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Weekend Events | March 3 – March 5

The weekend is almost here! Enjoy all the fun local happenings in your neighborhood taking place this March 3 through March 5. Read on for what’s going on in your neck of the woods!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | March 3 – March 5 

Butterfly Pavilion at the Natural History Museum

When: March 5 – August 13 

Where: USC\Exposition Park

What: Attention nature enthusiasts! Celebrate the beauty of nature by visiting the Butterfly Pavilion at the Natural History Museum. This seasonal outdoor exhibit will be open from March 5 to August 13, featuring up to 30 butterfly and moth species, as well as a variety of California plants. Witness the wonders of nature firsthand as butterflies take flight and perch on your arms or shoulders. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unique butterfly flight spectacle between 10 and 11am each morning. Both adults and children will enjoy this incredible encounter with nature.

Shakira, Shakira: The GRAMMY Museum Experience

When: March 4 – December 31

Where: Grammy Museum | South Park

What: No matter where or when you must visit the exhibition showcasing 40 items from Shakira’s personal archive. The GRAMMY Museum is presenting a retrospective of the Colombian singer’s career, featuring an array of objects such as Super Bowl outfits, crystal-encrusted guitars, and handwritten lyrics. Don’t miss this opportunity to see these amazing artifacts and learn more about the iconic musician.

AirTalk’s FilmWeek Oscar Preview

When: March 5

Where: Downtown Historic Core

What: The weekly program “FilmWeek” by LAist (formerly KPCC) is hosting a live recording of its annual preview of the Academy Awards, featuring a knowledgeable panel of film critics. This is an opportunity to gain expert insight into the upcoming Oscars and hear debates among the critics about who is likely to win. Hosted by Larry Mantle, the show will feature the in-house film critic cast discussing this year’s nominated films. You can also watch film clips on the big screen and get professional opinions on the most anticipated films of the year.

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | March 3 – March 5 

Dana Point Festival of Whales

When: March 4 – March 5

Where: Dana Point

What: Celebrate the yearly migration of gray whales by either joining a parade and street fair from the shore or embarking on an ocean adventure to witness these magnificent creatures up close.

Late Night! Fabric of a Nation

When: March 3 

Where: Skirball Cultural Center

What: Experience the “Fabric of a Nation” quilting exhibition after regular hours, enjoy music by dublab DJ Wadood, and witness stunning performances by poets, musicians, and dancers from Get Lit and UCLA’s Laboratory for Race and Popular Culture (RAP Lab) during this exciting evening event at the Skirball.

Astra Lumina

When: Until March 19

Where: Palos Verdes

What: Experience the year-end event at South Coast Botanic Garden by taking a stroll through a garden illuminated by celestial-inspired lights. Astra Lumina has created an approximately one-hour-long nighttime trail through the Palos Verdes garden featuring eight starry installations along the way.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | March 3 – March 5 

Yoga in the Park

When: March 4

Where: Verdugo Park | Glendale 

What: Find your balance with ‘Soulful Saturday’ yoga. Enjoy a morning of yoga, inspiring music, fresh air, refreshments, and community.

All-Age Skate Night

When: March 4 

Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale

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

Landscape Workshop: Elements to Designing a Sustainable Landscape

When: March 4

Where: 23780 Pine Street | Santa Clarita

What: You’ve decided to remove your lawn and need to develop a design. Learn how to incorporate sustainable landscaping concepts in your project from professionals. In this two-hour workshop, get help creating a space that you will love and receive instant feedback on your landscape design for your LRP application. You can preserve natural resources, be water-wise, and still have a landscape that meets your needs.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | March 3 – March 5 

36th Annual Spring Art & Crafts Festival at Borchard Park

When: March 4 

Where: 190 Reino Road, Newbury Park

What: On March 4, 2023, the 36th Annual Art & Crafts Festival will be held by the Conejo Recreation & Park District at the Borchard Community Center located at 190 Reino Road, Newbury Park. The event is free of charge and will take place from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, regardless of the weather conditions.

Singletrack Stampede 10K and 22K Runs in Calabasas

When: March 4

Where: 4232 Las Virgenes Rd, Calabasas

What: The Singletrack Stampede cross-country 10K and 22K races will take place on Saturday, March 4, 2023, on the Millenium Loop Trail in Calabasas. The 22K starts at 7:30 a.m., and the 10K starts at 8 a.m. Located at 4232 Las Virgenes Road.

60th Annual Ventura Gem, Mineral, Fossil & Lapidary Show

When: March 4 – March 5

Where: Seaside Park, Ventura

What: Don’t miss the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society presents its 60th Annual Gem, Mineral, Lapidary & Fossil Show! Happening at Seaside Park, Ventura County Fairgrounds, it’s fun for the whole family. See gems, minerals, rocks, fossils, jewelry, exhibits, displays, prizes, dealers, silent auction, kids’ activities, plant sales, and more.

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From USPS EVs to the New Razr and More! | Tech News

Connect with the latest tech news! From USPS EVs to the new Razr and more, we have you covered with today’s top news. Read on for what’s happening in the world of media and technology.

TikTok Launches 60-Minute Screentime Limit for Teens

TikTok has introduced several new features aimed at promoting the well-being of younger users and limiting screen time. Users under the age of 18 will automatically have a daily screen time limit of 60 minutes applied, and those who exceed it will be prompted to enter a passcode to continue watching. Users can choose to disable the feature but will be reminded to set a new limit if they spend more than 100 minutes on TikTok per day. TikTok claims that these prompts have already increased the use of screen time management tools by 234 percent during testing. Additionally, users will receive weekly updates on their screen time and receive reminders to use screen time management tools. These updates are available now.

Microsoft’s Phone Link App Now Allows iMessage on PCs

Microsoft has updated its Phone Link app to allow iPhone users to send and receive iMessages on a Windows laptop or PC. The app will use Bluetooth to connect the devices, passing commands and messages to the Messages app on the user’s iPhone. While users will be able to send and receive messages from their PC, there are some limitations, such as not being able to send pictures or participate in group messages. The updated app will also allow users to make and receive calls and view their phone’s notifications on their Windows 11 device. The preview of the updated app is available to Windows Insiders now.

USPS To Order 9,250 Ford E-Transit EVs and 14,000 EV chargers

As part of its efforts to electrify a large portion of its mail delivery fleet, the US Postal Service has announced its purchase of 9,250 Ford E-Transit battery-electric vehicles and 14,000 EV charging stations from three different suppliers. The agency has yet to determine where the vehicles and infrastructure will be deployed but plans to start building out its charging infrastructure across at least 75 locations within the next year. The USPS previously announced its plans to add 66,000 electric vehicles to its fleet by 2028. The USPS chose the E-Transit after a competitive search, although it is not surprising given Ford’s involvement in the agency’s Next Generation Delivery Vehicle project.

New Foldable Razr from Motorola to Arrive this Year

Motorola, a Lenovo-owned company, is set to launch another Razr later this year. A Motorola spokesperson confirmed the company’s commitment to expanding its Razr franchise offerings in the foldable space. It’s been reported that the new 2023 Razr will have a significantly larger outer display that occupies almost the entire panel of the device. This latest version of the Razr could offer even more improvements over previous versions.

Rad Power Bikes’ RadRunner e-bike gets Major Upgrade

Rad Power Bikes has launched the RadRunner 3 Plus. The new version of its electric bike comes with a detachable pet trailer. Of course, this makes it perfect for owners who want to bring their furry friends with them on their rides. The pet trailer has a weight capacity of 110 lbs, and the bike comes with a range of accessories, including racks, bags, and a Bluetooth speaker. The RadRunner 3 Plus is available now, with prices starting at $2,499. 

Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche to get their own in-car app store

The Volkswagen Group is working on an app store for its connected vehicles. Called the Cariad App Store, the program is expected to launch in the next two years. The app store will be available in all Volkswagen Group vehicles. Likewise, this will enable customers to add features and services to their cars via over-the-air updates. The Cariad App Store will be a direct competitor to Apple’s CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto. Additionally, the company is considering the development of a new autonomous ride-hailing service. Likewise, this would be in collaboration with the Volkswagen Group brand Porsche.

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Exploring Highland Park | Out & About

Highland Park is one of the most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods in Los Angeles. With a rich history, a thriving arts and culture scene, and some of the best food and drink options in the city, there’s something for everyone in this unique and dynamic part of town.

See the Sights in Highland Park

If you’re looking to explore the area, you can start with a visit to Highland Park’s historic district. This area is home to some of the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of Craftsman-style homes in Los Angeles. You can take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood and admire the architecture or join a guided walking tour to learn more about the history of the area.

Enjoy Cuisine in Highland Park

For a taste of Highland Park’s culinary scene, head to York Boulevard. This bustling street is home to a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, tacos, or vegan fare, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. Some popular spots include Joy, a cozy restaurant serving up seasonal California cuisine, and Donut Friend, a quirky donut shop with creative toppings like sriracha and bacon.

If you’re looking for a drink, Highland Park has no shortage of options. The area is home to several craft breweries, including Highland Park Brewery and The Hermosillo, which both offer a rotating selection of beers and a laid-back atmosphere. For something a bit more upscale, head to Highland Park Bowl, a beautifully restored bowling alley with a full bar and a menu of classic cocktails.

Entertain in Highland Park

Highland Park is also a great place to catch some live music. The Lodge Room is a popular venue that hosts a variety of acts, from up-and-coming indie bands to established jazz musicians. You can also check out the schedule at The Hi Hat, a cozy bar and music venue that features local and touring acts.

For a bit of outdoor recreation, head to Debs Park. This sprawling park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the city. In addition, there are picnic areas and a nature center. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more low-key, head to the Arroyo Seco Park, a peaceful green space with walking paths and a playground for kids.

Last but not least…

No visit to Highland Park would be complete without a stop at Galco’s Soda Pop Stop. This beloved shop has been a fixture in the neighborhood for over 100 years. Galco’s is known for its massive selection of rare and hard-to-find sodas. You can browse the aisles and pick up a few bottles to take home.

Overall, Highland Park is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that offers something for everyone. No matter your interest, you’re sure to find plenty to love in this unique part of Los Angeles.

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Prepping Your Garden for Spring | Home Tips

Spring is a beautiful season that marks the beginning of a new life cycle in nature. While the weather as of late has been more winter chill, springtime is still right around the corner. Start preparing your garden for the warm weather ahead. If you want your garden to thrive this spring, there are a few essential steps to take. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most important things you can do to prepare your garden for spring.

Clean Up Your Garden

The first step to preparing your garden for spring is to clean up any debris that accumulated over the winter. Rake up leaves, remove any dead branches or twigs, and clear away any weeds that may have started growing. This will give you a clean slate to work with and make it easier to see what needs to be done.

Prune Your Plants

After a long winter, your plants may need some pruning to help them grow healthy and strong in the spring. Prune any dead or damaged branches, and remove any growth that is crossing over other branches. This will help your plants to grow more evenly and reduce the risk of disease.

Amend Your Soil

Before planting anything, it’s important to make sure that your soil is healthy and has the nutrients it needs to support plant growth. You can amend your soil by adding compost, manure, or other organic matter to improve soil structure, drainage, and nutrient content.

Plant Early-Season Crops

Spring is the perfect time to plant early-season crops such as peas, spinach, and lettuce. These crops thrive in cool weather and can be planted as soon as the soil is workable. Planting these crops early in the season will give them a head start and ensure a bountiful harvest.

Mulch Your Garden Beds

Mulching your garden beds is an excellent way to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. You can use a variety of materials for mulch, such as straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips. Apply a layer of mulch around your plants and over your garden beds to help them retain moisture and stay healthy.

Water Your Garden

Finally, be sure to water your yard regularly throughout the spring and summer. Plants need water to grow, and the warm weather can quickly dry out your soil. Watering early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is less intense reduces water loss from evaporation.

In conclusion, preparing your garden for spring requires some effort and time, but it is essential to ensure a healthy and bountiful harvest. By taking these simple steps, you can give your plants everything they need to grow strong and healthy throughout the season!

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From New AI Tech to Podcasting on Youtube and more! | Tech News

The future is full-steam ahead in this week’s round-up of to tech headlines. From new AI-powered tech at Samsung and Spotify to Podcasting on Youtube and more, we have you covered! Read on for what’s happening in the world of media, science and technology.

Webb Telescope Spots Massive Galaxies from Shortly After Big Bang

From New AI Tech to Podcasting on Youtube and more!

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has captured images of some of the most massive galaxies ever observed, dating back to when the universe was just 4% of its current age, according to NASA. These galaxies, located over 10 billion light-years away, were captured by JWST’s infrared camera, which can peer through cosmic dust and debris to reveal galaxies that were previously invisible to other telescopes. The discovery provides new insights into the formation and evolution of galaxies in the early universe, shedding light on a period known as the “cosmic dawn”.

Samsung Announces New Feature That Can Create an AI-Copy of Your Voice

Samsung has announced a new feature that will allow users to create a customized AI voice that will answer phone calls on their behalf. The feature, called “AI-powered audio messages,” will allow users to create a synthetic voice that sounds like them and can answer calls, ask for more information or take a message. The feature is designed to help users manage their calls more effectively, especially in situations where they are unable to answer the phone. Samsung has not yet announced when the feature will be available or which devices will support it.

Google Magic Eraser Comes to All Google One Subscribers

From New AI Tech to Podcasting on Youtube and more!

Google has launched a new editing feature called “Magic Eraser” on Google Photos for both Pixel and iPhone users with a subscription to Google One. The feature allows users to remove unwanted objects or people from their photos easily. Magic Eraser utilizes machine learning to identify the object and fill in the surrounding area with pixels that match the rest of the image. This feature is now available for all Google One subscribers. Likewise this pertains to the latest version of the Google Photos app on Pixel and iPhone devices.

Podcasting Debuts on Youtube Music

YouTube Music is rolling out a new podcast feature. Users will be able to listen to podcasts while using other apps. The feature also includes a mini player that will appear at the bottom of the screen. With this feature users can navigate between episodes and adjust playback speed. This feature is currently available to YouTube Music Premium and YouTube Premium subscribers on Android and iOS devices. The company plans to expand the feature to all users in the coming months.

New AI-Powered DJ on Spotify Will Customize Your Playlist

From New AI Tech to Podcasting on Youtube and more!

Spotify has announced a new AI-powered feature called “AI DJ”. The new feature creates and comments on a personalized playlist. In addition, the”AI DJ in your pocket” selects what to play based on your music taste. The playlist is infinite, but users can switch genres or artists by pressing the on-screen DJ button. The AI-generated voice of the DJ is powered by voice tech from Sonantic AI, a company purchased by Spotify last year, and the words are generated by a mix of sources, including “music experts, culture experts, data curators [and] scriptwriters” and OpenAI’s generative AI technology. The order in which users receive the commentary will be unique to each user’s listening habits. The feature is in beta, and Spotify plans to evolve the process as they go.

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Weekend Events | February 24 – February 26

As the weekend approaches, many of us start planning on how to spend our free time. If you’re looking for some fun and exciting events to attend in your local area, look no further! There are always plenty of activities happening in and around your community that can make your weekend memorable. Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures, music, art, food, or simply want to relax and unwind, there’s something for everyone. In this week’s blog, we’re sharing the best local events happening February 24 through February 26 that are not to be missed!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | February 24 – February 26 

USC Comedy Festival

When: February 24 – February 26

Where: USC/Exposition Park

What: Stop by the USC campus to catch a series of panels featuring notable stand-up comedians, writers, and actors throughout the weekend. The lineup for this year’s event includes renowned names such as Billy Eichner, Rachel Bloom, Steve Levitan (the creator of Modern Family), Jessica Gao (the showrunner for She-Hulk), Brittani Nichols (a writer for Abbott Elementary), and several other stand-up comics, including Moses Storm, Alyssa Limperis, and Christina Catherine Martinez. All events are free, but you must RSVP to attend. The venues for the panels are the Eileen Norris Cinema Theatre and the Ray Stark Family Theatre, located on the northwest corner of the campus, just past the Shrine off Jefferson Boulevard.

Essential Workers: A Visual Narrative

When: February 25 – March 31

Where: Boyle Heights

What: The Self Help Graphics & Art exhibition is showcasing a series of prints displaying the experiences of first responders. The participating artists in this exhibition include Marianne Sadowski, Narsiso Martinez, Audrey Chan, Michael Massenburg, Amanda Lee, Hanna Hathaway, Celeste de Luna, Juan de Dios Mora, Charles Cohan, Liz Chalfin, Sojin Kim, Jessica Caldas, Chloe Alexander, Tina Tavera, Carlos Barberena, Poli Marichal, and Osvaldo de Jesús.

Rooftop Cinema Club

When: Until March 5 

Where: Downtown LA

What: The experts in open-air rooftop movie watching have come back for another season of screenings, beginning in the Arts District. You do not need to bring your own folding chair, as Rooftop Cinema Club offers a comfortable one for you. Moreover, instead of relying on loudspeakers to project the audio, you will receive a set of wireless headphones to ensure that you do not miss a single word of the movie.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | February 24 – February 26 

Long Beach Mardi Gras

When: February 25

Where: Long Beach

What: Embrace the festive vibe of Mardi Gras by attending the celebration taking place at Shoreline Village in Long Beach. Enjoy the lively tunes of several zydeco bands while getting your face painted or watching a balloon artist at work. Delight in the flavors of beignets and gumbo, and savor the themed cocktails served by local eateries. Don’t miss the parade, which starts in Rainbow Harbor and winds its way to Shoreline Village at 2:30 pm. Plan to arrive in the afternoon to catch all the action.

Dog Walking Hours at South Coast Botanic Garden

When: Until February 26

Where: South Coast Botanic Gardens

What: Do you feel like you and your furry companion are inseparable at the moment? Take advantage of the dog-friendly series held at South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes to spend even more time together. On the third Sunday of every month, you and your four-legged friend can explore the garden’s vast 87 acres. Please note that you, the human, must make a reservation in advance, and your canine friend must remain on a leash at all times, including in the parking lot.

Fabric of a Nation: American Quilt Stories

When: Until March 12

Where: Skirball Cultural Center

What: Discover the history of American quilting and the stories they have woven since the 1600s at the Skirball’s celebration of quilt makers. More than 40 artists will showcase their work, accompanied by the “Together for Good: Caron Tabb and the Quilting Corner” exhibition. This collection of keepsakes, created in response to the pandemic, is a large-scale display that complements the quilting exhibit. Both exhibits run simultaneously with the outdoor sculpture exhibition “Chloë Bass: Wayfinding.”

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | February 24 – February 26

CicLAvia: The Valley

When: February 26 – December 3

Where: Throughout SFV

What: This year, CicLAvia is back with a five-mile car-free route that will pass through Sherman Way, Canoga Park, Winnetka, and Reseda.

Bob Baker Marionette Theater: 60 Years of Joy & Wonder

When: Until March 19

Where: Glendale

What: To celebrate 60 years of the beloved Bob Baker Marionette Theater, the museum situated atop Forest Lawn’s Glendale cemetery is exhibiting approximately 100 historical pieces, including puppets, concept art, archival photos, and an animatronic band.

Habitat Restoration Day

When: February 25

Where: Sepulvada Basin Wildlife Reserve

What: Volunteers will collaborate with the California Native Plant Society to eliminate invasive mustard and understand its effect on the ecosystem, as well as the importance of removing it to restore California’s indigenous habitat. Later, with binoculars provided, the San Fernando Valley Audubon Society will lead nature-filled walks around the Nature Reserve.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | February 24 – February 26

“A Trip to Mars” 

When: February 24, 2023

Where: 7075 Campus Rd, Moorpark

What: Don’t miss “A Trip to Mars,” hosted by Dr. Brian Moncelli of JPL/NASA. The topic of discussion will be the recent Rover Perseverance and its instrumentation, which will explore the geology of Mars and investigate past micro-bionic life. Dr. Moncelli, a Principal Optical Engineer and Technical Group Supervisor at Jet Propulsion Laboratory, will deliver an informative and captivating slideshow/lecture, drawing on his experience as a member of the team responsible for assembling, aligning, integrating, and testing SHERLOC.

Santa Paula Art Museum 13th Anniversary Party

When: February 25, 7pm – 9pm

Where: Santa Paula Art Museum

What: You’re invited to the 13th Anniversary Party of the Santa Paula Art Museum on Saturday, February 25, 2023, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Join the celebration with live music and dancing, art exhibits, a silent auction, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, and more. Each $100.00 ticket holder will receive two complimentary drink tickets, and all proceeds from the event will benefit the Santa Paula Art Museum, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

Ventura Marathon and Half Marathon

When: February 26

Where: Starting Ojai

What: The 2022 Ventura Marathon and Half Marathon are planned for Sunday, February 27, 2022. The marathon and half marathon are point to point races, starting in Ojai and ending in downtown Ventura. The marathon starts at 6:30am.

 

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The Best Local Cafes in Town | LA Eats

Looking for a great spot for a quick breakfast or casual lunch? The options are endless! In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite local cafes in LA, the Westside, San Fernando Valley, and Conejo Valley. From trendy to traditional, vegan to carnivore, there’s something for everyone on this list.

Los Angeles Local Cafes

The Fountain Coffee Room

Location: Beverly Hills

Located in the heart of Beverly Hills at the famed Beverly Hills Hotel, the Fountain Coffee Shop has been synonymous with upscale cafe dining since 1949. Enjoy a bit of BH history while dining as Marilyn Monroe once did at this 1950s counter-style local coffee shop.

Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea

Location: Silver Lake

This Silver Lake staple offers artisan-crafted coffee, tasty bites, and relaxed outdoor seating.

Neighborhood Cafe

Location: Beverly Hills

This chic coffee shop in Los Angeles serves up scrumptious vegan bites and features local makers, artists, and thought leaders as a way of bringing the community together.

Westside Local Cafes

Goodboybob Coffee

Location: Santa Monica

Located more inland near Santa Monica’s production office scene, this coffee shop offers quality brews and enjoyable bites. Try one of their Chapitas, like the Rolex or the Wisco Disco, for a delicious and filling breakfast.

Great White

Location: Venice

This trendy Venice cafe offers relaxed outdoor seating, in-app orders, and fantastic food. With choices like the Ricotta Hotcake and Swim Club Sandwich, you’ll undoubtedly be coming back for more.

Hash Restaurant

Location: Playa Vista

This Playa Vista cafe offers delicious menu picks like the Carrot Cake Belgian Waffle or Rocket Avocado Toast.

 

San Fernando Valley Local Cafes

Claudine

Location: Encino

This all-day brunch local cafe in Encino uses the highest quality ingredients ethically sourced from local farms. From their Vegan Chai-Spiced Quinoa Oatmeal to the Brisket Mac & Cheese, we are saying yes, please, to everything on their menu.

Porto’s Bakery

Locations: Various Locations

A tradition since 1976, Porto’s Bakery is a family-run Cuban bakery that has expanded to various locations while maintaining the same delicious food. Famed for their Empanadas, you can do no wrong enjoying the Chicken or Spinach and Feta offering for any time of day.

Cafe on 27 

Location: Topanga Hills

Perched atop the Topanga Hills, Cafe on 27 offers lush views of the valley and a vast menu of food and beverage options. From the Canyon Slam for breakfast to the Mushroom Burger for lunch, there is something for everyone at this local cafe.

 

Conejo Valley Local Cafes

The Nook

Location: Newbury Park

As cozy as it sounds, The Nook provides a quintessential and delicious option for local cafes in Conejo Valley. Enjoy the perfect assortment of pancakes, crepes, and hearty breakfast selections like the Sunrise Sandwich.

The Five07

Location: Thousand Oaks

This Thousand Oaks cafe seeks to support creativity and community while offering a bounty of delicious food and beverages. From their Blueberry Lavender Toast to their calming Kava, we don’t know where to start but are confident we want it all.

Made in Italy

Location: Westlake Village

For local cafes that are Molto bene, Made in Italy in Westlake Village is the spot. Indulge in the Prosciutto Panini or go green with their vegetarian Regina Margherita. From the food to the setting, Made in Italy is truly Bellissimo!

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Seeing California in Bloom | Out & About

As winter fades away and spring approaches, Southern California bursts with color as wildflowers come into bloom. This beautiful sight is one of the highlights of living in this area, and every year locals and visitors alike venture out to find the best spots to take in the stunning display of nature.

If you’re looking to witness this natural spectacle, you’re in luck. Southern California is home to some of the best wildflower viewing locations in the country. From the Antelope Valley to the hills of San Diego County, there are a variety of spots to explore. Let’s take a look at some of the best places to see wildflowers in Southern California.

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is a state-protected reserve located in Lancaster, California. This 1,781-acre park is home to an array of colorful wildflowers, but the California poppy is the star of the show. In fact, the reserve is home to the largest concentration of California poppies in the state, drawing in visitors from all over. The peak bloom season typically occurs in March or April.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Located in the Colorado Desert in eastern San Diego County, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a true desert oasis. This park is home to an impressive variety of wildflowers, including the desert lily, sand verbena, and desert sunflower. The peak bloom season typically occurs in late February or early March.

Walker Canyon Trail

The Walker Canyon Trail is located in the Lake Elsinore area and is known for its breathtaking display of orange poppies. This easy hike is perfect for families and hikers of all skill levels. The peak bloom season typically occurs in March.

Lake Elsinore

Located about an hour southeast of Los Angeles, Lake Elsinore is another popular spot for wildflower viewing. The hills surrounding the lake are blanketed in poppies, creating a stunning sight that’s not to be missed. The peak bloom season typically occurs in March.

Point Mugu State Park

Located in Ventura County, Point Mugu State Park is a popular spot for wildflower viewing. The park is home to a variety of flowers, including the California poppy, lupine, and Indian paintbrush. The peak bloom season typically occurs in April.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or just looking for a fun outdoor adventure, the wildflowers of Southern California are a must-see. Make sure to check the bloom forecast before you go, as peak bloom times can vary from year to year. And remember, when visiting any of these locations, it’s important to be respectful of the natural environment and to leave no trace behind.

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Keeping Your Lawn in Check | Home Tips

Keeping your lawn looking healthy and beautiful requires a lot of effort and attention, and one of the most important tasks in lawn maintenance is mowing. Mowing not only helps to keep your grass looking neat and tidy, but it also promotes growth and discourages weeds. In this blog post, we will discuss some lawn mowing tips that can help you achieve the best results.

Set the Right Mowing Height

One of the most important factors to consider when mowing your lawn is the height of your mower blades. Different grass species have different ideal mowing heights, so it is important to research what the recommended mowing height is for your particular type of grass. Generally, it is recommended to never cut more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing. Cutting more than that can lead to scalping and damage to the grass.

Sharpen Your Mower Blades Regularly

Dull mower blades can tear and damage the grass rather than cutting it cleanly. This can lead to brown spots and an uneven-looking lawn. To avoid this, make sure to sharpen your mower blades regularly. It is recommended to sharpen them at least once a year or more often if you have a large yard.

Mow When the Grass is Dry

Mowing wet grass can lead to clumps of grass clippings that can suffocate the grass underneath, as well as clog your mower. It is best to wait until the grass is dry to mow. Additionally, mowing a wet lawn can be dangerous as the wet grass can make the surface slippery, increasing the risk of injury.

Change Your Mowing Pattern

Changing your mowing pattern each time you mow your lawn can help prevent the grass from developing ruts or becoming flattened in one direction. It is recommended to mow your lawn in a different direction each time you mow. For example, if you mowed in a north-south direction one week, mow in an east-west direction next week.

Don’t Overwater Your Yard

Overwatering your lawn can promote weed growth and lead to a shallow root system. Make sure to water your lawn deeply and infrequently rather than frequently and shallowly. Most lawns require around 1 inch of water per week. Likewise, this can be achieved through a combination of rain and watering.

In conclusion, mowing is an essential part of lawn maintenance, and following these tips can help you achieve the best results. Setting the right mowing height, sharpening your mower blades, mowing when the grass is dry, changing your mowing pattern, and not overwatering your yard can help keep your lawn looking healthy and beautiful. Happy mowing!

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From TikTok Trivia to Amazon’s Robo-Taxi and More! | Tech News

It’s time for a new round-up of tech news! From TikTok entering the trivia chat to Amazon’s robo-taxi and more, we have you covered. Read on for the major headlines happening in the world of media, science, and technology.

Trek Debuts New Electric Cargo Bikes for Families

Trek has introduced two new electric cargo bikes. The Fetch Plus 2 and Fetch Plus 4 are here to bring family fun in the form of a bike. Likewise, the two models differ significantly. The Fetch Plus 2 features an elongated rear rack that can carry children, cargo, or a combination of both. The Fetch Plus 4, however, is a box bike with a lengthy wheelbase and a roomy cargo space at the front. “Kids were the center point of when we first started designing these,” said Eric Bybee, a senior mechanical design engineer at Trek. “We realized that when a family is going out to buy one of these bikes, the kids have to be the focus.”

TwitchCon Says Farewell to San Diego with New Location Announcement

TwitchCon’s host cities for its upcoming event have been revealed by Twitch. Paris is scheduled to host TwitchCon EU on July 8th and 9th, while TwitchCon US will be held in Las Vegas in October. In the previous year, Twitch hosted live, in-person events in San Diego and Amsterdam. This shift in venue may only be temporary, as Twitch has returned to San Diego in the past, hosting events there in 2019 after previous locations in San Jose and Long Beach, California. 

TikTok to Launch $500,000 Live Trivia Contest

TikTok has announced the launch of live trivia games, following HQ’s footsteps. The trivia games will take place through daily live streams, and participants can join in from February 22 to February 26. To incentivize players, TikTok is offering a cash prize pool of $500,000 that will be divided among the winners. According to TikTok, the trivia categories will include lifestyle, beauty, sports, music, and John Wick questions. The event is sponsored by Lionsgate and its upcoming film John Wick: Chapter 4. Like HQ, TikTok has brought on a live host to make the quizzes more engaging. James Henry, a popular TikTok content creator whose skits frequently go viral, will host the trivia rounds. Likewise. players will have the opportunity to interact with him, according to TikTok.

Apple mixed reality headset to possibly debut at WWDC

According to Bloomberg, Apple is planning to unveil its mixed-reality headset at this year’s WWDC. Apple has not yet announced the date for WWDC, but the event is typically held in early June. The launch was postponed due to hardware and software issues that need to be resolved. In addition, Dan Riccio, Apple’s former hardware chief who took over the company’s AR/VR projects in 2021, has reportedly become more involved. Features may include advanced hand tracking, realistic renderings of Facetime calls, and more. Apple intends to sell the headset for around $3,000. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Tesla to Open EV Chargers to Non-Tesla Vehicles

This week, new information was disclosed regarding Tesla’s plan to expand its Supercharger network to electric vehicles not made by Tesla. The White House surprisingly provided the public with details about this revolutionary plan. Tesla will enable 7,500 Supercharger stations to be used by non-Tesla EVs by the end of 2024. These newly available chargers will be situated across the United States and will consist of “at least 3,500 new and existing 250 kW Superchargers situated along major highways,” in addition to a yet-to-be-disclosed number of “Level 2 Destination Charging” stations located at venues such as hotels and restaurants in both urban and rural areas.

Amazon Robo-Taxi Hits the Road

Amazon-owned autonomous vehicle company Zoox has announced its unique driverless vehicle. The vehicle received approved to carry passengers on public roads in California. This marks the first time in history that a purpose-built robotaxi has operated autonomously with passengers and without manual controls. Zoox is making strides by introducing an innovative new kind of vehicle that is unlike a traditional car. Despite the significant milestone, the vehicle is restricted to a limited area in Foster City, California, where it is headquartered. Likewise, it operates under specific limitations, such as being restricted to a maximum speed of 40 mph. Additionally, it only operates on Saturdays and Sundays during daylight hours, and not during adverse weather conditions.

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