Author: Rodeo Realty Media Team

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The Best Local Food Trucks | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles is a food lover’s paradise, and one of the best ways to experience its culinary delights is through its vibrant food truck scene. The city is a haven for food truck enthusiasts, offering an ever-evolving lineup of rolling kitchens dishing out everything from bold fusion bites to comforting classics. In this blog, we’re hitting the streets to uncover some of the city’s standout food trucks—where inventive menus and unforgettable flavors make each stop a culinary adventure. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full-on feast, these mobile eateries are serving up some of the best bites LA has to offer.

Lettuce Feast

Originally launched as a blog to share vegan recipes, Lettuce Feast quickly evolved into a beloved food truck. Founded by Willie and Eva, the duo is devoted to serving up crave-worthy vegan comfort food that proves just how satisfying plant-based eating can be. One bite, and you might find yourself rethinking meat altogether.

Kogi BBQ

Kogi BBQ is where Korean-Mexican fusion takes center stage, earning its status as a legendary food truck in Los Angeles. Helmed by Chef Roy Choi, the menu bursts with creativity—think iconic short rib tacos and craveable kimchi quesadillas. With bold flavors and perfectly balanced textures, Kogi delivers a culinary experience that’s as unforgettable as it is delicious.

Mariscos Jalisco

Seafood lovers, take note—Mariscos Jalisco is a must-visit food truck in LA. This beloved, family-run staple is famous for its signature shrimp tacos, inspired by the coastal flavors of Jalisco. Each taco is perfectly crisp, stuffed with tender shrimp, and finished with a vibrant, house-made salsa. Lines are common, but one bite will show you why the wait is well worth it.

The Grilled Cheese Truck

Craving comfort food on wheels? The Grilled Cheese Truck has you covered with its irresistible lineup of melty, cheese-packed sandwiches. From classic combos to indulgent creations like the mac ‘n’ cheese melt, each bite delivers nostalgic goodness with a twist. Pair it with a side of tomato soup, and you’ve got the ultimate feel-good meal on the go.

Leo’s Taco Truck

No exploration of LA’s food truck scene is complete without Leo’s Taco Truck. Known for their flavorful al pastor tacos, Leo’s Taco Truck grills marinated pork on a spit. The tacos are served with fresh toppings and warm tortillas. The juicy and tender meat is delicious. Combined with the vibrant flavors of cilantro, onions, and salsa creates, it’s a taco experience not to be missed!

Ben Y Ana Hibachi

Y Ana Hibachi has earned a loyal following with its bold take on Japanese cuisine and sizzling Teppanyaki-style cooking. Known for using fresh, high-quality ingredients, this food truck serves up flavorful dishes that are as satisfying as they are memorable. Every plate is a celebration of taste and technique.

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Thrifting Around Town | Out & About

Los Angeles is a treasure trove for thrift shopping and vintage finds. The city’s diverse neighborhoods and rich history offer countless opportunities to score unique clothing, furniture, and other treasures. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your wardrobe, add some flair to your home, or simply love the thrill of the hunt, this guide will take you through some of the best vintage stores in Los Angeles.

Jet Rag Vintage (Hollywood)

Jet Rag Vintage is a Hollywood thrifting staple, known for its extensive selection of vintage clothing and accessories. Browse through racks of curated pieces from various decades and styles, and don’t miss their famous $1 Sunday Sale, where you can score amazing deals on clothing.

St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store (Lincoln Heights)

This massive thrift store offers a wide variety of clothing, furniture, and household items at unbeatable prices. Operated by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, your thrifting purchases support charitable programs that help local communities in need.

The Way We Wore (Fairfax)

This high-end vintage boutique specializes in designer clothing and accessories from the 20th century. Their carefully curated collection includes everything from flapper dresses to iconic ’80s pieces, making it a go-to destination for fashion enthusiasts and collectors.

The Melrose Trading Post (Melrose)

Every Sunday, the Melrose Trading Post comes to life at Fairfax High School. This bustling flea market features vendors selling vintage clothing, jewelry, art, and furniture. It’s the perfect spot to spend a Sunday morning thrifting for one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting local artisans and the school’s programs.

Wasteland (Multiple Locations)

With locations in Studio City and on Melrose Avenue, Wasteland is a popular spot for both vintage and contemporary clothing. Their diverse selection includes designer pieces, trendy streetwear, and unique vintage finds at reasonable prices.

SquaresVille (Los Feliz)

This eclectic vintage store in Los Feliz offers a mix of clothing, accessories, and furniture from various eras. Their well-organized space and friendly staff make for a pleasant shopping experience, and you’re sure to leave with a gem or two.

Hidden Treasures (Topanga)

Tucked away in Topanga Canyon, Hidden Treasures is a must-visit for vintage enthusiasts. This whimsical shop is filled with a vast selection of clothing, accessories, and knick-knacks, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon getting lost among the treasures.

Los Angeles is a haven for thrift shoppers and vintage lovers. With so many incredible stores scattered throughout the city, you’re bound to uncover some truly unique finds. So, grab your reusable shopping bag and embark on a thrift shopping adventure!

 

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Preparing Your Home for Summer | Home Tips

As the cold recedes and the vibrant hues of summer beckon, it’s time to get your home ready for the warm months ahead. This transition is not only about incorporating fresh decor elements but also about undertaking essential maintenance tasks and updating outdoor spaces for comfortable living. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps to prepare your home for the summer season, ensuring it’s a cool, welcoming haven during the warmest days of the year.

Maintenance Tasks:

Preparing Your Home for Summer | Home Tips

  • Check Your Air Conditioning: The last thing you want is to be caught without functional cooling when the first heatwave hits. Schedule a professional service for your air conditioning system or, at the very least, replace the filters to ensure it’s working at peak efficiency.
  • Inspect Your Roof and Gutters: Winter weather can wreak havoc on these parts of your house. Clear any debris from your gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage, and consider hiring a professional to inspect your roof for any damage.
  • Seal Doors and Windows: Keep the cool air in and the hot air out. Check your doors and windows for any leaks. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps.
Updating Outdoor Living Spaces:

  • Refresh Your Patio or Deck: Give your outdoor spaces a thorough clean. Pressure-wash your deck or patio, clean outdoor furniture, and add colorful cushions or rugs for extra comfort and style.
  • Set up Outdoor Lighting: Long summer nights are perfect for outdoor gatherings. Enhance the ambiance by stringing up fairy lights or installing solar-powered lanterns.
  • Create a Gardening Space: Gardening can be a relaxing and rewarding summer activity. Whether it’s a full-fledged vegetable garden or a small container garden on your patio!
Incorporating Summer Decor:

  • Lighten Up Your Linens: Swap out heavy, dark-colored linens for lighter ones. Opt for cotton or linen fabrics in light shades that reflect rather than absorb heat.
  • Bring the Outdoors In: Summer is the season of blooming flowers and lush greenery. Bring a bit of that vibrancy into your home with houseplants, or fresh-cut flowers from the garden.
  • Coastal Elements: Embrace a beachy vibe with coastal decor elements like shells, sea glass, or artwork depicting oceanic scenes.

With a bit of effort in preparation, your home can become the perfect summer sanctuary. Remember, the key to a comfortable summer home lies in balancing functionality with a light and bright aesthetic. These tips should help you create a cool retreat from the heat. Happy summer planning!

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From the Oura Ring to Google’s Project Aura and More! | Tech News

As the week comes to a close, we are wrapping up the latest headlines in the world of tech. From Oura Ring Updates to Google’s Project Aura and more, we have you covered on tech and media news. Read this week’s blog and stay connected!

Meta Tests AI-Powered 3D Instagram Photos on Quest Headsets

Meta’s Quest v77 update is rolling out an experimental feature that automatically converts standard 2D Instagram feed images into immersive 3D photos using AI view-synthesis, giving them depth when viewed in VR—no special cameras needed. The trial, available only to a subset of Quest users, debuts alongside other v77 additions including Navigator (a customizable hub for apps, friends, notifications, and settings accessed via the controller’s Meta/Oculus button), experimental Bluetooth LE audio support, a movable “follow-me” window option, and Horizon for PC, which merges Quest Link, casting, and remote desktop into one desktop app.

Rode Wireless Micro Update Adds Direct Bluetooth Connection to iPhone

Rode’s latest firmware adds “Direct Connect,” letting the $149 Wireless Micro pair straight to iOS devices over Bluetooth without its USB-C receiver; the trade-offs are iOS-only compatibility, a single-mic limit, and reduced range versus the receiver. The update also brings per-mic noise-reduction, in-app output-gain control, and the choice to record two mics as a merged stereo track or separate channels for easier post-production.

Google and Samsung Team Up to Add Desktop Mode in Android 16

Google is integrating a DeX-style desktop interface directly into Android 16, partnering with Samsung to expand the phone-to-PC experience beyond Galaxy devices. Demonstrated at Google I/O, the mode centers apps like Gmail, Chrome, YouTube, and Photos on a taskbar at the bottom of an external display, while adaptive windowing lets apps freely resize and reposition. A status bar showing time, Wi-Fi, and battery sits at the top, mirroring laptop conventions. Google says the feature will help apps scale fluidly across foldables, tablets, Chromebooks, mixed-reality headsets, and cars, marking Android 16’s broader push for cross-device versatility.

Oura Ring Update Adds Real-Steps Algorithm, Smarter Calorie Burn, and New Fitness Integrations

Oura is rolling out global firmware and app upgrades that introduce “Real Steps.” The machine-learning pedometer counts steps more accurately on your Oura Ring. In addition, your Oura Ring will adjust active-calorie estimates using heart-rate intensity, and extend activity tracking through the night. The ring also allows seven-day retroactive workout edits that automatically recalculate Readiness and Activity Scores. The update also delivers GPS-based running splits, imports heart-rate data from Apple Health, Strava, and Android Health Connect. In addition, the Oura ring update debuts new partnerships with CorePower Yoga, The Sculpt Society, Technogym, and Open, which will tailor training and recovery advice to each user’s refreshed biometrics.

TikTok–SoundCloud Integration Lets Users Save Discovered Tracks in One Tap

TikTok’s “Add to Music App” button now supports SoundCloud, enabling users to instantly save songs they discover in videos to a dedicated TikTok playlist within the SoundCloud app, joining existing integrations with Apple Music, Spotify, and others. The feature, which has already driven over a billion song saves since launching last year, streamlines music discovery and helps emerging artists expand their audience beyond the video platform as it rolls out globally starting today.

Google Partners with Xreal on “Project Aura” Smart Glasses Powered by Android XR

At Google I/O, Google and AR-wearable maker Xreal unveiled Project Aura, a pair of optical see-through smart glasses that run Android XR on a Qualcomm chipset and feature built-in Gemini AI, wide field-of-view displays, hinge- and bridge-mounted cameras, microphones, and on-frame controls; positioned as the second Android XR device after Samsung’s Project Moohan, Project Aura invites developers to port their headset apps to the glasses ahead of a consumer launch, signaling Google’s renewed platform-first push into smart eyewear while leaving hardware execution to partners.

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Weekend Events | May 23 – May 25

Memorial Day weekend has arrived, and so has our round-up of local fun. From cinema screenings to fairs, festivals, and more, we have you covered! Check out the best activities in your neighborhood from May 23 through May 25. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | May 23 – May 25 

Cinespia Cemetery Screenings

When: May 24 – June 28 

Where: Hollywood 

What: Cinespia returns to Hollywood Forever Cemetery for another season of iconic outdoor movie nights—an L.A. summer staple. Pack a picnic, bring your favorite drinks (yes, alcohol is allowed), and enjoy cult classics under the stars with DJ sets, photo booths, and festive vibes. First up for 2025: The Big Lebowski (May 24), Clueless (May 25), and Blue Velvet (May 31).

GAME ON! Science, Sports & Play

When: Until August 31 

Where: California Science Museum | USC/Exposition Park

What: The California Science Center debuts a new 17,000-square-foot exhibition on May 15 that explores the science of sports and movement. Kids can take on interactive challenges and get tips from L.A.-based athletes like Debbie Allen and Freddie Freeman. The free exhibit also features public art for the first time, including a Dodgers mural by Gustavo Zermeño Jr., and will remain on display through the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Jazz @ LACMA

When: Until June 20 

Where: Mid-City

What: A beloved L.A. tradition, Jazz at LACMA brings free live jazz to the museum’s welcome plaza every Friday evening throughout the summer. Grab a seat in the plaza (first-come, first-served) or picnic on the lawn and enjoy performances from jazz greats past and present, just behind the iconic Urban Light installation.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | May 23 – May 25 

Fiesta Hermosa

When: May 24 – May 26  

Where: Venice

What: Celebrate Memorial Day weekend at the Hermosa Beach Fiesta, where you can browse art stalls, enjoy live music across five stages—including one on the beach—sample food, and sip wine in the carnival area at Pier and Monterey Boulevard. With ocean views and a festive atmosphere, it’s the perfect kickoff to summer.

Garden Party at the Culver Hotel

When: May 24 – June 7 

Where: Beverly Hills 

What: The historic Culver Hotel is launching weekly floral-forward garden parties, kicking off on Memorial Day weekend and running through Labor Day. At the furry-friend-friendly Saturday series, your pup can enjoy a “barcuterie” board of snacks while you sip summer spritzes, yuzu-spiked Arnold Palmers, and punch. Meanwhile, canapés like coconut ceviche, avocado tartine, and tuna on crispy rice will be presented in vintage birdcages. A live DJ will provide an ambient soundtrack, and a pop-up flower bar will be on hand offering bespoke bouquets.

MAINopoly: A Taste of Main Street

When: May 25

Where: Santa Monica

What: Main Street in Santa Monica turns into a life-sized Monopoly board for the return of MAINopoly this May. Attendees receive “MAINopoly dollars” to exchange for bites at local favorites like Ashland Hill, Holey Grail Donuts, and Jameson’s Pub. Upgrade to VIP for drinks in the “Go to Jail” lounge and beer garden. Costumes are encouraged—so bring your top hat and monocle!

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | May 23 – May 25 

Habitat Restoration Day & Earth Month Celebration

When: May 24 

Where: Van Nuys

What: In honor of Earth Day, Friends of the L.A. River is hosting a special habitat restoration event at the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Preserve. Volunteers will help remove invasive plants while learning about their role in fire risk and the local watershed. Free to participate, but registration is required.

Botanical Portraits with Marie Astrid Gonzalez

When: May 24 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford Street

What: Join photographer and former Creative Director of the Theodore Payne Foundation, Marie Astrid González, for a hands-on outdoor class in botanical photography. Learn how to use light, composition, and special techniques to capture stunning plant portraits with your DSLR or phone. Held in the Foundation’s Demonstration Gardens, the class welcomes all experience levels and includes guidance on how to creatively share your photos. Bring your camera, sun protection, and a curious eye!

Emergency Preparedness for People with Companion Animals

When: May 24 

Where: Theodore Payne Foundation | 10459 Tuxford St. | Sun Valley

What: Join us at Love Always Sanctuary on Saturday, May 24, for a special event dedicated to keeping your pets safe during emergencies. Led by renowned fitness trainer and emergency preparedness expert Jean Pierre, this 3 p.m. class will cover how to build a pet emergency kit, identify hazards, and create a safety plan for all kinds of animals—from cats and dogs to birds and beyond.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | May 23 – May 25 

Topanga Days Country Fair

When: May 24 – May 26 

Where: Topanga

What: Celebrate Memorial Day weekend surrounded by nature at the Topanga Days festival, a beloved local tradition in Topanga Canyon. Enjoy live music—including a Saturday set from the Allah-Las—plus artisan vendors, healing arts, kids’ games, and classic hippie vibes. Don’t miss the DIY Memorial Day parade on Monday at 8:30 a.m., honoring local firefighters. Free shuttle service is available along Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

Simi Summer Days Carnival

When: May 23 – May 26  

Where: Simi Valley Town Center| 

What: Celebrate Memorial Day weekend at the Simi Summer Days Carnival at Simi Valley Town Center, running Friday to Monday, May 23–26. Enjoy carnival rides, games, shopping, and family-friendly entertainment. Hours are 5–10 p.m. on Friday, 2–10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and 2–9 p.m. on Monday.

48th Annual Ojai Art in the Park in Downtown Ojai

When: May 25 

Where: Libbey Park, 210 S Signal St, Ojai

What: Celebrate creativity at the 48th annual Art in the Park on Memorial Day weekend, May 24–25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Libbey Park in Downtown Ojai. Hosted by the Ojai Art Center, this beloved open-air festival features a wide range of fine art in a serene, oak-shaded setting. Meet the artists, browse unique works, and enjoy food and a relaxed atmosphere. Free admission.

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Mortgage Rate Update | May 22, 2025

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of May 22, 2025, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.86%, up from 6.81% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.01%, up from 5.92% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.

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Top Donut Spots In Town | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles boasts a vibrant donut scene, with a mix of longstanding family businesses and creative new spots. Whether you crave classic glazed, vegan options, or innovative flavors like custard-filled or taro-based, these 16 shops offer a remarkable variety. Explore the city’s top donut destinations, from the iconic Holey Grail Donuts in Larchmont to the inventive Mochinut in Melrose.

1. Holey Grail Donuts

Location: 148 N Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Founded in Kauai from a small trailer, Holey Grail Donuts is now a bustling business in Los Angeles, with backing from Tony Hawk. Enjoy chewy taro-based donuts at their Larchmont and Santa Monica locations. Follow their Instagram for updates on special pop-ups and events.

2. The Donut Man

Location: 915 E Rte 66, Glendora, CA 91740
Since 1972, The Donut Man has been a Glendora staple, famous for its strawberry and peach stuffed donuts. Operating 24 hours a day, these messy treats are a local favorite.

3. Flour Premium Doughnut

Location: 833 S Western Ave #38, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Nestled in Koreatown’s Rodeo Galleria Shopping Center, Flour Premium Donut crafts less sweet, visually appealing donuts with a pillowy consistency. Try the milk cream variety, which sells out fast. Convenient parking is available for LA visitors.

4. Mochinut

Location: 4954 Van Nuys Blvd Ste 109, Sherman Oaks
Mochinut offers a unique blend of traditional donuts and mochi, creating a spectacular result. Known for Korean rice flour hot dogs, bubble tea, and soft serve, this spot has multiple locations across Southern California.

5. Blinkie’s Donuts

Location: 4884 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Since 2004, Blinkie’s has delighted SoCal with classic and innovative treats like frosted mango with Tajín. Don’t miss their Crinkies, a nod to the Cronut craze.

6. Memorylook Coffee

Location: 2881 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006
Famous for its cappuccinos and tea lattes, Memorylook Coffee also offers freshly made donuts in flavors like strawberry cream and matcha brulee, complete with fluffy cream cheese filling.

7. Sweet Retreat Donuts

Location: 924 CA-1, Long Beach, CA 90806
Catering to dairy-free diets, Sweet Retreat offers both vegan yeast and cake donuts. Their experimental flavors and decorations make it a place worth revisiting.

8. Colorado Donuts

Location: 1578 Colorado Blvd #14, Eagle Rock, CA 90041
Colorado Donuts is a destination for traditional and creatively decorated donuts, like those featuring movie characters or stuffed with Twix bars. The store’s recent colorful makeover adds to its appeal.

9. DK’s Donuts & Bakery

Location: 1614 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404
Open since 1980 by Khmer refugees, DK’s Donuts & Bakery is now known for its unique flavors and visually stunning creations, thanks to the innovation of younger family members.

10. Big Jim’s Donuts

Location: 2401 Whittier Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90023
Big Jim’s Donuts has built a loyal following over the years with its traditional donuts and 24-hour service. Located across from Pioneer Chicken, it’s a convenient spot for sweet and savory treats.

11. Amigos Donuts

Location: 6418 Santa Fe Ave, Huntington Park, CA 90255
A family favorite for generations, Amigos Donuts is known for its friendly service and creative offerings during holidays and special events.

12. Dad’s Donuts & Dogs

Location: 2501 W Victory Blvd (at Buena Vista St), Burbank, CA 91505
Visit Dad’s Donuts & Bakery for a dazzling array of donuts, including cake, glazed, twists, and the standout buttermilk, available daily until 9 p.m.

13. Moon Donuts

Location: 1000 Torrance Blvd, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Known for its custard-filled donuts, Moon Donuts in South Bay has a dedicated following. Arrive early to grab these popular treats before they sell out.

14. Tastees Donut & Burger

Location: 619 N Fair Oaks Ave (Peoria St.), Pasadena, CA 91103
Tastees Donut & Burger captures the essence of Southern California with its friendly service and a menu that includes both burgers and donuts, like the sought-after apple fritters and jalapeño croissants.

15. Primo’s Donuts

Location: 2918 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064
For over 68 years, Primo’s Donuts has served generations of donut lovers. Don’t miss their specialty, buttermilk bar.

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Your Weekend Getaway Guide | Out & About

Los Angeles is a city full of life, but sometimes even the most die-hard Angelenos need a break from the hustle and bustle. Fortunately, there are many fantastic road trip destinations within a few hours’ drive. So, pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and get ready to explore our weekend getaway guide Southern California style!

  1. Santa Barbara Weekend Getaway – The American Riviera (Approximately 95 miles) Travel time: 1.5 – 2 hours

Escape the city and head north to Santa Barbara, a picturesque coastal city nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Known for its Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, and Spanish-style architecture, Santa Barbara is a perfect weekend getaway.

Top attractions:
  • Visit the historic Santa Barbara Mission
  • Stroll along State Street for shopping and dining
  • Enjoy wine tasting in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley
  • Relax at East Beach or Butterfly Beach
  • Discover the Santa Barbara Museum of Art

  1. Palm Springs Weekend Getaway– The Desert Oasis (Approximately 107 miles) Travel time: 1.5 – 2 hours

Venture east into the desert to discover Palm Springs, a city famous for its mid-century modern architecture, vintage shops, and natural hot springs. With plenty of sunshine and a laid-back vibe, Palm Springs is an ideal getaway for those seeking relaxation and a bit of retro charm.

Top attractions:
  • Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the top of Mount San Jacinto
  • Explore the Palm Springs Art Museum
  • Visit the Moorten Botanical Garden
  • Tour mid-century modern homes and neighborhoods
  • Relax at one of the many luxurious spas

  1. Big Bear Lake Weekend Getaway– The Mountain Escape (Approximately 100 miles) Travel time: 2 – 2.5 hours

If you’re craving fresh mountain air and outdoor adventures, Big Bear Lake is the perfect destination. Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear offers an array of activities in both summer and winter, making it an ideal year-round getaway.

Top attractions:
  • Ski or snowboard at Snow Summit or Bear Mountain during winter
  • Hike or mountain bike on the many trails around the lake
  • Rent a boat or kayak and explore Big Bear Lake
  • Visit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo
  • Attend seasonal events like Oktoberfest and the Big Bear Lake Fishing Derby

Whether you’re looking for a beach escape, desert retreat, or mountain adventure, these road trips from Los Angeles have something for everyone. So grab your keys, hop in the car, and embark on a memorable weekend getaway that will leave you refreshed and ready to take on the City of Angels once more.

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Celebrating Memorial Day Weekend | Home Tips

With Memorial Day Weekend approaching, you are likely 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 at-home celebrations to around town happenings, we’ve got plenty of ways to enjoy the “unofficial” start of summer!

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.

Check out the LA County Fair for its final weekend and enjoy classic carnival fun. From terrific eats, to face-painting, rides and more, there is something for everyone! 

For the Westside, Fiesta Hermosa kicks off on Saturday, and keep’s the fun going all the way through Monday, May 26. Explore art, enjoy delicious eats, and listen to live music at this Memorial Day weekend long event.

Topanga Days, between May 24 and 26, 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 | Week Ending May 17, 2025

Tariffs dominated the news again this week – Over the weekend, the U.S. and China announced that progress has been made on a trade deal. Both countries agreed on a pause on the most restrictive tariffs and to significantly reduce the restrictive tariffs that they have put in place since April 2, so that they can work on future negotiations to finalize a more permanent tariff deal. Stocks soared on Monday and increased in value through the week. Major stock indexes ended the week down just slightly since the start of the year.

Inflation dropped to a 4-year low in April – The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for April was released this week. The annual inflation rate in April dropped to 2.3%, its lowest rate since February 2021. Core CPI, which excludes volatile components like food and energy rose 2.8% year-over-year. The Producer Price Index was also released. Producer prices (wholesale prices) dropped 0.5% month-over-month in April, their largest monthly decline since 2006. Year-over-year producer prices were up 2.4% in April.

The graph below shows the trend of the Consumer Price Index since 2021.

Interest rates – Despite the lowest inflation in 4-years, mortgage rates and bond yields jumped this week. Usually when inflation drops interest rates drop as well. Unfortunately, economists are waiting to see how tariffs will affect future inflation. They believe that even with inflation trending toward acceptable levels, tariffs remain a wild card, and future spikes in inflation are likely.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 42,645.74, up 3.4% from 41,249.38 last week. It is down 4.3% from 44,544.66 on December 31, 2024. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,958.38, up 5.3% from 5,659.91 last week. The S&P is down 1.4% from 6,040.53 on December 31, 2024. The Nasdaq closed the week at 19,211.38, up 6.9% from 17,972.92 last week. It is down 2.1% from 19,627.44 on December 31, 2024.

U.S. Treasury bond yields increased for the third straight week on tariff fears – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.43%, up from 4.37% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.89%, up from 4.83% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates jumped this week – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of May 15, 2025, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.81%, up from 6.76% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.92%, up from 5.89% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Have a Great Weekend!
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