Meet Griselda Barajas Business Woman Extraordinaire!

Hello and Good Wednesday Evening

I want to introduce you to a dynamic woman I call my friend! Her name is Griselda Barajas, and she is the owner of Griselda's Ventures Inc.  When you meet her in person, you can tell the "wheels" are always going a mile a minute and she rarely takes a moment to relax.  I have had the privilege of knowing Griselda for a few years and have always been  impressed with her business mind.

I recently went to the State Capitol to have lunch with Griselda and chat with her about her business.  Griselda is a warm, caring, friendly, and upbeat lady and this is evident the minute you see her.

Because of Griselda's prominence in the Sacramento community, I will run this blog as a two parter.  Day one will be the interview portion and tomorrow I will talk about some of Griselda's accomplishments.  Here are some of the details of  question and answer session:

dwo34: "Hi Griselda, how are you! So good to see you. I am glad that we were able to schedule this meeting"

GB: "My pleasure David, it's nice to see you too"

dwo34: "How long have you been in business Griselda?"

GB: "I have been in the business for about 17 years now... Oh my how time flies"

dwo34: "Tell me, what types of food do you cater and the types of events you do?"

GB: "I am very proud to say that over the years, we have developed a full menu and a multitude of different offerings.  We can do Mexican, Japanese, Chinese, Mediterranean, Italian, American cuisines. Basically we can cater to everyone.  We do fund raisers, weddings, birthday parties, conferences, bridal showers and other events."

dwo34: "Wow, looks like you have all the bases covered here Griselda."

GB: "We try to accommodate everyone and every event."

dwo34: "Tell me about your largest event you ever catered."

GB: "The biggest event we ever did, was probably the 2000 Olympic Trails.  This was a monumental event for Sacramento and we felt very privileged to be asked to handle the catering.  We served approximately 3000 people during the event. So you can see, this was a big event!  The people were nice and everything worked out perfectly"

dwo34: "That is impressive!"

GB: "Thank you, we got great publicity for that event.  It led to other great events for us."

dwo34: "Any other favorite events come to mind?"

GB: "Yes, we also did the catering for SMUD and their 60th Anniversary event.  That was also a fun event and once again, we felt very privileged to be asked to cater the event."

dwo34: "How do you market yourself Griselda?"

GB: "My biggest source of business is referrals.  I am blessed that my existing clients, friends, family all help by getting the word out.  I also just started doing Facebook.  We need to be friends on Facebook.  Also, I serve my community on various boards and belong to several local networking groups."

dwo34: "Please send me a friend request on Facebook!"

GB: "I will and you can teach me how to get on Twitter."

dwo34: "I can do that"

dwo34: "Let everyone know why Griselda Barajas is successful and why people should deal with you."

GB: "When you hire us, you get an experienced, professional, responsible, and quality caterer. You get my experience in running an event.  I take care of everything, so that the client has no stress.  Think of me as the concierge of the event.  My staff is professional also.  My menu is extensive and from what I have been told, very tasty!  We also have very competitive pricing."

dwo34: "You know I am a huge fan of Griselda Barajas, shall we eat."

GB: "Yes. Lets...."

Tomorrow I will finish up with my chat with Griselda Barajas.  I have been to her catered events.  She is one of the best in Sacramento, if not the best.  She will go out of her way to make sure her clients are happy!  I am so proud of her and I enjoy watching her succeed.  

It's September 2, 2009 and I am bullish on Sacramento

David Ohara

@dwo34

dwo34@aol.com

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