For Immediate Release:

Contact:

Stephen Roesler
Director of Social Media
Ewing and Associates Sotheby’s International Realty
818.657.4523
Stephen.roesler@sothebysrealty.com

By: Roger Ewing

Follow @ewingsir

May 26, 2011

Sherman Oaks, CA

In an attempt to unite local eco advocates, Ewing and Associates Sotheby’s International Realty hosted an eco-workshop with the help of actor and visionary Ed Begley Jr. Showing up by way of bicycle, Begley stopped by the Sherman Oaks real estate office to share a few enlightening words regarding the ease and necessity of harnessing green energy in today’s economy.

Eco company Blu Homes, REAS, Cyber Rain and Environmental Solar Design were also in attendance for an evening complete with light fair and wine. Each vendor spoke for roughly 20 minutes and held an insightful session of Q and A. Led by Ewing and Associates’ manger Jeff Biebuyck, also affiliated with Blu Homes, the event hosted approximately 40 environmentally minded guests. From local business owners, former musicians and select real estate agents, all attendees received the opportunity to speak directly with educated representatives of the green movement.

Mr. Begley, a self-proclaimed fiscal conservative, briefly spoke about his journey towards embrace a green lifestyle. A native to the San Fernando Valley, he mentioned his young adult days of putting money aside to make more sustainable choices. Taking public transportation, bike riding, recycling and investing in key initiatives to update his first residence with the latest eco options were just some of his insightful tips. Additionally, he spoke in length about REAS (Residential Energy Assessment Services), as they worked closely with Begley on his latest residential green upgrade.

The event was followed by an informative period of casual networking and further details regarding the scope of each company’s service.

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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.

70 State Parks Close in California

By: Michelle Tepper

Our beautiful Los Encinos State Historical Park is set to close. Los Encinos State Historic Park, at the corner of Balboa and Ventura Blvd, in Encino California, was, until the late 19th Century, the hub of human habitation in the Southern San Fernando Valley. This five-acre early California rancho includes the original nine-room de la Osa Adobe, the two-story limestone Garnier House, the Reyes Hut, natural springs, and a lake (shaped like a Spanish guitar). The park contains exhibits on early California ranch life.

The parks are scheduled to close September as a result of Governor Jerry Brown’s $22 million budget cuts. This would be a tragedy for Encino – please help us save our parks, by clicking here and “sending a letter to your legislators and the governor.”

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.

Tango classes in Sherman Oaks

By: Charise Mitchell

Alright, Tango is fun, but let’s admit to the real reason we Tango. It’s sexy, plain and simple. We go to a Tango class with just a glimmer of hope that inside the studio we will come in contact with our prince charming. Anyhow, if you want to learn how to Tango, or just want to chase fate for a few nights, check out the Tango Room Dance Center in Sherman Oaks. It’s a 6 week, introductory course to Argentine Tango for people who are absolute beginners.

Each Tuesday (or Sunday afternoon) you will learn fundamental elements central to becoming the hottest Tango machine in town. You’ll learn the Tango Walk, the basic 8 count step, a simple turn in the line of dance, how to dance in close embrace, codes of social Tango and basic musicality. In total, you’ll receive 6 hours of instruction which you can redeem on Tuesday evenings, on two Sunday afternoons or a combination.

The best part? After you’ve completed the course, you can always retake it at no cost if you want to refresh yourself.

I’ve taken the class and it’s a blast. I highly recommend trying it.

The Tango Room Dance Center
4346 Woodman Avenue
Sherman Oaks, Ca 91423
818.981.6500

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.

Ron Viola kills it!

By: Kenny Melcombe

Billy and the Beaters performed live last weekend @ Harper’s Bar & Grill. It was simply fantastic to see a band from 80′s still sounding amazing. They are the same band from back in the day, including one of the fabulous saxophone players, Ron Viola, who is  also one of the fine Realtor-Associate’s I work with at Sotheby’s in Sherman Oaks.

They played all their hit oldies including the worldwide number 1 Hit…”At this Moment.” You know, it makes me wonder, what would I give at this moment?

They don’t miss a beat, these guys are fabulous. Another 5 star event.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nRaJvn0eow[/youtube]

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.

Million Tree Initiative

By: Sandy Finkel

It’s well known that planting trees remains one of the most ecologically and cost efficient methods to reduce CO2 pollution. Trees prevent topsoil run-off and studies have shown that an increase in tree lined streets could lower the number of children suffering from asthma. Undoubtedly, there are a myriad of benefits to planting trees.

In light of the obvious perks, Mayor Villaraigosa started the Million Trees initiative several years ago. The plan hopes to turn Los Angeles into an urban forest by planting one million trees over the course of several years. With an emphasis on sustainability, local city departments are planting native and drought resistant plants on public property.

Due to the buzz, the city of Los Angeles is offering some incentive to plant more trees. If you are a resident in Los Angeles, you may qualify for up to 7 free trees to plant on your property. Planting trees can provide enough shade to reduce air conditioning use by 20% Not only that, but it beautifies our property. To find out how to get your free trees or to find out more about the Million Trees LA Initiative log onto www.milliontreesla.org

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.

6235 Holly Mont Dr. Los Angeles, Ca

QR CODES

The latest technology being used to market your home

By: Linda Cardoso

Have you wondered about the black “bar code” squares arranged on a white background cropping up everywhere from billboards to bus sides and a variety of other media? It’s called a QR CODE which is short for “Quick Response” code.

When captured by a smart phone camera this “bar code” takes you almost instantly to a URL or text message. Now instead of messy flyer boxes attached to a Real Estate “FOR SALE” sign, a QR CODE on the sign can deliver high tech instant information about a property. While QR is still in an “early adopter” phase in the US, this technology has had a HUGE uptake in Japan and South Korea. This may be a perfect time to speak to a Japanese audience in a familiar technology.

Check out the QR Code being used on my Hollywood Hills listing. The code is on the For Sale sign and can be captured right from someone’s car!

To find the right free app for your phone go to: Mobile Bar Codes

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.

Cooks beware!

By: Karen Lee

Courtesy of My Daily Find

For those who are at the stage when cooking is far more than necessity, one Encino woman is offering culinary classes in her country cottage. After spending 12 years in the kitchen at the former Citrus restaurant on Melrose, Chef Diane Mohilef is now cooking in the privacy of her home and without the help of a cookbook. Her purely original recipes, fine china and crystal create a rare cooking school experience in her newly remolded kitchen.

Weekly classes are held Wednesdays or Thursdays (depending on the week) from 10am to 2pm for $115. The next class is December 9 and classes will start again in January.

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.

Courtesy of LA Park and Rec

By: Michelle Tepper

Ever had the feeling that you’ve installed your car seat incorrectly? Maybe you’re not confident in the car seat you’ve used for ever? This Saturday, November 13th, from 9am – 1pm, certified and trained staff will be checking for recalls, defects, and proper installation. Bring the instruction manual for your safety seat along with the automobile owner manual.

Reservations are required prior to the event. Call 818.995.1690

Go to www.laparks.org/dos/ereg/facility/encino.htm

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.

Some great news on loans

By: Cynthia Sparagna

I’m pleased to see that the Obama administration recognizes the need to extend the current conforming loan limit of $727,750, which he passed this week. The same limits will also be extended to loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration.

Without the needed extension, which was set to expire at the end of 2010, FHA limits would have dropped by as much as 50 percent in some areas. This would have dropped the conforming loan limit to roughly 40% – bad news for the housing market. The recent actions effectively extend the higher conforming loan limits for Fannie, Freddie, and FHA loans through Sept. 30, 2011.

I applaud our congressional representatives for their actions to extend the higher loan limits through 2011. Making these higher loan limits permanent would be the next step we are advocating for.

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.

2010 Award Benefit and Auction

By: Deena Nissley

The museum of California design will honor Charles and Ray Eames for their extraordinary contributions to American design. The Eames’ significant advances in the design of objects for everyday use include distinctive plywood furniture, durable fiberglass chairs and colorful storage solutions.

Christopher Hawthorne, architecture critic of the Los Angeles Times, will present the museum’s Henry Award to the Eames’ grandchildren, Eames Demetrios, Director, Eames Office and Chairman of the Board, Eames Foundation, and Lucia Dewey Atwood, Eames Foundation Board Member, and Director, Eames House Preservation, on the designers’ behalf.

Please join us for light lunch and refreshments at at Case Study House #9, designed by Charles Eames and Eero Saarinen for John Entenza, editor of Arts & Architecture Magazine, on an extraordinary ocean-view site in Pacific Palisades. The Entenza House, one of California’s most architecturally significant homes, was completed in 1949, and because it has never been open to the public, it is one of the most eagerly sought after to visit of the 17 extant Case Study Houses.

In addition, the Eames Foundation will welcome our benefit guests to visit the adjacent Eames House grounds and to view from the outside the interior of the Eames House, the 1949 Case Study House #8.

An exhibition of iconic Eames designs curated by Daniel Ostroff, Historian/Editor of “Vintage Eames” on the Eames Office website and curator of the A+D Museum’s 2011 exhibition of Eames furniture, will be on view in the Entenza House along with a digital presentation of Charles Eames’ architecture.

Those who have attended our other Benefits know to also expect delicious food, good buys at our live and silent auctions and short waits for their valet-parked cars.

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.