Le Style Francais

The French have a legendary sense of style.  French Country design is characterized by charm, warmth, and sophistication with roots in the sunny hillsides of rural France.  The versatility of being relaxed, yet refined, draws its inspiration from the country homes and rustic farmhouses in the south of France.

 With the comfort and tradition French Country design offers, it gives life and a reference to the past in a room.  French Country interiors can be rustic and humble, or sophisticated and glamorous.  It’s all about creating a space that is inviting, elegant, yet relaxed, and full of comfort and character.

 French Country furniture has the ambiance of curved panels, handcrafted details, rush seating, and other natural materials.  The emphasis for furniture leans towards a rustic feel.  The more lived in, the better.  Furniture is often distressed in finish, but ornate with detailed carvings.  Dark woods are often used, as are pieces that have been stripped and softly washed with paint.  Well worn and loved antiques, and eclectic furnishings from different eras mix well, as they have that sense of being passed down through generations.  They bring personality to a space that is French Country at its best.  

 Large scale furniture and accessories bring an authentic note into a French Country interior.  Even in a smaller space, scale up pieces to suggest roominess and individuality to be appreciated more.

Textures are important in creating French Country rooms.  Rooms are more interesting when you layer an intriguing mix of textures.  Chipped paint, rusted iron, crackle, or weathered patina finishes with a timeworn look, create that undeniable sensuous French feel.  Ironwork is very popular as well.  Iron accent pieces such as wall grilles, sconces, candleholders, and wire baskets are often used when designing a room.  Adding chicken wire to cabinetry, especially when you show off your finest china and glassware, is another very French detail.

The colors of Provence are the centerpiece of French Country design.  When you think of the Provencal countryside, you think of rich vivid hues such as sunny golden yellows, azure blues, soft lavender, deep reds, bright greens, and creamy whites.  Part of the fun of French Country decorating is that you can use these colors at the same time by combining them so they compliment each other without competing.  Add fresh color by pairing an exuberant yellow paisley with a blue check fabric, or mix a rustic red Provencal floral with a green plaid, and c’est si bon!  In France, a room isn’t finished unless it has many different patterns and colors, so throw away the idea that everything has to match.

One of my favorite lines of French furnishings, fabrics, and accessories is Pierre Deux.  I spoke with their marketing director in New York, Heather Ryan, about some of their recent introductions.  She said, “In French Country decorating, color, often vibrant, sunny colors reflecting the natural elements of the countryside dominate.  We continue to feature lots of our signature yellows and blues.  Last but not least, Pierre Deux has gone to the dogs.  We know the French love their pets, and now we have introduced our first collection of pet accessories.”

The French certainly do have a way with their approach to design.  Every detail in designing their interiors is well thought out.  By combining natural materials, a mix of unique textures, vivid Provencal colors, traditional French Country fabrics, and a little je ne sais quoi, French Country style can turn your home into a cheerful refuge!

Swedish design uses pale colors to lighten rooms...

 In a country that is dark for half of the year, the Swedes have come to cleverly use color to lift their spirits and brighten dark, gloomy spaces.

White and the palest, powdery soft shades of blue are often seen in Swedish design, and bring a lightness to the interiors of this northern European style.

Subject to many influences, Swedish design closely identifies with the Gustavian style, named after King Gustav III. Inspired by French court pieces, Swedish style simplifies the ornateness and busy details of the French influence, as this region has plainer taste.

The Swedes love their simplicity. Pared down versions in furnishings with clean lines, minimal carved detail, gentle curves and legs that are delicate and taper to the floor are common in Swedish homes.

Wood is crucial in Swedish style.  Much of the country is forested and virtually all of the furniture is made of those woods. Through the centuries, the Swedes have developed a talent for painting pieces to make them look sophisticated and refined with soft finishes and subtle backgrounds.

Painted, bleached or stained woods in pale tones of white or gray with distressing retains its elegance that is 18th century Neoclassical design.

Today, reproduction furniture is made by Swedish craftspeople.  Ann Millang, owner of St. Barths Home in Laguna Niquel (formerly Swedish Blonde Furniture Inc. in North Carolina), recently had her home photographed in Laguna Beach by Edie Van Breems who authored a book titled “Swedish Interiors in America.”

“Things are changing in the industry due to competition from China,” Ann said.  “I have tried very hard to remain loyal to my Swedish factories since we have developed most of the designs with them and want them to do well. They are still using Swedish hardwoods and doing hand carved details on all the chairs and our bed finials. We are working with other countries such as Belgium, that still have the Northern influence of light finishes and woods, but with a bit more edge.”

In traditional Swedish interiors, accessories are kept to a minimum, allowing open space and light to take center stage.  Chosen for their usefulness and their virtual appeal, accessories include crystal and painted chandeliers, wood gilt framed mirrors to reflect what light there is, natural raffia or light colored woven textured rugs, soft, pale ceramics and clear glass pieces in simple shapes.

Simple woven and textured  cotton and linen fabrics are commonly used for upholstery, window treatments and bedding in Swedish design. Padded headboards and canopy beds are popular.  

Yards and yards of white fabric mounted on a coronet or attached with ring on the ceiling are often seen. When patterns are used, they are in the form of checks, stripes or delicate florals.

Predominant colors are pale blues and soft grays on a white background. The overall effect is minimalist. There is a lot of harmony with the simplicity of these colors and fabrics that create a serene Scandinavian feel.

Calm interiors, soothing pale color palettes, elegance with a lightness in color and mood, formal but not stuffy with a comfortable, casually aged feel – that is the essence of Swedish style.

Police sketches released of two suspected of Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. home invasion

Authorities asked the public Wednesday for help in identifying two men who forced their way into a Rancho Santa Fe home five days before Christmas, holding a housekeeper at gunpoint while stealing valuables and handcuffing her before fleeing.

The thieves, suntanned white men who appeared to be in their late 20s or early 30s, confronted the victim at the large house in the 5000 block of El Mirlo shortly after noon on Dec. 20, according to sheriff's officials.

A housekeeper was home when two unknown men – one of whom was armed with a handgun – forced their way inside, holding the housekeeper at gunpoint.

The men allegedly handcuffed the woman to something so she couldn’t call for help while they ransacked the home, stealing jewelry, antique clocks and other expensive items, deputies said.

After gathering jewelry and antiques, the bandits handcuffed the maid to a door to keep her from calling 911, then... (more)

Crush On Orange - A Daring Pick For Fall

 The color orange punches up a room like no other color.  Orange's bright hues and sunny disposition add zest and surprise to any style interior.  Wake up any room in your home with bold spashes of orange accents.  Use it sparingly or get drenched in it.

Orange glows with warmth and positive energy.  Without a doubt, orange is the happiest color in the spectrum.  Its uplifting and ivigorating qualities makes using orange in a room up-to-date, exciting, daring and very stylish.

Introduce orange into a room in a variety of ways from paint to fabric, to an infinite number of decorative details such as window treatments, furniture, art, and collections.  For example, the new dining room wall color this season instead of classic red, is orange.  This great, unexpected color adds a sense of warmth and fun while bringing a room to life.  Try using just a touch of bold, brave, outgoing orange on a fabric, or a funiture piece, would be all it takes to perk up and add a radiant surprise to a room.

In small rooms, choosing orange as the overall coloration can be dramatic.  All of the contrasting accent pieces - lamps, pillows, throws, etc. gain greater impact in small spaces that may not otherwise have great architectural interest.  

You can also layer this citrusy color by choosing a similar intensitiy in fabrics and textiles.  Mixing and matching patterns and solids adds to the fun in accenting a room.

Today, you can use a bright orange along with hot pink and a bold yellow, and it's not considered garish anymore!  It's important to keep this modernized combination to no more than three colors.  The key is to ensure that all the elements work well together in a pleasing way when using this fresh picked color scheme.

Why is orange considered the warmest hue?  Because it incorprates two different hot colors, red and yellow.  Add a little yellow to red and you get a wonderful shade of pumpkin.  This sumptuous fall shade enhances a space in an intimate way and shows off neutral furnishings.  Black or beige solid pieces are striking in a room enveloped in pumpkin.

If you're ready to paint on the orange, but not daring enough for the bright version, try toning it down in small doses of an amber or tangerine shade.

A designer friend of mine just finished a dining room project for his client.  The natural lighting in the room was fantastic, with great windows offering wonderful views.  He opted to paint the walls in a delicious shade of orange, a mango color.  He used white on the moldings, trim and windows.  It may have seemed daring at first for his client, but the end result could not have been more stunning.

In a kitchen, orange stimulates the appetite and imitates the glow of a fire.  Orange is also associated with high-tech culinary gadgets  Mixed with popular stainless steel appliances, this bold color is a great way to bring the space to life.  Brighten other kitchen areas with modern light fixtures with orange accents, artwork and natural floral/fruitful arrangements.  There are some amazing new dyes and stains for wood cabinetry in great orange palettes from mandarin to peach.  They're unique and very modern.

Orange can be timeless and classic in a traditional room.  An orange toile-patterened fabric is fabulous in any room of a home.  A powder room with upholstered walls in an orange document toile fabric is always perfect.  Bronzy sconces with accented antiqued silvered mirrors, sisal rugs and spice scented candles colored in amber hues create warmth, texture and an elegant feel.

Orange provides a modern, bright element when used in a contemporary space.  For a fresh point of view, balance a space with a subdued neutral or off-white palette to create a striking contrast.  In a contemporary, sophisticated bedroom, use neutral linens, walls, and flooring tones.  Add a pair of bold, daring orange chairs upholstered in a chenille, and a pair of architectural lamps with crystal bases and platinum brushed details to bedazzle and lift the spirits of anyone who enters the room.

What comes to mind when I think of orange are the changing colors of nature.  There are several mature, large liquid amber trees in my yard in Rancho Santa Fe, which I planted over 20 years ago.  Every fall, they burst into spectacular shades of oranges and reds.  It's magical to see my lawn turn into a "sea of orange" as I've been told.  While shopping for a few cheerful doses of orange to add to my home's seasonal decor, I bring along several of the leaves in various shades for a perfect match for fabrics or artful accents.  After all, every well-decorated room should begin with an inspiration.  Mine is the changing colors of autumn, highlighted in shades of orange.  As fall approaches, consider adding a burst or two of brave, vibrant and exciting orange.  

Be my guest

Spring seems to turn to summer in a moment.  The spirit of entertaining is reborn as we're inspired by the warm air, long days, and a host of other reasons to bring family and friends together.

Whatever the occasion, or season, we're all going to have the pleasure of houseguests.  The not-so-often used bedroom now becomes the most important room in the house.

Anyone who has stayed at a luxurious hotel knows how addictive all the amenities are, and how difficult it can be to leave them behind.  Hosting visitors in a comfy 5-Star luxurious guest space is a fun and exciting challenge.  Guest bedrooms, decorated with carefully chosen furnishings, fabrics, and bedding are the rooms that can truly pamper your guests in an intimate, private retreat, and make them feel welcome.

When designing your guest bedroom, a good place to begin is with the bed.  A high quality mattress with sink-in comfort, dressed to the nines in sumptuous linens, that take their cue from boutique hotels, is an important element that will ensure a relaxed night's rest.  

A fluffy featherbed or mattress topper, such as memory foam or other natural alternatives make a bed luxurious.  High thread count sheets, lots of soft sleeping pillows, and a cozy down or down-alternative comforter can make a bed feel like you're diving into a cloud.  The options are endless.

I recently spoke with the assistant manager, Peggy Watson, at Between The Sheets in Flower Hill Promenade.  She stated, "We are seeing some specific trends in duvets and sheets in our area.  All the hues of Aqua and Ocean colors are trending, as well as Gray - from Pearl with silver thread enhancement to deep Charcoals.  Patterns in Gold and Taupe remain very strong, and there are requests for Purples and Lavenders.  We are also very excited about our Equestrian themed bedding from one of the fine Italian producers that we import."

Recently, I completed a guest bedroom in a gorgeous Rancho Santa Fe home.  I used a beautiful silk fabric in a distinctive buffalo check in bold blends of plum and purple hues.  My client was a little surprised at first at the lively colors in the fabric.  You can get away with more daring combinations of colors and designs in a guest bedroom.  

I combined the fabric to canopy antique iron twin beds, dressed in traditional mattelasses, then continued the fabric on the window treatments for the drapery and cornice.  At the foot of the beds, I had upholstered benches repeating the fabric.  The final look was daringly bold, yet sophisticated.  My client was thrilled at how striking the guest bedroom had transformed.  "I love the surprise factor," she happily said.

In creating a cozy sanctuary for weary travelers with all the comforts of home, close the door and let the pampering begin.  A reading spot with a comfortable chair and pleasing lighting makes a guest feel relaxed to enjoy a little downtime alone.  A bench at the foot of the bed for ease in unpacking a suitcase, and a table with a workspace for a computer would ensure your guest a blissful getaway intended for enjoying peaceful solitude.  Add thoughtful touches such as a bouquet of fresh flowers, assorted bottled waters, homemade munchies, soft pillows and extra blankets and throws, a daily newspaper, current magazines, and scented candles.

Kudos should go to the hosts and hostesses who thoughtfully plan rooms with their guests needs in mind.  With welcoming spaces that beckon the tired traveler in such an inviting ambiance, even homeowners may be tempted to check into their own grand guest getaway.

The Thrill of the Grill

No one can turn down a barbecue.  Americans love to cook and they love to eat outdoors.  Increasingly, people are claiming the outdoors as an extension of the comforts and convenience of home.  Cooking and dining alfresco is more popular than ever before.  Whether it's the fresh air, soaring coals, or a relaxed atmosphere, food just tastes better when it's cooked outside.

The most coveted room in the house, the kitchen, has moved outside into the great outdoors.  Outdoor kitchens offer a perfect place to prepare meals without missing out on all the backyard and poolside fun.  

Like all outdoor spaces, an outdoor kitchen should have a style that matches its surroundings.  Its location should be convenient for entertaining and relaxing.  Extra space used for dining tables and chairs, or for a counter bar with seating where you can mingle with the chef while he's concocting his favorite dish is important.  Dining areas outside need to be more generous than their counterparts inside.  Room for a table and chairs, plus space to move around easily is best.  Outdoor fireplaces should have plenty of space for comfortable seating and lounging for guests as well.  

Outdoor kitchens can be an a tremendous asset if they're well planned and well equiped.

Choosing materials that withstand the weather, are durable, and shed water, is practical.  Weatherproof surfaces for counter tops and workspaces such as ceramic tile or granite, guarantees years of durability and good looks throughout the seasons.  These materials also add a sense of luxury to the outdoor kitchen. 

Cabinet storage is an important element to an outdoor kitchen.  Cabinets alleviate the need to bring out necessary cooking equipment and utensils from inside that are used outdoors.  Storage is a luxury in any space, but especially in the outdoor kitchen.  Preparing meals with everything at hand as you would in the kitchen inside your home makes good sense.  No need to leave the party and make trips into the house time and time again.

Barbecuing has gone high-tech.  And the market for barbecue grills is hot. "Consumers are grilling much more than burgers and chicken today - and they are looking for quality tools and a greater range of accessories to have the versatility to cook any meal on the outdoor grill," said Trace Weskamp, Director of Accessories Product Development at Weber, the world's leading manufacturer of outdoor gas and charcoal grills..  New smoking accessories are one of the areas of focus for Weber.  Some of these accessories includes smoking woods such as hickory, apple, mesquite, cherry, pecan or beech, depending on the chef's choice of flavor.  Other new product lines are stainless steel smoker boxes which when placed on the cooking grates transforms any gas grill into a smoker.  I find the new Plancha Universal Griddle,  very interesting.  This flat top griddle enables grillers to cook a variety of dishes on the barbecue.  The Plancha features a slightly angled cooking surface, draining fats away from the food.  The cast-iron construction retains heat, while the porcelain-enameled surface resists sticking.

Spicy Italian outdoor kitchens whould likely feature an imported wood-fired pizza oven, perhaps from Naples.  They're integrated into a wall, create amazing flavors, and retain heat very well.  You can cook other foods beside pizza in these ovens such as fresh veggies.

To cool things down, how about a swim-up bar with benches that have "zero-depth access" to give the impression you swam up from the beach, for an apres dinner beverage?  Chill after you grill, and watch a movie or catch a game on a pop-up plasma while "beaching" it.  And then there's the swimming pool misting system that fogs for those special evenings when you want to create a certain mood while you take a dip.

By expanding indoor life outside, outdoor activities become a part of everyday existance.  Turning a blah backyard into a spectacular backyard kitchen where you can entertain, cook together, and have fun with family and friends, suddenly takes on a new and exciting dimension.  The outdoor kitchen is the perfect place for good food, good friends and great surroundings that can be enjoyed anytime of the year.  Now how would you like your steak cooked?

Style Matters with Penelope Voisen -- 'Spring Trends Are In The Air'

There’s a pretty outlook for Spring 2012.  On the home decorating front, it’s a season of renewal and reinvention.  Spring is the perfect time to change out a few accessories or introduce new colors to refresh the interior of your home.  Gorgeous new fabrics, embellished pillows, wall art, eco-friendly bedding, and stylish lighting are just a few examples that can invigorate a room.

Living responsibly with eco-awareness in furnishings and accessories continue to be a definite trend for Spring 2012.  Green design, using resource efficient and healthy materials, is good design.  Luxurious organic bed and bath linens, eco-silk draperies and table linens are making a strong debut.   Eco-friendly furniture made of recycled or reclaimed woods is very popular for the spring season, and are showing up more than ever throughout designer showrooms.  Bamboo, cork and other natural materials not only are a trend, but contain a certain character and texture that create a wonderful feel to a room.

 Color palettes for spring include beautiful upbeat yellows, fresh blues and lively pinks, along with a wide variety of clean whites.  Cheerful, happy and right-this-minute yellow for example, is popping up in furniture, linens, dishware and other accessories.  The power of optimistic yellow in interiors will bring a smile to everyone.

PENELOPE’S STYLE TIPS:

Dress your bed in luxury, organic linens.

Paint a guest room warm yellow, add dramatic coral accents.

Dazzle your dining table with gleaming silk or satin linens.  Your tableware will glow!

Add some sparkle to your sofa with bronze leather or sequined bordered pillows.

Use a silver leaf or metallic finish accent chair for a posh, glamorous addition to a room.

Sense the Italian influence this spring.  Serve pasta!  Open a bottle of red wine and listen to Luciano Pavorotti in the background – who could resist?

Other influences from cultures around the world are design trends that will be evident this spring season.  Furnishings from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East will be making a strong statement.  

 Hollywood glamour has caught the eye of the interior design industry as well.  Metallic home furnishings, fabrics, and accessories are a hot trend this spring.  New collections of rich opulence and couture flair in shimmering silver, pewter, gold and bronze are popular in everything from furniture and fabrics to the tabletop.

 We want our home to be stylish, comfortable and increasingly eco-friendly.  The trends for Spring 2012 offer many terrific options for creating and up-to-date home with classic past and present design elements that will create a spring-like ambiance of comfort and elegance.

Uh-Oh, It's Minkow, Marsch v. The Bridges Again with Casey Anthony Attny. Macaluso in Mix...

 A real estate developer accused one of the world's largest law firms of legal malpractice involving a gated golf project in one of the world's richest communities, Rancho Santa Fe.

Nicolas Marsch and Briarwood Capital sued DLA Piper US LLP and law firm partner Brian Foster, in Superior Court. Marsch claims the defendants represented both Briarwood and Lennar Corp. during the development The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe DLA Piper, Foster and Nicolas Marsch in May 2010, claiming that Foster and DLA Piper helped Marsch get the better of Miami-based Lennar, causing it millions of dollars in losses. That case was settled for $37.5 million.

See the previous Ah-Ha Rancho Santa Fe News stories on the subject here...

(Photos: The two faces of Barry Minkow...)

The disputes surrounding the real estate project also have ties to convicted fraudster Barry Minkow, who is serving a second prison sentence for fraud after pleading guilty to conspiring to damage Lennar by falsely accusing it of deceptive accounting. After Minkow's comments on YouTube and the Internet, Lennar's market value declined by more than $500 million. As part of his plea deal, Minkow agreed to help federal prosecutors investigate Marsch, which hired Minkow after his partnership with Lennar soured. Marsch has denied any wrongdoing

In his new complaint, Marsch claims that since 1997, DLA Piper represented Marsch's Briarwood, and Lennar Corp., Lennar San Jose Holdings Inc., Lennar Land Partners II LLP II, HCC Holdings LLC and Lennar Bridges LLC in connection with The Bridges golf project.

HHC Investors was founded by Lennar and Briarwood Capital to develop the project, according to the Bradenton Herald.

Marsch and Briarwood now claim that DLA Piper's "appalling and irreconcilable" negligence "caused continuous disputes between the parties," leading to a judgment against Briarwood and "various bankruptcies filed by the plaintiff."

Marsch claims that DLA Piper never revealed the conflict of interest while it represented Briarwood in Superior Court litigation against Lennar, though the law firm "informed Lennar of said conflict of interest and withdrew from representing the Lennar entities."

"Furthermore, defendants were representing Lennar and related entities unrelated to The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe and failed to disclose said information to plaintiffs," the complaint states.

"Put simply, defendants represented the Lennar entities in other litigation as their counsel of record simply because it presented an economic opportunity defendants could not pass up. Defendants placed its own interest in profiting from the Lennar entities ahead of the interest of the plaintiffs. Defendants' failure to disclose the conflicts of such representation is not only a breach of defendants' undivided loyalty owed to plaintiffs but a conflict of interest which must be adequately disclosed, explained and waived. Failure to do so was a breach of the duties owed to the plaintiffs."

"The HCC Operating Agreement failed to have adequate language to protect Briarwood, Marsch, HCC and Lennar Bridges from Lennar making contributions to HCC and Lennar Bridges without the knowledge, consent or permission of Briarwood, Marsch, HCC or Lennar Bridges. Defendants failed to adequately and properly define how Marsch and Briarwood would be paid back their investment of $37 million in HCC. Additionally, as a result of the negligence of the defendants, Lennar and Pacific Greystone unilaterally were allowed to take these funds because said agreements failed to protect Briarwood, Marsch and HCC from Lennar and related entities."

Marsch claims that DLA Piper also persuaded Brairwood to enter into inadequate tolling agreements. Those agreements were ruled invalid when Briarwood sued Lennar, and barred Marsch from pursuing further claims against the Miami home builder for fraud and accounting, according to the complaint.

Marsch seeks damages for legal malpractice, breach of fiduciary duties, breach of contract, and fraud/concealment in connection with the law firm's "breaches of their duties of trust and undivided loyalty".

Marsch is represented by Todd Macaluso with Macaluso & Associates of Carlsbad. Macaluso was an important member of Casey Anhony's murder defense team. People even reported seeing Anthony in Solana Beach following her acquittal, but Macaluso vehemently denied reports he had brought Anthony to his Rancho Santa Fe home to rest following the trial.

Neither Foster nor DLA Piper immediately responded to requests for comment.

Style Matters with Penelope Voisen: THE THANKSGIVING TABLE TOASTING AMERICA'S RICHNESS...

Ah, Thanksgiving – the holiday that toasts America’s richness and bounty as no other.

When we think of the loving labor that goes into preparing dinner for relatives and friends, it can anything but a holiday.  The Thanksgiving table allows us to keep the day special, beautiful, and relaxing without being stuck in the kitchen.

Whether you’re having a San Diego style get-together, celebrating somewhere in the country, or somewhere in between, holiday decorating should be consistent with your personal style and the look of your home.

The focal point for any dining room is the table.  How well you dress your dining table can transform your dining room from day to night, or season to season.

Starting ahead of time will help keep things organized in preparing your table for the Thanksgiving gathering.  One of the biggest pleasures of entertaining for me is dressing the table.  I love to spend time experimenting in setting what I think will be the perfect tablescape – from the dishes to the centerpiece to the candles, even the background music.

Staging the table sets the tone for a special meal.  When you lead guests into the dining room, you want them to see a beautiful, inviting place that you, the hostess, created to make them feel special.

 Today, tableware, linen, flatware, serving dishes, plates and glassware come in many intriguing colors, shapes, styles, and materials.  The choices are virtually endless when choosing a scheme for your Thanksgiving table.  Presenting your favorite collection in a creative, imaginative way, makes the difference between a so-so meal or an unforgettably elegant and charming one.

Linens, in any table setting style, define the look of the dining table.  For a formal, traditional table, using white or off-white, usually works best.

Heirloom, or fine china, sterling silver flatware, and fine crystal are expected at a formal table.  Other elegant touches to build on might include oversized, textured chargers in a metallic finish.  Mixing sterling and other classic touches add a luxurious  element to a formal table.

Decorative place cards are often used to give a warm welcome to guests.  It’s fun to mix modern touches in a formal setting.  A soft, fresh floral arrangement in a modern clear bowl or vase, or a more earthy arrangement using greenery and fruit can contrast a classic formal setting.

There are hard set rules to break about table setting style, so it’s always challenging and fun to pare down a formal adaptation as to not risk being too stuffy.

One of my favorite lines of fine china is Haviland.  Haviland has been manufacturing French porcelain china at its factory in Limoges, France since 1853.  I spoke with their National Sales Manager, Maureen Ferrel, to find out what the latest trend is at Haviland.

“Fashion for the table, Laque de Chine is getting a lot of attention right now,” she said.   “This is Haviland largest and most successful launch ever.  Laque de Chine is available in a dozen dreamy colors with gold and platinum trim, and be a stand alone pattern, or used as complimentary pieces to an existing collection.”

In a more casual, rustic setting, centerpieces and other table decorations should celebrate nature.  The simplest arrangements using pumpkins, gourds, apples and nuts, along with fresh floral and greenery work well.  Baskets, pottery,  or terracotta containers  work best for their textures and country feel.  Theses special touches make us feel thankful when we sit down to the Thanksgiving table.

A rustic Thanksgiving table demands earthenware, stoneware, and ceramics as opposed to china.  Wood accented flatware is wonderful when pared with these dishes, however silver seems to always go with everything, as silver adds a little sparkle to any table.

Other elements for the dining room should be lots of soft lighting, votive candles, and even a crackling fire in the fireplace, would blend to create a gracious, relaxed, elegant setting to enjoy your Thanksgiving feast.

Eating and drinking should be reveled in and make most of the celebrating feeling thankful.   May your Thanksgiving table, whether formal or rustic, be simply stunning, and the day enjoyed by family, friends, fabulous food – and plenty of football!

July Real Estate Sales Not So Hot:Rancho Santa Fe Down 26.7 Pct. Solana Beach Down 71 Pct...

Buyers acquired fewer houses in July in North San Diego County than in any July since the first Reagan administration, according to data from the San Diego County Assessor. Rancho Santa Fe 92067 had a median sales price of $2.25 million with 11 units sold in July, a 26.7 percent drop in sales. However, home prices rose in 92067  about 23 percent. Solana Beach 92075 was even worse, a disaster actually. Only two  home sold in July, down 71.4 percent  for an average price of $881,000. Del Mar? Cardiff? No change with seven single-family detached homes dold at Cardiff and six at the home of Carson Palmer, Del Mar.

Prospective homebuyers in July worried about national and international economic problems, from a potential U.S. government default to European debt to high unemployment, real estate agents said. Buyers who did enter the market bid low on houses attempting to score deals.

Meanwhile, some sellers decided to wait it out for better prices. Yet others decided to rent their houses instead of selling. But it all added up to a historically slow July.

"It was rough," said Fred Bradley, a Rancho Penasquitos broker. "July isn't supposed to be rough, but it was."

The 721 houses sold in July in North County were the fewest since 1984, down 11 percent from June and 8.7 percent from last July. Rancho Penasquitos, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Santa Fe and Carmel Valley sold 35 percent fewer homes in July than in July 2010.

Normally, summer is a real estate agent's busiest season as people try to make purchases and move before school starts.

The median price fell to $425,000, down 5.3 percent from June and 7.6 percent from July 2010, according to the assessor records.

"I think there's a lot of folks right now that are really concerned about the global economy," said Brian Westre, a Rancho Bernardo broker. "Anytime markets are rocked, they start to worry about their own job."

Overall, North County foreclosures in the first half of the year are at their lowest since 2007; mortgage interest rates are well under 5 percent; and the median price of $425,000 is at the same level it was in 2002, or 33 percent off its 2007 peak.

But prices may be too high for local buyers: Many tried to get deals with low offers.

"The buyers, by and large, are waiting for prices to go down, and sellers are waiting for prices to go up," Bradley said. "We're stuck in the middle."

Some sellers are choosing to rent their houses instead of selling. The house rental market is hot, as credit-troubled residents still need somewhere to live.

"Rents are pretty good. A lot of people are renting their property out; if they have the equity, they do it," said Sharon Johnston Mead, a Vista broker. "I'm not having any trouble renting mine, knock on wood."

Rancho Santa Fe Historical Society home tour goes around town on Saturday, July 16

 The Rancho Santa Fe Historical Society will hold its annual self-guided home tour from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, July 16.

The featured homes were designed by historically significant architects, including Lilian Rice, Gordon B. Kaufmann and Richard Neutra.

 The Osuna Adobe, erected in 1831 as the first house in the area, will be available for viewing. Home styles on this year's tour range from Spanish Colonial Revival to Mediterranean and Art Deco.

Tickets cost $30 for members and $40 for nonmembers. Proceeds help cover operating costs for the society's missions to preserve local history and educate the public.

Tickets may be purchased at La Flecha House, the society's office and museum at 6036 La Flecha. Checks may be sent to the Rancho Santa Fe Historical Society, P.O. Box 1, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067. Call 858-756-9291

A morning at BlogPaws conference with Mike Arms, Helen Woodward Animal Center director...

BREAKING NEWS 11 P.M. - HELEN WOODWARD ANIMAL CENTER 'SPRING FLING' KICKING IT  UNTIL DAWN...

 Several hundred of Rancho Santa Fe and San Diego's finest are dining, dancing and doing the Bow-Wow-Wow at Helen Woodward Animal Center as the Wayne Foster Entertainment conglommeration fills the Big Tent with the sounds of forever.

 (Robin Shull and Machel Shull hosted the best Lemon Twist table ever at the best Spring Fling in memory.)

The event kicked off at 5:30 p.m. with hors d-oeuvres for those who dared compromise appetites before the big restuarant for-all. I couldn't get to ALL of it, but what I did BLEW MY MIND (and stomach buds).  Everything was so good, ummmm, yum. Some faves were the lambchops from somewhere that wasn't listed in the program, Sbicca Bistro's I don't what it was, but it was gooood, Zel's Del Mar pizza, Trulocks fish in batter something that brought me to my knees, Lemon Twist choco-covered-strawberries. I couldn't find Phil's BBQ, but they were supposed to be there. Roy's Hawaiian Fusion, Firenze Trattoria, Cin Cin, THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

 Broadway Tails, as the 'Spring Fling' was known also feaured silent and live auctions, presentations and awards, opportunity awards and even a special lounge where people and the pets that own them could hang for a few.

As soon as we know, we'll let you know what they took in to help the center's varied and important operations throughout the year. But we gotta get ito our doggie bag for some more of them lamb chops. YEOWWIE...

(Photos above: Live auction and dancing or somethng done in the 'impressionistic' style...)

Helen Woodward Animal Center’s 23rd Annual Spring Fling is Saturday, June 4

 Promises! Promises! That’s Entertainment! 

Helen Woodward Animal Center’s 23rd Annual Spring Fling

We’re making, “Promises Promises” that guests will say, “That’s Entertainment” when Helen Woodward Animal Center (HWAC) hosts its 23^rd annual Spring Fling fundraiser, “Broadway Tails,” on Saturday, June 4, 2011. 

The Spring Fling presented by The Fish Market and EDCO, is San Diego’s premiere black tie event in support of animals and people in-need. The curtain rises at 5:30 PM (until Midnight) under the Center’s covered arena at 6461 El Apajo Road. 

“Most of the upper level tickets have been sold, but we still have a few seats in the other levels,” says HWAC Special Events Supervisor Meghan Trejo. “Co-Chairs Kerry Appleby Payne, Elizabeth Wohlford MacLeod, and Charlene Hooker, with Honorary Chairs Steve and... (more)

” Let’s Cook Together” at The Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.  Garden Club with California Greek Girl, Mary Papoulias-Platis...

  Welcome to my cooking  classes!

Just recently I have partnered with the Rancho Santa Fe Garden Club to teach and direct a new culinary program for the community.  My goal and emphasis for the program is to build a relationship with our community by scheduling educational programs, introducing new foods, and experiencing the practice of  ”eating daily as close to our homes”  as our motto. Our menu will represent what is in season locally from our nearby farmers as the source of our class ingredients which will support and encourage our farmers to continue bringing us farm fresh ingredients to our tables.

We are beginning a C.S.A. (Community Supported Agriculture) delivery with Suzie’s Farm for our neighbors, also purchasing locally from our organic health-food stores, and in the future building a children’s program for our younger audience.  I ‘m just thrilled to have the opportunity to organize and develop my own program of inspiring events, involving the talents of our local writers, chefs, and artists surrounding our beautiful city.

My joy will be when we can gather together for a meal and enjoy many “culinary discussions around the open table”. The center began from the garden community in town as far back as 1926 and many of my classes will continue to be focused around the family garden. A  few classes I will be teaching include the use of  herbs in our daily dishes, vegetables grown from our gardens, and seasonal fruits and berries for your summer entertaining. The complete class schedule will be available soon. Classes are scheduled to begin May 10th, every Tuesday morning at 11:00 and Thursday evening at 6:30 in the kitchen.

More about Mary Papoulias-Platis

Mary stayed in Southern California to pursue a college education. She graduated from Cal Poly Pomona with a teaching credential, and a Master in Computer Education. She has always been most passionate about teaching students how to read and write. Mary has taught many years in North County San Diego, and over the years has continued to create innovative ways of engaging her students. One of her favorite tactics is to include cooking classes into her lesson plan!

In addition to her teaching career, Mary opened the first children’s bookstore in North County San Diego called “The Reading Patch”. Here, she held author signings, live events, art classes, and wrote a children’s newsletter that was sent out to the local teachers and parents. While Mary has enjoyed her many years as an educator, she has also loved being a chef.

More than 15 years ago she combined her love of cooking with her entrepreueial skills to become Co-Owner and executive chef of the Greek Gourmet, a family run concession business and catering business. Her successful business has provided Mary with an array of opportunities to express her culinary talents, as well as the perfect outlet to provide her community with fine Greek Cuisine. Mary is currently working on her first collection of recipes for her first Greek cookbook. Mary’s blog is about her travels along the beautiful California coastline, as well as her enjoyment of Greek cooking, gardening, and the lifestyle that she has created with her family and friends over the years.

You can reach me for special engagements, food demonstrations, cooking classes, or catering  events at: Thme4Mary@sbcglobal.net.

Helen Woodward Animal Center Dedicates New Worldwide HQ With Pomp And Circumstance

 Helen Woodward animal center's new multimillion dollar headquarters was dedicated Saturday, April 16 with speeches and festivities. The new address is 6523 Helen Woodward Way -- formerly Calle Del Nido.

“It’s not exactly Noah and the Ark,” said John Van Zante,  Helen Woodward Animal Center spokesman. “But this move is a major undertaking after more than 35 years in the first building that Helen erected to care for orphan animals and to educate children.” 

Bryce Rhodes, Chairman of the Center’s Board of Directors and grandson of Helen Whittier Woodward, believes his grandmother would be pleased. “She had a great love of animals. It would definitely make her happy to see what has become of the work that she began when she bought this property 40 years ago,” he said.

HWAC President Mike Arms says that the new facility has been a long time coming. “Even before I arrived at HWAC in 1999 there was already talk about the need to expand in order to continue serving the community that has grown around the Center," Arms said. "It’s been my honor to lead us through this phase of construction and into the future of the Center.” 

The new building, located near the original entrance of the center on San Dieguito Road, covers 20,358-square feet., acording to Van Zante.

While the mailing address for HWAC will remain as P.O. Box 64, Rancho Santa Fe, CA, the physical address will become 6523 Helen Woodward Way, Suite 100. 

Phone service and computer operation will be temporarily interrupted on Monday morning, April 18 as communications links are moved to the new building. Until that time, contact Helen Woodward Animal Center at 858-756-4117 for more information.   

Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Del Mar home prices drop 16 to 37 percent in February, North San Diego County Realtors Association says...

 Rancho Santa Fe median home prices dropped 16 percent on February compared to February 2010, leveling out at $1.85 million for 11 home sales. Median sales prices over the same period dropped 20 percent to $1.12 million for four homes sold at Solana Beach and 37 percent for 11 homes averaging $1.32 million at Del Mar. Those figures were supplied Friday by the North San Diego County Association of Realtors.

"The median price for all North County home sales – attached and detached – decreased from $360,000 in January 2011 to $358,000 in February 2011," the realtors association analysts said. "Detached homes in North County decreased 6.39 percent from $446,000 in January 2011 to $417,500 in February 2011, the largest monthly price decline in two years."

"The HomDex affordability percentage for all homes in North San Diego County – single-family detached and single-family attached together – decreased to 38 percent in February 2011 from 40 percent in January 2011," association analysts said. "Median days-on-market for single-family detached homes in North County increased slightly from 68 days in January 2011 to 69 days in February 2011."

Freddie Mac’s national average commitment rate rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage was 4.95 percent in February 2011 compared to 4.99 percent in February 2010.

The number of sales also dropped, as buyers fell out of escrow after trouble getting loans, real estate agents said.

Inventories swelled, as sellers tried to unload their homes for less than they owed in mortgages and pushed up the number of listings.

AREA DETACHED HOME PRICES FOR FEBRUARY

A roundup of the median sale prices in North County communities, listed by ZIP codes with the percentage from February 2010.

* There was one house sale in Rancho Santa Fe (92091) in Feb. 2010.

NOTE: Median figures can be skewed by low volume combined with the sale of several unusually expensive or inexpensive homes.

Yo-Up! Vote for Most Heartwarming Pet Adoption Story @ Helen Woodward Animal Center.com

What's the most heartwarming pet adoption story of 2010?  Helen Woodward Animal Center is inviting the public to help make that decision by casting their vote for one of the top four stories of the holiday season!

TIPS FOR EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FOR PETS FOLLOWS AS WELL...

 Each year Iams Home 4 the Holidays (IH4TH) creator Helen Woodward Animal Center invites participating animal shelters and pet rescue organizations worldwide to submit the adoption stories that touched their hearts.

Our judges have selected four amazing pet adoption success stories (two about dogs and two about cats) that took place during the 12th annual Iams Home 4 the Holidays adoption drive.

The public is invited to log on to http://helenwoodwardanimalcenter.wordpress.com/2011/03/08/ih4th-most-heartwarming-story-contest,  read the four contest finalists, and cast their vote for the most heartwarming story.

Deadline for voting... (more)

San Diego County and California Luxury Home Values Rise Slightly in Fourth Quarter 2010, according to First Republic Prestige Home Index...

Luxury home values increased in Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco in the fourth quarter of 2010 compared to the third quarter, according to the First Republic Prestige Home Index by First Republic Bank, a leading provider of private banking and wealth management services.

In the quarter ended December 31, 2010, the Index indicated the following:

• San Diego area values gained 0.8% from the third quarter of 2010 and increased 0.6% year-over-year. The average luxury home in San Diego is now $1.71 million.
• Los Angeles area values rose 0.6% from the third quarter of 2010 and declined 2.2% from a year ago. The average luxury home in Los Angeles is now $1.97 million.
• San Francisco Bay Area values climbed 1.5% from the third quarter and were up 3.6% from a year ago. The average luxury home in San Francisco is now $2.6 million.

 San Diego Area Values

Values in San Diego rose for the first time since the fourth quarter of 2009.

Ann Brizolis of Prudential California Realty in Rancho Santa Fe said the luxury market is becoming more active. "We had a very robust first quarter thus far. The number of sales has increased, and prices are stable. Since January 1, we have had three closings of $4 million to $6 million. Buyers are realizing that the biggest drop has already happened and there is also good inventory."

However, Chuck Gifford of Prudential California Realty in Rancho Santa Fe said he expects values to continue to soften in luxury communities across the region, even though the market for all cash transactions is heating up. "The pedal is to the metal in San Diego for all-cash buyers. There are buys you just can't resist."

Los Angeles Area Values

Luxury home prices in Los Angeles rose for the first time since the second quarter of 2008.

In Beverly Hills, there are a growing number of buyers, but a limited number of luxury homes for sale. "There is a huge amount of pent-up demand and a very tight market," said Billy Rose of Prudential California Realty in Beverly Hills. "Financially savvy buyers are really looking to buy, but they are constrained by a lack of inventory. Buyers are likely to look back in early 2010 as the bottom, and we're likely to start seeing appreciation, barring any unusual events."

 In luxury beach communities, buyer interest was growing. "December ended on a high note, and right now the market in Malibu and Pacific Palisades looks strong," said Carolyn Johnson of Prudential California Realty in Pacific Palisades. "Sellers are pricing their houses reasonably. Cash buyers are snapping up really good properties at really good prices."

In Santa Barbara, the luxury market was also picking up. "Properties that are well priced are selling fast and closer to asking price," Joanne Schoenfeld of Santa Barbara Living Real Estate Brokerage.  "We're getting more realism on the part of sellers."

San Francisco Bay Area Values

Values in the San Francisco Bay Area posted their third increase in the past four consecutive quarters, although the gains were very modest.

"We're off to a good start in 2011," said David Shepardson of Coldwell Banker in San Francisco. "It is shaping up to be a pretty strong year because of low inventory and the fact there are quite a few buyers out there. It's also apparent very quickly that if the property is overpriced, it will sit there."

On the Peninsula south of San Francisco, the fourth quarter was unexpectedly strong. "In the past two years, we only had two sales over $6 million in Woodside and Portola Valley," said Wendy McPherson of Coldwell Banker in Woodside. "In the fourth quarter of last year, we had six sales over $6 million all the way up to $15 million. All of sudden people have their confidence back."

In the Marin County, the market was also brightening. "This is the year we're going to see a very good recovery," said Olivia Decker of Decker Bullock Sotheby's International Realty in Mill Valley. "We had three months of good sales from December through February. This is encouraging because it is winter, and we're not even in the spring buying season yet. The market is definitely much better."

 About The First Republic Prestige Home Index

The First Republic Prestige Home Index is the first statistical model of its kind customized to measure changes in homes valued at more than $1 million in key California urban markets. Some common features of luxury homes in the Index: 3,000 to 6,000 square feet, three to six bedrooms, and three to six bathrooms. San Francisco Bay Area properties include a cross-section of luxury homes in Alamo, Atherton, Belvedere, Danville, Healdsburg, Hillsborough, Lafayette, Los Altos, Los Gatos, Mill Valley, Moraga, Orinda, Palo Alto, Piedmont, Portola Valley, Ross, St. Helena, San Francisco, Saratoga, Sonoma, Tiburon and Woodside. Properties in Los Angeles represent a cross-section of luxury homes in Arcadia, Beverly Hills, Calabasas, La Cañada Flintridge, Encino, Los Angeles, Malibu, Marina del Rey, North Hollywood, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Playa del Rey, Santa Monica, Studio City and the West Los Angeles enclaves of Bel Air, Brentwood and Westwood. San Diego properties represent a cross-section of luxury homes in Carlsbad, Coronado, Del Mar, Encinitas, La Jolla, La Mesa, Poway, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego and Solana Beach. In producing the Index, Fiserv CSW Inc. draws upon its economic database and years of experience in tracking single-family home values; collects and cross-checks data from multiple sources; achieves a weighted balance of validation elements such as repeat sales, comparable sales, and physical home characteristics; and combines this with First Republic's extensive local market knowledge.

About First Republic Bank

First Republic Bank (NYSE:FRC) and its subsidiaries provide private banking, private business banking and private wealth management. Founded in 1985, First Republic specializes in exceptional, relationship-based service offered through preferred banking or wealth management offices primarily in San Francisco, Palo Alto, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Newport Beach, San Diego, Portland, Boston, Greenwich and New York City. First Republic offers a complete line of banking products for individuals and businesses, including deposit services, as well as residential, commercial and personal loans. More information is available on the Bank's website at http://www.firstrepublic.com.

About First Republic Private Wealth Management

First Republic Private Wealth Management is the investment management, trust and brokerage group of First Republic Bank. First Republic Private Wealth Management offers objective advice and fully customized solutions with the same level of exceptional client service that has been the hallmark of First Republic Bank for more than 25 years. First Republic has the flexibility to provide individuals, families, businesses, endowments, schools and non-profit organizations with appropriate choices that responsibly meet a client's specific investment objectives.

People Behaving Badly, or Police Beefs: Olivenhain 7-Eleven hit for cigs/cash; misc. burglaries around ...

This much is certain: the thief likes to smoke...a lot.

Shortly before 8:30 p.m. Monday, a lone gunman struck the 7-Eleven at 2240 Encinitas Blvd.., at Rancho Santa fe Road absconding with a pack of smokes and some scratch, according to authorities.

The robber who ran away had a black semi-automatic handgun. He was described as Latino, in his 20s, about 5 feet 5 inches tall, with a mustache and wearing a black hat, according to the fuzz.

OK, more details on a few of the local burglaries and bad stuff this month:

DEL MAR: A burglar stole a $20,000 ring, a $20,000 necklace, and a $10,000 watch from Loghman Jewelers on Camino del Mar between 8:30 p.m., Feb. 4 and 10 a.m., Feb. 5.

ENCINITAS: A 23-year-old man and 24-year-old woman were found unconscious after their food was deliberately poisoned. The crime occurred at 11:30 p.m., Feb. 4 on Summerhill Court.

ENCINITAS: A burglar stole $50 in cash from the Dairy Queen on Encinitas Boulevard, 8:41 a.m., Feb. 5.

ENCINITAS: A burglar stole $360 in liquor from the Vons on El Camino Real, 5 p.m., Feb. 6.

ENCINITAS: A 31-year-old woman was arrested for stealing $2,560 from the Home Depot on El Camino Real.

ENCINITAS: A burglar stole $3,445.63 from the Santa Fe Animal Clinic on Santa Fe Drive.

SOLANA BEACH: A 21-year-old woman was arrested for stealing $110 in shoes and miscellaneous items from Marshalls on San Rodolfo Road, 8:30 p.m., Feb. 8.

Rancho Santa Fe Patrol presents - BURGLARY WARNING, coming to an estate near you...BEWARE!

As you may have noticed from our weekly police blotter, a few stories below, or visit here...There's a whole bunch of burglaries going down 'round town with similar MO's. The Rancho Santa Fe Patrol this week issued an alert.

Color code orange?

Burglary Warning

 We have had a few burglaries since the beginning of the year.  All of the burglaries are occurring during the daytime and entry to the homes has been without force in most of the cases.

It appears that the suspects are most likely approaching the house and knock on the door- if someone answers they maybe ask for work. When no one answers, they proceed to look for a location to gain entry.

Losses include all different kinds of personal items. We urge everyone to lock their homes when they leave, turn on alarm systems  and report people coming to the door looking for work that seem suspicious.

-- Rancho Santa Fe Patrol

This is a log of local burglaries since Thanksgiving:

• 2/11/2011Burglary 16800 Los Morros
• 2/8/2011 Burglary 6200 San Elijo
• 2/1/2011 Burglary 6100 Lago Lindo
• 1/24/2011 Burglary 6800 El Camino Del Norte
• 1/17/2011 Vehicle Burglary 16400 La Via Feliz
• 1/8/2011 Burglary 5800 San Elijo
• 12/31/10 Grand Theft- 5900 San Elijo- bronze statue taken
• 11/27/2010 Petty Theft- 15000 El Camino Real

For emergencies, call 911; to contact the RSF Patrol, call 858-759-8588; or visit http://rsfpatrol.blogspot.com/

Drywaller Bandit suspect in custody after series of Encinitas bank robberies

A Pasadena resident believed to be the so-called "Drywaller Bandit" - a serial thief responsible for a six-month spree of armed bank robberies in Los Angeles and San Diego counties - was arrested today following his 11th alleged holdup.

About 9:15 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 3 a man wearing a dust mask and armed with a pistol robbed a Chase Bank branch office in the 100 block of North El Camino Real in Encinitas, San Diego County sheriff's Lt. Jim Walker said.

A few minutes later, arriving deputies spotted a man matching the description of the robber walking to the east near the bank. Seeing the patrol personnel, he broke into a run. The deputies caught up with the suspect, later identified as 39-year-old John Leendert Oskam, a short distance away and took him into custody.

Oskam was taken to the Encinitas Sheriff's Station to be interviewed. He was expected to be booked into the Metropolitan Correctional Center and arraigned in U.S.... (more)

Follow the entitre mapping tool... http://www.crimemapping.com/map/region/northcountysandiego

Type:	Description:	Case #:	Location:	Agency:	Date:
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	6100 BLOCK LAGO LINDO	San Diego County Sheriff	2/1/2011 10:00 AM
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	800 BLOCK VALLEY AVENUE	Solana Beach Sheriff	2/1/2011 08:00 AM
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	400 BLOCK SUMMER VIEW CIRCLE	Encinitas Sheriff	1/31/2011 08:30 PM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	9900 BLOCK LONE QUAIL ROAD	San Diego County Sheriff	1/30/2011 11:45 PM
	SIMPLE BATTERY (M)	-	1200 BLOCK LOCH LOMOND DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	1/30/2011 05:38 PM
	SIMPLE BATTERY (M)	-	1400 BLOCK ENCINITAS BOULEVARD	Encinitas Sheriff	1/30/2011 01:30 AM
	GRAND THEFT (Theft From Mot Veh) (F)	-	2600 S BLOCK COAST HIGHWAY 101	Encinitas Sheriff	1/29/2011 11:30 PM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	2600 S BLOCK COAST HIGHWAY 101	Encinitas Sheriff	1/29/2011 10:00 PM
	ADW:NOT FIREARM:GBI LIKELY (F)	-	100 S BLOCK CEDROS AVENUE	Solana Beach Sheriff	1/28/2011 11:37 PM
	PETTY THEFT	-	900 BLOCK LOMAS SANTA FE DRIVE	Solana Beach Sheriff	1/28/2011 12:00 PM
	BATTERY ON ANY PERSON ON PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION/PROPERTY	-	100 N BLOCK CEDROS AVENUE	Solana Beach Sheriff	1/28/2011 10:57 AM
	VANDALISM [$400 OR LESS] (M)	-	800 BLOCK 03RD STREET	Encinitas Sheriff	1/27/2011 10:15 AM
	GRAND THEFT (Theft From Mot Veh) (F)	-	700 S BLOCK HWY 101	Solana Beach Sheriff	1/26/2011 03:15 AM
	PETTY THEFT(from Veh) (M)	-	4400 BLOCK MANCHESTER AVENUE	Encinitas Sheriff	1/24/2011 05:30 PM
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	6800 BLOCK EL CAMINO DEL NORTE	San Diego County Sheriff	1/24/2011 05:00 PM

Carmel Valley's Jim "The Realtor" Klinge goes video viral on foreclosures, Pacific Station, Encinitas...

 Jim Klinge -- AKA Jim the Realtor – is a 25-year veteran of the real estate sales business with homes for sale in the San Diego North County Coastal region.

"Yes, I’d like to be your realtor, and would welcome the chance to speak to you. I can be reached at(760) 434-5000, or (858) 560-7700. I love email too; jim@jimklinge.com"

Klinge also has been keeping a daily video blog and frequent updates on the local, and even national, real estate scene. Two recent video entries paint an interesting picture of what's happening this week around town -- Dan Weisman

DRIP DRIP DRIP

San Diego County has 11,750 properties on the trustee-sale list. Are you wondering if the pipeline is being closely managed?  Here are the numbers of foreclosed properties for January:

2008 – 1,621

2009 – 1,133

2010 – 1,285

2011 – 1,111 with one day to go

But the quality seems to be improving, here are a couple more that were recently foreclosed:

PACIFIC STATION, ENCINITAS

The $40 million  mixed-use development at 687 South Coast Highway 101, in downtown Encinitas is now open for business. Nearly 50 residential units are for sale.

With prices from the $300,000s to $700,000s, homes at Pacific Station include a mix of two-story town homes, two-story lofts and single-story, flats ranging from approximately 600 to 2,300 square feet.

All floor plans feature private decks or balconies. Homes also include secure, underground parking and spacious storage units. The single-story flats are offered in one- or two bedroom, one-bath designs from 606- to 970-square feet.

Breaking News 1 P.M. - I-5 clear after two-vehicle wreck leaving one dead on Hwy 56 ramp

 Interstate 5 and Highway 56 are clear and running smoothly this afternoon following a two-vehicle crash that left one person dead around 7:30 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 30.

Two drivers crashed their vehicles and blocked the transition road from westbound Route 56 to southbound Interstate 5 near Del Mar, according to California Highway Patrol officers.

The wreck occurred the wreck occurred at 7:30 a.m. on the elevated ramp that links the Ted Williams Freeway to the local access lanes of southbound Interstate 5, north of the 805 split interchange, police said

San Diego Police traffic units helped control traffic until both cars were towed away, and the ramp reopened after about two hours.

Crash victim identities and other information was not immediately available.