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Thursday, May 15, 2008
1472 Tradewind Ave SW Ocean Shores, WA 98569
Fireplace
361 Clover Creek Ave NW Ocean Shores, WA 98569
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Saturday, April 19, 2008
Cityofoceanshores.com Newsletter ~ 04.2008
Springtime at the Beach!Spring is back! We had an 80 degree day last Saturday. It was summertime in the springtime. And then of course it rained on Sunday... Ugh. Spring is coming they tell us. The past few weeks the town has been busy as families and kids were visiting the beach during their Spring Break. Summer's right around the corner....
Ocean Shores Featured in Coastal LivingWhat has been known as the "richest little city" has made it into one of the largest national publications about living in a coastal community. Ocean Shores has been featured as one of the top 16 most affordable coastal communities in Coastal Living magazine. The article, "So You Want to Live on the Coast," hit magazine stands a couple weeks ago. The magazine has a subscription base of 650,000, but reaches an audience of more than 3.2 million readers. About a year and a half ago, the magazine did a feature on the town of Seabrook, also in the North Beach area. While staff from the magazine visited the area, they also toured Ocean Shores. That brief visit may have been one of the reasons the magazine decided to do a separate feature on Ocean Shores, according to Ken Mercer, director of tourism at the Ocean Shores Convention Center, "They made the judgment that it's a pretty cool town," Mercer said. "They liked what they saw." (of course they did!) Click HERE to read the full article.
Real Estate Update
Real Estate activity has been semi-steady during the 1st quarter of 2008. Here is a summary and comparison of the market today in Ocean Shores versus 2007.
37 Homes sold during 1st quarter 2008 for an average sales price of $211,534 versus 46 Homes sold during 1st quarter 2007 for an average sales price of $192,175. Sales are down, average sales prices are up.
50 Vacant Lots sold during 1st quarter 2008 for an average sales price of $42,573 versus 48 Vacant Lots sold during 1st quarter 2007 for an average sales price of $53,082. Sales are up, average prices are down.
Conclusion: Sales are slower in town. It's been colder than usual this year. There's also less agents around which is a good thing. Inventory is still too high and once it comes down, prices will continue to rise. All numbers & stats are from the NWMLS. If you have any questions regarding these numbers or activity in the real estate market, please call Jeff Daniel of Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties at 360.581.9020.
Real Estate activity has been semi-steady during the 1st quarter of 2008. Here is a summary and comparison of the market today in Ocean Shores versus 2007.
37 Homes sold during 1st quarter 2008 for an average sales price of $211,534 versus 46 Homes sold during 1st quarter 2007 for an average sales price of $192,175. Sales are down, average sales prices are up.
50 Vacant Lots sold during 1st quarter 2008 for an average sales price of $42,573 versus 48 Vacant Lots sold during 1st quarter 2007 for an average sales price of $53,082. Sales are up, average prices are down.
Conclusion: Sales are slower in town. It's been colder than usual this year. There's also less agents around which is a good thing. Inventory is still too high and once it comes down, prices will continue to rise. All numbers & stats are from the NWMLS. If you have any questions regarding these numbers or activity in the real estate market, please call Jeff Daniel of Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties at 360.581.9020.
"Hot Properties"
Click HERE to see the best deals in town right now!
Are Condo Sales Dead?
Only 2 condos sold in Ocean Shores during the entire 1st quarter of 2008 versus 8 condos sold during 1st quarter of 2007. Is the condo craze over or has the marketing for them gone down the tube? The Dreamscape Condo for example has only sold one Condo so far this year (sold by Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties of course).
Click HERE to see the best deals in town right now!
Are Condo Sales Dead?
Only 2 condos sold in Ocean Shores during the entire 1st quarter of 2008 versus 8 condos sold during 1st quarter of 2007. Is the condo craze over or has the marketing for them gone down the tube? The Dreamscape Condo for example has only sold one Condo so far this year (sold by Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties of course).
Upcoming Events
* North Coast Folk Festival - April 18-19
John Stewart (original member and song writer of the famed Kingston Trio), Tillers Folly (Canadian Celtic performers), renowned blues artist Del Ray, Tom May and Prairie Flyer (an award winning bluegrass band from Spokane) are just part of the bill. In addition to a great weekend of music, there will also be vendors, food and drink. You won't want to miss this exciting event.
* Razor Clam Dig Approved on four Ocean Beaches
Clam diggers will proceed with a morning razor clam dig starting April 19 at four ocean beaches after marine toxin tests showed the clams at those beaches are safe to eat. Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks will all be open for digging April 19-20. Twin Harbors will be open for three additional days, April 21-23, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). No digging will be allowed after noon on any beach. Kalaloch Beach will remain closed to harvest.
Depending on harvest numbers after the April opener, there may be enough clams left in the quota on some beaches for additional digging opportunities in May, said Dan Ayres, WDFW coastal shellfish manager. "With the variable digging conditions we've experienced since the first of the year, the harvest has been lower than expected," Ayres said. "Following this April opener we'll know if there will be enough clams for some May digging on one or more beaches."
Ayres advises diggers to check the Washington Department of Transportation website, which provides project updates and traffic cameras: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/US101/SimpsonBridgeRehab/camera.htm. Dates and low tides are: Copalis Beach, which extends from the Grays Harbor north jetty to the Copalis River and includes the Ocean Shores, Oyhut, Ocean City and Copalis areas.
* Bash at the Beach
The Quinault Beach Resort and Casino is returning to the fight game when it hosts "Bash At The Beach" on Thursday, April 24. Five bouts are tentatively scheduled for the event card, including heavyweight prospect Eric "Night Train" Boose, a women's Washington state welterweight title defense and the professional debut for Moclips' Sky Bell. Tickets are on sale now at the Quinault Beach Resort and Casino. Ringside tickets are $40, VIP tickets are $25 and general seating is $15. For tickets, either walk up on the night of the fights or call (888) 461-2214.
* Country Music Jam - May 3-4Saturday & Sunday afternoon open Jam SessionsSat. 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm / Sun. 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm at the Ocean Shores Convention CenterSaturday Night Dinner-Dance6:00 pm - 11:00 pm at the Ocean Shores Convention Center
News
* US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge Getting Set to Reopen
The Washington State Department of Transportation has closed the US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge to all traffic. During the closure, traffic will be detoured over the nearby Riverside Bridge. The Riverside Bridge will be reconfigured from two westbound lanes to one lane in each direction. Crews will replace the electrical and mechanical components of the bridge's draw span during the closure. Here is the link to the project web page: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/US101/SimpsonBridgeRehab/. Plan in advance so you don't spend too much time stuck in traffic. The bridge should be back in action by early May or the end of this month. Yeah!
* Funky fish washes up near Ocean Shores
* Country Music Jam - May 3-4Saturday & Sunday afternoon open Jam SessionsSat. 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm / Sun. 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm at the Ocean Shores Convention CenterSaturday Night Dinner-Dance6:00 pm - 11:00 pm at the Ocean Shores Convention Center
News
* US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge Getting Set to Reopen
The Washington State Department of Transportation has closed the US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge to all traffic. During the closure, traffic will be detoured over the nearby Riverside Bridge. The Riverside Bridge will be reconfigured from two westbound lanes to one lane in each direction. Crews will replace the electrical and mechanical components of the bridge's draw span during the closure. Here is the link to the project web page: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/US101/SimpsonBridgeRehab/. Plan in advance so you don't spend too much time stuck in traffic. The bridge should be back in action by early May or the end of this month. Yeah!
* Funky fish washes up near Ocean Shores
Another oddity has washed up along the Washington coast. KING 5 viewer Curtis Fowler found this fish about 15 miles north of Ocean Shores. Three weeks later, he found another. It turns out to be a critter called the Long Nose Lancet, something experts say has washed up on our coast before. The fish mainly lives in deep tropical and subtropical waters, but will venture out for food or to breed. And it's got a mouth of razor-sharp teeth. Creepy. - Source: The Daily World.
* The Ferry is Closed
Tourists looking for a scenic shortcut between Westport and Ocean Shores this summer are out of luck. The buildup of sand and silt in the Ocean Shores Marina has caused the passenger ferry linking the two cities to close. "It's hard on the equipment," said ferry owner Bill Walsh. "It's hard running on the mud and the sand." The buildup at the entrance and inside the marina has steadily worsened over the past three years, said Walsh.
The ferry, El Matador, lost income because it couldn't run on time. Ridership declined when people tired of the extended waits between trips and that forced him to raise the fare -from $10 per round trip to $12.50. Walsh has discontinued ferry service intermittently over the past few years, but this is the first time since it began in 1986 that he has been forced to shut down completely.
The only way to make the ferry operational would be to dredge the channel to the Ocean Shores Marina as well as the basin inside it. According to Walsh, the marina has never been dredged since it opened in 1962. Section 10 of the Federal Rivers and Harbors Act doesn't allow dredging without a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. So far, no local government entity in Grays Harbor County has applied for a permit to begin dredging. In addition to obtaining a permit from the Corps, the proponent would need approval from the Quinault Indian Nation's Enterprise Board, since the Nation owns the marina.
But seeking that approval is difficult, according to Guy Capoeman, vice chairman for the Quinault Indian Nation. Dredging means disturbing natural habitat and would require mitigation, which means providing land to compensate for the affected habitat. Authorizing dredging is only part of it. How to pay for it still has to be hashed out between the Corps of Engineers and the Quinault Indian Nation. The Corps is responsible for paying for federal navigation projects, which include dredging. That funding comes from Congress. The catch is that only the entrance channel to the marina qualifies as a federal navigation project. The Quinault Nation would be responsible for the basin, according to Lester Soule, chief of civil programs and projects of the Army Corps of Engineers.
In 2000, the Quinault Nation initiated a feasibility study that included dredging the entrance channel for a vehicular ferry and moving a section of breakwater in the marina. The study examined placing additional docks at the marina for the Quinault's commercial fishing fleet and building a resort on the shore. The Corps ran out of federal funding to back the study in 2005 and it was never completed. The study estimated the cost for the project at $9.5 million, only $1.5 million of which would be federally funded. The other $8 million would have to come from the Quinault Nation.
Soule said Congress quit funding the project because it didn't view the project as a good investment. Officials from all across Grays Harbor County are forming a task group to figure out how to get the ferry operating next year. - Source: The Daily World.
* Lady Drowns in the Surf
A 50-year-old Bremerton woman drowned at the beach at Ocean Shores while on a family outing. Carol Davidson was with her adult daughter and grandchildren on a trip to the beach when she walked out to play in the surf, according to the Grays Harbor Sheriffs Office. The daughter, an Aberdeen woman, was looking after her children when she heard her mother calling for help. The daughter couldn't find Davidson when she looked at the last place she had seen her, and she and other people on the beach searched for Davidson and called 911, said Undersheriff Rick Scott. After a short time they saw her floating in the water, unconscious.
The death appears to be a case of the woman falling victim to the vicious riptides that run off the shore. "You can be in surf one second, able to stand, and then a riptide will come along and pull you out over your head the next," Scott said. "It doesn't matter how nice it is outside," Scott said, noting the sunny weather attracted many people to the beach Saturday. "The water is just as treacherous as on a cold, cloudy day."
See you on the Beach! (but please don't play in the surf unless you're properly prepared)
* The Ferry is ClosedTourists looking for a scenic shortcut between Westport and Ocean Shores this summer are out of luck. The buildup of sand and silt in the Ocean Shores Marina has caused the passenger ferry linking the two cities to close. "It's hard on the equipment," said ferry owner Bill Walsh. "It's hard running on the mud and the sand." The buildup at the entrance and inside the marina has steadily worsened over the past three years, said Walsh.
The ferry, El Matador, lost income because it couldn't run on time. Ridership declined when people tired of the extended waits between trips and that forced him to raise the fare -from $10 per round trip to $12.50. Walsh has discontinued ferry service intermittently over the past few years, but this is the first time since it began in 1986 that he has been forced to shut down completely.
The only way to make the ferry operational would be to dredge the channel to the Ocean Shores Marina as well as the basin inside it. According to Walsh, the marina has never been dredged since it opened in 1962. Section 10 of the Federal Rivers and Harbors Act doesn't allow dredging without a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. So far, no local government entity in Grays Harbor County has applied for a permit to begin dredging. In addition to obtaining a permit from the Corps, the proponent would need approval from the Quinault Indian Nation's Enterprise Board, since the Nation owns the marina.
But seeking that approval is difficult, according to Guy Capoeman, vice chairman for the Quinault Indian Nation. Dredging means disturbing natural habitat and would require mitigation, which means providing land to compensate for the affected habitat. Authorizing dredging is only part of it. How to pay for it still has to be hashed out between the Corps of Engineers and the Quinault Indian Nation. The Corps is responsible for paying for federal navigation projects, which include dredging. That funding comes from Congress. The catch is that only the entrance channel to the marina qualifies as a federal navigation project. The Quinault Nation would be responsible for the basin, according to Lester Soule, chief of civil programs and projects of the Army Corps of Engineers.
In 2000, the Quinault Nation initiated a feasibility study that included dredging the entrance channel for a vehicular ferry and moving a section of breakwater in the marina. The study examined placing additional docks at the marina for the Quinault's commercial fishing fleet and building a resort on the shore. The Corps ran out of federal funding to back the study in 2005 and it was never completed. The study estimated the cost for the project at $9.5 million, only $1.5 million of which would be federally funded. The other $8 million would have to come from the Quinault Nation.
Soule said Congress quit funding the project because it didn't view the project as a good investment. Officials from all across Grays Harbor County are forming a task group to figure out how to get the ferry operating next year. - Source: The Daily World.
* Lady Drowns in the Surf
A 50-year-old Bremerton woman drowned at the beach at Ocean Shores while on a family outing. Carol Davidson was with her adult daughter and grandchildren on a trip to the beach when she walked out to play in the surf, according to the Grays Harbor Sheriffs Office. The daughter, an Aberdeen woman, was looking after her children when she heard her mother calling for help. The daughter couldn't find Davidson when she looked at the last place she had seen her, and she and other people on the beach searched for Davidson and called 911, said Undersheriff Rick Scott. After a short time they saw her floating in the water, unconscious.
The death appears to be a case of the woman falling victim to the vicious riptides that run off the shore. "You can be in surf one second, able to stand, and then a riptide will come along and pull you out over your head the next," Scott said. "It doesn't matter how nice it is outside," Scott said, noting the sunny weather attracted many people to the beach Saturday. "The water is just as treacherous as on a cold, cloudy day."
See you on the Beach! (but please don't play in the surf unless you're properly prepared)
Jeff DanielDesignated Broker
Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties749 Point Brown Ave NW/PMB 1568, Ocean Shores, WA 985691.360.581.9020 (cell) - 1.888.469.3100 (toll free) - 1.360.289.3111 (fax)
PROPERTY SEARCH: http://homepages.com/JeffDaniel/AgentHome.aspx
OCEAN SHORES INFO: http://www.cityofoceanshores.com/
AGENT INFO: http://www.coldwellbanker.com/for/jeffdaniel
OCEAN SHORES INFO: http://www.cityofoceanshores.com/
AGENT INFO: http://www.coldwellbanker.com/for/jeffdaniel
OCEAN SHORES BLOG: http://oceanshoresrealestate.blogspot.com/
OCEAN SHORES BLOG: http://activerain.com/jeffgdaniel
OCEAN SHORES BLOG: http://activerain.com/jeffgdaniel
Friday, March 28, 2008
Ocean Shores featured in Coastal Living
"You'll never see a deal like this again"
We have wonderful and surprising news, in the upcoming April edition of Coastal Living Magazine, OCEAN SHORES placed in the top 16 cities NATIONWIDE in the special section; "So you want to live on the coast".
Please take a moment to read... For those of you who are not familiar with this magazine, Coastal Living has a subscription base of over 650,000 readers and most importantly, an audience of over 3,269,000.
So You Want to Live on the Coast
Where can you buy a home for $150,000? $1 million-plus? We have 16 appealing and surprising options to consider.
Ocean Shores, WA(Photo: Sunny Walter) Text by Bill and Kay Scheller
Living on the coast doesn't have to be just a dream. Though only a few of us can afford a mansion on Maui, simpler homes on other coasts may well be within financial reach.
Living on the coast doesn't have to be just a dream. Though only a few of us can afford a mansion on Maui, simpler homes on other coasts may well be within financial reach.
This year, our guide to living on the coast lists a few of the options available at several price points. We've found communities where you can buy a home for less than $325,000, and others for upwards of $1.3 million.
Each has easy access to open water and abundant opportunities to live the coastal lifestyle. Come join us for a fantasy home-buying tour through some of the finest coastal towns in North America. Less than $325,00
Ocean Shores, WashingtonPopulation: 3,270Median home cost: $190,000 You'll never see a deal like this again: In 1960, developers bought a scenic finger of land on the central Washington coast and started selling lots for $595. In just a few years, the town of Ocean Shores had 23 miles of canals (many homes have frontage on these waterways), a championship golf course, and a part-time population of Hollywood types who came for the seclusion afforded by this 6,000-acre retreat, called Washington's "richest little city."
Ocean Shores, WashingtonPopulation: 3,270Median home cost: $190,000 You'll never see a deal like this again: In 1960, developers bought a scenic finger of land on the central Washington coast and started selling lots for $595. In just a few years, the town of Ocean Shores had 23 miles of canals (many homes have frontage on these waterways), a championship golf course, and a part-time population of Hollywood types who came for the seclusion afforded by this 6,000-acre retreat, called Washington's "richest little city."
A 1980s recession brought that boom to a halt, though, and it took a decade for builders to get back on track. Prices have since stayed reasonable, and what was once the "richest" is now one of the Northwest's most affordable little cities, with more than 200 homes priced below $400,000 at the end of 2007.
New Ocean Shores residents enjoy the same seacoast splendor that lured those adventurous souls with $595 to burn a half-century ago. Miles of sandy beaches encourage horseback riding, clamming, and prospecting for agates, as well as spotting more than 200 species of birds-including brown pelicans and peregrine falcons drawn to nearby Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge. Ocean City State Park offers a chance to observe seals and their pups. Head north on Route 101 for a scenic loop around the mountains and rain forests of the Olympic Peninsula.
On the outskirts lies lively Ocean Shores, tucked behind a gateway of stone pillars that has become a community trademark. The town may no longer be a Hollywood hangout, but it's saved from somnolence by the Quinault Beach Resort and Casino and a downtown cluster of small hotels, shops, and restaurants catering to summer and autumn tourists.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Cityofoceanshores.com Newsletter ~ 02.2008
Springtime at the Beach!
Spring is back! The beaches have been full of people over the past few weekends. Lots of folks have been down checking out the new Damon Point State Park looking at all the changes caused by the storm last December. Activity is high in Ocean Shores. It hasn't felt much like a sleepy little beach town in recent weeks.
Real Estate Update
Real Estate activity has finally heated up after a slow winter. Buyers started showing up heavily in the middle of February and it's been pretty steady ever since. Our office website http://www.oceanshoresnow.com/ and my http://www.cityofoceanshores.com/ website are both getting the kind of online traffic that compares to our usual summer traffic. Both websites have recently been updated and changed to make them more user friendly as well. Take a look! Meanwhile, I'll have a report on 1st quarter sales numbers next month in the March Newsletter. Now is a good time to buy while prices are still down. Feel free to look at some of the great deals & great properties right now by clicking one of the links below:
Super House Deals!
Great Deals for Vacant Properties!
Investments!
Upcoming Events
* Razor Clam Festival - March 14-15
Put on by the Ocean Shores Chamber of Commerce. 360.289.2451
On Friday night, they're putting on their first Restaurant Crawl. The evening begins with Appetizers at Waves, followed by your choice of Razor Clam Chowder or a crisp green salad at Alec's by the Sea. Participants will then head over to the Shilo for their entree (a choice of Razor Clams-of course, or Citrus Chicken). Dessert will be enjoyed at Galway Bay-you will have a choice of 3 different selections, including their famous Bread Pudding. The cost is just $30 for adults and $18 for children under 12. You do need a reservation, so if you'd like to attend, be sure to call the chamber before Friday morning, March 14th. Seating times begin between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm.The following events take place on Saturday at the Convention Center:9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ~ Artisan MarketplaceFeaturing more than 30 Northwest artists and crafters with unique and indigenous works. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ~ Kids Fun ZoneArts and crafts for the whole family to enjoy, with a little help from the Ocean Shores Pirates!10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. ~ People's Choice Voting for Favorite ChowderSample the chowder then vote for your favorite and see how your choice stacks up with the judges.10 a.m. to 5 p.m. ~ Food Vendors OpenThe professional chowder cook-off contestants and other participating vendors will be selling their delicious entrees and samples for all to try. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. ~ Beer & Wine Bar OpenSponsored by The Shilo Inn. For adults 21+.10 a.m. to 5 p.m. ~ Live Music with Marcia Kester. Marcia's blend of acoustic and electric sounds will have you tapping your toes and singing along all afternoon. She's a little bit country, a little bit rock n' roll, a dash of ballads, oldies and a little pop!12:00 p.m. ~ Amateur Chowder Cook-Off Contest BeginsBe sure to watch the amateur chefs battle it out to be the clam chowder king. 1:00 p.m. ~ Decorated Clam Shovel and Gun Art AuctionThose adorned clam shovels and guns will be auctioned off with the proceeds going to the Ocean Shores Chamber of Commerce.2:30 p.m. ~ Professional Chowder Cook-Off Contest BeginsOur celebrity judges will be making the rounds and sampling clam chowder from participating restaurants from Grays Harbor County. The judges will decide who truly is the 2008 Chowder Cook-Off Champion-and gets the boasting rights of having the Best Chowder on the Washington Coast!6:00 p.m. ~ End of the Second Annual Razor Clam Festival & Chowder Cook-Off
* North Coast Folk Festival - April 18-19
John Stewart (original member and song writer of the famed Kingston Trio), Tillers Folly (Canadian Celtic performers), renowned blues artist Del Ray, Tom May and Prairie Flyer (an award winning bluegrass band from Spokane) are just part of the bill. In addition to a great weekend of music, there will also be vendors, food and drink. You won't want to miss this exciting event.
News
* US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge is Closed
The Washington State Department of Transportation has closed the US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge to all traffic. During the closure, traffic will be detoured over the nearby Riverside Bridge. The Riverside Bridge will be reconfigured from two westbound lanes to one lane in each direction. Crews will replace the electrical and mechanical components of the bridge's draw span during the closure. Here is the link to the project web page: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/US101/SimpsonBridgeRehab/. Plan in advance so you don't spend too much time stuck in traffic. The bridge should be back in action by early May.
* Ocean Shores Election Update
After the recent March election, the results are in for who will be your next American Idol. Oops. Wrong show. Ocean Shores recently held a primary election and here's what's going on. Dean Bunkers will be running against Fred Winge in the May 20th Mayor election, while Peter Jordan, who served two terms on the City Council and one term as mayor is out. Meanwhile, Garland French will be running against Monte Nicholson for City Council Position A and Richard Skewis will run against John Lynn for City Council Position B.
* Strange Canisters washing up on the Beaches
Mysterious silver-colored canisters found along the Washington coast once contained rat poison and should not be handled, a spokeswoman for the state Department of Ecology says. Hundreds of the one-liter canisters, apparently made in China, have been found as far south as Ocean Shores to as far north as Ozette since last summer, she said. They came to the attention of the state Ecology Department only last weekend when some were displayed at the Beachcomber's Fun Fair at Ocean Shores, officials said. "Tests confirmed a small amount of phosphine gas, which is a product of aluminum phosphide used to kill rodents and other pests aboard cargo ships. One person in Ocean Shores reported that he's seen as many as 100 since last summer. Anyone who spots one of these silver, one-liter containers should note its location and phone Ecology's environmental hot line in Olympia: 360-407-6300.
* Doppler coming to the Coast?
The National Weather Service has several Doppler radar sites in the state, but the current locations can't reach through the Olympic Mountains, leaving what atmospheric scientists call a "black hole" from the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the Oregon coast which includes Ocean Shores, Westport and the entire North Coast. Scientists, fishermen and community activists have proposed building a new radar station in Westport and are hoping a Northwest congressional delegation has the political muscle to get the funding. Added radar would mean forecasts for communities like Ocean Shores and would go from forecasts showing what's happening currently to forecasts that could look several hours into the future. Knowing what happens in the future could help first responders prepare more for big storms, like the one in December that caught many folks off guard. A new coastal radar in the Westport area could cost as much as $8.5 million.
* New Bridge in Copalis Beach
A new bridge over Connor Creek now provides easy beach access for visitors and emergency vehicles in Copalis Beach. The bridge is located at the end of Heath Road, off Highway 109. Over the past several years, Connor Creek has shifted north about four miles, cutting off easy vehicle access to the beach at Heath Road and Benner Gap. State Parks worked with local officials and residents to acquire a 30-foot-wide right of way to construct the bridge at Heath Road.
* The New & Improved http://www.cityofoceanshores.com/
The website has completely been redesigned to serve property buyers, sellers, visitors, vacationers and anyone interested in Ocean Shores or the North Beach area. I've added a lot of sections to the site. Please check it out and feel free to share any comments with me if you want. Thank you.
See you on the Beach!
Jeff Daniel Designated Broker
Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties749 Point Brown Ave NW, Ocean Shores, WA 985691.360.581.9020 (cell) - 1.888.469.3100 (toll free)PROPERTY SEARCH: http://homepages.com/JeffDaniel/AgentHome.aspx
OCEAN SHORES INFO: http://www.cityofoceanshores.com/
AGENT INFO: http://www.coldwellbanker.com/for/jeffdanielOCEAN SHORES BLOG: http://oceanshoresrealestate.blogspot.com/
OCEAN SHORES BLOG: http://activerain.com/jeffgdaniel
OPERATION PAINTBALL: http://www.operationpaintballwa.com/
Spring is back! The beaches have been full of people over the past few weekends. Lots of folks have been down checking out the new Damon Point State Park looking at all the changes caused by the storm last December. Activity is high in Ocean Shores. It hasn't felt much like a sleepy little beach town in recent weeks.
Real Estate Update
Real Estate activity has finally heated up after a slow winter. Buyers started showing up heavily in the middle of February and it's been pretty steady ever since. Our office website http://www.oceanshoresnow.com/ and my http://www.cityofoceanshores.com/ website are both getting the kind of online traffic that compares to our usual summer traffic. Both websites have recently been updated and changed to make them more user friendly as well. Take a look! Meanwhile, I'll have a report on 1st quarter sales numbers next month in the March Newsletter. Now is a good time to buy while prices are still down. Feel free to look at some of the great deals & great properties right now by clicking one of the links below:
Super House Deals!
Great Deals for Vacant Properties!
Investments!
Upcoming Events
* Razor Clam Festival - March 14-15
Put on by the Ocean Shores Chamber of Commerce. 360.289.2451
On Friday night, they're putting on their first Restaurant Crawl. The evening begins with Appetizers at Waves, followed by your choice of Razor Clam Chowder or a crisp green salad at Alec's by the Sea. Participants will then head over to the Shilo for their entree (a choice of Razor Clams-of course, or Citrus Chicken). Dessert will be enjoyed at Galway Bay-you will have a choice of 3 different selections, including their famous Bread Pudding. The cost is just $30 for adults and $18 for children under 12. You do need a reservation, so if you'd like to attend, be sure to call the chamber before Friday morning, March 14th. Seating times begin between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm.The following events take place on Saturday at the Convention Center:9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ~ Artisan MarketplaceFeaturing more than 30 Northwest artists and crafters with unique and indigenous works. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ~ Kids Fun ZoneArts and crafts for the whole family to enjoy, with a little help from the Ocean Shores Pirates!10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. ~ People's Choice Voting for Favorite ChowderSample the chowder then vote for your favorite and see how your choice stacks up with the judges.10 a.m. to 5 p.m. ~ Food Vendors OpenThe professional chowder cook-off contestants and other participating vendors will be selling their delicious entrees and samples for all to try. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. ~ Beer & Wine Bar OpenSponsored by The Shilo Inn. For adults 21+.10 a.m. to 5 p.m. ~ Live Music with Marcia Kester. Marcia's blend of acoustic and electric sounds will have you tapping your toes and singing along all afternoon. She's a little bit country, a little bit rock n' roll, a dash of ballads, oldies and a little pop!12:00 p.m. ~ Amateur Chowder Cook-Off Contest BeginsBe sure to watch the amateur chefs battle it out to be the clam chowder king. 1:00 p.m. ~ Decorated Clam Shovel and Gun Art AuctionThose adorned clam shovels and guns will be auctioned off with the proceeds going to the Ocean Shores Chamber of Commerce.2:30 p.m. ~ Professional Chowder Cook-Off Contest BeginsOur celebrity judges will be making the rounds and sampling clam chowder from participating restaurants from Grays Harbor County. The judges will decide who truly is the 2008 Chowder Cook-Off Champion-and gets the boasting rights of having the Best Chowder on the Washington Coast!6:00 p.m. ~ End of the Second Annual Razor Clam Festival & Chowder Cook-Off
* North Coast Folk Festival - April 18-19
John Stewart (original member and song writer of the famed Kingston Trio), Tillers Folly (Canadian Celtic performers), renowned blues artist Del Ray, Tom May and Prairie Flyer (an award winning bluegrass band from Spokane) are just part of the bill. In addition to a great weekend of music, there will also be vendors, food and drink. You won't want to miss this exciting event.
News
* US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge is Closed
The Washington State Department of Transportation has closed the US 101 Simpson Avenue Bridge to all traffic. During the closure, traffic will be detoured over the nearby Riverside Bridge. The Riverside Bridge will be reconfigured from two westbound lanes to one lane in each direction. Crews will replace the electrical and mechanical components of the bridge's draw span during the closure. Here is the link to the project web page: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/US101/SimpsonBridgeRehab/. Plan in advance so you don't spend too much time stuck in traffic. The bridge should be back in action by early May.
* Ocean Shores Election Update
After the recent March election, the results are in for who will be your next American Idol. Oops. Wrong show. Ocean Shores recently held a primary election and here's what's going on. Dean Bunkers will be running against Fred Winge in the May 20th Mayor election, while Peter Jordan, who served two terms on the City Council and one term as mayor is out. Meanwhile, Garland French will be running against Monte Nicholson for City Council Position A and Richard Skewis will run against John Lynn for City Council Position B.
* Strange Canisters washing up on the Beaches
Mysterious silver-colored canisters found along the Washington coast once contained rat poison and should not be handled, a spokeswoman for the state Department of Ecology says. Hundreds of the one-liter canisters, apparently made in China, have been found as far south as Ocean Shores to as far north as Ozette since last summer, she said. They came to the attention of the state Ecology Department only last weekend when some were displayed at the Beachcomber's Fun Fair at Ocean Shores, officials said. "Tests confirmed a small amount of phosphine gas, which is a product of aluminum phosphide used to kill rodents and other pests aboard cargo ships. One person in Ocean Shores reported that he's seen as many as 100 since last summer. Anyone who spots one of these silver, one-liter containers should note its location and phone Ecology's environmental hot line in Olympia: 360-407-6300.
* Doppler coming to the Coast?
The National Weather Service has several Doppler radar sites in the state, but the current locations can't reach through the Olympic Mountains, leaving what atmospheric scientists call a "black hole" from the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the Oregon coast which includes Ocean Shores, Westport and the entire North Coast. Scientists, fishermen and community activists have proposed building a new radar station in Westport and are hoping a Northwest congressional delegation has the political muscle to get the funding. Added radar would mean forecasts for communities like Ocean Shores and would go from forecasts showing what's happening currently to forecasts that could look several hours into the future. Knowing what happens in the future could help first responders prepare more for big storms, like the one in December that caught many folks off guard. A new coastal radar in the Westport area could cost as much as $8.5 million.
* New Bridge in Copalis Beach
A new bridge over Connor Creek now provides easy beach access for visitors and emergency vehicles in Copalis Beach. The bridge is located at the end of Heath Road, off Highway 109. Over the past several years, Connor Creek has shifted north about four miles, cutting off easy vehicle access to the beach at Heath Road and Benner Gap. State Parks worked with local officials and residents to acquire a 30-foot-wide right of way to construct the bridge at Heath Road.
* The New & Improved http://www.cityofoceanshores.com/
The website has completely been redesigned to serve property buyers, sellers, visitors, vacationers and anyone interested in Ocean Shores or the North Beach area. I've added a lot of sections to the site. Please check it out and feel free to share any comments with me if you want. Thank you.
See you on the Beach!
Jeff Daniel Designated Broker
Coldwell Banker Ocean Beach Properties749 Point Brown Ave NW, Ocean Shores, WA 985691.360.581.9020 (cell) - 1.888.469.3100 (toll free)PROPERTY SEARCH: http://homepages.com/JeffDaniel/AgentHome.aspx
OCEAN SHORES INFO: http://www.cityofoceanshores.com/
AGENT INFO: http://www.coldwellbanker.com/for/jeffdanielOCEAN SHORES BLOG: http://oceanshoresrealestate.blogspot.com/
OCEAN SHORES BLOG: http://activerain.com/jeffgdaniel
OPERATION PAINTBALL: http://www.operationpaintballwa.com/
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