Home Buyer Tax Credit Could Expand:
A first time home buyer tax credit of up to $8000 has helped to move housing inventory during an otherwise sluggish real estate cycle. Now both legislators and the business community are hoping to build on the incentive's success by expanding it.
A number of bills have been introduced in the House and Senate that lobby for an expansion of the measure. Among the proposed changes:
+ Setting a new cap of $15,000
+ Extending the tax break into mid-2010
+ Making the benefit available to all home buyers, not just first-timers.
+ offering a separate tax credit to $3,000 for borrowers who refinance.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Dilworth Parade July 4th
10:00 A.M.
Decorate your bikes, tricycles, strollers, and wagons
Meet at the corner of Berkeley and Lexington
The fire truck will lead the way
(look for the donation can for the firefighters)
Ribbons for the best decorations
Family Games at latta Park
Immediately following the parade
Water slide, potato sack races, balloon toss and more
Fun Fun Fun for everyone
Decorate your bikes, tricycles, strollers, and wagons
Meet at the corner of Berkeley and Lexington
The fire truck will lead the way
(look for the donation can for the firefighters)
Ribbons for the best decorations
Family Games at latta Park
Immediately following the parade
Water slide, potato sack races, balloon toss and more
Fun Fun Fun for everyone
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Charlotte Sypmhony's Summer Pops 2009 Series
The Charlotte Symphony wraps up its popular Summer Pops 2009 Series with two more concerts at Symphony Park, June 28 and July 3. The ever-popular Albert-George Schram will return to the summer stage each Sunday evening in June to lead the orchestra in light classics and popular favorites. These shows are free; a $5 donation is suggested. Preludes are at 7 p.m., and the orchestra begins at 8:15 p.m. For more information, visit charlottesymphony.org.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Brown Bag Wednesdays Summer Drop In at Freedom Park
Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department sponsors the “Brown Bag Wednesdays Summer Drop-In” series on Wednesdays, June 17 - August 5, 2009, 10am–12pm at Freedom Park shelter #3 (just below the Mahlon Adams Pavilion near the lake). Youngsters should bring their own bag lunch and share a picnic in the park!
These sessions are for boys and girls, ages 6-12. All sessions are FREE! Participants engage in a variety of fun activities including crafts, African drumming, wacky science, sports, wellness and fitness activities.
The following is a list of scheduled activities:
· June 17: Super Olympics
· June 24: Sports
· July1: Fitness with Ms. Brooke
· July 8: African Drumming
· July 15: Wacky Science
· July 22: Do it yourself crafts
· July 29: Do it yourself crafts II
· August 5: Party Time (Lunch provided this day!)
Participants must register by June 10, 2009. Space is limited. To register visit www.parkandrec.com, click on Eparks, and use Course Barcode #45427 or call 311 or Linda Ramseur Williams at 704 336-7644.
These sessions are for boys and girls, ages 6-12. All sessions are FREE! Participants engage in a variety of fun activities including crafts, African drumming, wacky science, sports, wellness and fitness activities.
The following is a list of scheduled activities:
· June 17: Super Olympics
· June 24: Sports
· July1: Fitness with Ms. Brooke
· July 8: African Drumming
· July 15: Wacky Science
· July 22: Do it yourself crafts
· July 29: Do it yourself crafts II
· August 5: Party Time (Lunch provided this day!)
Participants must register by June 10, 2009. Space is limited. To register visit www.parkandrec.com, click on Eparks, and use Course Barcode #45427 or call 311 or Linda Ramseur Williams at 704 336-7644.
Dilworth Parade July 4th
The summer is upon us and it's time to celebrate Dilworth-style on the 4th of July. We are holding a 4th of July parade down Berkeley Avenue --- open to all of Dilworth ---complete with Fire Truck followed by kids and families on bikes. We hope you all can come and be seen with your neighbors. It's truly a special event for Dilworth.
Dilworth introduces "Dilworth Cares"
DCDA Launches DILWORTH CARES Initiative
If you are not familiar with "Dilworth Cares", please read the article in the most recent Quarterly or check it out on the Dilworth website (dilworthonline.org) .
http://www.dilworthonline.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=213&Itemid=155
"Dilworth Cares", in a nutshell, is a new initiative of DCDA with the goal of connecting people who have with people in need. There are so many needs in our community and sometimes we are not aware of them until too late. The Dilworth Cares Loop will strive to keep you informed as to immediate needs of agencies or individuals in our community. Who knows when something you have and don't need is exactly the item that will make a difference in another person's life!
Rather than send future needs through the Neighborhood Network, we will be sending emails to only those persons who have requested to be on the Dilworth Cares email distribution list so.......................
PLEASE email Nancy Kramer (nancy1981@mindspring.com) and indicate "Yes, I want to be on the list!" in the subject line if you want to stay connected to Dilworth Cares.
Additionally, it you have ideas or are aware of needs or opportunities, please let me know. Thanks!!
Nancy Kramer
DCDA Board, DIlworth Cares Chair
P.S. We have already fulfilled a need from Pat's Place for a crib. This crib will go to a young woman who is expecting a child as a result of rape.
If you are not familiar with "Dilworth Cares", please read the article in the most recent Quarterly or check it out on the Dilworth website (dilworthonline.org) .
http://www.dilworthonline.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=213&Itemid=155
"Dilworth Cares", in a nutshell, is a new initiative of DCDA with the goal of connecting people who have with people in need. There are so many needs in our community and sometimes we are not aware of them until too late. The Dilworth Cares Loop will strive to keep you informed as to immediate needs of agencies or individuals in our community. Who knows when something you have and don't need is exactly the item that will make a difference in another person's life!
Rather than send future needs through the Neighborhood Network, we will be sending emails to only those persons who have requested to be on the Dilworth Cares email distribution list so.......................
PLEASE email Nancy Kramer (nancy1981@mindspring.com) and indicate "Yes, I want to be on the list!" in the subject line if you want to stay connected to Dilworth Cares.
Additionally, it you have ideas or are aware of needs or opportunities, please let me know. Thanks!!
Nancy Kramer
DCDA Board, DIlworth Cares Chair
P.S. We have already fulfilled a need from Pat's Place for a crib. This crib will go to a young woman who is expecting a child as a result of rape.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency
By: Diane Tuman, Zillow Content Manager June 10, 2009
Don’t qualify for the Obama Refinance or Loan Modification programs but still want your piece of the pie? Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the Feds will pay you to save energy through home improvement projects (and energy-efficient autos).
Quick summary of Energy Tax Incentives (from Department of Energy):
Consumers who purchase and install specific products, such as energy-efficient windows, insulation, doors, roofs, and heating and cooling equipment in existing homes can receive a tax credit for 30% of the cost, up to $1,500, for improvements “placed in service” starting January 1, 2009, through December 31, 2010.
What you need to know about Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency (from ENERGY STAR):
must be “placed in service” (i.e., installed) from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010
must be for taxpayer’s principal residence, EXCEPT for geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, and small wind energy systems (where second homes and rentals qualify)
$1,500 is the maximum total amount that can be claimed for all products placed in service in 2009 & 2010 for most home improvements, EXCEPT for geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, fuel cells, and small wind energy systems which are not subject to this cap, and are in effect through 2016 must have a Manufacturer Certification Statement to qualify
for record keeping, save your receipts and the Manufacturer Certification Statement
improvements made in 2009 will be claimed on your 2009 taxes (filed by April 15, 2010) — use IRS Tax Form 5695 (2009 version) — it will be available late 2009 or early 2010
If you are building a new home, you can qualify for the tax credit for geothermal heat pumps, photovoltaics, solar water heaters, small wind energy systems and fuel cells, but not the tax credits for windows, doors, insulation, roofs, HVAC, or non-solar water heaters.
So, what is a tax credit?
A tax credit is generally more valuable than an equivalent tax deduction because a tax credit reduces tax dollar-for-dollar, while a deduction only removes a percentage of the tax that is owed. Consumers can itemize purchases on their federal income tax form, which will lower the total amount of tax they owe the government.
One big caveat according to the non-profit Alliance to Save Energy, “In order to be eligible for the tax credit, heating and cooling equipment must meet specified measures of energy efficiency. Individuals can search for qualifying products on the, Consortium for Energy Efficiency’s Web site.
So, if you were planning on doing these upgrades to your home anyway, make sure to follow the guidelines so you can get a tax credit!
Don’t qualify for the Obama Refinance or Loan Modification programs but still want your piece of the pie? Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the Feds will pay you to save energy through home improvement projects (and energy-efficient autos).
Quick summary of Energy Tax Incentives (from Department of Energy):
Consumers who purchase and install specific products, such as energy-efficient windows, insulation, doors, roofs, and heating and cooling equipment in existing homes can receive a tax credit for 30% of the cost, up to $1,500, for improvements “placed in service” starting January 1, 2009, through December 31, 2010.
What you need to know about Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency (from ENERGY STAR):
must be “placed in service” (i.e., installed) from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010
must be for taxpayer’s principal residence, EXCEPT for geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, and small wind energy systems (where second homes and rentals qualify)
$1,500 is the maximum total amount that can be claimed for all products placed in service in 2009 & 2010 for most home improvements, EXCEPT for geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, solar panels, fuel cells, and small wind energy systems which are not subject to this cap, and are in effect through 2016 must have a Manufacturer Certification Statement to qualify
for record keeping, save your receipts and the Manufacturer Certification Statement
improvements made in 2009 will be claimed on your 2009 taxes (filed by April 15, 2010) — use IRS Tax Form 5695 (2009 version) — it will be available late 2009 or early 2010
If you are building a new home, you can qualify for the tax credit for geothermal heat pumps, photovoltaics, solar water heaters, small wind energy systems and fuel cells, but not the tax credits for windows, doors, insulation, roofs, HVAC, or non-solar water heaters.
So, what is a tax credit?
A tax credit is generally more valuable than an equivalent tax deduction because a tax credit reduces tax dollar-for-dollar, while a deduction only removes a percentage of the tax that is owed. Consumers can itemize purchases on their federal income tax form, which will lower the total amount of tax they owe the government.
One big caveat according to the non-profit Alliance to Save Energy, “In order to be eligible for the tax credit, heating and cooling equipment must meet specified measures of energy efficiency. Individuals can search for qualifying products on the, Consortium for Energy Efficiency’s Web site.
So, if you were planning on doing these upgrades to your home anyway, make sure to follow the guidelines so you can get a tax credit!
Don't Lose Too Much Sleep Over Rising Mortgage Rates
By: Alison Paoli, Zillow PR Coordinator June 9, 2009
In the past few weeks, we have seen mortgage rates rise above 5.5% for a 30-year fixed loan from the sub-5.0% levels we have enjoyed over the past few months. And though it may seem like a big jump over a short period of time, I thought it was worth a glance back in history to see what rates once were to remind us that they are still historically low and that we are still getting a better deal than home buyers did back in the early 80’s.
The real-time rate as reported on Zillow Mortgage Marketplace at this very moment is 5.65%. Yes, it is higher than rates we have seen in past few months, but considerably lower than rates over the past 30-40 years.
Take a look at the image below. The graph ends in October of 2008 but even then, at one of its lowest points, it was at 6.0%.
So the bottom line is, if you are planning to buy or refinance in the near future, you can bet your bottom dollar that you will be getting a historically low interest rate.
In the past few weeks, we have seen mortgage rates rise above 5.5% for a 30-year fixed loan from the sub-5.0% levels we have enjoyed over the past few months. And though it may seem like a big jump over a short period of time, I thought it was worth a glance back in history to see what rates once were to remind us that they are still historically low and that we are still getting a better deal than home buyers did back in the early 80’s.
The real-time rate as reported on Zillow Mortgage Marketplace at this very moment is 5.65%. Yes, it is higher than rates we have seen in past few months, but considerably lower than rates over the past 30-40 years.
Take a look at the image below. The graph ends in October of 2008 but even then, at one of its lowest points, it was at 6.0%.
So the bottom line is, if you are planning to buy or refinance in the near future, you can bet your bottom dollar that you will be getting a historically low interest rate.
Wilmore Day is June 13th
Charlotte’s Wilmore neighborhood celebrates community with its annual Wilmore Day celebration Saturday, June 13 at Abbott Park. This year’s event is shaping up to be the best Wilmore Day ever with music, a raffle, kid’s games, prizes, fish, hotdogs and more.
The parade will kick off at 10:30 a.m. Enter a car or float in the parade to represent your street. Call Jessica Barnwell to enter 704.375.4501. There will also be a raffle, and booths selling crafts and other items.
For more info, visit the Wilmore Neighborhood Association site.
The parade will kick off at 10:30 a.m. Enter a car or float in the parade to represent your street. Call Jessica Barnwell to enter 704.375.4501. There will also be a raffle, and booths selling crafts and other items.
For more info, visit the Wilmore Neighborhood Association site.
June Garden Tours with Winghaven
Wing Haven Gardens in Myers Park is offering tours during the month of June. Wing Haven has been a special part of Charlotte since its creation by Elizabeth and Edwin Clarkson in 1927. The gardens, enclosed on all sides by brick walls, encompass almost three acres in the heart of Charlotte and include lovely vistas, formal gardens, and woodland areas. Throughout, the emphasis is on plantings for birds and other wildlife - providing cover, nesting sites, food, and water. Plaques and statuary, integrated into the garden walls and paths, reflect the spirit and beauty of Wing Haven and its creators.All tours are free; a $5 donation is suggested.
Pet Palooza Raises $90,000 for Animals
Pet Palooza Raises $90K for Animals
Where do you go to enroll your beloved pooch into Camp Bow Wow or commission an oil portrait of your diva-dog? Why Pet Palooza, of course! What is a Pet Palooza? It is an event to raise much-needed money for the Humane Society whose goal is stop the euthanizing of any animal. Pet Palooza raised $90,000 to save the lives of wonderful companions and loving pets! Congratulations!
And you can indulge your perky pet from gourmet pet food to couture clothing to sending them to swanky doggie-day care! Oh, to be a dog!
Click here for more pictures from Pet Palooza!
Where do you go to enroll your beloved pooch into Camp Bow Wow or commission an oil portrait of your diva-dog? Why Pet Palooza, of course! What is a Pet Palooza? It is an event to raise much-needed money for the Humane Society whose goal is stop the euthanizing of any animal. Pet Palooza raised $90,000 to save the lives of wonderful companions and loving pets! Congratulations!
And you can indulge your perky pet from gourmet pet food to couture clothing to sending them to swanky doggie-day care! Oh, to be a dog!
Click here for more pictures from Pet Palooza!
Charlotte Shakespeare Festival 2009
Charlotte Shakespeare Festival 2009
The Charlotte Shakespeare Festival returns to the Queen City for a fourth year, presenting free family-friendly performances of classic plays through June 13. The festival kicks off Sunday, May 31, with the romantic comedy “Twelfth Night” outdoors at The Green Uptown. Wednesdays are Shakespeare trivia nights - come early at 7:15 p.m. for a chance to win prizes. Sundays are family days - free Shakespeare workshops held at 5 p.m. prior to the show. Picnics are welcome. No reservations required.
The Charlotte Shakespeare Festival is also offering free Shakespeare performance workshops for young people (ages 10-18) and their families on Sundays at 5 p.m. prior to performances. The workshops are taught by professional actors/educators and will consist of theatre games, exercises and readings from the script. Bring the family and enjoy a fun hands-on experience with one of Shakespeare’s plays. No experience necessary.
For more information, visit charlotteshakespeare.com/.
The Charlotte Shakespeare Festival returns to the Queen City for a fourth year, presenting free family-friendly performances of classic plays through June 13. The festival kicks off Sunday, May 31, with the romantic comedy “Twelfth Night” outdoors at The Green Uptown. Wednesdays are Shakespeare trivia nights - come early at 7:15 p.m. for a chance to win prizes. Sundays are family days - free Shakespeare workshops held at 5 p.m. prior to the show. Picnics are welcome. No reservations required.
The Charlotte Shakespeare Festival is also offering free Shakespeare performance workshops for young people (ages 10-18) and their families on Sundays at 5 p.m. prior to performances. The workshops are taught by professional actors/educators and will consist of theatre games, exercises and readings from the script. Bring the family and enjoy a fun hands-on experience with one of Shakespeare’s plays. No experience necessary.
For more information, visit charlotteshakespeare.com/.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Taste of Charlotte - This weekend
This year marks the 11th year of the Annual Taste of Charlotte Festival! The festival starts Friday, June 5th at 11:00 and runs until Sunday at 6:00. The location is uptown Charlotte on Tryon Street, between MLK Jr Blvd to 6th Street. Admission to Taste of Charlotte is free, and guest can purchase coins for their food and beverages. Enjoy delicious food while you stroll along Tryon Street. The festival is an all ages event! Come out and see one of the best festivals in Charlotte!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Dunk your Dog Day
Join the Golden Retriever Rescue Club of Charlotte this Saturday at Wickersham's K-9 Ranch from 12-3. Come! Beat the heat. Plus all proceeds benefit the Golden Retriever Rescue. Admission is $20 for the first dog, $5 for the second dog, and all other dogs swim for free!! This event is BYOB! ( Bring your own ball!) You may also want to bring comfort items for yourself, including yard chairs and doggie towels. Please note that all dogs will be required to show proof of rabies and current vaccinations, including bordatella. All goldens must arrive on a leash, with collar and ID Tags. Wickersham K-9 Ranch is located at 6010 Fish Road, Marshville.
Skirt After Work - Go Red for Women
Today, Wednesday, June 3rd from 5-8, Skirt readers and staff will be at The Wine Shop at Foxcroft for an evening of networking and fun! The event offers $7 featured wines by the glass, and $7 Charcuterie and Cheese Plates. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Go Red for Women, the American Heart Association's movement to increase awareness of women's risk of heart disease. The Wine Shop at Foxcroft is located at 7824 Fairview Road.
Dilworth Community Meeting Tonight
Wednesday, June 3, 7PM
Your next Dilworth community meeting is scheduled for tomorrow (Wednesday) evening, June 3, at 7 PM. Join us at the Tom Sykes recreation center (entrance under the arch at Dilworth Elementary). All are welcome...
Your next Dilworth community meeting is scheduled for tomorrow (Wednesday) evening, June 3, at 7 PM. Join us at the Tom Sykes recreation center (entrance under the arch at Dilworth Elementary). All are welcome...
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