Homeless Shelter’s Bustle in bad weather

Helping in the back of the shelter

By: Karen Crystal

When winter rains pound in Thousand Oaks and Westlake, where do the homeless find a place with a roof?  The Lutheran Social Services’ winter homeless shelter in Thousand Oaks is one option.  On December 1st, during one of our biggest winter storms, 20 people checked in for a hot meal and a dry place to lay down.

People struggling financially are urged to come to dinner once in a while to save some grocery money and avoid falling behind on rent.

The homeless can use a multitude of donations such as backpacks, hamburger gift coupons, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shaving cream, deodorant, shampoo, soap and razors. You can drop these items at, 80 E. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks. For more information, call (805) 497-6207.

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 Crystal real estate agent Ewing and Sothebys.

Karen Crystal

Karen Crystal, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in estate properties. She brings a unique blend of efficiency, honesty, integrity and business-savvy to her clients.

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Raz, the Guinness World Record holder for the Tallest Dog Alive, recently beat out by a slightly bigger dog from San Diego

The Tallest Dog in the World, Raz. Courtesy of the Acor

By: Karen Crystal

Eating three to four times a day, standing 7 1/2 feet on his hind legs and weighing 185 pounds, Raz currently holds the record as the largest dog in the world.

As a certified service dog, Raz visits hospitals to cheer up sickly children.

Gary and Jill Clark, owners of Raz, reside in Thousand Oaks and purchased a large utility-type van and removed some back seats to make room for Raz. They also constructed a ramp to help him get inside easily.

Raz’s job, as a certified service dog, is to visit hospitals and cheer up ill children. “He’s a big dog with a big heart,” Clark said. “A gentle, goofy giant.”

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 Crystal

Karen Crystal, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in estate properties. She brings a unique blend of efficiency, honesty, integrity and business-savvy to her clients.

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The Daily News did a short story on our local High School, Oaks Christian

Montana, Gretzky & Smith

By: Karen Crystal

One of our most prestigious local schools is creating quite a legacy.  With a quarterback by the last name of Montana and the backup quarterback named Gretzky, Oaks Christian is getting some major press.

View the video at: Daily News

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 Crystal

Karen Crystal, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in estate properties. She brings a unique blend of efficiency, honesty, integrity and business-savvy to her clients.

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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 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.

Karen Crystal

Karen Crystal, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in estate properties. She brings a unique blend of efficiency, honesty, integrity and business-savvy to her clients.

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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.

Karen Crystal

Karen Crystal, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in estate properties. She brings a unique blend of efficiency, honesty, integrity and business-savvy to her clients.

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Big News

By: Dana Olmes

Here’s the news you’ve all been waiting for: City Council Meeting Monday, November 23rd at 7:30pm.  Come support your community and make your voice heard.

www.hiddenhillscity.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.

Dana Olmes

Dana Olmes, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in representing residential real estate properties throughout the West San Fernando Valley and Conejo Valley areas. She has significant expertise working with various gated and equestrian communities in the area such as Hidden Hills, Calabasas, Bell Canyon, Agoura and Westlake Village.

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Not your ordinary estate

By: Karen Crystal

Take the illustrious Westlake Boulevard and turn right onto windy Portero.  Travel back through the old roads and up the Mediterranean hills into an ostentatious setting that overflows with class and beauty.  You may have guessed it, White Stallion.  For $27.5 million, this 16,000 sq foot house with 7 beds and 11 lavish baths can be all yours.  But bring your family, or at least your friends; this property features a 1/4 mile track, tennis courts, pool and spa, multiple lakes and crown molding akin to the lofty Versailles.

Yesterday, we hosted an opulent open house that allowed visitors the rare pleasure of flowing Chateau Montelena paired with fresh seafood and pasta.  Guests enjoyed food and company amid the exuberant backdrop of the Conejo valley.  View the video below for an inside look at this listing.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHOacRK5P4s[/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 Crystal

Karen Crystal, estate agent at Ewing & Associates Sotheby's International Realty, specializes in estate properties. She brings a unique blend of efficiency, honesty, integrity and business-savvy to her clients.

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This is something we all should know about.  Try this free, efficient service Google now offers

By: Roger Ewing

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cN0q8SvlQAk&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]

Roger Ewing

Try something different this Holiday in Agoura Hills

By: Michele Hren

Lobo Canyon

Are you wanting to do something for yourself, your family, or a group of friends this holiday season? Look no further than the LOBO CASTLE in Agoura. Lobo Castle is a bit of Europe nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains between Malibu and Agoura Hills. The next event is the Holiday Wine Dinner Victorian Feast on December 5th @ 6pm. During your visit you will be given a tour of the castle by it’s owner and chef, Denise Antico-Donlon.

Go to www.lobocastle.com and reserve your seat. Seats are limited. The web site has testimonials and a multitude of specialties they provide, including cooking classes, photo shoots, weddings and more.

Happy Holidays to all.

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.

Michele Hren