Laugh It Up at Tommy T’s
January 31, 2008
The Tri-Valley town of Pleasanton, which has traditionally been known for its historic downtown area, small-town charm and beautiful parks is turning things up a n
otch. In mid-2007, Pleasanton became home to Tommy T’s comedy nightclub. The club is in full swing and serves up audiences’ local favorites and top comedic headliners. Recent acts have included the likes of DL Hughley and Christopher Titus. A few weeks ago, I took the plunge and spent my night downing food, drinks and a belly of laughs at Tommy T’s.
The group I went with opted for the 7:30 show. We had heard that it might be easier to get a great table and not have to wait outside in the freezing cold. And we knew we had to order two items in addition to the cost of the show, so we figured we would eat dinner at our table before the show started. I highly recommend… Read more
Dublin Ulferts Center Offers A Taste of Asia
January 29, 2008
In the middle of all the new residential and commercial real estate in Dublin, the Ulferts Center stands out with its unique architecture and assortment of dining and shopping options. Diablo Magazine recently put together a great article detailing the myriad of food options available for customers located within this recent addition to the Tri-Valley.
Will the Proposed Conforming Loan Amounts Actually Happen?
January 28, 2008
By now, some of you have heard about the proposed changes for conforming loan amounts contained within the Economic Stimulus Package. It is currently being rushed through Washington, and up until a few days ago, appeared to have favorable momentum. However, some push back is starting to occur on the details contained within the proposal. The package includes a provision that would increase the maximum conforming 
loan amount as high as $729,750 in high-cost markets. One thing to note, California is currently not considered a high cost area. Only Alaska and Hawaii have been designated with the high cost tag. In order to get the maximum conforming amount of $729,750, California would have to be identified as a high cost area. Additionally, the new conforming loan amounts will be temporary, possibly reverting back by year’s end.
If passed, this should be fantastic news for California homeowners, potential buyers, and real estate activity in the Tri-Valley. Here’s how it should help. Read more
Restaurant Review: Itto Sushi
January 24, 2008
Did someone say sushi? I became a sushi fanatic about 7 years ago when I had my first experience at a small sushi place located in downtown Walnut Creek. Since t
hen, I have tried numerous sushi establishments in the greater Bay Area. In my opinion, one of the best happens to be a 5 minute drive from my home in San Ramon. Itto Sushi opened about a year ago and has garnered quite a following in the last 12 months. It has quickly become a favorite judging from the busy dining room and bustling servers.
Every time I have been, the sushi, the traditional Japanese dishes, and the experience in general has been excellent. The staff is friendly and try their best to please. The menu is stacked with options. Over twenty popular rolls are offered and there must be half a dozen combinations and categories not including the section on tempura, teriyaki and udon. Our kids also love the place, with their noodles, chicken teriyaki, miso soup and the ultimate fun- hot towels! I have even been able to convince my 6 year old son to down some Unagi. My recommendation is the “Girly Man” roll. Itto Sushi is located in San Ramon at 2551 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Reservations recommended at 925.838.4848.
Itto Sushi gets 4 out of 5 corks
The Fed Rate Cut and What it Means
January 22, 2008
The Fed made a significant move today with an emergency Federal Funds rate cut of 75 basis points. The move was made after global financial markets sold off in dramatic fashion and the Dow Jones industrial average opened today down 450 points.
It appears that finally the Fed is taking significant action to prevent dropping into a formidable recession. There is also talk out on the street that the Fed might take another 25 to 50 basis point cut at the end of the month during their formal meeting.
The big question is what effect does the lowering of the funds rate have on consumers? Specifically, how does it affect items such as mortgage interest rates, real estate in the Tri-Valley, the ability to borrow money, consumer spending, etc. I found an article that clearly breaks down the impacts of the rate cut by the Fed.
