Newport Beach Corona Del Mar CA Real Estate Blog

One Pelican Hill Road North Finally Sold At Auction

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

An unfinished, 16,600-square-foot mansion in the Newport Coast area of Newport Beach, CA, that was once listed for $57 million has sold at auction for $18.5 million last week. The property includes an unfinished 16,600 sq.ft. mansion, a “wine cave,” a 17-car garage, private lake with waterfall and fountain, private vineyard, horse stable and riding area, and a separate caretaker’s cottage. The mansion boasts 8 bedrooms and 17 bathrooms!

It’s estimated the new buyer will need to infuse an additional $3 million to complete the original plans for the property. The approximately 200 creditors and tradespersons with claims against the property will also need to approve the terms of last weeks’ auction before the sale is finalized.

The property is situated on the inland side of Pelican Hill Road with views of the canyon and beyond.

1,776 American Flags to Commemorate Armed Forces Day at Castaways Park, Newport Beach, CA

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This impressive display of 1,776 American Flags to commemorate Armed Forces Day will again be installed at Castaways Park, Newport Beach, CA from May 18-20, 2012.

Castaways Park is the perfect location with its' permanent memorial statue to the Marines and outlook vistas over Newport Harbor. Walking amidst the flags, most of which were purchased as a memorial to a military or armed personnel loved one, is a sobering and thoughtful experience which allows for quiet reflection. The flags display itself is a must see.

On Saturday, May 19th, at 12 noon there will be a commemoration program with various members of the different Armed Forces, historical military vehicles, and several WWII veterans to chat with.

Personally, I find that walking through this field of flags to be a serene and reflective time to be cherished.

8th Annual OC Marathon in Newport Beach & Around the Back Bay

Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The 8th Annual OC Marathon is tomorrow! May 6th, 2012.

Am I running? Only in my dreams....but I'll cheer the runners on as they pass through my neighborhoods. Yes they'll be going through the Upper Newport Back Bay which brings back memories of our rustic home on the 1/2 acre lot, our two pygmie goats, 4 rabbits, 3 dogs, 1 cat, and three kids...smile, smile. And our fabulous ice cream soda fountain room with jukebox and pool table. Plus our more recent Dover Shores neighborhood home (we still have the milk shake makers and hot fudge machine but sold the jukebox last year).

So, go runners, go! We'll see you along the route!

10 Things To Know About Tax Consequences and Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Through Short Sales and Foreclosures

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Over the past several years, millions of homeowners have had billions of dollars in mortgage debt forgiven, either through foreclosure, refinancing or short sales. It's important for real estate professionals and homeowners to understand that mortgage debt forgiveness has significant tax consequences.

Here are 10 things the Internal Revenue Service says you should know about mortgage debt forgiveness:

1. Normally, when a lender forgives a debt -- that is, relieves the borrower from having to pay it back -- the amount of the debt is taxable income to the borrower. Thus, a homeowner who had $100,000 in mortgage debt forgiven through a short sale would have to pay income tax on that $100,000, as an example.
Fortunately, under the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007, you may be able to exclude from your taxable income up to $2 million of debt forgiven on your principal residence from 2007 through 2012. This means you don't have to pay income tax on the forgiven debt.

2. The limit is $1 million for a married person filing a separate return.

3. You may exclude from your taxable income debt reduced through mortgage restructuring, as well as mortgage debt forgiven in a foreclosure.

4. To qualify, the debt must have been used to buy, build or substantially improve your principal residence and be secured by that residence.

5. The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act applies to home improvement mortgages you take out to substantially improve your principal residence -- that is, they also qualify for the exclusion.

6. Second or third mortgages you used for purposes other than home improvement -- for example, to pay off credit card debt -- do not qualify for the exclusion.

7. If you qualify, claim the special exclusion by filling out Form 982: Reduction of Tax Attributes Due to Discharge of Indebtedness , and attach it to your federal income tax return for the tax year in which the debt was forgiven.

8. Debt forgiven on second homes, rental property, business property, credit cards or car loans does not qualify for the tax-relief provision. In some cases, however, other tax-relief provisions -- such as bankruptcy -- may be applicable. IRS Form 982 provides more details about these provisions.

9. If your debt is reduced or eliminated, you normally will receive a year-end statement, Form 1099-C: Cancellation of Debt, from your lender. By law, this form must show the amount of debt forgiven and the fair market value of any property foreclosed.

10. Examine the Form 1099-C carefully. Notify the lender immediately if any of the information shown is incorrect. You should pay particular attention to the amount of debt forgiven in Box 2 as well as the value listed for your home in Box 7.

The IRS has created a highly useful Interactive Tax Assistant on its website that you can use to determine if your canceled debt is taxable. The tax assistant tool takes you through a series of questions and provides you with responses to tax law questions.
For more information about the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007, see IRS Publication 4681: Canceled Debts, Foreclosures, Repossessions and Abandonments. You can get it from the IRS website at irs.gov.
(Stephen Fishman is a tax expert, attorney and author)

When you hear -It's a Boy! or, It's a Girl!....think- It's a House!

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Especially for all you grandparents.

When you hear "It's a girl!" or "It's a boy!" you should be thinking "it's a house!", and here's how you can fund that college education. A properly purchased residential investment property for its' cash flow on a 15-year mortgage can fund your grandchild's college education.

Watch this 55 second video and find out how. Then call me. I'm glad to help.

http://bit.ly/itsaBoy-itsaGirl-itsaHouse

Some Things Are Just Too Good Not To Share - Watch this Honda Commercial (wow!)

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Honda Commercial: READ BEFORE WATCHING (you'll be amazed)!!

If you thought that the people who set up a room full of dominoes to have them knocked over later was amazing, you haven't seen anything yet. This is the new Honda commercial in the UK. Very important that you understand: There are no computer graphics or digital tricks in these images. Everything that you see happened in real time exactly as you see it.

The recording required 606 takes and in the first 605 takes there always was something, usually of minor importance, that didn't work. It was necessary for the recording team to install the set-up time after time and it took several weeks working day and night to achieve this effect. The recording cost 6 million dollars and it took 3 months to finish.

The duration of the video is only 2 minutes, but every time that Honda shows the commercial on British television, they make enough money to support any of us for the rest of our lives. However, this commercial has turned out to be the most displayed in the history of the Internet. Honda execs think that it will pay for itself simply because of the free showings. There are only six Honda Accords built by hand in the whole world, and to the horror of Honda engineers, the recording team dis-assembled two of them for the
recording.

Everything you see in the sequence (besides the walls, floor, ramp and the untouched Honda Accord) is part of those two automobiles. The voice is that of Garrison Keiller. The commercial was so well received by Honda execs when they saw it, that their first comment was how amazing the computer graphics were. They almost fell out of their chairs when told that the recording was real without any graphics manipulation.

By the way, about the windshield wipers in the new Honda Accords, they are sensitive to water and designed to start working as soon as they get wet!

ENJOY! http://youtu.be/l2eeNZL-1xM

FHA Extends Temporary Waiver of Anti-Flipping Rule Through 2012

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) announced last week they will permit property buyers who acquire, rehabilitate and resell foreclosed properties to resell them within the first 90 days of acquisition (aka "flip"). FHA states this will allow homes to resell as quickly as possible helping to stabilize real estate prices and, secondarily, to revitalize communities with high foreclosure rates.

What many residential investors who rehabilitate these homes already know is that once they've come in and remodeled or upgraded a neglected or repossessed home and put it back on the market, and it sells at the higher purchase price, it helps to improve the comparable value of the homes and neighborhoods around it. The profit "rehab and resell" investors may make is their reward for taking the risk to acquire and improve a deteriorating or distressed asset.

Sallie Mae 2011 Interest Payment Notices...Take All The Deductions You Can

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 07:58:00 GMT

If You Have A Student Loan Through Sallie Mae..Here's The End-of-Year Notice Regarding Your 2011 Interest Payment and Deduction

"Calculations are still being made to determine the amount of interest that you paid during the 2011 tax year. This information will not be available through our website, automated voice system, or our agents until January 11, 2012. If you paid $600.00 or more in interest on a qualified education loan in 2011, then a Form 1098-E will be furnished to you by January 31, 2012, so please make sure your contact information is current.

If you haven't done so already, you may choose to receive Form 1098-E electronically by clicking the My Account�link and selecting the Edit Email Address and Permissions options.

Should you have questions regarding the filing of your taxes, please consult a tax advisor."*

(* information taken from the Salle Mae website)

Short Sale Protection and Provisions of California's SB 458

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

California SB 458 signed into law earlier this year added home seller protections in Short Sales!

On July 15, 2011, California's Governor signed SB 458 (Corbett) into law. Under the previous law - SB 931 signed in August 2010 and that took effect on January 1, 2011 - SB 458 extended the provisions and protections of SB 931.

SB 931 provides that a first mortgage holder can accept an agreed-upon short sale payment as payment in full for the outstanding balance on the first trust deed. SB 458 extended the protections of SB 931 to junior liens such as second trust deeds and HELOCs.

SB 458 ensures that any lender that agrees to a short sale must also accept the agreed short sale payment as payment-in-full of the outstanding balance of all loans.

“The signing of this bill is a victory for California homeowners who have been forced to short sell their home only to find that the lender will pursue them after the short sale closes, and demand an additional payment to subsidize the difference,” said C.A.R. President Beth L. Peerce. “SB 458 brings closure and certainty to the short sale process and ensures that once a lender has agreed to accept a short sale payment on a property, all lienholders – those in first position and in junior positions – will consider the outstanding balance as paid in full and the homeowner will not be held responsible for any additional payments on the property.”

Balboa Peninsula - Bounded by Water on Three Sides

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

General Information:

Newport Beach had its origin on "the peninsula" where many of the original beach cottages still remain. From the early days of McFadden’s Wharf where the local Rancheros loaded Cowhides and products on the coastal schooners, to the Balboa Pavilion and the rich history of the Red cars and “Balboa Days” of the 1940’s and 1950’s, Balboa has always been a focus point for Newport Beach. Currently there is ongoing discussion by the City of Newport Beach of re-development for the downtown and Balboa Pier areas. This would include renovation of the old theater, and new streets and sidewalks.

Boundaries:

The Balboa Peninsula is bounded by water on three sides starting at The Lido Island Bridge and Newport Island Bridge areas, and the Newport pier to the Newport Harbor entrance. Traditionally, though, the Peninsula properties are from the 15^th St. intersection to the wedge. Oceanfront beaches and bay activities are world famous.

Real estate information:

There are approximately 1200 custom homes with 390 of these lining and bayfront, oceanfront or the very exclusive Bay Island.

30 x 70 and zoned R1.
Oceanfront lots standard size 30 x 70.
Most bayfronts have docks that can add $200,000 to the value depending on size and location.
Some of the custom homes on the water, if available on the open market, could bring in excess of $10,000,000. Traditionally the homes past the split of Balboa Blvd. and Ocean Blvd. have had a higher demand and accordingly are more expensive. This is caused by the ending of public boardwalk on oceanfront homes, and the larger lot sizes on the bayfront homes past this point.

Homes and Schools:

The community is made up of an eclectric mix of Cape Cod, traditional, Mediterranean and contemporary style homes.
Zoning is about 75% R1 with areas near the Balboa Pavilion, the piers and on Balboa Blvd. having most of the R2 or R4 zoning.
There is a voluntary association for homeowners on the "point" area past Main St. Amentities include a tennis court, private beach access and a launching ramp for small boats. Fees are less than $20 yearly.
The Newport Elementary School at 14^th Street is located right on the oceanfront beach. Horace Ensign Middle School and Newport Harbor High School are located in Newport Heights with bussing available.

Fun Fact:

Residents and visitors can get on and off Balboa Peninsula by either driving the length of Balboa Blvd. from Pacific Coast Hwy, or they can take the historic Ferry across Newport Harbor via Balboa Island. The short Ferry trip is always a treat!

Belcourt- One of Newport Beach's Original Upscale Neighborhoods

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Belcourt is one of Newport Beach's original upscale and gated neighborhoods in the midst of coastal Orange County, California.

Boundaries: Belcourt is bounded to the west by Jamboree Road, to the north by Bison Avenue, to the east by MacArthur Blvd, and to the south by Ford Road.

Style: Belcourt provides five living experiences:

* The Terrace Collection of attached one and two-story houses range from 2,254 to 3,340 square feet.

* The Towne Collection is made up of two story homes with similar architectural style to townhomes in San Francisco, Boston and New York. Five different floorplans offer between 2,969 and 4,579 square feet of living space.

* The Manor Collection consists of traditionally-designed single family homes with 3,300 to 4,411 square feet on lots no less than 8,000 square feet.

* The Gallery Collection features lavish custom plans for four and five bedroom houses with approximately 3,500 to more than 5,200 square feet on 10,000 square foot lots.

* Homes in the Custom Collection offer up to 13,000 square feet on custom lots with up to 3/4 of acre or more of property that can accomodate large outdoor entertaining areas including pools, spas and private tennis courts.

Age of Neighborhood: Belcourt and Belcourt Hill homes were originally built in the early 1980's.

Community Features: Belcourt homes in Newport Beach have achieved an ideal family setting with flat streets, numerous cul-de-sacs and minimal traffic. All homes have access to swimming pools, spas and cabanas. Large trees, canopies and vibrant colors add to the beauty of this neighborhood. Totally walled-in privacy is secured by two guard gates, each manned 24 hours a day. Likewise, the homes of Belcourt Hill are also guard gated and feature lush, lavish landscaping.

Schools: Children attend Harbor View Elementary School, and Corona Del Mar Middle School and Corona Del Mar High School in the Corona Del Mar area of Newport Beach.

Shopping: The Newport North Shopping Center features upscale Gelson's Grocery and several convenient stores. Newport Beach's nearby Newport Center and Fashion Island include several restaurants and casual dining venues, world class shopping, plus several theatre options within Fashion Island and at the Newport Center Theatres.

Jasmine Creek in Corona Del Mar Area of Newport Beach

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Jasmine Creek is a Corona Del Mar neighborhood in Newport Beach which is bordered by San Joaquin Hills Road, Marguerite, Harbor View Drive and Crown Drive. Jasmine Creek enjoys plentiful nearby shops and restaurants including the world-class shopping of Newport Center's Fashion Island. From Jasmine Creek it's also an easy walk to "the village" of Corona Del Mar and the beach.

Homes: There are 325 attached homes with six models from which to choose. Modes 1,2 and 3 are single story homes ranging from 1,860 square feet to 2,200 square feet. Plan 4 is the largest home with more than 2,500 square feet and is an elegant two story model. Plans 5 and 6 have a split level design and quite often offer views of the ocean.

Age of Neighborhood: Jasmine Creek opened in 1974 with six model homes. It took about seven years to build the project out.

Builders: MJ Brock was the builder of this project and the architectual design was by Richardson-Nagy-Martin AIA.

Community Features: The total area of Jasmine Creek is approximately 43 acres. It offers a 24-Hour guard-gated entry with excellent security. Jasmine Creek was one of the first guard-gated communities built in Newport Beach. Jasmine Creek includes two pool complexes and several tennis courts, some with ocean views. Homeowners take great pride in their community and are constantly upgrading the amenities. Jasmine Creek is one of the best maintained communities in Newport Beach.

Schools: Children attend Harbor View Elementary, Corona Del Mar Middle School, and Corona Del Mar Senior High School.

Will IRS provide you any payment plan for the taxes you owe after the short sale deficiency balance is reported via 1099?

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 07:30:00 GMT

(Answer is from Bills.com)

"You might avoid paying taxes on the imputed income indicated in the 1099-C as per the "Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007 (HR 3648)." Mortgage Debt Relief Act will save some homeowners facing short-sales or foreclosures from paying federal taxes on the “forgiven” debt. There are very specific requirements:

• The mortgage is for the homeowner's principal residence. The relief does not apply to any debt forgiveness for any vacation or investment home.

• Forgiveness is only for the “acquisition indebtedness” of the principal residence. Acquisition Indebtedness is defined as the debt used to acquire, construct or rehabilitate the home.

• No relief is available for cash-out mortgages whether the cash-out takes the form of a refinanced first mortgage, a second mortgage, a home equity line of credit or a similar arrangement. Exception: If the cash-out was specifically used to improve the home and the homeowner has adequate records to prove it.

This bill relieves the specific homeowner of their federal tax liability but does NOT relieve the homeowner of their state income tax liability.

If you have refinanced your mortgage, have a second, a third or if this is an investment property -- you likely do not fall under the protection of this act at all. I strongly suggest that you enlist the counsel of an experienced attorney and for tax implications, get expert advice from an income tax professional (CPA). Ask the tax professional if you are eligible to use the IRS Form 982, so you can refrain from declaring as income any amount listed on a 1099-C you receive for cancellation of debt. You can read more on the FAQ section of the IRS document Home Foreclosure and Debt Cancellation.

2011-2012 Top Orange County, California Taxpayers

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 18:17:00 GMT

Top 20 Secured Taxpayers - Orange County, California

1. Irvine Co. $60,233,287

2. Walt Disney World Co. $36,701,081

3. So Cal Edison Co. $28,049,797

4. The Irvine Company LLC $15,066,716

5. Irvine Company LLC $13,538,209

6. Irvine Apartment Communities $9,744,315

7. Pacific Bell Telephone Company $9,000,575

8. Walt Disney World $8,446,094

9. United Laguna Hills $7,282,066

10. Heritage Fields El Toro LLC $7,012,321

11. Irvine Community Development Co. $6,684,971

12. Irvine Company $5,524,382

13. Irvine Land Company LLC $5,113,071

14. Bella Terra Associates LLC $4,826,052

15. Kaiser Foundation $4,641,436

16. Southern California Gas Company $4,460,855

17. Linn Western Operating, Inc. $4,382,013

18.OC/SD Holdings LLC $4,309,253

19. BRE Properties Inc. $3,736,895

20. South Coast Plaza $3,652,545

Top 20 Unsecured Taxpayers - Orange County, California

1. Cox Communications Inc. (Orange) $3,539,105

2. Garfield Beach CVS LLC $2,124,991

3. The Boeing Company (A Corp.) $1,805,478

4. Broadcom Corp. $1,447,168

5. Integrated Healthcare Holding Inc. $1,343,412

6. Cambro Manufacturing Co. (A Corp.) $1,289,542

7. Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations Inc. $1,268,113

8. Kimberly-Clark Worldwide Inc. $1,245,062

9. Southwest Airlines Co. (A Corp.) $1,220,794

10. B Braun Medical Inc. $1,193,805

11.Jazz Semiconductor Inc. $1,184,545

12. Time Warner Cable LLC $1,126,439

13. Allergan Sales LLC $1,105,262

14. CCDA Waters LLC $1,010,668

15. Tustin Legacy Community $963,939

16. Time Warner NY Cable LLC $934,102

17. Trans World Airlines Inc. $864,742

18. American Airlines Inc. $779,953

19. Continental Airlines Inc. $775,309

20.TEVA Parenteral Medicines Inc. $733,559

Fundraiser Tours of Balboa Island's Lovel Beach House This Sunday

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:02:00 GMT

A landmark home since 1926 along the Balboa Island boardwalk is Rudolph Schindler's Lovell Beach House. Plan to visit it this Sunday, October 16th as a guided open house fundraiser.

Several notable Architects, scholars, historians and the L.A.Times critic, Christopher Hawthorne, will be filling the role of Tour Guides at this Sunday's event. They will each share their perspective on Schindler while escorting small groups. The Lovell Beach House was designed by Schindler in 1926 along the Balboa Island boardwalk in a manner to preserve the ocean views. Schindler allowed access for cars and pedestrians by raising the house above the street and creating a play yard and parking below. The home features a two-story-tall glass-fronted living room, outdoor sleeping porch and a sun deck on the roof.

Tickets for the timed tours are $100 each with spots available between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Nearby on the beach, the MAK Center for Art and Architecture will set up a canopy, refreshments and Frisbees. Proceeds benefit the MAK Center. Tickets are available on the MAK Center website or by phone, (323) 651-1510.

Wanted: Licensed Assistant (Real Estate)

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Job Title: Licensed Assistant (Real Estate)

Job ID: 12111615

Begin Date: 10/10/2011

Duration:

Location: Orange County, CA (coastal)

Description: What if your job was also an affirmation of your high level of organization, attention to detail, and satisfaction of task completion? Well, we have a work environment that will have you doing just that. If you’re looking for “relaxed intensity” and a team that appreciates your contributions, you’ve come to the right place.

Role:

* As a Licensed Assistant you will be responsible as part of our front line of communication with our current, past, and potential clientele, as well as representing our Group to Agents/Brokers, business partners and associates.

* You will work with our Group Leader and other member Agents by holding them accountable to metrics, goals and quality of client service as well.

* You will help create systems and processes. You are computer literate and have PC experience.

* You are cool under pressure. You like helping people get what they need.

* You learn quickly and are ready for new challenges.

* You remove administrative and marketing tasks from the Group Leader and Group Agents freeing them to acquire, manage and close more business to the benefit of all Group Members.

Responsibilities:

* Provide peace of mind to the Group Leader via reliably and consistently completion of all tasks.

* Extensive Administrative, file management and Group assistance responsibilities. Maintain Group Leader’s calendar and appointments.

* Provide daily data and updates to Group Leader. Organize files and paperwork, and assist in creating systems and processes. Respond to all email correspondence. Help create marketing brochures and flyers. Manage copy and photos. Help build brand via marketing and public awareness.

* Work with Group Leader and all Agents/Group Members by holding them accountable to metrics, timeliness and processes while providing support and feedback. Maintain business processes to ensure continued smooth organizational work flow.

* Organize and maintain contacts. Assist with development of systems for buyers and sellers. Maintain follow-up forms and data; scheduled events and feedback.

* Assist management of Leads and Follow-up Systems. Assign new leads to appropriate system(s) and Agents.

Know and use proficiently: Outlook, MS Word, Excel, Powerpoint, flickr, MLS, ZipForms, DigitalInk/DocuSign, and more as applicable. Know or learn quickly, and use efficiently, other online systems or programs including MLS/Tempo/Carets, marketing programs, etc.

* Coordinate with Marketing Manager regarding marketing materials, content, design, and delivery.

Results:

* More effective Group Leader that is able to delegate administrative and other appropriate tasks to the Licensed Assistant and/or Group Members.

* Effectively managed time.

* Effective, dependable and smooth systems in place for all Group Members to rely on.

* Profitable growth appropriately shared with all Group Members.

Ideal Candidate:

* Positive can-do attitude. Natural self-starter, eager to take action and drive a process to completion.

* Exceptional attention to detail, highly organized, and able to contribute to improving or co-creating efficient processes and systems.

* Excellent communicator both verbally and in writing.

* RE Licensed. This is a commission-based position.

To Apply:

If your talents and experience meet the requirements we’ve listed above and you’re up for the challenge of helping our Group reach its’ potential, don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of a successful and growing team! Complete the free DISC Profile at http://www.tonyrobbins.com/ue/disc-profile.php. Please email your resume or experience, and DISC Profile, to LicensedAssistant@ocrealestate123.com.

Bear Flag Fish Company to Expand to Crystal Cove Promenade

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 16:29:00 GMT

Bear Flag Fish Company is one of those almost-best-kept-secrets (obviously not with its' plans of expansion) with the dynamite intersection of casual ambiance and excellent fresh grilled fish of all kinds and vegies. Great tacos, burritos, and a "rice bowl" that is actually a dinner sized platter meal of total yumminess. We always know we'll get fresh fish grilled to perfection and love eating at BFFC.

Well, it seems theyre so popular they're expanding to a second location in the Crystal Cove Promenade which will be a home run for Bear Flag Fish, the nearby Crystal Cove residents, and travelers along PCH between CDM and Laguna Beach.

In their new location, Bear Flag Fish Company will be offering the same items the original serves, including sashimi, smoked fish, poke, ceviche, oysters, New England clam chowder, a variety of grilled fish plates, tacos, burritos, and salads.

Now life would be just about perfect if we could convince Wing Lam and his brothers to open another Wahoo! Fish on 17th Street in Newport/Costa Mesa. Aaah, yes!

Wal-Mart Senior Greeter.....you never know who you're talking to

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 17:22:00 GMT

You just have to appreciate this one. Young people forget that we old people had a career before we retired......

Charley, a new retiree-greeter at Wal-Mart, just couldn't seem to get to work on time. Every day he was 5, 10, 15 minutes late. But he was a good worker, really tidy, clean-shaven, sharp-minded and a real credit to the company and obviously demonstrating their "Older Person Friendly" policies.

One day the boss called him into the office for a talk.

"Charley, I have to tell you, I like your work ethic, you do a bang-up job when you finally get here; but your being late so often is quite bothersome."

"Yes, I know boss, and I am working on it."

"Well good, you are a team player. That's what I like to hear.

Yes sir, I understand your concern and I will try harder.

Seeming puzzled, the manager went on to comment, I know you're retired from the Armed Forces. What did they say to you there if you showed up in the morning late so often?"

The old man looked down at the floor, then smiled.

He chuckled quietly, then said with a grin, "They usually saluted and said, Good morning, Admiral, can I get your coffee, sir?

Newport Dunes Offers Long-Term Tenancy to Live-Aboards

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 18:48:00 GMT

Because economic times are tough and the housing market is challenging, the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and Marina has decided to offer a liveaboard opportunity to boat owners long term that doesn't look nor feel like a large mortgage payment. Executive Vice President and GM, Adrew Theodorou, says the Dunes wants to provide the "freedom of boat living" especially for those who have been displaced by a tough economy.

The Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort provides campgrounds, boat tie-ups for liveaboards, laundry facilities, free ice, showers and restrooms, 24-hour security, a fitness center, parking, a dock box for extra storage, mailboxes and free Internet to “Liveaboards.” Residents alse enjoy a 20% discount to the Back Bay Bistro, the campground's onsite restaurant.

Does anyone have a boat I can borrow?

California To Build Desert Sunlight Solar Farm

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The Secretary of Interior has approved building the Desert Sunlight Solar Farm, in the California desert just east of Palm Springs.

When completed it will be the largest solar-photovoltaic facility in the country and will power over 165,000 homes.

With all the sunshine this solar farm should be a success and a nice compliment to the desert wind farms in the area.