The Voice of Orange County...Michael A. Caruso's Blog

Let's Talk Turkey...

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:29:43 -0600

Thanksgiving = thankful or grateful.

"Feeling grateful or appreciative of someone or something in your life actually attracts more of the things that you APPRECIATE or value into your life." ..... Christiane Northrup

Hungry Yet?

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:00:56 -0600

Hungry Yet? Be thankful for the food you will be eating tomorrow (and everyday)!

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

Pick 3. Spend 50. Save your Local Economy...The 3/50 project

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 22:11:09 -0600

PLEASE, support YOUR local economy!

The idea is to commit $50 each month to locally owned businesses. Maybe that means rethinking where you currently invest your money, opting to pick up that birthday card or pair of jeans in a locally owned business instead of the big box you’ve been going to. Or maybe it means eating out once a month because you realize slamming the brakes on all spending stalls economic recovery. And it means not shopping online, 99.99999% of online sales generate nothing for the community you live in. It’s just that simple.

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

How to keep the "home" out of a home office

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:39:24 -0600

Keeping your business and personal life is key to staying sane. But sometimes it can be tricky if they take place under the same roof. So if you are deciding on setting up a home office, or need to renovate, follow these tips from HGTV and Lowe’s:

Draw a line between work and play with your computer: although tempting to use the family computer for business, you should separate the two. It will eliminate the chance of someone deleting an important file.
Install additional phone or cable outlets if needed to accommodate your various office equipment.
Divide the office into 3 sections: the work center, the reference center, and the supply center. Put your desk, computer, and daily necessities in the work center along with a filing cabinet for easy access to important files. Put dictionaries, old print, books, binders, etc in the reference center. The supply center should hold, obviously, all your supplies.

These tips will ensure your home office feels like a space you can get work done in and will separate the personal from professional.

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

949-753-7900

What are your Thanksgiving traditions?

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 16:32:38 -0600

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to be with family, full of rich traditions.

My family and I wake up early and all help in the kitchen. Since they were young the kids loved helping, even if it was simply cracking an egg or stirring a few ingredients together. My mother-in-law always makes the mashed potatoes, she has the best recipe that no one else can seem to re-create. We always have something Italian in the spread of food and eat around 3 in the afternoon. The next day consists of relaxation, a long run, and left-over turkey sandwiches.

What are your family traditions? I'd love to hear them!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, enjoy the time off, and remember to always be Thankful!

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

Black Friday: Let the Sales Begin!

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 15:10:29 -0600

The dreaded, or should I say exciting to those who look forward to it all year, Black Friday is upon us again. Mothers and people alike will gather around and countdown until the craze for holiday gift shopping and sale prices begin. Every store has most likely begun to not only mentally, but physically prepare for the determined shopper who will stop at nothing to get their child or themselves the item they most want. It amazes me that some dedicated individuals will wake up at the crack of dawn to stand in line and wait outside of a store as if they are waiting for a new attraction to open at Disneyland. As most of the people begin the countdown, I know I will most likely enjoy sleeping in and relaxing the morning of Black Friday.

For all of those devoted and completely focused Black Friday individuals... I wish you good luck. I know that it may be stressful and you may become overwhelmed by either hostile or over bearing costumers, especially those who are working retail, but just remember to try and remain composed and stay filled with holiday cheer!

Here are some helpful tips on what you can do to make Black Friday a more pleasant experience for you.

1) Plan on shopping in an area where stores are close together.

2) Bring food with you, or allot for a breakfast break

3) Don't go it alone. Bring your spouse, parent, sibling, friend

4) Look at the ads before you set out

Along with those helpful hints, be on the lookout for stores who have decided to one up the other stores and begin their Black Friday prices and sales a few days early in order to relieve some of the stress. Good luck and happy shopping to all of those on the Friday after Thanksgiving ....BLACK FRIDAY!

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

(Thank you to Google Image and the OC Register for information.)

Photo Friday! Laguna Beach Beauty

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:14:20 -0600

I just wanted to share a picture from home! Thank you Laguna and Happy Friday everyone, I hope you all have an amazing weekend.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection. www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Oprah says goodbye

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:50:56 -0600

According to many reports, Oprah will announce on Friday that she has decided to end her talk show. The show is said to end September 9, 2011--the last day of her current contract.

Oprah is a legend. Her show has changed the lives of thousands. The Queen of Daytime is set to change the landscape of television with her departure.

Do you think this is true? Or will it be a Brett Favre-like retirement only to come back the next season?

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

949-753-7900

Caruso's OC Happenings~

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:10:08 -0600

SOUTH COUNTY

ALISO VIEJO

Come out and join Laguna Canyon Foundation on a 3.5 mile hike at the Aliso and Wood Canyon's Wilderness Park. For more information call 949-923-2235.

DANA POINT

The Dana Point Turkey Trot is hosting a VIP party kick off at the Ocean Institute tonight from 5:30- 7:30 p.m. For more information call 949-496-1555.

LAGUNA BEACH

Nothing to report.

LAGUNA HILLS

Nothing to report.

LAGUNA NIGUEL

The City Council will meet tonight to discuss the renovation of Crown Valley Community Park Pool which will cost around $390,000. They are considering also purchasing a replacement pool filter system. For more information visit cityoflagunaniguel.org.

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

Nothing to report.

SAN CLEMENTE

The City Council will discuss plans for the new community sports park as well as ideas for construction. The sports park will include an aquatics center, lighted sports fields and a miniature golf course.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

San Juan Hills High School is raising money for their athletic department by selling Christmas trees. Not only can families order a tree for themselves, but they can also purchase a tree for U.S. Marine Corps Families. The deadline to order a tree is on Dec. 5^th at the San Juan Hills High School. For more information visit sjhhs.school.loop.com/christmastrees

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

For more information, please visit ocregister.com

Caruso's OC Happenings~

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:07:13 -0600

CENTRAL COUNTY

COSTA MESA

CERT Fundraiser: If residents mention "Costa Mesa Cert" while enjoying a meal at Newport Rib Co. twenty percent of the bill will be given to the Costa Mesa Community Emergency Response Team. So go enjoy a meal and help a great cause! For more information visit costamesacert.org.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

Come enjoy a free popcorn and soda while watching "Holiday" at the Fountain Valley Library. For more information call 714-962-1324.

HUNTINGTON BEACH

Have access to the Huntington Library 24/7 by using its online resources at www.hbpl.org. You can mange your account, access research databases and discover their virtual audio book service.

IRVINE

Nothing to report.

LOS ALAMITOS

The Recreation and Community Service Department will hold a clinic in order to prepare for the Race on the Base. The clinic hopes to offer tips on how to complete the triathlon as well as point out key strategies for staying hydrated and not injuring yourself. Clinics will be held on Saturday Dec. 12^th from 10-11:30 a.m. for more information call 562-430-1073.

NEWPORT BEACH

Nothing to report.

ORANGE

Come out and visit Rep. Ed Royce R- Fullerton at his 40^th District Open House from 5-8 p.m. Nov. 30^th. Ed hopes to answer questions from his constituents and address current issues important to them. For more information call 714-744-4130.

SANTA ANA

In honor of National American Indian Heritage Month, the Civic Center Plaza will be hosting a Native American Dancer named Rodney Howard at 6:30 p.m.

SEAL BEACH

On Nov. 27^th at 4 p.m. the Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce will be celebrating its 2^nd annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Holiday music, hot chocolate and activities for children will all be provided. Toys for Tots will also be accepting gift donations for the upcoming holiday season. For more information visit sealbeachchamber.org.

TUSTIN

Nothing to report.

VILLA PARK

On Wednesday, the Hooked on Hallmark Ornaments will be hosting their monthly meeting at 6 p.m. For more information visit HoHoClub@cox.net

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards. Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI 2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

For more information visit ocregister.com

Caruso's OC Happenings~

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:04:07 -0600

North County

ANAHEIM

Nothing to Report.

BREA

The annual Made In California exhibit, part of the City of Brea Gallery, is accepting entries until January 25, 2010. The exhibit will take place March 27, 2010 to May 10, 2010. A wide variety of artists will be attending and prizes will be awarded to the winners. For more information call 714-990-7730 or visit breagallery.com

BUENA PARK

The Mayor is hosting a prayer breakfast Thursday at 7 am at Knott's Berry Farm Resort Hotel. Advance purchasing is required. For more information call 714-236-3860.

CYPRESS

Nothing to report.

FULLERTON

Come celebrate the 100^th birthday of the grandfather clock in the Children's Library at 6:30 p.m. November 18, 2009. An array of activities such as puppet shows as well as face-painting will be offered. There will also be a delicious clock shape cake to indulge in! For more information call 714-738-6343.

GARDEN GROVE

In preparation for college, as well as pointers on leadership skills, building money management and financial aid, Sen. Lou Correa's office will be providing workshops sponsored by Pathways to Higher Education from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Coastline Community College. For more information call 714-558-4400.

LA HABRA

On November 26, 2009, Calvary Chapel La Habra will be providing a free Thanksgiving dinner to the public from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information call 714-446-6222.

LA PALMA

Nothing to report.

PLACENTIA

CareMore Care Center had its grand opening on Saturday. The center will provide assistance and medical to seniors. It is located on 1325 N. Rose Drive.

STANTON

Nothing to report.

WESTMINSTER

On December 4, 2009, the Soroptimist International of Westminster will be holding its annual lunch and action beginning at 11:30 a.m. For more information call 909-596-4261.

YORBA LINDA

On December 12, 2009, people are encouraged to come take a walk down "Peppermint Lane" with Santa Claus and his helpers from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Yorba Linda Community Center. Breakfast as well as other entertainment and activities will be offered. For more information call 714-961-7181.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

For more information visit orangecountyregister.com

Top 10 Wackiest Holidays

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:09:52 -0600

Source: Toptenz.net. Read Here.

The traditional holidays Christmas and Thanksgiving are fast approaching, but did you know there is a special holiday or observance for just about any day or month of the year? Here are some TOP 10 WACKIEST HOLIDAY OBSERVANCES

10. International Talk like a Pirate Day

Talk like a Pirate Day is observed on September 19th every year and it’s always a fun holiday to celebrate. This holiday encourages you to talk like a pirate all day. Refer to your friends or others as maties. Or throw in random pirate language in your everyday speaking like ahoy or aye aye or arrrr!!! There is a whole new vocabulary to learn when talking like a pirate so make sure you are prepared by going to the official talk like a pirate day web site. They even have a countdown to the next Talk Like a Pirate Day. They take their holiday very seriously!

9. Go for Broke Day

Go for Broke Day is always observed on April 5th each year. Go for Broke Day is the day to put it all on the line, take a chance, place a bet, roll the dice and take a risk. It could be money or love. It could be taking a new job or initiating a risky project. Many of us go about our daily lives playing it safe, just floating through life and not really taking that many big chances. If you are overly conservative or hardly ever take chances then this is the day to let loose and put it all out there. You just might have an exhilirating experience if you take a chance on something. If you can get up the courage to take a risk, then put it all out there and go for broke!

8. National Sarcastics Month

National Sarcastics Month is observed for the whole month of October. You can observe this wacky holiday by being as sarcastic as you can be. Go ahead and try it out! You will also be made aware of how sarcasm can affect others when you are being sarcastic with others or they are sarcastic with you. Some people take this type of humor nicely and others really don’t care for it, so be careful who you choose to be sarcastic with.

7. International Moment of Frustration Scream Day

This holiday is observed on October 12th every year. On this day every year you can share your frustrations with all the citizens of the world. You are encouraged to go outside at twelve hundred hours Greenwich time and scream for a solid thirty seconds. Screaming can make you feel better when you are frustrated. I’m seriously thinking about observing this holiday every time I get frustrated from now on! This holiday was created by Thomas & Ruth Roy under the name of Wellcat Holidays & Herbs.

6. National Whiners Day

National Whiners Day is observed on December 26th each year. As you can imagine this is the day to whine about anything and everything in life or whatever. If you’re already a whiner this will come easy for you. For someone who’s not usually a whiner, find something that’s annoying you and whine incessantly about it. You may not be able to change it, but you can gripe and whine your heart out about it today. Go ahead and whine because no one can blame you for whining like a baby today.

5. International Panic Day

International Panic Day is always observed on June 18th and is a day for everyone to be worried and concerned. There is no one reason that is provided for the panic, just that this is the day to observe widespread and mass panic. There is also a Panic Day that is observed in March.

4. Blame Someone Else Day

You can celebrate this day on the first Friday the 13th of the year. This is the day of the year where you can take every mistake you’ve ever made and put the blame on someone else. Go ahead, blame the Democrats, the Republicans or anyone in between. Find someone to blame for everything you’ve ever done poorly or started and never finished. Be careful though because remember others can blame you for their shortcomings this day too. Once this day passes it’s all your fault again, so remember to use Blame Someone Else Day wisely!

3. Have a Bad Day Day

Have a Bad Day Day is always observed on November 19th each year. Have a Bad Day Day is observed by encouraging people to wish other people to have a bad day. Instead of saying have a good day all the time, this is the one day a year when it’s okay to instead say “Have a bad day!”. So, I hope you have a bad day!

2. Get a Different Name Day

Get a different name day is for people who do not like their name or the name that was given to them at brith. That’s okay, because you didn’t have a choice at birth, you had to go with whatever your parents gave you. If you like your name that’s great. But if you don’t like your name, then this day is definitely for you. Take advantage of the day and change your name. Get a Different Name Day is actually a copyrighted holiday. Even if you like your name you could still changed it up on this day just for fun. Get a Different Name Day is observed on February 13th every year.

1. National Inane Answering Message Day

Observed on January 30th every year, this holiday encourages you on this day to bring an end to all of the mindless and endlessly long answering machine messages that annoy and waste the time of callers. Or, you could leave a long, drawn out, insane message on your machine this day. The choice is up to you.

Written by Amanda Haddix

ENJOY!

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

949-753-7900

Changes to California Disclosure Forms!

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:53:22 -0600

C.A.R. is releasing new forms today. They are available in WINForms or zipFORM or at your local board this

week. California REALTORS® pay attention!

Most notable among the forms is a revised Disclosure Regarding Real Estate Agency Relationships (Form AD). The revised AD form aims at ending the confusion surrounding the form by allowing a buyer’s agent to use just one form for both the seller and buyer to sign. According to C.A.R., "REALTORS® may now handle the delivery of the AD form in either of two ways:

Alternative A: Agents may continue the existing practice of generating three AD forms in a typical transaction. The first AD form is generally signed by the listing agent and seller before entering into a listing agreement. Absent dual agency, the second AD form is generally signed by a buyer's agent and buyer before writing an offer. The third AD form is generally signed by the buyer's agent and seller. An AD form signed by the buyer's agent and seller does not create an agency relationship between the buyer's agent and seller because the AD form is merely an information sheet. The actual confirmation of agency is stated separately in paragraph 27C of the C.A.R. Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA).
Alternative B: The procedure for Alternative B is stated in the explanation box at the bottom of the newly revised AD (revised 11/09). Agents will still prepare the first and second AD forms stated in Alternative A. The buyer's agent, however, may now deliver to the seller the second AD form signed by the buyer's agent and buyer. The seller may sign acknowledgement of receipt of that AD form on the signature line in the explanation box. No third AD form is needed under Alternative B."

Other new and newly revised C.A.R. standard forms include the following: REO Advisories (Forms REO and REOL) and Property Management Addendum.

For a complete summary of these and other forms in C.A.R.'s November 2009 Forms Release, click here.

And Thank You For Making Me Your Orange Count Real Estate Connection!

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

Welcome to Hollywood

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 22:06:20 -0600

Beautiful California!

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

949-753-7900

Christmas already?

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 13:25:31 -0600

It's not even Thanksgiving yet but we are already being hit with Holiday reminders.

Santas are filling the malls, I've been hearing Christmas songs play in stores, and commercials are telling us what to buy as gifts. In NYC the tree is already up in Rockefeller Plaza and Radio City Music Hall's Christmas spectacular is already performing.

It looks like the economic situation is forcing companies to remind us to buy for the holidays ahead of time. Retailers are already offering lay-a-way plans to boost holiday sales. I think there needs to be a rule that Decorations can only go up after a certain date. I know my neighborhood doesn't allow lights until after Thanksgiving. What do you think??

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

949-753-7979

PLAY IN THE MUD AND SUPPORT WOUNDED WARRIORS

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 17:14:26 -0600

In honor of Veteran's Day and a celebration for those who have served our country, 5 Star Generation is helping raise funds for Wounded Warriors, YMCA Armed Services and other organizations. The Mud Run is a fun way to exercise as well as enjoy obstacles and mud pits along the way. Live entertainment as well as beverages and food will also be available.

I encourage those of you who do not have plans for Saturday November 14th, to make their way out to Camp James (located right behind Wild Rivers in Irvine) and come have some fun!

And Don't Worry... You Can Sign Up Race Day or Sign up on active.com ( www.tinyurl.com/5starmud )

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Skin Cancer in the Winter?

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 21:58:25 -0600

If you think its fine to slack off on the sunscreen in winter because the sun isn't as strong, your wrong.

The sun's rays are just as harmful when the temperature drops. UVB rays may be weaker, but you shouldn't pass on wearing sunscreen. The glare from the snow, buildings, and even sidewalks can make short wave UVB waves, which burn you, up to 80% more intense. UVAs, which cause skin cancer, remain the same year round. You acquire the same about of UVA damage when your outdoors on a rainy day as you would on a sunny beach day in the summer.

So, wear sunscreen! Yes, even if its gloomy out!

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection!

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

Find your true calling

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 22:04:48 -0600

With many Americans without a job, its forcing people to reexamine their career path. Advice from Rick Smith, author of The Leap, "You'll be most fulfilled and successful if your duties merge your strengths and passions."

Rather than job hopping, pass on these 3 low-risk steps to help friends and family, or yourself, choose a career:

1. Determine your strengths: find the sweet spot between your talents and interesrts. Based on your passions, look into such careers you may flourish in.

2. Test-Drive your dream: To find out if the career you're looking at is right for you, pursue projects in our office or outside that use your talents. You might even try volunteering. You won't know until you try

3. Gain experience: if the career you are test driving seems like a good fit, try to transition into it at the workplace by building your reputation and showcasing your talents. Or help a friend or peer out with something you want to get in to so they can see your talents, pass along your name, and you'll be gaining practice all at the same time.

If you are still having trouble, www.colorassessment.com helps you discover what career you may flourish in and www.vocationvacations.com provides you with condensed, few day internships. Good luck!

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection!

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

Happy Birthday Big Bird!

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:11:08 -0600

Sesame Street, The children's television show home to Cookie Monster, Elmo and Big Bird turned 40 today.

My kids watched this when they are young and it is amazing to know that their kids may be watching it too. Sesame Street is shown in 140 countries and has helped millions of children learn to count and read.

To celebrate, Michelle Obama was featured on the show today.

Happy Birthday Sesame Street! From all of us at the Michael Caruso Real Estate Group!

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

949-753-7900

Where were you when the Berlin Wall fell?

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:50:53 -0600

November 9, 1989 we all watched the fall of the Berlin Wall. It was a night of joy, celebration, and great momentum for the future.

On the 20th anniversary, thousands of people are joining world leaders Germany today to remember the night when a euphoric wave of people swept away the Berlin Wall and began the end of the Cold War. And this anniversary is a reminder that we need to help others find freedom. Liberate them of their repressive regimes and take greater strides toward global progress.

While most of you won't be celebrating today, let's reflect. Do you remember where you were or what you were feeling when the wall fell? Please share!

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection!

Best Regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GRI GREEN

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

www.michaelcarusorealestate.com

Visit CNN.com for a Berlin Wall anniversary special feature.

Photo: AP, BBC News

Speechless Sundays! Sailing into the Horizon

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 16:25:58 -0600

Sometimes we just need to take a breath of fresh air and sail into the horizon. I hope you enjoy looking at this sunset as much as I do! Happy Sunday.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

How Many AR Points Can You Earn in a Year

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:01:03 -0600

Earlier this week I wrote about the point driven AR junkie (nothing wrong with that) who is diligent and makes their 10 comments a day and 10 posts per week...

Just how many points can they earn in a year?

There were 3 choices.

The reason for the post is that I've seen a few members surge well beyond the maximum awardable points by AR and simply wondered 1) How they manged to beat the system? 2) Is that a character trait...a win at any cost mentality? and 3) Why hasn't the fairly good customer service technical staff discovered the highly unusual accumulation of points in a relatively short period of time by system abusers?

I find AR a great platform for sharing ideas, systems and referrals. I hurts me to see that a few people choose it to drive their ego rather than see it as another community they can thrive in by being creative and ethical.

Thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

Best regards,

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRD GREEN GRI

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

The Happenings~ North

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:36:45 -0600

ORANGE COUNTY HAPPENINGS - NORTH

ANAHEIM

Nothing to Report.

BREA

Spring 2010 PONY Baseball registration will be held Saturday Nov. 7th from 8 am until noon at the Brea Glenbrook Clubhouse. For more information visit www.breapony.com

BUENA PARK

Get your cats and dogs vaccinated! From 9-11 a.m. the South East Animal Control Authority will be available to help protect your animals at the Ehlers Community Recreation Center. For more information call 800-988-VETS.

CYPRESS

The Cypress Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a breakfast Tuesday Nov. 10th at 7:30 a.m. with keynote speaker Mary Lou Giska. The Chamber and U.S. Marines will be joining in efforts to raise money for the Toys for Tots program. For more information and reservations call 714-827-2430.

FULLERTON

The annual Holiday Banquet at the Assistance League will be held on Nov. 12-13th from 10-3 p.m. at the Bargain Box Thrift Store. For more information call 714-526-5124.

GARDEN GROVE

Nothing to report.

LA HABRA

The Police Department will receive a state grant issuing $53,639 in order to keep drunk drivers off the road by issuing vital checkpoints from Dec. 16th- Jan. 3rd as well as Aug. 20- Sept 6th. Please be safe and don't drink and drive!

LA PALMA City

Offices will be closed Wednesday Nov. 11th in observation of Veterans Day. Street Sweeping and Trash collection will continue their regular schedules.

PLACENTIA

Nothing to report.

STANTON

The St. Polycarp Women's Council will host their first annual Christmas Bazaar on Nov. 21st from 9-4 p.m. and 8-3 p.m. on Nov. 22nd at 8100 Chapman Ave.

WESTMINSTER

Do you love blogging? Come join the Register and help them blog! For information call 714-796-7909.

YORBA LINDA

Nothing to Report.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection. www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900 For more information visit orangecountyregister.com

The Happenings~ Central

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:07:00 -0600

Central Orange County

COSTA MESA

Barnes and Nobel in Metro Point is donating a portion of their sales to the Costa Mesa Library Foundation until Sunday Nov. 8^th. People are asked to make mention to either the cashier or café. All proceeds will work towards building a new central library. For information visit www.costamesalibraryfoundation.com

FOUNTAIN VALLEY

Calling all seniors! The Founders Village Senior Center will be hosting a Thanksgiving luncheon feast from 11:30 - 1:00 P.M. on Nov. 24^th. The event offers delicious turkey, raffles prizes and entertainment. For more information call 714-593-4446.

HUNTINGTON BEACH

Nothing to report.

IRVINE

University High School will be celebrating their 40^th anniversary by hosting an open house, which includes campus tours, dinner, and performances, Nov. 6^th from 4-7 P.M.. For more information visit www.uhs40.com

LOS ALAMITOS

Nothing to report.

NEWPORT BEACH

Come celebrate the 234^th birthday of the Marine Corps on Saturday Nov. 7^th on the Balboa Peninsula. Festivities begin at 5 P.M. and will include dancing, dinner and an auction. Proceeds will benefit the adopted military battalion. For more information call 949-673-5070.

ORANGE

Legion Post #132 will be hosting their annual Veterans Day Pancake Breakfast Sunday November 8^th. For information call 714-538-6311.

SANTA ANA

Nothing to report.

SEAL BEACH

Free memory screening for seniors will be held at the Orange County Care Connections Outreach and Redeemer Adult Day Care from 9- 11:30 at Leisure World on Nov. 17^th. For information call 562-596-1209.

TUSTIN

A free Veterans Day Concert will be hosted by the Beckman High School Patriot Marching Band at 7 p.m. on Monday Nov. 9^th. The American Legion Post # 227 will be attending and presenting other veterans. For information call 714-734-2900.

VILLA PARK

The Villa Park Women's League is helping encourage community members to stop by the Villa Pharmacy and help needy youngsters from two local families by picking up a "Giving Tree" tag. For more information call 714-335-9800.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

For more information visit ocregister.com

The Happenings~ South

Michael Caruso Real Estate Group — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:24:11 -0600

ORANGE COUNTY HAPPENINGS ~ SOUTH

ALISO VIEJO
Congratulations to the Veterans who were recognized on Wednesday at City Hall.

DANA POINT
Today, Camp Pendleton's commanding officer Col. Nicholas Marano will recognize $50 million bachelor's enlisted quarters in Las Flores through a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The quarters will house over 600 Marines!

LAGUNA BEACH
Laguna Beach Marines will celebrate their 234th birthday at the American Grill, at Canyon Lodge. All Laguna Marines are encouraged to come and enjoy a wonderful evening. For reservations or information call 949-499-2663.

LAGUNA HILLS
December is right around the corner, which means... Santa is coming to town! Santa will be at the Laguna Hills Community Center from 9- 10:30 A.M. on Dec. 5th. Attendees will enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast, holiday crafts and of course a photo opportunity with Santa. For information call 949-707-2680 or visit ci.laguna-hills.ca.us

LAGUNA NIGUEL
Nothing to report.

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA
Tijeras Creek Elementary School will be hosting a Harvest Carnival from 4:30 - 7 P.M today, November 6, 2009. Get out there and go enjoy yourselves! For more information visit tces.capousd.ca.schoolloop.com

SAN CLEMENTE
Come enjoy the Taste of San Clemente Tonight! The event begins at 6:00 P.M at the Rancho San Clemente Tennis & Fitness Club. For information and tickets call 949-492-1131.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
Nothing to report.

And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900
For more information, please visit ocregister.com