Come check out the art in Calabasas

By: Karen Lee

From April 30th – May 1st, the Calabasas Fine Arts Festival will celebrate its 14th anniversary in the heart of downtown Calabasas. Located at the beautiful Calabasas Civic Center and the Commons at Calabasas, you can stroll through the grounds to see handmade jewelry, sculpture, pottery, photography, glass work, wall art, woodwork and metal art. The festival also brings an array of musical entertainment and youth art activities. For artist applications and other event information including music lineup, visit the Calabasas Fine Arts Festival website.

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.

Karen Lee

Karen Lee, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in representing estate properties throughout the Greater West Valley area including Woodland Hills, Calabasas, West Hills, Agoura and Tarzana.

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Angry Birds and the Mighty Eagle

By: Karen Lee

So I was at the airport with an hour before the flight and about 20 people, men and women, were playing the number 1 iphone/ipad app-Angry Birds. Here I am, waiting in a room with 80 or so people and 1/4th of them are playing the same game. Grown men in suits, moms, teenagers, kids you name it.

It’s really a game of strategy, figuring out how to knock out the target piggies. Very addictive. At 4 am this morning I finally figured out 14-14!  For those who cannot pass a level after multiple, multiple tries, you can download mighty eagle app – $.99 and use it(only once per hour) to wipe out that level and move on. From what I understand, they will be adding more levels, and, once you finish all levels you can start over to achieve 3 stars on all games. Don’t start unless you’re willing to go the distance! This game is not for the faint of heart. Extremely addictive and fun.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4P3ueF4CxY&NR=1&feature=fvwp[/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.

Karen Lee

Karen Lee, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in representing estate properties throughout the Greater West Valley area including Woodland Hills, Calabasas, West Hills, Agoura and Tarzana.

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Emergency Supplies Kit Checklist

By: Mary Pane

As we were gravely reminded with the Earthquake in Japan, natural disasters can happen all the time. Often, these emergencies can leave people without supplies for many days, forcing them to rely on their own instincts and personal stash of food and water.

Preparing for an emergency before it strikes is your surest path to survival. One key step is to assemble an Emergency Supplies Kit. By gathering emergency supplies in advance, your family will be much more prepared for an evacuation or extended stay at home.

Here are the steps to take when preparing your kit

1. Determine what type of container you’ll use to store your supplies. The container should be something that can be picked up or wheeled away in case of evacuation. Some examples include a large, covered trash container, a plastic storage container, or a backpack.

2. Determine where you’ll store your kit.

3. Store your kit in a convenient place known to all family members.

4. Keep a smaller version of Emergency Supplies Kit in the truck of your car.

The essential items of a kit include at least a three-day supply of food and water for each person, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools, and emergency supplies and special items.

Review your kit every six months. Replace food and water and add necessary items as your family’s needs change.

Water

	Store one gallon of water per person (or pet) per day.
	Store water in plastic containers, such as soft drink bottles. Avoid using containers that may break, such as glass bottles.

Food

Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water. Select food items that are compact and lightweight. Most importantly, select foods that you and your family like.

	Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, and vegetables
	Canned juices, milk, soup
	High energy foods, such as peanut butter, jelly, crackers, granola bars, trail mix
	Special food for infants, elderly persons, or persons on special diets
	Comfort food, such as cookies, candy, etc.

First Aid Kit

Assemble a first aid kit for your home and one for each car.

	Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes		Needle
	2-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6)		Moistened towelettes
	4-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6)		Antiseptic
	Hypoallergenic adhesive tape		Thermometer
	Triangular bandages (3)		Tongue depressor (2)
	2-inch sterile roller bandages (3 rolls)		Cleaning agent/soap
	3-inch sterile roller bandages (3 rolls)		Latex gloves (2 pair)
	Scissors		Sunscreen
	Petroleum jelly or other lubricant		Tweezers
	Assorted sizes of safety pins

Non-prescription drugs

	Aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever
	Anti-diarrhea medication
	Antiacid (for stomach upset)
	Syrup of ipecac (use to induce vomiting if advised by the Poison Control Center
	Laxative
	Activated charcoal (use if advised by the Poison Control Center)
	Prescription medications

Pet Supplies

	Food		Tags
	Water		Litter Box
	Medications		Vaccination information
	Leash

Water

	Include at least one complete change of clothing and a sturdy pair of shoes
	Blankets or sleeping bags

Special Items

	Formula		Contact lenses and supplies
	Diapers		Extra eye glasses
	Bottles		Entertainment – games, books

Important family documents

Keep these records in a waterproof, portable container

	Wills, insurance policies, contracts, deeds, stocks and bonds
	Passports, social security cards, immunizations records
	Bank account numbers
	Credit card account numbers and companies
	Inventory of valuable household goods, important telephone numbers
	Family records (birth, marriage, death certificates)

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.

Mary Pane

Mary Pane, estate agent at Ewing and Associates Sotheby's International Realty, has been serving the Westside, San Fernando and Conejo Valley's for over 25 years. Her father, a well-known builder and broker of Westside luxury homes and commercial properties, exposed Mary to the industry at a young age.

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2011 Spring Forward

By: Karen Lee

Modern DST was first proposed in 1895 by George Vernon Hudson, a New Zealand entomologist. Since it’s origin, it has been adopted in much of the world. However, adding daylight to afternoons benefits retailing, sports, and other activities that exploit sunlight after working hours but causes problems for farming, evening entertainment and other occupations tied to the sun. Whether it’s a good thing for our economy is debatable, however, one thing is sure. On March 13th at 2am, we will move the time one hour forward. So don’t forget!

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.

Karen Lee

Karen Lee, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in representing estate properties throughout the Greater West Valley area including Woodland Hills, Calabasas, West Hills, Agoura and Tarzana.

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Can you really fake a Granite counter?

By: Karen Lee

The old adage ‘fake it till you make it’ maintains some relevance on the topic of fake granite tops. For just a fraction of the price, you can mimic the solid granite countertop look and few people will notice the difference.

Here are 3 options for your next counter:

1. Countertop Paint Kit
You may have wondered, is it possible to paint your laminate countertops? The answer is yes, and to fabulous effect. If you want to paint your laminate countertops with a faux finish that looks eerily identical to granite, check out this video. It demonstrates the results of the Giani Granite paint kit, which includes several types of paints, tools for applying the finish (including a textured sponge), and a high-gloss finishing coat that mimic granite countertop.

2. Granite Tile
Tile installation is a pretty doable project for DIYers of all levels. So if the idea of installing solid granite countertop seems a bit daunting, consider installing granite tile over your existing surface — as long as you’re okay with the grout lines, that is. Granite tiles are usually about 12″ square and because they’re thinner than a stone slab, they’re also lighter and easier to handle. Watch this video to learn more about granite tiles.

3. Plastic Laminate with Granite Look
We know what you’re probably thinking: There’s no way plastic laminate can look or feel like real granite. But quality plastic laminate post form tops are actually produced with both matte and glossy finishes plus subtle grooves that mimic the texture of real granite countertop, to both the eye and the touch — at about 50% less than natural stone slabs. Watch as DIYer Danny Lipford explains the ins and outs of stone-look plastic laminate countertops.

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.

Karen Lee

Karen Lee, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in representing estate properties throughout the Greater West Valley area including Woodland Hills, Calabasas, West Hills, Agoura and Tarzana.

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Woodland Hills, El Camino Real, to undergo change

By: Karen Lee

One of the highest performing academic and athletic schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District is close to becoming an independent charter school. Although it would still maintain itself from public funding, it would be independently run. Currently, El Camino is the only high school in the LAUSD that is not receiving  credit for students in low income families. Approx 25% of students at El Camino are considered low income, but in order for El Camino to receive credit from these students, the percentage must be over 40%. The school would receive an additional $400,000 per year by being classified as a charter school.

If plans are approved, El Camino may start the 2011-2012 school year as a charter school.

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.

Karen Lee

Karen Lee, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in representing estate properties throughout the Greater West Valley area including Woodland Hills, Calabasas, West Hills, Agoura and Tarzana.

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It’s F’n Hot, it really is

By: Karen Lee

While on my nearly annual trip to Park City, I stumbled in to a clever storefront called it’s F’n Hot. Struck by the names of the sauces, salsas, snacks, condiments and drink mixers, I knew immediately this place was the spot to buy a few inexpensive, yet high impact gifts. With a personal tasting of each of the best sauces and salsas from around the world, I particularly enjoyed Acid Rain and virtually all the sauces with the word “ass” in them.

I bought some of the Hot Sauce packages which made perfect stocking stuffers and small gifts. Go to it’sF’nHot.com to order your own sauces. And, if you happen to be in Park City, they are located at 545 Main Street.

If you are unable to find a product please email the at sales@itsfnhot.com or call at 435-604-0910.

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.

Karen Lee

Karen Lee, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in representing estate properties throughout the Greater West Valley area including Woodland Hills, Calabasas, West Hills, Agoura and Tarzana.

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Congratulations to Oak Park’s Santos FC Academy soccer club
on a terrific season and recognition by Soccer Nation

By: Steve Tipp

In honor of the Santos FC Academy Club, headed by JR Lobo, I wanted to point out a recent article that was written on this great young team.

“The Academy has one team which is composed of players from various teams ranging from silver to gold.  The team entered the CSL 2010 Spring League where they took first place. The team’s success continued as they then took on the CSL Spring Cup where they also earned the titled of champions. The team then finished in first place in the 2010 CVU Tournament of Champions.

During regular league play, the team got off to a slow start, still working on positioning, and lost their first two games. The dedicated players returned to the soccer fields to win seven straight and a total of ten of the last twelve games to clinch first place honors in the final match. The soccer players worked very hard to pull together as a team.  They lived out their coach’s philosophy which is; ‘hard work and team play’.

Coach Lobo believes in letting the kids play, and play a lot, creating the fluid style of soccer Brazilians are known for and fostering creativity.  Each game begins with the cheer “What wins games?  Hard work.  What wins games?  Team.”

The team consists of sixteen players including one girl.  As Media Representative Eric Newberg told SN, the team has probably one of the few girls to ever to play BU14 silver elite, next year.

According to Newberg, “The team is very diverse, with kids from Africa, Europe, Israel, Latin America, and home grown Angelinos. We invite individuals and teams of all levels and areas to come play or practice with us.”

“We just want the kids to play and have fun as much as possible, whether it’s a tournament or pick-up games, just enjoy and be creative, the success will come,” says Newberg.

Newberg suggests that we all viisit them at www.santosfcacademy.com – SN did and we liked what we saw! Congratulations Santos FC for following your championship path to success.

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.

Steve Tipp

Tipp’s Top Picks of the Year

By: Steve Tipp

Despite what felt like a really great year for music, it might have been a better time for songs than for albums as I could only come up with 7 albums that I really liked. Probably the statement here is that the album length format is on its way out and shorter formats of music may well could and should become the norm.  Let’s not get started about the woes of the music biz and let’s take it straight to the top 10’s…

Top Albums:

·         The XX – XX – this is such a cool minimalist album.  Simple, beautiful, conceptual.  (Resourceful music seekers may want to find the Biggie vs. Tupac vs. The xx song Runnin With The xx; actually lots of bands even ‘80’s electronic popsters OMD are covering the xx).  Top 2010 Single Contender: Crystalized

·         The Black Keys – Brothers – this is another album that feels conceptual in its design and execution.  My first exposure to this group, rockin’, contemporary & BLUESY…

·         LCD Soundsystem – Early in the year this was clearly my #1 and I was completely convinced Dance Yrself Clean was going to be a hit at alternative radio.  I still love this adventurous electronic album but my prediction for radio-hit-dom, not so accurate. (You might also want to dig up an earlier nugget Daft Punk Is Playing At My House, it seriously reminds me of the parties we would throw at my parent’s house long, long ago).

·         Broken Bells – Broken Bells; this collaboration of producer Dangermouse and Shins James Mercer is another one of the few beautiful indie pop albums this year I never tired of.  Light, melodic and hook-ey.  Top 2010 Single Contenders: The High Road & Ghost Inside

·         Fitz & The Tantrums – Pickin’ Up The Pieces – This is a contemporary, blue eyed soul group from Los Angeles (and the hip/successful LA indie label Dangerbird Records).  Rockin’ new millennium Hall & Oates.  This is the kind of artist I would get passionate about getting on the radio because I believed it would stand out and make a positive difference for the station and the audience would really respond to it.  Ah I am getting nostalgic again… Top 2010 Single Contenders: Money Grabber, frankly nearly every song on this album is a winner!

·         Kanye West – My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy -  Who is nutty as a fruit cake and yet made one of the great albums of the year?  These are strange times indeed.  But if he can use King Crimson’s 21st Century Schizoid Man and make it work in a hip hop hit, he has got talent hidden beneath his batsh!t persona.  Really an eclectic listenable record from end to end. Single Contenders: Power, Gorgeous

·         Arcade Fire – The Suburbs – It was support an indie record shop day this summer and I was drawn to Albums on the Hill in Boulder Colorado and I picked this up.  An independent album release debuting at #1 on Billboard is a big deal in any decade.  This might not be everyone cup of tea but it is super, quirky, English, indie rock.  Their appearance on SNL was polarizing but I love the album their awkward performance reminded me of one of my favorite indie UK artists: New Order.  The real estate themes work for me too!  Top 2010 Single Contenders: Sprawl II, Ready To Start, We Used To Wait

Other Top 2010 Single Contenders: Mark Ronson – Bang Bang Bang; Jason Derulo – Ridin’ Solo, Alicia Keys/Jay Z – Empire State Of Mind, Avett Brothers  – Head Full Of Doubt, The Decemberists – Down By The 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.

Steve Tipp

From Chile Rellenos to Chimichangas

By: RJ Thomson

Most Mexican food lovers are well aware of the deviation in California style Fresh Mex and true, down home Mexican food. Where Baja Fresh is known for it’s fresh tasting, brighter flavors, Pancho Lopez knows nothing of the sort. They are cilantro heavy, onion loaded and re fried replete in almost every recipe. Lopez serves up fantastic Mexican food at peso prices. They have a restaurant in Camarillo location and Woodland Hills spot  and can be found at 229941 Ventura Blv. (click for map). Call them at 818.224.4467 or email Chef Noe Lopez.

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.

rjthomson1