Current Situation: Yesterday firefighters completed fireline near the Tamarack Flat Campground Road. Smoke conditions in Yosemite Valley, foothill communities and other areas of the park are improving significantly. Today firefighters will continue restoring roads, trails and fireline to their natural condition, mopping up hot spots, and removing hazard trees in order to open the roads as soon as possible.
Although road closures will remain in place through the Labor Day weekend, Yosemite Valley is open and accessible from Highway 140 via El Portal and Highway 41 from Wawona. In addition, visitors on the east side of the park can still access Tuolumne Meadows, Olmsted Point, and White Wolf via Highway 395 from Lee Vining. Hodgdon Meadow Campground remains open to visitors.
Special Announcements: The evacuation order for the community of Foresta will be lifted at 10:00 AM Friday, September 4, 2009. Residents and property owners with proof of residency or ownership will be allowed unrestricted access to private property and unburned areas in the immediate vicinity of Foresta.
If you are attending the Strawberry Festival at Camp Mather this weekend, please use the Evergreen Road. The Cherry Oil Road is closed through Monday due to traffic accessing fire camp at Drew Meadow.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Update on Big Meadow Fire
Courtesy of NPS and USFS:
Current Situation: Firefighters made significant progress yesterday on the northwest flank of the fire near Crane Flat. Burning operations were successful in stopping the forward progress of the fire along Tioga Road and towards Crane Flat Campground. Today, firefighters will continue to construct and hold the line near Tamarack Flat Campground Road. On the southern end of the fire, efforts are underway to return roads, trails and fire lines to their natural condition.
Special Announcements: The Big Oak Flat Road is closed to through traffic at the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station to the junction of the El Portal Road. In addition, the Tioga Road is closed to through traffic from White Wolf to the Crane Flat Gas Station. All road closures will remain in effect through Labor Day Weekend. Hodgdon Meadow Campground remains accessible to visitors. Visitors on the east side of the park can still access Tuolumne Meadows, Olmsted Point, and White Wolf.
If you are attending the Strawberry Festival at Camp Mather this weekend please use the Evergreen Road. The Cherry Oil Road is closed through Monday due to traffic accessing fire camp at Drew Meadow.
Fire Status
Fire Name: Big Meadow
Geographic Location: Foresta, CA
Acres Burned: 7,240 acres (11.3 square miles)
Start Date: 8/26/2009
Percent Contained: 70 percent
Expected Containment Date: September 10, 2009
Cause: Escaped Prescribed Fire
Injuries: 5, minor
Structures Threatened: 50 residences, 1 commercial,
25 outbuildings
Structures Destroyed: 0
Resources
Crews: 32
Engines: 94
Helicopters: 4
Air Tankers: 6
Dozers: 8
Water Tenders: 19
Total Personnel Assigned: 1,282
Estimated Cost: $10.8 million
Public Meeting: A fire update meeting is scheduled for 6:30pm tonight (September 3rd) at Tenaya Elementary School, 19177 Hwy 120 in Groveland.
Evacuations: The community of Foresta.
Road Closures: The Big Oak Flat Road from Crane Flat Gas Station to the intersection of El Portal Road and Big Oak Flat Road. The Tioga Road from Big Oak Flat Road to White Wolf. Road closure information is available by calling 209-372-0200.
Campground and Trail Closures: Tamarack and Crane Flat Campgrounds are closed. Trails closures include:
Old Big Oak Flat Trailhead to El Capitan, Rockslides to El Capitan, Tamarack Creek to El Capitan.
Fire Information: Fire information phone lines are staffed from 6am until 9pm. Phone numbers are:
209-372-0327 and 209-372-0669.
Cooperating Agencies: US Forest Service, Mariposa County Sheriff, Mariposa County Fire, CAL FIRE, CHP, American Red Cross, Delaware North Parks and Resort at Yosemite and PG&E.
Current Situation: Firefighters made significant progress yesterday on the northwest flank of the fire near Crane Flat. Burning operations were successful in stopping the forward progress of the fire along Tioga Road and towards Crane Flat Campground. Today, firefighters will continue to construct and hold the line near Tamarack Flat Campground Road. On the southern end of the fire, efforts are underway to return roads, trails and fire lines to their natural condition.
Special Announcements: The Big Oak Flat Road is closed to through traffic at the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station to the junction of the El Portal Road. In addition, the Tioga Road is closed to through traffic from White Wolf to the Crane Flat Gas Station. All road closures will remain in effect through Labor Day Weekend. Hodgdon Meadow Campground remains accessible to visitors. Visitors on the east side of the park can still access Tuolumne Meadows, Olmsted Point, and White Wolf.
If you are attending the Strawberry Festival at Camp Mather this weekend please use the Evergreen Road. The Cherry Oil Road is closed through Monday due to traffic accessing fire camp at Drew Meadow.
Fire Status
Fire Name: Big Meadow
Geographic Location: Foresta, CA
Acres Burned: 7,240 acres (11.3 square miles)
Start Date: 8/26/2009
Percent Contained: 70 percent
Expected Containment Date: September 10, 2009
Cause: Escaped Prescribed Fire
Injuries: 5, minor
Structures Threatened: 50 residences, 1 commercial,
25 outbuildings
Structures Destroyed: 0
Resources
Crews: 32
Engines: 94
Helicopters: 4
Air Tankers: 6
Dozers: 8
Water Tenders: 19
Total Personnel Assigned: 1,282
Estimated Cost: $10.8 million
Public Meeting: A fire update meeting is scheduled for 6:30pm tonight (September 3rd) at Tenaya Elementary School, 19177 Hwy 120 in Groveland.
Evacuations: The community of Foresta.
Road Closures: The Big Oak Flat Road from Crane Flat Gas Station to the intersection of El Portal Road and Big Oak Flat Road. The Tioga Road from Big Oak Flat Road to White Wolf. Road closure information is available by calling 209-372-0200.
Campground and Trail Closures: Tamarack and Crane Flat Campgrounds are closed. Trails closures include:
Old Big Oak Flat Trailhead to El Capitan, Rockslides to El Capitan, Tamarack Creek to El Capitan.
Fire Information: Fire information phone lines are staffed from 6am until 9pm. Phone numbers are:
209-372-0327 and 209-372-0669.
Cooperating Agencies: US Forest Service, Mariposa County Sheriff, Mariposa County Fire, CAL FIRE, CHP, American Red Cross, Delaware North Parks and Resort at Yosemite and PG&E.
Thoughts From A Dumped Dog
One week ago today my life was a mess. I don't remember all that happened but I must have done something really bad because my old masters abandoned me. I thought we were just going for a car ride. The next thing I knew I was alone in a strange neighborhood and my masters were nowhere in sight. I ran and ran for a long time trying to find them but they had disappeared. I got so hot and tired that I finally just lay down to take a nap. It never occurred to me that my napping spot was in the middle of the road. After all, I'm just a puppy, barely 3 months old (I think).
Anyway, I was laying there contemplating my next move when this nice lady pulled over in her car. When she got out and started talking to me I was really scared of her. I even barked and growled. But there was something so good about the way her voice sounded and the way she smelled that I finally crept up to her. I was so nervous that I lost control of my bladder. She didn't care. She picked me up off of the road and put me in her car. Her car was nice and cool and she kept using that soft voice and rubbing my ears. I settled right down.
We went to a lot of houses that morning but no one knew who I was. We visited the local veterinarian offices but they didn't know who I was either. She had to go to work so I got to meet a lot of really nice people. They even let me take a nap right there in the lobby.
Finally, the nice lady put me back in the car and said we were going to her house. On the way I got really sick to my tummy and vomited all over the nice lady's car. I thought she would really be mad but she just lifted me onto her lap and told me it was OK. When we got to her house I saw this big white dog in the yard. She was pretty scary at first but after a few minutes we made friends and started playing together. The nice lady told me her name was Bella. I got to play with Bella all day. I had so much fun!!
That evening I met the nice ladies husband. He patted my head and gave me dog cookies. I got my own bowl of food. When it was bedtime the nice lady and man brought me inside and let me sleep on a big, soft bed on the floor with Bella. I felt so safe and was so tired that I went right to sleep and never even felt like crying.
The next day the man and lady were very happy with me for not crying and not making any messes in the house. They let me play in the yard with Bella again while they went to work.
On Saturday they both stayed home with Bella and I and played in the yard with us. I was really getting attached to them.
On Sunday they were sitting by the pool together watching Bella and I run around the yard. They were having a really serious conversation, although I couldn't understand the words. I went over to the lady and looked into her eyes. She looked down at me, put her arm around my little body, pulled me close and said "Welcome home".
Now, the nice lady and man are my new mom and dad and Bella is my new big sister. I have a new collar (well, a hand-me-down from Bella, but it's new to me!!), have had my first shots and toe nail trim at Oakhurst Vet...even had my first real bath.
Mom says we have to work on the carsick thing. She also keeps telling me that I'm having my romeo parts removed. I don't know what that means but I guess I'll find out.
I really wish I could remember what bad thing I did so I could warn other animals not to do the same thing. It's really scary to be abandoned. I was lucky that my new mom found me. I know that other animals don't always end up with great people like I did.
To all of the Masters who read this, please don't dump your animals. If you can't take care of them anymore take them to a shelter or call the SPCA or Sierra Cares for help.
Anyway, I was laying there contemplating my next move when this nice lady pulled over in her car. When she got out and started talking to me I was really scared of her. I even barked and growled. But there was something so good about the way her voice sounded and the way she smelled that I finally crept up to her. I was so nervous that I lost control of my bladder. She didn't care. She picked me up off of the road and put me in her car. Her car was nice and cool and she kept using that soft voice and rubbing my ears. I settled right down.
We went to a lot of houses that morning but no one knew who I was. We visited the local veterinarian offices but they didn't know who I was either. She had to go to work so I got to meet a lot of really nice people. They even let me take a nap right there in the lobby.
Finally, the nice lady put me back in the car and said we were going to her house. On the way I got really sick to my tummy and vomited all over the nice lady's car. I thought she would really be mad but she just lifted me onto her lap and told me it was OK. When we got to her house I saw this big white dog in the yard. She was pretty scary at first but after a few minutes we made friends and started playing together. The nice lady told me her name was Bella. I got to play with Bella all day. I had so much fun!!
That evening I met the nice ladies husband. He patted my head and gave me dog cookies. I got my own bowl of food. When it was bedtime the nice lady and man brought me inside and let me sleep on a big, soft bed on the floor with Bella. I felt so safe and was so tired that I went right to sleep and never even felt like crying.
The next day the man and lady were very happy with me for not crying and not making any messes in the house. They let me play in the yard with Bella again while they went to work.
On Saturday they both stayed home with Bella and I and played in the yard with us. I was really getting attached to them.
On Sunday they were sitting by the pool together watching Bella and I run around the yard. They were having a really serious conversation, although I couldn't understand the words. I went over to the lady and looked into her eyes. She looked down at me, put her arm around my little body, pulled me close and said "Welcome home".
Now, the nice lady and man are my new mom and dad and Bella is my new big sister. I have a new collar (well, a hand-me-down from Bella, but it's new to me!!), have had my first shots and toe nail trim at Oakhurst Vet...even had my first real bath.
Mom says we have to work on the carsick thing. She also keeps telling me that I'm having my romeo parts removed. I don't know what that means but I guess I'll find out.
I really wish I could remember what bad thing I did so I could warn other animals not to do the same thing. It's really scary to be abandoned. I was lucky that my new mom found me. I know that other animals don't always end up with great people like I did.
To all of the Masters who read this, please don't dump your animals. If you can't take care of them anymore take them to a shelter or call the SPCA or Sierra Cares for help.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Another Summer is Drawing to a Close
Another summer in the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills is drawing to an end. The kids are already back to school, the rivers have stopped flowing, the hills are all golden and there seems to be a fragile quality to the sunlight.
Boat trailers are heading south instead of north. The streets in town are quiet after 6pm.
Despite low water levels in Bass Lake the summer season was another success. Most visitors appreciated the fact that there was more beach to enjoy. Although income for all businesses was down a bit, the overall opinion is that our economy is slowly crawling back out of the mire.
Boat trailers are heading south instead of north. The streets in town are quiet after 6pm.
Despite low water levels in Bass Lake the summer season was another success. Most visitors appreciated the fact that there was more beach to enjoy. Although income for all businesses was down a bit, the overall opinion is that our economy is slowly crawling back out of the mire.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Just Spit it Out!!
Ok, back on my soap box.
The basis for all relationships, be it whether they are friend to friend, boss to employee, spouse to spouse, sibling to sibling, etc comes down to one thing.......communication. If you don't communicate, how do you expect the other person to know what you are thinking or feeling?
I have learned to talk to my husband and tell him what is going on. Not a huge stroke of genius here. I can't read his mind so I can't expect him to read mine. How on earth do buyers, sellers and agents expect each other to do the same? COMMUNICATE!! Put everything into words and then PUT IT IN WRITING. Do not assume anything in a real estate transaction. Remember what ASSUME means???
Ideal Scenario # 1
"Oh, by the way, I know the shelves are probably not going to stay. They are just rack shelves in the garage, not attached, but we really want them. Let's say in our purchase contract that we want the garage shelves to remain." Reply, "Hey, that saves us from moving them; but we would like some small compensation for them. Let's counter back that we want XX amount for the shelves, paid separate from escrow." "Agreed. Sign the counter offer and open escrow."
Real Scenario #1
Shelves are rack metal shelves, not attached to anything, considered by DRE definition as personal property. Listing states that all personal property will be removed prior to escrow closing. Purchase contract does not address shelves in garage. Listing agent makes deal with bankruptcy attorney to pay for weedeating and yard cleanup in exchange for shelves in garage. Listing agent contracts for yard cleanup, has work done and removes shelving from garage. Escrow closes, buyers take possession and immediately inquire as to the whereabouts of their garage shelves. Threaten to turn in listing agent to DRE, local board, etc. Listing agent patiently explains difference between real and personal property and points out that garage shelves were not addressed in purchase agreement. More threats follow. Listing agent, with no time to deal with DRE or Board complaints, agrees against his better judgement to return shelves. Now, listing agent is out $$ for yard cleanup with no compensation from bankruptcy attorney.
Bottom line, had the shelves been addressed in the purchase agreement or had the listing agent contacted the selling agent and explained the deal he made with the bankruptcy attorney, countless hours and needless stress would have been avoided by all parties.
Even if you feel you are being redundant in restating your intentions in a real estate deal, do it. Make sure EVERYTHING is spelled out in the listing agreement and the purchase contract. If you are unsure of something, get it RESOLVED PRIOR to the close of escrow.
And, as always, GET IT IN WRITING!!!!!
The basis for all relationships, be it whether they are friend to friend, boss to employee, spouse to spouse, sibling to sibling, etc comes down to one thing.......communication. If you don't communicate, how do you expect the other person to know what you are thinking or feeling?
I have learned to talk to my husband and tell him what is going on. Not a huge stroke of genius here. I can't read his mind so I can't expect him to read mine. How on earth do buyers, sellers and agents expect each other to do the same? COMMUNICATE!! Put everything into words and then PUT IT IN WRITING. Do not assume anything in a real estate transaction. Remember what ASSUME means???
Ideal Scenario # 1
"Oh, by the way, I know the shelves are probably not going to stay. They are just rack shelves in the garage, not attached, but we really want them. Let's say in our purchase contract that we want the garage shelves to remain." Reply, "Hey, that saves us from moving them; but we would like some small compensation for them. Let's counter back that we want XX amount for the shelves, paid separate from escrow." "Agreed. Sign the counter offer and open escrow."
Real Scenario #1
Shelves are rack metal shelves, not attached to anything, considered by DRE definition as personal property. Listing states that all personal property will be removed prior to escrow closing. Purchase contract does not address shelves in garage. Listing agent makes deal with bankruptcy attorney to pay for weedeating and yard cleanup in exchange for shelves in garage. Listing agent contracts for yard cleanup, has work done and removes shelving from garage. Escrow closes, buyers take possession and immediately inquire as to the whereabouts of their garage shelves. Threaten to turn in listing agent to DRE, local board, etc. Listing agent patiently explains difference between real and personal property and points out that garage shelves were not addressed in purchase agreement. More threats follow. Listing agent, with no time to deal with DRE or Board complaints, agrees against his better judgement to return shelves. Now, listing agent is out $$ for yard cleanup with no compensation from bankruptcy attorney.
Bottom line, had the shelves been addressed in the purchase agreement or had the listing agent contacted the selling agent and explained the deal he made with the bankruptcy attorney, countless hours and needless stress would have been avoided by all parties.
Even if you feel you are being redundant in restating your intentions in a real estate deal, do it. Make sure EVERYTHING is spelled out in the listing agreement and the purchase contract. If you are unsure of something, get it RESOLVED PRIOR to the close of escrow.
And, as always, GET IT IN WRITING!!!!!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Top 10 and Holding
Century 21 Ditton Realty has maintained their top 10 position for the top 100 Century 21 companies in the Sierra Nevada for June 2009.
REALTORS® Scott Runtzel, John Bortz and Julie Gerken have been named in the top 100 Century 21 agents for the month of June 2009 for their outstanding sales productivity.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
Extreme Heat Expected This Weekend
A high pressure system has settled over most of California. This high pressure will cause temperatures throughout the state to skyrocket this weekend. The San Joaquin Valley is expecting temps to rise as high as 110. The Sierra Nevada's will not be much better with temperature in Yosemite Valley expected to reach as high as 104.
If you are planning any outdoor activities this weekend take extra precautions. Avoid strenuous activity, keep hydrated with plenty of water and use lots of sunscreen. Make sure outdoor pets have access to plenty of shade and water. Do not leave children unattended while playing outside.
Temperatures are likely to drop a bit the first part of next week but will remain unseasonably high throughout next weekend.
If you are planning any outdoor activities this weekend take extra precautions. Avoid strenuous activity, keep hydrated with plenty of water and use lots of sunscreen. Make sure outdoor pets have access to plenty of shade and water. Do not leave children unattended while playing outside.
Temperatures are likely to drop a bit the first part of next week but will remain unseasonably high throughout next weekend.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Bass Lake is Fine for 4th of July
Message from the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau:
June 24, 2009
Dear Partners in Tourism:
It has been brought to our attention that false information has and will be delivered to the public via Channel 47 News. 47 News has aired a (more at 5) story that is causing a great deal of concern about the 4th of July fireworks at Bass Lake and the closing of Bass Lake. They have stated that the health department is doing testing of the water to check the level of bacteria present, and that if there is a high level, the fireworks will be canceled and the lake shut down to swimmers. What they are not stating is that this is NORMAL testing and the story was not told in full. This is apparently channel 47's attempt at getting viewers to tune in at 5pm.
Please alert your front line people that Bass Lake is fine, there are no problems and the fireworks will go on as planned. We appreciate your continued support and wish all of you a safe and successful 4th of July weekend!
June 24, 2009
Dear Partners in Tourism:
It has been brought to our attention that false information has and will be delivered to the public via Channel 47 News. 47 News has aired a (more at 5) story that is causing a great deal of concern about the 4th of July fireworks at Bass Lake and the closing of Bass Lake. They have stated that the health department is doing testing of the water to check the level of bacteria present, and that if there is a high level, the fireworks will be canceled and the lake shut down to swimmers. What they are not stating is that this is NORMAL testing and the story was not told in full. This is apparently channel 47's attempt at getting viewers to tune in at 5pm.
Please alert your front line people that Bass Lake is fine, there are no problems and the fireworks will go on as planned. We appreciate your continued support and wish all of you a safe and successful 4th of July weekend!
Friday, June 19, 2009
Avoid Email When It Matters
The age of non-communicating communication began many years ago with the introduction of the answering machine. We all placed calls we didn't want to and prayed for the machine to pick up so we wouldn't actually have to talk to the person. To this day we still "screen our calls". If you call my home in the evening chances are you'll get the machine.
The introduction of email was a blessing and a curse. You never have to actually speak with anyone anymore if you don't want to. Email, instant messaging, texting, Twittering, Blogging and online social pages (Facebook, Myspace, etc) have completely taken over. Who really ever uses their cell phones anymore to TALK???
Unfortunately, all of this instant and hassle free communication comes with a price. We lose touch with the personal side of friendships so easily. And the worst thing that happens; you send an email intended to be friendly, the recipient misunderstands your intention, and the #%$@ hits the fan.
Don't get me wrong, I LOVE EMAIL. I love instant messaging. I love Facebook. I appreciate the fact that I can take my time, gathering my thoughts, typing in just the right words to get my point across, perhaps saving the draft to re-read before I actually send it or post it. However, when it is all "typed and done" the recipient cannot possibly hear the "tone behind the words".
Has this ever happened to you? You send an email to a friend, relative or acquaintance intended to be friendly. The email is received and completely misunderstood. Your friend interprets your email as a written attack instead of what it was intended to be: a simple statement of the facts. Maybe they are having a bad day, perhaps just had a fight with their significant other or boss. Whatever the reason, the damage is done. Had your communication taken place over the phone your friend would have heard the warm tone of your voice, the giggles and laughter underneath. Now that it is "typed and done" the damage is irreversible. The result, a scarred friendship that may never recover.
So, if you are communicating with someone who matters, do yourself a favor. Take a few of your valuable minutes and pick up the phone. Just hope that the person you are calling isn't "screening".
The introduction of email was a blessing and a curse. You never have to actually speak with anyone anymore if you don't want to. Email, instant messaging, texting, Twittering, Blogging and online social pages (Facebook, Myspace, etc) have completely taken over. Who really ever uses their cell phones anymore to TALK???
Unfortunately, all of this instant and hassle free communication comes with a price. We lose touch with the personal side of friendships so easily. And the worst thing that happens; you send an email intended to be friendly, the recipient misunderstands your intention, and the #%$@ hits the fan.
Don't get me wrong, I LOVE EMAIL. I love instant messaging. I love Facebook. I appreciate the fact that I can take my time, gathering my thoughts, typing in just the right words to get my point across, perhaps saving the draft to re-read before I actually send it or post it. However, when it is all "typed and done" the recipient cannot possibly hear the "tone behind the words".
Has this ever happened to you? You send an email to a friend, relative or acquaintance intended to be friendly. The email is received and completely misunderstood. Your friend interprets your email as a written attack instead of what it was intended to be: a simple statement of the facts. Maybe they are having a bad day, perhaps just had a fight with their significant other or boss. Whatever the reason, the damage is done. Had your communication taken place over the phone your friend would have heard the warm tone of your voice, the giggles and laughter underneath. Now that it is "typed and done" the damage is irreversible. The result, a scarred friendship that may never recover.
So, if you are communicating with someone who matters, do yourself a favor. Take a few of your valuable minutes and pick up the phone. Just hope that the person you are calling isn't "screening".
CENTURY 21 Ditton Realty Named in Top 10
CENTURY 21 Ditton Realty has been ranked in the top 10 real estate offices in the Sierra Nevada by CENTURY 21. Scott Runtzel and Julie Gerken have been named in the top 100 agents in the Sierra Nevada for their outstanding sales performance in May.
Other honorable mentions for their sales productivity in May include: Laurie Humphries, Alan Murray, Melissa Buller, Jessica Rubottom, Kandi Papike, Jacque Hohweiler, Janet Wheeler, Bob Watt and Theresa Williams.
Way to go!!
Other honorable mentions for their sales productivity in May include: Laurie Humphries, Alan Murray, Melissa Buller, Jessica Rubottom, Kandi Papike, Jacque Hohweiler, Janet Wheeler, Bob Watt and Theresa Williams.
Way to go!!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Free Household Hazardous Waste Event
California Integrated Waste Management will be holding a free hazardous waste event June 20th at Yosemite High School in Oakhurst from 9am to 1pm. This event is FREE for residents of Madera County.
Allowable items include: motor oil and filters, antifreeze, brake flued, battery grease, flourescent lamps and tubing, insect spray, weed killer, pool chemicals, pesticides, ammonia based cleaners, drain cleaners, aerosol cans, oven cleaners, spot removers, household batteries, wood preservatives, solvents, art supplies, paint remover, photographic chemicals, televisions, VCR's, computers and monitors, sharps and needles.
Quantities are limited to 15 gallons of liquids of 125 lbs of solids.
For more information on this free event contact (559) 675-7817.
Allowable items include: motor oil and filters, antifreeze, brake flued, battery grease, flourescent lamps and tubing, insect spray, weed killer, pool chemicals, pesticides, ammonia based cleaners, drain cleaners, aerosol cans, oven cleaners, spot removers, household batteries, wood preservatives, solvents, art supplies, paint remover, photographic chemicals, televisions, VCR's, computers and monitors, sharps and needles.
Quantities are limited to 15 gallons of liquids of 125 lbs of solids.
For more information on this free event contact (559) 675-7817.
Be Wary of Reverse Mortgages
Article courtesy of CNNMoney.com
U.S. regulator: Be wary of reverse mortgages
OCC's John Dugan says the loans aimed at older homeowners could target a vulnerable segment.
June 8, 2009: 1:27 PM ET
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -- Reverse mortgages could be the next subprime mortgage product to experience rapid growth while taking advantage of a vulnerable segment of the population, top U.S. bank regulator John Dugan said Monday.
Dugan, who heads the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and supervises some of the nation's largest banks, said regulators are crafting guidelines to ensure that robust consumer protections are in place for reverse mortgages.
"While reverse mortgages can provide real benefits, they also have some of the same characteristics as the riskiest types of subprime mortgages -- and that should set off alarm bells," Dugan said in prepared remarks to an American Bankers Association conference.
Reverse mortgages are complicated loans targeted at homeowners who are at least 62 years old, and allow older Americans to live off the equity in their homes as they age.
In a reverse mortgage, the homeowner receives money from the lender, which does not have to be repaid as long as the borrower lives in the home.
Fannie Mae (FNM, Fortune 500), the largest provider of U.S. home mortgage funding, had about a 90% share of the reverse mortgage market at the end of 2008. Many large banks such as Bank of America (BAC, Fortune 500) and Wells Fargo (WFC, Fortune 500) are big providers of reverse mortgages.
The great majority of reverse mortgages are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and pose limited credit risk. But Dugan said a different class of reverse mortgages -- "proprietary" products -- offer less consumer protections.
Dugan said that as the elderly American population grows, there could be a significant pickup in demand for proprietary reverse mortgages, which he said bear significant similarities to the type of subprime products that helped fuel the housing boom and bust, resulting in a widespread credit crisis and recession.
"I believe the critical lesson here is the need to act early, before problems escalate," Dugan said.
He said regulators need to set more standards for proprietary reverse mortgages. Regulators also need to be vigilant about misleading marketing and need to crack down on any lenders who try to bundle a reverse mortgage with other financial products, such as an annuity or life insurance product, Dugan said.
If those actions are not enough, Dugan said "more definitive regulatory standards may need to be adopted, and the OCC is prepared to do that."
U.S. regulator: Be wary of reverse mortgages
OCC's John Dugan says the loans aimed at older homeowners could target a vulnerable segment.
June 8, 2009: 1:27 PM ET
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -- Reverse mortgages could be the next subprime mortgage product to experience rapid growth while taking advantage of a vulnerable segment of the population, top U.S. bank regulator John Dugan said Monday.
Dugan, who heads the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and supervises some of the nation's largest banks, said regulators are crafting guidelines to ensure that robust consumer protections are in place for reverse mortgages.
"While reverse mortgages can provide real benefits, they also have some of the same characteristics as the riskiest types of subprime mortgages -- and that should set off alarm bells," Dugan said in prepared remarks to an American Bankers Association conference.
Reverse mortgages are complicated loans targeted at homeowners who are at least 62 years old, and allow older Americans to live off the equity in their homes as they age.
In a reverse mortgage, the homeowner receives money from the lender, which does not have to be repaid as long as the borrower lives in the home.
Fannie Mae (FNM, Fortune 500), the largest provider of U.S. home mortgage funding, had about a 90% share of the reverse mortgage market at the end of 2008. Many large banks such as Bank of America (BAC, Fortune 500) and Wells Fargo (WFC, Fortune 500) are big providers of reverse mortgages.
The great majority of reverse mortgages are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and pose limited credit risk. But Dugan said a different class of reverse mortgages -- "proprietary" products -- offer less consumer protections.
Dugan said that as the elderly American population grows, there could be a significant pickup in demand for proprietary reverse mortgages, which he said bear significant similarities to the type of subprime products that helped fuel the housing boom and bust, resulting in a widespread credit crisis and recession.
"I believe the critical lesson here is the need to act early, before problems escalate," Dugan said.
He said regulators need to set more standards for proprietary reverse mortgages. Regulators also need to be vigilant about misleading marketing and need to crack down on any lenders who try to bundle a reverse mortgage with other financial products, such as an annuity or life insurance product, Dugan said.
If those actions are not enough, Dugan said "more definitive regulatory standards may need to be adopted, and the OCC is prepared to do that."
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Stay the Course
Stay The Course by BJ Gallagher
Our journey of life is about progress, not perfection. It's not about doing one thing 100% better -it's a matter of doing 100 things, 1% better each day. Progress is evolutionary not revolutionary, and most days we measure our progress in inches, not miles. What matters most is showing up for your life whether you feel like it or not. Ask yourself, "What two or three little things can I do today that would move me forward?" You'll be amazed at how much distance you can cover by taking it in increments. The little things add up; the inches turn to miles; and we string together our efforts like so many pearls. Before long, look what you have -a whole strand!
Our journey of life is about progress, not perfection. It's not about doing one thing 100% better -it's a matter of doing 100 things, 1% better each day. Progress is evolutionary not revolutionary, and most days we measure our progress in inches, not miles. What matters most is showing up for your life whether you feel like it or not. Ask yourself, "What two or three little things can I do today that would move me forward?" You'll be amazed at how much distance you can cover by taking it in increments. The little things add up; the inches turn to miles; and we string together our efforts like so many pearls. Before long, look what you have -a whole strand!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Cooler Weather For Remainder of Week
The National Weather Service is calling for high temperatures in the low to mid 70's and lows in the 40's for the rest of the week due to a low pressure system moving through California. This system will bring us more rain and thunder storms with snow levels dropping to approximately 8,000 feet by Saturday.
If you are planning on visiting the high country over the next week take plenty of warm clothing and be prepared for any and all types of weather.
If you are planning on visiting the high country over the next week take plenty of warm clothing and be prepared for any and all types of weather.
Credit Card Users Beware of Gottschalks???
I am pasting a copy of an email received a few moments ago into this article. The email is regarding using a credit card at the local Gottschalks location in Oakhurst.
"I am sending this out as a general precaution. Monday I used a credit card at Gottschalks that was declined a few moments later at Raleys. Since then my card, although I still have it in my possession, has been used at a gas station in Coarsegold, Taco Bell in Oakhusrt, and a WalMart (not sure where) as well as a couple other places. I don't understand how this could happen, but it did--so maybe beware of using a card at Gottschalks? "
This could be the result of a disgruntled employee angry at the Liquidator's or just some dishonest person. In any event, it would probably be a wise idea to use cash if you are going to shop the Gottschalks liquidation sales.
"I am sending this out as a general precaution. Monday I used a credit card at Gottschalks that was declined a few moments later at Raleys. Since then my card, although I still have it in my possession, has been used at a gas station in Coarsegold, Taco Bell in Oakhusrt, and a WalMart (not sure where) as well as a couple other places. I don't understand how this could happen, but it did--so maybe beware of using a card at Gottschalks? "
This could be the result of a disgruntled employee angry at the Liquidator's or just some dishonest person. In any event, it would probably be a wise idea to use cash if you are going to shop the Gottschalks liquidation sales.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Stormy Spring Weather Brings Much Needed Rain
More thunder storms will bring heavy rain and winds to the area today as a trough of warm, moist air hangs over the Sierra Nevada's. The US Forest Service is on alert for wild fires started by down strikes.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Take Time to Smell the Roses
My husband and I lead a very busy life and I have found that I lose track of the days as they speed by at 200 MPH. We have been wanting to get out of town for a few days but our current work load isn't accommodating that little pipe dream. Soooo, this last holiday weekend we hunkered down at home. Our computer was on the fritz so there was no email to answer. We let our anwering machine screen our calls and we let our cell phones go to voice mail.
We enjoyed two days together putzing around the yard, sharing home-cooked meals instead of take out, watching the Indy 500 and sleeping in. We spent countless hours watching Bella play in the pool and chase her toys. All in all, we had a wonderful staycation.
I have come to the realization over the last couple of months that it becomes easy to take the good things in life for granted: a wonderful, loving husband, a great dog, a beautiful home, a happy family. As we have witnessed on the evening news over and over and over, these things can disappear in the blink of an eye. I have made a pact with myself to take a few moments everyday and "smell the roses".
We all have "roses" in our life. Your roses could be a loving spouse or partner, a supportive family, good health, a stable job, etc. Don't let yourself get so caught up in the thorns of your daily grind that you ignore the beauty and fragrance of the blooms that surround you.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
New Link Exchange
CENTURY 21 Ditton Realty has instituted a link exchange on their website www.Century21DittonRealty.com. The link exchange is open to all local, national and international businesses who wish to drive more traffic to their websites. For more information on the link exchange email Belinda Ditton at bk.ditton@c21ditton.com or use the link below:
http://www.century21dittonrealty.com/p/31975/Yosemite-Real-Estate---Link-Exchange.aspx
http://www.century21dittonrealty.com/p/31975/Yosemite-Real-Estate---Link-Exchange.aspx
Friday, May 22, 2009
Bass Lake Volunteer Fire Dept. BBQ Sunday
The Bass Lake Volunteer Fire Department annual Memorial Day BBQ is this Sunday, May 24th, at the Bass Lake Fire Department on Road 274 (next to the Government Center). Stop by from 11 am to 3pm for great food and drink. All proceeds from food sales benefit the volunteer fire department.
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