UFC 102 at the Rose Garden in Portland

Hello and Good Monday Evening

I had the opportunity to go to my first UFC event on Saturday.  I had a blast! The event was held in Portland, OR.  I had never visited Portland before, and I had heard some very nice things about the city.  I was invited to the fights by my friend Dwight.  Dwight had arranged front row seats.  

I caught my plane from Sacramento and had an easy flight up to Portland.  The weather was nice and cool in Portland and was amazed at the size of the Columbia River.  I hooked up with Dwight at the airport.  We chatted about the upcoming fights and shared thoughts on who we thought was going to win each fight and how.

As fight time neared, the excitement grew. The city was buzzing as everywhere we stopped, people asked if we were attending the fights.  I was thrilled to see that I was going to have an unobstructed view of the octagon shaped ring.  

The fights were excellent.  Some of the fights ended quickly.  As a matter of fact, one of the fights ended in 7 seconds on a vicious knockout!  Todd Duffee knocked out Tim hague with the first punch of the fight!  It was announced that it was the fastest knockout in UFC history!  There were other knockouts and some submissions.  The most impressive fight was Nate Marquardt stopping Demien Maia with a straight left hand after Maia was attempting to kick him. Another one punch KO!

The main event of the evening pitted hall of famer Randy Couture and Brazilian star Antonio Nogueira.  The fight was a battle of an old warrior and a dangerous submission expert.  All though Couture was the fan favorite, the Brazilian star did enough to win an unanimous decision.  Couture had to survive a couple of strong submission attempts.  

My observations: Dana White has done a spectacular job promoting and developing the UFC.  The fighters are very charismatic and have great story lines.  Portland was a great host city.  The arena was full of energy and loud.  I can't wait to go to my next UFC fight!

It's August 31, 2009 and I am bullish on Sacramento

David Ohara

@dwo34

dwo34@aol.com

One Ultra Cool Lady!

Good Thursday Everyone!

I want to take the time and introduce an ultra cool friend from Berlin to you!  Her name is Jasmin Orthbandt.  Take a look at Jasmin and see if you can tell what she does for a living.  You may be surprised.  Read about her and see why I think Jasmin is one "ultra cool lady!"

dwo34:  Hi Jasmin, first of all, for all the readers out there, please tell us what you do for a living?

JO: I am one of the founders (2 others) and managing partner of pixeltamer.net.  We are contract game developers. Meaning we develop games for other business and game companies for them to publish. We concentrate on 2D / 3D multi user online content.  So we develop browser based MMO's, flash games, social home games for Facebook and the like and also we develop games for the IPhone. Before that I was the lead AI programmer for a company called SEK GmbH here in Berlin. This company developed AAA RTS Game for the PC like ParaWorld and Diggles.

dwo34: That's impressive Jasmin. How did you get started and how does one become a game developer?

JO: I started playing video games as I was 7 (now I am 41), so I guess my life was pretty much set up for becoming a game developer at one point.  But still at first I did other jobs and travelled the world a bit. But in the end I always wanted to know how to make games. So I went back to school and became a software engineer and then started in the game industry. (smiles) I still game now nearly every day. Usually I play MMORPG's. My favorites are Ultima Online which I have been playing now for 11 years and for the last three years Lord of the Rings Online  (smiles).

dwo34:      OK, you know I have to ask you this....   I love your tattoos! How many do you have?

JO: I currently have 16! (wink)

dwo34: 16! That's quite a few.  Do your tattoos have any special meaning?

JO: Some do, some don't. The tribal I have on my legs, back and throat are all animals. The one on my throat is a Frog, on my back a Bat, My calf is a Cockatiel, and on my thigh a Chameleon. The other Tribal's are just ornamental. Or just pictures. Like the Garfield.

dwo34: I have seen many television shows that feature tattoo artists and people getting a tattoo. When I watch it on TV, the people getting the tattoo seem not to be in any discomfort. Please let me know if there is pain associated with getting a tattoo.

JO: Most definitely, some parts hurt more than others, but in the end, getting a tattoo always hurts (smiles)

dwo34: Ouch! I think you just talked me out of getting a tattoo! Me and pain don't do well together.

dwo34: I have seen you rocking the microphone. Do you have a rock band that you perform with?

JO: Hehe, this is not a real music group, but the game Rockband from Harmonix. At the Nordic Game Conference 07, I was asked if I could help out Harmonix, the developers of Rockband, and do the Keynote Speech at the conference. They needed a singer as they where introducing the game Rockband. Seeing that I love playing Singstar, I said yes. It even got recorded for Swedish National Television.

dwo34: Sweet! A lady of many talents!! I like that.

JO: Thank you.

dwo34: I know you are from Berlin and you love it there. How long have you lived in Berlin?

JO: I am actually a Berliner (smiles) Berlin actually got voted by a UK Magazine the best Summer Party Town of Europe and Berghain the best Club in the World even. Berlin, especially in summer, is just awesome. We are very free here. It is the greenest Capitol of Europe with Trees lining every street and everywhere there are parks and lakes and even city beaches. Also all the cafes, bars, pubs lining the streets. And with it high percentage of foreigners, we have a lovely mixed culture here, with all foods, drinks and music available from all over the world.

dwo34: Tell me why people should come and visit Berlin.

JO: People are very relaxed and friendly considering this is a capitol city. It just has a very special vibe here. It buzzes! Hard to explain, one has to come and see for him/herself what it is about Berlin what makes it so special.

dwo34: Thank you so much Jasmin!

JO: You're welcome David. See you soon. Come and visit me and my country.

dwo34: I plan on it.

OK, now do you see why I think Jasmin is one Ultra Cool lady! Behind the tats is a lady of many talents.  The game you are playing may have originated from this lady's mind! I will keep everyone updated on new and exciting games that Jasmin is creating. Maybe even ask if I can sample one.  Thank you Jasmin for your time!

It's August 27, 2009 and I am bullish on Sacramento

David Ohara

@dwo34

dwo34@aol.com

Don't Believe the Hype!

Good Tuesday to All!

A friend and I were having a conversation about places we have visited and the people we have encountered.  How many times have we not gone to a visit a place because we thought the people were not friendly?  I want to dispel the rumor about people from New York.

Last year I went to New York for the first time.  I had always been amazed by the sky line and impressive architecture.  Not to mention Time Square, Yankee Stadium, The Empire State Building, Lady Liberty, Ground Zero, Broadway, etc....etc.....etc.....

I have also heard from many people that people from New York were not friendly and were rude. I heard that New Yorkers were always in a rush and would not give you the time of day if you asked for directions.  And I had heard that New Yorkers spoke with a heavy accent and it was hard to understand.  You know my response to those negative people?  "Baloney!"  My experience with New Yorkers, are totally the opposite of what I have heard.  In my opinion, New Yorkers rival Hawaiians as the friendliest that I have met.  Let me give you some references so you don't think I am full of Hype.  My brother had arranged the trip to New York for me.  He had a shuttle van waiting to pick us up at the airport.  On the ride from JFK to Manhattan, the shuttle driver asked if I needed directions to any of the attractions.  I told him that we wanted to go to Times Square and walk around.  He said "After you drop your luggage off at the hotel and grab a bite, call me. Here is my number.  I should be back in the city in an hour, I will take you there...."  I called our driver up and he picked us up at the hotel.  A nice gesture! He said "No charge, my treat to you as a visitor to New York." What a nice guy!  Another example of the New York hospitality.  Numerous New Yorkers offered assistance on the subways.  For a visitor, if you can navigate the subway system, you can get around New York with ease.  Also, these supposedly rude and arrogant New Yorkers, would get up out of their seats on the subway and offer their seats. Amazing.  One more reference for good measure.  At Bobby Flay's restaurant in Manhattan, it was known that he could drop in at any time and say hello to the patrons.  We told the hostess that we had eaten at his Las Vegas restaurant, and this was a treat, since this was his home.  She called him up to see if he was coming in and there were some fans of his there.  He had a prior engagement, but instructed the hostess to give us an autographed copy of one of his books.  Rude? Arrogant? Standoffish? Hard to understand? Elitist attitude?  Don't want to be bothered?  Not a chance.

By the way, the sites in New York are well worth their hype! You will not be disappointed by what New York has to offer.  In my opinion, the people are one of the best attributes of New York!

The reason why I commented on this, is because often we get caught up in hype. Hype that may not be true.  Sometimes in life, it's best to experience things and make your own judgement.  It's fine to use reviews and information to help educate yourself on a decision.  Keep an open mind and don't always believe the hype!

It's August 25, 2009 and I am bullish on Sacramento

David Ohara

@dwo34

dwo34@aol.com

Goal Setting

Good Monday Morning to Everyone

Last night I was chatting with several friends via Twitter and our conversation turned to "Goal Setting" and the importance of setting goals.  I have always been an advocate of taking the time and committing your thoughts to paper.  As I began to reflect, I noticed that my most productive years had been years that I actually took the time to map out goals for myself, both personally and professionally.

One of my friends was thankful that I assisted her with some goal setting.  As soon as I finished my conversation, I quickly asked myself "Ok, now what are your goals?"  I had no answer.  I had failed to make any goals this year.  In previous years when I wrote out my goals, I would break them down into two groups: Long term goals and Short term goals.

I sat down and came up with a few goals I want to achieve this week.  First, I want to make sure all of the conditions have been met on my Broadway sale.  I'll make sure any loose ends are tied.  Second, I want to make sure that I stay in contact with the lender on my Ebb Tide Street sale and keep everyone informed.  My hope is to get an approval on the short sale this week.  Third, I want to finish with the edits on my upcoming blog on Griselda's Catering. You will thoroughly enjoy reading about her.  Fourth, I am going to begin a new workout program today and will incorporate more fruits and salads in my diet. Finally, I want to get information that was requested to my clients this week. Some of my long term goals are: To continue to work diligently on this blog, read the new books I purchased, employ my new marketing strategy and clean and organize my office.

I will keep you posted on my short term goals. The list is more extensive, but I want to be able to get some realistic goals set and achieved.  I am a firm believer in "If you commit to something in writing, there is a great chance you can achieve it." Goal setting is an important part of one's success.  Plan it and achieve it!

It's August 23, 2009 and I am bullish on Sacramento

David Ohara

@dwo34

dwo34@aol.com

An Example of a Great Buy!

Good Saturday Morning:

I have received some emails from friends asking that I would occasionally post a listing on the blog that represents a great buy.  I have a perfect example of the type of "good investments" that are out there in the market.  

The featured property is an 8 unit, mixed use property in downtown Marysville (approximately 45 minutes north of Sacramento).  The unit features 4 residential units upstairs and 4 commercial/professional units downstairs.  The property is walking distance to a lot of the city/county offices.  Some of the particulars are: approximately 8000 square feet of rent able space, the residential units are two bedrooms and one bath, the roof has been recently replaced, the stairways have been replaced, the commercial - professional space have a bathroom.  The property is listed for sale for $259,900! Yes, only $259,900! What's even more enticing is the fact that the owner is willing to carry a second note for the buyer.

The reason why the owner is selling is: He is tried of being a landlord and wants to focus on being grandparents.  The property should be purchased by a "hands on" person. If someone invests the time and energy into this property, the rewards would be tremendous.  You would have 8 units generating income! A good downtown location is great for access to transportation, services, and exposure.

If you have any questions, please let me know.  There are some interested parties looking at this great investment currently, but is still available!  I'll keep everyone informed!

It's August 22, 2009 and I am bullish on Sacramento

David Ohara

@dwo34

dwo34@aol.com

Wildhorse Golf Course in Davis, CA

Good Friday to All:

I want to give you a mini review on a favorite golf course of mine.  The name of the golf course is Wildhorse and is located about 15 minutes west of downtown Sacramento.  The course is situated on 170 acres and is an old walnut orchard.  It is an 18 hole course with a multitude of tee boxes, so that every skill level can enjoy it.

The course opened in 1999 and has some mature trees and is environmentally friendly, with more than 40 acres dedicated to native habitat.  I know these environmentally sensitive areas, because either myself, or one of my playing partners have hit balls into this area.  Water comes into play on several of the holes, as Covell Creek makes its presence known.  

The links style course allows golfers to chose their approach on how to play it.  If you play from the tips, the golf course has a much different look.  From the tips, the course measures over 6800 yards, including a mammoth par 5 that is over 560 yards long! A couple of weeks ago, yours truly hit a drive that measured 304 yards and I had 262 to the middle of the green.  I took out my 3 wood and proceeded to knock the ball on the green.  Those two shots were arguably the two longest shots I have hit back to back.  I two putted for a birdie.

My favorite hole on the golf course is Number 17.  This par 5 measures 508 from the tip.  The hole is a slight dogleg to the left with water down the entire left side of the hole.  The ideal shot is to hit at a cluster of trees on the right side of the fairway and to try to carry as much water as possible, in order to get on in two.  If you don't want to risk it, aim for the bunkers on the right and the carry is not as far.  I play the hole with a cut drive (I'm a lefty) and I aim for the trees on the right side of the fairway. If I hit it well, I can leave myself about a 180-195 yard approach.  If I don't hit it well, I am in the water. A true risk-reward tee shot.  Very fun hole to play.  The Par 3's are all fun.  The first par 3 measures about 180 yards and is slightly up hill.  The green is guarded by bunkers.  The rest of the Par 3's have water to contend with, so there are no easy ones out there!  The Par 4's are all fair and the last hole is very challenging.  433 yards of doglegs and then a carry. A par on this hole is an excellent score.  I guarantee you'll have fun out there!

I enjoy playing Wildhorse for the layout and scenic holes.  But the customer service at Wildhorse is also good. Friendly Pro Shop employees, an on the ball starter, engaging marshals, and fun beverage servers add to the luster.  I highly recommend this course.  It's an user friendly golf course for all skill levels.  Wildhorse is located at 2323 Rockwell Drive, Davis, CA 95616, call them at 530-753-4900 for a tee time, I might see you out there!

It's August 21, 2009 and I am bullish on Sacramento

David Ohara

@dwo34

dwo34@aol.com

Sacramento State Capitol

Good Wednesday Afternoon

Today I had an appointment to meet a client/friend at the capitol.  She runs a catering business/restaurant at the capitol, so we decided to meet there.  Having been born and raised in Sacramento, I cannot even begin to think how many times I have seen the Capitol while driving by.  On the other hand, I can probably count one two hands, the number of times I have been inside the Capitol.

The Capitol, located at 10th Street and Capitol Mall, Sacramento, is an impressive piece of architecture as you walk up to the site.  The first thing I notice are the impressive columns and gold dome.   The gardens that surround the Capitol are quite impressive also.  These things just don't seem to matter as much when you are driving by.

The Capitol, with its 234 foot high dome, was built between 1861 and 1869.  There have been numerous additions and extensions.  A complete restoration of the Capitol was completed in 1982, at a cost of approximately $68 million.  Because of the restoration, the marble floors and extravagant chandeliers shine like they did in the old days.  

In 1988, a bronze group sculpture, The Vietnam War Memorial stands in the northeast part of Capitol Park.  It's construction was entirely funded by donations.  Today, there were several visitors paying their respects at the memorial.

The beautiful and colorful gardens present a colorful backdrop for the Capitol.  The garden's also serve as a photographer's favorite place to photograph brides and grooms.  

Inside the Capitol there is plenty of energy flowing through the hall ways. Just walking up and down some of the hall ways today, I saw several prominent politicians.  In rare cases, once may even see the Governor walking around.  I did have the opportunity to meet Governor Wilson at his office.  One of my clients was an aide to Gov. Wilson and took me into his chambers. Quite a memorable experience.

The one other thing I noticed today, several school buses outside.  The Capitol is a great place to host a field trip.  It had been so long since I visited the Capitol.  One of the things I took for granted.  Living in Sacramento, yet not visiting prominent places here.  I highly recommend a visit to the State Capitol of California.

It's August 19, 2009 and I am bullish on Sacramento

David Ohara

@dwo34

dwo34@aol.com

What the heck is a Short Sale?

Good Tuesday Morning to Everyone!

I have been getting a lot of emails from people asking the same question.  People are asking me: "David, what the heck is a short sale?"  Hopefully, today I can answer this question.

A "short sale" is a real estate transaction in which the proceeds from the sale are less than what is owed to the lender(s).  The concept here, is to have the lender(s) agree to accept a lesser amount to close the sale.  Now the "tricky" part...

In a ratified  "short sale" the lender agrees to accept an agreed amount of money to consummate the sale, because of an economic or financial hardship suffered by the mortgagor (Home Owner).  This negotiation is done through communication (or sometimes lack of communication) with the lender's loss mitigation department.  The lender will evaluate the "hardship" of the mortgagor and make a decision based on the current value of the home, the mortgagor's financial status and contract terms.  If the lender feels that the circumstances submitted meets the criteria of a "short sale" the lender will agree to accept the proceeds in full satisfaction of the debt, even if it is "short." The extenuating circumstances will influence whether or not the lender will accept the "short" payoff.  

A "short sale" is an alternative to prevent a home from going into foreclosure.  A home owner may contact a Realtor to come out and give them an estimate of value.  If the "market value" is less than what is owed, the Realtor may put the home on the market and advertise it as a "short sale."  Communication is then established with the lender(s) to let them know what is taking place.  A "short sale" is a type of sale that all terms and conditions have to be approved by the mortgage holders, so Buyer's need to understand this.  Lender(s) that I have dealt all deal with "short sales" differently.   I have received approvals in as little as two weeks, and some have taken 5 months.  So if you are a Buyer and are looking at a "short sale" to purchase, you must be patient.

Once an offer has been submitted to a lender(s) for approval, the bank will order a "Broker Price Opinion (BPO)" to determine fair market value of the home.  This is done so that the lender has an idea of the value and eliminates fraudulent sales.  If the lender feels that the "short sale" is more favorable than a foreclosure, there is a great probability that the "short sale" will be approved.  A "short sale" is typically faster and less expensive than a foreclosure.

In short, a "short sale" is negotiating with the lender(s) a payoff which is less than what is owed.  "Short Sales" are becoming more and more common in this real estate market.  Now that I have totally confused you, you may send specific questions to me and I will do my best to clarify.  I do know what I am doing with these "short sales" and do not shy away from them, like some Realtors do.  I enjoy the challenge!

It's August 18, 2009 and I am bullish on Sacramento

David Ohara

@dwo34

dwo34@aol.com

Good People

Good Evening Everyone

I wanted to blog about a person I had the opportunity to meet on Friday Night.  As some of you know, I have become sort of a Twitter fanatic in the past couple of months.  I have been impressed with the social capabilities of Twitter.  I have made a lot of "friends" on Twitter.  

One person that I communicate with is Jay.  He is known as @prodigybullies on Twitter.  His name originates from his love of pit bulls.  He was in Northern CA for a Breeders Cup competition for one of his dogs "Tank."  Jay made the trip from Pullman, WA late Thursday and arrived in Northern CA around dinner time.  His drive took about 18 hours and he and Tank arrived in great shape.

Jay and I were able to connect in Vacaville at BJ's restaurant.  It was good to be able to chat with Jay face to face and share good conversation.  He gave me an education of the world of "bullies" and I have a great appreciation of people, like Jay, who treat their dog's the way they do.  I was impressed on the training, traveling, diet, and admiration the owners commit.  I always thought I was a dog lover, but Jay took it to another level.

After spending a couple hours chatting about football, dogs, golf, travel, food, and twitter, we had to call it a night.  Because of Twitter I have another good friend.  I am looking forward to visiting Jay in Pullman, WA and going to a Washington State Cougar football game (Jay is a strength and conditioning football coach at WSU).  This is example is another reason why Twitter can be a great tool to meet good people. Have a safe trip back Jay and give the "Tankster" a high five!!

It's August 15, 2009 and I am Bullish on Sacramento

David Ohara

@dwo34

dwo34@aol.com

Day Two - Liz Valicenti of Titleist

Good Thursday to All!

Today, the PGA Championship began at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Minnesota and we are blogging Day Two of my interview with Liz Valicenti, Senior Manager, Interactive Marketing for Titleist/Acushnet Golf.  Yesterday Liz talked about how she started at Titleist and how little golf she gets to play.  Here is the conclusion of my interview:

dwo34:  "I know the fans are chomping at the bit to hear about any new products that are going to be hitting the market.  I know I may need to upgrade my Driver soon.  What's coming up?"

Liz: "We haven’t officially launched our new products, but word has gotten out about the new Titleist irons.  We’ve been testing on tour and many of our players have put the new irons in their bags immediately.  Four models:  new Titleist AP1 Irons, new Titleist AP2 Irons, New Titleist CB (cavity back) Irons and New Titleist MB (muscle back) irons.  You can read more on the Titleist Tour blog ( HYPERLINK "http://www.titleisttourblog.com" www.titleisttourblog.com)  We will also have a new Scotty Cameron putter series as well as new Vokey wedges.  In January, we’ll announce even more new products at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando.  While it’s not a rule, in general we see a two year life cycle for most of our products."

dwo34 "Liz, I know we chatted about this personally, but talk about Social Media and how it effects Titleist.  I find it amazing that we can now call each other friends and yet, we have yet to meet face to face."

Liz: " One of the things I’m so excited about with social media and Titleist is that because of these new tools, we are able to really communicate with our consumers.  Though it’s new technology, we’re really going back to grass roots or 1-1 marketing. If there’s one thing I know for sure it’s that our Titleist fans and loyal, passionate and they want us to know that and they want to know that we hear them.  In the past we really haven’t had the ability to open the dialog that is now available with web. 2.0 technology.  It’s allowing us to remove the filter between the consumer and the brand and really get a dialog going.  This helps the consumer because they feel empowered to tell us how they feel about the brand – what they like and what they dislike and we as a brand get the critical information we need about our products in order to continue to make the best performing, highest quality golf equipment available.

What’s also exciting to me about social media is that we now have the opportunity to connect with a younger consumer.. Facebook for example brings us a completely different pool of consumers at a significantly younger age.  We now have a direct line to talk to that younger group.  Ironically, a recent survey that we did among our Facebook group and our website database resulted in almost identical results.  Pleasantly surprising for me because it tells me that a Titleist fan is a Titleist fan – no matter what age."

dwo34: "Liz, you know I am a Twitter fan, and I favor this media over Facebook and MySpace. I think it would be great to talk about Twitter and it's power.  Some of my friend's are a little skeptical of Twitter.

Liz: "I don’t have to sell Twitter to you David, but Twitter is not only a place to communicate it’s a place to meet new contacts.  In the last year, 99% of all my new business contacts have been made on Twitter or Facebook.  . If it weren’t for Twitter, you and I would not in a million years know each other , but you are an avid Titleist fan and Titleist SHOULD know you, and if you are willing to share information, we should know what Titleist equipment you own, where you play, and we should be able to get products that will help improve your game, into your hands.  My hope for the Titleist brand is that somehow Titleist will have a connection, a communication or some kind of relationship through Social Media with all the David Ohara’s out there. I believe that It’s really all about TRUST.  Our fans need to trust that we are going to provide the highest quality, best performing golf equipment that’s made for their game."  

dwo34:  "Liz, the first round is in the books.  Tiger is on top of the leader board. What are your thoughts on the first round?"

Liz: "There is a lot more golf to play, and if you check the Titleist Leader Board, you will notice that the majority of the leaders are playing Titleist.  We have an outstanding chance to win the PGA. Should be fun."

dwo34: "Liz, thank you so much for your time and your insight. I have received so many emails with positive comments on Day One."

Liz "You're welcome David. Thank you."

My interview with Liz Valicenti was so much fun.  You see her excitement the minute you converse with Liz.  I get a clue why Titleist is one of the top brands in golf, it's great people like Liz who are compassionate and care about what they do.  I, myself am I loyal Titleist "Sunday" golfer.  My friend gave me a staff bag for a gift with my name embroidered on it (see photo), I play the Titleist Pro V1x ball, and I hit their clubs.  Titleist stands for quality in my opinion and you will not find a better quality person than Liz Valicenti.  Thank you again Liz and good luck this week at the PGA!

As a side note, leave your comments (about golf or Titleist) here or via email(dwo34@aol.com) and I will give away a couple of nice Titleist things.  I have some items that will make you a true Titleist fan, so respond and I will select the best comments.

It's August 13, 2009 and I am bullish on Sacramento

David Ohara

@dwo34

dwo34@aol.com