Shay Realtors of RE/MAX Ranch & Beach

Long Ball Hitters

2012-03-06T16:23:00.000-08:00

Long Ball Hitters

I do not recall the first time I ever heard the term, "long ball hitter". I know for a fact the person who told me those words for the very first time was former San Diego Police Homicide Lieutenant, Jim Duncan. The ultimate, long ball hitter.
I remember when I first met Jim. At the time, none of us would have ever dared to call him, "Jim". Only terms acceptable were, "Sarge" or "Sergeant Duncan". Jim never said we had to call him, "Sarge" but as a rookie cop in Southeast San Diego in 1983, you felt like you were in an urban conflict. Using the term "sarge" was effective in an environment where decisions needed to be made quickly and orders followed promptly.

If anyone had ever suggested Sgt. Duncan and I would become close, lifetime friends, I would have said the person saying such a thing must be smoking, "sherm" (slang for PCP) and was obviously, UTI (under the influence) of the animal tranquilizer commonly referred to as, "angel dust". Sgt. Duncan had such a professional, no-nonsense demeanor, I never thought we would ever become so close. I was wrong, yet again.

It was a cold late night when I first met Sergeant Duncan and experienced his level of intensity at a critical incident. I was wearing my new police jacket that my mom and dad had sent me from Albuquerque, New Mexico. It was not the soft leathery police jacket I grew to treasure, later in my career. It was a nylon insulated, "chill chaser". In fact, everything I was wearing was brand new. I was fresh out of the police academy and my leather gun belt, handcuff case, and speed loaders all creaked when I moved as well as my black leather boots. I was all shiny and new, like a copper penny. I might have been shiny, but since I was new on the force, I didn't know jack. And I am not referring to the famous foam antenna mascot from a local San Diego fast food restaurant chain.

I am not sure if I was standing in the middle of the street or on the sidewalk when Sgt. Duncan approached me. I'm sure I looked like a frightened deer in the headlights of a car. Jim's first words were very clear and direct, "Officer, find your FTO, (Field Training Officer) - NOW and stay with him". All I knew was I had just arrived at my first, (soon to be countless) drive by shooting crime scenes. It was pandemonium and human chaos all tied together. If you have never been a cop to arrive at one of those type of shootings, you have missed out on a challenging experience.

Forget all the visual images. The sound alone puts you on sensory overload rather quickly. Arriving police units with overhead rotating red lights, shutting down their sirens as they park blocking the street. Grabbing their batons from the sleeve in the patrol car door they run to the victims. People screaming, street gang members yelling about the injustice they have experienced, the sound of brass shell casings being kicked across the concrete while police officers struggle to contain the crime scene, triaging victims, and trying to get clearance for paramedics to roll in as soon as humanely possible. That is, if any of the victims are still alive.

Most civilians do not realize that with any ongoing violent critical incident paramedics and fire fighters, "black out" their emergency lights and sirens and park their precious life saving equipment a block or two away from the shooting scene. They then wait for us to give clearance for them to respond to the actual scene.

At first glance that does not seem fair that we are delaying emergency medical treatment to people who have been shot. While in fact, it is very fair and necessary. Fire fighters turnout gear are good at stopping hot embers from burning their skin, but they would not even slow down a 158 grain, 9mm hollow point bullet traveling at around 3000 feet per second or even a small, 22 caliber round which has a nasty reputation for bouncing around the inside of your body. Firefighters also do not have all the necessary tools police have to gain control of a human problem that is spiraling out of control.

I would like to think that a fire is more predictable then people, but I really do not know that to be true. We jokingly referred to firefighters as, "hose draggers" but you wouldn't find me or most any cop interested in running into a house on fire. Firefighters are crazily brave. I don't know if "crazily" is a real word or not, but my hats off to all of them. They are amazing, when the chips are down.

The other thing about a drive-by gang shooting is how fast the word spreads in the communities. There were no twitter accounts or cell phones back then, especially in the communities I worked. The word of a "drive-by" or basically the shooting of a neighborhood kid or kids spread faster then a post on Facebook. As you are trying to tend to the victims, establish a perimeter on the crime scene to preserve evidence, every cop knows the clock is ticking. The clock for retaliation that quickly turns the shooting victim gangs rival turf into a ghost town, at least for a couple of nights.

The other clock ticking is how soon before family members of the victims arrive at the scene. The clock is ticking and there is so much to do. Usually a younger brother will arrive first with the frantic mother in tow. She will spill out of a car that screeches to a stop or she will run up on foot out of breath with fear in her eyes. If the yellow crime scene tape is up you will usually see the mother or father who recognizes their child in the street start pleading frantically something like, "Those are his shoes. That's my son. He was wearing that shirt when he left... They know it is probably their son but they then will plead desperately for us to tell them it isn't.

Sometimes they collapse right there on the sidewalk, while other times they will dip their shoulders and try to push their way into the crime scene. You know your in trouble when one of their hands grab the crime scene tape and try to raise it up so they can rush under it. I know they are desperately hoping they could breath life into their child who sometimes was simply at the wrong place, at the wrong time.

The situation is difficult enough, but if anyone contaminates your crime scene you can loose evidence of who the killers are. A defense attorney can then grill you months, or even years later and embarrass you on the witness stand in order to get the child's killers off on a technicality. You have to preserve the crime scene. When I signed up to be a cop, I never thought I would be struggling to restrain a grieving parent in a dirt alley where gang graffiti on the fences are illuminated by rotating emergency lights. It's probably a good thing I didn't have my own kids then. I now realize the tragic enormity of the parent's loss.

I am sure it is not true, but as a parent I like to think there is not a force on this earth that could ever stop me from getting to one of my sons who was lying, on a cold, dark street. I now know why they sometimes struggled so hard. So as the police radio crackled for more units needed at the scene to hold the line, officers and yes even Sergeant Duncan would take a stand to always do the right thing.

It was in that environment, year after year, I got to know so many, long ball hitters. I think the relationship cops have with each other are similar to other high risk professions like the military or other emergency services.

As Jim demonstrated and explained over the years, a long ball hitter is the type of person with a solid moral compass that always points true. The type of person that steps up to the plate in life and takes his cuts. He may strike out or he may make contact. He simply does his best. There will be adversity. There will be good and bad times. Let your handshake be your contract. Look people in the eye. Stand up to injustices. Depth of your own personal character is the most important thing you have in life.

As Jim demonstrated years later, even if your buddy spills his full beer into the casino chips in Vegas and the dealer and pit boss are giving you both the stink eye, just pat your buddy on the back and say, " Hey don't worry about it, deal em". And always, always, watch out for your partner.

Sorry, I went so long today. Theresa and I know our three boys, Troy, Raymond, and Ryan are still young kids and they don't even play baseball. I am still hopeful we are doing everything possible to make sure they will grow up to be true, Long Ball Hitters. I know Jim and Jeanne Duncan (shown in the above picture) would love that!

Have a great and safe week!

Exclusive 92127 Real EstateTREND REPORT

2012-03-02T11:24:00.002-08:00

As I mentioned in the last few weeks, there has been a surge in buyers purchasing homes. The numbers reported by the National Association of Realtors yesterday conform what we were seeing locally, was also occurring nationwide. January of 2012 had the largest number of homes sold in the last two years.

It will be interesting if this pattern holds. My gut feeling is that it will, unless gas prices continue to increase or something occurs internationally that results in a loss of confidence in the residential real estate market. The interesting aspect of what is occurring is that most people tend to have a mob mentality. If people are starting to put there swimsuits on to dive back into the residential real estate market others are likely to follow. If you look further down the road prices will then ultimately start to climb. The question is how far down the road will prices be stabilized and then increase?

In the report, prepared exclusively for Shay Realtors, you'll find easy-to-read graphs with statistics, and valuable information broken down into bite-size pieces about current market trends specifically for our zip code. There are two options: {condo report} or {single family report}

Unexpected Extras

2012-02-29T12:19:00.000-08:00

Sometimes in life you receive, "unexpected extras". We provide UE's for our clients by hosting, "client parties", writing personal note cards donut runs, valentine bread deliveries, movie nights in the park, etc. Basically, we are always looking for ways to exceed your expectations. As much as we like giving, our family also loves to receive, "unexpected extras".

If you want to experience UE's, become one of our clients, or simply go visit our friend, "Mario". He is the owner of the Dairy Queen - Orange Julius restaurant in Carmel Mountain. I was having lunch with a friend on Friday afternoon at Jalapenos Mexican restaurant when we walked just a few doors down to visit Mario's, DQ.

As we walked in we were struck by how spotlessly clean the restaurant was. Mario had us inspect areas the public does not normally get to see. As he showed us the storage and freezers he proudly proclaimed with his strong Portuguese accent, "look, very clean. You can even eat off the floor if you wanted". We also noticed there was no tip jar. That is especially UE.

It seems everywhere you go today including traffic stop lights, people want your money. When I asked Mario about his staff not accepting any tips he replied, "Your tip is returning to my business". He then pointed out a change receptacle on the counter. All the money deposited is donated to the Children's Miracle Network. I like that.

Another UE about Mario's business is his highly trained staff. They always greet you with a smile. The consistency in performance is amazing. His staff will often approach you with a cup of
cool water on a tray as you're finishing your ice cream. When has that ever happened to you in an ice cream shop? I have been in his DQ at different times of the day or evening due to the demands of our three boys. Each time the experience has been the same, lots of UE's. our three boys, Troy, Raymond and Ryan love Sweet Things Yogurt in 4S Village, as well as Mario's DQ.

If you want to experience UE's stop by and see Mario. Tell him you read about him in our 92127 EMagazine. He is a great small business man who puts his customers first. Mario accomplishes what few businesses really do, he provides quality, professional service and always adds those, "unexpected extras". Thanks, Mario, we noticed and appreciate the quality of service you and your employees provide!

Have a great week, and be sure to try and attend the annual Chelsea's Run. Chelsea and her family will never be forgotten. Details

Exclusive 92127 Real EstateTREND REPORT

2012-02-24T14:44:00.000-08:00

Some people think we have hit the bottom of the housing market ... I hope we have, but I am not so sure. Homes are selling and inventory is dropping, but there is still weakness and we have not seen any increase in values yet.
Investment property buyers are definitely back in the game and they are starting to crawl and bite over investment properties that will cash flow. With money so dirt cheap, I am not surprised. If your interested in this area, I suggest you put on your helmet, snap your chin strap, and start making some contact,....before the game is over.
I can't pass up this weeks update without a shout out to the over one hundred and fifty clients/friends that we dropped our, Annual Valentine Bread from Boudin Bakery to last Tuesday. It was great seeing many of you. If our paths missed, we hope you enjoyed the bread. If you have referred us anyone, or bought or sold a property, and you did not get your bread simply send us a note to editor@trustshay.com and say, "Where the heck is my bread?" Our data base, (which we never share with anyone) is pretty good, but not perfect..yet. Have a great week!

In the report, prepared exclusively for Shay Realtors, you'll find easy-to-read graphs with statistics, and valuable information broken down into bite-size pieces about current market trends specifically for our zip code.There are two options: {condo report} or
{single family report}

Disappearing Walls & Trampolines - Written by Ray Shay

2012-02-21T14:11:00.000-08:00

There are many cool aspects of owning a Real Estate Company in San Diego. Helping people relocate from other areas of the world to San Diego is one of our favorites. Another plus is watching ocean view sunsets from spectacular view homes. I also enjoy seeing good architecture as well as watching things as they are built.

Interest in building and how things are put together is probably more of a, "guy thing". As an example, if Theresa and I drive by a highway crew about to pour a portion of freeway, or yellow tractors are moving huge amounts of dirt, I joke how I would like to just get an ice chest of cold beer and a beach chair so I could sit and watch. Before I get complaints, I am sure there are some awesome female architects and many of you have an interest in construction as well.

I have a particular weakness for homes with disappearing walls. The glass doors that slide into the walls providing a sweeping view of the backyard, and at times a view of the Pacific Ocean. We recently helped some good friends find an incredible Santaluz home that was just under 9000 square feet. In today's real estate scene, for awhile anyway, you can purchase an estate home for far less then it would cost to build it. This particular home has it all, pool, ocean view, outdoor kitchen and of course, those incredible disappearing walls

I stopped by to check on our friends new home, after picking up two of our boys from soccer practice. Raymond and Ryan were wearing their soccer cleats as they clamored out of our Honda Element, (it was Santaluz so I parked our Honda discreetly). Our boys complained I would not allow them into the home. "C'mon dad? Why not? Do you think they will invite us over after they move in?" I laughed as I held our youngest son, Ryan's hand to make sure he did not fall into their incredible pool with a beach entry.

Standing on the rear patio we looked through the massive sliding glass doors into the living room. I described, in exhaustive detail, how the glass doors slid back to reveal the panoramic view. It was then Raymond exclaimed, "Holy cow, and Ryan yelled, "Oh my gosh". I was pleased they appreciated the architectural marvel I was showing them. I wondered if it was the engineering of the doors or the view to the ocean that made them so excited. I then saw their eager faces in the reflection from the glass doors.

Their attention was not on the disappearing walls or the ocean view at all. In fact, they were staring intently at an old Walmart trampoline in the rear yard. Their excitement built as they begged me to jump on it. It was another reminder that our kids are pretty much like all kids. They don't really care about square footage, disappearing walls or awesome views. To a kid, life is about having fun. It's about frisbees, footballs, and kicking a soccer ball. I think sometimes we try so hard to provide the best for our kids. In the process we forget what their top priorities are. They really don't care if a home is a thousand or nine thousand square feet. They just want our attention.

As we stood in the backyard of our friend's home with the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean, all I could say was, "OK, kick off your soccer cleats. You have five minutes and don't dare break your neck!" The solitude of Santaluz was likely broken with the Shay boys yelling at the top of their lungs, "Yippee, this is awesome dad" as they laughed and jumped around on that trampoline. It reminded me once again to learn from my kids. They have it right. We really shouldn't mess with perfection.

Theresa, myself and our family hope you have an awesome week with lots of laughter!

This Week in RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

2012-02-17T13:31:00.000-08:00

Lots of buyers still out shopping this week. We listed a short sale in San Marcos that went contingent the first day it hit the market with other agents looking to put in backup offers. If you are pricedcompetitively it will go quickly!

Had some inquiries about imminent short sales and how easy it is to short sale your home under this program and re-buy for less than 700K with only 3% down. Call for details. It is an amazing program if you have been staying current on your payments.

Exclusive 92127 Real Estate
TREND REPORT

Theresa and I also feel it is important to provide you with the best possible statistics for home sales. We are pleased to introduce our new data link with the latest residential real estate information about 92127. Every week we will bring you updated data to help you be an informed seller or buyer!

In the report, prepared exclusively for Shay Realtors, you'll find easy-to-read graphs with statistics, and valuable information broken down into bite-size pieces about current market trends specifically for our zip code.There are two options: {condo report} or {single family report}

The RaftA Valentine Story for Theresa

2012-02-16T12:44:00.000-08:00

I recall the first time I saw it. I was not sure it was a raft. I was driving on South Mission Boulevard near the Jetty, where the San Diego River and Mission Bay meet the Pacific Ocean. I had just left my small beach house rental on Mission Bay. An incredible, "bachelor" pad. Only problem was, I began dating Theresa when I moved in, so it never quite turned into the, "bachelor" pad I had envisioned.

As I drove past a yard sale sign, I caught a glimpse of a faded yellow color in between some parked vehicles. The yellow was low and close to the sidewalk. I remember thinking, "could it be"? I circled the block and parked. The thought it might really be a life raft kept tugging at the corner of my brain. I then saw it. It was deflated, lying quietly on the sidewalk. I love to negotiate a great deal, but I did not even ask the price. I simply told the woman, "I'll take it".

The raft was small and not in the best of shape. It was only a two or four man raft with screw together little plastic oars. It was definitely not United States Navy issue. It might even have been a toy raft. I had no idea what I was going to do with it, but I was thrilled to have it. Yellow life rafts hold a very special spot in my heart. In fact, the only reason myself and two of my brothers are alive today, is due to a life raft.

Many years prior, during World War II, a life raft kept our father and his crew alive as they floated, severely injured, for several days and nights on the vast emptiness of the Pacific Ocean. My father was the pilot of a B24 Liberator, (a plane my mom likely helped build at Consolidated Aircraft in San Diego) when they took one too many passes at a Japanese war ship, he and his crew had just set ablaze. On their final pass, anti-aircraft guns shredded a portion of his plane. Their plane then crashed into the cold Pacific Ocean. (To read a Warriors Tale click here).

The last time I had seen a yellow life raft was growing up in Albuquerque, New Mexico. My dad brought one home from the base for us kids to play with in the backyard. I recall wheeling out my Mom's old Kirby vacuum cleaner that weighed oh, about a ton. When I took the brush portion off it was like removing a radiator from a car. It was massive. I attached the skinny brown hose to the vacuum and inflated the raft to the delight of my brothers, friends and neighbors. We played endlessly on that darn yellow life raft.

Hauling my raft home, I carefully hid it under two beach towels in the garage. I did not want Theresa to find it. An idea was percolating in my brain. I was not sure what it was, but I knew it was going to involve her. It seemed everything, "good" in my life revolved around Theresa. In fact,despite us being together for over a year, I had still not yet said those three little words that are so popular around Valentines' Day.

I knew it was me. It was my problem. I didn't trust anyone. Being a veteran cop I was even skeptical the sun would rise in the morning. Law enforcement officers are lied to 24/7. The majority of people you deal with lie consistently, have a hidden agenda, and given the opportunity, may even try to kill you. We used to joke, "How could you tell the suspect was lying?" "Easy, his lips were moving".

Unfortunately, this lack of trust crossed over to my personal life. I never told Theresa, but once while waiting for her to get ready in her apartment in Linda Vista, I saw my name written on one of those slide out directories on her kitchen telephone. Mine was the only name and there were about fifteen other blank slots. Sure. I believe that. I thought she manufactured print outs of the phone list and changed it whenever someone else came over. I of course quickly, "tossed the kitchen" while she was getting dressed. A CIA agent would have been impressed. Open drawers and cabinets, look fast, and reset the items. Well, I didn't find any other manufactured phone lists, but I kept thinking Theresa was too good to be true.

At the time, I was working an assignment that was warm and fuzzy and great for family values and honest people. Night Vice, it's the job where you deal with the underbelly of the City of San Diego. You spend every night in bars, strip clubs, porn shops, X rated movie houses, arresting perverts, drunks, scammers, pimps, prostitutes, and see first hand the enormous amount of money and greed that fuels it all. SDPD like most law enforcement agencies purposely tries to limit a night vice assignment to no more than 18 months. It's easy for a cop to become jaded in that environment.

The lines are sometimes blurred in night vice. There is so much grey. I had some college buddies visit SD and they looked at me in awe when they found out I worked UC (undercover) in strip clubs and had an expense account that provided cash for my detectives to spend in bars, nightclubs and strip joints as they carried out their enforcement activities. They said, "Ray, you have the best job in the entire world. You get paid every night to look at T and A.". To me, it was not the best of jobs. It is a very necessary and vitally important job, but not the best.

I prefer John Wayne movies. I like seeing the clear split between good and evil. I would rather confront armed street gang members any night of the week then work a, "john detail" where the guy you arrested has a picture of his wife and kids in his wallet. Or arresting a pimp and taking his fifteen year old prostitute/runaway from a small Midwest town to Child Protective Services. While he screams from the back seat of the patrol car, "she needs to get her ass back out on the track and earn me some money!"

I don't really know how Theresa put up with me for so long. How long can a women deal with, "I really like seeing you". "Hey, I like being with you". During those tough years, I honestly lost faith in my religion and any interest in Christmas. Theresa being the troublemaker she is, once snuck into my, "bachelor" pad and put up a Christmas tree with lights and even a little angel on top. Of course when we walked into the room together, the sudden change of lighting made me think the rear door of my home was opening and I reached for my 9mm tucked in the back waistline of my jeans. Theresa's smile, and quick confession put me at ease. Like I said, she was a troublemaker.

So my plan was set....

The band, the Wallflowers were playing an outdoor concert at Hospitality Point across the Bay from my home. Theresa arrived as the sun began to fade over the Pacific. We walked down to the water in front of my house. The yellow raft was fully inflated, (for at least a little while) and resting on the sand. It reminded me of my father and countless positive memories. It was just like Theresa. It was everything good about my life. I know I had put some appetizers in the raft, but all I can remember now is the plastic jug of margaritas. After all, I was the captain of the ship and I was facing a difficult mission more dangerous than any I could ever imagine.

As I pushed off from the sand with Theresa and our provisions, I know we were laughing. The oars were only about three feet long and looked ridiculous. The warm clear summer night and the smell of salt water filled the air. Soon we were drinking margaritas and listening to the concert tied up to other, "real boats" along the beach.

When the concert ended, I began to row home in that little raft. As Sea World began their fireworks display, I stopped rowing and said those three words. I think the margaritas helped steady my nerves. I finally believed and trusted her. The next thing I recall is we were laughing so hard we were talking over each other. Time slowed down as we lay in the raft looking at the stars and smelling the warm salt air.

Then I heard something strange. It was the sound of waves crashing. I ignored it for a while. It took over a full minute before I began to think, ....waves crashing...in Mission Bay? Glancing to my left I saw we were near the Jetty and the west lights of South Mission Beach. We were caught in a current pushing us out to sea! I sobered up with visions of Theresa's three brothers and sister murdering me for letting something bad happen to her.

I started paddling with those plastic oars so hard that sweat was running into my eyes as my shirt became drenched with salt water and sweat. Of course Theresa took it all very seriously. She was laughing so hard I could see her tears falling like diamonds in the moonlight on to the raft. I kept yelling at her, "this is serious, I'm not kidding, we're caught in a rip or something". Theresa's response was predictable. She just kept laughing harder and harder. The diamonds kept falling. She had no grasp of the danger.

Fifteen minutes later, fully exhausted, the USS Shay yellow life raft, (without much air), slid across the sand in front of my home. Theresa proclaimed with a smart aleck tone, "You saved your ship and your crew... What a brave Captain". As I think about that moment fifteen years ago, she was the brave one. I can say now what I should have said then," No Theresa, you actually saved me". Happy Valentine's Day

Special thanks to Lee Louis for the photographs of mission bay.

Shay Realtors opens New Community Hub in 4S Commons

2012-02-08T09:32:00.000-08:00

Counter Intuitive
Going against the grain.

Police Officers are naturally counter intuitive. Perfect example is the classic, "Man with a gun call" or, "417 gun" for short. It is one of the radio calls where chairs will be knocked over at the bagel shop, (Cops, Deputies, or CHP officers really don't eat donuts much anymore) as they hustle out the door and roll, "Code 3" to confront the threat as quickly as possible. The more dangerous the incident or threat to human life, the faster and harder law enforcement officers will strive to get there. It is like fire fighters running into a house on fire. Most people don't do those things. It's well, a bit, "crazy".

As an example, when Theresa and Gretchen were on a ride-a-long with me in Mid-City Division a several years ago, an armed man who was high on methamphetamine, fell through a ceiling of a house. As I recall, we drove for quite awhile on a sidewalk to get around cars in traffic and to the scene of the action. Thinking about that afternoon reminds me how much I enjoyed taking friends on SDPD ride-a-longs. They would tell me years later every nuance of the ten hour shift, while I recalled very little. It was just another day. It was also kind of weird that whenever Theresa would come on a ride-a-long, we would inevitably respond to at least one murder. She had a knack for selecting hot summer nights where street gang members or drug dealers would meet their final destination.

There are so many ways I could go with this weeks' story. I need to re-focus on what I opened up with. I was talking about being counter intuitive. Going the opposite direction of the crowd or what seems, "normal" to most persons. In this instance, I will actually be making a comparison of police work to real estate. Our real estate business model is in many ways, counter intuitive. We feel as if we are moving the opposite direction of the current real estate crowd.

A few years ago, we opened our first Community HubTM in a kiosk next to the Chevron gas station at 4S Ranch Village. People said we were, "crazy". Theresa and I are now preparing to open our second, Community HubTM in 4S Ranch Commons!

Saturday night at our Client Appreciation Event, at the Del Sur Ranch House, we announced to over 150 friends our plans to continue our unique business model.   We will soon be opening a 1200 square foot Shay Realtors of RE/MAX Ranch & Beach Community Hub at 4S Commons. It will be next to Brett's Barbecue, which happens to have the best barbecue in town.

I promise you have never seen a real estate office like the one we will be building. Our 2nd Community HubTM will be strikingly different from our current location. For example, there will only be a single desk in our, "real estate office."

A single desk allows more room for the most important people in our business...You, the customer. It is each of you and your referrals that make our business grow. We are very respectful and appreciative of that fact.

Why a Community HubTM? Let me answer that. Another thing I learned by working the roughest areas of the City of San Diego is that people, regardless of race or economic level need a place to gather. A place to talk.   A place where you will be greeted with a smile and receive help, regardless if it is real estate related question or not.

As a new SDPD Lieutenant assigned to Mid City Division, I worked the areas around Euclid, and University Ave. A working class part of San Diego where over 53 different languages were spoken. My first few days in the command we received complaints of about a dozen Somalian men loitering outside the 7-11 store on University Ave. I saw them there almost every day. They were doing nothing wrong. They drank their coffee and talked. Not any different then what we do outside Starbucks or Coffee Bean at 4S Ranch, or any other upscale neighborhood. The difference is we have tables and chairs, not a dirt parking lot in a poor neighborhood with only a low block wall to rest your weary bones on. In fact, as I think about it, I wish I could have gotten those men tables, chairs and maybe even a fountain. Would that not have been grand?

In each area I worked, SDPD ultimately developed sub stations and community centers where people could meet and share ideas. It is a basic human need to be able to speak freely. It is also a basic human need to gather. It is one of the foundation of our great country. It is freedom that young men and women are fighting for and also dying for around this little place we call earth. Each and every one of them are our heroes.

So as some real estate brokerages are moving out of retail locations to office complexes and filling their buildings with desks and agents, Theresa, myself and other local RE/MAX agents want to go the other way. Let's push our paperwork to the ICLOUD, get almost all those desks out of the office and make room for the community. And most importantly, let's get into a retail location where it is convenient for our customers to get help, whatever it is.

So at Shay RealtorsTM we are being counter intuitive. We're moving in the opposite direction. Theresa and I know this adventure is rife with risk. But as I sit here writing this, I know at the end of the day, I won't be peeling off ballistic body armor that is drenched with sweat. The dangers we are facing are not of a physical type.

Theresa and I believe if we build this Community HubTM, you will come, and our business and ability to help our community will grow. If for some unforeseen reason this radical concept fails, and the landlord takes our keys back, I know a great place in Mid City Division where I can get a great cup of coffee and say hello to some old friends. I could also bring our three boys and have a pretty good soccer game in that little dirt parking lot. Sure, It's not a fountain, but I know we would be greeted with some pretty big smiles.

Make the most of your day,

Sincerely,

Ray & Theresa Shay

Current Crime Report January 23, 2012

2012-01-23T08:32:00.000-08:00

The map above shows recent crime that occurred over the last week.

All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office.

To see crimes in other areas visit Crime Reports

Karl Strauss Brewery Restaurant - Set to Open in 4S Ranch!

2012-01-09T08:35:00.000-08:00

Karl Strauss Brewery Restaurant - Set to Open in 4S Ranch!

Future Strauss Brewery

I rarely write about real estate in our lead story. There are honestly more important things in life. Then this week, I heard from our 92127 Mole about some confidential information regarding some significant commercial real estate news occurring right here in river city. Truly big news! The mole has never been wrong, but I wanted to make sure the news was accurate before I ran it.

See, the 92127 Mole has been, "out of pocket" for a few weeks, (police talk for an informant you have not had contact with). Now I know why. When rumors started circulating a couple months ago, about Karl Strauss Brewery opening a new restaurant at the old Chili's Restaurant location in 4S Ranch, the mole suggested he go undercover to do some investigation. I reluctantly approved it. UC work can be dangerous.

Then his expenses started coming in and he stopped taking my calls. Other moles said something about him and a female mole and brand new green, Vespa scooter. That's all I had. It was pretty cryptic. He did relay through his handler that he was in, "Deep Cover". Some Qualcomm employees reported seeing him at building "K" by their headquarters. See surveillance photograph below...

A few of the facts he was able to confirm was that construction of the brewery restaurant with an outdoor patio area should start soon, with hopes of the restaurant

opening in April or May.

How great will that be having a Karl Strauss Brewery Restaurant right here in 4S Commons at the corner of RB Road and 4S Ranch Parkway? I am really pretty excited. I asked a close friend if it was a problem or a bad sign that I start getting thirsty when I think about a Karl Strauss Brewery so close to home. He replied. "No, that's healthy beer. It is made right there". As I said, he is a good friend.

I personally think both Capri Blu and Miguel's could use a little competition. It would be nice for example to watch some sports and get a great beer occasionally after say, 9 PM! Now, If we could just get another gas station to compete with Chevron maybe they would lower their prices by a couple cents or actually give something back to the community. That would be nice.

Strauss will be re-designing their entrance with an outdoor patio area. Great client party location!

The 92127 Mole never reveal his sources, but we understand the Premier San Diego County Commercial Brokerage, Flocke and Avoyer, led by John Still and David Silverman recently inked the contract. See "This Week in Commercial Real Estate" (below) for their contact information and other commercial leasing opportunities. They are true professionals and you can really trust them!

I hope the 92127 Mole comes in from the cold soon. If anyone sees him or the blond on the scooter, please email our editor right away. We have another top priority, "Mission" lined up for the Mole. We hope to send him to the upcoming Bronco - Patriots playoff game, to really find out how Tebow keeps pulling off these miracles? Have a great week!

Sincerely,

Recent 92127 Crime Posted January 7, 2012

2012-01-07T09:44:00.000-08:00

The map above shows recent crime that occurred over the last week. All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Please click on the image to enlarge.

ESCONDIDO: Del Lago Academy breaks ground

2012-01-05T10:46:00.000-08:00

Story and Photo Courtesy of Deborah Sullivan Brennan of the North County Times dbrennan@nctimes.com

With bulldozers rolling in the distance, Escondido Union High School District officials on Friday held a ground-breaking ceremony for Del Lago Academy, the magnet biotech high school slated to open in fall 2013.

"San Diego is one of the meccas for biotechnology, not only in California, but in the nation," district Superintendent Ed Nelson told school and construction officials at the event. "We believe our kids should be the workforce of the future."

He congratulated voters of Escondido, who he said "took real risk, and showed great support," by passing Proposition T, the $98 million 2008 bond measure that is funding the new high school, along with improvements to existing campuses.

The school, on 23 to 24 acres of a 34-acre site off West Valley Parkway near Citracado Parkway, will accommodate up to 800 students, in response to parents' request for a smaller high school option, Nelson said.

Two-story structures will house medical and biotech laboratories, classrooms, a lecture hall, fitness room, auditorium and media center designed to create a high school environment similar to a college campus or workplace, said project architect Scott Moreland of Baker Nowicki Design Studio.

Laboratories will contain movable equipment and furniture that can adapt to changing technology, while a lecture hall will provide a platform for teachers, professors and even students to make presentations, he said.

Rooftop solar panels and other design features will make the campus 35 percent more efficient than the building code requires, Moreland said.

He said the efficiency improvements, along with the use of recycled materials, synthetic turf and storm water reduction techniques, will help the school meet standards set by the Collaborative for High Performance Schools, a green building rating program for K-12 schools. The program sets design standards aimed at making schools more environmentally sound and educationally functional.

The campus will follow the hilly topography and include a central area oriented toward the west, Moreland said. Nelson said the placement reinforces the school's health and science focus.

"It's not by happenstance that our campus looks out on the new hospital," he said.

Principal Keith Nuthall said the school aims to solve societal problems of "fueling the world, feeding the world, healing the world and restoring and protecting the ecosystem."

It will employ an integrated curriculum where lessons in science, math, English and other subjects overlap and reinforce one another, he said.

For instance, a student might learn to operate an electrocardiograph, analyze those measurements in a science lesson on heart function, write about the project, and then apply the findings to physical education activities for heart health.

"We're blending challenging academic content with a demanding technical education and field-based work," Nuthall said.

Board member Kurt Marler said the school will aim to attract students and families seeking an alternative to large, traditional high schools.

"We'd like the enrollment to be a draw to all charter schools and all home schools," Marler said.

Nuthall said that while the school won't expect all students to enter college and professional careers in science or medicine, the science literacy it will promote should benefit them in a wide range of occupations.

"My approach is that Del Lago students will read, write, think and behave like scientists, historians, artists and mathematicians," he said.

Adventure - Hong Kong

2012-01-05T10:37:00.001-08:00

Adventure - Hong Kong

I worked with quite a few large crowds during my tenure with SDPD. It included two Super Bowls, the RNC, (Republican National Convention), and countless protests and events. I thought I knew a few things about managing large crowds. That was before last week, when our family visited Hong Kong on Christmas Eve. I then realized, I never really left the sandbox. The crowd size in San Diego was child's play, compared to the sheer number of people in an international hub of commerce where almost eight million people call home.

It was about 8:30 in the evening with the lights of Honk Kong Harbor to our backs as we began walking to the metro which is a series of underground subways. I could write for hours about their mass transit system. It is extremely efficient, user friendly, clean, reasonably priced, and NO graffiti! While in comparison, San Diego can't even seem to get a single trolley line to San Diego International Airport. Mayor Sander's don't let special interests divert the project. In Hong Kong they move millions of people 24/7, through the use of technology, planning, and forward thinking.

As we left the area near Hong Kong Harbor we walked E/B looking for a place to eat dinner. We were exhausted. As we approached the nearby metro station we found it was closed as well as all the surrounding streets. The police had about a million reasons to cordon off this area. Each of them a person.

As we walked further, we saw a trickle of a few thousand people walking towards us to see the fireworks show on the harbor. It very quickly turned into the largest number of people I have ever seen in my life. It reminded me of the famous Mickey Mouse cartoon, "Sorcerer's Apprentice". Like the brooms carrying buckets of water for Mickey Mouse, the number of people would double, then double again, and then yet again. The high speed escalators bringing thousands of excited customers out of the earth was amazing. Every few seconds another train would arrive. Revelers stepping briskly on their way to enjoy their holiday light show. No real pushing or shoving by the crowds, but rather a sense of cooperation. Imagine that.

As we left the bustle of the harbor area we looked for a restaurant near our hotel. Jimmy, (Theresa's dad) was working his usual, "Magic". All the restaurants were booked solid, except for a working class, literal, "hole in the wall" restaurant, that only had four tables. Outside in the cold we were greeted by a lone, pale white, octopus who peered eerily at us as he floated weightlessly in a fish tank facing the street. He had the look of an octopus who already knew his fate.

As luck would have it the table by the kitchen was available. It was a, "Hot Pot" restaurant. If your not familiar with the term, it refers to a large pot of steaming broth in the center of your table.

It was soon accented with piles of fresh seafood, meats, noodles, and vegetables in trays on the table. It is all you can eat. You can cook whatever you want for as long or as you like.

For refreshments, I quickly learned in order to get a beer you had to just yell out, "Tsing Tao" above the roar of the fellow diners who were talking so fast and loud in Cantonese, Chinese that you would think it was New Years Eve. The patron at the table next to us had obviously yelled it a few too many times. He was sound asleep and remained that way the entire evening as his friends continued with their festivities, while keeping an eye out for him.

Our boys were in Chinese food, "Heaven". They filled their bellies with lots of warm quality food as the locals around us continued celebrating.

Despite the occasional smell of a cigarette we had a great time. We were too tired and hungry to care. As you look at the photographs you can see their was a pretty good party going on. It was our first Christmas Eve portrait without any of our, "treasures" (our boys) in the family photograph.

Despite the mayhem occurring around them, each of our sons were so content and tired, they soon fell asleep resting their heads on our laps or on a jacket piled on the chair next to them. Over seven thousand miles from home in a foreign land celebrating Christmas with a few "new" friends. Something about our kids being well fed and feeling the warmth and smiles of strangers in Kowloon, increased the sense of holiday spirit. It made those cramped quarters one of our most memorable holidays ever.

As it got later, I started to yell out once again for another, "Tsing Tao", then for a moment, I had second thoughts. After all, we had a winning hand in a foreign country. It was probably time to leave.

Besides, if by accident, Theresa, Jimmy, and I were to also fall asleep, I don't think the owners would have awakened us. They were such gracious hosts, I really think they would have let us merely sleep into Christmas Day.

Theresa and I hope you had a wonderful 2011 and wish you and your family the best for 2012! Happy New Year!

Sincerely,

Recent 92127 Crime Posted December 30, 2011

2011-12-30T12:46:00.000-08:00

The map above shows recent crime that occurred over the last week. All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Please click on the image to enlarge.

Recent 92127 Crime Posted December 26, 2011

2011-12-26T06:50:00.000-08:00

The map above shows recent crime that occurred over the last week. All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Please click on the image to enlarge.

Happy Holidays from Hong Kong

2011-12-26T06:42:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays from Hong Kong!

2011-12-17T13:42:00.000-08:00

Jeanne, our Office Manager, probably wonders why I hurriedly walked out of our staff meeting last week. I began to write her a note, apologizing for my actions, but I gave up. Instead, I decided to address the cause of my hurried exit with about a thousand or so other families. Jeanne is probably thinking as she reads this on Monday morning, "All I did was sing a few lyrics from the song, Little Drummer Boy".

Like most adults, I know what, "pushes my buttons". I really don't know the technical term that describes what happens when a certain sound, smell, word, or action, immediately brings back a vibrant but distant memory to a person. I will use the term, "trigger" for lack of the proper scientific term for this phenomenon.

As an example; to this day, if I am in a church and I smell incense, I am immediately transported back to a small Catholic church in Albuquerque, New Mexico where my four brothers and I were all altar boys. Or, If I see a large stack of dishes in a kitchen sink it instantly reminds me of police work and many of the dysfunctional people I dealt with who would stack dishes and pans higher then the Dr. Seuss cartoon "Cat in the Hat". Only difference, those dishes smelled worse than "Stinky Pete" in Toy Story.

When something triggers a memory, I open a DVD in my mind. Sometimes it opens it too quickly. I know the DVD's I do not want to play, and of course, the ones I truly enjoy seeing. The good and bad of life. Some DVD's I could watch a thousand times a day and never get bored. Like the birth of Troy, Raymond or Ryan, or when Theresa and I were floating in a second-hand life raft on Mission Bay that warm summer night. She was laughing so hard tears were falling like diamonds from her eyes. Some fabulous memories.

In our company meeting, we were discussing what we could give to over 200 friends and clients. There were some pretty funny ideas. Then Yolanda came up with the idea of our own mix CD of Holiday Music. The idea caught on fast. Everyone began yelling out their favorite holiday songs. Yes, let it be known, Theresa absolutely lives for the Partridge Family Christmas and Yolanda likes Justin Beiber. I don't know why exactly, but I yelled out the song, "Little Drummer Boy" by Burl Ives or Frank Sinatra. For some reason, it just reminded me of Christmas.

As we were finalizing plans for the CD and how it would be delivered, Jeanne started singing, Pahrump a hump rump a bump, rump a ump rump a bump bump. By the third "rump" it was Christmas Eve forty years ago. My dad had already passed out the gifts, one at a time to each of us kids. No presents for my parents. It was a cold New Mexico night with luminario candles flickering as they burned in the driveway. There was my dad who seemed to work all the time drumming his thick worn fingers on the bar. He was signing. Trust me, my dad was not the singing type. But on Christmas eve with enough Christmas cheer he would sometimes sing ...A warm memory wrapped in the sadness he and my mom are now gone. I can watch the DVD now. I was not prepared to see at eleven AM on a Wednesday, so I did walked out.

Now as I write this, it reminds me of what memories are we leaving our children? We should sing out loud more. I guess wether it is Christmas, Hanukkah or Ramadan, the holiday season is about remembering the ones you loved. So, Jeanne I am sorry I walked out. You remember my parents as well as I remember yours. I am sure your mom and dad as well as mine are likely relaxing together with a little Christmas cheer of their own, as they sing... "I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum, rum,pum, pum, pum, rum pum pum pum...

Wishing you a Happy Holiday. From our family to yours.

Best Holiday Gift

2011-12-12T12:12:00.000-08:00

Our Best Holiday Gift ... So Far!

Our three boys, Troy, Raymond, and Ryan really enjoy soccer. As much time as we are around soccer coaches and competitive clubs, Theresa and I were still surprised when Raymond's U-11 San Diego Soccer Club Coach, John Napier announced to the team, "I will be providing player evaluations to the kids and their parents today". That part was not surprising. What surprised us is what he said next, "It will take about twenty or thirty minutes per child".

Thirty minutes per child? Most coaches hand out an evaluation and say, "See me if you have any questions". I started to calculate in my mind before quickly transitioning to the calculator on my Iphone. 30 minutes per child and there are fifteen kids on our team and John has a minimum of 2 teams. That equals to about 15 hours of sitting down with kids and their parents.

I'm not the brightest, but even I know that SD Soccer Club is not paying Coach John Napier anymore for his additional time. John must really love coaching, love kids, and/or loves soccer. I pick answer (D) ... All the above.

John is not a first year coach. He has been doing this for a very long time and has played at the highest levels of English Premier League Soccer, (Click her for some history of John Napier).

We sat down with Raymond as John prepared to speak. We asked to take the above photograph and John agreed. In the counselling session John went over every aspect our son's play including leadership and attitude. Un-rushed, he paused several times when he would ask Raymond a question. It was not a, "courtesy pause". It was a ten second time period or more of silence as he waited patiently for a response from our son. In this world of texting and instant communication sometimes it takes an 11 year old, or anyone else, a few moments to develop an answer.

It was then I realized the gift that John was giving our family and our team. As we sat near, "the pitch" as our friends across the pond describe a soccer field, with kids running around and the sound of soccer acting as a backdrop, John was completely focused on our son. His words as usual, were caring, patient, professional, and wrapped beautifully in the most precious commodity of all... TIME. There was no bow on his present but his gift had a significant impact on all of the parents as well as the kids. One parent commented admiringly, "John said things about our son only us as parents should know. It was amazing".

Most people when they become successful and established they have little time for ten year old children trying to find their way. On behalf of all the many kids you coach,have coached, your gift of time and caring is deeply appreciated. You are developing some pretty darn good soccer players, but even more importantly, you are building young men and women who will be better prepared to face the challenges of life. Thank you.

Enjoy the Holiday Season,
Ray and Theresa Shay

Recent Crime 92127 Posted December 10, 2011

2011-12-10T13:27:00.000-08:00

The map above shows recent crime that occurred over the last week. All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Please click on the image to enlarge.

This Week in Commercial Real Estate...

2011-12-09T16:07:00.000-08:00

With 2011 coming to a close, the Commercial Real Estate Market in San Diego County has clearly been a “mixed bag” this year with stronger activity earlier in the year, and a returning to a “watch and see” mentality as we have reached the end. Thankfully, we live in a region of the Country that has outperformed other major U.S. markets, and the short term view looking forward is still much more positive compared to others. As the employment base starts to show signs of recovery, and consumer confidence picks up, positive trends in the Commercial Real Estate industry will be a reality, and we assume that to be sooner rather than later. (Always better to view the glass as half FULL, in my humble opinion).

The investment activity in San Diego County real estate from the Institutional players has been the brightest segment of the market. Well over $700 Million dollars in acquisitions was placed in the County this year, with several more Investors continuing to stay focused on our market. Additionally, the majority of all those old Mervyns, Circuit City and Linens ‘N Things boxes have now all been absorbed or spoken for by other major retailers taking advantage of a great time to expand in San Diego.

As for our specific 92127 market, the year has seen the growth of Phase II to the 4S Ranch Village, bringing Fresh & Easy, Eyelux Optometry, T-Mobile, and soon to open Flippin’ Pizza, Kumon Learning Center and Sport Clips. 4Paws Animal Hospital will be expanding into the Cleaners old location, and the Cleaners has relocated and re-opened next to Fresh & Easy. The 4S Ranch Health Center recently started construction, which will bring the addition of several medical tenants to the neighborhood including Rady’s Children’s Physicians Management Services and Arch Health Partners. Look for this project to open in late summer, early fall 2012. In Del Sur, significant grading operations are in place for their continued community expansion, but most important will be the widening of Camino Del Sur, which should be complete later in 2012 as well.

If ever you have any Commercial Real Estate questions, inquiries or ideas for our Flocke & Avoyer Team to pursue for our community, please feel free to drop us a note at jstill@flockeavoyer.com or dsilverman@flockeavoyer.com. Happy Holidays and may 2012 be a healthy, safe and prosperous New Year for all.

Popping the Bubble, by Ray Shay

2011-12-07T07:36:00.000-08:00

Popping the Bubble

"We work so hard to protect and shield our children from the real world that just maybe... we need to expose them more to the realities of life."

Excited 5th Graders get ready for start of Biz Town 2011

I loved Biz Town! How could you not? Biz Town is an outstanding 5th grade elementary school field trip. Thanks to the Poway School District and Junior Achievement of San Diego, (click here). It exposes elementary kids to a glimpse of the, "real world". Even if it is just for a few short hours. The kids actually run a small town where they handle bills, customers, budgets, responsibility, and even employees! It briefly, "pops the bubble", and allows the kids the opportunity to experience a glimpse of real life.

Our middle son Raymond was so exhausted when the day was over. He said, "Dad, now I know why you and mom are so tired after work". Pretty cool when you see your children learning a life lesson. Being there with Raymond made me think. Which sometimes is not such a great idea.

Raymond and I at Biztown.

As I looked around Biz Town at all those beautiful children, I thought it was awesome. In the next breath, I thought of our older son Troy who attends Oak Valley Middle School. What about him? How do we develop life lessons for Troy and help to, "pop the bubble" for other Junior High and High School students? Then my imagination began to kick in. What if we started a Real Town? Same concept as Biz Town, but directed at kids who will soon find themselves being held accountable as adults.

In my minds eye I could see Real Town. The content would be more mature and tailored to issues young adults experience. To be effective, a student would have to look directly in the face of bad decisions.

As the students entered my Real Town they would approach a duplex, (No 3000 sq. ft. homes here). The kids would see a "Meth Freak", (Methamphetamine user) dismantling a stolen motorcycle that is dripping black oil on his living room carpet at four in the morning. The narrator would explain that Methamphetamine was the drug he got hooked on when he inadvertently smoked some marijuana laced with it in high school. The "Freak" never learned to give up that high.

The students would be able to stare at his dirty clothes, pockmarked, rutty complexion, and the layers of grease under his untrimmed, yellow, brittle, and slightly burned fingernails. He also smokes meth or crack cocaine and those darn fingers get in the way sometimes. If the students are attentive, they may also even notice the bulge by his left ankle that conceals the monitoring bracelet issued by the State of California, Board of Prisons. Another lost sole on the criminal treadmill of life, striving to feed his unrelenting drug addiction.

The next stop the students would see is a sixteen year old girl trying desperately to learn, (way too quickly) what it means to be a woman and a mother as she tries valiantly to calm her crying newborn infant, (also at 4AM). Determined to take responsibility for an outcome she never expected or planned for.

The students at my Real Town would then walk past a vehicle accident where a blood stained sheet is being pulled over the star high school athlete who was only a passenger in the vehicle. The driver had only had, "a few beers". The students would then look into the simulated, "holding tank" of the San Diego Sheriffs Department. The driver of the vehicle is being patted down for weapons or contraband for about the fifth time. The SDPD Officer hands the Deputy the, "fish slip". The young man's eyes are as big as saucers as he looks into the, "holding tank". A narrator explains that the holding tank is where arrestees can make a phone call among about forty other criminals, before transitioning to another room for a humiliating strip search. The odors of urine, sweat, and fear permeates the room.

If this all sounds too dirty, or graphic that's probably good. It is real. I can not emphasize enough how many times a law enforcement officer in every city of this country has seen a young person trembling as they put their youthful arm through the bars of a jail intake area to have an ID ban attached. Standard procedure prior to stepping through the metal doorway where their life is changed forever. Our common thought was, "I wish that kid would have thought, for just a moment, before he or she made that decision.'

Maybe some of them really did not know jail is very real. Drugs can really be more powerful then them. And yes, sometimes, very bad things happen to good people. That bubble we tend to try and keep our children in can be pretty darn tough to pop. Sometimes if we can't, it may end up being too late when it finally does.

Editor's Note....I know I pushed some limits this week. Real Town does not yet exist. We are actually working on developing a Real Town Bus that will tour a few social service agencies in downtown San Diego and then hopefully County Jail. It is a start. If you are interested in learning more about the Real Town Bus, or helping out please email hannah@trustshay.com

Have a safe week,

Watch the 2nd Annual Thank You Run Kid's Race

2011-12-03T12:09:00.000-08:00

Check out our video of the 2011 2nd Annual Thank You Run Kid's 1K. All the children had a wonderful time. Thank you for participating in this year's event which supports two worthwhile causes: The 4S Ranch-Del Sur Community Foundation and Helen's Closet, which provides vital medical equipment to those who have been diagnosed with ALS.

Recent Crime 92127 Posted December 3, 2011

2011-12-03T11:25:00.000-08:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted December 3, 2011

The map above shows recent crime that occurred over the last week. All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Please click on the image to enlarge.

Shay Realtors Sponosrs 2nd Annual Thank You Run in 4S Ranch

2011-12-02T11:33:00.001-08:00

A Child's Smile is the Ultimate Cure

It was about 0430 hours on Thanksgiving morning and Theresa and I were up making final arrangements for the Thank You Run 5K, 10K, and Kid's Run/Walk. In the predawn darkness, the fatigue of the week leading up to the run was setting in. With any challenge undertaken, there are times when you begin to wonder what you were thinking when you set the bar so high.

With the help of lots of friends and Race Committee Members we added a 10K and a Kid's Run to last year's 5K while doubling the attendance to nearly a thousand persons. Overall, the improvements had gone pretty smoothly. Despite the progress, we received a handful of emails complaining about not allowing dogs or strollers on the 5K and 10K courses. These restrictions were put in place by the HOA, County of San Diego and our all important insurance policy. I love the race, but I would like to keep our home.

When the emails started coming in with comments like, "You don't care about families", it resulted in one of our husband and wife "deals". I would handle all "those emails"; Theresa would continue forging ahead. It reminded me of what Steve Cross, a veteran SDPD Sergeant, told me once: "Doesn't matter what your doing. If you are passing out five dollar bills, someone will complain 'Why aren't they tens?'"

By race start time, everyone was surviving off adrenaline and probably the fear an errant runner would end up running up Black Mountain. After mayoral candidate and former Marine hero Nathan Fletcher spoke, local Del Norte High School student and Glee Club member, Maria Touvannas began singing our national anthem over a hushed gathering of runners, walkers and, yes, families. She was amazing! The fatigue and doubt I had been feeling disappeared in seconds.

Probably the highlight of the day was seeing over 100 kids lining up to start the Kid's Run. They were so excited. Some were biting their lower lips as they tightened their little fists waiting for the CHP Police Officer to start his siren to initiate the run. I had them launch about a minute late so all those parents could take a few extra pictures of this special moment. The Fire Department then turned on their overhead emergency lights as the kids raced by. It made me wish I could capture this moment in an email and send it to the few who thought we were Mr. and Mrs. Grinch. A child's smile is the ultimate cure for what ails you.

Have a great week! Hope to see you and your family next Thanksgiving.

To see the race results simply click here: ThankYouRun.org.

Recent Crime 92127 Posted November 26, 2011

2011-11-26T12:47:00.000-08:00

The map above shows recent crime that occurred over the last week. All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Please click on the image to enlarge.

Recent Crime 92127 Posted November 20, 2011

2011-11-20T11:06:00.000-08:00

The map above shows recent crime that occurred over the last week. All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Please click on the image to enlarge.

SDPD SWAT HEROES

2011-11-14T10:32:00.000-08:00

SDPD SWAT

(Mature content. Not for young readers)

An old adage in law enforcement circles goes something like this, ... "When citizens need help, they call the police. When police need help they call SWAT. After SWAT, there is no one else to call".

On Monday night our family had dinner with Dan, Gretchen Barnett, and their son Blake at Oggi's Pizza. Soon after we sat down, Dan mentioned the SDPD SWAT golf tournament, (which he started in 2005) had just just raised over $125,000.00 this year. As Dan continued speaking, I had difficulty following him, so I just nodded. I thought of all the tactical equipment the money could buy. As dishes clanked, and people cheered on their teams, I was trying to keep from remembering a hot summer day in 1984. I finally gave up and just went there. I think sometimes to understand the value of an accomplishment today, you must first go back to yesterday.

As a twenty-four year old cop in Logan Heights in 1984 you needed to feel invincible. No weakness, no fear, and no hesitation. I remember driving down Imperial Ave. when the radio call came out. A 245PC/active shooter at McDonalds in south San Diego. On that morning, James Huberty committted the largest single day mass murder in the history of the United States. Despite the adversity, SDPD Officers and command personnel did everything humanly possible to protect innocent lives.

As officers attempted to move forward to neutralize the suspect, they encountered highly accurate, high powered rifle fire that prevented them from stopping his assault sooner. We did not have an armored vehicle that would allow us to "close the gap" from deployment to addressing the threat.

Jump forward about twenty years later. I was now the SDPD SWAT Commanding Officer. Some people's memories had faded. Mine had not. Our armored rescue vehicle we obtained post McDonalds had since broken down and had been sold. My biggest fear as CO was loosing an officer under my command. I knew that type of loss would be compounded if I failed to provide my officers with the proper equipment they needed to do their jobs.

Alot of our equipment was honestly crap. We petitioned the United States Air Force and received from them a dilapidated armored vehicle that had previously guarded United States ICBM silos. It was towed on a flatbed to the police station. It needed an engine, tires and just about everything else. My Captain at that time was, can I say, ... "a piece of work". I still remember asking him for funds to help renovate the vehicle. He just barked out with disdain, "Look Ray, it is not a priority. There is no money available. Why don't you have to have a bake sale".

Instead, I called a few friends. Mitch and Zora McDonald and Larry Cushman. Larry provided a substantial donation so we could sandblast the hull. I was then amazed when I had lunch with Mitch, (pictured below). He allowed me pick up the lunch tab, but he then wrote SWAT a check for $25,000.00. Zora, I know Mitch's passing a few years ago was heart-breaking. He has not been forgotten and I can never thank you both enough.

The following year, while drinking too much red wine in Dan and Gretchen's back yard, Dan did what he sometimes does: something "crazy". Dan suggested, "Let's start a SDPD SWAT golf tournament. We could probably raise 50k a year". "Sure Dan let's do that". It was probably time for Theresa and I to get our kids together and head home.

Seven years later, Dan is still heading up the SWAT Tournament which includes area residents and supporters, SDPD Captain Mark Jones, Devine, Giles, Haux, Lindbarger, Mutter, Rowe, and Waltz families. Click the attached link for County Wide sponsors (2011 SWAT Tournament). A special Thanks to MOR Furniture who has been our title sponsor all seven years. Your leadership and support has been amazing. To date, they have all helped raise raise over $600,000.00 to support the SWAT Team.

I guess my point of this week's article is to first thank Dan. I'm sorry I couldn't pull it off Monday night. Secondly, to remind myself that it is OK to "feel" life. It's OK to be hurt. We all develop cracks over time. Experience will do that, but we are all far from broken. When life hurts you or someone you care about, do something "Crazy" to support your cause. It can be fighting ALS, Autism, Huntington's Disease, Cancer, or even helping a SWAT Team. Find a way to coach, volunteer or give back. It does not change what has occurred, but I think it makes it easier.

In closing, I apologize for going long today. In case my former SDPD Captain reads this, I never did have that bake sale you suggested. But, I must say, it was pretty sweet sitting at dinner after the golf tournament seeing all those SWAT officers smiling. They knew every day citizens cared enough to make sure they would always have the best equipment and community support to bravely carry out their duties.

Theresa and I wish you a great week!

Recent Crime 92127 Posted November 12, 2011

2011-11-12T09:08:00.000-08:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted November 12, 2011

The map above shows recent crime that occurred over the last week. All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Please click on the image to enlarge.

Recent Crime 92127 Posted November 5, 2011

2011-11-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted November 5, 2011
The map above shows recent crime that occurred over the last week. All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Please click on the image to enlarge.

Del Sur Master-Planned Community Offers Diversity of New Homes for Sale

2011-11-05T12:05:00.000-07:00

Del Sur master-planned community offers diversity of new homes for sale

SAN DIEGO (Oct. 31, 2011) – One of San Diego’s most diverse range of new homes for sale can be found at the master-planned community of Del Sur, where seven distinct neighborhoods showcase 17 model homes.

“For those looking for their first home, their last home, or anything in between, Del Sur has a range of floor plans to meet all of life’s stages,” explained Bill Ostrem, president and CEO of Black Mountain Ranch, developer of Del Sur. “Setting Del Sur apart even more is the variety of architectural styles interwoven throughout the community. You don’t see blocks and blocks of the same house, but instead different builders neighboring each other to create an interesting tapestry of homes.”

Del Sur’s five homebuilders also incorporate green home features to benefit homebuyers, including: low toxin paints and glues; low emission windows; and Energy Star appliances. Water conservation efforts in all homes include mandatory tankless water heaters and weather-based satellite irrigation systems. Twenty percent of all Del Sur homes incorporate solar power.

Located in the coastal hills of San Diego, a short drive north of state Route 56 and also close to Interstate 15, Del Sur neighborhoods range from attached homes at the most affordably priced Mandolin by Shea Homes to spacious 3,748-square-foot floor plans at Presidio by Standard Pacific Homes. Standard Pacific Homes also has new homes for sale at Carleton. California West Communities offers Valencia, where as many as six bedrooms are available.

In addition to Mandolin, Shea Homes San Diego is nearing closeout at Madeira at Del Sur. Final phase homes are now selling as well at Sentinels by Davidson Communities and at Bridgewalk by Standard Pacific Homes.

All Del Sur neighborhoods are unified by a sense of community enhanced by numerous events and amenities. Residents gather often for special events like the recent Fall Festival and summer concerts and movies in the park. Del Sur families also get together during their everyday lives at the community’s six neighborhood parks, five with solar-heated swimming pools. An off-leash dog park, some 18 miles of shared trails and acres of open space also bring Del Sur’s residents together daily.

Another hallmark of the community of Del Sur is its neighborhood schools. Del Sur Elementary and Del Norte High School are highly rated within the prestigious Poway Unified School District. According to the most recent Growth Academic Performance Index (API), Del Norte High School earned 864, the highest API score among all five Poway Unified School District high schools. In only its second API ranking, Del Sur’s hometown high school is at the top of its class.

More information about new homes now selling at Del Sur can be found at www.DelSurLiving.com or by calling call 858-481-4200.

Brett's BBQ 4S Ranch Gives Back to Thank You Run

2011-10-29T16:22:00.000-07:00

Eat at Brett's BBQ in 4S Ranch, Lunch and Dinner, Dine In or Take Out and 20% of the profit will go towards the Thank You Run causes (ALS and the 4S Ranch-Del Sur Community Foundation). Please click on the image to enlarge and print, then bring it with you when you eat at Brett's BBQ in 4S Ranch! The flyer will be honored until Sunday, November 6th.

92127 Real Estate Market Update October 31, 2011

2011-10-29T15:25:00.000-07:00

92127 Real Estate Market Update October 31, 2011

We want you to know what's happening in the 92127 Real Estate Market. Please click here to see our weekly report. Inside you'll find easy-to-read graphs with statistics and valuable information broken down into bite-size pieces about current market trends specifically for our zip code.

Recent Crime 92127 Posted October 30, 2011

2011-10-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted October 30, 2011
The map above shows recent crime that occurred over the last week. All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Please click on the image to enlarge.

Recent Crime 92127 Posted October 24, 2011

2011-10-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted October 24, 2011
The map below shows any recent crime that may have occurred over the last week. All data is from the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. Please click on the image to enlarge.

Del Sur Sense of Community Enhanced by Events

2011-10-22T12:36:00.000-07:00

Photo by Cali Griebel

Del Sur sense of community enhanced by events, numerous amenities

SAN DIEGO (Oct. 22, 2011) – Corhonda Bolton and her two girls were among hundreds of Del Sur residents enjoying a beautiful fall day last Saturday during the master-planned community’s Fall Festival.

Complemented by sunny skies, cool coastal breezes and costumed kids, the event featured an abundance of family-oriented activities, including old-fashioned hayrides, carnival rides and games, music, food and more. The event was one of many hosted by the Community Services Council, all designed to bring Del Sur residents together to foster a greater sense of neighborhood and community.

“Activities like this Fall Festival add tremendously to the sense of community here because neighbors get to get together often,” Bolton said. Having moved here recently from Memphis, Bolton said her daughters, 12 and 8, love Del Sur, especially going to school with their neighbors.

“Being able to walk to school is wonderful for them,” she said, adding that it is wonderful for herself as well since she doesn’t have to drive them 40 minutes to attend private schools. Del Sur is home to the Poway Unified School District’s highly rated Del Sur Elementary and Del Norte High Schools.

“Del Sur’s green areas are great too because people take advantage of them constantly,” Bolton continued. “The kids are in the pool, the parents are barbecuing. People are spending more time at home and that’s great in this neighborhood.”

New parents Bo and Brittney Molocznik agree. “The biggest draw for Del Sur is the parks. They definitely bring the community together.”

Del Sur so far has six neighborhood parks, five with year-round swimming pools heated with solar panels. The North San Diego neighborhood is also home to 18 miles of shared trails that Del Sur residents may access easily from their homes.

The community’s Ranch House – San Diego’s first building to achieve Platinum LEED certification from the US Green Building Council – is another one-of-a-kind community asset. The Ranch House serves both as a welcome center that’s open to the public and also as an exclusive venue for events and celebrations. Only Del Sur residents may reserve the space.

Located in the coastal hills of San Diego – between interstates 5 and 15 and just north of state Route 56 – the North County community is surrounded by approximately 1,000 acres of open space and miles and miles of trails to explore.

Seven new home neighborhoods are now selling at Del Sur, with prices ranging from the high $400,000s to the $700,000s. Some 20 model homes – featuring attached, detached, single-level and multi-story floor plans– are open for tours by top homebuilders, including: Standard Pacific Homes, Shea Homes, California West Communities and Davidson Communities.

To learn more about Del Sur’s new home neighborhoods, go to www.delsurliving.com or call 858-481-4200. Or visit the Ranch House from noon to 4 Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays.

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CONTACT: Jan Percival, Scribe Communications, 858-452-8958, jpercival@scribecommunications.com

PUSD Students Win National Art Award

2011-10-22T11:45:00.000-07:00

2011 Endangered Species Day Youth Art Contest ~ Amy Cheu, a Mt. Carmel High School 2011 graduate, was recognized as the Grand-Prize Winner for her watercolor entry in the Endangered Species Day Youth Art Contest. The contest was organized by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Endangered Species Coalition, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art/University of New Orleans and received 2,500 entries from students in grades K-12. Amy and her artwork are featured in the San Diego ZOONOOZ magazine, September 2011.

2011 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards ~ Jessica Liu, Westview High School senior, earned a National Award for her charcoal composition titled, “Endurance,” from the 2011 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Competition. Her artwork will be on display at the US Department of Education for the next year. Fifty-five pieces of artwork were selected for the exhibit.

Cash for Candy in 4S Ranch

2011-10-22T11:33:00.000-07:00

Dr. Noel Moser of Moser Orthodontics, who is also a parent at MRES, is once again offering a great way to recycle all of that candy that your kiddos will collect on Halloween. Dr. Moser will donate a $1 for every pound of candy we collect. So, after Halloween let your child take out a week’s worth of treats, prevent some cavities, and donate the rest of the candy as a fundraiser. The candy collection box will be located in the front office so stop by and check it out. Dr. Moser will be donating the candy to our troops oversea and the San Diego Rescue Mission. Thanks Moser Orthodontics for this creative solution on how to handle all the candy our kiddos accumulate on Halloween.

Recent Crime 92127 Posted October 15, 2011

2011-10-15T08:52:00.001-07:00

Please click on image to enlarge.

Local 4S Players Take Home Championship

2011-10-08T12:11:00.001-07:00

The 13U Easton A's baseball team competed this past weekend in the Triple Crown 9th Annual Fall Classic at the Poway Sportsplex and won the Division 1 Championship. They were 1st out of 14 teams in their bracket. The team is coached by former Major League Baseball Pitcher, Dave Stewart. Local 4S players on the team are Grayson Rollins, Nathan Dybzak, Adam Storch, Max Borer and Blake Barnett. Congratulations guys!

Spirit Halloween Store in 4S Ranch

2011-10-08T12:09:00.000-07:00

The Spirit Halloween Store in 4S Commons is now open through November 1st! Click here to get the 20% Off Coupon. Spirit Halloween has everything... lots of costumes, accessories, decorations and more! Be sure to check out the Zombie Wasteland too. It's pretty scary! Happy shopping!

4S Ranch Haunted House Presented by United Studios of Self Defense

2011-10-06T17:03:00.000-07:00

UNITED STUDIOS OF SELF DEFENSE BRINGS IT’S FIRST ANNUAL HAUNTED HOUSE TO 4S RANCH. USSD 4S is Gearing Up to Scare the Ranch Senseless.

The haunted house, which will be held on October 28th, 29th, 30th, and the scares keep coming on Halloween night. Price of admission is only $5 or you can receive a $2 coupon at the door. From 5:30-

6:30 we will have a family friendly hour in which kids and the faint of heart can tour the haunted house before the monsters and ghouls take over the studio. However, from 6:30-9:00 there will be no escaping them and the fear they will instill in all who dare to enter.

ABOUT UNITED 4S RANCH

When USSD 4S Ranch isn’t inhabited by lost souls and creepy ghouls, they provide quality martial arts instruction for men, women and children. There are a variety of programs available that will help students learn martial arts, get in shape, help kids learn discipline, respect, gain self confidence, and more. For more information about the martial arts classes available at USSD 4S Ranch visit http://www.ussd4sranch.com or call (858) 674-9757

10449 Reserve Dr Ste 141

United Studios of Self Defense

San Diego, CA 92127

(858) 674-9757

92127 Real Estate - Posted October 6, 2011

2011-10-06T16:35:00.000-07:00

Please Click on the Images to Enlarge

Call 858-449-7355 with questions.

All data is from the Sandicor Multiple Listing Service and is deemed accurate, but it is not guaranteed.

Recent Crime 92127 Posted October 6, 2011

2011-10-06T14:48:00.000-07:00

Click Image to Enlarge

Cash To Crash Cancer at Civil Disobedience Btq.

2011-10-01T18:25:00.000-07:00

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month. October 1st-31st, join Civil Disobedience Boutique in our goal to raise $2000 to donate to the Susan G. Komen foundation to fund education and research to find a cure for breast cancer. With a (minimum suggested donation) of $5 in our 'CA$H to CRA$H CANCER' jar, we will give you the opportunity pick a secret discount, from 10-60% off towards your in store purchase that day!! You can donate & $ave all month long! Let's team up & CRA$H CANCER together!!!

Del Sur schools high-achievers on state standards tests

2011-09-30T14:53:00.001-07:00

Del Sur schools high-achievers on state standards tests

SAN DIEGO (Sept. 28, 2011) – The latest test scores are in and all three Del Sur neighborhood schools – Del Sur Elementary, Oak Valley Middle and Del Norte High – continue to rank exceptionally high within the Poway Unified School District, widely acknowledged as the best district in all of San Diego.

“Across the board, Del Sur’s schools achieve phenomenal scores within an extremely competitive district,” said Bill Ostrem, president and CEO of Black Mountain Ranch, developers of Del Sur. “At Del Norte High School, scores increased by eight points, making the Nighthawks the top high school in the district.”

Here’s how Del Sur schools stack up in the most recent Growth Academic Performance Index (API).

• Del Norte High School earned 864, the highest API score among all five Poway Unified School District high schools. In only its second API ranking, Del Sur’s hometown high school is at the top of its class.

• Oak Valley Middle School scored 909 in the API, second among the district’s middle schools for the second year in a row.

• Del Sur Elementary School scored 944 on the API, more than 57 points above the district’s average elementary school score and well positioned in the Top 10.

With scores ranging from 200 to 1,000, API measures academic growth based on student performance on the California Standards Test (STAR) given last spring to students in grades two through 11.

Located within walking distance of many Del Sur homes or within a short bike ride or drive, Del Sur Elementary, Oak Valley Middle and Del Norte High are within the Poway Unified School District, one of the highest-ranking districts in the county and state. The award-winning district oversees 25 elementary schools, six middle schools, four high schools and one continuation high school.

All PUSD comprehensive high schools, middle and elementary schools exceeded the state API target of 800, a goal the state set for all schools to reach by 2014.

To learn more about Del Sur’s eight neighborhoods with new homes for sale, go to www.delsurliving.com or call 858-481-4200.

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CONTACT: Jan Percival, Scribe Communications, 858-452-8958, jpercival@scribecommunications.com

Recent Crime 92127 Posted October 1, 2011

2011-09-30T13:40:00.000-07:00

92127 Paparazzi!

2011-09-26T08:19:00.000-07:00

Dogs VS Snakes: What You Need to Know

2011-09-23T14:02:00.000-07:00

Tis the season for rattlesnakes around San Diego County. We have 5 species of rattlesnakes that live in the county, so if you are out enjoying the open space you should be aware of the risk of your dog getting bit by a snake.

Most snake bites are defensive in nature, depending on a variety of factors a rattlesnake bite can result in minimal signs or problems or be severe and cause the death of a dog.

Dogs are most often bit in the face or front legs, which results in swelling, pain, and bruising. Often times 1-2 blood drops can be found. Although it can happen, most dogs bitten in the face do not have trouble breathing unless they get bit in the mouth or tongue.

Any dog or cat that is suspected of being bit by a rattle snake should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Early treatment with pain medications and antivenom ensures the quickest recovery. General first aid should be to calm the dog down. DO NOT use any type of suction kits or tourniquets – these areas are painful and either can make things worse or result in the dog biting. Transport your dog to a veterinary facility for emergency care as soon as feasible.

Most dogs will recover after getting IV fluids for shock, pain medications and antivenom. Occasionally antibiotics are administered for potential secondary infections. Swelling will usually take 7-10 days to resolve. In severe cases, large areas of skin may die resulting in a wound that can take several weeks to heal. Some snake venom has a component that causes weakness and paralysis. Those dogs are at risk for developing trouble breathing and in rare cases require intensive care and assisted ventilation on a mechanical ventilator.

The best way to protect your dog from getting bit is to keep the dog on a leash at all times. Take walks early in the morning and in the late evening after it has cooled down. For further information see our website at www.animalurgentcare.com

Karen Seibold, DVM

Diplomate American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care

Animal Urgent Care and Specialty Group

2430A. S. Escondido Blvd

Escondido, Ca 92025

760-738-9600

Open 24/7 every day of the year

Recent Crime 92127 Posted September 22, 2011

2011-09-22T12:35:00.001-07:00

Del Sur Ranch House

2011-09-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

Rental of the Del Sur Ranch House is a one-of-a-kind homeowner benefit

While open to the public daily as a welcome center for the community and for sustainable living and interior design ideas, the Del Sur Ranch House is also an exclusive venue for events and celebration, available only to residents and invited guests.

“Only Del Sur residents have the opportunity to rent the Ranch House for private parties like weddings or other milestone events, ” explained Bernadette Ramirez, manager of the Community Services Council. “We also have residents ask to use the Ranch House for family portraits. It’s a beautiful setting that perfectly epitomizes the Del Sur lifestyle.”

The indoor-outdoor flexibility of the Ranch House allows year-round enjoyment and can easily accommodate as many as 200 guests. The kitchen is caterer-friendly, and individual rooms may be used or closed off, depending on space requirements. Residents may check Ranch House availability and make reservations on Del Sur’s intranet site, www.delsurcommunity.org.

Oak Valley Middle School and Del Sur Elementary School Foundation have used the Ranch House for their annual fundraising events the past few years, and many adult social events have been held there. Next on the social calendar: All adults in the community are invited to attend Oktoberfest at the Ranch House during the last weekend in September (for details, email bramirez@delsurcommunity.org).

The Ranch House is more than the perfect party place. It is also San Diego’s first building to achieve Platinum LEED certification from the US Green Building Council. With its design influenced by the original rancheros at Black Mountain, the Del Sur Ranch House serves as a showcase for environmentally sustainable design and living practices.

In addition to Ranch House privileges, Del Sur residents also take advantage of the community’s six neighborhood parks and five year-round swimming pools for their outdoor entertaining needs. Residents may reserve park space for smaller events like birthday parties, according to Bernadette, who says she receives two to four park reservation requests each week.

The community of Del Sur is located in the coastal hills of San Diego, between interstates 5 and 15, just north of state Route 56.

Del Sur is home to the Poway Unified School District’s top-rated Del Sur Elementary.

Eight new home neighborhoods are now selling at Del Sur, with prices ranging from the high $400,000s to the $700,000s. Some 20 model homes – featuring attached, detached, single-level and multi-story floor plans– are open for tours by top homebuilders, including: Standard Pacific Homes, Shea Homes, William Lyon Homes, California West Communities and Davidson Communities.

To learn more about Del Sur’s eight neighborhoods with new homes for sale, go to www.delsurliving.com or call 858-481-4200.

The Ranch House is open to the public noon to 4 Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays.

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CONTACT: Jan Percival, Scribe Communications, 858-452-8958, jpercival@scribecommunications.com

92127 Real Estate - Posted September 12, 2011

2011-09-12T08:51:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted September 12, 2011

2011-09-12T07:51:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted September 5, 2011

2011-08-31T14:07:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted September 5, 2011

Photos from the 1st Annual Shay & Associates Doughnut Run

2011-08-29T08:19:00.000-07:00

Photos from the 1st Annual Shay & Associates Doughnut Run

Recent Crime 92127 Posted August 29, 2011

2011-08-29T06:35:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted August 29, 2011

Movie in the Park - Last Movie September 17th

2011-08-22T07:51:00.000-07:00

Movie in the Park - Last Movie September 17th

What a wonderful turnout last Saturday at the Movies in the Park! The Summer Movie Series is brought to you in part by Shay & Associates, Dr. Brian Davey, San Diego Parks and Rec and presented by Wilsey Asset Management and our very own 4S Ranch Master Association.

The last movie of the summer will be Toy Story 3 on September 17th. Be sure to bring toys for the Toy Story 3 Toy Drive!

Recent Crime 92127 Posted August 20, 2011

2011-08-20T11:34:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted August 20, 2011

European Wax Tuns 1 Year Old!

2011-08-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

European Wax Center – 4S Ranch August 20, 2011

Can you believe it – Our baby is 1 year old! You are cordially invited to come celebrate our anniversary. The party fun includes a professional Barista offering free European espresso, café lattes and flavored coffee, Bellini’s and treats for the big kids and Face Painting for the little kids!

(Call the wax center (858.487.4200) for the details.)

To celebrate our anniversary we will give you double the referral points when you bring a friend that is new to European Wax Center. Your friend can receive one of our introductory services absolutely FREE of charge! AND….. When you schedule your services for August 27^th or 28^th you will receive 10% off your services as our gift to you.

Also, you can enter to win a fabulous trip to Santorini, Greece! Remember, the more referrals, the better your chances of winning this great trip.

Don’t forget to “like” us on Facebook at European Wax Center – 4S Ranch. We will donate a Full Face Wax Service to the local chapter of the YWCA Empowering Women program for every 10 new friends on Facebook through the end of the year. So please help us help women who are less fortunate and trying to get back on their feet and into the workforce. All you have to do is “like” us and ask all your friends and family to “like” us too.

We hope to see you soon!

Your Guest Services and Wax Specialist Team at European Wax Center - 4s Ranch!

River Rafting! A Great Family Time!

2011-08-15T07:15:00.000-07:00

We were recently in Colorado and had the chance to take our 7, 10 and 12 year old boys on a half-day river rafting adventure. It was great! We had a senior river guide who had not fallen out of the boat all year. That was, of course, until he met our two families. It wasn't a big bump, but before you knew it, we had no guide! It was pretty wild. He scrambled back into the boat cursing the fact he would have to buy a case of beer for the other guides. Consider rafting next year. We all had a great time!

When your number is up...

In police work we always felt when it was your number, it was simply your number. You never know when your final moment on this earth will arrive. When Chief Lansdowne spoke at Officer Jeremy Henwood's funeral last Friday, he said investigators found a still warm paper bag full of uneaten food from McDonalds on the passenger seat of his car.

It was evident he had been ambushed only minutes after leaving the McDonalds on University Ave. SDPD Detectives returned to the McDonalds to see if there had been a confrontation of some type. The Detectives and the manager huddled in the cramped office as they played back a video tape and saw the last few minutes of Officer Henwood's life.

As they reviewed the tape it showed Officer Henwood purchase his lunch and then begin to leave the restaurant. It was then he saw a young boy standing back from the counter counting the coins in his hand and appearing disappointed. Jeremy approached the youth, smiled and then removed money from his own wallet and proceeded to buy the child lunch. That little boy will never forget the big, tall, kind, policeman that helped him. We won't forget Jeremy either.

Be safe and enjoy your week!

Indoor Sidewalk Sale 2011 at Civil Disobedience in 4S Ranch

2011-08-14T15:17:00.000-07:00

Indoor Sidewalk Sale 2011 at Civil Disobedience in 4S Ranch

Can you say Sidewalk Sale?? Run; don't walk to Civil Disobedience because these deals are sure to go quickly. Jewelry, jeans and cute tops by the handful all with prices slashed like you won't believe. Look for the little dots and save some money at the indoor sidewalk sale at Civil Disobedience! Plus, pick up a copy of Clint Perry's children's book Pack Rat Pat and his CD entitled "Clint Perry and the Boo Hoo Crew".

Recent Crime 92127 Posted August 12, 2011

2011-08-12T11:49:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted August 12, 2011

Community and Officers Mourn Loss

2011-08-08T10:40:00.000-07:00

I had lots of material to pick from this past week. Seven days in mile-high Denver Colorado with family and about thirty kids and their parents, will do that. As we began to board the plane Sunday afternoon, it all changed.

As we faced the challenging task of getting all the kids and their random soccer balls on to the plane, I received a phone call from a close friend and retired SDPD Officer. I knew it was bad news the minute he started talking. The tone and voice inflection was controlled, clear and serious. The way cops in crisis talk, "I'm sure you have heard what is going on here in San Diego".

As we stood in line in the hot jetway he explained how Mid-City Division Officer Jeremy Henwood was ambushed by a cowardly and suicidal male with a shotgun. Jeremy had merely stopped his marked patrol car to assist what he thought was a motorist in need of help. He was the second San Diego Police Officer to be killed in the line of duty in the last ten months.

My thoughts immediately jumped to his family, and then the dreaded silence his fellow officers would be experiencing when they attended line-up. Line-ups in large police departments occur twenty-four hours a day and are usually positive with lots of laughter and good natured kidding. There will be no laughter today or for quite awhile in the eight divisions of SDPD.

As I sat back in my cramped airline seat, I decided I was not going to write a story this week. I was going to, "take a break". Most of last night and again this morning, I continued thinking about all the heroic police officers and the citizens who tried to save Officer Henwood.

Thirty minutes prior to launching our weekly emagazine this morning, Hannah was asking again for this week's story. I realized how gutless I was being. After all, when do law enforcement officers or military personnel ever get a chance to stop, or, "take a break"?

Never. It is extremely difficult for them to even catch their breath or really mourn the death of a fellow officer. Despite how much they are personally suffering, the world around them keeps turning and the drug abusers, gang members, predators and the criminal elements never, ever let up.

Officers drive by crime scenes 24/7. They get used to entering, exiting, and managing crime scenes. Being in them and being around them is all part of the job. It is so different when it is one of your own or their vehicle is in that restricted area of crime scene tape, numbered markers and the flashes of a lab technicians camera.

Stopping is never an option for cops or men and women in combat. The mission must be continued. So when you see a law enforcement officer or a member of our military please take moment to stop yourself and say, "Thank You". It may be the only break they receive all day.

92127 Real Estate - Posted August 8, 2011

2011-08-06T14:04:00.000-07:00

92127 Real Estate - Posted August 8, 2011

The pie charts above show what's currently on the market in 92127 as of August 8, 2011. There are a total of 417 homes.

The bar graph above shows the average sale price of homes in 92127

for each month in 2010 and 2011.

The bar graph above shows the number of homes sold each month in 2010 and 2011 in 92127.

Thank you for your interest in our 92127 Real Estate Dashboard. For a more complete accounting of the value of your home or to discuss any of your real estate needs,

please call Ray or Theresa Shay at 858-449-4970.

Recent Crime 92127 Posted August 6, 2011

2011-08-06T13:21:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted August 6, 2011

Hike to Lake Hodges from 4S Ranch

2011-08-01T08:08:00.001-07:00

Hike to Lake Hodges from 4S Ranch


Alex, Ying and Tyler. It was great hiking with you!

From the Kitchen Window

2011-08-01T07:39:00.000-07:00

From the Kitchen Window

Hallelujah! I finally figured out why my mom, who has long since passed, so loved her kitchen window in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She could wash the dishes in the kitchen sink and look out the window past her Pyracantha bush that covered much of the window. The bush allowed her to see what was going on in front of our home without really being seen. She could watch the world and her seven children as we struggled to grow up.

I always wondered what my mom's "intelligence" source was. How did she know I had pulled Patty's hair? Or knocked one of my four brothers off their bicycle? Or the infamous time, at about age seven, when I got caught in a lie by denying that I had actually peed in the garden. I recall with horror my siblings chanting as they sat around our enamel kitchen table, "liar, liar, pants on fire, hang them from a telephone wire". Wow, a telephone wire? I wonder if there are any of those still around?

This past week, I was surprised to find my Mother's source of information. If I was in the mob, the informant who provided the information would be placed in concrete and dropped in say, Mission Bay? Not deep enough! This rat has to go down where it is deep and dark. But how do you sink a piece of clear glass that is simply a view to the world around you?

It was about six pm last Wednesday evening when I confirmed what my mom's source of information had been all those years. It solved a forty year old mystery. The rat was in fact, the kitchen window which was a porthole into our lives. It was quite quizzical that I discovered this so long after my mom had passed. It was pure happenstance that I paused in front of our kitchen sink to look out. In today's world, we do not pause nearly enough. There is always more to do. With the sink in front of me, I peered out to see our seven year old son, Ryan carrying out a bowl of dog food from the garage for our six month old puppy, "Rosie". I had no Pyracantha or rose bush to provide cover, but you don't survive twenty-four years as a street cop without being able to work the angles of a window frame to your benefit.

Ryan gently set the bowl down in front of Rosie in the driveway. He then sat down and crossed his legs to watch her eat. Ryan was totally consumed with what he was watching. His little hands were on his lap as our puppy dug furiously into her food causing the food to start to build up and overflow on one side of the the bowl. Ryan took his right hand and politely pushed down the swelling mountain of dog food so the puppy could eat more easily.

I felt like I was in a trance. I so wanted time to stop. I then wondered why we do not stop more frequently to just watch our children. I tried to imagine what Ryan was thinking as he patiently waited for Rosie and repeatedly the pushed down the growing mountain of food. Some small kernels of the food scattered from the bowl on to the driveway. His little hands then grabbed the kernels of dog food

in each hand. As Rosie finished the food in the bowl he quietly placed both his hands behind his back, concealing the last dozen or so bits of her food.

It was like he had a little surprise for our puppy. As Rosie sniffed around for more food, he gently held both of his closed little hands above the bowl and then ceremoniously released his treasure. As the kernels fell to the bottom of the bowl, he smiled and I could hear his little angelic little boy voice say, "Here you go Rosie". Rosie did not need encouragement. She finished the remainder of her food.

It was then I realized why despite the cold weather, my mom always kept the kitchen window at least partially open. It also popped into my head why I got so busted, so many years ago. My mom never really saw what I had done early that summer morning ... She simply had heard my transgression. Boy I miss her and that old window that brought so much joy to her and our entire family.

Enjoy your week. We have a nice four bedroom cul-de-sac home coming up for rent on the south side of 4S ranch on Sept. 1st. We also have two awesome cul-de-sac homes hitting the market shortly. One with a huge yard! If your interested please give us a holler. Don't forget, Theresa and I are never too busy for your referrals. I promise we will take great care of them.

Take care,

Ray and Theresa Shay

92127 Paparazzi!

2011-08-01T07:14:00.000-07:00

92127 Paparazzi!
Photography of the wonderful event by Kim Dybczak of Kim Dybzcak Photography. For more information or to schedule Kim at your next event, email kimdibby@yahoo.com.

Dr. Barnes Expanding; Boarding and Grooming Coming Soon!

2011-07-30T17:13:00.000-07:00

Dr. Barnes Expanding; Boarding and Grooming Coming Soon!

Dr. Barnes' Team at 4S Ranch Village

Now that Phase Two of the 4S Village is underway, our local Animal Hospital is planning to expand! They have managed to leap through a big hurdle with the county and will soon offer boarding and grooming. Plus, for the month of September your pets will enjoy 20% off dental related services. Thanks Dr. Barnes!

Tails are Wagging at Del Sur

2011-07-30T17:05:00.000-07:00

Tails are Wagging at Del Sur

Off-leash dog park now open at Del Sur

SAN DIEGO (July 25, 2011) – Tails are wagging more than ever at Del Sur, now that an enclosed off-leash dog park is open as part of the community’s new Old Stonefield Park.

Secured by chain link fencing, the new 8,200-square-foot grass park is open from dawn to dusk and features a supply of doggie bags and a canine water faucet.

“The dog park is Del Sur’s newest amenity, built by popular demand,” said Bill Ostrem, president and CEO of Black Mountain Ranch LLC, developer of Del Sur. The San Diego master-planned community is centrally located between Interstates 5 and 15, just north of state Route 56.

Also new at Del Sur is Kristen Glen Park, featuring a solar-heated pool dedicated to lap swimming. This new park also includes a stone and grass labyrinth that provides a quiet place to relax and meditate. There’s a fireplace in the pool area as well.

Six neighborhood parks, five with solar-heated swimming pools, are scattered throughout Del Sur. Another popular amenity is the 18-mile trail system and 1,000 acres of surrounding open space shared with sister Black Mountain Ranch community Santaluz. Community-hosted events are another attraction for Del Sur residents, with movie nights and concerts scheduled in the parks throughout the summer months.

One of San Diego’s most active master-planned communities, Del Sur currently has eight new home neighborhoods now selling. The community also includes the top-rated Del Sur Elementary School and Del Norte High School.

Visit www.DelSurLiving.com or call 858-481-4200 to learn more about Del Sur’s eight neighborhoods with new homes for sale.

Recent Crime 92127 Posted July 30, 2011

2011-07-30T12:28:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted July 30, 2011

Korean BBQ Beef Shortribs Recipe

2011-07-30T12:14:00.001-07:00

Korean BBQ Beef Short Ribs

Ingredients:

· 2 pounds Korean-style beef short ribs (available at Zion Market)

· 4 tablespoons soy sauce

· 4 teaspoons sesame oil

· 2 tablespoons sake or mirin (sweet rice wine)

· 4 tablespoons brown sugar

· 1 fresh kiwi

· 8 cloves of garlic

· 1 tablespoon roasted white sesame seeds

· 1 tablespoon roasted black sesame seeds

· Shredded or sliced green onions, to taste

· Asian hot chili sauce (Sriracha) or red chili pepper flakes, to taste (optional)

· Black pepper, to taste

Directions:

· Blend kiwi and garlic in food processor.

· In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, sake, brown sugar, kiwi and garlic. Then add the sesame seeds, shredded green onion, red chili sauce (optional) and black pepper (for best flavor, use a mortar and pestle to crush half of the black and white sesame seeds).

· Add beef to mixture and allow to marinate for 12 hours or overnight. Cook on outdoor grill or indoor skillet until done (browned on both sides).

Opening Day at Del Mar and Still Learning!

2011-07-25T07:26:00.000-07:00

Opening Day at Del Mar and Still Learning!

4S Ranch Resident Spotlight - Makenna Wins!!

2011-07-23T17:52:00.000-07:00

4S Ranch Resident Spotlight - Makenna Wins!!

4s Ranch resident Makenna Grewe, recently represented the San Diego Padres in Major League Baseball's Pitch, Hit and Run contest for 13/14 year-old girls at the All-Star Game in Phoenix, Az AND SHE WON!! Way to represent for 4S Ranch, Makenna! We are proud of you!

3.4 Million to Spend - Let's Do it Right!

2011-07-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

3.4 Million to Spend - Let's Do it Right!

3.4 Million Dollars in Improvements Proposed to 4S Ranch Community Park!

In a recent CSA 83A Board Meeting it was approved for the County of San Diego to start initial planning discussions on how to improve the north side of 4S Ranch Community Park. The total available funds is about 3.4 million dollars. This money is from funds that have been set aside to pay for park improvements. It is a great feeling to already have the majority of the needed money available, we just want to make sure the final product keeps this park as the, "Crown Jewel" of 4S Ranch!

On a recent afternoon, we saw the park being used by so many local residents. If you have not been down to the park be sure to take a look! Kids were playing soccer, baseball, riding their bikes, playing catch and even some were playing Lacrosse. What a great park. If you want to be added to an interest list we are forming concerning these public workshops be sure to send us an email. We will confirm you are on the list and help facilitate community involvement in this planning process.

It's our park. Let's do it right!

Any questions, don't hesitate to call.

Ray
858-449-4970

Bank Robbery Suspect Update

2011-07-16T13:51:00.000-07:00

Bank Robbery Suspect Update

SUSPECT DESCRIPTION: B/M/A, late 20’s to early 30’s, 5’10” to 6’ 2,” 180 to 200 lbs, Average, Muscular build, black suit jacket, black dress shirt, black suit pants, black “bug-eye” sunglasses, black Ivy cap, and/or a black bandanna over portion of his face. Suspect has displayed a weapon.

Related Bank Robberies:

1. May 18, 2010 1400 hours Wells Fargo - 1510 West Valley Parkway Escondido

2. July 15, 2010 1015 hours Wells Fargo – 3445 Del Mar Heights Rd. San Diego

3. September 07, 2010 1555 hours Chase Bank - 9450 Scranton Road San Diego

4. November 05, 2010 1600 hours Chase Bank – 9450 Scranton Road San Diego

5. January 20, 2011 1700 hours – Bank of America – 9460 Scranton Road San Diego

6. February 11, 2011 1729 hours – Point Loma Credit Union - 10413 Craftsman Way

7. April 06, 2011 1104 hours – MFCU 953 Lomas Santa Fe Solana Beach

8. June 17, 2011 1731 hours – Point Loma Credit Union - 10413 Craftsman Way

Anyone with information concerning these bank robberries may call the FBI at telephone number (858) 565-1255, or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477. You may remain anonymous by calling the FBI or Crime Stoppers.

Anyone with information concerning these bank robberries may call the FBI at telephone number (858) 565-1255, or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477. You may remain anonymous by calling the FBI or Crime Stoppers.

Motivational Drill Instructors in 4S Ranch

2011-07-16T13:27:00.000-07:00

MDI 8

Motivational Drill Instruction 8 (MDI 8) is an Outdoor Fitness Program that was developed by a team of veterans that have over 40 years of military experience. MDI 8 saw the demand across America to create a program that was based around military style fitness to achieve the results so many people are not getting otherwise. In April 2011, MDI 8 launched their program here in the local 4S Ranch Community and after 4 short months, the camp has over 20 members and has seen some amazing results. That has recently led to the demand from 3 training sessions per week in the evenings to 6 training days per week starting Aug 1st.

So, Who Can Do It?
The program is all based on Functional Fitness. Basically, members compete against their own body weight allowing anyone to do the program regardless of their current fitness level. MDI 8's military experienced instructors will help each member get the results that are often only achieved in a group setting, through personal leadership and motivation. Currently, MDI 8 has members from the age of 12 - 58 here at the 4S Ranch location....... So, if you or anyone you know is looking for a program were you can get fit, have fun and meet new people, MDI 8 might just be for you/them. To learn more about the program, join MDI 8 at http://www.mdi8.com/

Training Schedule:
Mornings: Tue / Thur 0530am-0630am and Sat 0900am-1000am (Weekly effective Aug 1st)
Evenings: Mon / Wed / Fri 5:30pm - 6:30pm (Weekly)

Location:
4S Ranch Sports Park and Rec Center
16118 4S Ranch Parkway
San Diego, Ca 92127

Future Locations:

1. Fall 2011, MDI 8 has an instructor that will be launching an MDI 8 location in Menifee, Ca.

2. Fall 2011, MDI 8 has an active duty instructor that will be launching the program in Afghanistan training military members.

On behalf of MDI 8, we are happy to be part of the local community here in 4S Ranch and we will see you on the Physical Training Field (PT Field).... Ohhrah!

4S Ranch Juniors All-Stars Claim District 31 Tournament Title

2011-07-16T12:51:00.000-07:00

4S Ranch Juniors All-Stars Claim District 31 Tournament Title

Left to Right- (Back Row) Ted Lavin (Manager), Kyle Borer, Chris Siaweleski, Nicholas Villalobos, Nick Lavin, John Cresto, Daniel Ochoa, Anthony Gonzalez, Charles Matthews (Coach), Scott Casadona (Coach).

(Front Row) Kayden Clements, Dillon Kidwell, Nick Angelini, Adam Connors, Matt Casadona, Spencer Laity. Not pictured, Kyle Hurst

For the second straight year, the 4S Ranch Juniors All-Star team took home the title in the District 31 All-Star Tournament. This year's tournament was hosted by 4S Ranch Little League and the home team did not disappoint!

The 13 & 14 year old Juniors All-Stars went undefeated in the tournament. During their Championship run, the 4S All-Stars defeated Solana Beach 3-0, Escondido National 9-0, and perennial power-house Poway, 6-5.

The Championship game paired 4S Ranch v. Del Mar before a capacity crowd on Friday, July 8th. Adam Connors got things started for 4S Ranch with a towering three-run home run over the center field fence in the first inning. John Cresto later followed up with a grand-slam home run, and the route was on. Behind flawless defense, the 4S All-Stars went on to defeat Del Mar 13-3, clinching the District 31 Championship Banner!

On July 16th - 20th, the 4S Ranch All-Stars move on to the Section 6 Tournament where they will compete against the Champions from District 32, District 33 and District 70. We wish the boys well!

Recent Crime 4S Ranch Posted July 17, 2011

2011-07-16T11:10:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 4S Ranch Posted July 17, 2011
Brought to you by 92127eweekly...Your Community Connection.

Recent Crime 92127 Posted July 5, 2011

2011-07-05T12:57:00.000-07:00

Recent Crime 92127 Posted July 5, 2011

This Week in Commercial Real Estate...

2011-06-25T15:13:00.000-07:00

This Week in Commercial Real Estate...
June 27, 2011

The commercial real estate industry recovery continues to be affected by national economic challenges, such as lack of employment growth, companies adjusting to "working leaner and smarter" to better their internal return on investment and inconsistent economic policy. However, San Diego County has recently experienced stronger than national average activity, both on the sales / investment side and leasing side. A few recent large commercial real estate sale transactions have surprised the local market, giving a genuine sense that institutional cash is ready to get back into this market on strong, long-term hold assets. Leasing activity is getting better, but is still hampered by high company occupancy costs and a difficult corporate lending environment. If you have any questions on recent trends and activity, John Still and David Silverman are happy to answer any of your questions.

John Still jstill@flockeavoyer.com
David Silverman dsilverman@flockavoyer.com

Recent Crime 92127 Posted June 25, 2011

2011-06-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

Gated Escondido Home with Ocean View!

2011-06-22T16:43:00.000-07:00

Gated Escondido Home with Ocean View!
Check out our must-see virtual tour that just hit the market. This home has it all including views to Catalina! Custom built, gate-guarded and magnificent, this 5bd, 3.5ba home will exceed all your expectations! For showings, please call Ray or Theresa Shay at 858-449-4970 today!