tax preparation and free electronic filing... Read more »

Free Income Tax Preparation

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:06:23 -0600

Free Income Tax Preparation

Free tax help at VITA sites in Mesa

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

The City of Mesa’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free basic tax preparation and free electronic filing to benefit low income, elderly and disabled families living in Mesa. VITA volunteers serve as tax preparers, greeters, screeners and translators. This year with the uncertain economic conditions, VITA volunteers will assist any unemployed resident who has a basic return, including itemized deductions.

Mesa has four VITA sites that will be open between Monday, Feb. 2 and Tuesday, April 14:

• Mesa Community College Dobson Campus (Kirk Student Center), 1833 W. Southern Ave. Tuesdays and Thursdays 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Saturdays 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

• Mesa Community College, Red Mountain Campus (Acacia Village Computer Lab), 2305 N. Power Road. Tuesdays 6 p.m. - 9.p.m. Saturdays 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• Mercy Housing “Villas de Merced,” 520 N. Mesa Drive. Mondays 6 p.m. -9 p.m.

• A New Leaf-MesaCAN, 635 E. Broadway (Appointments call 480-833-9200 x. 219). Fridays 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

People should bring proof of identification, Social Security cards for you, your spouse and all dependents, plus picture identification. You should also bring all W-2 forms for every place you worked in 2008 and all 1099 forms for 2008. A complete copy of your 2007 federal and state income tax returns is helpful. Taxpayers filing a joint return must both be present to sign the required forms.

If you earned less than $41,646 in 2008, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) could refund you as much as $4,824 based on your earnings and family situation. For more information, log onto www.mesaaz.gov/humansvc/EITC.aspx or www.irs.gov/eitc

Support Our Troops

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 10:59:41 -0600

Support Our Troops

Support Our Military, One eMail at a Time - Send e-mail to support our troops overseas in Iraq

...last day to help us reach our goal for shipping mail to the troops. Can you help please? http://snurl.com/4eenr

Final Day to Make It Happen for the Troops

It's crunch time and we are feeling the pressure. We have just a few hours to meet our postage goals before we start packing and shipping holiday mail to our troops.

If the money runs out before the mail does then the mail leftover won't get shipped to our troops this year.

We appreciate everyone who has taken the time to chip in and make a $5 payment to sponsor a 1 lb package of holiday mail to our troops in their name. We absolutely appreciate it.

We haven't given up yet on reaching our goal so please spread the word when and where you can.

YOU CAN HELP!

You can still send in your checks, money orders, or use ChipIn and PayPal to get us to our goal. Every dollar counts. It doesn't matter if you can't do $5 do what you can. If you want to do more, please do!

http://snurl.com/4eenr

Support Our Troops

Turkey Recipes Thanksgiving Recipes Carnival of the Recipes

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 23:28:56 -0600

Carnival of the Recipes Turkey Recipes Edition

The November 23, 2008 pre-Thanksgiving Day Edition of Carnival of the Recipes is themed Turkey Recipes and quite a variety of recipes for cooking turkey were provided by participants.

Recipes for Cooking Turkey presents Caribbean Turkey Soup Recipe

Phoenix Arizona Blog presents Great Turkey Recipe

Amanda Harris presents Best Kept Recipes: Herb Slathered & Sprinkled Roast Turkey posted at Best Kept Recipes. Turkey Recipes

Mama Bear presents Those Thanksgiving Leftovers PLUS! Thinking & Being Proactively Positive posted at I’ve Got a Little Space to Fill, saying, “I’m from Canada, so we had our Thanksgiving in October…thought I’d submit a post about what we did with OUR leftovers!”

Amanda Harris presents Turkey Burgers posted at Best Kept Recipes

Diabetic Cooking presents Turkey Frittata Recipe

Elisson presents MMMMM…CHEESY posted at Blog d’Elisson, saying, “It ain’t turkey, but who cares?” Thanksgiving Recipes

Julie maloney presents Mmmeatloaf! | The Cool Mom Guide posted at The Cool Mom Guide, saying, “Great meatloaf recipe for the picky eater.”

kara thurmond presents Papaya Chutney posted at An Hour In the Kitchen, saying, “You can add papaya chutney to anything- fish, pork, chicken.” slow-cooker-recipes presents Crockpot Turkey Breast

Bobby presents Thai Peanut Chicken Recipe posted at Free Online Recipes | Free Recipes Thanksgiving Recipes

kudzumaster presents Recipe: The Best Cranberry Sauce Ever posted at Plum Kreative.

HappyCampers presents Breakfast For A Crowd: Ham & Eggs On Croissant posted at Reese’s View Of The World, saying, “Breakfast for dinner is always a fun change of pace!”

pnreddy presents Some Great Halloween Recipes You Can Serve In The Party! | Life Info Zone.com posted at Life Info Zone.com In case you are looking for Deep Fried Turkey and deep fry turkey recipe or a Deep Fried Turkey Recipe.

pnreddy presents Looking For Making Homemade Chocolates? Then Follow These Tips! | Life Info Zone.com posted at Life Info Zone.com. Turkey Recipes

That concludes this Pre Thanksgiving Day Turkey Recipes edition. Submit your blog article to the Jennie’s Rambles edition of carnival of the recipes using our carnival of the recipes carnival submission form.

This will be the first carnival after Thanksgiving. Holiday gift giving ideas (gifts in a jar, cookies to give away, etc).

carnival of the recipes

Turkey Recipes

Support our Troops - 7th Annual Holiday Love™ Project

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 16:10:25 -0600

Support our Troops - 7th Annual Holiday Love™ Project

Supporting our Troops

or

http://tinyurl.com/4uj6jn

7th Annual Holiday Love™ Project

Each year we send holiday cards to our troops for Christmas and Hanukah. This year’s project starts October 13th and ends December 1st to ensure that all cards and letters can be shipped to meet the holiday deadlines. Mail your holiday cards for our troops to us and we’ll ship them to our military in time for the holidays!

Get everyone involved! Here are some great ideas:

Adults

Place a drop box in your office or place of business and get everyone involved in bringing in cards.
Put a notice in your apartment’s newsletter about our project or put up this flyer.
Get your church, synagogue, or place or worship to add our project in their announcement letter this weekend.
Visit local retirement homes, VFWs, Moose Clubs and get the folks involved. This is a project that will make them feel really special and give them the opportunity to hear back from our troops too!
Buy holiday stationery and create your own personalized holiday letters.
Make a banner using a vinyl tablecloth (red, white or blue) and sharpies to create a thank you or support banner. Have friends, co-workers, family, church members, etc. sign it with their message.
Make a poster using poster board (red, white or blue) and colorful markers to create a thank you or support poster. Have friends, kids, classroom, co-workers, family, church members, etc. sign it with their message. It's easy to ship too, just stick it in a mailing tube to us!
3 x 5 or 4 x 6 cards (like the kind you can get at any office supply store) are great to write a short note on or for a motivational quote. Colored ones are very festive and great if you just want to say "I support you" or "I'm proud of you". Dress them up with holiday stickers. Include your contact info on the back too with an address label or stamp.
Include phone cards for our service members to call home. The best cards to purchase are the AT&T phone cards as they can be used internationally as well as nationally.
Introduce a friend to eMailOurMilitary.com and have weekly card writing sessions for fun! Get creative, go ahead, use the glitter and the glue just like you used to when YOU were a kid.
We always need stamps. Ask your company to donate a roll of stamps to eMail Our Military; when they do, we'll give them some free publicity in our monthly newsletter as a thank you.
Even more ideas...

Evening Networking Event Scottsdale Job Network

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 14:23:15 -0600

Evening Networking Event

Scottsdale Job Network

Evening Networking Event

Evening Networking: November 24, 2008 7 PM-9 PM

Scottsdale Job Network (SJN) is a tax exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing job transition training, personal connections, access to resources and moral support for job seekers through a Valley-wide network of passionate volunteers.

SJN meets on the first and third TUESDAY mornings, from 9:00-11:30 AM at space offered by our neighbor:

Temple Chai
4645 East Marilyn Road
Phoenix, Arizona 85032

NEXT EVENT

Evening Networking: November 24, 2008 7 PM-9 PM

Finding a Great Job through the Phoenix Business Journal

In this challenging economy, people need all the help they can get to find their next great job. Dave Sherman professional speaker, trainer, and business coach, will introduce you to one of the best job finding tools available in the Valley, the Phoenix Business Journal, and show you how to use this tool to find your next great job faster!

There is no cost for this program. Dave’s 40-minute presentation will be followed by an hour of networking which Dave will introduce.

You CAN RSVP HERE:

Free Flu shots

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:47:51 -0600

Free Flu shots

Be sure to check your local area for a Community Information & Referral or 211 type organization and find out if they are running a free flu shot hotline before you spend a lot of time getting a Doctor appointment. and sitting in a waiting room.

FREE OR LOW COST FLU/PNEUMONIA SHOTS

AVAILABLE AT HUNDREDS OF NEIGHBORHOOD SITES

Community Information & Referral has complete information on how to get a flu shot anywhere in the state. Health care professionals have set up temporary clinics in grocery stores, churches, community centers, shopping malls, and private businesses to make it as easy as possible to get a flu shot. Shots are provided free of charge to people enrolled in Medicare Part B., and some health plans. Flu shots are available to the general public at low cost. Flu sites and provider information is available on Community Information & Referral’s website: http://www.cir.org/

Information is also available by calling the Flu/Pneumonia Hotline: 602-263-8856 OR 1-800-352-3792, where Arizona residents can reach a live operator who can direct them to the nearest site to receive a free or low cost flu shot for the 2008-2009 flu season.

Flu and pneumonia are especially dangerous for the elderly and people with chronic diseases. These populations have compromised immune systems which have difficulty destroying the flu virus. The Arizona Department of Health Services reports that pneumonia is among the top five causes of death for Arizona’s at-risk elderly. With a simple flu shot, this killer can be avoided.

The Flu Hotline / Pneumonia Hotline is a free public service of Community Information & Referral (CIR) and supported by: Arizona Dept. of Health Services, BlueCross/BlueShield of Arizona, CIGNA, Healthwaves, Maricopa County Dept. of Health , Mollen Immunization Clinics, PassportHealth, and Safeway.

Phoenix Real Estate

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 12:51:42 -0600

Housing prices declined on residential resale real estate in the greater Phoenix Area.

Phoenix Real Estate

In October 2008, a total of 8,210 resale homes recorded as sold. Foreclosure activity represented 47 percent (3,745 transactions) and 4,465 traditional market transactions.

Continued weakness depends on the ability of people to remain employed or get back to work quickly.

Foreclosure activity differs throughout the Valley such as 43 percent in Surprise, 32 percent in Tempe and 50 percent in Avondale. Over the next few months, recorded foreclosure activity could decline because of the response to various mortgage modification programs offered by lenders and government agencies to assist troubled homeowners, according to Jay Butler, director of Realty Studies in the Morrison School of Management and Agribusiness at Arizona State University Polytechnic.

“The local housing market will continue to be vexed well into the next year by eroding consumer confidence, brought on by a weak economy, possible job losses and tighter mortgage underwriting guidelines.”

More about Phoenix Real Estate

Internet Marketing Strategy

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 16:45:18 -0500

I recently joined ki-work as the category leader for the Search Engine Optimization Category (SEO.) As a recognized expert in the field, I lead the growth and development of the online marketplace for freelance SEO work on ki-work.com and enable Experts and Professionals around the world to connect with companies and individuals needing SEO work to be done.

This announcement was issued recently:

Internet Marketing Strategy
EVLiving
Online Advertising & Internet Marketing Strategy Expert Bill Austin Joins Ki-Work Team as Category Leader for Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Internet Marketing Strategy

Bill Austin of Phoenix Arizona based SEO Company AZhttp, Inc. Joins Ki-Work as Category Leader for Search Engine Optimization SEO

“I have always wanted to bring together the world’s best in SEO,” Bill states, “ki work provides a resource where the best in that business can collaborate and compete with anyone, anywhere.”

Join the Search Engine Optimization category here to submit work orders or register as a professional or expert inthe SEO category.

Email or call Bill at (480) 998-0246 for additional information.

If you have a need for SEO work to be done on your website or blog, you can contact me drectly or access the large group of SEO Experts available to help with your project through the ki-work online Search Engine Optimization marketplace. If you believe that you are an SEO Expert of sufficient stature, you can join the community and seek to become an accredited professional or a certified expert within the Search Engine Optimization community.

Thank you,

Bill Austin

Butternut Squash Soup

Bill Austin (East Valley Living) — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 19:05:16 -0500

Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut Squash Soup RecipeYield: 6 (1-cup) servings

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 onion, thinly sliced

4 cloves garlic, smashed

2 fresh sage leaves

2 teaspoons kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

2 medium canned plum tomatoes

1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, halved, seeded, and diced

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water

1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan, optional

Heat the olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, sage, 1 teaspoon of the salt and season with pepper, to taste. Cook, covered stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant, about 15 minutes. Raise heat to medium-high, add the tomatoes, and cook, stirring with a wooden spoon, until the tomatoes break up and the onions brown slightly, about 7 minutes.

Add the squash and the remaining teaspoon salt, and continue to cook Butternut Squash Soup, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender, about 12 minutes. Add the broth, bring to a simmer, and cook, uncovered, until the vegetables tender, about 20 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

Working in batches, puree the soup in a blender, or with an immersion blender. Return the soup to the pot and reheat over medium heat. Stir in the vinegar.

Serve the soup in warm bowls with a touch of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Information

Nutritional Analysis per serving

Calories 155

Fat 9 grams

Saturated Fat 1 gram

Carbohydrates 19 grams

Fiber 1 gram

Protein 5 grams

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