COSTA MESA, CA-The locally based Planning Center and DC&E of Berkeley say that their merger will open new geographic growth opportunities throughout the western US.

BAKERSFIELD, CA-The new apartment complex developed by Agoura Hills-based Amcal Multi-Housing replaces a rundown hotel in this city.

NEWPORT BEACH, CA-In the largest of the deals, a private investor refinances three properties in three different cities and takes cash out of the deal.

IRVINE, CA-CEO Raymond Pacini says that lender support helps company exit bankruptcy and provides additional capital to fund construction.

LOS ANGELES-Industry leaders at the upcoming Real Estate 2011 RealShare conference will share their insights on the best strategies for success as the market recovers.

LOS ANGELES-The Amidi Group refinances the 227-unit TenTen Wilshire live-work-play complex and plans a 376-unit complex at the former Woodbury College Campus across the street.

WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA-CEO Charles Cohen of Cohen Brothers Realty Corp. and architect Cesar Pelli preside over the topping out of the 400,000-square-foot office building.

Disposing of distressed assets involves more than just offering notes or REO for sale-much more-as panelists pointed out recently at the Grubb &…