Real Estate

Pending Home Sales in California Gained in February

 

Pending home sales in California gained ground for the second consecutive month in February, while the share of equity sales posted higher after two months of decline, the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.) reported today.

Pending home sales:

C.A.R.’s Pending Home Sales Index (PHSI)* rose from a revised 102.3 in January to 127.8 in February, based on signed contracts.  The index also was up from the 111.8 index recorded in February 2011, marking the tenth consecutive month that pending sales were higher than the previous year.  Pending home sales are forward-looking indicators of future home sales activity, providing information on the future direction of the market.

Distressed housing market data:

“A lack of inventory in the bank-owned (REO) and short sale market was a contributing factor to the decline in share of distressed sales in February,” said C.A.R. President LeFrancis Arnold.  “In fact, REO inventory declined 24 percent in February from the previous year, while short sale inventory dropped 17 percent during the same period.”

• After declining for two straight months, equity sales increased in February, making up 51.1 percent of home sales in February.  Equity sales made up 49.9 and 44.8 percent of all sales in January 2012 and February 2011, respectively.
• Meanwhile, the total share of all distressed property types sold statewide decreased in February to 48.9 percent, down from January’s 50.1 percent and from 55.2 percent in February 2011.
• The share of short sales dipped slightly in February.  Of the distressed properties sold statewide in January, 23 percent were short sales, down from the previous month’s share of 23.8 percent but up from last February’s share of 22.9 percent.
• The share of REO sales also edged down in February to 25.2 percent, down from January’s 25.9 percent and down from the 31.9 percent recorded in February 2011.
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Environment

Consider Wildlife When Creating A Firewise Landscape

By Ed Pandofino

Living in fire-prone landscapes in California requires some modification of the areas around your home to protect it from fire. While there is no doubt that these modifications alter habitats used by wildlife, you can minimize the negative impacts on birds by paying attention to the timing of your activities.

In our area birds begin nesting in March and many still have dependent young as late as August. Since destruction of active bird nests is both against the law (Migratory Bird Treaty Act) and avoidable, the simplest approach is to conduct all clearing activities outside this period. This means doing the work in the cooler months, which is also easier on those doing this difficult work. Keep in mind that birds do NOT just nest in trees. Many birds nest on or near the ground in brushy areas (e.g., California Quail, Bewick’s Wren, California Towhees, etc.). Just because you are NOT removing trees doesn’t mean you are not disturbing nests. Also, keep in mind that disturbance is most damaging early in the season when birds are on eggs or have young still in the nest. In general, the most sensitive period is likely to be mid-March through July. It is best to avoid all disturbance during this period.

Ed Pandolfino
Sierra Foothills Audubon Society

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Bits & Pieces

80 Year Old Women Lands Plane After Husband Dies

When her husband slumped over in the pilot’s seat, non-pilot Helen Collins, 80, found herself at the controls of a twin-engine plane that was low on fuel. “You better get me in there pretty soon,” she radioed the tower

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Center for the Arts

The Center for the Arts Presents Kansas

httpv://youtu.be/YRCh8yh5Oys

The Center for the Arts presents Kansas with Lorraine Gervais (Women of Rock) unplugged opening, Thursday April 12 at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium, 255 S. Auburn Street, Grass Valley, CA.

Originally formed in Topeka, Kansas during 1973, the group became one of the decade’s most popular rock bands, on the strength of such all-time classic albums as 1976’s four-times platinum ‘Leftoverture’ and 1977’s five-times platinum ‘Point of Know Return’ – which spawned the aforementioned mega hit singles. Despite a few line- up changes throughout the years, Kansas remains immensely popular to this day, and continues to put on amazing shows. Case in point, ‘There’s Know Place Like Home.’ Filmed on February 7, 2009 in their home state (at Washburn University’s White Concert Hall), the concert was certainly not your average affair. For this show, the group was united with former members Kerry Livgren (guitar/keyboards) and Steve Morse (guitar), as well as the 50-piece Washburn University Orchestra.

For tickets and to read more: The Center for the Arts

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animals

Elephant Escapes Circus, Goes for Coffee

httpv://youtu.be/48_BvWsGjQc

 

Elephant Escapes Circus and Runs Around Car Park in Blackpool, County Cork, Ireland.  The people of Cork in Ireland had a fright today when an elephant broke free from a circus. The elephant was found outside a coffee shop.

 
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animals, Bits & Pieces

Bats Under Tile Roof and How to Handle Bats in Your Home

httpv://youtu.be/Oc8ACBiwIyE

Here’s an extreme case of bats under a tile roof. I have to feel sorry for the bats, because now they don’t have a home and will have to find another place for shelter. Here’s how to handle bats if found in your home. (hopefully, not of the magnitude  shown in this video)

“Don’t panic. The solutions are simple.

Bats are rarely aggressive, even if they’re being chased, but they may bite in self-defense if handled. As with any wild animal, bats should never be touched with bare hands. Always wear gloves when removing bats. Only a small percentage of bats (about one-half of one percent overall) have rabies, but anyone bitten by a bat should immediately seek medical consultation.

A solitary bat – often a lost youngster – will occasionally fly into a home, garage or other building through an open door or window. When this happens, the bat’s primary goal is to escape safely back outside. As long as no direct human contact with the bat has occurred, it can be released outdoors.

These bats will usually leave on their own if a window or door to the outside is opened, while interior entrances are closed.

If the bat does not leave on its own, it can be safely captured and released outside. (See the illustrations at right). Wait until the bat lands, then cover it with a small box or other container. Slip a piece of cardboard between the wall and the container, gently trapping the bat inside. Wait until nightfall and, with the bat inside the cardboard-covered container, take it outdoors and release it.”

Source: Bats Conservation International

 

 

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Community Events

Nevada County Habitat for Humanity Announce Women Build Together

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Nevada County Habitat for Humanity and See Jane Do announce “Women Build Together”! An initiative that empowers women to roll up their sleeves to help solve the poverty housing issue faced by women & children today. Women teams work with experts to learn construction skills and use those skills to build a Habitat home.

See Jane Do’s Soiree into Action events are “Parties with a Purpose” engaging women with networking opportunities and fun filled activities to stimulate action.

To kick off the Habitat for Humanity and See Jane Do partnership, we’re hosting  a Women Build Together Soiree into Action. Come meet other Women Build teams, form your own and connect. Plus, learn do-it-yourself tips and techniques from special guests, Samantha Hinrichs of Mud and Pearls and Monica Hughes of Naked Tree Woodworking.

You are the solution – Take ownership of a major women’s issue and be a role model. Join in the effort to provide affordable housing for local families in need!

Click here to register for this free event. Drinks and appetizers provided.

 

Thursday, March 29th 2012
6:00pm – 9:00pm
Haven Underground, 226 Broad Street, Nevada City, CA

FREE

Register for our “Women Build” event today!

Click here to form a Women Build Team!

For a list of team sponsor levels and to see benefits of joining, click here to view our Women Build 2012 Program Packet
Become a See Jane Do member today!

Nevada County Habitat for Humanity
PO Box 2997
Grass Valley, CA 95945
(530) 274-1951
www.nchabitat.org
habitat@nchabitat.org

 

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nevada county fair

Nevada County Fair Accepting Applications for Local Enterainers

By Wendy Oaks

Applications available for those interested in performing or demonstrating at this year’s Fair

The Nevada County Fair is now accepting applications for local entertainers and community acts to perform at the 2012 Nevada County Fair, August 8 – 12.  Do you have a dance group you’d like to see perform at the Fair? Does your group have a skill they’d like to demonstrate to Fair-goers? Want to do a martial arts demonstration or a cheer leading demonstration or show off your baton twirling skills? If so, the Fairgrounds wants your application. This is a great way to share your talents with the community!

Applications are now available on the website at www.NevadaCountyFair.com.  To be considered, the application must be returned to the Fairgrounds by June 1. There is no paid compensation for community showcases and demonstrations.

The application is for those interested in performing on the Dance Pad (available afternoon and evening hours); The Green (available during afternoon hours); or the Tumbleweed Stage (available evening hours only).

This year’s Fair is August 8 – 12, and the theme is “Barnyard Safari.” For more information, visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com or call (530) 273-6217.

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Wendy Oaks
Publicist, Nevada County Fairgrounds
(530) 273-6217

wsoaks@gmail.com

Website: www.NevadaCountyFair.com
Facebook: Nevada County Fairgrounds

Nevada County Fair                          August 8 – 12, 2012
Draft Horse Classic                           September 20 – 23, 2012
Halloween at the Fairgrounds       October 27, 2012
Country Christmas Faire                  November 23 – 25, 2012
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Entertainment

Casino Royale Mega Yacht to Vist Stockton

The Ship Casino Royale
The Ship Casino Royale

Stockton’s downtown marina will soon become the temporary home for one of the world’s best known super yachts, the 163 foot Casino Royale. The James Bond themed ship  arrived in Stockton at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 21st; culminating a 10,000 mile journey which began in Genoa, Italy, last October. The yacht is owned by retired Fresno area CEO and business owner David McDonald. Regarding the ship’s Stockton arrival, Mr. McDonald stated, “I am thrilled to now have the Casino Royale so close to home. I really enjoy the California Delta and have many good friends in Stockton. The outstanding hospitality extended to us by the Stockton Marina and the City of Stockton is greatly appreciated. We are planning a number of exciting West Coast cruises based out of Stockton over the next year, including the Northwest and Alaska.”

The yacht’s westward trek from Italy included a comprehensive maintenance period in Florida where the ship’s mast was lowered by four feet to allow for passage beneath Stockton’s I-5 bridge. Other advance preparations include the yacht funded installation of custom shore power at the Stockton Marina. It is believed that the Casino Royale will be the largest private yacht to ever venture this far into the Delta. Mr. McDonald is a former member of the Delta Yacht Club and several years ago he berthed one of his previous yachts, the Halo, at Stockton’s River Point Landing.

ABOUT THE CASINO ROYALE

Owned by California businessman David McDonald, The Casino Royale is a spectacular 163 foot mega yacht built by Christensen Shipyards in Vancouver, Washington. Launched in the fall of 2008 after a three year build, the yacht was constructed under the close direction of famed yacht builder John Staluppi and remains the largest Christensen ever built. With dozens of unique features and a breathtaking interior, the Casino Royale was named “Queen of the Miami Boat Show” in 2009. The ship’s beam (width) is thirty feet, the draft (depth below waterline) is nine feet, the air draft (height above waterline) is fifty feet, and the yacht’s total weight is 848,000 pounds. Carrying 15,000 gallons of diesel fuel, she has trans-Atlantic range; and holds 2200 gallons of fresh water which is constantly replenished from sea water by two RO water makers. The Casino Royale cruises at twelve knots and has a top speed of eighteen knots. The yacht is powered by twin MTU engines producing 3540 horsepower, has three 480 volt high output generators, bow and stern thrusters, and zero-speed stabilizers.

Unique to the Casino Royale’s interior is the elaborate stonework throughout, striking original artwork, and extensive sapele mahogany raised panel woodwork. With six luxurious guest staterooms (each with en suite bath), the yacht can accommodate twelve guests who are constantly cared for by the ship’s permanent ten-person crew.

The yacht’s advanced audio/video system includes twenty-two HD televisions, US, European, and Caribbean satellite TV throughout, a movie library with 4200 titles, and a ten camera security system. There’s plenty of room to roam with 7000 feet of interior space in addition to 3000 feet of exterior deck space; and all four decks are accessible via elevator. The yacht has three tenders and carries four jet skis, two Vespa scooters, and two Segways. The Casino Royale has fifteen bathrooms, common area seating for ninety-six people, a top deck hot tub, and a commercial scale galley which can serve seventy meals per day. The Marshall Islands registered yacht’s prior cruising areas include Alaska, the US Northwest, the Panama Canal and Central America, Bahamas, the Caribbean, México, the Mediterranean, and the US East Coast. For complete photo library and more information, go to YachtCasinoRoyale.com.

For further information contact:
Erin Johnson ~ (559) 323-8108
Casino Royale Office Administrator
erin@mcdonaldoffices.com
YachtCasinoRoyale.com

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nevada county fair

Nevada County Fairgrounds Seeking Nominations for Fair Family Of The Year

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The Granholm Family – (from left to right) Kaycee, Danny, Katie and Ben – recognized at the Nevada County Fair as the Family of the Year, 2011. Credit: Photo provided by Shaffers Originals
The Granholm Family – (from left to right) Kaycee, Danny, Katie and Ben – recognized at the Nevada County Fair as the Family of the Year, 2011. Credit: Photo provided by Shaffers Originals

Community Encouraged to Nominate Nevada County Families

The Nevada County Fairgrounds is seeking nominations for the 2012 Fair Family of the Year. Each year a family is recognized at the Nevada County Fair, and this year the Fairgrounds is asking the community for its help in nominating a family for this special award.

To be considered, the Fair team is looking for a family who is very involved with the Fair, either through exhibiting or volunteering, and passionate about the Fair. Families chosen in previous years were recognized for their commitment to, and involvement with, the Nevada County Fair and the community.

If you’d like to nominate a family, please submit a one page summary of why you think the family of your choice deserves recognition as the 2012 Fair Family of the Year. The family chosen will be honored at opening ceremonies of the Nevada County Fair, and will also receive daily admission to the Fair, a season parking pass, ride coupons, and a family portrait from Schaffers Originals of Grass Valley.

Submit your nomination no later than April 16, 2012 to reply@NevadaCountyFair.com or mail it to the Nevada County Fairgrounds at P.O. Box 2687, Grass Valley, CA  95945.

This year’s Nevada County Fair is August 8 – 12, and the theme is “Barnyard Safari!” Visit www.NevadaCountyFair.com for information or call (530) 273-6217.

 

Wendy Oaks
Publicist, Nevada County Fairgrounds
(530) 273-6217
wsoaks@gmail.com

Website: www.NevadaCountyFair.com
Facebook: Nevada County Fairgrounds

Nevada County Fair                          August 8 – 12, 2012

Draft Horse Classic                            September 20 – 23, 2012

Halloween at the Fairgrounds      October 27, 2012

Country Christmas Faire                  November 23 – 25, 2012

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Thinking of buying or selling?
For all your real estate needs
Email or call today:

John J. O’Dell Realtor® GRI
Civil Engineer
General Contractor
(530) 263-1091
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