Calie Waterhouse - Chandler AZ Homes

While reading the newspaper over the weekend, I was astonished at the number of homeless people in Maricopa County and throughout Arizona. While things are tight for all of us, most of us have never slept in a box or under a bridge. It pains me to think of the emotional stress, frustrations and daily challenges that these families face.

While I cannot help them all, I thought we, as a community, could collectively focus on the children of homeless families. While these small faces have done nothing themselves to be put in this position, wouldn't it do us all some good to help alleviate some of the stress these parents are feeling about this already pressurized time called "Back To School"?

Honestly, whether the student wears a uniform or not, there is still the underlying pressure to be "cool". How does a homeless family help their student fit in when spending money on new clothes or needed supplies truly isn't an option? How do you force a parent to chose between food and shoes?

Chandler students return to school in 3 weeks. During the next 20 days, I would ask you to help us restore some dignity to these children.

With permission from the Chandler Unified School District, I would like to humbly ask you to join with me in raising donations for these children.

What's needed?

1) Backpacks

2) Clothing - new, all sizes

3) Shoes - new, all sizes

4) Jackets or Sweatshirts (it's not always going to be 110 outside)

Chandler Unified School District has over 35,000 students that they are responsible for. That's 35,000 opportunities to develop tomorrow's leaders, perhaps a President or UN Ambassador. It's 35,000 minds waiting to be challenged and fulfilled.

We don't need backpacks for all of them - but certainly a few hundred would allow enough students to start the school year off right. Due to the privacy of these families, we will not be distributing the items personally. All donations will be given to the CUSD and distributed to children in need from there.

Will you consider a donation? It would be a shame to forget even one.

If you’re looking for a very fun, community building event - then look no further than downtown Chander.

Tomorrow morning (Sat, 3/7) at approximately 10am, Arizona Ave will be closed to traffic and open for fun! The 21st Annual Thorobred Chevrolet Ostrich Festival Parade will travel south on Arizona Ave from Ray Road to Chicago (just south of the San Marcos Hotel).

It’s always such fun to watch the participating schools, bands, equestrians, motorcycle clubs … and of course, who could ever forget the always entertaining Michael Pollack Band?

For a more enjoyable time, I highly recommend bringing chairs and a blanket (just in case). Water bottles are also very nice to have on hand. All of the restaurants are typically open. Stopping by Bosa’s Donuts (just north of Ray on the west side of Arizona) is a great start to the morning. You can pick up an array of freshly baked treats, kid’s drinks, hot coffee or a dozen donut holes for about a buck.

We've participated in the parade for the last several years with the neighborhood elementary school, so I can honestly share with you - that's whether it's raining or sunny - it’s sure to be fun.

Bring the kids, wear comfy shoes and have fun! See you there?

I knew it was coming. How could you not know? Well, today I received the email announcement.

ARMLS Technopalooza ... a technology fair for ARMLS subscribers!

The Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service is really going all out this year planning this extravaganza that marries technology and real estate. Most of us involved in social media are already acutely aware of this union, but it's nice to see it in print from someone of "higher authority".

So - if you're in Arizona and in real estate - you'll want to mark your calendar and plan on attending this day long event. Dustin Luther is a featured speaker with his presentation titled "Using Social Networks to Build and Engage your on-line Community". Sounds too good to pass up.

Also schedule to speak is Jason Edwards who is a Master Trainer with Floyd Blackman. Jason will be speaking on "Blog is the New Black: Converting on-line Blogging to Real Life Appointments"

Both topics sound like viable reasons to attend. Oh yeah, there's also 30 vendors who will be there. If you have any technology questions, this will provide an opportunity to get some good answers. However, if your question does go unanswered, you can always stop by REBarCamp Phoenix the very next day --- guaranteed answers there :)

Wondering when this event will take place? ARMLS Technopalooza is Wednesday, April 22nd from 8:30 to 3:45pm at the Mesa Convention Center - in both buildings B & C.

If you were in attendance for the SEVRAR Technology Fair in January, then you know that the Mesa Convention Center is a great venue with lots of free parking. Continental breakfast is free, but box lunches are $15 and need to be purchased at least 72 hours in advance.

Speaking of box lunches, during lunch there will be a panel of speakers who will share their wisdom and wit with all of us. There's no names named, but I'm sure those who are on the panel will be amazing speakers and will, obviously, share their secrets of success with the rest of us.

In addition to the speakers & vendors, there's also opportunities to do some electronics recycling, sign up to receive prizes, enjoy the free ice cream social and more! Be sure to check out their site for more information.

Well, I guess the only thing left to say is "See you there?"

April 23, 2009 Scottsdale Stadium

RE Bar Camp is an ad-hoc gathering born from the desire for people to share and learn in an open environment. It is an intense event with discussions, demos, and interaction from attendees. While we don't quite have a "firm" location, we do have a date. So, consider this post your invitation - kinda of a "Save The Date" announcement.

Jay Thompson, The Phoenix Real Estate Guy, explains “It’s an “unconference” with no set agenda. The agenda is built that day and often morphs through the camp as people gather, talk and share. It’s actually difficult to explain and really needs to be experienced. REALLY. The event is FREE to attend - You’ll even get a t-shirt and lunch. Better yet, you’ll walk away with your head stuffed full of ideas and your rolodex stuffed full of contacts to help you make your business better.”

Wondering what to do next?

* Check out our cool site

* RSVP for the event

* Follow @REBCPhx on Twitter

* Sign Up or Suggest a Sponsor

* Volunteer! email me or leave a comment below

Got Questions? Just ask! Have a topic suggestion? We're all ears!

The REBarCamp - Phoenix is sure to be an awesome time! I've even heard rumors that Beer with Bloggers (an evening get-together) is also in the works. Hope to see you there!

P.S. If you're planning on coming to REBarCamp-Phoenix on 4/23, plan on coming to the ARMLS Tech-Faire one day earlier on 4/22 - taking place at the Mesa Convention Center.

Don't miss out on the next Q&A Presentation: BLOGGING

Want to know more about blogging? Got questions that need to be answered? Then you'll definitely want to make time on Tuesday (yes, it's tomorrow) to attend this powerful Q&A with experienced, area bloggers.

Blogging is just the beginning of the this trend called "Social Media". Join the internet revolution by starting today. Whether you need ideas or just need to get started, this is definitely a panel of professionals that will be able to (honestly) answer your questions.

While blogging is viral in any industry, REALTORS® who blog have documented success! Whether you want to connect with potential clients or build your referral business - then Tuesday is a great day to get started!

Join us for this special presentation to learn more!

Blogging Date: Tuesday, October 21st

Where: SEVRAR Conference Center

SouthEast Valley Regional Association of REALTORS® 1363 S. Vineyard • Mesa, AZ 85210

Time: 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.