UninspiredWritten by Ray Shay

 
I am constantly inspired by people and events around me.  This week,  I was working diligently on a different type of story which involved the San Diego Chargers and Denver quarterback, Peyton Manning.  Being a loyal Charger fan, I was looking forward to polishing up the story after our game against Atlanta on Sunday.  Then it happened. 

I listened to the end of the Charger game as they got, "spanked".  I must have tried four separate times following the game, to pick up my iPad, to wrap up the story.  I just couldn't do it.  Our boy's were off from school today, so last night, we all just sat around, ate popcorn, and watched a movie.

No complaints, but I was honestly not in the mood to write.  I came to the conclusion that the loss led me to be officially, "Uninspired".  Not a pretty thought, but it was too late to change horses, as I was only mid stream.  I just released the reins and swam back to shore.

My plan is to track down that horse and provide you something next Monday, that is worthy of your time.  I know a good Charger game in Kansas City next Sunday will help.  In the meantime, you might check in on the 92127 Mole.  He is always good for a laugh!
 

Enjoy your week!

  

 

Ray & Theresa Shay  

Info@TrustShay.com

  

Copyright 2012 All Rights Reserved.  No duplication of this material without written consent of Shay Realtors.   
 

Your Local Real Estate Trend Report

Home inventory continues to slip as more and more buyers are looking to purchase homes.  Appraisals continue to be an issue with the market heating up.  If you want to know the value of your home, or are interested in purchasing a home, give us a call.  We are here to help!  

In the attached report, which is updated weekly is prepared exclusively for Shay Realtors.  You will find easy-to-read graphs with statistics, and valuable information broken down into bite-size pieces about current market trends specifically for our zip code.  Condo Report and  Single Family Report

Tatum's PrisonerWritten by Ray Shay

Tatum is a smart guy.  Not just kind of smart.  I mean scary smart.  He never brags or alludes to it, but we all know it to be true.  I won't tell you his last name, the name of his company, or the name of his prisoner.  I will tell you Tatum lives right here in 4S Ranch.  He flies under under everyone's radar.  It seems sometimes both the ultra smart and ultra rich are stealth like.  Good for them.  I would like to think if I ever fit into either category, I would do the same.  I don't think I need to worry.   

Tatum is the scientific, lab smart, type of guy.  Soon after those fateful planes with their doomed crews and passengers exploded into a fireball of acrid jet fuel on that crystal blue morning at the World Trade Center and other locations across America, Tatum's phone rang.  It was the Federal Bureau of Investigation. They were calling him to ask for his help.   The United States Government needed the best and brightest scientists to join the fight against terrorism.  Being a patriot, Tatum didn't hesitate.  He walked out of his laboratory and into the muck and danger of Federal Law Enforcement. Tatum joined the FBI.   

Tatum was soon working the dangerous streets and back alleys where terrorists and their associates are known to linger. Searching for the needle in the haystack.   Even though Tatum loved the excitement and challenges on the streets, after a few years, he realized he could help our country more by bringing his genius to a private company.  

 

Tatum has never told me, but I know it is a not a stretch to believe he now likely helps some of the most elite three letter US Government Agencies who are on watch 24/7 around this violent world. That is why when he walked into our Community Hub last Thursday morning at 0830 hours, I took notice. I could tell he had a goal in mind as he was not being his normal, cheerful self. Tatum said he wanted to talk about a prisoner he so badly wanted to help.  

  

Tatum started out by speaking slowly and methodically about how much he liked and respected the prisoner.  It soon became clear he and his prisoner had become very close friends. Tatum explained the prisoner was facing a death sentence that would likely be carried out within two years, a year, or maybe even sooner.

Tatum said he felt like he was racing against the clock. He was hoping we may be able to help him. His voice then trailed off. Theresa and I glanced at each other and we both took in a deep breath. We already knew the story Tatum was going to tell us. We had not only heard it before, but experienced it ourselves, only a few years ago.   I listened to Theresa breathing softly as Tatum continued speaking.  

Tatum then told us about the prisoner, "We were at lunch at a restaurant near Qualcomm in Mira Mesa. I knew over the last few weeks he was getting increasingly clumsy and had difficulty moving. He took a couple bites of food and tried to lift the glass of water to his lips. He kept struggling. His frustration was obvious.  As hard as he tried he couldn't do it. I then reached over and lifted the glass of water to his lips so he could take a drink. It was the first time I ever helped to feed him.  It was also when he told me he had been diagnosed with ALS".   

Tatum then explained with tenderness how his dear friend had become a prisoner in his own body. The sensory doors we all hold so precious, were being closed so quickly that in eighteen short months he could no longer walk, talk, and can only breath with mechanical assistance.   At only 43 years old, the young, and amazing artist with his caring wife by his side, can only move his eyes and a single big toe.

Tatum said he was working diligently on an invention he concocted which would allow his friend to communicate with his family and maybe someday allow him to paint again by using a variety of computer devices which are controlled exclusively by the movements of only his friend's eyes. Eyes that are as bright and alert as when he was born. I told you at the beginning of this story, Tatum was a smart guy.

Tatum's Invention

Tatum then asked if our 501C3 non-profit, Helen's Closet Organization could help by allowing tax deductible donations to be used to purchase the equipment to help his friend as well as countless other victims that want to say a few words to their moms, dads, brothers and sisters, or even their children, before the final prison door closes and locks.   Only then will they be really free from the ravages of ALS.  I heard Theresa take another soft breath as she said, "Yes, of course Tatum, whatever we can do to help".  

As Tatum closed his briefcase and began to leave our Community Hub, I reminded him he could patent the processes he was developing since there is such a huge demand for the technology. Tatum replied, "I'll put in the public domain. It's not about the money. It's just about helping a friend". Tatum was answering yet another call for help. Where do people like Tatum come from? I really don't know. I just find him and other people like him, truly amazing.  

If you want to help Tatum, his friend, and other ALS patients, please join us on Thanksgiving morning for a 5K, 10K, and 1K Kid's Run in 4S Ranch. All proceeds will be split between Helenscloset.org and 4SRanchdelsurfoundation.org. Tatum will also ask his friend if we can reproduce one of his incredible paintings as a lithograph and present it for all of you to see at the walk/run. Trust me, you will be blown away by what an imaginative and incredible artist he really is. To sign up for the Thank You Run/Walk, click here.

Enjoy your week!

  

 

Ray & Theresa Shay  

Info@TrustShay.com

  

Copyright 2012 All Rights Reserved.  No duplication of this material without written consent of Shay Realtors.   

Cable Cars and Del Norte High SchoolWritten by Ray Shay

I have always had a special affinity for San Francisco's cable cars. I think part of the allure is you can simply walk over and climb on any car and you are taken away more ways then one.  Most people do not consider  the countless hours and incredible engineering which was involved in building or maintaining the system.  As a visitor, you sit or stand and enjoy the  excitement of the big city and the fresh and often chilly ocean air, flowing in from San Francisco Bay.  You can't help but smile as the conductor rings the little bell or moves the hand brake. After all, everyone on board are here to enjoy the excitement and the experience of the ride.

I thought of a cable car when a friend sent our Community Hub Eweekly Editor the below photograph from Friday Night's Del Norte High School Football Game.  I really like the photograph on several levels. In fact, too many levels to even mention. It is just a cool picture with some motivated and inspired students. Great stuff!  As Del Norte High School strives to build traditions and enthusiasm for both their sports and academic programs, I can't help but think of all the people who helped build the DNHS, "Community Cable Car".

Many people see DNHS as one of the most expensive High School campuses ever built.  I remember the school several years ago when the newly assigned teachers and their rookie principal, Greg Mizel, were busy pulling cables, digging the underground tunnels, and planning for the future. It was an incredible amount of work.  Even the first year of students who graduated recently, spent time in the dark and damp tunnels. They suffered through some tough defeats and too many empty seats at basketball games and other sporting contests  while while visiting fans from other schools filled our bleachers and out-yelled, out-spirited, and out-classed what we had going on.  I admit I am a sports fan, so I really do not understand how even high school kids can be so busy sending texts to other students or instagrams that they forget to watch, cheer, or support their fellow students on the field of battle.

I hear from the big turnout at Friday Night Football game at DNHS, maybe times are really changing?  It's about time.  Maybe all the sweat and effort by so many teachers and volunteers has resulted in the both the kids and the community starting to get on board to support our teams.   

 I sure hope so.  Del Norte High School is an amazing school with incredible kids.  Their athletic program led by the Athletic Director, Mike Giaime has made great strides to put together competitive teams. with the right balance of emphasizing the importance of being student athletes.  School first, imagine that?  Get to a game.  Buy a ticket. Cheer our athletes on!      

I do like the photograph of the two kids as well as the sunset picture of our stadium overlooking the Pacific Ocean.  I like what it all represents.  It is progress.  As DNHS Principal, Greg Mizel releases the hand brake, and rings the small brass bell hanging from the ceiling, I think we should all pile on.  After all a ride on a Cable Car is not the same unless you are pressing aagainst someone you do not know and everyone is enjoying the thrill of the ride...together!  Ding Ding!

 

Go Nighthawks!

 

Ray & Theresa Shay  

Info@TrustShay.com

  

Copyright 2012 All Rights Reserved.  No duplication of this material without written consent of Shay Realtors.   

Your Local Real Estate Trend Reports

Let's just say the market is Henry, Ocean, Tom, (HOT)! For the first time in eight years we are SOLD OUT, until two new homes hit the market later this week!   It is especially HOT if you live in Ivy Gate or Santa Fe Valley.  It seems someone is calling us, walking in or determined to buy in these areas.  Oh yeah, Talavera homes are also in high demand.  Call us if we can bring someone in to see your home! 

  

In the attached report which is updated weekly is prepared exclusively for Shay Realtors.  You will find easy-to-read graphs with statistics, and valuable information broken down into bite-size pieces about current market trends specifically for our zip code.     Condo Report and  Single Family Report

Is This Really Happening?Written by Ray Shay

In twenty four years of being a Police Officer, I got accustomed to seeing the unexpected. When critical moments suddenly unfolded before my eyes, it was as if unseen hands would grab time itself and slow it down.  As the person looked one last time and then turned to jump, a person raises a weapon, or a person does something else so unimaginable, you cannot help but becoming incredibly focused. The 16 MM film projector in my mind, (I'm dating myself) would slow down and I could see each frame of the action, as it slid in front of the flickering lamp.  It is a freaky phenomenon, but in a strange way you get used to it.

In police work there are certain rules you learn through training, experience and self preservation.  They include the unexpected will happen and you can never stop processing information or performing your duties.  You can also NEVER get caught up in the emotions of what your are experiencing. You must continue to set priorities and take action.  A cop staring at a sudden hostage situation with his or her mouth open is frankly not a very good idea, and dangerous to everyone involved. There is always time to be, "amazed" later, at the end of watch.     

Wednesday morning at about eleven AM, I broke every single one of the above rules. I let my guard down. I  experienced the phenomenon of time slowing down and I just sat there.  I was immersed in the emotion of the moment and my mouth was likely wide open. I was amazed at what I was seeing.  I was not, "on the job" as law enforcement officers call it

Nike Football: The Chance Global Finals 2012

on the East Coast.  I was actually sitting in our Community Hub with our team of Realtors and support staff.  We were all watching the recently posted YouTube video from NIKE, entitled, "The Chance Global Finals 2012".  Click video on right to view. 

At exactly two minutes and eight seconds into the above video there is a very short highlight of a sixteen year old soccer phenom, by the name of Brian Iloski. He is wearing a red jersey with the number 100 on his back as he competes in Nike's, "The Chance - Global Finals 2012" at the Mini Estadia Stadium in Barcelona, Spain, last weekend. This match is the conclusion of a worldwide search where over 150,000 competitive soccer players battled valiantly for only sixteen spots on Team NIKE'S 2013 International Soccer Tour.  

While under extreme pressure, and the eyes of the world on him, Brian deftly and miraculously gathered in a soccer ball which had fallen out of the warm, blue, Barcelona sky, coddled it, accelerated, and then magically and unbelievably lifted the ball into the air, passing it to a teammate who then shot at the goal.  I was stunned.  I felt the lump in my throat and my eyes threatening to water.  I knew it was not the air conditioning in our office.  I was feeling the emotion of the moment.  I also knew there was absolutely no way I could turn in my seat and look at, or much less, say anything to Brian's Iloski's mom, "Yo" who was sitting behind me.  I am sure Yolanda was smiling.  I cannot imagine any mom or dad that would not be so very proud of their son.  

Similar to the soccer ball which tumbled in the air, I was momentarily disorientated and wondered, "Is this really happening?"  Did I really just see Brian who was chowing down on dinner in our backyard two weeks ago, just run past the referee we all watch on European Premier League Soccer?  Did Brian, a local San Diego SURF Soccer Club player, demonstrate to the European coaches and his fellow players from around the world that in America we really are playing some pretty darn good soccer?  

The Iloski Family

Did Brian just place his size eight, NIKE, white and pink Mercurial soccer boots on the first rung of a ladder which may lead to where some of the most elite, professional, and well compensated soccer players compete in the world?  I know what our three boys, Troy, Raymond, and Ryan would likely yell out in excitement, "Yeah Dad, he frickin did!" 

If all the above was not enough, it was Brian.  A local kid from Escondido, California.  A good kid like his brothers, Eric, Milan and sister, Brianna.  A kid who clears the table after dinner and chills on the couch dreaming of one day playing for Barcelona.   A level headed boy who does not do any drugs and is a role model in both school and life.  A kid who's parents, Yolanda and Mike are solid, "salt of the earth" people. I am not exactly sure what that means, but I know for sure they are the type of family you care about because they care so much for other people. 

The Chance U.S. Finalists: Global Finals!

   

With so many of our sports heroes turning out to be false leaders, we need more athletes, and true competitors we can believe in. There is a great deal right about our country.   I believe it is incredible to have one of our own travel from the San Diego area, to such a far away place and under daunting odds, demonstrate that through hard work, some help from God, and maybe a little luck, we really can compete with the best that this planet has to offer.  

I think it is OK that I felt the chill when I saw Brian pass that ball in the final.  I am a lucky guy.  I also think it is OK for other people to recognize Brian is young, but heroes come in all ages, even if they are only sixteen years old.  So good luck Brian, enjoy the ride, wherever it may take all of us.  

Enjoy your week,

 

Ray & Theresa Shay  

Info@TrustShay.com

  

Copyright 2012 All Rights Reserved.  No duplication of this material without written consent of Shay Realtors.