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Greywater Recycling

December 1st, 2009 by Gracee Arthur
Categories: Malibu
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Malibu’s Gray Water Use

Ed Begley Jr. explains how his gray water system works to Allen Lyle

By: Gracee Arthur

Actor Ed Begley Jr., an avid environmentalist recently wrote a book entitled, “Ed Begley Jr.’s Guide to Sustainable Living.”   Mr. Begley has installed a gray water recycling system in his home.  The recycling system filters waste water from showers, bathtubs, sinks, dishwashers and washing machines for use in irrigation of fruit trees and vegetables in his garden.  Before it is reused, the water must pass through a series of filters to remove or kill any bacteria and contaminants in the water.  Conserving and recycling water is just one of the many tips on Green living offered in his Guide to Sustainable living.

This link will take you a tour of the Gray Water Recycling System recently installed at the Begley home.  For more information on this system go to www.reusegraywater.com

The lack of rainfall in California has caused many municipality’s water districts to place penalties on exceeding the limits set for household and business water usage.  So, a gray water system not only helps the environment, but the homeowner’s monthly budget as well.

The State of California Policy on Gray Water may be viewed at Gray Water.

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.

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Woods Withdraws from Chevron World Challenge

December 1st, 2009 by Karen Crystal
Categories: Hidden Valley, Lake Sherwood
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The tournament continues without Woods

Tiger Woods

By: Karen Crystal

After a suspicious car crash, talk of extramarital affairs and a rather mangled SUV, Woods has now decided to withdraw from his own tournament due to injuries.  With minor cuts and bruises, Woods opted out of what would have been his last tournament of the year.

Meanwhile, questions continue to loom about his actions and cause of accident.  Most fans are supporting Tiger’s decision to keep the matter private but some are scorning him for keeping this a secret. View the latest information on http://web.tigerwoods.com/index.

Although Woods released few statements regarding the incident, he did say  “I appreciate all the concern and well wishes…But, I would also ask for some understanding that my family and I deserve some privacy.”

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.

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Wings Over Wendy’s in West Hills

November 30th, 2009 by Cindy Libonati
Categories: Valley Circle Estates, West Hills, Woodland Hills
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Not your average senior citizens

Clyde East

By: Cindy Libonati

Stroll into a classroom full 5^th grade boys and you’ll likely find a consortium of hodgepodge personalities, class clowns and painfully veracious adolescents.  Walk into the West Hills Wendy’s on a Monday morning and you’ll find a cartel of veterans that remain strikingly similar.  But beneath the façade of pithy comments and relentless remarks, these Vet’s contain thousands of remarkable anecdotes. From flying B-24’s in a formation of 2,000 airplanes to door gunners in Vietnam, this group of vet’s have established what they call, “Wing’s over Wendy’s.”

On any given Monday, 70 to 80 Veterans congregate to sip coffee, eat doughnuts and sustain their camaraderie as U.S. Veterans.  The leader of the madness is Art Sherman, a fearless commander of this bunch who, among other things, leads their weekly raffle.  The most coveted item this week?  Hand sanitizer.

Amongst the many gallant members, “Wings over Wendy’s” is lucky enough to have Clyde East.  East is currently honored in the Reagan Library for taking some of the only photos of Cuban weapons that later uncovered the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Roger Ewing, Elmo E. Maiden, Art Sherman, and Cindy Libonati (left to right)

Elmo Maiden, a B-24 pilot stationed in England who flew 35 missions in 1944 and 1945, still flies to Sacramento to visit his family.  He is 90 years old.  But spend a few brief moments with Elmo and he’ll surely dazzle you with his abundant energy and warm spirit.

Charles Slezak and Neil Houston are seasoned airplane mechanics that worked on sea planes and labored for over 30 years under the now waning American Airlines.  Both Houston and Slezak are not the torpor, languid seniors you may envision.  These guys abound with energy in their old age.

After spending a brief hour with 80 veterans, I walked out to a breezy parking lot and began to reflect on the myriad of stories these old lives maintain.  It is an experience I won’t soon forget. I’d like to extend my gratitude to those who courageous sacrificed for our United States.

Thank you to all those who served our country.

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.

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Stretch Your Dollars at The Oakpointe/Sherman Oaks Galleria

November 30th, 2009 by Deena Nissley
Categories: Encino, Sherman Oaks, Studio City
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Stretch Your Gift Giving Budget!

By: Deena Nissley

You might find that for you, what Dr. Seuss wrote in “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” rings true:

And he puzzled three hours, till his puzzler was sore.
Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before!                             
‘Maybe Christmas,’  he thought, ‘doesn’t come from a store.
Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more!’

Here are some other creative gift-exchange ideas that let you stretch the fun and the dollars:

• The Dollar-Store Gift Exchange: If it’s truly the thought that counts, then set a spending limit of a single sawbuck and see how creative everyone can get at the dollar store.
• The Regift Exchange: Agree to wrap up something you already own and don’t need (that’s still in the box or in mint condition), and give it to someone who will appreciate it. Remember: It’s only regifting if you believe it’s regifting.
• The Handmade Gift Exchange: The giver has to make each present, be it a birdhouse, a fruitcake, a poem, or a pair of slippers.
• The Old-Photo Gift Exchange: What more cherished—and inexpensive—gift could there be than an old family photo? Get up there in the attic and see what you can find! To boot, you could probably find a suitable frame at the Dollar Store, an outlet, or a thrift store.
• The Charity Gift Exchange: Don’t you already have everything you need? Many are not as fortunate, so agree to make a contribution to a charity rather than trading gifts.
• The Tackiest Gift Exchange: Keep it cheap and fun by seeing who can give the tackiest gift for under $5.
• The Gift-of-Time Exchange: Exchange gift cards for your time. Recipients redeem them, and have you do anything from washing their car to giving them a massage or volunteering your time for a charity of their choice.
• The Baked-Goods Gift Exchange: Those cookies don’t qualify unless you baked them yourself.
• The Talent-Show Gift Exchange: Give the pleasure of free entertainment by performing your special talent before a gathering of family or friends. Have a Christmas concert! Did you know that I can recite “The Night Before Christmas” while standing on my head?

See how enjoyable a “cheap” Christmas can be? Don’t be shy about proposing a “gift-lite” holiday season to your family and friends this year.

Jeff Yeager is the author of the book, “The Ultimate Cheapskate’s Road Map to True Riches.” His Web site is www.UltimateCheapskate.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.

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Black Friday Deals!

November 24th, 2009 by Deena Nissley
Categories: Encino, Sherman Oaks, Studio City
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When Black Friday Comes

By: Deena Nissley

Do your part to aid the recovery, but still sleep in Friday. Plan now where to hit sales on the biggest shopping day of the year, courtesy of Bfads.net. Department Stores Costco Target Walmart Kmart Electronics/Appliances Best Buy Radio Shack StaplesFun Stuff GameStop Toys R Us Hardware/Housewares Ace Hardware Home Depot Lowe’s 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.

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Fireplace Tips for Bell Canyon Homeowners

November 24th, 2009 by Lori Einhorn
Categories: Bell Canyon
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A couple things you may not know

By: Lori Einhorn

The recent weeks have given way to the very typical crisp fall nights we experience in Bell Canyon.  Reaching the lower 30’s on some nights, some families enjoy curling up next to a rolling fire after an exhausting day of work.  Believe me, I know the feeling.  However, I am here to tell you that the fireplace is one of the most inefficient heat source you can use.  If you use your conventional fireplace while your central heater is in use, these tips can help preserve some energy:

* If you never use your fireplace, plug and seal the chimney flue.
* Keep your fireplace damper closed unless a fire is going. Keeping the damper open is like keeping a 48-inch window wide open during the winter; it allows warm air to go right up the chimney.
* When you use the fireplace, reduce heat loss by opening dampers in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or open the nearest window slightly – approximately 1 inch – and close doors leading into the room. Lower the thermostat setting to between 50° and 55°F.
* Install tempered glass doors and a heat-air exchange system that blows warmed air back into the room.
* Check the seal on the flue damper and make it as snug as possible.
Add caulking around the fireplace hearth.
* Use grates made of C-shaped metal tubes to draw cool room air into the fireplace and circulate warm air back into the room.When you cozy up next to a crackling fire on a cold winter day, you probably don’t realize that your fireplace is one of the most inefficient heat sources you can possibly use. It literally sends your energy dollars right up the chimney along with volumes of warm air. A roaring fire can exhaust as much as 24,000 cuthrough your chimney. If you use your conventional fireplace while your central heating system is on, these tips can help reduce energy losses.

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.

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No-Fail Thanksgiving

November 24th, 2009 by Deena Nissley
Categories: Sherman Oaks, Studio City
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Ditch travel nightmares by hosting Turkey Day at home

By: Deena Nissley

Whether you’re eating out or taking in, here are the best bets for Turkey Day dinner without the Butterball hotline. Dine Out Anisette The popular French brasserie sticks to its milieu with a la carte plates from pumpkin soup ($12) to chestnut-encrusted lamb culotte ($26) or a turkey filet with all the fixings ($24). 4-9p. 225 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica (310-395-3200). Henry’s Hat A Southern-style buffet with deep-fried, herb-brined turkey as the centerpiece. Rounding out the meal: honey and brown butter-glazed ham, butternut squash, garlic mashed potatoes, corn stuffing and sage gravy. 2p-close. $20/free for children under 8. 3413 Cahuenga Blvd., Studio City (323-512-2500). Jar Order offbeat starters like chestnut chickpea soup or oyster stew with Chinese celery, paired with sides of turkey sausage and roasted onions with almond pesto. Salmon and vegetarian options are also available, mention them when you call for a reservation. 1-8p. $85; $40 for children 12 and under. 8225 Beverly Blvd., Mid-City West (323-655-6566). The Langham Feast on traditional turkey, veal, sea bass or lamb on the hotel’s terrace. Roasted corn bisque or marinated beet carpaccio starts the meal; chocolate mousse and pumpkin crème or apple cake with cinnamon mascarpone gelato tops it off. 6-9p. $80 without wine, $100 with wine; $35 for children 3-12. 1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena (626-585-6218). Whist Traditional dishes scale up, with turkey leg confit or maple-glazed ham. Expect the usual side-dish suspects like cornbread stuffing, roasted brussel sprouts and spiced sweet potatoes, or you can build your own dish at the risotto station. 2:30-7:30p. $68/pp, $24/children 12 and under, children 5 and under free. 1819 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica (310-260-7511). Order In Akasha Stop by on Saturday for a $10 tasting of sides like organic mac and cheese, Niman Ranch ham with pomegranate jalapeño glaze, and Blue Lake green bean casserole with house-made skinny fried onions. Sat Nov 21. 12-3p. $10. 9543 Culver Blvd., Culver City (310-845-1700). Little Dom’s Grab an entire meal at the Cajun-Italian-inspired restaurant, with hearty selections like deep-fried turkey ($69), homemade fennel sausage and mushroom stuffing ($41), and roasted brussel sprouts with wild boar bacon ($38). Order by 11a Tues 24. Pick up no later than 11a Thu 26. 2128 Hillhurst Ave., Los Feliz (323-661-0088). Vibrato Drop off serving platters and bowls by Tuesday and pick them back up on Wednesday night filled with sides like spiced farro (an ancient Italian grain), sweet potato casserole or cranberry chutney. All you have to do is pop them in the oven. 2930 N. Beverly Glen Cir., Bel Air (310-474-9400).

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.

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Tax Credit Extended

November 24th, 2009 by Tina Stern
Categories: Colfax Meadows, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Studio City
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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.

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A Life in Hidden Valley

November 24th, 2009 by Karen Crystal
Categories: Hidden Valley, Lake Sherwood
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Hidden Valley

This is one of those places where you suck in your breath, let out a low whistle and think, “So this is how the other half lives.”

By: Karen Crystal

Tucked in the away in the northern Santa Monica mountains, Thousand Oaks’ Hidden Valley may be considered the millionaires’ bargain club.  Right next store to Lake Sherwood, this community, although it enjoys it’s amenities, largely prides itself on it’s less stodgy, ranch style homes.  With roughly 60 homes, residents range from horse enthusiasts to boutique winemakers and of course, leaders of industry.

Possibly the most well known resident is David Murdock, owner of Dole Food Co and one of world’s wealthiest people. But years before Murdock came to play the area was used in the filming of “Robin Hood,” starring Douglas Fairbanks in 1921.  Jamie Foxx bought here a couple years back to join Tom Selleck and former Major League Baseball player Todd Zeile and his wife, 1984 Olympic gold medal-winning gymnast Julianne McNamara.  Sophia Loren owned a ranch here for many years but has since sold La Concordia; Sylvester Stallone was one of the original Hidden Valley owners as well.

Many enjoy the comfort of being separated from a busting city and finding $10 million homes at 1/4th the cost of Bel-Air.  Hidden Valley attracts a highly specific personality and taste.

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.

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Borderline Bar and Grill

November 24th, 2009 by Kenny Melcombe
Categories: Oak park, Tarzana, West Hills
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Doors plan to re-open again in December…

By: Kenny Melcombe

Borderline Bar and Grill

For years Borderline Bar & Grill has had roof leaks.  The owner of Borderline for the last two years has been negotiating with the building landlord to replace the roof.  Seasons change, rain falls and the Health Department pays their yearly visit.  This year the leaks in the roof were so out of control that Borderlines permit to operate was suspended until the repairs are made.

As of two weeks ago an agreement was struck between landlord and tenant and new roof will be replaced in the next couple of weeks, weather permitting.  And there is more.  Besides the new roof there will also be some other upgrades to the club.  Carpet will be the most noticed change though outside of that there will be a few other remodeling modernizations to the interior.

If you haven’t been to Borderline, it is the place to be in the Conejo Valley.  Beside’s the typical Bar and Grill Restaurant, Borderline hosts a meeting place for pool leagues, concerts and dancing.  Almost every night of the week, Borderline has a new look.

Borderline also offers West Coast Swing night on Mondays (just like dancing with the stars); Tuesday night is Salsa night, Wednesday night is college night, and Sunday night is well known for family night.   If you have ever wanted to learn to dance this is Conejo Valley’s dancing depot.  They have great instructors teaching classes almost nightly. Classes usually run from 6:30pm till 8pm followed by open dancing till closing.

Though while the Borderline is closed, some of the dance coaches have continued their normal dancing classes at temporary locations.  Cliff Housego, the schedule coordinator and instructor for Borderline, has booked a ballroom at the Westlake Hyatt for his West Coast Swing and Night Club two step classes on Monday nights.

So next month, come & visit The Borderline Bar & Grill—with a fresh new look when they re-open in December.

www.borderlinebarandgrill.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.

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