Marguerite Wherry

Dear Marguerite,

As the President of the National Association of Realtors, I have heard from many members and clients about how frozen markets are affecting our businesses. Your elected leadership and the NAR staff have been working day in and day out with the new Congress and administration to ensure that your concerns about revitalizing housing are central to the economic stimulus package.

Now it is your turn. Make our united voice heard in Washington that a housing recovery is the key to Unlocking America’s Economy. Contact your members of Congress today.

Charles McMillan
2009 NAR President


------------------------------------------------------------------------





Send a letter to the following decision maker(s):
Your Congressperson
Your Senators

Below is the sample letter:

Subject: Reviving the real estate market must be the focus of the Stimulus plan to be sent to the President

Dear [decision maker name automatically inserted here],

The current economic crisis is the result of problems in the nation's housing markets. Efforts to boost the overall economy will be wholly ineffective if the Economic Stimulus bill that goes to the President does not include provisions focused on stabilizing real estate markets.
Both the House and Senate versions include provisions that are consistent with a housing plan that Realtors have advocated for several months. A few more changes are needed. Provisions offered by the National Association of Realtors that must be included are:
*The $15,000 home buyer tax credit that was proposed by Senators Isakson, Lieberman and Dodd.
*Permanent FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limits that match the levels enacted in 2008.
*Increased resources for foreclosure mitigation efforts to stem the flood of foreclosures.
Housing has always lifted our economy out of past economic downturns. Let's get housing moving now so that the economy can recover. Please support the inclusion of these critical provisions in any economic stimulus bill sent to the President.
Thank you for your hard work.

Sincerely,
Marguerite Wherry

Take Action!
Instructions:

Tell-A-Friend:
Ask your colleagues to take action too.
Tell-a-Friend!

What's At Stake:

Congress is debating the America Recovery Reinvestment Act, the latest in a series of economic stimulus measures considered by Congress.

NAR is urging Congress to include the following provisions in the economic stimulus legislation being debated this week:

Include a $15,000 home buyer tax credit available to all buyers, eliminate repayment requirements and extend the credits availability thru 2009.
Restore the FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limits to their 2008 level and make them permanent.
Provide increased resources for foreclosure mitigation efforts.


------------------------------------------------------------------------

Come to Malibu and Adopt A Pet

Sat, Feb 7, 11 am-3 pm

Malibu Country Mart
3835 Cross Creek Road

Local rescue group Bark Avenue Foundation and K-9 Connection, a group that pairs at-risk teens with shelter dogs as they learn the basics of obedience, will join forces in Malibu. Adoptable dogs (including obedience-trained graduates of the K-9 Connection's program) and cats will be out in force at the Malibu Country Mart. If you are looking to add a furry member to your family, come on out.

Malibu passed an ordinance in May banning plastic bags, this will take effect this month for grocery stores, food vendors, restaurants, pharmacies and city facilities. After one year, all other retailers and vendors in Malibu must comply.

To kick start the change, Heal the Bay is having their second annual A Day Without a Bag event. It is scheduled to take place this week, with local stores, including Ralphs grocery store. This event is a countrywide day of education and grassroots action about the benefits of using reusable shopping bags over plastic and paper disposable ones.

Local environmental groups and organizations will be at the following local sites to distribute free, reusable bags:

Malibu Kiwanis Club at Colony Plaza/ CVS

Santa Monica Baykeeper at How's Market

Boy's and Girl's Club Green Team at PC Greens

Surfrider Foundation at the Mlaibu Country Mart

The Malibu Surfing Association at Ralphs

This free bag program began on Tuesday and will continue through Dec. 26th.

As part of our ongoing effort to contribute to our community and envioronment, Bentzen Levin Real Estate is offering free reusable canvas grocery bags.

To get your free reusable canvas grocery bag, stop in one of our area offices.

Bentzen Levin Real Estate Bentzen Levin Real Estate

22611 Pacific Coast Hwy. 29575 Pacific Coast Hwy.

Malibu, CA 90265 Malibu, CA 90265

Or call Marguerite at 310 456-0220

Offer valid while supplies last

Visit the Adamson House For Their Annual Holiday Evening Tours

Fri, Dec 19, 7, 7:30 & 8 pm
Adamson House, 23200 PCH, Malibu

Docents have decorated the Adamson House for the holidays. These special night tours display prized ornaments and decorations throughout the house. Tickets are $12 for Adults, $5 for children. Tour includes refreshments. Call for reservations (310) 456-8432.

Come to Malibu and Have Breakfast With Santa

Sat, Dec 20, Two seatings 8:30 am & 10:30 am
Auditorium at Pt. Dume Elementary

Treat your child to a special morning out with Santa Claus and his elves. Activities include "all you can eat" pancake breakfast, arts & crafts, a special visit time with Santa and souvenirs. Cost: $5 per person or $15 for a family of 4. For more information, call (310) 317-1364.