Author Archive
June 4th, 2010
Engage Your Teen in Behind the Wheel Safety
Ensure your teen buckles up every trip, whether driving or riding.
By: Tina Stern
Ensure your teen buckles up every trip, whether driving or riding.
Law or no law limit the number of passengers they are allowed to transport.
(With every added passenger the crash risk of your young driver increases significantly)
Restrict the use of any type of cell phone and discuss the dangers of other distractions.
Encourage them to go to www.oprah.com and sign up for a no texting contract. It’s a great program and gaining huge support.
Be a good role model and show your teen that you follow safe driving rules too.
EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.
- Tina Stern
- Web Site
- " . $name . "
Posted by Tina Stern on June 4th, 2010
May 28th, 2010
Teach your children to save and invest
How many times have you looked back on life and wished that you had started investing earlier?
By: Tina Stern
Talk to your children or grandchildren about the value of saving money for specific purposes. Simple lesson: if you want something, you have to save your money for it.
Once they’ve learned to save to achieve their goals, it’s time to teach them how to earn money through interest accumulation. Learning the benefits of compound interest will help to encourage them to invest their money in income producing instruments.
It’s important to stay involved with them as they learn to build a secure financial future. Most children consider a parent or grandparent a primary source of financial information.
Be a good role model by demonstrating good financial habits yourself.
EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.
- Tina Stern
- Web Site
- " . $name . "
Posted by Tina Stern on May 28th, 2010
April 1st, 2010
Top 10 Highest-Paid Cities in the World
By: Tina Stern
Swiss bank UBS recently released its tri-annual Prices and Earnings report revealing which of the 73 surveyed cities in the world had the most purchasing power (in terms of the local costs of goods) after taxes were deducted from the average hourly pay. Forbes Magazine further analyzed the data and listed the top 100 highest-Paid cities in the world. While this data isn’t all that useful in practical terms, it’s always interesting to see the facts and figures and how we fit into the global picture. Here are the top ten cities according to this data.
1. Zurich, Switzerland: Net pay per hour: $22.60 (Gross pay per hour: $30.30).
2. Geneva, Switzerland: Net pay per hour: $20.40 (Gross pay per hour: $29.20).
3. New York City: Net pay per hour: $19 (Gross pay per hour: $26.10).
4. Dublin, Ireland: Net pay per hour: $18.70 (Gross pay per hour: $22).
5. Luxembourg City: Net pay per hour: $18.20 (Gross pay per hour: $22.40).
6. Copenhagen, Denmark: Net pay per hour: $17.70 (Gross pay per hour: $32.80).
7. Los Angeles: Net pay per hour: $17.40 (Gross pay per hour: $23.90).
8. Oslo, Norway: Net pay per hour: $15.80 (Gross pay per hour: $24.40).
9. Helsinki, Finland: Net pay per hour: $15.70 (Gross pay per hour: $21.30).
10. Miami: Net pay per hour: $15.70 (Gross pay per hour: $21.10).
EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.
- Tina Stern
- Web Site
- " . $name . "
Posted by Tina Stern on April 1st, 2010
February 10th, 2010
Ringo Starr Walk of Fame Star Event
MONDAY FEBRUARY 8, 2010 
By: Tina Stern
Hundreds of guests and press gathered at 7pm on Monday, February 8th as streets closed to see Ringo Starr receive his star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame. It coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Walk of Fame.
Gathered beneath the towering Capital Records building on Vine, this Walk of Fame Ceremony was the first ever to be held at night. Ringo commented, “It’s cool to get one at night. I don’t know about you, but where I live, the stars come out at night.”
With speeches from Joe Walsh of the Eagles, Mayor Villaraigosa, Don Was and Ben Harper, the ceremony was spectacular. The star was unveiled adjacent to George Harrison’s and John Lennon’s stars, in front of the Capitol Records building. Paul McCartney’s star will soon be added.
“I want to thank Capitol Records” Starr said to cheers, glancing up at the tower. “It’s nice to look at a building that you helped pay for.” As always, he passed on his message of peace and love to the crowd.
After the ceremony, Ringo’s guests were invited to a buffet dinner catered by the Hard Rock Cafe in Capitol’s Studio A. I had a fabulous time with my husband Keith Allison (formerly of Paul Revere and the Raiders). It was a fun filled, happy and loving event and Ringo seemed genuinely moved.
EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.
- Tina Stern
- Web Site
- " . $name . "
Posted by Tina Stern on February 10th, 2010
February 2nd, 2010
Du-Par’s Restaurant in Studio City
Studio City: (818) 766-4437
12036 Ventura Blvd.
By: Tina Stern
Since 1938, Dupar’s has been is the only real landmark left on this part of Ventura Boulevard in Studio City.
With no preservatives in their food and everything cooked fresh, Du-Par’s Restaurant and bakery makes some fabulous pies. With a huge assortment of whole pies that are baked everyday, this is just the spot to grab a pie 24 hours a day. They also serve breakfast, lunch and dinner so drop by to your local Du-Par’s in Studio City when you have a hankering.
Dupars Restaurant
EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.
- Tina Stern
- Web Site
- " . $name . "
Posted by Tina Stern on February 2nd, 2010
January 26th, 2010
Hiking in Fryman Canyon
By: Tina Stern
Wilacre Park or Fryman Canyon are Interchangable Names for the Area
If you’re looking for a light hike in Fryman Canyon, here’s a suitable option. A brief 3 miles loop in the Hollywood Hills will allow some fire roads and trail paths with plenty of vista points and benches. You have access to Tree Peoples’ Coldwater Canyon Pavilion. Although it is an urban trail, it’s not crowded.
The Basics:
- Distance: Just under 3 miles round trip.
- Elevation Gain: 463 feet
- Time: An easy 90 minutes.
- Trail Condition: Excellent. Well-maintained fire road for the majority of the trail, with clear signs and landmarks. The use-trails that parallel the fire road are not marked or maintained, but are heavily traveled and easy to spot.
Directions: From the Valley, head south on Laurel Canyon Blvd. from Studio City. 0.8 miles south of Ventura Blvd., turn right onto Fryman Road. The parking area is immediately visible. From the south, at Laurel Canyon (Crescent Heights) and Sunset in West Hollywood, head north on Laurel Canyon for 3.5 miles. Take a left onto Fryman Road and park in the lot. There is a $1 fee for parking.
EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.
- Tina Stern
- Web Site
- " . $name . "
Posted by Tina Stern on January 26th, 2010
November 24th, 2009
Tax Credit Extended
A few newsworthy tax extensions
By: Tina Stern
President Obama recently extended the popular tax credit program offering up to $8,000 for qualified first-time homebuyers (FTHBs) into the first half of 2010. The extention also offers up to $6,500 in tax credits for qualified repeat home buyers which allows for more qualified homebuyers to take advantage of this valuable opportunity at a time when mortgage rates hover at historic lows.
As for First-Time Buyers, basic rules remain similar with one important exception – higher income limits are now in place, increasing the pool of potential buyers eligible for the tax credit of up to 10% of the purchase price or up to $8,000. Amazingly, this is money does not have to be repaid if stay in your new home for at least 36 months.
Single tax filers who earn up to $125,000 are now eligible for the total credit amount. Those who earn more than this cap (but less than $145,000) can receive a partial credit. Joint filers who earn up to $225,000 are eligible for the total credit amount. Those who earn more than this cap (but less than $245,000) can receive a partial credit.
The new homebuyer program offers a new tax credit of up to $6,500 for qualified purchasers who have owned and occupied a primary residence for a period of five consecutive years during the last eight years. This gives those who already own a qualifying residence some additional reasons to take advantage of lower home prices and interest rates and finally move up to the home of their dreams.
Important Deadlines
Purchase agreements must be signed by April 30, 2010, and closings must be final by June 30.
EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.
- Tina Stern
- Web Site
- " . $name . "
Posted by Tina Stern on November 24th, 2009
September 21st, 2009
Home Buyer Tax Credit Extension?
Senate committee reviewing possibility of continuing tax credit.
by Tina Stern
On June 10, 2009, Senator Johnny Isakson (R-GA) introduced the “Home Buyer Tax Credit Act of 2009″ (S. 1230), which would increase the current credit which expires on November 30th, 2009 to up to $15,000, remove income eligibility limits, and expand it to include homebuyers purchasing homes other than their first. S. 1230 has been referred to the Senate Finance Committee. This seems to be heating up and close to getting out of committee for a vote. If passed, it would probably remain in effect through the middle of 2010. Please contact your Congressmen and Senators and urge them to approve this bill if it comes up for a vote, it is a great buyer’s incentive which will further boost the housing market in our area. This new version of the bill would be open to everyone, not just first time purchasers!
EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely solely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.
- Tina Stern
- Web Site
- " . $name . "
Posted by Tina Stern on September 21st, 2009
September 16th, 2009
LA Times “Home of the Week”
Sept 20th-11524 Amanda Dr Studio City
By Tina Stern
11524 Amanda Drive, Studio City will be the featured “Home of the Week” in the Sunday Sept. 20th, 2009 edition. Click here to go to the property website: http://11524amanda.com/
There will be a public open house to coincide with this publication on Sunday September 20th, 2009 from 2 PM to 5 PM. This is particularly noteworthy as the Los Angeles Times only chooses one home per week to feature.
The estate is a prime example of the best of the California one story mid-century custom designed home. It offers the ultimate indoor/outdoor living experience. The house has been completely rebuilt from studs to ceiling. The sellers were very sensitive to maintaining the integrity of the original footprint while adding all of the latest amenities available. From the minute you open the front door, you will be awestruck with the open floor plan leading out to the beautiful and expansive views of the canyons. To find out more about this incredible estate, be sure to look for the article in the LA Times newspaper or at http://www.latimes.com/classified/realestate/news/la-fi-home20-2009sep20,0,1424667.story
- Tina Stern
- Web Site
- " . $name . "
Posted by Tina Stern on September 16th, 2009
September 10th, 2009
California Legislation Voting To Renew $10,000 Home Buyer Tax Credit
The Vote Is Friday September 11
By Tina Stern
The California legislature is voting on Friday September 11, 2009 to renew the California $10,000 home buyer tax. It is widely believed that an extension will be approved. The credit applies to newly constructed, previously unoccupied homes. Condominium conversions also qualify. Californians do not need to be first-time home buyers to take advantage of the credit; nor do they need to meet income requirements.
Requirements For The Credit
1. The home must be a “qualified principal residence” as defined under California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 17059(b)(1). The home must:
- Be a single-family residence, whether detached or attached.
- Never have been previously occupied.
- Be occupied by the taxpayer for a minimum of two years.
- Be eligible for the property tax homeowner’s exemption under California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 218.
2. For over three successive taxable years, the total credit allocated among owners that occupy the home must not exceed $10,000. (Multiple qualified buyers that occupy the home will be allocated credit based on the amount paid and their percentage of ownership.)
3. Any credit that reduced tax on a tax return must be repaid if the buyer does not occupy the home for at least two years immediately following the purchase date.
4. FTB may request documentation to ensure buyers have complied with the requirements of the credit.
To learn more visit New_Home_Credit.shtml
EwingSIR does not guarantee information contained in this blog, readers are encouraged not to rely on this information and to do their own independent research of facts contained herein. Blog information was obtained from independent sources that we do not endorse, and we do not investigate this information for accuracy.
- Tina Stern
- Web Site
- " . $name . "
Posted by Tina Stern on September 10th, 2009
