Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Sweets for the Holidays

It's always fun to indulge in a few extra sweets during the holiday season, so I'm including a recipe for a delectable Eggnog Fudge! I hope that you and your family will enjoy this recipe, and I wish you all a day that is overflowing with love, mercy and hope.

Eggnog Fudge

1/8 cup butter, chilled
3 cups sugar
1 cup eggnog
6 ounces white chocolate chips
1 1/2 cup mini-marshmallows
1 cup almonds, chopped
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Line a 9" x 9" cake pan with aluminum foil (set aside). Spray the sides of a large saucepan with a non-stick spray and add the eggnog and sugar, and bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat - stir constantly! Boil for two full minutes.

Fold in the marshmallows, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Bring back to a rolling boil for another 6 minutes, stirring constantly. The mixture will start to turn brown, which is normal, but if you see brown flakes in the mixture, simply turn down the heat a little.

Remove from heat and add the butter, chips, and nuts. Stir until thoroughly mixed or until the mixture starts to lose its glossy appearance. Pour into prepared pan. Cool at room temperature. Remove from pan, remove foil, cut into 1-inch squares. Enjoy!

Enjoy & Seasons Greetings!

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

San Leandro Adopts Climate Action Plan

The San Leandro City Council adopted a Climate Action Plan (CAP) at their meeting on Monday (Dec. 21).

In response to significant input from Bay East members the Council removed the Residential Energy Conservation Ordinance (RECO) that was part of the original version of the CAP. The RECO was replaced with several alternatives that included incentives and financial assistance for property owners to perform energy efficiency upgrades. Unfortunately, a point-of-sale requirement was included as an option in the future. On a brighter note, the council directed staff to include REALTORS® in the implementation of the CAP.

The city council action on this item, while not a complete victory for REALTORS® and property owners, shows that our voice was heard in city hall. Special thanks to those Bay East members who sent e-mails, made phone calls, met with city council members and testified at the meeting.

Monday, December 21, 2009

More Issues for the REALTOR@ Radar Screen

Government involvement in real estate and property rights issues isn't taking a break for the holidays. During the last few days, the following issues have popped up that we'll be tracking:

Historic Preservation Ordinances: The cities of Hayward and Livermore are both preparing historic preservation ordinances, which could directly impact private property rights and property values. Last year, Bay East REALTORS® successfully fought a historic preservation ordinance proposed by Alameda County. We'll be watching both of these cities to ensure their ordinances don't negatively impact property values or property rights.

Development Moratorium in Cherryland: Several environmental activists are urging the Alameda County Board of Supervisors to enact a building moratorium in Cherryland. Additionally, they are asking all currently vacant parcels be developed as park land. Members of the Bay East Local Government Relations Council and Bay East staff will be working with Alameda County officials and the Board of Supervisors to ensure private property rights are protected.