Author: Rodeo Realty Media Team

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Weekend Events: July 4th 2022 Edition

Celebrate July 4th 2022 locally with fun things to do in your neighborhood! We’re rounding up the best events happening this July 1 – July 4!

LOS ANGELES JULY 4th 2022 WEEKEND

First Fridays at the Natural History Museum

When: March 4-July 1, 2022

Where: USC/Exposition Park

What: First Fridays are back at the Natural History Museum. Enjoy Dino’s and DJs every month from March through July at this KCRW-presented evening of music. Every month will offer a different lineup of musical guests and DJs, guided tours, and scientist-led talks.

July 4th Fireworks Spectacular at the Hollywood Bowl

 

When: July 2 – July 4 

Where: The Hollywood Bowl

What: Celebrate America’s birthday at the Hollywood Bowl! Enjoy a fireworks-filled summer bash with Steve Martin and Martin Short under the stars.

Anime Expo

When: July 1 – July 4 

Where: South Park

What: Make your way over to the Los Angeles Convention Center for the annual Anime Expo! Enjoy four days of panels, special events, and plenty of cosplay as thousands of fans come to celebrate the quirky art and culture of anime.

 

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES JULY 4th 2022 WEEKEND

Huntington Beach Fourth of July Celebration

When: July 4

Where: Huntington Beach

What: Huntington Beach goes big for its annual Independence Day blowout! The weekend festivities will kick off with a 5K run and fitness expo. The Huntington Beach Pier festival includes live entertainment, family activities, and all-American eats. 

Fourth of July in Long Beach

When: July 4

Where: Long Beach

What: The Long Beach July 4th, 2022 event is the place to be to catch fireworks over the sea. Enjoy a free pyro show over Queensway Bay as you celebrate all things red, white, and blue!

Poolside Cinema at the Fairmont Miramar

When: until September 4

Where: Santa Monica

What: Enjoy a seaside flick at the Fairmont Miramar in Santa Monica. Just in time for Memorial Day weekend, fun film flicks are back at the Santa Monica hotel’s luxurious pool. Every Saturday night during the summer, you can catch a film while enjoying the sunset and delicious bites. 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY JULY 4th 2022 WEEKEND

Movies on the Roof

When: July 1 – July 3 

Where: Westfield Fashion Square | Sherman Oaks

What: Westfield Fashion Square invites you to a joy-filled alfresco film series this summer. Catch flicks like Rocky and Captain America for a July 4th 2022 edition of this fun film screening. Ticket sales support Hope of the Valley.

Celebrate Independence Day at Universal Studios

When: July 2 – July 4 

Where: Universal Studios

What: What better way to celebrate July 4th than with endless fun at Universal Studios?! Catch dazzling fireworks across three straight nights (July 2, 3, and 4th) with music, fun, and more.

Burbank 4th of July Fireworks Display

When: July 4th

Where: Starlight Bowl | Burbank

What: Head to Burbank for an entire day of July 4th festivities! Starting with a flyover, a color guard presentation, and then performances by the Company Men and the Soul of Broadway. Likewise, there will also be fireworks kicking off at 9pm.

CONEJO VALLEY JULY 4th 2022 WEEKEND

All-American Dinner and Movie

When: July 1, 6pm – 10pm

Where: Stagecoach Inn Museum Newbury Park

What: Begin your July 4th celebration early at the Stagecoach Inn Museum! Enjoy an All-American dinner followed by a screening of the original Yankee Doodle Dandy movie. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets for comfortable seating during the movie. 

Star-Spangled Rock ‘N Country Jam & Fireworks Celebration 

When: July 2

Where: 5005 E Los Angeles Ave, Simi Valley

What: Kiwanis Club of Simi Valley presents the Star-Spangled Rock ‘N Country Jam and Fireworks Celebration. Enjoy music all day, a large dance floor, food, beer and wine, shopping, and a free Fun Zone. And of course, fireworks!

 

4th of July Electric Boat Parade at Channel Islands Harbor

When: July 4 

Where: Channel Islands Yacht Club, 4100 Harbor Blvd, Oxnard

What: Central Coast Electric Boats and Channel Islands Yacht Club present their annual 4th of July Electric Boat Parade. The event takes place around the east and west channels of Channel Islands Harbor with more than 50 patriotic-themed electric boats participating. 

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Top Summer Herbs to Plant This Season | Home Tips

With its Mediterranean-like climate, Southern California is ideal for growing many herbs that thrive in seaside countries like Italy, Greece, and France–herbs that are popularly used in many popular recipes. You can enhance your summertime feasts with fresh summer herbs from your summer garden. The following are some of the top summer herbs that are likely to thrive in our setting. In fact, with their relatively sparse watering needs, these herbs are ideal for Southwestern inland and coastal gardens.

Oregano

A popular herb used in many culinary traditions ranging from Italy and Greece to Mexico and Turkey, oregano is a versatile plant that is easy to grow and may even offer medicinal properties, including improved digestion and blood sugar regulation. Many Southern California gardeners grow oregano to flavor sauces, soups, and stews. You can grow this plant directly in your summer herb garden, grow it in raised beds, or install it in a pot on your patio or terrace. To care for your oregano plants, avoid overwatering them and either water in the early morning or evening. If your garden soil is compacted, amend it with sand to ensure optimum growing conditions for oregano.

Rosemary

With its slightly pungent flavor, rosemary is a great addition to stews, meat dishes, and oily fish dishes. It pairs particularly well with vegetables like potatoes as well as meats and poultry. Rosemary thrives in sunshine and prefers a slightly loamy soil. Well-draining soil is a must, and you should also avoid overwatering these summer herbs. You can also grow rosemary in a pot placed in a sunny window of your home. Rosemary seldom needs to be fertilized.

Mint

Add minty flavor to your maridades, pestos, or even your cocktails right from your summer herb garden. Mint thrives in sunshine but will also grow in partial shade. Be sure your plants have plenty of space for good air circulation in order to avoid mildew. These herbs prefer a light, well-draining soil that’s slightly loamy. Unlike the previous two herbs mentioned above with their drought-tolerant properties, mint is less forgiving if kept dry. Be sure to water your mint plants early in the morning or evening.

Sage

Not only is sage a lovely summer herb for any garden, it is extremely useful as a kitchen herb. Especially popular in holiday recipes, sage is easy to dry for use in the winter. To grow sage, choose a sunny site with well-draining soil. After these summer herbs flower in the summer, you should cut them back so they don’t become woody and to encourage new plant growth. Mexican sage is popularly grown in Southern Californian herb gardens. Not only is it great for cooking, but can also be burned in your fire pit to keep mosquitos away.

Lavender

Lavender may not be as useful in the kitchen as the above herbs, but it is a lovely addition to pasties and teas. Plus, it boasts beautiful small blooms that will add fragrance to your garden and floral displays. Lavender prefers a sunny, dry location and requires minimum care. It also repels pests like flies and mosquitoes. In addition, Lavender is drought-tolerant, so don’t overwater this lovely herb.

These summer garden herbs are perfect to grow year after year. You can use them fresh from your garden or dry them for use all year long.

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Economic Update for Week Ending June 25, 2022

Stock markets soared to rebound from three straight weeks of steep losses – Stocks markets jumped again on Friday and posted their second best week of the year. Comments from Federal Reserve officials and testimony by Fed Chairman Powell to Congress this week led sinvestors to believe that future rate hikes would not be as severe as previously thought. Powell also testified that he felt that even if there were to be a recession, which he felt could be avoided, it would be mild. He quoted many reasons for his belief in the strength of the economy which included: the strong position of U.S. banks, the strength of labor markets, the strength of the housing market and home equity, and a strong dollar. A key inflation index showed that commodity prices have fallen as recession fears have grown, indicating that the rate hikes are working and that inflation may be moderating. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 31,500.68 up 5.4% from 29,888.78 last week. It is down 13.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 3,911.74, up 6.5% from 3,674.84 last week. The S&P is down 18.0% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the week at 11,609.62, down 7.6% from 10,789.35 last week. It is down 25.8% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.13%, down from 3.25% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 3.26%, down from 3.30% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates as of June 23, 2022, for the most popular loan products, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 5.81%, up from 5.78% last week. The 15-year fixed was 4.92%, up from 4.81% last week. The 5-year ARM was 4.41%, up from 4.33% last week.

U.S. existing-home sales – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 5.41 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in May, down 3.4% month-over-month from the annualized number of sales in April. Year-over-year sales were down 8.6% from the annualized rate of 5.92 million in May 2021. The median price of a home in the U.S. in April was $407,600, up 14.8% from $355,000 one year ago. May marked a record 123 consecutive months of year-over-year increases in the median price. Inventory levels increased 12.6% from April, but are still 4.1% below the number of homes for sale in May 2021. There was a 2.6-month supply of homes for sale in May, up slightly from a 2.5-month supply last May. First-time buyers accounted for 27% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 16% of all sales. All-cash purchases accounted for 25% of all sales. Foreclosure and short-sales accounted for less than 1% of all sales remaining at a historic low.

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From new AI on IG to Updates at FedEx and More! | Tech News

Another week, another round-up of the leading tech news across the world wide web. In this week’s weekly write-up, we’re talking about a new AI tool from IG, major updates with FedEx, and more! Read on and stay connected with the world of tech!!

Google News Unveils Personalized Desktop Redesign

In honor of its 20th birthday, Google News has unveiled a revamped version of its desktop design. The latest version gives more prominence to local news and personalized content. Likewise, with the latest update, users will be able to customize topics to better fit their search. In addition, users can also add multiple locations to the “Local News” section through their settings button. This change marks Google’s latest effort to become more user-friendly with a series of platform updates in the past two quarters. Of course, the biggest change is that various categories of news like world, business, and science will be more accessible. 

New AI tool being tested at Instagram can Verify Your Age through Facial Scan

A new AI tool is in the works at Instagram. The social media platform is currently testing a tool that can verify age via facial scan. Built by a third-party company, Yoti, the tool is Instagram’s latest attempt at providing a safer space for users 13 and older. Likewise, the tools are meant to aid with privacy and child safety across all users of the platform. Approved for use in the UK and Germany, Yoti is well–established in the field of the online age and ID verification. Users can even try out Yoti’s age verifying tool now directly on the company site if interested in seeing how the potential IG tool may work.

Gene-editing Technology CRISPR may be able to help combat climate change

The technology behind CRISPR and its ability to create new crops may be able to help fight climate change. Researchers recently received $11 million in funding from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative to aid in the efforts. Likewise, the funds will go towards enhancing plants like rice and soil. The technology would be able to better trap carbon dioxide emitted through sourcing the crop. CRISPR, which was founded by Nobel laureate and co-inventor Jennifer Doudna, is led by the Innovative Genomics Institute. “[Jennifer] and I saw eye to eye on climate and how big of a problem it is in the world. And we just didn’t want to sit on the sidelines anymore,” says Innovative Genomics Institute (IGI) executive director Brad Ringeisen.

FedEx to soon Photograph Packages as Proof of Delivery

If you have ever had an issue locating a delivered package from FedEx, you may soon have a solution. The company is working on creating its own tool to provide proof of delivery via photo in instances where a signature is not required. “This is something e-commerce merchants and customers have been asking for, and we are proud to be the first to announce this service will be available to residential customers,” Brie Carere, FedEx’s chief customer officer, said in a press release announcing the program this week. Likewise, the service will be free and available for FedEx Express and FedEx Ground delivery customers. The service will also serve as a good form of protection for FedEx, in instances where a package is reportedly lost. The tool will be available in select markets first before launching in the US and Canada.

Twitter to Create built-in Notes feature

Character limits may be coming to an end on Twitter. The company is currently developing a tool for long-form blogging on the popular social media platform. Aptly name Twitter Notes, the company confirmed the new tool via tweet this week. Currently only available to select users in the US, UK, Canada, and Ghana, users will be able to read notes on and off Twitter. The company showcased how the tool will work through two separate GIFs in its tweet announcement. The tool will allow users to embed a Note into their tweet for a long-form post option. Likewise, users can also mix in images and videos to the long-form posts. 

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Weekend Events | June 24 – June 26

The weekend is around the corner and the time for fun is almost here. If you are looking for fun things to do from June 24 through June 26, we’ve got you covered! Read on for our weekend roundup of local happenings around town.

LOS ANGELES | WEEKEND EVENTS JUNE 24 – JUNE 26

Viva! L.A. Music Festival

When: Jun 25, 2022

Where: Echo Park

What: Homegrown fest Viva L.A. is getting an upgrade to a full-blown stadium-caliber lineup this summer. J Balvin, Daddy Yankee, Kali Uchis and Becky G top the lineup for the 10th edition of Viva L.A. Music Festival on June 25 at Dodger Stadium.

Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival

When: June 25 – June 26 

Where: The Hollywood Bowl

What: Groove along to the jazz beats of past and present at this weekend’s Hollywood Bow Jazz Festival. The two-day concert will feature musical performances from the Roots, Tower of Power, Gordon Goodwin, and more!

Latino USA: Live in L.A.

When: June 26 

Where: Downtown Historic Core

What: Journalist Maria Hinojosa interviews actor and taquero Danny Trejo at this weekend’s live edition of Latino USA. The KPCC-presented event will also feature a stand-up set from Marcella Arguello.

 

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES | WEEKEND EVENTS JUNE 24 – JUNE 26

The Venice Fest

When: June 25 

Where: Mar Vista

What: Support and celebrate local businesses in Mar Vista for this weekend’s Venice Fest. There will be over 100 vendors to check out along with artisans, food, and DJs!

SaMo PRIDE

When: Until June 26 

Where: Downtown Santa Monica

What: For the last weekend of Pride, make your way to the Third Street Promenade! The weekend celebration showcases 15 local LGBTQ+ vendors, along with DJ sets and more!

Poolside Cinema at the Fairmont Miramar

When: until September 4

Where: Santa Monica

What: Enjoy a seaside flick at the Fairmont Miramar in Santa Monica. Just in time for Memorial Day weekend, fun film flicks are back at the Santa Monica hotel’s luxurious pool. Every Saturday night during the summer, you can catch a film while enjoying the sunset and delicious bites. 

 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY | WEEKEND EVENTS JUNE 24 – JUNE 26

Movies on the Roof

When: June 24 

Where: Westfield Fashion Square | Sherman Oaks

What: Westfield Fashion Square invites you to a joy-filled alfresco film series this summer. Catch flicks like Back to the Future and La La Land, with ticket sales, support Hope of the Valley.

Getty 25 Festivals

When: June 25 & June 26 

Where: Pacoima

What: The Getty Center continues its 25 years celebration this weekend with a two-day art fair in Pacoima. Likewise, the event will include music, workshops, food, and of course art!

 

Barefoot in the Park presented by Dig Deep Theatre

When: June 24 – June 26 

Where: The MAIN | Santa Clarita

What: Enjoy this Neil Simon classic presented by Dig Deep Theatre! Barefoot in the Park tells the story of newlyweds Corie, a free spirit, and Paul Bratter, an uptight lawyer, live together in a sixth-floor apartment in New York. Soon after their marriage, Corie sets up her mother, Ethel, with neighbor Victor. Inappropriate behavior on a double date causes conflict and Corie and Paul consider divorce.

 

CONEJO VALLEY | WEEKEND EVENTS JUNE 24 – JUNE 26

Ventura County Greek Festival in Camarillo

When: June 24 – June 26 

Where: Camarillo Airport

What: It’s time for the 43rd annual Ventura County Greek Festival! Presented by St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church the event features live Greek music, folk dancing, food, delicious pastries and baklava, vendors, and a kids’ play area.

Summer Art & Music Event at Harley’s Valley Bowl

When: June 25

Where: 5255 Cochran St | Simi Valley

What: Live music, visual artists, vendors, and bowling! This is what you can expect to find and more at this weekend’s Summer Art & Music event. Free all day for all ages, you’ll love this summer festival of fun!

101st Midsummer Festival 

When: June 26 

Where: Vasa Park |  Agoura Hills.

What: The Swedish American Central Association of Southern California invites you to its 101st Midsummer Festival this Sunday. The festival will of course include stage performances, dancing, and delicious food.

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Best Free Outdoor Music this Summer | Out & About

Do you crave live outdoor music? If you love outdoor concerts and other live entertainment, check out the available live events and activities happening in your area!

Grand Performances

Enjoy free outdoor music concerts every Saturday until Sept 24 at the California Plaza stage in DTLA. It features live performances by a diverse mix of bands from around the world. Expect world-class and jaw-dropping music, dance, and more. Likewise, everyone is welcome at this free concert — no age limit!

Getty 25 Festivals

Celebrate with Getty Center as it turns 25 years this year! They are hosting a series of free live outdoor music festivals across Los Angeles, collaborating with the local community and artists. From May to August, prepare for some live music and performances, workshops, and photo booths all for free and no reservations are required!

Expect a family-friendly weekend filled with music, dance, art, and food! And there’s more! Apart from the free outdoor music, you get to also enjoy interactive workshops, skateboard demonstrations, marching bands, art-making, and an astonishing digital experience of Getty collections!

Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles

It’s that time of the year when free live music comes swelling all over the city. Enjoy free shows on the weekends featuring a mix of local arts from ska to cumbia and EDM. The free live outdoor music is available from the months of June, July, August, and September! It’s going to be a fun-filled summer for everyone!

SaMo PRIDE

Watch out for free live outdoor music events on Third Street Promenade from June 17 to 19 including DJ sets, an outdoor market, and an episode of Mortified Podcast. There are events held every day from Monday to Sunday, and all of them are for free!

If you love live DJ spinning, join them every Saturday and Sunday from 2 pm to 5 pm at Center Plaza listening to your favorite beats while soaking up the Santa Monica sun.

In addition, apart from the live music, everyone is invited to see family-friendly displays and activities at Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica Place, and Downtown Santa Monica in collaboration with over 15 LGBTQIA+ artisans and makers. Sustainable clothing, jewelry, handmade pottery, beautiful weavings, and Ecuadorian textiles are available.

Jazz at LACMA

Do you love jazz music? Enjoy free live music at LACMA featuring jazz legends. In addition, you get to also enjoy a self-guided music experience inspired by music from McQueen’s runway shows. If you love creative writing, feel free to join the writing workshops featuring a series of prompts exploring popular culture, power, and advertising.

Are You Ready for Summer?

There are loads of free music and other events in Southern California. Feel free to join most of them if you have a lot of time to kill. Contact us if you have further questions.

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Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool this Summer | Home Tips

Keeping your home cool during the summer months in Southern California can be tricky but worth the time to review a few tips. Use these helpful tips to keep your home cool this summer without heavily relying on your AC so that you can prevent your household from becoming a heavy contributor to greenhouse gases.

Keep Your Blinds Shut

One of the easiest ways to keep your home cool on a hot summer day is simply to close your blinds. Blinds are a great way to reduce the amount of heat that is able to build up inside of your home, and the simplest way to lower the temperature by a few degrees immediately if you keep them shut at night into the daytime hours. Blinds located on the north and west side of your home are the most effective, but every window helps.

Consider Other Ways to Block the Heat

Blinds are not the only way that you can block heat from coming into your home, awnings and large plants on the exterior of your home can also help reduce the amount of sunlight that is able to come in. Plan for the long term and plant some deciduous trees so that they block the sunlight during the summer months but allow heat to drift in naturally during the winter months.

Fully Utilize Ceiling Fans

During the summer you need to set your fans to rotate in a counter-clockwise position otherwise they will just be pushing hot air around your home. This simple change allows air to be pushed down which will actually create a cooling effect. Then when the winter months come switch the direction clockwise so that cool air is once again pulled upwards.

Entertain in the Evenings

Take advantage of the cooler weather during the evening hours and choose to entertain outdoors so that you can enjoy the natural cool of the day and avoid the urge to turn up the AC to please your guests. Plus, grilling dinner outdoors is a great way to avoid the uncomfortable task of cooking dinner in a semi-warm kitchen.

Depending on what part of summer it is, you can also open up the windows in your home during the evening hours to help cooler air circulate throughout your home. If your home is properly sealed, you can trap the cooler air in the morning by closing up your home and keeping your home temperature moderately controlled throughout the day without using your AC.

Optimize Your Lightbulbs

If your home still feels warm, you might want to check your lightbulbs. Incandescent lightbulbs actually produce heat, so if you are using these instead of energy-saving bulbs it might be time to make the switch

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The Reason Housing Inventories Remain So Low

California existing-home sales – The number of homes sold in May plummeted as home prices continued to appreciate at a near double-digit pace!

The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 377,790 on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in May, down 9.8% from April, and down 15.2% from last May. Existing-home sales year-to-date through May are down 8.9% from the number of homes sold in the first five months of 2021.

The statewide median price paid for a home in May was $898,980, up 1.9% from April, and up 9.9% from May 2021.

There was a 2.1-month supply of homes for sale in May, up from a 1.8-month supply of homes for sale in April, and a 1.8-month supply in May 2021.

 

Pending sales which represent new contracts signed declined 30.6% in May. That’s an alarming drop which is similar to what we saw in the first month of the pandemic when the shutdown was announced. We watch pending sales to forecast sales 30-60 days later. This is due to a shortage of homes for sale, increasing interest rates, lower affordability, and some erosion of confidence, but it’s impossible to say which of these factors are most impactful, especially with prices climbing at such an accelerated rate.

 

There are still several reasons people are not putting their homes on the market and moving at a normal pace. They are:

  1. 1. Taxes. With prices, so high many people have far exceeded the $250,000/$500,000 gain exclusion. Their taxes are about 37% of the gain over the exclusion. They just can’t sell and buy another if they need to pay the 37%.

     

    2. They fear that they won’t find a home to buy due to low inventory.

     

    3. They don’t want to give up their low-interest rate loan and pay a much higher rate on their new home.

     

    4. They are uncertain about the future.

    When people don’t sell it keeps inventory low. That forces prices up, even when affordability drops. There is not a lot that can be done except raising the amount of gain that’s exempt from taxes or allowing sellers to defer those gains to their move-up home much as they could do with an investment property. The $250,000 for a single taxpayer and $500,000 exemption for a married couple filing a joint return was set in 1995. It’s never been increased to allow for appreciation and inflation, yet the prices of homes are four times higher than they were in 1995. A change in tax law will create more sales and stabilize prices the day it’s enacted!

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From Amazon Drones to Meta’s Latest Parental Control updates and More | Tech News

It’s time for the latest round-up of tech news for the week. From Amazon Drones to Meta’s Latest Parental Control updates and more, we have you covered. Read on for all the latest tech news happening from around the world.

Californians May soon Receive Amazon Packages Via Drone

Amazon drone delivery has been in the works for some time with new plans for delivery services in California. The company has announced it will begin delivering packages to a few communities in the north as it continues to test its service. Residents of towns like Lockeford and Acampo will be able to order “thousands of everyday items” from the e-commerce giant for delivery in less than an hour. Amazon’s Prime Air drones can carry packages with a weight of 5 pounds or less. This news comes as Amazon still awaits approval from the FAA to commercially fly cargo. Amazon filed for certification in 2020 but has not yet received clearance. If all goes accordingly post-approval, the rest of California can look forward to an even speedier delivery on their favorite Amazon buys.

Instagram Tests New Full-Screen Feature

In an effort to compete with TikTok, Instagram has launched a new full-screen feature. The feature is currently in beta-test mode with a select group of users but would also come with an updated navigation bar. Depending on if the experiment goes well, the company hopes it will make the platform more discoverable and immersive. Likewise, the latest design initiative comes as Instagram shifts from a still-image platform. In addition to the full-screen test, the company tested a feature last month to highlight videos. Along with updates to the feed and navigation bar, Instagram is also testing adding shortcuts to post or create a message. 

New Shared Electric Motorbike From Lime Comes to California

Shared scooter company, Lime, has announced a trial of its e-bikes in Long Beach. The company will debut “the Citra” on the streets of LB as the latest lightweight electric vehicle to join the company’s fleet. The bike comes with a large padded seat and can reach speeds of 20mph. With the rate of gas prices increasing, the company hopes riders will opt to rent an e-bike instead of driving. Lime will launch the motorbike “At-scale” in Long Beach, starting with  “several hundred” e-bikes throughout the city. “Our fleet size will be variable as we’re ramping up and we’ll scale with demand,” Murphy said. “We anticipate having several hundred Citra’s available this summer, topping out at 500 if we see the strong ridership we expect.”

Latest Xbox App Feature Brings Much Needed Update to Platform

A new game performance indicator launched this week on the Xbox app. Microsoft has added a feature that lets users know if a title plays well on their PC before downloading. Although the company has always listed system requirements, this update simplifies suitability. Likewise, the backend process of the new feature is a bit more complex. The Xbox app feature generates a prediction on if a game will run by comparing a game’s performance on PCs with similar specs to your own. “If your PC isn’t up to the task of running a graphically demanding game, you’ll be able to view the game’s system requirements to get more details on what you need to run the game,” explains Tila Nguyen, senior product manager lead on Xbox experiences at Microsoft. Of course, not all games will come equipped with this feature as the company works through its rollout process. 

New Parental Control Features Added to Meta’s Quest VR

All Quest virtual reality headsets will soon include parental controls. Likewise, this news comes as the company has debuted parental control features across its other platforms, including Instagram and Horizon Worlds VR. Similar to parental control phone features, the update requires linking a teen’s Facebook account to a parent or guardian. Of course, children under 13 are advised not to use Quest. With Meta moving full-steam ahead into the world of VR and AR, more privacy and parental control features are sure to come.

Camo App Makes Gives an Upgraded Look to Webcam View

Those seeking to upgrade their webcam view have a new option thanks to Camo. The app, available on iOS, Android, and iPadOS lets users add overlay stickers to a live view when using a webcam. Camo’s new feature will allow users to include info like their social media handles and pronouns, anywhere your video appears. The launch of Camo’s latest feature comes after Apple announced its new webcam tool Continuity Camera which allows users to use their iPhone as a webcam for their Mac without special software. As a part of the company’s 1.7 updates, users can choose between 17 template overlays that can be edited to fit their needs. In addition, users will also have the option to build their own overlay using text and graphics.

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Weekend Events: June 17 – June 19

The weekend has almost arrived and so has our round-up of fun things to do around town. This June 17 through June 19 enjoy a range of activities and events happening near you. From Juneteenth celebrations to music festivals, car shows, and more, we have you covered with fun!!

 

LOS ANGELES WEEKEND EVENTS | JUNE 17 – JUNE 19

JUNETEENTH: A Celebration of Freedom at the Hollywood Bowl

When: June 19 

Where: The Hollywood Bowl

What: Don’t miss history being made at the Hollywood Bowl this Sunday. In celebration of Juneteenth, for the first time in the Bowl’s history an all-Black orchestra, the Re-Collective Orchestra will hit the stage. In addition to the orchestra, there will be performances by the Roots, Earth, Wind & Fire, Jhené Aiko, Robert Glasper, Killer Mike, Billy Porter, and more.

Gaslit $1 Martini Hour

When: June 17 

Where: Various locations

What: Take a sip and a seat at some of LA’s most beloved haunts like Dan Tana’s, The Varnish, and Canter’s Deli to enjoy $1 martinis courtesy of Starz’s Gaslit. The one-day-only special will take place from 7-9 pm at different locations around town with a full list of places to choose from. 

Hello, Gorgeous at Fanny’s

When: On-going 

Where: The Academy Museum 

What: Dinner and a show? Absolutely. The Academy Museum invites you to enjoy its supper club-style music series at its signature restaurant Fanny’s. The Ongoing live series will feature up-and-coming acts handpicked by KCRW music director Jason Bently.  Each month will include different artists to accompany a delicious pre-fixe meal. 

 

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES WEEKEND EVENTS | JUNE 17 – JUNE 19

The Long Beach Juneteenth Celebration

When: June 18

Where: Long Beach

What: Long Beach is hosting a Juneteenth celebration and you’re invited! Make your way to LCB for this family-friendly event with activities, local vendors, food, and drinks galore.

Off the 405

When: until August 27 

Where: The Getty | Westside

What: One of the westside’s best summer traditions returns to The Getty! Enjoy stunning hilltop sunset views and music at Off the 405. The annual event returns for the first time since 2019 for a lineup of delightful free Saturday night concerts. In addition, you’ll get to visit the exhibits which stay open late for the music series. 

Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance

When: June 19 

Where: Rodeo Drive | Beverly Hills 

What: Make your way to Beverly Hills for the 27th Annual Concours d’Elegance. This father’s Day tradition brings over 50 classic cars to view on Rodeo Drive. The event will kick off at 9:30 am with a rally of 50 of the “world’s finest, fastest and most unique automobiles”. Admission to the event is free and open to the public. In addition, this year’s Concours d’Elegance will showcase Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

 

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | JUNE 17 – JUNE 19

Juneteenth Community Marketplace

When: June 18

Where: Woodley Park | Van Nuys

What: Don’t miss this family-friendly celebration in honor of Juneteenth. The Zawadi Cultural Collective and Black in the Valley will be hosting a Juneteenth Community Marketplace this Saturday. The event will include children’s activities, music, raffles, speakers, and Black small-business owners’ information and sales. Guests can bring their own picnic, blankets, and lawn chairs to enjoy the day at Woodley Park.

Concerts at Warner Park – Valley Cultural Foundation

When: June 19 

Where: Warner Park, Woodland Hills 

What: The Valley Cultural Foundations summer season kicks off this Sunday with Terrell Edwards and Brittney Crush, with Balafo. As always, the event will open with new and up-and-coming artists and patrons can bring their own blanket or chair for seating. The series will run through August 28 with tickets starting at $15 for VIP seating.

Valley Relics Museum Experience

When: Every Saturday and Sunday

Where: 16781 Stagg Street Hangar C3 & C4 | Van Nuys

What: Visit the Valley’s beloved museum of Pop Culture this weekend! The Valley Relics Museum invites you to join them for a day full of nostalgia and fun. Their one-of-a-kind museum features neon signs, classic cars, a playable retro arcade, and more! Tickets for Valley Relics Museum can be purchased on Eventbrite.

 

CONEJO VALLEY WEEKEND EVENTS | JUNE 17 – JUNE 19

Conejo Valley Days

When: June 16 – June 26

Where: Conejo Creek Park South

What: Beloved Conejo Valley Days return’s this month to bring joy and carnival rides to the neighborhood. There will also be live music, food, and dancing with admission for adults at $10 and free for children age 10. 

Ojai Wine Festival


When: June 18 

Where: Lake Casitas Recreation Area | Ventura

What: Say hi to Ojai’s annual Wine Festival. Returning for its 34th year, the Ojai Annual Wine festival includes wine and beer tasting, food, live music, and more. In addition, there will be arts and crafts vendors, free boat rides, and even a VIP lounge. Likewise, even though the event is only for adults, there will be some family-friendly activities as well.

Heritage Square Summer Concert Series

When: until August 19 

Where: Heritage Square Museum | Oxnard 

What: With the arrival of summer you can always expect one thing…summer concert series! Heritage Square invites you to join them for the return of their 10-week music series run kicking off this Friday, June 17. Enjoy musical styles ranging from Reggae to Latin, Jazz, and rock. Concert tables are available to reserve for free if done in advance with individual tickets available day of the show. 

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