The federal government undertakes a formal census every 10 years, and 2010 is the year.

By: Rob Jordan

Over the next weeks and months, the Census Bureau will be collecting information by mail, phone and in person. The purpose of the census is simple: figure out how many people live in the United States, where they live, and a bit about them. The data is used for a variety of purposes, including how to dole out the millions and billions of dollars the government sends to states and localities based on population. But scams abound.

The ONLY information you are required to give is: the number of people living in your house, their gender, and their race, their name, their age, do you own or rent the home you’re living in, your phone number (in case they have questions).

You should NOT give any other personal information, such as Social Security numbers or bank account information. A legitimate census worker will NEVER ask to come inside your house. For more information, visit the government website: Census Gov. Information provided by Rob Jordan, energetic real estate agent with Ewing and Associations/Sotheby’s International Realty. www.robjordanhomes.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.

Rob Jordan

James Garnett founds Uriel Solar

Solar Panel

By: Sher Hann

The trend these days is being “Green.”  For quite a while we’ve talked and dreamt about how solar could revolutionize our society.  Now, the hypothesizing is leading to action.  Uriel Solar is a perfect example.  With a goal to revolutionize commercial solar energy, Uriel Solar specializes in minimal cost, thin-film-based  solar panels.

Currently, they’ve initiated prototype development in Westlake Village.  Their team of scientists is developing a solar cell deposition approach and a new patented device structure based on cadmium telluride (CdTe). The optical properties of these thin semiconductor layers are such that >90% of the sunlight will be absorbed and used for generating electricity. These layers are about 1/100 the thickness of a human hair!

Thin-film solar cell substrates can be made of glass, which is very cheap

CDTE Cell

(cheaper than silicon) and the combination of thin layers and cheap glass substrates provide a very price competitive base for the production of solar cells and panels.

Uriel Solar was incorporated in August 2008 and has since then filed important patents, hired experienced materials scientists and established a development facility in Westlake Village, CA. With the arrival of our thin-film deposition system in late June, Uriel Solar has initiated prototype development. Our team of scientists is developing a novel thin-film solar cell deposition approach and a new patented device structure based on cadmium telluride (CdTe), which is a semiconductor alloy with exceptional sunlight-absorbing properties. We are very excited about this new manufacturing approach and our unique device structure, since they are so dramatically different from every other CdTe thin-film technology on the market. The first prototype solar cells should be available the first quarter of 2010.

For more information go to:http://urielsolar.net/default.html

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. Sher Han Real Estate Ewing and Sotheby’s.

Sher Hann

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A new wine bar in Agoura Hills

Outdoor Patio at Sip Cielo

By: Sheri Karp

Sip Wine Bar, on Kanan and Sierra Creek Rd is a newly introduced Agoura Hills establishment.  Near Troutdale and the Rustic Canyon Grocery and Grill, Sip Cielo features a tasting room and mellow outdoor area with scattered fire pits in an enclosed area protected by low hanging trees.  Wander inside and choose from a variety of different flights or check out the menu here.  Friday and Saturday, the quaint venue features live music and tends to be the busier nights.  Head over to Sip Cielo for a refreshing atmosphere in the unexpected, Agoura Hills.

Don’t forget to ask for some cheese and crackers!

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. Sheri Karp Real Estate Agent Ewing and Sotheby’s.

Sheri Karp

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By: Irma Haldane

Pam D' Ambrosio (left) Alan Woodcock (right)

Pam D’ Ambrosio, from the Ewing & Assoc. Sotheby’s Agoura Office and her husband, Alan Woodcock, enjoy an adventure on the lake in their restored Amphicar.  Many hours went into the restoration of this unique amphibious car/boat and they do get many curious stares when they are out on the lake.  Their friends enjoy going along for the ride too.

The Amphian was built in Germany in the 60′s and has a Triumph Herald engine.  It is referred to as the Model 770 – 7 knots on the water and 70 miles on the road. The car is put into gear (a stick shift gear) when going down the boat ramp and that switches it to the propellers and you are “going swimming” in the lake.

When in the water, the car gets many lookers and as well as questions.  Pam and Alan have fun with the car and will at time tell other boaters “We’re lost, do you know where the freeway is?”.

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.  Irma Haldane Real Estate Agent, Ewing and Sotheby’s.

Irma Haldane

Irma Haldane, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, represents buyers and sellers throughout the West San Fernando, Conejo and Simi Valleys with specialization in Agoura, Thousand Oaks, Woodland Hills, West Hills, Camarillo and Westlake Village.

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Swine vaccine still available

By: Denise Arledge

You heard correctly, stroll into the CVS on Kanan Road in Agoura Hills and you can receive an H1N1 vaccination for a maximum of $15.  Answer some brief automated questions and prepare for your shot.  The process is very speedy as not many people are privy to the recent information.  Head over to CVS and within 2 weeks you’ll have immunity.

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. Denise Arledge Estate Agent Ewing and Sotheby’s.

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denisearledge

Denise has over 19 years experience in real estate. She is a consistent top producer & has won numerous awards for her sales, listings & service. She is a resident of the Conejo Valley for over 22 years & specializes in fine homes and estates throughout the San Fernando & Conejo Valleys.

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Short Sales Just Became Easier at Wells Fargo, Wachovia, World Savings

By: Rob Jordan

Short sales, where the homeowner owes more than the home is worth, constitute a large percentage of home sales these days. Short sales have a reputation as being long, difficult, stressful transactions for sellers, buyers and real estate agents. But that’s all changing for homeowners with loans from Wells Farto (and Wachovia and World Savings, which merged with Wells Fargo previously.) Wells has established a single, responsive, local loan officer who deals exclusively with short sale transactions. Here are 2 big positive changes. 1) If you’re a homeowner who desires a short sale, Wells will give a YES or NO response to your request within 72 hours!  This is fantastic! Typically you have had to wait weeks and sometimes months to even get started with your lender. 2) Once the process starts, Wells is committed to concluding the transaction in 30 days. Are you kidding me? Short sales typically take 3 or 6 or 9 months!

So if you’re a homeowner with a Wells Fargo, Washovia, or World Savings loan and you’re facing a short sale, your life just became a lot easier and less stressful. For additional information, contact Rob Jordan at 818.237.4425.

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. Rob Jordan Real Estate Agent, Ewing and Associates specializing in Agoura Hills Homes for sale.

Rob Jordan

The 2010 Amgen Tour

By: Rob Jordan

Amgen Tour

On May 23, 2010, the  final leg of the 750 miles Amgen Tour of California bike race will occur in and around Agoura, Westlake and Thousand Oaks. Lance Armstrong is expected to be one of the top contenders on a 25 mile long course that will take the riders from the city of Agoura, out onto Mulholland Highway and Decker Canyon, and back to Westlake Boulevard. Multiple spectator locations, many along Agoura Road, will be planned to give local residents the opportunity to cheer for their favorite riders.

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.

Rob Jordan

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.

Roger Ewing

The Agoura Hills Bank of America was robbed … again

Deputies at bank robbers home (Courtesy of The Acorn)

By: Rob Jordan

Now here is strange one for you.  Jerry Carr allegedly walks into the Agoura Bank of America at 10 am on a bright crispy day, threatens the teller who finally gives into the pitiful plea for funds, and then strolls back to his condo just down the street.  Although no firearm was displayed, Carr was arrested for felony bank robbery.

This is the 5th robbery at the Agoura Hills B of A since 1998.  It leaves law enforcement to wonder what it is about this location.  “Law enforcement mentioned close proximity to freeways can be a variable,” Bank of America spokesperson Coleen Haggerty said.

Naturally the robbery raises the suspicion of economic issues contributing to this desperate act.  All in all, there were no injuries and Carr is currently on $100,000 bail.

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.

Rob Jordan

The Agoura Hills City Council appoints Bill Koehler mayor

Mayor Bill Koehler of Agoura Hills (Courtesy of The Acorn)

By: Sheri Karp

The Agoura Hills City Council selected William Koehler for mayor.  He will replace Denis Weber who is now serving his fifth term in office.  Perhaps his most worthy statement dealt with the recent economic downturn.  He said Agoura Hills suffers from subsequent budget issues that effect redevelopment funds, money for affordable housing and a decline in property tax revenue because of the depressed real estate market.

This aside, however, Koehler was excited to express his desire to establish Agoura’s cultural identity through the arts.  Residents remain excited to see Koehler’s efforts as mayor.

Learn more at The Acorn

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.

Sheri Karp

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