Author: Rodeo Realty Media Team

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From Apple Smart Home to Fire TV Omni and More! | Tech News

Stay updated with the latest in tech innovation! This week’s blog brings you a roundup of top headlines you can’t miss. From Apple’s rumored smart home display to Amazon’s new Fire TV Omni and Microsoft’s “Xbox Everywhere” campaign, there’s plenty of exciting news to explore. Dive in for all the details!

Google Tests Removing EU News Articles from Search Results

In a significant move, Google is testing the removal of EU-based news articles from its Search, News, and Discover platforms for 1% of users in nine EU countries, including France, Italy, and Spain. This “time-limited” experiment aims to gather data on how news content impacts traffic and the search experience, responding to EU regulators’ requests. While non-EU news content will still appear, the test highlights potential traffic losses for EU publishers without Google’s support. This follows ongoing tensions, with Google previously facing fines and content removal in response to regulatory pressures worldwide, including in California, Canada, and Australia.

 

Nike Unveils Adaptive Elite EasyOn Backpack for Athletes

Nike’s Elite EasyOn backpack, designed for accessibility, is now available for $150, featuring innovations to support athletes with limited dexterity or motor skills. Initially crafted for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the backpack offers a full clamshell opening for easy access, magnetic closures for one-handed use, and modular straps adaptable for wheelchair compatibility. With large U-shaped zipper pulls and illustrated usage instructions, this backpack addresses the needs of adaptive athletes while ensuring convenience and functionality for all users.

 

Snapchat Adds Parental Location Controls in Family Center Update

Snapchat is enhancing its location-sharing features to give parents more control within its Family Center. Soon, parents and teens will be able to request each other’s locations, view who the teen is sharing their location with, and set up automatic travel alerts for designated spots like home or school. These updates, similar to Life360, provide built-in safety tools in an app families may already use. Snapchat emphasizes that these features are opt-in and limited to friends already connected on the app, with additional reminders for privacy setting reviews.

 

Microsoft’s New Campaign Promotes Xbox Gaming Across All Screens

Microsoft’s new “This is an Xbox” campaign redefines Xbox as a gaming platform for multiple devices, not just consoles. With ads on digital billboards and buses, Microsoft aims to show that laptops, TVs, handheld gaming PCs, and even VR headsets can all be “Xbox” devices. This campaign highlights Microsoft’s “Xbox Everywhere” initiative, which began with Xbox Cloud Gaming, allowing users to play Xbox games on platforms like PlayStation, Switch, and Samsung TVs, with no console required.

 

Amazon Launches Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series with Enhanced Features

Amazon introduces its new Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series, its first Mini LED TV, offering up to 1,344 dimming zones and 1,400 nits of peak brightness. Priced lower than top competitors, the Omni series includes Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10 Plus Adaptive, Dolby Atmos audio, and gaming features like AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and a 144Hz refresh rate. It also features AI-based Intelligent Picture adjustments, hands-free voice commands, and ASHA-enabled audio streaming for hearing aids. Available now, the Omni series starts at $819.99, and Amazon also released the Fire TV Soundbar Plus for $374.99, designed with Dolby Atmos and dialogue enhancement.

 

Apple Rumored to Release Wall-Mounted Smart Home Display

Apple is reportedly developing a wall-mounted smart home display, set to debut in March, which would control HomeKit devices, handle video calls, and feature voice support through Siri. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the six-inch device resembles an iPad, includes a built-in camera, and may have a stand with additional speakers. The display could adjust content based on proximity and support Apple’s Handoff feature, with both silver and black options anticipated. Apple is also said to be exploring a more advanced model with a robotic arm for screen movement, signaling a potential expansion of its smart home ecosystem.

 

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Mortgage Rate Update | November 14, 2024

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 November 14th, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.78%, down from 6.79% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.99%, down from 6.00% 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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The Best Wine Shops Around Town | LA Eats

Thanksgiving will be here before you know it, and there is one thing your dinner cannot be without…Wine. Get through your annual family gathering with a curated selection of fine wines from your local wine shop. Read on below for wine shops around town to save the day this Thanksgiving.

Los Angeles Wine Shops

HONOR WINES AND SPIRITS

Honor Wines and Spirits combines convenience with class, offering hand-selected favorites and curbside pick-up. For those interested in dining in, however, the shop is located right next door to the popular South Beverly Grill and offers bottle service while you dine. 

WALLY’S

When it comes to wine shops, Wally’s in Beverly Hills is known for its vast selection of wines from around the world. Bottles line the walls from floor to ceiling, and the location is chilled to cellar temperature, creating the perfect environment for a wine-tasting session complete with cheese and hors d’oeuvres.

Westside and Beach Communities Wine Shops

DOMAINE L.A.

Domaine L.A. specializes in natural, organic, and biodynamic wines. With a concentration on grower-producers, this wine shop’s selection of nearly four hundred wines from Europe, Australia, and Chile, as well as some of the most innovative and unique blends from producers based right here in California.

ESTER’S WINE SHOP & BAR

Ester’s Wine Shop & Bar is famous for its chic yet comfortable atmosphere and well-curated selection of unique wines. Whether grabbing a seat at the bar or settling in on the patio, patrons will enjoy a delicious menu of perfectly paired cheeses and carb-rich entrees. Ester’s additionally offers weekly wine-tasting sessions every Sunday from 3:00 – 6:00 pm! We love wine shops that have it all!!

San Fernando Valley Wine Shops

VENDOME WINE & SPIRITS

Vendome Wine & Spirits is another family-owned shop known for being both a wine store and a local hangout spot. The location has a dedicated wine-tasting bar perfect for those looking to explore new varieties, and the staff is happy to serve any bottles purchased from the selection.

WOODLAND HILLS WINE CO

Woodland Hills Wine Co is a family-owned store with incredibly wine-savvy staff. The store boasts a comprehensive selection from around the world, currently offering over 2,500 wines. Woodland Hills Wine Co additionally has an in-house, direct importing program, allowing them to directly obtain some of the world’s finest, and sometimes rarest, bottles.

Conejo Valley Wine Shops

LUCAS SELLERS WINE

Lucas Sellers Wine is another boutique-style winery and tasting lounge. The location seeks to create an atmosphere conducive to fun and camaraderie. The wines are highly rated, serving as a passionate backdrop to gatherings and get-togethers. Wine tastings are available, and the staff is happy to share their knowledge and expertise in helping patrons make their perfect selection.

ALMA SOL WINERY

Alma Sol is described as a boutique winery known for producing and selling locally sourced artisan wines. They offer distinctly Californian blends, including their newly award-winning Rhone variety and a luxury wine-tasting experience.

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Your Guide to Disneyland | Out & About

When it comes to the holidays, there is no place happier to be than the happiest place on earth! Plan the perfect Disneyland trip this holiday season by using our guide to a fun-filled day with Mickey and the gang.

BEFORE YOU GO

Disneyland FREE Crowd Calendars

The single most important part of planning a trip to Disneyland is determining when to visit to avoid crowds. Check out this totally free Disneyland crowd calendar for day-by-day guides as to when the parks will be least busy and busiest.

Park Times

Like all amusement parks during summer, you can expect large crowds filled with tourists and those on vacation. Disneyland provides a block-out calendar filled with the days and times ranked most to least crowded to help you plan your trip. The most popular dates include spring and summer break, as well as annual holidays. Most pass holders are unable to attend the park during these heavy crowds days because the park wants to recruit new members, especially tourists.

ONCE YOU’RE THERE

Disneyland Restaurant Reviews

The stereotype that all Disney food is unhealthy food, like burgers and hot dogs, is entirely false. Disneyland has inexpensive unique dining options as well as expensive fine dining. Good dining can help define a trip! Read about which restaurants are best in our dining reviews.

Foods to Try:
  • Fire Cracker Duck Wings– Carthay Circle Restaurant: Enjoy these tasty wings coated in lime, Sriracha, and soy sauce that are perfect to pair with a glass of wine.
  • Lobster Nachos-The Cove Bar– These nachos are topped off with chipotle crema mixed in with lobster claw meat, cilantro, and additional toppings.
  • Cherry Milkshake– Carnation Café: This frosty treat was allegedly Walt Disney’s favorite due to the chunks of blended cherries.

Disneyland Ride Reviews & Guide

Disneyland has a ton of attractions, and a lot of visitors only have a day or two to spend at Disney. The article reviews every attraction at the park, giving each a numerical score out of 10, plus highlights key attractions that we consider the best ones, which should be prioritized if you have limited time at Disneyland.

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8 Thanksgiving Host Hacks to Know | Home Tips

Cut out the stress when it comes to Thanksgiving hosting this year! If you are taking on the major task of being the head host on Turkey Day, you deserve some ease. Read below for ten helpful hacks to ensure your Thanksgiving is a breeze!!

Bake Ahead to Get Ahead 

How do you have a delicious Thanksgiving feast without stress? Rely on make-ahead options for the big day! If you’re used to homemade Thanksgiving rolls, then get the jump start on your from-scratch dough. Make sure your rolls are prepped, in the fridge, and ready to go on Thanksgiving day. 

Opt for White Plates

Along with being picture-perfect for food, white plates are a neutral color that is easy to mix and match with other holiday table settings. No matter the dish, you’ll shine as a Thanksgiving host with a feast that takes center stage on simple dishes.

Prep Your Pans

Make sure you have all the essential kitchen tools you need before you start baking. The night before, set out your baking dishes and label each one with a sticky note. Major hack: You can even purchase one-time-use pans at the grocery store to make clean-up easier.

Mulled Wine and Holiday Cheer 

Welcome your guest in for the holiday with a warm mug of mulled wine. With mulled wine, you can prep it ahead of time in a pot or your slow cooker. With ingredients like wine (of course), spices, fruit, liquor, and fruit juice, it’s an easy drink to make! Check out this recipe from NYT Cooking for simple steps to follow.

Let Your Guests Play Mixologist

Another way to be the ultimate Thanksgiving host? Skip playing bartender this year. Set up a well-stocked bar cart and let your friends and family do the rest. Your guest can create their own drink, or you can print out instructions for holiday-inspired cocktails. Just make sure you have the essentials like the following:

  • Liquor like vodka, tequila, whiskey, gin, and rum.
  • Fun mixers like club soda, tonic water, fruit juice, and simple syrups.
  • Garnishes like olives and fresh fruit.
  • Basics include ice, cocktail napkins, and straws!

Simplify the Centerpiece

Create a simple platter filled with seasonal gourds to give the table a festive feel. You can assemble a Thanksgiving centerpiece lightning fast with just a few sprigs of grass, autumn gourds, and pillar candles.

Keep the Kids Entertained

Looking for easy crafts to have for your Thanksgiving kid’s table? Try opting for printable holiday placemats to spark creativity and avoid boredom. All you need are pencils and crayons, and kids can amuse themselves by filling out silly puzzles and drawing a turkey feast of their own!

Show Some Love to the Slow Cooker

Create some space on your stovetop this Thanksgiving. As the Thanksgiving host/chef for the day, you can free up space on the stove with your slow cooker! Use it for recipes like mashed potatoes or stuffing, for a dish that can be hands-off and ready to go right on time.

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Economic Update | Week Ending November 9, 2024

Economic news this week centered around the election and the Fed. When word spread that President Trump had won the election the stock market surged on expectations of less regulation and lower corporate tax rates than had Vice President Harris won. The Dow gained over 1,200 points on Wednesday after Trump was declared the winner. Bond yields spiked as investors feared that tariffs would increase prices for imports and that fewer undocumented immigrants would raise labor prices, both of which could reignite inflation. For example, the 10-year treasury bond yield was 4.26% on election day, Tuesday, and jumped to 4.42% on Wednesday. Fortunately, on Thursday Fed Chairman, Powell announced that the Fed was dropping their benchmark rates by ¼% and stated a possibility of another drop in December as well as further drops in 2025. When asked if he anticipated the possibility of rate increases next year at a press conference, he said that he could not rule out anything but anticipates further drops not increases as the Fed brings rates to a less restrictive level. Both his statements and the digesting of the election results had investors feeling that the sharp rise in bond yields was an overaction and the 10-year ended the week at 4.30%, down from last Friday and just slightly higher than on election day. Next week we will get some important inflation news. The Consumer Price Index will be released by the government on Wednesday and the Producer Price Index will be released on Thursday. Should those indicate that inflation is still moderating it will be good for mortgage rates and bond yields.

Stock markets – Stock market indexes closed the week at record highs –Expectations of less regulation and lower corporate tax rates drove stocks to record highs in their best week of the year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 43,988.89, down 4.6% from 42,052.19 last week. It is up 16.7% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,995.54, up 4.8% from 5,718.80 last week. The S&P is up 25.7% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 19,289.78, up 5.8 % from 18,239.92 last week. It is up 28.5% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.30%, down from 4.37% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.47%, down from 4.51% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

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 October 31, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.79%, up from 6.72% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.00%, unchanged from 5.99% last week.

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

Image

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.

Have a great weekend!

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Mortgage Rate Update | November 7, 2024

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 November 7th, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.79%, up from 6.72% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.00%, unchanged from 5.99% 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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Weekend Events | November 8 – November 10

 

Find your November weekend fun in this week’s blog! From new art exhibits to wine fest and more, there are plenty of things to do. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from November 8 through November 10. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | November 8 – November 10 

Walking to The Edge: A Journey Through Sights, Sounds, and Stories

When: November 8

Where: Downtown LA

What: Recently reopened Downtown hotspot Clifton’s Republic is launching its arts and culture season with a unique, one-night-only collaboration with the Speranza Foundation. This immersive, choose-your-own-adventure experience will transform the multilevel venue with nine acts featuring poets, visual artists, musicians, cirque performers, and storytellers. The evening culminates in live music under “Monarch,” Clifton’s towering 40-foot faux redwood tree. Guests can also upgrade their tickets for access to an exclusive stage performance in the iconic Brookdale Ballroom.

Two Faced Ceramics classes at Hotel Figueroa

When: Until November 16

Where: Hotel Figueroa | DTLA

What: Two Faced Ceramics is bringing its home studio poolside to DTLA’s Hotel Figueroa for a series of beginner-friendly classes. For $75, each session includes all materials and equipment, plus mimosas and a hotel tote bag. Every class explores a unique theme, with this weekend’s session focusing on an election-inspired design.

Color in Motion: Chromatic Explorations of Cinema

When: October 6 – July 13, 2024

Where: Academy Museum | Museum Row

What: “Color in Motion” showcases nearly 150 objects, including technology, costumes, props, and film posters, spanning from the 1890s to the present. Divided into six thematic sections, the exhibition explores the relationship between color, music, and movement, as seen in early dance performances and animated shorts. It delves into the evolution of color technologies, from Technicolor and Disney’s women-led Ink & Paint Department to modern digital techniques. The exhibition also highlights monochrome silent films, the narrative significance of color, and experimental art. The final gallery, the Color Arcade, is an interactive, neon-lit space featuring a corridor inspired by the stargate sequence from 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | November 8 – November 10

California Wine Festival

When: November 8 – November 9

Where: Huntington Beach

What: Enjoy a weekend of wine and ocean views at this Huntington Beach festival. Kick off with Friday evening’s Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting, where wine enthusiasts can savor rare trophy wines, exclusive tasting-room selections, and limited-production gems. On Saturday, the alfresco Beachside Wine Festival offers the perfect blend of sun, surf, food, wine, and live music. Sample hundreds of California varietals, local craft brews, and appetizers from top Orange County restaurants.

Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion

When: October 17 – August 2025

Where: The Skirball Museum | Westside

What: Explore over 50 garments from Diane von Furstenberg, including her iconic wrap dress, in this career-spanning exhibition at the Skirball. The show also highlights her philanthropic work and the impact of her upbringing as the daughter of a Holocaust survivor, alongside artwork and fabric swatches.

Cirque du Soleil: Kooza

When: October 19 – December 1

Where: Downtown Santa Monica

What: Cirque du Soleil brings its high-flying show KOOZA to the beach, leaving DTLA for Santa Monica. This marks the troupe’s first performance under the big top by the Santa Monica Pier since 2014.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | November 8 – November 10 

Fall Fest

When: November 9 

Where: Intramural Field | 21726 Placerita Canyon Rd Santa Clarita

What: Fall Fest 2024 is here with a full lineup of seasonal fun! Dive into the festivities with live music, line dancing, classic carnival games, and delicious food. Capture the moment at the photo booth, take a spin on the Ferris wheel, and enjoy many more family-friendly activities throughout the day.

A Taste of Two Legends

When: November 9

Where: Morton’s Steakhouse | Burbank

What: Experience an unforgettable evening of fine dining as Morton’s The Steakhouse presents A Taste of Two Legends Wine Dinner, featuring the exceptional wines of Duckhorn Vineyards. Join us on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. for a multi-course menu, where each dish is expertly paired with select Duckhorn wines, from the ‘Decoy’ Brut Cuvée to the renowned ‘Three Palms’ Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Enjoy a range of exquisite pairings, from smoked salmon hors d’oeuvres to prime New York strip, in a setting crafted for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

Blended Worlds: Experiments In Interplanetary Imagination

When: Until January 4, 2025

Where: Glendale

What: In this collaborative exhibition in Glendale, artists, and JPL scientists unite as 11 creatives across various mediums showcase their interpretations of how nature and the night sky spark wonder within us.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | November 8 – November 10 

Art Comes Alive Event at Channel Islands Maritime Museum

When: November 9 

Where: Channel Islands Maritime Museum

What: The Channel Islands Maritime Museum welcomes back its popular Art Comes Alive event on November 9 & 10, 2024, from 12:00 to 4:00 PM. Explore the museum’s acclaimed galleries and encounter historical characters brought to life by actors, including legendary figures like boat model maker Edward Marple and the notorious pirate Anne Bonny. With themed photo stations, family-friendly games, costume try-ons for kids, and much more, this immersive experience is perfect for visitors of all ages. Tickets are available online and at the door, with discounts for members, seniors, military families, and early buyers.

Moorpark College Music Technology “Come Together” Concert

When: November 8 – November 9 

Where: 7075 Campus Rd, Moorpark

What: Moorpark College’s most thrilling student concert is back by popular demand, and it’s set to be more spectacular than ever! After two sold-out performances last time, now’s your chance to experience the magic live. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible talent within our student body, with performances ranging from powerful rock anthems to soulful ballads. Whether you love indie vibes, hip-hop rhythms, or timeless classics, this concert has something for everyone—don’t miss this unforgettable event!

Patagonia Salmon Run 5K in Ventura

When: November 10

Where: 5721 N. Ventura Avenue | Ventura

What: Join the 28th Annual Patagonia Salmon Run on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at 8 a.m. in Ventura for a scenic 5K along the Ventura River on a certified, flat dirt course. This popular event typically sells out, so be sure to register in advance—no race-day signups are available!

 

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From Black Friday Deals to AI Xbox Updates and More! | Tech News

Stay connected with the latest tech news from across the web! Check out this week’s blog for our round-up of headlines you won’t want to miss. From black Friday deals to Xbox’s AI update and more, we have you covered!

Mercedes-Benz Previews All-Electric CLA Prototype with AI-Driven Features for 2025

Mercedes-Benz recently showcased its all-electric CLA prototype, offering glimpses into what the 2025 production model may hold. CEO Ola Källenius took viewers on a brief video tour, introducing the vehicle’s AI assistant and demonstrating the drive. The camouflaged CLA model reveals Mercedes’ star logo headlights and a sneak peek of its interior, reflecting advanced technology from the 2022 EQXX Concept. Built on the new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA), the CLA marks the first of a new generation of vehicles. It includes a Porsche Taycan-inspired two-speed transmission, 800V battery architecture enabling rapid 250kW charging, and Mercedes’ latest operating system, MB OS, which debuted at CES. Notably, Mercedes-Benz is also developing a hybrid version of the CLA, using a 48-volt system with MMA electric transmission, catering to both electric and hybrid preferences.

Lyft Partners with Three Autonomous Tech Firms to Boost AV Efforts Against Uber

In a bid to keep pace with Uber’s advances in autonomous vehicle (AV) services, Lyft announced partnerships with three AV startups: Mobileye, May Mobility, and Nexar. Mobileye, an Intel subsidiary, and May Mobility will integrate their autonomous vehicles on Lyft’s network, with May Mobility’s autonomous Toyota Sienna minivans slated for a 2025 debut in Atlanta. Nexar, specializing in smart dash cams, will collaborate with Lyft to utilize its vast data from 200 million monthly miles driven to enhance AV technology through “video telematics.” Lyft’s CEO David Risher described these moves as part of Lyft’s “Lyft Ready” turnkey solution, aiming to unify AVs, drivers, and riders into a single network, potentially creating new income streams for participants. This expansion reflects Lyft’s strategy to compete with Uber, which has already established alliances with AV leaders like Waymo, Cruise, and Aurora.

Apple to Introduce Estimated Charging Time Feature for iPhone

Apple is reportedly developing a “BatteryIntelligence” feature for iOS 18.2. The feature will estimate and notify users how long it will take to fully charge their iPhones. Currently, this feature is standard on many Android phones. The feature provides a convenient way to manage charging times across various chargers and cables. While this update is still in progress and may take time for a full release, it builds on Apple’s recent enhancements to iPhone battery management. Recent iPhones already include features like optimized charging to preserve battery health and the ability to view battery cycle count, aiming to prolong device longevity.

Black Friday Deals Begin Early with Major Retailers Offering Discounts and Price Protection

Although Black Friday officially kicks off on November 29, retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart have already launched early holiday discounts. The deals offer price protection, allowing shoppers to buy now and claim lower prices later. Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy will roll out their main Black Friday deals through November, with special access for premium members. Walmart Plus members receive early access to waves of deals, while Target Circle members enjoy daily discounts until December 24. Newegg and Costco are also offering early Black Friday promotions. Additionally, Newegg’s price-protected items are automatically refunded if they drop in price. Each retailer’s Black Friday schedule varies. Likewise, this provides options for shoppers eager to start saving now or those holding out for Black Friday’s official arrival.

Microsoft Tests AI-Powered Xbox Chatbot for Support Assistance

Microsoft has launched a new AI-powered “Xbox Support Virtual Agent” for Xbox Insiders in the US. The tool allows users to test a chatbot designed to help players resolve support-related issues more efficiently. Accessible via support.xbox.com, this AI chatbot answers questions about Xbox console and game support. The feature appears as an animated AI character or colorful Xbox orb. Feedback from Insiders will guide further improvements, according to Xbox’s senior product manager lead, Megha Dudani. This initiative marks a shift in Microsoft’s approach to integrating AI within Xbox services. Likewise, this update extends beyond developer tools to user-facing support. Additionally, there are plans for broader AI-powered features for Xbox consoles on the horizon.

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Top Spots for Thanksgiving 2024 | L.A. Eats

It’s never too early to start planning your Thanksgiving dinner, especially in LA. In a town that prefers reservations over an exuberant at-home spread, there is no shortage of options. There will be however be a shortage of available dining times, so we recommend you secure your spot soon! Read this week’s blog for the top pots for Thanksgiving 2024.

Little Dom’s

Location: 2128 Hillhurst Ave (at Avocado St), Los Angeles, CA 90027

For Thanksgiving 2024 Little Dom’s is serving up deep-fried turkeys for takeout. Chef Brandon Boudet has crafted a holiday menu featuring the crispy birds with rich gravy ($120) along with a variety of sides, like roasted Brussels sprouts with applewood bacon ($48), fennel sausage and mushroom stuffing ($48), and pureed yams topped with coconut cream and toasted pecans ($48). Pastry chef Ann Kirk’s signature brown butter pumpkin pies ($48) are also available. Orders can be placed between Friday, November 1, and Sunday, November 24, for Thanksgiving morning pickup.

Merois

Location: 8430 W Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Wolfgang Puck’s Merois invites guests to a special Thanksgiving 2024 feast for dine-in service. While turkey makes an appearance, the meal also includes inventive choices like assorted dumplings, caviar on scallion brioche, and Beijing duck. For dessert, guests can enjoy pumpkin cheesecake and bourbon pecan pie. Reservations are available on Sevenrooms.

The Hideaway

Location: 421 North Rodeo Drive, CA 90210

Beverly Hills’ The Hideaway offers a Thanksgiving dining experience for $55 per person, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Their holiday menu is packed with the classics, featuring roasted turkey, marshmallow yams, herb stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Reservations can be made through The Hideaway.

The Belvedere

Location: The Peninsula Beverly Hills | Beverly Hills, CA 90212

The Belvedere at The Peninsula Beverly Hills offers an elegant three-course Thanksgiving dinner for $195 per person, with an optional fourth course for an extra $50. The meal includes highlights like butternut squash bisque, filet mignon, and herb-roasted turkey breast. Reservations are open, or choose a family-style takeout meal for $599 to enjoy at home.

Sendero

Location: 900 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015

On the 24th floor of the Ritz-Carlton, Sendero offers diverse Thanksgiving dining options. At the casual Corteza, a $105 per person fixed dinner includes turkey prepared three ways, while the upscale steakhouse Leña features a $155 four-course prix fixe menu with choices like cote de boeuf ribeye or turkey. Both menus end with spiced pumpkin pie.

Fig

Location: 101 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Located in Santa Monica’s Fairmont, Fig is hosting a Thanksgiving 2024 dinner for $90 per person. Running from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., the meal includes leek and potato soup, duck confit with poached persimmons, and roasted free-range turkey with apple and sage stuffing. Reserve a table on Resy.

Maple Block Meat Co.

Location: 3973 Sepulveda Blvd (at Washington Pl), Los Angeles, CA 90230

Known for its barbecue, Maple Block Meat Co. is offering peach wood-smoked turkey for Thanksgiving. A whole bird starts at $235, while a boneless breast serving 10 to 12 costs $198. Side options include buttermilk biscuits, mashed potatoes, and roasted Brussels sprouts.

Hotel Casa del Mar

Location: 1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica, CA 90405

Santa Monica’s oceanfront Casa del Mar brings a California twist to traditional Thanksgiving with a prix fixe menu. Starters include spiced pumpkin soup, burrata salad, or hamachi crudo, while entrees offer harissa-roasted salmon, New York strip steak, or Mary’s organic turkey. Desserts feature classic apple and pumpkin pies. The meal costs $125 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.

Pasjoli

Location: 2732 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405

French-inspired Pasjoli is providing a Thanksgiving takeout meal for $125 per person, featuring roasted turkey breast and leg, truffle gravy, cranberry relish, and a haricot verts casserole. A Basque-style pumpkin cheesecake is also available for $125 a la carte. Place your pre-order for pickup or enjoy $15 local delivery.

Terranea Resort & Spa

Location: 6610 Palos Verdes Dr S, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

Terranea Resort & Spa offers a Thanksgiving 2024 experience with multiple options. The Grand Ballroom hosts a buffet with live music on Thursday, November 28, with seatings between 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. at $140 for adults and $65 for children. Alternatively, the on-site restaurant Mar’sel serves a three-course menu from 1:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for $195, featuring dishes like porcini truffle risotto, turkey breast with cornbread stuffing, and a chocolate ganache tart with pomegranate gelato.

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