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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Urban Homes in Sherman Oaks

By: Erika Kaufmann

Yesterday, while Christmas shopping, I stepped into Urban Home in the Sherman Oaks Galleria and had the surprise of my life! What a beautiful store with an array of carefully selected items from around the world! In this troubling economy it is nice to find reasonably priced items to furnish or decorate your home. And, last but not least, it is a great place to find your Christmas gifts. Who would not like new kitchen gadgets or a new unusual set of candles for the living room? Even the most difficult person to buy for (the one who has everything) there is something new.

What about the Pullman Chair and Ottoman? Or the Sanctuary Café Chaise? Or a piece of art? Or some accessories? There is something for everybody! Go and check it out. And, I just found out that they will be opening a store in Valencia, close to Stephenson Ranch, early next year.

www.shopurbanhome.com

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. Erika Kaufmann Real estate Ewing and Sothebys. Sherman Oaks Homes for sale.

Beware of burn areas as 2 major storms are on tap for Southern California

By: Roger Ewing

This is a friendly reminder to pay special attention during this week.  2 major storms will hit, the first on Monday, December 7th and the second, more impressive storm, will begin late on Wednesday, December 9th. Forecasters predict the 2 storms will cause widespread power outages and flooding in burn areas.  Also, be sure to keep an eye on your home.  Beware of clogged rain gutters and leaky roofs.   It’s also a great time to shut the sprinklers off and save a few extra bucks on your next water bill.  Drive safe and have a good week.

To view the rain and snow forecast go to Snow and rain levels.

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.

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.

'The House of Besarab'

By: Tim McLaughlin

I had the pleasure of seeing the production of “the House of Besarab” at the Hollywood American Legion in Hollywood last week.  The play in two acts is adapted from Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” by Terance M. Duddy and Theodore Ott.  Directed by Terance M. Duddy.  It is an environmental production where the audience follows the various character and the show follows two plot tracks.  The Hollywood American Legion with its high ceilings and dark hallways add the feeling that you are in an 19th century castle and to the theatre experience.  The cast is solid, especially Michael Hegedus who plays Dracula.

If you are looking for a fun evening out, stop by the Hollywood American Legion on Highland Ave., just south of the Hollywood Bowl and visit the House of Besarab.  The shows running time is 2 hours and the show runs through December 20th.  Tickets are $55 and include parking.  Go to www.plays.com for more info.