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Staycation in Anaheim | Out & About

Southern California’s city of Anaheim lies just outside Los Angeles. Famous for being home to the enormous Disneyland Resort, it’s an especially popular staycation destination for families. There are many reasons beyond Disneyland, however, to book a staycation in SoCal’s exciting Anaheim. Looking for inspiration? Here are our top recommendations on where to stay, where to dine, and what to do in Anaheim!

Where to Stay in Anaheim

Westin Anaheim Resort

Part of the Marriot group, the Westin Anaheim Resort is a luxurious modern hotel that boasts signature amenities and a peaceful ambiance. Relax in the sunshine at the outdoor swimming pool for a sunny pool day. Onsite dining options include delectable Mexican fare and sumptuous steaks. In addition, the Westin has a great rooftop bar that overlooks Disney’s California Adventure. Located next to the Convention Center, it’s within easy reach of the city’s varied attractions.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa

A perfect treat for kids and adults alike, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa is luxury the Disney way. Start your day with a magical twist at the enchanting Napa Rose or Storytellers Café. The high-class resort features three inviting pools and a blissful spa with top-of-the-range treatments. There’s also a well-equipped fitness center, gift shop, laundry room, and free Wi-Fi. The beautiful guest rooms feature stunning artwork and murals, and each combines lashings of luxury with modern conveniences. A range of rooms and suites are available to accommodate between five and 13 guests.

Where to Eat

Enjoy a helping of nostalgia alongside tasty American fare at Ruby’s Diner, a retro diner that takes you back in time. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the menu includes quick and easy favorites to enjoy. Younger members of the family can enjoy the smaller plates on the kids’ menu.

For hearty comfort food after a fun-filled day out and about, there are few better places to unwind than The Kroft. With the rustic appeal, the gastropub offers a selection of homemade dishes. Likewise, this includes sandwiches and poutines, as well as a range of refreshing draught beers.

Where to Sip

Anaheim’s Uva Bar and Café boast a breezy patio and a Mediterranean ambiance. Located in Downtown Disney, the bar provides a great viewing point from which to watch the famous fireworks shows. Happy hour promotions keep the customers happy, and there’s a range of bar snacks to satisfy your hunger.

A fantastic place for a romantic night out with that special someone, The Blind Rabbit is a cool and intimate speakeasy-inspired bar. The décor, lighting, and ambiance transport visitors back to the times of prohibition. This of course includes a tempting food menu and extensive drinks list. Dare a shot of absinthe, sip a sumptuous cocktail, enjoy whiskies from around the world or keep it simple with a glass of beer.

What to See and Do in Anaheim

If you’re looking for a family-friendly affordable alternative to Disneyland (or, if you’re simply Disney-ed-out), Adventure City is home to an array of rides and activities. Baseball lovers can soak up the energy of a game at Angel Stadium, while hockey enthusiasts should head to the Honda Center.

If outdoor recreation is more appealing, the riverside Yorba Regional Park is a terrific place for strolling, biking, and picnicking, while the 58-acre Oak Canyon Nature Center is home to a diverse array of interesting flora and fauna.

Medieval Times makes for an exciting evening out for people of all ages, or adults can check out the live music at House of Blues.

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Celebrating Memorial Day Weekend | Home Tips

With Memorial Day Weekend approaching, you may already be thinking of ways to celebrate. As we gather to honor U.S. military heroes, marking the occasion can happen at home or out and about. From stay home celebrations to things to do in town, we’ve got plenty of ideas to inspire you.

Activities at Home

Set up classic yard games to enjoy over Memorial Day Weekend, great old-fashioned fun for people of all ages. You could even get some patriotic trinkets — think almost anything decorated with the American flag — as prizes for the winners. Fun garden games include horse shows, ring toss, cornhole, lawn darts, and bocce ball. You could also invest in a large set of Connect 4, chess, or a tumble tower to bring added fun to your outdoor party.

For a group that loves music and singing, karaoke can be a fun activity to get everyone in a celebratory mood. For Memorial Day Weekend, stick to singing patriotic songs over the mic. There’s a long list to choose from, with something to suit most musical tastes, with songs from, for example, Bruce Springsteen, Dolly Parton, Billy Ray Cyrus, Lee Greenwood, Alan Jackson, and Faith Hill. Karaoke is a great activity for indoor parties, though you can certainly take the singing outdoors too!

Memorial Day Weekend Recipes

There are many delicious Memorial Day meals to look forward to, from an array of grilled meats with a huge assortment of side salads to veggie kebabs, pizza, dips, and fajitas.

Whether you’re having a sit-down meal indoors, a picnic, or a BBQ bonanza, these two suggested recipes are great for bringing a little more patriotism to the table.

People of all ages love cupcakes. So, what could be better than a red, white, and blue cupcake? The swirl-topped vanilla cupcakes are tasty and look fantastic.

Patriotic sugared cherries are so quick and easy to make, yet look so elegant and tempting set out on a platter. The fun delicious treats need just three ingredients: cherries, white chocolate, and blue sugar.

Memorial Day Home Décor

Add a patriotic American flag banner to your home for Memorial Day Weekend, similar to this one from Pottery Barn. Made from Burlap, it’s strong and sturdy enough to survive the elements outside for some time. Hang from your fence, decorate your porch or take it indoors to adorn a wall, mantel, or staircase. If you’re feeling creative, you could also create your own flag-themed bunting from fabric or card.

It’s quick and easy to add splashes of patriotism to the dinner table with stylish fabric napkins in shades of red, white, and blue. They look especially classy when rolled within a complementary napkin ring. You could purchase napkin rings decorated with the classic stars and stripes to take it up another notch. Alternatively, buy paper flag napkins for outdoor dining.

Local Events around LA

If you want to get out and about over Memorial Day Weekend, there are plenty of terrific options around Los Angeles for the whole family.

Head to Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro to visit the awe-inspiring Battleship Iowa. While an amazing attraction at any time of the year, there’s an exciting lineup of free events along with the per on Memorial Day. Live music, face painting, displays of military vehicles, and a remembrance ceremony are just a few things to look forward to.

Honor military men and women at Santa Monica Pier, host to the moving Arlington West, the area’s largest military ceremony. You can also pay your respects at the patriotic ceremony at Forest Lawn cemetery.

Topanga Days, between May 28th and 30th, features a laid-back vibe, music, food, and crafts, and Happy Face Music Festival, on May 28th, has Cajon-Creole music and food, as well as a large area for kids’ fun.

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Economic update for the week ending May 21, 2022

Stock markets dropped again this week – The Dow suffered its eighth consecutive weekly loss which marks its longest weekly losing streak since 1923. The S&P and Nasdaq suffered their seventh weekly loss, their longest losing streak since 2001. It is a strange time.

First-quarter corporate profits were much stronger than expected, and the economy and job market are showing very strong numbers; however, investors fear that inflation, higher interest rates, war, supply chain shortages, and a China lockdown will soon lead to a drop in profits, and possibly a recession.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 31,261.90, down 2.1% from 32,196.66 last week. It is down 11.4% year-to-date.  The S&P 500 closed the week at 3,901.36, down 2.4% from 4,023.89 last week. The S&P is down 15.6% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 11,354.62, down 2.8% from 11,805.00 last week. It is down 24.5% year-to-date. 

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 2.78%, down from 2.93% last week.  The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 2.99%, down from 3.10% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields. 

Mortgage rates – Home mortgage rates appear to be stabilizing. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates as of May 19, 2022 for the most popular loan products were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 5.25%, down from 5.30% last week. The 15-year fixed was 4.43%, down from 4.48% last week. The 5-year ARM was 4.08%, up from 3.98% last week. 

U.S. existing-home sales – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 5.61 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in April, down 2.4% month-over-month from the annualized number of sales in March. Year-over-year sales were down 5.9% from the annualized rate of 5.96 million in April 2021.  The median price of a home in the U.S. in April was $391,200, up 14.8% from $340,700 one year ago. April marked a record 122 consecutive months of year-over-year increases in the median price. Inventory levels ticked up slightly from March but remained near record lows. There was a 2.2-month supply of homes for sale in April, down from a 2.3 month supply one year ago.  First-time buyers accounted for 28% of all sales.  Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 17% of all sales.  All-cash purchases accounted for 26% of all sales.  Foreclosure and short-sales accounted for less than 1% of all sales remaining at a historic low. 

California existing-home sales –  Lower inventory has led to a drop in the number of sales and a rise in prices – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 419,040 on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in April, which marked an 8.5% year-over-year drop from the number of homes sold in April 2021. Existing-home sales in the first quarter of 2022 are down 7.0% from the number of homes sold in the first quarter of 2021, which pretty closely matches the drop in the number of new listings. The median price paid for a home in March was $884,890, up 4.2% from March’s 2021 median price of $849,080. Year-over-year prices are up 8.5%. There was a 1.8-month supply of homes for sale in April, up slightly from a 1.6-month supply of homes in April 2021. 

The graph below shows regional figures by county in Southern California.

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From BeReal to ‘Netflix & Livestream’ and More! | Tech News

It’s time for another round-up of the latest tech headlines. We’re sharing bit-size versions of the leading news in the world of tech. From BeReal to Netflix & Livestream and more, we have you covered!

Robinhood Working on non-custodial Crypto Wallet

With the release of Robinhood’s first crypto wallet this year, the company has announced a second one. The company’s latest product will be a non-custodial. This gives users sole custody over the private keys necessary to control their money on the blockchain. In addition, Robinhood has also stated that the new wallet will be offered as a standalone app. Likewise, the company hopes that it will “feature the same simple and accessible design” as its main service. Robinhood’s new wallet will also offer the ability to store and trade cryptocurrencies. This will include many cryptocurrencies not available through the main Robinhood app with no network fees. In addition, the wallet will support NFTs and DeFi (decentralized finance) protocols.

Apple to Introduce New Accessibility Features like Live Caption

This week Apple announced the addition of several new accessibility features. The features are for its various computing platforms, debuting this year in software updates for iOS devices. One of the features, Live Captions, will be able to transcribe any audio content. This will include content for FaceTime calls video conferencing apps (with auto attribution to identify the speaker), streaming video, or in-person conversations. Apple is, of course, not the first tech giant to offer similar features on its devices. Google has been working on its Live Caption since the release of Android 10. Likewise, similar features are also available on a select number of other Android phones as well.

FDA Digital Health Leader Joins Google Team

Google has found its new senior director of global digital health strategy in Bakul Patel, the former FDA leader. The news comes as Google works to push further into its health and healthcare initiatives. Likewise, these ambitions have ranged from mining big data for algorithms to developing disease-detecting tools and more. Regarding the opportunity, Bakul Patel shared the following: “I am looking forward to learning from the teams in health across Google and Alphabet and helping build a unified digital health and regulatory strategy.”  

Netflix May Move Into the World of Livestreaming

As first reported by Deadline, Netflix is hoping to move into the world of live streaming. As far as what type of content, the company is looking to live stream for stand-up specials and various live events. Netflix seeking to expand on its featured content could, in turn, allow it to air live reunions, as noted by Deadline. Likewise, the live streaming feature would also be of use for competition shows and other types of content. The news comes after the streaming giant held its first-ever live and in-person comedy festival in Los Angeles, ‘Netflix is a Joke.’ While specials from the festival have not yet aired, the event proved to be a success. If the company is to move forward on the feature, they’ll join the likes of Disney + and more who have shown success in live streaming. 

BeReal, the Anti-Instagram App Grows In Popularity as Fun Alternative

An app that bills itself as the “anti-Instagram”, Beetle has become a popular favorite among Gen Zs and beyond. Although the app debuted in 2019, BeReal has seen a recent surge in users looking for something real. The app offers “a new and unique way to discover who your friends really are in their daily life,” according to the company. Users for the app receive a push notification, letting them know it’s time to “BeReal” during a two-minute window each day. Being that posting windows are at random, the app takes away the planned content option; in addition, users are required to take a photo simultaneously using both their front and back camera and post it to the feed. User’s that post late or takes multiple photos will be unable to see their friend’s feed. BeReal provides a gamification version of daily photo sharing without filters and content pillars. Those seeking to give the BeReal app a try can do so from their app store.

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Weekend Events: May 20 – May 22

The weekend has almost arrived, and so has our weekly round-up of local fun. For all the best happenings this May 20 through May 22, read on!

Los Angeles Weekend Events for May 20 – May 22

Jazz @ LACMA

When: Until June 24

Where: LACMA | Mid-Wilshire

What: Music returns to the serene outdoor space of the Los Angeles Contemporary Museum of Art. The mid-city museum is bringing back its annual summer series on Friday evenings underneath the stars. The best part? It’s free! 

90’s Skate Night

When: Until May 22 

Where: Wisdom | Arts District DTLA

What: If you dig 90’s aesthetic AND rollerskating, you’re in luck! Bucketlisters and Wisdome are taking it back a couple of decades to give you the 90’s roller night of your dreams. Glide over to their projection-filled dome and skate beneath the ultimate throwback.

LA County Fair

When: May 5 – May 30

Where: Pomona

What: There are only a couple of weekends left for you to make your way to the LA County Fair! Visit the Pomona fairgrounds for what has been a local tradition since 1921. While there won’t be much livestock at the former agricultural fair, there will be plenty of fun, rides, performances, and more!

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events for May 20 – May 22

Create to Distress Workshop

When: May 20

Where: Virginia Avenue Park | Santa Monica

What: Join this Friday’s Canvas Bag workshop ‘Create to Distress’ with Artist Carmela Morales. In this class, you’ll learn how to personalize a canvas bag while learning how to work on your mental well-being.

Rooftop Cinema Club

When: through July 4 

Where: El Segundo

What: This Friday, May 20, and Saturday, May 21, catch a screening of ‘Legally Blonde,’ ‘Coco’ or ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ at El Segundo’s Rooftop Cinema Club series. The masters of alfresco rooftop movies provide the perfect setting for warm May weekend weather and an evening of fun under the stars.

Flamboyance: A Topiary Menagerie

When: Until July 31 

Where: Rancho Palos Verdes/Rolling Hills Estates

What: Over 100 topiary animals will be on view at the South Coast Botanic Garden now through July 31. The colorful installation, ‘Flamboyance’ includes 70 pink flamingos filled with begonias, as well as floral recreations of dogs, rabbits, monkeys, butterflies, and dolphins.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events for May 20 – May 22

7th Annual Subaru’s Great Big Family Play Day

When: May 22

Where: Griffith Park

What: LA’s most popular family festival returns this weekend for the 7th Annual Subaru Great Big Family Play Day. Head to Griffith Park this Sunday, May 22, for a day full of entertainment, special guests, giveaways, and of course, fun! 

All-Age Skate Night

When: Every Saturday

Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale

What: Get your roll on this Saturday at Moonlight Rollerway’s All-age skate night. The Saturday night skate will be for all ages from 8 PM to 11 PM, with tickets required for entry.

Sundays at The Gentle Barn

When: February 27

Where: 15825 Sierra Highway | Santa Clarita

What: Connect with nature this weekend at The Gentle Barn. Stop by on Sunday from 10 am-2 pm to hug the cows, cuddle the turkeys, and enjoy a beautiful day at the barn.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events for May 20 – May 22

Greater Conejo Valley Chamber 2022 Recognition Gala

When: May 20, 2022

Where: Hyatt Regency Westlake | Westlake Village

What: The Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce will host their Recognition Gala, celebrating the Art of Excellence, on Friday, May 20, 2022, from 6:30 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Westlake, honoring a number of winners in different award categories. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate with your local community members!

43rd Annual Young Authors Fair & Family Literacy Celebration

When: May 21 

Where: kidSTREAM Children’s Museum | Camarillo

What: Support the young local writers in your community at the 43rd Annual Young Authors Fair & Family Literacy Celebration. Young authors will have a chance to participate in fun book-related STREAM activities while reading the works of other writers. In addition, there will be an engaging presentation by Kirsten Larson, author of Wood, Wire, Wings: Lilian Todd Invents an Airplane.

Children to Love Fundraiser 

When: May 22

Where: Prospector Ranch | Thousand Oaks

What: Enjoy live music, food, wine, and more at the Children to Love Fundraiser: Benefiting Children in Ukraine and Uganda. In addition, the event will also feature local artists selling their trades. All funds will benefit children at Future for Children in Ukraine and Mercy Childcare Village in Uganda.

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Best New Restaurants to Try This May | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles is full of popular and new restaurants to check out. Rather than begin an endless search, we’re sharing our current favorites for you to try. Read on for our round-up of worthy places to dine this May.

Magari

Location: 6115 Sunset Blvd Suite 100, Los Angeles

The Magari restaurant is located in Los Angeles, so it is suitable if you don’t want to go miles searching for a restaurant this May. The restaurant has 3 chefs, one from Boston and the other two from Italy and Japan. The result is an interesting menu that allows you the freedom to try new dishes every time. Perhaps you might enjoy the restaurant’s highlight, the roasted orata with katsuobushi acqua pazza. Sounds intriguing, right?

Bar Moruno

Location: 3705 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles

The restaurant Bar Moruno places Spanish food in full view. Here, you interact with tortilla Espanola, fish, and roasted vegetables. The restaurant uses an open-fired oven to give the food a unique touch. The restaurant is also famous for its wine which accompanies the food perfectly.

Pasjoli

Location: 2732 Main St, Santa Monica

The Pasjoli restaurant is set aside from its competition by its creativity. The level of innovation is reflected in the restaurant’s menu. Coupled with its set-up, it is easily one of the fanciest restaurants in Westside. The French restaurant’s execution of artistic recipes is illustrated in dishes like the chicken liver-stuffed brioche.

Sushi Chitose

Location: 402 S Pacific Coast Hwy, Redondo Beach

While other restaurants try to expand the variety of dishes they provide, the Sushi Chitose specializes in sushi. The interior is a traditional set-up that looks a bit run-down. That only adds to the experience. It is the best location if you are looking to have the best sushi in Southern California this May.

Angler

Location: 8500 Beverly Blvd Suite 117, Los Angeles

Located in Beverly Hills is a restaurant staying at the top of the dining game. It incorporates ingredients sought from every corner of the planet. You will enjoy the service as much as the food. So if you are looking for a restaurant with unparalleled customer experience to try this May, this will be a fantastic option.

Pizzeria Sei

Location: 8781 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles

What about pizza? Nothing beats a classic pizza on a wonderful dinner night. Pizzeria Sei in Los Angeles raises the bar for quality pizza. The restaurant uses wood-fired ovens to add to its Tokyo style. And while you wait for your order, you can enjoy Italian appetizers to further uplift your experience.

Angelini Ristorante & Bar

Location: 1038 N Swarthmore Ave, Pacific Palisades

If you are looking for an all-Italian experience, the Angelini Ristorante & Bar provides the perfect match. The restaurant is an excellent location for both singles and family dining this May. Here you get to enjoy a new restaurant with the classic Italian dishes in the hands of an experienced chef. And if you want to try Italian for the first time, there is no need to worry. This is not one of those restaurants with overly complicated menus. Settle for the classics and ease your way up.

Tuk Tuk Thai

Location: 1638 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles

Last but not least is a restaurant embracing street style. The Thai restaurant gives you a unique experience in terms of spices. With the restaurant specials such as the pork-belly-topped bowl or the pan-fried noodles, you can experience different Thai spice levels upon request.

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Family-Friendly Farms to Visit | Out & About

Looking to get away from the buzz of the city? Family-friendly farms are a great choice for treating yourself and your family to some quiet time! Set in serene locations, there are more than a few farms worth the LA traffic within California. Read on for our round-up of top farms you can visit!

Amy’s Farm

When it comes to family-friendly farms, Amy’s Farm is an excellent place to start. This urban farm is located just outside Los Angeles. The farm is a good choice if you need new ideas to incorporate into your home garden. The farm focuses on organic farming methods alongside the sustainability of implementing them. Your family will enjoy the guided tour that includes harvesting vegetables and feeding animals. The farm is closed on Sundays and Mondays, but you are welcome every other day, whether making your reservations online or looking for a stop and visit arrangement.

Avila Valley Barn

Sometimes a visit to the farm needs an injection of fun activities, especially if you tag your kids along, won’t you agree? The Avila Valley Barn is a fantastic place to visit, considering the harvest time and special holiday events held on the farm. Families can indulge in picking vegetables and enjoy the delicious farm-grown food. Children can pony rides as you get a chance to grill on the BBQ stands.

Tanaka Farms

Another excellent choice for family-friendly farms,  you’ll find the experience of a lifetime at Tanaka Farms. The farm focuses on interactive teaching for children all year round. Not only do the children have fun, but they also have some fun on the farm. In the meantime, you can enjoy the wagon rides as you tour the farm. And of course, there are market stands where you can just walk up any day of the week and grab yourself top-shelf products.

Gilchrist Farm

If you don’t have time to visit a farm during the week, there is no need to worry. Gilchrist Farm is the perfect farm to visit. It is only open on the weekends, so you don’t have to make unique plans to get out of work. Here you can snuggle goats and ride the farm train with your family as a bonding activity. Furthermore, the farm has many animals to pull your attention from the city life, including horses, chickens, cows, and ducks.

The Hana Field

Unlike many farms which focus on food and farm animals, the Hana Field focuses on flowers. The beautiful farm is like something out of a dream. The thousands of blossoms create a brightly colored view that brightens your day every time you visit. Please make a point of visiting the farm around July because that is the best time all the sunflowers start blooming. Even though it does not include flower picking, for just 5 dollars every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, you can get the perfect getaway from the busy gray city life.

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Tips To Prepare Your Home For Summertime | Home Tips

The summertime is quickly approaching, the weather is getting warmer and the days are getting longer. For many, the summer heat translates to days at the beach and a variety of fun activities. But for many homeowners, your home requires TLC after every changing season. It’s time to ensure your home is ready for the summer weather with our helpful tips!

1. Change the air filter of your HVAC system

One of the most important things you can do to prepare for summertime weather is to change your air filters. During the summer, there is more dust in the air than at any other time during the year. Changing the air filter can help you save money on power. In addition, it also keeps your HVAC system from working too hard to cool down your home. Likewise, this can result in burnout and an even larger and more expensive problem to fix.

2. Add shade to your windows

Planting shrubs near your home’s windows or installing awnings or screens on them will provide enough shade to maintain your home cool as they will stop the sun from overheating the glass. Without shade, the excess heat will transfer to the inside of your home, which will overwork your cooling system, increasing your power bill.

3. Make sure your home is properly sealed for Summertime

It doesn’t make sense to try to cool off the outside portion of your home, does it? Well, any unsealed air leaks in the caulking around your windows and doors do just that. They let the cool air escape from your house and let the hot air in, so make sure you test all the stripping around the windows and doors and seal up any air leaks you find. You will reap the rewards as soon as you do.

4. Get your roof and siding inspected

Having your roof and siding professionally inspected can help you detect cracks, rot, and damaged areas that may need to be changed. It will also help you detect any mold and dirt that should be cleared out to prevent any air leaks from the inside, as well as rainwater leaks that could cause even more damage to your home’s structure.

5. Update your insulation for Summertime

Your home’s insulation plays a dual role. On one hand, it stops the cold air from getting in during the winter and on the other, it keeps the cool air from escaping during the hot summer weather. Additionally, you may find that certain unwanted guests may have found their way into your attic during the winter and may have damaged the insulation, making this the perfect time for any replacement and repair you may need.

6. Get those ceiling fans cleaned up

The last thing you want during the summertime is to breathe in all the dust that accumulated during the fall and winter on the blades of your ceiling fans. Get them cleaned up and get ready to enjoy the cool air it produces.

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Economic Update for Week Ending 5/14/22

Despite a rally on Friday stock markets posted another large weekly loss – Stock markets rallied on Friday to end a turbulent week. The S&P and the Nasdaq posted their sixth weekly loss, their longest losing streak since 2012. The Dow has dropped for seven consecutive weeks, its longest losing streak since 1980. Over the past week, the Labor Department released four economic reports. Last Friday’s jobs report suggested that job growth is still strong which increases the chance of more aggressive rate hikes and tightening by the Fed. Thursday’s CPI, PPI and Import price reports suggested that inflation may have peaked in March. For example, the CPI report had inflation in April up 8.3% from one year earlier which is a very high inflation number but below the 8.5% year-over-year level in March, a 40-year high. First-quarter corporate profits were strong with over 70% of companies beating expectations. However, investors expect inflation and rising interest rates to increase expenses and lower profits in the coming months. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 32,196.66, down 2.1% from 32,889.37 last week. It is down 11.4% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,023.89, down 2.4% from 4,123.34 last week. The S&P is down 15.6% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 11,805.00, down 2.8% from 12,144.66 last week. It is down 24.5%, year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 2.93%, down from 3.12% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 3.10%, down from 3.23% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates – Home mortgage rates have continued to increase. Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates as of May 12, 2022 for the most popular loan products were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 5.30%, up slightly from 5.27% last week. The 15-year fixed was 4.48% down slightly from 4.52% last week. The 5-year ARM was 3.98%, up slightly from 3.96% last week.

California housing affordability improved in the first quarter of 2022 – The California Association of Realtors published their first-quarter housing affordability report this week. They found that 24% of California households could afford to purchase a $797,470 median-priced home. That is down from 25% in the fourth quarter of 2021, and down from 27% in the same period one year ago. A minimum income of $158,000 was needed to qualify for the monthly payment of $3,950 which included principal, interest, and taxes on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at a 3.97% rate. Rates are substantially higher now than they were in the first quarter, but appear to be stabilizing. Condominiums were more affordable. The report found that 32% of California households were able to afford a $640,350 median-priced condo or townhouse. A minimum annual income of $126,800 was needed to qualify for the monthly payment of $3,170.

Home sales figures for April will be released next week by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. They will be included in next week’s report. You can get April figures for your city or zip code from my website now.

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Weekend Events: May 13 – May 15

The weekend is here, and so is our round-up of local fun. Check out what’s happening in your neck of the woods. From film to art, food, and more, we have you covered this May 13 through May 15!

LOS ANGELES WEEKEND EVENTS MAY 13 – MAY 15

RuPaul’s DragCon

When: May 13 – May 15 

Where: South Park

What: RuPaul’s DragCon returns for this annual intersection of culture, couture, and diversity. Make your way to south park for the colossal convention from drag juggernaut RuPaul. Meet queens, pop culture personalities, and previous RuPaul’s Drag Race contestants—plus an appearance by RuPaul.

Getty 25 Festivals

When: May 14 – August 28 

Where: Inglewood

What: In celebration of the Getty Center’s 25th birthday, the city will be treated to a series of free festivals across L.A. On most weekends this summer, the Getty will collaborate with a different local community partner on a two-day art fair filled with music, workshops, and food. This weekend’s festivities kick off in Inglewood!

Cinespia Presents Jurassic Park

When: May 13 – June 4
Where: Chinatown

What: Don’t miss the giant blockbuster hit, Jurassic Park, as it takes over the big screen this weekend. Hosted by Cinespia’s beloved cemetery screening series, screen the film in L.A. State Historic Park.

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES WEEKEND EVENTS MAY 13 – MAY 15

Sunshine and Noir: 1980s L.A. Horror Marathon

When: May 14 

Where: Santa Monica

What: An ’80s horror marathon with films set in L.A.? Say less and head to the Aero for this frightening series of creature features. Films to be screened include The Live, Society, Slumber Party Massacre, Chopping Mall, Blood Diner, and Angel. The day-long program is part of the LA Phil’s Gen X Festival. 

BeachLife Festival

When: May 13 – May 15 

Where: Redondo Beach

What: BeachLife Festival returns to take over the Redondo Beach coastline this weekend. The rock-focused lineup features Weezer, 311, the Smashing Pumpkins, and Steve Miller Band. In addition, there will also be performances by the Black Pumas, Cold War Kids, Vance Joy, Stone Temple Pilots, Sheryl Crow, and Lord Huron.

Rooftop Cinema Club

When: through July 4 

Where: El Segundo

What: This Friday, catch a screening of ‘Sing 2’, ‘The Goonies’ or ‘10 Things I hate About You’ at El Segundo’s Rooftop Cinema Club series. The masters of alfresco rooftop movies provide the perfect setting for warm May weekend weather and an evening of fun under the stars.

 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS MAY 13 – MAY 15

First Annual Brews Brothers Anniversary Beer Festival

When: May 14 

Where: Brews Brothers Brewpub | Burbank

What: The First Annual Brews Brothers Anniversary Beer Festival is coming to Burbank, California, this May 14th, 2022. Unlimited Pours All day!

All-Age Skate Night

When: Every Saturday

Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale

What: Get your roll on this Saturday at Moonlight Rollerway’s All-age skate night. The

Saturday night skate will be for all ages from 8 PM to 11 PM, with tickets required for entry.

Sundays at The Gentle Barn

When: February 27

Where: 15825 Sierra Highway | Santa Clarita

What: Connect with nature this weekend at The Gentle Barn. Stop by on Sunday from 10 am-2 pm to hug the cows, cuddle the turkeys, and enjoy a beautiful day at the barn.

 

CONEJO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS MAY 13 – MAY 15

An Afternoon with George Christie at the E.P. 

When: May 14 

Where: Foster Library in Ventura

What: Ex-Hells Angels president George Christie will visit Ventura’s E.P. Foster Library to deliver a lecture, slide show, and Q&A. For additional information, contact Karen Cruze, Librarian Specialist, at (805) 648-2716.

60th Annual Topanga Banjo-Fiddle Contest and Folk Festival

When: May 15 

Where: Paramount Ranch, Agoura Hills

What: The Topanga Banjo•Fiddle Contest and Folk Festival will be celebrating its 60th Festival, enjoying the distinction as one of the oldest music festivals in the USA. Headlining this year’s TBFCF will be a rare west coast performance of the Grammy-nominated Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, originally from Sevierville, Tennessee.

Music for Ukraine Benefit Concert in Ventura

When: May 15 

Where: 3290 Loma Vista Rd, Ventura  

What: Local music professionals, organized by flutist Caitlin Boruch, have joined together to channel their talent and passion for performing into Music for Ukraine: Benefit Concert Series for Humanitarian Aid, a fundraising concert series where 100% of donations benefit UNICEF’s coordinated response to the crisis in Ukraine.