Friday, July 31, 2009

Today in History


On This Day In History.....


*July 31, 1975: Jimmy Hoffa, Teamsters President, disappeared in Detroit, Michigan. Hoffa was never found and his death still remains a mystery. Many believe the labor organizer's disappearance was a Mafia hit but the truth lies unknown.



* July 31, 1914: The outbreak of World War I caused the NY Stock Exchange to close. Trading remained closed until December!


Now you have some good trivia for the day. Happy Friday.


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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

BestRegards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

(949) 753-7900

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Sin City Goes Green

Las Vegas is seeing green-and by that I don't mean cash. Las Vegas has launched a "green" initiative and it has brought an OC business some much needed work.

Krystal Enterprises, a Brea limousine maker, is building 26 natural gas limosuines that will be sold to a new resort and casino in Sin City. They will look the same and drive the same, they will just be reducing the pollution output. These eco-firendly limos are helping the environment and this local business get through these tough times.

The project, CityCenter, is planned to be 67 acres with 6 towers and made to be as green as possible. Maybe the rest of the city will join the trend, employing more green cabs, incentives, and construction meeting the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. For more information visit:

http://www.krystalkoach.com/

http://www.lvchamber.com/programs/green



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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Bestregards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI

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

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Sublime Single Level Living / Orange County Homes

Michael Caruso | Michael Caruso Real Estate Group | 1-949-753-7900


25201 Perch Dr., Dana Point, CA
Sublime Single Level Living in a beautifully remodeled home smartly placed on an extraordinary 12,000 sqft resort-style flat lot.
3BR/2BA Single Family House
offered at $899,000
Year Built 1978
Sq Footage 2,034
Bedrooms 3
Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial
Floors 1
Parking 2 Car garage
Lot Size 12,000 sqft
HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Sublime Single Level Living in a beautifully remodeled home smartly placed on an extraordinary 12,000 sqft flat lot. La Jolla Stone accents the front elevation leading to a double door entry. New vinyl clad double pane 'E' glazed windows & sliding doors block 87 percent of suns harmful UV rays, cathedral ceilings, blonde hardwood floors. Formal dining opens to outdoor retreat. Living room has Bay window. Remodeled kitchen w/flawless porcelain sink, tiled counters w/jade marble accent & Jennair appliances, Family room perfect for flat screen or built-in entertainment. Bedrooms & living room have new Shaw carpet, baths w/new faucets. Master w/2 closets & pool view. Freshly painted interior & exterior color palate. Ceiling fans, recessed & accent lighting added. Yard feels like a vacation retreat w/golf putting green, golf chip & sand shot area, plus pool, spa & grassy areas. Sunny lanai & patios w/BBQ cook area. One of kind home. You'll fall in love...hurry to see this one or cry later.


see additional photos below
PROPERTY FEATURES































• Fireplace• High/Vaulted ceiling• Walk-in closet
• Hardwood floor• Tile floor• Family room
• Living room• Dining room• Breakfast nook
• Dishwasher• Refrigerator• Stove/Oven
• Microwave• Laundry area - garage• Balcony, Deck, or Patio
• Yard• Swimming pool• Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES



• Putting Green, Chipping Course, Tropical Landscape

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS


Welcome Home

Spacious Living Room

Formal Dining Room

Family Room

Resort-Like Backyard

Putting Green w/ Views
Contact info:




Michael Caruso
Michael Caruso Real Estate Group
1-949-753-7900
For sale by agent/broker

powered by postlets Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Jul 21, 2009, 12:50pm PDT

Carnivorous Calamari


Southern California has become invaded with Giant Squid! These sea creatures are about 5-feet-long, can get to be 100 pounds, with razor sharp beaks and toothed tentacles.

The Humboldt squid have been scaring scuba divers and washing up on California beaches. Native to Mexico's deep waters, they are nicknamed "red devils" for their color and occasional tendency to attack divers. They are usually found in schools of up to 1,200! But don't worry, they prefer deep water so swimmers and surfers need not be wary.

These Jumbo Squid are fished at night, using lights to bring the squid to the surface. With thousands amoung thousands off our coast, the question begs to be asked...Calamari anyone?

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


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

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Wine Lovers 101

Who doesn't like to unwind over a glass of wine with dinner? Choosing a good wine is difficult, choosing a good, inexpensive wine is even tougher. Raise your glasses because Top Tenz has provided a list of the best wine for $10 or less...

Personally, if I were to add to this list it would be "2 buck chuck". Otherwise known as Charles Shaw, sold at Trader Joe's for around $2.99. I might take off the Yellow Tail, there are better wines than that for under $10.


10. Voga Quattro

A blend of merlot, shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, and pinot noir (hence the name) from Italy, the unique bottle and price will hook many buyers looking for an interesting bottle of wine that won't break the bank, but the pleasant way the different varietals blend will certainly have you coming back for more.

9. Little Black Dress Pinot Grigio

Great with seafood (especially sushi), this pinot grigio from California works best when allowed to sit briefly after uncorking to really allow the flavors to open up. The apple and grapefruit flavors are quite refreshing and will be great on a warm day.

8. Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling

A great compliment to appetizers, this Riesling is sweet without being syrupy. The right hints of citrus make it refreshing and a great way to clean the palate before moving on to more complex food and wines during a party.

7. Bell'agio Chianti

This nice dry chianti will compliment most red sauces and add a nice bite to a juicy steak.

6. Yellow Tail Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz

Great for the shiraz lover looking to branch out into cabernets with a blend. Nice tannins, but a nice smooth finish. A great "gateway" wine into some of the dryer varietals for those looking to experiment outside of their comfort zones.

5. Clos du Bois Chardonnay

A Californian wine with a French name (the name means "enclosure in the woods" - the maker of the wine is named Woods), this buttery and well balanced chardonnay is medium bodied with pear, citrus, and vanilla flavors. Very refreshing and a great compliment to pork and chicken.

4. Yellow Tail Chardonnay

Very approachable for those looking to move to the dryer white wines. Crisp and clean from being aged in steel barrels as opposed to oak, there is still a lingering nuance of oak in the wine that is welcome to those that are familiar with Chardonnays aged in oak.

3. Twin Fin Pinot Noir

A dark oak and cherry nose are a quick lead into a wine that some say has a bit of an "alcoholy" taste, but is nice and rich the whole way through, making it a great compliment to pizza, steak, or pasta with red sauce. A great way to be introduced to pinot noir.

2. Robert Mondavi Private Selection Sauvignon Blanc

Nice citrus flavors from the west coast, with hints of grapefruit that are the staple of the sauvignon blanc. Great on a hot day, with spicy fish (Thai style tilapia is a great compliment), and a wonderful alternative to the more expensive sauvignon blancs made in South America.

1. Ravenswood Zinfandel

An excellent wine at a great price. Smooth with lots of flavor and a hint of pepperyness at the end that is quite enjoyable. Fairly dry, but a great find for the red wine lover on a budget that wants something they can really sink their palate into.

Honorable Mentions

Evil Cabernet Sauvignon - a great cabernet sauvignon from Southern Australia.

Rosemount Diamond Label Shiraz - found at most restaurants, this Shiraz is a testament to the Australian style of making quality shiraz.

Oak Leaf (multiple varietals) - The house wine for Wal-Mart, this label offers cabernet sauvignon, merlot, chardonnay, and a chardonnay/pinot grigio blend. While none will change your view of that varietal, none are bad for their $3 price tag.

CHEERS!

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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards.

Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI

2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors

(949) 753-7900

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Speechless Sunday

Photo by: Ansel Adams

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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards.

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





Saturday, July 11, 2009

Free Slurpee Day!!!

FREE Slurpee Day 2009!! Saturday, July 11th. Grab your free slurpee at your local 7-eleven and enjoy one of the yummy slushy slurpee treats in flavors like cola, pina colada, blue raspberry, root beer and green apple. I hear 7-11 has a new slurpee flavor I must try out called “Liquid Artillery”, which is a combination of strawberry/pineapple and lime flavors.

Free Slurpee Day starts at 7 a.m. and ends at 11 p.m. (while supplies last) at all participating 7-11 locations, in celebration of 7-Eleven’s annual birthday. This year marks the 82nd birthday for 7-11 convenience stores, so what could be better than to celebrate with a delicious, and don’t forget FREE, brain-freeze induced Slurpee?!

At 7-11, you will receive a free 7.11 ounce Slurpee in the flavor or your choice, or mixed flavors if that’s your thing.

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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards.

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

Friday, July 10, 2009

Friday Funny


Came across this picture on the Internet today and could not get over it ha ha.
And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Thirsty Thursday!


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

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

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Why Online College is Rocking

1) Convenient
2) Some employers pay tuition
3) Higher salary with higher degree

It’s amazing how many people have put classroom time aside and have achieved their goals online. Whether you're seeking an associate's, bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree these are all possibilities over online learning. Today’s college students range from the fresh out of high school young adult to the grandparent who wants to boost their education level into today’s market. This is crucial for students with children and jobs because of the flexible schedules and the ability to work at your own pace. The ability to attend college outside of typical school hours is the top reason students choose online schools.

Here are some of the top 5 online colleges:

-University of Phoenix
-American InterContinental University
-The Art Institute Online
-Capella University
-Colorado Tech Online

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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

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

Four-time Pro Bowl quarterback Steve McNair…

Police have ruled the shooting deaths of former NFL quarterback Steve McNair and 20-year-old Sahel Kazemi a murder-suicide.

Speaking at a press conference in Nashville, a police spokesman said the evidence concluded that Kazemi shot McNair four times and then turned the gun on herself.

Police said there is absolutely no evidence to suggest that a third party was involved.

McNair's death had earlier been labeled a homicide, but police awaited further tests and investigation before saying for sure what happened.

They believe he was asleep on a sofa when Kazemi shot him in the head. She then apparently shot him twice in the chest before shooting him again in the head and then shooting herself.
McNair was shot twice in the head and twice in the chest, while the 20-year-old Kazemi died from a single gunshot to the head. Under her body was a gun she had purchased less than two days before the killings.

Three of the shots that killed McNair were taken from a distance, but one of the shots to the temple came from just inches away.

The gun that killed Kazemi was in contact with her head when it discharged, medical examiner Bruce Levy said Tuesday.

The four-time Pro Bowl quarterback was being remembered Wednesday at the stadium where he played much of his career. The Tennessee Titans opened LP Field for fans to watch video highlights of McNair's 13-year NFL career, look at photos of the quarterback and had a book for them to write messages that will be given to the family.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

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

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

11 Simple Ways To Improve Your Memory

Here are 11 effective methods you can integrate into your life to maintain a great memory for as long as possible:

1. Sleep Well
Consistently sleeping 7-8 hours a night will drastically increase your memory. During sleep, the brain appears to firm up memories of newly acquired information. The most effective "sleepers" experience the full spectrum of nocturnal cycles, and relaxation techniques before bed time can help really help your cognitive (and memory) capacity. During the day, a quick nap can be the impetus for a solution to a problem you have been working.

2. Cross-pollinate Your Interests
Having diverse interests, and constantly trying new things, is a fantastic way to keep the mind sharp and fertile. Neurons that connect to existing neurons give you fresh perspective and ability to use knowledge in a variety of new ways.

3. Teach Others
Teaching implants knowledge in your brain in a different manner than regular learning, and is excellent practice for increasing memory (it also helps if you are genuinely motivated to share the knowledge)!

4. Use Acronyms and Other Mnemonic Devices
Mnemonics are essentially tricks for remembering information. Some tricks are so effective that proper application will let you recall loads of mundane information years later. This one recommendation can vastly improve your memory and effectiveness!

5. Write About It
An effective way to increase memory capacity is to write about the things you want to remember. This will create oxygenated blood flow to the areas of your brain that are responsible for your memories and literally exercises them! Keep a journal, write detailed emails, or start a blog to improve your capacity to memorize.

6. Take a Break
Changing physical or mental perspective is a wonderful way to lighten the invisible stress that occurs when you sit in one place too long. Taking a 5-15 minute break every hour during work sessions is more beneficial than non-stop study. It gives your mind time to relax and absorb information.

7. Listen to Music
Researchers have long shown that certain types of music are instrumental in recalling memories. Information learned while listening to a particular song or collection can often be recalled simply by "playing" the songs mentally.

8. Eat Brain "Superfoods"
Roughly 50-60% of the brain's overall weight is pure fat, which is used as insulation for its billions of nerve cells. The better insulated a cell, the faster it sends messages and the speedier your thinking. Therefore eating foods with a healthy mix of fats is essential for long-term memory. Fish (wild salmon, mackerel, anchovies especially) and dark leafy green vegetables are excellent choices.

9. Try Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is a natural supplement that has been used in China and other countries for centuries and has been reputed to reverse memory loss. It's also suggested by some health practitioners to be a highly effective mood enhancer and is worth trying if you experience memory problems.

10. Stretch
The brain accounts for only 2% of the body's weight, but accounts for 15% of its blood flow, and regular stretching (and exercise) keeps the brain's arteries open and unclogged. Making a habit of stretching can also lead to increased energy, greater flexibility and a more relaxed attitude which all lead to better long-term memory!

11. Collaborate
Interaction with other humans fires a different set of neurons than working alone, and collaboration can vastly increase your memory. Make a habit of joining forces at work and in your personal life to keep the brain fruitful!

I know that at some point in time we will all experience a level of memory loss as we get older. By opening up and trying a few of the practices described in this article, you can reduce the decline in memory loss.

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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards.

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

This Season's Best Sellers

If you are interested in reading some great books this summer, here are the top 10 bestsellers...

New Moon
Book two in the Twilight Saga finds Edward separating from Bella for her safety. Heartbroken, Bella finds solace with dangerous new friends. The film hits theaters this winter.

My Sister's Keeper
This 2004 novel hits screens this summer. Conceived specifically to serve as a genetic match for her leukemia-stricken sister, teen Anna sues her parents to avoid donating her kidney.

Renegade: The Making of a President
Veteran Newsweek columnist Richard Wolffe follows President Obama on his dazzling two-year journey to the White House.

Outliers
New Yorker columnist Malcolm Gladwell examines the seemingly random factors that caused some people--e.g. Bill Gates, the Beatles--to attain success while others didn't.

Skin Trade
The 17th adventure of vampire hunter Anita Blake tracks a vampire serial killer to Vegas, where high stakes leads to a high bodycount.

Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man
Comedian Steve Harvey dives headlong into the literary world, delivering a witty dating guide for women looking to gain insight on how and what men think.

Cook Yourself Thin
The charming Lifetime Network show hits the pages in a cookbook with 80 easy-to-make, waist-trimming recipes that don't skimp on taste.

The Shack
A father overcomes his grief over the murder of his young daughter to find God in the most unlikely place--in the shack where she was killed.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
An epistolary novel tells the story of the residents of the island of Guernsey, who suffered through occupation by Nazi forces during WWII.

Three Cups of Tea
Co-founder of the Central Asia Institute Greg Mortensen recalls his inspirational experiences bringing humanitarian aid to Pakistan and Afghanistan.

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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards.

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

96th Tour de France

Tour de France 2009Running from Saturday July 4th to Sunday July 26th 2009, the 96th Tour de France will be made up of 21 stages and will cover a total distance of 3,500 kilometers.
These 21 stages have the following profiles:
•· 10 flat stages,
•· 7 mountain stages,
•· 1 medium mountain stage,
•· 2 individual time-trial stages,
•· 1 team time-trial stage.

Just to keep you updated on the standings so far it's...
1.CANCELLARA F. SAX 9h 50' 58"
2.MARTIN T. THR 00' 33"
3.ARMSTRONG L. AST 00' 40"
4.CONTADOR A. AST 00' 59"
5.WIGGINS B. GRM 01' 00"
6.KLÖDEN A. AST 01' 03"
7.GERDEMANN L. MRM 01' 03"
8.EVANS C. SIL 01' 04"
9.MONFORT M. THR 01' 10"
10.LEIPHEIMER L. AST 01' 11"

You can also follow Lance Armstrong on Twitter... http://twitter.com/Lancearmstrong

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

www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com

Best regards.

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

Thursday, July 2, 2009

4th of July Family Fun

Celebrate the 4th, In Orange County
No plans on the 4th yet? If you want to take in a parade and some spectacular fireworks, here are some great local options:
Dana Point: Fireworks at Doheny State Beach beginning at 9 p.m. (949) 248-3530
Huntington Beach: The 105th Fourth of July Parade begins at 10 a.m. at 8th St. and Pacific Coast Highway. Fireworks off the pier begin at 9 p.m. (714) 374-1535
Irvine: Festival begins at 3 p.m. and features live bands performing throughout the day. Irvine High School, 4321 Walnut. (949) 724-0488
Laguna Beach: Fireworks begin at dusk from Monument Point at Heisler Park, Cliff Drive. Best viewing locations located at Main Beach.
Laguna Hills: Community Center and Sports Complex, 25555 Alicia Parkway. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. (949)707-2680
Laguna Niguel: All-Day festivities conclude with fireworks at 9 p.m. Laguna Niguel Regional Park, 28241 La Paz Road. (949)425-5100
Newport Beach: 37th Annual Independence Day Celebration sponsored by the City of Newport Beach & the Mariners Elementary School Foundation. Activities include a bike parade, free live entertainment by Barnaby the Entertainer. Mariner's Park, 1300 Irvine Ave. www.marinersfoundation.com
And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Fireworks Safety

Happy 4th of July to Everyone. While it is a festive, fun holiday it is also important to remember to be safe. Here are a few important points.
The best way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays put on by professionals who know how to safely handle fireworks.
If you plan to use fireworks, make sure they are legal in your area.
Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.
Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a devise does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it.
Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If a devise is not marked with the contents, direction and a warning label, do not light it.
Supervise children around fireworks at all times.
And thank you for making me Your Orange County Real Estate Connection.
www.MichaelCarusoRealEstate.com
Best regards.
Michael Caruso, Broker ABR ABRM CRB CRS GREEN GRI
2007 President, Orange County Association of Realtors (949) 753-7900

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Safe Travels

If you are heading out of town for the holiday be sure to drive safe... It's not an open road out there.


















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

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